Freecycle is a wonderful thing. Since being a member of the group I have given good homes to a number of things and also acquired a few bits and pieces myself.
Having got a rather nice and useful book from The Hubstacle at Christmas (and i must admit - he is not too bad at the present buying game!), it meant that i needed some bits and pieces to get going.
The book was 'Homemade - gorgeous things to make with love' and I was itching to start on a couple of projects but am sadly lacking in the equipment/material department.
So before I went out and blew the family finances on haberdashery, I thought I would give free cycle a go. In a couple of days I had a reply from a chap, offering me various items and we arranged for me to pop along to collect them.
On my arrival, I realized pretty quickly that he was living on his own, and after realizing that he was not the needlework type of guy, I reached the conclusion that his wife must have died. Sure enough he told me his wife had died last year and that these things were doing no good sitting in the spare room doing nothing.
I was very appreciative of everything i received and told him that it would all be well-used and well-loved, and it will be. On the drive home I started to feel a bit uncomfortable and wondered if I was in fact tomb-raiding. I know it must of been a huge decision for this chap to start sorting through all of his beloved wife's things and to give them away to someone he doesn't know is certainly a very difficult thing to do.
So my question is should I feel a little guilty at benefiting from another persons death?
I can't say I do feel guilty (that might come later), but I do know that it has made me appreciate every item that he has passed on to me and every project that i do, i will give a moments thought to the lady who also once lovingly used these things.
Friday 30 December 2011
Thursday 10 November 2011
Lodging In The Lodge
The hubstacle found this mid-week break, back last spring and I must say that I have been looking forward to it a great deal, they managed to con us out of an extra £30 by scare-mongering us into buying a cancellation insurance in case of a repeat of the snow fall from last year. The weather has been glorious, but as I said to the hubstacle, sod law if we don't buy it, the white stuff will blanket the while country to a standstill and we will be £230 lighter in our pocket!
We have a gold lodge, 3 bedrooms, wood burner, flatscreen tv, all the mod-cons. Gorgeous underfloor heating which I hasten to add, always thought was rubbish until I came here! Kitchen adequately equipped and within half an hour of being in, a nice man came round to show us how everything worked. Staff at reception, lovely and friendly.
However, the totally and utterly bestest thing ever, is the jacuzzi hot tub - oh my goodness - the bliss! A) its huge, B) ITS HOT C) its amazing D) i want one. we have been out in it twice a day and I am now feeling as if I should be slightly nordik in my outlook.
The lodge overlooks a tidal loch and we have been down at low tide and collected mussels, which after cleaning and rinsing, jumped straight into a pot to stem open before being slathered in a parsley and whet wine sauce. Hugh FW, you would be proud of us!
Seals, swimming over to say hello, deer in the forest..... coming back? try to stop us!
We have a gold lodge, 3 bedrooms, wood burner, flatscreen tv, all the mod-cons. Gorgeous underfloor heating which I hasten to add, always thought was rubbish until I came here! Kitchen adequately equipped and within half an hour of being in, a nice man came round to show us how everything worked. Staff at reception, lovely and friendly.
However, the totally and utterly bestest thing ever, is the jacuzzi hot tub - oh my goodness - the bliss! A) its huge, B) ITS HOT C) its amazing D) i want one. we have been out in it twice a day and I am now feeling as if I should be slightly nordik in my outlook.
The lodge overlooks a tidal loch and we have been down at low tide and collected mussels, which after cleaning and rinsing, jumped straight into a pot to stem open before being slathered in a parsley and whet wine sauce. Hugh FW, you would be proud of us!
Seals, swimming over to say hello, deer in the forest..... coming back? try to stop us!
Wednesday 9 November 2011
Why Am I So Rubbish?
OK, so I know that I am not rubbish, but it doesn't stop me feeling like it. When I started this blog, it was initially just a place for me to express my thoughts and opinions - so I know they might occasionally be a bit insane, but hey aren't we all at times?
However, I like to think that I can actually stick at something, rather than bimble along like a total idiot with zero stamina. Hence the reason that when I found myself putting less and less entries, I felt slightly disappointed with myself. I do have lots to say, I do have an interesting life with funny things happening, I do like to get my point of view across - so, where the blooming' heck am I going wrong?
IT'S CALLED LIFE!
To be frank, by the time I even think about writing, I have usually collapsed in bed and am studying the inside of my eyelids. I do want to do more, but perhaps I just won't beat myself up for doing less.
However, I like to think that I can actually stick at something, rather than bimble along like a total idiot with zero stamina. Hence the reason that when I found myself putting less and less entries, I felt slightly disappointed with myself. I do have lots to say, I do have an interesting life with funny things happening, I do like to get my point of view across - so, where the blooming' heck am I going wrong?
IT'S CALLED LIFE!
To be frank, by the time I even think about writing, I have usually collapsed in bed and am studying the inside of my eyelids. I do want to do more, but perhaps I just won't beat myself up for doing less.
Thursday 9 June 2011
What To Do?
I spent ages trying to write this particular blog today, none of the words I wrote seemed to be right and get across what I actually wanted to say.
It all started with a Twitter post this morning which encouraged us to get a trend going - #alicebucketlist
Alice Pyne has cancer and only weeks to live, according the news reports. She started a blog and listed all of the things she hoped to achieve in the time she has left. Within hours the trend was global and her hashtag was being tweeted all over the place. Quite rightly, Alice says on her blog that there are other children and young people in exactly the same position as her and we should not forget them.
She included a link to a website http://www.postpals.co.uk/ I have just spent the last hour reading some profiles and basically crying my eyes out. I have made a promise to myself that I am going to post some cards off to these children - the time they have left needs to be as happy as possible.
I have been crying quite a bit over the last couple of days. I watched BBC1's 'Poor Kids' the other night. It was very well filmed, narrated by the children themselves and gave a raw insight in to a life in poverty from their point of view.
I get very angry that as a country we seemingly send billions to over-seas aid, yet there are vast amounts of children in this country who are in the same position. Its not that I don't think that we shouldn't assist other countries, but surely we need to be dealing with our own poverty first?
One little girl said that she didn't think she would live beyond 21 years old and that her life was going to be bad - what kind of hope is that?
The Hubstacle just took one look at my face during this and said 'You can't save them all', I know this, of course I do, but I refuse to accept that children should go hungry. I was waiting to see the adults smoking, drinking and watching their HD TV's, wearing designer clothes - then I would have launched to 10,000ft - but actually the adults came across reasonably ok and were actively trying to improve their families situations.
I am grateful for my family, our lives, our health and our future together. My children are exposed to other people's needs and suffering, we hope it will make them better people and thankful for what they have in life.
At the moment Aarvark and Rhino think it is normal that Mummy and Daddy love them, cuddle them, will keep them safe and take care of them. They know no different.
This is party why we want to start fostering again, our own children need to know that not everything in the world is rosy and understand how fortunate they are.
It all started with a Twitter post this morning which encouraged us to get a trend going - #alicebucketlist
Alice Pyne has cancer and only weeks to live, according the news reports. She started a blog and listed all of the things she hoped to achieve in the time she has left. Within hours the trend was global and her hashtag was being tweeted all over the place. Quite rightly, Alice says on her blog that there are other children and young people in exactly the same position as her and we should not forget them.
She included a link to a website http://www.postpals.co.uk/ I have just spent the last hour reading some profiles and basically crying my eyes out. I have made a promise to myself that I am going to post some cards off to these children - the time they have left needs to be as happy as possible.
I have been crying quite a bit over the last couple of days. I watched BBC1's 'Poor Kids' the other night. It was very well filmed, narrated by the children themselves and gave a raw insight in to a life in poverty from their point of view.
I get very angry that as a country we seemingly send billions to over-seas aid, yet there are vast amounts of children in this country who are in the same position. Its not that I don't think that we shouldn't assist other countries, but surely we need to be dealing with our own poverty first?
One little girl said that she didn't think she would live beyond 21 years old and that her life was going to be bad - what kind of hope is that?
The Hubstacle just took one look at my face during this and said 'You can't save them all', I know this, of course I do, but I refuse to accept that children should go hungry. I was waiting to see the adults smoking, drinking and watching their HD TV's, wearing designer clothes - then I would have launched to 10,000ft - but actually the adults came across reasonably ok and were actively trying to improve their families situations.
I am grateful for my family, our lives, our health and our future together. My children are exposed to other people's needs and suffering, we hope it will make them better people and thankful for what they have in life.
At the moment Aarvark and Rhino think it is normal that Mummy and Daddy love them, cuddle them, will keep them safe and take care of them. They know no different.
This is party why we want to start fostering again, our own children need to know that not everything in the world is rosy and understand how fortunate they are.
