MY BIG MISTAKE TODAY...

... has been making an amazing treacle tart supposedly for pud this evening, although it COULD be left until tomorrow, but which I have found so irresistible I have already had to give it a try - with a spoonful of pouring cream of course. I can honestly say two thing about it - 1) it is absolutely out of this world delicious and 2) it has made me feel like a right old chublet. Can't wait for Thursday when we get back to the 5:2 diet thing. Right now I have zero willpower!!

I AM SO TIRED!!

Probably naturally because of the build up to Christmas, the wedding, having my mother to stay, concerns about Christina etc etc. Same as everyone else I suppose, but I honestly feel like having an afternoon nap. How pathetic is that? Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz (Hmmm - thought I'd published this yesterday! What's going on?

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Not altogether sure what happened to 2013 to be honest. It's flown past in a whirl really. Unlike most New Years Eves we are going to be spending it on our own as Helen and Bill, who normally join us, have had such a hectic holiday with the wedding, Christmas, driving up and back for the family meal on Saturday and another wedding to go to at the weekend, have decided to stay put this time. So it'll be very quiet and will probably mean Christina going out and us sitting in front of the telly trying to stay awake. So exciting!!

DIDN'T WIN...

... but I think we played with heart and matched Arsenal pretty well, apart from the goal of course. Got a corned beef pie in the oven for tea. Simple but very definite comfort food - perfect after a match on a chilly winter day!

TOON, TOON...

... BLACK AND WHITE ARMY!! Howay the Lads!! Could be a cracking game today against Arsenal so long as the team gets itself sorted out from the very start and doesn't spend the first half hour faffing about like they did on Thursday. Wonder who the ref is today? Bet the decisions don't go our way like they did last time!

LOOKING FORWARD TO...

... dinner this evening at Jesmond Dene House with the other Ellis's, the Ogdens and the newly-wed Redpaths. Should be a really lovely evening. Good company, great food and wine. What's not to like!!

LAST NIGHT...

... I had the best night's sleep in months! Didn't even get up until nearly 9am. Very nice! I'm spending a relaxing morning watching yesterday's match with the girls. Christina needs to get out of the house and is spending the day with a friend and Charles is going to run a few errands and call in on his Mum - so I have the house to myself. I am so looking forward to this!!!!

AND... RELAX!!

I can't deny it - the last three days have not been easy. I can't remember the last time I felt under such stress for a number of reasons. I really think my mother has got to the age when she just doesn't care what she says, who she says it to and what impact her words might have. Christina has found the last two days extremely difficult. Her tension has been building since yesterday afternoon. We have no idea why and that in itself is so frustrating. One of the best bits this Christmas really was the second half of our match this afternoon. Dirty Stoke ended up with nine men on the pitch and a petulant manager in the stands and we certainly made the most of our advantage. Thanks NUFC and Merry Christmas!!

WEEKS IN THE PLANNING...

... hours of preparation, so much thought and attention to detail... ... and it's all over in a flash and sadly ruined by someone's thoughtless words. The level of tension in this house is sky high and I am tired of it.

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!

That's all I wanted to say really!!

WOULD IT BE WRONG...

... to strangle my mother tonight? Just asking.

CHRISTMAS EVE!!

Started off in the traditional manner - at SAKs!! Charles picked up the party food from M and S - and I actually didn't have to pick him up from the floor. (Mind you - I gave him the money, so that probably softened the blow somewhat!!( Mum has been on sprout duty - for quite a long time to be fair. They will be the cleanest, neatest sprouts ever. Christina has cleaned everywhere AND is keeping Nan entertained - so deserves full marks for that. Charles is seeing his Mum and doing the last minute shopping. (I didn't know that Mum can only drink non-sparkling Shloer! Didn't even know they did it!) Right, I need to go and make a fish pie for this evening's dinner...

WHAT AN AMAZING DAY!!

Let the pictures tell the story - or a tiny part of it!!

BIT OF A BLIP...

... in the light-hearted, pre-wedding mood today. Hope everything settles down for tomorrow. So, nails and hair are done, no thanks at all though to the foul weather which did it's best to ruin the hair. Everything is packed up ready for tomorrow. I've got the cake crated in two huge boxes. All we need now is to get it into the car safely. (Must remember to get the car off the drive first as the drop down the kerb won't do it any good at all!) We also need to get the girls' big crate into the car - presumably the Freelander - because I think they will feel more secure in the bed that they are familiar with. Hopefully, we can now relax a little and enjoy the Strictly final this evening.

BAD NIGHT!!

Absolutely all about the pungent smell of fake tan. Almost got up at 1.30 to have a shower but resisted the urge and managed to hang on till 6.00 when nothing would have prevented me from washing the stuff off. Will not be doing that again!! However, there are a couple of beauty type things on the go today - all in a lost cause at my age, but hey, one needs to make the effort. So hair and nails here we go! Before we set off to do that though I need to make sure all the jobs around the house are done as I have no intention of doing any housework with newly manicured and polished nails.

OKAY, SO THAT WAS A FIRST...

... and almost certainly won't be repeated. I'm referring to the spray tan I had this afternoon. On a cold winter's day this as really not my idea of fun. Freezing cold spray, horrid hairnet and paper knickers. Nasty stick on soles that almost tear the skin off your feet. Having to wear bag lady type clothes afterwards, including flip flops so you end up with frostbitten toes. Can't have a wash for the rest of the day. I particularly hate that bit because I'm pretty obsessive about always having a bath at bedtime (shower in the morning) and can't face the thought of going to bed, unwashed and smelling that horrible fake-tan chemical smell all night. Yukkity yuk!

THE GUY OVER THE ROAD...

... must be expecting visitors over Christmas, because he is putting the hoover round the livingroom. The last time he did the hoovering was THIS TIME LAST YEAR and I SWEAR THAT'S THE TRUTH!

THIS FEELS REALLY...

... STRANGE! I'VE ACTUALLY BEEN SITTING DOWN IN THE MIDDLE OF THE DAY, WONDERING WHAT I CAN DO NEXT!! Oops, take caps lock off would be a good start! Looking forward to a couple of days of pampering before the wedding, when my only worry will be getting the cake there in one piece. (Well, in two pieces actually as it needs to be fully assembled when we get there.) Have had my Mum on the phone this afternoon. She's so unhappy with her hairdo that she's considering turning up in a burkha. I have to say, wearing one of those would solve all sorts of issues. You wouldn't need to do your make up, wouldn't matter if you had spots, you could hide your wrinkles away instead of trying to prevent them and you'd never have a bad hair day again... Brilliant! Bring it on I say!

GOING TO BLITZ tHE HOUSE TODAY!!

At least that's what I'm planning on doing as soon as Richard and Charles are out of the way. Normally I leave the big blitz until closer to Christmas Day, but this year things are a little different as you know, and this appears to be my only window of opportunity!! I've tried to sort the fridges and freezers a bit to make space for the deliveries that are coming from Tesco and M and S, so that's done... ... Two hours later... ... they went out just as I was typing that last bit, so I've been rushing around like a mad thing, cleaning windows and skirting boards and generally having a good old workout!!

ALL DONE!!

Deliveries sorted. Shame there was no payment from Radcliffes though. Maybe the next time they place an order I'll just not bother to deliver it! Chares's brother is here for the night. I think they are going to see their Mum together tomorrow and that will probably be the last time Richard sees her before Christmas. I'm having a pretty domesticated day tomorrow, probably the last chance before the wedding on Sunday. And Christina and I have a couple of days of hair, nails and tan to look forward to. Bliss!!

I'VE DONE IT!!!!

Finished! Completed the mega-orders - with time to spare. All we need to do now is deliver everything in the morning and then it really is time for family stuff. Yay!!

IF I TOLD YOU...

... how much baking I'd done today, you really would not believe it. If I wasn't so shattered I would list it all, but as I've only just stopped for the day, I really honestly cannot be bothered. Not at all impressed with Radcliffes and Centurion, both of which have left their massive Christmas orders to the last possible minute, making life incredibly stressful for me. Thanks a bunch Guys (Hmm, GUYS - maybe that explains it. I still think they believe in the Cake Fairy.)

RATHER OVERWHELMED TODAY!

Actually, it's been a lovely day really. I've spent all day working on wedding favours with Helen and Christina and the end result is absolutely amazing. But in the middle of it all I got a text order from Centurion for a massive and unmanageable quantity of baked goods for the beginning of this week - including 18 quiche (144 portions) which may not sound much but is actually an absolute non-starter for me. I don't have the time, tins, storage space or, as yet, ingredients. The really worrying thing is that Radcliffes have still not placed their order and I know I'm going to have to sort out a fortnight's worth of stuff for them - by Wednesday! I honestly cannot do this.

JUST ABOUT...

... To settle the girls for the night. Hopefully, we won't have a repeat of the explosive diarrhoea Rose had at 2.00 this morning. I spent half an hour cleaning up the patio in my PJs and then couldn't get back to sleep for hours. Good to have Helen and Bill here, the weekend before their big wedding. Thankfully, they were overwhelmed by the cake, so I feel very relieved about that. Just need the bride and groom to love it too!!

ROSE IS POORLY!!

I hate it when the dogs are ill. Rose has had a really poorly tummy for the last couple of days, and hasn't managed to keep any food in place at all. She refused her breakfast, which is unheard of, but was probably a good thing because she clearly felt the need to starve herself better. She has had a tiny meal this evening and so far it's staying put!

OPTHALMOLOGY DEPT, RVI!!

