What a result!
Didn't expect that and, as I said earlier, would have been happy with a draw to be honest.
Great effort from the lads tonight. Proud of them!
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!
Monday, 31 October 2011
NO SOONER SAID...
... that Jim rings!
Good to hear from him. He isn't too hopeful about the result this evening and I have to say, that if we come away with a draw I will be happy with that.
Good to hear from him. He isn't too hopeful about the result this evening and I have to say, that if we come away with a draw I will be happy with that.
WHERE'S MY SON?
Haven't heard from him for a couple of days, which is very unusual.
Not nagging, just making an observation, that's all.
Not nagging, just making an observation, that's all.
UP EARLY AGAIN!
Hmmm, not impressed with this, especially as we just seemed to be getting into a very nice routine. Still, it's given me a chance to get on with mundane stuff, leaving the rest of the day for piping practice. Not piping in the musical sense you understand, but in the cake decorating sense. I have always been terrified of this as it's a skill I have yet to master, but I had a go yesterday and discovered that I'm not that bad at it - and now I can't wait to have a go at some more!!
We've got to take Charles's car back to have the work done that it needs to get through it's MOT, but that's not until this afternoon, then he will pick it up in the morning before setting off for Preston where he's going to spend a couple of days with his Mum.
Just remembered - we've got a match tonight. Feel stressed now!!
We've got to take Charles's car back to have the work done that it needs to get through it's MOT, but that's not until this afternoon, then he will pick it up in the morning before setting off for Preston where he's going to spend a couple of days with his Mum.
Just remembered - we've got a match tonight. Feel stressed now!!
Sunday, 30 October 2011
I DON'T THINK...
... Rose can get her head round the fact that the clocks have gone back! Not only did she get up an hour earlier than usual, but she's been sitting giving me the "I need my tea" eyes for the past half an hour.
Lily, on the other hand, couldn't care less!
Lily, on the other hand, couldn't care less!
Saturday, 29 October 2011
BIT OF A SHOCK TO THE SYSTEM!
The girls, despite going to bed very late last night, decided to start the day well before 7am this morning.
An attempt by Charles to settle them down again failed miserably and I ended up getting up with them while he returned to the Land of Nod for another hour and a half!
Gorgeous sunrise this morning, although what's that they say about "Red sky in the morning..."?
Going to faff around with more Christmas models this morning, then were going to meet James in Morpeth around lunchtime. I shall be taking a Red Cross parcel comprising blueberry pie, ginger shortbread and coffee cake with me, so I hope he and Claire are hungry!
An attempt by Charles to settle them down again failed miserably and I ended up getting up with them while he returned to the Land of Nod for another hour and a half!
Gorgeous sunrise this morning, although what's that they say about "Red sky in the morning..."?
Going to faff around with more Christmas models this morning, then were going to meet James in Morpeth around lunchtime. I shall be taking a Red Cross parcel comprising blueberry pie, ginger shortbread and coffee cake with me, so I hope he and Claire are hungry!
Friday, 28 October 2011
FRIDAY EVENING!
Just had a chat with James - and he certainly sounds ready for the weekend.
Hate the thought of the clocks going back on Saturday night.
Winter's drawing in...
Blah blah, blah
Hate the thought of the clocks going back on Saturday night.
Winter's drawing in...
Blah blah, blah
LILY AND ROSE BLOG...
... CHECK!
I'm in the right place this time. Good!
Mind you, I'm not doing too well this morning. Charles has just rung from Amble where his car is being MOT'd and he was asking if I wanted him to stop off at Sainsburys on his way home only for me to give him the list which included "Chicken for the CHILDREN" - these being Lily and Rose of course!!
Am expecting three cakes to be collected this morning ready for the long trip to Birmingham. Hope they travel okay.
Uh oh - Charles has just sent a text saying his merc has failed it's MOT and needs two new coil springs so will have to go back in next week. What a pain.
I'm in the right place this time. Good!
Mind you, I'm not doing too well this morning. Charles has just rung from Amble where his car is being MOT'd and he was asking if I wanted him to stop off at Sainsburys on his way home only for me to give him the list which included "Chicken for the CHILDREN" - these being Lily and Rose of course!!
Am expecting three cakes to be collected this morning ready for the long trip to Birmingham. Hope they travel okay.
Uh oh - Charles has just sent a text saying his merc has failed it's MOT and needs two new coil springs so will have to go back in next week. What a pain.
Thursday, 27 October 2011
CAN'T COPE WITH...
... two blogs!
Keep getting mixed up about which one I'm on and the cake blog ends up with all sorts of trivia that really needs to go on here.
Not that anyone reads the cake blog, so it doesn't really matter. (This is a bit of a shame really as Charles has just updated it and it's looking pretty good.)
The girls (well, Rose actually, Lily's too lazy to be bothered) are unsettled this afternoon because the guy next door is outside sawing stuff and they (she) can hear it, but not see what's going on, which is never conducive to relaxed behaviour.
Keep getting mixed up about which one I'm on and the cake blog ends up with all sorts of trivia that really needs to go on here.
Not that anyone reads the cake blog, so it doesn't really matter. (This is a bit of a shame really as Charles has just updated it and it's looking pretty good.)
The girls (well, Rose actually, Lily's too lazy to be bothered) are unsettled this afternoon because the guy next door is outside sawing stuff and they (she) can hear it, but not see what's going on, which is never conducive to relaxed behaviour.
WAITING FOR...
... a delivery of books from Amazon this morning. All baking books. Despite having shelves and shelves of baking books I'm still really excited about getting new ones!!
Had a really relaxed start to the day - the girls are certainly sleeping in for longer these days. It was supposed to be my manic decorating day today, but as I managed to get it all done yesterday I now find I have a bit of spare time on my hands.
It sounds as if there's lots of interest in Christmas cakes at the village shop, so I might do some prep for those later on, after I've made a quick visit to Morpeth for some much needed supplies.
Have to say the match last night was very stressful and ultimately disappointing. The atmosphere at the ground sounded electric and the fans certainly did us proud. It's just a shame that the team didn't play out of their skins for the first eighty minutes.
Had a really relaxed start to the day - the girls are certainly sleeping in for longer these days. It was supposed to be my manic decorating day today, but as I managed to get it all done yesterday I now find I have a bit of spare time on my hands.
It sounds as if there's lots of interest in Christmas cakes at the village shop, so I might do some prep for those later on, after I've made a quick visit to Morpeth for some much needed supplies.
Have to say the match last night was very stressful and ultimately disappointing. The atmosphere at the ground sounded electric and the fans certainly did us proud. It's just a shame that the team didn't play out of their skins for the first eighty minutes.
Wednesday, 26 October 2011
GOOD GRIEF!
I went out of the room for a minute at 2 - 0 down and came back to find we're 2 - 2!! Gotta LOVE Cabaye!
Don't waste it now lads.
Don't waste it now lads.
GETTING CONFUSED!!
Completely forgot I was signed into the cake blog and have just posted my thoughts about tonight's diabolical match on there!
Come on Pardew - CHANGE IT!
Come on Pardew - CHANGE IT!
Tuesday, 25 October 2011
JUST CHECKED FACEBOOK...
... and found FOUR new cake orders that have appeared today while we've been away!!
GOOD DAY...
... in Yorkshire.
Great to see Helen and Bill and to spend some time with Mum.
The girls were brilliantly behaved. Travelled fine, met their cousins Tex and Digby without any problems and generally settled into life at Auntie Helen's as though they're there all the time.
Have eaten far too much - but have thoroughly enjoyed every mouthful Thank you Helen.
Looks like next year's holiday will be in the UK and may involve a campervan.
This could be interesting!
Great to see Helen and Bill and to spend some time with Mum.
The girls were brilliantly behaved. Travelled fine, met their cousins Tex and Digby without any problems and generally settled into life at Auntie Helen's as though they're there all the time.
Have eaten far too much - but have thoroughly enjoyed every mouthful Thank you Helen.
Looks like next year's holiday will be in the UK and may involve a campervan.
