Spread your wings and fly away

Congratulations to all of the winners of last night's Bloscars. Everyone of you deserved your awards, particularly Rundon'twalk. Who else would be a jetsetter just so they could meet all their friends in blogland lol

Thanks also goes to Landers for all his hard work and enthusiasm in organising the Bloscars and as well as to his partner, Brad, who puts up with it all.

Most of all, it has to be said, the blogging community is fantastic to support it, to vote and take part in any shape way or form. Even if you didn't win or get nominated, that is not what counts, taking part does.

So I will lift my cup of tea in congratulations to those who won, were nominated, to those who took part in voting and nominating and making the Bloscars they success they are.

Here to next years success!

Things are a bit hectic here which is why I am not going to be around much. I have a few things to prepare and one or two things to sort out as well. On top of this I have to play catch up with housework and ironing. Once I am on top of it all again I will be boring you with my posts lol!

to all those that have commented and I havent' replied to youet, so sorry am trying to keep on top of it all. It is great to read your comments and it does cheer me up.

To the one person on here that sent me that lovely email, thank you, it helped to put things in perspective again.

To you all, if I haven't commented, be sure that I have passed by and read what you have written. i can't concentrate much at the moment, too much going on in my head - hopefully by Friday it will all be resolved and i will be back on form

Hugs to you all

xxxx

have a great day!

hugs

xxxxxxx

I am not one for gambling. In fact the nearest i come to gambling anything is that odd lottery ticket i buy when there is a huge jackpot - £1 that will get me nowhere in reality but as they say you have to be in it to win it, so once in a blue moon I do just that, buy a £1 lottery ticket.

Hubby is the same, though I know he has a sweepstake going on when he goes to watch spurs play with a few of his mates, but as he says that is just a fun thing really, nothing serious and he isn't one, like me, for making a habit of just throwing money away.

So you will be amazed to hear, or not at your will, that yesterday evening was spent in a casino in the company of a few good friends.

Now hubby has been a member of the casino before the new one was built in town. Purely because one of his friends, and at the time business partner, used to come up occasionally and take us out for a meal at a restaurant. But his hobby is gambling, not a big time gambler, but his way of entertaining wealthy clients is to take them to a casino. So on one such visit up here, he and Nig joined the local casino where Nigel and I watched his partner gamble away most of the money that he had in his pocket that evening.

His philosophy is Don't go to a casino unless you are prepared to lose, and watching him go about this is like watching a colonel plan a military operation. He sets himself an amount that he is going to spend there. He surveys the table and what is happening, he then decides which tables he will play at, and he isn't happy until he has lost everything he has on him at that time, all the money he has won plus the money that was in his pocket. He can afford to do it, otherwise, as he says, he wouldn't go and Nig and I watch on bemusedly, holding on to our hard earned cash and marvelling at how easily people do lose what they have on them.

it is a great place to people watch as well.

Anyway I digress. Yesterday was my friend's 41st birthday and she decided that we were going to spend it at the new Casino in town. She booked a meal, found out the entertainment was going to me a motown/soul singer, and there would be dancing as well, so off we went. the meal was ok, not great but reasonable for the price. The wine list was pathetic. A lot of it, myself and another friend had never heard off. We went for a Rose, but it wasn't very nice, and was amazed to find that none of the more popular californian, australian, French and German wines found in other restuarants were not listed.

The waiters/ress were ridiculous. One that took the drinks order. One to take the food order. One to serve it. One to clear away. One to serve the desert. Ask one of them for the bill and panic showed on her face. "The bill?" she said.
"Yes" said my friend, "you know the piece of paper that lists what we have had with the total cost on the bottom? Can we have that please?"

Off she goes, and we watched her while she spoke to the main manager who kept looking over at us as though we were trouble makers.

He then comes over with the bill, we smile at him in thanks, pay and walk away from the table.

Big screens all around showing a variety of sports, mainly football or the England V France Rugby game, so we prop up the bar and watch, cheer when England win and celebrate with a glass or two - though by this time I was drinking diet coke which was being handed to me without charge - think they thought I was a designated driver or something which I wasn't but who am I to tell them that lol

Then after putting the world to rights, we walked around the tables watching the people around us lose or win according to what their luck was like. A great chance to people watch, to marvel at how they were dressed and to listen into conversations on their lives - one of my favourite past times

Midnight arrived and I am tired. I have now lost my voice though I I haven't been shouting, it wasn't that noisy, and so Nig and I decided to start saying our goodbyes, wished the birthday girl a good birthday, and made our way out to find a taxi home.

Oh the Entertainer was trying his hardest to look and sound like Errol Brown, from Hot Chocolate, and failing miserably. The people on the dance floor provided more entertainment though, so many short skirts that left nothing to the imagination, but certainly got many a male to admire

Glad to say the only money spent was on the drinks and meal, nothing on the tables, we just watched others spend their hard earned cash instead, I wasn't prepared to lose any of mine

1. What was the last thing you cooked?
Beef casserole with mashed potato, peas and runner beans

2. What was the last thing you tried on?
A pair of trousers

3. What was the last thing you purchased on credit?
A pair of trousers lol

4. What was the last thing you put a postage stamp on?
An application form

5. What was the last thing you took a photo of?
The sky at dawn

In other news, spent the last couple of days laying on my back with my legs raised (and no not for sex) but because my back is bad again. Have managed to hobble into work, but came home and laid on floor again. Bit easier today, loaded up with tablets, painkillers, heat pad and tens machine. Have a birthday meal to go to tonight for a friend so will have to be better for that lol

Hope you are all having a good day

The moon last night was beautiful. I didn't see the eclipse though,I went to bed and for once slept the sleep of the dead. So much so that my head is fuzzy this morning and i just know that at some point today the headache will emerge *hunts for tablets now before I forget to put them in my bag*.

Still I got up, had a lukewarm shower - it seems to be on the blink - and tonight's dinner is cooking in the slow cooker. Beef casserole today yummy

I am hoping that we are not as short staffed as we have been this last week. I have been running around ragged. thankfully I am off tomorrow so technically this is my last day at work

Right enough rambling, better get a move on and have some brekkie

have a good day

Thanks Subville for tagging me hun lol

I. You have to look up page 123 in the nearest book around you.
II. Look for the fifth sentence.
III. Then post the three sentences that follow that fifth sentence on page 123.
IV. And then tag five people, just like you were tagged!

Ok here goes:

book is: Mina Ford, two of a kind

"I'm sorry." Lizzy obediently slipped her feet into the mocha satin sandals.
"I'm being thoughtless. This is your big moment and I'm making you late."