Why oh why is this department so appalling at time-keeping? Yet again this morning I've left in disgust without seeing anyone because they were running two and a half hours late. Even people whose appointments were for 9.00 were still waiting at 11.30. How on earth can this be?

GOT UP...

... at 2.00am, basically because the girls were barking so I needed to sort them out, but on the way back to bed I called into the living room to check on the cake, decided I didn't like one of the tiers, so set to in the middle of the night removing all the sugarpaste and getting it back to the sponge ready for putting right in the morning!! I've made good progress with it today, although there was a scary moment when the dowel on one tier decided to move about a bit, so had to dismantle the whole thing and replace the dowel, and once I'd done that everything was fine. I've now added the decoration to the middle of the cake and only need to think about the top tier tomorrow, then it's done. Or at least it's done so far as I can get it until it's in situ at Langley Castle. (Quite scared about moving it to be honest. Will only be happy when its in one piece in position. Hopefully, Rachel and James will like it!) Would like to have a good night's sleep tonight mind you!!

WOULD LOVE TO KNOW...

...just how much the total wedding cake actually weighs, what with the boards, sugarpaste and decorations. I'm still in two minds about how far I can go with the assembly before we leave for the hotel - and how much there will still be to do when we get there. Considering it took a full day to secure the flowers and foliage around the base of the cake, I'm guessing it's going to be a case of doing as much as possible at home! All the cakes are now baked and should be sugarpasted tomorrow. After that, it's a question of which tiers I can realistically join together without the weight being too great. Decisions, decisions!!

GRADUALLY INTRODUCING CHRISTMAS...

... into our house. At the moment we just have a few lights up in the windows, nothing much, but it does look pretty. You know me, I don't really do decorations and like to keep it minimal, colour-coordinated with the decor, and easy to clean round. I can never get my head round the folk who decorate every inch of their living space as if their lives depend on it, or even those who insist on putting the tree up before it's even December. For me, the tree only goes up after 18th December when we are into Christmas week. A lot of that may be down to a bit of superstition and is associated with James being hospitalised with meningitis on 18th December when he was coming up to his third birthday - but it's a date I really have to get past before I feel able to start feeling Christmassy. This time in a fortnight my Mum will be here and we'll be sweltering in tropical heat as I try to keep her warm in the house. I'm actually worried about how I'm going to do this, having been to her house recently and realised that she has the thermostat so high that the radiators would actually burn you if you touched them and feeling sick with heat exhaustion after only a few minutes. I don't think anyone will be wearing Christmas sweaters in this house!!

MIDDLE OF THE AFTERNOON...

... the girls are flat out and Rose is snoring for England!! Honestly, how can such a little scrap make such a racket?

STILL CAN'T QUITE BELIEVE...

... yesterday's result. Hope James an co get home safely and without major hangovers, although judging by Matthew's facebook status I would imagine he is really suffering today. We've had a day of just doing little bits of things, but actually achieving a lot, if that makes sense. Just noticed "Home Alone" is on the telly right now. That's enough to make you feel Christmassy I think! Might even enjoy watching it for a while.

WHAT A RESULT!!

A Nwcastle victory at Old Trafford. Apparently this hasn't happened since sometime in the 70s!! Lucky old James and Matthew (less lucky Steven who supports Man Utd) were there, in a box. James rang me at the end so I could listen to our amazing away fans raisin the roof!!

NOTHING TO DO!!

No room in freezers, so can't do any baking despite having a massive order from Centurion for Monday. Can't do any more to the wedding cake yet. Christmas is all under control. Not sure how to handle this. Maybe this is what relaxing is about. Okay - so how do we do this?

HAPPY! HAPPY! HAPPY!

YAY!!! I've spent the morning working on the bottom tier of the wedding cake - and I'm loving it so far!! Obviously I hope that Rachel and James will also love it, but I've a sneaky feeling that they will!!

DON'T KNOW WHICH IS WORSE...

... watching the match or getting updates through twitter! A bit sickening that we gave a goal away just before the half-time whistle. Mind you, it really sounds as though Newcastle haven't really turned up at this game yet. Also there are a few rumours doing the rounds that Hatem has gone AWOL tonight. Hope not.

HAVE STARTED...

... work on the wedding cake today. Actually I really started months ago with all the flowers and foliage, but today I got the baseboard covered and marzipanned the bottom and top tiers. Just going to let those set overnight and then I'll do the sugarpaste on those cakes tomorrow. To be honest, once I've got the bottom, very large cake covered, I will be much happier!! Went to collect my voucher from Rutherfords this morning. Oh, I might not have mentioned it on here, but I actually wone £50 to spend at Rutherfords, simply by liking their status on facebook. I'm ridiculously thrilled about it though as I never, ever win anything. (Think I'll go and put the lottery on!!)

NOT SLEEPING TOO WELL...

... at the moment. Not literally at the moment as it's 7pm and I'm not in bed, but just generally most nights I seem to go to sleep really quickly and then wake up about an hour later and that's it for a couple of hours during which I usually end up reading. Today's been a bit of a disjointed sort of day with Charles making two trips into Gosforth and me going once, both of us going to see his Mum, shopping, baking during the morning and actually still going now, sorting accounts... I suppose it's been productive, but just feels a bit disorganised. It's one of our fast days today. Charles has decided to go for three fast days this week as he put a bit on after a weekend of over-indulgence. Good for him!!

JUST WANT TO SAY...

... that it has been a really lovely day with the family. Hard work, but loads of fun. Thank you all for coming. The next time we'll all be together will be for the Big Wedding on 21st December!! Can't wait!!

WHAT A GOOD DAY.

For the first time in years, the four of us went out for the morning. We went to the Barbour store in South Shields first off, followed by a visit to Grandma, who seemed a little unsettled to me today. Shopping followed with the main focus on buffet items for tomorrow afternoon. A couple of hours at home for chores, more food prep for lunch tomorrow and dog walking, then it was off to Newcastle for a quick coffee before the match - WHICH WE WON!! Charles and James stayed on in town because they were joining up with a certain Stag and his mates, while my lovely daughter-in-law brought me home and stayed for a lovely meal, cooked by Christina and shared with Sean as well. We followed this with a good dose of Strictly. Annoyingly though, I have just stuck a couple of cakes in the oven because I ended up with an order for Monday from Kevin (I had hoped they could last until Tuesday because of being so busy getting everything ready for the family get together tomorrow) but I'm planning on staying up until at least another hour so that I can book my Tesco delivery for 21st December and the slots will be released at midnight. (Yawn!!)

GETTING READY...

... for a lovely family get-together on Sunday. Both my sister AND my brother and their families will be here (apart from Little Og who is still in Oz!) - Just hope they are bringing their appetites with them and not being all silly about pre-wedding diets, because I've spent the day cooking lasagne, chilli, fish pie and dozens of desserts and can't wait to get stuck in!

CAN'T APPLY FOR THE BAKE OFF NEXT YEAR...

... because I already earn a living (well, sort of) from baking. Not that I was seriously thinking about it, but Charles shared the GBBO link and was suggesting I give it a go and on closer inspection (Yes, I admit it, I DID have a look at what I needed to do) it transpires that I wouldn't be eligible. Shames really. But then, who would have supplied the coffee shops while I was slaving away in the tent? It was always going to be a non-starter

BUSY BUSY BUSY...AGAIN!!!

It's becoming a bit of a theme. James sent a text asking if we would like to arrange a date to go over to Rowlands Gill to look for a Christmas tree at the garden centre there. (He knows the owner and reckons we'll get a bit of discount. Good plan Jim!) Sounds like a great idea, but I've just looked at the diary and almost had a fit at how few weekends there are left before Christmas. So much to fit in and so little time to do it in!! This weekend is taken up with family and football. Next weekend is busy as far as cakes are concerned (birthday cakes and beginning the wedding cake), but apart from that no other arrangements have been made. The only available weekend for Tree shopping is 14 - 15th because the one after that is the Big Wedding and essentially that is the beginning of Christmas for us.

AND BREATHE!!

First thing this morning, still in PJs and slippers, I as out at the shed checking the freezer and I am delighted to report that the red light is OFF and everything appears to be working normally. Must just have been that the door hadn't been closed properly. What a relief!! Going to Morpeth shortly with Christina then lots to do when I get back, so I'll check in again later. #muchhappiertoday

WHY IS THE RED LIGHT ON IN MY FREEZER?

This is really worrying. I've just taken a batch of quiche out to the freezer in the shed, only to discover the red light is on and everything appears to be slightly softer than it should be. I've turned the thermostat up (or down) and put the fast freeze on and now its like Blackpool Illuminations with the red light being joined by the green and amber. Hopefully, the red one is going to go off shortly and everything will be okay. It MAY be that the door hadn't been closed properly. I hope this is the case. Because I stand to lose all the baking I've done ready for Christmas, baking for coffee shops and lots of meat - and I will be really upset if that is the case.

3PM ALREADY!!

Where o earth is this day going? I don't feel as if I've done anything with it really. Charles and I did the Radcliffes drop, then I whizzed into centurion to pick up quiche tins. Charles dropped me in Gosforth while he went to James and Claire's to wait for the TV man. I went to the bank and had a bit of a walk around the shops on the High Streey, then walked down to meet Charles, only to discover that the TV man hadn't turned up. An hour later he still wasn't there, so Charles brought me home and was then going back to James's, before going to see his Mum. Meanwhile I''ve been baking quiche this afternoon, so I suppose I have done something worthwhile. Christina seems better than she has been over the weekend and has managed to get an emergency appointment with her doctor tomorrow, so that is a considerable relief. Right, tea-break over - better get back to the kitchen where I belong!!