This could be interesting!
Monday, 24 October 2011
THIS LAPTOP...
... still won't let me publish my responses to your comments (Dannymatt) - but good effort!!
Are you watching the Brighton v West Ham match?
Are you watching the Brighton v West Ham match?
MIRACULOUS BANANA BREAD!
We had to leave the house in something of a hurry this afternoon and I had a banana loaf (I'm currently experimenting with recipes for the coffee shop) in the oven that was nowhere near cooked, so I just turned he oven off and hoped that it would continue to cook from the residual heat.
And it DID - perfectly! Possibly the best banana loaf I've made. Bet I'll not be able to do that again!!
And it DID - perfectly! Possibly the best banana loaf I've made. Bet I'll not be able to do that again!!
DIDN'T REALISE...
... that going to SJP to take up the offer of extra Season Tickets at half price would turn out to be SO much fun.
Loads of media interest, this time it was ME who did the interview (forgot to ask which channel it was!!), appearances from Sammy, Leon and Danny to the accompaniment of plenty of singing from the fans, confirmation from Dekka that Maiga is a cert...
... all very exciting stuff!!
Loads of media interest, this time it was ME who did the interview (forgot to ask which channel it was!!), appearances from Sammy, Leon and Danny to the accompaniment of plenty of singing from the fans, confirmation from Dekka that Maiga is a cert...
... all very exciting stuff!!
FOLLOWING...
... the news that Season Ticket holders are going to be able to buy a further ticket at half price, it looks as if we may be heading to SJP this afternoon. Might be someone's birthday present!
SPOOKS!!
Why, oh why, have I only started watching this series now. I didn't get into the eight (or is it nine?) previous series and now it's all over I really want to know what I've missed!!
Hopefully, (hint, hint) James will let me borrow all his DVDs so I can have a bit of a Spooksfest during some of my quieter days.
Didn't actually leave the sofa during the afternoon and into the late evening yesterday. Two matches, Strictly and X Factor followed by that final episode all conspired to make a couch potato out of me!
Hopefully, (hint, hint) James will let me borrow all his DVDs so I can have a bit of a Spooksfest during some of my quieter days.
Didn't actually leave the sofa during the afternoon and into the late evening yesterday. Two matches, Strictly and X Factor followed by that final episode all conspired to make a couch potato out of me!
Sunday, 23 October 2011
HAVE I MADE THIS UP...
... or have I heard it somewhere?
To the tune of 'We'll meet again"
Yohan Cabaye,
Scoring here, scoring there
Il habite en Angleterre
Yohan Cabaye...
To the tune of 'We'll meet again"
Yohan Cabaye,
Scoring here, scoring there
Il habite en Angleterre
Yohan Cabaye...
MANCHESTER DERBY!!!
Quite enjoying it actually. Bet my brother isn't - he's a Man Utd fan I'm ashamed to admit!
Been really gloomy all day today. One of those days when you have the lights on all the time. Really don't like days like this - quite depressing.
Had a busy morning in the kitchen and am now looking forward to a cuppa. Wonder if anyone is going to make me one???
Been really gloomy all day today. One of those days when you have the lights on all the time. Really don't like days like this - quite depressing.
Had a busy morning in the kitchen and am now looking forward to a cuppa. Wonder if anyone is going to make me one???
STEPHEN TAYLOR...
... played on in the match yesterday with a broken nose. Credit to him!
Just watching the match now and trying to spot who it was that Cabaye went to celebrate with in the dugout.
Though Alan pardew's post-match interview was pretty spot on. It wasn't a great match to watch, but another very useful three points.
Actually it's 8.45 and we haven't been up that long. It would appear that the girls are finally beginning to appreciate the benefits of the lie in!
Today we haven't got much planned other than making a few batches of macarons to take to Yorkshire on Tuesday when we go to see Helen and Bill AND my Mum. Looking forward to it actually, it's been a while since we all got together (four weeks) and we always have a good laugh when we get together.
Just watching the match now and trying to spot who it was that Cabaye went to celebrate with in the dugout.
Though Alan pardew's post-match interview was pretty spot on. It wasn't a great match to watch, but another very useful three points.
Actually it's 8.45 and we haven't been up that long. It would appear that the girls are finally beginning to appreciate the benefits of the lie in!
Today we haven't got much planned other than making a few batches of macarons to take to Yorkshire on Tuesday when we go to see Helen and Bill AND my Mum. Looking forward to it actually, it's been a while since we all got together (four weeks) and we always have a good laugh when we get together.
Saturday, 22 October 2011
NOT A PRETTY MATCH...
... (apart from Cabaye Dreamboat) but another three points. We'll take that, thank you very much.
Now settling down with the girls for an evening of Strictly and XFactor.
Now settling down with the girls for an evening of Strictly and XFactor.
BIT LATE THIS MORNING!!
It was my turn for a lie-in and I haven't really got up to speed yet.
Already getting the pre-match nerves, but looking forward to the game.
Give us a wave dannymatt - we'll be the ones wearing black and white!!
Already getting the pre-match nerves, but looking forward to the game.
Give us a wave dannymatt - we'll be the ones wearing black and white!!
Friday, 21 October 2011
AS THE 'GLASS HALF EMPTY' SORT OF PERSON...
... that I am, I just want to say that I hope all the optimism about tomorrow's game isn't a little premature and misguided and that all those supporters who think we're gonna win by a cricket score aren't going to jinx us.
I really HOPE there is the sort of atmosphere we saw last Sunday when, from what I could see on the telly, SJP was rocking in the second half.
We're going to call in on James and Claire on our way into town, then Landmark for lunch (can't break with tradition at a time like this) then into SJP to watch the warm up and sing along to "Viva la Vida" which always marks the beginning of the match for me.
(By the way - its not too cold today is it?)
I really HOPE there is the sort of atmosphere we saw last Sunday when, from what I could see on the telly, SJP was rocking in the second half.
We're going to call in on James and Claire on our way into town, then Landmark for lunch (can't break with tradition at a time like this) then into SJP to watch the warm up and sing along to "Viva la Vida" which always marks the beginning of the match for me.
(By the way - its not too cold today is it?)
DID I...
... have the nap I was so looking forward to this morning?
No chance!
To tell the truth, I forgot all about it, until just now, when I've sat down and suddenly feel tired. Unfortunately I'm in the middle of putting a lemon loaf cake in the oven, so better get back to work.
No chance!
To tell the truth, I forgot all about it, until just now, when I've sat down and suddenly feel tired. Unfortunately I'm in the middle of putting a lemon loaf cake in the oven, so better get back to work.
BAD NIGHT!!
The girls have not had their best night - and consequently neither have I - solely due to the dogs t the big house down the road who started barking at 4.30 and kept it up for about an hour and a half.
Credit to Lily and Rose though, they went out for a wee when the racket first started and didn't join in or make a fuss, went straight back to bed, but then grumbled on while they listened to their chums down the road. This meant that, just as when you've got a baby in the house, I heard every little growl and yap from my two. I didn't need to get up to them again, but was aware that they were wide awake and alert, so I didn't get a lot of sleep until things calmed down along the road, by which time it was pretty much time to get up for real.
May need a little shut-eye later on!!
However, that won't be until this afternoon at the earliest as I'm off to Morpeth in a while to stock up on supplies and cake ingredients. Charles has to stay at home to receive a delivery of decorating stuff - and presumably, to watch over the girls who will no doubt be catching up on their beauty sleep.
Credit to Lily and Rose though, they went out for a wee when the racket first started and didn't join in or make a fuss, went straight back to bed, but then grumbled on while they listened to their chums down the road. This meant that, just as when you've got a baby in the house, I heard every little growl and yap from my two. I didn't need to get up to them again, but was aware that they were wide awake and alert, so I didn't get a lot of sleep until things calmed down along the road, by which time it was pretty much time to get up for real.
May need a little shut-eye later on!!