Sunday 5 June 2011
25 Manners Every Kid Should Know By Age 9
Manners. Considering most adults have problems with these as it is I was interested in having a look at this article.
‘Helping your child master these simple rules of etiquette will get him noticed -- for all the right reasons.
By David Lowry, Ph.D.
Your child's rude 'tude isn't always intentional. Sometimes kids just don't realize it's impolite to interrupt, pick their nose, or loudly observe that the lady walking in front of them has a large behind. And in the hustle and bustle of daily life, busy moms and dads don't always have the time to focus on etiquette. But if you reinforce these 25 must-do manners, you'll raise a polite, kind, well-liked child.-‘
This article was originally published in the March 2011 issue of Parents magazine. Let’s have a looksie shall we?
Manner #1 - When asking for something, say "Please."
Can’t disagree with that one in the slightest!
Manner #2 - When receiving something, say "Thank you."
So far, so good – agree with this one too. In fact if you really want to tick your children off then how about insisting on the handmade thank you note as well?
Manner #3 - Do not interrupt grown-ups who are speaking with each other unless there is an emergency. They will notice you and respond when they are finished talking.
Isn’t everything an emergency for a 9 year old child? Dear Author, I think you will find that parents will never stop their conversation and even if they do have a natural break, they will certainly not ‘notice’ their children – especially when wine, cakes and coffee are involved.
Manner #4 - If you do need to get somebody's attention right away, the phrase "excuse me" is the most polite way for you to enter the conversation.
Yeah right! ‘mummy, mummy, mummy, Mummy, Mummy, Mummy, MUMmy, MUMmy, MUMMY, MUMMY, MUUUUUUUUUMMMMMYY’
Parent – ‘Be Quiet, I am talking’
Manner #5 - When you have any doubt about doing something, ask permission first. It can save you from many hours of grief later.
Hahahahahahaha!!!
As if!
Hahahahahahaha!!
Manner #6 - The world is not interested in what you dislike. Keep negative opinions to yourself, or between you and your friends, and out of earshot of adults.
Maverick Mummy Version – Just say ‘Shuddup’
Manner #7 - Do not comment on other people's physical characteristics unless, of course, it's to compliment them, which is always welcome.
Maverick Mummy Version – as manner number 6!
Manner #8 - When people ask you how you are, tell them and then ask them how they are.
Acceptable stock response is ‘fine thank you’, I would not advise asking after the well-being of anyone over the age of 60. The attention span of a 9 year old cannot cope with hearing a long-winded story of numerous ailments, the fact that the post office is closing and the bus driver doesn’t wait until you have sat down before driving off.
Manner #9 - When you have spent time at your friend's house, remember to thank his or her parents for having you over and for the good time you had.
See manner number 2 and remember to apologise for vomiting over their new carpet after eating too many sweets, spilling your drink down the back of the television and feeding a whole loo roll down the toilet causing a block which the plumber had to be called out for.
Manner #10 - Knock on closed doors -- and wait to see if there's a response -- before entering.
Recommend this is definitely taught, it will save costly counselling bills later on in life.
Manner #11 - When you make a phone call, introduce yourself first and then ask if you can speak with the person you are calling.
Since when does anyone actually talk on the phone anymore? Phones are for texting and Google aren’t they?
Manner #12
Be appreciative and say "thank you" for any gift you receive. In the age of e-mail, a handwritten thank-you note can have a powerful effect.
Covered in manner number 2 – hahahaha!
Manner #13 - Never use foul language in front of adults. Grown-ups already know all those words, and they find them boring and unpleasant.
Adults wonder why their kids know these words. Quite simply grown-ups swear like navvies and think their kids don’t hear them. Stupid ‘beeping’ people.
Maverick Mummy response ‘Shuddup or I am buying a bar of soap when I go shopping’
Manner #14 - Don't call people mean names.
Isn’t it inevitable when your refer to Aunt Mabel as a warty old hippo, the kids are bound to follow suit?
Maverick Mummy version – ‘Shuddup farty pants’
Manner #15 - Do not make fun of anyone for any reason. Teasing shows others you are weak, and ganging up on someone else is cruel.
Er, since when is Bullying bad manners? It is abusive behavior intended to hurt someone and involves an imbalance of power. It’s parents’ job to monitor their children’s attitudes toward others and teach and show them how to give kindness, acceptance, inclusion and generally deal with any negative perceptions and behaviors.
Mind you, not making fun and teasing people in a good natured sense is who I am and I want my children to grow up and not take themselves too seriously and take a joke. Let’s face it, who wants to be friends with a bore?
Manner #16 - Even if a play or an assembly is boring, sit through it quietly and pretend that you are interested. The performers and presenters are doing their best.
Whilst pretending you are interested, try not to rustle your sweets too loudly, yawn, text your friends or fall asleep – it’s a dead give away
Manner #17 - If you bump into somebody, immediately say "Excuse me."
Say it in a sarcastic way to anyone over 75 as they would have definitely bumped into you and not care in the slightest. Anyone else – apologise.
Manner #18 - Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and don't pick your nose in public.
Can’t argue with that one, but adults are just as bad. Since when has does being inside a car make you invisible – we can see you picking your brains out of your nostrils and it’s not pretty.
Manner #19 - As you walk through a door, look to see if you can hold it open for someone else.
Er, see manner number 17 – just let the door swing.
Manner #20 - If you come across a parent, a teacher, or a neighbour working on something, ask if you can help. If they say "yes," do so -- you may learn something new.
Then wish you hadn’t when you are roped into something that bores the pants off you.
Manner #21 - When an adult asks you for a favour, do it without grumbling and with a smile.
Kids up to about the age of 9 will be enthusiastic to help give any opportunity, this disappears immediately on reaching the Teens, after then, don’t bother asking.
Manner #22 - When someone helps you, say "thank you." That person will likely want to help you again. This is especially true with teachers!
Covered this in numbers 2, 9 and 12 – moving on!
Manner #23 - Use eating utensils properly. If you are unsure how to do so, ask your parents to teach you or watch what adults do.
And still get it wrong if you watch them – most haven’t got a clue what a fish or grapefruit knife is nowadays, let alone use conventional cutlery in the correct fashion. Google it and your friends parents will think you are very refined and cute!
Manner #24 - Keep a napkin on your lap; use it to wipe your mouth when necessary.
Who has napkins at home? No need when sleeves, upholstery mothers and tablecloths are so much easier.
Manner #25 - Don't reach for things at the table; ask to have them passed.
This is especially tricky if you are eating on your own.
I reckon this list – and boy what a list – can be boiled down to 3 general guidelines that should get your through childhood without a clip round the ear.
1 – Say Please and Thank you
2 – If you can’t say anything nice, then don’t say anything at all.
3 – Don’t be an idiot
Common sense yes? However people still seem to need a list to spell out how to function in the real world. Basically you will soon know if you go wrong when you don’t have any friends left or get smacked in the kisser by a disgruntled recipient of your actions!
‘Helping your child master these simple rules of etiquette will get him noticed -- for all the right reasons.
By David Lowry, Ph.D.
Your child's rude 'tude isn't always intentional. Sometimes kids just don't realize it's impolite to interrupt, pick their nose, or loudly observe that the lady walking in front of them has a large behind. And in the hustle and bustle of daily life, busy moms and dads don't always have the time to focus on etiquette. But if you reinforce these 25 must-do manners, you'll raise a polite, kind, well-liked child.-‘
This article was originally published in the March 2011 issue of Parents magazine. Let’s have a looksie shall we?
Manner #1 - When asking for something, say "Please."
Can’t disagree with that one in the slightest!
Manner #2 - When receiving something, say "Thank you."
So far, so good – agree with this one too. In fact if you really want to tick your children off then how about insisting on the handmade thank you note as well?
Manner #3 - Do not interrupt grown-ups who are speaking with each other unless there is an emergency. They will notice you and respond when they are finished talking.
Isn’t everything an emergency for a 9 year old child? Dear Author, I think you will find that parents will never stop their conversation and even if they do have a natural break, they will certainly not ‘notice’ their children – especially when wine, cakes and coffee are involved.
Manner #4 - If you do need to get somebody's attention right away, the phrase "excuse me" is the most polite way for you to enter the conversation.
Yeah right! ‘mummy, mummy, mummy, Mummy, Mummy, Mummy, MUMmy, MUMmy, MUMMY, MUMMY, MUUUUUUUUUMMMMMYY’
Parent – ‘Be Quiet, I am talking’
Manner #5 - When you have any doubt about doing something, ask permission first. It can save you from many hours of grief later.
Hahahahahahaha!!!
As if!
Hahahahahahaha!!
