Thursday, 13 February 2025

13-02-25

 Good morning. one and all.  How are you this morning?  I hope life is good for you.

Yesterday was another damp and dismal day but with less wind so it didn't feel quite so miserable as Monday.
The decorators arrived and set to work while I headed out to circuits which was really good fun.  Once home, I gave my bedroom a good sort out and clean and it is now a tranquil sleeping space again.  The only things that shouldn't be there are the laundry basket which usually sits on the landing and the vacuum cleaner because I don't want it stuck behind a taped up door.
The decorators started on the walls and I held my breath a bit in case I didn't like the colour once it was on the wall but I needn't have worried - it might not be everyone's cuppa tea but I really like it.  It is brighter and it's cheerful and warm.  Perfect.

In the afternoon, I headed back to Lindsey's for personal training which was, as always, lovely.  We had an interesting chat too.  More below.

When I got home, they had gone and, as they promised, the two big cupboards and my computer desk were back against the (finished) wall so I was able to set to and get all the clutter on the sofa and other things that will go back in or on the sideboards.  It is far from tidy, of course, but I was able to get out the ironing board and get my little pile of clothes nicely ironed.  I also pressed the finished blanket but there's not enough carpet space to lay it out and take a photo so next week . . .

This year's Shimmy Fitness and Fun weekend (next month) is the last one Lindsey will be running for a variety of good reasons.  Very sad but it won't stop me going to Potters for short breaks now and again.
So, instead, next year she is organising a small group holiday to Spain (around the Almeria area) and muggins here has said she wants to be a part of the party.  A week in a repurposed old water mill owned and run by someone Lindsey knows.  It sounds really nice and I am glad I have committed.  Another thing to save for but, if I don't save enough, I will have no qualms about withdrawing from my Premium Bonds.  I'm going to enjoy it all.

So, what with two classes, getting some of the 'mess' away and another holiday, yesterday was a really exciting day.

Today is also pretty good.  SET at Lindsey's studio instead of online (no space at home), back for coffee with Chris and in the afternoon I am out for an afternoon tea.
In between those jollies, I have some washing to do and the kitchen could do with a tidy and wipe around.

Wishing you as nice a day as I am hoping for.  All the best and stay warm and well.  xx

Wednesday, 12 February 2025

12-02-25

Morning, lovely people.  Thank you for your comments and for being so understanding while I whinge and rant about the very minor upheavals in my pampered life <grin>.  Everything is going smoothly, the work is being done well and it is possible that by the end of today, the older part will be done enough for the big cupboards to be pushed back into place (probably without the doors but that's not an issue) and then I can get the much reduced and decluttered contents away on the shelves and more or less clear the extension area of all the mess.  That will be so very nice.

Chris and I walked down to the hall for Groove, did the class and walked back again.  It was starting to drizzle on the way back and it felt jolly cold but the class was great fun.

I had washing drying on a small rack and I did some more decluttering.  Even the bedroom got a bit of a once-over.  All very satisfying.

Today is dominated by two fitness classes.  This morning is circuits in place of the class I missed Monday and this afternoon is personal training.  I should sleep well this evening, for sure.
I might get some ironing done, if I can make the floor space, and there's a bit more washing too.  At least I am not fussing about dusting and sweeping.  All that can wait!

Did you have a good day?
Stay warm and dry, everyone.  xx


Tuesday, 11 February 2025

11-02-25

Morning, all.  Well, here am I sitting amidst piles of clutter and mess but less than it was yesterday while the wheelie bin is a gainer (thank goodness it is black bin collecting on Thursday).
It could be a lot worse.  It doesn't look like it but there is order amongst the chaos, the space behind the desk and big cupboards is now dust free and, before they arrive, I am going to just give it a bit of a sweep too.

So - yesterday.  I didn't go to circuits but, after a quick chat to Ray, it is fine for me to go to all my other classes.  There shouldn't be any problems but, if there are, I am only fifteen minutes away at most.   The rest of the day was spent decluttering, etc, and in the evening I was part of a lovely Slim Win chat online.

Today is Groove and, fingers crossed, the walk there and back.  There isn't anything else in the diary today but I do have some washing that needs doing and I even have the usual space by the radiator for the drying rack so it doesn't have to go in my bedroom.  Also, my bedroom could do with a tidy - things have walked into it while I wasn't looking. 

So that is today.  Hopefully, they will make good progress with painting.  Yesterday, quite a lot of time was spent on the prepping, masking tape well to the fore - you know the kind of thing that takes way longer than you would think.  As for me - I will keep well out of their way.  

Have a lovely, quiet, organised day, everyone!  xx

Monday, 10 February 2025

Aaaaarrrrgggghhhh

Oh, my gosh!!!  My nice, almost tidy living space.  My brain is aaaarrrrgggghhhh.

I had to empty these two big cupboards after all.  They are more 'rickety' than Ray thought.  However, it is now super dust free right along that right hand wall - and it really wasn't!
They're doing the old part first plus landing, stairs and hall.

Then I can move stuff back into the cupboards and the extension section will be easier because the sideboards will just slide away.


That chair is my space.  For now, anyway.  A direct line to the telly and with the heated throw and the crochet blanket.

What more could a girl want.

Joking apart, those two big cupboards haven't been sorted out since just after I retired and it is the ideal opportunity to really deal with what I haven't used since.  So no complains - well, not many anyway.

 It'll be nice when it is done.

10-02-25

Good morning, everyone, and welcome to a new week.  The weather isn't great after a dismal day yesterday but I have no plans to go out all that much.  It's dry at the moment but steady rain is forecast for the whole day and into the evening.  A bit chilly too, just a few degrees above zero.  So not having to go out is a bit of a blessing, really.  xx

It was lovely to see Alex yesterday - he does enjoy my meals and scoffed down two portions of roast lamb dinner - where he puts it, I have no idea!

Going back a few hours, I did all the prep, got to B&Q and came back with paint (still in the car as it's very heavy), picked Alex up, took him home, did some ironing and cleared stuff ready for when Ray arrives tomorrow morning.  
I didn't finish the blanket but am steadily double crocheting round and round and round.  A bit mindless but keeps my hands busy.

Today, I won't be going to circuits and I really have no idea how the day will go, it depends on Ray, but I suspect decluttering opportunities upstairs, out of the way, will be many but I'll let you know.

Have a more exciting day than I expect to have.  Stay warm.  xx

Sunday, 9 February 2025

09-02-25

Morning, all.  Happy Sunday.  It's a chilly and wet start to the day, that's for sure.  I'm glad the walk was yesterday.

We were lucky.  David cut the walk a bit short because of the weather forecast and, just as we arrived back at the car park and got into our cars, down came the rain.  Brilliant timing - well done Met Office and David!

I stayed in for the rest of the day as it was so very dismal.  I can't really remember what I did which means not much, doesn't it?  I do remember getting on with the crochet and, while I am not happy with the way it all joined (I think sewing would have been better with hindsight) I'm absolutely not going to undo it all and start again.  The edging is looking a bit 'bumpy, because the sides were not completely lever but after a few more rounds, it won't really show - if it does, tough!!  It's a blanket, not a work of fine art.   😁

After answering Sharon's comment yesterday, I looked it up and it appears that basically they speak Greek in Crete but also have a Cretan dialect that is widely used.  However, being a tourist destination, most also have some English/American so the chances of not being able to communicate are rare, especially in that sort of holiday.
All the same, apart from anything else, it's only courteous and friendly to know some useful words and phrases.  Things like 'thank you', 'please', 'large white wine, please' and 'where's the nearest loo - I'm desperate'!!

OK, so maybe not that last one . . .