However, that won't be until this afternoon at the earliest as I'm off to Morpeth in a while to stock up on supplies and cake ingredients. Charles has to stay at home to receive a delivery of decorating stuff - and presumably, to watch over the girls who will no doubt be catching up on their beauty sleep.
Thursday, 20 October 2011
BACK TO...
... the taster session on Nov 5th.
I HOPE that all my friends and cake-acquaintances will get themselves along, so that they can sample the goodies and, hopefully, make lots of appreciative comments within hearing of the good people of Jesmond!
(Got to try and persuade some of Willy's stalwarts that there are other coffee shops worth a try!)
I HOPE that all my friends and cake-acquaintances will get themselves along, so that they can sample the goodies and, hopefully, make lots of appreciative comments within hearing of the good people of Jesmond!
(Got to try and persuade some of Willy's stalwarts that there are other coffee shops worth a try!)
JUST BACK...
... from Jesmond, where the coffee shop, Radcliffe's, is coming along absolutely brilliantly. Counter, shelving, white goods, tables, seating - all in. Lots of painting still going on around the front of the shop - but it's looking really good.
There's been a huge amount of work since our last visit - and the premises now resemble a really cool coffee shop.
Lots of great discussion about my input. Kevin's really keen to go for a rustic, homebaked feel to al the products and this suits me fine. Feeling very excited now!
Going to do a taster session on November 5th, with the actual opening being put back a little. This is good news for me really.
There's been a huge amount of work since our last visit - and the premises now resemble a really cool coffee shop.
Lots of great discussion about my input. Kevin's really keen to go for a rustic, homebaked feel to al the products and this suits me fine. Feeling very excited now!
Going to do a taster session on November 5th, with the actual opening being put back a little. This is good news for me really.
SHOULD HAVE MENTIONED EARLIER...
... that when James came round last night after football, he was carrying a nasty injury to his left knee, the result of some seriously dirty hacking.
He could barely move it and spent most of the time with us sitting with a bag of frozen peas on it to try and reduce the swelling. I offered him my "genou" strapping, but we couldn't even get it past his foot, so that didn't help!
Hope it's a little easier today. If not I think he may be needing a little trip to A and E.
He could barely move it and spent most of the time with us sitting with a bag of frozen peas on it to try and reduce the swelling. I offered him my "genou" strapping, but we couldn't even get it past his foot, so that didn't help!
Hope it's a little easier today. If not I think he may be needing a little trip to A and E.
HA HA HA
It really IS freezing this morning!!
Boots, thick tights, tee shirt, dress, woolly cardi - ready to go.
We're off to Jesmond this morning, where I will finally find out what I'm going to be baking for the coffee shop. If it's too fiddly and fancy, I may well be backing out!
Boots, thick tights, tee shirt, dress, woolly cardi - ready to go.
We're off to Jesmond this morning, where I will finally find out what I'm going to be baking for the coffee shop. If it's too fiddly and fancy, I may well be backing out!
Wednesday, 19 October 2011
HEY...
... thanks for that dannymatt - makes perfect sense to me.
I was fascinated by the origin of "nostalgia" - I may have been a Latin scholar (No, not 'scholar' that implies a certain studiousness on my part - which I can't honestly claim to have had!) pupil for a time(Ha ha ha!) but I'd never made the connection. Fascinating.
I was fascinated by the origin of "nostalgia" - I may have been a Latin scholar (No, not 'scholar' that implies a certain studiousness on my part - which I can't honestly claim to have had!) pupil for a time(Ha ha ha!) but I'd never made the connection. Fascinating.
I'M HOPING...
... that my order of macaron mats will be winging their way to me from France today. I'm really into these little treats now, but only have one mat which I bought while we were on holiday, and have discovered that this slows me down hence the order for more...
Sorry, I'm getting a little side-tracked by the girls who, unusually, have been allowed into the lounge this morning and are currently play-fighting round my legs! They seem to be playing a game of "Who can bite the other's ears off first" at the moment and it would appear to be a draw in the early stages of the contest. They'll move onto the back legs next, that's when it gets REALLY competitive!
When I say it's unusual for them to be allowed in the lounge, that only applies to the mornings when I'm too busy in the kitchen to be able to check on the havoc they're wreaking. Consequently I keep them in their own room or outside while I'm working, but somehow we appear to have forgotten that today!
...Anyway, macarons - They need to stand and rest once they've been piped for up to an hour and this becomes very frustrating because it means I can't start on the next batch until this lot is out of the oven. Having the extra mats will solve that problem and I'll be able to get three batches piped in quick succession. Good use of time! Can't do with waiting around!
(Little yelp from one of the girls shows it's getting serious. I've now got Rose running up and down the settee in the sunroom like a mad thing, while Lily runs the length of the lounge and back over and over again to try and distract her from her "Queen of the Castle" perch. It's not working!)
Sorry, I'm getting a little side-tracked by the girls who, unusually, have been allowed into the lounge this morning and are currently play-fighting round my legs! They seem to be playing a game of "Who can bite the other's ears off first" at the moment and it would appear to be a draw in the early stages of the contest. They'll move onto the back legs next, that's when it gets REALLY competitive!
When I say it's unusual for them to be allowed in the lounge, that only applies to the mornings when I'm too busy in the kitchen to be able to check on the havoc they're wreaking. Consequently I keep them in their own room or outside while I'm working, but somehow we appear to have forgotten that today!
...Anyway, macarons - They need to stand and rest once they've been piped for up to an hour and this becomes very frustrating because it means I can't start on the next batch until this lot is out of the oven. Having the extra mats will solve that problem and I'll be able to get three batches piped in quick succession. Good use of time! Can't do with waiting around!
(Little yelp from one of the girls shows it's getting serious. I've now got Rose running up and down the settee in the sunroom like a mad thing, while Lily runs the length of the lounge and back over and over again to try and distract her from her "Queen of the Castle" perch. It's not working!)
DON'T CARE WHAT DANNYMAT SAYS...
... it IS cold, obviously not freezing, but COLD nevertheless.
The thing that has most disappointed me this Autumn is that the leaves on the cherry tree in our front garden have NOT changed colour at all this year. Usually the tree is a joy to behold with glorious red leaves, but all we've got this time are dead looking green leaves that are dropping like crazy without going through their usual final fling of a display. Very poor show this year!
The thing that has most disappointed me this Autumn is that the leaves on the cherry tree in our front garden have NOT changed colour at all this year. Usually the tree is a joy to behold with glorious red leaves, but all we've got this time are dead looking green leaves that are dropping like crazy without going through their usual final fling of a display. Very poor show this year!
Tuesday, 18 October 2011
THINK I'M DONE FOR TODAY!
Lots of prep done today - for cake orders AND for samples for the coffee shop. I'm trying to work at the sort of rate I imagine I'm going to have to put in from November! It's been fine today, but how it'll be when it's every other day I'm not sure.
Having said that, there aren't many days when I don't put in a pretty good shift. I may be retired and work from home, but pretty much as soon as Charles sets off for school I get started in the kitchen, usually working until just before he gets home.
I think the key is going to be: ORGANISATION. Fortunately this is something that I like!!
Having said that, there aren't many days when I don't put in a pretty good shift. I may be retired and work from home, but pretty much as soon as Charles sets off for school I get started in the kitchen, usually working until just before he gets home.
I think the key is going to be: ORGANISATION. Fortunately this is something that I like!!
IS THIS...
... the start of winter?
It is bitterly cold this morning, not helped by the very gusty wind - and no, Dannymatt, that's nothing to do with last night's paella!
Got a few deliveries due today, so I'm staying in for those. Plenty to do on the cake front though.
I suppose I'm beginning to get my head round the news from yesterday that the coffee shop will be ready to start trading in just over a fortnight. It's going to have huge implications on my time, but hopefully I'll cope okay. It'll be interesting to see how the gallery has changed since I was there about a month ago. I'm actually pretty excited about it all!
It is bitterly cold this morning, not helped by the very gusty wind - and no, Dannymatt, that's nothing to do with last night's paella!
Got a few deliveries due today, so I'm staying in for those. Plenty to do on the cake front though.