VERY, VERY WORRIED...

... about Christina at the moment. Won't say more than that, but can't wait for Monday morning when we might be able to access her mental health team.

BIT OF A MIXED DAY!

Impressed with the care home in Blyth, but quite upset at how frail Grandma is. Good result - although it was a tense finish! Migraine on the way home - feel really wrung out now. Christina struggling this evening, but trying very hard to cope. Worried about her.

MATCH DAY!!

And Michelin woman is just about layered up ready to brave the big chill!! Still haven't managed to find the definitive number of layers that enable me to keep warm but still be able to move!! On our way, we're calling in at Blyth to see Grandma, then going to Gosforth to meet up with James. Hopefully, we'll be in town with a bit of time to spare so we can go and get a coffee - or something. No baking today. This makes a change.

THE EAGLE HAS LANDED!!

Or... ... Grandma has completed the move from Lancashire to Northumberland. Getting settled in this evening. I expect we will be calling in on our way to the match tomorrow and then Richard and Sarah are coming over on Sunday, so we'll be back there again. Bet Charles is shattered!

AT LAST...

... the rain has stopped. I think we should have a few bright, but cold, days ahead of us which will make a very welcome change. Had a call from my brother earlier on today asking if he and his family can come to see us next weekend. I'm not sure how it'll work with the football and a certain stag do, but hopefully we'll manage to arrange something with them. Been pretty full on busy again today. Shopping this morning, baking for Radcliffe's this afternoon and working on our Christmas cake as well. Tired now, so going to get ready for bed. Night night!

LEAST SAID ABOUT THIS EVENING...

... the better really. Terrible weather, lousy traffic, grumpy Charles, too many shoppers... ... but having said that - good family company and fab food and drink. Be thankful for small mercies.

SO IN THE END...

... I spent a sleepless night worrying about what I hadn't got planned for the day! What's this all about? Decided to get on with two Christmas cakes that have been ordered, so decorated them this morning. Pretty traditional Christmas colours. Pretty pleased with the outcome actually. Now twiddling my thumbs waiting for Charles and Christina to get back from the care home in Blyth where his Mum is going to be moving to on Friday. I think they are measuring up and finding out what she will be able to take with her. No doubt we'll be there at some point on Friday to welcome her and get her settled. We're all going into town later for Mexican food and shopping. Can't wait!! By the way, this 5:2 diet is brilliant. Charles has lost over half a stone and I've lost nearly the same! (I'm only mentioning this because tonight will NOT be a diet night, but we've got a fast day planned for tomorrow so it should even out in the long term!!)

I FIND MYSELF...

... in the strange position of not having any plans in place for tomorrow - or at least nothing in place for daytime tomorrow as in the evening we're going to town to do a bit of shopping with James and Claire, preceded by a meal at Las Iguanas, whish I'm really looking forward to. No, it's the rest of the day that is largely unplanned at present. I'm not sure if this is a good thing or not. Normally I will have some idea of how I need to send the day, but I seem to have baked as much as I can for now, all the freezers are stocked, the delivery for Centurion is complete, so I've kind of ground to a halt really. I could go out and buy some cake boards and festive sugarpaste and make a start on some of the Christmas cakes that I've been asked to do (even though I did say I wasn't doing any this year!) Or I could leave that until later in the week... I'm not sure if having no plans is more or less stressful than knowing that there's a jam-packed day ahead of me.

ALL I CAN SAY IS...

... WOW!! Gravity is absolutely unbelievably amazing! The film that is! Obviously the pully down force thing is pretty smashing too, but it's the film I'm referring to really. 90 minutes flew past with me sitting on the edge of my seat from beginning to end. I've never seen anything quite like it and it will stay in my memory for a long time. I've always thought f Sandra Bullock as a bit of a lightweight comedienne type - but she was excellent in this film. Also need to point out that the new cinema in Cramlington is probably the cleanest, most comfortable and stylish cinema in the area. Will definitely go there again. Very impressed!!

'GRAVITY'

I think that's the title of the film we're going to see. I tell you what though - it had better have me on the edge of my seat because, if its anything like here, I'll be asleep within 5 minutes of the start! I'll let you know!! Actually, I;ve ended up having a really productive morning, despite what I said earlier. I suppose having started on the loft yesterday had got me into sorting mode. I knew that Charles wasn't keen to continue with the loft, although I was desperate to continue. So I accepted that it would need to wait for w few days... ... but not that many! So instead I started on the kitchen cupboards at 10.30 last night and just carried on with that this morning, except it kind of spread into other areas - as it does - so I've ended up having a really good tidy up and throw out. I do however need to stop now because if I send Charles to the tip again, I may well be ending up on it myself!

SUNDAY MORNING!

EASY LIKE!! No delivery tomorrow, so can have a bit of a day off. Christina is working until about 4.00ish and then the three of us are going to the cinema to watch some film about someone who floats away in space or something. Charles's choice. I can't wait.

FEELING GUILTY!

I've been so good this week and have really watched what I've been eating, especially on the fast days. Mostly I'm doing it to support Charles, although if I can lose a few pounds before Christmas I won't be disappointed. However, I've just let myself down by scoffing a whole mince pie (homemade) with brandy cream. Feel really disappointed with myself actually.

IT'S FLIPPIN' FREEZING TODAY!!

Foolishly I set off for Morpeth at lunchtime thinking that, as it was sunny it would be warm (!) and ended up getting so chilled that I haven't managed to warm up all day, despite Charles turning the heating up high (Yes, you read that correctly.) Obviously, after yesterday's announcement that I would blog only when I have something worth blogging about, you'll realise that that didn't last very long at all.

NOW FEEL...

... really bad. Aaaaargh!! 'It's just your OCD' - tells self!

HAVE DECIDED...

... onlt yo write on the blog when I feel I have something to say. At the moment I get stressed if I don't post everyday - and it's usually about nothing of any significance and extremely repetitive and must be deadly boring for anyone else to read. So there may well be fewer posts from me from now on!!

WAITING FOR CHRISTINA...

... to get home and struggling to stay awake. It's been another full on day, although this time I've been mostly baking for the family as opposed to coffee shops which makes a change. Come on Christina. I need to get to sleep.

SO IT PROBABLY WASN'T...

... a good idea to make the following on one of our fast days: Chicken, leek and mushroom pie, Mince pies, Apple, cranberry, almond and calvados tart, Plum pie and worst of all - Corned Beef Pie. Oh the aromas coming out of my kitchen are to die for. Aaaaaaaargh - this is purgatory!

IT TAKES TWO.

I'm becoming strangely addicted to this programme! The glamour and romance of it all combined with the sheer hard work and nerves - great stuff. In fact, that's me for the evening now. All the baking is done for today, so it's a night in front of the telly for me.

IT'S BEEN A LONG DAY!!

But a good one I suppose. Started with the delivery to Radliffes and then some shopping on the way home. Started work on the quiche for Centurion which took most of the afternoon. Then their order came through and I realised there were ingredients I needed to get, so it was off to the shops again and back home to get everything done. I've just finished, but feel pretty pleased with what I've achieved today.

BEAUTIFUL FROSTY MORNING!!

Clear blue sky, brilliant sunshine and a very definite nip in the air! Just waiting for Christina to get back after spending the nights at a friend's house. Oh - she's just walked in now - and seems fine, that's good! We'll be taking her to work shortly and then we need to pop into Morpeth to get a few bits, before coming home for THE MATCH!! Not holding out any hope, because it would be too much to expect consecutive wins for our club, but at least it would be good to get a draw. I've got the order for tomorrow sorted already, so can have a pretty relaxed day today (apart from during the match obv!)

5 : 2 DIET

We started this yesterday. At least, we had the first 'fast' day yesterday. It wasn't too bad at all. 600 calories for Charles and 500 for me. Doesn't sound much but I certainly didn't feel hungry. (Mind you, I DID when I got up this morning and couldn't wait for a cup of coffee!!) Two days of normal eating coming up. I've told Charles that 'normal eating' doesn't include the consumption of vast amounts of rubbishy snacky foods, so if he can cut those out as well, it could be a bit of a double whammy. Anyway - I'm 1lb lighter this morning. Not sure about Charles!!

SO, SO BUSY THESE DAYS!!

No joke - it's just mad how busy I am right now. Retirement? Hah - I laugh in the face of retirement!!

THERE WAS I ...

... expecting a nice, relaxed day today when an order came through from Radcliffes for a delivery tomorrow. I have no idea what's going on over there but they are getting through ridiculous quantities of baked goods this week. So, although I had a couple of hours off to meet up with a friend for coffee in Morpeth, the rest of the day has been spent in the kitchen again. Have just had the estate agent on the phone. Apparently the family who came to look round last week loved the property, but won't be putting an offer in as it hasn't got enough south facing windows. I've heard it all! Charles has been out all day at some Generator music conference thing, so I'm just waiting for him to get back. The girls are on Dad watch because I happened to mention to them that he should be home soon, so they are rooted to the French doors awaiting his arrival!!

GIRLS LOOK FAB!!

My goodness - they did a good job at 'Hair of the Dog" - so good that we've booked the girls in for their Christmas haircut already. (17th December - plenty of time before the Big Wedding as well!!) We took a bit of time out this morning and went into town to have a little wander around the shops. Treated ourselves to coffee and chocolate brownies - yum yum. Oh - apparently the coffee shop has sold out of the mince pies and the crab, chorizo and coriander tarts we took in this morning. That's great - for them! Not brilliant for me though as they're a bit of a faff to produce. Waiting for James and Claire to arrive. Hope they're not too long because I'm starving!!