I tag:
Smichen
Rundon'twalk
Adamantixx
Esspee
Ethelred

Started by Landers, copied by many

1. My second name is Jane (go figure)
2. A priest refused to Christian me saying I was named after a Witch
3. as a result mum threatened to have me named Jezebel
4. Thankfully he relented and Christened me by my chosen name
5. My Ancestry is Welsh, though I was born in England
6. I was born in Central Middlesex Hospital
7. When I moved to Edgware, I was 7 and wouldn't walk on the grass
8. To get me to walk on the beach Mum and Dad had to lay newspaper on the sand
9. My Dad's name is John
10. Mum is called Maureen
11. I went to an all Girl's secondary school
12. I sang in the choir
13. I play the Clarinet (though not as much now as I used to)
14. I have played and sung at the Royal Albert Hall and Alexandra Palace
15. I used to teach the recorder
16. I sang in the church choir until I had my first child
17. I don't think I can actually sing, I just hide it well
18. I once took piano lessons but gave it up after the teacher hit my fingers with a ruler
19. I never run
20. I like cross stitching, but don't do embroidery
21. I like reading historical novels and chick lit
22. I can see ghosts
23. I have odd dreams that sometimes come true
24. I dreamt about the Bali bombings two days before they happened
25. At the time i put it down to a bad dream until I saw what I had dreamt on the television
26. Both my children were born by caesarian section, my first ever operation
27. I broke my nose when I was 14, by tripping on a paving slab
28. At the time hospital denied it was broken and refused to take xrays
29. 12 years later it was discovered it had been broken and the bone had reset wonky that was causing my trouble with breathing
30. I have refused to have it rebroken
31. My first job was in a DIY store
32. I met my first boyfriend there who I didn't start going out with until I had changed jobs
33. My second boyfriend, and very good friend, I worked with.
34. I met my husband in a library
35. I had chicken pox in 1976 during a very hot summer
36. I was off school for 3 weeks and spent it sunbathing in the garden
37. When I went back to school I was browner than my Asian teacher
38. I was a member of the Girls Brigade
39. I have one sister, no brothers.
40. I have 6 cousins, only 2 I keep in contact with
41. I once dressed as a witch for a Halloween party
42. The green dye I used in my hair that was supposed to wash out, didn't, so for 3 weeks I had green hair
43. My Maiden name is a derivation of an Anglo-saxon name, and the name of a village in Southern England.
44. I have a copy of my family coat of arms
45. I never sew on buttons or mend clothing - I have a husband for that
46. I walked out of my A levels after an argument with a teacher
47. I later found out he was having an affair with a student
48. I want to live by the sea
49. I feel closest to nature and spirits by the sea
50. My sister sees ghosts
51. I hate marmite
52. I never eat fish
53. I never eat liver or kidneys
54. I love eating raw vegetables
55. I love cooking, just don't do enough of it
56. My house is currently a mess
57. I hate ironing
58. I am not very good at Maths
59. I wanted to be a teacher
60. I am glad I changed my mind
61. I am thinking of doing a degree, just can't make up my mind what to study
62. I feel at home in Wales
63. Nigel won't move there
64. We have settled on moving to Devon where hubby wants to go
65. I have just got to get enough money together so we can move
66. The year I was born
67. I was close to my grandfather
68. He and my uncle tried to outdo each other with who can buy the biggest present when i was born
69. My uncle bought me a huge teddy bear
70. He still sits in my bedroom (the bear not my uncle)and hubby hates it
71. I used to have one of those sit in and ride cars
72. It was a police car
73. My Dad bought me a train set
74. He had to sell it when we moved
75. I loved my tiny tears
76. I still have it somewhere at my mums
77. I am really quite shy
78. I have problems with one of my ears
79. Occasionally I lose my hearing in it
80. I write lists when I pack to go on holiday
81. I write shopping lists then leave them at home
82. I once tried to write a novel then gave up as I thought it was no good
83. I might try again to write that novel
84. I am running out of things to say
85. I met Roy Castle during a concert I was taking part in
86. One of my god mothers, used to be my mother's teacher
87. My uncle gave me away at my wedding
88. My father went to a Frank Sinatra concert instead
89. I wanted to get married in Black - my mother wouldn't let me
90. I always wore black.
91. I wear other colours now, though I still tend to have a lot of black in my wardrobe
92. I have a set of playing cards that are of naked men
93. Hubby bought them for me
94. He has a set with naked women on them
95. I flew in an aeroplane for the first time in 2005
96. I was flying to Shannon In Ireland for the weekend
97. A few weeks later I was on the plane heading to Florida, my first holiday abroad
98. I didn't pass my driving teat until 9 months after the birth of my first child
99. I passed 1st time but I had been taking driving lessons on and off since I was 18.
100. I am glad I have got to the end at last

I am so not in the mood for anything right now.

Just chaired a meeting that shouldn't have gone on as long as it did, but I misheard what someone said and lol and behold he went on about something that wasn't even on the agenda! I wasn't impressed and once he started he wouldn't bloody shut up. In the end I had to be firm and tell him to shut up though I was a bit more politer than that but it does annoy me when people only turn up to meetings to serve their own cause and not for the reason we are there as Governors!

Anyway managed to get home and eldest is kindly making me a cup of tea.

i need to relax after the disaster that occurred earlier - the splash back on my cooker collapsed and knocked the glass lid off my saucepan so it smashed on the floor in tiny pieces. So lucky it wasn't the vegetables that were cooking away in the pan!

So a new saucepan is needed now - a good excuse to buy one lol

Oh where is the tea he promised me?

Hubby not home yet, he will be working late today - kids watching George and the Dragon, so it is peaceful for now.

Anyway better go and relax on the sofa with a good book.

have a good evening

Isn't it nice when you catch up with people you haven't seen for a while? I came home from work had some lunch and thought I would pop into see a neighbour who's children are the same age as my youngest, and as I haven't seen her in a while due to moving schools I would pop by and say hi. It was a lovely afternoon spent catching up on the gossip

I hate the word trash. it really annoys me at the bottom of private posts. It is just a horrible word. Why can't we have delete put there instead!

Blame it on the hormones

It is not very pleasant out there, neither is it very warm. I lay there in the early hours listening to the dawn chorus try and out sound the noise of hubby snoring. No matter what I did, I could not get back to sleep - the result of having to get up to visit the bathroom due to the amount of water drunk the day before.

I know too much info.

but honestly being healthy is not that good for you, if it was more of us would do it wouldn't we lol

Joking aside I really do not want to go into work today. It is such an effort to drag myself out of bed. I can't decide what to have for breakfast this morning, think I may do some scrambled eggs for a change.

Anyone else fed up with hearing about the Diana inquest?

Right better get a move on

Have a good day

I so didn't want to get out of bed this morning. I argued with the radio when it came on. I hid under the duvet. I begged and pleaded with hubby to let me stay in the warm cocoon of my bed. But alas, nature called and so I had to get up and pay a visit to the bathroom, stand under the shower and get ready to face the day.

It is cold outside. There is a frost lying on the ground, the roofs of the houses and on the trees. Even the birds seem to be tucked up in bed still, there has been no sound of them singing this morning and the dogs were rather reluctant to make their way into the garden on their little paws, which by the way the youngest dog came running into the house as fast as he could to crawl under the radiator to warm up, it was cold for them.

Back to work today. I amnot keen on Mondays. The week stretches ahead of me and I have no idea what is in store. There are unsettling times ahead, I only hope there is some good news in the post when I get home.

Right enough of this rambling, better go and try and sort everything out for work!

