Another weekend nearly over, just Dr Who to watch, a glass of wine and an early night in preparation for the week ahead! As usual the weekend has whizzed past. It started on Friday with a demonstration of baby massage at LOTS Bumps and Babes group. It went well and one of the Mums offered her baby up to be the model, much nicer for me than the usual doll that I use. Abigail was a star and enjoyed her pampering, though this wasn't her first massage as her Mother massages her nightly. I haven't seen Maggie for a while so in the afternoon I accompanied her to Andover where she had to collect Hercule. It gave us a chance to catch up, we came back a very scenic route stopping at Stockbridge a very pretty Market town near Romsey where we had refreshments :) afternoon tea, very English! Hercule who is a tortoise, not your common Greek Cypriot tortoise but a rare breed "yellow hinged" had been very poorly and spent nearly a month in "hospital", now recovered and discharged from the specialist vet where he had the very best of treatment at the pricely cost of £400! Maggie and Hercule were both delighted to be reunited! He is quite sweet when he pops out his head, but ever since Carolyn Watt's tortoise poohed all over me when I was about 9 years old, I knew that this shelled creature would never be my pet of choice!
Were pretty boring in our habits as most Friday nights you can find us in the sailing club. There we can have a nice meal, a few drinks and be home in a couple of minutes. This Friday night was as usual spent in good company. We have made some nice friends in the two years that we have been here and it was nice to celebrate with Jan. Jan has a new job with the arts council, after thirty years as a teacher, she is leaving her post as a deputy head of a Southampton secondary school. I know she has had a really tough couple of years and I wish her well in her new venture!
Ian rang today, he is intent on arranging a party for Matt's 21st, he has sorted a date, will send out the invites and all I have to do is provide the venue (our home, the food and drink). Bless him!!!
Tomorrow is Ian's 25th birthday. I can't believe that it is a quarter of a century since I gave birth to our first son. Its been a long journey from babyhood to adulthood, gosh there were tears and tantrums along the way, but we must have done something right as he is a son to be proud of:) I will miss being with Ian on his birthday, but I'm sure he will celebrate it well, long gone are the ceremonies of present opening, party games and birthday cake. Happy Birthday Ian and Happy Birthday Maggie.
Sunday, May 14, 2006
Sunday, May 07, 2006
Well has much happened in the three weeks since I last wrote? Personally life carries on pretty quietly, easily and enjoyably! Family life with just the two of us is good! I don't think I will ever get used to the boys not being around, sometimes I miss them terribly and can't wait for them to be in touch. Matt seems to live life at great speed and communication with parents seems to get in the way of the rest of his life. I leave messages, on phones, by text, messenger and e mail and why is it when the time he calls and I'm just on my way out to an appointment do I feel guilty! Ian on the other hand communicates well, as I speak we are on MSN, he wants to organise a party for his brothers 21st, looks like it will have to be in July as Matt has summer commitments with the RN and Ian has a trip to fit into in the Gambia! Ian seems happy with his work and next week he has to go to London to speak at a conference. Ian isn't so happy with his house mates as he hates the way they all leave the kitchen in a disgusting state. I bet in Matts house it is he who never does any washing up!
Extended family seem all to be doing there thing. My sister is making plans to move, it seem like it will eventually happen for her in June/July, I hope it works out well for her. I know my Mother is quite worried about her and how sh will fare in far off Leeds!. Steve's s sis is keeping well, although as an older mother she had to go have a 'nuchal fold' scan, which can determine if it is necessary to have a amniocentesis, All seems well and she doesn't have to put the baby at risk of the invasive test, though she has to have a further scan in a couple of weeks as the heartbeat is a little fast!
Last weekend a friend Linda, from Bedford came to stay and we did some of the touristy things: We spent Saturday in the Dockyard and I especially enjoyed the Mary Rose Museum, I'm always fascinated by the artefact's that are so like the things we used to day. It's amazing how they lay preserved in the ship wreck for nearly five hundred years!
On Sunday we ventured further afield and travelled in land to a small Hampshire village called Chawton, to the home of Jane Austen. It was actually only her home for the last eight years of her life, but she did a lot of her writing there. I found out that JA and I share our birthday:).
Work is pretty hectic and on Friday I went to a conference in Birmingham. It was a very interesting day, though it had been a bit stressful leading up to the day! My colleague who I was going with, had arranged for us to stay in a hotel overnight! This was OK until I realised that we would have to share a room!!!!! This very nice lady has a condition known as sleep apnea and has to be connected to a machine to keep her breathing throughout the night! I made my excuses and said that I was unable to share a room with anyone but Steve:) This then left me to offer to drive there and back in one day! As the time got nearer and nearer I realised that the drive would be too difficult in one day. I persuaded my reluctant boss to relinquish some of her budget to pay for our train fare, she agreed and the cost of the ticket was a wapping £90 each for a two hour train ride from Southampton airport! At this point I have to praise the man at BR in Winchester who went out of his way to find us a cheaper alternative and sold us a chap day return from Southampton Airport to Banbury and another cheap day return from banbury to Birmingham International, well done to the ticket clerk, he saved us or rather the NHS £48.00 for each ticket! I need now to trawl through all the stuff I carrried all the way back and probably throw half of it in the bin, oh dear all those trees, just so companies can advertise their wares to people who aren't allowed to inform their clients of the things they have seen exhibited! The speakers at the conference were pretty good and the subjects interesting, so back to work later on in the week to pass on the info to my colleagues! Not a husy working week as I have until Wednesday at home!
Extended family seem all to be doing there thing. My sister is making plans to move, it seem like it will eventually happen for her in June/July, I hope it works out well for her. I know my Mother is quite worried about her and how sh will fare in far off Leeds!. Steve's s sis is keeping well, although as an older mother she had to go have a 'nuchal fold' scan, which can determine if it is necessary to have a amniocentesis, All seems well and she doesn't have to put the baby at risk of the invasive test, though she has to have a further scan in a couple of weeks as the heartbeat is a little fast!
Last weekend a friend Linda, from Bedford came to stay and we did some of the touristy things: We spent Saturday in the Dockyard and I especially enjoyed the Mary Rose Museum, I'm always fascinated by the artefact's that are so like the things we used to day. It's amazing how they lay preserved in the ship wreck for nearly five hundred years!
On Sunday we ventured further afield and travelled in land to a small Hampshire village called Chawton, to the home of Jane Austen. It was actually only her home for the last eight years of her life, but she did a lot of her writing there. I found out that JA and I share our birthday:).
Work is pretty hectic and on Friday I went to a conference in Birmingham. It was a very interesting day, though it had been a bit stressful leading up to the day! My colleague who I was going with, had arranged for us to stay in a hotel overnight! This was OK until I realised that we would have to share a room!!!!! This very nice lady has a condition known as sleep apnea and has to be connected to a machine to keep her breathing throughout the night! I made my excuses and said that I was unable to share a room with anyone but Steve:) This then left me to offer to drive there and back in one day! As the time got nearer and nearer I realised that the drive would be too difficult in one day. I persuaded my reluctant boss to relinquish some of her budget to pay for our train fare, she agreed and the cost of the ticket was a wapping £90 each for a two hour train ride from Southampton airport! At this point I have to praise the man at BR in Winchester who went out of his way to find us a cheaper alternative and sold us a chap day return from Southampton Airport to Banbury and another cheap day return from banbury to Birmingham International, well done to the ticket clerk, he saved us or rather the NHS £48.00 for each ticket! I need now to trawl through all the stuff I carrried all the way back and probably throw half of it in the bin, oh dear all those trees, just so companies can advertise their wares to people who aren't allowed to inform their clients of the things they have seen exhibited! The speakers at the conference were pretty good and the subjects interesting, so back to work later on in the week to pass on the info to my colleagues! Not a husy working week as I have until Wednesday at home!
Sunday, April 16, 2006
Wow what a wonderful exciting couple of days. Rebecca and Simon her partner arrived yesterday afternoon in time for Rebecca to crew for Steve in the Saturday afternoon racing. It was nice to have Simon here, he is a really nice guy and I knew that him being here would make it easier for me! For some reason I always feel left out when Rebecca is in our home as she becomes the little sister who monopolises her big brother and I hate it! While Rebecca and Steve sailed, Simon and I chatted and he revealed his plans to rent his house and move into Rebecca's in the summer after he has got his place ready for tenants. I felt really pleased as they have only been together since September, they live a mile away from each other and met on the internet! Both in their early forties, I think its great they they have met. I have another friend who at my age, her grown up daughters having just flown the nest is feeling very lonely. She has many friends and a busy life, but feels desperate at the thought of not having 'a special person' in her life. A few weeks a go I suggested that she might make new friends on the internet and her daughters have now persuaded her to have a go!
Because our kitchen is still lacking a sink and a hob, catering for guests wasn't easy, but we had decided to use the 'raclette' as its always a success with friends. I'd prepared the food earlier and so as we busied ourselves in the kitchen, Rebecca picked her moment to announce that she is "eleven weeks pregnant"! We were both delighted, Steve I think really surprised. We luckily had a half bottle of Champagne in the fridge, so we popped the cork and celebrated. Both Rebecca and Simon seem absolutely delighted at the prospect of becoming parents. The talk for the rest of the evening was naturally about babies. I'm really happy at becoming an Auntie again and for the first time I feel a real connection with Rebecca!
This morning as I laid the table for breakfast, with spring flowers and little Easter eggs, it seemed really relevant a sign of "new life"!
Because our kitchen is still lacking a sink and a hob, catering for guests wasn't easy, but we had decided to use the 'raclette' as its always a success with friends. I'd prepared the food earlier and so as we busied ourselves in the kitchen, Rebecca picked her moment to announce that she is "eleven weeks pregnant"! We were both delighted, Steve I think really surprised. We luckily had a half bottle of Champagne in the fridge, so we popped the cork and celebrated. Both Rebecca and Simon seem absolutely delighted at the prospect of becoming parents. The talk for the rest of the evening was naturally about babies. I'm really happy at becoming an Auntie again and for the first time I feel a real connection with Rebecca!
