After a wet and windy start, today has been beautiful, but very cold. It has been windy but the weather hasn't affected us too much, thank goodness!
Sophie and Laura were off to Birmingham today as they had originally booked to go and see Lana Del Rey, but because of illness she had cancelled her UK and European tour. As Sophie and Laura had booked the hotel and train tickets, and they were non-refundable, they had decided to go anyway.
We picked up Laura and dropped them both off at the train station. From Northampton we headed to Riverside as I hadn't any bird food left and I felt like I had been neglecting our poor little feathered friends just lately. It's because we don't sit in the conservatory on the computer any more and we miss what's going on out there! I stocked up with fat snax and dried insects and we drove to see Mum and Dad and find out how their night had been.
My Dad was asleep when we arrived and he still looked very pale and thin. Mum said he'd slept on the sofa, which annoyed me as the bed was perfect for him when fully reclined. I had a stern word with him because if he falls over again I've said I'm going to emigrate!
Back home I decided to sort out all of the annoying little bowls and drawers that we have, that are full of clutter and rubbish. Why we keep some things, I'll never know!
Saturday 29 February 2020
Friday 28 February 2020
Phew! It's Friday!
I was very glad that today was Friday and I really hoped that my Dad would be able to come home today. Keith and Mike were going around to Mum's this morning to meet Darran who had the recliner chair for him and they were also going to help Mum move the furniture to accommodate it.
Work was fine and I was back at my desk, which was a bonus. I did admin work until 12pm and then answered the phones until I left at 2pm. Keith told me that my Dad was coming home today and we popped over to see Mum to make sure she was OK, and had something in for dinner tonight. She had done an online grocery order which would be delivered tomorrow but she was fine and just relieved he was coming home.
Sophie had had a bad day at work so she was a bit subdued this evening. We opened a bottle of wine and prepared dinner which was an easy meal of jacket potatoes with toppings and salad. Our film choice this evening was Presidio starring an ageing Sean Connery and Meg Ryan, which was set in San Francisco.
I went to get Keith from the pub in the rain and wind. We have another storm due tomorrow - this time it's a Spanish one named Jorge!
Work was fine and I was back at my desk, which was a bonus. I did admin work until 12pm and then answered the phones until I left at 2pm. Keith told me that my Dad was coming home today and we popped over to see Mum to make sure she was OK, and had something in for dinner tonight. She had done an online grocery order which would be delivered tomorrow but she was fine and just relieved he was coming home.
Sophie had had a bad day at work so she was a bit subdued this evening. We opened a bottle of wine and prepared dinner which was an easy meal of jacket potatoes with toppings and salad. Our film choice this evening was Presidio starring an ageing Sean Connery and Meg Ryan, which was set in San Francisco.
I went to get Keith from the pub in the rain and wind. We have another storm due tomorrow - this time it's a Spanish one named Jorge!
Thursday 27 February 2020
A wintry start
We were all up by 5am this morning and when I looked out of the window, there was no snow...yet! We took Sophie to Thrapston and on the way home it did start to snow but only lightly. I fervently hoped it wouldn't amount to much!
I took Sophie's car to work and had a good day putting on the films and the playscheme sessions for Easter. I was sat away from everyone else today as Olivia was in training with Sue but it was fine. I also went up to the projectionist's room to see how that worked and it was fascinating!
At 3pm I went straight to get Sophie from Thrapston and the weather had changed from being grey and wintry to sunny and dry. After collecting Sophie we drove to Kettering hospital to pick up Mum and take her home. By now Sophie and I were a bit weary so it was great to go home ourselves and relax for a while with a cup of tea. It was a bonus having Sophie home earlier than normal!
As predicted it was an early night for us all!
I took Sophie's car to work and had a good day putting on the films and the playscheme sessions for Easter. I was sat away from everyone else today as Olivia was in training with Sue but it was fine. I also went up to the projectionist's room to see how that worked and it was fascinating!
At 3pm I went straight to get Sophie from Thrapston and the weather had changed from being grey and wintry to sunny and dry. After collecting Sophie we drove to Kettering hospital to pick up Mum and take her home. By now Sophie and I were a bit weary so it was great to go home ourselves and relax for a while with a cup of tea. It was a bonus having Sophie home earlier than normal!
As predicted it was an early night for us all!
Wednesday 26 February 2020
A little treat!
I was determined to do something nice today as the past few Wednesdays seem to have been taken up with work, housework or medical appointments!
I suggested breakfast at Beckworth and Keith agreed so we set off and arrived just before 10am. The restaurant was quiet and we ordered coffee and their "light" breakfast which consisted of the usual suspects - egg bacon, sausage, baked beans, mushrooms, a tomato and a hash brown, served with toast. It was delicious!
Afterwards we mooched about but it was too cold to go outside and look at the plants. We had a word with the butcher as I would like to buy their rolled turkey to have for Easter Sunday. I'm hoping that Dad will be much better and that they can come for lunch, to make up for not having them over on Christmas Day.
From Beckworth we popped to Brixworth and I bought an old-fashioned clothes line prop in the amazing little hardware shop. It is stuffed to the gunnels with everything you can possibly think of for the home and of course, I knew they would have one. Our old one, that Keith made, is broken and I do like to have the line as high as possible to catch the breeze!
Back home we had a couple of hours to kill before it was time to collect Mum and take her to have her nails done. She had thought about cancelling but I said to go as she needed some time for herself. We dropped her off and went to the Weston Favell Centre where we bought dinner for tonight - chicken thighs for a spicy Cajun dish with vegetables and rice.
Once we'd picked Mum up we dropped her off at the hospital and she said she would get a taxi home as by now it was gone 4pm and I really didn't fancy venturing out again in the rush hour traffic this evening.
Tomorrow we have an early start as Sophie is going to a prison in Rochester and we're dropping her off in Thrapston at 6am... and, oh... it's supposed to snow!
I suggested breakfast at Beckworth and Keith agreed so we set off and arrived just before 10am. The restaurant was quiet and we ordered coffee and their "light" breakfast which consisted of the usual suspects - egg bacon, sausage, baked beans, mushrooms, a tomato and a hash brown, served with toast. It was delicious!
Afterwards we mooched about but it was too cold to go outside and look at the plants. We had a word with the butcher as I would like to buy their rolled turkey to have for Easter Sunday. I'm hoping that Dad will be much better and that they can come for lunch, to make up for not having them over on Christmas Day.
From Beckworth we popped to Brixworth and I bought an old-fashioned clothes line prop in the amazing little hardware shop. It is stuffed to the gunnels with everything you can possibly think of for the home and of course, I knew they would have one. Our old one, that Keith made, is broken and I do like to have the line as high as possible to catch the breeze!
Back home we had a couple of hours to kill before it was time to collect Mum and take her to have her nails done. She had thought about cancelling but I said to go as she needed some time for herself. We dropped her off and went to the Weston Favell Centre where we bought dinner for tonight - chicken thighs for a spicy Cajun dish with vegetables and rice.
Once we'd picked Mum up we dropped her off at the hospital and she said she would get a taxi home as by now it was gone 4pm and I really didn't fancy venturing out again in the rush hour traffic this evening.
Tomorrow we have an early start as Sophie is going to a prison in Rochester and we're dropping her off in Thrapston at 6am... and, oh... it's supposed to snow!
Tuesday 25 February 2020
New tasks!
I wasn't carrying out my usual job today at work - instead I was shown how to put films onto our system which I found very enjoyable. I was still in my usual office so I could hear the others answering the phones but I didn't have to, which was a bit of a relief after the busy time we've had lately!
The time absolutely flew and when I left at 2pm to go and meet Keith, the weather had changed from dry, bright and sunny to overcast with hail showers. I was pelted when I ran to the car park! We drove home, I quickly changed and then drove to Kettering hospital to see Mum. The car parks were so busy I had to park on the roof of the multi-storey, which wasn't as bad as I had feared!
Dad seemed OK and I finally got to have a word with one of the nurses who said they were waiting for the community physiotherapy team to assess him so he could go home. They were hoping it would be towards the end of the week or the weekend, but I said we had a chair/bed arranged which they were happy about.
Mum and I stayed for a while and then I took her to the Co-op to get some shopping. I realised it's Shrove Tuesday today so I bought a lemon and some raspberries to enjoy with a pancake tonight!
Dinner this evening was a simple quiche with new potatoes and then we enjoyed some pancakes that Keith had already made and had kept warm in the oven. Delicious!
The time absolutely flew and when I left at 2pm to go and meet Keith, the weather had changed from dry, bright and sunny to overcast with hail showers. I was pelted when I ran to the car park! We drove home, I quickly changed and then drove to Kettering hospital to see Mum. The car parks were so busy I had to park on the roof of the multi-storey, which wasn't as bad as I had feared!
