We awoke to gorgeous skies again this morning but the forecast was for rain later. I had emailed James Villas yesterday about a possible holiday to Florida next year and this morning I received a reply with good prices for three weeks in two different villas.
As it's our Silver Wedding Anniversary next year we wanted to celebrate the actual day in the Keys but I had initially enquired about a week in Orlando and two weeks on the Gulf Coast. The price, which included car hire and flights, was very good, but to our dismay James Villas wanted more than half the total cost in a deposit by the end of June this year!
There was no way Keith and I were going to stump up that much money over a year before we travelled so I went back online and looked at Virgin Holidays. As we wanted a more complicated booking I really wanted to speak to somebody in person and I discovered there was a Virgin travel shop in Tesco on the other side of Northampton. I was able to make an appointment for later in the day and as Keith was off to the last Sileby match of the season, Sophie and I went together.
We saw a very nice man called Dominic and I explained what we wanted to do. He was a bit confused at first as I said we wanted to spend three nights in Key West in the middle of the two weeks we had booked to go to the Gulf Coast but we got there in the end and he gave me a total price for everything, including flights, car hire, two villas, a hotel in Key West for three nights and Universal park tickets. I did gulp a bit when he showed me the quote but it is a special occasion and by the time we go next August we won't have had a holiday for three years.
Feeling very happy Sophie and I returned home and I did a stack of ironing while we waited for Keith to come back. He was a little apprehensive as well but we decided to go back to Virgin next week by which time we'd have discussed the holiday in a bit more detail. I received a phone call from Dominic as the hotel that he had originally quoted turned out to be unavailable for next year and the one he'd suggested was too far away from Duval Street, so we decided to book one ourselves at a later date. the last thing I wanted was to have to drive after our Anniversary meal!
Mike was at a party in the evening so we had a bit of a late night. We went to pick him up at midnight and luckily he seemed pretty sober! Phew!
Saturday 30 April 2016
Friday 29 April 2016
A quiet end to the week
Today has been very quiet with not a lot happening. Sophie wasn't at uni today so the three of us went to Jones's to get some bits and bobs. I treated myself to a new, smaller, food processor as I needed something to chop food as I hate slicing up onions! When we got home Keith tidied up our large kitchen cupboard which is always full of things about to fall out! We took the old food processor out to the garage as it hasn't worked properly for ages. Next time we go to the tip, it's coming with us!
The weather today has followed the same sort of pattern - sunny mornings and then showers in the afternoon. It has been quite cold, though, and not at all Spring-like! I dropped Keith off at the pub in the evening and when I went back to collect him to Broughton to get fish and chips for dinner. It's been a while since we indulged but neither of us were very impressed with the fish as it was a bit dry and over-cooked. The meal certainly wasn't as good as the delicious meal we had in Durham on Good Friday!
The weather today has followed the same sort of pattern - sunny mornings and then showers in the afternoon. It has been quite cold, though, and not at all Spring-like! I dropped Keith off at the pub in the evening and when I went back to collect him to Broughton to get fish and chips for dinner. It's been a while since we indulged but neither of us were very impressed with the fish as it was a bit dry and over-cooked. The meal certainly wasn't as good as the delicious meal we had in Durham on Good Friday!
Thursday 28 April 2016
Hail storm!
Today has flown past and it's been a little hectic! Sophie had an appointment at the doctor's surgery in Guilsborough this morning and we were pleased to learn that her thyroid levels are perfect. She mentioned about her constant sneezing and runny nose and the doctor prescribed a nasal spray that we hope will help.
From Guilsborough we drove to uni as she was meeting some friends to do exam revision and I returned home, swapped the cars over and drove to Mum and Dad's house in Jim where Keith was working with Ian on the new fireplace.
They had both finished just as I arrived, so after a quick cup of coffee Keith and I went to the new Aldi in Kettering. We were hoping that we wouldn't get told off about the position of our trolley and I have to say it was slightly more relaxed than normal! We then went to Tesco on the other side of the town and did the rest of our shopping in a much more leisurely manner! I bought a new quiche tin and some baking beans as I'm going to attempt to make a Quiche Lorraine for dinner next Tuesday. I've never really been one for making pastry so we'll see how it goes!
Back home we had time for lunch before I went to collect Sophie from uni. It was bliss to not have to go out again in the evening but Keith did venture out - to Wellingborough to see Sileby play the penultimate game of the season. He was very brave because just after he left we had another storm with thunder, lightening and a hail shower so thick it came down like snow!
While Keith was out getting cold and wet, the three of us had a great time with delicious pizza and wedges and cocktails. I made Sophie a Vodka Caipirinha while I had a "Godmother" - vodka and Amaretto di Saronna served over ice. Delicious!
From Guilsborough we drove to uni as she was meeting some friends to do exam revision and I returned home, swapped the cars over and drove to Mum and Dad's house in Jim where Keith was working with Ian on the new fireplace.
They had both finished just as I arrived, so after a quick cup of coffee Keith and I went to the new Aldi in Kettering. We were hoping that we wouldn't get told off about the position of our trolley and I have to say it was slightly more relaxed than normal! We then went to Tesco on the other side of the town and did the rest of our shopping in a much more leisurely manner! I bought a new quiche tin and some baking beans as I'm going to attempt to make a Quiche Lorraine for dinner next Tuesday. I've never really been one for making pastry so we'll see how it goes!
Back home we had time for lunch before I went to collect Sophie from uni. It was bliss to not have to go out again in the evening but Keith did venture out - to Wellingborough to see Sileby play the penultimate game of the season. He was very brave because just after he left we had another storm with thunder, lightening and a hail shower so thick it came down like snow!
While Keith was out getting cold and wet, the three of us had a great time with delicious pizza and wedges and cocktails. I made Sophie a Vodka Caipirinha while I had a "Godmother" - vodka and Amaretto di Saronna served over ice. Delicious!
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| Pot Boy...taken one afternoon when it was warm enough to sit outside for a while! |
Wednesday 27 April 2016
Muffin masterclass!
Sophie was at work until 4pm today and after dropping her off and taking Mike to school (and Keith to Pitsford for his walk), I went home to have a slice of toast from the bread I made yesterday. The house was blissfully quiet so I was able to knuckle down and finish my third assignment, something I'd been struggling with for a few days.
At 11am I went to collect Keith from the reservoir as he'd walked the whole way around the nature reserve in two hours, which was really good going! Back home I spent the rest of the morning doing housework as Mum and Dad were coming over in the afternoon. Mum wanted to see how I made muffins as I'd said how easy they were to make and she was keen to bake them as well.
We made chocolate and banana muffins and they were delicious! We munched on them with a cup of tea and Mum was eager to go and buy the ingredients and try them for herself, Traditionally my Dad has always been the cook in the house but with her free time she can start to experiment and try out different things herself.
In the evening Sophie met her friends Daisy and Laura in town for cocktails, followed by a meal at Sophia's. Keith and I dropped her off at 7pm and drove home through ever darkening skies. Over dinner we had hail, sleet and snow! I think this is the latest I have ever known it to snow in the UK and the temperatures have certainly dropped over the last few weeks!
At 11am I went to collect Keith from the reservoir as he'd walked the whole way around the nature reserve in two hours, which was really good going! Back home I spent the rest of the morning doing housework as Mum and Dad were coming over in the afternoon. Mum wanted to see how I made muffins as I'd said how easy they were to make and she was keen to bake them as well.
We made chocolate and banana muffins and they were delicious! We munched on them with a cup of tea and Mum was eager to go and buy the ingredients and try them for herself, Traditionally my Dad has always been the cook in the house but with her free time she can start to experiment and try out different things herself.
In the evening Sophie met her friends Daisy and Laura in town for cocktails, followed by a meal at Sophia's. Keith and I dropped her off at 7pm and drove home through ever darkening skies. Over dinner we had hail, sleet and snow! I think this is the latest I have ever known it to snow in the UK and the temperatures have certainly dropped over the last few weeks!
Tuesday 26 April 2016
Wintry weather!
This week the weather has followed almost the same pattern every day - sunshine and blue skies first thing and then squally hail and sleet showers in the afternoon! There is no sign of it becoming warmer!
Now Sophie no longer has to attend uni we're not doing as much driving about, which is a relief. In the morning we drove over to Tesco to get dinner and called to see Mum on the way. Keith wanted to look at their new fireplace as Mum and Dad want him and Ian to go and sort out the electrics later in the week.
We bought chicken breasts in Tesco and made them into garlicky Kievs for dinner which were delicious. I'm so into cooking at the moment and Sophie and I are both enjoying Masterchef on the television. How they cope with the pressure is beyond me!
Now Sophie no longer has to attend uni we're not doing as much driving about, which is a relief. In the morning we drove over to Tesco to get dinner and called to see Mum on the way. Keith wanted to look at their new fireplace as Mum and Dad want him and Ian to go and sort out the electrics later in the week.
We bought chicken breasts in Tesco and made them into garlicky Kievs for dinner which were delicious. I'm so into cooking at the moment and Sophie and I are both enjoying Masterchef on the television. How they cope with the pressure is beyond me!
Monday 25 April 2016
Rat be gone??
After a morning spent grappling with my counselling course (mediation...finding it difficult!) our pest control man came back in the afternoon to investigate the bait boxes he'd put down last Monday. The first two he looked at hadn't been touched which was a bit disheartening, but the two by our Eucalyptus tree had signs of something nibbling the bait. Whether it was the rat or mice, we don't know! He still charged us £90 for the service though, so we'll keep an eye out from now on in the hope that it's gone for good!
As soon as he had gone I was able to put down the food for the birds. At the moment we have a pair of blackbirds feeding their "fat baby" as we call it. He (or she) runs along after its parents cheeping for food with its mouth permanently open! I've had the food on our garden seat which the blackbirds and the robin seem to like and they take it in turns to eat the food I put down.
It's been a real mixed bag of weather today and Spring has definitely been put on the back burner for a while. We've had sunshine and showers all day but mostly showers and grey skies. Later in the afternoon Sophie and I went for a walk with Monty and we walked down to the gate as the horses have been put back in the field adjoining the estate. Three of them came up to say hello and seemed fascinated with Monty who just ignored them!
As it was bitterly cold (and I mean cold!) we just walked around the estate for a while but it was lovely to get out and have some fresh air after a day spent indoors!
