We decided this morning to tackle the seven mile walk around Pitsford reservoir which we haven't done for years. We set out at 10.30am with some drinks and snacks and made a good time, stopping half way round for refreshments. The second half of the walk was hard going as the sun came out and it became very hot but we all felt fine and Keith's hip gave him no trouble at all so he was mightily chuffed with himself. He confided to me that he thought he'd never be able to do it again so he was very happy. As the day was so pleasant, a lot of people were out cycling, walking and enjoying the sunshine and again, I felt so lucky to have the reservoir on our doorstep.
The afternoon was spent doing very little and I managed two naps! Needless to say we didn't venture out for a walk later in the evening as we did on Saturday!
Sunday, 31 July 2011
Saturday 30 July
Our summer seems to have arrived at last as today was warm, dry and sunny. Keith and I walked up to mum and dad's house in the morning to feed the fish as they were away in Eastbourne for the weekend. I spent the rest of the morning and early afternoon pottering about in the house and clearing out some drawers that were so full of stuff we could no longer close them properly!
As it was a beautiful day we barbecued in the evening and then at 9pm went for a walk over the fields, much to the delight of the children who loved being out so late. By the time we reached the village it was quite dark and we saw bats flying among the trees. There was obviously a party going on somewhere as we saw a succession of Chinese lanterns floating above us, still very much alight! It was a good job they burnt out before they hit the ground as all the fields around us are very dry at the moment!
Back home we watched a silly film called The Invasion starring Nicole Kidman and Daniel Craig (a remake of Invasion of the Bodysnatchers) and then caught Top of The Pops showing bands from the 80s which they children enjoyed, laughing out loud at the fashion of some of the singers!
As it was a beautiful day we barbecued in the evening and then at 9pm went for a walk over the fields, much to the delight of the children who loved being out so late. By the time we reached the village it was quite dark and we saw bats flying among the trees. There was obviously a party going on somewhere as we saw a succession of Chinese lanterns floating above us, still very much alight! It was a good job they burnt out before they hit the ground as all the fields around us are very dry at the moment!
Back home we watched a silly film called The Invasion starring Nicole Kidman and Daniel Craig (a remake of Invasion of the Bodysnatchers) and then caught Top of The Pops showing bands from the 80s which they children enjoyed, laughing out loud at the fashion of some of the singers!
Saturday, 30 July 2011
Friday 29 July
Friday was what I call a "non-day". I woke up feeling hungover which was all my fault so it was a good job Keith was coming into work with me as I think I'd have still been over the limit to drive... The weather stayed grey and overcast all day and matched my mood!
It was a relief to leave work a bit early and go home. We called into Tesco and bought a couple of DVDs as there is still nothing worth watching on TV over the weekend. Why can't there be some really good films on on Saturday evening for those of us who don't venture out? Huh!
It was a relief to leave work a bit early and go home. We called into Tesco and bought a couple of DVDs as there is still nothing worth watching on TV over the weekend. Why can't there be some really good films on on Saturday evening for those of us who don't venture out? Huh!
Friday, 29 July 2011
As stuffed as a Stuffed Olive!
Last night I went out with three girlfriends I used to work with to a lovely restaurant in Northampton called The Stuffed Olive. As the name suggests, it's a restaurant specialising in Mediterranean cuisine located on a busy street rather than in the Tuscan hills!
We arrived at 8pm to find the place buzzing and the big front windows open to the night air which was an authentic touch, but a shame that the outlook was the local Sainsbury's rather than a balmy sea or blue-tinged Italian hills!
We were given huge menus with a good choice of dishes. Meat eaters, fish lovers and veggies were all very well catered for and at first my friend Lynda thought the whole of the main course choices were vegetarian! She soon spotted the meaty options though so she relaxed a bit! We spent ages perusing the menu and I would have liked the freebie olives and bread to have been provided as we made our choices but they arrived after we'd given our order. I think I've made Lynda a convert to olives as I managed to persuade her to try a stuffed olive (what else?) and she was pleasantly surprised at how good it was. For my starter I chose the scallops served in their shells and topped with garlic, ginger, chilli and parmesan cheese. I love scallops and when they arrived they were big and juicy and delicious! My main choice was the stuffed chicken which was beautifully cooked, moist and tender and served with lots of vegetables, cheesy mash and a mushroom and white wine sauce.
The service was a bit slow between our starter and main course but it wasn't a problem as we enjoyed a bottle (or two!) of Chilean Merlot and had a good natter. The restaurant was very noisy, which was my only gripe, and with the windows open to the very busy street outside, the atmosphere was great but I wouldn't recommend it for a romantic evening a deux.
We went the whole hog with the menu and three of my friends chose cheese and biscuits while I abandoned my diet big time and enjoyed a very moreish chocolate cheesecake. We were almost the last to leave and it was heavenly to be chauffered home by Keith for a change!
The Stuffed Olive
We arrived at 8pm to find the place buzzing and the big front windows open to the night air which was an authentic touch, but a shame that the outlook was the local Sainsbury's rather than a balmy sea or blue-tinged Italian hills!
