Day 69
Keith and I went over to Mum's this morning to collect her shopping list. I wasn't really over the moon about going to Tesco today, but needs must! Luckily, we didn't have to queue and within half an hour we were heading back to drop the shopping off.
We then sped home as we had an appointment with the conservatory roof, something that badly needed doing! Keith and Mike tackled the glass with a mop and the hosepipe while I cleaned the upstairs windows that were also very grubby.
Keith had cleaned a lot of the windowsills and frames yesterday so it didn't take as long as I was expecting. Unfortunately, Keith decided it was a good idea to balance on our rickety bench seat and fell off... I was enjoying a cup of tea at the time and rushed over to help, but luckily he had only suffered a bruised ego. I suppose me yelling at him didn't really help, but the last thing we need at the moment is a broken bone (or worse) and a trip to A&E. This now means we need to replace the bench, as the table in between the two seats is broken!
After the roof had been washed I cleaned all the windows and the framework and it looked lovely - we could actually see through the glass! No doubt, within a few weeks it will look dusty again but at least we have some rain forecast for the middle of the week so that should help. Today has been another scorcher and some cooler temperatures and rain would be welcome! I think this has officially been the driest Spring on record!
After our exertions I had a soak in the bath, and Keith did as well as I think he was feeling a little achy! He might feel worse tomorrow! Dinner this evening was fish burgers and I was a bit under-whelmed, to be honest. They seemed a good idea at the time but I don't think it's a recipe we will go back to in a hurry!
Keith and I watched Moonraker after dinner. We are still pushing ahead with watching every Bond film and I am looking forward to getting to the films made in the 80s - some of the earlier ones have been pretty dire!
Sunday 31 May 2020
Saturday 30 May 2020
Queues again!
Day 68
Sophie and I enjoyed our breakfast in the garden this morning and we were accompanied by a little "fat" baby - a young Blackbird who was very happy pecking about in the grass and showed no fear of us at all! He or she came really close several times but then must have realised they were all alone so set up a plaintive squawking which brought both parents flying over! He/she then seemed content to sit in the branch of a tree and just chill!
It's been another gorgeous day with fairly high temperatures and limitless blue sky and fluffy white clouds. Keith and I pottered about in the garden all morning and we made a "sort of" start on the conservatory which is badly in need of a thorough scrub. It's covered in bird poo and dust, as well as the horrible green stuff we have here which covers everything. Keith cleaned the gutters out and I did some pruning and general tidying up. Because of the dire lack of rain, our grass is starting to go crispy and yellow again, like it did a couple of years ago when we had a drought. However, there is some rain in the forecast for the middle of the week and June can be very changeable!
In the afternoon Sophie wanted to buy some treats for her friend Laura, so we popped to Beckworth where she bought chocolates, cheese and biscuits. As the Prosecco was very expensive, I suggested we go to the Weston Favell Centre where we could pop to the post office as well as go into Tesco where their prices are more reasonable.
We parked right outside in an almost deserted car park and walked in, but then we noticed the queue so we changed our mind! We then tried the BP garage at Kingsthorpe but the wine was about the same price at Beckworth so after buying the newspaper we headed to Aldi, further down the road. However, the queue here was very long so we drove around the car park and decided to go to Laura's as I knew there was a Tesco Express nearby. This queuing business is really starting to get us down and it's almost like it's not worth going out!
On the way, I noticed that Lidl was queue free so we made an abrupt decision to go there. Here, there wasn't a one way system and it was a bit of a free-for-all, to be honest! We picked out some Prosecco, as well as some beer for the men and a snack for our lunch which we ate in the car. By now, the temperature was about 24c so it was quite warm sitting in the car! The roads all around were busy so it looks like things have returned to normal!
We dropped off the goodies at Laura's house and Sophie was able to stay for a quick chat. Unfortunately, there was no hugging like there usually is! Our last stop before going home was Starbucks again, where we'd promised Mike an iced coffee. However, there were ten cars in front of us and after waiting ten minutes and not moving at all, we gave up and went home. It really isn't worth it at the moment!
Sophie cooked dinner tonight - a Mary Berry recipe for chilli con carne and very good it was, too!
Sophie and I enjoyed our breakfast in the garden this morning and we were accompanied by a little "fat" baby - a young Blackbird who was very happy pecking about in the grass and showed no fear of us at all! He or she came really close several times but then must have realised they were all alone so set up a plaintive squawking which brought both parents flying over! He/she then seemed content to sit in the branch of a tree and just chill!
It's been another gorgeous day with fairly high temperatures and limitless blue sky and fluffy white clouds. Keith and I pottered about in the garden all morning and we made a "sort of" start on the conservatory which is badly in need of a thorough scrub. It's covered in bird poo and dust, as well as the horrible green stuff we have here which covers everything. Keith cleaned the gutters out and I did some pruning and general tidying up. Because of the dire lack of rain, our grass is starting to go crispy and yellow again, like it did a couple of years ago when we had a drought. However, there is some rain in the forecast for the middle of the week and June can be very changeable!
In the afternoon Sophie wanted to buy some treats for her friend Laura, so we popped to Beckworth where she bought chocolates, cheese and biscuits. As the Prosecco was very expensive, I suggested we go to the Weston Favell Centre where we could pop to the post office as well as go into Tesco where their prices are more reasonable.
We parked right outside in an almost deserted car park and walked in, but then we noticed the queue so we changed our mind! We then tried the BP garage at Kingsthorpe but the wine was about the same price at Beckworth so after buying the newspaper we headed to Aldi, further down the road. However, the queue here was very long so we drove around the car park and decided to go to Laura's as I knew there was a Tesco Express nearby. This queuing business is really starting to get us down and it's almost like it's not worth going out!
On the way, I noticed that Lidl was queue free so we made an abrupt decision to go there. Here, there wasn't a one way system and it was a bit of a free-for-all, to be honest! We picked out some Prosecco, as well as some beer for the men and a snack for our lunch which we ate in the car. By now, the temperature was about 24c so it was quite warm sitting in the car! The roads all around were busy so it looks like things have returned to normal!
We dropped off the goodies at Laura's house and Sophie was able to stay for a quick chat. Unfortunately, there was no hugging like there usually is! Our last stop before going home was Starbucks again, where we'd promised Mike an iced coffee. However, there were ten cars in front of us and after waiting ten minutes and not moving at all, we gave up and went home. It really isn't worth it at the moment!
Sophie cooked dinner tonight - a Mary Berry recipe for chilli con carne and very good it was, too!
Friday 29 May 2020
How much?
Day 67
I was awake at 5am this morning, worrying about things as usual, and I heard a terrible screeching and screaming outside. I looked out of the bedroom window and noticed a flock of rooks on our lawn!
I sped down to the conservatory and opened the door, frightening them away but they all landed on Richard and Michelle's roof opposite and carried on with the awful racket! I have never heard so much screeching in my life and it must have been the "babies" begging to be fed! I made myself a coffee and kept patrolling the garden until they all gave up and flew away. Heaven knows what the neighbours thought!
Sophie went off to work this morning looking extremely glamorous, wearing a lovely little dress and cute sandals. It's her one day of the week when she can get dressed up for work! When she left, Keith and I drove over to Beckworth as I wanted to get a cake for this afternoon, when I going around to have tea with Michelle and Sue in the garden.
Beckworth was lovely and quiet and Keith and I had a good look at the food and the plants. It was bliss to stroll around in the sunshine and look at all the lovely flowers. I bought three little Alpines to go into one of my troughs and that's all my pots filled now. I am very pleased that my geraniums from last year survived our mild, wet winter so that's saved me from having to buy any this year!
Before going home we called to see Mum as she thinks she has another urine infection, which was confirmed when I took a sample to her GP. While I was waiting I chatted to the lovely Sam who lives on our estate and does the gardening for the surgery. She's really friendly and has two enormous dogs and a whole gaggle of children so she's always very busy!
Back home Keith made sausage sandwiches for brunch and Mike wandered downstairs asking me to check the address of the golf club he had an interview at. We all thought it was a driving range near Tesco, but it was actually the golf club in Kettering so somewhere completely different! It was a good job we checked!
At 12pm we left and drove to the club without any problems. It took us about ten minutes to get there and we were very early! I parked overlooking the clubhouse and the putting green, saying wistfully to Keith that the last time I was at a golf club was Pebble Beach in California...
Mike went in for his interview and Keith and I amused ourselves by watching people putting on the green - is that the correct term? I did envy a couple of women who turned up looking very smart in their golf gear and we watched them tee off in the distance. It was lovely and quiet and the greens looked immaculate.
Mike emerged from the building saying he'd had a good interview and would know by the middle of next week whether he was successful or not. The hours suited us very well as he had differing start times of around 6am-7am and a finish time of between 1pm and 3pm so it would fit in with me when I go back to work.
At about 1pm I walked around to Michelle's house and went into the garden through her gate. Sue was already there as she had been doing their garden, and we sat with a cold drink and delicious cakes and had a really good chat. It was lovely to relax and soak up the sunshine and Michelle's garden was looking beautiful.
I was there until about 4.30pm and went home to phone Richmond Village Care Home. I'd spoken to one of the managers there briefly, just before we took Mike to his interview and I was keen to find out prices for my parents. He said they would have to be split up with my Dad on a floor for frail residents. My Mum could then go into an assisted living apartment but she would be able to see my Dad throughout the day. When he told me the prices, I nearly fell off the sofa - £900 a week for my Mum, not including £20 an hour for carers to make sure she took her medication, plus between £1400-£1500 a week for my Dad depending on his needs! That's ruled that out then!
When Sophie returned from work we sat and had a chat in the conservatory with some delicious crisps I'd bought in Beckworth and then we retired to the lounge to watch 90 Day Fiance with a glass of wine. I still can't get used to the fact that Keith is unable to go to the pub on a Friday at the moment!
I was awake at 5am this morning, worrying about things as usual, and I heard a terrible screeching and screaming outside. I looked out of the bedroom window and noticed a flock of rooks on our lawn!
I sped down to the conservatory and opened the door, frightening them away but they all landed on Richard and Michelle's roof opposite and carried on with the awful racket! I have never heard so much screeching in my life and it must have been the "babies" begging to be fed! I made myself a coffee and kept patrolling the garden until they all gave up and flew away. Heaven knows what the neighbours thought!
Sophie went off to work this morning looking extremely glamorous, wearing a lovely little dress and cute sandals. It's her one day of the week when she can get dressed up for work! When she left, Keith and I drove over to Beckworth as I wanted to get a cake for this afternoon, when I going around to have tea with Michelle and Sue in the garden.
Beckworth was lovely and quiet and Keith and I had a good look at the food and the plants. It was bliss to stroll around in the sunshine and look at all the lovely flowers. I bought three little Alpines to go into one of my troughs and that's all my pots filled now. I am very pleased that my geraniums from last year survived our mild, wet winter so that's saved me from having to buy any this year!
Before going home we called to see Mum as she thinks she has another urine infection, which was confirmed when I took a sample to her GP. While I was waiting I chatted to the lovely Sam who lives on our estate and does the gardening for the surgery. She's really friendly and has two enormous dogs and a whole gaggle of children so she's always very busy!
Back home Keith made sausage sandwiches for brunch and Mike wandered downstairs asking me to check the address of the golf club he had an interview at. We all thought it was a driving range near Tesco, but it was actually the golf club in Kettering so somewhere completely different! It was a good job we checked!
At 12pm we left and drove to the club without any problems. It took us about ten minutes to get there and we were very early! I parked overlooking the clubhouse and the putting green, saying wistfully to Keith that the last time I was at a golf club was Pebble Beach in California...
Mike went in for his interview and Keith and I amused ourselves by watching people putting on the green - is that the correct term? I did envy a couple of women who turned up looking very smart in their golf gear and we watched them tee off in the distance. It was lovely and quiet and the greens looked immaculate.
Mike emerged from the building saying he'd had a good interview and would know by the middle of next week whether he was successful or not. The hours suited us very well as he had differing start times of around 6am-7am and a finish time of between 1pm and 3pm so it would fit in with me when I go back to work.
At about 1pm I walked around to Michelle's house and went into the garden through her gate. Sue was already there as she had been doing their garden, and we sat with a cold drink and delicious cakes and had a really good chat. It was lovely to relax and soak up the sunshine and Michelle's garden was looking beautiful.
I was there until about 4.30pm and went home to phone Richmond Village Care Home. I'd spoken to one of the managers there briefly, just before we took Mike to his interview and I was keen to find out prices for my parents. He said they would have to be split up with my Dad on a floor for frail residents. My Mum could then go into an assisted living apartment but she would be able to see my Dad throughout the day. When he told me the prices, I nearly fell off the sofa - £900 a week for my Mum, not including £20 an hour for carers to make sure she took her medication, plus between £1400-£1500 a week for my Dad depending on his needs! That's ruled that out then!
When Sophie returned from work we sat and had a chat in the conservatory with some delicious crisps I'd bought in Beckworth and then we retired to the lounge to watch 90 Day Fiance with a glass of wine. I still can't get used to the fact that Keith is unable to go to the pub on a Friday at the moment!
Thursday 28 May 2020
A brush with the law...
Day 66
Mum had booked an appointment today with a care home near Junction 15 of the M1 so I drove over to pick her up at about 10am. I was driving through the village when I suddenly noticed a police car up ahead and then I was waved over... I wound the window down and was told that I'd been clocked at 34 mph, but that could have been higher due to inconsistencies with speedometers...
Luckily, the police were just warning drivers today and after being told - in a friendly tone - to watch my speed, I apologised and drove on. The last thing I need right now is a £100 fine and points on my licence! I was annoyed with myself as generally I keep an eye on my speed (after being done three times in the past) but the police officer did say I was coming down a hill so it can be difficult to keep to the limit. Oh well!
I collected Mum who looked extremely smart today, wearing a lovely brown jumper, white trousers and a gorgeous necklace. We drove down to Collingtree and met the manager who was very friendly and welcoming. Before doing anything we had to have our temperature taken, our hands washed and sanitiser used. We had a tour around the ground floor (wearing masks) which was beautiful, with a lovely lounge area, a bright and airy restaurant and stunning gardens.
We then went up to "Memory Lane" which is the dementia ward, as there was a double room available. This is where it all went a bit wrong as this floor was much darker and gloomier than the ground floor and both of us were a bit disappointed with the bedroom. Although it was large and had beautiful views over the surrounding woodland, the bed covers looked horrible and I just couldn't see my parents living in a room like that. There would have been room for some of their furniture but I could sense my Mum's disappointment with the beds. They have a super-king at home with beautiful quilt covers and throws and this just wasn't what she was used to.
Back downstairs we went into the office and chatted about fees, which were reasonable compared to some of the places we had enquired about! I said we would talk it over and we left to go home. On the way Mum mentioned another place nearby but I wasn't sure if there was anywhere else so we just drove straight back.