WE'RE TAKING THE GIRLS...

... to a new doggy beauty parlour this morning - not that they'll thank us for it! Don't want too much off, but a good old tidy up is in order. From there we need to do two deliveries into Jesmond and town as well as some shopping, so by the time that's done the girls should be ready to come home. Got James and Claire round this evening for chilli and fajitas - yum yum! Good luck to Hannah who sets off on her travels today and commiserations to Helen and Bill who have Ofsted.

THE GIRLS ARE NOT ENJOYING...

... Bonfire Night one bit! They're prowling around in the house and barking furiously every time they hear fireworks. Can't wait for it to finish so we can have a bit of peace! The tension in the house has lifted a tiny bit today. It's still not right, but a little easier than before. Right now, my thoughts are with my sister because Little Ogg is leaving for Australia tomorrow for her Big Adventure and I know that everyone will be felling nervous and apprehensive tonight. Have fun Hannah and keep safe! xx

STILL...

... pretty stressed and tense in this house. Hope we have a better day tomorrow.

NOT HAVING...

... a good day today. Stress levels through the roof and very uncomfortable atmosphere in the house. Not good at all.

VERY PLEASANT DAY!

In as much as the weather has been bright and sunny. A bit on the breezy side, but nevertheless a welcome change after a couple of dismal days. Also, a pleasant day so far as I'm concerned really. I actually do feel as if I've had a mini-holiday and it was quite nice to think about what I needed to bake for Radcliffes instead of feeling it was all too much of an effort, which is how I have been feeling recently. I've got a chicken in the oven, a crumble made and am looking forward to a roast dinner in about an hour. Then its an evening of Strictly and Downton. Doesn't get much more chilled than that.

WELL. THERE YOU GO...

... I don't go to the match, so we play a blinder! Typical!!

AM BACK HOME!!

Admittedly with a pounding head after overindulging on the champagne and white wine last night, but I'm home and looking forward to a little shut-eye once I've finished the laundry! Charles and Christina are at the match. I could have gone as I was back here in time, but just couldn't face it today, so disillusioned am I with everything to do with the club. Had a great couple of days away. It was so good to catch up with my Mum and to be able to go to Betty's with her and Hannah and Helen. Helen and I had a great time shopping in Skipton and Ilkley and probably spent too much but, what the heck, it was fun. Best of all, was seeing my brother and his family last night and being able to sort out our differences so that we are all able to get along again. Feel so much happier now that that has been done. Right, I think the neurofen are starting to have some effect! Time for a lie down...

THAT'S BETTER!

Blogger's been off line for maintenance for ages today, but it appears we're back to normal now. I've had a lovely day today. After the Radcliffe's delivery (during which two of the regular customers were waxing lyrical about the cakes and quiche and stuff that I bake!) Charles and I went to the dress/hat/ accessory shop in Jesmond that I as telling you about the other day. I picked up the two outfits that had been set aside and added another two dresses AND a casual two piece. Wow - how very naughty! But so nice. One of the dresses is an amazing gold ruffle creation that sounds hideous but looks and feels fab, so the decision as to what to wear for the wedding may very well come down to what I feel like on the day!! I might even surprise myself! Been to have my hair done so that I look reasonably tidy when I see my sister and my Mum tomorrow. I'm so looking forward to a couple of days off. Haven't decided about Saturday yet. I will be driving home at some point, but whether I make the effort to get home in time to go to the match remains to be seen. It'll be interesting to see how they play tonight against Man City! I may not be able to blog while I'm at Helen's, so will catch up again on Saturday at some point.

TRYING TO...

... get ahead of myself, so that I can enjoy a couple of days in Yorkshire, without worrying about having to do masses of baking when I get back. Typically though, I ended up with orders from all three coffee shops yesterday, so it's taken a bit of doing to make sure they were all completed AND the freezers restocked, but it's pretty much done now I'm glad to say. Now need to whizz down to the shops...

JUST GOES TO SHOW...

... How gutted I was by yesterday's derby result... ... I couldn't even bring myself to blog about it - or anything else for that matter. Tut tut - not good enough! Seriously though - I hardly slept the night before, was nervous with sickly anticipation and couldn't think about anything other than the game. I'd bet my right arm most members of our squad had none of those symptoms. Where's the passion gone? And what's all this about the club banning the local press because they had the audacity to cover the Ashley Out campaign. It is a complete joke and sadly, we, the fans, are the butt of it.

BACK HOME!

had a really lovely day with the girls. Seemed to be gone in a flash. Everyone got on so well together and it all bodes brilliantly for a lovely wedding day. Now need to get some sleep - have eaten and drunk far too much!

RACHEL'S HEN DO!!

Yep - that would be today!! Christina and I are dressed up to the nines! All the bling has come out of hiding today. The dogs are sneezing frantically because of all the perfume they've inhaled and are clearly wondering what on earth is gong on. I'm going for the rock chic look - apparently. Christina is wearing Bohemian eclectic - and looks amazing - of course! May not be in any fit state to blog when we get home so might have to leave it till the morning to catch up again!! Off we go - cluck cluck cluck!

FAR TOO BUSY TODAY!!

Up early for a hair appointment. Had to dodge the rain mind - not the best weather when you're having a hairdo! Bit of shopping, then back home to make a start on Christmas designs. Want to keep it really simple this year, with everything else that's going on in December! back into Morpeth with Christina this afternoon, more shopping and home to complete the cakes. Christina has had a lovely day and has found the most amazing outfit for the wedding in december. She looks a million dollars as they say! Going to have a quiet evening and might even do my nails as I'm not going to be baking tomorrow but AM going to be out with a load of girlies!! So, why the devil not!

SO, SOME SMALL MINDED...

... person in our village has complained to the council about us parking our car on the grass verge at the front of our house. The bit the council are supposed to maintain, but which we actually do ourselves, including having it lawn treated when the guys come to treat the rest of the grass. So apparently we're messing it up by parking on it and we've got to stop. Well let me tell you, it's going to be a lot more annoying for our lovely neighbours when they have to negotiate their way around the parked car that will always be on the roadside from now on. What sort of saddo complains about people parking on the grass OUTSIDE THEIR OWN HOUSE?

INTERESTINGLY DANNYMATT...

... your suggestions for Hen Do attire is not that far off what I've decided on. Jeans, red shirt, oversize jumper - check. Only difference - trainers may just be replaced with Uggs. I'll see what the weather's like on Saturday morning. It'll be fascinating to see how the youngsters will be dressed at the start of the day considering they're going out clubbing later!!

BIT OF A WARDROBE PREDICAMENT!!

Actually that applies in two cases today. 1) I noticed last night, that the back of Christina's wardrobe is literally bulging out of it's nails due to being so crammed full of clothes. Might this be an opportunity to replace it, or will Charles want to fix it??? Hope it's the first! 2) The real predicament - What on earth does one wear to one's niece's hen do? I don't want to look like I'm trying to get down with the young un's, but I don't want to look like an aged aunt either. It's an all day event and will involve champagne breakfast at Browns, a treasure hunt around the Toon (should be interesting) and a meal at Fujiyamas. Lots of drinking will be done no doubt. Help please!!

SO, CHARLES IS OFF TO...

... Leeds, via Preston, for the Graham Parker gig. He's leaving shortly and doing the Radcliffes delivery en route. Just as well one of the mates he's meeting up with let him know that the gig is tonight and not tomorrow. I can't understand how he came to that conclusion in the first lace. It so clearly says "Tuesday" on the gig schedule!

MISERABLE DAY!

Only so far as the weather's concerned. I'm not miserable at all. In fact I'm perfectly content, baking away in a warm and cosy kitchen. It's probably the best thing to be doing on an afternoon like this actually! It's my little brother's birthday today. He's 53 - so not that little! We don't have the easiest of relationships, but things seem okay at the moment and I'm looking forward to seeing him at Rachel's wedding in December. Haven't got a clue what to do for our meal this evening. Sometimes, when I've been baking all day for everybody else, the last thing I want to have to think about is what WE are going to eat! Hint hint Charles if you're reading this!!

LOOKED FORWARD TO...

... watching MOTD last night. Second game on, good match, had to be worth a watch. But thank you BBC for excusing Liverpool's first half performance because of international duty, only focusing on Gerrad's goal, glossing over Cbaye's brilliant shot, never mentioning Cheik Tiote's excellent shift as captain and to top the lot, just in case anyone had missed it last season, showing everyone one more time just how crap we were in the same fixture last season. Yeah, thanks a bunch.

JUST GOES TO SHOW...

... how wrong you can be. Or how wrong I can be! The match this afternoon was hugely enjoyable, extremely tense at times, but brilliant effort from our lads. Loved Tiote's performance today, especially in his role as captain. Great to see him controlling the midfield again AND organising the team. Not sure where all the added time came from, but really loved the whole afternoon. (I especially enjoyed the bit AFTER the match when, instead of rushing to the metro, we (plus James) went shopping for an hour, although I find the fact that the Christmas department in Fenwicks was rammed full of people slightly worrying!

NOT REALLY LOOKING FORWARD...

... to the match today, certainly if there's likely to be a repeat of last season's 0 - 6 drubbing, which is certainly on the cards as our captain is out apparently. Brilliant. I've just looked at our fixture list through to Christmas and it doesn't look promising - even WITH Collo! Early kick off today, so we're going through to town shortly. Annoyingly, I've got a load of shopping to do and Charles wants to go on the Metro. Not terrible practical on a match day really. Christina has just got up. We've not had a good week, but there are slight signs that things might be a little better this morning. Fingers crossed.