We were given huge menus with a good choice of dishes. Meat eaters, fish lovers and veggies were all very well catered for and at first my friend Lynda thought the whole of the main course choices were vegetarian! She soon spotted the meaty options though so she relaxed a bit! We spent ages perusing the menu and I would have liked the freebie olives and bread to have been provided as we made our choices but they arrived after we'd given our order. I think I've made Lynda a convert to olives as I managed to persuade her to try a stuffed olive (what else?) and she was pleasantly surprised at how good it was. For my starter I chose the scallops served in their shells and topped with garlic, ginger, chilli and parmesan cheese. I love scallops and when they arrived they were big and juicy and delicious! My main choice was the stuffed chicken which was beautifully cooked, moist and tender and served with lots of vegetables, cheesy mash and a mushroom and white wine sauce.
The service was a bit slow between our starter and main course but it wasn't a problem as we enjoyed a bottle (or two!) of Chilean Merlot and had a good natter. The restaurant was very noisy, which was my only gripe, and with the windows open to the very busy street outside, the atmosphere was great but I wouldn't recommend it for a romantic evening a deux.
We went the whole hog with the menu and three of my friends chose cheese and biscuits while I abandoned my diet big time and enjoyed a very moreish chocolate cheesecake. We were almost the last to leave and it was heavenly to be chauffered home by Keith for a change!
The Stuffed Olive
Thursday, 28 July 2011
Wednesday 27 July - rescuing my baby oak tree...
Wednesday was a lovely day - nothing fantastic happened (well maybe it did as I lost another four pounds when I weighed myself, bringing the total loss to 16 pounds!!) but it was just a pleasant, easy day which is always welcome.
Sophie worked for us over the lunchtime rush and then we went out in the afternoon to drop our books off at the Accountants and to have a quick peek in New Look (for Sophie). I managed to get a pair of jeans on in there two sizes smaller than normal so that chuffed me to bits!
We left work slightly later than usual as Sophie had to oversee a party and after getting home all four of us went out for a walk over the fields. I took a small shovel with me and a pot full of soil and dug up the baby oak tree that had planted itself onto the edge of one of the wheat fields. Its parent tree is beautiful so I really hope that it survives although what I will eventually do with it if it grows huge, I don't know!
Sophie worked for us over the lunchtime rush and then we went out in the afternoon to drop our books off at the Accountants and to have a quick peek in New Look (for Sophie). I managed to get a pair of jeans on in there two sizes smaller than normal so that chuffed me to bits!
We left work slightly later than usual as Sophie had to oversee a party and after getting home all four of us went out for a walk over the fields. I took a small shovel with me and a pot full of soil and dug up the baby oak tree that had planted itself onto the edge of one of the wheat fields. Its parent tree is beautiful so I really hope that it survives although what I will eventually do with it if it grows huge, I don't know!
Tuesday, 26 July 2011
Interior decorating!
After work Sophie and I went off to Homebase and bought some spray paint. Yesterday, on our walk, I'd had an idea to collect the dead stalks and flowers from the cow parsley that are abundant in our verges and hedgerows (see yesterday's photos) and spray them black and silver to go in her room. From Homebase we went down to Home Sense and I treated her to a vase and a frame for the pictures I bought her in Ikea last year. We raced home and with Keith, did a bit of decorating!
I have to say the cow parsley looks very fetching in its purple vase and we also painted her bright pink chair silver. She wants to do a New York skyline on it, so we'll have to see how that turns out!
We were slightly busier at work today as the weather has been dull and grey and not very summery at all!
I have to say the cow parsley looks very fetching in its purple vase and we also painted her bright pink chair silver. She wants to do a New York skyline on it, so we'll have to see how that turns out!
We were slightly busier at work today as the weather has been dull and grey and not very summery at all!
Monday 25 July
So...the first day of the long summer holidays...I always feel a little wistful at this time of year, for some reason. Friends and family are going away, the streets are a lot quieter and the daily routine has been disrupted. I'm not sure whether children need six weeks off these days. Sophie commented over the weekend that she wished she was going back to school on Monday as she misses all her friends already!
As the weather was sunny and dry we were quiet at work so it was off at 4pm and out for a walk with Soph. I took some photos of the glorious fields, but am I right in thinking there was just the barest hint of Autumn in the hedgerows? The berries were beginning to ripen and there was a slight change in some of the leaves, moving from fresh green to a more tired looking hue. Before we know it we'll be wondering where the days of summer have gone!
As the weather was sunny and dry we were quiet at work so it was off at 4pm and out for a walk with Soph. I took some photos of the glorious fields, but am I right in thinking there was just the barest hint of Autumn in the hedgerows? The berries were beginning to ripen and there was a slight change in some of the leaves, moving from fresh green to a more tired looking hue. Before we know it we'll be wondering where the days of summer have gone!
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| The long uphill climb! |
Monday, 25 July 2011
Sunday 24 July
After our lazy day yesterday I pulled my finger out and had a busy day! Keith and I went for a walk first thing and then I tidied up the front garden which was full of weeds. Mikey offered to wash my car for me but I won't be recommending him as he "tickled" the car with the cloth and I had to finish it off! I then hoovered it out as it was still full of sand from our trip to Southwold a few weeks ago!
