Spread your wings and fly away

All this talk of seduction has exhausted me. Feel tired just reading up on what you are supposed to do /wear/say to seduce your partner lol!

don't think I will bother, seems too much like hard work to me.

So I am off to beddybyes, in the hope I get some sleep tonight, don't think I can cope with 3 sleepless nights int he row, though now hve unforgiven going through my head!

Just out of interest anyone seen the film 'school of seduction'? I found this really funny, but it was probably just me and my weird sense of humour!

Anyway nite nite blogland sleep tight.

Here is the picture they sent - just for you

apparently this is the underwear that is seductive!!

A great One from Figleaves in my email box again.

Scantily clad lady in underwear with the quote

"The art of seduction. Become a master with the help from Gossards new arrivals"

I just love figleaves and the way they try and sell things!

Now where is hubby's credit card?

Couldn't resist posting this one for my son - he loves this one.

Lay beside me, tell me what they've done
Speak the words I wanna hear, to make my demons run
The door is locked now, but it's open if you're true
If you can understand the me, than I can understand the you

Lay beside me, under wicked sky
The black of day, dark of night, we share this paralyze
The door cracks open, but there's no sun shining through
Black heart scarring darker still, but there's no sun shining through
No, there's no sun shining through
No, there's no sun shining...

What I've felt, what I've known
Turn the pages, turn the stone
Behind the door, should I open it for you....

What I've felt, what I've known
Sick and tired, I stand alone
Could you be there, 'cause I'm the one who waits for you
Or are you unforgiven too?

Lay beside me, this won't hurt I swear
She loves me not, she loves me still, but she'll never love again
She lay beside me, But she'll be there when I'm gone
Black heart scarring darker still, yes she'll be there when I'm gone
Yes, she'll be there when I'm gone
Dead sure she'll be there...

What I've felt, what I've known
Turn the pages, turn the stone
Behind the door, should I open it for you....

What I've felt, what I've known
Sick and tired, I stand alone
Could you be there, 'cause I'm the one who waits for you
Or are you unforgiven too?

Lay beside me, tell me what I've done
The door is closed, so are you're eyes
But now I see the sun, now I see the sun
Yes now I see it

What I've felt, what I've known
Turn the pages, turn the stone
Behind the door, should I open it for you....

What I've felt, what I've known
Sick and tired, I stand alone
Could you be there, 'cause I'm the one who waits,
The one who waits for you....

Oh what I've felt, what I've known
Turn the pages, turn the stone
Behind the door, should I open it for you.... (So I dub thee
unforgiven....)

Oh, what I've felt....
Oh, what I've known....

I take this key (never free...)
And I bury it (never me...) in you
Because you're unforgiven too....

Never free....
Never me....
'Cause you're unforgiven too....
Oh

So close, no matter how far
Couldn't be much more from the heart
Forever trusting who we are
and nothing else matters

Never opened myself this way
Life is ours, we live it our way
All these words I don't just say
and nothing else matters

Trust I seek and I find in you
Every day for us something new
Open mind for a different view
and nothing else matters

never cared for what they do
never cared for what they know
but I know

So close, no matter how far
Couldn't be much more from the heart
Forever trusting who we are
and nothing else matters

never cared for what they do
never cared for what they know
but I know

Never opened myself this way
Life is ours, we live it our way
All these words I don't just say

Trust I seek and I find in you
Every day for us, something new
Open mind for a different view
and nothing else matters

never cared for what they say
never cared for games they play
never cared for what they do
never cared for what they know
and I know

So close, no matter how far
Couldn't be much more from the heart
Forever trusting who we are
No, nothing else matters

Calling all mums/dads/grandparents etc etc etc

Just a reminder, because if you are like me you have seen about the changes being brought in about car seats etc and thought yes I must do something then forgotten, the following information may be useful:

DID YOU KNOW that from 18th September 2006 it will be a LEGAL REQUIREMENT for drivers to ensure that children aged under 12 years are restrained by an appropriate child seat, booster seat with backrest or booster seat when travelling in vehicles until they reach 135cm (4’5”) in height.

If your child is 13 years old but 3'5" (104cm)
then the new law does not apply to your child.

If your child is 8 years old but 4'7" (140cm)
then the new law does not apply to your child.

If your child is 11 years old and 4'3" (130cm)
then the new law does apply to your child.

However, it is advised to always safely restrain your child
in the car.

Now according to the Department of Transport they are running advertising from July to September in press, radio and online to advise parent and carers about the new regulations governing the use of child car seats.

Have any of you seen anything?

I know Toys R us have it on there website, I don't get a paper so not seen it there, haven't heard anything on the radio - oh forgot once on the radio about a month ago.

Why haven't they put anything on the telly? Do you think they should have put adverts on the telly? Would this have not been a good place to advertise?

Now I must get out at some point tomorow and get a car seat, I know my son will object to this but it is for his safety. Afterall the person in front of me with five children hanging out of car windows and moving around the car unrestrained will be ignored while I will likely to be pulled over and fined because my child is no in a booster seat despite the fact he always wears his seat belt!

Ah such is life!

I love this!!

Just hopes this link works!!

A bloke starts his new job at the zoo and is given three tasks.

First is to clear the exotic fish pool of weeds. As he does this a huge fish jumps out and bites him. To show the others who's boss he beats it to
death with a spade. Realising his employer won't be best pleased he disposes of the fish by feeding it to the lions, as lions will eat anything.

Moving on to the second job of clearing out the Chimp house, he is attacked by the chimps who pelt him with coconuts. He swipes at two Chimps with a
spade, killing them both. What can he do? Feed them to the lions, he says to himself, because lions eat anything. He hurls the corpses into the lion enclosure.

He moved on to the last job which is to collect honey from the South American Bees. As soon as he starts he is attacked by the bees. He grabs the
spade and smashes the bees to a pulp. By now he knows what to do and throws them into the lion's cage because lions eat anything.

Later that day a new lion arrives at the zoo. He wanders up to another lion
and says "What's the food like here?"

The lions say "Absolutely brilliant. Today we had fish and chimps with
mushy bees."

Dark, gloomy and damp here this morning.

Slight chill in the air as well!

Wind getting up again, apples faling off the tree and they are not quite ready yet. The winds we have had here lately have been very harsh indeed!

Nigel got me up early again, he is so noisy when he gets out of bed. He doesn't like it when I am off work and he still has to go in lol!

Still thinking about getting a second job, someone else suggested that I do dinner ladying at school as well as my TA job so may think about that one I am usually there anyway!

Right ironing beckons, better get on and do some!

1. What is the first thing people notice about you?

Probably how big I am, though hubby says it is the eyes and smile!

2. Name 3 things you couldn't live without?

Water, air, my cross stitch

3. If we gave you £500 to spend what would you blow it on?

Right now part of it would go on a dishwasher, the remainder in the bank

4. Who makes you smile?

My family, my friends and of course you guys!

5. What was your favourite childhood holiday?

We only ever went to Wales so that would be it!

6. Tell us about your best friend.

Best friend is someone I can talk to about anything and everything. We pick up where we left off, even if we haven't seen or spoken for a while. Someone I can rely upon when I need a friend and vice versa.

7. Describe your most vivid memory?

My second Cesarian, laying there with a green curtain round my lower half yet being able to see what they were doing in the reflection of the light above me.

8. What's on your internal Jukebox at the moment?

I must be dreaming by Evanesance

9. What headline would you most like to read about yourself?

She made people smile

10. Describe your bedroom.

It is horrible as we haven't got round to decorating it yet! built in wardrobes with louvre doors and not enough room inside. Two chest of drawers and over bed unit in pine effect, yellow wall paper which is sickly, green curtains, double bed - oh and pink carpet FFS! people who lived here before had no idea about colour schemes, that pink carpet was everywhere!!

11. What leaves you tongue tied?

People who run others down or are bigots

12. What's the best lie you've ever told?

I don't lie there is no need

13. What keeps you awake at night?

At the moment work, music playing in my head, life!

14. What's your nickname?

Thats an easy one, Faffajane!

15. Who does your washing?

According to my family the washing fairy, but really it is me

16. What are your three essentials for a good night out?

Good film, good food, good time

17. What's the strangest thing you've ever put in your mouth?

whole bottle of Cod liver oil tablets when I was 3

18. Who would you like to be for the day and why?

myself

19. Who was on your bedroom wall as a teenager?

no one

20. Which famous people dead or alive would you like to be stuck in a lift with and why?

OH there are too many to choose from but I will go with........Ok James Purefoy. He had a variety of interesting jobs before becoming and actor, he has done Shakespeare plays for the RSC so we called talk about that, he has appeared in many period productions based on my favourite books - Mansfield Park, Vanity Fair and Mayor of Casterbridge, we can discuss Heath Ledger and a host of films he has appeared in that I enjoyed - so we wouldn't be short of things to discuss really - how long would we be stuck in the lift for?

Well after my evening out, which thankfully was cut short due to one of our party needed to get home for babysitter, it seems I am not the only one who is dreading going back to work.

Makes me feel a little better somehow.

Spoke to one of my bosses who said that she still has no idea who I am working with next year as the supply they had lined up may have got a new job.

Great.

Can't do much about it so no good worrying as such, just think it would be nice to know what is happening.

Can feel a stressful term coming on!

On the positive side I only had one glass of wine, didn't go for a refil which is good, though I did have some of the nibbles that was on offer. Not so good.

One child in bed the other is still watching telly, something about industrial revolution - every so often I hear him laugh at something, not quite sure what but he obviously thinks it is funny.

Oh well I am off now to order some things for Nigel from Viking then going to bed. Nite nite all xx

I have just cleared away.

Dinner was delicious, with some left over for tomorrow, which I will have, the others will have to decide what they want when the time comes!

Nigel trying to sort out his credit card bill, they keep hassling them even though he has paid, but apparently it isn't on their computer. He did it by phone and according to his bank the money was taken so where has it gone? Into cyberspace somewhere due to that age old excuse computer error?

Kids had a major strop earlier, well in fairness one did because he didn't eat all his dinner and I told him he had to eat it, he hasn't had anything all day really and is beginning to get fussy over what he eats. He will not win! He will eat what is put in front of him I do not do different meals unless it is absolutely necessary!!

So this evening is the part I have been dreading. I really do not want to go out, though it may be handy to catch up with the gossip and how other people feel about next term. I am sure I am not the only person feeling unsettled!

We shall see.

I have just cleared away.

Dinner was delicious, with some left over for tomorrow, which I will have, the others will have to decide what they want when the time comes!

Nigel trying to sort out his credit card bill, they keep hassling them even though he has paid, but apparently it isn't on their computer. He did it by phone and according to his bank the money was taken so where has it gone? Into cyberspace somewhere due to that age old excuse computer error?

Kids had a major strop earlier, well in fairness one did because he didn't eat all his dinner and I told him he had to eat it, he hasn't had anything all day really and is beginning to get fussy over what he eats. He will not win! He will eat what is put in front of him I do not do different meals unless it is absolutely necessary!!

So this evening is the part I have been dreading. I really do not want to go out, though it may be handy to catch up with the gossip and how other people feel about next term. I am sure I am not the only person feeling unsettled!

We shall see.

I have just cleared away.

Dinner was delicious, with some left over for tomorrow, which I will have, the others will have to decide what they want when the time comes!

Nigel trying to sort out his credit card bill, they keep hassling them even though he has paid, but apparently it isn't on their computer. He did it by phone and according to his bank the money was taken so where has it gone? Into cyberspace somewhere due to that age old excuse computer error?

Kids had a major strop earlier, well in fairness one did because he didn't eat all his dinner and I told him he had to eat it, he hasn't had anything all day really and is beginning to get fussy over what he eats. He will not win! He will eat what is put in front of him I do not do different meals unless it is absolutely necessary!!

So this evening is the part I have been dreading. I really do not want to go out, though it may be handy to catch up with the gossip and how other people feel about next term. I am sure I am not the only person feeling unsettled!

We shall see.

I have just cleared away.

Dinner was delicious, with some left over for tomorrow, which I will have, the others will have to decide what they want when the time comes!

Nigel trying to sort out his credit card bill, they keep hassling them even though he has paid, but apparently it isn't on their computer. He did it by phone and according to his bank the money was taken so where has it gone? Into cyberspace somewhere due to that age old excuse computer error?

Kids had a major strop earlier, well in fairness one did because he didn't eat all his dinner and I told him he had to eat it, he hasn't had anything all day really and is beginning to get fussy over what he eats. He will not win! He will eat what is put in front of him I do not do different meals unless it is absolutely necessary!!

So this evening is the part I have been dreading. I really do not want to go out, though it may be handy to catch up with the gossip and how other people feel about next term. I am sure I am not the only person feeling unsettled!

We shall see.

You may not know that many non-living things have a
gender; for example...

1) Freezer Bags -- They are Male, because they hold everything in,
but you can see right through them.

2) Copiers -- They are Female, because once turned off,
it takes a while to warm them up again. It's an effective
reproductive device if the right buttons are pushed, but can wreak
havoc if the wrong
buttons are pushed.

3) Tyre -- Male, because it goes bald and it's often over-inflated.

4) Hot Air Balloon -- Male, because, to get it to go anywhere, you
have to light a fire under it, and of course, there's the hot air
part.

5) Sponges -- female because they're soft, squeezable and retain
water.

6) Web Page -- Female, because it's always getting hit on.

7) Subway -- Male, because it uses the same old lines to pick people
up.

8) Hourglass -- Female, because over time, the weight shifts to the
bottom.

9) Hammer -- Male, because it hasn't changed much over
the last 5,000 years, but it's handy to have around.

10) Remote Control -- Female... Ha! You thought it'd be male. But
consider this -- it gives a man pleasure, he'd be lost without it,
and while he doesn't always know the right buttons to push, he keeps
trying.

Think to self, I will be really good and make a Quorn Shepherds pie for tea.

So threw ingredients into a pan, quorn mince, mushroom, onion, carrot, tin tomatoes, herbs, some water, and oxo cube and liberal amount of Worcestershire sauce.

Close lid on sauce and it splatters all over my top AAAAGGGGHHHHHHH!

So much for me getting tea prepared so when hubby gets home all I have to do is put it in the oven!

Dogs sunbathing in the garden. Why does a dog that is black think this is a good thing to do? He knows that if he lays in the sun too long he will be sick! Honestly at times they are worse than kids!

Walked the dogs earlier as I needed to pop into the shop for veg to go with tonights tea. Children came with me, little darlings, youngest on another planet as usual playing yughioo or whatever it is he had just seen on the telly! Daft child, pretend he isn't mine when people look and stare at him - I do worry about him at times - he definately doesn't take after my side of the family - Ah yes that is right, he is Nigels child - enough said!

Great now the potatoes have boiled over - better go and clear up the mess!

Having a fat day

Done some exercise

Now eating bacon rolls - not good when having a fat day but what the heck!

Well so far the day is bright and sunny. Need to put some washing on in a mo and perhaps do some form of exercise.

Really disappointed as my bathroom scales tell me I have put on 6Ib. Not happy at this

May not go to wi on Friday will see what I feel like.