Have a good day

Why men don't write advice columns

Dear Walter: I hope you can help me here. The other day I set off
for work leaving my husband in the house watching the TV as usual. I
hadn't gone more than a mile down the road when my engine conked out
and the car shuddered to a halt. I walked back home to get my
husband's help. When I got home I couldn't believe my eyes. He was
in the bedroom with a neighbour lady making mad passionate love to
her. I am 32, my husband is 34 and we have been married for twelve
years. When I confronted him, he tried to make out that he went into
the back yard and heard a lady scream, had come to her rescue but
found her unconscious He'd carried the woman back to our house, laid
her in bed, and began CPR. When she awoke she immediately began
thanking him and kissing him, and he was attempting to break free
when I came back. But when I asked him why neither of them had any
clothes on, he broke down and admitted that he'd been having an
affair for the past six months. I told him to stop or I would leave
him. He was let go from his job six months ago and he says he has
been feeling increasingly depressed and worthless. I love him very
much, but ever since I gave him the ultimatum he has become
increasingly distant. I don't feel I can get through to him anymore.
Can you please help me with my problem?
Sincerely, Mrs. Sheila Usk

Dear Sheila:
A car stalling after being driven a short distance can be caused by a
variety of faults with the engine. Start by checking that there is
no debris in the fuel line. If it is clear, check the jubilee clips
holding the vacuum pipes onto the inlet manifold. If none of these
approaches solves the problem, it could be that the fuel pump itself
is faulty, causing low delivery pressure to the carburettor float
chamber. I hope this helps. Walter

The Government are going to put fluoride in our water. This is very bad news for people with hypothyroidism because fluoride makes it worse.

However, it will not just concern the thyroid. Fluoride is a poison and it can cause a great deal of problems to the population, including birth defects.

It has not even been proved that it helps children's teeth, in fact some dentists think it is the exact opposite. Many countries round the world and in Europe have banned fluoridation of their water.
Fluoride is one of the basic ingredients in both PROZAC (FLUoxetene Hydrochloride) and Sarin Nerve Gas (Isopropyl-Methyl-Phosphoryl FLUORIDE) - (the same Sarin Nerve Gas that terrorists released on a crowded Japanese subway train!). Sodium Fluoride is nothing more (or less) than a hazardous waste by-product of the nuclear and aluminium industries. In addition to being the primary ingredient in rat and cockroach poisons, it is also a main ingredient in anaesthetic, hypnotic, and psychiatric drugs as well as military NERVE GAS! Yet the Government want to have it added to our drinking water!

There is a good article here by a husband and wife team who have looked into this

Independent scientific evidence over the past 50 plus years has shown that sodium fluoride shortens our life span, promotes various cancers and mental disturbances, and most importantly, makes humans stupid, docile, and subservient, all in one neat little package. There is increasing evidence that aluminium in the brain is a causative factor in Alzheimer's Disease, and evidence points towards sodium fluoride's strong affinity to 'bond' with this dangerous aluminium (remember it is a by-product of aluminium manufacturing) and also it has the ability to 'trick' the blood-brain barrier by imitating the hydrogen ion thus allowing this chemical access to brain tissue.

There is a petition that can be signed, not that I think it will help afterall when has the government ever listened to the voice of the people! However if you want to sign it can be found here

EDIT Fluoride naturally occurs in water in many areas, the Government wants to add even more fluoride drinking water, which in greater quantities could prove to be harmful. Some water companies do add fluoride to the water others don't. It depends on where you live as to whether you currently have fluoride in your water or not. Check with your water company website to find out if you have fluoride added to your water or not.

Happy

Of course this will not last long as I have to go back to work tomorrow but I have at least done some of the things on my list today.

I have:

booked the dogs into the kennels for when we go away in August. Mind you nearly had a heart attack when told how much it will cost as it is almost double what we usually pay, but on the up side, they are being housed in the new block which will give them more room, their own piece of land outside to play on, they can have a telly if they so wish (do you think I am that silly really), though they can have their radio playing (ok I am that silly). They also have underfloor heating as well though doubt if they will need it in August!

Next finally managed to get the travel insurance sorted. Yes I know I should have done this ages ago, but we were quoted an astronomical price for very little by the travel company and also by my building society I have to add, so did a bit of hunting around and for what we want I have managed to get a good price with Insure and go, the firm that we had last time. Bonus to this is I phoned them up and managed to get another 5% off the internet price as well as I had been with them before

Then managed to book airport hotel and parking booked as well. Looked up the price on the internet for the hotel we wanted (premier inn) and then phoned them up and got a good price with them as well - they are even allowing Simon to be in the same room though technically that will be three adults and 1 child, but as I said I wasn't happy with him having another room.

So now all Ihave to do is upgrade some tickets, pay off the holiday and get some more spending money *eekk* not as easy as it sounds lol

Getting excited now

Young King Arthur was ambushed and imprisoned by the monarch of a neighbouring kingdom. The monarch could have killed him but was moved by Arthur's youth and ideals. So, the monarch offered him his freedom, as long as he could answer a very difficult question. Arthur would have a year to figure out the answer and, if after a year, he still had no answer, he would be put to death.

The question?....What do women really want? Such a question would perplex even the most knowledgeable man, and to young Arthur, it seemed an impossible query. But, since it was better than death, he accepted the monarch's proposition to have an answer by year's end.

He returned to his kingdom and began to poll everyone: the princesses, the priests, the wise men and even the court jester. He spoke with everyone, but no one could give him a satisfactory answer.

Many people advised him to consult the old witch, for only she would have the answer.

But the price would be high; as the witch was famous throughout the kingdom for the exorbitant prices she charged.

The last day of the year arrived and Arthur had no choice but to talk to the witch. She agreed to answer the question, but he would have to agree to her price first.

The old witch wanted to marry Sir Lancelot, the most noble of the Knights of the Round Table and Arthur's closest friend!

Young Arthur was horrified. She was hunchbacked and hideous, had only one tooth, smelled like sewage, made obscene noises, etc. He had never encountered such a repugnant creature in all his life.

He refused to force his friend to marry her and endure such a terrible burden; but Lancelot, learning of the proposal, spoke with Arthur.

He said nothing was too big of a sacrifice compared to Arthur's life and the preservation of the Round Table.

Hence, a wedding was proclaimed and the witch answered Arthur's question thus:

What a woman really wants, she answered....is to be in charge of her own life.

Everyone in the kingdom instantly knew that the witch had uttered a great truth and that Arthur's life would be spared.

And so it was, the neighbouring monarch granted Arthur his freedom and Lancelot and the witch had a wonderful wedding.

The honeymoon hour approached and Lancelot, steeling himself for a horrific experience, entered the bedroom. But, what a sight awaited him. The most beautiful woman he had ever seen lay before him on the bed. The astounded Lancelot asked what had happened

The beauty replied that since he had been so kind to her when she appeared as a witch, she would henceforth, be her horrible deformed self only half the time and the beautiful maiden the other half.

Which would he prefer? Beautiful during the day....or night?

Lancelot pondered the predicament. During the day, a beautiful woman to show off to his friends, but at night, in the privacy of his castle, an old witch? Or, would he prefer having a hideous witch during the day, but by night, a beautiful woman for him to enjoy wondrous intimate moments?

What would YOU do?

What Lancelot chose is below. BUT...make YOUR choice before you scroll down below. OKAY?

"Noble Lancelot said that he would allow HER to make the choice herself".

"Upon hearing this, she announced that she would be beautiful all the time because he had respected her enough to let her be in charge of her own life.

"Now....what is the moral to this story?
">Scroll down

The moral is.....
If you don't let a woman have her own way....