I suppose I'm beginning to get my head round the news from yesterday that the coffee shop will be ready to start trading in just over a fortnight. It's going to have huge implications on my time, but hopefully I'll cope okay. It'll be interesting to see how the gallery has changed since I was there about a month ago. I'm actually pretty excited about it all!
Monday, 17 October 2011
STORMY NIGHT!
It's wild out there - and we're going to be in for frost and even snow on the hills this week.
Oh joy!
Oh joy!
CRIKEY...
... Charles is home early!
Just gone 5pm - that makes a change.
Timed to perfection in fact, as I've just finished work myself for the day. Quite pleased with the results of my labours actually; the hard work on two cakes pretty much done and only the third to think about now.
Had a phone call this morning about the coffee shop in Jesmond. It's opening for business on 3rd November. Aaaarghhhh! Need to start getting organised for that. Got a meeting with Kevin at the end of this week, so things might be a bit clearer after that.
Looks like busy times ahead.
Just gone 5pm - that makes a change.
Timed to perfection in fact, as I've just finished work myself for the day. Quite pleased with the results of my labours actually; the hard work on two cakes pretty much done and only the third to think about now.
Had a phone call this morning about the coffee shop in Jesmond. It's opening for business on 3rd November. Aaaarghhhh! Need to start getting organised for that. Got a meeting with Kevin at the end of this week, so things might be a bit clearer after that.
Looks like busy times ahead.
GOOD MORNING!
Nice day!
Already started work on one of the toppers for the three cakes that are coming up in the next fortnight. Can't go into detail in here, but relatively pleased so far, just a bit anxious that replicating colours that I've only seen in a printed document may not match the original, but I'm doing my best.
Now going to do a bit of painting!
Already started work on one of the toppers for the three cakes that are coming up in the next fortnight. Can't go into detail in here, but relatively pleased so far, just a bit anxious that replicating colours that I've only seen in a printed document may not match the original, but I'm doing my best.
Now going to do a bit of painting!
Sunday, 16 October 2011
BLOOD PRESSURE...
... returning to normal!
Thank you NUFC - another good point, great second half and STILL unbeaten.
Spurs were supposed to be the team that would show what we're really made of. Well lets hope we get loads more of the same.
Thank you NUFC - another good point, great second half and STILL unbeaten.
Spurs were supposed to be the team that would show what we're really made of. Well lets hope we get loads more of the same.
TENSION BUILDING!
Would rather be AT the match rather than watching on Sky!
Have finished all my culinary stuff and am now watching the end of the Arsenal game and hoping the girls are going to have a nice little sleep during our match. As they're frantically yapping at something that's going on outside at the moment, I have to say it's looking unlikely.
Don't even need to think about an evening meal, as Charles is bringing an Indian back with him. This is perhaps not a good thing actually, as he's just had Chinese at Landmark. Oh well...
Have finished all my culinary stuff and am now watching the end of the Arsenal game and hoping the girls are going to have a nice little sleep during our match. As they're frantically yapping at something that's going on outside at the moment, I have to say it's looking unlikely.
Don't even need to think about an evening meal, as Charles is bringing an Indian back with him. This is perhaps not a good thing actually, as he's just had Chinese at Landmark. Oh well...
9.30AM
Been up for a couple of hours, housework done, dogs attended to, three different chocolate ganaches chilling in the fridge and the first batch of macarons developing their 'feet' before baking.
Just caught a glimpse of the Samoyed owner as he was whizzed past our house, pulled along by his faithful, and very powerful, dog team. I swear he was shouting, "MUSH" as he disappeared down the lane.
It's a day at home for me - possibly plucking up the courage to watch the match later. Charles, on the other hand, is going to meet James, go for pre-match lunch at Landmark and then they're off to SJP for what I hope is going to be a really good game. Come on Toon - you can do this!
Just caught a glimpse of the Samoyed owner as he was whizzed past our house, pulled along by his faithful, and very powerful, dog team. I swear he was shouting, "MUSH" as he disappeared down the lane.
It's a day at home for me - possibly plucking up the courage to watch the match later. Charles, on the other hand, is going to meet James, go for pre-match lunch at Landmark and then they're off to SJP for what I hope is going to be a really good game. Come on Toon - you can do this!
Saturday, 15 October 2011
SORRY!!
THE LAST TWO POSTS ARE THE WRONG WAY ROUND. I HAD INDEED BLOGGED THIS MORNING, BUT FORGOT TO PUBLISH IT!
SATURDAY MORNING
Charles is settled in front of the telly waiting for the rugby to start.
I'm catching up on emails, and have just discovered to my disappointment, that I won't be having a barrow in Sanderson Arcade any time soon as the established shops have exclusivity contracts that mean no one else can sell cupcakes, large cakes or celebration cakes - in fact, no bloody cakes at all really.
So, that plan receives a massive blow on the head.
BUT if I continue to work on my latest passion - the little French macaron - and IF I can produce them in sufficient quantity, then I might go back with that idea.
I'm catching up on emails, and have just discovered to my disappointment, that I won't be having a barrow in Sanderson Arcade any time soon as the established shops have exclusivity contracts that mean no one else can sell cupcakes, large cakes or celebration cakes - in fact, no bloody cakes at all really.
So, that plan receives a massive blow on the head.
BUT if I continue to work on my latest passion - the little French macaron - and IF I can produce them in sufficient quantity, then I might go back with that idea.
WHAT HAPPENED...
... TO ME TODAY?
No blogging?
This isn't like me at all.
We still haven't heard anything from Christina since she landed at Heathrow yesterday. Her phone seems to be dead. I think we're both pretty anxious and just want to hear SOMETHING from her.
Actually we've had a pretty good day today. After the rugby, we went down to Morpeth where I must have tried on about a dozen different Mother of the Groom outfits. Some of them (well, ALL of them to be honest) were absolutely gorgeous, but the sort of outfit I would only ever wear once.
So, I HAVE chosen one (AND brought it home!!) that I love to bits and that I will be able to wear on more than one occasion. It would need to be a pretty posh do and admittedly we don't go to many of those, but I will get to wear again.
Feel very well organised now!
Got home and did some gardening - well Charles did and then Chris came and staked the Kilmarnock willow so that it now stands upright.
I made a batch of strawberry macarons which are currently standing and firming up before going in the oven later. Also, put in some orders for more baking sheets and packaging as I'm hoping that these little beauties are going to take off in a big way.
Had a long and productive chat about three birthday cakes that are coming up shortly. Complicated stuff, but I think I know what I'm doing now.
Absolutely beautiful day today. Warm and sunny, not in the least like a mid-October day!
No blogging?
This isn't like me at all.
We still haven't heard anything from Christina since she landed at Heathrow yesterday. Her phone seems to be dead. I think we're both pretty anxious and just want to hear SOMETHING from her.
Actually we've had a pretty good day today. After the rugby, we went down to Morpeth where I must have tried on about a dozen different Mother of the Groom outfits. Some of them (well, ALL of them to be honest) were absolutely gorgeous, but the sort of outfit I would only ever wear once.
So, I HAVE chosen one (AND brought it home!!) that I love to bits and that I will be able to wear on more than one occasion. It would need to be a pretty posh do and admittedly we don't go to many of those, but I will get to wear again.
Feel very well organised now!
Got home and did some gardening - well Charles did and then Chris came and staked the Kilmarnock willow so that it now stands upright.
I made a batch of strawberry macarons which are currently standing and firming up before going in the oven later. Also, put in some orders for more baking sheets and packaging as I'm hoping that these little beauties are going to take off in a big way.
Had a long and productive chat about three birthday cakes that are coming up shortly. Complicated stuff, but I think I know what I'm doing now.
Absolutely beautiful day today. Warm and sunny, not in the least like a mid-October day!
Friday, 14 October 2011
HAVE JUST HEARD...
... that she's back safely and travelling home to Newcastle in the morning.
Phew!
Phew!
STILL DON'T KNOW...