Needless to say it's been another warm, dry and very sunny day today and Keith had been watering the garden for me when I arrived home. We had lunch and I managed to catch up with Vince and Sue for a long chat. They had enjoyed their time in Australia and said that the pandemic hadn't really affected their lives very much at all. One thing was annoying, though... they hadn't been checked at all when they arrived back at Heathrow, which we thought was very surprising, considering they had been on a packed plane for a long flight! Up until June 8th, people arriving in the UK don't have to self-isolate but Vince and Sue were going to anyway, just to be on the safe side.
I spent the afternoon looking at care homes, finally finding the place Mum had mentioned this morning. It's on a residential estate and looked beautiful, so I made an enquiry online, as well as emailing the manager of the local care home in Moulton.
By 5pm I had had enough so it was time to relax before cooking dinner!
Mum had booked an appointment today with a care home near Junction 15 of the M1 so I drove over to pick her up at about 10am. I was driving through the village when I suddenly noticed a police car up ahead and then I was waved over... I wound the window down and was told that I'd been clocked at 34 mph, but that could have been higher due to inconsistencies with speedometers...
Luckily, the police were just warning drivers today and after being told - in a friendly tone - to watch my speed, I apologised and drove on. The last thing I need right now is a £100 fine and points on my licence! I was annoyed with myself as generally I keep an eye on my speed (after being done three times in the past) but the police officer did say I was coming down a hill so it can be difficult to keep to the limit. Oh well!
I collected Mum who looked extremely smart today, wearing a lovely brown jumper, white trousers and a gorgeous necklace. We drove down to Collingtree and met the manager who was very friendly and welcoming. Before doing anything we had to have our temperature taken, our hands washed and sanitiser used. We had a tour around the ground floor (wearing masks) which was beautiful, with a lovely lounge area, a bright and airy restaurant and stunning gardens.
We then went up to "Memory Lane" which is the dementia ward, as there was a double room available. This is where it all went a bit wrong as this floor was much darker and gloomier than the ground floor and both of us were a bit disappointed with the bedroom. Although it was large and had beautiful views over the surrounding woodland, the bed covers looked horrible and I just couldn't see my parents living in a room like that. There would have been room for some of their furniture but I could sense my Mum's disappointment with the beds. They have a super-king at home with beautiful quilt covers and throws and this just wasn't what she was used to.
Back downstairs we went into the office and chatted about fees, which were reasonable compared to some of the places we had enquired about! I said we would talk it over and we left to go home. On the way Mum mentioned another place nearby but I wasn't sure if there was anywhere else so we just drove straight back.
Needless to say it's been another warm, dry and very sunny day today and Keith had been watering the garden for me when I arrived home. We had lunch and I managed to catch up with Vince and Sue for a long chat. They had enjoyed their time in Australia and said that the pandemic hadn't really affected their lives very much at all. One thing was annoying, though... they hadn't been checked at all when they arrived back at Heathrow, which we thought was very surprising, considering they had been on a packed plane for a long flight! Up until June 8th, people arriving in the UK don't have to self-isolate but Vince and Sue were going to anyway, just to be on the safe side.
I spent the afternoon looking at care homes, finally finding the place Mum had mentioned this morning. It's on a residential estate and looked beautiful, so I made an enquiry online, as well as emailing the manager of the local care home in Moulton.
By 5pm I had had enough so it was time to relax before cooking dinner!
Wednesday 27 May 2020
A little bit of good news...
Day 65
I spent the morning at my Mum's house, making sure her bank accounts were OK and going through the Attendance Allowance form with her, so we can get Dad the benefit that he's entitled to. I tried to get as much done as I could and while I was there, I took a call from our solicitor about Lasting Power of Attorney. This can be done online but I phoned him yesterday to see if he could help. Unfortunately, his fees were exorbitant (for the two of them he was charging almost £700!) so I decided to make a start online where it's about £82 for each request.
We have been using this particular solicitor for decades and he was always a bit pessimistic and nothing had changed, I'm afraid! Dad and I once went to see him when we were selling the business and I came out in floods of tears! He warned that the process could take months but there's nothing we can do. At least Mum can still make decisions about things, which is a relief and I dare say my Dad can as well.
Back home I enjoyed lunch with Sophie in the conservatory and we made use of the leftover roasted veggies from yesterday to make a tortilla, which was delicious. Keith and I popped over to the pharmacy in the afternoon to get a list of my Dad's medication for the Attendance Allowance form and then I did pretty much the same as yesterday - tried to get things done so we can sort everything out. I am hoping to be back at work in a few weeks and then I will have a lot less time to help my parents!
Vince and Sue from next door arrived home today, which gives me hope that this lockdown situation is easing. They have been in Australia for the last three months visiting their daughter and had their original flight postponed from the middle of May. I know it sounds silly but I thought that when they returned it would be a bit like being back to normal!
We also heard that Mike has an interview on Friday at a golf club in Kettering so that was very hopeful indeed! Let's keep everything crossed he's successful!
After Sophie finished work we tortured ourselves again by watching the lottery winners picking out fabulous homes in Florida and then I prepared dinner - the cold meats, new potatoes and salad that we should have had on Saturday evening!
I spent the morning at my Mum's house, making sure her bank accounts were OK and going through the Attendance Allowance form with her, so we can get Dad the benefit that he's entitled to. I tried to get as much done as I could and while I was there, I took a call from our solicitor about Lasting Power of Attorney. This can be done online but I phoned him yesterday to see if he could help. Unfortunately, his fees were exorbitant (for the two of them he was charging almost £700!) so I decided to make a start online where it's about £82 for each request.
We have been using this particular solicitor for decades and he was always a bit pessimistic and nothing had changed, I'm afraid! Dad and I once went to see him when we were selling the business and I came out in floods of tears! He warned that the process could take months but there's nothing we can do. At least Mum can still make decisions about things, which is a relief and I dare say my Dad can as well.
Back home I enjoyed lunch with Sophie in the conservatory and we made use of the leftover roasted veggies from yesterday to make a tortilla, which was delicious. Keith and I popped over to the pharmacy in the afternoon to get a list of my Dad's medication for the Attendance Allowance form and then I did pretty much the same as yesterday - tried to get things done so we can sort everything out. I am hoping to be back at work in a few weeks and then I will have a lot less time to help my parents!
Vince and Sue from next door arrived home today, which gives me hope that this lockdown situation is easing. They have been in Australia for the last three months visiting their daughter and had their original flight postponed from the middle of May. I know it sounds silly but I thought that when they returned it would be a bit like being back to normal!
We also heard that Mike has an interview on Friday at a golf club in Kettering so that was very hopeful indeed! Let's keep everything crossed he's successful!
After Sophie finished work we tortured ourselves again by watching the lottery winners picking out fabulous homes in Florida and then I prepared dinner - the cold meats, new potatoes and salad that we should have had on Saturday evening!
Tuesday 26 May 2020
Facing facts...
Day 64
Keith and I went over to pick up my Dad's medication this morning and I had to queue for ages at the pharmacy. Everything takes so much longer these days! We went over to Mum's, and Keith looked at the strimmer battery for her so that was another little job sorted out.
Binty wanted to pop to her bank at the Weston Favell Centre, so after dropping Keith back off at home, we drove to the shopping centre and while Binty did her banking, Mum and I went to Wilco's to get some bits we needed.
Before heading back we dropped the medication off at my Dad's care home and I enclosed a letter to him about both of them going into a care home when his rehabilitation ends in a few weeks. We must really get things sorted out this week as I'm fed up with worrying about what's going to happen, how they're going to pay for the care and what's going to happen to the house. The worry is keeping me awake at night, so not very pleasant!
Back at Mum's house I asked her about an appointment she'd made at a care home in Kettering and we looked at how to get there on Google maps. It's on a brand new residential estate as you enter the town from the A43 and although it looked easy to get to, the reality was somewhat different! What put us off was that it's on a part of the estate that's still being built, so I didn't think I could get down the road that was blocked by machinery. We must have gone along every stretch of the road and could see it in the distance, until we finally went back to where we started and I asked the builders if we could use the road!
We were welcomed into the building, asked to wash our hands and use sanitiser and then we had to wear masks throughout our visit which were hot and uncomfortable. It was a warm day today so I feel for anyone having to wear them full-time in this weather!
We were shown around by a lovely lady and we had a chat about fees and annuities which I hadn't heard about before. The fees were £1085 a week so pretty hefty, especially for the two of them! Before we left we were given a bag with all the information we needed as well as little bags of Haribo sweets, a pen, torch and a notebook. No wonder they charge so much!
I dropped Mum back and then sped home where I spent the afternoon printing out an Attendance Allowance form for my Dad and doing other jobs for them. Keith and I popped to the Co-op at Brixworth halfway through the afternoon, where we kept being told it was only one member of a household allowed in, even though I was shopping for items to give to the Food Bank this evening and Keith was shopping for us! Have I said how glad I will be when this comes to an end and we don't have people barking orders at us?
Going to see the Care Home made me feel a bit emotional today and I felt very sad that my parents, who over the years of running their business have paid out tens of thousands of pounds in income tax, VAT, National Insurance contributions (for their staff) and business rates, will now have to sell their house to pay for their care. It will mean that I won't receive any inheritance from them, something they desperately wanted to do.
Watching a programme about lottery winners buying property in Florida made me feel even worse so it was quite an emotional evening in our house! We will just have to try and win the lottery ourselves!
Keith and I went over to pick up my Dad's medication this morning and I had to queue for ages at the pharmacy. Everything takes so much longer these days! We went over to Mum's, and Keith looked at the strimmer battery for her so that was another little job sorted out.
Binty wanted to pop to her bank at the Weston Favell Centre, so after dropping Keith back off at home, we drove to the shopping centre and while Binty did her banking, Mum and I went to Wilco's to get some bits we needed.
Before heading back we dropped the medication off at my Dad's care home and I enclosed a letter to him about both of them going into a care home when his rehabilitation ends in a few weeks. We must really get things sorted out this week as I'm fed up with worrying about what's going to happen, how they're going to pay for the care and what's going to happen to the house. The worry is keeping me awake at night, so not very pleasant!
Back at Mum's house I asked her about an appointment she'd made at a care home in Kettering and we looked at how to get there on Google maps. It's on a brand new residential estate as you enter the town from the A43 and although it looked easy to get to, the reality was somewhat different! What put us off was that it's on a part of the estate that's still being built, so I didn't think I could get down the road that was blocked by machinery. We must have gone along every stretch of the road and could see it in the distance, until we finally went back to where we started and I asked the builders if we could use the road!
We were welcomed into the building, asked to wash our hands and use sanitiser and then we had to wear masks throughout our visit which were hot and uncomfortable. It was a warm day today so I feel for anyone having to wear them full-time in this weather!
We were shown around by a lovely lady and we had a chat about fees and annuities which I hadn't heard about before. The fees were £1085 a week so pretty hefty, especially for the two of them! Before we left we were given a bag with all the information we needed as well as little bags of Haribo sweets, a pen, torch and a notebook. No wonder they charge so much!
I dropped Mum back and then sped home where I spent the afternoon printing out an Attendance Allowance form for my Dad and doing other jobs for them. Keith and I popped to the Co-op at Brixworth halfway through the afternoon, where we kept being told it was only one member of a household allowed in, even though I was shopping for items to give to the Food Bank this evening and Keith was shopping for us! Have I said how glad I will be when this comes to an end and we don't have people barking orders at us?
Going to see the Care Home made me feel a bit emotional today and I felt very sad that my parents, who over the years of running their business have paid out tens of thousands of pounds in income tax, VAT, National Insurance contributions (for their staff) and business rates, will now have to sell their house to pay for their care. It will mean that I won't receive any inheritance from them, something they desperately wanted to do.
Watching a programme about lottery winners buying property in Florida made me feel even worse so it was quite an emotional evening in our house! We will just have to try and win the lottery ourselves!
Monday 25 May 2020
Bank Holiday frivolities...
Day 63
So, our second May Bank Holiday dawned sunny and warm and plans to sit outside with our neighbours looked very promising! It does make me wonder what we'll be doing for the August Bank Holiday? I hope and pray that things will be more "normal"!
We spent the morning pottering about and doing very little. Sophie and I watched a couple of A Place in the Sun programmes with the properties in rural areas of France. Watching the people taking part wandering the streets of little French villages made me extremely wistful - how I would love to be there now, sitting outside a little bar, sipping a beer and enjoying the sunshine! Hopefully we will be able to do this in September, in Wimereux!
As the weather is set to be warm and sunny for at least the next ten days, I dug out my summer clothes from a drawer under our bed and ironed them all. We are almost at the end of May but I didn't cast any of my winter clothes out! I just put them to one side in the wardrobe!
At 4pm we all congregated outside and Keith set up our paste table covered with a tablecloth. Richard and Michelle set up opposite while Paul and Sharon, and Paul and Sharon (!) set up a bit further along. It was one of the Sharon's birthday yesterday so Paul gave us all a bottle of Prosecco to celebrate which we thought was lovely.
It was great to sit and relax and the weather was stunning with wispy clouds in the sky - they were definitely fair weather cirrus clouds and they looked like white brushstrokes in the sky.
Richard made Sophie a Margarita so at one point she had two drinks on the go! As well as the Prosecco, Paul had also made us scones with jam and clotted cream. They were delicious!
We all sat out until about 8pm and had a great chat. A couple of neighbours strolled past and we had a very enjoyable conversation with them. All from a safe distance of course!
Our plan had been to barbecue but this was knocked on the head and we decided to just have ham sandwiches instead, as we'd eaten the lovely scones and also enjoyed some Birthday cake.
The plan is to do it again on the 4th July when we hope that pubs and restaurants will re-open - maybe we can all get together on the front green and meet up with more of our lovely neighbours!
So, our second May Bank Holiday dawned sunny and warm and plans to sit outside with our neighbours looked very promising! It does make me wonder what we'll be doing for the August Bank Holiday? I hope and pray that things will be more "normal"!
We spent the morning pottering about and doing very little. Sophie and I watched a couple of A Place in the Sun programmes with the properties in rural areas of France. Watching the people taking part wandering the streets of little French villages made me extremely wistful - how I would love to be there now, sitting outside a little bar, sipping a beer and enjoying the sunshine! Hopefully we will be able to do this in September, in Wimereux!
As the weather is set to be warm and sunny for at least the next ten days, I dug out my summer clothes from a drawer under our bed and ironed them all. We are almost at the end of May but I didn't cast any of my winter clothes out! I just put them to one side in the wardrobe!
At 4pm we all congregated outside and Keith set up our paste table covered with a tablecloth. Richard and Michelle set up opposite while Paul and Sharon, and Paul and Sharon (!) set up a bit further along. It was one of the Sharon's birthday yesterday so Paul gave us all a bottle of Prosecco to celebrate which we thought was lovely.
It was great to sit and relax and the weather was stunning with wispy clouds in the sky - they were definitely fair weather cirrus clouds and they looked like white brushstrokes in the sky.
