day23

"All right, Mr DeMille, I'm ready for my close up Sunset Blvd

Never seen the film but read about it on google so decided on this pose.

Been a beautiful day here. Had loads of washing to do this morning and then met up with some friends in the afternoon so a busy day what with one thing and another.

day22

Beautiful day at last - sunny with blue sky. Makes such a change and gives a chance to top up the vitamin D levels.

"There's no place like home"

Had trouble with this one but decided to go with another quote "Home is where the heart is". DH has been away with work for a little while but we met up again today so took this pic in our flat.

day21

"food is an important part of a balanced diet" Fran Lebowitz.

Not a particularly exciting pic. But this is the rmains of yesterday's soup. Turned out a bit sweet actually. It was made with an onion, a squash, half a sweet potato and a couple of tiny carrots that I found lurking in the bottom of the veg basket, a veg stock cube and enough water to cover. I fried off the onion and squash first with some cumin seeds and then simmered in the stock. When cooked I whizzed it up et voila.

Have spent today doing the washing, doing the LO for week 3, Visiting the neighbours and walking round the block.

After I photographed it realised I hadn't put the date on. Did that with a date stamp and it made all the difference. LOL

Day 20

"A laugh is a smile that bursts " Mary H Waldrip

Not a very good pic today. had a busy morning putting the shelving together and then made soup for lunch and went for a walk as the rain decided to hold off for a bit.

Sundays are a great night on TV so was a couch potato. Love dancing on ice followed by Lark rise on BBc1.

"Look closely. The beautiful may be small." Emmanuel Kant

Suddenly had a brainwave and took this pic. Horrible rainy day. Visit to Ikea and got some new shelves for my craft room.

Day 18

"we all need time to be alone; to think, to dream, to wonder." Billie Roark



These days I have plenty of time to dream. Spend too much time dilly dallying instead of getting on with things.
However did manage to do the DHW today. Hoovered top to bottom and sorted out the spare bedroom which had become a dumping ground since Christmas. Just found a bit of time to finish another LO. Weather bad again so did not go out. Walked up and down th estaris several times in lieu of walking round the block.

day 17

"Imagination is the highest kite you can fly" Lauran Bacall

Had hoped to go and fly a kite with the GC who had an inset day but it was much too windy.

Had to make do with a walk instead. Great fun.

Day 16

"You, whose day it is, get out your rainbow colours and make it beautiful" Traditional Nootka song.

Show me colour in your life today.

Went to visit my parents today and had several bits and pieces to take so looked out my colourful bag that I normally only use in summer. Such a cheery colour and a very useful size - (DD2 works for the Co that make these). I may just have to use it more often.

Had a great day and managed to get onto the beach to take this shot. The sun shone and although I saw quite a bit of water around on my journey there was nothing on the roads on my route.

Day 15

"Make rest and refreshment a necessity, not a luxury. "Dan Zadra. Enjoying a break from some paperwork today.

Started out a dreadful day - rain and gloomy but it brightened up later so I was able to get out and about. Spent the day sorting out paperwork - weeding and filing.

week 2 LO

This is the LO for week 2. "Savor life's tiny delights" I had taken a pic of the fire .

day 14

"Attempt the impossible in order to improve your work" Bette Davis

Tricky to photograph this one so in the end took a photo of me thinking. I have a terrible memory - I am sure I would work much better if I could remember where I put things.

Was a much better day today weather wise so walked into town. Ended up being out for about 2.30 hours so that should help on the exercise front. Spent the afternoon finishing a CJ and doing this weeks LO. Will upload tomorrow.

Day 13

"When in doubt take a bath" Mae West.

Don't often have a bath. I'm a shower girl but perhaps I'ld better find the candles and some bubble bath and have a good soak. Nasty windy day outside.

Am struggling with a CJ at the moment better get it finished.

Day 12

"Savor life's tiny delights.... a crackling fire, a glorious sunset, a hug from a child, a walk with a friend, a cup of soup, a kiss behind the ear." John Anthony

Well it's a beautiful day here after the downpour of yesterday and I have been savouring the sunshine. Did a bit of shoppingthis morning and then a walk this afternoon. Filled the bird feeders up - they are certainly getting through the seed. I don't fill it every day - don't want them to get too dependent on it. There are still plenty of berries around although the blackbirds have stripped the bush in the front garden.

