... and so is his washing.
Lovely!
LILY & ROSE
Here are some photos of Lily & Rose. There are a few from the first time we saw them when they were just 4 weeks old. They would fit on your hand at this age and didn't look much like westies!
Friday, 30 September 2011
BEEN SCAVAGING...
... in the hedgerows for rosehips and some honesty that appears to be growing wild. Thought I'd replicate them to make a lovely addition to the ruby wedding cake that I've been working on this morning.
I've had a go, and the hips have turned out brilliantly. The honesty is more difficult because they're so fragile, but I've mad a few sprigs and have sprayed them with a pearly shimmer spray, so just waiting for them to dry out then I'll see what I think.
The girls don't know where to put themselves today. I think they're just too hot. Walks have been very gentle, slow affairs today!
I've had a go, and the hips have turned out brilliantly. The honesty is more difficult because they're so fragile, but I've mad a few sprigs and have sprayed them with a pearly shimmer spray, so just waiting for them to dry out then I'll see what I think.
The girls don't know where to put themselves today. I think they're just too hot. Walks have been very gentle, slow affairs today!
YOU MAY THINK...
... that I'm being a bit tardy this morning. 10.00 and I'm just writing my first post. Not good eh?
But in fact I've been up and out around the village, dropping cakes off for the coffee morning, calling into David's shop for a bit of verbal abuse/banter and making a start on flowers for the ruby wedding cake.
Checking the diary, I see I have another big cake to go out next week, but as yet have no real details to work from, so I've sent a frantic email asking for photos and suggestions ASAP.
It's another absolutely glorious day. Hope it lasts just a bit longer as we're hoping to take the girls up the coast tomorrow. James is coming with us too which will be nice. Could even have the top down on the Rav!
Right, back to work...
But in fact I've been up and out around the village, dropping cakes off for the coffee morning, calling into David's shop for a bit of verbal abuse/banter and making a start on flowers for the ruby wedding cake.
Checking the diary, I see I have another big cake to go out next week, but as yet have no real details to work from, so I've sent a frantic email asking for photos and suggestions ASAP.
It's another absolutely glorious day. Hope it lasts just a bit longer as we're hoping to take the girls up the coast tomorrow. James is coming with us too which will be nice. Could even have the top down on the Rav!
Right, back to work...
Thursday, 29 September 2011
WELL, THAT DIDN'T HAPPEN!
Within five minutes of me writing the last post, Rose started creating and so we all trekked off down Villa Lane for an hour in the sunshine.
Got back home and remembered it's the Macmillan Coffee morning tomorrow, so rustled up some cupcakes to take round to Embleton Hall. Also took an order for a very large celebration cake as well this afternoon - ruby wedding anniversary - haven't done one of those yet.
Right, the girls appear to be calling it a night. Hoe they'll sleep in a bit in the morning like they did today. For the first time in months I was actually the first up!
Got back home and remembered it's the Macmillan Coffee morning tomorrow, so rustled up some cupcakes to take round to Embleton Hall. Also took an order for a very large celebration cake as well this afternoon - ruby wedding anniversary - haven't done one of those yet.
Right, the girls appear to be calling it a night. Hoe they'll sleep in a bit in the morning like they did today. For the first time in months I was actually the first up!
SHHHHH!
The girls are asleep.
This means that I might also be able to have forty winks, or even snatch a few minutes to read my book!
Sods Law says though, that the minute I settle down, they'll wake up again.
Better go quickly then!
This means that I might also be able to have forty winks, or even snatch a few minutes to read my book!
Sods Law says though, that the minute I settle down, they'll wake up again.
Better go quickly then!
WOW!!
It's just like the summer we never had!
Just been out with the girls and already people are out cutting their lawns and doing other stuff in their gardens, everyone is wandering around in shorts and tee-shirts AND best of all, they're all smiling.
What a difference a bit of sunshine makes!
Just been out with the girls and already people are out cutting their lawns and doing other stuff in their gardens, everyone is wandering around in shorts and tee-shirts AND best of all, they're all smiling.
What a difference a bit of sunshine makes!
Wednesday, 28 September 2011
NOT BEING FUNNY...
... but there's nothing really to write about today!
Apart from a flying visit to Morpeth, with the roof down of course, all I seem to have done is wander around Fram with the girls. We've been to the dog park, round the green, down Villa Lane, along to Harecross Farm - and I'm shattered even if the girls aren't!
Beautiful, warm, sunny, perfect day.
Apart from a flying visit to Morpeth, with the roof down of course, all I seem to have done is wander around Fram with the girls. We've been to the dog park, round the green, down Villa Lane, along to Harecross Farm - and I'm shattered even if the girls aren't!
Beautiful, warm, sunny, perfect day.
IT'S WEDNESDAY
Just in case you hadn't realised!
And I haven't got a clue what I'm doing today.
Might mosey on down to Morpeth in a while, but other than that no plans.
It may just be a day for sitting outside, gardening and going for long leisurely walks with the girls, as the weather is looking glorious!
And I haven't got a clue what I'm doing today.
Might mosey on down to Morpeth in a while, but other than that no plans.
It may just be a day for sitting outside, gardening and going for long leisurely walks with the girls, as the weather is looking glorious!
Tuesday, 27 September 2011
SITTING WATCHING FOOTBALL...
... with James!
We've just eaten chilli wraps and are now collapsed in front of the TV, with the girls waiting for Man U v Basel to kick off!
We've just eaten chilli wraps and are now collapsed in front of the TV, with the girls waiting for Man U v Basel to kick off!
HE'S LATE!
Gone 10am and no sign of Tesco delivery.
I'm standing waiting, mixing bowl in hand, for the ingredients I need to get started on cupcakes...
... so how dare he keep me waiting?
I'm standing waiting, mixing bowl in hand, for the ingredients I need to get started on cupcakes...
... so how dare he keep me waiting?
WAITING...
... for the Tesco delivery which is booked for between 8.00 and 10.00. Clearly I'm going to be at the end of the window as, Sod's law says, if you get up and organised and rush the girls out for their walk before 7.30, nothing is going to turn up at the beginning of the slot.
However, in the meantime I'm making pots of white chocolate ganache for the chocolate orange cupcakes that I'll be doing later and I've thrown together a plain old chocolate cake as James announced that he likes the old ones I used to do before I started getting all fancy with sugarpaste! (No pleasing some folks!)
However, in the meantime I'm making pots of white chocolate ganache for the chocolate orange cupcakes that I'll be doing later and I've thrown together a plain old chocolate cake as James announced that he likes the old ones I used to do before I started getting all fancy with sugarpaste! (No pleasing some folks!)
Monday, 26 September 2011
MORE...
... Christmas cakes in the oven today. (Very hot in the kitchen: Think I'll keep out of it!)
Just had a request from James to supply a box of the rather yummy chocolate orange cupcakes for a colleagues birthday on Wednesday, plus his own request for pretty much anything that's going really!!
The girls have just been out for the fourth and final walk of the day. While we were out they thought it would be a good idea to gang up and torment a very large Alsation - who gave then such a snarly snap it put them right in their place. (Bet it won't stop them doing it again though)
Just had a request from James to supply a box of the rather yummy chocolate orange cupcakes for a colleagues birthday on Wednesday, plus his own request for pretty much anything that's going really!!
The girls have just been out for the fourth and final walk of the day. While we were out they thought it would be a good idea to gang up and torment a very large Alsation - who gave then such a snarly snap it put them right in their place. (Bet it won't stop them doing it again though)
MORNING!!
That's as in "Good morning everyone" - not just announcing the fact that it IS.
Charles has left for school, and then to Seahouses for Round Two of the Croftway jollies.
I'm busy weighing up ingredients for more Christmas cakes this morning, just need to pop out to the village shop for eggs. You can't imagine how many eggs I get through. If I wasn't such an ornithophobe I ought to keep hens, it would be a lot cheaper.
Other than that, I'm not sure what I'll be doing for the rest of the day, apart from some good long walks with the girls.
Back later when I've got this lot mixed up.
Charles has left for school, and then to Seahouses for Round Two of the Croftway jollies.
I'm busy weighing up ingredients for more Christmas cakes this morning, just need to pop out to the village shop for eggs. You can't imagine how many eggs I get through. If I wasn't such an ornithophobe I ought to keep hens, it would be a lot cheaper.