Richard made Sophie a Margarita so at one point she had two drinks on the go! As well as the Prosecco, Paul had also made us scones with jam and clotted cream. They were delicious!
We all sat out until about 8pm and had a great chat. A couple of neighbours strolled past and we had a very enjoyable conversation with them. All from a safe distance of course!
Our plan had been to barbecue but this was knocked on the head and we decided to just have ham sandwiches instead, as we'd eaten the lovely scones and also enjoyed some Birthday cake.
The plan is to do it again on the 4th July when we hope that pubs and restaurants will re-open - maybe we can all get together on the front green and meet up with more of our lovely neighbours!
Sunday 24 May 2020
A little walk.
Day 62
Sophie, Keith and I went over to Mum's this morning and while Keith went to Tesco (yet again!) we helped Mum colour her hair, bless her. Binty helped and after waiting the statutory twenty-five minutes she went and had a shower and came down very pleased with the results.
I also turned the outside tap back on for them so they could water the garden easily (there is no rain in the forecast for ages) and when Keith arrived back from shopping, we went home. We had no plans today but we did manage a walk in the afternoon, despite my foot still hurting a bit. Funnily, it hurt less after the walk, so I might venture out again every day like we had been doing! We walked through the sheep field and at first we thought that all the mums and their lambs had been moved out, but they had all congregated by the barns. Although one or two stared at us, chewing the cud, they didn't come anywhere near!
Before going home we went to see the horses and two of them came over for some patting. We didn't have any carrots with us, but they seemed content to let us stroke them, which was lovely.
I had a nap when I got back and while Sophie was chatting to Daisy and Laura on a video link, Keith and I played cards in the conservatory. I beat him at almost every game so he was mightily miffed! Afterwards, Sophie and I cooked dinner - breaded pork escalopes with new potatoes and vegetables. The meal was delicious.
It's our second May Bank Holiday tomorrow and we're planning on having another street "party" with our neighbours. The weather is set to be very good indeed!
Sophie, Keith and I went over to Mum's this morning and while Keith went to Tesco (yet again!) we helped Mum colour her hair, bless her. Binty helped and after waiting the statutory twenty-five minutes she went and had a shower and came down very pleased with the results.
I also turned the outside tap back on for them so they could water the garden easily (there is no rain in the forecast for ages) and when Keith arrived back from shopping, we went home. We had no plans today but we did manage a walk in the afternoon, despite my foot still hurting a bit. Funnily, it hurt less after the walk, so I might venture out again every day like we had been doing! We walked through the sheep field and at first we thought that all the mums and their lambs had been moved out, but they had all congregated by the barns. Although one or two stared at us, chewing the cud, they didn't come anywhere near!
Before going home we went to see the horses and two of them came over for some patting. We didn't have any carrots with us, but they seemed content to let us stroke them, which was lovely.
I had a nap when I got back and while Sophie was chatting to Daisy and Laura on a video link, Keith and I played cards in the conservatory. I beat him at almost every game so he was mightily miffed! Afterwards, Sophie and I cooked dinner - breaded pork escalopes with new potatoes and vegetables. The meal was delicious.
It's our second May Bank Holiday tomorrow and we're planning on having another street "party" with our neighbours. The weather is set to be very good indeed!
Saturday 23 May 2020
Annoying rules
Day 61
We had a very lazy start to the day watching A Place in the Sun, which featured properties in rural France. Some of the houses were old and a bit run-down but were selling for less than £100,000! I'm not sure you could get one for that price these days (the programme was made in 2014)!
I had spoken to Lynn the other day and she had hinted that she had loads of pet food pouches ready to go to the recycling man in Milton Keynes, so Sophie and I agreed to go today. Lynn brought them along in a wheelbarrow and they filled the boot of my car! We did a swap and she took a bag full of crisp and snack wrappers, sweet wrappers, old plant pots and our glass shower screen which she'd asked to have back in October. It felt good to have rescued all of this from landfill! We had a chat and then I went back to putting my new plants into pots.
It's been extremely windy today but mostly dry and sunny, although we have had the odd shower and it really chucked it down on the way to Milton Keynes. It was more like April showers than May weather!
After taking all the recycling we headed back, Sophie popped into Boots and then we drove to Farndon Fields to get some goodies. There was a long queue of people waiting to go in and the last time we visited, two weeks ago, Sophie and I were allowed to go in together. There were several couples in the queue and even a couple with a baby in a pram, but they had changed the rules and said we had to go in separately and stay apart from each other for the usual two metres, even though we're from the same household!
I have to say I am getting mightily fed up with all this now. Everywhere you go you have to queue and I know it's for a good reason, but everything takes so long and I was annoyed by all the signs in Farndon Fields telling us to stay two metres apart from other people. Unless you had been hiding under a rock for the last few months, you would know exactly to do that! We don't need to keep seeing reminders! I will never take for granted just walking into a shop again!
I was mightily miffed by the changed rules so I refused to buy anything in the farm shop and we both said that we would leave visiting again until this lockdown is over, whenever that will be. Beckworth was a much better experience, as they allowed couples in so if we want some nice foods we'll go there instead. Plus, it's nearer! Sophie treated us to some food for lunch and we enjoyed it in the car on our scenic route overlooking the beautiful fields and hedgerows.
Back home we relaxed and started watching Suspicion starring Cary Grant and Joan Fontaine. We are really into the old black and white movies at the moment! Half way through, Sophie said she really fancied a Chinese takeaway but our local delivery is still closed. Amazingly, the takeaway in Broughton were delivering so we phoned up, placed an order and sat back to look forward to a treat!
The food arrived on time, was delicious and value for money. We even had Fortune Cookies and a free bag of prawn crackers. Fab!
We had a very lazy start to the day watching A Place in the Sun, which featured properties in rural France. Some of the houses were old and a bit run-down but were selling for less than £100,000! I'm not sure you could get one for that price these days (the programme was made in 2014)!
I had spoken to Lynn the other day and she had hinted that she had loads of pet food pouches ready to go to the recycling man in Milton Keynes, so Sophie and I agreed to go today. Lynn brought them along in a wheelbarrow and they filled the boot of my car! We did a swap and she took a bag full of crisp and snack wrappers, sweet wrappers, old plant pots and our glass shower screen which she'd asked to have back in October. It felt good to have rescued all of this from landfill! We had a chat and then I went back to putting my new plants into pots.
It's been extremely windy today but mostly dry and sunny, although we have had the odd shower and it really chucked it down on the way to Milton Keynes. It was more like April showers than May weather!
After taking all the recycling we headed back, Sophie popped into Boots and then we drove to Farndon Fields to get some goodies. There was a long queue of people waiting to go in and the last time we visited, two weeks ago, Sophie and I were allowed to go in together. There were several couples in the queue and even a couple with a baby in a pram, but they had changed the rules and said we had to go in separately and stay apart from each other for the usual two metres, even though we're from the same household!
I have to say I am getting mightily fed up with all this now. Everywhere you go you have to queue and I know it's for a good reason, but everything takes so long and I was annoyed by all the signs in Farndon Fields telling us to stay two metres apart from other people. Unless you had been hiding under a rock for the last few months, you would know exactly to do that! We don't need to keep seeing reminders! I will never take for granted just walking into a shop again!
I was mightily miffed by the changed rules so I refused to buy anything in the farm shop and we both said that we would leave visiting again until this lockdown is over, whenever that will be. Beckworth was a much better experience, as they allowed couples in so if we want some nice foods we'll go there instead. Plus, it's nearer! Sophie treated us to some food for lunch and we enjoyed it in the car on our scenic route overlooking the beautiful fields and hedgerows.
Back home we relaxed and started watching Suspicion starring Cary Grant and Joan Fontaine. We are really into the old black and white movies at the moment! Half way through, Sophie said she really fancied a Chinese takeaway but our local delivery is still closed. Amazingly, the takeaway in Broughton were delivering so we phoned up, placed an order and sat back to look forward to a treat!
The food arrived on time, was delicious and value for money. We even had Fortune Cookies and a free bag of prawn crackers. Fab!
Friday 22 May 2020
Running errands
Day 60
I'd arranged to take Mum shopping this morning as it was something she hadn't done for months! I picked her up at about 10am and discovered that Binty was coming along, too, so I said they would be able to shop together while I went off and bought some bits we needed (even though Keith had been yesterday!).
This was the first time Mum had shopped during "lockdown" and she was a bit bemused by the queue stretching up the walkways, but thankfully we didn't have to wait for long. I said I would meet them at the customer service desk when they'd finished as I still had Dad's card and I would help them with the payment.
I went off and did our shopping in five minutes flat so I took it back to the car and decided to go back and treat myself to some plants and compost. I also picked out a box of plant feed and some grass seed, and half way around I met them both in one of the aisles.
I went and waited and managed to get in a lot of people's way! After about half an hour I was growing a bit restless and one of the staff came over to see if I was OK! I explained what I was doing - not loitering with intent! - and after another five minutes spotted Mum and Binty coming along from where the checkouts were! I was a bit annoyed that they hadn't met me as arranged!
I sent them to the car while I went and used the self-serve checkouts and then I dropped them home. I think next time I will go on my own or get them to try and arrange an online shopping slot which has been an impossibility for the last three months. Maybe things have calmed down a bit now!
I was at home enjoying a sandwich for lunch when the phone rang and it was Dad's care home - he needed some more clean clothes... I called my Mum and said that I needed to pick up some clothes and she sorted them all out for me. She wanted to come along for the ride so we went and dropped the stuff off at the home. There were quite a few people talking to one of the residents and the staff and I wished we were able to talk to my Dad like that. We really must make a decision in the next week about what will happen when he comes out of the care home and it's an important thing to discuss, but at the moment it's hard work.
Back home I relaxed and when Sophie came home we watched 90 Day Fiance which is becoming a bit far-fetched! Two of the people surely know they're being catfished!
Sophie and I made fish pie for dinner and then we had a very enjoyable evening watching Vivacious Lady starring James Stewart and Ginger Rogers. It was lovely to forget about everything for a while and just enjoy a good film!
I'd arranged to take Mum shopping this morning as it was something she hadn't done for months! I picked her up at about 10am and discovered that Binty was coming along, too, so I said they would be able to shop together while I went off and bought some bits we needed (even though Keith had been yesterday!).
This was the first time Mum had shopped during "lockdown" and she was a bit bemused by the queue stretching up the walkways, but thankfully we didn't have to wait for long. I said I would meet them at the customer service desk when they'd finished as I still had Dad's card and I would help them with the payment.
I went off and did our shopping in five minutes flat so I took it back to the car and decided to go back and treat myself to some plants and compost. I also picked out a box of plant feed and some grass seed, and half way around I met them both in one of the aisles.
I went and waited and managed to get in a lot of people's way! After about half an hour I was growing a bit restless and one of the staff came over to see if I was OK! I explained what I was doing - not loitering with intent! - and after another five minutes spotted Mum and Binty coming along from where the checkouts were! I was a bit annoyed that they hadn't met me as arranged!
I sent them to the car while I went and used the self-serve checkouts and then I dropped them home. I think next time I will go on my own or get them to try and arrange an online shopping slot which has been an impossibility for the last three months. Maybe things have calmed down a bit now!
I was at home enjoying a sandwich for lunch when the phone rang and it was Dad's care home - he needed some more clean clothes... I called my Mum and said that I needed to pick up some clothes and she sorted them all out for me. She wanted to come along for the ride so we went and dropped the stuff off at the home. There were quite a few people talking to one of the residents and the staff and I wished we were able to talk to my Dad like that. We really must make a decision in the next week about what will happen when he comes out of the care home and it's an important thing to discuss, but at the moment it's hard work.
Back home I relaxed and when Sophie came home we watched 90 Day Fiance which is becoming a bit far-fetched! Two of the people surely know they're being catfished!
Sophie and I made fish pie for dinner and then we had a very enjoyable evening watching Vivacious Lady starring James Stewart and Ginger Rogers. It was lovely to forget about everything for a while and just enjoy a good film!
Thursday 21 May 2020
Country noises!
Day 59
The weeks are flying by and it's hard to believe it's Thursday - shopping day - again! Keith went off armed with the list and I caught up with some jobs at home. Mum phoned me to say that a cheque had arrived for them, the refund of the money they'd paid to The Hawthorns, so Keith and I drove over to collect it so we could pay it into the bank.
We had to queue for ages at the bank but then that's nothing new! Afterwards we called into the garage at Moulton as my car badly needed a good wash. It was the first time in ages I'd actually been inside the shop and what a difference to my last visit there when I was treated like a leper, the morning after Boris Johnson had announced we were all going to go into lockdown! Today, the staff were pleasant and friendly and it was back to the place I used to visit regularly!
It was great to get my dusty car washed and we headed home for lunch - more leftovers from yesterday's picnic. It's been another warm and sunny day today and Sophie was finding it quite difficult to work in our conservatory, both with the warmth and the sun coming in through the windows. The starling babies have also arrived and they were making a right racket outside so she resorted to wearing her noise cancelling headphones!
I managed to clean downstairs and Keith did a load of shredding so we could get it into the recycling bins for tomorrow. Friday has come around again very quickly and it's a Bank Holiday weekend!
We played cards in the conservatory in the evening (well, Mike, Keith and I did) and discussed holidays. We were tentatively planning on going to Palma between Christmas and New Year but we're still unsure of what might happen with the coronavirus. We are still very much hoping that we'll be able to go to France in September when we were forced to re-book, but only time will tell.
As we were settling down for the night, Sophie came into our bedroom to say there was a weird noise outside. I listened at her window and we think it was a fox barking outside in the fields. It could be mating season at the moment - if that's the case, any foxes within a fifty mile radius would have heard it!
The weeks are flying by and it's hard to believe it's Thursday - shopping day - again! Keith went off armed with the list and I caught up with some jobs at home. Mum phoned me to say that a cheque had arrived for them, the refund of the money they'd paid to The Hawthorns, so Keith and I drove over to collect it so we could pay it into the bank.
We had to queue for ages at the bank but then that's nothing new! Afterwards we called into the garage at Moulton as my car badly needed a good wash. It was the first time in ages I'd actually been inside the shop and what a difference to my last visit there when I was treated like a leper, the morning after Boris Johnson had announced we were all going to go into lockdown! Today, the staff were pleasant and friendly and it was back to the place I used to visit regularly!
It was great to get my dusty car washed and we headed home for lunch - more leftovers from yesterday's picnic. It's been another warm and sunny day today and Sophie was finding it quite difficult to work in our conservatory, both with the warmth and the sun coming in through the windows. The starling babies have also arrived and they were making a right racket outside so she resorted to wearing her noise cancelling headphones!
I managed to clean downstairs and Keith did a load of shredding so we could get it into the recycling bins for tomorrow. Friday has come around again very quickly and it's a Bank Holiday weekend!
We played cards in the conservatory in the evening (well, Mike, Keith and I did) and discussed holidays. We were tentatively planning on going to Palma between Christmas and New Year but we're still unsure of what might happen with the coronavirus. We are still very much hoping that we'll be able to go to France in September when we were forced to re-book, but only time will tell.