What a day. It was dark when I got up and it's still overcast now. Don't think I have turned off the lights so far. It's really miserable but I think it has finally stopped raining. Been doing a bit of DHW today trying to sort out the craft room.

"The eyes are the window of the soul" English proverb.

Really dark and miserable today. Got blown round the block this morning on my walk. Had a couple of parcels today so will be kept busy doing CJ's.

"Take time every day to do something ridiculous" Philipa Walker

Well I went into John Lewis and tried on lots of silly hats. Made my DD and me laugh anyway skulking around trying to take pics. Felt like naughty school children.

Had a good day shopping. Got a few bits in the hobbycraft sale and some clothes from M and S. Went to look in the sale but then ended up buying new stuff! Mostly dry today except just when we needed to get to the car. Think I'll have bean and veggie stew tonight.

"The best colour in the whole world is the one that looks good on you" Coco Chanel.

My colour of the moment is red or pink. When I was younger I used to wear a lot of blue but now that I'm older I looked to washed out with blue and pink tends to give me a lift.

Not a particularly nice day today and not done a lot. Trying to sort photos - really must get to grips with the photo programme.

"Look back and smile on perils past."

Sir Walter Scott.

Have enjoyed taking the pics but on the other hand it feels very strange taking pics of me. The journalling I have kept quite light. On the whole have enjoyed it so will keep on going. Got to think of a picture for today though.

Today decided to walk to get the paper but then got side tracked by the new hairdressers and had my hair cut!! Funny sort of day weather wise. Started off nice and bright but then the heavens opened and it poured down.

Spent the afternoon doing this LO. It was the first one for the 365 challenge.

day 6

"Hold out your hands to feel the luxury of the sunbeams" Helen Keller

I love the sun particularly in winter. It really brightens up my day and I love feeling the warmth of the rays.

What do my hands say about me? Well they show that I have arthritis in my fingers and that I'm getting on in years.

Today have been for my hopefully daily morning walk and have managed to finish my LO for November and am half way through Decembers. Have also sorted the recycling as it's collection day tomorrow. Don't want to go chasing up the road in my dressing gown and boots like I did last week because we hadn't put the black bin out and we were still in bed when the bin men came!! Now that was a sight.

Prompt 5
"I am beautiful no matter what they say"
Christine Aguilera


Hmm have an idea for a piccie. Will have to set it up though. Been out and about today so a bit behind and now I need to go shopping.

Journalling prompt

How do you feel about the person you are inside and out?

I feel OK with who I am - ought to at my age. Would have liked to have been a bit taller perhaps. Kitchen worktops and cookers are just too high!!!! and I always have to get a tall person to get something off the top shelves at the supermarket. However, on the bright side I don't have so far to fall if I trip over.

Inside - I'm sure I could do better. I should think more, answer emails quicker, keep up with the resolutions, not watch so much TV - be a better wife, mother, grandmother etc etc etc but I am what I am.

Prompt 4


"Normal day, let me be aware of the treasure you are"


Mary Jean Irion

Record a normal daily routine. Well not sure any day is normal in this household and we are certainly not there yet this year as DH still not back at work.
Also today I have cycled to the PO and back of course - and that certainly is not NORMAL. Needed to get going on the "getting more exercise" part of this years "things I would like to do" list.
We have started taking down the Christmas decorations and have got the tree outside now ready for the green bin men to collect.

Easy bean and pepper bake for dinner tonight.

Prompt 3
"Life is too short and too amazing to spend time worring about imperfection "
Ali Edwards

I think I learnt about the age of 40 not to worry too much about what other people thought of me but I still try to do the best I can. My LO's often take ages because I stress about whether it's right - whether I should use this paper or that paper. Perhaps I should take a leaf out of Ali's book and not worry so much.

Today we have been waiting for the snow that was forecast but hasn't yet arrived. DH did not go to Axminster because that was supposed to be hit quite hard so we have spent the day ( well I have anyway) fiddling about. He has been sorting electrics and I have been trying to sort out the craft/spare room. It looks worse than when I started!!!

Also the trip switch went just as I was halfway through printing a page of 20 pics. DH swears he had nothing to do with it but I think it was a bit suspicious myself (see above!!!).

Day 2 prompt

This is the prompt for day 2

"I´m gonna make a change,
For once in my life
It´s gonna feel real good
Gonna make a difference
Gonna make it right
I'm starting with the man in the mirror"

Micheal Jackson

Also to think of a word for the year as seen on Ali Edwards blog.