At the moment I don't feel all that good. Woke up with headache and really do not want to go out tonight. Supposed to be going to a friends house and she is always very glamorous, not good when you feel and look like a wreck! A friend tried talking me into going yesterday though so may trundle along see what I feel like later.

Woke up to the news this morning that women who are obese should not be allowed fertility treatment.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/5296200.stm

What do you think?

All I can say is when I went to the Gynae following problems conceiving my second child he told me the reason was because I was Obese and started me on Chlomide where I did fall pregnant. There were other problems as well, it was just seeing that word on the paperwork that upset me especially as I had lost weight at that time in order to increase my chances of becoming pregnant.

So I am off to snuggle up under the covers.

it is getting cold here again, definately a chill in the air and it has rained all evening.

Nig is still playing Alundra on the PS2 resorted to swearing at it now as the 'stupid person' will not do what he wants it to do (would it have something to do with him not pressing the right key I ask to be met with a stony glare)

So getting out of his way before the game goes flying!

Have a good evening everyone

My dogs that is.

The youngest one clearly wasn't keen on being left at the kennels last Sunday bless.

We picked them up this morning and they both jusmped inthe car. Not a hello we are pleased to see you, just jumped in the car.

It isn't as though they don't like the kennels.

They are treated like royalty. The staff love them in fact I know the owner has on occasion (as she lives on site) taken them from the kennel to let them sleep on her couch, she knows Greyhounds like the best in life!

But they hear the other dogs and they are constantly barking at each other and clearly from their positions at the moment, one can surmise, not much sleep was had.

They are both curled up and sound asleep. Didn't even twitch when Nig said he was of to bed - very unlike them lol!

First movie you saw
Jungle book animated version (must have been about 7 at the time when it was on at Hendon Cinema)

Best musical movie you have seen.
Grease ( not really into musicals and so the only one to come to mind was this one!)

Best Comedy movie you have seen.
Four Weddings and a Funeral (never fails to cheer me up on a wet afternoon)

Best Western movie you have seen.
Calamity Jane, made me laugh and not all that keen on Westerns so this will do!

Best SciFi movie you have seen.
Blade Runner (Directors edit)(1982)Have to agree with Prydwen on this one

Best War movie movie you have seen.
Empire of the sun - Not into war films so this is the only one that I have ever watched all the way through!

Weirdest movie you have seen.
Matrix - watched all three and they still don't make sense to me!

Last movie you saw.
Forrest Gump

There was I at high school, my favourite subjects was history and music, and I always wanted to teach.

Now all the way through school I fought for everything I wanted to do. I was never the brightest student, neither was I the slowest, but just average, you know the type of kid that has to think things through and it takes a while for things to click or make sense in ones brain!

So all the way through school I was being told I was too stupid to do O level Maths, too stupid to do A levels, and really "you won't be a teacher, you are not bright enough, why don't you work in a nursery instead?"

Now one part of me can understand why they had this attitude. Up until the year I started at the school they had been a Grammar school with very good examination scores. They were forced by the LEA to change to Secondary status so anyone who was not the cream of the crop so to speak could potentially affect their good scores. I had to sit an exam to get into the school so must have passed it to get in, so couldn't have been that bad!

So I set out to prove otherwise. I did do O level maths and though it wasn't a great pass I passed. I went on to do A level history and A level music. When I was doing O level history, my teacher, Mr Brown, told me I was too bright to be in his class, so he used to let me go and practise my clarinet and all I had to do was go and get my assignments from him once a week and complete them the following week. I passed, one of the highest marks in the school, then went to do my A level history.

Got through my first year of A level and really enjoyed it, however found European history a little difficult as up until then all I had been taught was English history. The second year was spent combining English history with European history and the development of America.

I had three teachers for each one of these seperate parts of history. The one who taught English History, Mr H, was my biggest problem, it was obvious from the start we were never going to get on. Essays were marked down because he didn't agree with what I wrote and when I challaneged him about it his standard response was that I hadn't quoted my sources properly. Now I admit, that could have been the problem but when other members of the class had done less then me and not quoted sources but got higher grades, I began to think that things were suspicious.

so one day we were set the essay to prove if Richard III had or had not killed the princes in the tower.

I studied and read up on everything I could. I completed my essay, quoting sources, and referencing everything then handed it in. It came back with a big red D on it. His words were that I obviously didn't know my subject very well and it insulted his intelligence reading it.

It turns out that he supports the idea that Richard III killed the princes in the tower and I supported the idea that he hadn't. Undettered I asked him to read through it again knowing that someone else in class had written in a similar style to me and had got a B on her paper. He refused.

So I did something that i had never done before. I went to speak to my teacher I had for my O level History and asked him to read the paper. He took it away, made a few comments then told me he though I was being treated unfairly, that it didn't deserve a D at all. He took it away and asked another member of the History staff to have a look at it who agreed that while I wouldn't get an A for it, certainly should have been awarded no lower than a B.

Mr H accused me of going behind his back. In front of the whole class he called me a waste of space and that I would never ever amount to anything in life, that I was stupid and thick and obviously thought I was superior to everyone else.

I picked up my things and walked out. I had had enough.

I phoned my music teacher and explained to her what had happened, my head of year didn't want to know, and as one never ever saw the headteacher as she locked herself in her office, there was no point going to her.

I went home and vowed never to go back.

I never did take my A levels - one part of me wished I had done my music exam, but life is too short for regrets so I don't dwell on it.

I didn't become a teacher. I got a full time job where I was working parttime, then went into libraries. I had a chance of going to study at Uni through a work related scheme, but missed out as they pulled names out of a hat to fund it and 4 of us were going for 3 places. I did well in it though, due to short staf worked as a childrens librarian then in a library at the local college. After I had my children I qualified as a playworker/nursery teacher and now I do work in school as a Teaching Assistant where I am constantly asked by my colleagues to train as a teacher because they know I am capable of it.

However at 40 decided it wasn't for me, too much hassle being a teacher nowadays and would have to study for four years - as much as hubby would support me I don't think it is fair on him to put up with the tantrums of me studying and the paperwork involved once qualified.

So there it is, especially for you Ethelred, my argument with a history teacher that caused me to walk out of school!

Sat and spent a lovely hour looking at dishwashers. Found one that would go into the gap when hubby pipes up "I have found one in the trade book for £155 + VAT"

"What make" says I
"Beko"
"Nope, no good, that was the last one and it only lasted 18 months" says I

"Ok what are you looking at" he says

"Hotpoint or Zanussi, found one for £249 other for £259"

"Too much" he says.

"ok will start looking around tomorrow in the shops then shall I?"

"Good idea"

So will wait a month and probably end up purchasing it online anyway!

It needs to be a slimline one as that is all that will go into the gap. did consider moving the tumble dryer into the space instead but then I know I will never get a replacement dishwasher if I do so will have to continue popping out to the shed for the dryer.

Ah such is life!

I shouldn't have done it.

I really shouldn't have.

But it was so hard to resist!!

I have sat here trying to juggle the finances around so that at some point this month all the bills will get paid. Ok so the Council will have to wait another week or so before they get the council tax, but as long as all the other Direct debits are pai dand the catalogue receive their money, then at the end of the month, with careful budgeting and pulling in of belts, i should be able to order a new dishwasher!

So off to investigate on the net for one that will fit in the tiny space the other one used to fit in and I get an email from catalogue telling me that I am such a good customer, I can get 17.5% off my next order and don't have to pay until march next year! Yipeee.

I need a few jumpers for work so I ordered some.

Did look at their range of dishwashers, but none of them will fit in the gap otherwise I would have got one of them as well.

Given myself a smack on the hand, that was very very naughty, really shouldn't add to the mountain of clothes in ones wardrobe

I have been to work with hubby who was desperate to get me away from the computer!

He kindly took me to Morrisons in St Albans and gave me some shopping money spend - I overspent but as I pointed out at least it was still cheaper than Asda!

Came home to find eldest had forgotten about the washing so it got wet again on the line - lovely!

Friend phoned me while we were out but when i tried to phone back she was out so may not get to see her this evening afterall.

Supposed to go out tomorrow night - meet at a colleagues house and really do not feel like it, have too much to do!

So what should I have done? Prepared the lettering for the displays in the class - oh dear, not done that yet and new term looming! Might do it later in the week, know what I have to do , just can't decide what lettering to use.

Oh well and all that.

Hubby disappeared to play with Alundra, his latest playstation game which leaves me free to catch up with the latest news from blogland lol!

Not done much today at all.

Cleared all the holiday washing, now have the pleasure of ironing it! Still have to do the washing that is left in the washing basket from before we went.

Other than that I have sat and blogged and replied to emails. oh forgot I did manage to pop to Sainsburys to get something for tea tonight - ended up doing a pasta bake in the end lol! Not a very productive day!

collect the dogs tomorrow. It has been strange them not being here to greet you or get under your feet as you move around, let alone bark at their own shadows lol!

Friend phoned earlier today. She is off to Norfolk tomorrow to stay in her future son in laws cottage they have there, somewhere outside Cromer. She has asked if I will go to Edinburgh with her and future sil mother next year to get outfits for the forthcoming wedding. Should be a laugh for all concerned and something I am now looking forward to. Just discussed it with hubby who is quite happy for me to go and suggested he will pay. Also a posibility of a girly weekend away to suffolk, in October, though Brighton has also been mentioned as well, still haggling over the finer details and that is of course if we can ever agree on where we are going!

In the meantime I am sitting here browsing through posts chatting on messenger and catching up with work for school.

Such is the joys of life!

Thought I would join in

this isn't in any particular order

1: Visit Nigs Family in Australia
2: Move to Wales.
3: See and know my Grandchildren.
4: See my eldest achieve his dreams and both of my children be happy with their life choices.
5: Do a tour of New Zealand.
6: Visit Japan and singapore.
7: Tour round Canada.
8: Write a novel.
9: Spend whole weekend in a hotel in an isolated spot with hubby.
10: Talk to a ghost.

Husband: Oh, come on.
Wife: Leave me alone!

Husband: It won't take long.
Wife: I won't be able to sleep afterwards.

Husband: I can't sleep without it.
Wife: Why do you think of things like this in the middle of the night?

Husband: Because I'm Hot.
Wife: You get hot at the darnedest times.

Husband: If you love me I wouldn't have to beg you.
Wife: If you love me you'd be more considerate.

Husband: You don't love me anymore.
Wife: Yes I do, but let's forget it for tonight.

Husband: Please...come on
Wife: Alright, I'll do it.

Husband: What's the matter? Need a flashlight?
Wife: I can't find it.

Husband: Oh, for heaven's sake, feel for it!
Wife: There! Are you satisfied?

Husband: Oh, yes.
Wife: Is it up far enough?

Husband: Oh, that's good.
Wife: Now go to sleep and from now on when you want the window open, do it yourself!

Why Are Men Happier?

Men Are Just Happier People-- What do you expect from such simple creatures? Your last name stays put. The garage is all yours. Wedding plans take care of themselves. Chocolate is just another snack.

You can never be pregnant. You can wear a white T-shirt to a water park. You can wear NO shirt to a water park. Car mechanics tell you the truth.

The world is your urinal. You never have to drive to another petrol station toilet because this one is just too icky. You don't have to stop and think of which way to turn a nut on a bolt. Same work, more pay. Wrinkles add character. Wedding dress £2000. Tux rental-£100.

People never stare at your chest when you're talking to them.

The occasional well-rendered belch is practically expected. New shoes don't cut, blister, or mangle your feet. One mood all the time. Phone conversations are over in 30 seconds flat. You know stuff about tanks.

A five-day holiday requires only one suitcase. You can open all your own jars. You get extra credit for the slightest act of thoughtfulness.

If someone forgets to invite you, he or she can still be your friend.

Your underwear is £4.95 for a three-pack. Three pairs of shoes are more than enough. You almost never have strap problems in public. You are unable to see wrinkles in your clothes. Everything on your face stays its original colour. The same hairstyle lasts for years, maybe decades.

You only have to shave your face and neck.

You can play with toys all your life. One wallet and one pair of shoes one colour for all seasons. You can wear shorts no matter how your legs look.

You can "do" your nails with a pocket knife. You have freedom of choice concerning growing a moustache..

You can do Christmas shopping for 25 relatives on December 24 in 25 minutes.

No wonder men are happier.

Some guy bought a new fridge for his house. To get rid of his old fridge, he put it in his front garden and hung a sign on it saying: "Free to good home. You want it, you take it." For three days the fridge sat there without even one person looking twice at it. He eventually decided that people did not trust the deal. It looked to good to be true, so he changed the
sign to read: "Fridge for sale $50." The next day someone stole it!
They Walk Among Us!
====================
While looking at a house, my brother asked the estate agent which direction was north because, he explained, he didn't want the sun waking him up every morning. She asked, "Does the sun rise in the north?" When my brother explained that the sun rises in the east, and has for sometime, she shook her head and said, "Oh, I don't keep up with that stuff!"
They Walk Among Us!
====================
I used to work in technical support for a 24/7 call centre. One day I got a call from an individual who asked what hours the call centre was open. I told him, "The number you dialled is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week." He responded, "Is that Eastern or Pacific time?" Wanting to end the call quickly, I said, "Uh, Pacific!"
They Walk Among Us!
====================
My colleague and I were eating our lunch in our cafeteria, when we overheard one of the administrative assistants talking about the sunburn she got on her weekend drive to the shore. She drove down in a convertible, but "didn't think she'd get sunburned because the car was moving!"
They Walk Among Us!
====================
My sister has a lifesaving tool in her car it's designed to cut through a seat belt if she gets trapped. She keeps it in the trunk!
They Walk Among Us!
====================
My friends and I were on a beer run and noticed that the cases were discounted 10%. Since it was a big party, we bought 2 cases. The cashier multiplied 2 times 10% and gave us a 20% discount!
They Walk Among Us!
====================
I was hanging out with a friend when we saw a woman with a nose ring attached to an earring by a chain. My friend said, "Wouldn't the chain rip out every time she turned her head?" I explained that a person's nose and ear remain the same distance apart no matter which way the head is turned!
They Walk Among Us!
====================
I couldn't find my luggage at the airport baggage area. So I went to the lost luggage office and told the woman there that my bags never showed up. She smiled and told me not to worry because she was a trained professional and I was in good hands. "Now," she asked me, "has your plane arrived yet?"
They Walk Among Us!
====================
While working at a pizza parlour I observed a man ordering a small pizza to go. He appeared to be alone and the cook asked him if he would like it cut into 4 pieces or 6. He thought about it for some time before responding. "Just cut it into 4 pieces; I don't think I'm hungry enough to eat 6 pieces!

Browsing through my emails, I have come across all the have a good holiday wishes that you have all snet. Thank you very much it is much appreciated, and yes, if you have plughed your way through the previous 7 or so posts, I did have a good time.

Reality now. Several lots of washing on the go and hung out. Sun is shining, keeps coming over dark at times, but there is a good strong wind as well - as my mother would say good drying weather. hopefully the majority if not all of the washing should get dry, fingers crossed.

As well as the posts from everyone here, I received several e mails from friends that were really funny. Will post the better ones on here at some point. looking through the posts I notice that several of you have met up and that is quite nice. Hope you all enjoyed yourselves and had a good time.