AM SO THRILLED...

... with the way the living room looks now. I keep just looking at it!! However, just when I thought we'd done everything, Christina pointed out that our coffee table could be painted to match the TV cabinet (because I explained to her that the matching one is too expensive) and this has now caused me to think, "Yeah, it really would look better, so I'd better rush out and buy paint..." Aaaaargh. #neversatisfied

SORRY!!

It's been so hectic here today that I've only just sat down, hence my absence from the blog today. New furniture arriving, getting rid of old stuff, making up the order for Radcliffes, getting a meal ready for James and Claire - busy, busy, busy! I actually LOVE our sitting room - and so does Charles thank goodness. Everything just seems to complement everything else. Very happy. Good to see James and Claire this evening. We enjoyed a meal together and then spent the next couple of hours dismantling the TV, Skybox, DVD player (!) and all the other gizmos and gadgets that are currently housed in the IKEA media cabinet that Charles has now advertised on facebook. I hadn't realised what an upheaval this would be, but I'm glad we did it while James was here as he helped to keep things calm! Can't wait to get to bed now. I am absolutely shattered.

BEEN UP SINCE 6.20...

.. so that I'm showered, dressed and half-human before the John Lewis delivery... ... and, of course, there's no sign of it yet. So predictable. Still, it'll be here by 2.00. Hopefully the ceiling lights will be fitted during the morning. We need to start sorting the 'media unit' (ha ha) before the new one arrives tomorrow... So there's plenty to be doing. Oh and I have a delivery to do to Applebys, another to get ready for Radcliffes, a hair appointment this morning and need to go shopping, so should be pretty busy really. Back soon...

IT'S VERY QUIET IN THIS HOUSE...

... this afternoon. Charles is out so the telly is off and there's no music blaring out. The girls are fast asleep in the lounge, enjoying, unbeknown to them, their last afternoon on these settees. I've finished a bit of a bakeathon and am just killing time before I go for my annual asthma review at the surgery. Oh - have just thought what I could do - I'll give my Mum a ring. I haven't spoken to her for a while.

JUST GOT BACK...

... into the lounge!! The carpet has finally dried out and looks amazing - just like new. The settee looks fab as well, so worth the money I'd say. Charles would say it was extortionate - but he'd say that about anything really, so not to worry. Been busy with the centurion order today. They seem to be gradually increasing the quantities they require which is good to see. Clearly the quiche fly off the shelves, as do bakewells and brownies. Looking forward to our new furniture arriving. Actually can't wait to sort out all the DVDs and old CDs that we've not watched for years. I can feel another trip to the loft coming on - or maybe a trip to the charity shops as it is just about impossible to squeeze another item into the roof space. We had planned to have a weekly throw out from the loft - nothing too strenuous, just enough to begin clearing the space a bit, but that hasn't happened yet. I might suggest again it once things have settled down here a bit.

HAVE JUST HAD THE CARPET CLEANED...

... in the lounge. Also the settee in the sunroom where the girls lie during the afternoon! It's a bit damp at the moment, but smells lovely and fresh and I'm sure it will be beautiful when it's dried out. Some of our John Lewis purchases arrived this morning. I wasn't sure what n earth they were when they were delivered because the cartons that they are in are huge!! I did have a bit of a panic about this, but on closer inspection the shades themselves, whilst still pretty large, are nowhere near the size of the boxes!! So, I'm currently perched on a stool in the kitchen as the lounge is out of bounds. It's far too hot in here actually as the oven's been on for hours. Have just broken the news to Charles that I've ordered a new TV cabinet. Dont think he's too happy, but hopefully he'll be okay when he sees it!

CHARLES IS GOING...

... to Preston again this afternoon and will be staying overnight so that he can attend a multi-disciplinary meeting about his Mum's care tomorrow morning. Christina is at Eshott hall today, but isn't very happy, so I hope I can jolly her along this evening. She had a very poor day yesterday, although she pulled around a bit during the evening (Thank you Strictly!!) and it is extremely stressful for us when she is going through one of these bad times. Keep fingers crossed that tonight goes okay. I don't know if I've got to do a delivery to Kevin tomorrow or not. We had quite a fall out on Friday over yet another late payment, culminating in me asking him to decide whether or not he really wants me to continue supplying him. So, I await developments!!

MET UP WITH...

... James this morning in Morpeth for coffee and a chat and a look around the shops. Lots of Christmas ideas whizzing round - aaaargh!! Actually have to confess to having made a start on the Christmas shopping already. Have done most of the Rellys, have got all the wrapping up stuff and just need to sort out the immediate family next. To organised for my own good!!

HAVE REALLY ENJOYED...

... School's Out today. Good mix of music and chat. Charles seems more relaxed on the show as well and that helps. Well done. Good show! In fact, the afternoon has been pretty pleasant, unlike this morning which was extremely unpleasant and stressful, thanks, yet again, to Radcliffes and a small matter of not being paid. All sorted now, but has left a bitter taste to be honest. Had another little (!) spend in town. Added new lighting, a rug and a number of cushions and throws to the lounge improvement plan! All being delivered next Thursday along with the settee and chair we ordered yesterday. Should look lovely when it's all sorted out. Just waiting for Charles to finish on the radio and for him and Christina to get back then we can eat. There's a lasagne in the oven, smelling wonderful, and I'm getting extremely hungry.

PHEW!!

Where has today gone? Its just whizzed past, from early this morning when we waved Christina off on her way to Preston to see her Grandma. We took the merc over to Amble for it's MOT, then went straight into town, to John lewis, where we chose two new settees, only to discover when we got home that one wouldn't fit so we ended up ordering a settee and an armchair. I'm thrilled with the choice. Quite traditional in style - but that's the word - 'stylish'!! We've booked a company to come out and clean the carpets AND the settee in the sunroom on Monday. We're going back to town tomorrow to pick up throws and cushions and possibly some new lighting. Oh - and the settee and chair will be delivered next Thursday. Hey - we don't hang about!!

HAVING A LOVELY DAY!!

I've spent the morning at Saks having my colour done, had a little mooch around the shops after that, then came home to find that Radcliffes don't need a delivery tomorrow, so have now got a very pleasant afternoon planned, reading the four cake decorating magazines that I purchased earlier today!! The only baking I'm doing is a practise ginger spice cake in readiness for one tier of the wedding cake. I want to be sure I get the right amount of spiciness in the sponge and the buttercream, so it unfortunately means that some of us who are trying very hard to be good, will have to actually EAT cake today.

WAITING FOR JAMES TO ARRIVE!!

And we're having an Indian for dinner!! haven't had one for ages, so it feels like a bit of a treat. Am now starving - and it'll be another half hour before it's ready and twenty minutes after that before it arrives here. Aaaaargh!!

JUST SO YOU KNOW...

... I'm ridiculously busy today. Too busy to blog in fact. But obviously nowhere near as busy as Charles.

BY 10.00 AM...

... we were up and running with the range. I've spent all day baking (there's a change) and getting used to the new ovens. It's weird how it's exactly the same model, spec etc, but still operates slightly differently from the old one - well it WORKS for one thing! - but you know what I mean. Ovens have their own distinctive characteristics just like we have personalities! Now, I'm looking forward to an evening in front of the telly and an early night, as we need to be up early again tomorrow to get the delivery done before going to the RVI to have my hand checked after the operation.

BEEN UP SINCE 6.00!

Yawn!! Had notification last night that the cooker will be delivered between 7.00 and 9.00 this morning, so needed to get up a bit earlier to get the old one disconnected. Charles said he would sort out someone to install it, but at the moment we haven't got a clue who that is going to be. I just hope it happens today, because I've got work to do and need to be cooking.

BUSY, BUSY, BUSY!!

Busy weekend, but we've managed to get everything that we set out to do, done. Helen will be setting off for home shortly, but we've had a really lovely weekend and I can't wait to go down to hers later in the month for more girly time. Looking forward to an evening of Strictly and Downton. Bliss!!

HAVE HAD A LOVELY DAY!!

Been really busy making a hundred each of roses, ivy leaves and rose leaves. Just need to paint the ivy tomorrow and then that job can be crossed off the list. Have slumped in front of the telly this evening, semi-comatose most of the time, but DID manage to be awake to watch NUFC on MOTD. Good to see us win!!

WE WON!

Cardiff 1 - NUFC 2 That's all!!

WHAT A NIGHTMARE!

Yet again, the cooker has blown up, so I'm laying out a mere £800 for a new one. I could have really done without this right now, but on the other hand, at least I should have a reliable appliance for a while.

PRETTY CHILLED TODAY!!

I think the fact that a long-standing family dispute was resolved last night has probably helped me to feel quite relaxed this morning. I had been really anxious about how things were going to be when we all met up at the wedding in December, but, I am relieved to say, that things are going to be a lot more pleasant now. I've had a lovely time this morning making pine cones and ivy leaves. I know - its far too early, but the more I get made now the better it will be in the run up to Christmas. Christina and I are going into Morpeth shortly for a bit of retail therapy and a hairdo! And then we've got Helen coming tomorrow. Yippee!!

HOW GOOD DOES IT FEEL...

... when the person responsible for some really bad feeling within the family, makes a full and heartfelt apology. Lets just hope it never happens again.

SO, PLAN 'A'...