This morning as I laid the table for breakfast, with spring flowers and little Easter eggs, it seemed really relevant a sign of "new life"!
Monday, April 10, 2006
My entries are getting fewer and fewer and I think that's because most people's blogs are deep and profound. My writings are more about day to day life and in general that runs smoothly and without too much of a hitch.
Since I last wrote not much has happened and in particular not much has happened with the kitchen. Steve has got as far as he can without getting 'a pro' in. We have the man in mind and he had hoped to have finished his part of the work by now, but alas the work tops arrived damaged. In fact they firstly arrived late because the delivery van had been in an accident, so that tells you how the damage probably occurred. Anyway ten days later and a new delivery has arrived so it's a case of pinning that man down to a time. Jim the carpenter is an acquaintance we have come to know quite well through the sailing club and is probably now more a friend. Because he is a busy man, his reputation keeps him working very hard, although he can be found most Saturday's at the sailing club as he has the unenviable position as 'rear commodore' which means he is in charge of all the sailing events.
During the last year I have spent a great deal of my weekends making bacon butties and and serving tea and cakes to the crews before and after their races. So on Saturday afternoon I went armed with my carrot to entice Jim to give us a date to begin our work. I had remembered that he had told me he would do anything for a piece of carrot cake, so when I served my homemade variety we quickly made a date and the man arrives tonight! At this moment I have another cake baking, isn't it funny how you can entice a man with food. I hope he doesn't blame me for his future diabetes or clogged arteries!
I said that last year I spent a great deal of time making refreshments for the sailors, this year I am rebelling a bit as I have decided I am not going to do more than my share as by the end of the sailing season I was feeling very disgruntled as always being on duty. I think its because I find it hard to say no, but I have been practising and this year and why oh why is it generally the women who are in the kitchen!!!
Easter is approaching. This good Friday Steve and I will celebrate 27 years of marriage. We have been discussing how we would like to spend the day. We could go out for the day or for a meal in the evening but the only thing I'd like to do is walk along the beach and have a bacon buttie at the shack, while sitting on plastic chairs watching the sea, I'm easily pleased!
We won't see our children over the holiday. Ian will return from the Caribbean before Easter, but will stay in Sheffield as he has a lot of work on and Matt is on manoeuvres with the navy and will spend his Easter off the west coast of Scotland. Steve's sister and her boyfriend (what do you call a 40+ man?) are coming on Saturday and staying over. It's nice to have Simon here as he's a nice guy and it will make it easier having him around!!
I have just had an unexpected, but very pleasant few hours with my Mother. I popped in and asked her if she wanted to come to the daffodil barn where you can buy tons for a few quid, at this time of year I love to have them about the house and smell the fragrance when I come down each morning. It's lovely because they are grown in the adjacent fields and they cost a third of the coat of the ones in Marks and Sparks which come from Holland! In the summer the same farmer sells strawberries and along with the flowers i bought today I bought some rhubarb to make a crumble with for Sunday when we have family here. After we had made our purchases we drove down to Warsash and to the river Hamble and took the little pink ferry across to Hamble where we meandered, stopping to have refreshments in a quaint little coffee shop. On the way back to the ferry we passed the Bugle Inn, Mum told me that the last time she had been there was in 1958, she had been there with my Dad for Scampi and Chips. When they returned home they were met by a very distressed babysitter who had received the telegraph telling of my maternal grandmothers death!!! This sad reminder didn't in anyway spoil our outing, in fact its nice to have the opportunity to hear about the way things happened in the past. I'm sure we will have lots more trips out and chances to talk.
Since I last wrote not much has happened and in particular not much has happened with the kitchen. Steve has got as far as he can without getting 'a pro' in. We have the man in mind and he had hoped to have finished his part of the work by now, but alas the work tops arrived damaged. In fact they firstly arrived late because the delivery van had been in an accident, so that tells you how the damage probably occurred. Anyway ten days later and a new delivery has arrived so it's a case of pinning that man down to a time. Jim the carpenter is an acquaintance we have come to know quite well through the sailing club and is probably now more a friend. Because he is a busy man, his reputation keeps him working very hard, although he can be found most Saturday's at the sailing club as he has the unenviable position as 'rear commodore' which means he is in charge of all the sailing events.
During the last year I have spent a great deal of my weekends making bacon butties and and serving tea and cakes to the crews before and after their races. So on Saturday afternoon I went armed with my carrot to entice Jim to give us a date to begin our work. I had remembered that he had told me he would do anything for a piece of carrot cake, so when I served my homemade variety we quickly made a date and the man arrives tonight! At this moment I have another cake baking, isn't it funny how you can entice a man with food. I hope he doesn't blame me for his future diabetes or clogged arteries!
I said that last year I spent a great deal of time making refreshments for the sailors, this year I am rebelling a bit as I have decided I am not going to do more than my share as by the end of the sailing season I was feeling very disgruntled as always being on duty. I think its because I find it hard to say no, but I have been practising and this year and why oh why is it generally the women who are in the kitchen!!!
Easter is approaching. This good Friday Steve and I will celebrate 27 years of marriage. We have been discussing how we would like to spend the day. We could go out for the day or for a meal in the evening but the only thing I'd like to do is walk along the beach and have a bacon buttie at the shack, while sitting on plastic chairs watching the sea, I'm easily pleased!
We won't see our children over the holiday. Ian will return from the Caribbean before Easter, but will stay in Sheffield as he has a lot of work on and Matt is on manoeuvres with the navy and will spend his Easter off the west coast of Scotland. Steve's sister and her boyfriend (what do you call a 40+ man?) are coming on Saturday and staying over. It's nice to have Simon here as he's a nice guy and it will make it easier having him around!!
I have just had an unexpected, but very pleasant few hours with my Mother. I popped in and asked her if she wanted to come to the daffodil barn where you can buy tons for a few quid, at this time of year I love to have them about the house and smell the fragrance when I come down each morning. It's lovely because they are grown in the adjacent fields and they cost a third of the coat of the ones in Marks and Sparks which come from Holland! In the summer the same farmer sells strawberries and along with the flowers i bought today I bought some rhubarb to make a crumble with for Sunday when we have family here. After we had made our purchases we drove down to Warsash and to the river Hamble and took the little pink ferry across to Hamble where we meandered, stopping to have refreshments in a quaint little coffee shop. On the way back to the ferry we passed the Bugle Inn, Mum told me that the last time she had been there was in 1958, she had been there with my Dad for Scampi and Chips. When they returned home they were met by a very distressed babysitter who had received the telegraph telling of my maternal grandmothers death!!! This sad reminder didn't in anyway spoil our outing, in fact its nice to have the opportunity to hear about the way things happened in the past. I'm sure we will have lots more trips out and chances to talk.
My entries are getting fewer and fewer and I think that's because most people's blogs are deep and profound. My writings are more about day to day life and in general that runs smoothly and without too much of a hitch.
Since I last wrote not much has happened and in particular not much has happened with the kitchen. Steve has got as far as he can without getting 'a pro' in. We have the man in mind and he had hoped to have finished his part of the work by now, but alas the work tops arrived damaged. In fact they firstly arrived late because the delivery van had been in an accident, so that tells you how the damage probably occurred. Anyway ten days later and a new delivery has arrived so it's a case of pinning that man down to a time. Jim the carpenter is an acquaintance we have come to know quite well through the sailing club and is probably now more a friend. Because he is a busy man, his reputation keeps him working very hard, although he can be found most Saturday's at the sailing club as he has the unenviable position as 'rear commodore' which means he is in charge of all the sailing events.
During the last year I have spent a great deal of my weekends making bacon butties and and serving tea and cakes to the crews before and after their races. So on Saturday afternoon I went armed with my carrot to entice Jim to give us a date to begin our work. I had remembered that he had told me he would do anything for a piece of carrot cake, so when I served my homemade variety we quickly made a date and the man arrives tonight! At this moment I have another cake baking, isn't it funny how you can entice a man with food. I hope he doesn't blame me for his future diabetes or clogged arteries!
I said that last year I spent a great deal of time making refreshments for the sailors, this year I am rebelling a bit as I have decided I am not going to do more than my share as by the end of the sailing season I was feeling very disgruntled as always being on duty. I think its because I find it hard to say no, but I have been practising and this year and why oh why is it generally the women who are in the kitchen!!!
Easter is approaching. This good Friday Steve and I will celebrate 27 years of marriage. We have been discussing how we would like to spend the day. We could go out for the day or for a meal in the evening but the only thing I'd like to do is walk along the beach and have a bacon buttie at the shack, while sitting on plastic chairs watching the sea, I'm easily pleased!
We won't see our children over the holiday. Ian will return from the Caribbean before Easter, but will stay in Sheffield as he has a lot of work on and Matt is on manoeuvres with the navy and will spend his Easter off the west coast of Scotland. Steve's sister and her boyfriend (what do you call a 40+ man?) are coming on Saturday and staying over. It's nice to have Simon here as he's a nice guy and it will make it easier having him around!!
I have just had an unexpected, but very pleasant few hours with my Mother. I popped in and asked her if she wanted to come to the daffodil barn where you can buy tons for a few quid, at this time of year I love to have them about the house and smell the fragrance when I come down each morning. It's lovely because they are grown in the adjacent fields and they cost a third of the coat of the ones in Marks and Sparks which come from Holland! In the summer the same farmer sells strawberries and along with the flowers i bought today I bought some rhubarb to make a crumble with for Sunday when we have family here. After we had made our purchases we drove down to Warsash and to the river Hamble and took the little pink ferry across to Hamble where we meandered, stopping to have refreshments in a quaint little coffee shop. On the way back to the ferry we passed the Bugle Inn, Mum told me that the last time she had been there was in 1958, she had been there with my Dad for Scampi and Chips. When they returned home they were met by a very distressed babysitter who had received the telegraph telling of my maternal grandmothers death!!! This sad reminder didn't in anyway spoil our outing, in fact its nice to have the opportunity to hear about the way things happened in the past. I'm sure we will have lots more trips out and chances to talk.