So I have also noticed some changes. There now seems to be some german advertising at the top of my page, a certain French man seems to have resisted requesting that he be my friend (thank you AJ so far your little note seems to have helped) and it seems that I can be seen when I am online. This doesn't bother me, but what is the use in that unless you are hoping that the person will repond to your post straight away? Though may come in handy if they are ignoring you on msn 'Oi why are you ignoring me when you are clearly online!' lol!

So to anyone on my friends list that hasn't got it my msn is faffajane@hotmail.com. I can't always guarantee I will be signed in though, as I am always forgetting to do that and can't have it come on automatically as then the kids access it! (we have had a few problems in that departmet).

Anyhow better go and search my emails and try and sort out the bills!

Packing done, sun is shining and car is loaded. Nice and easy morning followed by a wonderful roast dinner, with rhubarb crumble for dessert - bliss!

Eldest doesn't want to go home. He loves it here, not because he has been spoilt but because deep at heart he is a country boy. As he says here he is in the countryside, mountains and hills all around, the river flowing whereever you are, yet you can get to the beach easily as well. I know that one day he will achieve his dream and move here, it is what he wants, has been that way since I first brought him here as a baby - to him it is home. I know how he feels as that is the same way I feel as well, have done since I was a little girl. However I know it will not happen, I will not live here, hubby has always said he will never live in Wales and so I no longer live in hope that one day I will be here, where my ancestors lived, and where the family that is the most important to me still reside. As soon as I see that 'welcome to Wales' sign, I am home. I feel sad, as I realise that my children will grow up and move on with their lives, probably the same way all mothers feel when their offspring move on to pastures new.

So I have spent the morning playing with my cousins child and my youngest, football in the garden then sat by the river at the bottom of the garden while the pair of them throw stones and old apples into it (ok not environmentally sound, but they were happy in each others company and she was learning to count as well). Then we took some photos of them both to share with each other, and she told me all about the baby in her mummy's tummy.

I also have a new name - Antha. We keep telling her to call me Samantha and my aunt told her to repeat it which she did well, then reverted to calling me Antha again! I have promised her that I will come to Cardiff to see her when the baby is born so that she can show me it.

I miss things like this.

So now we head out of Wales, through the glorious countryside and towards our real home. As we talk about all we have done and seen, my hubby announces that if I want I can start looking for houses in Wales. I am quite taken back by this, he is the one that has been dead against the idea of moving here, but his reasoning has been that he is fed up with what he is doing, going for contracts that he gets undercut by then having to sort out the mess the cheaper contractor has left, the fact that to keep the NICEIC registration is getting harder each year and that they find fault in the most silliest of things. He says if he can find work here, any work at all, then we can sell up and move here - he is willing to give up his dreams knowing that Wales is home to me, that I miss so much and as long as we are together that is all that is important.

Think he is frightened of the fact his eldest will leave the nest as well.

So we have compromised. I will start looking, but no final decision will be made until after eldest has left school in two years time. Credit cards will be paid off and our house has been decorated from top to bottom just in case. Once that is done we can start looking for work and houses. Difficult decision will be where to live. Do we go to where ppl know me to the same village that my Aunt and Uncle live, or do we live in South Wales, Do we go to somewhere in between so that I can see both sides of the family easily or head towards NewQuay which Nig loves best of all?

Time will only tell but am excited by the possibility that my dream may one day be reality after all!

Well spent yesterday evening listening to sister moaning about the friend they brought with them and how much he was getting on their nerves!

Question would you take a friend on holiday with you with another friend knowing they have never met each other but expecting them to get along? Well they didn't and this one friend was driving them all mad!!

So back to today, got up, showered and dressed and gathered round kitchen table to sing happy birthday to youngest who has turned 8 today. Aunt has planned several activities for him and her grandchild so that they can be kept busy. Sister, boyfriend and friends arrive and aunt sets about cooking breakfast for everyone. Sister going home today and is looking just a tad stressed to say the least, and has to go earlier than planned due to 'friend' wanting to be home by a certain time. Hence she is unable to be there for my sons little birthday party later in the day which she is sad about.

Lots of presents to be opened, lots of cards with money in them, making of cakes to be done, icing of cakes to be done, lots of board games being played.

Today has been a relaxing day. Weather has not been too great but it has been dry. Sister has now gone, and we have set the table for tea, just small little party bits and pieces to eat rather than a full meal. Youngest loves his caterpillar cake (unfortunately not homemade, bought from Morrisons earlier) and has blown out his candles ready for it to be cut and distributed.

Later this evening, after kids have gone to bed, we play Game of the Year, fun and entertaining, wine flowing freely as we put the world to rights. I love this part best of all as it feels so comfortable. You can say anythign without anyone being offended and you can discuss anything as well, which is even better.

I am a little sad, tomorrow we will have to go home and I will miss being here.

Well I predicted yesterday, as I could see Anglesey from the beach in the distance, that today would be a bad day weatherwise and it has lived up to that!

It is quite misty outside, the hills you cannot see from the window, and it is drizzling. Sun makes an appearance once in a while but only in short bursts.

Aunts friend came over to see us and so we have had a leisurely morning catching up on the gossip. Aunt has gone off to pick up her grandaughter from her son so that she can spend the weekend with us, and as I haven't seen her in a couple of years, since she was a year old in fact I am looking forward to seeing her again to see how much she has changed.

We have a leaflet for Hafod, so we decide to do one of the many walks there. http://www.hafod.org/ The sun has made an appearance so off we go down long winding country lanes where ideally only one car can go down and lol and behold if you should want to pass another car it is a bit tricky!

Stilll we arrive there in one piece. Kids and I decide that the weather isn't looking too good so we put on our raincoats. Hubby decides he is a man and needs no such covering, afterall he is wearing a t shirt and jeans, and anyway what could happen, so off we treck along paths following coloured signs on posts.

We start out following the blue walk which is supposed to be the Lady's walk. Hmmm remind me never to do this walk in a long dress it must have been incredibly difficult!!

The walk took us along a river, with small waterfalls here and there. It was peaceful, lovely to walk along and very steep in places. It starts to rain but as we are surrounded by trees it hardly affects us so on we trundle.

We came to a river bend, lots of midges here and the kids have a great time being bitten while they try and outdo their dad by throwing stones in the river!

As the walk progresses we come to a huge field. Now Hafod used to have a huge house built here by its owner Thomas Johnes (1748-1816), who wanted the house to overlook spectacular fields, and it certainly does. The house no longer remains, having been burnt down and later demolished several years ago. The land where the house stood is now grazing for sheep and yes we spent the next hour or so walking through a field of sheep trying to avoid the sheep poo along the way!

By this time the heavens opened and it came down hard. Hubby by now is drenched through and wishing he had listened to me and worn his coat - needless to say he got no sympathy whatsoever!

At Hafod church there was an exhibition about the house. I walked in not having seen the sign about how much they charged, hubby did pay £5 each for us to go in a total ripoff! The exhibition was laid out at the end of pews which you couldn't get down because people were sitting on them, obviously sheltering from the rain outside. The only thing you could really see was the fabric that the maid uniform was made with - I kid you not! A huge disappointment and one which I don't think we will repeat again!

Back at aunts house and we meet my cousins daughter who is absolutely gorgeous! Huge brown eyes and she took a real shine to my youngest, both children happily playing together and having fun. Did manage to get youngest to bed early as well which was a huge help to us all!

Easy day today.

Got up earlyish to bright sunny weather outside. Ate breakfast and decided to go to Constitution Hill in Aber and see the Camera Obscura http://www.cardiganshirecoastandcountry.com/cliffrailway.htm

We decided to go on the cliff mountain railway rather than walk up the cliff. Not because we were being lazy I hasten to add, but purely because the muscle in my calf was really hurting (too much walking yesterday?) and we decided that as I have physio later next week, now was not a good time to damage it further.

The railway fascinated my two who felt like they were on the beginning of a rollercoaster. You know that feeling when the rollercoaster goes really slow to get you to the top and you plummet back down again, well that is what it feels like when you are being hauled to the top of constitution hill.

Walked round and marvelled at the stunning views of Aberystwyth from the top. Looked at the Camera Obscura which some kind soul was making go round really fast not good if you are feeling a little hung over

Came down the cliff again on the railway and walked round town for a bit along the sea front. Hubby managed to buy two pairs of Le Shark Jeans for £5 each so he was pleased with that and eldest found 3 shirts which he bought for £7 in total. Apart from 2 postcards that was all I spent lol!

Had lunch then headed down to Borth beach as it was so nice and sunny. Didn't make it into the sea as hubby and sons decided to build sandcastles instead and this took a long long time to do! They all had fun while I relaxed with a good book, though I did help by naming the castle in my bad welsh!

A couple walked by and commented on how good it looked but personally think they were just being kind lol!

Oh dear.

Think a combination of one too many late nights and one too many glasses of wine have affected my co ordination this morning! Didn't get to bed until 3am as we all sat playing rummy (which as usual I come last in).

Still this morning there is a drizzle outside and mist on the hills. One wonders if it will pass over, but doubt it.

When I came here with the kids a few years ago, we went on the Talyllyn railway (http://www.nwt.co.uk/accommodation/3938/Talyllyn+Railway) up to Nant Gwernol. However I had always wanted to go on it up to Dolgoch falls so this is what we had planned for today as Nig hadn't been on this railway before.

So off we went after yet another hearty breakfast. Weather was clearing up by the time we got to Tywyn, and we also managed to get on the train straight away. The steam engine was called 'Douglas' which pleased youngest child very much as he is a Thomas the Tank Engine fan.

We admired the view as it went passed and watched the sheep graze, listening to comments made by youngest such as "there are a lot of sheep here isn't there" and "aren't there a lot of hills will we go to the top" and my other son getting annoyed and pointing out that we were in Wales afterall what did he expect! Kicked quite often by a child sitting opposite me, who was really annoying, especially as she had these thick walking boots on as well!

Eventually pulled in at Dolgoch falls station and began our steep walk to the top.

This is at the bottom

At this point I discover that the rechargeable battery in my camera doesn't stay charged for very long therefore this is the only picture we have of the falls. Typical after much rooting through bags I discover that I hadn't packed a spare battery so much disappointment that I couldn't take some of the more spectacular scenery we saw or the fact hubby couldn't take photos of me struggling to get down some very slippery slopes on the way down!

Really pleased we got to the top though, especially for me as usually I have to drop out due to back problems, so it was one huge achievement for me.

Weather by this time was really hot and and due to climbing up, my back got wet so I was covered in dye from my bag all over my nice new white top!

Came back to Aunts house and chilled for a little bit, then sister arrived who was having a stressful holiday with one of the friends she and boyfriend had invited. Sat talking to her for a little while, had dinner then sat and played cards again, this time teaching eldest the game which he has now got addicted too. Would like to say I did learn my lesson from last night and didn't have too much wine, but then I would be lying

1: What's your current favourite band/ singer?
Feeder

2: OSX or Windows?
Windows

3: What makes you happy?
Good company, my husband and sons

4: What do you really want to achieve?
No idea

5: What is your greatest strength?
Being a good listener

6: If you could travel to anywhere past or future where would you go and why?
Like to travel to see Nigs family in Australia, he does so much for me, to pay for us to do that would mean a lot to him

7: What's your favourite place to be?
Anywhere near the sea.

8: What mobile phone do you use?
Nokia 6610

9: What car do you drive?
Vauxhall Vectra Estate

10: What do you consider the worst thing ever?
Child abuse and rape

11: What would make your life complete?
to see my children grow up and be happy with their life choices

12: Reckon you could take your boss on and win?
wouldn't bother trying

13: Have you ever asked for a pay rise and got it?
never asked

14: What type of driver are you?
Calm

15: Do you dye your hair, now or ever?
I highlight it otherwise it is mouse brown

16: Favourite film and why?
Have too many to say there is one that is a favourite, though the one that tends to be watched over and over again is Forrest Gump.

17: How many of your friends would you trust with your life?
1

18: What's your highest level of qualification (academic or work)?
NVQ 3 Teaching Assistant Certificate

19: What's the make of your camera(s)?
Samsung

20: PS2 or Xbox?
Neither, spend too much time on computer

21: What are the colour of your eyes?
Blue

22: Do you imagine your blog friends to look different until you see a photo?
yes and no

Got up and yes sun has disappeared and it definately is chilly today. Hubby decided today will be a good day to go to Hay on Wye. We both love books, fortunately so do the kids, so after a hearty breakfast (aunt believes in cooked breakfasts!) off we set through wonderful countryside and winding mountain lanes towards Hay.

Now if you don't know Hay all that well, every other shop is a bookshop almost. You need something in particular then it is worth a visit to browse through the shops. One of them was a £1 shop - every book for £1 and they were new books, recent releases as well. To say it was packed out with people browsing would, believe me, be an understatement.

Eldest child was like a young child being let lose in a toyshop. His eyes lit up as we discovered more and more bookshops which we seemed to spend an age in. In true Hayden tradition, hubby, myself and eldest were laden down with lists of favourite authors and spent a happy few hours tracking them down as well as discovering one or two new ones. Oh and youngest came away with a few Peter and Jane books (remember the ladybird reading scheme?) so he was happy that he managed to add to his collection lol!

I would definately recommend the following bookshop though http://www.booksearch-at-hay.com/ They were really helpful in tracking down one book hubby was after and it is useful knowing they have a website!

The other ones I would recommend a visit to if you ever get the chance or are in the area are

http://www.hayonwyebooksellers.com/
http://www.bookends.uk.com/ (must admit I have used these from time to time on the internet!)

Oh and the weather turned out warm and sunny as well which was a bonus! Lovely teahouse we stopped at for lunch as well, down one of the many alleyways and quite reasonable priced as well!

Started well, got rid of the dogs to the kennels then drove all the way to Wales making it in 31/2 hours!

Record for me especially as there were road works outside Birmingham again!!

Got to Aunts house to find sister had been on the phone for the last half hour asking if I had arrived yet. She said she was on her way round (she was staying in the next village along) and took two hours to turn up - aunt not impressed as she wanted to dish up dinner! So saw sister, her boyfriend (who is one huge pratt) and the two friends they had brought with them. She eventually got the hint and left (two hours later) by which time aunt was not in the best of moods as dinner was getting spoilt (which it wasn't as she is a fantastic cook.

So next day dawns bright with an autumnal chill in the air. Went into town, did the usual shops and looked at the craft shops/model shops as well with kids. Walked along sea front (smichen, I did say hello to it for you,) drove down to Devils Bridge by which time it was raining, then drove round to Bwlch Nant yr Arian and did a small walk around the lake while watching the Red Kites feed. Walk was very easy really and there is a lovely visitors centre there. Paths are well laid out and along the way there are information signs which the kids loved reading as they told them all about the preservation of the Red Kite. Views were stunning and we vowed that we would go back to do some of the longer walks, but alas never did - oh well there is always next time lol!

View from car park of Bwlch Nant yr Arian

Had a fantastic time, totally relaxing, feel as though I have put on at least a stone, but did try to do some walking!

Good food, good company, and kids had a great time - they got totally spoilt!!

Off to catch up with everyone

Hugs xx

Tons of things need to be done still and yet I am the only one up! Ok youngest has just dragged himself out of the bed and is now in the bath, eldest is sleeping the dead, Hubby is playing the playstation - why? - because he is going a week without it!