Things are going to get ugly

The Stranger
A few years after I was born, my dad met a stranger who was new to our small town.
From the beginning, Dad was fascinated with this enchanting newcomer and soon invited him to live with our family. The stranger was quickly accepted and was around from then on.
As I grew up, I never questioned his place in my family. In my young mind, he had a special niche. My parents were complementary instructors: Mum taught me good from evil, and Dad taught me to obey. But the stranger ... he was our storyteller. He would keep us spellbound for hours on end with adventures, mysteries, and comedies. If I wanted to know anything about politics, history or science, he always knew the answers about the past, understood the present and even seemed able to predict the future!
He took my family to the football and cricket. He made me laugh, and he made me cry. The stranger never stopped talking, but Dad didn't seem to mind.
Sometimes, Mum would get up quietly while the rest of us were shushing each other to listen to what he had to say, and she would go to the kitchen for peace and quiet. (I wonder now if she ever prayed for the stranger to leave.)
Dad ruled our household with certain moral convictions, but the stranger never felt obligated to honor them. Profanity, for example, was not allowed in our home ... not from us, our friends or any visitors. Our longtime visitor, however, got away with four-letter words that burned my ears and made my dad squirm and my mother blush.
My dad didn't permit the liberal use of alcohol. But the stranger encouraged us to try it on a regular basis. He made cigarettes look cool, cigars manly, and pipes distinguished. He talked freely (much too freely) about sex. His comments were sometimes blatant, sometimes suggestive, and generally embarrassing.
I now know that my early concepts about relationships were influenced strongly by the stranger. Time after time, he opposed the values of my parents, yet he was seldom rebuked ... And NEVER asked to leave.
More than fifty years have passed since the stranger moved in with our family. He has blended right in and is not nearly as fascinating as he was at first. If you could walk into my parents' den today, you would still find him sitting over in his corner, waiting for someone to listen to him talk and watch him draw his pictures.
His name?
We just call him 'TV.'
* *Note: This should be required reading for every household!
He has a wife now ... We call her 'Computer'.

Three little ducks go into a Bar.............................

"Say, what's your name?" the bartender asked the first duck.

"Huey," was the reply.

"How's your day been, Huey?"

"Great. Lovely day. Had a ball. Been in and out of puddles all day. What else could a duck want?" said Huey.

"Oh. That's nice," said the bartender. He turned to the second duck, "Hi, and what's your name?"

"Dewey," came the answer from duck number two.

"So how's your day been, Dewey! ?" he asked.

"Great. Lovely day. I've had a ball too. ?Been in and out of puddles all day myself. What else could a duck want?"

The bartender turned to the third duck and said, "So, you must be Louie?"

"No," she said, batting her eyelashes.

"My name is Puddles."

here

No I haven't dropped of the face of the earth again, I did my back in instead, so my absence from blogland was an enforced as sitting down became incredibly agonising!

However I am a lot better today even managed to do some stretching exercises which is a lot better than I was on Friday where any sort of movement caused my back to go into spams!

Valentines day went well. We headed off to the British museum to see the Terracotta army. Hubby decided that we should walk to the local rail station to get the train - you know the one where it is only 35mins into London? Well don't believe it. The 10.15 train started of well, then just outside Luton it came to a stop where we sat for about 20 mins twiddling our thumbs and making small talk. Then the sorry speech from the driver. There was a 'fatality' at West Hampstead, so the fast train we were on, was now backed right up behind several other trains and waiting to be allowed to continue on its journey - which when it did meant that the fast train was now the slow train hence us not getting into St Pancreas International until 11.45!

Now this is the first time I have been to St.Pancreas and my first thought was how cold it was there. In fact it was warmer outside than it was in the station. As we had to queue to get tickets (we couldn't purchase them from the office at our station as the computer had gone down) we were all shivering despite us all being layered up. Walking through St Pancreas one of the first things I noticed was the amount of coffee/food bars there were. There was also a Hamleys as well and something else which I can't remember the name of, but it looked quite nice though I wasn't allowed to even window shop there. However something did catch all our eyes, in hubby's case causing them to pop out of his sockets - this woman walked past us with the hugest breasts you have ever seen - in fact they would have made Jordan's look like tennis balls in comparison. they were unnaturally large on her thin body that almost everyone she passed turned and stared. we decided, or rather hubby did, that they had to be false mainly because they didn't move as she walked and were tucked under her chin, but I can't imagine anyone wanting to make them that big - even her t shirt struggled to sit over them! Eldest son, in the way that 16 year olds do, tried very hard not to look mainly as he was embarrased that mum and dad were there, but even he looked round a couple of times to have a sneaky look

Anyway started to walk down the road when hubby says "Righto we will go into the Engineer for dinner before we make our way to the British Museum"

I pointed out that the pub we entered was actually called the Euston Flyer and not the Engineer, but silly me of course the football crowd would rename it! THe food is delicious there though and worthwhile a visit. Hubby had Gammon steak, I had Chilli with rice and tortilla chips which was delicious, Simon had homemade chicken and bacon pie with mustard mash, brocoli and carrots which he thoroughly enjoyed. Youngest, well he never eats anything worthwhile but he did manage a few chips and some garlic bread

We walked to the British Museum, which was my first visit I have to admit, since I was a child. I don't remember much of it, but I can say it was impressive as were the exhibits. Simon was engrossed at reading everything while I tried to keep Richard amused by finding exhibits he would like. However he was fascinated by the statues and their missing "percy's" ( his words not mine) in fact so fascinated that he had to shout at the top of his voice "This one is missing his percy as well mum!" You can always guarantee that he will embarrass you somewhere.

Then there we are standing in the clock room, and exhibition of clocks, when hubby asks me what the time is. What do I do? Yes I look at the watch on my wrist - cue much laughter from the other three.

We had a worthwhile cup of tea, very expensive must make up for the fact that it is free entry somehow, before we made our way to the reason for our visit - to see the Terracotta army. Very impressive, well thought out and though i would have liked to have seen more I learnt more about it than I did before.

Walking back to the station then having to walk home the other side, I was totally exhausted and in a lot of pain, but we all had a good time and at least the kids can say they have been somewhere during this holiday.

Best bit for me was seeing the oriental exhibition and the Egyptian exhibition, loved both of them. Hubby loved seeing the Rossetta stone and the Elgin Marbles so at least he was happy

Have a good day!

must dash have a train to catch

A Woman's Prayer:
Dear Lord , I pray for:
Wisdom, To understand a man.
Love, To forgive him and;
Patience, For his moods.
Because, Lord, if I pray for Strength, I'll just beat him to death.

Are your palms sweaty, is your heart racing, And your voice caught within your chest?

* It isn't Love, it's Like.

You can't keep your eyes or hands off of them, am I right?

* It isn't Love, it's Lust.

Are you proud, and eager to show them off?

* It isn't Love, it's Luck.

Do you want them because you know they're there?

* It isn't Love, it's Loneliness.

Are you there because it's what everyone wants?

* It isn't Love, it's Loyalty.

Do you stay for their confessions of Love, because you don't want to hurt them?

* It isn't Love, it's Pity.

Are you there because they kissed you, or held your hand?

* It isn't Love, it's being Unconfident.

Do you belong to them because their sight makes your heart skip a beat?

* It isn't Love, it's Infatuation.

Do you pardon their faults because you care about them?

* It isn't Love, it's Friendship.

Do you tell them every day they are the only one you think of?

* It isn't Love, it's a Lie.

Are you willing to give all of your favorite things for their sake?

* It isn't Love, it's Charity.

Does your heart ache and break when they're sad?

* Then it's Love.

Are you attracted to others, but stay with them faithfully without regret?

* Then it's Love.

Do you accept their faults because they're a part of who they are?

* Then it's Love.

Do you cry for their pain, even when they're strong?