As soon as he had gone I was able to put down the food for the birds. At the moment we have a pair of blackbirds feeding their "fat baby" as we call it. He (or she) runs along after its parents cheeping for food with its mouth permanently open! I've had the food on our garden seat which the blackbirds and the robin seem to like and they take it in turns to eat the food I put down.
It's been a real mixed bag of weather today and Spring has definitely been put on the back burner for a while. We've had sunshine and showers all day but mostly showers and grey skies. Later in the afternoon Sophie and I went for a walk with Monty and we walked down to the gate as the horses have been put back in the field adjoining the estate. Three of them came up to say hello and seemed fascinated with Monty who just ignored them!
As it was bitterly cold (and I mean cold!) we just walked around the estate for a while but it was lovely to get out and have some fresh air after a day spent indoors!
Sunday 24 April 2016
Getting colder...
The bright and sunny weather turned this afternoon and we had grey skies and cold nasty rain to contend with. The forecast for next week is cold and showery with even some snow mixed in with the rain. I so want it to be warm and sunny!
Sophie and I went to Market Harborough for lunch and although a lot of the independent shops were closed we still managed to do some shopping. We decided to try somewhere new to eat and went to Joules Eating Yard but the cafe was very cluttered and the area to order your food was tiny. We seemed to be in someone's way all the time so we fled to Starbucks which had acres of room and a lovely quiet atmosphere!
In Waterstones I bought two books with subjects close to my heart - Mary Berry's Cookery Course and a small tome on cocktails. I shall enjoy trying recipes from both! Sophie treated herself to a guide to New York's Brooklyn so we went away very pleased with our purchases.
I also bought Keith a whistle in the Mountain Warehouse shop for when he goes walking. As the nature reserve is so quiet he'd been advised to carry a whistle to attract attention should he ever need it. He'd been looking for one for ages so I was very pleased I'd found him one that came complete with a compass and a mini torch!
As the weather had turned nasty we headed home and did very little. This weekend has really been quite lazy!
Sophie and I went to Market Harborough for lunch and although a lot of the independent shops were closed we still managed to do some shopping. We decided to try somewhere new to eat and went to Joules Eating Yard but the cafe was very cluttered and the area to order your food was tiny. We seemed to be in someone's way all the time so we fled to Starbucks which had acres of room and a lovely quiet atmosphere!
In Waterstones I bought two books with subjects close to my heart - Mary Berry's Cookery Course and a small tome on cocktails. I shall enjoy trying recipes from both! Sophie treated herself to a guide to New York's Brooklyn so we went away very pleased with our purchases.
I also bought Keith a whistle in the Mountain Warehouse shop for when he goes walking. As the nature reserve is so quiet he'd been advised to carry a whistle to attract attention should he ever need it. He'd been looking for one for ages so I was very pleased I'd found him one that came complete with a compass and a mini torch!
As the weather had turned nasty we headed home and did very little. This weekend has really been quite lazy!
Saturday 23 April 2016
Quiet Saturday
Sophie was at work today, covering for a member of staff who was on holiday so we dropped her off and then took Mike to Brixworth to see his friends. On the way home we called into Holcot as they have a lovely book-swap station set up in an old telephone box! Keith took four of his old books in and came out with four new ones. What a great idea!
Neither of us did anything of much interest for the rest of the morning - I caught up with writing this blog and then picked Sophie up from work at 3pm. She was a bit frustrated that she'd been in today as she felt she wasn't really needed and today has been lovely and sunny, despite being a little on the cold side. She wished that we could have gone and had a cup of coffee or something but I was still in my scruffs!
We returned home and on a sudden impulse I put some old unwanted stuff in the car to take to the tip. It had been on my list of things to do so at least I did that! As soon as we came home I had a long, hot bath which made me feel a little less scruffy!
Keith came home with Mike as he'd been out watching a local football match. Dinner was a spicy curry followed by the Bridge of Spies film which we both enjoyed immensely!
Neither of us did anything of much interest for the rest of the morning - I caught up with writing this blog and then picked Sophie up from work at 3pm. She was a bit frustrated that she'd been in today as she felt she wasn't really needed and today has been lovely and sunny, despite being a little on the cold side. She wished that we could have gone and had a cup of coffee or something but I was still in my scruffs!
We returned home and on a sudden impulse I put some old unwanted stuff in the car to take to the tip. It had been on my list of things to do so at least I did that! As soon as we came home I had a long, hot bath which made me feel a little less scruffy!
Keith came home with Mike as he'd been out watching a local football match. Dinner was a spicy curry followed by the Bridge of Spies film which we both enjoyed immensely!
Friday 22 April 2016
The long and agonising wait...
Keith had his hospital appointment this morning at 11.20am and after dropping Mike off at school and Sophie at uni, as she was meeting one of her friends, we drove to the hospital and arrived very early.
Both of us weren't looking forward to the appointment at all and when we arrived in the waiting room at about 11am there were lots of people also waiting to be seen. Keith went to the reception desk and I sat next to a woman with a little boy who never stopped chattering away the whole time we were there! I would have found him exhausting and I think his mother did as she asked him at one point whether she could take a nap!
So, we sat and waited and waited and the delay made it into a real ordeal for us as we were both nervous of the outcome, especially as Keith had only had the proper scan a couple of days ago. When we had been waiting over an hour and a half Keith went back to reception to see how much longer it would be and he was told that the consultant was now running 80 minutes late...
We eventually got shown into a small examination room over two hours late and when the doctor came in he explained that on the first CT scan the ink hadn't gone into Keith's vein properly...Keith said he knew that which was why he'd had a second scan on Wednesday and had been told the results would be with the consultant today...
This was obviously a bit embarrassing for the doctor who disappeared back into his office to get them. When he came back he confirmed that Keith had a tumour on his left kidney but that the scan had revealed nothing had spread to anywhere else, which was a huge relief to us. The next move will be to see another consultant who will decide the best course of action - to either remove the kidney completely or to remove the tumour which he said was like a grape hanging off the kidney.
We then spoke to an Oncologist nurse who gave us an information pack to read and she was lovely and very reassuring so although the news wasn't brilliant it was a lot better than it could have been and at least we can get Keith sorted out!
After picking Sophie up from university where she had been waiting we returned home and then I treated Sophie to a drink and a sandwich at Beckworth. I had a cup of tea and a scone and we chatted about the events of the morning and how relieved I was!
Both of us weren't looking forward to the appointment at all and when we arrived in the waiting room at about 11am there were lots of people also waiting to be seen. Keith went to the reception desk and I sat next to a woman with a little boy who never stopped chattering away the whole time we were there! I would have found him exhausting and I think his mother did as she asked him at one point whether she could take a nap!
So, we sat and waited and waited and the delay made it into a real ordeal for us as we were both nervous of the outcome, especially as Keith had only had the proper scan a couple of days ago. When we had been waiting over an hour and a half Keith went back to reception to see how much longer it would be and he was told that the consultant was now running 80 minutes late...
We eventually got shown into a small examination room over two hours late and when the doctor came in he explained that on the first CT scan the ink hadn't gone into Keith's vein properly...Keith said he knew that which was why he'd had a second scan on Wednesday and had been told the results would be with the consultant today...
This was obviously a bit embarrassing for the doctor who disappeared back into his office to get them. When he came back he confirmed that Keith had a tumour on his left kidney but that the scan had revealed nothing had spread to anywhere else, which was a huge relief to us. The next move will be to see another consultant who will decide the best course of action - to either remove the kidney completely or to remove the tumour which he said was like a grape hanging off the kidney.
We then spoke to an Oncologist nurse who gave us an information pack to read and she was lovely and very reassuring so although the news wasn't brilliant it was a lot better than it could have been and at least we can get Keith sorted out!
After picking Sophie up from university where she had been waiting we returned home and then I treated Sophie to a drink and a sandwich at Beckworth. I had a cup of tea and a scone and we chatted about the events of the morning and how relieved I was!
Thursday 21 April 2016
Becoming Mrs Angry?
We had more driving to do this morning as Sophie had to go for a blood test at the doctor's in Guilsborough and we drove there after dropping Mike off at school. As soon as she was finished we took her to university as she was going in for a meeting about next year's trip to New York. It seems like only yesterday that she returned from this year's trip!
After dropping her off we drove home and wrote out our shopping list before heading to Kettering. As usual Aldi was quiet but it didn't stop the stupid checkout man from literally throwing our shopping down the conveyor belt at the speed of light! He then made us move our trolley so it pointed in towards the till...why, we have no idea! I told him it made it more difficult for us to put the stuff back into the trolley but he just said it was orders.
As we went back to the car I said to Keith that I wasn't going to set foot in the store again as I'd had enough of the stupid rules and I wasn't being told what to do by a member of staff when I was the customer! Over in Tesco, the experience was much better with friendly checkout staff and a more relaxed way of paying for our purchases!
We just had time to put everything away and have a bite to eat before it was time to collect Sophie who was full of news about her trip to New York and the fact that she has changed her degree course so she can do more marketing modules.
After school we went to pick up Mikey (Keith drove!) as we were going into Northampton to sort out a Prom suit for him. Heather had been invited along but she was preparing for an Art exam so the four of us went to Warwick's on the Wellingborough Road. They had a special offer for the hiring of a dinner suit for £45 but of course the trousers weren't to Mike's liking at all, not being ultra slim fit! Sophie had suggested an electric blue suit to go with Heather's dress and they were on sale for £79 to buy or £85 to hire! Mike tried it on and with a lovely bow-tie in dark blue and purple he looked fabulous! We obviously bought the suit so now I don't have to worry about him wrecking a hire suit!
In the evening Sophie and I went out with Sue for a meal at Frank's Hamburger House on the Wellingborough Road. It's funny I don't go anywhere near the place for months and then go twice in one day! We had originally booked for Billing but there were bridge repairs going on and the detour was very long and inconvenient so we went to the restaurant in town instead.
The place was very quiet and we took our seats on a long picnic style table by the window. We enjoyed nachos with chilli con carne for a starter followed by three different burgers. Sophie had chicken, Sue had the same burger I had last month and I went for one with a fried egg and onion chutney. Delicious! We even found room for dessert with Sue and I enjoying local Gallone's ice-cream while Sophie went for a chocolate brownie. Phew!
After dropping her off we drove home and wrote out our shopping list before heading to Kettering. As usual Aldi was quiet but it didn't stop the stupid checkout man from literally throwing our shopping down the conveyor belt at the speed of light! He then made us move our trolley so it pointed in towards the till...why, we have no idea! I told him it made it more difficult for us to put the stuff back into the trolley but he just said it was orders.