Since I last wrote not much has happened and in particular not much has happened with the kitchen. Steve has got as far as he can without getting 'a pro' in. We have the man in mind and he had hoped to have finished his part of the work by now, but alas the work tops arrived damaged. In fact they firstly arrived late because the delivery van had been in an accident, so that tells you how the damage probably occurred. Anyway ten days later and a new delivery has arrived so it's a case of pinning that man down to a time. Jim the carpenter is an acquaintance we have come to know quite well through the sailing club and is probably now more a friend. Because he is a busy man, his reputation keeps him working very hard, although he can be found most Saturday's at the sailing club as he has the unenviable position as 'rear commodore' which means he is in charge of all the sailing events.
During the last year I have spent a great deal of my weekends making bacon butties and and serving tea and cakes to the crews before and after their races. So on Saturday afternoon I went armed with my carrot to entice Jim to give us a date to begin our work. I had remembered that he had told me he would do anything for a piece of carrot cake, so when I served my homemade variety we quickly made a date and the man arrives tonight! At this moment I have another cake baking, isn't it funny how you can entice a man with food. I hope he doesn't blame me for his future diabetes or clogged arteries!
I said that last year I spent a great deal of time making refreshments for the sailors, this year I am rebelling a bit as I have decided I am not going to do more than my share as by the end of the sailing season I was feeling very disgruntled as always being on duty. I think its because I find it hard to say no, but I have been practising and this year and why oh why is it generally the women who are in the kitchen!!!
Easter is approaching. This good Friday Steve and I will celebrate 27 years of marriage. We have been discussing how we would like to spend the day. We could go out for the day or for a meal in the evening but the only thing I'd like to do is walk along the beach and have a bacon buttie at the shack, while sitting on plastic chairs watching the sea, I'm easily pleased!
We won't see our children over the holiday. Ian will return from the Caribbean before Easter, but will stay in Sheffield as he has a lot of work on and Matt is on manoeuvres with the navy and will spend his Easter off the west coast of Scotland. Steve's sister and her boyfriend (what do you call a 40+ man?) are coming on Saturday and staying over. It's nice to have Simon here as he's a nice guy and it will make it easier having him around!!
I have just had an unexpected, but very pleasant few hours with my Mother. I popped in and asked her if she wanted to come to the daffodil barn where you can buy tons for a few quid, at this time of year I love to have them about the house and smell the fragrance when I come down each morning. It's lovely because they are grown in the adjacent fields and they cost a third of the coat of the ones in Marks and Sparks which come from Holland! In the summer the same farmer sells strawberries and along with the flowers i bought today I bought some rhubarb to make a crumble with for Sunday when we have family here. After we had made our purchases we drove down to Warsash and to the river Hamble and took the little pink ferry across to Hamble where we meandered, stopping to have refreshments in a quaint little coffee shop. On the way back to the ferry we passed the Bugle Inn, Mum told me that the last time she had been there was in 1958, she had been there with my Dad for Scampi and Chips. When they returned home they were met by a very distressed babysitter who had received the telegraph telling of my maternal grandmothers death!!! This sad reminder didn't in anyway spoil our outing, in fact its nice to have the opportunity to hear about the way things happened in the past. I'm sure we will have lots more trips out and chances to talk.
Monday, March 27, 2006
I returned last night from a weekend in Bedfordshire. Although Hampshire is the county where I was born and I now happily live, I will always feel a strong attachment to Bedfordshire. We moved into the village of Clophill when our children were two and six years old and I think because it is the place where we raised our family it will always remain special. Clophill is situated on the A6 part way between Bedford and Luton, the small market towns of Ampthill and Shefford a few miles on each side of the village and the places you had to go to see a Dr and do a bigger shop. In the seventies the population of Clophill was 2,000 but had steadily raised with the building of new properties, no big housing estates, mostly infill. The village consisted mainly of the high street stretching a mile from the main road with an assortment of properties, at one end the village green, which as Village greens go was rather small and insignificant. We were very lucky to have an exceptional village school, It's head a very small demure woman who headed a very small dedicated team who nurtured and encouraged their pupils. My two sons were probably not their easiest of students, but their strengths were recognised and valued in this small community. This was a church school, so the whole school were crocodiled down to the church for each holy festival. (While in the village yesterday I spotted small children in the very familiar uniform heading off to the Mothering day service).
When we arrived in the village there were three shops, a large general store and post office, a butcher and a bicycle repair shop! By the time we left in 2004, only the shop and PO survived and that was under threat of closure.
On our first full day in the village I wandered up to the top of the village to find the 'playgroup' with Matthew to put his name down. As he wasn't yet three he was able to attend if I stayed with him, so a couple of mornings a week we would drop Ian at school and wander up the lanes to join in the fun. For the next few years our lives were instringently tied up with the communities of the school and playgroup. Each summer a large fete and carnival procession was held along with an air show! yes an air show, it was such a unique occurrence for a small village that people would come from a very long distance to see it! It had come about because of a villager's involvement with the RAF, an arrangement was made and for many years the sale of the 'fete programmes were donated to the RAF benevolent fund and the fete was fixed on the day of large air shows and the planes were diverted to fly over our small village. I remember the children maypole dancing while a hurricane flew low over the show ground and the times we watched at the end of the day as the red arrows flew down the High street! Friends were made, mainly parents of other children, we joined in social events, summer BBQ's, quiz nights, barn dances and many more events.
The children had to go out to Shefford, Ampthill, or Flitwick for Cubs, Scouts, swimming lessons etc. We were surrounded by farms, country lanes and woods so we were able to walk in the surrounding countryside. Maulden Wood was our favourite place to walk and the annual Christmas eve walk to wear the children out became a ritual! The boys at nine had to travel further a field for school, making friends in other villages and we became a' taxi' service' transporting to parties, school events etc. In senior school years, school was ten miles away in Bedford and the boys soon learnt to use the bus services with parental back up when the limited bus service wasn't in operation!
We were sixteen years in Clophill and it was quite a difficult decision for me to leave, though Steve was very keen. I still have the memories of happy family life, the friends who we are still in touch with and the ones who have left. The new village shop is now situated on the Green, in a bungalow which has been built up and which had belonged to a very special and perhaps unlikely friend, Margaret. I knew Margaret for a few years, her husband had died shortly after she had come down from the Lake District and I would spend time with her, she was nearly blind, had fascinating stories to tell and baked scrumptious cakes! I'd help by taking this wonderful lady to the Dr's or shopping and in return my life was enriched. Margaret died a year before we left the village and this weekend I went into her 'home' the new shop, I thought I would feel sad, but realised that she would have been delighted that the 'village shop' continued to be the centre of village life!
I stayed with friends Jane and Barry and had a really nice time, we went to Jean's for a meal and went for a lovely walk on Sunday morning.
Reading back through what I have just written, it seems too 'Rosie' life wasn't always perfect, I wouldn't want to go back and live, but its nice to have visit and to remember.
When we arrived in the village there were three shops, a large general store and post office, a butcher and a bicycle repair shop! By the time we left in 2004, only the shop and PO survived and that was under threat of closure.
On our first full day in the village I wandered up to the top of the village to find the 'playgroup' with Matthew to put his name down. As he wasn't yet three he was able to attend if I stayed with him, so a couple of mornings a week we would drop Ian at school and wander up the lanes to join in the fun. For the next few years our lives were instringently tied up with the communities of the school and playgroup. Each summer a large fete and carnival procession was held along with an air show! yes an air show, it was such a unique occurrence for a small village that people would come from a very long distance to see it! It had come about because of a villager's involvement with the RAF, an arrangement was made and for many years the sale of the 'fete programmes were donated to the RAF benevolent fund and the fete was fixed on the day of large air shows and the planes were diverted to fly over our small village. I remember the children maypole dancing while a hurricane flew low over the show ground and the times we watched at the end of the day as the red arrows flew down the High street! Friends were made, mainly parents of other children, we joined in social events, summer BBQ's, quiz nights, barn dances and many more events.
The children had to go out to Shefford, Ampthill, or Flitwick for Cubs, Scouts, swimming lessons etc. We were surrounded by farms, country lanes and woods so we were able to walk in the surrounding countryside. Maulden Wood was our favourite place to walk and the annual Christmas eve walk to wear the children out became a ritual! The boys at nine had to travel further a field for school, making friends in other villages and we became a' taxi' service' transporting to parties, school events etc. In senior school years, school was ten miles away in Bedford and the boys soon learnt to use the bus services with parental back up when the limited bus service wasn't in operation!
We were sixteen years in Clophill and it was quite a difficult decision for me to leave, though Steve was very keen. I still have the memories of happy family life, the friends who we are still in touch with and the ones who have left. The new village shop is now situated on the Green, in a bungalow which has been built up and which had belonged to a very special and perhaps unlikely friend, Margaret. I knew Margaret for a few years, her husband had died shortly after she had come down from the Lake District and I would spend time with her, she was nearly blind, had fascinating stories to tell and baked scrumptious cakes! I'd help by taking this wonderful lady to the Dr's or shopping and in return my life was enriched. Margaret died a year before we left the village and this weekend I went into her 'home' the new shop, I thought I would feel sad, but realised that she would have been delighted that the 'village shop' continued to be the centre of village life!
I stayed with friends Jane and Barry and had a really nice time, we went to Jean's for a meal and went for a lovely walk on Sunday morning.
Reading back through what I have just written, it seems too 'Rosie' life wasn't always perfect, I wouldn't want to go back and live, but its nice to have visit and to remember.