Dad seemed OK and I finally got to have a word with one of the nurses who said they were waiting for the community physiotherapy team to assess him so he could go home. They were hoping it would be towards the end of the week or the weekend, but I said we had a chair/bed arranged which they were happy about.
Mum and I stayed for a while and then I took her to the Co-op to get some shopping. I realised it's Shrove Tuesday today so I bought a lemon and some raspberries to enjoy with a pancake tonight!
Dinner this evening was a simple quiche with new potatoes and then we enjoyed some pancakes that Keith had already made and had kept warm in the oven. Delicious!
Monday 24 February 2020
Getting things sorted...
I had a tearful phone call from Mum on my way to work first thing to say that my Dad was sounding confused again, but there was very little I could do as I was about to start work at 8am. I suggested to Mum that she call the hospital and speak to the nurses and said that I would see her this afternoon and that I'd go with her to see him tomorrow.
Thankfully work today was a lot quieter than last Monday! The children have gone back to school!
At 2pm Keith picked me up and we went to post a parcel for Sophie before heading back to Moulton Park to visit our ex-neighbour who sells and rents mobility chairs. Keith had popped to see him earlier and told him about Dad coming home from hospital, and needing somewhere to sit and sleep, and he had the perfect reclining chair.
His premises are based in our old car park and the place was rammed even though most of the children had probably gone back to school, and I noticed that our trees had had their branches lopped so there was a big stack of wood on the grass verge. I should think with the recent winds, this was very sensible!
We left Moulton Park and drove straight to Kettering hospital to collect Mum who said that Dad was slightly better. I said I would go in and see him tomorrow and find out what was happening with him coming home as both of us need to know what we need to get in place. We are both a bit fed up with trekking into hospital every day now!
Masterchef started again this evening... yippee!
Thankfully work today was a lot quieter than last Monday! The children have gone back to school!
At 2pm Keith picked me up and we went to post a parcel for Sophie before heading back to Moulton Park to visit our ex-neighbour who sells and rents mobility chairs. Keith had popped to see him earlier and told him about Dad coming home from hospital, and needing somewhere to sit and sleep, and he had the perfect reclining chair.
His premises are based in our old car park and the place was rammed even though most of the children had probably gone back to school, and I noticed that our trees had had their branches lopped so there was a big stack of wood on the grass verge. I should think with the recent winds, this was very sensible!
We left Moulton Park and drove straight to Kettering hospital to collect Mum who said that Dad was slightly better. I said I would go in and see him tomorrow and find out what was happening with him coming home as both of us need to know what we need to get in place. We are both a bit fed up with trekking into hospital every day now!
Masterchef started again this evening... yippee!
Sunday 23 February 2020
Fresh air fiends!
After a slow start this morning we all pitched in to do some housework. Sophie hoovered, Keith ironed and I changed our bed and cleaned the bathrooms. Outside it was bright and breezy again so I opened all the windows to let some fresh air in. It's been a day of sunshine and showers and it was lovely to see blue skies. It's due to get colder next week, with snow forecast for some areas!
At 2pm I went to get Mum and we drove to the hospital. At the same time Sophie went to see Daisy and Laura so it was just Mum and I visiting Dad. Yesterday I'd been speaking to two women who were both retired nurses and they were saying that he needed to drink plenty as this could have been causing his confusion. At the hospital both of us encouraged him to keep drinking and he was a lot better, although he is still very pale and thin.
We stayed for two hours and then I dropped Mum off at home. Mike had called about getting a lift home from Abbie's but in the end a friend gave him a lift back so I was spared having to go back out again!
There was just two of us for dinner tonight as Sophie was still out at her friend's house and Mike had been to a birthday party earlier in the day and had "stuffed his face". After eating we settled down to watch the fourth James Bond film, Thunderball and just as is started Sophie arrived home and Mike chose to come down and cook himself a pizza, so it was all very chaotic!
At 2pm I went to get Mum and we drove to the hospital. At the same time Sophie went to see Daisy and Laura so it was just Mum and I visiting Dad. Yesterday I'd been speaking to two women who were both retired nurses and they were saying that he needed to drink plenty as this could have been causing his confusion. At the hospital both of us encouraged him to keep drinking and he was a lot better, although he is still very pale and thin.
We stayed for two hours and then I dropped Mum off at home. Mike had called about getting a lift home from Abbie's but in the end a friend gave him a lift back so I was spared having to go back out again!
There was just two of us for dinner tonight as Sophie was still out at her friend's house and Mike had been to a birthday party earlier in the day and had "stuffed his face". After eating we settled down to watch the fourth James Bond film, Thunderball and just as is started Sophie arrived home and Mike chose to come down and cook himself a pizza, so it was all very chaotic!
Saturday 22 February 2020
Saturday relaxation!
After my late-ish night I had a lie-in this morning and it was lovely to start the day without rushing about! Outside the weather was bright and breezy and it was so good to see the sun for a change!
Late morning, Sophie and I went to the village to the ROAR! drop in session which was all about the recycling we accept, but more importantly, what we don't! I was very impressed with all the hard work that had been put into the display and there was a large table with alternatives to wasteful or plastic packaging. I added our own water filter jug to the products on show as this has cut down on our use of bottled water. We also picked up some freebies such as stretchy plastic wrap for keeping food fresh and some handy measuring implements from Daventry District council!
We also saw these which we liked the look of:
We stayed for an hour and had a good chat and then went to pick up Mum to take her to hospital to see Dad. Sophie wanted to go to Market Harborough again so we drove there and had lunch first. Our favourite little cafe is tucked away behind a shop selling gifts and we love it there. We shared a cheese and chutney toastie followed by a slice of lemon and raspberry cake with big pots of tea. Delicious!
We had a mooch around the shops and I found another James Bond film while Sophie picked out two dresses and a top in the Age Concern outlet. We drove back to collect Mum and then it was home to relax...and book a trip to France in April for Sophie's birthday! We're going back to the same Airbnb in Wimereux, but this time for two nights as we want to visit Boulogne on the Sunday.
Dinner this evening was beef stroganoff followed by the film To Catch a Thief starring Cary Grant and Grace Kelly. Fab!
Late morning, Sophie and I went to the village to the ROAR! drop in session which was all about the recycling we accept, but more importantly, what we don't! I was very impressed with all the hard work that had been put into the display and there was a large table with alternatives to wasteful or plastic packaging. I added our own water filter jug to the products on show as this has cut down on our use of bottled water. We also picked up some freebies such as stretchy plastic wrap for keeping food fresh and some handy measuring implements from Daventry District council!
We also saw these which we liked the look of:
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| A bag made from juice cartons |
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| A purse made from crisp and snack packets |
We stayed for an hour and had a good chat and then went to pick up Mum to take her to hospital to see Dad. Sophie wanted to go to Market Harborough again so we drove there and had lunch first. Our favourite little cafe is tucked away behind a shop selling gifts and we love it there. We shared a cheese and chutney toastie followed by a slice of lemon and raspberry cake with big pots of tea. Delicious!
We had a mooch around the shops and I found another James Bond film while Sophie picked out two dresses and a top in the Age Concern outlet. We drove back to collect Mum and then it was home to relax...and book a trip to France in April for Sophie's birthday! We're going back to the same Airbnb in Wimereux, but this time for two nights as we want to visit Boulogne on the Sunday.
Dinner this evening was beef stroganoff followed by the film To Catch a Thief starring Cary Grant and Grace Kelly. Fab!
Friday 21 February 2020
Phew! It's Friday at last!
This week has been hard work and I am so glad I don't work full-time! Poor Keith, who normally has a Friday off, had to drive me into work as he was picking Mum up again at 1pm.
Thankfully, today was an easy, pleasant day at work without any silly phone calls (although I did speak to a lovely lady from Kent who was looking for hotels near one of our centres!) and it was great to escape at 2pm and go home to change out of my work clothes.
I called Mum to say I was going to pick her up at 3pm and she said that my Dad was a lot better and nowhere near as confused as he had been... are we turning a corner? I picked her up from the hospital and we went and collected her prescription from the chemist at Mawsley and then drove to Tesco at Kettering where she did a shop to last her over the weekend. While she was shopping I sat and enjoyed a decaffeinated Flat White and I treated her to a coffee and a chocolate when she finished.
The weather has been grey and dismal today with a stiff breeze so I don't think Spring has sprung just yet! After I dropped her off I drove home the scenic route and I relished the ten minutes of peace on the journey. It was lovely and the sky was beautiful!