* Then it's Love.

Do their eyes see your true heart, and touch your soul so deeply it hurts?

* Then it's Love.

But do you stay because a blinding, incomprehensible mix of pain and elation pulls you close and holds you?

* Then it's Love.

Would you give them your heart, your life, your death?

* Then it's Love.

Now, if Love is painful, and tortures us so,
why do we Love?
Why is it all we search for in life?
This pain, this agony?
Why is it all we long for?
This torture, this powerful death of self?
Why?
Because it's...
Love

So the weather is warm, the sun is shining

Peoples washing hang on the line

Some are out mowing their lawns

others are washing their cars

One or two are cleaning their windows

Then along comes Mr. Wker who has the biggest, smelliest, blackest, smoky bonfire he can possibly do - no doubt one of many that he will have this season!!

Right off to phone the local council and complain again!!

Propensity for Monogamy:

Your propensity for monogamy is high.
You find it easy to be devoted and loyal to one person.
And in return, you expect the same from who you love.
Any sign of straying, and you'll end things.

Experience Level:

Your experience level is high.
You've loved, lost, and loved again.
You have had a wide range of love experiences.
And when the real thing comes along, you know it!

Dominance:

Your dominance is low.
This doesn't mean you're a doormat, just balanced.
You know a relationship is not about getting your way.
And you love to give your sweetie a lot of freedom.

Cynicism:

Your cynicism is low.
You are an eternal optimist when it comes to love and romance.
No matter how many times you've been hurt - you're never bitter.
You believe in one true love, your perfect soulmate.
And if you haven't found true love yet, you know you will soon.

Independence:

Your independence is low.
This doesn't mean you're dependent in relationships..
It does mean that you don't have any problem sharing your life.
In your opinion, the best part of being in love is being together.

Well today I will not be suffering from tantrums by a 16 year old or have to give up my computer to his coursework - his dad has taken him to work.

Instead today I have to pop into town to pick up my contact lenses, pick up some picnic items for our trip tomorrow and do some ironing.

Yes I must do the ironing, I cannot possible leave it any longer I am running out of clothes to wear and as hubby says that is desperate as I have so many clothes lol

Too much to do and so little time - now where is my shopping list?

Have a good day everyone

Have a fantastic day hun, chill out and let go of those gremlins. Enjoy yourself!

Hugs

xxxxxxx

Ok Ethelred tagged me so here goes:

a. list seven habits/quirks/facts about yourself
b. tag seven people to do the same
c. do not tag the person who tagged you or say that you tag "whoever wants to do it"

1. I once stood next to Sean Connery in a bar
2. I like doing pub quizzes
3. I enjoy reading and cross stitching
4. I passed my driving test first time
5. I have been proposed to 4 times
6. I fell over and broke my nose when I was 14
7. On Thursday I am going to see the Terracotta Army
8. I am useless at dieting

Ok I tag:

Adamantixx
Boredrich
Ladeebird
Memomama
Austin-Lance
Smichen
Arnica

My eldest child had a major strop this afternoon.

He decided to get on with some course work yet could not find the information he had been given about his statistics coursework. Fortunately the data he was working from was on a memory stick, so that was ok and after much searching the house and turning it upside down for that missing piece of paper which, apparently, he gave to me and hasn't seen since (like I would have wanted to see it, maths isn't my strongest subject) we eventually found the information on the Edexcel site on the internet.

Harmony restored he started to work on his coursework, humming away to himself when, suddenly, a lot of followed. The little dog, that irritating icon that you get in word, kept telling him he couldn't save his file because there wasn't enough room on the disk. Very annoying, there was plenty of room, in fact more than enough, but would it save? no.

After a lot of fiddling and trying to get it to save in small chunks at a time I made matters worse by losing his work altogether! Fortunately he has redone all he needs to do, now has to do something very technical statistically and has decided to leave it for now until he is in a better frame of mind - namely calmed down and is ready to face it all again.

CJ you very nearly got an email of help winging its way to you lol

Harmony is restored once more.

In other news, I had my hair cut and highlighted today. It needed doing a lot, ended up cancelling my last appointment due to illness so the last time I had visited my hairdresser was in October! Disgraceful, even though I hate having my hair touched it is still to long to go for lol

Need to pick up my new contact lenses tomorrow, and must settle down and do some ironing. Today I managed to show the carpet what a hoover looks like, no mean feat for a hoover that regularly gets clogged up and is falling apart. However a new one is on order and winging its way to me lol

Right enough rambling better go and see what the kids are up to.

As I lay in bed this morning, listening to the radio, snuggled up under the duvet as Hubby went about his business of getting ready for work, my heart sank at the news that there has been yet another beating of a man by a gang of youths.

It wasn't the stabbing so much that got me in a rage though, it was the reporter interviewing some people on the streets of Droylsden, and one man in particular who said "lads as young as 12 are drinking beer and cider, standing outside shops or on street corners and terrorising the neighbourhood till all hours of the early morning"

12?

Ok I know it isn't news, this has been happening for weeks now, but it makes me wonder where the hell are the parents of these children? Surely someone must care? Surely they must know where their children are? Or has society got so degenerate that the only people that we should care about are ourselves, not our children, let them get on in society the way we had to while we take drugs, fill our bellies with alcohol and be dammed?

Harsh I know but then again I have a 16 year old who wouldn't be allowed out to the early hours of the morning let alone a 12 year old.

I know I am old fashioned in my views sometimes, and that isn't a popular choice but isn't it about time we started looking at why we have a generation of children who are allowed out to terrorise the neighbourhood. Why is there no parental responsibility anymore? Is it really a fear of being prosecuted because you told little Johnny off for throwing a tantrum?

Of course then there is the age old excuse "There is nothing for them to do"

There was nothing for me to do when I was younger either, but I had imagination and I used it. I knew how to play with things around me. No-one had to provide things for me to do. then there is the other argument of "well they come from a one parent family, it is hard for them" yeah so did hubby, he had it hard didn't make him want to go out terrorising the neighbourhood though. But on the other hand we were given a sense of morale of right and wrong, of having respect for other people and their property of having a sense of ownership that doesn't mean I have to have it all handed to me on a plate but to be responsible for my own actions.

So where have we gone wrong. Is it really down to lack of police presence on our streets? The same police these kids couldn't give a toss about anyway?

Is it really a lack of parenting skills?

Or is it because successive governments have made it more difficult to discipline our children or to give them a sense of right and wrong? (and no I don't mean beat them by disciplining them, there are other ways).

Or is it because our leaders are so corrupt themselves that society gradually has degenerated as there is no example to set anymore?

I really fear for my children.

Does he say hello?
no
Does he ask if I have had a good day?
no
Does he even give my a kiss in appreciation of standing over a stove cooking for him?
no

So what does he do?

the first words out of his mouth are.........................

"Is it me or are your tits getting bigger?"

Four men were bragging about how smart their cats were.

The first man was an Engineer, the second man was an Accountant,

the third man was a Chemist,,,,,,and the fourth man was a Government Employee.

To show off, the Engineer called his cat,

'T-square, do your stuff.'

T-square pranced over to the desk, took out some
paper and pen and promptly drew a circle, a square,
and a triangle. Everyone agreed that was pretty smart.
But the Accountant said his cat could do better.

He called his cat and said,

'Spreadsheet, do your stuff.'