After doing various chores in the house I finally sat down and did some more research on my family tree which is proving to be a bit frustrating! How I wish I could speak to my family and find out why they did the things they did!
After doing various chores in the house I finally sat down and did some more research on my family tree which is proving to be a bit frustrating! How I wish I could speak to my family and find out why they did the things they did!
Saturday 23 July
Sue came around early this morning with a bottle of wine and some flowers to thank me for looking after her house for the last two weeks. I was surprised and delighted as all we'd done was pick up the post and put the bins out!
Mid-morning found us trekking off to the hospital to visit the DVT clinic about Keith's ankle. We found it with some difficulty and it was really strange as the hospital was deserted! Keith was taken away for blood tests and then he saw a nurse who examined him for about half an hour. He then had to await the results of the blood tests, but thankfully he was given the all clear! We were so relieved!
We just about managed to get Sophie to work in time and then we spent the afternoon and evening doing very little!
Mid-morning found us trekking off to the hospital to visit the DVT clinic about Keith's ankle. We found it with some difficulty and it was really strange as the hospital was deserted! Keith was taken away for blood tests and then he saw a nurse who examined him for about half an hour. He then had to await the results of the blood tests, but thankfully he was given the all clear! We were so relieved!
We just about managed to get Sophie to work in time and then we spent the afternoon and evening doing very little!
Saturday, 23 July 2011
Friday 22 July - last day at Primary for Mikey.
Before I went to work Keith and I went to Mikey's Leavers Assembly at his school. It was quite emotional as after today we will no longer have any link to the village school. All the mums and dads were there and we watched a little show the Year 6 children had put on for us, based on "Deal or No Deal". After this the Headmaster gave a speech, there was an Awards presentation to some of the children who had done especially well and then it was off to work for me.
Friday was sunny and warm so thankfully we were a little quieter at work! I left at 3pm to pick up Sophie and take her home then I went off to the doctor's with Keith who has a swollen ankle at the moment. The doctor is worried it could be DVT as he's had a swollen ankle since our trip to Florida in April. I sincerely hope not, but a trip to the hospital tomorrow will sort it out one way or the other.
I was really hoping to go for a walk in the evening as we haven't been able to get out all week, but the heavens opened and Sophie, who went for a walk with her friend, came home drenched!
Friday was sunny and warm so thankfully we were a little quieter at work! I left at 3pm to pick up Sophie and take her home then I went off to the doctor's with Keith who has a swollen ankle at the moment. The doctor is worried it could be DVT as he's had a swollen ankle since our trip to Florida in April. I sincerely hope not, but a trip to the hospital tomorrow will sort it out one way or the other.
I was really hoping to go for a walk in the evening as we haven't been able to get out all week, but the heavens opened and Sophie, who went for a walk with her friend, came home drenched!
Thursday 21 July
Thursday was another busy day, and a long one for me, as Sophie was working after school. Keith had arranged to meet his ex-work mates for one last look at the place he used to work (there are plans to demolish the building) and then an afternoon in the pub, but as he's still not drinking, he was able to drive himself!
I helped Polly in the kitchen but thankfully it wasn't as manic as Wednesday and at 3pm I escaped to pick up the children from school. Mikey and I went off to Booker and he helped a lot, bless him, by pulling the very heavy trolley and loading the car! It won't be long before he's helping at work as well!
I helped Polly in the kitchen but thankfully it wasn't as manic as Wednesday and at 3pm I escaped to pick up the children from school. Mikey and I went off to Booker and he helped a lot, bless him, by pulling the very heavy trolley and loading the car! It won't be long before he's helping at work as well!
Thursday, 21 July 2011
Wednesday 20 July
I was very grateful when 4pm arrived and I escaped work with Mum, Sophie and Susie to go shopping in Milton Keynes as we'd been extremely busy all day.
Going shopping when you've been on your feet all day was not really the best of ideas but I'd promised Sophie we would go and she wanted to get some new clothes with her wages. Mum and I did some shopping of our own and then we had dinner in Carluccio's, an Italian restaurant in the middle of the shopping centre. I'd always wanted to eat there and the food was very good, but the service was slightly rushed and the prices for extras a wee bit steep. We had olives and bread to munch on at first followed by Saltimbocca, a fillet of pork wrapped in Parma ham and served with saute potatoes. I would have loved some vegetables to accompany it but we ordered a side portion of courgettes between us. I just couldn't resist dessert, a sublime panna cotta that was gorgeous! Naughty, naughty me! Today has been very hard to diet as I could have eaten for Britain and being in the kitchen all day has not helped!
Feeling stuffed, we met the girls outside Debenhams and drove home in the gathering twilight, the sky looking very stormy overhead!
Going shopping when you've been on your feet all day was not really the best of ideas but I'd promised Sophie we would go and she wanted to get some new clothes with her wages. Mum and I did some shopping of our own and then we had dinner in Carluccio's, an Italian restaurant in the middle of the shopping centre. I'd always wanted to eat there and the food was very good, but the service was slightly rushed and the prices for extras a wee bit steep. We had olives and bread to munch on at first followed by Saltimbocca, a fillet of pork wrapped in Parma ham and served with saute potatoes. I would have loved some vegetables to accompany it but we ordered a side portion of courgettes between us. I just couldn't resist dessert, a sublime panna cotta that was gorgeous! Naughty, naughty me! Today has been very hard to diet as I could have eaten for Britain and being in the kitchen all day has not helped!