Just reread and it's just a word for the day so think it will be "Improving" as the cold is finally getting better.

Also after that quote think I had better make an appointment with the hairdresser.

A little better today so actually did some DHW. Sorted out fridge and threw out out of date stuff. Cleared the utility room - hoovered and washed floor. Knackered now but did manage to go shopping.

Chicken stir fry tonight - got to use up some peppers.

Salmon , jacket potatoes, the last of the red cabbage and peas. Oh plus hollandaise sauce.
The weather was not brilliant all day but we did get out for a walk to get the paper so got a bit of fresh air.

Happy New Year

Well it's 2008. Still suffering with a cold so went to bed before midnight last night. Didn't sleep through all the fireworks though. Pretty noisy in this neck of the woods and DH had a sudden blinding headache which meant rushing around trying to find tablets etc. Think we both have sinus trouble.

Weighed ourselves this morning. I am 8st 7oz. Not really overweight for my height ( well according to the dairy diary chart anyway) but most of it appears to be on my stomach so would really like to get rid of that either by eating less or preferably by exercising more. Had planned on starting more exercise today but still feeling rotten so can't see it happening. (DH is 11st 1oz)

Hoping to take part in 365 challenge to take a photo every day. Will try and work out how to do a link. Anyway the 1st prompt is up.

"A day without laughter is a day wasted" - Charles Chaplain

Hmm might be difficult to take a photo of that today.

Managed to get to Bath today. Wanted to go to paperchase and have a look at the sales but really wasn't up to it so we came home after a couple of hours. Had really hoped to be finished with the December journal before the new year but will have to do lots of catching up next week I think.

cold

Full of cold today so apart from a couple of loads of washing and cooking of dinner not a lot has been done. Haven't even felt up to scrapping today.

visitors all gone

Well all our visitors have gone for this Christmas and now the house is feeling very quiet. Have several piles of washing to do though so the hum of the washing machine and the dishwasher have been filling the air today.

Catching up with some crafting this afternoon.

Had a busy few days with DS1 and family particularly as GS6 has decided that 5am is a good time to start the day. We all went to the zoo on Christmas Eve and some of the family went iceskating. After that had a good family gathering. Christmas day started early again but all went well and the dinner was Ok. We tried Nigellas gingerbread stuffing which was good . It was good to have a child in the house but he is still a little young yet to appreciate presents but he really like his tunnel.

Today they have gone on to see the other side of the family and we are shortly starting to prepare for the next lot of visitors coming tomorrow.

tree

The tree is up. A new place this year which meant finding a socket behind a large wall unit which meant emptying the cabinet, moving the cabinet, cleaning behind it, sorting the plugs, then putting everything back. Ho hum.

housework

Doing the housework today. Have actually cleaned some windows and done the recycling. Pleased it is a bit warmer today. Done another page of the journal but haven't taken a piccie yet.

South coast

Had a day at the south coast today. Started off from home with temps of -4 and a really frosty car. However the sun was shining on the coast and had a lovely lunch with the parents looking at the sea. Dont think the frost had lifted here all day as it was still very frosty when I got home.

Managed to sort out a few more photos of my journal.

catch up

Didn't realise it had been so long since I last blogged. Have been busy making things for Christmas pressies. Nearly finished them all now. Have been to see DD1 today to do a pressie exchange. We also did some food shopping in Asda - non perishables and then went into the Mall for lunch. It was really nice just to sit and chat. GS was happy sitting in his high chair so we just chatted away. We have done all our present shopping so we could relax before the storm.

Then went to my local Tescos for a few bits and found a turkey crown so am really happy about that. Its got a sell by date for after Christmas day so don't have to worry. Just have to hope my fridge doesn't konk out with all the goodies inside.

Actually found the old photo of the singing tree

Finished off the last of the Christmas cards that need posting. Chopped some wood for the fire and done some washing.

now trying to catch up with some scrapping stuff.

Another really cold day.

singing Christmas tree

This is really lovely. Various schools and choirs come and sing carols and they stand on the tiers that make up the tree. Unfortunately I was unable to get a photo of them this year. They only sing for about an hour a day and I just wasn't able to be there at the right time. Did take a photo a few years ago but not sure where it is.

christmas journal

Here are a few more pages of the Christmas journal. Copied an idea from Shirley for the to- do lists. Thanks Shirley.

puddings

Well made the puddings. Had to go out half way though as I had forgotten the almonds but anyway it didn't matter as the mixture had to cool. I use a recipe from Good Food magazine from 2000 and it uses dried apricots, figs and prunes as well as all the normal raisins etc. You then have to simmer all the fruit in the alcohol - brandy and port so it gets all lovely and moist.