... if Christina is back in the country. The flight from Mumbai that she was supposed to be on landed about an hour ago, but we can't get through to her on her mobile, so we're guessing that her battery's died and are resigned to the fact that we may not hear anything from her this evening.
Really, just want to know that she's back safely.
Really, just want to know that she's back safely.
BACK FROM RVI
Two and a half hours of waiting for...
One blood test, one consultation with an optician who was frustrated that my left eye "isn't doing what she wants it to do" (It doesn't do what I want it to do either, but hey, I live with it) one consultation with yet another doctor who doesn't know my history, no sign of the big man himself, who appears to have been called away suddenly...
...BUT an appointment to have new contact lenses fitted within the month, so that's a good thing.
Still feel as if we've wasted most of the day though, although taking the Kindle was an inspired move and helped to pass the time.
One blood test, one consultation with an optician who was frustrated that my left eye "isn't doing what she wants it to do" (It doesn't do what I want it to do either, but hey, I live with it) one consultation with yet another doctor who doesn't know my history, no sign of the big man himself, who appears to have been called away suddenly...
...BUT an appointment to have new contact lenses fitted within the month, so that's a good thing.
Still feel as if we've wasted most of the day though, although taking the Kindle was an inspired move and helped to pass the time.
RVI TODAY
Got another appointment with Mr Figueredo, or one of his minions, this morning.
It'll be interesting to see if the eye problem is still under control. I can't actually tell any more, because the virus has destroyed the pain sensors in the cornea, so whilst this may be more comfortable for me, it's also a bit worrying in that I only know I've got a problem if it doesn't look right!
Mid-morning appointment. This isn't good. I normally get the first appointment of the day, thus avoiding the inevitably long wait, but by 10.45 when I'm due in today, no doubt the waiting time will be about an hour - if I'm lucky. I'm taking my Kindle though, so should be able to pass the time quite happily.
It'll be interesting to see if the eye problem is still under control. I can't actually tell any more, because the virus has destroyed the pain sensors in the cornea, so whilst this may be more comfortable for me, it's also a bit worrying in that I only know I've got a problem if it doesn't look right!
Mid-morning appointment. This isn't good. I normally get the first appointment of the day, thus avoiding the inevitably long wait, but by 10.45 when I'm due in today, no doubt the waiting time will be about an hour - if I'm lucky. I'm taking my Kindle though, so should be able to pass the time quite happily.
Thursday, 13 October 2011
NEW HAIR!!
Well, not really, but a bit of a new style and certainly a different colour.
I'm now more of an ash blonde with darker ash streaks and have a much sleeker style which apparently is a bit of a project as it needs to grow a bit on top and in the fringe to really get the look I'm after. Ho hum - means I've got to be patient!!
However, by June it should be looking good!
Also, went to try on outfit and LOVE IT, BUT it does need a fair bit of alteration as I'm quite a small person really. Haven't asked about the price yet and need to go back with Charles and James to get their opinions before I decide - but it felt great and actually I felt a million dollars!
Got back home in time to put another Christmas cake in the oven and to find Charles and the girls watching back episodes of "The Body Farm."
All seems okay in India at the moment.
I'm now more of an ash blonde with darker ash streaks and have a much sleeker style which apparently is a bit of a project as it needs to grow a bit on top and in the fringe to really get the look I'm after. Ho hum - means I've got to be patient!!
However, by June it should be looking good!
Also, went to try on outfit and LOVE IT, BUT it does need a fair bit of alteration as I'm quite a small person really. Haven't asked about the price yet and need to go back with Charles and James to get their opinions before I decide - but it felt great and actually I felt a million dollars!
Got back home in time to put another Christmas cake in the oven and to find Charles and the girls watching back episodes of "The Body Farm."
All seems okay in India at the moment.
ANONYMOUS?
Haven't posted comment yet, but thank you for the advice. It's much appreciated.
We've both heard from Christina this morning. She let us know that she'd arrived safely in Mumbai and had reached her hotel. This is good news. Now we just have to hope she's okay with the work she's doing today and that she manages to get her return flight without any difficulty. Long way to go for a business meeting, but hey, what do I know?
I'm off to have my hair done this morning - bit of relaxation under the soothing hands of Andrea, who does an absolutely brilliant head massage in addition to sorting out my currently very untidy barnet! I know that in the grand scheme of things this is neither here nor there, but I'm having a bit of a colour crisis at the moment and am wondering if being blonde is really 'me' or if I should revert to my usual brown. No doubt Andrea will have an opinion!!!
I might also go and try on an outfit that I saw last week and that MAY just be suitable for a June wedding. When I first saw it I was wearing Uggs and didn't really want to try on what appears to be quite a sophisticated bit of kit with such casual footwear, so today I'm going to hobble around Morpeth in 4" heels. Let's hope I manage to do it without breaking an ankle. (Actually, better idea - I'll wear Uggs and just take the heels in a bag - sorted!)
We've both heard from Christina this morning. She let us know that she'd arrived safely in Mumbai and had reached her hotel. This is good news. Now we just have to hope she's okay with the work she's doing today and that she manages to get her return flight without any difficulty. Long way to go for a business meeting, but hey, what do I know?
I'm off to have my hair done this morning - bit of relaxation under the soothing hands of Andrea, who does an absolutely brilliant head massage in addition to sorting out my currently very untidy barnet! I know that in the grand scheme of things this is neither here nor there, but I'm having a bit of a colour crisis at the moment and am wondering if being blonde is really 'me' or if I should revert to my usual brown. No doubt Andrea will have an opinion!!!
I might also go and try on an outfit that I saw last week and that MAY just be suitable for a June wedding. When I first saw it I was wearing Uggs and didn't really want to try on what appears to be quite a sophisticated bit of kit with such casual footwear, so today I'm going to hobble around Morpeth in 4" heels. Let's hope I manage to do it without breaking an ankle. (Actually, better idea - I'll wear Uggs and just take the heels in a bag - sorted!)
Wednesday, 12 October 2011
STILL MISERABLE...
... weather!!
Still don't know what's happening with Christina. She's still in the UK and will be meeting herself coming back at this rate.
BUT, there's a chicken roasting away in the oven and smelling wonderful, Baileys cheesecake in the fridge along with some mountainous puff pastry, white chocolate, raspberry and cream towers (James complained they were too small last time I made these. He'll not be saying THAT tonight!)
Just waiting for Charles to get home, although that may not be for another hour or so, but hoping that once he's here and Claire and James turn up, we can all relax a little.
Still don't know what's happening with Christina. She's still in the UK and will be meeting herself coming back at this rate.
BUT, there's a chicken roasting away in the oven and smelling wonderful, Baileys cheesecake in the fridge along with some mountainous puff pastry, white chocolate, raspberry and cream towers (James complained they were too small last time I made these. He'll not be saying THAT tonight!)
Just waiting for Charles to get home, although that may not be for another hour or so, but hoping that once he's here and Claire and James turn up, we can all relax a little.
HIYA DANNYMATT!!
Quite comforting to know there really IS someone out there who's being as idle as I am today!!
Actually, I suppose that technically I'm not being idle because that is a concept that is totally alien to me. I deal with life by keeping busy, the difference today it that I'm having to INVENT busyness as there's nothing really on the plan for the day.
I think that keeping myself occupied helps me to stop dwelling on stuff that, at the moment, I'm finding really difficult. It doesn't mean I don't think about it, but things somehow seem to get put into perspective a little more than when I'm solely focused on them. If you see what I mean!!
You SHOULD have your piano. I can't believe you haven't.
Actually, I suppose that technically I'm not being idle because that is a concept that is totally alien to me. I deal with life by keeping busy, the difference today it that I'm having to INVENT busyness as there's nothing really on the plan for the day.
I think that keeping myself occupied helps me to stop dwelling on stuff that, at the moment, I'm finding really difficult. It doesn't mean I don't think about it, but things somehow seem to get put into perspective a little more than when I'm solely focused on them. If you see what I mean!!
You SHOULD have your piano. I can't believe you haven't.
NOBODY AROUND THIS MORNING?