This evening I went out with Lynda, Fiona and Andrea and we chose Miller and Carter for a meal. Sophie and Keith gave me a lift and I arrived just after Fiona who was at the bar ordering a Gin and Tonic. We had a chat and then Lynda arrived looking very glamorous. Andrea appeared shortly afterwards and we all had a good catch up until our table was ready.
I was hungry so we ordered starters - I enjoyed Chipotle chicken bites while the others went for calamari and prawns. After the starters we were given iceberg lettuce wedges with our choice of dressings and I wolfed mine down as it was so delicious! As a treat we'd decided to go for the 16oz Chateaubriand (for two) and this was served as a whole steak alongside seasoned fries, salad and a slice of onion loaf. We cut the steak and I shared mine with Lynda.
It was a lovely evening but an expensive one - the bill came to about £223 so £60 each to include a tip, which was fine as our waitress had been lovely. We had two bottles of Cabernet Sauvignon with the meal but no desserts - the others had coffees and I had a chamomile tea.
Keith and Sophie returned to pick me up and as soon as we arrived home it was off to bed!
Thankfully, today was an easy, pleasant day at work without any silly phone calls (although I did speak to a lovely lady from Kent who was looking for hotels near one of our centres!) and it was great to escape at 2pm and go home to change out of my work clothes.
I called Mum to say I was going to pick her up at 3pm and she said that my Dad was a lot better and nowhere near as confused as he had been... are we turning a corner? I picked her up from the hospital and we went and collected her prescription from the chemist at Mawsley and then drove to Tesco at Kettering where she did a shop to last her over the weekend. While she was shopping I sat and enjoyed a decaffeinated Flat White and I treated her to a coffee and a chocolate when she finished.
The weather has been grey and dismal today with a stiff breeze so I don't think Spring has sprung just yet! After I dropped her off I drove home the scenic route and I relished the ten minutes of peace on the journey. It was lovely and the sky was beautiful!
This evening I went out with Lynda, Fiona and Andrea and we chose Miller and Carter for a meal. Sophie and Keith gave me a lift and I arrived just after Fiona who was at the bar ordering a Gin and Tonic. We had a chat and then Lynda arrived looking very glamorous. Andrea appeared shortly afterwards and we all had a good catch up until our table was ready.
I was hungry so we ordered starters - I enjoyed Chipotle chicken bites while the others went for calamari and prawns. After the starters we were given iceberg lettuce wedges with our choice of dressings and I wolfed mine down as it was so delicious! As a treat we'd decided to go for the 16oz Chateaubriand (for two) and this was served as a whole steak alongside seasoned fries, salad and a slice of onion loaf. We cut the steak and I shared mine with Lynda.
It was a lovely evening but an expensive one - the bill came to about £223 so £60 each to include a tip, which was fine as our waitress had been lovely. We had two bottles of Cabernet Sauvignon with the meal but no desserts - the others had coffees and I had a chamomile tea.
Keith and Sophie returned to pick me up and as soon as we arrived home it was off to bed!
Thursday 20 February 2020
A long day!
Yesterday felt like a Thursday so it was a shock to wake up this morning and find it was really Thursday! Keith drove me to work and I was facing a long shift until 4pm. Groan! I was also training a potential new member of staff, which I wasn't looking forward to!
I managed to get a lot of admin work done before 9am when she arrived and at first I wasn't impressed. She was a lovely girl but I felt she wasn't that interested in what we do. However, as the morning wore on she became a bit more lively so maybe she was tired...she is a student after all!
Today was hard work, though, and I was very glad when it was 4pm and I could go and get Mum from hospital. She was quite upset as Dad had been very confused and a bit sharp with her and we wondered what on earth had happened to make him like this. They had moved him to another ward so maybe that was the reason?
It was past 5pm again when we got home and my normal routine has gone out of the window this week. We had a lovely dinner, though, and Keith prepared quiche, salad and crushed new potatoes. I also enjoyed a Bourbon with ginger ale...delicious!
I managed to get a lot of admin work done before 9am when she arrived and at first I wasn't impressed. She was a lovely girl but I felt she wasn't that interested in what we do. However, as the morning wore on she became a bit more lively so maybe she was tired...she is a student after all!
Today was hard work, though, and I was very glad when it was 4pm and I could go and get Mum from hospital. She was quite upset as Dad had been very confused and a bit sharp with her and we wondered what on earth had happened to make him like this. They had moved him to another ward so maybe that was the reason?
It was past 5pm again when we got home and my normal routine has gone out of the window this week. We had a lovely dinner, though, and Keith prepared quiche, salad and crushed new potatoes. I also enjoyed a Bourbon with ginger ale...delicious!
Wednesday 19 February 2020
A busy day!
I was back in at work this morning which was a shock! I drove myself as I had an appointment for an ECG at midday and I finished work at 11am. It was manic as usual and I felt a little guilty when I walked out but I've agreed to work an extra hour tomorrow to cover someone who is off sick.
The weather today has been horrible - grey and rainy - so I'm sure all the centres are busy and our soft play place extra busy! I heard the other day that 360 Play at Rushden Lakes has had to close all week because of the recent storms... they must be devastated as this February half-term week was always the busiest of the year for us!
The ECG was fine and was over very quickly. The nurse also did my blood tests so that means I don't have to go next Wednesday. I left the surgery, went home to change out of my work clothes and then drove to collect Mum and go to the hospital with her. My Dad seemed a lot better and we had a chat and a laugh with him although he was still speaking very quietly. We stayed for almost two hours and I went to get him a coffee from Costa which he really appreciated!
On the way home I called Keith and asked whether Mike wanted a lift into town because he was going to stay with Abbie. He is off to London at the weekend to see Lana del Rey at the O2 and will probably stay for a while with her. Keith said that Mike wanted the lift so we drove home and thankfully he wasn't too long getting ready to go! I dropped him off in town and then drove to the Weston Favell Centre as both Mum and I needed to go to the bank and the post office.
We did our jobs and Mum bought a birthday card for my uncle who lives in Cyprus. She treated me to a Flat White in Costa and then I took her home. It was 5pm! Where on earth has today gone?!
Back home (Sophie had beaten me to it) we decided to go and have a meal at The Royal Oak as all of us were a little fed-up and weary. I didn't want to drive too far and our local was the perfect choice! We have a very relaxed evening and Sophie and I shared a bottle of wine that went very well with our cod and chips!
We had dessert and then it was home, into pyjamas and a curl up on the sofa. Bliss!
The weather today has been horrible - grey and rainy - so I'm sure all the centres are busy and our soft play place extra busy! I heard the other day that 360 Play at Rushden Lakes has had to close all week because of the recent storms... they must be devastated as this February half-term week was always the busiest of the year for us!
The ECG was fine and was over very quickly. The nurse also did my blood tests so that means I don't have to go next Wednesday. I left the surgery, went home to change out of my work clothes and then drove to collect Mum and go to the hospital with her. My Dad seemed a lot better and we had a chat and a laugh with him although he was still speaking very quietly. We stayed for almost two hours and I went to get him a coffee from Costa which he really appreciated!
On the way home I called Keith and asked whether Mike wanted a lift into town because he was going to stay with Abbie. He is off to London at the weekend to see Lana del Rey at the O2 and will probably stay for a while with her. Keith said that Mike wanted the lift so we drove home and thankfully he wasn't too long getting ready to go! I dropped him off in town and then drove to the Weston Favell Centre as both Mum and I needed to go to the bank and the post office.
We did our jobs and Mum bought a birthday card for my uncle who lives in Cyprus. She treated me to a Flat White in Costa and then I took her home. It was 5pm! Where on earth has today gone?!
Back home (Sophie had beaten me to it) we decided to go and have a meal at The Royal Oak as all of us were a little fed-up and weary. I didn't want to drive too far and our local was the perfect choice! We have a very relaxed evening and Sophie and I shared a bottle of wine that went very well with our cod and chips!
We had dessert and then it was home, into pyjamas and a curl up on the sofa. Bliss!
Tuesday 18 February 2020
Traffic trauma
Keith dropped me off at work again this morning and said he would take mum to the hospital this afternoon. Joanne and I had another manic day with hundreds of calls again. I'm sure it wasn't this busy last February half-term!
I'd said to Mum I would pick her up a bit later today because she didn't have a great deal of time with Dad yesterday. On the way home we saw two police cars go screaming up the A43, followed by another police car and a paramedic. I looked at Google maps and saw that the stretch of road after the Holcot roundabout was at a standstill so it looked like there'd been an accident.
At home I pottered about and did some jobs and we picked Mum up at about 4.30pm. Unfortunately there had been a bad accident on the A43 and it was closed between Hannington and the Holcot roundabout (we later found out that three people in a car had died).