Saturday, March 18, 2006
This evening we are having friends around for supper! We will all be cooking our own meal and I made it very clear that its more like an indoor BBQ and not 'cordon bleu'. We were given the raclette by our German friends, having enjoyed meals cooked on theirs when we had visited them in Germany. So far it has always been a success! I enjoy the informality and the pressure that is lifted when I don't have to plan an exotic menu, spend hours in the kitchen or worry about how the food will turn out! After all spending time in good company is the important aspect of the evening. Jane and Tim are new friends that we have made since moving to LOS nearly two years ago, Jane is an excellent cook and for the past year she has managed the catering at the sailing club. Tim is a very quiet man, who has a gentle humour, he is a keen sailor and gets on very well with Steve.
Last night we were again at the sailing club. We enjoying a delicious meal(more food) with an Irish theme prepared by Jane. Were getting to know ppl at the club quite well and were thinking of joining another couple on a sailing holiday in Croatia! 'Thinking' long and hard about it at the moment, as anyone who knows me will know that 'sailing' isn't my thing. I know it won't be at all like dinghy sailing and I'm being persuaded that I would really enjoy pottering around little islands, stopping for swimming in little bays and relaxing, social evenings in tavernas and bars! Phil and Sandy have said we can share their boat, but as we don't know them too well, we will probably go with the option of a smaller boat each, that is, if I'm talked into going. I think we will all need our own space and I wouldn't consider sharing accommodation that small with anyone, other than my nearest and dearest or oldest and best friends: the ones who already know all my little .idiosyncrasy's:).
It's now the day after the night before as they say and a really enjoyable night it was. Thankfully our guests enjoyed the novelty of cooking their own food. We didn't go to bed until after midnight and it was 9.30am before I awoke, it really is becoming rather an enjoyable habit and something I could get used too.
Its a glorious sunny day, we have been shopping in Southampton to buy a new cooker at John Lewis, it will be delivered in five days time. We stopped on the way back at the car park at the far end of Lee beach, 'The Shack' has just started opening at weekends again and as it was now 3.00pm it seemed opportunist to sit and have some refreshment sitting on the beach. What a beautiful site, there were a lot of large sailing boats in the distance, the IOW was looked like you could reach out and touch it, the gliders were out from Daedalus and were gliding gracefully above, while below the ski jetters were showing off their fast machines. After our appetites were satiated, I abandoned Steve to walk home, he was happy to take the car home as he wanted to get on with preparing his boat ready for the sailing season which begins on 1st April. I called in on my Mum on the way home to give her a list of the shipping which is due to sail down the Solent in the next year. Steve had picked it up at The shack and knew that she would like it, perusing the list, it contained so many of the ships that she and my father had sailed on so often. Mum was sat in her little sun lounge, trousers rolled up, door open enjoying the rays. I wandered home with a box of fudge that Mum had made.
Last night we were again at the sailing club. We enjoying a delicious meal(more food) with an Irish theme prepared by Jane. Were getting to know ppl at the club quite well and were thinking of joining another couple on a sailing holiday in Croatia! 'Thinking' long and hard about it at the moment, as anyone who knows me will know that 'sailing' isn't my thing. I know it won't be at all like dinghy sailing and I'm being persuaded that I would really enjoy pottering around little islands, stopping for swimming in little bays and relaxing, social evenings in tavernas and bars! Phil and Sandy have said we can share their boat, but as we don't know them too well, we will probably go with the option of a smaller boat each, that is, if I'm talked into going. I think we will all need our own space and I wouldn't consider sharing accommodation that small with anyone, other than my nearest and dearest or oldest and best friends: the ones who already know all my little .idiosyncrasy's:).
It's now the day after the night before as they say and a really enjoyable night it was. Thankfully our guests enjoyed the novelty of cooking their own food. We didn't go to bed until after midnight and it was 9.30am before I awoke, it really is becoming rather an enjoyable habit and something I could get used too.
Its a glorious sunny day, we have been shopping in Southampton to buy a new cooker at John Lewis, it will be delivered in five days time. We stopped on the way back at the car park at the far end of Lee beach, 'The Shack' has just started opening at weekends again and as it was now 3.00pm it seemed opportunist to sit and have some refreshment sitting on the beach. What a beautiful site, there were a lot of large sailing boats in the distance, the IOW was looked like you could reach out and touch it, the gliders were out from Daedalus and were gliding gracefully above, while below the ski jetters were showing off their fast machines. After our appetites were satiated, I abandoned Steve to walk home, he was happy to take the car home as he wanted to get on with preparing his boat ready for the sailing season which begins on 1st April. I called in on my Mum on the way home to give her a list of the shipping which is due to sail down the Solent in the next year. Steve had picked it up at The shack and knew that she would like it, perusing the list, it contained so many of the ships that she and my father had sailed on so often. Mum was sat in her little sun lounge, trousers rolled up, door open enjoying the rays. I wandered home with a box of fudge that Mum had made.
Friday, March 17, 2006
Its five days since I last made an entry to my blog, so thought I'd better start and put something down, though its been a very ordinary time so not sure what to write or more importantly what would be interesting to read! Three very busy days at work passed in a flash, one thing about working shorter hours means that every minute is filled and the days at work go so quickly. In fact, I'm finding there is not really enough time to do all I need to do at work and I'm finding each day I'm working over my hours. Not sure how to remedy this, as I don't want to go back to four days.
It's been really cold all week and although we have had only snow flurries, the chilling wind has been biting. There have been some sunny moments and in the garden the daffodils and crocus are coming into bud, I need to get out and do some tidying, but I'm finding it too cold to be out there! Had ane mail from Friederike, she said they are really fed up with the snow, because it hasn't yet melted from when we were with them. Had an e mail from Theresa, I went to primary and secondary school and we met up at a school reunion a few years ago. Made contact with her again after we moved south and had a nice evening out about a year ago. Going to meet up with Theresa and another couple of girls from school at the end of the month.
Today has been a pretty ordinary day, went to the beauty salon! Up to a year ago I had never stepped into one, but decided to take the plunge and have some treatments. I happen to be one of those females who have a problem with excess hair, although Helen my therapist assures me that there are many woman with this problem, I don't think I know any of them. I'm becoming pretty used to the pain of the electrolysis and the waxing and in a funny way I enjoy my time on the couch. Helen always has relaxing music playing and we chat. I used to feel guilty about spending money on myself, but have got to the stage in life when I feel comfortable with it.
I Visited My Mother afterwards and she made me lunch and we chatted. Mum talked about her parents and there families, I hadn't realised that my Grandfather was one of seven children. I hadn't heard of George or Alfie or Jean or Mary or any of the others. Two sisters apparently emigrated to either the USA or Canada! One of Mum's uncle's had been a POW in Changi and lived for a few years on his return. I'd always thought that I had a very small family, but out there somewhere must be lots of second and third cousins! I must try and find out some more about them from Mum.
It's Friday night, St Patrick's night, so were off to the sailing Guinness and Irish Stew and tomorrow were going to a fondue night, all our social life seems to centre around food and my waist line is beginning to suffer! Tomorrow were off to choose a new cooker and most of the weekend will be spent on the kitchen refurbishment.....
It's been really cold all week and although we have had only snow flurries, the chilling wind has been biting. There have been some sunny moments and in the garden the daffodils and crocus are coming into bud, I need to get out and do some tidying, but I'm finding it too cold to be out there! Had ane mail from Friederike, she said they are really fed up with the snow, because it hasn't yet melted from when we were with them. Had an e mail from Theresa, I went to primary and secondary school and we met up at a school reunion a few years ago. Made contact with her again after we moved south and had a nice evening out about a year ago. Going to meet up with Theresa and another couple of girls from school at the end of the month.
Today has been a pretty ordinary day, went to the beauty salon! Up to a year ago I had never stepped into one, but decided to take the plunge and have some treatments. I happen to be one of those females who have a problem with excess hair, although Helen my therapist assures me that there are many woman with this problem, I don't think I know any of them. I'm becoming pretty used to the pain of the electrolysis and the waxing and in a funny way I enjoy my time on the couch. Helen always has relaxing music playing and we chat. I used to feel guilty about spending money on myself, but have got to the stage in life when I feel comfortable with it.
I Visited My Mother afterwards and she made me lunch and we chatted. Mum talked about her parents and there families, I hadn't realised that my Grandfather was one of seven children. I hadn't heard of George or Alfie or Jean or Mary or any of the others. Two sisters apparently emigrated to either the USA or Canada! One of Mum's uncle's had been a POW in Changi and lived for a few years on his return. I'd always thought that I had a very small family, but out there somewhere must be lots of second and third cousins! I must try and find out some more about them from Mum.
It's Friday night, St Patrick's night, so were off to the sailing Guinness and Irish Stew and tomorrow were going to a fondue night, all our social life seems to centre around food and my waist line is beginning to suffer! Tomorrow were off to choose a new cooker and most of the weekend will be spent on the kitchen refurbishment.....
Monday, March 13, 2006
Its the last day of two weeks leave and tomorrow I am back to work! This morning I checked my diary for the work I have ahead this week. Development checks, baby massage sessions, support for parents finding toddler behaviour difficult, post natal groups and clinics. A good variety to look forward too. Back to the last day of my leave, I didn't wake up until 8.30am, how on earth am I going to get back into the routine of getting up at 6.00am and out the door for 7.00am. After a slow start and a few mundane chores, some washing, at least the glorious, sunny, windy day allowed me to peg out the wash. I always enjoy getting all my laundry out on the line to have a good blow. The laundry always smells so nice when dried in the open air and I feel virtuous that I haven't used the decreasing worlds resources, though I rarely use the Tumble dryer and prefer to use a clothes horse!