I am trying to sort out the dogs, need to get showered and dressed, just had breakfast, need to pack toiletries etc.

Note to self remember camera, charger, phone charger!

Pouring down with rain again here - oh joy - on the other hand at least MIL won't need to water the plants. Friend is coming over to housesit for a couple of days then MIL moving in as she needs a break from FIL! so why am I paying to have the dogs put in the kennels? Why couldn't they have told me that before! Fair enough friend isn't all that keen on dogs and despite extensive behaviour training our whippet is still a nightmare with visitors - he is so pleased to see them he can't stop jumping on their laps! Stil at least I can rest easy knowing the house isn't going to be empty!

Oh well stop moaning and get on with the last min bits and pieces!

Lol!

Here is just a little something

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=brAac4moJ0w

Right that is enough excitement for one day!

going to have a glass of milk then wend my weary way up to bed!

Just remembered something else I have forgotten to pack...................

Hubby did his own packing in the end, decided I was taking far too long!

So packing is now done. I, as usual, have packed for all eventualities - a t shirt for everyday plus one extra, two pairs of jeans, one pair of trousers, 2 skirts in case weather is nice and anyway need 1 skirt as we plan on going out for a meal with sister, a couple of blouses, underwear for two weeks just in case, tankini in case weather is nice and we get to the beach, a couple of jumpers in case it is cold - see I like to be prepared for all weathers lol!!!

Problem with holidaying in the british Isles, you never can tell what the weather is going to be like and I can guarantee at least half of the week will rain, it always does!

All I have to do now is sort out the dog tags for the dogs and get them to the kennels in the morning then we will be off!

Only hoping aunts computer is working so i can log on occasionally - a week with out blogging or checking my e mails will be painful lol!!

Childrens packing done anyway once I had sorted through the clothes they were planning on taking and discarding anything that was now too small or didn't go with shorts etc! Funny how youngest seemed to think that all he needed to take was 1 pair of pants, 1 pair of socks, pair of trousers, 1 t shirt and 1 pair of shorts. When I asked him how long he was planning on staying for he replied "a week!" So sorted out the rest of the clothes for him, he couldn't understand why he needed more "aren't you going to wash them when you are there?" he says. Don't think so!

Other son in the meanwhile packed enough for a month, but no swimming trunks in case we go to the beach and no underwear. Any pyjamas? says I, oh yes he says and scuttles of to find some. Comes back then with 2 pairs of pyjamas, 16 pairs of pants, 2 pairs of socks, by this time I am tearing hair out!

Hubby still hasn't decided what to take yet, looks like I will end up sorting him out as well. Me? can't decide between trousers or skirts, down to two pair of jeans now, 1 pair of trousers 2 skirts! oh well enough for all eventualities!!

Housework done, lovely hubby did all that while I battled with the kids. Having a fat day, hair a failure and dying for a cuppa, back killing me but will get there eventually!

As I said in my earlier post I went out today, but left the kids at home, eldest being in charge. Came home to find

Bedding has been washed and put in tumble dryer
washing up done
All beds made

Do you think someone is after spending money for the holiday?

"Good morning darling, are you going to weigh in in Boots today"

"No"

"Thats a good idea - take them off first"

that is how my day started this morning. Hubby being in a very silly mood and telling silly jokes. It has been a busy day and nothing on my list has been done yet. Spent this morning in town looking for birthday present for youngest (which took forever), came home quickly changed beds and out again to see one of Nigel's clients - who has as strange sense of humour Nigel does! Costco next to get dog food and wine (that bit is important for aunt and I) then home to have some dinner before I start tidying up and packing

Did get my own back just a little. In Woolworths and they had a clearance section, where they were selling off all the England stuff from the world cup. There it was a money box, in the shape of a pair of breasts with a tiny England bikini top on - appeals to hubbys sense of humour who seems to collect cheap tack, so he picks it up and it plays God Save the Queen very loudly! So funny, he went a lovely shande of red and quickly put it down lol!

Well better get some packing done or I will be doing it in the early hours of tomorrow lol!

I make lists for almost everything, apart from shopping - whats the point in that as I do it everyweek and tend to buy the same things lol!

For things like going away I always make a list of things that have to be done, things that have to be packed, lists for MIL in case anything happens and 9/10 times I don't keep to them! but I find it therapeutic in a small way.

so this morning my list contained

go to town, get money out, buy hairspray
do ironing
do housework
start packing
do some sewing

So far I have done

go to town, get money out, buy hairspray
do ironing
do housework
start packing
do some sewing

So tomorrow I will have to

Go to town and pay some money into housekeeping account (Nig only got paid today and didn't have his card to transfer funds over)
Pack
Change beds
Clean house
put new sampler on frame to take away with me
Clean Fridge

hmmmm getting a little behind there, so looks like busy day ahead for tomorrow and a lot of delegating to be done! Oh and must remember to get youngest child a birthday present and card as well (add to list)

Good job it was fairly quiet on here today, don't think I would have got everything I needed to do today otherwise.

Oh well best get off to bed if I am going to get up early tomorrow to get to town!

Nite nite

Right I am being positive here!

It is a lovely day

My kitchen floor is very very wet as I left the door open and it poured down with rain!

My washing is soaked as I was on the phone when it rained!

BUT I am here alone, so can play on computer as youngest child is now round a friends house and it is sooooooo peaceful!!

Believe me, spent two hours in town sorting various stuff out and did that boy stop talking NO!!

And even when I told him to be quiet he says "yes nan says that as well mum but as I told her I am my fathers child and he is annoying as well so that is where I get it from. It is all your fault really, you married him and decided to have children with him so this is what you got!""

Then he started rabbiting on about something else, he never stops talking!!

so now what shall I do.

I have to do some ironing - look at the two baskets piled high with clothes - maybe not.

I really need to do some housework but cant be bothered.

Then again I could take the opportunity of having house to self and play some music while I stitch. Or sit here and chat.

Oh decisions, decisions!!

Peace had reigned on my house this morning.

Hubby dragged eldest from bed kicking and screaming (well not quite but near enough!). He needs help with a job he is doing today and fears unless he gets it he will be spending all day tomorrow working instead of just the morning. So eldest is earning some money today to take on holiday with him. Poor lad will not be happy at the state of his hands when he gets home though he will be pulling cables in while his father wires up the showers!

Youngest will now be on best behaviour. We had one major tantrum from him yesterday evening. Nigel dealt with it mainly until it was obvious it was all getting out of hand so I stepped in and one thing they have learnt not to do is argue with me - except he did which is a really bad move. I am usually quite laid back and placid, Just changing the tone of my voice is enough to stop the kids squabbling, yesterday I had to raise it, not a pleasant experience for anyone and yes, as a true Taurean who gets angry I am like a bull charging! He was in his bed so quick and under the covers!

So today he is a very sheepish child, he came downstairs and apologised and now he is in him room (his decision) tidying it (supposedly) though probably playing his playstation. Told him any cheek out of him today the playstation will be removed.

So it is nice a quiet so far.

I plan to go to town later and get some spending money out, only wish I could get the washing dry but yet again it is raining! I might risk it is it brightens up later! Do some ironing and start sorting out what clothes to take with us. Hubby working tomorrow morning, wants me to go with him so we can go to Costco on the way home and get dog food to take to the kennels with them on Sunday. Their holiday. They love it there, the kennels are big, and they get spoilt! I would love to take them with me, but alas one dog really does not travel at all well, even the short trip to the kennels makes him ill!

Oh well enough rambling better get myself sorted and ready to greet the day ahead!

Will have to go.

Hubby is home and has said I wouldn't have a headache if I wasn't on the computer.

Told him I haven't been here all day (which of course I have on and off!)

For some reason he doesn't believe me.

So better spend some time with him in front of the telly.

good night

XX

In comes hubby from work, grin on face. As I stand by the cooker heating up his dinner he starts to massage my shoulders and kisses my neck.

still got that headache? he says

Yes says I and it is getting worse.

Think he took the hint?

He has taken the kids to Wing Chung, well one does it the other one watches then practises when he gets home. He is already a Tae Kwondo black belt so doesn't feel the need to take part.

Me? I am relaxing in front of this screen again, having taken a couple of tablets. Headache getting easier, well until hubby comes home anyway

Email I received from figleaves.com shows a picture of a very nice bra, with the caption "Uplifting experience - no one will ever look you in the eyes again!".

I had a giggle to myself, yeah right, sorry but even with uplift, you will still look me in the eye!

Decided against buying bra as it was only in blue and I prefer white, so now I will browse to see what others they have that are more suitable for me

Is it cold where you are?

Today I am really feeling cold. It is getting colder as the day goes on. So far we have had, wonderful sunshine (this morning ) followed by thunder storms, torrential rain and hailstones.

Decidedly chilly here.

Thank you.

To all my friends who stop by here to check up on me. For your text messages of support yesterday helped to get me through the day. I couldn't reply to you individually but I know you stop by. Thank you for being there.

To my Blog friends, for your messages of support, thank you, I am overwhelmed. Will try to catch up with you all today sometime.

To everyone, remember live life to the fullest for it ends all too soon. Be what you want to be, do what you want to do and never regret anything for life is too short for regrets.

Thank you all for being there.

Hugs xx

R was a wonderful man. Kind, empathetic, a natural entertainer who knew how to live life to the full and boy did he do just that!

From an early age he knew he wanted to go into the entertainment industry. He made all his own costumes, set up a group and toured the world with his act 'bosom pals'. Along the way he made friends with people from all walks of life, friends who were to become an extended family to him. With one of his friends he later went into partnership and set up a successful pub in Germany where he lived for a few years before coming home and setting up another business here with another friend.

He was popular, always busy, but always had time for anyone who needed him.

My earliest memories of him was when he came to tell my grandmother that her mum had died. I couldn't have been no more than 6 years old and he went on to play a huge part in my life. He organised my 21st birthday party, telling my mother that she couldn't "organise a p*ss up in a brewery if she tried" and chucked her out of the kitchen. He made us go out and buy more drink as he said mum hadn't bought enough!

My wedding, he turned up inthe brightest purple jacket you have ever seen, but he made it look good and the height of fashion. I remember the photographer asking him to move over slightly and when he didn't the photographer got a bit tetchy and said "that man in the purple jacket will you move!" His reply was "At least I have taste deary!"

He organised the top tier of my wedding cake to be wrapped and stored properly for the christening of my first child and really was the heart and soul of the party. I have a lot to thank him for.

Yesterday, his funeral, went well. He had a great send off. All his friends and the better half of the family were there. As the coffin came into chapel they played Shirley Bassey's "I am what I am". Instead of a hymn they played Liza Minelli
"Life is a cabaret", we recited the 23rd Psalm then the coffin was laid to the song My Way again sung by Shirley Bassey. Don't think the vicar was at all impressed with the joviality of it all, but it was all very appropriate for a man who's life was a cabaret, who did it all his way and made no excuses for the way he was and acted.

I cried, in fact I don't think there was a dry eye in the house, and I got my support in an aunt who I haven't seen for a few years but we just sat and cuddled all the way through.

The 'wake' was a celebration, we all drank and ate and celebrated his life, we talked, I listenened and kept away from family who were likely to bend my ear, and kept to hubby and ppl who I knew I could trust. I was more of an onlooker and listened to other peoples stories about him, there was no doubt he had a huge affect on everyone there in one form or another and we all loved him.

Last night I had a strange dream. I was at his house, everyone who was there yesterday was there, we were all in black. R was there making tea and dispensing drinks and I was chatting away to him and laughing. I then asked an aunt why we were all there and why we were in black when she replied 'R died dear we buried him today'. Told her not to be silly I was talking to him and he was making tea, but when I turned round he was gone and I woke up with tears on my face. Had the same dream again later but this time I can remember the details of the conversation, he tells me not to cry to be happy as he has lived the life he wanted and has no regrets he is happy.

Life should be lived to the fullest, it is all too short and there never should be regrets.

RIP RH. You will be missed.

I have sat here in tears.

Finally hit me that tomorrow we are burying a much loved family member. Today I have finally found out the reason for my mood, I am grieving. Tomorrow I will get through the service with dignity and be the shoulder for everyone else. Fortunately hubby will be there.

At the moment I feel the laughter has died inside me. I don't feel my bubbly, cheery, giggly self at all.

But I will be back!

Three men stand before St. Peter awaiting admission into Heaven. However, St. Peter has been informed that Heaven will only admit 33% of applicants today. The admissions standard: Who died the worst death? So, St. Peter takes each of the three men aside in
turn and asks them how they died.

First man: "I'd been suspecting for a long time that my wife was cheating on me. I decided to come home early from work one afternoon and check to see if I could catch her in the act. When I got back to my apartment, I heard the water running. My wife was in the shower. I looked everywhere for the guy, but couldn't find anyone or any trace that he had been there. The last place I looked was out on the balcony.

I found the bastard hanging from the edge, trying to get back in! So I started jumping up and down on his hands, and he yelled, but he didn't fall. So I ran inside and got a hammer, and crushed his fingers with it until he fell twenty-five floors screaming in agony. But the fall didn't kill the asshole. He landed in some bushes! So I dragged the refrigerator from the kitchen (it weighed about a ton), pulled it to the balcony, and hurled it over the edge. It landed right on the guy and killed him. But then I felt so horrible about what I had done, I went back into the bedroom and shot myself."

St. Peter nodded slowly as the man recounted the story. Then, telling the first man to wait, he took the second aside.

Second man: "I lived on the twenty-seventh floor of this apartment building. I had just purchased this book on morning exercises and was practicing them on my balcony, enjoying the sunshine, when I lost my balance and fell off the edge. Luckily, I only fell about two floors before grabbing another balcony and holding on for dear life. I was trying to pull myself up when this guy came running onto what must have been his balcony and started jumping up and down on my hands. I screamed in pain, but he seemed really irate. When he finally stopped, I tried to pull myself up again, but he came out with a hammer and smashed my fingers to a pulp! I fell, and I thought I was dead, but I landed in some bushes. I couldn't believe my second stroke of luck, but it didn't last. The last thing I saw was this enormous refrigerator falling from the building down on top of me and crushing me."

St. Peter comforted the man, who seemed to have several broken bones. Then he told him to wait, and turned to the third man.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Third man: "Picture this. You're hiding, naked, in a refrigerator..."

Been to see three friends today. Two bent my ear about each other in the way friendships go, with me keeping stum about each other had said about each other (are you following) and trying to solve what is becoming a wider gap between them.

Then had lunch with another who was looking better than I have seen her in a long while as the poor thing has had to slow down due to breaking her leg and ankle. So we had a chat and put the world to rights as you do with good friendships, made some ham rolls and a cup of tea and talked about whatever came into our heads.

Came home, eldest has made me a lovely cup of tea and I am going to shove on some music at last and do some more sewing.

Feeling a lot less gloomy than I was this morning now, it is true, it is good to talk!

Ok slight exaggeration but popped to Sainsburys and saw the most gorgeous young firemen walking around getting food for what I persume one of them will be cooking for dinner later!

*Swoon*

Cheered me up a little

Feeling a bit down and cheesed off today. Don't really know why, I shouldn't be but there is so much to do and the weather is getting on my nerves now when I have so much washing to get dry!