It took Sophie half an hour to go the distance between the roundabout and Holcot and she didn't arrive home until 6pm. Normally I would have looked forward to Wednesday off work but I'm in covering a colleague for three hours tomorrow. I'm just hoping it won't be as busy!
I'd said to Mum I would pick her up a bit later today because she didn't have a great deal of time with Dad yesterday. On the way home we saw two police cars go screaming up the A43, followed by another police car and a paramedic. I looked at Google maps and saw that the stretch of road after the Holcot roundabout was at a standstill so it looked like there'd been an accident.
At home I pottered about and did some jobs and we picked Mum up at about 4.30pm. Unfortunately there had been a bad accident on the A43 and it was closed between Hannington and the Holcot roundabout (we later found out that three people in a car had died).
It took Sophie half an hour to go the distance between the roundabout and Holcot and she didn't arrive home until 6pm. Normally I would have looked forward to Wednesday off work but I'm in covering a colleague for three hours tomorrow. I'm just hoping it won't be as busy!
Monday 17 February 2020
A mad day!
Keith took me into work today as he was dropping Mum off at the hospital this afternoon. There were only two of us manning the phones and it was a mad, mad day with non-stop phone calls. I was so relieved I didn't have to do the box office returns as I would never have coped! Luckily, Sheila was training another member of staff to do them so there are more of us capable of doing the job. Most of the calls were about swimming times and parents trying to enrol their children onto our crash courses which started today!
At 2pm Keith picked me up and and we went to get Mum from the hospital. My Dad didn't seem as confused as he was over the weekend so that was a bit of a relief. We took her back and I managed to get some things done at home.
This morning was dry and sunny but the heavens opened in the afternoon. I hardly think a day has gone by lately without any rain and the fields around us are flooded, with the excess water running out onto the roads. Roll on warmer Spring days and sunshine!
At 2pm Keith picked me up and and we went to get Mum from the hospital. My Dad didn't seem as confused as he was over the weekend so that was a bit of a relief. We took her back and I managed to get some things done at home.
This morning was dry and sunny but the heavens opened in the afternoon. I hardly think a day has gone by lately without any rain and the fields around us are flooded, with the excess water running out onto the roads. Roll on warmer Spring days and sunshine!
Sunday 16 February 2020
Here comes the sun!
We all had a very lazy morning and outside the weather was still horrible. I think our region escaped lightly from Storm Dennis but the western side of the country was much more badly affected with flooding in South Wales.
I finished my 2012 blog and have sent it off to be made into a book. I can't wait to see it! Hopefully, it will look a bit more professional than the last one! It will be so lovely to have it as a keepsake to pass down to other generations! I wish my ancestors were able to do that!
We collected Mum from her house at about 1pm and went over to the hospital to see Dad. He was still a little confused but did look a lot better and he wasn't so pale. We stayed for a little while and then Sophie and I went downstairs to have a coffee. There is so little room by his bed!
After we'd gone back up and had another chat we took Mum to Beckworth Emporium for a much-needed break. When we arrived the sun had come out and the sky was blue and what a difference it made to my mood! I felt so much happier!
Mum wanted a glass of Prosecco (and who can blame her?) while Sophie and I had cold drinks and shared a savoury scone. We didn't want to make the same mistake we made yesterday when we were too full for dinner! Sophie had spent a good part of the morning preparing a sausage casserole for dinner and we were both looking forward to eating it!
After we'd eaten we mooched about but none of us were in the mood to look at the outdoor plants just yet. Apparently more wet and windy weather is on its way!
After dropping Mum off we returned home and relaxed. The casserole was in the oven cooking slowly and Keith helped Sophie put the finishing touches to the meal. It was, as predicted, delicious!
I finished my 2012 blog and have sent it off to be made into a book. I can't wait to see it! Hopefully, it will look a bit more professional than the last one! It will be so lovely to have it as a keepsake to pass down to other generations! I wish my ancestors were able to do that!
We collected Mum from her house at about 1pm and went over to the hospital to see Dad. He was still a little confused but did look a lot better and he wasn't so pale. We stayed for a little while and then Sophie and I went downstairs to have a coffee. There is so little room by his bed!
After we'd gone back up and had another chat we took Mum to Beckworth Emporium for a much-needed break. When we arrived the sun had come out and the sky was blue and what a difference it made to my mood! I felt so much happier!
Mum wanted a glass of Prosecco (and who can blame her?) while Sophie and I had cold drinks and shared a savoury scone. We didn't want to make the same mistake we made yesterday when we were too full for dinner! Sophie had spent a good part of the morning preparing a sausage casserole for dinner and we were both looking forward to eating it!
After we'd eaten we mooched about but none of us were in the mood to look at the outdoor plants just yet. Apparently more wet and windy weather is on its way!
After dropping Mum off we returned home and relaxed. The casserole was in the oven cooking slowly and Keith helped Sophie put the finishing touches to the meal. It was, as predicted, delicious!
Saturday 15 February 2020
Storm Dennis
Following hot on the heels of Storm Ciara last weekend, we have another coming our way today and tomorrow - Storm Dennis. We awoke to grey skies and a brisk wind this morning but it wasn't as bad as I had anticipated.
Sophie had an eye test booked for 11am but on the way to the Weston Favell Centre she realised she didn't have her glasses with her, or the voucher for a free test so we decided to re-arrange the test for next month, when hopefully things will be a bit calmer and dad should be home from hospital.
The Weston Favell Centre was extremely busy with people doing their shopping so after buying the newspaper and some daffodils for mum we drove over to her house. By now it was raining and the wind had picked up so we dropped her off near the hospital entrance and went to park the car.
Dad looked a bit pale and fragile so after saying hello we agreed to pick mum up at 4pm again - there was really no point us staying as there was hardly any room by the bed and I absolutely hate hospital visiting.
Sophie and I fled to Farndon Fields to have some lunch. We had originally planned on going to Market Harborough to the new Eco Village but the weather was still worsening and we didn't fancy walking around in the wind and rain!
As usual, Farndon Fields was busy so there was a bit of a wait until we got a table. Sophie had a sandwich while I had an omelette with mushrooms; we were both starving! Keith called us half way through our meal to say that mum wanted us to go back so after doing a quick shop we dashed back to Kettering.
The weather was bad now and on the way to the hospital we saw lots of fallen trees from Ciara last week. We parked in the nearer of the two car parks and ran up to the ward to find mum a bit stressed about dad who was a little confused. He doesn't react well to anaesthetic and she was upset that he didn't seem to know what he was doing. I assured her that he would be OK in a couple of days, once the drugs had worn off. We had a chat, and a laugh with him, and then we took mum home.
I suggested she pour herself a drink and watch a good film to take her mind off things. Back home we had a strange evening as none of us really fancied dinner (Sophie and I were still full from lunch) and we just sat and watched some TV while outside the storm raged. However, it wasn't as bad as last week and as the evening wore on the wind died down a bit.
We did have some apple crumble and custard later in the evening and then it was an earlyish night again. Let's hope tomorrow is a better day!
Sophie had an eye test booked for 11am but on the way to the Weston Favell Centre she realised she didn't have her glasses with her, or the voucher for a free test so we decided to re-arrange the test for next month, when hopefully things will be a bit calmer and dad should be home from hospital.
The Weston Favell Centre was extremely busy with people doing their shopping so after buying the newspaper and some daffodils for mum we drove over to her house. By now it was raining and the wind had picked up so we dropped her off near the hospital entrance and went to park the car.
Dad looked a bit pale and fragile so after saying hello we agreed to pick mum up at 4pm again - there was really no point us staying as there was hardly any room by the bed and I absolutely hate hospital visiting.
Sophie and I fled to Farndon Fields to have some lunch. We had originally planned on going to Market Harborough to the new Eco Village but the weather was still worsening and we didn't fancy walking around in the wind and rain!
As usual, Farndon Fields was busy so there was a bit of a wait until we got a table. Sophie had a sandwich while I had an omelette with mushrooms; we were both starving! Keith called us half way through our meal to say that mum wanted us to go back so after doing a quick shop we dashed back to Kettering.
The weather was bad now and on the way to the hospital we saw lots of fallen trees from Ciara last week. We parked in the nearer of the two car parks and ran up to the ward to find mum a bit stressed about dad who was a little confused. He doesn't react well to anaesthetic and she was upset that he didn't seem to know what he was doing. I assured her that he would be OK in a couple of days, once the drugs had worn off. We had a chat, and a laugh with him, and then we took mum home.
I suggested she pour herself a drink and watch a good film to take her mind off things. Back home we had a strange evening as none of us really fancied dinner (Sophie and I were still full from lunch) and we just sat and watched some TV while outside the storm raged. However, it wasn't as bad as last week and as the evening wore on the wind died down a bit.