Spreadsheet went out to the kitchen and returned

with a dozen cookies. He divided them into 4 equal piles of 3 cookies...........Everyone agreed that was good.

But the Chemist said his cat could do better. He called his cat and said,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,'Measure, do your stuff.'

Measure got up, walked to the fridge, took out a quart of milk,, got a 10 ounce glass from the cupboard and poured exactly 8 ounces without spilling a drop into the glass.

Everyone agreed that was pretty good.

Then the three men turned to the Government Employee and said, 'What can your cat do?'

The Government Employee called his cat and said,,,,,

'Coffee Break,,,,do your stuff.'

Coffee Break jumped to his feet,,,,,,,,,,,

After retiring, I went to the Social Security office to apply for Social
Security. The woman behind the counter asked me for my driver's license to
verify my age. I looked in my pockets and realized I had left my wallet at
home. I told the woman that I was very sorry, but I would have to go home
and come back later.

The woman said 'Unbutton your shirt.'

So I opened my shirt revealing my curly silver hair. She said 'That
silver hair on your chest is proof enough for me' and she processed my
Social Security application.

When I got home, I excitedly told my wife about my experience at the
Social Security office.

She said, 'You should have dropped your pants... you might have gotten
disability, too.'

the kids and I walked towards the small shopping parade to get their hair cut. As it was a nice day I decided that we should walk the long way round, which is along the route that you would take if you go by car - not a popular choice by any means, but I was determined to make the most of the lovely weather we are currently experiencing.

The walk was pleasant, though noisy with the traffic that was going past and talks with the children of times past, when they were younger and of their memories of visiting various places along the way (mainly son talking about a birthday party he attended in the local MacDonalds )

We reached our destination, sat down and patiently waited for their turn, when in comes our postman. He is always good to have a chat with, a bit disconcerting when he can tell you what he delivered that morning though! After a discussion about MIL postcard that she has sent from sunny Perth, where apparently at the moment it is very, very hot (in the 100s according to her card) and about various neighbours, we began to discuss holiday plans and the fact that he often takes his grandchildren over to Florida for a holiday. A worthwhile discussion ensued of the best places to go and the fact that at least one place no longer exists, Dixie Stampede, which is a shame as I know it is something hubby would like to go and see.

Anyway, I digress, children have their hair cuts, I pay and after a worthwhile visit to the bakers for one of their delicious cheese and tomato rolls, we start to walk back home, this time taing the route through the park.

Now I really wish I had taken my camera with me. The park was filled with birdsong, the sky was beautiful and blue and the trees, some of which were coming into blossom, were a lovely picture against the blue sky. The River Lea, or stream as my hubby calls it, was bubbling away nicely and we were able to see some sticklebacks swimming in and out of the weeds and the birds that popped down for a drink. On this occasion though, no ducks could be seen, but I suppose they will be back soon.

We arrived home, exhausted and hungry, had our lunch and now thinking of what to do next. may, just may put some more washing out!

1) Blue Peter or Magpie?
magpie, though don't know why I watched that rather than Blue Peter really

2) What was your favourite comic?
Was never really into comics so don't have a favourite

3) What was your favourite sweet of all time?
Black jacks because they made your tongue black

4) Ever set light to something with a magnifying glass?
No, never appealed

5) How did you cover your school books?
Wallpaper, we used to have quite a bit lying around which to use for covering books

6) Favourite lesson?
History, just loved it

7) Were you ever a monitor, prefect, headboy/girl?
No was never popular enough to be one

8) Ever represented your school at sports?
What's that? I used all sorts of excuses to get out of doing sports and was quite convincing as well, either that or the teacher gave up with me. Used to be good at netball but even stopped playing that when my nemesis chose someone else over me to play for the school team - again it also came down to how popular you was and I wasn't

9) Ever played an Instrument?
Recorder and clarinet

10) What did you play in the Nativity?
I would be put in the choir, in the background, Nativity roles were always given to the most popular kids - not that I am bitter at all, no really I am not lol

I should have done some gardening over the weekend, in fact on Friday I had every intention of doing that.

I even marked it on the calendar "Faffa do garden"

Needless to say, despite the gorgeous weather, it didn't get done. i chilled out in front of the telly instead, which is bad, but I had a hankering for being by the sea, for walking along in the sun and the wind and breathing in the fresh air. I didn't want to be outside where everyone were mowing their lawns, playing music loudly, kids screaming as they played outside in the street.

I wanted peace and tranquility.

So there I was, on the sofa, watching one silly movie after another just for the hell of it!!

The washing didn't even get done *tsk*

Today though the washing is on the line, I have managed to emerge from the comfort of my bed and plan to walk the kids to the hairdressers to get their hair cuts. Simon is protesting that his doesn't need to be done, but it really does look like a mop now, in fact I am rather tempted to turn him upside down and wash the floor!!

I may get some housework done, I may even do some ironing, it all depends on how I feel later. One thing is obvious though, those darn windows need cleaning again, made worse by the sun filtering through and showing up how dirty they are!

Oh well no use procrastinating on here, better get a move on and drag some children from their beds

Have a good day

After nearly 45 years of marriage, a couple was lying in bed one evening, when the misses felt her husband begin to fondle her in ways he hadn't in quite some time. It almost tickled as his fingers started at her neck, and then began moving down past the small of her back. He then caressed her shoulders and neck, slowly worked his hand down over her breasts, stopping just over her lower stomach. He then proceeded to place his hand on her left inner arm, caressed past the side of her breast again, working down her side, passed gently over her buttock and down her leg to her calf. Then, he proceeded up her inner thigh, stopping just at the uppermost portion of her leg. He continued in the same manner on her right side, then suddenly stopped, rolled over and became silent. As she had become quite aroused by this caressing, she asked in a loving voice, 'Honey, that was wonderful. Why did you stop?' I found the remote,' he mumbled.

Went to bed at around ten last night, and kept coughing and coughing until I made myself sick. I couldn't get comfortable and no matter what i did, or however I slept the coughing would start up again until that moment where you have coughed so much you start gagging.

So in order not to disturb hubby, who was obviously trying to sleep through all this, I dragged my pillow downstairs, made up a bed on the sofa, and attempted to get some sleep, which I did until hubby realised I was no longer lying next to him so came downstairs to wake me up and send me back up to bed before I end up with back pains, where yet again I lay there tossing and turning and coughing!!

I did manage to get some sleep but when he managed to wake me this morning so that we could go into town and sort out the transfer of money from one account to the other, I wasn't amused and told him so.

mornings are not my speciality. Mind you most of the day isn't either lately

Town now out of the way, then dropped hubby off at work in Leighton Buzzard where I spy a Morrisons so when i pick him up later I will drag him round it to get some shopping donw.

Simon and Richard are arguing upstairs as usual, the sun is streaming through the conservatory showing up the dirt on my windows and really should be getting some housework done. Alas things keep flitting in my head and of course there is the small matter of a few bills that need paying online, so obviously not a lot will get done before I make my way to pick up hubby from work.

perhaps now is a good time to have a cuppa

Hope you are all having a good day.

Well I don't like to go with the flow it isn't as though I am a sheep or something

1. What would be the contents of your perfect pie?

Apple

2. Lift your eyes from the screen - what's the first thing you see and Books and letters on the bookshelf above the computer monitor, all waiting to be sorted out and put there by me when I am clearing the table

3. What, if anything, would you like to get rid of in your life and why?

Inconsiderate, rude, selfish people who think they know it all and know bugger all!