Here is a pic of the mixture in the saucepan.

making things

Busy busy busy making things today now my photos have been printed out.

Also been shopping and think I have done most of my pressie shopping now apart from FC pressies for DH Have wrapped 3 up tonight so getting there slowly.

Plan on making the puddings tomorrow. Making 1 for my mum as well this year.

shopping

Been to The Mall today to meet with DD1. Not as bad as I thought and the traffic was minimal. Managed to get another couple of pressies anyway.

Trying to print out photos for my christmas journal and the printer is being annoying - it will not take the paper - think it must be too shiny or something. Am having to use up bits of old stuff.

Really must try and catch up. Freezing here today. Heavy frost this morning and think it is going to be cold again tonight. Failed miserably to start a coal fire last night and me an old GG. Should have chopped some more kindling today - now it is too cold to go to the garage and do it.

dentist

Well after the problems I had abroad with my filling coming out thought I had better have a check up. Turns out I haven't been since june 2006. Anyway expected to have to wait about 3 months for an appointment but they have a new dentist starting so "come this afternoon!"

Not really sure about being 1 of the 1st for a new dentist. Never know what their track record is. Apparently she does speak English very well - we shall see.

Managed to do today's prompt in the Christmas journal. Hopefully do another later to help the backlog.

Got another couple of pressies today. Still haven't got the one to send abroad though so will have to do that tomorrow as a priority.

wet and windy weather

Well today the weather has been awful. Definitely a day for crafting. Have completed my page of a CJ and also done another page of my Dec journal. Playing catch up at the moment as I'm way behind. Here is December 1st , 2nd , 3rd, Not keeping totally to the prompts this time.

Ziggy

Meet Ziggy - my DD's new kitten. A cuddly little thing but still loves playing. GS toddles round with a toy on a bit of string with the kitten following. Very funny

nativity

Today got up early and went to GD nativity play. The weather was dreadful and the motorway was a nightmare but I made it in time. Had lunch with DD1 and then went shopping at the Mall and got another couple of pressies. Came home to lots of parcels which was lovely. Some belated birthday pressies and my secret santa pressies from one of my team mates. It was all lovely. Could not really get a piccie of the Nativity but here is a pic I took yesterday out of the plane window looking towards the mountains.

Left nice sunny Zurich and came back to dull and wet England. Bit warmer though.

fondue

Well went swimming again today - managed 16 lengths (50 m lengths). Been busy doing Christmas cards, DHW and washing.

This evening have been out for a fondue. Very cheesy - bit too much really.

cards

Realised I didn't post yesterday. Spent most of the day making cards and finishing my book. Strange as the prompt for yesterday was about cards. As I was reading it I was surrounded by bits of card, ribbon and glue etc.

Rained most of the day as well so just popped out in brief periods of sun to recycle the tins and bottles, get a few bits of shopping for dinner etc.

Also did 2 loads of washing and a bit of ironing and cleaning in my spare moments!

Managed 2 days worth of my Christmas journal. Still not sure that I have got to grips with this size 8 x 6 but hope the pages will improve. As I haven't got a printer here I am just journalling straight onto the card so think this needs changing. Upload shortly.

candle

Just made a candle. Been for a walk and ended up in Burkliplatz where they have a huge covered area where you can dip your own candle. Didn't realise how long it would take so mine is not very fat but really enjoyed doing it. Had a good chat with another english lady and her children. They have lived in Switzerland for years so well versed in the art of candle dipping.

Actually managed to get a pic of the mountains today. Don't usually show up using my camera.

first page

This is the first page of my Christmas journal for 2007. Am intending to do another one for the 1st Dec but am waiting til I can get the pictures printed. May have to wait until the COOP opens on Monday morning.

Tis the season

December the 1st. Now that my birthday is over I can get started on thinking about Christmas. Am going to do Shimelle's Christmas journal again this year although I will probably do an account of my days this year. Have go t the 1st prompt about the manifesto so must get on with that later.





Yesterday was busy. Went shopping at the Glatt centre. Took a cute picture of the ice rink there. The kids push penguins around to keep themselves upright.