Today feels busy at the moment but it isn't really.  I have Alex over for lunch and the slow roast lamb is slow roasting so that's no problem.  I just need to prep the veg and that's all done and dusted until much later.
I need to go to B&Q and get the paint because Ray is starting the redecorating tomorrow and that will be a bit of an upheaval but worth it when it is done.
Because the weather is so wet, I'm going to collect Alex (and take him back afterwards) and I can drop the last lot of washing off at the same time so that's good.
Once that's done, I can chill.

Wishing you a chilled Sunday too, packed with lovely, cosy, homy things and no fuss.
Take care, all the best and stay warm.  xx

Saturday, 8 February 2025

08-02-25

 Good morning, everyone.  How are things this morning?  Yesterday was a very bleak, chilly, dismal day round here.  I ended up turning up the heating a bit which helped a lot.

Slimming World taster session was good fun although not many people realised it was a taster, I think.  I wouldn't have known if I hadn't seen a Facebook message from Heidi.  It was also the Biggest Loser award which went to  Sheila, a lovely lady who reached her target last year and is a stalwart (odd word but you know what I mean) of the group.

I made my loaf and have just sliced it and popped it in the freezer.  That should see me through till the end of the month as I don't eat all that much bread.  I love it, it loves me, but too much isn't balanced, I think.

The repairer chap turned up at Beth and Alex's and now they have fully functioning washing facilities again.  Yee hah!!  Must be a great relief to them.  I have no idea what the problem was but I don't need to know.  
I have one more load of washing to take back but Alex is coming over for lunch tomorrow so I will probably drop it off then - it's predicted to rain so I will pick him up as he doesn't drive.

Getting there with this although the joining has definitely been the most difficult thin - I thought it would be easy.  The stitches match but not if you match the middle bits and I can't work out why.  Oh, well, I'm muddling on through and it really won't show to anyone but an expert. I think part of the problem is that the corners are not always right angles so they join a bit differently and there are no specific joining instructions apart from where tiles go in the pattern.  Definitely a weakness in an otherwise very clear pattern. 
I have one more octagon to join now and then the triangles around the edge to square it up before I do the edging and steam it.  
Wish I knew what I will do with it!  I wonder if it will look nice out in the garden room . . . that's a thought.  Could I make some cushion covers to match?  Maybe; I do have plenty of yarn left.  I'll ponder that one.

This morning it's the first SW Friends walk of the year although the forecast isn't encouraging   .  David, who organises it, says he has an idea if the weather doesn't play ball so - well, we will see . . .

After that, I need to tidy up a bit and sort out a few things for tomorrow before settling down with a video and the crochet.  I'd love to get it finished this weekend, if possible.

Well, I am having a leisurely start to Saturday but I ought to get going now.  Have a great day, everyone, and stay warm and dry.  xx

Friday, 7 February 2025

07-02-35

Morning, all.  Happy Friday to you all.

I forgot to say the other day; after I finished the cardigan, I used a random ball of ridiculously chunky yarn that I got from The Range, goodness knows why, and never used, and made this.  It needed an hour, a large hook (9.0) and some real tugging and pulling until I got the tension right but it made this.  It now sits beside my bed, holding my talc, deodorant and a few other bits and pieces and I'm ridiculously happy with it.

Online SET class was good, the chat with Chris was great, I got the shopping done and now have my month's supply of items for the Food Bank so any extra will be - er - extra!!
I finished all the washing, drying and ironing, did some sorting out and started joining the tiles together.  I don't think I'm making a very good job of it and things don't seem to fit (they should do, the counts are right) but not to worry, it will look fine once everything is together and the edging done.

Well, it's done!  The money bounced into my bank account and within a couple of hours it had bounced out again and I am now booked for a lovely holiday in Crete in 2026.  So exciting.
All I have to do now is save the money!  lol

Today looks to be another easy day with a taster session at Slimming World and then nothing in the diary all day.  Maybe I will do a bit of housework and certainly I will bake a loaf.  Usually I bake on Saturdays but tomorrow I am out for a walk so today it is.

What are your plans for this first Friday in February?  Have a good one and stay warm and safe, whatever they are.  xx 

Thursday, 6 February 2025

06-02-25

Morning, everybody.  We have another frost this morning.  I think we've already had more frosts this winter than in the whole of last winter;  I do like a clear and frosty start to the day.

I didn't book the Crete holiday because one annual thing landed yesterday plus I needed to pay my deposit and insurance for the Edinburgh holiday.  I have a horror of going overdrawn and, while I don't think there was actually any chance of that, better safe than sorry, so I have moved what I need for the deposit out of the newly named holiday savings account  and as soon as that lands, I will be on that phone.  I can pay it back in (or as much as possible) at the end of the month.

I did get round to changing that extra account name though.  It is now called Jolly Holidays!  I mean, how immature can I get, eh?  It says it all though and it cheers me up no end.  And I moved across the saved end of January money to give it a healthy start off, even if most of it went straight out for that Crete deposit.  Nice.

I found a couple of YouTube videos about the hotel.  Here's one which, I think, must be by the hotel itself for their guests.  


I forgot to say that the Premium Bonds behaved themselves again this month.  A nice, tidy £200 which is being reinvested for now but I'm keeping a note of winnings and they can be holiday money if necessary.

It was quite a busy day yesterday.  I took the washing back to Beth and Alex's and collected the last two days' worth which was done and out on the line very quickly.  It's now dry, bits have been ironed and it's ready to return at some point.

 I got to Knit and Natter and had a lovely time chatting and crocheting.  The Persian Tiles blanket attracted quite a bit of attention, which was nice.  I've almost finished all the 'tiles' now and then comes the task of fitting them all together and joining them - I hope by crochet rather than sewing - before the edging.  Getting there!

I had to leave early to get to Personal Training but it all worked, thank goodness, without getting me frazzled and fussed.  And I got the bin and recycling stuff out for tomorrow so go, me!!

Today is easier.

SET online, coffee and chat with Chris (at hers so I don't need to worry about a tidy house) and then I must go food shopping.  It's a very small shop and I was going to do it Saturday but somehow, last Friday, I missed that it was a taster session at Slimming World this Friday.  I'm just taking in some fruit but need to get some!
I might do some housework but I don't have to so we will see.

Have a lovely day, everyone, and thanks for all your lovely comments.  Have a great day packed with enjoyment.  xx

Wednesday, 5 February 2025

05-02-25

Morning, everyone.

Well, decisions have been made - or made for me.  Ray got quickly back in touch with me so say I have a single room for the Melrose/Edinburgh jolly in November.  I'm so pleased.  The weather may not be amazing but there's plenty to do in Edinburgh and the Christmas Market will have started, I believe, so it's all good.  And with John and Gina living close by, maybe I can take them out for dinner one evening - they will know the good places.  I would so love that.

I've decided to go for the Crete holiday in April, 2026 which gives me plenty of time to save for the cost of the trip and also for loads of extras like souvenirs, etc.  So I'm shelving the Northern Lights for now but only shelving, not cancelling the idea.
I'll phone and book before the weekend.
Thinking about saving for it, I have a building society account that is just a holding account at the moment as it's original use is no longer necessary.  I will rename it and any end of month savings can go into that account, separately.  I might move the money I saved at the end of January sideways into it as a good start off.

Yesterday went smoothly.  It wasn't the best day for hanging out the washing but we got some breeze blowing so all it needed was a bit of time in the tumble dryer and then a fold.  Easy peasy.
I was able to give Groove 100% and my back was fine.  Great!

Today, I am 'free' until Knit and Natter and then straight on to Personal Training.  I might make that phone call to One Traveller this morning - we will see.  
Have a lovely day, everyone, and take care.  xx

Tuesday, 4 February 2025

04-02-25 and more holiday pondering

Morning, everyone.  Another chilly start to the day with promise of colder weather by the weekend, heading from the continent.  Brrrr.  Hope it stays fine because we have the first SW Friends walk of the new year on Saturday.   Today looks like being dry but not sunny but as long as I can get some of Beth and Alex's washing out on the line, I will be happy.