Manner #6 - The world is not interested in what you dislike. Keep negative opinions to yourself, or between you and your friends, and out of earshot of adults.
Maverick Mummy Version – Just say ‘Shuddup’
Manner #7 - Do not comment on other people's physical characteristics unless, of course, it's to compliment them, which is always welcome.
Maverick Mummy Version – as manner number 6!
Manner #8 - When people ask you how you are, tell them and then ask them how they are.
Acceptable stock response is ‘fine thank you’, I would not advise asking after the well-being of anyone over the age of 60. The attention span of a 9 year old cannot cope with hearing a long-winded story of numerous ailments, the fact that the post office is closing and the bus driver doesn’t wait until you have sat down before driving off.
Manner #9 - When you have spent time at your friend's house, remember to thank his or her parents for having you over and for the good time you had.
See manner number 2 and remember to apologise for vomiting over their new carpet after eating too many sweets, spilling your drink down the back of the television and feeding a whole loo roll down the toilet causing a block which the plumber had to be called out for.
Manner #10 - Knock on closed doors -- and wait to see if there's a response -- before entering.
Recommend this is definitely taught, it will save costly counselling bills later on in life.
Manner #11 - When you make a phone call, introduce yourself first and then ask if you can speak with the person you are calling.
Since when does anyone actually talk on the phone anymore? Phones are for texting and Google aren’t they?
Manner #12
Be appreciative and say "thank you" for any gift you receive. In the age of e-mail, a handwritten thank-you note can have a powerful effect.
Covered in manner number 2 – hahahaha!
Manner #13 - Never use foul language in front of adults. Grown-ups already know all those words, and they find them boring and unpleasant.
Adults wonder why their kids know these words. Quite simply grown-ups swear like navvies and think their kids don’t hear them. Stupid ‘beeping’ people.
Maverick Mummy response ‘Shuddup or I am buying a bar of soap when I go shopping’
Manner #14 - Don't call people mean names.
Isn’t it inevitable when your refer to Aunt Mabel as a warty old hippo, the kids are bound to follow suit?
Maverick Mummy version – ‘Shuddup farty pants’
Manner #15 - Do not make fun of anyone for any reason. Teasing shows others you are weak, and ganging up on someone else is cruel.
Er, since when is Bullying bad manners? It is abusive behavior intended to hurt someone and involves an imbalance of power. It’s parents’ job to monitor their children’s attitudes toward others and teach and show them how to give kindness, acceptance, inclusion and generally deal with any negative perceptions and behaviors.
Mind you, not making fun and teasing people in a good natured sense is who I am and I want my children to grow up and not take themselves too seriously and take a joke. Let’s face it, who wants to be friends with a bore?
Manner #16 - Even if a play or an assembly is boring, sit through it quietly and pretend that you are interested. The performers and presenters are doing their best.
Whilst pretending you are interested, try not to rustle your sweets too loudly, yawn, text your friends or fall asleep – it’s a dead give away
Manner #17 - If you bump into somebody, immediately say "Excuse me."
Say it in a sarcastic way to anyone over 75 as they would have definitely bumped into you and not care in the slightest. Anyone else – apologise.
Manner #18 - Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and don't pick your nose in public.
Can’t argue with that one, but adults are just as bad. Since when has does being inside a car make you invisible – we can see you picking your brains out of your nostrils and it’s not pretty.
Manner #19 - As you walk through a door, look to see if you can hold it open for someone else.
Er, see manner number 17 – just let the door swing.
Manner #20 - If you come across a parent, a teacher, or a neighbour working on something, ask if you can help. If they say "yes," do so -- you may learn something new.
Then wish you hadn’t when you are roped into something that bores the pants off you.
Manner #21 - When an adult asks you for a favour, do it without grumbling and with a smile.
Kids up to about the age of 9 will be enthusiastic to help give any opportunity, this disappears immediately on reaching the Teens, after then, don’t bother asking.
Manner #22 - When someone helps you, say "thank you." That person will likely want to help you again. This is especially true with teachers!
Covered this in numbers 2, 9 and 12 – moving on!
Manner #23 - Use eating utensils properly. If you are unsure how to do so, ask your parents to teach you or watch what adults do.
And still get it wrong if you watch them – most haven’t got a clue what a fish or grapefruit knife is nowadays, let alone use conventional cutlery in the correct fashion. Google it and your friends parents will think you are very refined and cute!
Manner #24 - Keep a napkin on your lap; use it to wipe your mouth when necessary.
Who has napkins at home? No need when sleeves, upholstery mothers and tablecloths are so much easier.
Manner #25 - Don't reach for things at the table; ask to have them passed.
This is especially tricky if you are eating on your own.
I reckon this list – and boy what a list – can be boiled down to 3 general guidelines that should get your through childhood without a clip round the ear.
1 – Say Please and Thank you
2 – If you can’t say anything nice, then don’t say anything at all.
3 – Don’t be an idiot
Common sense yes? However people still seem to need a list to spell out how to function in the real world. Basically you will soon know if you go wrong when you don’t have any friends left or get smacked in the kisser by a disgruntled recipient of your actions!
Saturday 4 June 2011
Who Cares About Those In Care?
I put off watching the Panorama expose on the residential unit in Bristol until a couple of days after it was aired. My fellow tweeters were understandably very vocal and the timeline was full of thoughts, opinions and plans of retribution. One of my Tweeps advised me not to watch it last thing at night as a sleepless night, due to outrage, would be sure to follow.
It was within the first few minutes of watching that I wanted to get in my car and drive straight down to the South West and deal out my own style of 'care'. I had a period of service in the Police Force and it was the first time since I left that I really wish I hadn't - just to have been the arresting officer of those people.
The suffering of those young people in that unit was totally and utterly deplorable. It was meant to be a place which gives a therapeutic environment, not one dictated by fear and violence.
I could go on and on about the whole thing, but this will not an isolated incident. It is something that will be going on in all kinds of care arenas, and not just the official ones either.
I am sure that we all like to think that those people employed to look after those who cannot look after themselves - for whatever reason - are nice people who really have a knack and passion for what they do. The reality is of course, that there are bad apples in every barrel, it just finding them before they cause damage to the other apples which is the challenge.
You will see from previous entries that we are reapplying to become foster carers after a break of 2 years. During our time of looking after children - some of which were very vulnerable and damaged - we heard stories of other carers treating the young people placed with them terribly.
We know that there are cases of the elderly being neglected in their own homes, residential homes and even on hospital wards. Those with learning difficulties or mental illnesses - as we have seen - are not fairing any better. No don't get me wrong, there are carers out there who are worth their weight in gold, they are inspirational, loving, caring and want the people who they are responsible for to have every opportunity possible and a high level of life quality.
These people hardly ever get mentioned or even acknowledged.
We are all have a responsibility for others, we have a duty to teach best practice and lead by example because if we don't the people looking after us in our old age (some who haven't even been born yet!)may be dishing out much of the same to us.
It was within the first few minutes of watching that I wanted to get in my car and drive straight down to the South West and deal out my own style of 'care'. I had a period of service in the Police Force and it was the first time since I left that I really wish I hadn't - just to have been the arresting officer of those people.
The suffering of those young people in that unit was totally and utterly deplorable. It was meant to be a place which gives a therapeutic environment, not one dictated by fear and violence.
I could go on and on about the whole thing, but this will not an isolated incident. It is something that will be going on in all kinds of care arenas, and not just the official ones either.
I am sure that we all like to think that those people employed to look after those who cannot look after themselves - for whatever reason - are nice people who really have a knack and passion for what they do. The reality is of course, that there are bad apples in every barrel, it just finding them before they cause damage to the other apples which is the challenge.
You will see from previous entries that we are reapplying to become foster carers after a break of 2 years. During our time of looking after children - some of which were very vulnerable and damaged - we heard stories of other carers treating the young people placed with them terribly.
We know that there are cases of the elderly being neglected in their own homes, residential homes and even on hospital wards. Those with learning difficulties or mental illnesses - as we have seen - are not fairing any better. No don't get me wrong, there are carers out there who are worth their weight in gold, they are inspirational, loving, caring and want the people who they are responsible for to have every opportunity possible and a high level of life quality.
These people hardly ever get mentioned or even acknowledged.
We are all have a responsibility for others, we have a duty to teach best practice and lead by example because if we don't the people looking after us in our old age (some who haven't even been born yet!)may be dishing out much of the same to us.
Monday 30 May 2011
Neighbourly Nonsense
Don't be fooled by my header bio. Yes, I do say it as it is, but in actual fact I very rarely run and hide behind my husband after doing so. I suppose it is in my nature to have an opinion, but that does not mean I think I am right all of the time, I do listen and take on board other people's way of thinking.