Feeling stuffed, we met the girls outside Debenhams and drove home in the gathering twilight, the sky looking very stormy overhead!
Tuesday, 19 July 2011
Goodbye to Harry Potter!
Today has been very busy at work! Was it me who gave Dad the day off as he was a bit shattered after his weekend entertaining the German guests?? I won't be doing that again!
We were so busy I even had to help Polly (who was working in the kitchen as our cook has dared to go away on holiday) prepare some meals!!! Unbelievable! Luckily, by 3pm things had quietened down considerably, so I was able to run for freedom and go home and get ready for our date with the last Harry Potter film. I was looking forward to seeing the film immensely, after a week of solid Harry Potter films. We even watched the making of The Deathly Hallows Pt2 last night so we knew some of what to expect.
The film was very enjoyable with a satisfactory ending but I was a little disappointed with the 3D...I was expecting things to be coming out of the screen at me, but I think I was imagining the 4D we experienced with the Shrek film in Universal.
Afterwards we went to get a Chinese take-away but it was closed! Typical! So we ended up at a pub nearby and just had a main course and a drink (I was naughty...I had a glass of wine and Keith drove home!).
This morning, I took some photos of the garden at work - before and after:
All we need to do now is tidy up the edges with either grass or a rockery and paint the wall, plus add some tubs and pots. Keith has worked really hard and deserves a beer (or two)!
We were so busy I even had to help Polly (who was working in the kitchen as our cook has dared to go away on holiday) prepare some meals!!! Unbelievable! Luckily, by 3pm things had quietened down considerably, so I was able to run for freedom and go home and get ready for our date with the last Harry Potter film. I was looking forward to seeing the film immensely, after a week of solid Harry Potter films. We even watched the making of The Deathly Hallows Pt2 last night so we knew some of what to expect.
The film was very enjoyable with a satisfactory ending but I was a little disappointed with the 3D...I was expecting things to be coming out of the screen at me, but I think I was imagining the 4D we experienced with the Shrek film in Universal.
Afterwards we went to get a Chinese take-away but it was closed! Typical! So we ended up at a pub nearby and just had a main course and a drink (I was naughty...I had a glass of wine and Keith drove home!).
This morning, I took some photos of the garden at work - before and after:
All we need to do now is tidy up the edges with either grass or a rockery and paint the wall, plus add some tubs and pots. Keith has worked really hard and deserves a beer (or two)!
Monday 18 July - Tour guide for the day!
Today I'd been asked by my dad to accompany him to London with a group of his German model aeroplane friends who'd been visiting over the weekend. They're from Northampton's twin town of Marburg and there was a group of seven of them who wanted to see the sights.
We took the train down to Euston and Leonie, Reinhard's teenage daughter, was desperate to see King's Cross and platform 9 3/4! King's Cross was just a short walk from Euston and we were delighted to get to the station and see the sign for Platform 9 3/4 over a brick wall with a luggage trolley embedded in it! There was a large group of schoolchildren all wearing cloaks and having their photograph taken so Leonie was able to be photographed there as well! She was extremely happy!
From King's Cross we took the underground to Hyde Park Corner and then walked down to Buckingham Palace, where a huge crowd had gathered to watch the Changing of the Guard. This was the first time I'd seen this lavish ceremony and the Germans were fascinated, taking lots of photos and really enjoying the spectacle.
By now, my agenda was in tatters as it was taking far longer to get anywhere than I'd imagined! We walked through St James's Park stopping to look at the squirrels and a huge pelican sitting on one of the park benches! Unfortunately the route to Whitehall through Horseguards Parade was closed because of an impending Volleyball competition so we turned left and walked through Admiralty Arch to get to Trafalgar Square. As it was now lunchtime I suggested a pub nearby which went down very well!
I'd planned on getting the 3pm train back to Northampton but there was no way we were going to make it. I managed to drag my group out of the pub and down to see Horseguards, Downing Street, the Cenotaph and then Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. We walked across Westminster Bridge, had a look at the London Eye and then caught the underground back from Westminster Station, and managed to get the 3.15pm train back. As the carriages were crowded, most of us had to stand until Bletchley but I think the day was a great success and they seemed to enjoy themselves very much!
On the way back to work to pick up my car, Dad called into the wholesalers to get some food for the evening as he was entertaining the club and their German friends at work. The poor man was shattered so I stayed behind to make all the salads before finally getting home at 6pm and having a well-earned soak in the bath!
We took the train down to Euston and Leonie, Reinhard's teenage daughter, was desperate to see King's Cross and platform 9 3/4! King's Cross was just a short walk from Euston and we were delighted to get to the station and see the sign for Platform 9 3/4 over a brick wall with a luggage trolley embedded in it! There was a large group of schoolchildren all wearing cloaks and having their photograph taken so Leonie was able to be photographed there as well! She was extremely happy!