As we went back to the car I said to Keith that I wasn't going to set foot in the store again as I'd had enough of the stupid rules and I wasn't being told what to do by a member of staff when I was the customer! Over in Tesco, the experience was much better with friendly checkout staff and a more relaxed way of paying for our purchases!
We just had time to put everything away and have a bite to eat before it was time to collect Sophie who was full of news about her trip to New York and the fact that she has changed her degree course so she can do more marketing modules.
After school we went to pick up Mikey (Keith drove!) as we were going into Northampton to sort out a Prom suit for him. Heather had been invited along but she was preparing for an Art exam so the four of us went to Warwick's on the Wellingborough Road. They had a special offer for the hiring of a dinner suit for £45 but of course the trousers weren't to Mike's liking at all, not being ultra slim fit! Sophie had suggested an electric blue suit to go with Heather's dress and they were on sale for £79 to buy or £85 to hire! Mike tried it on and with a lovely bow-tie in dark blue and purple he looked fabulous! We obviously bought the suit so now I don't have to worry about him wrecking a hire suit!
In the evening Sophie and I went out with Sue for a meal at Frank's Hamburger House on the Wellingborough Road. It's funny I don't go anywhere near the place for months and then go twice in one day! We had originally booked for Billing but there were bridge repairs going on and the detour was very long and inconvenient so we went to the restaurant in town instead.
The place was very quiet and we took our seats on a long picnic style table by the window. We enjoyed nachos with chilli con carne for a starter followed by three different burgers. Sophie had chicken, Sue had the same burger I had last month and I went for one with a fried egg and onion chutney. Delicious! We even found room for dessert with Sue and I enjoying local Gallone's ice-cream while Sophie went for a chocolate brownie. Phew!
Wednesday 20 April 2016
Bunking off!
Keith had an appointment at the hospital this morning for another CT scan so after dropping Mike off at school and Sophie off at work (she's covering for holiday all day today) we drove to the hospital and arrived early,
We were a bit worried as to why he had to have another scan but when he was seen they explained that the last time he had been scanned the ink hadn't gone into his vein properly. This reassured us a bit but it meant that the consultant hadn't seen the results properly yet.
From the hospital we went to the Weston Favell Centre as we needed to post our passports off to Peterborough and as we were coming out we met my parents who were in BB's having a cup of coffee. We sat with them for almost an hour and had a great chat, which was lovely. Now we no longer work together I feel like I've got my Mum and Dad back!
From the Weston Favell Centre we went to The Malt Shovel pub in town as we both felt like we needed some time out. We parked in Morrison's car park which was very handy (I'd already done a complete circuit of the multi-storey but there were no spaces at all) and walked across the road to the very quiet pub.
We had a blissful time just chatting and sampling their real ales (well, Keith did, I had a couple of halves of Leffe) with a delicious lunch of sausage and onion baguette (me) and Cheddar and Stilton Ploughman (Keith). The pub was very quiet but that was how we liked it!
When we arrived home Keith went off to "watch" the racing while I sat in the garden with Monty and the robin who was always nearby and listening when I spoke to him. It was a glorious afternoon and lovely to be able to sit in the garden for a while and soak up the sun!
At 6pm we were on our way to picking up both children - Sophie from work and Mike from Heather's house where he'd gone after school. As usual the traffic was horrendous and I lost my temper driving though Moulton as, although I had right of way, a whole line of cars kept on coming which meant that I couldn't move. After the fifth or sixth car I just decided to go and had to go up onto the pavement as the oncoming cars scattered and tried to get out of my way. I was ranting and raving (nothing new there at the moment) and Keith was a bit shaken by my driving!
I've just had enough lately, though. The sheer ignorance and thoughtlessness of drivers at the moment is unbelievable and it seems that on every journey we make some idiot causes us to roll our eyes and comment on what they've done. I think so many people are distracted while driving that it really is a problem.
We picked up the children without further incident and then went home where, instead of making fish pie for dinner as planned, we just had a sandwich, much to the disgust of Sophie who was looking forward to the meal!
We were a bit worried as to why he had to have another scan but when he was seen they explained that the last time he had been scanned the ink hadn't gone into his vein properly. This reassured us a bit but it meant that the consultant hadn't seen the results properly yet.
From the hospital we went to the Weston Favell Centre as we needed to post our passports off to Peterborough and as we were coming out we met my parents who were in BB's having a cup of coffee. We sat with them for almost an hour and had a great chat, which was lovely. Now we no longer work together I feel like I've got my Mum and Dad back!
From the Weston Favell Centre we went to The Malt Shovel pub in town as we both felt like we needed some time out. We parked in Morrison's car park which was very handy (I'd already done a complete circuit of the multi-storey but there were no spaces at all) and walked across the road to the very quiet pub.
We had a blissful time just chatting and sampling their real ales (well, Keith did, I had a couple of halves of Leffe) with a delicious lunch of sausage and onion baguette (me) and Cheddar and Stilton Ploughman (Keith). The pub was very quiet but that was how we liked it!
When we arrived home Keith went off to "watch" the racing while I sat in the garden with Monty and the robin who was always nearby and listening when I spoke to him. It was a glorious afternoon and lovely to be able to sit in the garden for a while and soak up the sun!
At 6pm we were on our way to picking up both children - Sophie from work and Mike from Heather's house where he'd gone after school. As usual the traffic was horrendous and I lost my temper driving though Moulton as, although I had right of way, a whole line of cars kept on coming which meant that I couldn't move. After the fifth or sixth car I just decided to go and had to go up onto the pavement as the oncoming cars scattered and tried to get out of my way. I was ranting and raving (nothing new there at the moment) and Keith was a bit shaken by my driving!
I've just had enough lately, though. The sheer ignorance and thoughtlessness of drivers at the moment is unbelievable and it seems that on every journey we make some idiot causes us to roll our eyes and comment on what they've done. I think so many people are distracted while driving that it really is a problem.
We picked up the children without further incident and then went home where, instead of making fish pie for dinner as planned, we just had a sandwich, much to the disgust of Sophie who was looking forward to the meal!
Tuesday 19 April 2016
Rushing about!
This morning was like an exact replica of Monday morning...took Mike to school (how glad I will be when he finishes after the next half-term!) and Keith went for a walk. Sophie was off again today and still battling with the assignment she needed to do!
When Keith arrived home and had showered and changed we went off to the doctor's in Brixworth to hand in our prescriptions and then we decided to drive to the Tesco in Kettering via the A14 as it was such a beautiful day. The weather and the countryside were looking perfect and the yellow rapeseed crop is really blossoming. With the blue skies, the fluffy white clouds and the yellow fields everywhere looked beautiful.
In Tesco I bought the ingredients to make Panna Cotta and then we popped in to see Mum and Dad on the way home. Keith and I put up a bathroom cabinet for them (I was assistant and got shouted at rather a lot!) and I also linked up their computer with the printer. It only seems to work with a cable so we ordered one from Amazon and I had it sent to our house as the new estate doesn't seem to be recognised just yet!
By now Sophie had called to find out where we were as she was waiting for us to bring her lunch so we headed home and I sat in the garden and ate a sandwich as it has been so gorgeous. I'm going to try and get out to sit in the sun for a little while every day to top up my vitamin D levels. I do not want to be deficient like I was before!
Sophie and I made the Panna Cotta in the afternoon and it was very easy. We just mixed cream, milk, sugar and a vanilla pod, heated the ingredients until they were simmering and then added three gelatine leaves that had been soaking in cold water. When the leaves dissolved we poured the mixture into ramekin pots and let them cool before chilling them in the fridge. To cut corners a bit I bought a bottle of Fruits of the Forest coulis in Tesco to serve on top.
Mike was out in the evening for Army Cadets and Keith was off to a football match so three of us ate early at 6pm, something I don't really like to do. I made meatballs with pasta, Keith's hated meal, so he had oven baked fish instead. Just as Sophie and I were settling down after Keith and Mike had gone the phone rang but I let it go to answerphone. We have had so many nuisance phone calls lately with people wanting to sell us stuff so I let the machine answer for me. The caller put the phone down so I dialled 1471 and discovered it was Keith's phone. When I called Mike said that Army Cadets had been cancelled because of a power cut and could we pick him up from Holcot straight away!
We zoomed off and when we returned we all enjoyed a pot of Panna Cotta. I put the ramekins in boiling water before turning them out but they melted a little so next time I'll put them in for a much shorter time! However they were delicious and the coulis went with them very well!
When Keith arrived home and had showered and changed we went off to the doctor's in Brixworth to hand in our prescriptions and then we decided to drive to the Tesco in Kettering via the A14 as it was such a beautiful day. The weather and the countryside were looking perfect and the yellow rapeseed crop is really blossoming. With the blue skies, the fluffy white clouds and the yellow fields everywhere looked beautiful.
In Tesco I bought the ingredients to make Panna Cotta and then we popped in to see Mum and Dad on the way home. Keith and I put up a bathroom cabinet for them (I was assistant and got shouted at rather a lot!) and I also linked up their computer with the printer. It only seems to work with a cable so we ordered one from Amazon and I had it sent to our house as the new estate doesn't seem to be recognised just yet!
By now Sophie had called to find out where we were as she was waiting for us to bring her lunch so we headed home and I sat in the garden and ate a sandwich as it has been so gorgeous. I'm going to try and get out to sit in the sun for a little while every day to top up my vitamin D levels. I do not want to be deficient like I was before!
Sophie and I made the Panna Cotta in the afternoon and it was very easy. We just mixed cream, milk, sugar and a vanilla pod, heated the ingredients until they were simmering and then added three gelatine leaves that had been soaking in cold water. When the leaves dissolved we poured the mixture into ramekin pots and let them cool before chilling them in the fridge. To cut corners a bit I bought a bottle of Fruits of the Forest coulis in Tesco to serve on top.
Mike was out in the evening for Army Cadets and Keith was off to a football match so three of us ate early at 6pm, something I don't really like to do. I made meatballs with pasta, Keith's hated meal, so he had oven baked fish instead. Just as Sophie and I were settling down after Keith and Mike had gone the phone rang but I let it go to answerphone. We have had so many nuisance phone calls lately with people wanting to sell us stuff so I let the machine answer for me. The caller put the phone down so I dialled 1471 and discovered it was Keith's phone. When I called Mike said that Army Cadets had been cancelled because of a power cut and could we pick him up from Holcot straight away!