I live rurally and I only have 4 neighbours close by. I knew when I moved in that 2 of the families did not speak to one another, but that is not for me to be concerned about. As far as we are concerned, we get on well with everyone who lives around us. I am pretty confident that I could knock on any one of their doors and ask for help and it would be given.
I have never felt from either of the families that because we speak to the other one, that it is a problem. Things have trundled along nicely really, they are all adults and they can get on with it.
It does seem though that another 'incident' occurred over the weekend, which has caused further upset. The only issue I have with the whole thing is that the people on the receiving end of it all, are elderly and I know the lady was terribly upset - in fact she was crying when I took her a gift for looking after the chickens for us for a few days.
I cannot abide people using the weaknesses of others in order to intimidate. Mind you, there are two sides to every story aren't there.
I live rurally and I only have 4 neighbours close by. I knew when I moved in that 2 of the families did not speak to one another, but that is not for me to be concerned about. As far as we are concerned, we get on well with everyone who lives around us. I am pretty confident that I could knock on any one of their doors and ask for help and it would be given.
I have never felt from either of the families that because we speak to the other one, that it is a problem. Things have trundled along nicely really, they are all adults and they can get on with it.
It does seem though that another 'incident' occurred over the weekend, which has caused further upset. The only issue I have with the whole thing is that the people on the receiving end of it all, are elderly and I know the lady was terribly upset - in fact she was crying when I took her a gift for looking after the chickens for us for a few days.
I cannot abide people using the weaknesses of others in order to intimidate. Mind you, there are two sides to every story aren't there.
Sunday 29 May 2011
Fostering
Until 2 years ago, we were foster parents - approved for up to 3 children aged between birth and 18 years old. During our time as foster parents, we experienced, first hand what neglect and abuse (all sorts) can do to a child - even small babies.
We decided to take a break when Rhino was born prematurely, we agreed that we needed to concentrate on our own children and give ourselves a rest and close that particular chapter in our lives.
The first three months were lovely - no log books to write, no monthly reports, meetings to attend, no court, no training, no nothing. However, one particular night, The Hubstacle and I were having a chat in general and during this time we both admitted that we really, really missed fostering very much.
We decided that if we still felt the same when Rhino reached 2 years old, then we would consider starting again. Rhino reached 2 at the start of May and we sent an enquiry email to the local authority. It seems that they want to snap our hands off because of our previous experience.
However, because of this previous experience we have laid down our limitations and they are that our children have to be the eldest in the house with the exception of mothers and their babies.
You may think that we are being choosy and blinkered, but remember we spent years fostering young people - all with differing needs and problems. Our own children's safety and well-being comes first - no matter what and with no exceptions. Some of the placements ended up being quite risky to other children in our home and we need to be 100% confident in everything we commit to.
Even though we are experienced, we still have to go through the whole process as if we are new carers - the Local Authority (LA) have said that they will try and fast-track us as much as possible.
It is very probable that we will be dealing with 'relinquished' (why they can't come up with a better word - I have no idea) babies - those being given up for adoption. It seems that there are more babies than cots, they are also having to send their mothers and babies out of county to be looked after as they don't have very many carers who can provide this kind of care.
I hope that the process is smooth and that we can get on with what we know we have a talent for. There is no doubt you will hear more over the coming weeks too!
Wish us luck!
We decided to take a break when Rhino was born prematurely, we agreed that we needed to concentrate on our own children and give ourselves a rest and close that particular chapter in our lives.
The first three months were lovely - no log books to write, no monthly reports, meetings to attend, no court, no training, no nothing. However, one particular night, The Hubstacle and I were having a chat in general and during this time we both admitted that we really, really missed fostering very much.
We decided that if we still felt the same when Rhino reached 2 years old, then we would consider starting again. Rhino reached 2 at the start of May and we sent an enquiry email to the local authority. It seems that they want to snap our hands off because of our previous experience.
However, because of this previous experience we have laid down our limitations and they are that our children have to be the eldest in the house with the exception of mothers and their babies.
You may think that we are being choosy and blinkered, but remember we spent years fostering young people - all with differing needs and problems. Our own children's safety and well-being comes first - no matter what and with no exceptions. Some of the placements ended up being quite risky to other children in our home and we need to be 100% confident in everything we commit to.
Even though we are experienced, we still have to go through the whole process as if we are new carers - the Local Authority (LA) have said that they will try and fast-track us as much as possible.
It is very probable that we will be dealing with 'relinquished' (why they can't come up with a better word - I have no idea) babies - those being given up for adoption. It seems that there are more babies than cots, they are also having to send their mothers and babies out of county to be looked after as they don't have very many carers who can provide this kind of care.
I hope that the process is smooth and that we can get on with what we know we have a talent for. There is no doubt you will hear more over the coming weeks too!
Wish us luck!
Saturday 28 May 2011
The Greatness of the Garden!
'Outside now pease mummy?' says Aardvark, aged 3 as Rhino, aged 2 is hopping up and down, trying to get his wellies on.
We go out, and thats us sorted for entertainment for the next few hours, completely free of charge (The Hubstacle is happy about this!).
If you are stuck for something to do, sometimes you don't have to look any further than your garden. The ankle snappers and I always have a lovely time, and its even better when the sun shines. Let me share some of the things we get up to:
Dens - our small pop up tent cost £4.99, we fill it with blankets, cushions, books and teddies. We eat biscuits,read stories, zip ourselves in, pretend we are pirates sailing on the high seas, princesses/princes in our castle, knights hiding from the dragon or mice in our nest.
Cloud Watching - Blankets on the ground, laying flat out trying to find a cloud that looks like Daddy (lots of giggling here!), rabbits, birds or the most interesting 'sweeties' as chosen by Rhino.
Garden Treasure Hunt - We have a list of things to find in the garden; a brown leaf, a forked stick, an empty plant pot, a shiny stone etc
Nature pictures - We collect lots of garden foliage, sticks, flowers etc and stick them on to card, making lovely pictures.
What Animal Am I? - an animal is chosen and we all have to pretend to be it in the garden. Passer-by's are very complimentary of our chicken impressions! We also pretend to be farmers when we feed the chickens and look after the vegetable garden.
Chalk Art - chunky chalks which are used to bring out the artist in us all on the paths and side of the house.
Teddy Bear Picnics - Speaks for itself really, extra special when its real lunch being shared on the blanket.
Of course the sandpit, the trampoline and the swing are always pouplar too, but imaginative games really do enthrall the children more and this is evident in their play development.
We love our garden, all weathers, all seasons, all games, all fun!
We go out, and thats us sorted for entertainment for the next few hours, completely free of charge (The Hubstacle is happy about this!).
If you are stuck for something to do, sometimes you don't have to look any further than your garden. The ankle snappers and I always have a lovely time, and its even better when the sun shines. Let me share some of the things we get up to:
Dens - our small pop up tent cost £4.99, we fill it with blankets, cushions, books and teddies. We eat biscuits,read stories, zip ourselves in, pretend we are pirates sailing on the high seas, princesses/princes in our castle, knights hiding from the dragon or mice in our nest.
Cloud Watching - Blankets on the ground, laying flat out trying to find a cloud that looks like Daddy (lots of giggling here!), rabbits, birds or the most interesting 'sweeties' as chosen by Rhino.
Garden Treasure Hunt - We have a list of things to find in the garden; a brown leaf, a forked stick, an empty plant pot, a shiny stone etc
Nature pictures - We collect lots of garden foliage, sticks, flowers etc and stick them on to card, making lovely pictures.
What Animal Am I? - an animal is chosen and we all have to pretend to be it in the garden. Passer-by's are very complimentary of our chicken impressions! We also pretend to be farmers when we feed the chickens and look after the vegetable garden.
Chalk Art - chunky chalks which are used to bring out the artist in us all on the paths and side of the house.
Teddy Bear Picnics - Speaks for itself really, extra special when its real lunch being shared on the blanket.
Of course the sandpit, the trampoline and the swing are always pouplar too, but imaginative games really do enthrall the children more and this is evident in their play development.
We love our garden, all weathers, all seasons, all games, all fun!
Delivery Details
My lovely sister in law is a few weeks from giving birth to her first child. The poor girl has really struggled through her pregnancy having been plagued with sickness, things swelling up, getting stuck on the sofa, not walking properly and generally having every pregnancy ailment going!
I penned her an email tonight, trying to give her some reassurance and tips for the birth. I know from experience that some of us mums like to scare the pants off of pregnant women by telling them all about our birthing stories - sometimes exaggerating bits too. I don't find this helpful and I think that it is very unfair on the mum to be. I am honest in saying that when I was expecting Rhino (my 4th), I was still scared to bits - mainly becaise I knew what was coming, but also because I didn't have a clue how it was going to go.