Went out for dinner in the evening though not totally as planned. However went to our local restaurant in the end and they gave us bubbly to start and a special pud with a candle at the end.



Today we have been to the local christmas market and then into the city this afternoon.

another year older

I'm not getting older. I just started a wrinkle collection!

swimming

Managed to get to the pool again today and did 14 lengths this time. 700m Would have done 15 but I would have ended up at the boys end and too far to walk to the girls changing rooms. Had a little lie down on the hot wall. Lovely but had to get up as I was meeting friends. (I could have had a bit longer as they were late though)

Really cold today - very foggy in the morning but the sun came out later which was lovely and topped up on the vitamin D.

Managed another card this morning and bits of some others - so getting there.

My stash arrived from the swiss company. It's lovely and now have enough for my Christmas journal that starts on Saturday.

christmas cards

Well I waited in this morning hoping some stash was going to arrive. It didn't but I did get started on my christmas cards and pressie I am making for DD1. I was then going swimming this afternoon but fortunately I checked on the internet and found out there is a special children's session on Wed pm. A lot of them don't have school on Wed pms so I suppose a lot go to the pool to keep them occupied. Has been a sunny day and have been hoping that the sun would get round to the flat but no such luck. I think we face just too far west.

dentist

Well yesterday managed the washing in the morning and a walk and some shopping. Went into Zurich in the afternoon for a quick look round the shops. Came home for coffee and chocolate and then spent the next hour looking for dentists as whilst I was eating the chocolate out came a filling. Found we have one who speaks English within walking distance. Our dinner tonight was scrambled egg so that slipped down OK.



Anyway have visited and it wasn't as bad as I thought - they have managed to glue the filling back in. They have used their best glue but cannot say how long it will last. Keeping my fingers crossed it lasts til I can get home. Not that I want to go to the dentist there either but it might be a bit cheaper. We are registered with an NHS dentist but haven't been for a bit as they have cancelled our last 2 appointments and so haven't been since they have moved.



Here is a pic of the rubbish lights going down the main street in Zurich.

dismal Saturday

Well it was a grey and dismal day yesterday so spent a lot of the morning on the computer and then out to do food shopping. We walked to Limmatplatz - had a coffee in the cafe before going to Migros. Forgot how much everyone smokes here. Wish they would stop here in public places. Not sure that would happen though because here everything is always voted on by everyone. They hold regular referendums and so majority rules.

We went round the christmas market yesterday and i took a few photos of the tree which is always a spectacular sight. It is covered in Swarvorski crystals as decoration.

We failed to go to the cinema as the picture we wanted to see was in a small screen cinema and we don't like sitting quite so close to the screen these days so watched a DVD instead.

tagged

Well I have been tagged. Just got to work out what to do now . I have to link to the person who tagged me . So this is the link to Mary's blog. http://craftycreation.blogspot.com/

Here are the rules
1. Link to your tagger and post these rules.
2. Share 7 facts about yourself: some random, some weird.
3. Tag 7 people at the end of your post and list their names (linking to them).
4. Let them know they've been tagged by leaving a comment at their blogs

Well I've managed the link and copying the rules. Now to think of 7 facts about me.

1. I always have the flags up on my birthday as I was born on St Andrews Day.
2. I did a years training as a physiotherapist before deciding it wasn't for me.
3 I don't like cream.
4 I like reading fantasy books.
5 I can make bobbin lace
6 I am descended from a baronet.
7 I collect jugs.

Linking to 7 people may be a problem however.


Also today I have been swimming. I only managed 10 lengths but in my defence it was a 50 metre pool so longer than I am used to. The changing rooms were on the top floor and the swimming pool downstairs. There were glass windows all round so had to walk down the stairs in my swimming cossie in full view of the street outside. Nice!!!! Everyone swimming in lanes - all very ordered. However it was fine as that was all I was doing anyway.

There are raised seats all round the pool and saw people lying on them and wondered why. Turns out this is where the heating is and they were lovely and warm.

lights

Have been into the city today and the street lights were turned on. The main ones are dreadful - did hear about them after we were here last - apparently nobody liked them and there was a big hoo ha about all the money they had cost - I can see why. Must take a photo. I did take a photo of one of the side streets that still has the same lights and are really pretty as they look like falling golden rain.