... didn't work. No room available on the Saturday. Or at least, not one in which we could have the girls! However, the very helpful Sharon has said that , if I set up early on the Sunday, we can have access to our suite from about 10.30, so at least we will have somewhere to shower and change. I'm happy with that. James and Claire will be able to come over early and can use our room for freshening up and as a storage area until theirs is ready. I know this sound ridiculously OCD but I just had to get it clear in my head, so that I can work all the other stuff around it, ie planning for Christmas, what to do about the coffee shops, when Christina and I need our hair appointments etc!! Anyway - for now I'm happy and pretty chilled!!

I DON'T KNOW WHY I'VE JUST REALISED THIS, BUT...

... no matter how carefully I set out the draft on the blog, inserting paragraph breaks where appropriate, it always ends up being published as one long blur. I'm sorry about that. I was having a quick look over yesterday's entry and it would appear that I'm not used to Charles being out and James and Claire coming round - that's not the case! It was the wet and windy weather I was referring to!! (Just so you know - I've inserted three breaks in here already!)

LOOKING FORWARD TO...

... a weekend with my sister. She's coming on Saturday morning and we're going to spend a couple of days making the floral decorations for the wedding favours for Rachel's wedding in December. Charles, James and Claire are going across to Preston to see Grandma, so it will just be Helen and me here, with Christina of course. I think we need to set up a bit of a factory if we're going to get this done efficiently. Hopefully though, by the end of the weekend we should have everything complete - and well ahead of schedule!! I'm also hoping that Langley Castle can accommodate us for an extra night. We're booked in for the night of the wedding, but I've suggested to Charles that we really need to be there the previous night, so that I have bags of time to set up the cake before guests start arriving. PLUS, we'll be able to get ready in our own suite, instead of having to gatecrash someone else's room. I don't think Charles really appreciates how much better this will be than the alternative which is either to drive to Langley Castle the day before, set up the cake, drive home again and return the next day, or set off early on the morning of the wedding, set up the cake and then hope we can find somewhere to get changed because we probably won't have access to our room until after the ceremony. This may all sound like a fuss about nothing, but it actually kept me awake last night - and that is really worrying when a) it's three months away and b) it's not even our wedding to be worrying about!! Right - time for bed I think!!

WET AND WINDY THIS MORNING.

Not really used to this!! Charles has gone out to do the Appleby's delivery, leaving me at home to stock up the freezers. James and Claire are coming round this evening for a roast chicken dinner (their request) so I've been getting that prepared and making a couple of desserts to follow. We've got a meeting with the mental health team this afternoon, just Charles and I, so I'm a little anxious about that. Oh here's Charles now with the shopping... ... better go and sort it out!

BIT MISERABLE THIS MORNING!

Was going to say that was just about the weather, not me, and then I remembered that I AM in fact thoroughly miserable after the pathetic showing by our team last night. I honestly expected to wake up to the news that our 'manager' had gone, but that doesn't appear to be the case. To me, Pardew looked a beaten man when he was interviewed after the match. He must know his days are numbered. Sadly, and even more worryingly I suppose, there's no guarantee that any replacement would be better. In fact, knowing Mike Ashley, it almost certainly wouldn't!

NOT SURE...

... about watching the match tonight. Everton are certainly in-form and pretty solid at home. Great!! Not feeling confident at all. On the other hand - there's nothing else to do, so I may not have much choice!

CHRISTINA SEEMS...

... a bit agitated this morning. Nothing too extreme, but needs watching. I think she's going to work in Morpeth for the day, so it'll be good for her to be out of the house. Hopefully, she'll have a positive day and will come home feeling more settled. No further news about Grandma. Hopefully this is a good sign. I think that there is likely to be a whole raft of tests going on today as the regular staff will be back after the weekend. It really doesn't do you any favours if you fall ill on a Friday does it?

WE'RE EXPECTING CHARLES...

... To come home today, although we haven't heard how Grandma is, so I suppose it will depend on that. Christina and I met up with James and Claire in Morpeth earlier for coffee. That was nice.

GORGEOUS WEATHER!!

Christina and I have just got back from a lovely walk down Villa Lane and then towards Harecross Farm with the girls. t really is the most perfect afternoon. We were talking about the amazing summer we've had this year. It seems to have gone on and on. Wonderful, especially after the washout of Olympic Year. Actually we're both struggling to know what to do with such a relaxed day. Normally by this time I'm shattered, my feet are killing me because I've been on them all day and all I want to do is collapse in a heap. Today I feel as if I've done absolutely nothing and it has really dragged. It's still only just gone 4 pm for goodness sake. How on earth do we relax for another seven hours until it's bedtime?

BETTER NEWS FROM PRESTON

Obviously she's still very poorly, but Marion is able to move her arms and legs although speaking isn't happening yet. Charles is still over there and I hope he will stay for a while until there is some sort of prognosis. There will be a lot to think about and to organise, so I guess we need to be pretty flexible about making any plans for the next couple of weeks. In the meantime, Christina and I have spent the morning together in Morpeth. We've discovered a dress agency that's just opened and stocks some incredible designer clothes - pre-worn of course, but incredible bargains. We might raid our wardrobes to see if we have anything to sell and clear a bit of space for new stuff!!

CHARLES IS...

... In Preston tonight. He left the radio show early after his brother got in touch to say their Mum had been taken to hospital. I haven't heard from him since he got to Preston and won't ring him because he'll be at the hospital, but I really hope everything will be okay and that he will be heading back home soon.

NOT SURE...

... If I'm going to be able to last out for the whole of Charles's radio show today. I'm feeling extremely sleepy and in need of 40 winks. Nothing to do with the quality of the show believe me, it's just that I've finished today's work and have relaxed a bit and suddenly feel in need of a few zzzzzzzzs.

CHARLES IS AT LIONHEART...

... He's taken cupcakes up for the Macmillan Coffee Morning. I hope he'll be back shortly because we're supposed to be meeting up with Hannah for coffee before going to the Centurion. Charles is back on the radio this afternoon for a four hour show, so we haven't got much in the way of flexibility today! Still getting over my quiche marathon yesterday. Feel pretty tired.

WAS JUST ABOUT TO...

...call it a day at 5.00, when I got a call fromCenturion asking if I could possibly produce £100 worth of quiche for tomorrow ( or Saturday but we're really desperate. It's flying off the shelves!) Anyway, just letting you know that two and a half hours later I have, in fact, managed to make that much quiche!

NOT THE BEST OF GAMES...

... But the two goals were great and the result was what was needed after last weekend. It has to be said though, that the Leeds fans put us to shame. They sang and chanted pretty much right through the game and certainly made more noise than could be heard from the rest of the ground. At times it didn't feel like a home game. Anyway, by the time we got home, the draw for the next round had been made and we'd bagged Man City so, even though it's at home, I think that'll be the end of our cup run for this year. Charles is out doing deliveries. It's a beautiful morning by the way! I'm going to Morpeth for coffee with a friend and then for my weekly appointment at SAKs, then I need to get back to make some cakes for Charles to take to Lionheart tomorrow for the Macmillan coffee morning. Am delighted to be able to report that I think I've completed all the flowers and foliage for Rachel and James's wedding cake, I now have boxes and yet more boxes of delicate creations stacked all over the house!! Right, need to get on, there's washing to sort and jobs to do...

GOING TO THE MATCH TONIGHT!

Let's hope we get a better return for our ticket money than we did last Saturday! We're going with James, who has arranged an early finish from work, giving us time to have dinner at Landmark before the game. Just hope the team play with a bit more spirit today - because Leeds certainly will!

BIT OF A CHANGE...

... In the weather. Still warm and muggy but cloudy and a bit damp. Can't complain too much though, the last few days have been glorious. I'm going into Morpeth with Christina in a while. Not for anything in particulars, just for a bit of a mooch. Tried to book New Year's Eve dinner at JDHH for about eight of us, only to discover its a mere £95 per person and they can't accommodate us at the time we wanted, so might have to give it a miss this time! Still bags of time to make arrangements like that though.

WHY OH WHY...

...When I've decided I want to lose about half a stone before Christmas, when I've been foregoing my usual endless cups of cappuccino and have substituted them with black coffee with the merest hint of skimmed milk (lovely-NOT), when I haven't let a morsel of cake or a biscuit crumb pass my lips since last Thursday, WHY... ,,,DID I BUY A BOX OF 36 MACARONS WHEN WE WENT TO BOOKERS THIS MORNING???? Why would I do that? I honestly don't understand myself sometimes. I've been so good, I felt so proud of the effort I was making and I go and blow it all because I couldn't resist the gooey prettiness of those little French temptations. Aaaaaaaaaargh! I'm so cross with myself.

JUST HALF AN HOUR...

...until Downton starts! Yippee!!!

ALMOST LIKE SUMMER AGAIN!

What a fabulous day it's been! Warm and sunny,reflect for a stroll down a country lane picking blackberries which is what we did this afternoon. Charles lets the girls off their leads which terrifies me, but actually they are really good and never stray far and always come when called. Rose is always close to Charles's heel, whereas Lily likes to wander a bit, but so far they've been extremely well behaved. Just had a long chat with Helen about arrangements for Christmas this year and, for the first time ever, it appears that they will be spending the Big Day up here. Mind you, as this is a mere three days after their other extremely BIG DAY it makes sense really. Sadly I can't see how a big family get together for lunch on Christmas Day is going to work, especially as nothing has been booked yet. But there will be plenty of opportunities for us all to be together between Christmas and New Year. Talking of Christmas and bearing in mind that it is indeed still only September, I think I should point out that Asda already have shelves full of mince pies and Christmas puds, so you'd better get along there pretty damn quick if you don't want to miss out!