As the title suggests, I have been thinking about holidays, cruises, etc and, most fortuitously (is that a word?) a message popped through from Jan and Ray yesterday night relating to a three night holiday near by Edinburgh with two days in Edinburgh.  There are very few single rooms available and they go very quickly, but Edinburgh is somewhere I want to visit.  The hotel is actually in Melrose (we will have a coach for travel to Edinburgh) and my brother lives close to Melrose so that's another plus.
So I have just fired off a message to Ray, requesting a single room and hope that I am early enough to get a place.  If not, I am no worse off.

Then, I was looking through the One Traveller brochure and saw a holiday, not a cruise, to Crete next year called 'A Taste of Crete' which is, as the title suggests, food focused to some degree.  It's an eight day trip but, obviously, two days are for travelling and all places are single  - double rooms but One Traveller does singles/solo holidays so you never have to share.  Makes it expensive but, for me, takes all the hassle away.
There are, included in the overall cost, visits to an olive grove, lunches in various folky sort of places, cooking demos, wine tasting, markets, a day in Knossos, some workshops, guided tours and plenty of time to rest and enjoy the hotel facilities.  And it is flagged up as leisurely - I guess that means nothing too energetic.

Decisions, decisions!!

Yesterday was a pleasant enough day and I took the washing back to Beth and Alex and stayed for a short coffee and chat which was very nice.  I came back with more so that's today's main task.  I didn't get yesterday's downstairs cleaning done so it's just as well the only thing in the diary is Groove and the walk there and back.

And it is half seven so I'd better get moving.  Wishing you a very happy and satisfying Tuesday, everyone.  xx

Monday, 3 February 2025

03-02-25

Morning, everyone.  It was such a lovely, sunny day yesterday and a heavy frost this morning although it is starting to disappear now.

I got all Beth and Alex's washing done and dried, folded and into a basket so I can return it this afternoon.  I got some of mine done too but that's on the drying rack and needs folding or ironing and folding.

I also managed to finish the cardigan and get it stitched up.  I just need to steam out the seams and get a nice big button and then it's done.  It took less of the yarn I had bought for it so I have 400g Aran for something else.  

I have various patterns so will have a look at a later date.  I could perhaps make something for the Sally Army drop off or maybe I have enough for a waistcoat type pullover for myself.  I'll have a think.
It has come out shorter than I expected (although longer than the pattern says) and I like it but am wondering about making it again in another colour - there was a lovely deep reddish maroon colour in the same kind but not enough balls - well, there would have been but I thought I needed more.

Now I want to finish off the Tiles crochet project.  There's quite a bit to do of that so it won't be finished this week!  I think this month should be called Finish Off Friday.

Today starts with circuits (and I need to get going or I won't be ready), followed by the usual Monday tidy and clean downstairs.  This afternoon I take the washing back and sort out my own washing.  And then I can settle to my crochet.  Just a nice, homey kind of day.  

Better get going then.  See you tomorrow.  Thanks for reading and thanks for all the comments you leave in here.  They are much appreciated.  xx

Sunday, 2 February 2025

January review and February's aims

Yesterday, I had a look back at the goals/themes for 2025 that I waffled on about after Twelfth Night was over and thought about how it was all going.
It's thinking out loud really . . .


Healthy finances:
January was as much a Needs Only month as I could make it apart from a couple of slips towards the end.  I increased the amount going into savings every month so it stays at 25% and will need to do this again when I know by how much my two pensions are increasing.  I also managed to save more on top so I'm very pleased with that.
I'd like February to be similar so fingers crossed.

Healthy mind and body.
Well, the dodgy back put paid to being as physically energetic as I would have liked but it's more or less OK again now and I am being careful to 'engage my core' (as Lindsey says), have good posture and not to slouch too much.  
As far as the mind bit is concerned, I read, I do sudokus and other mental activities, I socialise, I have plenty of interests.  I think it all helps.
So this continues through February.

Healthy lifestyle.
This is partly covered by the mind and body one.  I am back on plan now, eating the Mediterranean way as much as is sensible and possible and just wondering why I went off track so easily over Christmas.  This way is so much nicer, it really is.  
I'm engaging in some ongoing decluttering, I have my ongoing fitness stuff and I'm very much looking forward to a variety of coach trips through the coming year (although not this month).
I'm thinking about another cruise and just working it through in my mind

So February's specific aims are:
  • To continue with the Needs Only spending.
  • To continue using what I have in freezer, fridge and cupboards first (to a great extent - there's always going to be exceptions) - so audit, plan the meals, write the shopping list in that order.
  • Linked with that to move a specific amount across to short term savings at the end of the month.  I have a specific amount in mind but won't be sharing that.
  • To continue updating my spreadsheet every time anything goes out of my account so I absolutely KNOW where I am at any given point in the month.
  • To continue with the Food Bank collection and, specifically, to check what's really needed and make sure I focus on that.
  • To make a decision about whether to go for another cruise and to decide on a linked savings target to go towards that (I suppose you could call it a sinking fund but it will be on the spreadsheet, not a separate account.)
  • To do one extra online SET class each week, if possible.
  • To continue with the decluttering.
  • Resume the daily weed scraping when they start fighting back - and they will!

All looking good!
How about you?

02-02-25

Good morning, everyone.  I hope everyone is doing well.  It's a dry and cold start to Sunday with a good frost; I'm hoping that it is a fine day so I can get some of Beth's washing on the line.  It will still need a bit of a tumble dry, I expect, but not as much as yesterday - my electric meter was not happy yesterday!

I did SET online - a bit of a killer because I haven't done a SET class since before Christmas but it is always there to join so I really ought to use it more now that things are OK again.

Then I set out to do all the stuff that needed doing.
I filled the petrol tank up - it came to a couple of pounds more than I budget for so that's not too bad.
Then I drove on to Beth and Alex's to drop off the clean and dry washing and to pick up some more.  I think that's cleared the backlog for them now which makes me happy.
Finally, I stopped off at the Cook's shop to pick up my order and have a little nosey round at the same time.  I have Dave and Anna round for a meal in just under three weeks and I think I might get a main dish from there, just to try.  There were also some luscious desserts but I have a roulade in the freezer that I bought for Christmas and never used so that's OK.

Anyway, I got the frozen stuff home and had started checking the SW values to write on the cardboard sleeves when I realised they had made a mistake and missed something out so back I went to sort it out.  I was a bit concerned that they might think I was trying to pull a fast one but they couldn't have been more apologetic, got the missing meal and presented me with a couple of lemon cheesecakes as an apology (which was totally unexpected as I am sure it was a genuine mistake).
Very naughty cheesecakes they are so I will save them for something special, maybe when Alex comes round or I have a friend here for lunch or even when I get back into my target range again. 
I think I might make this a once a month treat - getting some meals from them, I mean, not eating cheesecake!!

Then I went to Morrisons, did a small weekly shop and got foodbank stuff - must look on their site and see what they need most of before I get any more.
Once that was all sorted, the rest of the day was spent washing, drying, ironing, meal planning, knitting, cooking and watching telly - all the usual stuff!!

Today, the biggie is getting Beth's washing finished and dried.  I'd like to get it all back to her this afternoon but we will see - it might be tomorrow.
It's not such a busy day today, thankfully.  I might even get the last sleeve finished for my knitting project.  I'd like that!