From King's Cross we took the underground to Hyde Park Corner and then walked down to Buckingham Palace, where a huge crowd had gathered to watch the Changing of the Guard. This was the first time I'd seen this lavish ceremony and the Germans were fascinated, taking lots of photos and really enjoying the spectacle.
By now, my agenda was in tatters as it was taking far longer to get anywhere than I'd imagined! We walked through St James's Park stopping to look at the squirrels and a huge pelican sitting on one of the park benches! Unfortunately the route to Whitehall through Horseguards Parade was closed because of an impending Volleyball competition so we turned left and walked through Admiralty Arch to get to Trafalgar Square. As it was now lunchtime I suggested a pub nearby which went down very well!
I'd planned on getting the 3pm train back to Northampton but there was no way we were going to make it. I managed to drag my group out of the pub and down to see Horseguards, Downing Street, the Cenotaph and then Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. We walked across Westminster Bridge, had a look at the London Eye and then caught the underground back from Westminster Station, and managed to get the 3.15pm train back. As the carriages were crowded, most of us had to stand until Bletchley but I think the day was a great success and they seemed to enjoy themselves very much!
On the way back to work to pick up my car, Dad called into the wholesalers to get some food for the evening as he was entertaining the club and their German friends at work. The poor man was shattered so I stayed behind to make all the salads before finally getting home at 6pm and having a well-earned soak in the bath!
Sunday 17 July - New Boots!
My walking boots have started to look very scruffy lately so this morning we all went to Black's so I could buy myself another pair. I was a bit shocked at the prices! I only wanted them to walk in, not trek the Himalayas! However, there was a sale on, so eventually, after almost giving up, I found a lovely pair of Karrimor boots that fitted perfectly. With a pair of thick woolly socks I was all set!
The afternoon was spent being very lazy but what are Sundays for? We ate dinner at the pub in the evening as we'd all argued about what we wanted to eat so as the 2 for 1 offer was still on, everyone was happy. I was very good and had grilled fish, new potatoes and salad and it was delicious!
After eating we rushed home and caught Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part One and very good it was too!
The afternoon was spent being very lazy but what are Sundays for? We ate dinner at the pub in the evening as we'd all argued about what we wanted to eat so as the 2 for 1 offer was still on, everyone was happy. I was very good and had grilled fish, new potatoes and salad and it was delicious!
After eating we rushed home and caught Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part One and very good it was too!
Saturday, 16 July 2011
We get a visit from the police...
I had to go into work today as we were short-staffed and very busy with parties. Plus, the weather was forecast to be wet and windy so I had no choice but to go in and help out. Sophie and Mum also came in but we didn't have to be in until 12pm so at least I was able to have a lazy morning with the papers and lots of coffee.
The forecast rain duly arrived and it lashed it down. I had to go and get some diesel for my car and on the way it was more like an Autumn day rather than mid-summer. It was still raining when we set off for work and I was feeling a bit nervous as we can get very, very busy when the weather's horrible.
However, it was a good afternoon with a really relaxed and happy atmosphere in the kitchen. We had a bit of excitement when Jenny, our Manager, came over and told me that there were two police cars in the car park with their blue lights flashing. I went out to investigate and was told by a very stern looking policeman that a man had stolen a car and they'd chased him into our car park! As he'd then escaped, they had the police dog looking for him so I was told to get everybody back into the building.
I went back inside and ten minutes later heard the police helicopter hovering over us, so I stuck my head out of our kitchen door to see a policeman leaning over our fence. He waved at me to get back in, so I did, feeling like a naughty little girl! I've no idea whether they caught the culprit, but we did hear that the roads around us were closed and it caused a bit of excitement among the customers!
Thankfully at 4.30pm Mum, Soph and I were released from duty and we headed home, stopping on the way to get a bottle of Turning Leaf Pinot Grigio as a treat! I have a new DVD to watch tonight - Unknown starring Liam Neeson - which I saw at the cinema so I'm definitely looking forward to that!
The forecast rain duly arrived and it lashed it down. I had to go and get some diesel for my car and on the way it was more like an Autumn day rather than mid-summer. It was still raining when we set off for work and I was feeling a bit nervous as we can get very, very busy when the weather's horrible.
However, it was a good afternoon with a really relaxed and happy atmosphere in the kitchen. We had a bit of excitement when Jenny, our Manager, came over and told me that there were two police cars in the car park with their blue lights flashing. I went out to investigate and was told by a very stern looking policeman that a man had stolen a car and they'd chased him into our car park! As he'd then escaped, they had the police dog looking for him so I was told to get everybody back into the building.
I went back inside and ten minutes later heard the police helicopter hovering over us, so I stuck my head out of our kitchen door to see a policeman leaning over our fence. He waved at me to get back in, so I did, feeling like a naughty little girl! I've no idea whether they caught the culprit, but we did hear that the roads around us were closed and it caused a bit of excitement among the customers!
Thankfully at 4.30pm Mum, Soph and I were released from duty and we headed home, stopping on the way to get a bottle of Turning Leaf Pinot Grigio as a treat! I have a new DVD to watch tonight - Unknown starring Liam Neeson - which I saw at the cinema so I'm definitely looking forward to that!