Chores done, I headed out (oh dear in the car) to meet Maggie at the garden centre. As usual I arrived before Maggie and spent fifteen minutes wondering around looking at the array of goods on sale. I wondered around the book department, kitchen department and deli, infact all departments except the 'garden shop'. I was in a dream when I bumped into Maggie, we made our way to the coffee shop where we sat and chatted for more than an hour, the time slipped by as we talked about lots of things, including concerns about both our younger children! We parted and Maggie went of to her part time job and I popped to the local shops in LOS as I had the desire to cook a roast for dinner. Rang my Mother and invited her to come and join Steve and I. Collected Mum at 4.00pm as I know she doesn't like driving home in the dark, forfeited my glass of wine with dinner, but small concession to make and I know Mum enjoyed the meal of roast pork and apple sauce, some early evening television before I took her home at 8.00pm. I'm now back and enjoying that glass of wine and about to watch a docudrama about Kenneth Williams. Early to bed tonight as it won't seem ong before the alarm is waking me from my slumber!
Chores done, I headed out (oh dear in the car) to meet Maggie at the garden centre. As usual I arrived before Maggie and spent fifteen minutes wondering around looking at the array of goods on sale. I wondered around the book department, kitchen department and deli, infact all departments except the 'garden shop'. I was in a dream when I bumped into Maggie, we made our way to the coffee shop where we sat and chatted for more than an hour, the time slipped by as we talked about lots of things, including concerns about both our younger children! We parted and Maggie went of to her part time job and I popped to the local shops in LOS as I had the desire to cook a roast for dinner. Rang my Mother and invited her to come and join Steve and I. Collected Mum at 4.00pm as I know she doesn't like driving home in the dark, forfeited my glass of wine with dinner, but small concession to make and I know Mum enjoyed the meal of roast pork and apple sauce, some early evening television before I took her home at 8.00pm. I'm now back and enjoying that glass of wine and about to watch a docudrama about Kenneth Williams. Early to bed tonight as it won't seem ong before the alarm is waking me from my slumber!
Thursday, March 09, 2006
I have just returned home from a memorable day in London. I left home early to drive to Southampton airport, no I wasn't flying to London but catching the train from the station. I'm always early for everything and was glad that as usual I had allowed oodles of time to catch my train. The station car park was completely full, so I had to park in the airport car park.(ouch! the £14.00 to park encroached on the cheap day retutn!). I enjoyed the train journey as I sat back and enjoyed reading my novel to pass the time. I had arranged to meet Claudia at the Tate Modern at 11.00am, so I had plenty of time to meander along the South Bank. I prefer to find my way over ground than use the underground, so I enjoyed the walk along the river, looking at the familiar sights along the route, even though it was drizziling with rain. After I had met up with Claudia we wandered around the exhibits and chatted as we went catching up on news. I don't know a lot about art, though I know that I don't understand a lot of this 'modern stuff', if I like a picture its usually because 'I just like it'. Claudia was very interested and tried to explain her interpretation of some of the pieces we saw! If I'm completely honest, some of the works I saw could have been created by some of the five year olds that I have worked with.'
We left the gallery and wandered back along the South Bank and over Westminster Bridge to 'The Houses of Parliment', Claudia is a 'spouse in the house' in other words she is married to Patrick who is a Labour MP. Claudia has a pass into the the parliment buildings and although any member of the public can queue and visit the palaces of Westminster, we were soon admitted into the great buildings. It was surrreal to be being given a guided tour of the seat of government by an Italian lady, but Claudia arranges tours for her husbands constituents and certainly had done her homework. We had lunch in the restaurant and then we went into the public gallery to listen to a debate on the chidcare bill. It was really interesting as an honourable lady member from Dorset was proposing a change of one word in the bill about an early years curriculeumn for 0-2 year olds! The word was 'taught', and the debate centred around the need for children of a young age to learn through experiences rather than be 'taught'. I personally believe that introducing a curriculemn for 0-2 year olds is preposterous. It was interesting listening to the dabate,though we didn't stay long enough for the vote, though a little later we were in the 'Portcullis building' the glass building which houses the offices for MP's, when bells rang calling MP's to vote. We didn't see a mad rush of members, but we did see Claire Short (hows that for name dropping)!
I left Claudia and made my way back to Waterloo, I boarded a train immediately and thankfully boarded a train and bagged a seat. The train was full to bursting, apparantly a lightening strike had knocked out some signal stations, causing mayhem, trains cancelled and delayed. My train crawled to Woking before it got up speed and carried me back to the airport, where I collected the car and now I'm home again, sitting watching Eastenders and drinking hot chocolate!
We left the gallery and wandered back along the South Bank and over Westminster Bridge to 'The Houses of Parliment', Claudia is a 'spouse in the house' in other words she is married to Patrick who is a Labour MP. Claudia has a pass into the the parliment buildings and although any member of the public can queue and visit the palaces of Westminster, we were soon admitted into the great buildings. It was surrreal to be being given a guided tour of the seat of government by an Italian lady, but Claudia arranges tours for her husbands constituents and certainly had done her homework. We had lunch in the restaurant and then we went into the public gallery to listen to a debate on the chidcare bill. It was really interesting as an honourable lady member from Dorset was proposing a change of one word in the bill about an early years curriculeumn for 0-2 year olds! The word was 'taught', and the debate centred around the need for children of a young age to learn through experiences rather than be 'taught'. I personally believe that introducing a curriculemn for 0-2 year olds is preposterous. It was interesting listening to the dabate,though we didn't stay long enough for the vote, though a little later we were in the 'Portcullis building' the glass building which houses the offices for MP's, when bells rang calling MP's to vote. We didn't see a mad rush of members, but we did see Claire Short (hows that for name dropping)!
I left Claudia and made my way back to Waterloo, I boarded a train immediately and thankfully boarded a train and bagged a seat. The train was full to bursting, apparantly a lightening strike had knocked out some signal stations, causing mayhem, trains cancelled and delayed. My train crawled to Woking before it got up speed and carried me back to the airport, where I collected the car and now I'm home again, sitting watching Eastenders and drinking hot chocolate!
Monday, March 06, 2006
Wishes do sometimes come true: I had wanted snow for our Munich trip and boy did we have snow. Snow fall was recorded as the most abundant for twenty four years. By Sunday morning there was about two foot of snow and that is without exaggeration. Our hosts were amazed and Friederike had never experienced anything like it.
We arrived last Tuesday evening, delayed by a couple of hours, due to weather conditions in Geneva. It was lovely to see Vic, Friederike and Thersa and as usual they had arranged some great things for us to do. Because childen are so unpredictsble and Theresa was a little unwell we wern't all able to do everything planned. Despite mother and daughter being unable to join us the most memorable of days was the one we spent in Salzberg, Vic Steve and I went by train and it was well worth the three hour train journey. It was bitterly cold, but it was such a beautifull city. As it was Mozarts anniversary everything Mozart prevailed. We visited Mozart's birth place and early childhood home. Later in the afternoon we travelled the venichula railway up to the fortress. Six hours wasn't enough time to see all that Salzberg had to offer, I hope that we may return for another visit,
perhaps during a spring or summer time. I'd like to do the 'sound of music' tour, see the Eidelweiss on the mountains where Julie Andrews taught the 'Von Trapp children to sing Doh ray me, the fountains, the abbey from where the family escaped over the mountains into Switzerland from the Nazis.(sorry reader if you are cringing)!
Away from the memories of a 1964 movie, the rest of the holiday was equally enjoyable. Time spent with our friends, plenty of hot chocolate and cake, playing in the snow with an excited child,a trip to Ikea. A chinese meal out was quite an experience, lovely food, thank goodness for our hosts linguistic skills, ordering the food in German a difficult enough task and doubly so because I had left my glasses behind!
Holiday over and back home, Steve has to set the alarm and return back to the office tomorrow, I'm lucky enough to have another weeks holiday, so I'm looking forward to a lie in tomorrow....
We arrived back home this afternoon,relaxed
We arrived last Tuesday evening, delayed by a couple of hours, due to weather conditions in Geneva. It was lovely to see Vic, Friederike and Thersa and as usual they had arranged some great things for us to do. Because childen are so unpredictsble and Theresa was a little unwell we wern't all able to do everything planned. Despite mother and daughter being unable to join us the most memorable of days was the one we spent in Salzberg, Vic Steve and I went by train and it was well worth the three hour train journey. It was bitterly cold, but it was such a beautifull city. As it was Mozarts anniversary everything Mozart prevailed. We visited Mozart's birth place and early childhood home. Later in the afternoon we travelled the venichula railway up to the fortress. Six hours wasn't enough time to see all that Salzberg had to offer, I hope that we may return for another visit,
perhaps during a spring or summer time. I'd like to do the 'sound of music' tour, see the Eidelweiss on the mountains where Julie Andrews taught the 'Von Trapp children to sing Doh ray me, the fountains, the abbey from where the family escaped over the mountains into Switzerland from the Nazis.(sorry reader if you are cringing)!
Away from the memories of a 1964 movie, the rest of the holiday was equally enjoyable. Time spent with our friends, plenty of hot chocolate and cake, playing in the snow with an excited child,a trip to Ikea. A chinese meal out was quite an experience, lovely food, thank goodness for our hosts linguistic skills, ordering the food in German a difficult enough task and doubly so because I had left my glasses behind!
Holiday over and back home, Steve has to set the alarm and return back to the office tomorrow, I'm lucky enough to have another weeks holiday, so I'm looking forward to a lie in tomorrow....
We arrived back home this afternoon,relaxed
Monday, February 27, 2006
This time tomorrow check in for our flight to Munich opens and if I have my way we will be there. We are flying with easy jet so seating will be allocated at the desk and as Steve likes to try and get an exit seat, because of his long legs, it makes sense to be early. Steve would prefer to arrive at the last minute, but to have any chance of a bit of space for those long legs and to keep me happy we will go in plenty of time! I like the experience of the airport, the buzz and excitement of all those people jetting off somewhere exotic. My first ever flight was to Munich, followed by a coach trip into Austria for a ski holiday with the ski rangers (I mean sea rangers). It was an exciting holiday for a seventeen year old, Gluwine, hot chocolate and fondue evenings. The skiing was the hardest part, I remember spending most of my time in a heap at the bottom of the slope. Why then did I recently agree with Maggie that next year we would relive the experience! I must have had a moment of madness, (like the time I agreed to go to the IOW pop festival). It's well over thirty years since I took those first tentative steps on to the slopes and I'm even less sporty now and I'm sure my bones are very delicate.