4. If you were building your own house what one room would you include that you don't have now?

A downstairs cloakroom, fed up with hubby hogging the bathroom all because he likes to read!!!

5. When you were little people asked "what do you want to be when you up?". Does your answer then match what you do now?

I wanted to be a teacher, close enough as a TA, took a long while to get there and nothing would make me want to be a teacher now, too much paperwork.

I woke this morning to the sound of the dawn chorus.

You know spring is approaching when you hear the birds singing their various songs as they gather their breakfast and prepare to make their nests.

We saw the fox looking at the construction in the field the other day. Yes the Guides are now into activity weekends, so in the field is this monstrosity of wood and rope usually seen at team building weekends. Anyway the fox sniffed around it, did his business and walked away - don't think Guides will be pleased when they see it but made me laugh

the sun is trying its hardest to make its way through the clouds outside and as I look at my garden I see the mess the dogs, or rather the grey, has made of my lawn which is now non existent. Not much point in making it right now, he will only muck it up again.

Cough is driving me nuts. Simon is at school, Richard home as he broke up for half term yesterday (teacher training day today) and I have a meeting to attend later on which I am not looking forward to going to but it has to be done.

Right better get some water onto this body of mine, flick through some paperwork, show the living room what a duster looks like and try and greet the day with some sense of normality lol!

Have a good one

I have decided that I could have either one of the following conditions:

Bronchitis, pleurisy, tonsilitis, chest infection, pneumonia or laryngitis.

I really , really shouldn't try and diagnose myself on NHS website, all the symptoms for the above I have, hence me being off work today, unable to talk as it is too painful and I have lost my voice anyway, with a hacking cough that brings up too much muscus which is horrible, wheeziness when I move, pain in back and stomach from coughing too much, and a very dry mouth and sore throat.

And when I saw the doctor what did he say?

"It is a viral infection, make sure you drink plenty of fluids and take paracetamol"

Brilliant.

Ok I wasn't expecting miracles, honestly I wasn't, but this has gone on for far too long now, almost since before Christmas!

If I drink anymore I will look like a tap - no hang on my nose is a tap it runs that much

Beautiful mild day out there, shame I am not well enough to enjoy it. Oh well might just go and comfort myself with a good book and a nice cup of tea

a colleague asked as I walked into work this morning.

@fine@ i croaked.

Why the hell do I say I am fine!!!

It is obvious to anyone, except the HT that I am far from fine.

I have a nose I can't breathe through because I am so bunged up.

breathing through my mouth causes a coughing fit where I either
a) cough so much I wet myself
b) cough so much end up in pain where I have pulled a muscle in my back
c) coughed so much my throat hurts

I do not have a sore throat as such, but I am losing my voice which is very croaky

And to top it all, drinking fluids isn't helping despite the fact I have a terrific thirst that will not quench.

But really I am fine!!

Sitting here waiting for the sky to lighten (I hate dark mornings), coughing my guts up and clutching back and stomach while doing so, I am in two minds what to do today.

I could go to work, cough over everyone in my evil way, make lots of noise and groan a lot or I could just phone in sick.

Problem with 2nd plan is with all that is going on and the fact that my very good sickness record has since October gone flying out the window with one thing after another, I know it will not be a good idea or at least it could be used against me. On the other hand going into work will mean lesson disruption, everyone thinking I am evil for passing on my germs (like I care I got it from them in the first place) and making a lot of noise. however today is an easy day at work, will not have to do much talking and to be honest apart from having a hacking cough where I pray that I don't wet myself each time I cough, I don't feel ill enough to stay away. I could go in and hope they send me home though once they hear me lol.

Don't start till 11 anyway so still have time to decide one way or another

This really is a boring post isn't it?

So to brighten things up a bit only 4 working days to get through till half term yippeeeeeee!!!

right enough of this pointless rambling, better go and sort the kids out and stop their moaning!

Have a good day

Every Sunday I pop on here and can always find at least one postcard that I can relate to.

Today was this one.

I never worried about turning 40. You can't go back and be 21 again (not that I want to) and you can't stop the passage of time. I saw some friends approach 40 with trepidation, fear, looking constantly in the mirror for more tell tale signs of ageing, for another grey hair. Not me. i embraced being 40. I have come to a time in my life where I can be myself again. Ok the kids are still here, I will always be a mother, but with the passing of time comes independence, freedom to go out without the worry of babysitters, to start spending time on me, to start spending time doing what I want to do.

It has also brought about the ability to meet new people, to make friends through other sources. It has given me a new confidence. I am married I don't need a man, I am not looking for MR Right, there is no hunt for the perfect mate, but it hasn't stopped me from flirting, from enjoying myself and to enjoy being with good friends and having a laugh.

I like being in my forties possibly more than being in my twenties or thirties in some ways. There are still days when I worry about what I look like or how fat I am, but they are getting fewer and farer between, because in reality life is for living, for enjoying every moment, as we never know when it will be our last.

So far it has been a funny day. I laid in bed feeling sorry for myself having spent the night coughing, watching the big black clouds float past the window as if they were in a hurry and only allowing an occasional glimpse of blue sky where the occasional cloud didn't quite join with its companions.

I wanted to take a photo of what I could see only the camera was downstairs and no one could hear me call with my croaky voice and throat that was hurting as if someone had taken a brush to the inside of it and scrapped away.

Eventually I emerged to face the day and breakfast cooked by my lovely husband, a breakfast of egg and bacon rolls that were lovely even if they were hard to swallow.

We have been out, Nig had to look at a job so I went with him then though we weren't out for long as it was so cold outside. Not much warmer inside either, but better than being out there I suppose. At the moment I am chilling and trying to pluck up courage to face the washing machine again, but loading it leaves me feeling breathless and all I want to do is lay on the sofa with a good book. Mind you it doesn't help when your 16 year old child tells you that "it isn't my job to walk the dogs" when it is his job, that was one of the conditions of getting another dog let alone two. He also thinks that it is unreasonable of us to make him wash up, feed the dogs and to load the tumble dryer once in a while.

That's ok though, I do not consider it my job to clean the house, do his washing, or feed him, I do it because I have to, but lets see how far he will get when I withdraw my services because it isn't my job - after all it isn't as though I get paid for it

Don't you just love Sundays NOT!!!1

Youngest is watching Newsround.

I hear the word snow and look at the telly.

"Is that China?" says I

"Yes it is Japan" he replies

"No, its China" says hubby

"Yes" says youngest child "China is in Japan therefore it is Japan!"

I often wonder what they do teach them in school, geography is clearly not his strong point poor child!

I sat in bed flicking through the teletext, as you do, waiting for hubby to put in an appearance as he was at the football, when i read that Heath Ledger had died.

I was shocked, I have to say and completely blindsighted.

I loved his acting style and have most of his films.

so what made me think of all this today?

Well this morning the DVD Casanova arrived, which cheered me up no end as I have been waiting for it for a while, so planned to watch it later, but instead have just sat and watched probably the first film I ever saw him in - 10 things I hate about you.

Unbelieveable that someone so young is dead, that his daughter will grow up not having known her daddy apart from the media circus that will surround her and her mother as she gets older and my heart bleeds for her. The family who have lost a son so young. A tragic tale, yet you can guarantee that when the new Batman film is released there will be awards thrown at it left, right and centre.

Such a shame, such a pity, such a waste of a life.