I wish that I had someone who was thoughful enough to drop me a line to give me encouragement and realistic information. I hope that my SIL takes it as such.
I penned her an email tonight, trying to give her some reassurance and tips for the birth. I know from experience that some of us mums like to scare the pants off of pregnant women by telling them all about our birthing stories - sometimes exaggerating bits too. I don't find this helpful and I think that it is very unfair on the mum to be. I am honest in saying that when I was expecting Rhino (my 4th), I was still scared to bits - mainly becaise I knew what was coming, but also because I didn't have a clue how it was going to go.
I wish that I had someone who was thoughful enough to drop me a line to give me encouragement and realistic information. I hope that my SIL takes it as such.
Friday 27 May 2011
Is Nessie A Necessity?
Back and refreshed from our few days away in Scotland (apart from someone driving into our parked car!) - our friends have a holiday home about a 30 minute drive from Pitlochry (South East of Fort William). We were very lucky to get to use it and took the chance to travel (2hrs I might add!) to Loch Ness.
The visitors centre was really good, as was the exhibition. The children bought some cuddle Nessie's and we drove home yesterday. Aardvark's Nessie definately came into the house - I distinctly remember it laying on the kitchen floor. It came to bedtime and could we find the damn thing?
No!
I have been through bins, bags, cupboards and drawers. I have looked through clothes, coats, cars and toys. I have searched through places that sane, rational people would know there is not an ounce of possibility that the damn thing would be in there - but I looked just in case.
I have blamed The Hubstacle, me, Rhino and the dog - and he isn't even here.
I cannot for the life of me, think where it has gone. Now Aardvark is not desperately upset, I think she is confident that Mummy and Daddy will come up trumps and fined Nessie. I, on the other hand and now wondering if I should contact the shop and ask for another one to be sent to me?
I have to make clear that I am not a 'buy an identical goldfish to stop my child being upset' kind of parent. But on this occasion I really feel sorry for Aardvark, she spent some of her pennies on it (£7.99).
What to do? Ideas anyone?
The visitors centre was really good, as was the exhibition. The children bought some cuddle Nessie's and we drove home yesterday. Aardvark's Nessie definately came into the house - I distinctly remember it laying on the kitchen floor. It came to bedtime and could we find the damn thing?
No!
I have been through bins, bags, cupboards and drawers. I have looked through clothes, coats, cars and toys. I have searched through places that sane, rational people would know there is not an ounce of possibility that the damn thing would be in there - but I looked just in case.
I have blamed The Hubstacle, me, Rhino and the dog - and he isn't even here.
I cannot for the life of me, think where it has gone. Now Aardvark is not desperately upset, I think she is confident that Mummy and Daddy will come up trumps and fined Nessie. I, on the other hand and now wondering if I should contact the shop and ask for another one to be sent to me?
I have to make clear that I am not a 'buy an identical goldfish to stop my child being upset' kind of parent. But on this occasion I really feel sorry for Aardvark, she spent some of her pennies on it (£7.99).
What to do? Ideas anyone?
Sleepless in the North of England
Sleeping problems are common, and most of us with young children will certainly, at one point or another, know what sleep deprivation is like.
Aadvark is 3 and Rhino, 2 and they are both, and pretty much have always been very good sleepers. This is something that I rarely tell other parents as usually they want to throttle me for having a good nights sleep.
However, I suspect the last laugh is now on me as I am currently having difficulty getting a good nights kip. The children are fine, the hubstacle snores away all night but I don't and its beginning to get a tad annoying.
I don't have a problem getting to sleep, in fact I drop off really quickly, but after a few hours I start waking up. The frequency can range from every 10 minutes to every 45 and this continues until about 5.30-6am when I seem to go back to sleep properly until I get up at 7am.
I have tried cutting out food and stimulents last thing at night, I read for a bit in bed, tiredness sweeps over me and I snuggle down and drop off. The only thing I can think of that is hindering my slumber is the dreams I seem to be having lately, they are not nice ones and I suppose there is a particular thing I am anxious about at the moment, but it won't be fixed any time soon.
So, how do you deal with no sleeping properly? Have you ever had to contend with long-term sleep deprivation?
I am sitting here typing and feel as if the weight of the world is bearing down on me, I am so tired that I feel sick. Reaching for the strong coffee is not an answer, but I have to function because of the children.
Aadvark is 3 and Rhino, 2 and they are both, and pretty much have always been very good sleepers. This is something that I rarely tell other parents as usually they want to throttle me for having a good nights sleep.
However, I suspect the last laugh is now on me as I am currently having difficulty getting a good nights kip. The children are fine, the hubstacle snores away all night but I don't and its beginning to get a tad annoying.
I don't have a problem getting to sleep, in fact I drop off really quickly, but after a few hours I start waking up. The frequency can range from every 10 minutes to every 45 and this continues until about 5.30-6am when I seem to go back to sleep properly until I get up at 7am.
I have tried cutting out food and stimulents last thing at night, I read for a bit in bed, tiredness sweeps over me and I snuggle down and drop off. The only thing I can think of that is hindering my slumber is the dreams I seem to be having lately, they are not nice ones and I suppose there is a particular thing I am anxious about at the moment, but it won't be fixed any time soon.
So, how do you deal with no sleeping properly? Have you ever had to contend with long-term sleep deprivation?
I am sitting here typing and feel as if the weight of the world is bearing down on me, I am so tired that I feel sick. Reaching for the strong coffee is not an answer, but I have to function because of the children.
Thursday 26 May 2011
Hit and Didn't Run!
There are still some very honest people in this world, and I am very grateful for that. We were away on holiday, in our lovely new car. After parking on the street in a lovely little town, we went off for a nice coffee and a mooch around the shops.
On our return, a ladt came out of a complementary therapy shop and informed us she witnessed another vehicle hit ours. We waited for the phrase 'they left without leaving their details', but in actual fact she said that they waited for ages before finally leaving a note on the windscreen.
The lady had taken the details of the vehicle anyway, and when we called the other driver, he was truly mortified and very apologetic. He was in a company vehicle, so luckily all was well in the insurance department.
Just to clarify, for those who don't know; if you run into a parked, unattended car, as long as you leave contact details on the vehicle or with someone nearby, you are covered - i.e you won't be prosecuted for leaving the scene of an accident.
So, we came home from holiday, now have a hire car and ours - which has a broken nose, is waiting for the garage to come and take it to be repaired.
On our return, a ladt came out of a complementary therapy shop and informed us she witnessed another vehicle hit ours. We waited for the phrase 'they left without leaving their details', but in actual fact she said that they waited for ages before finally leaving a note on the windscreen.
The lady had taken the details of the vehicle anyway, and when we called the other driver, he was truly mortified and very apologetic. He was in a company vehicle, so luckily all was well in the insurance department.
Just to clarify, for those who don't know; if you run into a parked, unattended car, as long as you leave contact details on the vehicle or with someone nearby, you are covered - i.e you won't be prosecuted for leaving the scene of an accident.
So, we came home from holiday, now have a hire car and ours - which has a broken nose, is waiting for the garage to come and take it to be repaired.
Thursday 7 April 2011
Review - Wrigley's 5 - Flood Chewing Gum
Now, I am not a fan of gum really, I spent years working in the nightclub trade and chewed so much of it that I think my jaw automatically seizes up at the mere sight of it.
I was asked by reps of Wrigley's 5 to have a try of their newly launched chewing gum, called 'Flood'.
When the sample packet arrived in the post, I honestly thought I had been sent a packet of condoms, the packet (everyone in the family thought) looked very grown up and I am sure I would have been 'heart in mouth' if I had found the packet in my husbands pocket!
It was however the delicious berry smell that made me quickly realise that the gum had arrived to try out!
On opening, the brightly wrapped sticks also looked rather 'adult'. Mind you, the package design overall is nice and useable, maybe I am being too critical!
Now the important bit - the taste test...... all I can say is that I was instantly transported back to a holiday in France when I was about 12. The chewing gum abroad always tasted so much better than home and this was just the same. There was indeed a flood of taste which was a lovely, refreshing berry flavour.
Because I am a saddo, I timed how long the taste lasted, now bearing in mind I am a very greedy chewer and I try to suck out the flavour really quickly, the flavour lasted for 20 minutes and I was impressed by this. 45 minutes later, the gum got a little hard to chew easily, so it was binned, other stuff I have had in the past loses it flavour very fast and is ready to throw away after about 20 minutes.
We have a while to go before the everlasting gum that never loses its flavour is invented, but this one is certainly worth a try.
So, did I like it? Yes, would I buy it? Yes definately.