Have to visit a friend later and make her some lunch. She fell down the stairs and broke her leg and ankle and can't get around at the moment - thinking positive there is always someone worse off!

Hubby finally got round to hoovering stairs and landing, then used my towel when he had a bath! That really irritates me. Everyone has their own towels, I hate sharing. I know they haven't got anything catching it is just one of my many funny traits, sharing towels! Thing is he is deliberately doing it now as he knows it makes me annoyed and he was in one of his annoying moods yesterday as well!

Brilliant discussion on the radio. Children who are only children or eldest children cannot tell jokes, whereas younger siblings are very good at telling jokes! Oh well knew I was useless anyway as the eldest child, my sister was always the funny one when she wasn't having a temper tantrum!

Just to prove it, here is a joke:

Q: Why did the chicken cross the road twice?
A: Because it was a double-crosser.

Interview was a waste of time apparently.

Oh they said all the right things

The nice (young) bloke wrote everything down, asked a few questions, told hubby what he needed to know, then told him he was "too over qualified" for what they are looking for.

Interestingly hubby answered the advert in the paper because he had the qualifications and skills that they were looking for!

Oh well, not too bothered. Would have been nice for him to get some extra work and some variety, but he isn't that bothered.

He has another company that he knows of working in the area that he will phone and his friend has some work coming up in Barnet so we shall see. He wants the extra money to pay his credit card bill off and keep me in the life of luxury (yeah right!).

So trip out to Leighton Buzzard was interesting the usual idiots using a single track road like a dual carriageway and slamming on brakes when they see a speed camera!

Chips on the way home as couldn't be bothered to cook when I got in. Resting now with the telly on might do some stitching in a bit!

shouts my youngest down the stairs at me.

Yeah so what? says I.

He comes in, gets washed and changed, and says "I need you to drive me to this interview"

"Why?" says I

" SO I am not flustered getting through the traffic and you know your way round up here better than I do"

Problem is interview isn't until 5 and I have to get to Leighton Buzzard during rush hour - great.

Doesn't explain why he came home at 12 though. Says he had enough, drove down to Hounslow today to check a light fitting that really had nothing wrong with it and then went back to the office. All the managers are out and he discovers that the reason he didn't get as much money last week as he was expecting was because he didn't get his car mileage. So he is not a happy bunny!

So now he is twiddling his thumbs and glaring at me because we really do not need to go this early in the day for a 5 o'clock interview. He has moaned about everything so far and I have sent him upstairs to help eldest son with the ps game. Should keep him occupied for a little while!

Think I will take a book with me, could be gone a while.

Harrods has there Christmas Grotto up and a few decorations already. Its AUGUST!!!!!

Ok so I have got a few presents that I have bought throughout the year, but that is because I am buying as I see things in a bid not to have to go on a huge spending spree in December especially as money is tight at the moment.

BUT nothing would possess (spelt this word 3 times and it still doesn't look right) me to put decorations up yet.

For goodness sake Augus is far too early to start thinking about the looming celebration, in my opinion mid November would be better, beginning of December preferable!!

I love this, have played it twice so far on the computer!

The Loner, by Gary Moore

Hubby has changed the radio station! Not a good move in the morning when it comes blaring on at 5.30 in the morning and it wakes me up sharply and it is an oldie station!

Anyway one of the songs playing was 'Fool for your stockings' by ZZ Top a band I haven't heard in a long while and brought back a few pleasant memories ruined by hubby singing along to the song badly!

Commented to hubby that the short skirts I brought recently for the summer won't be worn at this rate -not unless the weather improves anyway - it is pouring down again outside! Well they are not that short, knee length which is adventurous for me, as I tend to wear skirts that are long or trousers. I don't like my legs much, as my grandfather used to comment they are like tree trunks! So the long skirts hide them well and in Winter, I hate wearing tights so don't wear them, so the long skirts help to keep my legs warm or I resort to wearing my trousers! Think the only reason that hubby is wearing trousers this morning instead of shorts is because he has an interview later on today!

Me? think it will be a jeans day again, anyway will need to go up in the loft to see if I can find an album or two then price up how much for a new stereo. Think mine is going to give up and I really need a turntable if those ZZ Top albums are ever going to see the light of day again!

Four brothers left home for college, and they became
successful doctors and lawyers and prospered.

Some years later, they chatted after having dinner together.

They discussed the gifts they were able to
give their elderly mother who lived far away in another city.

The first said, "I had a big house built for Mama."

The second said, "I had a hundred thousand dollar theatre built in the house."

The third said, "I had my Mercedes dealer deliver an SL600 to her."

The fourth said, "You know how Mamma loved reading the Bible and you know she can't read
anymore because she can't see very well. I met this preacher who told me about a parrot that can recite
the entire bible. It took twenty preachers 12 years to teach him. I had to pledge to contribute $100,000
a year for twenty years to the church, but it was worth it.
Mamma just has to name the chapter and verse and the parrot will recite it."

The other brothers were impressed.

After the holidays Mom sent out her Thank You notes.

She wrote:

"Milton, the house you built is so huge. I live in only one room, but I have to clean the whole
house. Thanks anyway."

"Marvin, I am too old to travel. I stay home,I have my groceries delivered, so I never use the
Mercedes.The thought was good.Thanks"

"Michael, you gave me an expensive theatre with Dolby sound, it could hold 50 people, but all
of my friends are dead, I've lost my hearing and I'm nearly blind.
I'll never use it. Thank you for the gesture just the same."

"Dearest Melvin, you were the only son to have the good sense to give a little thought to your
gift. The chicken was delicious. Thank you."

Just looked up the forecast for the coming week and it isn't looking good.

Oh dear

*looks worriedly at pile of washing that needs to be done for the holiday*

So there we are heading towards Sainsburys (nearest one to us couldn't be bothered with Asda) when I see long line of traffic up ahead.

Groan, give it a break it's Sunday, I mutter under breath.

The Petrol station at Sainsbury has reduced price of petrol to 95.9 per litre, hence the traffic, all queuing to get their petrol.

So now dilemma. Do I sit patiently in queue and get petrol which I will need at some point this week or do I continue on and park car.

Opted for the latter, hubby with me and yes may be only today at this oh so special price (it was 99.9 last week) but I hate shopping on Sundays and really needed some milk, bread and something for tea tonight!

So we walk round, discuss what to have for tea, hubby decided on burgers, not what I wanted but then again it is quick and easy (worry about diet tomorrow). Fill basket get to checkout.

"fancy some bacon with them burgers" says he.

So I trundle of like the dutiful wife I am and get some bacon.

"Bloke over there has some strawberries they are half price" says he.

"shall I get some?" I ask

"yes and cream"

So yet again trundle off, buy two punnets of strawberries (well I love them) and some extra thick cream (really will worry about diet tomorrow).

On way back look down wine aisle, not much there on special offer so pat on back as I resist temptation to buy some wine as well.

Back at checkout hubby having conversation with checkout girl about crisps and dogs (don't ask) and when I return she then starts to give me her life story - great!

Eventually get home. One thing I hate about shopping ------ Unpacking!

Sitting here in calm having a nice cup of tea now made by his lordship - ah bliss!

........I get confused!

Earlier I confused my Greenday with Coldplay! Both were being played loudly upstairs on separate stereos upstairs in different rooms whereas downstairs I was playing Bon Jovi 'Sippery when wet' album and singing loudly.

Then heard hubby shouting a couple of times (obviously we were disturbing him playing with his toy playstation game)

Ignored it.

Shouting again, decided to do the washing up.

Changed album, now playing Maroon 5 for a change, eldest comes downstairs moaning about everything so in time honoured management skills delegated the reminder of washing up to him. Picked up mp3 player and started listening to Del Amitri (yes my stereo is still going) and went upstairs for my shower.

Youngest child is now playin Cheeky Girls (will kill the person who brought him this), eldest has Red Hot Chilli peppers blaring in his room despite the fact he is now downstairs, Hubby has Blondie playing on the stereo in our room and is playing Abba on his walkman (we haven't quite reached 21st century here yet) attached to some speakers in the bathroom while he is in the bath - as he said you can't beat them so join them!

As my mother would say (god forbid me) "turn that noise down!"

Well it is absolutely chucking it down outside and if very very windy indeed! Hubby says I was singing in my sleep and not making a lot of sense, he is now sleeping of the effects of not having a lot of sleep !! Well makes a change from me having panic attacks lol

Playing my mp3 player and singing along badly and jumping around room - receiving strange looks from the kids, but then again they know their mother is mad so what is new there!

Breakfast needs to be cooked. Dead or Alive is now on its fifth play of the morning, love the music to this, and the guitar playing *plays air guitar badly*.

Oh well better get a move on before I have a riot on my hands, no rest for the wicked lol!!

But eventually I did manage to sort out my playlist for the MP3 player. So here it is!

Bryan Adams
Have you ever loved a woman
Heaven
Summer of 69

Guns and Roses
Sweet child of mine
November Rain
Feeder
Shatter
Tender
High
My perfect day
Def Leppard
When love and hate collide
Bon Jovi
Blaze of Glory
Wanted dead or alive
Bed of Roses
Have a nice day
Metallica
I disappear
The unforgiven
The unforgive 2
Nothing else matters
Del Amitri
Some other suckers parade
Here and now
Tell her this
Nothing ever happens
Evanesance
My immortal
I must be dreaming
Bring me to life
Stiltskin
Inside
Foo Fighters
Everlong

Did have a few more but ran out of space so will have to do another lot when I get fed up of playing these ones over and over again (as if I could!)

Sounds really good together and they are shuffled around as well.

Very pleased.

Now off to bed nite blogland!

Brilliant easy going film. Very funny and as much as I am not a fan of either of the actors, they do go well together in this film.

So here I am watching it, drinking 1 and only 1 glass of wine, with one earphone in checking that everything has downloaded on my mp3 player that I want!

Hubby home and just given me some spending money for our hols as well

Can it get better than this?

Oh my friend knows me so well!! You may have to click on it to get the full picture

Got this by e mail - it is official I am mad!

How can something so simple be so difficult?

I have sat here for what feels like hours, listening to tracks, downloading tracks, trying to decide what to put on MP3 player. This was going to be so easy! It has taken ages. Just running through what I have chosen before I finally load it on.

The difficult part has been choosing what to put on! I know there were three definates, but as to the rest lol it has taken ages.

I have enjoyed every minute doing it though despite the funny looks from youngest child lol!!!

Only me and youngest at home today. Hubby and eldest out doing a job, no doubt eldest has been dragged by client (fortunately a friend of ours) round B&Q and being embarrassed as we speak!

So thought as I was feeling a little worse for wear it was about time I updated my MP3 player. So I have been sitting here, headphones on, listening to tracks I haven't heard in a long time, and some I have played recently and singing along out loud to them. Youngest sending very worried looks in my direction and keeps turning the telly up occasionally, so I sing louder! He will be complaining no doubt to hubby when he gets home.

So what have I downloaded on to MP3 player?

Nothing yet. Still trying to decide.

So far it is a good possibility that it will have:

Metallica - unforgiven, unforgiven 2 and nothing else matters
Del Amitri - Roll to me, Always the last to know,Kiss this thing goodbye, Driving with the brakes on and tell her this
Bon Jovi - I'll be there for you, thank you for loving me, Blaze of Glory, Bed of Roses, Its my life
Bryan Adams - Summer of '69, Have you ever, Heaven, 18 til I die

So far so good. Haven't managed to decide on anything else yet so far. Still ploughing my way through though may put some Nickleback on it and some Aerosmith!

Oh well, off to get another coffee. I am a feeling a little more human now, not as sluggish as I was this morning - probably due to all the coffee I have drunk so far lol!

Dragged myself out of bed to go into town this morning - why oh why did I drink a whole bottle of wine, what on earth possessed me! Head slightly sore, took some paracetamol and drank some water, showered, made myself look human again and headed of to town in the pouring rain.

it is very wet and very windy here, dark as well with an autumnal feel - what happened to summer!

Waiting outside building society just before nine elderly lady starts giving me her life story.

"This branch never opens on time" she says. Town hall clock chimes. We all wait patiently outside in the pouring rain. "See I told you they still haven't opened it yet " she says " they did that one day last month as well!"
"Really says I"

"Yes I think it is disgusting making us wait! Look at them all chatting inside while we are getting wet it is disgusting"

She then decided to give me her life history, the fact that she has to come in by taxi because she cannot get a bus from where she lives (public transport up here is crap) and she cannot come by car because she cannot drive - apparently her husband was "very inconsiderate - he died 18 years ago without a thought about how it would affect me!"

Err ...........ok right, just keep smiling.

We get into the building society she matches me step for step then stand in the queue

"oh honestly" she says (there are two people waiting in front of me this is important) "only two people serving today, this is ridiculous! the taxi is coming for me at 11 and I have to go to Wilkinsons and Tesco still, I haven't got time to waste waiting around!"

" Don't worry says I, I'm only paying in a cheque won't take long and these ppl in front won't be long either it will only take 5 mins"

"that is 5 mins too long!" she says "The taxi is coming at 11 I haven't got all day!"

So I smile sweetly and manage to get to the till before she starts again.

Sweet old lady yes. Lonely? Probably. We see her everyweek. We get the same tale. I can be in a queue and notice she is coming down the road and she will spot me and start. Every week. It has got a joke now with hubby!

In the shopping centre, man comes upto me an asks if I am his wife errrrr no. Are you sure he says, you look vaguely familiar....

hubby is creasing up, not much help at all. Manage to get away eventually, go and have breakfast where dopey dora was on duty - "a milky coffee please" I ask for
"Is that a black coffee or a white one" she asks.

Ended up with a black coffee and added my own milk to it in the end, it was easier!

Before I log off I just want to say thank you to you all for a wonderful day. It had been fun. I ave had a few laughs, discussions and been enlightened.

Thank you for stopping by.

Have a good evening and sleep well.

hugs to you all

I was working in a library. Nigel (hubby) came in to do some maintenance of the lights. He was gorgeous, had a lovely bum, great personality and made me laugh. We sat and chatted. He came back everyday for two weeks to clean these lights and I spent every day for two weeks hoping he would ask me out on a date. He never did, just sat and chatted, cleaned lights and left.

I was gutted.

So then we spent 4 years, yes 4 years, bumping into each other at a pub we both frequented. He would occasionally buy me a drink, I him, chat, and leave.

Still Gutted.

So now you are wondering why didn't I ask him out.

Well I had a sheltered life. All my life I was told that a woman should never make the first move it should be the man ( and therefore didn't see it as my place to ask him out. He didn't because he thought I was seeing someone else.

Anyway I digress.

So 4 years down the line, Nigel goes to do some work at a library that I used to work at. He spent two weeks there doing a job that should have only taken him a couple of days because he hoped he would see me. He had seen a box with my name on it so assumed that I still worked there.

In the meantime I gave up on him ever asking me out on a date, met someone else and ended up engaged to him. By this time I had moved onto a college library and was having a few problems with my (so called)fiancee and life was not good.

January 1988 in walked Nigel to fix some lights. Asked me what I was doing there.

"Working" Says I.