No one on Facebook or on Twitter.
Where IS everyone?
Feeling quite lonely.
Where IS everyone?
Feeling quite lonely.
WONDER WHAT TODAY WILL BRING!
Sometimes you just don't want to get out of bed in a morning do you?
Mind you, that's not helped by the weather today. I thought it was the middle of the night when I had to get up - and in reality it was 7.15, so not exactly early.
Have got to go food shopping this morning. Don't really want to go anywhere, but have no choice.
James and Claire are coming round this evening for a meal. It'll be really lovely to see them both and, hopefully, we can have a nice, relaxed family time together.
Ooh, better go, the girls are scratching at the door to be let out...
Mind you, that's not helped by the weather today. I thought it was the middle of the night when I had to get up - and in reality it was 7.15, so not exactly early.
Have got to go food shopping this morning. Don't really want to go anywhere, but have no choice.
James and Claire are coming round this evening for a meal. It'll be really lovely to see them both and, hopefully, we can have a nice, relaxed family time together.
Ooh, better go, the girls are scratching at the door to be let out...
Tuesday, 11 October 2011
INDIA!
Not actually happening today. Some hold up/misunderstanding/delay at Embassy (!)means that Christina will now be flying out, on her own, sometime tomorrow. God knows what she's going to do in the meantime.
Very anxious.
Very anxious.
STRESSFUL EVENING!
Hmmm, can't say too much on here, but didn't have a pleasant evening yesterday. certainly didn't feel very relaxed when it came to trying to get to sleep.
Christina is off to Mumbai, on business, today.
Considering she left our house at 11.30 and had to be up and ready to go at 3am, she will be pretty shattered before she even begins her trip. I really hope everything goes well for her and that she keeps safe.
It's going to be one of those days when I can't focus on much because I'll be thinking about her.
Christina is off to Mumbai, on business, today.
Considering she left our house at 11.30 and had to be up and ready to go at 3am, she will be pretty shattered before she even begins her trip. I really hope everything goes well for her and that she keeps safe.
It's going to be one of those days when I can't focus on much because I'll be thinking about her.
Monday, 10 October 2011
NO DANNYMATT,
I would never move to London, not even to sell cakes.
It's okay for a visit, but always lovely to be able to leave.
In fact, I wouldn't want to live anywhere south of Durham really... too many people you know.
I may not be able to charge exorbitant prices or even sell as many cakes as I could if I lived 'dahn sath' - but, having lived down there for many years I honestly prefer the pace of life up here.
And anyway, it wouldn't feel the same supporting NUFC from down there.
It's okay for a visit, but always lovely to be able to leave.
In fact, I wouldn't want to live anywhere south of Durham really... too many people you know.
I may not be able to charge exorbitant prices or even sell as many cakes as I could if I lived 'dahn sath' - but, having lived down there for many years I honestly prefer the pace of life up here.
And anyway, it wouldn't feel the same supporting NUFC from down there.
FUNNY OLD DAY TODAY
Haven't really got anything to do. Can't relax. Keep taking the girls out for walks as it's dry now.
Just been talking to a neighbour whose husband has been treated for depression for the past twelve months, only for a brain tumour to be discovered after she had insisted that there was clearly something more serious going on. He had the tumour removed a fortnight ago and is now making good progress, but thank God she didn't just trust the word of our GP and managed to get him diagnose and treated appropriately before it was too late.
Apart from going out for walks, nothing of any significance has happened today, other than I took a cake order this morning, but that's not due until the beginning of December so has no impact on how I spend the next couple of days.
Mind you, a new bit of kitchen kit should arrive in the next day or so. Its a two foot high cone and it's going to be covered in macarons. I was asked to make one of these recently, but declined as I hadn't had any experience and they wanted it for pretty much the next day, so I wouldn't have had a chance to practise. But while I've got a bit of a quieter time on the cake front, I'm going to have a go. Apparently, these things sell for £300 in London!! (I KNOW, I KNOW, I wouldn't charge that much - but still, makes you think!
Just been talking to a neighbour whose husband has been treated for depression for the past twelve months, only for a brain tumour to be discovered after she had insisted that there was clearly something more serious going on. He had the tumour removed a fortnight ago and is now making good progress, but thank God she didn't just trust the word of our GP and managed to get him diagnose and treated appropriately before it was too late.
Apart from going out for walks, nothing of any significance has happened today, other than I took a cake order this morning, but that's not due until the beginning of December so has no impact on how I spend the next couple of days.
Mind you, a new bit of kitchen kit should arrive in the next day or so. Its a two foot high cone and it's going to be covered in macarons. I was asked to make one of these recently, but declined as I hadn't had any experience and they wanted it for pretty much the next day, so I wouldn't have had a chance to practise. But while I've got a bit of a quieter time on the cake front, I'm going to have a go. Apparently, these things sell for £300 in London!! (I KNOW, I KNOW, I wouldn't charge that much - but still, makes you think!
SOGGY WESTIES!
Not pleasant at all!
They got wet when they went for their walk, were towel dried when they got back and then insisted on going out again to peer through the fence to check out the Monday morning comings and goings, only to get drenched all over again.
Now have two gently steaming little dogs.
They got wet when they went for their walk, were towel dried when they got back and then insisted on going out again to peer through the fence to check out the Monday morning comings and goings, only to get drenched all over again.
Now have two gently steaming little dogs.
Sunday, 9 October 2011
TAPAS AT LA TASCA
Went for the Sunday Special. Starter, all the patatas bravas you could eat plus your choice of four tapas - I went for the mushroom croquettes, chicken in white wine sauce, paella and fish with lemon mayonnaise, Charles went for the same, but swapped ribs for the mushrooms. £10 a head. Can't be bad!
Unlike most tapas bars, these portions were ridiculously large and the meal we had would have happily served four people.
Now feel uncomfortably stuffed and just want to sleep!
Unlike most tapas bars, these portions were ridiculously large and the meal we had would have happily served four people.
Now feel uncomfortably stuffed and just want to sleep!
MISERABLE!
Not me, but the weather. Grey, blustery, but strangely warm. Not really ideal weather for a stroll along the quayside checking out the Sunday market, which is what we'd planned on doing. May still go for tapas at lunchtime though.
Saturday, 8 October 2011
REALLY WISH...
... I hadn't decided to have a go at making those tiny little macaroons they love so much in France.
Not because I had a disaster, in fact quite the opposite - they are gorgeous and very, very moreish, to the point where I'm now starting to feel a little sick because I've eaten so many - all in the name of research of course! In fact, one of our neighbours was passing a few minutes ago and I persuaded him to take a box home, in an attempt to avoid us having to eat the lot!
And while I've been faffing in the kitchen, the girls have had a very sleepy day with their Dad. Not that Charles has been asleep, he's been doing stuff on his laptop, but the girls have just made themselves comfortable on either side of him and have pretty much slept the day away.
Not because I had a disaster, in fact quite the opposite - they are gorgeous and very, very moreish, to the point where I'm now starting to feel a little sick because I've eaten so many - all in the name of research of course! In fact, one of our neighbours was passing a few minutes ago and I persuaded him to take a box home, in an attempt to avoid us having to eat the lot!
And while I've been faffing in the kitchen, the girls have had a very sleepy day with their Dad. Not that Charles has been asleep, he's been doing stuff on his laptop, but the girls have just made themselves comfortable on either side of him and have pretty much slept the day away.
WAS WONDERING...
... why Charles was so eager to get up and organised this morning...
... then realised that the rugby's on!
Still, we've had the dogs walked AND the hoovering done - by Charles - so I'm not complaining!!
... then realised that the rugby's on!
Still, we've had the dogs walked AND the hoovering done - by Charles - so I'm not complaining!!
Friday, 7 October 2011
HAVE JUST FINISHED...
... the most amazing pud.
Pear, ginger and chocolate crumble!
Might sound a bit yuk, but honestly it was FAB. I had a bowlful of pears that needed using up. Just peeled, cored and chopped them then poached them in a bit of sugar, lemon juice and ginger syrup. Made the usual crumble, but added oats, chopped nuts and some ginger chocolate from an Easter egg that had been forgotten.
