Where is time rushing to? I cannot believe we have had ten years of a new century already. I still remember all the excitement and worrying as the century was born. Hope's for better times, more peaceful, compassionate times. All the worrying about computers and the Internet imploding on it's self.
What did we get instead? Smaller more powerful computery, an internet that has grown so big it is taking over the world. The peace and compassion didn't arrive, just more wars and selfishness and greed, compassion being a dirty word in some area's of the world.
Saying hello and smiling at neighbours or passing strangers.
Inviting a neighbour for a cuppa. Simple things that were second nature not so long ago.
Can we ever get back to the simple things that are important?
Talking to each other, rather than texting and messaging?
Writing a letter instead of emailing or messaging.
Don't get me wrong, I enjoy the benefits of the WWW, but it does isolate us to a degree.
I have many Internet friends, blogging is one of my pleasure's. But is it putting normal human relationships at risk?
Well I don't know where all that came from, I had not planning to write such a post. I just wanted to reflect on how the world and time are going so quickly and I would like things to slow down and let us enjoy our family and friends at a slower more simple pace.
Tomorrow evening we are letting in the New Year with my daughter's and their families. I am making a huge pan of Scouse and we will enjoy that with some crusty bread and a drink or two.
Then 2011 will be here, new plans and ideas will abound and some progress made.
So I will wish all my dear friends in the inter world a Very Happy New Year. May the turn of the year bring you a healthy, happy, joyful and peaceful future.
Thursday, 30 December 2010
Tuesday, 28 December 2010
End of Year Thoughts.
This year has been a mixed bag of highs and lows.
A bit of a roller coaster ride at times.
My word for 2010 was Celebration and I did do a fair amount of celebrating.
I celebrated my darling Emily coming through a life threatening illness.
I celebrated my 60th Birthday.
I celebrated being reunited with my dear daughter after 15 months of estrangement.
I celebrated meeting fabulous friends when on holiday in the USA.
I celebrated being alive, healthy, free and loved.
I celebrated coming through an unexplained depression.
I celebrated a wonderful almost complete Christmas, with my family for the first time in several years.
I celebrated being married to the most wonderful of men.
Tonight I celebrate being safe and warm in the Shoebox, sitting with my husband enjoying pizza and about to watch a DVD. After a lovely day, shopping, laughing and having fun.
I am Blessed
A bit of a roller coaster ride at times.
My word for 2010 was Celebration and I did do a fair amount of celebrating.
I celebrated my darling Emily coming through a life threatening illness.
I celebrated my 60th Birthday.
I celebrated being reunited with my dear daughter after 15 months of estrangement.
I celebrated meeting fabulous friends when on holiday in the USA.
I celebrated being alive, healthy, free and loved.
I celebrated coming through an unexplained depression.
I celebrated a wonderful almost complete Christmas, with my family for the first time in several years.
I celebrated being married to the most wonderful of men.
Tonight I celebrate being safe and warm in the Shoebox, sitting with my husband enjoying pizza and about to watch a DVD. After a lovely day, shopping, laughing and having fun.
I am Blessed
Monday, 27 December 2010
Christmas Joy
We have had a wonderful Christmas, spent with most of my family.
It was a joyful time and felt so good after several years of feeling outside
of the family circle. Ralph has been accepted by everyone now and he was overwhelmed by the love and generosity shown to him over the past two day's.
At long last, all of my family can see how happy he makes me.
He is no longer considered an outsider,
For me is the best Christmas gift I could have received this year.
It was a joyful time and felt so good after several years of feeling outside
of the family circle. Ralph has been accepted by everyone now and he was overwhelmed by the love and generosity shown to him over the past two day's.
At long last, all of my family can see how happy he makes me.
He is no longer considered an outsider,
For me is the best Christmas gift I could have received this year.
Friday, 24 December 2010
Happy Christmas
Christmas is a time full of memories, some good some bad and some downright awful. I have had my share of the different Christmas's. I try my best to keep hold of the good one's, but every Christmas Eve, the bad one's come back to haunt me.
Today I have upset my darling husband one more than one occasion, all because of my past. I have taken the bad memories out on him, he really, really doesn't deserve it. It breaks my heart to think I have hurt the one who loves me so very much.
When will these bad memories let me go once and for all?
When will I be able to enjoy Christmas without ghosts of the past rearing their ugly heads?
I will be taking a break from the WWW over the holiday, to be with family and friends face to face.
But I want to wish all my wonderful internet/blogging friends, the happiest, of Christmas's.