Have a lovely day, everyone, and be happy.  xx

(I've done a bit of a review of January's goals and February's aims in a separate post)



Saturday, 1 February 2025

01-02-25

We're here at last - January is over and we're into February.  I know it is only two or three days less than every other month but it feels so much shorter than they, don't you think?

Yesterday, as almost always, was really pleasant, despite the dismal weather - cold and drizzly all day and I am glad I didn't have to walk anywhere.

It started with Slimming World - really busy and we have some offers of help on the social team as I am finding that queues are building up while I weigh and write up any certificates people have achieved.  Someone to write them out for me would be such a help and, also, to cover if I am not able to be there.  At the moment Heidi would be in a fix if both K (who does the registration stuff) and I couldn't come for some reason and that's not good.  It would be even worse if there were new members as there were yesterday - four of them!  It's turning into a very lively group.

Then I came home and got lunch prepared before going to pick Alex up - he usually walks over but it was miserable and, anyway, he was bringing over a load of washing.  I had a lovely chat with him - I think I am so lucky that my adult grandson likes to spend time with his old Nan.
I took him back with his pile of clean washing and collected another load.  Beth hasn't been well and the washing machine is being temperamental, so I am pleased I can help out!
That's all done now and I can take it back this morning - I have to pop into town anyway.

Today, being the first of the month, is time to top up he petrol and I'm going to Cook's to pick up my first order of frozen meals from them.  I now have my access to the SW app back again because I weighed yesterday and they all fit really well in the SW structure so I'm very happy about that!

Having a Needs Only Month worked so very well that I am going to do the same this month.  I wasn't 100%, especially this last week, but didn't actually impulse buy at all and I am rather shocked and embarrassed (but pleased) at the difference this has made.  
I have a few things in my Amazon waiting list but they can stay there for now.  If I still want them by March, then maybe . . .

One reason for carrying on with it (and increasing savings as a result) is because I really would love to do that Arctic cruise again next December.  I've been almost yearning for the snow and the cold and the stunning-ness of it all and some of the excursions are different this time.
And I have the specialist clothes - the yaktraks, the boots, the thermal wear . . .
I'm still thinking and will see how the savings go but - oh, I would so love to.

Well, better get moving.  I have an online SET class with Lindsey at nine fifteen and then I'm out doing the above mentioned stuff.  When I get home I have a pile of my own ironing to get done and away.  And I haven't planned my meals for this coming week - I MUST get that done.

Sorry for rambling and if you've made it this far, well done and thank you.  Have a lovely day and stay warm and cosy!  xx


Friday, 31 January 2025

31-01-25

Morning!  Back again after missing a day.

Both yesterday and Wednesday turned out a wee bit spendy.  Not Needs but Needed-Wants, if you get what I mean.
I got some sample pots of paint to try and now an area of my wall looks like a patchwork quilt!  I think I have decided though, so it was worth the £4.25 per little pot.  I don't call them wants and the cost is part of what I have saved for this work anyway.
No, what was spendy was buying a couple of outer pots for two of my indoor plants.  I just decided I was totally fed up of looking at tatty brown plastic pots on tatty brown plastic saucers.  They look loads nicer in proper containers (and will be easier to water without spilling out onto the sideboard) so I reckon that is money well spent!
I also bought a new door mat as the old one was in a poor way.  

I was so pleased at personal training on Wednesday.  Back to full pelt and not one twinge or ache from the old back.  It's obviously fine again now.  I was stiff from Groove but that's different!

Then it was Governors' meeting and now it has been confirmed by the trustees I can say that the extra responsibility I have taken on is co-vice chair of the Governing Body.  There's two of us because I can go to daytime meetings, etc, but wouldn't be much use at leading the Gov meetings if Liz, the chair, was away because of my hearing issues.

Today, after Chris and I had our usual coffee and natter, I got a few more sample pots of paint and then took my collection of stuff down to the local food bank where I met an old friend why I haven't seen since before lockdown.  They seemed very happy with what I had brought so I'm going to do it through this year - one thing for each day of the month, taken along on the last Thursday of the month because that is when it's open.

The sun shone brightly yesterday and my French windows looked an utter disgrace so I got out the Karcher thingy and did insides and outs and they do look loads better now.  Not totally perfect but they were filthy and now they are better.  
It has rained overnight, of course!

It's Slimming World today and then Alex is coming over for lunch which is very nice.  I have washing,  a bit of housework, all the usual stuff and I must remember to read the meter and finalise the accounts although they are pretty much done really..  
It should be a really pleasant day!
Hope yours is too.  xx

Thursday, 30 January 2025

Sorry . . .

 Hi, everyone.  The day had got away from me and I won't be posting the usual today.  Things are absolutely fine and I'll be back tomorrow.  xx

Wednesday, 29 January 2025

29-01-25

Morning, everyone.  Thankfully, the weather seems to have really calmed down again and, right now, it is chilly and clear.  I gather there's maybe some  rain in the offing over Friday but today and tomorrow look rather pleasant.  Cold, of course, but dry and bright.

After Monday's excitements, yesterday was back to normal placidity with Groove (we didn't walk as Chris had a load of stuff to take to Lindsey) and then home again for the usual gentle stuff.  I've stopped weed scraping for now as it's not needed but it worked so very well that I will make it a regular thing.

What I focused on was my knitting.  I've discovered where I went wrong - it wasn't exactly a mistake, more a misinterpretation of the pattern.  I'm not blaming my tools, far from it, but the pattern could be improved with just a few more stitch counts and a sentence or two explaining that arm shaping stopped but the collar shaping carried on and there's another part where it simply is not clear.  It was very ambiguous, to say the least and I'm an experienced knitter.
It's a bit of a complicated pattern anyway but not to worry, I really think I have sorted it.  If it is slightly 'wrong' (I don't think it is this time), it works, it fits and both sides are the same so no worries.
I am just a few rows from finishing the fronts and there's just one more sleeve to go.
Then I will continue with the Tiles crochet.

Today, I'm off the B&Q first thing to see if I can sort out the paint for my decorating which starts maybe next week.  I feel more than a bit 'guilty' that I'm not tackling it myself but there's too much and I have never decorated before - not since I was newly married and we were poor - and even then the results were, frankly, terrible!
To be fair, it is more than just painting this time!  😄 

Later on, there's personal training and not long after that it is the next Governors' Meeting so I need to run an eye over all the paperwork late morning.

So a reasonably full day today to make up for being totally lazy yesterday.   That's life.
Have a good one and keep cosy and warm as much as you can.  xx

Tuesday, 28 January 2025

28-01-25 and Oliver

Good afternoon, everyone.  Apologies for this being late.  I slept really wall but, given I didn't get to bed until nearly midnight, sleeping well meant there was a bit of a rush to get out to Groove and I've just remembered I didn't post when I got home again.

Yesterday was such an enjoyable day.  It started with circuits and, while the back twinged from time to time, it stopped straight away afterwards which says to me that it now needs just a bit of challenge.  Other bits of me ached, mind you, but that's due to getting back to proper workouts!

We did have some very heavy rain a strong gusts of wind a couple of times but it was all over by the time I needed to leave to catch the coach and that really was all we had.
The drive in was trouble free with just the usual hold ups at busy junctions, so we got dropped off with pretty much an hour and a half to spare.  I grouped up with the lady sitting next to me and a couple of others and we went into a Starbucks for a coffee/tea. Not something I ever do normally and I was shocked at how much quite an ordinary Americano costs but that's life nowadays!

On to Oliver.  The Gielgud Theatre is lovely - very compact and cosy and the seats weren't too uncomfortable with more leg room than I was expecting.  We had great seats - about half way back in the stalls and a great view.  Quite close to the exit door too which was useful at the end.
This Cameron Mackintosh version is the one that was a huge success at Chichester but needed to be adapted to a much smaller space so there was very clever use of a revolving platform and scenery that swung round, up, down and the lower of the side boxes was incorporated into the staging - really clever and a great way to portray chases and keep the action moving on in what really is a very small stage, as you can see.