My next foreign trip was a few years later when I accompanied Steve on a trip on the 'Almeria Star'. Steve was the lowly junior engineer and I signed the articles as librarian! The library was a cupboard and I did spend a lot of time scrummaging around for a book that took my fancy. It was on that trip that I was introduced to 'Neville Shute'. The officers and crew were all very friendly and I was fortunate that the 2nd Officer Nigel had his wife Lorraine on board. Lorraine was from New Zealand and she was good fun and we enjoyed each other's company all the way to Melbourne, from there she flew home to Napier.
I enjoyed the trip immensley, it was a lazy one for a wife on board as there were no meals to cook, only a smallish cabin to keep clean, our laundry to do. Long days at sea spent reading by the pool and evenings spent in the officers bar, chatting or playing cards.
Our first port after leaving Calais was Valpariaso in Chile where we spent two days unloading cars. Steve had time off and I remember taking a bus to Santiago. That night along with most of the ships officers we headed up the road into the little shanty town. As we left the the docks there were very small boys who were offering the services of their sister's! One of the Engineers must have got more than he bargained for because when we arrived in Melbourne a couple of weeks later he wasn't allowed off the ship as he had contracted 'The clap' and he had to wait until the medical authriites gave him the all clear! Our evening was spent in a bar/ bothel where the drink was flowing and the air was pungent with cannabis. Our trip continued from the australian coast up the 'Persian Gulf' to Banda Khomeni, where we spent many weeks unloading our cargo of frozen lamb. After five months on the ship I flew home from Melbourne to look forward to the next exciting stage of my life, motherhood..... Lorraine and Nigel are coming to the uk this summer, looking forward to seeing them again after so many years............
My next foreign trip was a few years later when I accompanied Steve on a trip on the 'Almeria Star'. Steve was the lowly junior engineer and I signed the articles as librarian! The library was a cupboard and I did spend a lot of time scrummaging around for a book that took my fancy. It was on that trip that I was introduced to 'Neville Shute'. The officers and crew were all very friendly and I was fortunate that the 2nd Officer Nigel had his wife Lorraine on board. Lorraine was from New Zealand and she was good fun and we enjoyed each other's company all the way to Melbourne, from there she flew home to Napier.
I enjoyed the trip immensley, it was a lazy one for a wife on board as there were no meals to cook, only a smallish cabin to keep clean, our laundry to do. Long days at sea spent reading by the pool and evenings spent in the officers bar, chatting or playing cards.
Our first port after leaving Calais was Valpariaso in Chile where we spent two days unloading cars. Steve had time off and I remember taking a bus to Santiago. That night along with most of the ships officers we headed up the road into the little shanty town. As we left the the docks there were very small boys who were offering the services of their sister's! One of the Engineers must have got more than he bargained for because when we arrived in Melbourne a couple of weeks later he wasn't allowed off the ship as he had contracted 'The clap' and he had to wait until the medical authriites gave him the all clear! Our evening was spent in a bar/ bothel where the drink was flowing and the air was pungent with cannabis. Our trip continued from the australian coast up the 'Persian Gulf' to Banda Khomeni, where we spent many weeks unloading our cargo of frozen lamb. After five months on the ship I flew home from Melbourne to look forward to the next exciting stage of my life, motherhood..... Lorraine and Nigel are coming to the uk this summer, looking forward to seeing them again after so many years............
Sunday, February 26, 2006
Sunday afternoon and the end of a busy weekend. Its nearly two years since we moved into our house and for twenty two months we have lived here without making any changes. Luckily the house is in good order, but were yet to leave our own mark. The reasons for our reluctance is probably two fold, Steve's keeness to sail every weekend from March to November and the my hating having the house turned upside down! Today we have started with some small changes in the kitchen.(perhaps not so small as Steve has spent the last two days dissassembling units). We have decided to move some units in order to allow for our kitchen table to be extended so that its easier to accomodate more people. We intend to keep the existing units but will replace the work tops, have a new cooker and a new sink. I say 'we', but my part in the project is puerely advisory, supportive and clearer upper! We do have a seperate dining room, but prefer to entertain our friends in the kitchen where it seems friendlier and informal!
Last night we were out at the sailing club for a chinese supper and a Maj Jong evening. We were teamed up with Denise and Jim who were excellent company, last year we had teamed up with a rather odd pair, a married couple about ten years older than us. The husband had spent all night harranging his wife, putting her down and being an absoloute b-----d. The lady responded by getting more and more drunk and eventually falling asleep at the table. We had good instruction from Gerry and Sue, but didn't quite understand how terms such as a goulash had become part of a chinese game!
I went into Fareham today to do some shopping for our trip to Germany this week. Vic had requested some supplies from blighty, among the requested items were cheddar cheese, bacon, branston pickle, ginger biscuits and aspirin. I wonder what I would miss most if I didn't live in the UK?
Heard from both sons today. Ian is in Finland and is spending a few days staying in a house by a frozen lake, he had just had a sauna and a roll in the snow! He sent me a text to say how refreshing it was:). Matt chatted on MSN and said he had hurt his ankle and that he couldn't walk on it, and that it was very painfull. I suggested that Matt go to A&E but as he has tickets for a concert tonight he would go after the gig as he didn't want to have a long wait for treatment:( Not sure how he is going to make it to the concert if he can't walk though.
I'm now on annual leave for a couple of weeks, so tomorrow I intend on a lay in and a leisurely day getting ready for our trip.
Last night we were out at the sailing club for a chinese supper and a Maj Jong evening. We were teamed up with Denise and Jim who were excellent company, last year we had teamed up with a rather odd pair, a married couple about ten years older than us. The husband had spent all night harranging his wife, putting her down and being an absoloute b-----d. The lady responded by getting more and more drunk and eventually falling asleep at the table. We had good instruction from Gerry and Sue, but didn't quite understand how terms such as a goulash had become part of a chinese game!
I went into Fareham today to do some shopping for our trip to Germany this week. Vic had requested some supplies from blighty, among the requested items were cheddar cheese, bacon, branston pickle, ginger biscuits and aspirin. I wonder what I would miss most if I didn't live in the UK?
Heard from both sons today. Ian is in Finland and is spending a few days staying in a house by a frozen lake, he had just had a sauna and a roll in the snow! He sent me a text to say how refreshing it was:). Matt chatted on MSN and said he had hurt his ankle and that he couldn't walk on it, and that it was very painfull. I suggested that Matt go to A&E but as he has tickets for a concert tonight he would go after the gig as he didn't want to have a long wait for treatment:( Not sure how he is going to make it to the concert if he can't walk though.
I'm now on annual leave for a couple of weeks, so tomorrow I intend on a lay in and a leisurely day getting ready for our trip.
Saturday, February 18, 2006
I have just read Janis's blog and feel so priveledged to have her as a friend, what luck that her parents and mine lived so close and our Mum's in particular became friends. It would have probably made sense for my sister and Janis to have ended up with the special friendship that we have. When Janis and her family moved to Surrey we continued our contact, through letters and visits, firstly with sister and Mother and as I got older I would travel on the train and be met at Guildford, such a short distance now, but then it always felt such an adventure! Now when I see Jan she really has travelled such a long way!
I have been blessed with some other wonderfull friends. I met Maggie at Sea Rangers when we were about 14 years old and sort of clicked from the begining. I admire Maggie immensley, she had parents who loved her dearly, but life was quite tough. Maggie left school at sixteen as she had to earn a living, she worked in a shoe shop and then as a clerk for the GPO. Maggie saved hard for her own bike and also every penny for our first holiday abroad a ski holiday in Austria. I had a bike bought for me one Christmas and only saved for my spending money on that holiday!
I was Maggie's bridesmaid when she married Cameron and just recently Steve and I along with the boys were at their eldest daughters wedding. It was a lovely day and Maggie has a lot to be proud of, she is a wonderfull mother to her two daughters. Although Steve and I moved to Bedfordshire our families lives have always been close and our children are very close. At the wedding Ian and Matt seemed to take every opportunity to hug the bride and chief bridesmaid but I know the groom understood!!!
Sue is another special friend, we met at Highbury college and we have continued our frienship since then. Its been lovely being able to spend more time with Sue since we moved back to the south coast. Before we left Portsmouth we would see each other reguarly as our first children were born within three months.
I am lucky to have met other people through my life who have become friends. Linda and I met firstly when she interviewed me for a job, she was the teacher in charge of the reception unit where I applied for a job as nursery nurse and was appointed. We worked very closely for four years and had a very good working relationship and our friendship developed. Linda was an inspiring teacher, but left the profession five years ago as she was very dissilussioned and fed up with spending all her weekends and evenings on school work. What a loss to teaching. Linda is now making her mark in the world of IT. Linda has always been such fun and I love it when she comes to stay as we always have such fun!
It sounds really corny, but I am really blessed to have such a wealth of friends in my life. Thank you to you all.....
I have been blessed with some other wonderfull friends. I met Maggie at Sea Rangers when we were about 14 years old and sort of clicked from the begining. I admire Maggie immensley, she had parents who loved her dearly, but life was quite tough. Maggie left school at sixteen as she had to earn a living, she worked in a shoe shop and then as a clerk for the GPO. Maggie saved hard for her own bike and also every penny for our first holiday abroad a ski holiday in Austria. I had a bike bought for me one Christmas and only saved for my spending money on that holiday!