"I have just spent the best part of two weeks putting of this job and here you are. Fancy a drink on Friday?"

"Yes," I said, " but better warn you I am engaged"

"its only a drink" he says.

" I will let you know" says I.

So following Friday we go out for a drink. We never stop talking. Closing time came, he takes me home in his car and we sit outside house in his car till the small hours of the morning chatting. He asks me out on another date and we say kiss goodnight.

Dump fiance. Don't feel sorry for him he was a 100% bastard I was too stupid to realise.

Nigel and I saw each other every night after that. Even when he had been to football he would come home to see me, take me out and have a good time. May of the same year he took me to Devon to meet his grandparents who were very important to him. September we bought our first house and started to live together, two years later we were married.

He has said that he loved me from the first moment he met me, but thought I was seeing someone else and didn't want to break up a relationship.

I am a great believer in fate. It was fate that brought us together. It was meant to be. We have had our problems but it has made us stronger in the end. We still talk to each other when we go out, we don't just talk about the kids like so many couples do. We are very much alike at times. We have fun still and enjoy each others company. We miss each other when we are apart.

He is my soulmate, my friend, my confidante and I love him dearly.

Do you and your husband ever have arguments?

Oh yes, well he does, I just have an open exchange of ideas!

Yes now watching my family.

Why does it remind me so much of mine lol!

Another one from my archive on my computer. Enjoy!

An Angel’s
Healing Hands

These hands that you see every day of your life at the tools that you take through tears, love and strife.
Without them how would you show that you care, how could you brush a tear away…..there!
How would you stroke your lovers brow, you could not hold hands, you would not know how.
They show all the love that you hold in your heart and wave a small handkerchief when you have to part.
They show all the joy in the world that we know, they hug close a child when they have to go.
They hold tight a baby you love most in the world, they hold a young child with fingers tight curled.
Never let them deny that you want someone near, let them hold everything close that is dear.
Fingers touch lightly to say you’re in love, held gently together to thank the lord above.
Give them their freedom, see what they do, they will know how at times long before you, they are an extension of all that’s love in your heart, give them the space let them play their own part.
Look at the hands of a very young child, no lines of experience, nothing defiled.
When you are older and your living does show, you can see how you’ve lived, now it’s your time to go.
Guiding you, guarding you, giving you strength, almost watching, almost touching I’m there, your life’s length.
In tune with your mind, your future, your past, you have earned this friendship first and last.
My body destroyed my soul just awakened, your humanity there by my side for the taking.
You held me with heartbeats, your soul with mine, goodbye to life-now ours are entwined.
Sometimes we find the soul mates we lack, almost too late but always intact.
When I needed you most to show me the way in the dark, you were there like a beacon to help me depart.
It had to be you, no one else would have done, so I’m here now forever, for you and my son.
(Anon)

Tea is over it was delicious. Some left over for tomorrow as well, not enough for all of us, but maybe hubby or for the kids.

Dinnerladies is on. It is so funny. Just watching the actors is great fun as they are trying not to laugh. You can always tell when Victoria Wood is going to laugh she puts her head down and won't look at anyone as she says her lines!

Nice glass of wine and a comedy, life cannot be better! All I have to do now is calm hubby down then life will be bliss indeed!

Mashing potatoes, cannot find butter.

"where is it?" I mutter turning out contents of fridge.

"what you looking for?" says eldest.

"butter"

"I finished it earlier"

GGGGRRRRRRRRR

"You will need to get some then son" says I , "get your dad to take you"

"Do you need cheese?" says hubby

"Why?" I ask

"because I finished the last of it"

"if you want cheesy topping then yes I need cheese"

"ok" he says standing up and wriggling his hips.

"Do you like my pussydoll impersonation?" he asks

What!!!!???????!!!!!

Finally decided what to have for tea tonight - shepherds pie.

Prepared everything, mince (well quorn) cooking along with onion etc. Ask hubby to peel spuds which he did.

"don't forget to cut them up" says I.

Five mins later I ask him if he put them on.

"No you just told me to cut them up you didn't tell me I had to wear them as well!"

I give up!

now next doors ball has come over my fence! Stopped the dogs from bursting it once already, thrown it back over three times to get it returned again.

Not doing it again

A couple had only been married for two weeks when the husband, although very much in love, couldn't wait to go out on the town and party with his old buddies. So, he said to his new wife, "Honey, I'll be right back."

"Where are you going, Coochy Coo?" asked the wife.

"I'm going to the bar, Pretty Face. I'm going to have a beer."

The wife said, "You want a beer, my love?" She opened the door to the refrigerator and showed him 25 different kinds of beer, brands from 12 different countries.

The husband didn't know what to do, and the only thing that he could think of saying was, "Yes, Lollipop, but at the bar, you know...they
have frozen glasses."

He didn't get to finish the sentence, because the wife interrupted him by saying, "You want a frozen glass, Puppy Face?" She took a huge beer
mug out of the freezer, so frozen that she was getting chills just holding it.

The husband, looking a bit pale, said, "Yes, Tootsie Roll, but at the bar they have those hors d'oeuvres that are really delicious. I won't
be long.I'll be right back. I promise. OK?"

"You want hors d'oeuvres, Poochie Pooh?" She opened the oven and took out dishes of different hors d'oeuvres: chicken wings, pigs in blankets, mushroom caps, and pork strips.

"But my sweet honey, at the bar.... you know... there's swearing, dirty words, and all that."

"You want dirty words, Cutie Pie? Listen up shit-for-brains! Sit your ass down, shut the hell up, drink your beer in your frozen mug, and eat
your f---ing hors d'oeuvres, because your married ass isn't going to a damned bar! That crap is over. Got it, Numbnuts?"

And, they lived happily ever after.

Now, isn't that a sweet story?

Spent this afternoon retyping hubbys cv. He has seen a job in the local paper he thought he might try applying for, except they want CVs sent to them, so I have had to type one up for him. Unlikely he will get it but you have to try don't you?

Eldest hasn't done washing up yet says he wants to do it all in one go and as we are going to have dinner he will do it after that --oh what was that? A flying pig! Don't get to see them too often round here.

In reality he wants to watch the telly and text his friends - well guess who will be losing the phone and having the plug taken out of the wall?

Youngest has gone to his friends house to play, so peace from him. Had a small tantrum earlier as he didn't want to do any reading for me but tough it has to be done.

So far all is well in Faffa's household. All I have to do is tea now, think I will make shepherds pie or pasta, can't make up my mind!

A while ago, I met with the new headteacher as she was trying to organise the staffing for September. She asked me if I was willing to do the HLTA course (Higher level teaching assistant)as I was already experienced in doing cover supervision (taking a class at short notice if teacher is called away) and had good supervisory skills.

I agreed.

I haven't heard anything since.

Saw a colleague in town the other day and she was telling me about all the evidence she needs to get together before September. "How are you going?," she says "or are you like me and finding it difficult finding all the paperwork you need for the evidence"

"Er.... I have no idea what you are talking about"

"The HLTA you are doing it with me"

So I assured her that I hadn't been given anything and that I hadn't been passed on any information about it.

"Oh, that's strange because she (new head) told me that you and I was doing it in September"

This causes a problem. I need the paperwork so that I know what evidence I should provide. Yes I could look it up on the internet, but unless I am told officially why should I put myself out. I could be finding everything I need to find that I am not doing the course afterall or do it in the hopes that I am.

Dilema.

Then again why hasn't she told me or sent any info onto me, she knows my address she sent me the agenda for the meeting on training day.

Doesn't bode well for communication next term does it?

Going through my files and deleting some of my hard drive found this which I love. Enjoy!

Always forgive your enemies - Nothing annoys them so much.

If Barbie is so popular, why do you have to buy her friends?

When everything's coming your way, you're in the wrong lane.

I used to have an open mind but my brains kept falling out.

I couldn't repair your brakes, so I made your horn louder.

For Sale: Parachute. Only used once, never opened, small stain.

Do you have trouble making up your mind? Well, yes or no?

If everything seems to be going well, you have obviously overlooked something.

Many people quit looking for work when they find a job.

When I'm not in my right mind, my left mind gets pretty crowded.

Everyone has a photographic memory. Some just don't have film.

You know the speed of light, so what's the speed of dark?

I poured Spot remover on my dog. Now he's gone.

Evening news is where they begin with 'Good evening', and then proceed to tell you why it isn't.

Before borrowing money from a friend, decide which you need more.(Friend or Money !)

Death is hereditary.

There are three sides to any argument: your side, my side and the right side.

An consultant is someone who takes a subject you understand and makes it sound confusing.

Never argue with a fool. People might not know the difference.

When you're right, no one remembers. When you're wrong, no one forgets.

Cheer up, the worst is yet to come.

Always remember that you are absolutely unique. Just like everyone else.

Everyone makes mistakes. The trick is to make mistakes when nobody is looking.

They say hard work never hurts anybody, but why take the chance.

Always borrow money from a pessimist. He won't expect it back.

I like work. It fascinates me. I sit and look at it for hours.

If you can't see the bright side of life, polish the dull side.

Where there's a will, there are five hundred relatives.

Everybody wants to go to heaven, but nobody wants to die.

Not the type you eat the ones that appear in your inbox or spam folder.

Normally I don't bother looking. If it isn't from someone I know then I don't open them.

However this one was from a well known shop, one of these where you can do your weekly shop online. I have tried this twice, both times my shopping was stolen from the van. On the first occasion the driver had locked up the van and gone up several flights of stairs at a block of flats on a nearby housing estate when his van was stolen. The second time, different delivery driver, left the van unlocked (after all he was parked outside the house when he was delivering) and an opportunist thief helped himself to what was inside - most of my shopping!

So I just can't be bothered with the hassle of wondering if it will turn up or not and go shopping instead.

So special offer is sent to me by email, from this new store, offering me 2 free gifts if I order from them.

Not one, two.

Its free (yeah right) there is always a catch.

You have to spend £90 to qualify for the free gift!

Don't think I will bother.

1. Your name spelled backwards: ahtnamaS

2. Where were your parents born? Father-Wales, mother- England

3. What is the last thing you downloaded onto your computer? Real player

4. Have you ever been in a school play? Yes

5. Type of music you dislike most? Rap

6. Are you registered to vote? Yes and I always do

7. Do you have a car? Yes.

8. Have you ever ridden on a moped? No

9. Ever prank call anybody? No

10. Ever got a parking ticket? Yes, stupid man didn't see the pay and display ticket clearly displayed on the windscreen (he admitted it was his fault)

11. Would you go bungee jumping or sky diving? Er NO

12. Furthest place you ever travelled? Florida

13. Do you have a garden? Yes, front and back

14. What’s the size of your bed? Double,

15. Do you really know all the words to your national anthem? Of course

16. Bath or Shower, morning or night? Shower, morning, wash evening

17. Best movie you’ve seen in the past 4 months? Pirates of Caribbean 2

18. What’s the next movie you want to see? Monster House

19. Have you ever broken any hearts? Yes

20. Are you a good cook? According to hubby I am

21. Orange or Apple juice? Orange with pineapple

22. Who was the last person you went out to dinner with & where did you go to? Hubby, my friend and her husband, went to Pub in Henlow

23. Favorite type of drink? tea in the morning, water during the day.

24. Best thing in the world? Being loved by my hubby and kids

25. Have you ever broken a bone? Yes my nose and recently one of my toes

26. Have you ever won a trophy? No

27. What is your favourite board game? Scrabble which I am not very good at!

28. What is your dream car? One that works

29. Ever order an article from an infomercial? Er yes

30. Coke or Pepsi? Not keen on either, but if I had to choose would be DIET coke

31. Have you ever had to wear a uniform to work? no

32. Last thing you bought at a pharmacy? My medication

33. Who would you like to meet? no preference

34. Do you believe in love at first sight? Lust yes, love comes later

35. How many pairs of shoes do you own? According to hubby too many!

36. Last song stuck in your head? Bryan Adams the best of me

37. Any pets? 2 dogs, 2 finches, 1 canary, several fish

38. What is one thing you would like to learn to do? learn Latin

39. What do you do when you are bored? Stitching or phone a friend

40. Bacon sandwiches – should they have bread or toast? bread

Sun is shining and all is right with the world (well I can dream can't I) lol!

Been to fat club, lost 21/2Ib only 1Ib to go to get rid of what I put on two weeks ago! Not so bad considering that I haven't eaten at all well and have done very little exercise with the exception of that walk on Sunday!

Kids are being very quiet, not sure why yet. Do you ever feel that when they are that quiet you are waiting for the bombshell to drop! It is going to happen, I can feel it. Lets put it this way it will be unusual for my two to be quiet for to long they have to argue sooner or later!

Just making myself an egg roll, had no breakfast yet so thought I would have brunch instead!

Oh there it is,WW3 breaking out upstairs, better go and send them to their rooms!

Well my holiday is arranged, off in just over a weeks time to stay with my Aunt and Uncle which has pleased the kids. Hubby coming with us this year as well. It has been a while since he has been to Wales, he usually works while we spend his money for him lol!

Looking forward to it. Spoke to aunt earlier and she is as well. We are going to be there at the same time as my sister, though she is staying in the next village along and not at the house, "thank Gawd for that" says hubby! They get on really!

Just hoping for good weather so we can go to the beach which the kids have been looking forward to all year! promised them they can take their sleeping bags, they think that is fun, they can sleep on the playroom floor then lol!

Need a break and really looking forward to catching up with the family. My Aunt and Uncle are more like parents to me, I love them dearly and it always feels like I am going home when I go there.

I am hugry, I want chocolate! Can't though promised my friend that I will go to Fat club with her tomorrow, so need to know I have lost weight not put it on! Wish me luck!

Oh well off to bed now I think. Had a good day, done some sewing , read blogs and had a good laugh. coming on here has kept me sane at times and would just like to say thank you to you all for reading and commenting.

Hugs to you all!

Thats the number of times I have tried to write a post and deleted it. Problem comes down to wording it, write it, then check it to find it doesn't read right.

Must be hormonal or part of the silly mood I am in!

Silly mood, yes I have them at times.

Hubby is watching 'fat contest' on telly, no idea what it is about, something about some sort of fashion show, and the women on there are gorgeous! the women they are interviewing is saying that fat women can be beautiful as well so she is organising a fashion show for fat women. Very interesting.

Still not worded my question I was going to ask so may give up now, obviously it wasn't meant to be!

Your Job Dissatisfaction Level is 30%

Your job is not bad, but it's probably not a long term thing.
You're just not happy enough to stick around for too long...
And there's little that can change how you feel.
Start looking around for other options, but only quit for something really good!

Oh right better start looking then.

http://www.blogthings.com/shouldyouquityourjobquiz/
Thanks goes to tealover for this one!

Conversation I had earlier with a friend. We were sitting watching someting on telly - no idea what now, - and commenting on the size of the ppl on it - most of them incredibly skinny - when she tells me her hubby is most upset I am on a diet as he likes me curvy! Er What curves? Huge stomach, huge thighs, huge hips, small bust. But who am I to argue. I know my hubby loves me for what I am, and in reality I am only trying to lose about stone and half, will still be a size 16.