Apologies for the darkness - that's how it was - moody and quite claustrophobic in a way.  The programme notes say: 'The intimate nature of the historic Gielgud Theatre naturally enhances the atmospheric claustrophobia of Dickensian London . . .

As far as I can tell, some of the cast was the same and some were different.  Oliver - all the children, in fact - were played by several different children.  The Oliver we got was brilliant.  Not sweet and soppy as in the film but sweet and gutsy, not letting them trample over him but giving almost as good as he got.  'Where is Love' was so powerful with real passion in the delivery - remarkable, really.
The Artful Dodger was a hoot - loads of laughs and bags of character.
Actually, everyone was good, I didn't clock any weak performances.  Ever Bet, played as an abused child as she would have been, had her own charisma.

(Photo from Google Images)
I could go on but suffice it to say that Fagin (Simon Lipkin) was just - oh, words fail me.  He gave us a funny, obviously criminal, performance but with a soft spot for his boys that showed in so many ways.  He had us in fits all through.

I can't pick out one weak song - there weren't any.  It's easier to pick out the weakest - and  that's only comparative, it wasn't really weak - which, I think, was 'Who Will Buy' but part of that was because it related to a more comfortable and settled part of Oliver's story so there wasn't the tension, maybe, of the other songs.
I think in terms of sheer power and impact, I would choose 'As long as He Needs Me'.  I was in tears by the end.

If you get the opportunity, go and see it.  I am sure it will run and run and run, just like Les Mis in the theatre next door.  I'd go again like shot, it was absolutely stunning all through and the time passed in a flash.

Just to finish off, the journey home was easy too - no hold ups and I was in my house by around 11:45-ish.
Back to normal now - I don't think I have any coach trips for a couple of months but I do have Potters to look forward to in March.   That will be good.  xx

Monday, 27 January 2025

27-01-25

Morning, everyone.  Did you have a pleasant weekend?  Mine was what I sometimes describe as a 'nothing weekend' - nothing in the diary, nothing eventful, nothing to write about - although I still manage . . .

Thank you, Catriona, for reminding me of knitting two sides at once.  I undid the shaping I thought wasn't quite accurate, worked up the other side and now I'm doing both sides at the same time.  If one side isn't quite right, the other won't be either and, as long as they fit with the sleeve shaping, that's not an issue.  As long as they match!

At the moment we are 'under' another weather warning.  Another storm is rolling in, Storm Herminia - who thinks of these names? - and yesterday it was predicted to be most unpleasant round here today with strong-ish (around 40mph) winds and rain all day.  Thankfully, that has now been moderated to a couple of short sessions of strong winds over 40 but mostly winds below 20 - a good drying day or it would be if rain were not expected too but nothing to worry about!

Apart from circuits, today's biggie is the trip into London to see Oliver, I've read and watched some reviews and think it is going to be quite an experience although thank goodness the winds aren't expected to be nearly as bad as yesterday's forecast indicated - because waiting for the coach and then wandering around waiting to go onto the theatre in storm force winds would be an experience of quite a different kind!

So - circuits first thing and I'm still being careful.  Then home to get my coach bag ready, do a bit of housework and so on before leaving to go over to Broomfield, park the car and wait for the coach along with the other fifty one of us.  While I am thinking of it, there may or may not be a post first thing tomorrow as I'm late home today and have to be out first thing tomorrow (Groove).

Have a great day, everyone, and stay safe and well.  xx


Sunday, 26 January 2025

26-01-25

A few random garden photos.

Who would have thought that this far too healthy rosemary was just cuttings not all that long ago.  
Out of focus but it is lovely to see the snowdrops again.  
Just a frosty leaf!

Good morning, everyone.  It's a cold and frosty morning but the frost is vanishing quickly and this afternoon is supposed to bring us gusty winds and heavy rain.  Better make sure I have everything I need in from the freezer this morning, hadn't I?

In the interests of spending for myself (and because I wanted to, of course!!), when the Broomfield newsletter pinged into my mailbox yesterday, I requested two more trips - one to a Tutankhamen exhibition/visit to the Shard/fish and chips in June and one to see Evita in August.   Fingers crossed - I should hear today if I've got places or not.

I spent some time in the kitchen yesterday, making a new loaf as the two I made before Christmas are pretty much used up now.  I love my loaves, made from a mix of wholemeal wheat, rye and spelt flours plus a bit of white, some mixed seeds and, this time, a sort of tapenade thingy I need to use up.   It's made such a tasty loaf that I sliced it as soon as I could and put it into the freezer out of temptations way!

I'm getting on with the knitting.  I've done the back, one sleeve and one front side.  I don't think I got the shaping quite right on the front so I'm doing the second side now to see if it comes out the same - if it does, no problem; if not, I can undo the wrong shaping and re-do it.

Today - again, nothing in the diary so it's doing my own thing which will involve sorting out, bit of ironing and I didn't get round to mending that coat so that's on the list too.  I don't think I caught up with Throw Down from last week either so must do that before this evening.

And I think I might put in an order for some Cook's frozen ready meals.  I think they are worth a try after thoroughly enjoying one I got from Longacre's this week.
I know - Needs Only Months, etc, but these will be so useful on those busier days or when I just don't fancy cooking.  I know that's not a need but it's a useful want and I have been thinking about what Dave said, I really have - after all, what's the point of asking if you don't consider what you are then given?
(and I did manage to move a nice chunk into savings this month anyway!)
I dunno - listen to me justifying myself!!  Ignore me, I'm just thinking out loud!

After all that, I will love you and leave you all.  Have a really lovely Sunday, however you spend them.  Take care and stay good and warm as much as ever you can.  Love to you all.  xx

Saturday, 25 January 2025

25-01-25

Morning, everyone, and I hope everyone is OK after yesterday's storm which, I gather, will still be impacting some areas through today and maybe into tomorrow.  
I texted John and he said there was some damage to a stone wall and, when he went out to secure a few pots, he couldn't keep to his feet so he went back inside again - and he's a six footer!  However, apart from that, all is well for him, thankfully.  I wish that it were same for everyone.

Round here it truly was just a gusty breeze.  Not a pot moved!  It was lovely and sunny too and I got two loads of washing line dried.  We have been so fortunate.  

We had a lovely surprise at Slimming World yesterday when Jen (our former consultant until she moved north) turned up to be weighed.  She was back down to attend a wedding.  It was absolutely lovely to see her again and she was warmly welcomed.

I had to rush to Morrisons again when I discovered that something I needed had run out, which was annoying but there you go.  I thought I had a spare and I didn't!   I intended to get four but there were only two on the shelf so I had to be content with that.  I also grabbed a few more food bank items while I was there and I think I have my 31 things now, one for each day of the month, so I can drop them off next Thursday.

The rest of the day was spend washing, drying, ironing, knitting, chilling.  Nothing too energetic and I managed to stay awake until bedtime, thank goodness.  I did a bit of weed scraping and tackled the coat hangers for my sorting - I swear these plastic hangers reproduce when I'm looking the other way!!!

There's nothing in the diary for today or tomorrow but I am getting excited for Monday because I'm off to London with the Broomfield Coach people to see Oliver at the Gielgud Theatre.  Quite apart from the fact that I love the musical anyway, I looked up the reviews and just wow!  I've never read such good reviews before.  I think we are in for an absolute stunner of an evening.

Time to wrap this up and start the day, I suppose.  It's clear and dry outside and the trees are just gently moving in the breeze.  Sunshine is forecast for all day so I guess it's a great day to get the bedding washed.  
Anyway, enough waffling.  Take care, stay warm and have a lovely day, everyone.  xx

Friday, 24 January 2025

24-01-25 and sorry . . .