Friday 15 July
We'd planned on walking around Pitsford on Friday evening (still finding it hard getting used to having Keith at home between 6pm and 8pm) but after a week at work the thought of a 7 mile walk palled a bit. It's best to do that sort of walk first thing on a Saturday or Sunday morning! We still wanted to go for a walk so we did the "round" which takes just under an hour and is a walk over the fields and into the village, returning home via the footpath by the road. For the first time I made it up the steep hill without stopping to catch my breath half way up so I'm obviously getting fitter!
After a delicious supper of home-made tomato soup, we watched Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. We're going to see Part one of the Deathly Hallows on Sunday night and then I've booked to see Part two in the cinema next week, in 3D, which I'm really looking forward to!
After a delicious supper of home-made tomato soup, we watched Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. We're going to see Part one of the Deathly Hallows on Sunday night and then I've booked to see Part two in the cinema next week, in 3D, which I'm really looking forward to!
Friday, 15 July 2011
Thursday 14 July
After work Sophie and I went for a walk as I'd finished at 3pm. The walk we usually do has become a bit easier over the last few weeks so we extended it. I was sure there was a footpath behind the village so I was a bit miffed when we went to find it and discovered a locked gate barring the way. Despite this, we walked for an extra half an hour so my legs were aching slightly when we got home! The extension had obviously done me good!
Keith cooked a very healthy dinner - grilled haddock - which went down well with all of us. Trying to decide what to have for dinner is getting more and more difficult now as Sophie is conscious of her weight as well. Am I beginning to sound like a bore? Hmmm!
Keith cooked a very healthy dinner - grilled haddock - which went down well with all of us. Trying to decide what to have for dinner is getting more and more difficult now as Sophie is conscious of her weight as well. Am I beginning to sound like a bore? Hmmm!
Wednesday 13 July
After talking about weight loss, I was delighted to see I'd lost two pounds this morning when I weighed myself. I'm now just two pounds off losing a stone!
We were back to normal with staff today, so Mum and I sloped off to Ikea to buy some stuff for work. We had a cup of coffee when we arrived (no cake!) and then had a good look around. We use Ikea's small brightly coloured plates for our children's meals at work so we bought more of them, a lovely mirror for our tots area and some new rugs. The children really love the strong colours and there was loads of things we wanted to buy, but sadly, from experience, some of them would walk, which is a real shame.
In the evening we had a barbecue party at work so I helped dad who was cooking for it (being a man-thing!). Two little girls came out into the garden with us, fascinated by the hot coals and the fire, and chattered away non-stop until the party mum found them and rounded them up! This is one of the parts of the job I like best when the children want to chat and say funny things!
We were back to normal with staff today, so Mum and I sloped off to Ikea to buy some stuff for work. We had a cup of coffee when we arrived (no cake!) and then had a good look around. We use Ikea's small brightly coloured plates for our children's meals at work so we bought more of them, a lovely mirror for our tots area and some new rugs. The children really love the strong colours and there was loads of things we wanted to buy, but sadly, from experience, some of them would walk, which is a real shame.
In the evening we had a barbecue party at work so I helped dad who was cooking for it (being a man-thing!). Two little girls came out into the garden with us, fascinated by the hot coals and the fire, and chattered away non-stop until the party mum found them and rounded them up! This is one of the parts of the job I like best when the children want to chat and say funny things!
Tuesday 12 July
I was at work until 6pm today as Sophie was working after school. I've got used to being able to go home at 4pm again (the four day week has been put on hold for a while) so it was a shock having to stay at work later. I really appreciate being able to get home early and go for a walk or potter about in the garden!
My diet is going well although I do sometimes want to just eat what I want. I know I'll have to watch my weight forever (well until I'm about 90 and then who cares?). I had a magazine arrive from Aviva, who I have my health insurance with, and reading it is very sobering. So many diseases are caused by being overweight so I'm glad I decided to lose the pounds!
My diet is going well although I do sometimes want to just eat what I want. I know I'll have to watch my weight forever (well until I'm about 90 and then who cares?). I had a magazine arrive from Aviva, who I have my health insurance with, and reading it is very sobering. So many diseases are caused by being overweight so I'm glad I decided to lose the pounds!
OMG! How behind am I?
Slapped wrists again for me this week...I'm five days behind!
If something wonderfully interesting had happened, though, I would have written about it right away! OK...so Monday was busy at work as we had our last school visit in before the summer holidays start. I left early and when I got home, Sophie and I went for a walk over the fields. I will never tire of this walk or the fantastic views!
Keith went off to the pub in the evening and drove himself there as he's still not drinking (and doing very well, I hasten to add!). After dinner we carried on with the Harry Potter fest. What an imgaination J.K. Rowling has!
If something wonderfully interesting had happened, though, I would have written about it right away! OK...so Monday was busy at work as we had our last school visit in before the summer holidays start. I left early and when I got home, Sophie and I went for a walk over the fields. I will never tire of this walk or the fantastic views!
Keith went off to the pub in the evening and drove himself there as he's still not drinking (and doing very well, I hasten to add!). After dinner we carried on with the Harry Potter fest. What an imgaination J.K. Rowling has!