We did have some apple crumble and custard later in the evening and then it was an earlyish night again. Let's hope tomorrow is a better day!
Friday 14 February 2020
Feeling a bit miserable...
I didn't have a very good night's sleep and I made the decision to call Sara early in the morning and take a day's holiday. Another staff member was covering my shift anyway as I was supposed to be training with Sheila. I felt terrible this morning - really tired and very sad about what had happened to my dad yesterday. I tried to go back to sleep but my head was full of worries so I got up and called mum who hadn't slept well either.
I arranged to pick her up at about 9.30am and take her shopping. My dad was due to have an operation today and we didn't know what time he'd be going down to the theatre. After a shower I felt a bit better and went to get mum. Luckily the weather was gorgeous and after popping to the pharmacy so she could pick up her prescription, we drove to Tesco where she shopped for the weekend.
Afterwards we had a coffee and I called the hospital who said my dad was comfortable but that he hadn't gone down to the theatre yet for his operation. She said to call again at 1pm when we could visit.
I took mum back and then went home to pootle about for a while. Mike was spending the weekend at Abbie's (and of course, it's Valentine's Day today) so we dropped him off in town. Before going back to collect Mum and go to the hospital, I made myself a quick sandwich and put some make-up on as I had a red face for some reason! I think it was the wind the other day!
When I arrived at mum's a neighbour was sitting having a coffee with her, which was great. She lives across the road and I was glad mum could have someone to talk to. After a chat we left to go to the hospital but when we arrived on the ward, dad had gone down to have his operation. We left his bag and went and had a coffee in the hospital's Costa. Outside the weather had deteriorated and the sky was covered in cloud. I took mum home, made sure she was OK and then left.
This evening Sophie made me a large bourbon with a mixer and we relaxed. She hardly drank her drink so she drove down to get Keith and we had soup and crusty bread for dinner. I felt shattered after today and I was looking forward to a lie-in tomorrow morning!
I arranged to pick her up at about 9.30am and take her shopping. My dad was due to have an operation today and we didn't know what time he'd be going down to the theatre. After a shower I felt a bit better and went to get mum. Luckily the weather was gorgeous and after popping to the pharmacy so she could pick up her prescription, we drove to Tesco where she shopped for the weekend.
Afterwards we had a coffee and I called the hospital who said my dad was comfortable but that he hadn't gone down to the theatre yet for his operation. She said to call again at 1pm when we could visit.
I took mum back and then went home to pootle about for a while. Mike was spending the weekend at Abbie's (and of course, it's Valentine's Day today) so we dropped him off in town. Before going back to collect Mum and go to the hospital, I made myself a quick sandwich and put some make-up on as I had a red face for some reason! I think it was the wind the other day!
When I arrived at mum's a neighbour was sitting having a coffee with her, which was great. She lives across the road and I was glad mum could have someone to talk to. After a chat we left to go to the hospital but when we arrived on the ward, dad had gone down to have his operation. We left his bag and went and had a coffee in the hospital's Costa. Outside the weather had deteriorated and the sky was covered in cloud. I took mum home, made sure she was OK and then left.
This evening Sophie made me a large bourbon with a mixer and we relaxed. She hardly drank her drink so she drove down to get Keith and we had soup and crusty bread for dinner. I felt shattered after today and I was looking forward to a lie-in tomorrow morning!
Thursday 13 February 2020
Yet another shock...
Keith took me to work this morning and my shift passed pleasantly enough. I've been asked to take on more of the cinema work with maybe some extra hours, so that was good!
When I came out of work at 3pm Keith met me with the news that my dad had fallen over again and my mum had called an ambulance. I couldn't believe what I was hearing, to be honest, and I just hoped that he hadn't broken anything again.
Keith and I sped over to their house and the ambulance was still there. My dad was lying on the floor and had been given painkillers. The paramedics were worried that he'd broken his other leg this time. I have to confess to feeling quite angry about the whole situation as my dad knows he can be unsteady on his feet and all the advice that he'd been given the last time had been ignored, such as using a walking stick or even a zimmer frame to help his balance. I just stood there thinking about the implications of a broken bone, the hospital stay and then the long period of recovery when they would be marooned in their house as my mum doesn't drive.
After a good period of time the paramedics were ready to get him onto a stretcher so we moved all of the furniture out of the way and they managed to manoeuvre him without causing too much pain. It didn't look good though as they were having to give him morphine.
My mum went into the ambulance with him and Keith and I tidied up the house and then locked it up. We went home and at 6pm I called my mum who said he had broken his hip. I was devastated, to be honest, both for him and for her.
Keith and I went to get my mum from A&E and the place was like a war zone. There were notices everywhere about the Coronavirus and we made sure we washed our hands thoroughly. That's all we need!
My dad seemed comfortable and was lying on a bed in a cubicle. We'd had difficulty locating them both, and after making sure he was OK we left to go home. Mum said she would ring later and find out which ward he'd been taken to.
Back home, Sophie had made dinner but first we sat and had a drink - I think I definitely needed one tonight!
When I came out of work at 3pm Keith met me with the news that my dad had fallen over again and my mum had called an ambulance. I couldn't believe what I was hearing, to be honest, and I just hoped that he hadn't broken anything again.
Keith and I sped over to their house and the ambulance was still there. My dad was lying on the floor and had been given painkillers. The paramedics were worried that he'd broken his other leg this time. I have to confess to feeling quite angry about the whole situation as my dad knows he can be unsteady on his feet and all the advice that he'd been given the last time had been ignored, such as using a walking stick or even a zimmer frame to help his balance. I just stood there thinking about the implications of a broken bone, the hospital stay and then the long period of recovery when they would be marooned in their house as my mum doesn't drive.
After a good period of time the paramedics were ready to get him onto a stretcher so we moved all of the furniture out of the way and they managed to manoeuvre him without causing too much pain. It didn't look good though as they were having to give him morphine.
My mum went into the ambulance with him and Keith and I tidied up the house and then locked it up. We went home and at 6pm I called my mum who said he had broken his hip. I was devastated, to be honest, both for him and for her.
Keith and I went to get my mum from A&E and the place was like a war zone. There were notices everywhere about the Coronavirus and we made sure we washed our hands thoroughly. That's all we need!
My dad seemed comfortable and was lying on a bed in a cubicle. We'd had difficulty locating them both, and after making sure he was OK we left to go home. Mum said she would ring later and find out which ward he'd been taken to.
Back home, Sophie had made dinner but first we sat and had a drink - I think I definitely needed one tonight!
Wednesday 12 February 2020
Getting things done!
ET was booked in for a service this morning so I took Sophie to work at 8am and then drove back over to Kettering to meet Keith. Today was the first time I had driven on the southbound stretch of the new A43 and it was really weird seeing it from a different perspective!
It's been another gorgeous day today but the sun made driving quite difficult, especially as my windows had water marks on them. I collected Keith from near B&Q, where he had managed to walk to after dropping off ET, and we popped to Tesco for some breakfast and coffee. Without really thinking I ordered myself a sausage bap from Costa... oops! I have realised, though, that I will never be a vegetarian, it's just not for me!
Keith and I shopped for tonight and decided on a hearty chicken curry for dinner. Sophie agreed and said she would pick out the meat and just eat the vegetables!
Back home I swept the front of the house as there were loads of willow tree branches all over the road and in the garden from the storm of last weekend. It all looked so much tidier when I'd finished!
I decided to take my car through the carwash and texted Sophie to see if she wanted to come with me. She said she'd love to so I quickly drove to pick her up from work and we went to Morrisons in town. After finally managing to find my way into the carwash we put it through so it was enormously cleaner at the other end! I dropped Sophie back off, went home to finish the car off with a cloth and then managed to put the hoover around before going back to Kettering to collect ET. The cost was £240, a bit more than we had been expecting, to be honest! However, it's all serviced, has new tyres and been MOT'd do that should be it for a while!
I went to get Soph from work and back home we relaxed before our chicken curry dinner. It was delicious!
It's been another gorgeous day today but the sun made driving quite difficult, especially as my windows had water marks on them. I collected Keith from near B&Q, where he had managed to walk to after dropping off ET, and we popped to Tesco for some breakfast and coffee. Without really thinking I ordered myself a sausage bap from Costa... oops! I have realised, though, that I will never be a vegetarian, it's just not for me!
Keith and I shopped for tonight and decided on a hearty chicken curry for dinner. Sophie agreed and said she would pick out the meat and just eat the vegetables!
Back home I swept the front of the house as there were loads of willow tree branches all over the road and in the garden from the storm of last weekend. It all looked so much tidier when I'd finished!