We zoomed off and when we returned we all enjoyed a pot of Panna Cotta. I put the ramekins in boiling water before turning them out but they melted a little so next time I'll put them in for a much shorter time! However they were delicious and the coulis went with them very well!
Monday 18 April 2016
Rat be gone!
Keith went for a walk this morning after we dropped Mike off at school while I returned home to clean the house. Sophie is virtually finished university now but still had an assignment to write so she sat in the conservatory doing that while I got on with the housework.
Once I'm in the mood to clean I don't mind and it was lovely seeing the house go from messy to clean and gleaming! At lunchtime we had a visit from the pest control man we used to see when we had the business as the traps we've set for the rat are definitely not working. He is just laughing in our faces!
Pete arrived and put down about five or six bait boxes which are safe for pets and our lovely bird visitors. He said he would return in a week to check them and then quoted us his price which was a bit of a shock! He said two visits are £110 but he would do us a discount...I hope so after we've been employing his services for so long! We wish now we'd just bought the exact same boxes in B&Q for £15! Hey ho!
Mike stayed after school for a revision session and after picking him up we went to the Weston Favell Centre to have our passport photos taken. Keith's, Mike's and my passport run out next month and we need to get them renewed. We've never left it so late! We had the pictures taken (yuk!!) and asked our friend and neighbour Paul to sign the back of Mike's as he has changed appearance from five years ago. This will be his first adult passport and will be with him until he's 26!
Once I'm in the mood to clean I don't mind and it was lovely seeing the house go from messy to clean and gleaming! At lunchtime we had a visit from the pest control man we used to see when we had the business as the traps we've set for the rat are definitely not working. He is just laughing in our faces!
Pete arrived and put down about five or six bait boxes which are safe for pets and our lovely bird visitors. He said he would return in a week to check them and then quoted us his price which was a bit of a shock! He said two visits are £110 but he would do us a discount...I hope so after we've been employing his services for so long! We wish now we'd just bought the exact same boxes in B&Q for £15! Hey ho!
Mike stayed after school for a revision session and after picking him up we went to the Weston Favell Centre to have our passport photos taken. Keith's, Mike's and my passport run out next month and we need to get them renewed. We've never left it so late! We had the pictures taken (yuk!!) and asked our friend and neighbour Paul to sign the back of Mike's as he has changed appearance from five years ago. This will be his first adult passport and will be with him until he's 26!
Sunday 17 April 2016
Snow!
We had traces of lying snow on the ground this morning but within a couple of hours it had all gone. Sophie was in at work as usual and just as we arrived back home from taking her, Mike was ready to go and see Heather. We really must try and coordinate this trips a bit better!
When we finally got home we had bacon and tomatoes for breakfast (one of my favourites) and I tried out the new air conditioning aerosol cleaner I'd bought the other day. If I turn it on, which obviously isn't often at the moment, the car smells of wet dog so I'd bought a spray that was supposed to clear out all the bacteria which causes the whiff. I had to run the car for ten minutes with the aircon on full blast and after I'd finished it did smell a lot fresher.
While I was loitering outside I had a chat with both Paul and Sue who had been walking the dogs. After the early snow this morning the weather has reverted back to Spring and we've had lovely sunshine and blue skies all day.
In the afternoon I picked up Mum from her house and we drove to Beckworth for a cup of tea. We had to queue for about twenty minutes but we enjoyed a lovely scone and jam in the busy restaurant. There were several large groups enjoying afternoon tea but if we'd had that I'd never eat again today!
We were very good and both of us resisted buying lots of plants. At the moment it's far too early for summer bedding but a bit late for pansies and violas so we decided to wait for the warmer weather, hopefully in May!
When we finally got home we had bacon and tomatoes for breakfast (one of my favourites) and I tried out the new air conditioning aerosol cleaner I'd bought the other day. If I turn it on, which obviously isn't often at the moment, the car smells of wet dog so I'd bought a spray that was supposed to clear out all the bacteria which causes the whiff. I had to run the car for ten minutes with the aircon on full blast and after I'd finished it did smell a lot fresher.
While I was loitering outside I had a chat with both Paul and Sue who had been walking the dogs. After the early snow this morning the weather has reverted back to Spring and we've had lovely sunshine and blue skies all day.
In the afternoon I picked up Mum from her house and we drove to Beckworth for a cup of tea. We had to queue for about twenty minutes but we enjoyed a lovely scone and jam in the busy restaurant. There were several large groups enjoying afternoon tea but if we'd had that I'd never eat again today!
We were very good and both of us resisted buying lots of plants. At the moment it's far too early for summer bedding but a bit late for pansies and violas so we decided to wait for the warmer weather, hopefully in May!
Saturday 16 April 2016
A bit of a moan!
We had a very relaxed start to the day (and the weekend) and didn't do much until the afternoon when Sophie and I went to Market Harborough. The weather has been much colder this morning with light snow flurries first thing! Who would believe it this late in April?!
We made sure we wore coats in Market Harborough but the cold didn't stop us from enjoying milkshakes in Caffe Nero. It's been ages since we chose a cold drink over a hot coffee so maybe Spring is on the way after all!
We had a mooch about the town but neither of us bought anything, amazingly enough! By 4pm we'd had enough and headed home in the sunshine. We'd planned on having a Chinese take-away from the van in the village in the evening but when we went down to order our meal it wasn't there! We had no choice but to order from Brixworth again even though we much prefer the van food. As we were leaving home to call into the pub for a drink we saw two horses walking along the road which promptly left a load of manure on the road! I know that horse waste isn't as offensive as dog waste but there were children playing on the exact spot a couple of hours earlier and I'm sure their parents wouldn't want manure trod into the houses!
We went to the pub and sat in our usual window seat. It was getting busy and a large family group arrived which meant that the small car park became full very quickly. It was amazing to see people trying to get into spaces and then having to back out again, oblivious to the chaos they were causing all around them.
I'm a bit off people at the moment, to be honest. I've never witnessed so many instances of thoughtlessness and ignorance and just plain rudeness as I have lately!
We had a couple of drinks and then headed home to await our take-away delivery. Keith and I both ordered a curry (Chinese one!) and although it was OK, it was extremely salty! Next time we'll just stick to the van!
We made sure we wore coats in Market Harborough but the cold didn't stop us from enjoying milkshakes in Caffe Nero. It's been ages since we chose a cold drink over a hot coffee so maybe Spring is on the way after all!
We had a mooch about the town but neither of us bought anything, amazingly enough! By 4pm we'd had enough and headed home in the sunshine. We'd planned on having a Chinese take-away from the van in the village in the evening but when we went down to order our meal it wasn't there! We had no choice but to order from Brixworth again even though we much prefer the van food. As we were leaving home to call into the pub for a drink we saw two horses walking along the road which promptly left a load of manure on the road! I know that horse waste isn't as offensive as dog waste but there were children playing on the exact spot a couple of hours earlier and I'm sure their parents wouldn't want manure trod into the houses!
We went to the pub and sat in our usual window seat. It was getting busy and a large family group arrived which meant that the small car park became full very quickly. It was amazing to see people trying to get into spaces and then having to back out again, oblivious to the chaos they were causing all around them.
I'm a bit off people at the moment, to be honest. I've never witnessed so many instances of thoughtlessness and ignorance and just plain rudeness as I have lately!
We had a couple of drinks and then headed home to await our take-away delivery. Keith and I both ordered a curry (Chinese one!) and although it was OK, it was extremely salty! Next time we'll just stick to the van!
Friday 15 April 2016
Sorted!
We had another busy morning today as we had to drop Mike off at school and then drive to B&Q in Northampton to see the man who has helped us with the new en-suite bathroom.
We dropped Mike off at 8.30am and I thought I had plenty of time to get there by 9am. How wrong I was! We crawled virtually the whole way and we were ten minutes late! I hate being late! We had another good look at the design and made some changes to get it within our budget. I've kept the wall covering behind the shower and the heated towel rail but I've had to compromise on the tiling as the shower enclosure we've chosen was a bit more expensive, and a little bit bigger.
I chose the wall and floor tiles and changed the colour so now the room is white and mocha...I just hope it all goes!
Keith paid 10% of the full price and we sloshed home as the weather today has been dreadful - cold and wet and such a difference to yesterday! There's even snow forecast in some parts of the country. I thought Spring had arrived?
We hadn't really planned anything for the rest of the day so we pottered about the house and I made Sophie some pasta with a cheese sauce for her lunch. I also made a batch of blueberry muffins and although they were nice, I prefer the chocolatey ones!
We dropped Mike off at 8.30am and I thought I had plenty of time to get there by 9am. How wrong I was! We crawled virtually the whole way and we were ten minutes late! I hate being late! We had another good look at the design and made some changes to get it within our budget. I've kept the wall covering behind the shower and the heated towel rail but I've had to compromise on the tiling as the shower enclosure we've chosen was a bit more expensive, and a little bit bigger.
I chose the wall and floor tiles and changed the colour so now the room is white and mocha...I just hope it all goes!
Keith paid 10% of the full price and we sloshed home as the weather today has been dreadful - cold and wet and such a difference to yesterday! There's even snow forecast in some parts of the country. I thought Spring had arrived?
We hadn't really planned anything for the rest of the day so we pottered about the house and I made Sophie some pasta with a cheese sauce for her lunch. I also made a batch of blueberry muffins and although they were nice, I prefer the chocolatey ones!
Thursday 14 April 2016
Rushed off our feet!
As soon as we had taken MIke to school this morning we had to drop my car off at the garage in Broughton as I felt there was something very wrong with my brakes. We left it with the mechanics and drove to Kettering to do our shopping.
Keith and I have decided to adopt a new tactic when we put the shopping through the checkout...we're just going to put it all back in the trolley and pack it into bags after we've paid. Last week was no fun and if Keith starts going on his own as he has threatened to, he'll never be able to cope with trying to put it into bags!
As we were driving out I received a call from the Broadband company as they couldn't get hold of my parents and the engineer was going to be late. Luckily I managed to contact them and we called in on the way home. I'm hopeful it will be sorted out now!
Back home we put the shopping away, had some lunch and then took Sophie to university. Before heading home we called into Jones's as I needed more fat snax (the birds go through an incredible amount every day!) and some polish for my car.