FEEL SORRY FOR...

...Loic Remy. scored two goals but still the team lost in a toothless, gutless performance that left the fans more exhausted than the players. Rubbish. Hate supporting the roller coaster that is NUFC at times.

DIDN'T SLLEP WELL...

... Last night, I fact had probably the worst night I've had in weeks. Was awake for hours so read a lot! Also, whenever I was about to drop off I started thinking about the wedding cake that I'm working on - which isn't needed until the end of December let me tell you - and I reckon I pretty much completed it in the couple of hours sleep that I DID manage to get in the end! Honestly, if I'm dreaming about it at this stage what will I be like just before the actual wedding. Doesn't bear thinking about. Anyway, I've been working on more foliage and adding new petals to the roses. Everything's drying at the moment, so I'm now just sitting around before we start getting ready to go through to town for the match. Think I've drunk too much coffee actually. Feel as high as a kite!!!

CHARLES IS BACK...

...from Preston, and straight out to do the radio show.The girls got all excited and then were disappointed again! Such is life, girls! I've had a rather pleasant day really. Had a pretty leisurely start, then went to Morpeth to have at wash and blow dry, pottered around the shops a bit, then came home and continued with the foliage for Rachel's (and James) wedding cake. Managed to get the ones I'd made yesterday painted and have another batch drying out now. Also made a start on the roses, just getting about five petals on for now and leaving them to dry out overnight before making the next layer. Not sure whether I'm looking forward to tomorrow's home game or not. Hopefully my new best friend, Hatem, will be playing!!!

VERY QUIET!!

You could hear a pin drop in this house at the moment. (Love that expression. It always reminds me of my lovely Gran for some reason.) Charles is away for the day, Christina has returned after a day at work and is in her room, probably asleep. The girls are gazing out of their window ans, as nothing is happening in Fram right now, they are being extremely quiet, which is a bit unusual actually. So unusual, I've just been to check that they're not getting into trouble, but they're not at all. Been a bit of a mixed day today. I started early with some fairly leisurely baking. Just needed to do two quiche, three tray bakes and a couple of apple cakes. I tried one of these with blackberries as well as the apples so it'll be interesting to see how that turns out. Then I drove over to Gosforth to the cake decorating shop to collect some bits and pieces for the Christmas wedding cake that I'm making for a certain niece. I just wanted to make a start on the foliage today, so I've spent a couple of hours doing that and not I've got a tray full of leaves and berries ready to be painted tomorrow. Foolishly I decided earlier this afternoon to clean the oven and have applied the stuff only to discover it recommends leaving it on overnight. So whatever we have for tea will have to be cooked on the hob. Soup it is then. Or beans. Or cheese on toast - I could use the grill of course. Time to catch up with facebook for a while I think...

IT'S OUR...

36th wedding anniversary today! We're just back from afternoon tea at Jesmond Dene House Hotel and in a while will be going out to Marabini's to meet up with James and Claire! Such a lot of food! Tea at JDHH was delightful as it always is and was made quite exciting. By the presence of Hatem Ben Arfa, looking a little shy and gauche. I probably didn't help because I had to tell him what a great start to the season he's had and that he's my fave NUFC player! Poor lad! He did however, thank me and shook my hand - clearly has good manners!! Charles is going to his Mum's tomorrow and staying overnight, which means the girls will be edgy until he gets back on Friday morning. Right - need to go and get ready to go out again!!

AND FOR MY NEXT TRICK...

... I'll empty a pint of double cream all over the carpeted boot of the RAV. Not one on my best moments, but not really my fault. Everything was good when I left the supermarket, but by the time I got home the carton had upended and spilt out. Great!! I spent about half an hour trying to get the worst of it out before realising that it was going to need a professional valetting job. Fortunately Charles is still on a high from the freelander acquisition and probably cheerily thanked The Lord that I hadn't been driving said vehicle this morning. Talking of the Freelander, I did have a bit of a drive yesterday. We took it to Heighley Gate just before they closed so the car park was pretty empty and I could practise a few manoeuvres!! Drove it back home afterwards and loved it. Apart from the cream mishap I've had a productive day, getting the order for Centurion made up and making a topper for a carrot cake that Radcliffes are donating to Jesmond Library. Will post a photo later. Am now knack erred and intend to lie on the settee watching rubbish TV all evening. Oh wait a minute, it's the GBBO - so I take back the bit about rubbish!!

PICKING UP THE FREELANDER TODAY!!

At least that's the plan, but Charles is stuck in Gosforth at the moment waiting to lock up James's house once the plasterer has finished. Actually, Charles has just rung to say he's on his way but because we've cancelled the Peugeot insurance from 3pm he is going to us to whizz over to the garage in Amble where it has just had it's MOT then he will take it over to Riding Mill on his own while I drive the RAV back home. Very complicated! Looking forward to seeing the. New vehicle though!!

WELL DONE...

... To everyone who took part in the Great North Run today. It always makes me feel incredible idle, lazy and a bit pathetic that I have never been able to even think about entering. There was a guy on the TV who is a mere 92 years old, taking part, having the time of his life, hamming it up for the cameras - and I thought he was absolutely brilliant. Hannah and Rachel have both run it today - despite Rachel's mammoth hangover!! Our friend Nick has taken part, coming over from Spain to do so and to raise money for Mind. His lovely wife Caroline took her own life a few years ago, as did her brother and we have had their Mum and Dad staying with us this weekend to try to feel close to the action. We've had a truly lovely time with them. They have suffered more heartbreak in their lifetime than any couple should have to bear, losing their first son in a motorbike accident in the early eighties. I honestly don't know how they keep going and remain so warm, caring and such good company. I need to go into Morpeth shortly before going to Eshott to pick Christina up from work. It's blowing a gale now!!

FIRST CHANCE TO GET ON THE BLOG!!

Still can't blog on my laptop and Charles has had the iPad with him at the studio, so this is my first opportunity. Not that I have. Much to blog about. I suppose I should start with a confession. My car is in the garage having its MOT. This was due in July and I completely forgot about it. It's only because we're getting it ready to sell next week that we've discovered it. I feel awful but in my defence m'lud I have to say I hardly ever drive it and tend to use the RAV all the time - which is why we're selling it!!

I THINK...

...we've just bought a Freelander this morning!! AND part-exchanged the Peugeot for a fair bit more than I would have got from webuyanycar.com. This is all very exciting. I don't think we'll be in a position to complete everything until the back end of next week because number plates need changing over and Charles is insisting on a full service before handover, but certainly something to look forward to. We've been to see James and Claire briefly on the way home. They're having a new window fitted in the lounge, so they're in a bit of a mess, but at least they can start to think about decorating soon and by Christmas should have a lovely cosy lounge and a smart spare room upstairs. Christina still looks stunning by the way!!!

MIGHT BE,,,

... Going to look at a Freelander tomorrow after we've done the delivery to Radcliffes. The Peugeot will have its original plates back on in the morning so we're going to take it along to see what we would get in part exchange. Anyway, we'll see - the Freelander may not be suitable yet, so I may be getting ahead of myself. Christina has been restyled at the hairdressers today. She left the house as a wispy blonde and returned a brunette pixie. Looks fab and incredibly stylish. Really wish we'd gone along to Steve Harper's testimonial tonight. It sounds as though it was an incredible evening. Well deserved Steve. Right, it may be late but there is still ironing to do. Christina and I have been sorting out our winter wardrobes and have created piles of laundry as a result of getting stuff down from storage in the loft. Could really do without having to iron it all now, but, thanks to my OCD, just can't leave it till tomorrow!!

GOT THE LAPTOP BACK!

But I'm using the iPad thing. Not because I prefer it, but because the laptop still isn't working efficiently. Appear ardently it performed perfectly while its been away, so clearly the problem is to do with our router. Charles had a long conversation with some IT chaps this afternoon and they are supposed to have done something remotely to the laptop to make it work better (or even just to work) but it still takes forever to connect to t'internetand wouldn't load the blog at all. Very frustrating.

OKAY, SO SOMEHOW...

... it's got to 3.00pm without me having the slightest idea how. Not that we haven't been pretty busy since we all got up this morning, but I just feel as f the day has passed me by and I haven't appreciated it one bit.

MAKING VENETIAN ZABAGLIONE CAKE...

... again. But, sadly, I've got to take this one to the coffee shop tomorrow. It is honestly the most delicious cake ever. Well, more of a dessert cake really. Absolutely going to make it for our next special occasion!

BACK HOME!

Had a lovely time with my boy. Got to town just as the shops were opening. Had our pick of parking places, had breakfast at the Olive and Bean without having to queue, shopped happily without battling through crowds. Actually discovered the delights of the Grainger Market - Mmmm Newcastle in particular - and had a generally very pleasant morning together. Got home early afternoon to find a huge order from centurion for next week. Fortunately, they need most of it towards the end of the week for the great North Run so I have a bit of time to get it together. Planning on having a quietish evening with a takeaway for dinner this evening. Yum!!

OFF OUT...

... for the morning. Meeting James at his house, then into town. No doubt we'll begin with breakfast to set us up for the serious business of shopping!! I think he wants to go to a Fenwicks Outlet somewhere as well, but haven't really got a clue about that. Anyway, I'm looking forward to it. Back later!

WOW!! WHERE DID SUMMER GO?