Monday, 11 July 2011
Sunday 10 July - a trip down to Kent
Mum and I went off to see Nan in Kent on Sunday. Sophie wanted to come but she was working for us so she had to stay behind, much to her disgust. We had a great journey down and took Nan to Bluewater for lunch, which on reflection, wasn't the best idea as it was very crowded and noisy.
We had lunch in John Lewis and then, while Mum took Nan down to M&S, I meandered back to the car, stopping in Waterstones on the way to buy Mikey a book. He's really into his reading now so I bought him a Percy Jackson book which I'm hoping he'll find interesting.
The journey home was equally good despite the almost continuous roadworks littering the M25 and the M1. As we neared Northampton, we all slowed down to 30mph, held up by a traffic officer and no doubt caused by Silverstone emptying out!
We had lunch in John Lewis and then, while Mum took Nan down to M&S, I meandered back to the car, stopping in Waterstones on the way to buy Mikey a book. He's really into his reading now so I bought him a Percy Jackson book which I'm hoping he'll find interesting.
The journey home was equally good despite the almost continuous roadworks littering the M25 and the M1. As we neared Northampton, we all slowed down to 30mph, held up by a traffic officer and no doubt caused by Silverstone emptying out!
Saturday 9 July
I welcomed the weekend with a real sense of relief!
Sophie and me went off to Homebase in the afternoon as she needed a plain white sheet for her part as a ghost in a production of MacBeth on Tuesday. While we were there I had some paint mixed in a tester pot for our bedroom and took away a sample of wallpaper. I really must get down to some decorating!
We had to go and buy the sheet elsewhere and while in Tesco I bought a couple of Harry Potter videos in readiness for our Harry Potter fest. Keith has always wanted to watch the entire series so we're going to do that and then go and see the latest one at the cinema. I don't think Sophie was amused!
Late afternoon, Keith and I went for a lovely walk over the fields, keeping an eye on the stormy sky. We'd planned a barbecue and I was convinced it was going to wait until Keith lit it before pouring down with rain. Happily, he managed to cook under beautiful blue early evening skies!
Sophie and me went off to Homebase in the afternoon as she needed a plain white sheet for her part as a ghost in a production of MacBeth on Tuesday. While we were there I had some paint mixed in a tester pot for our bedroom and took away a sample of wallpaper. I really must get down to some decorating!
We had to go and buy the sheet elsewhere and while in Tesco I bought a couple of Harry Potter videos in readiness for our Harry Potter fest. Keith has always wanted to watch the entire series so we're going to do that and then go and see the latest one at the cinema. I don't think Sophie was amused!
Late afternoon, Keith and I went for a lovely walk over the fields, keeping an eye on the stormy sky. We'd planned a barbecue and I was convinced it was going to wait until Keith lit it before pouring down with rain. Happily, he managed to cook under beautiful blue early evening skies!
Friday 8 July
We were so busy at work on Friday! It's amazing what a little bit of rain can do to our business! Keith was in at work with me today and he had to man Reception while I helped out in the kitchen! We did manage to book a holiday, though, which was a good thing! We've booked a villa in Lanzarote in December so that's something to look forward to and it will be great to have some winter sun this year.
In the evening, for the first time in ages, Keith didn't go to the pub! He's been off the beer for a week now in a bid to lose some weight so it was really weird to have him at home between 6 and 8pm!
In the evening, for the first time in ages, Keith didn't go to the pub! He's been off the beer for a week now in a bid to lose some weight so it was really weird to have him at home between 6 and 8pm!
Friday, 8 July 2011
Thursday 7 July
Last night I went to a friend's house with my pal Lynda and we ordered a Chinese takeaway, which was a treat. Both of us took a bottle of fizzy water with us...we know how to live! Lynda has been trying to get me to go to a Zumba class but it's on pretty late in the evening and I had to admit to not really wanting to venture out again once I've had dinner in the evening. She did a quick demonstration for us and it looked very good, so maybe if an earlier class comes up, I'll go!
The three of us had a good gossip and a chat with her son who's 9. He's very much like Mikey (talkative and obsessed with Sky television) and it was a lovely relaxed evening. We had a lot of rain and when I was driving to pick Lynda up, the heavens opened and it poured so hard I nearly had to stop the car!
On the way home I noticed a lot of street lights were turned off and Lynda said that it was the start of the "switch off". I think it's a brilliant idea. We don't need loads and loads of yellow street lights everywhere and I'm all for reducing light pollution and saving money!
The three of us had a good gossip and a chat with her son who's 9. He's very much like Mikey (talkative and obsessed with Sky television) and it was a lovely relaxed evening. We had a lot of rain and when I was driving to pick Lynda up, the heavens opened and it poured so hard I nearly had to stop the car!
On the way home I noticed a lot of street lights were turned off and Lynda said that it was the start of the "switch off". I think it's a brilliant idea. We don't need loads and loads of yellow street lights everywhere and I'm all for reducing light pollution and saving money!
Thursday, 7 July 2011
Wednesday 6 July - SATS results...