It was a glorious afternoon even though we had been given a weather warning for heavy rain and thunder for our area. I managed to sit in the garden with Monty for half an hour and soaked up some rays. It was gorgeous!
Before long it was time to collect Mike from school, as we had arranged an eye test for him at the Optician's. Luckily he'd remembered and we met him near Heather's house before driving off to the Weston Favell Centre. We just had time to buy him a Subway sandwich before he went in and had his eyes looked at!
He mentioned that he'd had difficulty reading the words on the whiteboard at school and lo and behold! he needed glasses! Of course he made a beeline for the really expensive ones and we had to steer him back to the more reasonable spectacles! We did get a voucher, though, as he is still in school, and with a further student discount, the price came to just £30 so that was good!
We dashed back to the car as I'd left my phone there and found I'd had various messages and phone calls from the garage to say that my car was ready. By now the warm and sunny weather had given way to heavy rain and dark grey clouds so we splashed along the A43 to Broughton where I retrieved my car. The bill came to a hefty £215 as it needed both brake discs and pads and the mechanic said to me," They're really big, those discs! Very expensive!"
Er, yes, I realise that!
Keith and Mike went home while I made the return trip to Northampton to pick up Sophie. When we arrived home the thunder and lightening started and we had torrential rain. At least it made for interesting skies!
Keith and I have decided to adopt a new tactic when we put the shopping through the checkout...we're just going to put it all back in the trolley and pack it into bags after we've paid. Last week was no fun and if Keith starts going on his own as he has threatened to, he'll never be able to cope with trying to put it into bags!
As we were driving out I received a call from the Broadband company as they couldn't get hold of my parents and the engineer was going to be late. Luckily I managed to contact them and we called in on the way home. I'm hopeful it will be sorted out now!
Back home we put the shopping away, had some lunch and then took Sophie to university. Before heading home we called into Jones's as I needed more fat snax (the birds go through an incredible amount every day!) and some polish for my car.
It was a glorious afternoon even though we had been given a weather warning for heavy rain and thunder for our area. I managed to sit in the garden with Monty for half an hour and soaked up some rays. It was gorgeous!
Before long it was time to collect Mike from school, as we had arranged an eye test for him at the Optician's. Luckily he'd remembered and we met him near Heather's house before driving off to the Weston Favell Centre. We just had time to buy him a Subway sandwich before he went in and had his eyes looked at!
He mentioned that he'd had difficulty reading the words on the whiteboard at school and lo and behold! he needed glasses! Of course he made a beeline for the really expensive ones and we had to steer him back to the more reasonable spectacles! We did get a voucher, though, as he is still in school, and with a further student discount, the price came to just £30 so that was good!
We dashed back to the car as I'd left my phone there and found I'd had various messages and phone calls from the garage to say that my car was ready. By now the warm and sunny weather had given way to heavy rain and dark grey clouds so we splashed along the A43 to Broughton where I retrieved my car. The bill came to a hefty £215 as it needed both brake discs and pads and the mechanic said to me," They're really big, those discs! Very expensive!"
Er, yes, I realise that!
Keith and Mike went home while I made the return trip to Northampton to pick up Sophie. When we arrived home the thunder and lightening started and we had torrential rain. At least it made for interesting skies!
Wednesday 13 April 2016
Catching up...
On the school run this morning Keith and I noticed, to our dismay, that my windscreen had a long crack running from the edge towards the middle...how it happened we don't know!
I dropped Keith off at Pitsford and went home to call my insurance company. Luckily the excess is only £60! While Keith was off walking I caught up with several jobs and Sophie woke up at 10am. She had her student finance to sort out so we did that and numerous other jobs that needed to be done and which had been left over the last few weeks.
It's been a beautiful day today with lots of sunshine and blue skies. We managed to sit out in the garden for a while in the afternoon and soak up some Vitamin D. I've made it my mission to sit out whenever I can when the sun is shining to absorb this precious vitamin!
As well as sitting in the garden I washed my car in the afternoon as it has to go in tomorrow to get the brakes seen to. For some time now there's a terrible shuddering whenever I brake and I think it needs attention!
We picked Mike up from Heather's house at 6pm and drove home in time for cocktails...yum!
I dropped Keith off at Pitsford and went home to call my insurance company. Luckily the excess is only £60! While Keith was off walking I caught up with several jobs and Sophie woke up at 10am. She had her student finance to sort out so we did that and numerous other jobs that needed to be done and which had been left over the last few weeks.
It's been a beautiful day today with lots of sunshine and blue skies. We managed to sit out in the garden for a while in the afternoon and soak up some Vitamin D. I've made it my mission to sit out whenever I can when the sun is shining to absorb this precious vitamin!
As well as sitting in the garden I washed my car in the afternoon as it has to go in tomorrow to get the brakes seen to. For some time now there's a terrible shuddering whenever I brake and I think it needs attention!
We picked Mike up from Heather's house at 6pm and drove home in time for cocktails...yum!
Tuesday 12 April 2016
Helping out
Sophie was back at uni today and after taking her there and Mike to school we went over to my Mum's house to help them with some jobs. Ian came as well and he and Keith put up a new light fitting in the hallway. It was a bit manic as two men were putting up a shed for them in the garden, the Sharps fitter was in the bedroom constructing their fitted wardrobes and the Broadband man was also expected! Mum and Dad looked a bit frazzled!
The Broadband man arrived and I explained what had happened last week, with being able to connect on Thursday and then losing the connection on Friday. We tried everything again but nothing worked and after a very long phone call to the company providing the Broadband we decided to try a completely new router which Mum and Dad had to go and pick up on Wednesday.
Ian went home as his work was done and after lunch Keith built two new bedside cabinets, which helped my parents enormously. We had to leave at 2pm as I desperately needed some diesel for my car and we had to go and collect Sophie from uni before heading home to be there for Mike when he returned from school. Sophie had some gifts for my parents so we arranged to return at 4pm so she could see them and have a chat about what she'd been up to.
They were thrilled with their presents - a beautiful chunky necklace for my mum and a baseball cap for my Dad. Sophie had also bought them a bottle of red wine between them so they did very well! Keith had received a tee-shirt from Sophie and I had been given a beautiful little plaque with two cats on it and "Beware of the Cats" in Italian. Keith fixed it to the wall for me and it looks great!
In the evening we dropped Mike off at Army cadets and decided to have a drink and a meal at The Lamplighter. We had a great evening and chatted to Sophie about her Rome trip and our plans for next year when we hope to go back to Florida for three weeks. Let's keep our fingers crossed!
The Broadband man arrived and I explained what had happened last week, with being able to connect on Thursday and then losing the connection on Friday. We tried everything again but nothing worked and after a very long phone call to the company providing the Broadband we decided to try a completely new router which Mum and Dad had to go and pick up on Wednesday.
Ian went home as his work was done and after lunch Keith built two new bedside cabinets, which helped my parents enormously. We had to leave at 2pm as I desperately needed some diesel for my car and we had to go and collect Sophie from uni before heading home to be there for Mike when he returned from school. Sophie had some gifts for my parents so we arranged to return at 4pm so she could see them and have a chat about what she'd been up to.
They were thrilled with their presents - a beautiful chunky necklace for my mum and a baseball cap for my Dad. Sophie had also bought them a bottle of red wine between them so they did very well! Keith had received a tee-shirt from Sophie and I had been given a beautiful little plaque with two cats on it and "Beware of the Cats" in Italian. Keith fixed it to the wall for me and it looks great!
In the evening we dropped Mike off at Army cadets and decided to have a drink and a meal at The Lamplighter. We had a great evening and chatted to Sophie about her Rome trip and our plans for next year when we hope to go back to Florida for three weeks. Let's keep our fingers crossed!
Monday 11 April 2016
She's home!
After dropping Mike off at school today Keith went for a walk while I went off to the post office in the village to post a small parcel. As soon as I got home I made a batch of white chocolate and raspberry muffins and then it was almost time to go and collect Sophie, Daisy and Laura from Stansted Airport.
Keith returned, had a shower and we set off. We made very good time and arrived at 12pm to park in one of the short stay carparks. There were so many it was a little confusing! There was no confusion over the price though...£15 for under two hours!
We walked into the terminal and I bought us both a tea and a coffee and we sat overlooking Arrivals while also watching the screens for information on the flight. They arrived right on time and I texted Sophie to ask her not to dawdle getting their bag! I had a feeling they would all be hungry but thought it would be better to call into the nearby services for lunch rather than stop at the airport. especially with the parking charges!
The girls arrived after about half an hour and seemed glad to be home. We dashed back to the car and drove to the motorway junction where we had a bite to eat for lunch. It was very busy and there were lots of children still about so obviously some schools are still off for Easter (which seems like an age ago!).
We had another good journey home and Sophie chatted about the break while Daisy and Laura snoozed. They sorted out their shared bag and waited for their lifts to arrive while I gave them a muffin to try. I have to say they were delicious!
In the evening I made Sophie a Margarita to welcome her home and made one of her favourite meals, Jerk Chicken Pasta. I'm just very glad to have her home!
Keith returned, had a shower and we set off. We made very good time and arrived at 12pm to park in one of the short stay carparks. There were so many it was a little confusing! There was no confusion over the price though...£15 for under two hours!
We walked into the terminal and I bought us both a tea and a coffee and we sat overlooking Arrivals while also watching the screens for information on the flight. They arrived right on time and I texted Sophie to ask her not to dawdle getting their bag! I had a feeling they would all be hungry but thought it would be better to call into the nearby services for lunch rather than stop at the airport. especially with the parking charges!
The girls arrived after about half an hour and seemed glad to be home. We dashed back to the car and drove to the motorway junction where we had a bite to eat for lunch. It was very busy and there were lots of children still about so obviously some schools are still off for Easter (which seems like an age ago!).
We had another good journey home and Sophie chatted about the break while Daisy and Laura snoozed. They sorted out their shared bag and waited for their lifts to arrive while I gave them a muffin to try. I have to say they were delicious!
In the evening I made Sophie a Margarita to welcome her home and made one of her favourite meals, Jerk Chicken Pasta. I'm just very glad to have her home!
Sunday 10 April 2016
A lunchtime mooch
Keith and I went over to Harrington today to The Tollemache Arms as we hadn't been for ages and we had heard that it had changed hands and improved.