I was Maggie's bridesmaid when she married Cameron and just recently Steve and I along with the boys were at their eldest daughters wedding. It was a lovely day and Maggie has a lot to be proud of, she is a wonderfull mother to her two daughters. Although Steve and I moved to Bedfordshire our families lives have always been close and our children are very close. At the wedding Ian and Matt seemed to take every opportunity to hug the bride and chief bridesmaid but I know the groom understood!!!
Sue is another special friend, we met at Highbury college and we have continued our frienship since then. Its been lovely being able to spend more time with Sue since we moved back to the south coast. Before we left Portsmouth we would see each other reguarly as our first children were born within three months.
I am lucky to have met other people through my life who have become friends. Linda and I met firstly when she interviewed me for a job, she was the teacher in charge of the reception unit where I applied for a job as nursery nurse and was appointed. We worked very closely for four years and had a very good working relationship and our friendship developed. Linda was an inspiring teacher, but left the profession five years ago as she was very dissilussioned and fed up with spending all her weekends and evenings on school work. What a loss to teaching. Linda is now making her mark in the world of IT. Linda has always been such fun and I love it when she comes to stay as we always have such fun!
It sounds really corny, but I am really blessed to have such a wealth of friends in my life. Thank you to you all.....
Tuesday, February 14, 2006
Well gosh its Thursday already, I'm not sure where the weeks gone. Again its the start of the weekend, but it has been a really busy working week. I may have cut down my hours, but don't think the work load has decreased any! I have enjoyed most of the work this week, particuarly developement assessments on gorgous babies, I attended a cp conference which is always difficult and today I was given a box of choccies by a mother of twins, I have been helping her massage the babies weekly for the past few weeks. Its lovely to feel appreciated, though I have thoroughly enjoyed the massage sessions as when its twins I actually get hands on a baby instead of demonstrating on a doll! This ladies Romanian mother has been staying since Christmas and she always brings me a drink with cake and home made bicuits. Today when I left 'Grandma' hugged me, she is leaving to go home to Romania soon, but will be back in August to visit her grandsons. Grandma insists she will bring me a souvenir from Romania, how sweet of her and I'm only doing my job!
I spoke to Matt last night, he tells me that he and four of his housemates will be moving out of their current abode and moving to another house in September. Matt has a deployment with the navy in the summer for a couple of weeks, for the rest of the hols Matt wants to come to Lots. I'm under no illusion that Matt is coming home because he wants to spend time with us, but because financially it makes sense! I wonder how it will work out? he is no longer a child, so will it be difficult and I have got used to a very peacefull life, the teenage battles left behind long ago.
Were off to my Mother's this evening, she has invited her friends and neighbours from her old street in Farlington over for a drink! It was a lovely evening last night, my Mums old neighbours were very good company and we enjoyed ourselves. We walked back, it was a blustery night, but nice to walk back as it meant that we both could have a couple of glasses of wine!
Worked like mad in the house this morning and then decided to go to Gunwarfe, asked Mum if she wanted to come and as she did I drove down to Gosport where we took the ferry across the harbour. Mum found the walk from the ferry to Gunwarfe difficult as she is still having difficulty with her leg. Wandered around shops slowly and then took Mum into the Ha Ha bar where we sat on a squashy sofa and indulged in hot choc, don't think you can beat the HC there. It was a lovely sunny day, the tables and chairs haven't yet been put outside, but I remembered all the times I sat out with Janis and the time my friends Linda and Shirley were here and we had meal there one summer evening Linda and I got very merry!
Got home and for some reason decided to get out the breadmaker, haven't made any bread for ages as we tend to eat far too much of it. The bread flour was out of date by a couple of months, the yeast was in date, but hopefully it will be ok!
I have to go and collect my car from the garage, its taken them three weeks to prepare as they have been waiting for a part to arrive from Germany. it will be nice to get my little Corsa back. Steve's car is still in the body shop and will probably be there for sometime, its going to cost over £3,000 to repair it! Thank goodness the elderly Mrs David was insured!! Not much planned for the weekend, though I know Steve has some household jobs to do.............
I spoke to Matt last night, he tells me that he and four of his housemates will be moving out of their current abode and moving to another house in September. Matt has a deployment with the navy in the summer for a couple of weeks, for the rest of the hols Matt wants to come to Lots. I'm under no illusion that Matt is coming home because he wants to spend time with us, but because financially it makes sense! I wonder how it will work out? he is no longer a child, so will it be difficult and I have got used to a very peacefull life, the teenage battles left behind long ago.
Were off to my Mother's this evening, she has invited her friends and neighbours from her old street in Farlington over for a drink! It was a lovely evening last night, my Mums old neighbours were very good company and we enjoyed ourselves. We walked back, it was a blustery night, but nice to walk back as it meant that we both could have a couple of glasses of wine!
Worked like mad in the house this morning and then decided to go to Gunwarfe, asked Mum if she wanted to come and as she did I drove down to Gosport where we took the ferry across the harbour. Mum found the walk from the ferry to Gunwarfe difficult as she is still having difficulty with her leg. Wandered around shops slowly and then took Mum into the Ha Ha bar where we sat on a squashy sofa and indulged in hot choc, don't think you can beat the HC there. It was a lovely sunny day, the tables and chairs haven't yet been put outside, but I remembered all the times I sat out with Janis and the time my friends Linda and Shirley were here and we had meal there one summer evening Linda and I got very merry!
Got home and for some reason decided to get out the breadmaker, haven't made any bread for ages as we tend to eat far too much of it. The bread flour was out of date by a couple of months, the yeast was in date, but hopefully it will be ok!
I have to go and collect my car from the garage, its taken them three weeks to prepare as they have been waiting for a part to arrive from Germany. it will be nice to get my little Corsa back. Steve's car is still in the body shop and will probably be there for sometime, its going to cost over £3,000 to repair it! Thank goodness the elderly Mrs David was insured!! Not much planned for the weekend, though I know Steve has some household jobs to do.............
Sunday, February 12, 2006
Weekend nearly over,though a really nice relaxing one. Didn't see much of Bristol as we decided to head straight fo the hotel and to chill out from the start. We didn't feel the need to explore the city as we have been there many times before as Steve's friend from college days Rhys grew up there and lived there before moving to Wales. Had a light lunch in the bar, sat by a wonderful log fire and spent the afternoon in the spa, swimming and reading. Funnily enough I'm reading a biography of a Bristol woman who was born in 1918 and raised her family during the war, after the war her dream was to have a prefab home! I'm sure she would see a change in Bristol nowadays!
We had a lovely evening with dinner in the restaurant, we had consummed a bottle of Champagne before the meal and wine with the meal so everything was feeling good with the world!
Started the day with a full English breakfast, well I say started, it was about 10.00am and Steve had been to the Gym where he had used 650 calories towards his breakfast. Breakfast was lovely and all the more enjoyable because its something we only have very occaisionally for a special treat. Our nice french waiter was very confused when Steve requested Marmite! He hadn't heard of it and asked us to repeat the word a couple of times! meal over, we left the table ready for a couple of hours lazing by the pool! The Jacuzzi was functioning, as it had been out of order the day before, I joined a couple of a similar age in the warm bubbly water for more relaxation! What a mistake!!!! The lady as soon as I entered the water started to chat at me and I soon heard most of her life history, I couldn't get a word in edge ways and neither could her poor husband who kept interceeding and who was quickly put in his place by his bossy wife. After they had left the pool area, I made an error of judgement and entered the changing area too soon, in the mistaken belief that this woman would have changed and been out of the way!! I sat at the mirror in order to wash the mascara out of my eyes, when once again I was acosted by this horrendous woman who proceeded to tell me about her husbands flebitis! (inflamed veins in his legs). I hurried back to Steve who doesn't quite get why I didn't just tell her to 'shut up'!
We left the hotel and decided to end our weekend with a trip to the Bristol branch of Ikea, funny how I hate shopping, but just love Ikea, I think because its so different to any other shop. We easily found things to add to our basket, even though we didn't know at the begining of the weekend that we needed any of them, some things quite as boring as new pillows and little plastic clips to fasten opened bags with, candles, a bag of pebbles (yes we live by the sea)!
Tried to stay awake to watch Miss Marple, but after a very busy weekend, just crawled into bed at 9.00pm and slept soundly until the alarm went off at 6.00am.
We had a lovely evening with dinner in the restaurant, we had consummed a bottle of Champagne before the meal and wine with the meal so everything was feeling good with the world!
Started the day with a full English breakfast, well I say started, it was about 10.00am and Steve had been to the Gym where he had used 650 calories towards his breakfast. Breakfast was lovely and all the more enjoyable because its something we only have very occaisionally for a special treat. Our nice french waiter was very confused when Steve requested Marmite! He hadn't heard of it and asked us to repeat the word a couple of times! meal over, we left the table ready for a couple of hours lazing by the pool! The Jacuzzi was functioning, as it had been out of order the day before, I joined a couple of a similar age in the warm bubbly water for more relaxation! What a mistake!!!! The lady as soon as I entered the water started to chat at me and I soon heard most of her life history, I couldn't get a word in edge ways and neither could her poor husband who kept interceeding and who was quickly put in his place by his bossy wife. After they had left the pool area, I made an error of judgement and entered the changing area too soon, in the mistaken belief that this woman would have changed and been out of the way!! I sat at the mirror in order to wash the mascara out of my eyes, when once again I was acosted by this horrendous woman who proceeded to tell me about her husbands flebitis! (inflamed veins in his legs). I hurried back to Steve who doesn't quite get why I didn't just tell her to 'shut up'!
We left the hotel and decided to end our weekend with a trip to the Bristol branch of Ikea, funny how I hate shopping, but just love Ikea, I think because its so different to any other shop. We easily found things to add to our basket, even though we didn't know at the begining of the weekend that we needed any of them, some things quite as boring as new pillows and little plastic clips to fasten opened bags with, candles, a bag of pebbles (yes we live by the sea)!