What a thoroughly miserable, cold, windy and wet day we've had today. oops like it may. Be set for. The weekend as well. Quite a shock to the system after the fab summer. I'v had an easy day today. Morpeth this morning for a bit of shopping and a hair appointment. This afternoon has been all about scones and birthday cake sponges, so pretty straightforward. I had a request yesterday from a customer at Radcliffes to make something called a Venetian Zabaglione Cake.Did a trial run last night and, although it doesn't look spectacular it is actually the most amazingly delicious cake I've eaten for ages. The fact that it contains half a bottle of Marsala contributes to that I'm sure!! Charles is off to Alnwick to do his radio show. I think he's standing in for someone else today as it's not his week AND a later than usual slot. Just heard that the folk who are supposed to be repairing my laptop can't actually find anything wrong with it!!! How can that be? It just doesn't connect to the Internet at all here. Nothing else struggles to connect, so I don't understand this at all. Looking forward to a morning with James tomorrow. We're going into town and hope to be there by 9am so it'll be an early start to the day for me!

GOOD DAY TODAY!!

The sort of day I really love! I've been able to spend pretty much all of it working on the pieces for the Octonauts cake for next week and have thoroughly enjoyed myself. I haven't been out of the house, but don't feel in the least bit stressed today - unlike other days whenI run myself ragged and end up out of sorts. Got a bit cross with Charles though as he took photos of the prep and stuck them on facebook, when I really want it to be a big surprise, not only for the Birthday Boy, but for his Mum and Dad as well. So we had words!

WHAT A DAY!

Started at the crack of dawn when the order for Radcliffes came through.Not, as you might imagine, that this was a last minute order. It was actually Andrew getting a bit ahead of himself. However, because HE was up and organised, it meant that I needed to be too. So I've had a pretty full on day in the kitchen, broken up only by a trip to Amble to pick up the Rav from the garage where, somehow it got through it's MOT with only the brakes really needing to be seen to. I went from Amble through to Morpeth to shop for ingredients to replace everything that I had made earlier for Kevin. I spent all afternoon in the kitchen. Charles started painting the back fence - hooray!! (And I didn't even ask!) Once I'd finished that I started work on a submarine for the Octonauts cake. For the first time I had a go at making the structure out of Rice Krispies before covering it with sugarpaste. I THINK it is working!! I've got the main structure built and covered and am looking forward to doing the fun, decorative bit tomorrow. By this time it was almost teatime and I was tired and I just know that there would be anorder from Applebys lurking in my emails. AND THERE WAS!! Fortunately, most of their order was already in the freezer, so it didn't take long to sort them out. Right I am going to relax for a while - but before I do that I must ring my Mum!!

THERE'S A CAT OUTSIDE!

It's out there most nights around this time actually - and it drives Lily mad. She's on patrol around the house, protecting us all from the terrors of the black beast across the road. Rose is doing her best to ignore Lily's posturing. The problem is, that at this time of night Lily finds it really difficult to settle down and to get to sleep, so we're faced with either very late nights or letting them sleep in the bedroom!!! (TBH the bedroom usually wins!)

AM TYPING THIS...

...On one of Charles's iPad things. Very nice too! Meanwhile the ancient laptop is hopefully being repaired in Morpeth. Have had a pretty busy morning. We've taken a delivery to Centurion, picked up a cheque from Radcliffes (faint!) been into town, called into the DVLA to put my number plate on retention and managed to get back in time for the delivery of food colourings that will enable me to make a start on the rather cute Octonauts cake that I'm doing next week. I think we're about to take the girls for a walk and go and pick some blackberries now. Nice!

AM SICK OF EVERYTHING AT THE MOMENT.

Can't sell the house. The Peugeot that Charles says I should sell has lost nearly £1500 in THREE MONTHS since it was last valued. This laptop is CRAP. Kevin Radcliffe only pays me when he can be bothered - and that isn't very often. The settee that Charles sits on is falling apart. The loft needs a major clearout and I can't face it - and if I don't do it it won't get done at all. The fence at the back of the house has needed painting for ages and Charles said he would do it but that was weeks ago and nothing's happened. Now he's home all day he thinks we can go off and have fish and chips for lunch thus getting fatter and fatter. AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRGHHH.

TRANSFER DEADLINE DAY

A day when it's never good to be a Newcastle fan. Woke up filled with dread. Wonder how many of our first team players will be out of the door by 11pm?

THIS LAPTOP...

... needs to go to the TIP. Which is where we've been this afternoon after sorting the shed out this morning, as you will see if you look at the before and after pics below!!

Silly me forgot to take this ridiculous excuse for a communications enabler with me. It's just taken me the best part of an hour to order some food colouring and another half an hour to get onto the blog. Am sick of this. May have to buy a new one!!!

GOING OUT!!

Having my hair done this morning and then the match this afternoon. While I'm out this morning I'm going to suggest that Charles uses this laptop instead of one of his other three. Let's see how he gets on with it. It's only taken ten minutes to get a connection this morning after all. He'll probably just tell me to be more patient.

JUST WANT YOU TO KNOW...

... that this laptop is rubbish. It has become so unstable, that I hardly ever have a sustained connection to the internet and have to wait around for ages until a microsecond's connectivity occurs. Useless. Charles tells me to be patient. Yeah right. I'd like to see him using it.

HAD A REALLY GOOD SORT OUT...

... in the utility room and the kitchen yesterday. It had got to the point where I hadn't got a clue what stocks I had (hence the beans mountain mentioned on facebook) and. knowing that there is going to be a clearout of the shed on Sunday, I decided to get ahead of the game a bit by making a start on the two rooms inside that cause me the most grief! I've ended up with a much more rational system of storage and have altered the nature of the utility room a bit so that it is now more like a walk in larder. PLUS - and this is really important - I've cleared the worktop out there and now have a brilliant surface for rolling out sugarpaste with no overhead cupboards to get in the way when transferring it to a cake! RESULT!!! I lov it when we sort stuff out. It always makes me feel really well organised - in a smug sort of way!!

COUPLE OF DAYS OFF!!

Yep!! Tomorrow I just need to deliver the Minion cake and go to Applebys with their order and then I don't have a delivery until Monday. In fact, I shall probably make a carrot cake and a chocolate cake to go in the freezer, but that should be about it, so a nice relaxed couple of days for me then. Except I actually find those days pretty stressful and am never sure how to go about relaxing. Mind you I'm at SAKs on Saturday morning having my colour done and then it's the match - so that's not exactly relaxing. Sunday has been designated Shed Clearing Day - and I'm actually looking forward to this!! So maybe the couple of days off won't be as stressfully quiet as I imagine!!

THIS IS WHAT I MADE THIS MORNING!

Actually managed to get it right this time. The rest of the day has been spent getting the Centurion order ready and avoiding watching the crap performance by Newcastle at Morecambe. I can, however, still hear the commentary. It just seems to revolve around the Ameobi brothers names, followed by a collective groan from our supporters. Nowt new there then.

SO ANGRY!!

We've had a fab day in Durham. The Lindisfarne Gospel exhibition is simply incredible. The city is quite delightful. It was great to be with helen and Bill - AND Bill's Dad, Grandad Billy. Came home at teatime and got straight on with the order for Radcliffes tomorrow and THEN decided to cover the wretched Minion cake that's going out on Friday. This was completely disastrous and I've ended up scooping four layers of chocolate sponge into the bin and starting all over again. It's 8.30 and I've still got chocolate sponge in the oven. I'm dreading tomorrow because I just don't know how I'm going to get it to work!

BANK HOLIDAY!

Not usually a great one for going out on a Bank Holiday - too many other people on the roads and making you queue up for stuff - but today has been brilliant. It's all been about the timing I think. We got to Belsay Hall before it opened. Helen and Bill arrived with Tex. We had a quiet and leisurely stroll through the Quarry Garden to the castle, marvelling at the dramatic and amazing foliage on the way. We had coffee in the shade under the trees, fortunately getting there just before the crowds started to gather. A quick road trip to Bolam Lake - no traffic to speak of - and another stunning walk, followed by lunch outside at the Dyke Neuk. Now we're all collapsed in the lounge at home - looking forward to our day in Durham tomorrow!!

FEEL REALLY DOWN AGAIN TODAY.

Quite tearful for no apparent reason. I haven't really pushed myself today and I have no delivery tomorrow, so I don't know what's going on. Maybe it's an accumulation of little stresses that is manifesting itself in one big stress! Mind you, we've got two good days to look forward to so I should be okay really. We're going for a tramp about at Belsay with the dogs tomorrow. Love those quarry gardens - AND the coffee shop! And then on Tuesday were off to see the Lindisfarne Gospels. Can't wait for that. To be honest I feel under pressure from Charles who wants us to go to Cyprus in October.It'll mean coming to some sort of arrangement with the coffee shops to make sure they have enough supplies to keep them going and that in itself could be pretty stressful. Also I have nobody to look after he girls and I really cannot bring myself to leave them in kennels. (Charles wouldn't do that anyway - it would cost too much!!) So we are at loggerheads I'm afraid. Maybe THAT'S the cause of my present tension...

OKAY, COULD HAVE BEEN WORSE...

... but not much. We ended up with a 0 - 0 draw and never looked like threatening the goal, although I did think we played with a little more determination than on Monday. However, had that been one of the bigger clubs, we would have been turned right over. Still no Cabaye. Apparently he's refusing to play. Well, dock his wages then if that's the way he wants to play it. He's no bigger than the club as they say. Of course Pardew is putting his usual spin on things and seems to be saying that we played well, particularly in defemce, but that we need to sharpen up at the front. Er yes... I honestly think that I would have stood a better chance of scoring than Cisse did this afternoon. So, sort it Ashley. You've not got many days left.