Other than that, I'm not sure what I'll be doing for the rest of the day, apart from some good long walks with the girls.
Back later when I've got this lot mixed up.
Sunday, 25 September 2011
I'M KNACKERED...
... but here goes...
It must have been about ten years ago when we were on a family holiday in Zante, long before it became a fav destination for the young, trendy, drunk, drugged and loud.
We found the island to be delightful with quiet, hidden coves and beaches that were almost unknown to tourists.
We became good friends with a third generation Chipawah native American, nearly 7ft tall, with grey hair into which he had red and blue streaks dyed that reached to his waist. He was nearly 70 years old, lived in the centre of the island, and was a professor at one of the American unis (I forget which) lecturing on-line from what was essentially paradise. He adopted stray dogs I seem to recall. And there were many to adopt.
That bit is by-the-by, but nevertheless a hugely endearing memory. Just say the words "Pound for pound..." in an American accent and James will continue it...
I drift...
...We (Charles, Jim, Christina and her then boyfriend Sean and myself of course) drove over to the quietest part of the island as recommended by our Chipawah friend. We found ourselves in a tiny cove, no other English people (bliss) glorious white sand and...
... a couple of pedalos for hire.
Which we did. Or at least four of us did. Charles stayed on the beach and took no interest in us whatsoever, which was unfortunate really...
The boys did all the hard work and we girls sat in the back, soaking up the sun and dangling our feet in the water. It was absolute bliss.
We decided to check out some little caves to the right of the beach and pedalled over there, only to discover that the current was drawing us in, and I mean RIGHT INSIDE, the caves.
By this time we were well out of shouting distance to the shore, the beach had disappeared from view and all that was in front of us were rocks, caves...
... and in the caves stalactites that hung down to about two feet from the surface of the water.
We were being drawn further and further towards the caves and there was absolutely nothing we could do about it.
Christina was hysterical and I think I may have been too, because it was clear that however hard they pedalled there was no way James and Sean were getting us out of danger.
The pedalo was being buffeted from all sides as the sea churned and swirled and frothed around the rocks.
Sean suddenly smacked himself back in his seat, completely flat, as he just managed to avoid cracking his head against a huge stalactite.
At this point, the old survival instinct must have kicked in, because from somewhere the boys summoned up their superpowers and, against all the odds (AND the current) they somehow managed to steer us away from danger and certain death.
I have never been so frightened in my life and truly thought the end had come. I couldn't see how any of us would have survived the pounding we would have received against those rocks if we had capsized and, to this day I cannot imagine where they got the strength to do it, but they DID and we returned, shaken (literally) and bloodied (in Sean's case) to the beach to find Charles waiting for us.
"What took you so long?" he asked.
It must have been about ten years ago when we were on a family holiday in Zante, long before it became a fav destination for the young, trendy, drunk, drugged and loud.
We found the island to be delightful with quiet, hidden coves and beaches that were almost unknown to tourists.
We became good friends with a third generation Chipawah native American, nearly 7ft tall, with grey hair into which he had red and blue streaks dyed that reached to his waist. He was nearly 70 years old, lived in the centre of the island, and was a professor at one of the American unis (I forget which) lecturing on-line from what was essentially paradise. He adopted stray dogs I seem to recall. And there were many to adopt.
That bit is by-the-by, but nevertheless a hugely endearing memory. Just say the words "Pound for pound..." in an American accent and James will continue it...
I drift...
...We (Charles, Jim, Christina and her then boyfriend Sean and myself of course) drove over to the quietest part of the island as recommended by our Chipawah friend. We found ourselves in a tiny cove, no other English people (bliss) glorious white sand and...
... a couple of pedalos for hire.
Which we did. Or at least four of us did. Charles stayed on the beach and took no interest in us whatsoever, which was unfortunate really...
The boys did all the hard work and we girls sat in the back, soaking up the sun and dangling our feet in the water. It was absolute bliss.
We decided to check out some little caves to the right of the beach and pedalled over there, only to discover that the current was drawing us in, and I mean RIGHT INSIDE, the caves.
By this time we were well out of shouting distance to the shore, the beach had disappeared from view and all that was in front of us were rocks, caves...
... and in the caves stalactites that hung down to about two feet from the surface of the water.
We were being drawn further and further towards the caves and there was absolutely nothing we could do about it.
Christina was hysterical and I think I may have been too, because it was clear that however hard they pedalled there was no way James and Sean were getting us out of danger.
The pedalo was being buffeted from all sides as the sea churned and swirled and frothed around the rocks.
Sean suddenly smacked himself back in his seat, completely flat, as he just managed to avoid cracking his head against a huge stalactite.
At this point, the old survival instinct must have kicked in, because from somewhere the boys summoned up their superpowers and, against all the odds (AND the current) they somehow managed to steer us away from danger and certain death.
I have never been so frightened in my life and truly thought the end had come. I couldn't see how any of us would have survived the pounding we would have received against those rocks if we had capsized and, to this day I cannot imagine where they got the strength to do it, but they DID and we returned, shaken (literally) and bloodied (in Sean's case) to the beach to find Charles waiting for us.
"What took you so long?" he asked.
TOP DOWN...
... LOOKING THE PART. Well I had the top down on the Peugeot anyway, although I may not have actually looked the part and certainly James would dispute that as he really does not like my little car.
Am I bothered? I'd like to say I'm not, but of course that wouldn't be true. I really wish he would like it just a little bit.
I, on the other hand, love it. It was great driving around enjoying the glorious weather and a bit of Coldplay on the radio. Very pleasant indeed.
We've actually had a lovely day just jobbing on around the garden. Charles did a great job with deadheading and cutting back, leaving me with just the weeding to do and then a few winter pansies to plant out. Good team work.
Am I bothered? I'd like to say I'm not, but of course that wouldn't be true. I really wish he would like it just a little bit.
I, on the other hand, love it. It was great driving around enjoying the glorious weather and a bit of Coldplay on the radio. Very pleasant indeed.
We've actually had a lovely day just jobbing on around the garden. Charles did a great job with deadheading and cutting back, leaving me with just the weeding to do and then a few winter pansies to plant out. Good team work.
STILL BUZZIN'!!!
Feels really good to be a Newcastle fan right now.
Okay, so it may not last and our good run will no doubt come to an end before long...
... but, right now, it's good to be able to enjoy it.
Even the MOTD lads found something positive to say about us, albeit reluctantly!!
Hopefully today is going to be spent in the garden. I want to do a quick trip to Heighley Gate this morning, but after that I'm planning to do all the deadheading, cutting back and weeding, providing the knees bear up. (I had a real problem with "arthrite de genou" while we were on holiday, and had to resort to buying a "genou" support just to ease the pain in my left knee a bit. Since we've been home it's been okay, but still occasionally gives an ominous click, so I'm swallowing fish oil capsules by the handful, hoping they will keep any further problems at bay.)
Charles is off to Seahouses again tomorrow. Should be a good week weatherwise. I see a mini-heatwave is predicted. Very nice. Hope the kids all remember their factor 50!
Okay, so it may not last and our good run will no doubt come to an end before long...
... but, right now, it's good to be able to enjoy it.
Even the MOTD lads found something positive to say about us, albeit reluctantly!!
Hopefully today is going to be spent in the garden. I want to do a quick trip to Heighley Gate this morning, but after that I'm planning to do all the deadheading, cutting back and weeding, providing the knees bear up. (I had a real problem with "arthrite de genou" while we were on holiday, and had to resort to buying a "genou" support just to ease the pain in my left knee a bit. Since we've been home it's been okay, but still occasionally gives an ominous click, so I'm swallowing fish oil capsules by the handful, hoping they will keep any further problems at bay.)
Charles is off to Seahouses again tomorrow. Should be a good week weatherwise. I see a mini-heatwave is predicted. Very nice. Hope the kids all remember their factor 50!
Saturday, 24 September 2011
NOT SO IMPRESSED...
... with Lily's behaviour earlier today, however.
Matthew (Bray) and Sarah called round this morning and obviously didn't check the latech on the gate carefully enough. It IS a bit dodgy, and I should have checked myself, but I didn't. Lily on the other hand DID and took the opportunity to escape onto the main road. The first I knew about it was when a concerned neighbour came to the door to inform me. Fortunately, Lily DID turn up a few minutes later, although I suspect it was really to find out where her sister was!