Maybe Sunday lunchtime wasn't the best time to visit as it was very busy with a big family group arriving to eat but there was a very pleasant atmosphere and Keith was impressed with the beers on offer. The pub itself has changed considerably and the layout seems totally different to how it was before. We now know if a pub has been "yuppified". The signs are:
Grey paint on the walls and doors
Warner Edwards Gin for sale - the bigger the range the more expensive the pub
Posh crisps
Leather armchairs and sofas everywhere
New outdoor decking
However, we liked the changes very much and will definitely return, probably in the evening. As it was getting a bit crowded we left and drove on a rubbish-strewn single track road to Braybrooke. Again, it was a pub we hadn't visited for a while but when we arrived this too was undergoing a refurbishment. Another one to re-visit in the near future to see what changes have taken place. I bet Warner Edwards will be behind the bar!
From Braybrooke we drove to Maidwell, to the Stags Head, a pub I have never really liked. Keith and I first came here for a meal 28 years ago for our second date and I have no idea why we have visited again over the years as it has not changed one bit! No Warner Edwards, no posh crisps (I had a Walkers Grab Bag) and the same carpet, I'm sure of it! Keith's beer was awful and he said it tasted sour...
Our last stop was our local and we sat in the window and had a chat with one of the regulars over a pint. It was very quiet in there but we certainly liked this the best of all!
Back home I ventured out into our windy garden and mowed the lawn with my constant companion again. The little robin followed me all over the garden and found a huge worm at one point that he dealt with very efficiently!
Maybe Sunday lunchtime wasn't the best time to visit as it was very busy with a big family group arriving to eat but there was a very pleasant atmosphere and Keith was impressed with the beers on offer. The pub itself has changed considerably and the layout seems totally different to how it was before. We now know if a pub has been "yuppified". The signs are:
Grey paint on the walls and doors
Warner Edwards Gin for sale - the bigger the range the more expensive the pub
Posh crisps
Leather armchairs and sofas everywhere
New outdoor decking
However, we liked the changes very much and will definitely return, probably in the evening. As it was getting a bit crowded we left and drove on a rubbish-strewn single track road to Braybrooke. Again, it was a pub we hadn't visited for a while but when we arrived this too was undergoing a refurbishment. Another one to re-visit in the near future to see what changes have taken place. I bet Warner Edwards will be behind the bar!
From Braybrooke we drove to Maidwell, to the Stags Head, a pub I have never really liked. Keith and I first came here for a meal 28 years ago for our second date and I have no idea why we have visited again over the years as it has not changed one bit! No Warner Edwards, no posh crisps (I had a Walkers Grab Bag) and the same carpet, I'm sure of it! Keith's beer was awful and he said it tasted sour...
Our last stop was our local and we sat in the window and had a chat with one of the regulars over a pint. It was very quiet in there but we certainly liked this the best of all!
Back home I ventured out into our windy garden and mowed the lawn with my constant companion again. The little robin followed me all over the garden and found a huge worm at one point that he dealt with very efficiently!
 |
| Looking for worms |
 |
| Watching me from the hanging basket bracket |
 |
| He found the fat snax! |
Saturday 9 April 2016
My little companion
It's been a day of changeable weather today with blue skies and sunshine in the morning and grey skies and rain in the afternoon.
Apart from taking Mike to Heather's house I didn't go anywhere and pottered about the house all day, which was lovely. I went out into the front garden to mow the verge and chatted to Sue who invited me to see their new kitchen flooring and gave me two potted shrubs. Their garden resembles a World War I battlefield as they are having the ground raised for a terrace so it was in a bit of a state! I also saw Paul who was walking the dogs and while we were chatting the little robin was hopping about very close to us and looking for worms in the over-turned soil. He showed no fear at all, bless him!
Keith went off to the football in the afternoon and I settled down to watch an episode of Thicker Than Water in peace and quiet. Sophie phoned me and we spoke for ages on Messenger and she sounded a little low as it had been really busy in Rome all day and she was tired of the crowds. She was also shattered from all the walking and I have a feeling that she will be looking forward to coming home!
After a delicious curry for dinner Keith and I watched the last two episodes of The Night Manager which has been brilliant, and thankfully had a very satisfying ending!
Apart from taking Mike to Heather's house I didn't go anywhere and pottered about the house all day, which was lovely. I went out into the front garden to mow the verge and chatted to Sue who invited me to see their new kitchen flooring and gave me two potted shrubs. Their garden resembles a World War I battlefield as they are having the ground raised for a terrace so it was in a bit of a state! I also saw Paul who was walking the dogs and while we were chatting the little robin was hopping about very close to us and looking for worms in the over-turned soil. He showed no fear at all, bless him!
Keith went off to the football in the afternoon and I settled down to watch an episode of Thicker Than Water in peace and quiet. Sophie phoned me and we spoke for ages on Messenger and she sounded a little low as it had been really busy in Rome all day and she was tired of the crowds. She was also shattered from all the walking and I have a feeling that she will be looking forward to coming home!
After a delicious curry for dinner Keith and I watched the last two episodes of The Night Manager which has been brilliant, and thankfully had a very satisfying ending!
Friday 8 April 2016
A somewhat stressful day...
Every morning we have been checking the traps in the garden but all we have caught have been small rats. I heard this happens as the bigger, older ones let the smaller ones have a go at the peanut butter first!
I heard from Sophie last night and she sounded like she was having a great time, and loved the hotel they were staying at. It's so good to be able to contact her easily via Messenger!
First thing, Keith and I went and did the shopping and we had a bit of a stressful time of it. Our checkout man spent a fair while chatting to a customer who he obviously knew, and when it was our time to put our shopping through, he virtually hurled it down the conveyor belt at us. I was very close to having a go at him and telling him to SLOW DOWN! It's so frustrating having everything thrown down as we try and keep up and we end up slinging it all in bags where it gets squashed! To make matters worse, when we put the shopping in my car, the trolley rolled and hit the front bumper leaving a series of scratches that really annoyed me...
Luckily things were calmer in Tesco and we were able to get the rest of the things we needed in a much more dignified manner. As we drove out, my phone rang and it was Mike demanding we get home as quickly as possible as Sophie had asked him to book tickets for a band called Catfish and The Bottle Men who were appearing at Northampton's Derngate in May.
As soon as I walked through the door Mike asked me to help and when I logged onto the theatre website it warned that customers were only allowed two tickets each which was a pain as Mike wanted to take Heather as well. Obtaining tickets turned out to be fruitless, though, as most of the seats had already been booked and there was only the odd single seat left. Mike was really dejected and I called Sophie to tell her but there was nothing we could do. For a band I'd never even heard of I was most surprised!
After that, and just as I was just relaxing with a cup of coffee, the phone rang and it was my mum to say they couldn't get onto the internet any more... I groaned and said that I would be over to see if I could do anything but I was going to finish my coffee first!
To cut a long story short I spent another hour trying to get them back onto the internet but nothing I did worked, even though I turned everything on and off, put the router in the socket downstairs and manually tried to configure the TV. The weird thing was that I could access the internet on my phone using their router?
I had to leave at 1pm as we were expecting a B&Q man to come out and have another look at our en-suite bathroom. I wanted to give the room a quick clean before he came! I said to Mum and Dad that they needed to get in touch with the company that supplied the router and looks after the phone line as I had exhausted all my options!
Back home I whizzed about and tidied up and then relaxed in the conservatory. Just before 4pm both Keith and I heard a loud bang that sounded like someone had hit the house. I went running to the front room but there was nothing wrong and after a quick inspection upstairs, everything looked fine.
Pretty soon, though, reports started coming in from people all over Northamptonshire who had heard the boom and wondered what on earth it was! It turned out to be two RAF jets flying over us who had created a sonic boom!
I heard from Sophie last night and she sounded like she was having a great time, and loved the hotel they were staying at. It's so good to be able to contact her easily via Messenger!
First thing, Keith and I went and did the shopping and we had a bit of a stressful time of it. Our checkout man spent a fair while chatting to a customer who he obviously knew, and when it was our time to put our shopping through, he virtually hurled it down the conveyor belt at us. I was very close to having a go at him and telling him to SLOW DOWN! It's so frustrating having everything thrown down as we try and keep up and we end up slinging it all in bags where it gets squashed! To make matters worse, when we put the shopping in my car, the trolley rolled and hit the front bumper leaving a series of scratches that really annoyed me...
Luckily things were calmer in Tesco and we were able to get the rest of the things we needed in a much more dignified manner. As we drove out, my phone rang and it was Mike demanding we get home as quickly as possible as Sophie had asked him to book tickets for a band called Catfish and The Bottle Men who were appearing at Northampton's Derngate in May.
As soon as I walked through the door Mike asked me to help and when I logged onto the theatre website it warned that customers were only allowed two tickets each which was a pain as Mike wanted to take Heather as well. Obtaining tickets turned out to be fruitless, though, as most of the seats had already been booked and there was only the odd single seat left. Mike was really dejected and I called Sophie to tell her but there was nothing we could do. For a band I'd never even heard of I was most surprised!
After that, and just as I was just relaxing with a cup of coffee, the phone rang and it was my mum to say they couldn't get onto the internet any more... I groaned and said that I would be over to see if I could do anything but I was going to finish my coffee first!
To cut a long story short I spent another hour trying to get them back onto the internet but nothing I did worked, even though I turned everything on and off, put the router in the socket downstairs and manually tried to configure the TV. The weird thing was that I could access the internet on my phone using their router?
I had to leave at 1pm as we were expecting a B&Q man to come out and have another look at our en-suite bathroom. I wanted to give the room a quick clean before he came! I said to Mum and Dad that they needed to get in touch with the company that supplied the router and looks after the phone line as I had exhausted all my options!
Back home I whizzed about and tidied up and then relaxed in the conservatory. Just before 4pm both Keith and I heard a loud bang that sounded like someone had hit the house. I went running to the front room but there was nothing wrong and after a quick inspection upstairs, everything looked fine.
Pretty soon, though, reports started coming in from people all over Northamptonshire who had heard the boom and wondered what on earth it was! It turned out to be two RAF jets flying over us who had created a sonic boom!
Thursday 7 April 2016
Off to Rome!
Daisy and Laura arrived at 10am this morning to do their final packing in the one case that the girls were sharing (to go into the hold) and to have breakfast before we left at midday.
It's been a drizzly day today with grey skies and a chilly wind but the sun did try and come out when we were driving down to Stansted. We made excellent time but we were mightily annoyed by the extortionate drop-off charges at the terminal. I should have realised something was up when there were signs pointing to "Free Drop-off" but I didn't know that the charges were £3.00 for just ten minutes and if you went over this the charge went up to £50!!