Tried to stay awake to watch Miss Marple, but after a very busy weekend, just crawled into bed at 9.00pm and slept soundly until the alarm went off at 6.00am.
Friday, February 10, 2006
It's a beautifull day, after an early morning frost the day has developed into a glorious spring day. I walked out earlier and the sun was very warm and the sea was glistening, lots of people were out and about, like me, perhaps part timers with time to themselves, though a great deal of retired people as well. LOTS has a large population of over 60's and who can blame them for wanting to be by the sea on a day like today!
This morning I have spent time at home wading through the normal chores and then a couple of hours spent at the sailing club helping out Jane who is preparing a meal for Friday night supper. John was organising a fondue night, but has been stuck with a gastric flu bug and had to pull out, Jane as usual has taken on the responsibility at the drop of a hat. I offrred my help in capacity of assistant, I enjoy cooking, but certainly couldn't take on the mantle of preparing a meal for thirty. I like to feel in control in the kitchen and get flustered easily. Steve and I work as a good team whenever we entertain, I usually prepare ahead of time and Steve takes up the reins, he is a good cook, though he is very modest and would disagree. Were off to Bristol tomorrow morning, Steve is up to London tonight to meet with colleagues for a night out, he is unsure about going, the long journy home puts him off. I'm glad he has decided to go as I know that he really wants too!
Its now Saturday morning, Steve is still sleeping, but we have only got to get up and go when we are ready. I went back to the club last night and helped with the serving of the meal. I watched Jane as she cooked, she is such a competent cook, she was a little dissapoined that so few had turned up, but those who were there enjoyed the evening. I won a bottle of whisky in the raffle, pity I don't drink it, but I know a few people who do. Jane and I chatted as we worked together, she said that she was really glad that we had moved to Lee. I'm really glad too, we have made new friends here and life is good!
Well I think I shall make Steve some tea and we can get going off for our break away, mustn't forget to pack my cossie...
This morning I have spent time at home wading through the normal chores and then a couple of hours spent at the sailing club helping out Jane who is preparing a meal for Friday night supper. John was organising a fondue night, but has been stuck with a gastric flu bug and had to pull out, Jane as usual has taken on the responsibility at the drop of a hat. I offrred my help in capacity of assistant, I enjoy cooking, but certainly couldn't take on the mantle of preparing a meal for thirty. I like to feel in control in the kitchen and get flustered easily. Steve and I work as a good team whenever we entertain, I usually prepare ahead of time and Steve takes up the reins, he is a good cook, though he is very modest and would disagree. Were off to Bristol tomorrow morning, Steve is up to London tonight to meet with colleagues for a night out, he is unsure about going, the long journy home puts him off. I'm glad he has decided to go as I know that he really wants too!
Its now Saturday morning, Steve is still sleeping, but we have only got to get up and go when we are ready. I went back to the club last night and helped with the serving of the meal. I watched Jane as she cooked, she is such a competent cook, she was a little dissapoined that so few had turned up, but those who were there enjoyed the evening. I won a bottle of whisky in the raffle, pity I don't drink it, but I know a few people who do. Jane and I chatted as we worked together, she said that she was really glad that we had moved to Lee. I'm really glad too, we have made new friends here and life is good!
Well I think I shall make Steve some tea and we can get going off for our break away, mustn't forget to pack my cossie...
Thursday, February 09, 2006
Weekend begins here, well not for all, though as a part timer my working week ends on a Thursday! Because of the happenings of the week I have had a very short working week, though it certainly feels longer than usual. Today was a very enjoyable working day, which if I'm honest it usually is. I wake up each working day and don't look forward to the day ahead, not sure why, as I almost without fail leave work feeling good about my job! I know that it is having a round trip of over fifty miles in the car that I find difficult. Since Christmas I decreased my hours to three days so at least I don't have to sit in the car for nearly an hour every morning! Today I taught a group of young Mums baby massage, the babies were all unusually content and the Mums were all besotted with their infants. I always feel a pang of envy that this stage has passed in my life and then realization brings me back down to earth, I don't have sleepness night to endure, sore boobs or toddler tantrums looming. I can look forward to holidays, meals out, companiable times with friends and weekends away! (at least out of the sailing season). Steve and I are off to Bristol for the weekend at a hotel with a spa, no real plans, just to relax and enjoy each others company! Those of you in the know will say another day of relaxtion! yes its becoming a bit of a habbit, last Sunday we had a duvet day, shut the world out, stayed in bed till 3pm, ate nice food, drank bucks fizz and watched DVD's. (well if John and Yoko can do it)!
Came home from work, just had spag bog for dinner and a glass of red and now ensconsed on the sofa, where I will probably spend most of my evening. Steve hates this sofa and would like to change it for another! I love this sofa nearly as much as my bed!
Came home from work, just had spag bog for dinner and a glass of red and now ensconsed on the sofa, where I will probably spend most of my evening. Steve hates this sofa and would like to change it for another! I love this sofa nearly as much as my bed!
Wednesday, February 08, 2006
Well its a few days since I wrote my last entry and what a few days! Monday was my day off. I went off to Sothampton to collect the portfolio for my baby massage course, I had worked very hard both on the course and on the portfolio. I knew before Christmas that I had passed the course and was now a 'bona fidi' instructor of baby massage. I was keen to see the comments written by my tutor and verified by the moderator. I know what compelled me to dash of at the first opportunity to read the remarks, but I won't write down here for anyone else to read those reasons! I took my Mother with me for the ride and then took her into Fareham where we ended up in 'Wilkinson's'! Shopping is one of my least favourite occupations and apart from mooching around gunwarfe and drinking hot chocolate with special friends, I'd rather do as much shopping online as possible! Wilkinson's sells a lot of goods and Mum chooses lots of stuff for her new flat, kitchen wares, a new bin and a new ironing board. We stuggle back to the car and to Lee. I make a descision to park outside the flat and after we have unloaded our purchases, we are just about to settle down to drink hot chocolate, eat a custard tart and to watch the sea from the little sun room at the front of the flat! We are aware of the commotion outside as a crowd gathers and the realization that an accident has occurred that has involved my car. (or rather Steve's car). I'm glad to say that Mrs David the 88 year old lady who has crashed into my stationery car is unhurt, she accepts a cup of tea and bacame very 'spiky' accusing me of pat!ronising her! I only asked her if she knew her own telephone number! Well this 4o++++ woman has trouble remembering numbers sometimes, so perhaps I can be forgiven in thinking that this lady 40 years my senior may have have some of my difficulties! 'I may have an old head, but I haven't lost my marbles' this feisty lady informs me! I want to shout back 'no but you have smashed into my car'. I remember in time that I have been brought up to respect elders and the only time that I was rude to an elder (he jolly well deserved it) I called an old man outside the villgae shop 'a silly old codger' (but thats another story)!
Yesterday I had an unexpected day off work, due to lack of transport, a couple of hours spent in the morning sorting out cupboards and the rest of the day spent on the phone to insurance companies trying to sort out a hire car. Today I went to work in a taxi, payed for by Mrs David's insurance company ' Help the aged' (no I didn't know they could arrange insurance either). Hire car eventually materiaised at lunch time as I had cancelled all my appointments I had a day in the office catching up on the paper work!
Yesterday I had an unexpected day off work, due to lack of transport, a couple of hours spent in the morning sorting out cupboards and the rest of the day spent on the phone to insurance companies trying to sort out a hire car. Today I went to work in a taxi, payed for by Mrs David's insurance company ' Help the aged' (no I didn't know they could arrange insurance either). Hire car eventually materiaised at lunch time as I had cancelled all my appointments I had a day in the office catching up on the paper work!
Friday, February 03, 2006
first entry in my blog
I have started to read Janis's blog which has given me the idea to create my very own. I'm not sure that mine will be that interesting but here goes! Perhaps I may not even tell my friends about it, would they want to read an account of my day to day life or even my thoughts? Do I know what a blog is, Is it a diary, I'm not sure! I am after all a middle aged (and thats if I live to be nearly a hundred years of age) woman, I have lived a very ordinary, but very contented life! I have a long and very happy marraige with Steve and together we have two children, though they are hardly children, at 20 and 24. Ian and Matt are two unique young men, who are set to leave their Mark. Ian: I am sure in the world of biological sciences in which he is to make his career, his enthusiasim is contagious and if only I had his intellect to understand the things that he is studying and that he so patiently explains to me. Matt has charisma and an eccentricity which at times is hard to tolerate, he is extremely intelligent and with his developing maturity I know he will be successfull. (apologies for sounding like a school report).
Well what else should I write? this week has been a very exciting week. We attended Adrianne and Dave's wedding on Saturday, it was a truely joyous event, It was wonderfull to witness these two delightful young people make their vows at a start of their lives together.
On Tuesday my Mother moved into her seaside flat, it is the first home that she has chosen and bought on her own, it must be very hard for her to now have a home to which my Dad has had no imput or shared memories. Its more than five years since she was widowed and she had obviously felt that the time was right to move out of the home in which she had spent the last twenty years of a very longand happy marraige in. When Mum moved in with and although there were no difficulties during that interim, I know she is delighted once more to have her own home. Mum won't mind me saying that Steve and I are pleased to be back on our own again, she understands why we like to have our home to ourselves.
Well what else should I write? this week has been a very exciting week. We attended Adrianne and Dave's wedding on Saturday, it was a truely joyous event, It was wonderfull to witness these two delightful young people make their vows at a start of their lives together.
On Tuesday my Mother moved into her seaside flat, it is the first home that she has chosen and bought on her own, it must be very hard for her to now have a home to which my Dad has had no imput or shared memories. Its more than five years since she was widowed and she had obviously felt that the time was right to move out of the home in which she had spent the last twenty years of a very longand happy marraige in. When Mum moved in with and although there were no difficulties during that interim, I know she is delighted once more to have her own home. Mum won't mind me saying that Steve and I are pleased to be back on our own again, she understands why we like to have our home to ourselves.
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