As we were settling down for the night, Sophie came into our bedroom to say there was a weird noise outside. I listened at her window and we think it was a fox barking outside in the fields. It could be mating season at the moment - if that's the case, any foxes within a fifty mile radius would have heard it!
Wednesday 20 May 2020
Escape to the beach...
Day 58
Sophie took today off as she had a couple of days of holiday to use up by the end of the month. As the temperatures were set to soar to about 28c today we decided to head for the coast and go to Winterton-on-Sea.
We are now allowed to drive to take exercise and we can also visit parks, the countryside and beaches to sit and enjoy the sunshine. We wanted Mike to come with us, but as there were no pubs included in the visit, he stayed in bed!
We left at 9am after putting together a picnic and a flask of coffee to drink on the way. On previous trips we'd stopped at a huge monument in Thetford forest, so we decided to have a halt there again. The traffic was light on the A14 and this time we could see the new layout of the road. The last time we'd travelled on this stretch of the A14 was when we came back from celebrating Mike's birthday in London on the 26th January, the last time we'd driven any distance!
Once on the A11, we started looking out for the war memorial and saw it in the distance, but as the road had been widened into a dual carriageway, we could only stop at a layby a short distance away. It didn't look too nice, so we re-joined the road and carried on.
Keith mentioned a small road that branched off the A11 so we turned off and eventually found a layby overlooking some fields. It was lovely to have a coffee and a chicken roll!
After our short break, and fortified by the coffee and snacks, we drove on so I could turn around safely and found another, much better layby! Typical!
We arrived at Winterton-on-Sea at about lunchtime and found the car park almost full! We parked on the grassy dunes and walked down to the beach, passing the Dunes Cafe which was busy doing take-away food. Loads of people were still arriving with dogs, children and beach paraphernalia.
There was a lot of work going on down on the beach and it looked like they were trying to sort out the cliff erosion by the cafe. We walked along the shoreline and Sophie and I picked up several pebbles and shells to take home with us to our little collection in the gravel garden.
It was very windy indeed, though, and I could see why people had brought windbreaks with them.
We walked along to some more grassy dunes and decided to head back to the car for something to eat.
Getting back up the dunes was very hard and we had to clutch at the grasses to pull ourselves up! Once at the top we walked along paths that meandered all over the area and looked out towards the village of Winterton-on-Sea. We could see a lighthouse and the tall spire of the church in the distance.
Back at the car we sat and ate lunch and decided to head towards Cromer, which is about 25 miles up the coast. The wind was really quite unpleasant and it felt a lot colder than it had been inland! Also, the toilets were not in use at Winterton-on-Sea and I knew it wouldn't be long before all of us had to go!
The A149 to Cromer was lovely and passed through beautiful villages and countryside. We kept a lookout for a supermarket and thankfully managed to spot a large Tesco in Stalham. Sophie and I had to queue to get inside, which was a pain, but luckily it didn't take long!
We also bought a paper and had to queue for ages again just to use the self-service checkout! I shall be so glad when this is all over!
Back on the road, we arrived at Cromer at about 2pm and parked on the cliffs overlooking the beach and pier (which was closed). It was much calmer, and hotter, in the town and we wandered down towards the pier, peering over the grassy cliff to the promenade below.
Apparently, goats graze on these grassed cliffs, but we didn't see any!
The town was busy with people out enjoying the sunshine and very soon we came upon an ice-cream shop. It was too hard to resist so Sophie ordered a pistachio and mocha while I enjoyed double strawberry and vanilla. The ice-cream was delicious and we ate them overlooking the beach and the sea.
After finishing them off we strolled into the town, feeling sad that most places were closed. A fish and chip restaurant was doing a roaring trade in takeaways and another ice-cream parlour further down was also busy, but the gift shops, pubs, hotels and restaurants were closed. They must be wringing their hands with frustration as a Bank Holiday weekend is approaching and next week is the Whitsun half-term, with the beautiful weather set to continue.
I dread to think of the effect this will have on our economy in the future. It's so sad to hear of people losing businesses they've built up for years, and walking through the town just brought it home to us how devastating this must be.
By about 3pm we were ready to head home as we calculated it would take us about three hours. We headed back towards Norwich on another pretty road and drove past the airport, which was full of planes just sitting on the tarmac - another harsh reminder of how this virus has brought life as we know it to a halt.
The journey home was easy and fast and we were pulling up on our driveway well before 6pm. We unpacked the car and relaxed for an hour before preparing dinner - quiche, salad, new potatoes and a selection of picnic foods we hadn't eaten! By 9pm I was shattered and more than ready for bed! I think the long day and the drive had tired me out and the warm temperatures of between 27-29c had also contributed! I wasn't alone as all of us were tucked up before 9.30pm!
Sophie took today off as she had a couple of days of holiday to use up by the end of the month. As the temperatures were set to soar to about 28c today we decided to head for the coast and go to Winterton-on-Sea.
We are now allowed to drive to take exercise and we can also visit parks, the countryside and beaches to sit and enjoy the sunshine. We wanted Mike to come with us, but as there were no pubs included in the visit, he stayed in bed!
We left at 9am after putting together a picnic and a flask of coffee to drink on the way. On previous trips we'd stopped at a huge monument in Thetford forest, so we decided to have a halt there again. The traffic was light on the A14 and this time we could see the new layout of the road. The last time we'd travelled on this stretch of the A14 was when we came back from celebrating Mike's birthday in London on the 26th January, the last time we'd driven any distance!
Once on the A11, we started looking out for the war memorial and saw it in the distance, but as the road had been widened into a dual carriageway, we could only stop at a layby a short distance away. It didn't look too nice, so we re-joined the road and carried on.
Keith mentioned a small road that branched off the A11 so we turned off and eventually found a layby overlooking some fields. It was lovely to have a coffee and a chicken roll!
After our short break, and fortified by the coffee and snacks, we drove on so I could turn around safely and found another, much better layby! Typical!
We arrived at Winterton-on-Sea at about lunchtime and found the car park almost full! We parked on the grassy dunes and walked down to the beach, passing the Dunes Cafe which was busy doing take-away food. Loads of people were still arriving with dogs, children and beach paraphernalia.
There was a lot of work going on down on the beach and it looked like they were trying to sort out the cliff erosion by the cafe. We walked along the shoreline and Sophie and I picked up several pebbles and shells to take home with us to our little collection in the gravel garden.
It was very windy indeed, though, and I could see why people had brought windbreaks with them.
We walked along to some more grassy dunes and decided to head back to the car for something to eat.
 |
| (All photos by Sophie) |
Back at the car we sat and ate lunch and decided to head towards Cromer, which is about 25 miles up the coast. The wind was really quite unpleasant and it felt a lot colder than it had been inland! Also, the toilets were not in use at Winterton-on-Sea and I knew it wouldn't be long before all of us had to go!
The A149 to Cromer was lovely and passed through beautiful villages and countryside. We kept a lookout for a supermarket and thankfully managed to spot a large Tesco in Stalham. Sophie and I had to queue to get inside, which was a pain, but luckily it didn't take long!
We also bought a paper and had to queue for ages again just to use the self-service checkout! I shall be so glad when this is all over!
Back on the road, we arrived at Cromer at about 2pm and parked on the cliffs overlooking the beach and pier (which was closed). It was much calmer, and hotter, in the town and we wandered down towards the pier, peering over the grassy cliff to the promenade below.
Apparently, goats graze on these grassed cliffs, but we didn't see any!
The town was busy with people out enjoying the sunshine and very soon we came upon an ice-cream shop. It was too hard to resist so Sophie ordered a pistachio and mocha while I enjoyed double strawberry and vanilla. The ice-cream was delicious and we ate them overlooking the beach and the sea.
 |
| Sophie's choice |
I dread to think of the effect this will have on our economy in the future. It's so sad to hear of people losing businesses they've built up for years, and walking through the town just brought it home to us how devastating this must be.
By about 3pm we were ready to head home as we calculated it would take us about three hours. We headed back towards Norwich on another pretty road and drove past the airport, which was full of planes just sitting on the tarmac - another harsh reminder of how this virus has brought life as we know it to a halt.
The journey home was easy and fast and we were pulling up on our driveway well before 6pm. We unpacked the car and relaxed for an hour before preparing dinner - quiche, salad, new potatoes and a selection of picnic foods we hadn't eaten! By 9pm I was shattered and more than ready for bed! I think the long day and the drive had tired me out and the warm temperatures of between 27-29c had also contributed! I wasn't alone as all of us were tucked up before 9.30pm!
Tuesday 19 May 2020
Just pottering...
Day 57
I spent this morning pottering about and touched up the banisters with some more white gloss paint. One area had blistered so Keith sanded it down and we applied a coat, but it will definitely need another one once it's dry.
It's been another gorgeous day with beautiful skies and warm temperatures. I sat in the garden with Keith for a little while and soaked up the warm sunshine and in the afternoon we called around to see Mum for a quick cup of tea. She was having her toenails painted by Binty, which was lovely! Mine need doing as well!
Back home I managed a nap on the sofa and before we started cooking the Jerk Chicken Sophie and I watched a television programme about a couple who had won $1 million and were looking for a new house in Florida. It was lovely to escape for a while and see which property they went for in the end!
The Jerk Chicken Pasta was a success and most of it disappeared, leaving just a small portion for lunch tomorrow. Keith didn't join us, making do with a sausage sandwich, which we thought was hilarious, but he really doesn't like the taste at all!
After eating we watched Educating Rita which Sophie said was sad. Yes, I agree it is, but it's also funny, very much like my other favourite film Shirley Valentine. Both were written by Willy Russell and they are in my top five films of all time. It was great to see it again and I loved the performances by Michael Caine and Julie Walters!
I spent this morning pottering about and touched up the banisters with some more white gloss paint. One area had blistered so Keith sanded it down and we applied a coat, but it will definitely need another one once it's dry.
It's been another gorgeous day with beautiful skies and warm temperatures. I sat in the garden with Keith for a little while and soaked up the warm sunshine and in the afternoon we called around to see Mum for a quick cup of tea. She was having her toenails painted by Binty, which was lovely! Mine need doing as well!
Back home I managed a nap on the sofa and before we started cooking the Jerk Chicken Sophie and I watched a television programme about a couple who had won $1 million and were looking for a new house in Florida. It was lovely to escape for a while and see which property they went for in the end!
The Jerk Chicken Pasta was a success and most of it disappeared, leaving just a small portion for lunch tomorrow. Keith didn't join us, making do with a sausage sandwich, which we thought was hilarious, but he really doesn't like the taste at all!
After eating we watched Educating Rita which Sophie said was sad. Yes, I agree it is, but it's also funny, very much like my other favourite film Shirley Valentine. Both were written by Willy Russell and they are in my top five films of all time. It was great to see it again and I loved the performances by Michael Caine and Julie Walters!
Monday 18 May 2020
The hunt for jerk paste!
Day 56
This morning I went over to Mum's to help with her paperwork and sort things out for her. We put everything into folders so she can find things more easily. While I was there Keith went to Aldi and Tesco to get some shopping for up until Wednesday.
When he finished he called back for me and we went home to have lunch. I'd promised Mike that we would cook Jerk Chicken Pasta when he returned home but Keith couldn't find the paste in Tesco that we needed. As we have to marinate the chicken for a few hours before cooking it meant we had to go out on the hunt for it this afternoon! We went to the Weston Favell Centre but the queue for Tesco was astronomical! They were waiting to go in on the lower level so we swiftly abandoned that idea!
We went to Waitrose where there wasn't a queue but couldn't find it anywhere - they didn't even stock a marinade. Both of us were dressed like tramps, if I'm honest, and certainly not how we would have chosen for this posh supermarket (!) so we made another swift exit and went to Asda next door, where we had to queue again, this time in the sunny car park. I'd googled whether Asda stocked the paste while we were in Waitrose and luckily they had supplies so we bought two jars so we don't face this problem again! Before heading home we called to see my Mum again and I picked up a big bag of papers that needed shredding. I told Binty about the paste and she said she always has some in her fridge!
The rest of the afternoon was spent relaxing and we enjoyed a delicious cottage pie for dinner. Afterwards I gave the garden a thorough water - it's set to get hotter this week - and then marinaded the chicken by massaging the sauce into the meat. There's a risk with this of touching your eyes afterwards - ouch!
This morning I went over to Mum's to help with her paperwork and sort things out for her. We put everything into folders so she can find things more easily. While I was there Keith went to Aldi and Tesco to get some shopping for up until Wednesday.
When he finished he called back for me and we went home to have lunch. I'd promised Mike that we would cook Jerk Chicken Pasta when he returned home but Keith couldn't find the paste in Tesco that we needed. As we have to marinate the chicken for a few hours before cooking it meant we had to go out on the hunt for it this afternoon! We went to the Weston Favell Centre but the queue for Tesco was astronomical! They were waiting to go in on the lower level so we swiftly abandoned that idea!
We went to Waitrose where there wasn't a queue but couldn't find it anywhere - they didn't even stock a marinade. Both of us were dressed like tramps, if I'm honest, and certainly not how we would have chosen for this posh supermarket (!) so we made another swift exit and went to Asda next door, where we had to queue again, this time in the sunny car park. I'd googled whether Asda stocked the paste while we were in Waitrose and luckily they had supplies so we bought two jars so we don't face this problem again! Before heading home we called to see my Mum again and I picked up a big bag of papers that needed shredding. I told Binty about the paste and she said she always has some in her fridge!
The rest of the afternoon was spent relaxing and we enjoyed a delicious cottage pie for dinner. Afterwards I gave the garden a thorough water - it's set to get hotter this week - and then marinaded the chicken by massaging the sauce into the meat. There's a risk with this of touching your eyes afterwards - ouch!
Sunday 17 May 2020
Inching back to normal?
Day 55
Sophie and I went to collect Mum at 11am this morning to go and see if we could have a chat with Dad through the window at his care home. It was a gorgeous morning with a beautiful blue sky, flecked with fluffy white clouds.
When we arrived, we rang the bell and eventually one of the staff members answered it. I didn't hold out a lot of hope but amazingly, he was brought down and we could see him through the entrance door. He seemed OK, but still looked a bit frail and thin. We ended up chatting with him over the phone and my Mum became a bit upset, which was only natural. It had been so long since she'd seen him.
We stayed for a while and then took Mum home before popping to Beckworth very briefly to get some bread, milk and food for lunch. It was lovely to see Beckworth open again but it was very different to what we were used to. The restaurant was now part of the food shop and garden centre and only two people were allowed in together, and we had to make sure that we all kept a safe distance from one another.
Back home we enjoyed a delicious lunch of pate and bread in the conservatory and as soon as we were finished we went to collect Mike from town. We'd heard that the drive-thru at Starbucks had re-opened so we decided to head down for a treat. As we turned into the retail park, we were stopped by a burly man in black who asked if we had pre-ordered a coffee. We hadn't, so we were then told the wait would be about 45 minutes and the queue of cars stretched over to a distant McDonalds!