We hurriedly said goodbye to the girls and drove straight back out and onto the M11. The journey home was also smooth and trouble-free although I did glare at a driver behind me at one point who was far too close to my back bumper, and when everything stopped he nearly joined me on the back seat!
We called to see Mum and Dad before going home and within a few minutes had them connected to the Broadband, both on their computer and with the Sky box. They were absolutely delighted and both Keith and I were really pleased we were able to help.
It was great to think we hadn't got to go anywhere in the evening and although Keith suggested a drink at the pub we both decided to stay home and have a drink while catching up with the latest thrilling episode of Neighbours!
It's been a drizzly day today with grey skies and a chilly wind but the sun did try and come out when we were driving down to Stansted. We made excellent time but we were mightily annoyed by the extortionate drop-off charges at the terminal. I should have realised something was up when there were signs pointing to "Free Drop-off" but I didn't know that the charges were £3.00 for just ten minutes and if you went over this the charge went up to £50!!
We hurriedly said goodbye to the girls and drove straight back out and onto the M11. The journey home was also smooth and trouble-free although I did glare at a driver behind me at one point who was far too close to my back bumper, and when everything stopped he nearly joined me on the back seat!
We called to see Mum and Dad before going home and within a few minutes had them connected to the Broadband, both on their computer and with the Sky box. They were absolutely delighted and both Keith and I were really pleased we were able to help.
It was great to think we hadn't got to go anywhere in the evening and although Keith suggested a drink at the pub we both decided to stay home and have a drink while catching up with the latest thrilling episode of Neighbours!
Wednesday 6 April 2016
More celebrations
Today has been another busy one - how ever did I find the time to work?
Sophie wanted to change some money today so we drove to the Weston Favell Centre so she could draw some money out of the bank. We then went to Mum and Dad's to help them with their Broadband connection but after an hour of trying we still couldn't get them connected. It was enormously frustrating!
We left and went to Tesco where Sophie changed her pounds into euros and we shopped for dinner for tonight and tomorrow. There were lots of people wandering aimlessly about and I felt really stressed by it all for some reason! I think that the internet thing with my parents had really got to me as they both rely on accessing the web and it also meant that their Sky+ service wasn't working either. Sometimes I think we were better off when we didn't have all this technology!
Back home I cleaned downstairs and tidied up as Daisy and Laura were coming over to see Sophie and also my parents were due around in the evening for a Birthday meal. Mike's girlfriend, Heather, had arrived while we were out so we definitely had a house full of young people! The sun came out in the afternoon and the weather was lovely but very changeable. We're certainly experiencing April showers!
Laura and Daisy arrived and the three girls enjoyed a slice of ice-cream cake and a good gossip over the opening of Birthday presents for Daisy, who was 20 last week, and Sophie. They all seemed very excited about their trip to Rome tomorrow!
By the evening I was shattered but Keith and I prepared the chicken Kievs (he'd peeled tons of veggies earlier in the day) and I treated myself to a Gin and tonic while we stuffed garlic butter into the breasts. We then coated them in flour, a mixture of egg and melted garlic butter and breadcrumbs before putting them into the oven to bake.
Mum and Dad arrived and by 7.30pm we were all sitting down to dinner which turned out very well, despite my earlier worries! With new potatoes, vegetables and a creamy garlic sauce the chicken went down very well, thank goodness! We all enjoyed the rest of the ice-cream cake for dessert and Keith and Sophie washed up while I relaxed in the living room with my Mum and Dad. Phew!
Sophie wanted to change some money today so we drove to the Weston Favell Centre so she could draw some money out of the bank. We then went to Mum and Dad's to help them with their Broadband connection but after an hour of trying we still couldn't get them connected. It was enormously frustrating!
We left and went to Tesco where Sophie changed her pounds into euros and we shopped for dinner for tonight and tomorrow. There were lots of people wandering aimlessly about and I felt really stressed by it all for some reason! I think that the internet thing with my parents had really got to me as they both rely on accessing the web and it also meant that their Sky+ service wasn't working either. Sometimes I think we were better off when we didn't have all this technology!
Back home I cleaned downstairs and tidied up as Daisy and Laura were coming over to see Sophie and also my parents were due around in the evening for a Birthday meal. Mike's girlfriend, Heather, had arrived while we were out so we definitely had a house full of young people! The sun came out in the afternoon and the weather was lovely but very changeable. We're certainly experiencing April showers!
Laura and Daisy arrived and the three girls enjoyed a slice of ice-cream cake and a good gossip over the opening of Birthday presents for Daisy, who was 20 last week, and Sophie. They all seemed very excited about their trip to Rome tomorrow!
By the evening I was shattered but Keith and I prepared the chicken Kievs (he'd peeled tons of veggies earlier in the day) and I treated myself to a Gin and tonic while we stuffed garlic butter into the breasts. We then coated them in flour, a mixture of egg and melted garlic butter and breadcrumbs before putting them into the oven to bake.
Mum and Dad arrived and by 7.30pm we were all sitting down to dinner which turned out very well, despite my earlier worries! With new potatoes, vegetables and a creamy garlic sauce the chicken went down very well, thank goodness! We all enjoyed the rest of the ice-cream cake for dessert and Keith and Sophie washed up while I relaxed in the living room with my Mum and Dad. Phew!
Tuesday 5 April 2016
Birthday celebrations!
Keith and I were up early this morning preparing Sophie's birthday breakfast - the Smokehouse Combo! Keith grated potatoes and half an onion to make the has browns while I sorted out the American style pancake batter.
We left opening presents and cards until my parents arrived at 10am and Sophie was thrilled with what she received from all of us. Getting breakfast ready was a bit hectic but we managed it and we served up bacon, smoked Frankfurthers, fried eggs (sunny side up), hash browns and pancakes served with maple syrup. Delicious! We even had sun and Florida skies to go with it!
Once my parents left we all scrambled to get ready as we had to leave the house by 1pm to drive to Cineworld in Milton Keynes to see the film Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice! We'd chosen to see it in the rock and rolling 4DX cinema so I knew we were in for a treat!
We arrived in good time and took our seats after buying some popcorn and drinks. The cinema slowly filled up and there were lots of children as it the Easter holidays still.
The film was very entertaining but I didn't have a clue what was going on and we really were thrown about a lot this time as there were loads of action scenes with people getting attacked and lots of flying about in the air. However, the lack of awareness didn't bother me as I just enjoyed all the special effects and being whisked about with my hair blown everywhere!
When we emerged I felt like I'd been in a tornado and we stumbled out into the early evening sunshine feeling a bit dazed and confused! We drove the short distance to the Hub and parked the car near Las Iguanas. As we had an hour before we'd booked our table we went to the Turtle Bay restaurant for a drink and we had an extremely pleasant hour sitting in the window in the sun and discussing the film. Luckily the kids told Keith and I what had been going on!
At 6pm we strolled over to Las Iguanas and took our seats in a booth. We ordered drinks while we looked at the menu and I decided to go with something different and try a new item on the menu, the pork ribs. Keith went for his usual, the half chicken and of course the children both went for the fajitas! When the waitress came to take our order she tols us she didn't have any chicken for our nacho starter (huh?) so we had to make do with chilli beef and a plain version and my ribs were off. I opted for the beefburger instead, only to find this was off as well. I was not very happy! As it was only 6pm on a Tuesday I was a bit surprised that they had run out of so many choices!
As usual our meals were fine and the music wasn't too loud. The restaurant slowly became much more busy and a group of women took their seats next to us with a tiny baby! Luckily, she was very good and didn't cry!
The kids wanted dessert so they had a good look at the menu and Sophie chose the Mojito jelly, something she'd been looking forward to for ages. However, it was also off! Sophie was one very disappointed birthday girl! As an apology Sophie's substitute - Churros - was free.
We left the restaurant at 8pm, drove home and then enjoyed a slice of ice-cream Birthday cake to round off the day!
We left opening presents and cards until my parents arrived at 10am and Sophie was thrilled with what she received from all of us. Getting breakfast ready was a bit hectic but we managed it and we served up bacon, smoked Frankfurthers, fried eggs (sunny side up), hash browns and pancakes served with maple syrup. Delicious! We even had sun and Florida skies to go with it!
Once my parents left we all scrambled to get ready as we had to leave the house by 1pm to drive to Cineworld in Milton Keynes to see the film Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice! We'd chosen to see it in the rock and rolling 4DX cinema so I knew we were in for a treat!
We arrived in good time and took our seats after buying some popcorn and drinks. The cinema slowly filled up and there were lots of children as it the Easter holidays still.
 |
| Sophie in the cinema |
The film was very entertaining but I didn't have a clue what was going on and we really were thrown about a lot this time as there were loads of action scenes with people getting attacked and lots of flying about in the air. However, the lack of awareness didn't bother me as I just enjoyed all the special effects and being whisked about with my hair blown everywhere!
When we emerged I felt like I'd been in a tornado and we stumbled out into the early evening sunshine feeling a bit dazed and confused! We drove the short distance to the Hub and parked the car near Las Iguanas. As we had an hour before we'd booked our table we went to the Turtle Bay restaurant for a drink and we had an extremely pleasant hour sitting in the window in the sun and discussing the film. Luckily the kids told Keith and I what had been going on!
At 6pm we strolled over to Las Iguanas and took our seats in a booth. We ordered drinks while we looked at the menu and I decided to go with something different and try a new item on the menu, the pork ribs. Keith went for his usual, the half chicken and of course the children both went for the fajitas! When the waitress came to take our order she tols us she didn't have any chicken for our nacho starter (huh?) so we had to make do with chilli beef and a plain version and my ribs were off. I opted for the beefburger instead, only to find this was off as well. I was not very happy! As it was only 6pm on a Tuesday I was a bit surprised that they had run out of so many choices!
As usual our meals were fine and the music wasn't too loud. The restaurant slowly became much more busy and a group of women took their seats next to us with a tiny baby! Luckily, she was very good and didn't cry!
The kids wanted dessert so they had a good look at the menu and Sophie chose the Mojito jelly, something she'd been looking forward to for ages. However, it was also off! Sophie was one very disappointed birthday girl! As an apology Sophie's substitute - Churros - was free.
We left the restaurant at 8pm, drove home and then enjoyed a slice of ice-cream Birthday cake to round off the day!
 |
| I broke one of the letters so we had to adapt the words! |
Monday 4 April 2016
Rat trap!