Rose was a really good girl and, even though the gate was open, she went nowhere! Good girl Rose!!
Matthew (Bray) and Sarah called round this morning and obviously didn't check the latech on the gate carefully enough. It IS a bit dodgy, and I should have checked myself, but I didn't. Lily on the other hand DID and took the opportunity to escape onto the main road. The first I knew about it was when a concerned neighbour came to the door to inform me. Fortunately, Lily DID turn up a few minutes later, although I suspect it was really to find out where her sister was!
Rose was a really good girl and, even though the gate was open, she went nowhere! Good girl Rose!!
REALLY...
... enjoyed the match.
Actually never thought we would lose and thought we played some attractive football at times.
LOVED Tiote! Thrilled for Ba. Delighted to see Ben Arfa for a few minutes.
Excellent result.
Well done Toon!
Actually never thought we would lose and thought we played some attractive football at times.
LOVED Tiote! Thrilled for Ba. Delighted to see Ben Arfa for a few minutes.
Excellent result.
Well done Toon!
TENSION BUILDING!
Not, I hasten to add because Charles is a lazy lie-a-bed and somewhat tardy in matters of dog walking, but because of the match this afternoon.
We're going to town early to meet James and Claire for a Landmark lunch. They're not going to the game, but thought it would be a good idea to get together and, as Landmark is part of our pre-match ritual it seemed appropriate to meet there.
I'm really excited to see our new-look squad. Hope I can work out who's who!!
We're going to town early to meet James and Claire for a Landmark lunch. They're not going to the game, but thought it would be a good idea to get together and, as Landmark is part of our pre-match ritual it seemed appropriate to meet there.
I'm really excited to see our new-look squad. Hope I can work out who's who!!
Friday, 23 September 2011
CHARLES GOT HOME AN HOUR AGO...
... and is already snoring on the settee with Lily tucked under his arm!
"WHEN HE'S SLAPPED...
... HE'LL STAY SLAPPED AND LIKE IT."
Love it!!
Priceless!
Loved how he tried to wriggle out of it at the end!!
You could indeed be right about the cause of my lethargy today. I have to say it was somewhat surreal on facebook last night. Not only were you two going at it hammer and tongs, but I came face to face with a photo of one of James's mates dressed up in a catsuit, complete with shiny black nose, whiskers and ears and another one in which a normally very refined young lady appeared to have been buried alive under a mountain of settee cushions.
It was indeed a strange evening.
Love it!!
Priceless!
Loved how he tried to wriggle out of it at the end!!
You could indeed be right about the cause of my lethargy today. I have to say it was somewhat surreal on facebook last night. Not only were you two going at it hammer and tongs, but I came face to face with a photo of one of James's mates dressed up in a catsuit, complete with shiny black nose, whiskers and ears and another one in which a normally very refined young lady appeared to have been buried alive under a mountain of settee cushions.
It was indeed a strange evening.
VERY TIRED THIS MORNING!
But, I suspect, not nearly as tired as Charles will be when he gets home. He rang last night and could hardly string a sentence together. All I grasped was something about "long days", "have to cook breakfast"...
Bet he's really looking forward to doing it all again next week!!
Not sure why I'm so tired actually, as it's been a fairly easy week for me. Admittedly the girls (well Rose) have had me up since 6.30 every day, but that's nothing unusual.
Going to go into Morpeth to do some food shopping, then might make a chocolate cake - nothing fancy, just a family cake.
Off to the match tomorrow. First of the season for Charles and I as we missed the first two home games when we were in France. Hope we break the Blackburn jinx!
Bet he's really looking forward to doing it all again next week!!
Not sure why I'm so tired actually, as it's been a fairly easy week for me. Admittedly the girls (well Rose) have had me up since 6.30 every day, but that's nothing unusual.
Going to go into Morpeth to do some food shopping, then might make a chocolate cake - nothing fancy, just a family cake.
Off to the match tomorrow. First of the season for Charles and I as we missed the first two home games when we were in France. Hope we break the Blackburn jinx!
Thursday, 22 September 2011
ALL DONE!!
Well, that didn't take too long! All the pieces are made and ready to be carefully wrapped and stored.
Have just taken the girls for a long walk around the village. Still blowing a gale. Face feels all wind-burned!!
Right, what can I do now???
Have just taken the girls for a long walk around the village. Still blowing a gale. Face feels all wind-burned!!
Right, what can I do now???
TEARS...
... streaming down my face, having been out for our early walk in the cold and wind. Autumn really is making it's presence felt.
The girls have been adorable for the last few days. They MAY have missed Charles, but they haven't shown many signs! Instead they've been on their best behaviour and even took themselves off to bed at 8.45 last night. (Maybe they're just bored with Mum!)
I'm not going out today - so more talking to myself dannymatt (Yes I do argue with myself AND answer back) - and am going to finish off the pieces for the "In the Night Garden" cake, then I can store them away until I need them again.
So, it'll be Macca Pacca, Iggle Piggle, Upsy Daisy and the rest of the Ninky Nonk! (Wow - you should see what that sentence has just done to the spell check thingy!!)
The girls have been adorable for the last few days. They MAY have missed Charles, but they haven't shown many signs! Instead they've been on their best behaviour and even took themselves off to bed at 8.45 last night. (Maybe they're just bored with Mum!)
I'm not going out today - so more talking to myself dannymatt (Yes I do argue with myself AND answer back) - and am going to finish off the pieces for the "In the Night Garden" cake, then I can store them away until I need them again.
So, it'll be Macca Pacca, Iggle Piggle, Upsy Daisy and the rest of the Ninky Nonk! (Wow - you should see what that sentence has just done to the spell check thingy!!)
Wednesday, 21 September 2011
STARTING TO ...
... talk to myself, I've noticed. Especially this week, when unless I go out I can spend the day without speaking to another soul.
I suppose I try to pass it off as talking to the girls - but the reality of it is that I AM just talking to ME and they couldn't actually care less, unless I use trigger words like tea, breakfast, walk and telly time!!
It's blowing a gale out there again. Thankfully, we've done all our walks and can look forward to a cosy evening inside.
Might watch "The Body Farm" which I recorded last night, as I spent the evening glued to SSN waiting for match updates!
I suppose I try to pass it off as talking to the girls - but the reality of it is that I AM just talking to ME and they couldn't actually care less, unless I use trigger words like tea, breakfast, walk and telly time!!
It's blowing a gale out there again. Thankfully, we've done all our walks and can look forward to a cosy evening inside.
Might watch "The Body Farm" which I recorded last night, as I spent the evening glued to SSN waiting for match updates!
THE NINKY NONK...
... is actually a pain to try to reproduce.
And if you don't know what the Ninky Nonk is, and would LIKE to know, go on the "In the Night Garden" website and take the tour!!
I have given up for today - and I've only made two bits of it!
And if you don't know what the Ninky Nonk is, and would LIKE to know, go on the "In the Night Garden" website and take the tour!!
I have given up for today - and I've only made two bits of it!
NOTHING...
... really to do today.
All cakes are complete and photographed.
I suppose I COULD make a start on the figures for the next "In the Night Garden" cake which isn't due for weeks, but I could make the components and store them in tissue. That way I could get ahead of myself a bit.
So, the Ninky Nonk it is then!!
All cakes are complete and photographed.
I suppose I COULD make a start on the figures for the next "In the Night Garden" cake which isn't due for weeks, but I could make the components and store them in tissue. That way I could get ahead of myself a bit.
So, the Ninky Nonk it is then!!
Tuesday, 20 September 2011
WELL...
... it was such a gorgeous morning, in fact warm enough for a spot of sunbathing in between finishing today's cakes. Had a lovely walk - a couple in fact - with the girls, wearing a sleeveless dress (me, not the girls) and not feeling the least bit chilly...
... but now, in the space of a couple of hours, it's much cooler and definitely time to put the old cardi on!!
I'm now struggling to find something to do as I wait for James to arrive for his tea (it's made, so I can't do that: chicken and tomato tagliatelli and homemade cheese and onion rolls) - never have been very good at doing nothing!