None of us really wanted to wait for so long just to get a coffee so we drove around the car park (Homesense were closed...sob!) and went home!
The rest of the afternoon was spent relaxing (I had a nap while watching a programme about crocodiles in the Caribbean) and we had a barbecue in the evening. I had imagined sitting out in the garden with a G&T but the weather turned distinctly chilly with a layer of cloud. However, the food was delicious and I'm hoping it will the next time we decide to cook this way it will be a little warmer!
Sophie and I went to collect Mum at 11am this morning to go and see if we could have a chat with Dad through the window at his care home. It was a gorgeous morning with a beautiful blue sky, flecked with fluffy white clouds.
When we arrived, we rang the bell and eventually one of the staff members answered it. I didn't hold out a lot of hope but amazingly, he was brought down and we could see him through the entrance door. He seemed OK, but still looked a bit frail and thin. We ended up chatting with him over the phone and my Mum became a bit upset, which was only natural. It had been so long since she'd seen him.
We stayed for a while and then took Mum home before popping to Beckworth very briefly to get some bread, milk and food for lunch. It was lovely to see Beckworth open again but it was very different to what we were used to. The restaurant was now part of the food shop and garden centre and only two people were allowed in together, and we had to make sure that we all kept a safe distance from one another.
Back home we enjoyed a delicious lunch of pate and bread in the conservatory and as soon as we were finished we went to collect Mike from town. We'd heard that the drive-thru at Starbucks had re-opened so we decided to head down for a treat. As we turned into the retail park, we were stopped by a burly man in black who asked if we had pre-ordered a coffee. We hadn't, so we were then told the wait would be about 45 minutes and the queue of cars stretched over to a distant McDonalds!
None of us really wanted to wait for so long just to get a coffee so we drove around the car park (Homesense were closed...sob!) and went home!
The rest of the afternoon was spent relaxing (I had a nap while watching a programme about crocodiles in the Caribbean) and we had a barbecue in the evening. I had imagined sitting out in the garden with a G&T but the weather turned distinctly chilly with a layer of cloud. However, the food was delicious and I'm hoping it will the next time we decide to cook this way it will be a little warmer!
Saturday 16 May 2020
It's Eurovision, but not as we know it!
Day 54
I was determined to have a weekend off from worrying about my parents and we had no plans to do anything today except relax. Keith and I went to get the newspapers first thing and then we spent the day pottering about the house.
I changed our bedding and Sophie did hers, I transferred a lot of my blog from 2013 onto a word document and made a Pavlova in the afternoon, as tonight we were going to watch "Eurovision" on the television.
Sophie loves to have Beef Stroganoff and Pavlova on one of her favourite days of the year and we'd changed the menu tonight so we could pretend it was a normal Eurovision Song contest Saturday! Last year we'd got into trouble as we were at Richard and Michelle's house for Eurovision and actually today, I was supposed to be going to Brighton with my friends, but of course, this has been cancelled. I think Sophie would have murdered me if things had been normal and I'd been absent again!
While the meringue was cooking I helped Sophie apply the blonde colour to her hair and then I had a lovely soak in the bath. The weather for most of today has been disappointing with quite a bit of cloud about and cooler temperatures from what we were expecting.
Sophie's hair didn't go quite as expected and I would say that her hair is now a strawberry blond, but it looks lovely and she was pleased.
The evening's Eurovision was great and kicked off with a playlist of great songs from the past. At the end of the programme we were invited to vote on our favourite and I chose a German song from 2010 by Lena. Waterloo, by Abba won overall!
The show was only two hours long and we had a taster of all forty songs with a short comment by each of the singers afterwards. I found it very emotional and I think Graham Norton did as well. Keith and I both agreed we enjoyed it more than normal, but it was lovely that we were able to celebrate it after all. Roll on 2021!
I was determined to have a weekend off from worrying about my parents and we had no plans to do anything today except relax. Keith and I went to get the newspapers first thing and then we spent the day pottering about the house.
I changed our bedding and Sophie did hers, I transferred a lot of my blog from 2013 onto a word document and made a Pavlova in the afternoon, as tonight we were going to watch "Eurovision" on the television.
Sophie loves to have Beef Stroganoff and Pavlova on one of her favourite days of the year and we'd changed the menu tonight so we could pretend it was a normal Eurovision Song contest Saturday! Last year we'd got into trouble as we were at Richard and Michelle's house for Eurovision and actually today, I was supposed to be going to Brighton with my friends, but of course, this has been cancelled. I think Sophie would have murdered me if things had been normal and I'd been absent again!
While the meringue was cooking I helped Sophie apply the blonde colour to her hair and then I had a lovely soak in the bath. The weather for most of today has been disappointing with quite a bit of cloud about and cooler temperatures from what we were expecting.
Sophie's hair didn't go quite as expected and I would say that her hair is now a strawberry blond, but it looks lovely and she was pleased.
The evening's Eurovision was great and kicked off with a playlist of great songs from the past. At the end of the programme we were invited to vote on our favourite and I chose a German song from 2010 by Lena. Waterloo, by Abba won overall!
The show was only two hours long and we had a taster of all forty songs with a short comment by each of the singers afterwards. I found it very emotional and I think Graham Norton did as well. Keith and I both agreed we enjoyed it more than normal, but it was lovely that we were able to celebrate it after all. Roll on 2021!
Friday 15 May 2020
A hospital appointment.
Day 53
My Mum had an appointment at the hospital today for an MRI scan so I picked her up at 8.30am and off we went. The traffic has been noticeably busier on the roads lately, and today was no exception.
At the hospital, we parked easily and confronted the burly bouncer at the entrance who warned me I wouldn't be able to go into the Radiology department with her. That was fine with me, but I needed to get Mum there in the first place!
Before Mum could go into the department, her temperature was taken and she was told to wait. I was asked to take a seat outside and I heard a staff member tell Mum where to go. I waited for about half an hour watching people turn up for ultrasound, MRI, X-ray and CT scan appointments. They were all probed with the thermometer, which was a good thing!
After waiting a while I saw Mum coming out of the department but she hadn't been seen yet as she said nobody had called her. She was going to re-arrange! I told her that we weren't going to do that and I was allowed to go all the way to the MRI department where she was immediately called through.
It was a good job I had my Kindle with me as I waited for another thirty minutes or so until she came out to say the procedure had been done. We went home and Binty handed me a shopping list which I said I would get this afternoon.
Keith went with me in the afternoon and there was a long queue of people waiting to go in. I was on tenterhooks as we'd arranged a video chat with my Dad for 3pm but the queue moved quickly and it didn't take us long to get the bits we needed.
At Mum's house we put all the shopping away and then I waited to hear from the care home. Unfortunately, they were unable to arrange it for 3pm so Keith and I returned home where they said they would call at 4pm instead.
Again, it never happened so my Mum was a bit upset but she managed to speak to one of the staff there and they said we can go on Sunday to see him through a window. I just hope this works out!
Sophie didn't get home until 6pm this evening as she was late at work and then popped to Boots to get another hair colour - she wants to try again with the blonde over the weekend!
My Mum had an appointment at the hospital today for an MRI scan so I picked her up at 8.30am and off we went. The traffic has been noticeably busier on the roads lately, and today was no exception.
At the hospital, we parked easily and confronted the burly bouncer at the entrance who warned me I wouldn't be able to go into the Radiology department with her. That was fine with me, but I needed to get Mum there in the first place!
Before Mum could go into the department, her temperature was taken and she was told to wait. I was asked to take a seat outside and I heard a staff member tell Mum where to go. I waited for about half an hour watching people turn up for ultrasound, MRI, X-ray and CT scan appointments. They were all probed with the thermometer, which was a good thing!
After waiting a while I saw Mum coming out of the department but she hadn't been seen yet as she said nobody had called her. She was going to re-arrange! I told her that we weren't going to do that and I was allowed to go all the way to the MRI department where she was immediately called through.
It was a good job I had my Kindle with me as I waited for another thirty minutes or so until she came out to say the procedure had been done. We went home and Binty handed me a shopping list which I said I would get this afternoon.
Keith went with me in the afternoon and there was a long queue of people waiting to go in. I was on tenterhooks as we'd arranged a video chat with my Dad for 3pm but the queue moved quickly and it didn't take us long to get the bits we needed.
At Mum's house we put all the shopping away and then I waited to hear from the care home. Unfortunately, they were unable to arrange it for 3pm so Keith and I returned home where they said they would call at 4pm instead.
Again, it never happened so my Mum was a bit upset but she managed to speak to one of the staff there and they said we can go on Sunday to see him through a window. I just hope this works out!
Sophie didn't get home until 6pm this evening as she was late at work and then popped to Boots to get another hair colour - she wants to try again with the blonde over the weekend!
Thursday 14 May 2020
New babies!
Day 52
The weather has been a bit better today after a lot of cloud and chilly temperatures yesterday. I mooched about a bit this morning, looking at different types of care for my parents, but then went out into the garden to mow the lawn.
I have left a small area of grass alone so that the wild flowers can grow - we have daisies and dandelions in the lawn - but I did dig up a couple of weeds and I'll put some grass seed down when I can get to a garden centre.
We also have a blackbird visiting the garden with his two babies - I say babies, but they are actually bigger than him and keep begging to be fed! They love standing on the side of our water bowl and having a good drink! I haven't seen that many starlings yet, certainly not in great numbers like we've had in the past, but there's still time!
Most of my time today has been put into researching various types of care on offer for my parents and I long to get it sorted out and them happy. I'm hoping that in six months or so we can look back on this period and see it as just a blip. I'm really hoping so.
The weather has been a bit better today after a lot of cloud and chilly temperatures yesterday. I mooched about a bit this morning, looking at different types of care for my parents, but then went out into the garden to mow the lawn.
I have left a small area of grass alone so that the wild flowers can grow - we have daisies and dandelions in the lawn - but I did dig up a couple of weeds and I'll put some grass seed down when I can get to a garden centre.
We also have a blackbird visiting the garden with his two babies - I say babies, but they are actually bigger than him and keep begging to be fed! They love standing on the side of our water bowl and having a good drink! I haven't seen that many starlings yet, certainly not in great numbers like we've had in the past, but there's still time!
Most of my time today has been put into researching various types of care on offer for my parents and I long to get it sorted out and them happy. I'm hoping that in six months or so we can look back on this period and see it as just a blip. I'm really hoping so.
Wednesday 13 May 2020
Financial worries
Day 51
I spent the morning with my Mum, going through all of her finances and then spending an hour on the phone with a very robotic woman who was conducting a financial assessment on my Dad. I had to go through everything which was a stressful experience. At the end she said we owed about £240 a week for my Dad's stay at the care home, for his rehabilitation, which was a huge shock to us as we'd been told his stay was free. If he hadn't fallen and fractured his wrist, he wouldn't have been in there!
After the phone call, I rang the care home and spoke to the manager who confirmed that his stay was free as it was rehabilitation. Once I returned home I emailed his social worker and received a nonsensical reply, so I was more confused than ever!
One thing I do know is that later years care is not free, unless you are absolutely destitute. My parents will have to make a contribution to their care, whether they stay at home or go into residential care and the costs of that are mind-boggling!
Later in the afternoon, when Sophie had finished work, we walked down to the village. I actually wore my coat as it was so chilly! We walked down to the bridge and then home again where I jumped into the bath to get warm! Brrr!
I spent the morning with my Mum, going through all of her finances and then spending an hour on the phone with a very robotic woman who was conducting a financial assessment on my Dad. I had to go through everything which was a stressful experience. At the end she said we owed about £240 a week for my Dad's stay at the care home, for his rehabilitation, which was a huge shock to us as we'd been told his stay was free. If he hadn't fallen and fractured his wrist, he wouldn't have been in there!
After the phone call, I rang the care home and spoke to the manager who confirmed that his stay was free as it was rehabilitation. Once I returned home I emailed his social worker and received a nonsensical reply, so I was more confused than ever!
One thing I do know is that later years care is not free, unless you are absolutely destitute. My parents will have to make a contribution to their care, whether they stay at home or go into residential care and the costs of that are mind-boggling!
Later in the afternoon, when Sophie had finished work, we walked down to the village. I actually wore my coat as it was so chilly! We walked down to the bridge and then home again where I jumped into the bath to get warm! Brrr!
Tuesday 12 May 2020
Something different!
Day 50
After getting the newspaper first thing, we didn't move from the house at all today. I knuckled down and cleaned upstairs and downstairs and even moved my bed to hoover behind it! It really needed doing!
It's been a day of sunshine and showers but has remained dry and quite chilly. The warm weather of last week is a distant memory. It was very relaxing to pootle about doing jobs and great not to have to go out at all. In the late afternoon I started transferring my blog from 2013 onto a word document. Unfortunately, there will be no more books as the website I used for 2010 and 2011 has imposed very complicated rules for publishing and I've given up. I might print off the word document and get it bound by one of the office supplies stores we have in Northampton. At least the years are saved!
After Sophie finished work we both went and coloured our hair. I used my usual shade but Sophie was going for something different - she wanted to be blonde at the front and then have streaks of the same colour running through her hair. I helped but the result was that she went a bit ginger! Apparently, she learnt from a friend, that you have to then do it again, which we will try and do at the weekend! She did like the effect though, which was good news!
After getting the newspaper first thing, we didn't move from the house at all today. I knuckled down and cleaned upstairs and downstairs and even moved my bed to hoover behind it! It really needed doing!
It's been a day of sunshine and showers but has remained dry and quite chilly. The warm weather of last week is a distant memory. It was very relaxing to pootle about doing jobs and great not to have to go out at all. In the late afternoon I started transferring my blog from 2013 onto a word document. Unfortunately, there will be no more books as the website I used for 2010 and 2011 has imposed very complicated rules for publishing and I've given up. I might print off the word document and get it bound by one of the office supplies stores we have in Northampton. At least the years are saved!
After Sophie finished work we both went and coloured our hair. I used my usual shade but Sophie was going for something different - she wanted to be blonde at the front and then have streaks of the same colour running through her hair. I helped but the result was that she went a bit ginger! Apparently, she learnt from a friend, that you have to then do it again, which we will try and do at the weekend! She did like the effect though, which was good news!
Monday 11 May 2020
Catching up!
Day 49
Sophie had taken today as holiday so we had a bit of a lie-in this morning. The grey weather of yesterday gave way to clearer, bluer skies and sunshine, so that was a relief! I hate heavy cloud!
At 11am we collected Mum and Binty and before going to the bank we drove to dad's care home as I had to take him more of his medication. The idea had been to see him through the window but we were really short of time and I knew how long it would take for them to bring him down to the reception.
In the end we had to give up as the bank closed at 1pm today, and when we got to the Weston Favell Centre there was a fair queue of people waiting to go in. It's always busy at the best of times (how much of my life has been spent waiting in a queue for this bank!) and we stood outside at two metre intervals for twenty minutes. Luckily, the woman we saw recognised us both from the old days and we did everything that we needed to without any fuss.