I decided to take my car through the carwash and texted Sophie to see if she wanted to come with me. She said she'd love to so I quickly drove to pick her up from work and we went to Morrisons in town. After finally managing to find my way into the carwash we put it through so it was enormously cleaner at the other end! I dropped Sophie back off, went home to finish the car off with a cloth and then managed to put the hoover around before going back to Kettering to collect ET. The cost was £240, a bit more than we had been expecting, to be honest! However, it's all serviced, has new tyres and been MOT'd do that should be it for a while!
I went to get Soph from work and back home we relaxed before our chicken curry dinner. It was delicious!
Tuesday 11 February 2020
A quick walk
Work was a little quieter today but it's half term next week so no doubt we'll be busy again! I really can't believe that the children are on holiday next week - it only seems like two minutes since it was the Christmas break!
I managed to persuade Keith to come out for a walk with me when I got home from work and we walked around the estate and then down to the bus stop in the village before turning back around again. It was very cold and the wind was still strong so we both had rosy faces when we got home! Despite the wind, today has been sunny and dry but we have another storm brewing on the horizon - this time it's Storm Dennis!
Keith went to see Sileby play this evening so Sophie and I cooked dinner - veggie escalopes with a traybake of different vegetables. Not quite Jerk Chicken Pasta but it had to do! Keith came home at 10pm and said that Sileby had been leading most of the way through the match but had ultimately lost 3-2. Never mind!
I managed to persuade Keith to come out for a walk with me when I got home from work and we walked around the estate and then down to the bus stop in the village before turning back around again. It was very cold and the wind was still strong so we both had rosy faces when we got home! Despite the wind, today has been sunny and dry but we have another storm brewing on the horizon - this time it's Storm Dennis!
Keith went to see Sileby play this evening so Sophie and I cooked dinner - veggie escalopes with a traybake of different vegetables. Not quite Jerk Chicken Pasta but it had to do! Keith came home at 10pm and said that Sileby had been leading most of the way through the match but had ultimately lost 3-2. Never mind!
Monday 10 February 2020
Monday rolls around!
Keith took me into work this morning and popped to Tesco to get food for tonight and tomorrow. He is off to see Sileby play tomorrow (weather permitting) and normally we would have indulged in Jerk Chicken pasta and Tequila but we're being good so it's veggie escalopes instead!
I stayed at work until 3pm, as I was training a colleague on how to do the box office returns at the weekend. She looked a bit overwhelmed by it all, especially as the work is so different to what we normally do. I said I would be about on Saturday to help but I don't think that one run through is anywhere near enough to show her, even though I did type up a cheat sheet with step-by-step instructions.
Keith met me at 3pm and we called Mike to see if he wanted a lift home before we went too far. He was ready to come home so we went to get him and the battled through the school run traffic to get home. I skipped a walk today as it was rainy and gloomy and sat and watched the end of The Favourite instead with a cup of tea and a slice of Sophie's cake. It was a strange film, to say the least but I did think Olivia Colman was very good in it!
I wasn't looking forward to dinner tonight but it was delicious and I enjoyed a couple of veggie sausages with the bubble and squeak. I was pleasantly surprised!
I stayed at work until 3pm, as I was training a colleague on how to do the box office returns at the weekend. She looked a bit overwhelmed by it all, especially as the work is so different to what we normally do. I said I would be about on Saturday to help but I don't think that one run through is anywhere near enough to show her, even though I did type up a cheat sheet with step-by-step instructions.
Keith met me at 3pm and we called Mike to see if he wanted a lift home before we went too far. He was ready to come home so we went to get him and the battled through the school run traffic to get home. I skipped a walk today as it was rainy and gloomy and sat and watched the end of The Favourite instead with a cup of tea and a slice of Sophie's cake. It was a strange film, to say the least but I did think Olivia Colman was very good in it!
I wasn't looking forward to dinner tonight but it was delicious and I enjoyed a couple of veggie sausages with the bubble and squeak. I was pleasantly surprised!
Sunday 9 February 2020
Storm Ciara
We awoke this morning to grey skies and moderate winds but the worst of the storm was due to hit us around lunchtime.
Keith and I went over to see Mum and Dad first thing and took them both the paper. We also made sure that there was nothing in their garden that could blow away or cause damage. On the journey there and back the roads were littered with twigs and branches and there was a lot of debris on the road up to the A43. After a quick coffee we headed home and made a cooked breakfast - toast, veggie sausages, beans and hash browns.
I carried on with my blog while Sophie prepared the vegetables for dinner and then made a coffee and walnut cake. With a cup of tea in the afternoon, it was absolutely delicious and much-needed! Outside it wasn't too bad but we did hear reports of trees down in the county and a lorry had blown over on the A14 not far from us! Not really a good day to be out and about!
We didn't even consider a walk in the afternoon as the weather worsened and in the evening it really lashed down with very strong winds. Keith cooked himself a joint of lamb for dinner while Sophie and I had a mushroom and stuffing concoction that was actually quite good! Sophie had prepared extra vegetables so we could have bubble and squeak for dinner tomorrow and there were also lots of Yorkshire puddings and roast potatoes left over. Mike had stayed over at Abbie's house this evening which was a relief considering the wind and rain!
After dinner Keith and I watched a new two part Agatha Christie drama called The Pale Horse starring one of my crushes, Rufus Sewell. It was great, if a little macabre!
Keith and I went over to see Mum and Dad first thing and took them both the paper. We also made sure that there was nothing in their garden that could blow away or cause damage. On the journey there and back the roads were littered with twigs and branches and there was a lot of debris on the road up to the A43. After a quick coffee we headed home and made a cooked breakfast - toast, veggie sausages, beans and hash browns.
I carried on with my blog while Sophie prepared the vegetables for dinner and then made a coffee and walnut cake. With a cup of tea in the afternoon, it was absolutely delicious and much-needed! Outside it wasn't too bad but we did hear reports of trees down in the county and a lorry had blown over on the A14 not far from us! Not really a good day to be out and about!
We didn't even consider a walk in the afternoon as the weather worsened and in the evening it really lashed down with very strong winds. Keith cooked himself a joint of lamb for dinner while Sophie and I had a mushroom and stuffing concoction that was actually quite good! Sophie had prepared extra vegetables so we could have bubble and squeak for dinner tomorrow and there were also lots of Yorkshire puddings and roast potatoes left over. Mike had stayed over at Abbie's house this evening which was a relief considering the wind and rain!
After dinner Keith and I watched a new two part Agatha Christie drama called The Pale Horse starring one of my crushes, Rufus Sewell. It was great, if a little macabre!
Saturday 8 February 2020
The calm before the storm...
I have mostly spent today at home as we await Storm Ciara, due to arrive tomorrow. The weather today has been dry and sunny but the wind has certainly picked up and tomorrow it's set to be stormy with an Amber warning for most of the UK for wind.
I was up at about 7am so had a lovely lazy start to the day with coffee and cuddles with Monty. After a breakfast of crumpets I pottered about while Sophie took control of the TV and watched The Office - I think she did well as traditionally Keith hogs it for most of the weekend!
Sophie went to collect Laura in the afternoon and they went to see The Gentlemen at the cinema in Derngate. I wanted to finish transferring my blog to a word document by the end of the weekend so I pushed on with that.
Keith and I did venture out for a windy walk in the afternoon, though, and did a lap of the estate followed by a stroll down to the bridge and back. Although windy, it's been lovely to see blue skies today!
I snapped a pic of the moon (barely visible in the photo) as we walked back home.
After getting home I had a lovely soak in the bath and then looked forward to dinner, or maybe not as we had chosen, in a moment of madness, to have a prawn salad for our meal. Both Sophie and Mike were out but why we had picked a cold meal when it was so nasty outside is anyone's guess! I would much rather have had a hearty stew!
Also with not drinking, I did feel a bit miserable tonight! I contented myself with a 0% San Miguel and we ate dinner early. It was a nice meal but just not what both of us fancied tonight! We should have gone out for a meal!
When Sophie returned we watched two episodes of White House Farm about the Bamber murders. I remember it when it happened, but only vaguely, so it was interesting to see how the events unfolded.
As the night wore on, the winds became stronger...I wonder what tomorrow will bring!
Friday 7 February 2020
A terrible shock...
It was another very foggy start to the day and Sophie called to warn me how dense it was. Keith dropped me off at work and then went to do the shopping as he felt a lot better this morning.
Half way through my shift I was on the phone but aware of the other staff looking shocked and upset. I could hear Sheila crying so I finished my call and discovered that Stella, who is the lady in charge of all the cinema admin, had died suddenly this morning at home. I was covering for her today as she had booked a day's holiday and I couldn't quite believe what I was hearing, it was such a terrible shock.