... but now, in the space of a couple of hours, it's much cooler and definitely time to put the old cardi on!!
I'm now struggling to find something to do as I wait for James to arrive for his tea (it's made, so I can't do that: chicken and tomato tagliatelli and homemade cheese and onion rolls) - never have been very good at doing nothing!
THEY SURE HAVE DANNYMATT!
Times - have a changed... as you said.
I was thinking just that the other day, with all the talk of the young'uns we know going off to Uni this week. Not for them the hours spent queueing to get a couple of minutes in a smelly, freezing cold and usually vandalised phone box to make the weekly (then fortnightly, monthly and after that only when the money ran out) phone call home.
They've no idea how cushy their lives are. Mind you, all this technology means that their parents can pretty much keep tabs on them all the time, which may not work in their favour!!
I was thinking just that the other day, with all the talk of the young'uns we know going off to Uni this week. Not for them the hours spent queueing to get a couple of minutes in a smelly, freezing cold and usually vandalised phone box to make the weekly (then fortnightly, monthly and after that only when the money ran out) phone call home.
They've no idea how cushy their lives are. Mind you, all this technology means that their parents can pretty much keep tabs on them all the time, which may not work in their favour!!
SOUNDS LIKE...
... Charles and the kids at Seahouses are playing pirates, judging from the tone of his tweet last night. Either that, or the staff had been on the rum already!!
At this end, the girls and I are up, walked, house cleaned, washing on and all the cake stuff is out ready for today's creativity.
Look out on facebook later today for a cute one!!
At this end, the girls and I are up, walked, house cleaned, washing on and all the cake stuff is out ready for today's creativity.
Look out on facebook later today for a cute one!!
Monday, 19 September 2011
BEEN OUT AND ABOUT...
... with the girls today. Weather was lovely, so we've had three quite lengthy walks, met lots of other dogs and some very kind people who made a fuss of my two pesky Westies.
Other than that, I've cracked on with cakes and have nearly finished all the Christmas sample cakes.
Trying to decide what to have for tea. Can't be bothered to do much now, to be honest. That's what a full day in the kitchen does to you!
Other than that, I've cracked on with cakes and have nearly finished all the Christmas sample cakes.
Trying to decide what to have for tea. Can't be bothered to do much now, to be honest. That's what a full day in the kitchen does to you!
LOVELY MORNING...
... Hope it stays fair for everyone who's off to Seahouses for the week!
The girls are looking dejected already. "Dad's gone and left us - again!"
They knew something was up when they discovered the bags and walking boots at the front door this morning.
Still, they'll just have to cope with Mum for a few days. I'll probably have to get used to sitting around a bit more, indulging Lily in her canine cuddles.
Mind you, that'll have to wait a bit as I've got a trip to Morpeth to do first to get supplies in and when I get back I need to paint faces on the Santa and elf figures for the final Cakes A-Go-Go Christmas cake - oh and make a load of cheeky little snowmen! Fiddly stuff today!
The girls are looking dejected already. "Dad's gone and left us - again!"
They knew something was up when they discovered the bags and walking boots at the front door this morning.
Still, they'll just have to cope with Mum for a few days. I'll probably have to get used to sitting around a bit more, indulging Lily in her canine cuddles.
Mind you, that'll have to wait a bit as I've got a trip to Morpeth to do first to get supplies in and when I get back I need to paint faces on the Santa and elf figures for the final Cakes A-Go-Go Christmas cake - oh and make a load of cheeky little snowmen! Fiddly stuff today!
Sunday, 18 September 2011
JUST WATCHING LILY...
... all snuggled up on the settee with Charles. She HAS to sit right up close, with her paw on his arm as he works (!) on his laptop.
It is HER place.
(Rose doesn't have a place; she just flops anywhere!
But poor little Lily's going to be seriously out of sorts for the next two weeks when her dad is away in Seahouses with the kids.
It is HER place.
(Rose doesn't have a place; she just flops anywhere!
But poor little Lily's going to be seriously out of sorts for the next two weeks when her dad is away in Seahouses with the kids.
COOK AND BARKER...
... let us down badly today.
The risotto rice was barely cooked, the tarragon sauce had clearly not seen a hint of tarragon, the base of the Bailey's cheesecake was about an inch thick...
... so won't be going back there for a while.
The risotto rice was barely cooked, the tarragon sauce had clearly not seen a hint of tarragon, the base of the Bailey's cheesecake was about an inch thick...
... so won't be going back there for a while.
34 YEARS!!
That's how long we've been married today - AND we got married on a Sunday as well.
We had two weeks to plan our big day! I chose the first dress I saw and got the bridesmaids dresses sorted in less that 15 minutes.
Why this was all necessary has a lot to do with the fact that, in those days, you just did not live together without being married and if your minister dad just happened to have a free Sunday in a fortnight's time that was pretty much going to be set aside for you!!!
It was, despite this, a really lovely day!
We had two weeks to plan our big day! I chose the first dress I saw and got the bridesmaids dresses sorted in less that 15 minutes.
Why this was all necessary has a lot to do with the fact that, in those days, you just did not live together without being married and if your minister dad just happened to have a free Sunday in a fortnight's time that was pretty much going to be set aside for you!!!
It was, despite this, a really lovely day!
Saturday, 17 September 2011
NICE DAY TODAY
After the cake fiasco this morning that is!
Met up with the family for lunch at the Twin Farms, nine of us just getting together for a bit of a catch up and a laugh, before some of us going onto the rugby (don't know how that went) and others going back home to sit through the agonies of the Villa game.
Charles found a stream and was able to watch it and he kept me updated with a running commentary while I got to grips with the third Christmas cake. Just one to go now and the basic collection is done. It'll take a couple of days to get finished because this is the BIG ONE!!
Met up with the family for lunch at the Twin Farms, nine of us just getting together for a bit of a catch up and a laugh, before some of us going onto the rugby (don't know how that went) and others going back home to sit through the agonies of the Villa game.
Charles found a stream and was able to watch it and he kept me updated with a running commentary while I got to grips with the third Christmas cake. Just one to go now and the basic collection is done. It'll take a couple of days to get finished because this is the BIG ONE!!
NOT A GOOD START!!
Trying to do a zillion things at once. Wanted to get a cake covered before we go out for lunch.
Had done the board, covered the cake no problem...
... then decided to place the cake onto the board which was balanced (?) on a stand, only to find that it actually WASN'T balanced at all. The whole thing fell off and despite all my efforts to rescue it, I've had to take the covering off, including the marzipan and will have to start all over again when we get home.
RATS!!!!
Just goes to show - more haste = less speed - as they say.
Had done the board, covered the cake no problem...
... then decided to place the cake onto the board which was balanced (?) on a stand, only to find that it actually WASN'T balanced at all. The whole thing fell off and despite all my efforts to rescue it, I've had to take the covering off, including the marzipan and will have to start all over again when we get home.
RATS!!!!
Just goes to show - more haste = less speed - as they say.
Friday, 16 September 2011
DON'T NEED TO THINK ABOUT...
... cooking a meal tonight, as lunch, which was rather nice actually, was also very filling and should sustain us through the evening.
It was lovely to see James again. We've done pretty well this week for getting together - and will probably see both him and Claire again tomorrow when we meet up with Helen and the clan to celebrate Bill's birthday.
The girls are enjoying having extra time with Charles these days and are currently snuggled up with him on the sofa watching telly. All very cosy!
Which reminds me - there has definitely been a bit of an Autumn nip in the air today and it certainly wasn't very cosy earlier, until I had to give in and turn the heating up. It's just coming up to 6pm and is already pretty dark and dismal - certainly a foretaste of things to come.
I think the fact that I'm busy with Christmas cakes at the moment is also contributing to the 'end of the year' feeling that I've got already. God - it's only September. Why does everything have to happen so far in advance these days? We never seem to have a chance to catch our breath, before we have to start thinking about the next essential event.
Grumble, grumble and moan-a-lot!
It was lovely to see James again. We've done pretty well this week for getting together - and will probably see both him and Claire again tomorrow when we meet up with Helen and the clan to celebrate Bill's birthday.
The girls are enjoying having extra time with Charles these days and are currently snuggled up with him on the sofa watching telly. All very cosy!