. . . that this is so very late.   After a sleepy evening, I had a very bad night's sleep, finally nodding off after two thirty so, of course, I overslept seriously.  I had to dash around to get ready, letting Heidi know I would be late to Slimming World group, and now I am home again and just starting to relax.  I hate a rushed start to my day.

Phew - and breathe . . .

Usually, on Thursdays, Chris and I have a coffee and a good old natter but she couldn't make it yesterday so I did my weekly shop in Morrisons instead if today (in case the weather was awful today - which it isn't so far).  A bit spendy but I got a nice load of stuff for my foodbank bag plus there was some ground coffee cheaper so I stocked up.  Oh, and I got loads of fruit and veg which was nice as I was getting a bit low.

After breakfast, I drove round town to B&Q and found what I was looking for there.  Annoyingly, I caught my sleeve on a sharp edge of a display and tore it a bit.  Hopefully they will deal with that because it was a bit dangerous. 
I also had a look at some paint swatches and I think I have found the colour I want for my downstairs redecorating.

Then I walked over to Longacres and grabbed some thread that matched my coat so I could repair it - must do that today - and I looked at and bought three Cook's ready meals.  I've been eyeing them up for ages and there's a Cook's centre not far away so it was an opportunity to give them a try.  I'm trying out the liver, bacon and onions one this evening and we will see . . .

I couldn't be bothered to go on to Hobbycraft so went home after that.  There wasn't anything I needed there anyway.  

Thanks for the feedback after yesterday's post.  You pretty much said what I feel which is reassuring.   As next month's income is all here now, I worked out how much will be going out before the first of Feb plus some for needs and moved the remaining across into the building society!  I won't go into the red anyway because of next month's income and will do a final readjustment on the 31st.  
Despite what D and K said, I have quite enjoyed this Needs Only Month and have pretty much stuck to it.  It was most satisfying to move that chunk into savings too.
So I think I'm carrying it on into next month.  February and March are goodies anyway as there's no rates or water to pay.

Today I just had Slimming World in the diary and that's done and dusted.  I need to do my bit of weed scraping and ten sort-outs and I have a pile of washing to do.  I wish I had had time this morning to get a load in because, right now, it is a beautiful drying day - bright and breezy but, so far, nothing worse that a strong breeze.  I think maybe one reason I didn't sleep well was because I am concerned for my brother who lives in the Borders, right in the middle of the projected storm path.  I haven't had time to catch up yet but I hope he - and all of you in the same situation - are OK with little or no damage.

Time to pick up the reins for the day and get going.  Washing in first, I think, so maybe I can catch a bit of the drying weather.
I REALLY hope all is well with everyone, wherever you are.  Stay safe.  xx

Thursday, 23 January 2025

23-01-15

Hi, everyone!  Hope everyone's doing well.  It's a dull, still morning here but things are forecast to liven up considerable as the day progresses and into the night and I think, given the info available, I will spend some time clearing the decks a bit in the garden - getting things secured, etc.  Just in case.

Yesterday was interesting.

First of all, it was that review.  For the record, I'm not really financially savvy, not really, but I have a reasonable dollop of common sense (I think) and know when the responsible thing is to take professional advice.
Hence Dave and Kay's involvement and the whole investments thing.
So - all's good, things have done well this year which is satisfying.  Kay will be moving the dollop of money into my ISA for this year and then, in April, another dollop for the new year.  She explained why it would be good to get it done early and it went over my head but Dave got it and agreed and that is good enough for me!  The aim is to get everything into the ISA eventually (I think it will take another couple of years) and then it is all tax free - or is under current rules -  but you never know, do you?

Then I got the annual ticking off (joke) regarding spending a bit more!  Not because there's anything wrong but because I can and how about treating myself a bit more?
I'm smiling because both Beth and Dave say I should not have any aim of increasing my 'inheritance' to them but enjoy what I have (i.e. spend it).
My response is firstly that I already have a good old life as a homebody who loves the quieter and simpler thing after a very busy career.   
Secondly, I don't go short!  Far from it!  Coach trips, fitness classes (several each week), holidays at Center Parcs and Potters, cruises (well, one and one this year, fingers crossed), having the place redecorated. . .  not to mention yarn, patterns, projects . . . I could go on.
Thirdly, continuing to save rather than spend seems, to me, a responsibility and it is also a personal security thing, knowing that I can help family out, should it be needed, not to mention affording any possible future care or medical needs - I'm a single and don't have any plans to change that so I am responsible for me.  
And, lastly, I LIKE the thought that I have stuff to leave to the family when I pop off.  So there, Beth and Dave!!
What's your own take on this subject?

Moving on after that mini-rant . . .

Possibly motivated by the above, I drove across town to Lathcoats.  I've been meaning to pay them a visit for a little while as their scoop and bag frozen fruit is so very good.   They didn't have any raspberries but I got some blackberries, some blueberries and a nice sort of Caribbean mix of all sorts - grapes, melon, mango, pineapple, and so on.  They had a wide range of apples too so I stocked up as I do eat a lot of apples.  And they had some semolina which Morrisons doesn't seem to stock.  Yes, their stuff is a bit more expensive but it is such good quality.
And I managed to side step all the half price Christmas goodies - go, me!!

At Personal Training, Lindsey finished off with a bit of massage which felt very good.  I'm still this morning but nothing worse.
And that is all yesterday's excitements.

Today, the teacher's pension has landed so now I can work out the rest of the month and get the Needs Only savings shifted across a bit earlier than I usually do.  Another plus about avoiding random splashing the cash is that I know exactly where I am!  I might leave that until the weekend, I'll see.  
I'll be hearing soon how much things are going up by - water, rates, etc.  

Unusually, there's absolutely nothing in the diary today.  I can't do the usual meet up with Chris because she has family commitments so I think I might do the weekly food shop this morning, given that the weather is supposed to be pretty wild tomorrow.  And I do need to visit B&Q and get a nut and bolt to replace one on the egg chair that seems to have gone walkabout so, perhaps, just perhaps I will stop off at Longacres and Hobbycraft too, just for fun.

Anyway, that's the end of today's rambles.  Time to get on the the routine daily stuff.  Have a good one and, seriously, I hope that this nasty weather heading our way doesn't impact too much on things for you.
Take care and stay safe!  xx

Wednesday, 22 January 2025

22-01-25

Morning, all.  Wednesday already - oh, dear.  It feels cold too and we've had some rain overnight.  It is January so I suppose it is to be expected.  What is more worrying is the weather that is heading our way - hoping we will all be safe.

Yesterday went pretty well.  Chris and I walked down to Groove, did our best and wobbled back again.  Both of us have iffy backs but we were fine although I made sure I kept moving gently on and off through the day.

I did my ten minutes weed scraping - it's boring but surprising how much gets done.  Time was up but the cars (mine and next door's) were in the way anyway.  I could have moved mine but will wait until next door's car is not there and then tackle their bit.  The parking situation is a bit unusual - there are two parking slots in front of my house.  One is mine but the other is next door's and it says so in the house deeds.  That's fine and there are good reasons for it but I need to take responsibility for keeping it weed-free when I can because it detracts from the appearance of my house when it's weedy.  I don't HAVE to but I choose to.

In the afternoon, I started in on my bedroom.  I'm sure it wasn't all that long since I last tackled all the drawers but oh, dear.  Let's just say that I have probably fulfilled my decluttering ten a day for the rest of January and beyond.
I sorted, threw out, recycled, repaired three drawers that were coming apart and generally got quite a lot done.  It's not finished but I've started.