25 mins in the oven and WOW - absolutely gorgeous.
Yum yum in my tum!!
Pear, ginger and chocolate crumble!
Might sound a bit yuk, but honestly it was FAB. I had a bowlful of pears that needed using up. Just peeled, cored and chopped them then poached them in a bit of sugar, lemon juice and ginger syrup. Made the usual crumble, but added oats, chopped nuts and some ginger chocolate from an Easter egg that had been forgotten.
25 mins in the oven and WOW - absolutely gorgeous.
Yum yum in my tum!!
TIME TO...
... albeit reluctantly, stash away the summer clothes and dig out all the winter stuff I think.
Have just taken the girls out for their first walk and really wished I'd been wearing gloves! very chilly start to the day.
Expecting Charles home around lunchtime and then we'll try again to register the new number plate in Gosforth, as when he got there yesterday he realised a) he needed MY signature and b) he also required his MOT certificate which was still at home, so there was nothing to do but leave it until he returns.
I keep thinking it's Sunday today. I think I get a little confused with Charles having Thursday and Friday off!
Have just taken the girls out for their first walk and really wished I'd been wearing gloves! very chilly start to the day.
Expecting Charles home around lunchtime and then we'll try again to register the new number plate in Gosforth, as when he got there yesterday he realised a) he needed MY signature and b) he also required his MOT certificate which was still at home, so there was nothing to do but leave it until he returns.
I keep thinking it's Sunday today. I think I get a little confused with Charles having Thursday and Friday off!
Thursday, 6 October 2011
JUST REMEMBERED...
... If anyone was watching the Pride of Britain Awards last night, the young girl, Danielle, who lost her limbs through meningitis, was supported in school last year by my niece, Hannah, who is now doing her PGCE at Newcastle. Having watched the video footage last night I can absolutely understand how proud Hannah was of Danielle's achievements. What an inspiration.
JUST DONE BATTLE...
... with the elements while taking the girls out for their walk. It's so windy I could barely stand up at times! Being so close to the ground I don't think the girls noticed it so much although they both look pretty windswept now!
Actually, they are both in need of a good haircut and tidy up I think. Nothing too extreme, but they're beginning to look a bit messy, so I'll need to get them booked in.
Okay - what do I want to do now? All cakes are done for the time being, recipe has gone and been received with thanks, food hygiene report (Instead of an actual inspection. Clearly cutting costs.) is in the post. Hmmm?!
Actually, they are both in need of a good haircut and tidy up I think. Nothing too extreme, but they're beginning to look a bit messy, so I'll need to get them booked in.
Okay - what do I want to do now? All cakes are done for the time being, recipe has gone and been received with thanks, food hygiene report (Instead of an actual inspection. Clearly cutting costs.) is in the post. Hmmm?!
RECIPE SENT...
... to magazine. Very hard to do actually. Really had to stop and think about it, going right the way through the stages and trying to simplify and condense everything. Might just have scraped a L2B if I'm lucky!!
MAJOR PANIC THIS MORNING
The girls had just got back from their walk with Charles. Their paws were wet. Rose jumped up to greet me in her usual enthusiastic manner, lost purchase on the tiled floor and ended up twisting in mid in and falling awkwardly onto her back. For a few minutes she appeared to be unable to move her legs and I honestly thought she'd damaged her spine. She didn't wince though when we picked her up and after a few minutes sitting quietly on Charles's knee, she jumped down and appears to be okay, thank goodness. I think she probably just shocked herself - she certainly shocked ME.
Charles is going over to Preston today to see his Mum. he'll stay overnight and get back here by lunchtime tomorrow. On the way he needs to stop off in Gosforth at the DVLA office to change the registration number for the Rav. We've had the number for a few weeks now and this is the first opportunity we've had to get it sorted.
I have to write a recipe for one of the cakes I sent into a magazine. This is probably going to be harder than you might imagine, as I kind of made it up as I went along, so now have to try to recall what I did and then put it into easy to follow instructions! Could be interesting.
Charles is going over to Preston today to see his Mum. he'll stay overnight and get back here by lunchtime tomorrow. On the way he needs to stop off in Gosforth at the DVLA office to change the registration number for the Rav. We've had the number for a few weeks now and this is the first opportunity we've had to get it sorted.
I have to write a recipe for one of the cakes I sent into a magazine. This is probably going to be harder than you might imagine, as I kind of made it up as I went along, so now have to try to recall what I did and then put it into easy to follow instructions! Could be interesting.
Wednesday, 5 October 2011
CHANGED MY MIND!
Have decided to have a day off from cake decorating today!
I think I'm feeling tired because I sat up until 1 o'clock watching an incredibly moving programme about 'Alex' a 21 year-old with terminal cancer. The boy was an absolute inspiration. Knowing he was going to die, he was determined to live life to the full and to make it as 'normal' as possible for his family and friends. He had such a wonderfully crazy personality, always on the go, making everyone laugh with his antics, never slowing down, until the week of his death, which occurred five days after he got married.
It's never easy to watch a documentary like this, but, although the outcome was never in doubt, the programme was filled with so much joy and love, that it was impossible not to take something really positive from it.
Of course, then I couldn't sleep because it was going round in my head, so I read until about 3,00 - consequently I'm feeling a bit heavy-lidded this morning and have decided on an easy day.
I've got to go food shopping (James is coming this evening, so I need to get the makings of a meal) but other than that I'm not planning anything really.
I think I'm feeling tired because I sat up until 1 o'clock watching an incredibly moving programme about 'Alex' a 21 year-old with terminal cancer. The boy was an absolute inspiration. Knowing he was going to die, he was determined to live life to the full and to make it as 'normal' as possible for his family and friends. He had such a wonderfully crazy personality, always on the go, making everyone laugh with his antics, never slowing down, until the week of his death, which occurred five days after he got married.
It's never easy to watch a documentary like this, but, although the outcome was never in doubt, the programme was filled with so much joy and love, that it was impossible not to take something really positive from it.
Of course, then I couldn't sleep because it was going round in my head, so I read until about 3,00 - consequently I'm feeling a bit heavy-lidded this morning and have decided on an easy day.
I've got to go food shopping (James is coming this evening, so I need to get the makings of a meal) but other than that I'm not planning anything really.
Tuesday, 4 October 2011
ALL DONE!
Actually finished the cake at about 11am, then moved straight onto dog roses which are drying out in egg cartons to help them hold their shape.
Have blitzed the house - icing sugar gets EVERYWHERE - taken the dogs out, used up some very over-ripe bananas in a chocolate, pecan and banana loaf, and am now enjoying a cuppa while a chicken cooks in the oven ready to eat cold for dinner tonight.
The girls are sleeping!! but probably not for much longer if past experience is anything to go by. "Great," I can hear them say, "Mum's finished, she's bound to want to play with us now!"
Have blitzed the house - icing sugar gets EVERYWHERE - taken the dogs out, used up some very over-ripe bananas in a chocolate, pecan and banana loaf, and am now enjoying a cuppa while a chicken cooks in the oven ready to eat cold for dinner tonight.
The girls are sleeping!! but probably not for much longer if past experience is anything to go by. "Great," I can hear them say, "Mum's finished, she's bound to want to play with us now!"
BIT COOLER THIS MORNING
But hey, it was nice while it lasted.
Got lots to do again. Am finishing off the Africa/NHS cake. It's taken longer than I expected it to actually. Just hope the end result is okay.
Back later!
Got lots to do again. Am finishing off the Africa/NHS cake. It's taken longer than I expected it to actually. Just hope the end result is okay.
Back later!
Monday, 3 October 2011
TOO CLEVER FOR ME...
... DANNYMATT!!
But yes, the circle of life would probably have worked better than what I'm trying to do.
Let me tell you, sugarpaste giraffes are not easy and can only be made lying down. In fact, apart from the marauding monkeys, ALL the animals are taking it very easy on this cake.