Sophie had gone to post a parcel, pay a cheque into her own bank and buy some hair colour for us both, and Binty had gone to explore Tesco, so Mum and I sat and chatted about money for a few minutes. She seemed a lot better today, which I was very glad about.
We took Mum and Binty home and then Sophie and I popped to Tesco at Kettering to get some ingredients for dinner this evening and some tinned food and pasta for the Foodbank collection tomorrow.
Back home we had a delicious lunch of Caesar salad, crusty bread and turkey slices and sat in the sunny conservatory. Today has been a mix of cloud and sun but it's stayed dry all day and the forecast is for more of the same all week.
Sophie did lots of prep for dinner tonight - a lovely-sounding Orange Chicken dish that we're going to serve with sticky rice. The sauce smelled delicious! At about 4pm we went for a walk but it was very chilly indeed! The wind was bitterly cold! I felt sorry for the poor shorn sheep as they must have felt the drop in temperature from last week!
Before doing the cooking, we briefly watched Tony Robinson on the Trans Siberian Express (a journey I've always wanted to do) and then made a start on dinner. We dunked the chicken pieces in batter and then shallow fried them in the wok. Once they were all cooked, we poured the sauce into the same pan (minus the oil) and added the vegetables and cooked chicken and coated everything before simmering for a few minutes. The dish was gorgeous!
After dinner I had arranged a WhatsApp videochat with Lynda and Fiona (Andrea never made it) and it was great to sit and catch up with them both for an hour!
Sophie had taken today as holiday so we had a bit of a lie-in this morning. The grey weather of yesterday gave way to clearer, bluer skies and sunshine, so that was a relief! I hate heavy cloud!
At 11am we collected Mum and Binty and before going to the bank we drove to dad's care home as I had to take him more of his medication. The idea had been to see him through the window but we were really short of time and I knew how long it would take for them to bring him down to the reception.
In the end we had to give up as the bank closed at 1pm today, and when we got to the Weston Favell Centre there was a fair queue of people waiting to go in. It's always busy at the best of times (how much of my life has been spent waiting in a queue for this bank!) and we stood outside at two metre intervals for twenty minutes. Luckily, the woman we saw recognised us both from the old days and we did everything that we needed to without any fuss.
Sophie had gone to post a parcel, pay a cheque into her own bank and buy some hair colour for us both, and Binty had gone to explore Tesco, so Mum and I sat and chatted about money for a few minutes. She seemed a lot better today, which I was very glad about.
We took Mum and Binty home and then Sophie and I popped to Tesco at Kettering to get some ingredients for dinner this evening and some tinned food and pasta for the Foodbank collection tomorrow.
Back home we had a delicious lunch of Caesar salad, crusty bread and turkey slices and sat in the sunny conservatory. Today has been a mix of cloud and sun but it's stayed dry all day and the forecast is for more of the same all week.
Sophie did lots of prep for dinner tonight - a lovely-sounding Orange Chicken dish that we're going to serve with sticky rice. The sauce smelled delicious! At about 4pm we went for a walk but it was very chilly indeed! The wind was bitterly cold! I felt sorry for the poor shorn sheep as they must have felt the drop in temperature from last week!
Before doing the cooking, we briefly watched Tony Robinson on the Trans Siberian Express (a journey I've always wanted to do) and then made a start on dinner. We dunked the chicken pieces in batter and then shallow fried them in the wok. Once they were all cooked, we poured the sauce into the same pan (minus the oil) and added the vegetables and cooked chicken and coated everything before simmering for a few minutes. The dish was gorgeous!
After dinner I had arranged a WhatsApp videochat with Lynda and Fiona (Andrea never made it) and it was great to sit and catch up with them both for an hour!
Sunday 10 May 2020
Lazy Sunday
Day 48
In complete contrast to the last few days, today has been cold and overcast with not a hint of sunshine at all. A perfect day for staying indoors and doing very little, which is what we did!
We didn't even venture out for a newspaper today and it was very pleasant to have no plans, nowhere to go and nothing to do. I read the papers and completed all the crosswords, Sophie made coasters out of some beautiful clay she'd ordered online and Keith watched WWII programmes on the television, so it was a very relaxed day.
Outside, we had a very cold wind coming from the north so the temperatures have plummeted to about 10c, down from 23c yesterday! I had a lovely soak in the bath in the afternoon and before Boris Johnson's address to the nation at 7pm, we played cards in the conservatory.
As we knew today was going to be chilly, we planned a lovely beef casserole for dinner, which was delicious. We learnt from our PM that lockdown will ease slightly but there will be conditions along the way. There's been no mention of bars and restaurants opening until maybe July, and certainly no talk of gyms and leisure centres re-opening. Tomorrow it will be seven weeks since I've been at work and I am missing it greatly. People who are unable to work from home have now been given the green light to go back, but obviously that doesn't include us as our centres are all still closed.
The new message is now: Stay Alert, Control the Virus, Save Lives. I'm not sure how we can control the virus when we can't even see it, but there you are!
In complete contrast to the last few days, today has been cold and overcast with not a hint of sunshine at all. A perfect day for staying indoors and doing very little, which is what we did!
We didn't even venture out for a newspaper today and it was very pleasant to have no plans, nowhere to go and nothing to do. I read the papers and completed all the crosswords, Sophie made coasters out of some beautiful clay she'd ordered online and Keith watched WWII programmes on the television, so it was a very relaxed day.
Outside, we had a very cold wind coming from the north so the temperatures have plummeted to about 10c, down from 23c yesterday! I had a lovely soak in the bath in the afternoon and before Boris Johnson's address to the nation at 7pm, we played cards in the conservatory.
As we knew today was going to be chilly, we planned a lovely beef casserole for dinner, which was delicious. We learnt from our PM that lockdown will ease slightly but there will be conditions along the way. There's been no mention of bars and restaurants opening until maybe July, and certainly no talk of gyms and leisure centres re-opening. Tomorrow it will be seven weeks since I've been at work and I am missing it greatly. People who are unable to work from home have now been given the green light to go back, but obviously that doesn't include us as our centres are all still closed.
The new message is now: Stay Alert, Control the Virus, Save Lives. I'm not sure how we can control the virus when we can't even see it, but there you are!
Saturday 9 May 2020
Market Harborough lite...
Day 47
We awoke to another glorious morning and Sophie and I took advantage of the beautiful weather and sat in the garden eating our breakfast. Tomorrow is set to be much cooler and cloudier so we're making the most of it!
I applied another coat of paint to the small garage door and then cleaned and varnished the main garage door, as well as the step on our back door. It looked so much better when I'd finished!
At lunchtime, Sophie and I went over to Mum's and collected a shopping list. Although she and Binty had already been down to the Co-op, they still wanted quite a few bits for meals so we said we would go to Aldi in Market Harborough to get what they wanted.
We had heard that Farndon Fields farmshop was still open so we headed over and joined the very short queue of people waiting to go in. Obviously, the restaurant was closed, but we spent a very pleasant half hour wandering around and picking out some lovely foods, as well as getting something to eat for lunch. It was very sad to see the closed up restaurant but we're both hoping it won't be long before we can go and enjoy the food there again.
We ate sausage rolls in the car and then enjoyed three macarons each which were delicious - the flavours were coffee, lime and kiwi and they were lovely.
From Farndon Fields we visited Aldi and bought everything that was on Mum's list as well as some ginger and coconut milk for our dinner tonight. It wasn't busy at all but the queue for Waitrose was quite long and I was glad we were able to get everything in Aldi. It hadn't been our usual visit to Market Harborough, but it was better than nothing!
We dropped the shopping off at Mum's, stayed for a chat and then headed home. Sophie had been doing prep for our Malaysian Coconut Chicken curry since this morning and had become very frustrated with grating all the fiddly coconut bits so she'd come up with the idea of blitzing it in our little food processor. This worked beautifully and I roasted it all in a saucepan over a low heat.
We had half an hour of relaxation with a drink and then made a start on the meal. I had already measured out our basmati rice and rinsed it and everything was set to go! We fried the onions, then added a very fragrant curry paste that Sophie had prepared earlier, then the chicken, coconut milk, roasted coconut and lime juice. It smelt delicious and when I tasted the sauce, it was!
We let the curry simmer for about forty minutes and then cooked the rice which was lovely and sticky. This recipe was a success and we'll definitely be cooking it again soon!
We awoke to another glorious morning and Sophie and I took advantage of the beautiful weather and sat in the garden eating our breakfast. Tomorrow is set to be much cooler and cloudier so we're making the most of it!
I applied another coat of paint to the small garage door and then cleaned and varnished the main garage door, as well as the step on our back door. It looked so much better when I'd finished!
At lunchtime, Sophie and I went over to Mum's and collected a shopping list. Although she and Binty had already been down to the Co-op, they still wanted quite a few bits for meals so we said we would go to Aldi in Market Harborough to get what they wanted.
We had heard that Farndon Fields farmshop was still open so we headed over and joined the very short queue of people waiting to go in. Obviously, the restaurant was closed, but we spent a very pleasant half hour wandering around and picking out some lovely foods, as well as getting something to eat for lunch. It was very sad to see the closed up restaurant but we're both hoping it won't be long before we can go and enjoy the food there again.
We ate sausage rolls in the car and then enjoyed three macarons each which were delicious - the flavours were coffee, lime and kiwi and they were lovely.
From Farndon Fields we visited Aldi and bought everything that was on Mum's list as well as some ginger and coconut milk for our dinner tonight. It wasn't busy at all but the queue for Waitrose was quite long and I was glad we were able to get everything in Aldi. It hadn't been our usual visit to Market Harborough, but it was better than nothing!
We dropped the shopping off at Mum's, stayed for a chat and then headed home. Sophie had been doing prep for our Malaysian Coconut Chicken curry since this morning and had become very frustrated with grating all the fiddly coconut bits so she'd come up with the idea of blitzing it in our little food processor. This worked beautifully and I roasted it all in a saucepan over a low heat.
We had half an hour of relaxation with a drink and then made a start on the meal. I had already measured out our basmati rice and rinsed it and everything was set to go! We fried the onions, then added a very fragrant curry paste that Sophie had prepared earlier, then the chicken, coconut milk, roasted coconut and lime juice. It smelt delicious and when I tasted the sauce, it was!
We let the curry simmer for about forty minutes and then cooked the rice which was lovely and sticky. This recipe was a success and we'll definitely be cooking it again soon!
Friday 8 May 2020
Celebrating VE Day!
Day 46
Today dawned gloriously beautiful and Sophie and I ate our breakfast in the garden. At just after 10am we saw a flypast of the Red Arrows which were returning from a display in London. It was great to see them!
Although I didn't intend to, I ended up painting the small garage door today after Keith sanded it down for me. He managed to trap his finger in the sander, though, which was a bit scary! I heard him shouting behind me and for one moment I thought he had injured it really badly... not what we need right now! I applied one coat of paint to the door and will give it another tomorrow morning.
In between painting the door and pottering about, we sat in the garden and it was gorgeous. Up above a few clouds were gathering and it was a real Florida sky. Neighbours on our estate were busy putting up bunting and decorating the front green for VE Day, so it was all very festive and it took our minds off all of our other problems.
At about 2pm we all showered and changed and had a quick sandwich and a cup of tea. At 4pm a lot of us were planning on sitting in our front gardens and having something to eat and drink. Before we set up Sophie and I walked around the estate and saw lots of neighbors setting up tables and chairs and preparing for afternoon tea. It was lovely! I'm sure if it had been a normal time we would have all gathered on the front green for a street party!
Richard and Michelle set up on the path opposite while Sharon and Paul set up a table and chairs at the entrance to their driveway. Our other neighbours, also Sharon and Paul, set up two chairs and a picnic hamper at the bottom of the red brick drive so it was all very sociable - but at a safe distance!
It was very pleasant indeed sitting in the sun, looking at the gorgeous sky and enjoying some cake and chilled beer! We all agreed that we will do it again at the next Bank Holiday, at the end of May.
Sophie and I moved on from the beer and enjoyed a Martini each, followed by a glass of Tudal Winery's Honker Blanc. On this day last year we were there and bought the wine so we decided it was fitting to drank it on the anniversary of our visit.
It was getting a bit late and none of us wanted to cook so Sophie phoned the pub in Old and ordered fish and chips for delivery. By about 7.30pm we said goodbye to Richard, Michelle, Sharon and Paul and went inside. Up above the clouds looked a bit stormy so we couldn't see the moon tonight.
Our meals arrived at about 8.15pm and the food was very good. We watched a bit of the BBC's coverage of the VE celebrations and then Sophie and I finished off the evening by watching 90 Day Fiance. A great end to a lovely, and very memorable, day!
Today dawned gloriously beautiful and Sophie and I ate our breakfast in the garden. At just after 10am we saw a flypast of the Red Arrows which were returning from a display in London. It was great to see them!
Although I didn't intend to, I ended up painting the small garage door today after Keith sanded it down for me. He managed to trap his finger in the sander, though, which was a bit scary! I heard him shouting behind me and for one moment I thought he had injured it really badly... not what we need right now! I applied one coat of paint to the door and will give it another tomorrow morning.
In between painting the door and pottering about, we sat in the garden and it was gorgeous. Up above a few clouds were gathering and it was a real Florida sky. Neighbours on our estate were busy putting up bunting and decorating the front green for VE Day, so it was all very festive and it took our minds off all of our other problems.
At about 2pm we all showered and changed and had a quick sandwich and a cup of tea. At 4pm a lot of us were planning on sitting in our front gardens and having something to eat and drink. Before we set up Sophie and I walked around the estate and saw lots of neighbors setting up tables and chairs and preparing for afternoon tea. It was lovely! I'm sure if it had been a normal time we would have all gathered on the front green for a street party!
Richard and Michelle set up on the path opposite while Sharon and Paul set up a table and chairs at the entrance to their driveway. Our other neighbours, also Sharon and Paul, set up two chairs and a picnic hamper at the bottom of the red brick drive so it was all very sociable - but at a safe distance!
It was very pleasant indeed sitting in the sun, looking at the gorgeous sky and enjoying some cake and chilled beer! We all agreed that we will do it again at the next Bank Holiday, at the end of May.
Sophie and I moved on from the beer and enjoyed a Martini each, followed by a glass of Tudal Winery's Honker Blanc. On this day last year we were there and bought the wine so we decided it was fitting to drank it on the anniversary of our visit.
It was getting a bit late and none of us wanted to cook so Sophie phoned the pub in Old and ordered fish and chips for delivery. By about 7.30pm we said goodbye to Richard, Michelle, Sharon and Paul and went inside. Up above the clouds looked a bit stormy so we couldn't see the moon tonight.
Our meals arrived at about 8.15pm and the food was very good. We watched a bit of the BBC's coverage of the VE celebrations and then Sophie and I finished off the evening by watching 90 Day Fiance. A great end to a lovely, and very memorable, day!