DISCLOSURE - I was sent a packet of Wrigley's 5 Flood, Berry Flavour to review, at no cost to myself. This post is not sponsored.
I was asked by reps of Wrigley's 5 to have a try of their newly launched chewing gum, called 'Flood'.
When the sample packet arrived in the post, I honestly thought I had been sent a packet of condoms, the packet (everyone in the family thought) looked very grown up and I am sure I would have been 'heart in mouth' if I had found the packet in my husbands pocket!
It was however the delicious berry smell that made me quickly realise that the gum had arrived to try out!
On opening, the brightly wrapped sticks also looked rather 'adult'. Mind you, the package design overall is nice and useable, maybe I am being too critical!
Now the important bit - the taste test...... all I can say is that I was instantly transported back to a holiday in France when I was about 12. The chewing gum abroad always tasted so much better than home and this was just the same. There was indeed a flood of taste which was a lovely, refreshing berry flavour.
Because I am a saddo, I timed how long the taste lasted, now bearing in mind I am a very greedy chewer and I try to suck out the flavour really quickly, the flavour lasted for 20 minutes and I was impressed by this. 45 minutes later, the gum got a little hard to chew easily, so it was binned, other stuff I have had in the past loses it flavour very fast and is ready to throw away after about 20 minutes.
We have a while to go before the everlasting gum that never loses its flavour is invented, but this one is certainly worth a try.
So, did I like it? Yes, would I buy it? Yes definately.
DISCLOSURE - I was sent a packet of Wrigley's 5 Flood, Berry Flavour to review, at no cost to myself. This post is not sponsored.
Sunday 13 March 2011
Where Has My Weekend Gone?
I think I blinked and missed the weekend. It's Sunday night, I am in bed on the laptop and I realise that I have just lost the last couple of days and I have no idea where they have disappeared to!
Friday morning was spent cooking for my business event on the saturday, I was collected at 1.30 to get over to another Town to dress rehearse a production I was in. Then it was the performance that very same evening (total sell-out and it was amazing!), got home about 2330hrs, finished the cooking for the next day and got to bed at 0200hrs!
Saturday morning saw me running round, loading the car and making sure we had everything. Did my event, which was really, really popular and made me some money - thank go because it was the first one and I was scared no one was going to turn up.
The Hubstacle was fantabulous and gave me alot of help, and I really don't know what I would do without him.
We then went straight off to a birthday party that Aardvark and Rhino had been invited to. Once home from that and the children went to bed, I unloaded the car, sorted out all the boxes, made dinner and it was bedtime again.
Today has been a round of a bit of everything really and it just melted into the ether called my weekend.
Friday morning was spent cooking for my business event on the saturday, I was collected at 1.30 to get over to another Town to dress rehearse a production I was in. Then it was the performance that very same evening (total sell-out and it was amazing!), got home about 2330hrs, finished the cooking for the next day and got to bed at 0200hrs!
Saturday morning saw me running round, loading the car and making sure we had everything. Did my event, which was really, really popular and made me some money - thank go because it was the first one and I was scared no one was going to turn up.
The Hubstacle was fantabulous and gave me alot of help, and I really don't know what I would do without him.
We then went straight off to a birthday party that Aardvark and Rhino had been invited to. Once home from that and the children went to bed, I unloaded the car, sorted out all the boxes, made dinner and it was bedtime again.
Today has been a round of a bit of everything really and it just melted into the ether called my weekend.
Thursday 10 March 2011
Fanny Fables!
Tomorrow sees me perform, with the help of some other laydees, The Vagina Monologues. The whole production is meant to be rehearsed as little as possible and that is probably a very good thing, because apart from knowing one of girls, I have never met any of the others nor have I ever been to any rehearsals!
Hmmm, I am now wondering if this is going to hinder me in any sense at all.
The Theatre capacity is 108, I have just heard that 70 tickets have been sold. This means that 70 people have parted with their hard-earned cash to sit through an hour and a half of a bunch of women, who are on their stage debut,talking about the lady under-carriage all night!
I have a feeling that its going to be a flippin' blast of a night! We have swanky T-Shirts, so we will be just fantabulous!
Hmmm, I am now wondering if this is going to hinder me in any sense at all.
The Theatre capacity is 108, I have just heard that 70 tickets have been sold. This means that 70 people have parted with their hard-earned cash to sit through an hour and a half of a bunch of women, who are on their stage debut,talking about the lady under-carriage all night!
I have a feeling that its going to be a flippin' blast of a night! We have swanky T-Shirts, so we will be just fantabulous!
Tuesday 8 March 2011
Time Is Running Out
OK, so here is the thing.... Once again, I have left myself up the creek without a paddle and have..... Once again, taken on far too much to be humanely possible. Before I have a good old rant - check ok what I have got going on!
Its Show week for the musical I am in in 2 weeks and I have yet to find 5 costumes and accessories - thank god I know my lines, but we have a tonne of rehearsals in between time.
I have another Theatre appearance to make on Friday night, dress rehearsal from 3pm.
I am doing my first Moonwalk training session on Friday morning
First Pop Along Party on saturday, I have to finish getting the activities, catering, advertising and administration of it done.
Next Uni assignment due Show week and I haven't done any study for it yet apart from reading three pages of the book.
Zumba, Slimming World, Ballet (not me obviously!), Nursery runs (this is the journey, not some kind of bowel affliction), parties to take the children to, shopping to be done, meals to cook, washing to be done, ironing to tackle, playing with the children, beds to make, stuff to tidy,, stuff to remember, events to organise, phone calls to make. Birthdays to remember, a husband to direct.
Parties booked up for the rest of the month and nearly all of April.
Boots keep sending me these great photo offers, but I don't have the time to go through mine in order to get in before the rediculously short time frame.
I am impulsive and I don't seem to be able to say no at the moment!
Please stop the world. I want to get off for an hour so I can get organised!
Its Show week for the musical I am in in 2 weeks and I have yet to find 5 costumes and accessories - thank god I know my lines, but we have a tonne of rehearsals in between time.
I have another Theatre appearance to make on Friday night, dress rehearsal from 3pm.
I am doing my first Moonwalk training session on Friday morning
First Pop Along Party on saturday, I have to finish getting the activities, catering, advertising and administration of it done.
Next Uni assignment due Show week and I haven't done any study for it yet apart from reading three pages of the book.
Zumba, Slimming World, Ballet (not me obviously!), Nursery runs (this is the journey, not some kind of bowel affliction), parties to take the children to, shopping to be done, meals to cook, washing to be done, ironing to tackle, playing with the children, beds to make, stuff to tidy,, stuff to remember, events to organise, phone calls to make. Birthdays to remember, a husband to direct.
Parties booked up for the rest of the month and nearly all of April.
Boots keep sending me these great photo offers, but I don't have the time to go through mine in order to get in before the rediculously short time frame.
I am impulsive and I don't seem to be able to say no at the moment!
Please stop the world. I want to get off for an hour so I can get organised!
Friday 4 March 2011
Edinburgh Moonwalk
I must be absolutely barmy, but I am actually considering doing the Full Moon, Moonwalk in June. Not June 2012, but June in bloomin' 2011 - Yes indeedy, this year or in 3 months to be precise!
I did consider doing it last year when someone I knew walked the walk, but as usual I have been putting it off and not thinking about it - i.e I was too lazy.
However, someone advertised for a partner/training buddy in order for them to do it and I stupidly put my hand up from the back of the classroom without knowing what the question was or even thinking about the implications.
We are talking about me, about the most totally unfit person on the planet, training towards walking a marathon, overnight, in Edinburgh, in my Bra....... well, I just don't know what to even say about that!
So, I am meeting my partner to be in Morrisons Cafe on Tuesday, we shall probably have a fry up, maybe even a cream cake whilst discussing the finer points of....
WALKING A BLOODY MARATHON, AT NIGHT, IN OUR BRAS!
Did I just say that again? The more I say it, the more totally insane it sounds.
Why - oh - Why - oh - Why?
I did consider doing it last year when someone I knew walked the walk, but as usual I have been putting it off and not thinking about it - i.e I was too lazy.
However, someone advertised for a partner/training buddy in order for them to do it and I stupidly put my hand up from the back of the classroom without knowing what the question was or even thinking about the implications.
We are talking about me, about the most totally unfit person on the planet, training towards walking a marathon, overnight, in Edinburgh, in my Bra....... well, I just don't know what to even say about that!
So, I am meeting my partner to be in Morrisons Cafe on Tuesday, we shall probably have a fry up, maybe even a cream cake whilst discussing the finer points of....
WALKING A BLOODY MARATHON, AT NIGHT, IN OUR BRAS!
Did I just say that again? The more I say it, the more totally insane it sounds.
Why - oh - Why - oh - Why?