Which reminds me - there has definitely been a bit of an Autumn nip in the air today and it certainly wasn't very cosy earlier, until I had to give in and turn the heating up. It's just coming up to 6pm and is already pretty dark and dismal - certainly a foretaste of things to come.
I think the fact that I'm busy with Christmas cakes at the moment is also contributing to the 'end of the year' feeling that I've got already. God - it's only September. Why does everything have to happen so far in advance these days? We never seem to have a chance to catch our breath, before we have to start thinking about the next essential event.
Grumble, grumble and moan-a-lot!
THANKS DANNYMATT!!
I'm over it now!
Just hate being beaten by anything!
Having a quiet start to the day. Charles is waiting for the garage to ring to let him know his tyres have arrived. Once that's done, we're off to meet up with James. Apparently we're going to try out a new Italian in Jesmond for lunch.
Bit quiet on the cake front this week. I think I'll make up some Christmas cake posters to distribute locally and in workplaces and see what comes from that.
Just hate being beaten by anything!
Having a quiet start to the day. Charles is waiting for the garage to ring to let him know his tyres have arrived. Once that's done, we're off to meet up with James. Apparently we're going to try out a new Italian in Jesmond for lunch.
Bit quiet on the cake front this week. I think I'll make up some Christmas cake posters to distribute locally and in workplaces and see what comes from that.
Thursday, 15 September 2011
LOOKING FORWARD TO TOMORROW
James has a day off work (again) and is going to be spending it with us!!
Don't know what we're going to do yet. We HAD hoped to go up to the Ship at Newton by the Sea, going for an after lunch walk along the beach with the girls, but the forecast is lousy, so that may not be going to happen.
One thing's for certain, I won't be making any scones, at all!!
Don't know what we're going to do yet. We HAD hoped to go up to the Ship at Newton by the Sea, going for an after lunch walk along the beach with the girls, but the forecast is lousy, so that may not be going to happen.
One thing's for certain, I won't be making any scones, at all!!
COMPLETE WASTE OF TIME!
Went back to Morpeth with what must have been the world's most amazing cheese scones. Got there at 3.15, only to find that the manager had left for the day.
Won't be making any more. That's it.
His loss.
Won't be making any more. That's it.
His loss.
COULD DO BETTER!!
Why am I doing this?
Just back from Corbridge larder, having been told to try again, this time making the cheese scones with more cheese visible from the edges, but none on the top (his have cheese on top, but hey ho) and sultana scones with more height and heavyness.
I did say that I think I can only make light scones, and that I thought his were a bit dense, which he agreed with and even said that today's in-store offerings were overbaked. But he wants me to have another go.
Charles thinks I'm bonkers, James thinks I should forget it, I don't know why I'm putting myself through it - except it's become a bit of a mission now!
Just back from Corbridge larder, having been told to try again, this time making the cheese scones with more cheese visible from the edges, but none on the top (his have cheese on top, but hey ho) and sultana scones with more height and heavyness.
I did say that I think I can only make light scones, and that I thought his were a bit dense, which he agreed with and even said that today's in-store offerings were overbaked. But he wants me to have another go.
Charles thinks I'm bonkers, James thinks I should forget it, I don't know why I'm putting myself through it - except it's become a bit of a mission now!
OKAY...
... I don't think I can do any more with these scones.
I've made what passes for a close resemblance to the Corbridge ones, but if they're not close enough to the originals, I give up. I'm not that bothered about a daily scone order anyway.
It has been an interesting exercise though this morning as I wanted to see how easy it would be to get the baking done with a view to delivering by, say 9am. This will be necessary when the coffee shop in Jesmond is finally up and running, of course.
So, up at 6.30, did all the usual household chores, including the cleaning, washing and ironing, made a batch of apple pies just to use up the apples and still managed to get the scones done by 8.30. So it should be doable - if that's a real word.
Okay, I'm off to Morpeth now.
Back later...
I've made what passes for a close resemblance to the Corbridge ones, but if they're not close enough to the originals, I give up. I'm not that bothered about a daily scone order anyway.
It has been an interesting exercise though this morning as I wanted to see how easy it would be to get the baking done with a view to delivering by, say 9am. This will be necessary when the coffee shop in Jesmond is finally up and running, of course.
So, up at 6.30, did all the usual household chores, including the cleaning, washing and ironing, made a batch of apple pies just to use up the apples and still managed to get the scones done by 8.30. So it should be doable - if that's a real word.
Okay, I'm off to Morpeth now.
Back later...
Wednesday, 14 September 2011
HAD A LOVELY WALK...
... with the girls this afternoon. The wind has eased a bit and we've got brilliant sunshine, so we made the most of it.
Managed to get a fair bit of work done too. Last trial run of the scones - although I overdid the last batch when my Mum rang and I missed the timer and completely forgot about them!
Two Christmas cakes are now covered, ready for decorating. I'll use these as samples, obviously not the real thing yet!
Legs are aching now, so will finish for the day I think.
Managed to get a fair bit of work done too. Last trial run of the scones - although I overdid the last batch when my Mum rang and I missed the timer and completely forgot about them!
Two Christmas cakes are now covered, ready for decorating. I'll use these as samples, obviously not the real thing yet!
Legs are aching now, so will finish for the day I think.
LOOK OUT FOR...
... photos of the full Thomas cake on Facebook later today. I'm quite pleased with the way it turned out.
Today I'm making batches of apple pies and Bakewell tarts. (I bet James finds a way of coming round soon as these are two of his favourites!)
Today I'm making batches of apple pies and Bakewell tarts. (I bet James finds a way of coming round soon as these are two of his favourites!)
Tuesday, 13 September 2011
YEAH, YOU'RE RIGHT...
... Dannymatt.
I had a tweet from the guy who manages the Corbridge larder the other day, wanting to know if I'm interested in supplying scones, but only if they replicate exactly the ones in the Corbridge shop.
I can tell you that these scones are huge, heavy and kind of rigged in appearance. I know this because Charles and I went over there to try them.
Why he doesn't just get the same supplier to do both shops I really don't know. Nor am I particularly happy about trying to create something that I personally consider inferior.
Anyway, I think your idea is very sensible. I shall take what I manage to produce for him to sample on Thursday. And after that it's really up to him!
I had a tweet from the guy who manages the Corbridge larder the other day, wanting to know if I'm interested in supplying scones, but only if they replicate exactly the ones in the Corbridge shop.
I can tell you that these scones are huge, heavy and kind of rigged in appearance. I know this because Charles and I went over there to try them.
Why he doesn't just get the same supplier to do both shops I really don't know. Nor am I particularly happy about trying to create something that I personally consider inferior.
Anyway, I think your idea is very sensible. I shall take what I manage to produce for him to sample on Thursday. And after that it's really up to him!
TODAY'S TASKS...
... pretty much all revolve around the Thomas cake.
The girls had us up at 6am, so I've got a bit of a head start this morning. All the usual chores are done and I'm just downing cappuccino number one, before getting started.
I might make another batch of trial scones today. I'm trying really hard to produce heavy, dense scones as that is what the guy at Corbridge larder wants, but always seem to end up with light, fluffy ones. Grrrrrrrr!!
Have to say that the chocolate orange cupcakes went down a treat. In fact Charles was pretty upset to discover that they'd all gone when he got home yesterday. Hope everyone at Claire and James's work enjoy them today!
The girls had us up at 6am, so I've got a bit of a head start this morning. All the usual chores are done and I'm just downing cappuccino number one, before getting started.
I might make another batch of trial scones today. I'm trying really hard to produce heavy, dense scones as that is what the guy at Corbridge larder wants, but always seem to end up with light, fluffy ones. Grrrrrrrr!!
Have to say that the chocolate orange cupcakes went down a treat. In fact Charles was pretty upset to discover that they'd all gone when he got home yesterday. Hope everyone at Claire and James's work enjoy them today!
NOT EXACTLY...
... a display to fill us with confidence last night, was it.
I suppose we didn't let any goals in, but it was agony to watch.
God knows what we'll do against the Vile.
I suppose we didn't let any goals in, but it was agony to watch.
God knows what we'll do against the Vile.
Monday, 12 September 2011
BATTEN DOWN THE HATCHES!
And, yes, I DID read your comment dannymatt.
Best vehicle for today would probably be a tank I think.