We were told to turn off the phones as we absorbed the awful news and Sara said we could go out of the office if we wanted and get a drink. All of us looked so shocked and Sheila went out to sit in her car for a little while.
We turned the phones off until midday but then we had to get back to work. I sat there in a daze and kept thinking about all the times we'd chatted and how lovely she was. The worst thing was thinking about her family and her little granddaughter who she doted on.
Keith picked me up at 2pm and we went home where I suggested going for a walk as it was such a lovely day. We walked up to the village and then turned around and came back so we were out for about half an hour.
In the evening Sophie and I took Mike to the train station where he was meeting Abbie off the train. I gave them a lift to Abbie's mum's and then it was home to quickly prepare the dinner and have a glass of wine. Keith had bought a bottle of non-alcoholic Cava in Tesco but Sophie brought the wrong one in - a Freixenet real Cava! I didn't realise until I was pouring it into the glasses but there wasn't much I could do then and I wasn't going to waste it!
Sophie and I enjoyed veggie meatballs for dinner with pasta while Keith devoured a roast chicken. While Sophie was upstairs watching Love Island, Keith and I went to the Caribbean and soaked up the sun with Death in Paradise. I could certainly do with some lovely hot sunshine at the moment!
Half way through my shift I was on the phone but aware of the other staff looking shocked and upset. I could hear Sheila crying so I finished my call and discovered that Stella, who is the lady in charge of all the cinema admin, had died suddenly this morning at home. I was covering for her today as she had booked a day's holiday and I couldn't quite believe what I was hearing, it was such a terrible shock.
We were told to turn off the phones as we absorbed the awful news and Sara said we could go out of the office if we wanted and get a drink. All of us looked so shocked and Sheila went out to sit in her car for a little while.
We turned the phones off until midday but then we had to get back to work. I sat there in a daze and kept thinking about all the times we'd chatted and how lovely she was. The worst thing was thinking about her family and her little granddaughter who she doted on.
Keith picked me up at 2pm and we went home where I suggested going for a walk as it was such a lovely day. We walked up to the village and then turned around and came back so we were out for about half an hour.
In the evening Sophie and I took Mike to the train station where he was meeting Abbie off the train. I gave them a lift to Abbie's mum's and then it was home to quickly prepare the dinner and have a glass of wine. Keith had bought a bottle of non-alcoholic Cava in Tesco but Sophie brought the wrong one in - a Freixenet real Cava! I didn't realise until I was pouring it into the glasses but there wasn't much I could do then and I wasn't going to waste it!
Sophie and I enjoyed veggie meatballs for dinner with pasta while Keith devoured a roast chicken. While Sophie was upstairs watching Love Island, Keith and I went to the Caribbean and soaked up the sun with Death in Paradise. I could certainly do with some lovely hot sunshine at the moment!
Thursday 6 February 2020
Poorly Keith
Keith had a bit of an upset tummy this morning so I told him to stay at home rather than take me to work and then go shopping. It was very cold this morning and the temperature gauge showed it was -2 on the way to work. I haven't seen a minus temperature for ages!
Work was fine and at 3pm I returned home, picked up Keith who was feeling a bit better and drove to Kettering. We just shopped for tonight and tomorrow as Keith was hoping to go again tomorrow.
Despite the cold temperatures this morning, it's been a gorgeous day with more blue skies and winter sun. Sophie came home from work saying she'd had a bad day so she made herself a Moscow Mule! I made myself content with a 0% San Miguel from Tesco and it was very good!
Dinner tonight was a vegan pizza for Sophie and I, diced potatoes and salad. Much better than last night! After we'd eaten Keith and I watched the second James Bond film, From Russia With Love. The acting was a bit dubious but it was enjoyable nonetheless!
Work was fine and at 3pm I returned home, picked up Keith who was feeling a bit better and drove to Kettering. We just shopped for tonight and tomorrow as Keith was hoping to go again tomorrow.
Despite the cold temperatures this morning, it's been a gorgeous day with more blue skies and winter sun. Sophie came home from work saying she'd had a bad day so she made herself a Moscow Mule! I made myself content with a 0% San Miguel from Tesco and it was very good!
Dinner tonight was a vegan pizza for Sophie and I, diced potatoes and salad. Much better than last night! After we'd eaten Keith and I watched the second James Bond film, From Russia With Love. The acting was a bit dubious but it was enjoyable nonetheless!
Wednesday 5 February 2020
It's all about blood!
Keith and Mike went to the barber's in Kettering this morning while I stayed at home and did a spot of housework. It was a beautiful day outside but cold. The morning had started off foggy but this had given way to sunshine and blue skies.
In the early afternoon I went to the surgery in Brixworth to see one of the doctors about my blood pressure. We had a chat and she took my blood pressure to find it high again. The second time it had come down a bit but she's organised a 24 hour monitor for me and an ECG to make sure all is OK.
I'd suggested to Keith that we go for a walk around Brixworth country park afterwards but we swiftly changed our minds when we saw how much it cost to park - £3.20! We wanted to park for just an hour so we decided to go to the car park by the Brampton Valley Way instead and walk along there.
We had a very pleasant walk for about 40 minutes and saw a gorgeous little robin sitting on a fence post as we strolled by. He looked at us intently "Got any worms?" but flew off when I took out my phone to snap a pic.
Unfortunately, Keith's shoes had a malfunction when the sole came away from the upper so we had to return. I was annoyed as these were his fairly expensive shoes I'd bought for him last year!
Back home I pottered about and made some toast for Sophie and I because we were going back out to give blood at the community centre in Moulton. We arrived to find the place packed with people but it wasn't long before we were being called and questioned briefly and then escorted to the reclining chairs.
All was fine and after a quick drink and a biscuit we headed home to help Keith finish dinner. Tonight it was veggie burgers but they were a bit tasteless... oh dear!
In the early afternoon I went to the surgery in Brixworth to see one of the doctors about my blood pressure. We had a chat and she took my blood pressure to find it high again. The second time it had come down a bit but she's organised a 24 hour monitor for me and an ECG to make sure all is OK.
I'd suggested to Keith that we go for a walk around Brixworth country park afterwards but we swiftly changed our minds when we saw how much it cost to park - £3.20! We wanted to park for just an hour so we decided to go to the car park by the Brampton Valley Way instead and walk along there.
We had a very pleasant walk for about 40 minutes and saw a gorgeous little robin sitting on a fence post as we strolled by. He looked at us intently "Got any worms?" but flew off when I took out my phone to snap a pic.
Unfortunately, Keith's shoes had a malfunction when the sole came away from the upper so we had to return. I was annoyed as these were his fairly expensive shoes I'd bought for him last year!
Back home I pottered about and made some toast for Sophie and I because we were going back out to give blood at the community centre in Moulton. We arrived to find the place packed with people but it wasn't long before we were being called and questioned briefly and then escorted to the reclining chairs.
All was fine and after a quick drink and a biscuit we headed home to help Keith finish dinner. Tonight it was veggie burgers but they were a bit tasteless... oh dear!
Tuesday 4 February 2020
Being good...
I drove myself to work this morning, but not on the new road, I hasten to add! The traffic was even worse this morning so I hope that when the dual carriageway opens it improves a bit or will it all have been worth it?
Work was fine and at 2pm I sped home to find Keith looking like he wanted to go out. He suggested going to Tesco as we didn't have any nachos to go with the veggie fajitas tonight so I agreed, on the condition that he would buy me a coffee!
We meandered around the store afterwards and I had a good look at the non-alcoholic drinks on offer, but decided to stick with sparkling water during the week. Outside we thought the sun was going to come out but then the sky clouded over and it looked really stormy! Brr! Time to go home and put the heating on!
I didn't really miss not having a nice drink this evening - instead Sophie and I sipped on sparkling water and had a bowl of popcorn between us to tide us over to dinner. The veggie fajitas were lovely and I made the perfect wrap, something that normally eludes me - I usually manage to spill most of the contents down whatever top I'm wearing, much to the amusement of the rest of my family! Mike ate with us tonight, but only because Keith had cooked him a portion of chicken!
Work was fine and at 2pm I sped home to find Keith looking like he wanted to go out. He suggested going to Tesco as we didn't have any nachos to go with the veggie fajitas tonight so I agreed, on the condition that he would buy me a coffee!
We meandered around the store afterwards and I had a good look at the non-alcoholic drinks on offer, but decided to stick with sparkling water during the week. Outside we thought the sun was going to come out but then the sky clouded over and it looked really stormy! Brr! Time to go home and put the heating on!
I didn't really miss not having a nice drink this evening - instead Sophie and I sipped on sparkling water and had a bowl of popcorn between us to tide us over to dinner. The veggie fajitas were lovely and I made the perfect wrap, something that normally eludes me - I usually manage to spill most of the contents down whatever top I'm wearing, much to the amusement of the rest of my family! Mike ate with us tonight, but only because Keith had cooked him a portion of chicken!