I see I have been tagged. Must go and check it out.

wrapping

Forget how long it takes to wrap presents. What a job. Wrapped up my secret santa pressies for my team mate on UKS and then some for my SIL and BIL. Am seeing them tomorrow for the last time before Christmas so wanted to give them their pressies. As they don't have children and SIL an only child ( parents both dead) they don't have many pressies so try to get them a few little ones rather than 1 big one so of course took a long time. Also had to make 1 (menopause relief kit). This is an empty bottle filled with smarties with a label telling you which smartie to eat for each event. eg. red ones at the 1st sign of a hot flush. I used an old herb bottle so I painted the lid and then decorated it with paper and ribbon.

Other than that it has been a wet and miserable day. Got a bit wet walking from town but not drenched.

back again

Had an emergency phone call to rush up North to be with DD2 and help look after the children. She has really suffered this time. Stayed a couple of days to help out and then on to my BIL and SIl for the weekend. Picked up DH from Gatwick after a reasonable drive down.

We had a lunch on Sat to celebrate the new aeroplane which turned into an afternoon and could have lasted all night but felt we had to get back to our hosts for the weekend. Made some contacts there which I hope will come to fruition later this year or early next .

BIL and SIL have a new dog - a greyhound. Not my cup of tea although he is very gentle and just wants stroking. Just so big though.

Today have been Christmas shopping with DD1 and have been quite succesful considering I hadn't planned on doing anything. They have a new kitten so am looking forward to seeing him before it gets too big

everyday life

Boring day today really. My own fault as I have stayed in all day. Done some crafty bits and read my book. Heard from DD2. She is back from hospital but in some pain. They have found quite a large patch of ulcers so its back on the steroids to try and clear up the inflammation.

walking

Today I felt in need of a walk so as it was a reasonable day I walked into town and managed to catch the last of the remembrance day service in the park. Surprising how many service men were there laying wreaths etc. Dropped by the newsagents to get some more doublesided tape and to the supermarket to get paper and something for lunch before walking home. Must actually measure how far it is into town - think it is about 2 miles.

My to-do list

Finish mini book for GD
do LO's for Sep and Oct
Stash shop for team advent pressies
Print out photos
Make a card

Mum's birthday

A visit to the seaside today. Mum's birthday. Had a lovely lunch at their local restaurant which overlooks the sea. Great weather for November blue skies and sunshine although a bit windy.

My sis and BIL planted some tulip bulbs so they should have a good display in the spring. Mum had made a yummy choc birthday cake.

lazy day

Had a thoroughly lazy day today. Have done 2 loads of washing and run the dishwasher but apart from that have been digi scrapping, reading my book - well a re read actually. Robin Hobb - The farseer trilogy. and looking to do a bit of kitchen designing. They also want a new loo so have been looking up relevant room sizes etc.
Should really have gone shopping but couldn't be bothered so now must see what I can find to eat for dinner. Think I have a potato so probably jacket pot and either cheese or tuna.

car fixed

Hurrah think the car is finally fixed with the right part. DH got up really early this morning to get it to the garage and hopefully that is it now.

We drove to Yorkshire with the old exhaust still on as we had to leave before they could mend it but apart from the rattles on starting and braking it was OK. I had to drive all the way as DH had develped a bad back and could barely move and he found it too difficult to operate the clutch. Anyway we arrived just in time for "Strictly"

We spent a lovely Sunday. We went to York in the morning and had a walk along the river and in the park. Our 1 year old grandson loved the slide and climbing frame and loved being pushed along on his little trike.

On Monday we popped over to DD2 as they want to build an extension and want DH to draw up the plans. He popped some pills and the back eased somewhat although I was still putting his shoes and socks on!!!

In the evening we had the big bonfire and loads of fireworks, jacket pots, hotdogs and soup - yummy.

Yesterday was the long drive home via a teamie from UKS to drop off some books, a visit to our motorhome dealer to get a new shower tray and then Myford metal lathe people to get some bits for the lathe ( what else!). Finally DH managing some of the driving.

car

The saga of the exhaust continues. Last Sunday week the exhaust broke so we took it into Quick fit to be repaired. They didn't have the part so would let us know Mon the price of fitting. Monday they rang and it seemed a bit steep so I quickly checked round other garages just to see if it was reasonable. Discovered it was the catalytic converter that was required. Anyway back to QF and they could fit Wednesday so went with them. Took it into the garage and left it there for 2 hours only to discover on returning that they hadn't got the spare part so couldn't do it. Probably Thursday. Thursday pm I'm supposed to be driving to Luton airport so spent Wed trying to find alternative methods of getting there.