I actually hate windy weather. I used to when I was teaching too, as, with the possible exception of snow, it always seemed to be the weather that most unsettled the kids.
I remember when I was Head at Linton, that the pantile roof used to literally peel off on days like this. It would start with one tile lifting and then a sort of domino effect would occur. You took your life in your hands just getting into the building. (Well, that was probably the case most days in Linton to be honest, but even worse on windy days.)
The girls haven't wanted to be outside at all today. Can't say I blame them. Charles even had to persuade them to go for a walk, which is pretty much unheard of.
I've managed to get most of the hard work done on the Thomas cake. Hadn't realised how fiddly it would be, but I'm quite pleased with the models so far.
Right, time to start getting nervous...
... C'mon the Toon!!
Best vehicle for today would probably be a tank I think.
I actually hate windy weather. I used to when I was teaching too, as, with the possible exception of snow, it always seemed to be the weather that most unsettled the kids.
I remember when I was Head at Linton, that the pantile roof used to literally peel off on days like this. It would start with one tile lifting and then a sort of domino effect would occur. You took your life in your hands just getting into the building. (Well, that was probably the case most days in Linton to be honest, but even worse on windy days.)
The girls haven't wanted to be outside at all today. Can't say I blame them. Charles even had to persuade them to go for a walk, which is pretty much unheard of.
I've managed to get most of the hard work done on the Thomas cake. Hadn't realised how fiddly it would be, but I'm quite pleased with the models so far.
Right, time to start getting nervous...
... C'mon the Toon!!
FOUR RICH...
... fruit cakes went into the oven at 8.30...
... and won't be coming out until 5.30.
Going to have one very warm kitchen today!
Mind you, if the forecast is to be believed, we may be in for some pretty nasty weather, in the form of extremely high winds, with damaging gusts. Just hope it doesn't mean our power will go off, as it often does out here in the sticks in bad weather, until those cakes are safely out of the oven!
The girls are going to need to be pretty patient today, as I'm expecting about four different deliveries and will need to be around for them, so walks will have to wait until everything's arrived. Of course, I can pretty much guarantee that the one I really want NOW (ie the parcel with all the sugarpaste in) will be the one to get here last. This will drive me bonkers, as I'm waiting for it so that I can really crack on with the stuff for the 'Thomas' cake, But, Sod's Law and all that...
... and won't be coming out until 5.30.
Going to have one very warm kitchen today!
Mind you, if the forecast is to be believed, we may be in for some pretty nasty weather, in the form of extremely high winds, with damaging gusts. Just hope it doesn't mean our power will go off, as it often does out here in the sticks in bad weather, until those cakes are safely out of the oven!
The girls are going to need to be pretty patient today, as I'm expecting about four different deliveries and will need to be around for them, so walks will have to wait until everything's arrived. Of course, I can pretty much guarantee that the one I really want NOW (ie the parcel with all the sugarpaste in) will be the one to get here last. This will drive me bonkers, as I'm waiting for it so that I can really crack on with the stuff for the 'Thomas' cake, But, Sod's Law and all that...
Sunday, 11 September 2011
I HADN'T REALISED...
... that all of Thomas the tank Engines 'friends' had such different faces!!
Obviously, I've now moved onto the Thomas cake I'm making for Friday and had the brilliant(!) idea of making five or six of the engines, peeping out of tunnels around the edge of the cake. Now I'm beginning to wish I hadn't thought of it!!
Had a pretty productive day all told, mind you. There's a huge bowl of dried fruit soaking in brandy ready for Christmas cakes tomorrow.
Also made a fab batch of chocolate orange cupcakes to give Claire tomorrow. Not exactly a birthday cake, but I'm sure she'll enjoy them, especially as she was talking about chocolate orange the other day.
Obviously, I've now moved onto the Thomas cake I'm making for Friday and had the brilliant(!) idea of making five or six of the engines, peeping out of tunnels around the edge of the cake. Now I'm beginning to wish I hadn't thought of it!!
Had a pretty productive day all told, mind you. There's a huge bowl of dried fruit soaking in brandy ready for Christmas cakes tomorrow.
Also made a fab batch of chocolate orange cupcakes to give Claire tomorrow. Not exactly a birthday cake, but I'm sure she'll enjoy them, especially as she was talking about chocolate orange the other day.
DON'T KNOW WHAT YOU CAN SAY...
... today.
It doesn't seem like ten years ago.
I guess everyone remembers where they were when the news broke and the sheer horror we all felt as the events unfolded.
Heartfelt thoughts go to all who suffered, or are still suffering, as a result of the atrocities of 9/11.
It doesn't seem like ten years ago.
I guess everyone remembers where they were when the news broke and the sheer horror we all felt as the events unfolded.
Heartfelt thoughts go to all who suffered, or are still suffering, as a result of the atrocities of 9/11.
Saturday, 10 September 2011
WOW!
Rain? Never seen anything like it!
Torrential downpour that knocked Sky out, just as they were about to talk about the goings on at Newcastle.
Wouldn't have wanted to be in the pipe band that was making its way down the street in Longfram at the time. Bet their pipes got a bit waterlogged!
Torrential downpour that knocked Sky out, just as they were about to talk about the goings on at Newcastle.
Wouldn't have wanted to be in the pipe band that was making its way down the street in Longfram at the time. Bet their pipes got a bit waterlogged!
ANOTHER BUSY DAY...
... AHEAD.
First off, a delivery. The mad 60th/50th cake for Eric and Ruth.
Then off to Gosforth to see James, and possibly, Christina.
Quick whizz into Jesmond to have a chat with Kevin about the coffee shop.
Back home to trial batches of scones for Corbridge larder.
Then all the cupcakes are due to be picked up at 4.00...
...Retirement's great!!
First off, a delivery. The mad 60th/50th cake for Eric and Ruth.
Then off to Gosforth to see James, and possibly, Christina.
Quick whizz into Jesmond to have a chat with Kevin about the coffee shop.
Back home to trial batches of scones for Corbridge larder.
Then all the cupcakes are due to be picked up at 4.00...
...Retirement's great!!
Friday, 9 September 2011
WHAT A LONG DAY!
I'm actually quite glad that I don't often have massive cupcake orders. It's one thing making a couple of dozen, but an entirely different matter when there's 150 of the blighters to make.
CUPCAKE MARATHON...
... coming up!
Going to make a start on frostings today and will make the chocolate cakes as they keep well. Then tomorrow will be a pretty manic day getting all the rest made and frosted before 4pm when they are going to be collected.
Need to go to Morpeth late this morning to do a bit of shopping and for a quick meet up with James and Claire. They've got a day off work today. It's the start of Claire's birthday weekend. Her birthday is on 9/11. James is having his photo taken for the Morpeth Herald at Heighley Gate as he captained the winning Cobra team in the recent Phil Elkin football tournament!
Bit miserable outside this morning, but it's supposed to improve later and SHOULD be fairly warm. Nice!
Going to make a start on frostings today and will make the chocolate cakes as they keep well. Then tomorrow will be a pretty manic day getting all the rest made and frosted before 4pm when they are going to be collected.
Need to go to Morpeth late this morning to do a bit of shopping and for a quick meet up with James and Claire. They've got a day off work today. It's the start of Claire's birthday weekend. Her birthday is on 9/11. James is having his photo taken for the Morpeth Herald at Heighley Gate as he captained the winning Cobra team in the recent Phil Elkin football tournament!
Bit miserable outside this morning, but it's supposed to improve later and SHOULD be fairly warm. Nice!
Thursday, 8 September 2011
ENDED UP...
... going to Amble, where Charles enjoyed his fish and chips - and I DIDN'T enjoy mine one bit. The fish certainly did not taste as though it had been caught any time in the recent past. Very poor and rather a surprise really, as we've never had a bad meal there until now.
As I hadn't eaten my meal, Charles suggested we went to the ice cream farm on the way home. Coconut and chocolate in a tub, accompanied by a cappuccino - great!!
Just relaxing now, probably for the first time since we got back from France, then back on cale duty tomorrow!
As I hadn't eaten my meal, Charles suggested we went to the ice cream farm on the way home. Coconut and chocolate in a tub, accompanied by a cappuccino - great!!
Just relaxing now, probably for the first time since we got back from France, then back on cale duty tomorrow!
HAVING A...