So the news today was that Egg is withdrawing their cards from many of its customers.

I wonder how many they will be withdrawing from guinea pigs?

Sex life

The husband leans over and asks his wife, "Do you remember the first
time we had sex together over fifty years ago?

We went behind this very tavern where you leaned against the back fence
and I made love to you."

Yes, she says, "I remember it well."

Okay, he says, "How about taking a stroll around there again and we can
do it for old time's sake?"

"Oh Charlie, you old devil, that sounds like a crazy but very good
idea!"

There's a police officer sitting in the next booth listening to all
this, and having a chuckle to himself.

He thinks, "I've got to see these two old-timers having sex against a
fence.

I'll just keep an eye on them so there's no trouble." So he follows
them.

They walk haltingly along, leaning on each other for support, aided by
walking sticks.

Finally they get to the back of the tavern and make their way to the
fence.

The old lady lifts her skirt and the old man drops his trousers.

As she leans against the fence, the old man moves in.

Suddenly they erupt into the most furious sex that the watching
policeman has ever seen.

This goes on for about 10 minutes.

Finally, they both collapse panting on the ground. The policeman is
amazed.

He thinks he has learned something about life that he didn't know.

After about half an hour of lying on the ground recovering, the old
couple struggle to their feet and put their clothes back on.

The policeman, still watching thinks this was truly amazing.

"I've got to ask them what their secret is."

As the couple passes, he says to them, "Excuse me, I just happened to be
passing and that was something else!

You must have had a fantastic sex life together. Is there some sort of
secret to this?"

The old man says, "Fifty years ago that wasn't an electric fence!!!!"

(now aren't you glad you saw that title and looked )

Respond to this, ask for a year to write about, and write a post about what you were doing in that year.

so Landers has given me 1988.

mmmm have to think about this one carefully

1988 I began the year with someone that I realised I hated. It wasn't just the physical hurt he had caused, but the realisation that our relationship was one big lie, caused by his mind games, his manipulation and the realisation that I was so incredibly stupid to have believed any of it.

Of course the depression that I was suffering hadn't helped as he came at a time when I needed someone, anyone to love me and not hate me the way I convinced those closest to me did.

Then a few days into the new year of 1988 the one man I had always dreamt of being with, walked through the doors of my place of work to look at some lights and invited me out to have a drink with him later that week. I knew this would be easy. I told him I was engaged but I knew my 'fiance' would be away that night so he couldn't get jealous of one little drink could he?

So off I went happy as a skylark, had a great evening and as they say the rest is history. Fiance was dumped, not without a bit of trouble and problems which ended me being checked into a hospital and discharged the same day without pressing charges, but let me just say here and now, it was worth it otherwise I wouldn't be where I am today, now. Six months later, I was buying a house and moving in with my wonderful man who made me feel like I was a princess and at the end of the year saw us struggling to make ends meet but being incredibly happy in each others company and loving every minute of living in sin

So 1988 the year I was 22 and though it didn't start to well ended up with me being with my one true love

So over to you, comment and I will give you a year but only if Landers hasn't got to you first

I woke this morning to the taste of blood in my mouth.

Slightly panicing I raced to the bathroom as much as one heel spur and bad back would allow, to examine mouth in the mirror.

nothing

However it does look like my tonsils are slightly swollen and red as is the uvula (that funny looking thing that hangs down at the back of the mouth). A coughing fit insued and it felt like something had burst and again the taste of blood. Felt like a blister bursting so I am hoping it is something similar to that and not something more serious. Kids will have fun though as I am unable to shout at them as I am losing my voice, my nose is bunged up yet running (how the hell is that possible) and I am feeling cold!

On top of all the hassles I have had this week this is the last thing I want! Phoned my friend as I am supposed to be going to her house tonight for a girly chat with a few other friends, she is insisting that I still go even though it may mean that I end up in floods of tears as I head towards a breakdown that has been threatening to happen for weeks now.

"That's Ok" she said "that is what tonight is for so we can all rant and rave, cry on each others shoulders and put the world to rights"

I sometimes wonder what I would do without good friends around me, thought it is rare for me to need them or open up to them, it is usually the other way round!

Right enough waffling on, it is cold out, I am shivering so better had go do something worthwhile

See you later

Does anyone know how I can trace someone, their vehicle or their correct phone number without having to go to the police?

probably not possible really is it lol

Just a thought.

Yes as those of you that pass by may have noticed, I am back online once more. My computer has been fixed, figures haggled over and in the end all necessary programs are now resumed, up and running including an operating system, internet connection and microsoft office.

The computer has had a few new extras added to it that weren't there before and despite losing everything that was on my hard drive, I am just glad that it is back home.

And yes I did argue about the price, moaned at the fact it took so long to fix and only paid a small amount in the end, not that he seemed all that bothered anyway, so all were happy.

I have so much news to tell yet I haven't time yet to tell you what it is, so that will have to be another installment for tomorrow.

well if you are interested anyway lol!

Just want to say a quick congratulations to all those who managed to get through to the nominations for the Bloscars.

Right now have to catch up with paying a few bills and typing up a few things that are waiting to be typed up.

Hope you all have a good evening.

hugs xxx

1. What was the last thing you complained about?
Computer problems

2. When was the last time you really got really great customer service?
From Amazon when a parcel arrived with one too many items, they dealt with it efficiently, quickly and effectively no questions asked.

3. What's your policy on leaving a tip?
I only leave a tip if the service was good and the waiter/waitress was pleasant ( I hate surly people)

4. Are you one of the people trying to reclaiming your credit card or bank charges?
Nope you will only get stung some other way

5. Call centres are ________________________
the work of the devil, should be in this country where people can understand what you are on about.

Ok so the PC brigade will get up in arms over this and tell me I am being prejudice, which I am not everyone has to work, but have you really tried to sort out a problem with your Service from Virgin when they haven't a clue what you are talking about?

THE YEAR'S BEST [actual] HEADLINES OF 2007:

Crack Found on
Governor's Daughter

[Imagine that!]

Something Went Wrong in Jet Crash, Expert Says

Police Begin Campaign to Run Down Jaywalkers

Is There a Ring of Debris around Uranus?

[Not if I wipe thoroughly!]

Panda Mating Fails; Veterinarian Takes Over

Miners Refuse to Work after Death

[No-good-for-nothing' lazy so-and-so!]

Juvenile Court to Try Shooting Defendant

[See if that works any better than a fair trial!]

War Dims Hope for Peace

[I can see where it might have that effect!]

If Strike Isn't Settled Quickly, It May Last Awhile

Cold Wave Linked to Temperatures

Enfield (London) Couple Slain;
Police Suspect Homicide

Red Tape Holds Up New Bridges

[You mean there's something stronger than duct tape?]

Man Struck By Lightning: Faces Battery Charge

[he probably IS the battery charge!]

New Study of Obesity Looks for Larger Test Group

[Weren't they fat enough?!]

Astronaut Takes Blame for Gas in Spacecraft

Kids Make Nutritious Snacks

Local High School Dropouts Cut in Half

Hospitals are Sued by 7 Foot Doctors

And the winner is....

Typhoon Rips Through Cemetery; Hundreds Dead

Now that you've smiled at least once, it's your turn to spread the stupidity
and send this to someone to whom you want to bring a smile (Maybe even a chuckle).

Have a wonderful day

Hugs xxxxx

hope you have a wonderful day hun.

Hugs xxxxx