It was lovely to know that we could all have a lie-in this morning but I was awake and up by 7.30am and enjoying my first coffee of the day.
The weather looked a bit miserable first thing and last night we had torrential rain and wind which was surprising after such a nice day. Of course, we are entering the period of April showers now when the sky can get very dramatic!
When I was in the kitchen this morning I saw the rat again and Keith rushed out to the garden and started brandishing our hoe about! However, it had long gone so we decided to make buying a trap a priority today. Sophie was not so keen on our plans and has named it Barney but we're adamant we don't want it, or any others, in the garden.
We took Sophie to her nail appointment at 11am and drove over to the Weston Favell Centre as we needed a few things in Tesco. Sophie wants me to make IHOP's Smokehouse Combo breakfast for her birthday tomorrow so I needed more eggs and maple syrup for the pancakes. Mum and Dad are also coming so it looks like it's going to be a busy start to the day!
We went to Wilco's and bought two very powerful looking traps for an extremely reasonable price! Let's hope they work!
We picked up Sophie from the nail salon, drove to Boots for some last minute holiday items and then it was home for lunch. Keith set the two traps in the garden so we spent a lot of the afternoon watching them in case the rat appeared again!
Sue came around for a cup of tea later in the day and we polished off the remaining chocolate and raspberry muffins. The weather changed from dry and sunny to heavy downpours with very dark skies. It's certainly April!
The weather looked a bit miserable first thing and last night we had torrential rain and wind which was surprising after such a nice day. Of course, we are entering the period of April showers now when the sky can get very dramatic!
When I was in the kitchen this morning I saw the rat again and Keith rushed out to the garden and started brandishing our hoe about! However, it had long gone so we decided to make buying a trap a priority today. Sophie was not so keen on our plans and has named it Barney but we're adamant we don't want it, or any others, in the garden.
We took Sophie to her nail appointment at 11am and drove over to the Weston Favell Centre as we needed a few things in Tesco. Sophie wants me to make IHOP's Smokehouse Combo breakfast for her birthday tomorrow so I needed more eggs and maple syrup for the pancakes. Mum and Dad are also coming so it looks like it's going to be a busy start to the day!
We went to Wilco's and bought two very powerful looking traps for an extremely reasonable price! Let's hope they work!
We picked up Sophie from the nail salon, drove to Boots for some last minute holiday items and then it was home for lunch. Keith set the two traps in the garden so we spent a lot of the afternoon watching them in case the rat appeared again!
Sue came around for a cup of tea later in the day and we polished off the remaining chocolate and raspberry muffins. The weather changed from dry and sunny to heavy downpours with very dark skies. It's certainly April!
Sunday 3 April 2016
A not-so-welcome visitor to the garden!
When we were away last weekend Sophie mentioned to us that she saw a rat in the garden. At first we were reluctant to believe her as we do see the odd squirrel from time to time, but she was adamant it was a rat...and a big one at that!
Over the week I never saw a thing but this morning it appeared as I was sitting at my computer and sat and watched me from under a bush! I shouted to Keith who saw it as well and we both watched it run out, snatch some food from the tray of fat snax I put down for the birds and then scuttle off back along the fence into a neighbouring garden.
Keith went to investigate and found a gap in the fence. There is decking in next door's garden so it might well be living under that. We told Mike who fetched his air rifle and took up guard, sniper-like, by the bedroom window with his sights set on the bird food!
Monty has been doing a very good job lately of bringing us mice and shrews from the fields which means that in the past we may have mistakenly labelled Archie as the killer! Monty brings his presents home and leaves them on the mat for us to find!
Keith was really annoyed about the rat and vowed to do something about it. We went over to Tesco and then I suggested popping into B&Q in Kettering to get a trap but he wanted to get home for the cricket!
It's been a busy day today, preparing for Sophie's birthday on Tuesday. I did my best to make an ice-cream cake and layered raspberry ripple, vanilla and chocolate ice-creams into a large tin. I decorated the top with chocolate buttons and mini Oreos so I'm just hoping that after a couple of days of freezing it will look almost as good as the Gallone's one I buy every year!
I also made a batch of white chocolate and raspberry muffins and we enjoyed one with an afternoon cup of tea. In Tesco I bought a bottle of Tequila and one of Triple Sec as the aim is to treat Sophie to a Margarita when she gets in from work tonight. She's never tried one before but I sampled the cocktail the first time I went to Florida with my parents back in 2009, so I was keen to try one again.
Keith and I both picked her up from work at 6.30pm and I made her the drink as a surprise. Let the celebrations begin!
Over the week I never saw a thing but this morning it appeared as I was sitting at my computer and sat and watched me from under a bush! I shouted to Keith who saw it as well and we both watched it run out, snatch some food from the tray of fat snax I put down for the birds and then scuttle off back along the fence into a neighbouring garden.
Keith went to investigate and found a gap in the fence. There is decking in next door's garden so it might well be living under that. We told Mike who fetched his air rifle and took up guard, sniper-like, by the bedroom window with his sights set on the bird food!
Monty has been doing a very good job lately of bringing us mice and shrews from the fields which means that in the past we may have mistakenly labelled Archie as the killer! Monty brings his presents home and leaves them on the mat for us to find!
Keith was really annoyed about the rat and vowed to do something about it. We went over to Tesco and then I suggested popping into B&Q in Kettering to get a trap but he wanted to get home for the cricket!
It's been a busy day today, preparing for Sophie's birthday on Tuesday. I did my best to make an ice-cream cake and layered raspberry ripple, vanilla and chocolate ice-creams into a large tin. I decorated the top with chocolate buttons and mini Oreos so I'm just hoping that after a couple of days of freezing it will look almost as good as the Gallone's one I buy every year!
I also made a batch of white chocolate and raspberry muffins and we enjoyed one with an afternoon cup of tea. In Tesco I bought a bottle of Tequila and one of Triple Sec as the aim is to treat Sophie to a Margarita when she gets in from work tonight. She's never tried one before but I sampled the cocktail the first time I went to Florida with my parents back in 2009, so I was keen to try one again.
Keith and I both picked her up from work at 6.30pm and I made her the drink as a surprise. Let the celebrations begin!
Saturday 2 April 2016
First day of Spring?
After a very mizzly and grey start to the day the sun came out this afternoon and it was absolutely glorious. Our first Spring day so far?
I was up early and made a start on watching a new Swedish drama called Thicker Than Water which is very similar to the Danish, The Legacy, about a matriarch who calls her family together before she takes her own life. It was a bit slow to begin with but by the end of episode two I was hooked!
At midday Sophie and I went to Jones's as my daughter needed to get some bits for her trip to Rome. They had hardly anything that she needed so we drove down to Boots in town but they didn't have a lot of stuff either. On the way out of the shop my sunglasses broke so I went back in and treated myself to a new pair...for free! I just used my Boots points to pay for them, which was brilliant!
We had hair appointments booked for 1.30pm and the salon was very busy indeed. Sophie was seen to first which gave me an opportunity to relax and read a magazine. We both had our ends trimmed but Sophie did go a bit further than she planned and her hair is now quite short!
After the hairdresser's we went home and after eating lunch in the sun I washed my car while Sophie sorted out her wardrobe. I had a chat with a couple of neighbours and when Keith returned from watching his football team play we went up to the pub for a quick drink.
Sophie came with us and we took our usual seats in the window but a family with a little girl were sitting nearby and it became apparent that the child was bored and wanted to go home. When she started constantly whining and crying we decided it was time for us to leave as well!
After a delicious curry for dinner we all settled down to watch Jurassic World on television. We'd seen it last year at the cinema but it was great to watch it again. Keith fell asleep and Mike went to bed as he was very tired from his party but Sophie and I enjoyed it immensely!
I was up early and made a start on watching a new Swedish drama called Thicker Than Water which is very similar to the Danish, The Legacy, about a matriarch who calls her family together before she takes her own life. It was a bit slow to begin with but by the end of episode two I was hooked!
At midday Sophie and I went to Jones's as my daughter needed to get some bits for her trip to Rome. They had hardly anything that she needed so we drove down to Boots in town but they didn't have a lot of stuff either. On the way out of the shop my sunglasses broke so I went back in and treated myself to a new pair...for free! I just used my Boots points to pay for them, which was brilliant!
We had hair appointments booked for 1.30pm and the salon was very busy indeed. Sophie was seen to first which gave me an opportunity to relax and read a magazine. We both had our ends trimmed but Sophie did go a bit further than she planned and her hair is now quite short!
After the hairdresser's we went home and after eating lunch in the sun I washed my car while Sophie sorted out her wardrobe. I had a chat with a couple of neighbours and when Keith returned from watching his football team play we went up to the pub for a quick drink.
Sophie came with us and we took our usual seats in the window but a family with a little girl were sitting nearby and it became apparent that the child was bored and wanted to go home. When she started constantly whining and crying we decided it was time for us to leave as well!
After a delicious curry for dinner we all settled down to watch Jurassic World on television. We'd seen it last year at the cinema but it was great to watch it again. Keith fell asleep and Mike went to bed as he was very tired from his party but Sophie and I enjoyed it immensely!
Friday 1 April 2016
The end of another week!
I spent the morning catching up with outstanding jobs (such as writing this blog!) and pottering about the house. Sophie went into work at 11am which gave us all a bit of a lie-in this morning, which was lovely.
In the afternoon Keith had an appointment at the hospital for another CT scan. This time he had to swallow a special drink over an hour before he went in for the x-ray which tasted of aniseed, he said. By 5pm he was all done and we were walking out so we called Sophie to see if we could pick her up slightly earlier, rather than go home and pick her up half an hour later.
Back home Keith quickly changed and I dropped him off at the pub for his usual weekly meet-up with his mates. Mike was at a party this evening and would be staying over, thank goodness. It meant that we didn't have to go out at some ungodly hour and pick him up!
In the afternoon Keith had an appointment at the hospital for another CT scan. This time he had to swallow a special drink over an hour before he went in for the x-ray which tasted of aniseed, he said. By 5pm he was all done and we were walking out so we called Sophie to see if we could pick her up slightly earlier, rather than go home and pick her up half an hour later.
Back home Keith quickly changed and I dropped him off at the pub for his usual weekly meet-up with his mates. Mike was at a party this evening and would be staying over, thank goodness. It meant that we didn't have to go out at some ungodly hour and pick him up!
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