Thursday dawns. They have the part by 11.30 and fit it by 12.30. On the way home I think it is a bit noisy but never mind perhpas it will take a while to settle down. I drive to Luton with the radio up loud.

On my return I drive home at 11pm and about midnight there is an excessive amount of clattering and banging and I drive a bit slower and turn the radio up even louder. I get home at 1.15am

Monday morning I look under the car and there is a square bit of plastic hanging down and scraping the ground. I drive very carefully back to QF who tell me a bolt had fallen out! They fix it.

It still rattles and took it back again today. Apparently the part is faulty and is hitting something so they need to get another part which (they will get for free - I should think so too) hopefully will be here tomorrow morning. We are supposed to be driving to Yorkshire after lunch so we shall see what happens.

Here is a LO I did of the pics I took in the Bürgerpark Bremen

new month

November - has to be a good month - it is my birthday month. Have a long time to wait though.

Today I have been sorting out the junk cupboard - well - I should say one of the junk cupboards. This one was at the top of the stairs. Still contains some junk but did tidy it up a bit and cut up old christmas cards for tags. Put the rest in the cardboard recycler. Have decided that I will not be needing any Christmas paper this year as we have loads left from previous years.

The day has been warmish so went for a walk this afternoon enjoying the sunshine and the autumn leaves.

pics

Here is a piccie from the Freimarkt. These are the delicious pork steaks being barbied. We have them with garlic sauce. Scrummy

Here are a couple of pics from our walk in Bremen park

I need to take the car back to the garage again as it is still rattling!!!!

Been to the library and got the Renegades magic by Robin Hobb. Haven't enjoyed this series as much as The farseer trilogy but hoping the last book will at last get somewhere.

luxury weekend

Have been away for a long weekend and it was a little bit of luxury. Went back to Bremen for the Freimarkt which takes place every year. It is a sort of October beer fest for some, for others it is a huge huge fair with loads of rides - better than alton towers and not much queueing. It was a chance for us to meet up with old friends.

We stayed at the Hilton on Fri and Sat and I enjoyed all the potions and lotions and managed 3 swims and a sauna. Also enjoyed the icemaker and the shoe cleaning machine in the hall. Did manage to avoid the minibar although it was a temptation filled as it was with drinks and chocolate bars etc.

The breakfast buffet was magnificent. I had freshfruit salad with fresh pineapple, melons etc and then scrambled egg, bacon, tomato and mushrooms followed by fruit bread with coffee and fruit juice.

We managed to get to our favourite restaurant one evening and had fahjitas and strawberry cocktails. The following evening we ate round the fair - big pork steak in a bun, Mushrooms in garlic sauce and huge marshmallow things (after eight flavour) followed by icecream.

Also went for a long walk to the burger park. The leaves were beautiful. We visited our old flat. Still our name on the door and postbox so haven't rented it out again.

Had a little disaster Thursday night. When I arrived I was met by a friend but it turned out I wasn't in the hotel I thought I was. Apparently there are 2 in the town in the same chain. However in actual fact it was better as I was close to the railway station so able to meet OH the next day without having to worry about tram tickets.

visitors

Busy day today clearing the decks for a visit from a one year old who gets into everything. Must tie up the kitchen doors next time and move the phone. The stair gate worked well though.

Weather sunny but cold but managed a trip to the playground. Now I just have to clear it all up again. Thank goodness for a dishwasher.

exhaust

the exhaust pipe has broken on the car so that has involved several trips to the garage. Apparently ours has to be got from the manufacturer so of course means it is more expensive. Won't be done until Wednesday.
Horrible day today weatherwise - dull and miserable. Found this little ditty

Weather
Whether the weather be fine,

Or whether the weather be not,

Whether the weather be cold,

Or whether the weather be hot,

We'll weather the weather

Whatever the weather,

Whether we like it or not!

rugby

Well we didn't win but did well to reach the final when we weren't even expected to get through the first round.

Had a night at the caravan last night. It was very cold. We have now drained down the water and put antifreeze in the loo. Also visited the parents and took Mum shopping. We had lunch in town whilst Dad at home nursing a cold.

Stopped off on the way home in Salisbury. Had a lovely coffee and toasted tea cake in M and S and managed to buy some new underwear.

wedding book

Well have finally finished my mixed mediabook - a class on UKS by Shimelle and I really loved doing it. Might do another one of DD2's wedding as I have got all her bits and pieces somewhere.

it really is what scrapbooking is about. Collecting all the bits together of an event and putting them in an album. I tend just to scrap photos rather than all the other ephemera.