Yesterday at the sports day, Mikey's headteacher mentioned to us that Mikey's SATS results were very good which was an enormous relief. Today, Mikey brought them home with him and we were delighted to see that he scored a 4 in all the subjects tested. This is the expected level for a child in primary school, but it means that he's improved enormously in the last couple of years as I really expected him to get a 3 or even a 2. Keith and I are very proud of what he's achieved and his results are the same as his sister's when she did her SATS four years ago! Well done Mikey!
In the evening we took the cats for another walk. This time Archie accompanied us and they both had a great time. The cats are always very different out and about to how they are at home, constantly watching what's going on and very aware of noises and movement. It was a windy evening with the threat of rain in the air and it would be great to have a couple of days of rain to give the gardens plenty to drink!
In the evening we took the cats for another walk. This time Archie accompanied us and they both had a great time. The cats are always very different out and about to how they are at home, constantly watching what's going on and very aware of noises and movement. It was a windy evening with the threat of rain in the air and it would be great to have a couple of days of rain to give the gardens plenty to drink!
Tuesday 5 July - our last Sports Day.
Luckily the weather stayed fine for Mikey's last sports day at Primary school. It was held on the playing fields and Keith and I arrived as it was in full swing. As in previous years the children were put into teams and they had to do various games to win points. Us parents were also encouraged to shout the names of the teams to win extra points!
Just as it finished the heavens opened so Keith and I ran back to the car and I went back to work. I felt a bit sad that that was the last sports day we'd attend as in Secondary school parents are not normally invited. So it's the end of an era and the next few weeks will be a little sad as we lose our connection to the school.
Mikey's team didn't come first - they never do - but I think he had a good time!
Just as it finished the heavens opened so Keith and I ran back to the car and I went back to work. I felt a bit sad that that was the last sports day we'd attend as in Secondary school parents are not normally invited. So it's the end of an era and the next few weeks will be a little sad as we lose our connection to the school.
Mikey's team didn't come first - they never do - but I think he had a good time!
Monday 4 July
Hmmm...I've fallen behind with this again!
Monday was a busy day at work as we had another school visit. As it was a warm day we left the cleaning to Tuesday morning so by 4pm I was at home. Half an hour later I was walking over the fields with Mikey and Max the dog. It was lovely as I don't spend all that much time with just Mikey and he chattered away non-stop as we walked!
Monday was a busy day at work as we had another school visit. As it was a warm day we left the cleaning to Tuesday morning so by 4pm I was at home. Half an hour later I was walking over the fields with Mikey and Max the dog. It was lovely as I don't spend all that much time with just Mikey and he chattered away non-stop as we walked!
Monday, 4 July 2011
Sunday 3 July
Sunday was a funny day - the weather was overcast but hot and sultry and I wished fervently that we could have a big storm to lighten the atmosphere. Keith and I went out for a walk early and had a great mooch over the fields. We saw what we thought was a buzzard in the distance and several rabbits. Good job we didn't have Max with us!
Keith and Sophie made a delicious banana cake in the afternoon and Mum and Dad came over for dinner in the evening. We ate beef casserole with dumplings and Dad made us a very rich and gooey cheesecake for dessert. What with that and the couple of bottles of red we drank with dinner I need to get back on track tomorrow!
Keith and Sophie made a delicious banana cake in the afternoon and Mum and Dad came over for dinner in the evening. We ate beef casserole with dumplings and Dad made us a very rich and gooey cheesecake for dessert. What with that and the couple of bottles of red we drank with dinner I need to get back on track tomorrow!
Saturday 2 July
After tidying up the front garden which was as dry as a dust bowl, Sophie and me went off to Market Harborough to do some shopping. Saturday was a beautiful day - warm and sunny with just a hint of a gentle breeze to stop it being too hot. We wandered around the town which wasn't at all busy and I popped into Duncan's to buy some wine, enjoying a tasting whilst I was in there.
In the evening we tuned into the fight between Haye and Klitschko. I'm not normally a fan of boxing but it had been hyped up so much I was interested to see who would win. To be honest I was disappointed. All they seemed to do was jab at each other like a pair of angry cats - certainly not like the film Rocky!
In the evening we tuned into the fight between Haye and Klitschko. I'm not normally a fan of boxing but it had been hyped up so much I was interested to see who would win. To be honest I was disappointed. All they seemed to do was jab at each other like a pair of angry cats - certainly not like the film Rocky!
Friday, 1 July 2011
A good day
Today has been great (so far!) which is a blessed relief after the last few weeks. Mum came into work today and is almost back to her old self, so that was good. Keith and I went and did the Booker shop (just like last week) and work was fine. A good ending to the week, hooray!
When I got home Soph and I went out for a walk and the countryside was looking particularly beautiful with the wheat waving gently in the breeze, butterflies and bees buzzing about and the sky overhead a wonderful shade of blue. We reach a certain point on the walk and I always stop and just gaze at the gorgeous scenery and thank my lucky stars I have this on my doorstep!
When I got home Soph and I went out for a walk and the countryside was looking particularly beautiful with the wheat waving gently in the breeze, butterflies and bees buzzing about and the sky overhead a wonderful shade of blue. We reach a certain point on the walk and I always stop and just gaze at the gorgeous scenery and thank my lucky stars I have this on my doorstep!
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