Thursday 7 May 2020
Decisions, decisions...
Day 45
Sophie was in at work this morning as tomorrow we have a Bank Holiday to celebrate VE Day - it was moved from Monday 4 May, so I keep thinking that it's Easter again as it's so rare to have a Friday off! Perhaps I would have been working, who knows?
Keith went shopping this morning and I pootled about cleaning the house as there was nothing else to do! At lunchtime I took a call from the manager of the care home in Moulton who did a care assessment for my Mum. At the end of the conversation he said it would be £900 a week each for them to stay... an astronomical amount of money and it would mean that we'd have to either sell the house or enter into a deferred payment agreement and rent it out to generate some income. This, however, would have other implications as the rental income would be taxable.
Keith said that at the moment it would be best to keep Dad in his care home as he is now undergoing rehabilitation for six weeks and at the end of this period he might be greatly improved. Binty could then care for them both at home for half the price of the home.
We went over to see Mum who seemed very upset today and said she was missing my Dad. That's natural but I honestly think she's best off where she is as if they both went into the care home, they would be isolated in their room for 14 days quarantine. At least now she can go out into the garden and go for a walk around the village.
However, she insisted that she didn't want to stay at home but seemed very confused again. She had trouble remembering the passwords and pin for the online banking, which worried me a lot. We stayed for about an hour and then left to go home where I was about to give notice for Binty, but at the last minute I decided to call my Dad. Luckily, he answered the phone and was quite adamant he didn't want to go to Moulton and said he wanted to complete his rehabilitation where he was - he seemed to be liking it there, which was in contradiction to what my Mum was saying!
Because of this I called Elder and said we were going to stay with Binty looking after Mum and see how Dad was in six weeks. I am just hoping that now this is it!
Sophie came home at 5pm and we sat and chatted in the garden for a while. It's been a glorious day and lovely and warm. Keith had treated me to a bottle of the Elderflower Gin I like, so, after catching five minutes of the news, which is all I can stand at the moment, we played cards in the conservatory which was lovely.
Sophie and I cooked dinner of breaded pork escalopes and after we'd eaten we watch Sleeping With The Enemy starring a very young Julia Roberts. Later in the evening the full Super "Flower" Moon appeared and when we went out at 11pm to get Monty in, we stood and gazed at it for a while. It was beautiful!
Sophie was in at work this morning as tomorrow we have a Bank Holiday to celebrate VE Day - it was moved from Monday 4 May, so I keep thinking that it's Easter again as it's so rare to have a Friday off! Perhaps I would have been working, who knows?
Keith went shopping this morning and I pootled about cleaning the house as there was nothing else to do! At lunchtime I took a call from the manager of the care home in Moulton who did a care assessment for my Mum. At the end of the conversation he said it would be £900 a week each for them to stay... an astronomical amount of money and it would mean that we'd have to either sell the house or enter into a deferred payment agreement and rent it out to generate some income. This, however, would have other implications as the rental income would be taxable.
Keith said that at the moment it would be best to keep Dad in his care home as he is now undergoing rehabilitation for six weeks and at the end of this period he might be greatly improved. Binty could then care for them both at home for half the price of the home.
We went over to see Mum who seemed very upset today and said she was missing my Dad. That's natural but I honestly think she's best off where she is as if they both went into the care home, they would be isolated in their room for 14 days quarantine. At least now she can go out into the garden and go for a walk around the village.
However, she insisted that she didn't want to stay at home but seemed very confused again. She had trouble remembering the passwords and pin for the online banking, which worried me a lot. We stayed for about an hour and then left to go home where I was about to give notice for Binty, but at the last minute I decided to call my Dad. Luckily, he answered the phone and was quite adamant he didn't want to go to Moulton and said he wanted to complete his rehabilitation where he was - he seemed to be liking it there, which was in contradiction to what my Mum was saying!
Because of this I called Elder and said we were going to stay with Binty looking after Mum and see how Dad was in six weeks. I am just hoping that now this is it!
Sophie came home at 5pm and we sat and chatted in the garden for a while. It's been a glorious day and lovely and warm. Keith had treated me to a bottle of the Elderflower Gin I like, so, after catching five minutes of the news, which is all I can stand at the moment, we played cards in the conservatory which was lovely.
Sophie and I cooked dinner of breaded pork escalopes and after we'd eaten we watch Sleeping With The Enemy starring a very young Julia Roberts. Later in the evening the full Super "Flower" Moon appeared and when we went out at 11pm to get Monty in, we stood and gazed at it for a while. It was beautiful!
Wednesday 6 May 2020
May is the loveliest month.
Day 44
This morning I decided to clean underneath our carport as it was covered in cobwebs and spider nests...ugh! I also wanted to clean the two struts that are painted white so I could re-paint them. I took our old hoover out and with a combination of using the soft nozzle and a brush, I managed to dislodge all the webs and dust, so it looked much better. I noticed that Vince and Sue's next door was looking a lot cleaner than ours, so they must have done theirs recently!
It's been yet another gorgeous day with clear blue skies and plenty of sunshine. At lunchtime we all popped over to Mum's but they were just about to sit down to a meal so we said we'd call back later. I found out that my Dad will be in rehabilitation for a good while so Mum needs to make some decisions over the next couple of days. One thing is clear - she still needs help in the house as I don't want her living on her own.
It was lovely to potter about in the afternoon and at 4pm Keith and I went back over and sat with her in the garden. She feels that a care home would be the best option for them both and I had to agree. I'm still not sure whether she fully grasped the meaning of her decision, though.
Back home, after Sophie finished work for the day, we all went out for a walk up to the village. This time of year is truly beautiful and the mayflower was out, as well as cow parsley and a host of wild flowers.
We walked through the sheep field and noticed that all of the ewes had been shorn! They looked so skinny and bald, bless them!
As usual, there were loads of people out and about - the roads are full of cyclists and the paths are full of dog-walkers and people getting out for some exercise. We walked into the village and I noticed that the horse-chestnut blossom was out. To me, this looks like candles on the branches and I think the trees are beautiful at this time of year,
We ambled back home and went to see the horses but they were far off at the end of the field and didn't seem interested in coming to see us. Back home it was time to relax and then Sophie made delicious fajitas for dinner. Scrumptious!
This morning I decided to clean underneath our carport as it was covered in cobwebs and spider nests...ugh! I also wanted to clean the two struts that are painted white so I could re-paint them. I took our old hoover out and with a combination of using the soft nozzle and a brush, I managed to dislodge all the webs and dust, so it looked much better. I noticed that Vince and Sue's next door was looking a lot cleaner than ours, so they must have done theirs recently!
It's been yet another gorgeous day with clear blue skies and plenty of sunshine. At lunchtime we all popped over to Mum's but they were just about to sit down to a meal so we said we'd call back later. I found out that my Dad will be in rehabilitation for a good while so Mum needs to make some decisions over the next couple of days. One thing is clear - she still needs help in the house as I don't want her living on her own.
It was lovely to potter about in the afternoon and at 4pm Keith and I went back over and sat with her in the garden. She feels that a care home would be the best option for them both and I had to agree. I'm still not sure whether she fully grasped the meaning of her decision, though.
Back home, after Sophie finished work for the day, we all went out for a walk up to the village. This time of year is truly beautiful and the mayflower was out, as well as cow parsley and a host of wild flowers.
We walked through the sheep field and noticed that all of the ewes had been shorn! They looked so skinny and bald, bless them!
As usual, there were loads of people out and about - the roads are full of cyclists and the paths are full of dog-walkers and people getting out for some exercise. We walked into the village and I noticed that the horse-chestnut blossom was out. To me, this looks like candles on the branches and I think the trees are beautiful at this time of year,
We ambled back home and went to see the horses but they were far off at the end of the field and didn't seem interested in coming to see us. Back home it was time to relax and then Sophie made delicious fajitas for dinner. Scrumptious!
Tuesday 5 May 2020
Running errands!
Day 43
I realised, during the night, that all of Dad's medication was at their home so this morning Keith and I went over, collected one box and drove to the care home. I also had his phone, which he had been clutching in his hand yesterday, so I took that as well. Keith and I managed to top up the credit on it so he can now make calls.
Mum seemed happy this morning and I said I would call back later for the shopping list. Once we'd dropped off Dad's things we drove to Beckworth Emporium as I wanted to see if they were open... which they weren't. I was a bit surprised as Farndon Fields are open for people to shop (not the restaurant) and I would have thought with social distancing (how I hate that term!) they could have remained open.
It's been an utterly gorgeous day today and after being at home for a short while, we went and collected the shopping list from Mum's. There were a couple of nurses there and Mum was a bit upset again, asking if she could come and stay with us. I felt terrible when I said no, a decision backed up by the nurses who said it wasn't advisable at the moment with the pandemic. But I just knew it wouldn't work and although Mike is with Abbie at the moment, his bedroom is not really a suitable place for her. Plus, he may come back any day!
Keith and I went and did the shopping (he accompanied me which was great) and then took it back to Mum's before returning home for lunch. Sophie was digging about looking for all of our of receipts from our trip to California last year (how horrified we would have been if we'd known what was a ahead of us) and we realised we hadn't renewed her exemption certificate for her medication! I called the surgery and spoke to a very abrupt woman who stated that we couldn't come into the surgery (I realise that!) but she said she would leave a form at the pharmacy window for us to collect. I will never again take for granted just going into a building as normal!
Keith and I drove over, collected the form and then I had a shower. There are a host of property programmes on TV in the afternoon and I'm scared I'm getting into them more than I should!
When Sophie finished work we dropped the form back off at the doctor's surgery and then carried on into town to sneak a hello to Mike. We had a lovely chat and then it was home to prepare dinner and Sophie and I managed to catch half an hour of Bob Ross and his Joy of Painting, which was wonderful!
I realised, during the night, that all of Dad's medication was at their home so this morning Keith and I went over, collected one box and drove to the care home. I also had his phone, which he had been clutching in his hand yesterday, so I took that as well. Keith and I managed to top up the credit on it so he can now make calls.
Mum seemed happy this morning and I said I would call back later for the shopping list. Once we'd dropped off Dad's things we drove to Beckworth Emporium as I wanted to see if they were open... which they weren't. I was a bit surprised as Farndon Fields are open for people to shop (not the restaurant) and I would have thought with social distancing (how I hate that term!) they could have remained open.
It's been an utterly gorgeous day today and after being at home for a short while, we went and collected the shopping list from Mum's. There were a couple of nurses there and Mum was a bit upset again, asking if she could come and stay with us. I felt terrible when I said no, a decision backed up by the nurses who said it wasn't advisable at the moment with the pandemic. But I just knew it wouldn't work and although Mike is with Abbie at the moment, his bedroom is not really a suitable place for her. Plus, he may come back any day!
Keith and I went and did the shopping (he accompanied me which was great) and then took it back to Mum's before returning home for lunch. Sophie was digging about looking for all of our of receipts from our trip to California last year (how horrified we would have been if we'd known what was a ahead of us) and we realised we hadn't renewed her exemption certificate for her medication! I called the surgery and spoke to a very abrupt woman who stated that we couldn't come into the surgery (I realise that!) but she said she would leave a form at the pharmacy window for us to collect. I will never again take for granted just going into a building as normal!
Keith and I drove over, collected the form and then I had a shower. There are a host of property programmes on TV in the afternoon and I'm scared I'm getting into them more than I should!
When Sophie finished work we dropped the form back off at the doctor's surgery and then carried on into town to sneak a hello to Mike. We had a lovely chat and then it was home to prepare dinner and Sophie and I managed to catch half an hour of Bob Ross and his Joy of Painting, which was wonderful!
Monday 4 May 2020
Another setback...
Day 42
I really had high hopes for today, but sadly things haven't turned out the way any of us wanted them to.
Keith and I went over to Mum's first thing to find her dressed and doing things on the computer, so that was encouraging. From there we drove to Tesco to get some diesel and then onto Mawsley to pick up Dad's medication. We dropped everything back off at Mum's, made sure she was OK and then returned home.
Binty was due to arrive at midday and at about 11.30am she sent me a text saying she was about fifteen minutes away. I drove over immediately and met her (she was in a taxi) outside the Co-op in Broughton. Some horrible man had a go at me because I'd had to pull up opposite the lay-by, which I thought was completely uncalled for, especially as I was only there for about a minute! There are some nasty people around, unfortunately, and I suppose I should feel sorry for him rather than be angry. Imagine being like that!
The taxi followed me to Mum's house and we welcomed her in and I made them both a hot drink. Binty is very glamorous and had a very heavy suitcase with her! We all sat around the kitchen table and went through Mum and Dad's normal routine. I think my Mum was a bit bemused, if I'm honest, and I'm questioning myself as to whether this was the best course of action. I know it will take some adjusting to but I honestly don't know of any other route we could have gone down.
I stayed for a little while, showed Binty to her room and took her suitcase up for her. She wanted me to contact Social Services to change the bed my Dad has downstairs and to order a buzzer so he can call her in the night.
I returned home, had lunch with Sophie and then made some custard cream biscuits. The previously cloudy weather turned brighter and the sun came out, so that was a bonus! At 3.30pm I set off to the care home to fetch my Dad and when I arrived there was an ambulance outside... I prayed it wasn't for him!
When the ambulance had gone I rang the bell and they said they would bring my Dad down. I waited ages and finally he appeared, but he was in a wheelchair. I asked where his zimmer frame was and they said he hadn't been using it because of his fractured wrist, which was non weight-bearing. This was when I started to get a bit alarmed.
There was a physiotherapist with my Dad who seemed extremely capable but even he had trouble getting my Dad from the wheelchair to stand up. He never actually made it into the car. Another member of staff brought another zimmer frame down which had two gutters to put his arms, but I was in despair... how on earth were we going to get him out of the car at home and into the house? This was not what I was expecting at all.
The physiotherapist gently said that it would have been a good idea to have had a quick meeting with the care home manager to find out exactly how my Dad was, which I agreed with, but why hadn't they told me?
I asked to see the Manager who came out and was lovely. To cut a long story short, they have agreed to take Dad back as I felt there was no way we could look after him at home. Up until a few days ago they'd had to use a hoist to move him about.
I went home and felt terrible. Before going back to Mum's I picked up Keith and Sophie for moral support and we all went over to let Mum and Binty know what had happened. My Mum was upset and then started saying she didn't need Binty at home to look after her and would rather spend the money getting Dad into another care home. This was quite embarrassing seeing as Binty had only just arrived! Unfortunately, I do think my Mum needs looking after as she hasn't been eating at all and keeps feeling faint.
After a bit of a heated discussion, Keith, Sophie and I went home and tried to relax. I now need to try and sort something out tomorrow but I feel like I keep making the wrong decisions - this is the third time now I've tried to sort the situation out and I've failed.
Sophie cooked a delicious Paella in the evening and we did eventually manage to relax, thank goodness!
I really had high hopes for today, but sadly things haven't turned out the way any of us wanted them to.