This morning is a bit different.  When Mum and Dad's estate was sorted, I invested a good chunk of it in long term savings, primarily to support any care needs I may have in the future but also for dire emergencies, etc.  Today, Kay is coming here to do a review of how it has all performed this year, I will sign for some to be moved into my ISA and so on.  Hopefully, I won't have too many decisions to make but Dave will be here to advise me anyway - he's got responsibility for finance in my LPA so I involve him in all this sport of stuff.

Then it is more bedroom tidying and weed scraping (I will move the car) before I pop out for Personal Training.

Quite a busy day but interesting too.  I should sleep well tonight!
Have a great day, everyone.  xx

Tuesday, 21 January 2025

21-01-25

Good morning, lovely readers/commenters.  Welcome to Tuesday. I've just been out to the freezer to get supplies in and it's sort of dry but there's a slight fog and it's c-c-cold.  OK, not cold like my friends in Canada and the US (you know who you are) but quite cold enough for me, thank you!  

I was so pleased yesterday.  I went to circuits and Lindsey had planned in quite a lot that was stretchy, back-helpful stuff and, by the end, it all felt a lot looser, as if creases were being ironed out.  On Wednesday, at Personal Training, she will give me some massage and that should also help considerably. 

Then I came home and decided not to be lazy but to do the downstairs as I usually do and I am glad I did.  It would have been too easy to sit down and let things tighten up again.

I was just doing my ten minutes weed scraping when Alex arrived and we had a nice roast dinner and a very good chat.  After dropping him back off home, I finished off the time.

Round the front, the weeds are very good at sneaking up between the paving slabs and, as they are small and in a herringbone style, there's loads of them.  I find the whole thing of scraping them out very boring, even though I have a useful gizmo that does it really well.
I decided that this week I will do just ten minutes each day and see how far that takes me so I set my watch and off I go.  Wish me luck.

This photo, by the way, is the tool and I have a longer handle so I can stand up and scrape.  It's vicious and does a great job although mine is a bit battered now and might need replacing at some point.
I also have a more conventional scraper, sort of hook shaped and with a short handle which is great for more stubborn roots in those cracks.

Her back also isn't quite right but we agree that we need to get moving again, so we will walk down and back too as it is not raining and that should help.
Then I have my friend, Julia, round for coffee and her s.i.l. is looking at my desktop so see if he can work out why it is so slow.  I've been using the laptop apart from a few things but fingers crossed it is a very simple matter.

That's all I have in the diary but there's the ten items decluttering and the ten minutes of scraping and I would like to attack my bedroom and do a good tidy and clear.  That will probably take ages. 

So, another very ordinary day planned and we will see how it all goes.  Have a good day too and enjoy what you do.  I think the quietest days are often the best - just lots of simple and satisfying things.  Nice.
Take care and, as always at the moment, stay safe and warm.  xx

Monday, 20 January 2025

20-01-25

 . .  and here we are pretty much two thirds of the way through January.  This month is just flying past for me.

I pretty much stuck to my simple plans yesterday.  I wrapped up warm and started sorting out the front.  It looks civilised now, although there's weeds emerging round the edges of the paving and you can see loads of bulbs coming up which is nice.  Some of the emerging leaves are pale from being under a mound of leaves but that will change soon enough.  
I meant to take a few photos but forgot and, anyway, it was so gloomy, they wouldn't come out all that well anyway!
The back was really sore afterwards and I was a bit concerned but it's OK now so fingers crossed for circuits.  I think I just need to keep moving and stretching now.
Then I came in, had lunch and did the ironing so that, also, is all done.

Earlier in the day, I gave the bathroom a good clean as I do every time I use the shower to wash my hair.  It's an in-the-bath one with a zig-zag screen so, inevitably, the floor gets a bit wet and it seems the best opportunity to clean around everything as it all gets mopped up.

I think I forgot to say, I was a bit spendy a few days ago as Ray asked for the deposit for the trip to Carols at the RAH and I decided I may as well pay the lot and get it done.  I won't have to shell out next November/December when I will inevitably be spending a bit more anyway.  
Apart from that, it's all going well and I think I am going to call these months 'Needs Only Months' because I don't think low or no spend describes it very well - not to me anyway.  

And by 'need', I do not mean 'I really NEED that in my life right now'!!!  

Today I am going to circuits and will adapt as necessary - I have already told Lindsey and she's really understanding. 
Then Alex is coming over for a roast dinner so I will be busy in the kitchen.  Depending on when he goes, I might do a proper downstairs clean or I might just do the bits that show - I need to do one or the other as I have a friend over for coffee tomorrow morning and the carpet is a disgrace!

And that is that for today.  Have a great Monday, one and all.  Stay safe and keep warm.  xx

Sunday, 19 January 2025

19-01-25

Good morning again, everyone.  Sorry I'm a bit late but I have given myself a nice, gentle ease into the day and it's been so nice.  It feels really cold outside although it is just a few degrees above zero; it's cloudy and, while it's dry, it feels slightly damp so that doesn't help.

What did I do yesterday - think, think.  Oh, yes, I did around an hour and a half in the back garden (and got cold!).  By the end, I'd done most of what absolutely needed doing but I have some stuff to move out so I can sweep up the leaves and, as my back was aching, I didn't.  Maybe later on in the week?

Not particularly wonderful but loads better than it was, believe me. 

I was a bit concerned as it was sore but it's somewhat better this morning so I think it'll be OK.

I also did a bit of washing and have the ironing to do today.  The other thing I want to do today is just tidy up my little front bit - there's bulbs coming up but the recent winds blew leaves all over them and I want to get that sorted.

I think that's enough for a Sunday, don't you?  😁

Have a lovely day, everyone, and stay warm.  xx

Saturday, 18 January 2025

18-01-25

Good morning, people all!  It's Saturday and Saturday still feels like the start of the weekend, even after all this time.  It's a nice feeling - I'm glad I'm not losing it.

Yesterday went pretty much according to plan.  A really good Slimming World that was really buzzing and loads of people stayed for the second half.  Once home, I did this, that and the other- bit of washing, bit of sorting (not as much as I'd planned though), bit of meal planning, quite a lot of knitting and reading.  Just a nice day really.

For the first time in a while, the diary today is completely blank so I've checked the weather forecast which says cold but dry and I think I will do some garden stuff, back permitting.  I have some washing to do too and I will dry that inside as it won't dry on the line and might get in the way.
And then I will come in, warm up under the electric fleece and watch rubbish on the telly!
Sounds a good plan to me!

Do you have regular Saturday stuff to do or can you hang free, as they say?
Have a great day, stay warm and be safe and well.  xx

Friday, 17 January 2025

17-01-25

Morning!  
It's just beginning to lighten up so it's had to really tell but it looks overcast but dry for the moment - hope it stays that way as I would like to walk to SW.

Yesterday felt so busy but it was fine.  Mel come round and we caught up on life.  Then I went to Chris and ditto.  I drove over to Val's and had a lovely time - we meet up pretty much once a month and there's always plenty to talk about.
Finally, I remembered to take the tablecloths back for Andrew's SW group meeting and then did my weekly shop.

I'm pleased with how Low Spend January is going.  Now I've done my shop for the week, I should only need to do one more before the end of the month.  Also, Morrisons More card has this thing where if you spend £40 for three consecutive weeks, you get £10 in More vouchers.  I've been doing that, getting things like soap powder and loo rolls to make up the amount, not to mention the food bank donations and I've got the vouchers (it started end of December!).  I've decided that I am saving these vouchers for Christmas (sorry) and I already have one and another nearly so that's a good start!

Today, being Friday, starts with Slimming World and then I'm home until Alex calls me for an online thingy at two.  So I guess I need to catch up with housework and stuff like that.  Boring but necessary.  Perhaps I can do a bit more clearing than just ten items - that would be good.