I am now absolutely knackered. No kidding, I feel as if my legs won't hold me up another minute. Mind you I've been on my feet since starting work this morning so it's not surprising really.
Just go a bit of painting to do tomorrow - giraffe markings and zebra stripes, another couple of monkeys and that should do it.
The girls are studiously gazing out of the window, expecting their dad to come home. I haven't the heart to tell them that it's Governors tonight and he probably won't be home until nearly their bedtime!
But yes, the circle of life would probably have worked better than what I'm trying to do.
Let me tell you, sugarpaste giraffes are not easy and can only be made lying down. In fact, apart from the marauding monkeys, ALL the animals are taking it very easy on this cake.
I am now absolutely knackered. No kidding, I feel as if my legs won't hold me up another minute. Mind you I've been on my feet since starting work this morning so it's not surprising really.
Just go a bit of painting to do tomorrow - giraffe markings and zebra stripes, another couple of monkeys and that should do it.
The girls are studiously gazing out of the window, expecting their dad to come home. I haven't the heart to tell them that it's Governors tonight and he probably won't be home until nearly their bedtime!
BUSY DAY TODAY!
Only in the house, not going anywhere, but have a very big cake to finish, or at least to get well underway, possibly having to complete it tomorrow if time runs out.
Should be back to normal routine now that Charles is back at school. The girls appear to have forgiven him completely now and Lily spent the entire day yesterday attached to his side.
It's very grey this morning, in fact the sky looks ominously heavy, almost stormy. Might be in for a bit of a downpour later.
Okay, I'm going to get started. Today's tasks include: making ganache, split and fill cake, crumb coat and final coat, cover with sugarpaste, dowel, complete topper, make assorted African animals and Savannah! Better get on then!
Should be back to normal routine now that Charles is back at school. The girls appear to have forgiven him completely now and Lily spent the entire day yesterday attached to his side.
It's very grey this morning, in fact the sky looks ominously heavy, almost stormy. Might be in for a bit of a downpour later.
Okay, I'm going to get started. Today's tasks include: making ganache, split and fill cake, crumb coat and final coat, cover with sugarpaste, dowel, complete topper, make assorted African animals and Savannah! Better get on then!
Sunday, 2 October 2011
TYPICAL SUNDAY AFTERNOON!
Charles is flat out and snoring on the settee with a Westies tucked under each arm. Lily is also fast asleep, but Rose is just pretending and keeps opening one eye to check that all is well with her little world!
BIT GREY THIS MORNING...
... but still warm, although rather muggy.
My turn for a lie in this morning, so didn't emerge until 7.45 - bliss. Charles and the girls were watching the footie when I got up.
Not much planned for the day really. Still trying to get my head round this week's cake. It's a 21st birthday, for a nurse who has spent time in Africa and needs to feature elephants and giraffes! So far, I've got as far as making a hospital bed, into which a cheeky little monkey is making himself cosy with the real patients fruit bowl!
As for the rest of it, I'm struggling a bit to see how I can make 'Africa meets the NHS' effectively.
Good result yesterday, even if it WAS a real nail-biter in the second half. Some strange subs I thought, unless Pardew was protecting the likes of Ben Arfa from the thugs at Wolves, in which case it was probably a good plan. Also, it's about time we got some decisions in our favour - no problem with that at all.
Okay, should we go out for coffee, or not?
Life's full of difficult decisions.
My turn for a lie in this morning, so didn't emerge until 7.45 - bliss. Charles and the girls were watching the footie when I got up.
Not much planned for the day really. Still trying to get my head round this week's cake. It's a 21st birthday, for a nurse who has spent time in Africa and needs to feature elephants and giraffes! So far, I've got as far as making a hospital bed, into which a cheeky little monkey is making himself cosy with the real patients fruit bowl!
As for the rest of it, I'm struggling a bit to see how I can make 'Africa meets the NHS' effectively.
Good result yesterday, even if it WAS a real nail-biter in the second half. Some strange subs I thought, unless Pardew was protecting the likes of Ben Arfa from the thugs at Wolves, in which case it was probably a good plan. Also, it's about time we got some decisions in our favour - no problem with that at all.
Okay, should we go out for coffee, or not?
Life's full of difficult decisions.
Saturday, 1 October 2011
MY VERY WORST NIGHTMARE...
... HAS JUST HAPPENED!
WELL, IT HAPPENED ABOUT AN HOUR AGO, BUT I'M ONLY JUST CALM ENOUGH TO WRITE ABOUT IT NOW.
Ooops, caps lock off I think...
... WORST NIGHTMARE FOR ME...
...Caps lock got a mind of it's own today - must have come out in sympathy...
WORST NIGHTMARE IS...
... A BIRD IN THE HOUSE.
AND THAT'S WHAT HAS JUST HAPPENED.
Heard the telltale fluttering, turned slightly to my left, caught sight of it at the kitchen window and SCREAMED, SHRIEKED AND RAN OUT, SLAMMING THE KITCHEN DOOR AND LEAVING BEHIND TWO PUZZLED LITTLE WESTIE GIRLS, YELLED FOR CHARLES. HE CAME THOUGH AND WAFTED THE TEATOWEL AT IT AND IT DISAPPEARED BACK THROUGH THE FRENCH DOORS ONLY TO BE SET UPON BY THE GIRLS - AND KILLED ON THE FRONT STEP.
I cannot abide birds anywhere near me. They turn me into a gibbering wreck. Thank God it didn't happen when Charles was away, because I would have had to leave home!
(And the robin thing this morning was only because robins on gateposts are such a stereotypical image of winter - but I don't even want to think about that now.)
WELL, IT HAPPENED ABOUT AN HOUR AGO, BUT I'M ONLY JUST CALM ENOUGH TO WRITE ABOUT IT NOW.
Ooops, caps lock off I think...
... WORST NIGHTMARE FOR ME...
...Caps lock got a mind of it's own today - must have come out in sympathy...
WORST NIGHTMARE IS...
... A BIRD IN THE HOUSE.
AND THAT'S WHAT HAS JUST HAPPENED.
Heard the telltale fluttering, turned slightly to my left, caught sight of it at the kitchen window and SCREAMED, SHRIEKED AND RAN OUT, SLAMMING THE KITCHEN DOOR AND LEAVING BEHIND TWO PUZZLED LITTLE WESTIE GIRLS, YELLED FOR CHARLES. HE CAME THOUGH AND WAFTED THE TEATOWEL AT IT AND IT DISAPPEARED BACK THROUGH THE FRENCH DOORS ONLY TO BE SET UPON BY THE GIRLS - AND KILLED ON THE FRONT STEP.
I cannot abide birds anywhere near me. They turn me into a gibbering wreck. Thank God it didn't happen when Charles was away, because I would have had to leave home!
(And the robin thing this morning was only because robins on gateposts are such a stereotypical image of winter - but I don't even want to think about that now.)
BIT OVERCAST...
... but warm enough to be out in flipflops and a sleeveless summer dress. Amazing considering it's October 1st. I've just seen a robin on the gatepost which kind of confused things a bit!
James is coming round in a while and we're going to take the girls out for the morning. Not sure where yet, but I'm sure it'll involve plenty of exercise and probably lunch, but not necessarily in that order.
The girls seemed a bit confused by Charles's presence last night, or maybe they were just trying to make him feel guilty for leaving them for the best part of a fortnight, but they pretty much ignored him and trailed around after me, making a point of squashing themselves up next to me on the settee, when normally Lily would have been in her rightful position next to her dad. Hell hath no fury and all that?!
James is coming round in a while and we're going to take the girls out for the morning. Not sure where yet, but I'm sure it'll involve plenty of exercise and probably lunch, but not necessarily in that order.
The girls seemed a bit confused by Charles's presence last night, or maybe they were just trying to make him feel guilty for leaving them for the best part of a fortnight, but they pretty much ignored him and trailed around after me, making a point of squashing themselves up next to me on the settee, when normally Lily would have been in her rightful position next to her dad. Hell hath no fury and all that?!
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