Monday 3 February 2020
Pastures new!
Keith drove me to work this morning and the plan was to go on the brand new part of the A43 that opened at 6am. Sophie had already driven on it on her way to the gym and said it was a bit confusing in the dark! The new stretch of road is behind an estate that's being built, and will take traffic away from the old part of the Kettering road, hopefully making it easier to get to work every day!
However, the queues still stretched up to the new roundabout so we had no choice but to go our usual way to work! Keith dropped me off and then went to do some shopping for tonight and the next couple of days.
Work was busy as is usual on a Monday. There were just the two of us manning the phones so it wasn't as noisy as last week, thank goodness! At 2pm Keith collected me and we did take the new road home which seems a lot longer than the original! It felt really strange and the surroundings looked so different, especially with the new estate being built!
At home I quickly changed and then went around to a neighbour's house to help with the sorting of the recycling. We sorted it all out in their snooker room as Elaine didn't mind a mess being made in there...and there was a mess when the enormous bags were emptied onto the boards across the snooker table! Four of us sorted the various crisp and snack bags, the pet food pouches and loaf bags into boxes which were then emptied into large plastic bags, to be sent off to Terracycle later.
We finished at 4pm and I took four bags of pet food pouches home with me, to be taken to Milton Keynes the next time we go. I was dying for a cup of tea and a biscuit after seeing so many wrappers!
However, the queues still stretched up to the new roundabout so we had no choice but to go our usual way to work! Keith dropped me off and then went to do some shopping for tonight and the next couple of days.
Work was busy as is usual on a Monday. There were just the two of us manning the phones so it wasn't as noisy as last week, thank goodness! At 2pm Keith collected me and we did take the new road home which seems a lot longer than the original! It felt really strange and the surroundings looked so different, especially with the new estate being built!
At home I quickly changed and then went around to a neighbour's house to help with the sorting of the recycling. We sorted it all out in their snooker room as Elaine didn't mind a mess being made in there...and there was a mess when the enormous bags were emptied onto the boards across the snooker table! Four of us sorted the various crisp and snack bags, the pet food pouches and loaf bags into boxes which were then emptied into large plastic bags, to be sent off to Terracycle later.
We finished at 4pm and I took four bags of pet food pouches home with me, to be taken to Milton Keynes the next time we go. I was dying for a cup of tea and a biscuit after seeing so many wrappers!
Sunday 2 February 2020
Last minute decision...
I had no plans for today and after breakfast Sophie suggested we go to Milton Keynes to do some shopping. I had a voucher to spend in M&S, as well as some Christmas money from Keith, so I agreed.
By the time we arrived it was lunchtime so we went to M&S and enjoyed a coffee and a sandwich. After we'd eaten Sophie bought herself a really pretty bra and then we had a look around the housewares section but I didn't see anything I liked. We still haven't bought a mirror or a cabinet for the bathroom so we left and wandered up to John Lewis to see if they had anything I liked the look of.
I don't think either of us were really in the mood for shopping today as nothing caught my eye in John Lewis, and I was astounded at how many things were available to buy. I dread to think how much of their money is tied up in stock!
Both of us are coming around to the idea of shopping in second-hand stores or splashing out on "experiences" (days out, meals, etc) rather than buying for the sake of buying. With the money that Keith gave me for Christmas I might treat myself to a beauty treatment or an afternoon tea as a treat.
Before heading home we popped into M&S again and I bought some healthy salads for lunch at work next week and a bottle of non-alcoholic sparkling wine to enjoy this evening.
The journey back was fine and we called to see Mum and Dad for a cup of tea and some lovely biscuits. After a good chat we drove home via the scenic route and then it was time to relax and enjoy the fizz while Keith cooked veggie Toad in the Hole!
We sat and watched the BAFTAs tonight and Keith and I were both delighted that 1917 won so many awards!
By the time we arrived it was lunchtime so we went to M&S and enjoyed a coffee and a sandwich. After we'd eaten Sophie bought herself a really pretty bra and then we had a look around the housewares section but I didn't see anything I liked. We still haven't bought a mirror or a cabinet for the bathroom so we left and wandered up to John Lewis to see if they had anything I liked the look of.
I don't think either of us were really in the mood for shopping today as nothing caught my eye in John Lewis, and I was astounded at how many things were available to buy. I dread to think how much of their money is tied up in stock!
Both of us are coming around to the idea of shopping in second-hand stores or splashing out on "experiences" (days out, meals, etc) rather than buying for the sake of buying. With the money that Keith gave me for Christmas I might treat myself to a beauty treatment or an afternoon tea as a treat.
Before heading home we popped into M&S again and I bought some healthy salads for lunch at work next week and a bottle of non-alcoholic sparkling wine to enjoy this evening.
The journey back was fine and we called to see Mum and Dad for a cup of tea and some lovely biscuits. After a good chat we drove home via the scenic route and then it was time to relax and enjoy the fizz while Keith cooked veggie Toad in the Hole!
We sat and watched the BAFTAs tonight and Keith and I were both delighted that 1917 won so many awards!
Saturday 1 February 2020
A day of treats!
Today has been a lovely day and just how a Saturday should be! Sophie and I went to get our hair cut this morning at 10am and although I would have liked to have been offered a coffee, it was a pleasant experience. My hair was badly in need of a trim and it also needs a touch up of colour, so looking at myself in the mirror was not fun! However, we came out into the Saturday sunshine looking a bit neater!
Sophie had promised me lunch for my birthday and I decided on Farndon Fields so we went and queued up with lots of other people to sample the delights they have on offer. Sophie, Keith and I are trying to be vegetarian this month so we decided on a halloumi and roasted veg wrap for me, served with salad and coleslaw and three different bowls for Sophie - chunky chips, halloumi fries and a smoky roasted vegetable stew. We're also cutting out alcohol so no glasses of wine for us either!
After we'd eaten we strolled around the farm shop and bought some olives, a gravy sauce for dinner on Sunday night and macaroons. There were so many tempting foods on offer!
From Farndon we drove to Market Harborough as Sophie wanted to visit the charity shops. We went first to The Attic where she picked out a gorgeous lightweight jacket and I found a scarf that matched my coat perfectly. She also found some lovely tops in a couple of the other charity shops in the town, which were a bargain as the average price was about £3. The tops are perfect for work and I can't see why she would need to pay full price in the shops!
Although it's been dry today, it was very windy and to escape the cold we popped into our favourite little cafe for a cup of tea and a slice of cake. This place is a little haven of peace and quiet and it was bliss to sit and enjoy the surroundings for half an hour.
We walked around for a little while longer and then it was home to unwind and prepare dinner which tonight was vegetable curry. Sophie did all the work and stood and cooked it and it was delicious, although I did miss some juicy chicken, if I'm honest!
Keith and I watched Dr No in the evening. The new James Bond film is coming in April and I suggested we watch them all in sequence and then go and see the new one in the cinema. Dr No was very enjoyable - Sean Connery was definitely a dish when he was younger!
Sophie had promised me lunch for my birthday and I decided on Farndon Fields so we went and queued up with lots of other people to sample the delights they have on offer. Sophie, Keith and I are trying to be vegetarian this month so we decided on a halloumi and roasted veg wrap for me, served with salad and coleslaw and three different bowls for Sophie - chunky chips, halloumi fries and a smoky roasted vegetable stew. We're also cutting out alcohol so no glasses of wine for us either!
After we'd eaten we strolled around the farm shop and bought some olives, a gravy sauce for dinner on Sunday night and macaroons. There were so many tempting foods on offer!
From Farndon we drove to Market Harborough as Sophie wanted to visit the charity shops. We went first to The Attic where she picked out a gorgeous lightweight jacket and I found a scarf that matched my coat perfectly. She also found some lovely tops in a couple of the other charity shops in the town, which were a bargain as the average price was about £3. The tops are perfect for work and I can't see why she would need to pay full price in the shops!
Although it's been dry today, it was very windy and to escape the cold we popped into our favourite little cafe for a cup of tea and a slice of cake. This place is a little haven of peace and quiet and it was bliss to sit and enjoy the surroundings for half an hour.
We walked around for a little while longer and then it was home to unwind and prepare dinner which tonight was vegetable curry. Sophie did all the work and stood and cooked it and it was delicious, although I did miss some juicy chicken, if I'm honest!
Keith and I watched Dr No in the evening. The new James Bond film is coming in April and I suggested we watch them all in sequence and then go and see the new one in the cinema. Dr No was very enjoyable - Sean Connery was definitely a dish when he was younger!
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