Yesterday I popped down to Stourhead. My first visit there and I was certainly impressed with the garden. Loads of people though probably all had th e same idea as me thinking the trees would be turning. I did get some decent photos even though I had my camera setting on portrait for some of the time.

going green

Well a bit behind with blog action day. Think it was Monday

How am I doing my bit?

Well I recycle plastic bottles , paper, cans and glass. Put my veg scraps in the compost bin. When shopping use a bag for life (mostly anyway). Have got used to this because in Switzerland and Germany they dont do carrier bags so you always have to take your own. I have showers not baths. However I do do quite a lot of flying so our carbon footprint is probably not good. On the other hand whilst we are abroad we don't do cars and always walk , cycle or use public transport.

Have been busy scrapping the last few days making a couple of books.

Also been in the garden and making pickled onions.

Had a big HW day Monday and did a bit of a spring clean on the bedroom. Even turned the mattress!!!!

UKS cybercrop

Been scrapping this weekend for the cybercrop. Not as fast as many people but have done a bit anyway including this one which was a scraplift about scrapping space

The weather turned nice today though so went on a bike ride along the canal and into the garden this afternoon.

Feeling somewhat jaded this evening though.

altering

Found this in Tesco's for 11p the other day and thought I would alter it. Sandpapered it first and then painted it in white acrylic paint. Cut a photo to size to fit in the top circle. Put some paper and button embellie in the tag bit and finished it off with a bit of fibre at the top.

Have now bought some more so I can perhaps turn them into Christmas tree decs.

Managed to cut the hedge yesterday so my back and my hands are aching today. Have filled the green bin and have another huge pile for next week.

gardening

Today was miserable and foggy so my plans changed and decided to cut off the top of my yucca as it had more or less reached the ceiling. Have put the cut bit in a pot and we shall see if it grows. Have done it before but think it was probably spring time. Then repotted the rest of it. Really pot bound so had a real fight to get it out of the pot and hack away some of the roots.

This afternoon the sun came out so was able to get into the garden and cut the hedge. Lots of brambles this year. Think again it was later than I normally do it so quite hard work and I am now exhausted and my fingers are very painful.

lazy

Have been very lazy about updating the blog but have had a busy few days. Managed to get a new blouse which actually matched my suit fairly well so that was OK.

Picked up the parents Friday but we left here a bit late then left there a bit late and so got caught in a traffic jam. A 2 hour journey took 3 and a half hours in the end. Anyway the hotel we stayed in was very nice and the pub for the evening Friday do was only about 3 miles down the road. Had a good evening and met a few relations from the other side. They did funny songs and sketches but a lot of them were in german so we didn't understand everything.

Our bedroom above the disco so couldn't get to sleep until after 1 am.

Managed to meet up with all the children in the supermarket which was amazing. Wedding was good - partly german and partly english. Unfortunately it was quite cloudy but am sure the light was better for photos.

Sunday took the parents home and Monday actually met up with 2 ladies from UKS which was lovely.

Tady I have taken the van for its Mot. Luckily it passed OK Also mowed the lawn. Am now knackered.

Blighty

Well back at home again. Very long journey from Luton and then a long walk from the station. Not sure its worth the money saving. Still next time I am taking the car to Luton so will see how that works.

Had to rush into town this morning and back again before we had a maintenance man coming but still had time to take a pic in the park

.

Been fiddling about with wedding outfit this afternoon and decided it is the blouse that is wrong so will be looking for a new one tomorrow. Weather brightened up this afternoon but still not brilliant. However an improvement on yesterday .

Ideal home exhibition

Well it was something similar anyway at the Messe in Oerlikon. We decided to go yesterday as the weather wasn't too good. Lots of furniture and gadgets. Loads of wine stalls. Just had to have a taste at one but they wanted to deliver crateloads!!. Saw a great brush for sticking on your shower pole to scrub your back! Also a big army display. They had built a whole village of bits and pieces. Had a bobsleigh and had built a track for people to have a little go. Various tanks, machines, horses and various equipment. Spent an interesting hour browsing anyway.

Weather today has been beautiful. Finished my book - did lots of cleaning and washing and had a ride to the shops on my bike. People having a sunbathe by the river and the playground was packed.