... non-cake day today, apart from making a load of sugarpaste flowers for the mammoth cupcake order on Saturday, that is.
Charles is very keen to spend the first day of his part-timeness by going out for lunch. This is all well and good, but, as I keep telling anyone who will listen, I DON'T DO LUNCH.
However, on this occasion I can see I will have to give in. So, where to go?
The Ship at Newton-by-the-Sea is a possibility, although the weather's not brilliant so it may be better to save that for another time. Charles has suggested Amble for fish and chips, but it's not so long since we were there - and there's only so many fish and chips a girl can eat without turning into a chubster.
Decisions, decisions.
Charles is very keen to spend the first day of his part-timeness by going out for lunch. This is all well and good, but, as I keep telling anyone who will listen, I DON'T DO LUNCH.
However, on this occasion I can see I will have to give in. So, where to go?
The Ship at Newton-by-the-Sea is a possibility, although the weather's not brilliant so it may be better to save that for another time. Charles has suggested Amble for fish and chips, but it's not so long since we were there - and there's only so many fish and chips a girl can eat without turning into a chubster.
Decisions, decisions.
9/11
Last night we watched the most moving documentary about the events of that day.
It was made by two French guys, who had already been filming a rookie firefighter and following his progress as "the boy becomes a man".
It covered the days before the disaster, showing the comaraderie amongst the firefighters, the practical jokes they played on their rookie, the meals they shared every day at the firehouse...
... and then it continued to cover the day itself, from INSIDE the North Tower and around the area closest to the towers.
It was in no way sensational, but an incredibly moving and real record of an unimaginable day. The expressions on the faces of those firefighters when the realised the scale of what they were dealing with were of sheer bewilderment and shock. God only knows how they could even begin to start tackling the fires. How did they know where to start? How the hell did they WALK up the stairs carrying all their equipment - but that is what they did. It was the only way up as all the lifts were out of action. How many of them didn't survive? It must have been hundreds.
Not easy viewing, but beautifully put together. Amazingly, not one of the firefighters from the firehouse that was at the centre of the film were killed. It's now known as the Miracle House.
If this film is shown again this week, you must try to watch it.
It will leave you totally humbled and amazed at the bravery of those guys.
It was made by two French guys, who had already been filming a rookie firefighter and following his progress as "the boy becomes a man".
It covered the days before the disaster, showing the comaraderie amongst the firefighters, the practical jokes they played on their rookie, the meals they shared every day at the firehouse...
... and then it continued to cover the day itself, from INSIDE the North Tower and around the area closest to the towers.
It was in no way sensational, but an incredibly moving and real record of an unimaginable day. The expressions on the faces of those firefighters when the realised the scale of what they were dealing with were of sheer bewilderment and shock. God only knows how they could even begin to start tackling the fires. How did they know where to start? How the hell did they WALK up the stairs carrying all their equipment - but that is what they did. It was the only way up as all the lifts were out of action. How many of them didn't survive? It must have been hundreds.
Not easy viewing, but beautifully put together. Amazingly, not one of the firefighters from the firehouse that was at the centre of the film were killed. It's now known as the Miracle House.
If this film is shown again this week, you must try to watch it.
It will leave you totally humbled and amazed at the bravery of those guys.
Wednesday, 7 September 2011
MY FEET...
... are killing me!
Months ago I bought a small table to go in the kitchen when I was working, the idea being that I would be able to take the weight off my feet. Strangely, though, I hardly ever bother to use it and then wonder why my legs will hardly hold me up when I've spent the whole day standing at the worktop!
Thank goodness that cake is done. It's been a bit of a nightmare to be honest.
Just had a lovely walk (on my sore feet) with the girls. A bit blustery, but bright and it was good to get out to blow a few cobwebs away.
James is coming round later. There's a big pot of homemade tomato and vegetable soup simmering away, smelling delicious and it'll be even better tomorrow.
Bet Charles is looking forward to the end of today. He now has four days off before he goes back into school. Which reminds me...
... I must make a list of stuff for him to do!
Months ago I bought a small table to go in the kitchen when I was working, the idea being that I would be able to take the weight off my feet. Strangely, though, I hardly ever bother to use it and then wonder why my legs will hardly hold me up when I've spent the whole day standing at the worktop!
Thank goodness that cake is done. It's been a bit of a nightmare to be honest.
Just had a lovely walk (on my sore feet) with the girls. A bit blustery, but bright and it was good to get out to blow a few cobwebs away.
James is coming round later. There's a big pot of homemade tomato and vegetable soup simmering away, smelling delicious and it'll be even better tomorrow.
Bet Charles is looking forward to the end of today. He now has four days off before he goes back into school. Which reminds me...
... I must make a list of stuff for him to do!
AAAAAAAARRRRRRGH!!!!
Final straw!
The nurse whose knickers fell down in Spud-U-Like has just fallen over and smashed.
Now I'm going to have to make her all over again!
AM SICK OF THIS CAKE!
The nurse whose knickers fell down in Spud-U-Like has just fallen over and smashed.
Now I'm going to have to make her all over again!
AM SICK OF THIS CAKE!
TODAY'S PLAN
Okay. I'm going to get that cake finished then I won't need to worry about it any more. I'll do some work on it now, then go into Morpeth to do some food shopping, then return to complete it.
It really has been a pain trying to incorporate all the elements AND create something that has some sort of story to it.
Bring on 125 cupcakes and a Thomas the Tank Engine cake. That'll be easy by comparison.
It really has been a pain trying to incorporate all the elements AND create something that has some sort of story to it.
Bring on 125 cupcakes and a Thomas the Tank Engine cake. That'll be easy by comparison.
LAST NIGHT I SAW...
... a mouse running along the side of the house, past the front step and through the picket fence.
It wasn't pleasant and resulted in much shrieking and wailing on my part.
Charles, on the other hand, remained totally unmoved by the discovery, much to my huge annoyance.
He has, however, put traps out at the front of the house now. NOT in the girls area, obviously, but on the outside of the fence.
On another note though, the bees that had taken up residence in the airbrick at the back of the house seem to have moved on, so that's good.
It wasn't pleasant and resulted in much shrieking and wailing on my part.
Charles, on the other hand, remained totally unmoved by the discovery, much to my huge annoyance.
He has, however, put traps out at the front of the house now. NOT in the girls area, obviously, but on the outside of the fence.
On another note though, the bees that had taken up residence in the airbrick at the back of the house seem to have moved on, so that's good.
Tuesday, 6 September 2011
I GIVE UP!!
I've worked all day on this wretched cake.
SOME of it looks fine, but other bits look really naff. May even re-do the Cortina Estate again tomorrow - but I've just left it for now. Don't want to look at it any more!
Feel guilty because I haven't given the girls any attention today. They're currently giving me the dead eye, so now I feel even worse.
Oh well, better go and get a pan of bolognese sauce on the go...
SOME of it looks fine, but other bits look really naff. May even re-do the Cortina Estate again tomorrow - but I've just left it for now. Don't want to look at it any more!
Feel guilty because I haven't given the girls any attention today. They're currently giving me the dead eye, so now I feel even worse.
Oh well, better go and get a pan of bolognese sauce on the go...
GOT ALL...
... the lights on. It's SO dark outside. Heavy rain, chilly. Pretty yuk really.
Wet playtimes anyone?
Wet playtimes anyone?
Monday, 5 September 2011
NEED A BREAK!!
It's all very well Dannymatt suggesting deep-fried birthday cake - but I suspect that one wont get past those canny Scots.
Have made a few of the bits, but, having worked for hours, it still looks as if I've done very little.
Anyway, its time for a sit down for a while I think. The girls are fast asleep (or they were until I started typing that sentence, and, as if by magic, they've just woken up to have a good old bark at someone walking past the end of the drive. Great! Just when I was hoping for a bit of peace and quiet!)
Keep wondering how Hannah (my niece) is getting on at Croftway today. She's doing a week's work experience for her PGCE. Hope she's getting on okay.
Have made a few of the bits, but, having worked for hours, it still looks as if I've done very little.
Anyway, its time for a sit down for a while I think. The girls are fast asleep (or they were until I started typing that sentence, and, as if by magic, they've just woken up to have a good old bark at someone walking past the end of the drive. Great! Just when I was hoping for a bit of peace and quiet!)