Keith and I went over to Mum's first thing to find her dressed and doing things on the computer, so that was encouraging. From there we drove to Tesco to get some diesel and then onto Mawsley to pick up Dad's medication. We dropped everything back off at Mum's, made sure she was OK and then returned home.
Binty was due to arrive at midday and at about 11.30am she sent me a text saying she was about fifteen minutes away. I drove over immediately and met her (she was in a taxi) outside the Co-op in Broughton. Some horrible man had a go at me because I'd had to pull up opposite the lay-by, which I thought was completely uncalled for, especially as I was only there for about a minute! There are some nasty people around, unfortunately, and I suppose I should feel sorry for him rather than be angry. Imagine being like that!
The taxi followed me to Mum's house and we welcomed her in and I made them both a hot drink. Binty is very glamorous and had a very heavy suitcase with her! We all sat around the kitchen table and went through Mum and Dad's normal routine. I think my Mum was a bit bemused, if I'm honest, and I'm questioning myself as to whether this was the best course of action. I know it will take some adjusting to but I honestly don't know of any other route we could have gone down.
I stayed for a little while, showed Binty to her room and took her suitcase up for her. She wanted me to contact Social Services to change the bed my Dad has downstairs and to order a buzzer so he can call her in the night.
I returned home, had lunch with Sophie and then made some custard cream biscuits. The previously cloudy weather turned brighter and the sun came out, so that was a bonus! At 3.30pm I set off to the care home to fetch my Dad and when I arrived there was an ambulance outside... I prayed it wasn't for him!
When the ambulance had gone I rang the bell and they said they would bring my Dad down. I waited ages and finally he appeared, but he was in a wheelchair. I asked where his zimmer frame was and they said he hadn't been using it because of his fractured wrist, which was non weight-bearing. This was when I started to get a bit alarmed.
There was a physiotherapist with my Dad who seemed extremely capable but even he had trouble getting my Dad from the wheelchair to stand up. He never actually made it into the car. Another member of staff brought another zimmer frame down which had two gutters to put his arms, but I was in despair... how on earth were we going to get him out of the car at home and into the house? This was not what I was expecting at all.
The physiotherapist gently said that it would have been a good idea to have had a quick meeting with the care home manager to find out exactly how my Dad was, which I agreed with, but why hadn't they told me?
I asked to see the Manager who came out and was lovely. To cut a long story short, they have agreed to take Dad back as I felt there was no way we could look after him at home. Up until a few days ago they'd had to use a hoist to move him about.
I went home and felt terrible. Before going back to Mum's I picked up Keith and Sophie for moral support and we all went over to let Mum and Binty know what had happened. My Mum was upset and then started saying she didn't need Binty at home to look after her and would rather spend the money getting Dad into another care home. This was quite embarrassing seeing as Binty had only just arrived! Unfortunately, I do think my Mum needs looking after as she hasn't been eating at all and keeps feeling faint.
After a bit of a heated discussion, Keith, Sophie and I went home and tried to relax. I now need to try and sort something out tomorrow but I feel like I keep making the wrong decisions - this is the third time now I've tried to sort the situation out and I've failed.
Sophie cooked a delicious Paella in the evening and we did eventually manage to relax, thank goodness!
Sunday 3 May 2020
Quiet Sunday
Day 41
Today has been a cloudy, overcast today with little sunshine, so a bit different to what I was expecting, weather-wise!
Sophie and I popped over to Mum's first thing and took her a newspaper. We made sure she had some breakfast and then returned home where I changed our bedding before having something to eat. Sophie prepped all the vegetables for dinner and hoovered downstairs, bless her! Next week I am hoping I will be able to get some more done in the house and maybe even paint a couple of exterior doors. The weather is set to be good again!
At lunchtime we all drove over to Mum's and I made sure she took her midday medication and we sat and had a chat. Mum was a bit quiet but I suggested she watch something good on the television. It was the kind of day to curl up on the sofa and relax.
We took a bit of an extended, scenic route home and then had lunch from yesterday evening's meal. I fried the leftover potatoes and we enjoyed ham, cheese and crusty bread. Delicious! The countryside is looking truly beautiful at the moment and I love the month of May.
At 4pm Sophie had a videochat with Daisy and Laura and it was great to hear her giggling and relaxing with her friends. She came with me at about 6pm to see Mum for the last time today and she was a bit brighter. I am keeping everything crossed that tomorrow will be OK.
Back home we enjoyed a drink and decided not to have the paella tonight for dinner as we were all still full from lunch!
Today has been a cloudy, overcast today with little sunshine, so a bit different to what I was expecting, weather-wise!
Sophie and I popped over to Mum's first thing and took her a newspaper. We made sure she had some breakfast and then returned home where I changed our bedding before having something to eat. Sophie prepped all the vegetables for dinner and hoovered downstairs, bless her! Next week I am hoping I will be able to get some more done in the house and maybe even paint a couple of exterior doors. The weather is set to be good again!
At lunchtime we all drove over to Mum's and I made sure she took her midday medication and we sat and had a chat. Mum was a bit quiet but I suggested she watch something good on the television. It was the kind of day to curl up on the sofa and relax.
We took a bit of an extended, scenic route home and then had lunch from yesterday evening's meal. I fried the leftover potatoes and we enjoyed ham, cheese and crusty bread. Delicious! The countryside is looking truly beautiful at the moment and I love the month of May.
At 4pm Sophie had a videochat with Daisy and Laura and it was great to hear her giggling and relaxing with her friends. She came with me at about 6pm to see Mum for the last time today and she was a bit brighter. I am keeping everything crossed that tomorrow will be OK.
Back home we enjoyed a drink and decided not to have the paella tonight for dinner as we were all still full from lunch!
Saturday 2 May 2020
A bit of relaxation
Day 40
Sophie and I went over to Mum's house this morning at 9am and made her some breakfast and a cup of coffee. She'd had a good night's sleep and seemed OK, but she definitely isn't right. I am just praying that once Binty comes to stay on Monday, and my Dad is home, things will get better. I'm not sure they can get any worse!
After we'd made sure she was OK, we left and went home to have breakfast. It was a gorgeous day and we spent the rest of the morning sitting in the conservatory reading the newspapers. At last, I felt able to relax a little.
Sophie and I went back over to Mum's at lunchtime to make sure she took her medication and she said she felt very depressed, which immediately lowered our mood as well. She said she hated being on her own even though there must be millions of people in this country (and worldwide) who are facing this pandemic on their own without seeing friends and family.
While we were there we changed the spare bed and made room in the wardrobe and drawers for Binty's belongings. I just hope she likes the room! Back downstairs we suggested going out into the garden to sit in the sun for a while but I'm not sure it helped much.
My Mum is obviously depressed and I think this has been building for quite some time now. I said we could call the doctor's surgery on Monday to see if there's anything they can do. We sat and chatted for a little while and then Sophie and I returned home, had some leftover chilli for lunch and then went out for a walk.
We walked into the village and down the track to Mick's farm. It was utterly beautiful and all the trees and bushes have now burst into leaf and blossom.
There was a lovely smell in the air too, a sort of cow parsley scent that was really noticeable. Apparently our skies appear bluer at the moment because of the reduced pollution in the air, which is great news! One good thing about all this!
We walked for a fair way down the track and leaned on a gate, gazing out over sheep fields towards the village of Scaldwell in the distance. We turned back, trying to dodge the hordes of gnats hovering over the track and walked through the sheep field. One sheep really did seem to want to come and say hello but as we inched nearer, she lost her nerve and waddled off!
Back home I managed to catch the last hour and a half of You've Got Mail which was so lovely. Sophie made us both a small Martini and it was really lovely to sit and relax. I phoned my Mum who said that the evening carer who was coming to help her prepare dinner had stayed for all of six minutes! Ridiculous!
For our dinner we enjoyed cold Spanish meats, cheeses, bread and new potatoes with salad. Just before settling down to watch Once Upon a Time...In Hollywood, I called Mum to speak to the night sitter to make sure Mum had taken her medication. We had a bit of a confusing call but in the end I think we got there!
The film was a bit strange to say the least with a very weird ending, and not what we were expecting at all. Sophie and I were just glad we hadn't paid to see it at the cinema!
Sophie and I went over to Mum's house this morning at 9am and made her some breakfast and a cup of coffee. She'd had a good night's sleep and seemed OK, but she definitely isn't right. I am just praying that once Binty comes to stay on Monday, and my Dad is home, things will get better. I'm not sure they can get any worse!
After we'd made sure she was OK, we left and went home to have breakfast. It was a gorgeous day and we spent the rest of the morning sitting in the conservatory reading the newspapers. At last, I felt able to relax a little.
Sophie and I went back over to Mum's at lunchtime to make sure she took her medication and she said she felt very depressed, which immediately lowered our mood as well. She said she hated being on her own even though there must be millions of people in this country (and worldwide) who are facing this pandemic on their own without seeing friends and family.
While we were there we changed the spare bed and made room in the wardrobe and drawers for Binty's belongings. I just hope she likes the room! Back downstairs we suggested going out into the garden to sit in the sun for a while but I'm not sure it helped much.
My Mum is obviously depressed and I think this has been building for quite some time now. I said we could call the doctor's surgery on Monday to see if there's anything they can do. We sat and chatted for a little while and then Sophie and I returned home, had some leftover chilli for lunch and then went out for a walk.
We walked into the village and down the track to Mick's farm. It was utterly beautiful and all the trees and bushes have now burst into leaf and blossom.
There was a lovely smell in the air too, a sort of cow parsley scent that was really noticeable. Apparently our skies appear bluer at the moment because of the reduced pollution in the air, which is great news! One good thing about all this!
We walked for a fair way down the track and leaned on a gate, gazing out over sheep fields towards the village of Scaldwell in the distance. We turned back, trying to dodge the hordes of gnats hovering over the track and walked through the sheep field. One sheep really did seem to want to come and say hello but as we inched nearer, she lost her nerve and waddled off!
Back home I managed to catch the last hour and a half of You've Got Mail which was so lovely. Sophie made us both a small Martini and it was really lovely to sit and relax. I phoned my Mum who said that the evening carer who was coming to help her prepare dinner had stayed for all of six minutes! Ridiculous!
For our dinner we enjoyed cold Spanish meats, cheeses, bread and new potatoes with salad. Just before settling down to watch Once Upon a Time...In Hollywood, I called Mum to speak to the night sitter to make sure Mum had taken her medication. We had a bit of a confusing call but in the end I think we got there!
The film was a bit strange to say the least with a very weird ending, and not what we were expecting at all. Sophie and I were just glad we hadn't paid to see it at the cinema!
Friday 1 May 2020
New month, new hope?
Day 39
I didn't sleep well at all last night and woke this morning feeling tired and drained. The night carer sent me a text before she left mentioning the cough my Mum had, which filled me with fear. I immediately called the hospital and asked a nurse if she had been showing any signs of Covid19 before she left. The nurse said she'd been swabbed before she was discharged and the ward didn't have any cases anyway. This reassured me a bit, especially when I looked at the hospital website which said that they were swabbing patients on a daily basis and the results were only taking four hours to get back.
Sophie went to work this morning and as soon as she got there I made plans to leave to go and see Mum. However, she called just as I was leaving and said she felt very confused and her head felt "funny"... I went dashing over there and Mum was up but looking a bit wobbly. I made her a coffee and some toast and we sat and chatted for almost two hours. She hardly coughed, so that was a relief.
Mum needed some things from Tesco so I went home, collected Keith to come with me (just for support) and ventured over to the supermarket. Luckily I didn't have to queue and the store wasn't that busy at all. I bought everything I needed, went through the self-service tills and re-joined Keith in the car.
The carer organisation had called to ask me about Mum's cough and wanted me to take her temperature but there were no thermometers anywhere! We dropped Mum's shopping off and went home, but at 1pm I went back over to make sure she had taken her medication and made her a sandwich for her lunch. We chatted for another hour and again, she hardly coughed, and when I touched her chest it certainly didn't feel hot.
At 2pm I went home, had a long hot bath and then fell asleep on our bed watching A Place in the Sun. I was shattered. I woke up feeling a bit better and at 4pm I had a long chat with our family liaison man from Elder who will be there to support us while Binty is looking after my Mum and Dad. It's great to know that's in place for extra peace of mind.
Sophie came home at just after 5pm and we relaxed with a glass of Prosecco and 90 Day Fiance. Although it was enjoyable, it wasn't like the usual carefree Friday night we normally have when we're looking forward to the weekend. This pandemic has robbed us all of that lovely Friday night feeling when you know you're not at work in the morning and a lovely weekend stretches ahead of you.
Dinner tonight was chilli con carne and very good it was, too. I was able to relax at 8pm when the carer arrived (I'd been calling my Mum frequently) and we sat and watched Gardener's World for an hour. Even that wasn't the same!
I didn't sleep well at all last night and woke this morning feeling tired and drained. The night carer sent me a text before she left mentioning the cough my Mum had, which filled me with fear. I immediately called the hospital and asked a nurse if she had been showing any signs of Covid19 before she left. The nurse said she'd been swabbed before she was discharged and the ward didn't have any cases anyway. This reassured me a bit, especially when I looked at the hospital website which said that they were swabbing patients on a daily basis and the results were only taking four hours to get back.
Sophie went to work this morning and as soon as she got there I made plans to leave to go and see Mum. However, she called just as I was leaving and said she felt very confused and her head felt "funny"... I went dashing over there and Mum was up but looking a bit wobbly. I made her a coffee and some toast and we sat and chatted for almost two hours. She hardly coughed, so that was a relief.
Mum needed some things from Tesco so I went home, collected Keith to come with me (just for support) and ventured over to the supermarket. Luckily I didn't have to queue and the store wasn't that busy at all. I bought everything I needed, went through the self-service tills and re-joined Keith in the car.
The carer organisation had called to ask me about Mum's cough and wanted me to take her temperature but there were no thermometers anywhere! We dropped Mum's shopping off and went home, but at 1pm I went back over to make sure she had taken her medication and made her a sandwich for her lunch. We chatted for another hour and again, she hardly coughed, and when I touched her chest it certainly didn't feel hot.
At 2pm I went home, had a long hot bath and then fell asleep on our bed watching A Place in the Sun. I was shattered. I woke up feeling a bit better and at 4pm I had a long chat with our family liaison man from Elder who will be there to support us while Binty is looking after my Mum and Dad. It's great to know that's in place for extra peace of mind.
Sophie came home at just after 5pm and we relaxed with a glass of Prosecco and 90 Day Fiance. Although it was enjoyable, it wasn't like the usual carefree Friday night we normally have when we're looking forward to the weekend. This pandemic has robbed us all of that lovely Friday night feeling when you know you're not at work in the morning and a lovely weekend stretches ahead of you.
Dinner tonight was chilli con carne and very good it was, too. I was able to relax at 8pm when the carer arrived (I'd been calling my Mum frequently) and we sat and watched Gardener's World for an hour. Even that wasn't the same!
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