The Surprise Find
The Hubstacle went off, rather heavy-hearted yesterday afternoon to perform the lovely job of cleaning out the pig feeders. It is not a pretty task by any stretch of the imagination and he totally 'pen and inks' when he returns.
Yes I make him strip off at the door, before he sets foot in the house! Mortifying for him, but totally necessary for me as eau de pig dung tends to put people off coming to visit!
Anyhow, when clearing out the dregs and muck, something caught the eye of the chap working with him and guess what?
IT WAS HIS WEDDING RING THAT HE LOST BACK IN JANUARY!!!!!!!
The Hubstacle was so amazed that he rang me. I am so thrilled, the odds of that happening were tiny and we are very very lucky indeed.
Cake was sent along as a token of deep gratitude and the ring has now gone off for re-sizing!
Yes I make him strip off at the door, before he sets foot in the house! Mortifying for him, but totally necessary for me as eau de pig dung tends to put people off coming to visit!
Anyhow, when clearing out the dregs and muck, something caught the eye of the chap working with him and guess what?
IT WAS HIS WEDDING RING THAT HE LOST BACK IN JANUARY!!!!!!!
The Hubstacle was so amazed that he rang me. I am so thrilled, the odds of that happening were tiny and we are very very lucky indeed.
Cake was sent along as a token of deep gratitude and the ring has now gone off for re-sizing!
Thursday 3 March 2011
Gone But Not Forgotten!
I can't believe that it has been so long since I last posted - madness because I don't even know where the time has gone and that is a scary thought in itself!
The issue has been that my business has taken on in a bit of a bananas way. I have been taking bookings left right and centre and am fully booked for March and April (apart from the Bank Holiday weekend and I don't really want to do anything then).
In addition to this I have been organising various events and doing all of the promotional material for that. My degree course has started again, its 3 weeks until opening night for Singin' In The Rain which I am in. I have also been roped in to doing the Vagina Monologues next week.
Now someone has asked me to train for the Edinburgh Moonwalk (June) with them, all this with running a house and garden, looking after two little children and trying to grab some time with my husband!
The conclusion that many will reach is that I clearly do too much and need to cut down. But the truth is that I like being busy, I always perform better under pressure of some sort and I think that this certainly stems from being in the Police for many years.
I am not Super Mum and I often make mistakes, I don't try and pretend that I can cope when I can't and sometimes a meltdown is on the cards when everything falls about my ears.
The one thing I am sure of though is that if things need to be culled because my family are suffering, then I have no hesitation in cutting stuff out.
Right, dinner for children, daughter off to ballet in an hour!
The issue has been that my business has taken on in a bit of a bananas way. I have been taking bookings left right and centre and am fully booked for March and April (apart from the Bank Holiday weekend and I don't really want to do anything then).
In addition to this I have been organising various events and doing all of the promotional material for that. My degree course has started again, its 3 weeks until opening night for Singin' In The Rain which I am in. I have also been roped in to doing the Vagina Monologues next week.
Now someone has asked me to train for the Edinburgh Moonwalk (June) with them, all this with running a house and garden, looking after two little children and trying to grab some time with my husband!
The conclusion that many will reach is that I clearly do too much and need to cut down. But the truth is that I like being busy, I always perform better under pressure of some sort and I think that this certainly stems from being in the Police for many years.
I am not Super Mum and I often make mistakes, I don't try and pretend that I can cope when I can't and sometimes a meltdown is on the cards when everything falls about my ears.
The one thing I am sure of though is that if things need to be culled because my family are suffering, then I have no hesitation in cutting stuff out.
Right, dinner for children, daughter off to ballet in an hour!
Sunday 16 January 2011
Lord Without The Ring
There is no simple way of putting this, but the damn fool Hubstacle has gone and lost his wedding ring.
It must be terrible for him and I know he is very cross with himself, but although I am outwardly saying it's ok, inwardly I am really upset. Yes I know, it's only a ring, but the thing is The Hubstacle never wears jewellery and he has worn his ring for 7 years. It symbolises our marriage, we went to Windsor to choose them, spent a lovely weekend there drinking wine, eating good food and pottering about in a little independent jewellers.
It was an exciting time and those rings travelled all the way to Barbados with us, sat nestled in their little boxes until we married and they were transplanted on to our fingers. I don't think I have ever taken mine off.
Poor man, I know how I would be if I lost mine and there is no sense being funny with him because it was genuinely an accident and I would imagine it is some pigs stomach by now. The Hubstacle says that he can't remember the last time he saw it either. At first I was appalled, but then I realised that when something becomes familiar you assume it stays where it is.
It's not the cost of it, but the sentimentality, the journey it has taken with us it represents something more than just meaning we are married. Someone told me that their husband lost his down the back of the sofa and they never recovered it, that was 7 years ago and they are still married, so at least I know my marriage is not going to fall down around my ears.....
Well unless it has become too familiar and I assume it stays where it is......
It must be terrible for him and I know he is very cross with himself, but although I am outwardly saying it's ok, inwardly I am really upset. Yes I know, it's only a ring, but the thing is The Hubstacle never wears jewellery and he has worn his ring for 7 years. It symbolises our marriage, we went to Windsor to choose them, spent a lovely weekend there drinking wine, eating good food and pottering about in a little independent jewellers.
It was an exciting time and those rings travelled all the way to Barbados with us, sat nestled in their little boxes until we married and they were transplanted on to our fingers. I don't think I have ever taken mine off.
Poor man, I know how I would be if I lost mine and there is no sense being funny with him because it was genuinely an accident and I would imagine it is some pigs stomach by now. The Hubstacle says that he can't remember the last time he saw it either. At first I was appalled, but then I realised that when something becomes familiar you assume it stays where it is.
It's not the cost of it, but the sentimentality, the journey it has taken with us it represents something more than just meaning we are married. Someone told me that their husband lost his down the back of the sofa and they never recovered it, that was 7 years ago and they are still married, so at least I know my marriage is not going to fall down around my ears.....
Well unless it has become too familiar and I assume it stays where it is......
Thursday 13 January 2011
Swine of a Flu
Perhaps, possibly you may have noticed my lack of blogging over the past week. Considering I have pretty much popped in to say hello and bore you all rigid with something every day, I would forgive you for thinking I have lost the novelty factor.
Ha! Well you are wrong! My absence has not been anything exciting like a holiday or winning the lottery, but the bloomin' flu.
Last Saturday Aardvark began running a temperature and became very lethargic. She ended up peaking at 40 degrees and we had to strip her off and cool her down. She developed a cough and was very unwell indeed, this continued all over the weekend. So it was a round of getting fluids in her, making sure she was weeing and shovelling calpol down her.
I then began to feel unwell and by the time The Hubstacle had telephoned the nursery on Monday morning, I was down and out. The head said that 7 other pupils had been off with the same symptoms and there had been one confirmed swine flu. She told us this, not to panic us, but so we could better judge Aardvarks symptoms and adjust our treatment or getting advice accordingly.
Monday was Aardvarks 3rd birthday and the poor little girl couldn't even get off the sofa to play with her new dolls house.
We contacted the surgery, just to get some advice and were told to go in because of her age. We questioned this, as clearly she was showing flu-like symptoms, but in we went and were promptly given a terrible attitude by the doctor for being there! We came away with no more than we knew anyhow and we were confident that we could cope.
However on Tuesday she coughed so much and then vomited up blood clots - we went to hospital. The Doctor was wonderful, we were seen almost straight away and luckily all was well before we came home. The Doctor even rang at the end of his shift to see how she was.
This was the day Aardvark and I were at our worst and then Rhino started going downhill.
Luckily he seems to just be a little up and down, today we are all feeling better than the last few days but today has hit me just how ill we have been.
I maintained that the H1N1 vaccine came out far too fast and I was wary of it being injected en-mass to under 5's (back when the were giving it to all under 5's). For this reason, and that my children are both healthy we decided that they would not have the flu jab.
Since then, only people with certain health problems are given it and now all of a sudden people are insisting their children have the vaccine.
There has been a very sad case of a 3 year old dying over christmas. Aardvark is just 3 and it really hit a nerve with me but I stand by our decision. Flu - whatever strain, will kill people, it has always happened. People have died after having the vaccine (even though they were perfectly healthy before). People are still getting the flu and dying even after having the vaccine.
So many dilemmas to face and as a parent of young children all you want to do is protect them from harm, but what if you don't know where the actual harm is? What do you do for the best? How can you live with your decision if the worst happens?
I hope that whatever we have had, has built up Aardvark and Rhino's immune system and made them more resistant to these horrible viruses.
If you are ill at the moment, I hope you get better soon. x
Ha! Well you are wrong! My absence has not been anything exciting like a holiday or winning the lottery, but the bloomin' flu.