Keep wondering how Hannah (my niece) is getting on at Croftway today. She's doing a week's work experience for her PGCE. Hope she's getting on okay.
GOING OUT...
... to buy tartan ribbon.
Will try to clear my head a bit and then give it another go when I get back.
Will try to clear my head a bit and then give it another go when I get back.
I JUST CAN'T...
... get into the cake I'm supposed to be making for Fa policeman
a nurse
riday.
If I tell you that it is supposed to include...
...a policeman
A nurse whose knickers fell down at Spud-U-Like
A cricket ball breaking a neighbours window
NUFC/Scum
Potato picking
Prawn peeling
A trip to San Diego
An MR2
A Ford Cortina Estate crashed into a lampost
and the FTSE index...
... then you might just understand why!
I honestly don't know where to begin!
a nurse
riday.
If I tell you that it is supposed to include...
...a policeman
A nurse whose knickers fell down at Spud-U-Like
A cricket ball breaking a neighbours window
NUFC/Scum
Potato picking
Prawn peeling
A trip to San Diego
An MR2
A Ford Cortina Estate crashed into a lampost
and the FTSE index...
... then you might just understand why!
I honestly don't know where to begin!
NEW TERM
God, I remember it so well. That sinking feeling before you go back. The sleepless night before the first morning.
And then getting into school and finding that it feels as if you've only just left, the six weeks are a dim and distant memory...
... and it's actually great to be back!
Having said that though, I'm still glad I'm not going through it today!! He he!
And then getting into school and finding that it feels as if you've only just left, the six weeks are a dim and distant memory...
... and it's actually great to be back!
Having said that though, I'm still glad I'm not going through it today!! He he!
Sunday, 4 September 2011
TODAY I'VE BEEN MOSTLY MAKING...
... an MR2, a policeman who supports NUFC AND the unwashed and a nurse whose knickers fell down at Spud-U-Like.
JUST DON'T ASK.
RIGHT?
JUST DON'T ASK.
RIGHT?
GORGEOUS MORNING!!
Sunny, warm - the school's must be going back tomorrow then!!
Helen and Bill are still here. We've had a lazy start to the day and are just enjoying plotting our future once we're ALL retired from school. Can't come soon enough in my opinion!
Helen and Bill are still here. We've had a lazy start to the day and are just enjoying plotting our future once we're ALL retired from school. Can't come soon enough in my opinion!
Saturday, 3 September 2011
THINK I'VE DRUNK...
... far too much coffee today. I've actually made myself feel quite ill. Not good.
We have, however, had a lovely morning with James and Claire. Breakfast at the 'Butterfly Cabinet' was back to the standards set in the days when it was 'Belle and Herbs' and our birthday shopping trip went very smoothly, although Claire now has to forget all about it and act surprised when she opens her gift bag next week!
The girls have been for a good run around the dog park and are now sleeping off the effects of all that exercise. Think it won't be long before I join them! (Although as I've still got all that caffeine pumping round my system maybe I won't.)
We have, however, had a lovely morning with James and Claire. Breakfast at the 'Butterfly Cabinet' was back to the standards set in the days when it was 'Belle and Herbs' and our birthday shopping trip went very smoothly, although Claire now has to forget all about it and act surprised when she opens her gift bag next week!
The girls have been for a good run around the dog park and are now sleeping off the effects of all that exercise. Think it won't be long before I join them! (Although as I've still got all that caffeine pumping round my system maybe I won't.)
WONDER WHY...
... Dannymatt's comment of 1st Sept was deemed to be 'Spam'? Just as well I checked or I would have missed that little gem!
UP EARLY...
... making cupcakes to accompany the Christening cake that goes out later today.
Going to meet James and Claire in a while. We're off to Jesmond for breakfast, then going to town to look for something for Claire's birthday.
After that, I've got a customer coming round to discuss a cake order, then Helen and Bill will rock up late in the evening after the Falcons match.
Quite a busy day then.
(By the way, Dannymatt. Just wondering. Were you on the pop last night?)
Going to meet James and Claire in a while. We're off to Jesmond for breakfast, then going to town to look for something for Claire's birthday.
After that, I've got a customer coming round to discuss a cake order, then Helen and Bill will rock up late in the evening after the Falcons match.
Quite a busy day then.
(By the way, Dannymatt. Just wondering. Were you on the pop last night?)
Friday, 2 September 2011
FUNNY OLD DAY TODAY
Haven't done very much to be honest, but seem to have been busy all day, with nothing to show for it.
Nice to see Matthew Bray this afternoon, he called in to see us on his way to his Mum and Dad's.
Had a whistle stop trip to Corbridge to get my hands on some of their scones. The branch in Morpeth is looking for someone to supply scones (their current (!) supplier seems to have only lasted three months) an I've been asked if I fancy having a go, but they want the scones to be exactly like the ones in their Corbridge shop! (Why don't you just get the Corbridge supplier to make a few extra, it's not a million miles away!?)
Anyway, I've sampled, weighed and measured them and MAY have a go.
Charles and the girls are watching the England match. (Correction, Charles and the girls are all asleep while the England match is on.)
Nice to see Matthew Bray this afternoon, he called in to see us on his way to his Mum and Dad's.
Had a whistle stop trip to Corbridge to get my hands on some of their scones. The branch in Morpeth is looking for someone to supply scones (their current (!) supplier seems to have only lasted three months) an I've been asked if I fancy having a go, but they want the scones to be exactly like the ones in their Corbridge shop! (Why don't you just get the Corbridge supplier to make a few extra, it's not a million miles away!?)
Anyway, I've sampled, weighed and measured them and MAY have a go.
Charles and the girls are watching the England match. (Correction, Charles and the girls are all asleep while the England match is on.)
FRIDAY AGAIN!
This time last week we were still in France, doing our last minute wine shopping. It seems ages ago actually.
Charles has gone out for an early morning rendevous with Christina in Newcastle. I noticed that he's taken the Rav whenever he's been out during the last few days. Think he likes it!!
I've got to wait in for a customer to collect the Chocolate Overload cake this morning. yesterday I finished the Christening cake for this weekend, just need to make the matching cupcakes then that order's finished.
Have a very complicated cake to do for next week, along with 125 cupcakes. More details on the cake later, but suffice to say, I'm not sure where to start on this one!!
Charles has gone out for an early morning rendevous with Christina in Newcastle. I noticed that he's taken the Rav whenever he's been out during the last few days. Think he likes it!!
I've got to wait in for a customer to collect the Chocolate Overload cake this morning. yesterday I finished the Christening cake for this weekend, just need to make the matching cupcakes then that order's finished.
Have a very complicated cake to do for next week, along with 125 cupcakes. More details on the cake later, but suffice to say, I'm not sure where to start on this one!!
Thursday, 1 September 2011
STILL GETTING OVER...
... the disappointment of yesterday. And, of course, you're quite right Dannymatt, I hear plenty of disgruntled noises, but when it comes down to it there will be very few fans who are prepared to make a stand.
I hear the NEWCASTLE UNITED sign over the East Stand is being dismantled now.
The guy's a joke. Only NUFC could end up with a tight billionaire for an owner.
Have you EVER heard him speak, by the way?
I hear the NEWCASTLE UNITED sign over the East Stand is being dismantled now.
The guy's a joke. Only NUFC could end up with a tight billionaire for an owner.
Have you EVER heard him speak, by the way?
SICKENED!
The whole set up at Newcastle is beyond a joke. Ineptitude on a grand scale. The club is a joke.
I bet we all spent yesterday waiting agog for our promised striker, got sucked into the last gasp bid (allegedly), fingers crossed, praying that the next time David Craig appeared on the screen he would have been rushed to SJP to announce the news that we've all been hoping and praying for.
WHY DO WE DO IT?
Surely we've had enough transfer windows now with Ashley, to know that it's just NOT GOING TO HAPPEN.
I bet we all spent yesterday waiting agog for our promised striker, got sucked into the last gasp bid (allegedly), fingers crossed, praying that the next time David Craig appeared on the screen he would have been rushed to SJP to announce the news that we've all been hoping and praying for.
WHY DO WE DO IT?
Surely we've had enough transfer windows now with Ashley, to know that it's just NOT GOING TO HAPPEN.
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