So told hubby who agrees that it is disappointing that I am dieting but he says he loves me anyway and that he knows that all I want is to tone a little and that I will still be 'curby'

We then started to talk about what we were watching on telly - yet another music channel this time mainly women in various states of undress and obviously well toned. Probably size 4 to boot - in his words too skinny. Which led to a discussion about Victoria Beckham.

"That would be like making love to a plank" he announces "there is nothing to get hold of"

Agree she is far too skinny almost anorexic looking. While I lust after the ideal figure, what in reality is ideal. What we see in magazines or what the ordinary woman in the street looks like.

Personally, it took a long time for me to accept that I will never be skinny and to accept what I have. I have always been big and self critical. Nowadays I know I need to tone those problem areas up but then again I am happy, healthy and know how to have fun without it being false. The stone and a bit I want to lose will never make me skinny because that is not what I want - i need to lose that to stay within the size 16 comfortably. I will still be large but happy.

What do you see as the ideal size?
Are you happy with your body?
What would you change if you could?
How does your partner feel about you?
If you are single do you see your size as a hindrance or does it help?

Too many questions? Reason I am asking is that we both agreed that most men liked women who had, and I quote, "something to get hold of" lol!

So would be interested to see if anyone agrees with this statement or not and it applies to both men and women, want to hear from both sides!

In general, you are a very cautious and reserved person.
However, you are also warm hearted, and you enjoy helping others in practical ways.
You are a great teacher, and you are really good at helping people get their lives in order.
You are very intuitive, and you go with your gut. You make good decisions easily.

Stolen from Jake Taylor http://www.blogthings.com/whatmythologicalcreatureareyouquiz/

Taken from Jake Taylor

What colour flower are you?

A yellow flower tends to represent joy, friendship, and playfulness.
At times, you are childlike, as a buttercup is.
And at other times, you are fickle, like a dahlia.
And more than you wish, you tend to feel bittersweet, like a marigold.

www.blogthings.com/whatcolorflowerareyouquiz/

Just sitting here listening to the radio, man just phones in and says he has just dropped his wife and baby off at the airport as they are on their way to Ireland. They ask him how he feels and he says ok, quite happy with the security measures etc but says that as they have to taste the milk they are taking on board for the baby, his wife is really glad that she is taking formula milk and didn't express this morning!

Got to feel sorry for them, must be a nightmare!

Apparently a lot of people are now being turned away from Heathrow, a lot of flights have now been cancelled particularly flights coming into Heathrow.

Friends of ours are due to fly out to Germany later today and we have family coming over for the funeral at the weekend as well - again from abroad, so now left wondering how long this will go on for and if they will make it. Hubby on motorway as we speak and says he is at a standstill - he is only trying to get to work, roads are gridlocked.

Home secretary says carry on as normal.

Hubby thinking about giving up and coming home!

Woke up to the news that the police have foiled a terrorist plot and airports are on high alert. Delays expected. Hand luggage not allowed on. Important things such as contact lenses, small purses wallets to be put in plastic bags to take on flight. Anyone going to USA to be double checked. Baby milk to be tasted.

is this going over the top?

Personally I don't think so, being quite a nervous flyer, though once the plane takes of, I am ok, I think any precaution taken is good at this time. However the organisation of this leaves a lot to be desired. Listening to the radio there are people complaining about the crowds at airports, the fact people are on escalators and cannot get off them because of the crowds in front of them yet the escalators are still running. People getting to the airport and not being told what is going on and only getting half the information. Traffic building up on the road around the airport. Sounds like chaos. There are a lot of complaints.

Really glad that I went to Florida last year and have no plans for this year!

I hope that anyone that is flying over the next few days gets to their destinations safely and that you have a wonderful time and are not delayed for too long.

Bon Jovi on telly singing Always, oh what a song to go to bed on!

Nite Nite xx

This was sent via email to me, thought it was good enough to share.

Had a few problems logging on earlier, kept coming up in German or my page kept coming up as page cannot be displayed. Noticed quite a few fellow bloggers having problems as well.

Been sitting here watchin Magic channel on tv - they had 100 songs from the movies on so hubby and I have been reminicising and trying to guess what the movie was the song was from. Quite funny really as hubby hasn't got a clue about music unless it is Abba, Brenda Lee, Blondie or OMD! So at one point, as Duran Duran were singing "View to a kill" he says
"Didn't everyone like these?"
Me: "I didn't"
Him: "What you didn't like Ah Ha?"
Me: "This is Duran Duran"
Him:"Didn't they sing Gold?"
Me: "No that was Spandau Ballet"
Slight pause
Him:"Oh that's right the one who appears in that film"
Me:" What film"
Him:" Dirty Dancing, he was a ballet dancer wasn't he? "
By this time I am wetting myself laughing.

Did eventually put him right poor thing shouldn't laugh I always knew he wasn't very good at music, he is however very good at reciting phrases from films starring John Wayne or Kevin Costner!

Some of the songs brought back a few memories though and ended up singing along to a lot of them. A couple from the film Grease (obviously) reminded me that my mother would never let me go and see that film yet all my friends had and how hard done by I felt. Now my children watch it and sing along to it, in comparison to some films that are on Grease is quite tame really!

Nice to listen to some of the songs from the past though I enjoyed it!

Well I have just dropped eldest off to meet his friends in town. Talk about excitement! He has gone off in his new jeans and shirt and is looking very smart indeed, for someone who is going bowling and having pizza afterwards lol! he looks so grown up bless!

The other one is glued to disney channel, Lilo and stitch is on so not going to have a hope in getting him away from that lol!

Done some ironing, not all of it, just enough to get us by for the remainder of this week, there isn't much left to do but I really have to be in the mood for ironing

I am calm.

The weather is dreadful, it is pouring down with rain outside. I have a ton of ironing to do, though eldest can do his own after yesterdays fiasco, apart from that not planning on doing much at all.

Twinges I had in my back yesterday, which I largely ignored, I fear have developed into sciatica. Had to be helped out of bed this morning, pain in spine, across hips and down back of leg - should have known better not to overdo things and really should listen to my body. ironing while sitting down today I think.

Bad nights sleep again. Woke up with a start as it felt as though someone was staring at me, but no one there then just as I was dozing I got it into my head I was choking, panic attack starts up, hubby takes 20 mins calming me down. Took ages to get of to sleep to have bad dreams. Think I am stressed as well, always sends me off this way.

God I sound like a hypochondriac! Not usually honest, just everything seems to be happening at once lately lol! One thing after another!

Today I will be happy, I wll not get stressed. Eldest is meeting up with friends in town today, so I will be taxi-ing him there and back.

Oh well enough rambling, going to get myself sorted for the day and start that ironing!

Son has disappeared to bed, that is early for him during holidays! Now all I have to do is upset hubby and I get a peaceful night. Off now to do my worst!

Lets just save time and say it is doing the rounds and I am bored lol!

1. Initials:
SJH

2. Name someone with the same birthday as you:
Al Pacino, Oliver Cromwell, Ella Fitzgerald, Fish (used to be in band Marillion),Renee Zwelleger to name but a few

3. Favorite fruit?
Peaches and cherries

4. For or against same sex marriage?
If you love one another why not.

5. Are you allergic to anything?
Co drydramol

6. Are you bisexual?
NO

7. Have you ever slept in someone else's clothes?
No

8. How many U.S. states have you been to?
1 - Florida

9. How many of the U.S. states have you lived in?
None

10. Have you ever lived outside the U.S.?
Er read what I wrote before

11. Name something physical you like about yourself.
My eyes

12. Something non-physical you like about yourself?
My family

13. Do you have any pets?
2 dogs, 3 birds, several tropical fish

14. What is your dream car?
One that has four wheels and works

15. If you could go anywhere in the world where would you go?
Anywhere that had peace and quiet.

16. Are you bipolar?
Nope, just hormonal.

17. What dream car do you want your husband/wife to drive?
One that has 4 wheels and is reliable

18. Where would you want to go on a first date?
I have a husband!

19. Would you date the person who posted this before you?
Er no answered that previously.

20. Has anyone ever sang or performed for you personally?
No

21. Ever been kissed under fireworks?
No don't like fireworks

22. Do you like president Bush?
No

23.Have you ever bungee jumped?
No

24. Have you ever white water rafted?
No

25. Has anyone 5 years older than you ever hit on you?
no

26. Are you racist?
No.

27. What song are you listening to right now?
I am watching the telly no music on

28. What's your favorite song at the moment?
I have far too many that I like, depends on what mood I am in

29. What was the last movie you watched?
Pirates of the caribbean 2

30. Where was the last place you went besides your workplace or house?
Into town

31. Have you ever seriously vandalized someone else's property?
No why would I want to do that?

32. Have you ever hit someone of the opposite sex?
No but threw a pint of beer over them

33. What's the first thing you notice about the opposite sex?
Smile and personality

35. What do you usually order from Starbucks
No

36. Say something totally random about yourself?
I broke my nose once

37. Do you have an iPod?
No

38. Has anyone ever said you looked like a celebrity?
No

39. Do you have freckles?
Yes.

41. Do you love someone right now?
Yes, My hubby, someone has to

42. How tall are you?
5'5''

43. Do you speak any other language other than English?
NO, Have o level french and german but haven't spoken them since I left school

44. Have you ever ridden in a limo?
No.

45. Has anyone you were really close to passed away?
Yes

46. Do you watch tv?
It is usually on in the background but don't watch unless I am interested in what is on

48. What's something that really annoys you?
People who are too lazy to say thank you, people who don't indicate at roundabouts

49. What are some things you really like?
Cross stitching, reading, chatting with friends, My hubby and children

50 Do you like Michael Jackson?
No, can't stand the bloke

51. Have you ever surfed?
Only the web.

52. Do you know how to pump gas?
Yes,

53. What do you drive?
Vauxhall Vectra called Vecky

54. What's the latest you have ever stayed out?
til 4am

55. Have you ever thought that you were honestly going to die?
Yes after the birth of first child during a blood transfusion

56. Were you ever rushed by an ambulance into the emergency room?
No

57. Have you ever been dared to do something you didn't want to do?
No

59. What color is your hair?
Brown with blonde highlights

60. What color are your eyes?
Blue.

61. Do you have any special talents?
Play Clarinet

62. Favorite non-alcoholic drink?
J2O orange and passionfruit

63. Favorite city?
Haven't really got one

64. Have you ever ridden a mechanical bull?
No.

65. If you were working on a pirate ship, what would you most likely be?
The captain

66. Who do you work with?
Lots of kids.

67. Last thing you watched on tv?
Blue Murder

68. Do you wear glasses or contacts?
Glasses and contact lenses

69. Have you ever taken a roadtrip?
No

Does anyone else find it difficult to rinse plates, cups, glasses etc before putting them away in a dishwasher?

Does anyone else find it impossible to follow instructions?

Does anyone out there ever wonder why you talk to people, or ask them to do something when it would be a lot quicker to have done it yourself in the first place?

Let me explain.

Dishwasher as you know blew up this morning. Ask eldest child to wash up items in it by hand for me.

Cooked dinner this evening. Wash up, decide to make sure inside dishwasher is clean ready to be dumped at the tidy tip to find it is still full up with the things I specificaly asked to be washed up.

So I have just spent the past hour doing the washing up that was in the dishwasher. It shouldn't have taken this long, but unfortunately for some unknown reason, the dishes were put into the dishwasher without being rinsed - we had macaroni cheese yesterday which has gone very hard so the plates ended up being soaked. I must admit I am a bit fussy about these things and there is a certain order to how I wash up as well, and insist upon everything being rinsed etc etc, so it took a long time, not impressed and not happy that I ended up doing it as well.

Oh and the other thing, son gets washing in but doesn't fold it up just leaves it on the chair screwed up! Guess who will be ironing all his own clothes from now on and he has the audacity to complain about me being in a bad mood - I haven't even begun yet!!!

As I thought it would!

Went round to see a friend. Sat in her garden the pair of us sewing on our individual projects and putting the world to rights over several cups of tea. In comes her husband from work holding my wing mirror from the car!

Some bastard got so close they took it clean off!

I was parked half on the pavement as the road they live on is very busy and people have a tendency to park either side - however you can still get two cars down the road passing each other without too many problems.

So I am now a mirror short on the drivers side which is a bugger as I rely on my mirrors due to the fact that when I have back problems i cannot turn round in my seat.

Then got home to find that I no longer have a cd rewriter on my computer as today it decided that it was going to break down all the inside of it burnt out!

They say it comes in threes hope that is it!!

Got this as an email, it is very funny!

Letter home from a Farm Kid

(NOW AT San Diego MARINE CORPS RECRUIT TRAINING.)
Dear Ma and Pa,
I am well. Hope you are. Tell Brother Walt and Brother Elmer the Marine Corps beats working for old man Minch by a mile. Tell them to join up quick before all of the places are filled. I was restless at first because you got to stay in bed till nearly 6 A.M. but I am getting so I like to sleep late. Tell Walt and Elmer all you do before breakfast is smooth your cot, and shine some things. No hogs to slop, feed to pitch, mash to mix, wood to split, fire to lay. Practically nothing. Men got to shave but it is not so bad, there's warm water. Breakfast is strong on trimmings like fruit juice, cereal, eggs, bacon, etc., but kind of weak on chops, potatoes, ham, steak, fried eggplant, pie and other regular food, but tell Walt and Elmer you can always sit by the two city boys that live on coffee. Their food plus yours holds you till noon when you get fed again.!

It's no wonder these city boys can't walk much. We go on "route marches," which the platoon sergeant says are long walks to harden us. If he thinks so, it's not my place to tell him different. A "route march" is about as far as to our mailbox at home. Then the city guys get sore feet and we all ride back in trucks. The country is nice but awful flat. The sergeant is like a school teacher. He nags a lot. The Captain is like the school board. Majors and colonels just ride around and frown. They don't bother you none.
This next will kill Walt and Elmer with laughing. I keep getting medals for shooting. I don't know why. The bulls-eye is near as big as a chipmunk head and don't move, and it ain't shooting at you like the Higgett boys at home. All you got to do is lie there all comfortable and hit it. You don't even load your own cartridges. They come in boxes.
Then we have what they call hand-to-hand combat training. You get to wrestle with them city boys. I have to be real careful though, they break real easy. It ain't like fighting with that ole bull at home. I'm about the best they got in this except for that Tug Jordan from over in Silver Lake. I only beat him once. He joined up the same time as me, but I'm only 5'6" and 130 pounds and he's 6'8" and near 300 pounds dry.
Be sure to tell Walt and Elmer to hurry and join before other fellers get onto this setup and come stampeding in.

Your loving daughter, Carol

Went to Town today. eldest needed some school trousers, I needed to find out how much money I don't have and drop eldest off to get his hair cut. So far so good.

Actually it wasn't that bad in town for a change, well a lot easier to get round than it was at Asda yesterday anyway. Manged to bump into two collegues from work and one ex collegue so it took just a long to get round in the end. Managed to find a pair of trouser to fit son, nearly 15 with a 26inch waist and 32in inside leg - it is so difficult getting trousers to fit him! Got the trousers in BHS in the end, only just fit in the leg, hope he doesn't grow much more as for some reason they seem to think if you need a 28inch waist trouser then the long length in the leg only needs to be 30in!!