There's not an awful lot to say today so I will love you, leave you and get on with stuff.  Take care, stay warm and have a great day.  xx

Thursday, 16 January 2025

16-01-25

 Morning, all.  After a very damp and dull day yesterday, today seems to be more of the same.  I just popped out to put something in the bin because it's early collection today and it's drizzling miserably!

I managed to get all the stuff dumped in the blue room sorted out and put away.  I had made the bed up with Christmas bedding for Sonja's visit so, as it wasn't used, took it all off again, folded it up and put it away, remaking the bed with the usual stuff.  I also changed my sheets so getting into bed last night was lovely!

I also sorted out more than twenty things for yesterday and the day before so that was good.

And, not a biggie but it all helps, I descaled the Nespresso so it's now running easier again.  I use Wonky Pods (pods saved from recycling before use) so they don't always run through smoothly anyway - every little helps.

The stitches are now out and I need to explain that what I had done was the first stage of an implant so last week was getting the underneath bit (the 'root') into the jaw bone.  You could say it was self inflicted.  Anyway, absolutely no trouble with the stiches - I didn't even feel them, just the 'snip' of the scissors - and Mr Clough pronounced it all 'beautiful'!  Hmm - I suppose you do have to have a certain mentality to be a dentist!  Beautiful is not the term I would use for the inside of my mouth!!

Later on, I drove over to Lindsey's for my first PT session since before Christmas.  We took it very carefully and gently and she sent me home with some things to do that should help.  We decided I would take next week on a day by day basis and not to run before I could walk, so to speak.
It's no worse this morning and, perhaps, a bit easier.  All good, anyway.

On to today and it looks busy but it's mostly fun stuff.

There's the ten things, of course - I am one down already!
At nine, my friend Mel is coming over to deliver something and stay for a quick coffee.
At ten, I am over to Chris for more coffee and a natter.
At eleven thirty I am driving over to Val's for lunch and yet another good old chat!
And then, later on, once home, I will be going to Morrisons to do the weekly shop and to drop something off at the Thursday SW group next door.
So - sort of busy but not really.  I guess we all have days like that at some time or other.

No housework though - how very sad!

Catriona, did you make a decision about the sweeper?

Have a good one, everyone.  Stay safe and enjoy what you do.  xx

Wednesday, 15 January 2025

15-01-25

Morning, one and all.  How are you all today?  Good, I hope.

Yesterday was an easy day really.  I did two loads of washing one of which went out on the line.  It didn't dry but it got some fresh air which was good.  I did some of the ironing too which I was pleased about.

Son Dave came round to do some printing and we had a nice chat about this and that, fixing a date when he and Anna will come round again for supper.  Then  Sharon turned up, sorted out my hair and now I feel all neat and tidy again.

I didn't:
clean any windows
sort out five things - so ten today!
sort out the blue room

But I did:
give the bathroom a good clean
the aforementioned washing and ironing
cleaned the kitchen
 . . . so I didn't entirely waste my time.

I was a bit spendy but it was need, not want.  I paid Sharon, of course, and I got some descaling stuff for my Nespresso gizmo that seems to be slowing down somewhat.  The official stuff is really expensive but there was a non-brand (alternative and much cheaper brand, anyway) on Amazon so I got that.  It should come today and, assuming it does, I will be giving my Nespresso a descale straight away.
I guess one could argue that a Nespresso is not a need but, if I have one, I need to look after it properly!
(I was tempted to just use vinegar but when I Googled it, the perceived wisdom was not to in case it damages the tubes, etc.  Shame!)

Today I will be popping back to the dentist to have the stitches taken out and the work checked over.  I am sure it's fine.  It doesn't hurt at all and I've been very careful to brush the site using the super-soft brush they gave me and to use the mouthwash.

Then I'm home for a while to do bits and bobs before going over to Lindsey's for personal training.  I've asked her if she can focus on back strengthening and stretching stuff - she's really good and adapting things to personal circumstances so I am sure it will be very good.

And that's that!  It's so nice to be getting back into some sort of routine again - I have really missed classes.
Have a lovely day, everyone.  Stay warm and cosy and contented, whatever your plans.  xx

Tuesday, 14 January 2025

14-01-25

 Morning, everyone.

Going . . . . 
Going . . .
. . . and gone!

Woo hoo.  Only a week late.  Such a relied not to have to see the mess (organised but still a mess) in that corner

Then I set to and gave the downstairs a good clean, dust and sweep so it looks much more civilised again.

I washed the Christmas doormats (yes, sorry, I do) and they are now away as well.  Back to normal downstairs!

Yesterday was a day for setting dates.
I set two dates with Alex, one with Kay, my financial adviser, one with son Dave so he can be at the meeting with Kay and one with my lovely friend, Julia.
It's going to be all go!

As I'm not going to Groove today, I can get going and get some new year order into upstairs as well.  A lot of stuff  has just been dumped in the blue room so needs to go away and I have a few piles of clothes to tidy away plus those five items to sort out.

Come this afternoon, the lovely Sharon is here to do my hair which should make me feel loads better.
So, really, quite a nice, easy sort of day, whatever the weather (which is nice and sunny at the moment).  Lovely!

Stay well, everyone, and have a good, positive day.  xx





Monday, 13 January 2025

13-01-25

Morning!  Another Monday and it is definitely milder than this time yesterday.  Right now, there's no frost although one might develop in the next hour or so, but nothing like it has been.    Beeb weather says it should get up to about 5C which is almost tropical in comparison!

Well, I did it.  The tree is down and the only thing left to do is get this pile of stuff out to the garage.
Hopefully, that's a job for today although we will see how things go.

I've said to Lindsey that I will miss circuits today and Groove tomorrow but come to Personal Training on Wednesday.  The sad truth is that I am more than a bit nervous about starting up again - I don't want a week like last week again if I can help it so being careful is the name of the game.  

Not the tree is out of the way, there's some dusting and hoovering to get done which should be nice, gentle, stretchy sort of stuff and I've started the usual annual declutter with a 'five things a day' aim.
Do I love it?
Do I use it?
Do I think I will ever use it?
If the answers are 'no', then off it goes.

Happy Monday to you, wherever you are and whatever you plan to do.  Have a warm, safe and productive day.  xx

Sunday, 12 January 2025

On a cold and frosty morning!

 








12-01-25

Morning, all.  Another cold start to the day with more freezing fog and everything looks so beautiful at the moment.  I braved the cold and took some snaps.


I doubt it will last long.  I think some places further west and north are already seeing higher temperatures and by the end of the day we in the east and south east should too.  It will be nice to go out to the freezer without shivering!

Well, it's now two days without pain killers and my tum is feeling loads better for it.  Just today on the penicillin and that's finished too.  I can't in all honesty say my back is 100% comfortable but it's getting there.
I was so pleased to get all the Christmas china back into the garden room and all the cushions changed over again.  Today I am going to try the Christmas tree - fingers crossed, and if that goes OK, I will see if I can get at least some of the boxes out into the garage.  I will feel so much happier once that is all done.

The bags of salt are still sitting in the garden room waiting to be put away but out of sight, as we say, out of mind!

Apart from the above, I think today will be another easy day with plenty of time to get on with my knitting and my crochet.  I have some large octagons to make for the crochet and then I can start putting everything together.  The knitting is slower, of course, but I am on the arm shaping for the back so progress is being made.  I love the stitch texture (moss stitch) although it does make for slower progress.
I have a few more ideas for when I've finished the current projects - I hate to not know what to make next!

Right, well, I will love you and leave you.  Have a lovely Sunday, whatever your plans.  Stay warm, stay safe and be happy!  xx