Last Saturday Aardvark began running a temperature and became very lethargic. She ended up peaking at 40 degrees and we had to strip her off and cool her down. She developed a cough and was very unwell indeed, this continued all over the weekend. So it was a round of getting fluids in her, making sure she was weeing and shovelling calpol down her.
I then began to feel unwell and by the time The Hubstacle had telephoned the nursery on Monday morning, I was down and out. The head said that 7 other pupils had been off with the same symptoms and there had been one confirmed swine flu. She told us this, not to panic us, but so we could better judge Aardvarks symptoms and adjust our treatment or getting advice accordingly.
Monday was Aardvarks 3rd birthday and the poor little girl couldn't even get off the sofa to play with her new dolls house.
We contacted the surgery, just to get some advice and were told to go in because of her age. We questioned this, as clearly she was showing flu-like symptoms, but in we went and were promptly given a terrible attitude by the doctor for being there! We came away with no more than we knew anyhow and we were confident that we could cope.
However on Tuesday she coughed so much and then vomited up blood clots - we went to hospital. The Doctor was wonderful, we were seen almost straight away and luckily all was well before we came home. The Doctor even rang at the end of his shift to see how she was.
This was the day Aardvark and I were at our worst and then Rhino started going downhill.
Luckily he seems to just be a little up and down, today we are all feeling better than the last few days but today has hit me just how ill we have been.
I maintained that the H1N1 vaccine came out far too fast and I was wary of it being injected en-mass to under 5's (back when the were giving it to all under 5's). For this reason, and that my children are both healthy we decided that they would not have the flu jab.
Since then, only people with certain health problems are given it and now all of a sudden people are insisting their children have the vaccine.
There has been a very sad case of a 3 year old dying over christmas. Aardvark is just 3 and it really hit a nerve with me but I stand by our decision. Flu - whatever strain, will kill people, it has always happened. People have died after having the vaccine (even though they were perfectly healthy before). People are still getting the flu and dying even after having the vaccine.
So many dilemmas to face and as a parent of young children all you want to do is protect them from harm, but what if you don't know where the actual harm is? What do you do for the best? How can you live with your decision if the worst happens?
I hope that whatever we have had, has built up Aardvark and Rhino's immune system and made them more resistant to these horrible viruses.
If you are ill at the moment, I hope you get better soon. x
Wednesday 5 January 2011
Keep Calm and Carry On
Since New Year's Eve (called Old Year's Eve, in this neck of the wood's), I have been dogged with bad stomach ache. Now it's not related to ablutions of any sort as that is all moving through just fine (sorry if you are reading this whilst eating!), and I don't feel sick at all.
I could be sitting there happy as Larry one minute and then the next I will get a terrible stabbing-griping pain that really takes my breath away and causes me to double over in agony. In fact I even didn't go to Slimming World and my Drama club tonight, mainly because I didn't want to risk driving and then getting a pain.
I am starving hungry, yet frightened to eat anything in case it sets off the pains. I have however considered that it might well be down to anxiety. Aardvark starts nursery school tomorrow and although I am putting on a good front I am in bits inside.
I have been very upbeat with her and at the moment she is totally unfazed - that might change in the morning of course - but the cause of this pain could really be a physical manifestation of an emotional issue.
I hope so, because at this rate I will get to my target weight in a super-speedy time if I am not bloomin' eating anything!
I could be sitting there happy as Larry one minute and then the next I will get a terrible stabbing-griping pain that really takes my breath away and causes me to double over in agony. In fact I even didn't go to Slimming World and my Drama club tonight, mainly because I didn't want to risk driving and then getting a pain.
I am starving hungry, yet frightened to eat anything in case it sets off the pains. I have however considered that it might well be down to anxiety. Aardvark starts nursery school tomorrow and although I am putting on a good front I am in bits inside.
I have been very upbeat with her and at the moment she is totally unfazed - that might change in the morning of course - but the cause of this pain could really be a physical manifestation of an emotional issue.
I hope so, because at this rate I will get to my target weight in a super-speedy time if I am not bloomin' eating anything!
Sunday 2 January 2011
First Blog Post of 2011
Hello All,
Out of principle I did not blog yesterday and do you know what? I really really missed it, even though I can (and do) talk absolute twaddle sometimes (ok, most of the time). I never thought that I would ever have time to write a blog, I hardly ever have time to brush my teeth in the mornings so actually sitting still and typing seemed like a mission impossible. But never the one to refuse a challenge, it's worth a go is it not?
Today we have all been in the wars, I cut myself, Aardvark hit her head on the radiator whilst rolling about in the floor, Rhino let go of the lid of the desk and didn't move his thumb in time and The Hubstacle kept getting bitten by the braver pigs when doing his rounds! I just recently qualified as a full first aided and have out quite a range of my skills to the test.
In-between having pretend tea parties, setting up the train tracks only to find them in bits when I next walk in the room, making meals, changing nappies, giving lots of cuddles, kisses, raspberries on tummies, cleaning up, chucking stuff in the washer, chucking stuff in the drier, chucking stuff in the dishwasher (must try to remember not to throw stuff in there, it's getting expensive), I have been trying to get the house ready for a guest who is arriving tomorrow (silent scream as I am no where near ready).
I did mention in a previous entry I was expecting a guest and how I needed to clear all the boxes from the hallway to the back stairs. Well you will be pleased to know that has been done and it was done today in a panic when I realised that I hadn't done it (far too many done's in that, but at the present time I am beyond caring).
I have hurridly been preparing the spare room, it for my best friend and she is hardly going to worry but I seem to remember apologising last time she came, about the less than welcoming room and that it was on my to do list. Well, it still is on that list and today I rearranged things a bit in the hope she won't realise nothing has changed!
I collect her from the train station at lunchtime, which hopefully will give me time to Hoover, dust, empty the bins, clean the bathroom, kitchen and lounge, wash the fleecy blankets on the lounge sofas as the dog was laying on them today and he stinks. Then give the dog a bath, wash his bedding, dash to the shops for the things I have forgotten, pay the papers, go to the post office, clean the cat litter tray, and mop everywhere.
Oh bugger it, I will just get her drunk on wine and hope she doesn't notice! There is no use trying to cover anything up as she knows me too well and we are talking about someone who has experience in what I am like as she used to clean before her cleaner arrived!
She will be far too busy playing with her charges anyway, hurry up my friend, we have missed you.
Out of principle I did not blog yesterday and do you know what? I really really missed it, even though I can (and do) talk absolute twaddle sometimes (ok, most of the time). I never thought that I would ever have time to write a blog, I hardly ever have time to brush my teeth in the mornings so actually sitting still and typing seemed like a mission impossible. But never the one to refuse a challenge, it's worth a go is it not?
Today we have all been in the wars, I cut myself, Aardvark hit her head on the radiator whilst rolling about in the floor, Rhino let go of the lid of the desk and didn't move his thumb in time and The Hubstacle kept getting bitten by the braver pigs when doing his rounds! I just recently qualified as a full first aided and have out quite a range of my skills to the test.
In-between having pretend tea parties, setting up the train tracks only to find them in bits when I next walk in the room, making meals, changing nappies, giving lots of cuddles, kisses, raspberries on tummies, cleaning up, chucking stuff in the washer, chucking stuff in the drier, chucking stuff in the dishwasher (must try to remember not to throw stuff in there, it's getting expensive), I have been trying to get the house ready for a guest who is arriving tomorrow (silent scream as I am no where near ready).
I did mention in a previous entry I was expecting a guest and how I needed to clear all the boxes from the hallway to the back stairs. Well you will be pleased to know that has been done and it was done today in a panic when I realised that I hadn't done it (far too many done's in that, but at the present time I am beyond caring).
I have hurridly been preparing the spare room, it for my best friend and she is hardly going to worry but I seem to remember apologising last time she came, about the less than welcoming room and that it was on my to do list. Well, it still is on that list and today I rearranged things a bit in the hope she won't realise nothing has changed!
I collect her from the train station at lunchtime, which hopefully will give me time to Hoover, dust, empty the bins, clean the bathroom, kitchen and lounge, wash the fleecy blankets on the lounge sofas as the dog was laying on them today and he stinks. Then give the dog a bath, wash his bedding, dash to the shops for the things I have forgotten, pay the papers, go to the post office, clean the cat litter tray, and mop everywhere.
Oh bugger it, I will just get her drunk on wine and hope she doesn't notice! There is no use trying to cover anything up as she knows me too well and we are talking about someone who has experience in what I am like as she used to clean before her cleaner arrived!
She will be far too busy playing with her charges anyway, hurry up my friend, we have missed you.
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