Mum phoned while I was out. We still cannot believe we have lost another member of the family, but the coroner has now done his bit and released the body so funeral can go ahead next Wednesday. Stil can't believe he has gone and I admit it hasn't hit me yet, he was just the life and soul of the party.

He part owned a pub in Germany and they have announced his death on the front page of their website which is nice, done a copy of it for mum for her memory box, I know she will appreciate that. Couple of nice things said about him on the guest book as well.

Feel a little lost this week I have to admit.

Couldn't have gone better really - dishwasher has just blown up!! Now have the decision to make, do I get a new one to replace it OR do I buy another cupboard to go in that space. Decisions, decisions.

One part of me is saying get rid of it altogether and put a cupboard there. Save water, do your bit for the environment. Downside to that is I will end up washing up on top of everything else I have to do. Of course it is supposed to be one of eldest Chores but as most of it goes in the dishwasher there is very little for him to do thus he gets lazy. One of the reasons we got the dishwasher in the first place was because I was tired of getting dirty plates where he had supposedly washed up - it is one of my biggest bug bears. So stress levels, angry moments, do it yourself or save all this and get a dishwasher.

Oh decisions decisions!!

Mind you It couldn't have happened at a worst time. MIL dishwasher gave up last week so we ended
up with a huge amount of dishwashing tablets, salt and rinse aid in the cupboard. Also the fact we have no spare money at the moment to replace the machine either. Then there is the problem of if I can get a cupboard that will match the rest of the kitchen to go in the gap that will be left by the dishwasher!

Decisions, Decisions!!!!

As I sit here, listening to some Old Whitesnake I have managed to find on the net, it occurs to me that the nights are closing in earlier and earlier heralding that the end of summer is approaching. A depressing thought especially as we haven't really had that much of a summer, ok a few hot days we all complained about, but now a few wet days, with more to come if the weather forecasts are to be belived. Depressing thought!

And it is depressing for me as I am at my happiest when it is Spring and Summer, don't really enjoy Autumn and winter, cold, wet dark and miserable! I often think I must suffer from SAD syndrome.

Oh well the only thing to do is enjoy what is remaining of our summer and make the most of it all.

I have had a good evening. I have played some Metallica and had my eldest ask if I can 'copy' the songs onto disk for him as he really enjoyed them. What? This is the boy who claims my musical tastes are crap, now all of a sudden they are ok! He has given me a list of what he wants to have included on his disk. Now all I have to do is subscribe to some sites and download hopefully.

Now here is my problem I have no idea what sites as it is something I have never had to do before. You see a lot of the songs he wants, I haven't got round to getting onto cd yet, a lot of them are still on vinyl and I cannot play them as I no longer have a record player. I have found a lot of my favourites on You tube so I have been playing them from there.

Any good sites I can download from? I have an mp3 player so not a total ignoramus but so far only copied tracks onto it from cds, not downloaded from the net. Any help greatly appreciated!

Had to go, couldn't avoid it no matter how much I tried, but we had ran out of dog food and hubby has no sugar left so realy needed to pop out for a few bits. So off I went to asda, needed to get something for tea tonight and I really wished I hadn't bothered. It has left me with a huge headache and I am now going to vent!

To the woman who shouted at my son - he was not in the way (for a change) he was standing out of the way to one side while I decided on how many spuds I would need for tonight's tea. You however was not looking where you were going because you were too busy chatting on your mobile phone, pushing a big trolley with one hand and looking behind you. An apology would not have gone amiss.

To the young shop assistant stocking the shelves - hunny that is what you should have been doing. Standing there chatting to a friend about what position you and your boyfriend did it in last night and how many times really was not getting the food on the shelves - I only hope you washed your hands! It may have entertained the few men who stopped to listen but really for the rest of us it wasn't much fun as we were trying to get our trolleys round your trolley of food that needed to be put on the shelves.

To the women who haven't seen each other for at least two years - so pleased you have manged to find each other again, but was it necessary to block the whole gangway with your trolleys while you chatted? could you have not had some consideration for your fellow shoppers and moved to one side then you wouldn't have needed to complain about the old woman who knocked you with your troley when she moved it out of the way for you after politely asking several times for you to move!

To the mother with three boys. How I admire you. How hassled you look. However allowing them to play football and practise heading the ball as they walked round the shop wasn't a good idea - what was you thinking? Saying to them quietly in that whiney voice 'please don't do that' while you are looking at the bras is not going to work. Take the ball off them!! So sorry your youngest saw fit to walk into my trolley and hurt his head, what was he thinking of!

To the till supervisor opening 6 tills out of thirty on what is an incredibly busy Monday was not the best idea you had. The poor cashier of the line I was on, did tell you several times his till wasn't working as did the poor bloke he was trying to serve. 15 minutes spent fiddling about with the till while the queues on all the other tills got bigger and bigger was not a good idea. Turnign round and saying "sorry till isn't working can you go to another one, but not opening another up" definately was not a good move. is there no wonder the people in that queue were upset. I am surprised there wasn't a mini riot! Next time try to get those workers that were huddled in small groups round the store to open up tills and keep the queues moving you may find people will not be so stressed to find that after waiting twenty minutes that they have been told to move. Please promote the checkout guy who told you what was wrong in the first place he obviously has more sense than you.

To the manager, sorry I stormed out and left a trolley of shopping in your store. My apologies to the person who had to put it away, but really I have never seen it so bad and I think if I had spent anymore time in your store I would have exploded. You will be pleased to know I got my shopping in the end, in Tesco. All the tills were open, and I had very little stress there.

Thank you.

Ok so here it is. Thanks to Molt who started me of on this after he posted it on his site, and then me spending quite a few hours going through cds, tape compilations, I have finally whittled my list down to this!

Rules: You can be sweet, loving, mean, down right evil or just funny !!
Will no doubt depend on your mood and memories and what you've been listening to recently. . you are allowed more than one song in each heading there are no rules, and you don't have to do it, that's the beauty of it, you can keep on trying . . that's a song too aint it??

1.Song(s) for Monday morning to get your *butt* in gear
Bat out of Hell – Meatloaf (something to sing along loudly to when I am in the shower!)
The Final Countdown – Europe

2. Song(s) that reflects your current mood
Shiny happy people - REM (feeling hyper today!)

3. Song(s) that reflects your year to date
Wind of change - Scorpions
Trouble - Coldplay
Its my life – Bon Jovi
Ok not quite a song but Mission Impossible theme tune seems to fit for this year lol!
(It has been a difficult year but it is getting better!)

4. Song(s) that makes you smile/happy
Babylon – David Gray
Roll to me – Del Amitri

5. Song(s) that made/makes you cry
Changes – Black Sabbath (played this over and over again at a difficult time in my life)
Nothing else matters – Metallica ….

6. Song(s) to fall in love to
Bed of Roses – Bon Jovi (Danced to this recently with hubby and fell in love again!)
I knew I loved you before I met you – Savage Garden

7. Song(s) you haven't heard for ages
You Can Call Me Al - Paul Simon (featuring Chevvy Chase – must find my copy)
Poison – Alice Cooper
Inside - Stiltskin

8. Song(s) that brings back memories
Heaven – Bryan Adams (this was playing in the background when I got my first marriage proposal)
Enola Gay – OMD (Hubby used to play this a lot!)

9. Song(s) you ROCK / DANCE / JIG about to
November Rain – Guns and Roses (son just commented on my moving around and nodding head as I am listening to it through headphones! )
Hard Rock Hallelujah – Lordi

10. Song(s) to make love / *bonk* to
I want to know what love is – Foreigner
The Power of love – Jennifer Rush
Unforgiven II – Metallica ( I love the music to this)

11. Song(s) to break up/have argument to
Why’d you lie to me – Anastacia
Don’t Speak – No doubt

12. Song(s) that makes you cringe or you just plain hate
Ben – Michael Jackson

13. Song(s) for that all important birthday (18/21/30 . . none of us are any older are we )
18 till I die - Bryan Adams has to be!!(really couldn't think of anything else!)

14. Song(s) you'd sing if you did / do kareoke
Black eyed boy – Texas
We belong – Pat Benatar (though her voice it better than mine!)
Wiseman – James Blunt (usually sing along to it in the car so why not!)

15. Song(s) that makes/made the hairs on the back of your neck stand up
Everybody hurts – REM
Because of you – Kelly Clarkson (for some reason sent shivers down my spine when I first heard it)

16. Song(s) you wish you'd written
Angel - Robbie Williams (I love this song)

17. Song(s) you can play / or wish you could play on any instrument (includes banging sticks together)
Roll to me – Del Amitri (Doesn’t sound too good on the clarinet though!)
This year’s love – David Grey ( I just love it, so poignant)

18. Song(s) to drive/be driven about during the summer, windows down, volume up to 11 . .
Bring me to life – Evanesence (certainly would wake up a sleepy village!)
Bat out of Hell - Meatloaf
Bohemian Rhapsody - Queen

19. Song(s) to play at a BBQ / Get The Party Started
Get this party started – Pink
Can’t stop me now - Queen

20. and finally a song(s) you would recommend fellow bloggers/friends to listen to
Metallica – Nothing else matters

There were so many more I could have added, but it would have taken all day to read lol!

Is what it is outside, it can't quite make its mind up whether or not to rain or have the sun shining! Checked my emails this morning and have one from some company about speedy divorces! Don't think I need that just yet so it has been deleted.

Don't you just hate spam mail!

I have sat here going through my cd collection and tape compilation trying to find some songs, discover some that I have not heard for a while, been laughed at as I jiggle in my chair and take part in a little headbanging and sing out loud! Eldest has helped me a little by saying which ones he likes, I am trying to convert his style just a little!

Anyway thanks for the lovely comments earlier from my 'friends' you have made my day.

Off to beddy byes now hopefully will get my top 20 done by tomorrow lol!

Have a good evening

Well following on from my morning post I eventually managed to drag the menfolk from the comfort of their beds and announced if I didn't get any help then the whole idea was off. Ok so I ended up still having to make the rolls - ham with cucumber, ham with pickle or just plain ham, but once they were done it was just a matter of putting them in the cool bag along with drinks, crisps, cakes and sausage rolls.

We originally wanted to go to Barnwell Country Park up in Northamptonshire which resulted in trawling through the huge stack of photo albums we had to get the correct name - yes I date and name all photos as it will be nice to look at when the kids are older and then it is self explanatory! The last time we had been there was before we had children in fact it was before we got married! Anyway we located it on the map, loaded up the car and off we went - well after eldest walked the dogs as our whippet, Baron, gets a bit hyper when he is in the car!!

So there we were driving towards it when we passed the entrance to Stanwick lakes. As we went past hubby commented on how nice it looked, so we ended up turning round and driving in.

Wow was first impression. It was massive. Paths neatly laid out, long walk round them, adventure playgound for the kids as well as an assault course, they had a whale of a time. Dogs were totally exhausted by the time we walked round the lakes, and even though there were a lot of families with children, people on bikes, joggers and other dog walkers, it was rare to come across someone else as we were walking.

Picnic was very nice, another explore round much to our Grey's disgust who just wanted to collapse in the car, and work his way through the two bottles of water we took with us for the dogs!

Weather was perfect, humid and overcast at times but when the sun came out it was very hot, in fact I now have a red nose! Leg is now aching again, back is twingeing as well, but we all enjoyed it including the kids!

if you are ever in the area I definately recommend this as a place to go.

http://www.east-northamptonshire.gov.uk/pp/silver/viewsilver.asp?id=1376

Sun trying to shine, one lot of washing out another in the machine waiting to go out.

Weather forecast for rest of the week looks like rain, typical, treat yourself to some skirts and summer is nearly over!!

Well I have sandwiches to make and pack yet refusing to do so as the rest of the family, apart from youngest, are still in bed. Hubbys idea for a picnic yet it is always me that ends up organising, well I am not doing it until someone helps!

Had a bad night so feeling very tired, really weird dreams and a Bryan Adams song going round in my head constantly *hums the only thing that looks good on me is you* still going round my head! hate it when that happens! Mind you makes a change from I wish I was a punk rocker with flowers in my hair which is hubbys favorite at the moment!

Oh well better get moving and see if I can wake the sleeping beauties (or uglies) out of their slumber and get some help!!

Wish me luck!

I am sitting here munching on a bowl of cherries and drinking a fine glass of sle gin. Hubby is watching Gallipoli on telly and commenting on how young Mel Gibson looks (well it was filmed over 20 years ago!) Son chirps up, "Is that the idiot on the drink/drive charge?"
Yes replies hubby.
"He should have stuck to horses"

Not quite sure about the logic of this one. Did I ever say I worried about him sometimes?

Can you tell boredom has set in?

Your Brain is 73% Female, 27% Male
Your brain leans female
You think with your heart, not your head
Sweet and considerate, you are a giver
But you're tough enough not to let anyone take advantage of you!

http://www.blogthings.com/whatgenderisyourbrainquiz/outcome.php

Just been on Blogthings to find out how much of a Taurean I am.

You are 67% Taurus

Only 67%? Mum always sad I was a typical Taurean LOL!!!!!!

http://www.blogthings.com/quizzes/

A fun quiz found on Smichen's blog thanks hun!

You Are a Fortune Cookie
You're a rather normal person, except that you have extraordinary luck in life.
People want to be around you (even when they're a little sick of you), in hopes of being lucky too!

What Kind of Cookie Are You?
http://www.blogthings.com/whatkindofcookieareyouquiz/

Dragged youngest round supermarket. Hubby has decided on a long walk with the dogs tomorrow and a picnic if the weather is nice. Wasn't planning on shopping other then for bread and milk (cash crisis again), and knew we had plenty of food in freezer just a case of defosting and cooking what you need, but realised that couldn't do that for a picnic as it is unlikely to have an oven or cooker in the middle of nowhere.

So off I trot, with youngest beside me to the supermarket to buy things like rolls, drinks, cheapy cheapy cakes, fruit and something to go in the rolls (egg, cheese, ham or cucumber will be the choices). And it is a nightmare!!! People standing in aisles talking away, oblivious to the fact you are trying to get past them.

People stopping you to get you to try the new pimms and lemonade that comes in a can (prefer making it myself it wasn't that good).
The utilities supplier trying to get you to change your bills to Sainsburys own (no quite happy with whom I have despite the fact I still cannot get on their website thank you)
The person wanting to sell me their Sainsburys credit card (no thank you don't still trying to pay off the one I own)
The person/s who was stacking the shelves (for a change they are usually half empty in there) and were forever in my way and got annoyed when I took something of the shelf therfore disturbing their display (tough)
Oh and last but not least the very nice man that wouldn't take no for an answer and kept rattling his charity box under my nose! Please I am skint! Until hubby gives me my housekeeping money I have non don't keep asking!!!!!

On top of all this I noticed a lot of people with very frayed nerves and screaming children, not helped when mine asked one why it was in a pushchair when it was obviously older than he was (apologised to parent, poor child was in a wheelchair) A total nightmare!

Did manage to get home in one piece just no thanks to the boy driver in his super fast mini who pulled out of the side street onto the main road I was driving down, nearly colliding with me while he was talking on his mobile phone and giving me the two fingered salute!::::::

Next time hubby has one of his brilliant ideas he can buy his own picnic!

Now off to find a stiff drink to calm my nerves!