May Love and JOY surround you and yours on this Holy and Blessed Day.
Today I have upset my darling husband one more than one occasion, all because of my past. I have taken the bad memories out on him, he really, really doesn't deserve it. It breaks my heart to think I have hurt the one who loves me so very much.
When will these bad memories let me go once and for all?
When will I be able to enjoy Christmas without ghosts of the past rearing their ugly heads?
I will be taking a break from the WWW over the holiday, to be with family and friends face to face.
But I want to wish all my wonderful internet/blogging friends, the happiest, of Christmas's.
May Love and JOY surround you and yours on this Holy and Blessed Day.
Tuesday, 21 December 2010
May Peace Be Yours This Christmas Time
If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other.
Mother Teresa
Sunday, 19 December 2010
I Like It...
In the old days, it was not called the Holiday Season; the Christians called it 'Christmas' and went to church; the Jews called it 'Hanukkah' and went to synagogue; the atheists went to parties and drank. People passing each other on the street would say 'Merry Christmas!' or 'Happy Hanukkah!' or (to the atheists) 'Look out for the wall!'"" - Dave Barry
What Can One Say?
What a load of rubbish that was...
As tribute bands go they were the pits.
Why do they have to be so LOUD?
That band (I use the term loosely) ruined a great night.
Good company, good food, really good times. But the band
ruined it. A lot of people left early because of them. I was one
of them. I was back home cuddly and warm with my man.
Watching the final of Strictly by 11:45pm.
Now thats what I call delicous.
As tribute bands go they were the pits.
Why do they have to be so LOUD?
That band (I use the term loosely) ruined a great night.
Good company, good food, really good times. But the band
ruined it. A lot of people left early because of them. I was one
of them. I was back home cuddly and warm with my man.
Watching the final of Strictly by 11:45pm.
Now thats what I call delicous.
Saturday, 18 December 2010
Miracles Do Happen
Even little one's..
Christmas Shopping Done!
Christmas Presents Wrapped!
Christmas Presents Labelled!
And Christmas Day is SEVEN day's away!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It's a bit scary, I am usually still wrapping at midnight Christmas Eve.
I am out to a retirement party tonight, not keen on going with the snow on the ground and minus temperature's forecast for later, but don't want to let Norma down. Hopefully it will be a great night.
Here's hoping I don't end up on my backside, or worse...
Christmas Shopping Done!
Christmas Presents Wrapped!
Christmas Presents Labelled!
And Christmas Day is SEVEN day's away!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It's a bit scary, I am usually still wrapping at midnight Christmas Eve.
I am out to a retirement party tonight, not keen on going with the snow on the ground and minus temperature's forecast for later, but don't want to let Norma down. Hopefully it will be a great night.
Here's hoping I don't end up on my backside, or worse...
Friday, 17 December 2010
Oh I Wish....
I saw an angel in the block of marble and I just chiseled 'til I set him free.
Michelangelo
Thursday, 16 December 2010
Golden Nugget
.
I Found This Golden Nugget While Looking for Something Completely Different.
The writer said he would like it shared.
“We may not all live holy lives, but we live in a world alive with holy moments.” ~ Kent Nerburn
Twenty years ago, I drove a cab for a living.
It was a cowboy’s life, a life for someone who wanted no boss.
What I didn’t realize was that it was also a ministry.
Because I drove the night shift, my cab became a moving confessional.
Passengers climbed in, sat behind me in total anonymity, and told me about their lives.
I encountered people whose lives amazed me, ennobled me, and made me laugh and weep.
But none touched me more than a woman I picked up late one August night.
I was responding to a call from a small brick fourplex in a quiet part of town.
I assumed I was being sent to pick up some partyers, or someone who had just had a fight with a lover, or a worker heading to an early shift at some factory for the industrial part of town.
When I arrived at 2:30 a.m., the building was dark except for a single light in a ground floor window.Under these circumstances, many drivers would just honk once or twice, wait a minute, then drive away. But I had seen too many impoverished people who depended on taxis as their only means of transportation.Unless a situation smelled of danger, I always went to the door. This passenger might be someone who needs my assistance, I reasoned to myself.
So I walked to the door and knocked. “Just a minute”, answered a frail, elderly voice. I could hear something being dragged across the floor. After a long pause, the door opened. A small woman in her 80?s stood before me. She was wearing a print dress and a pillbox hat with a veil pinned on it, like somebody out of a 1940s movie. By her side was a small nylon suitcase. The apartment looked as if no one had lived in it for years. All the furniture was covered with sheets. There were no clocks on the walls, no knick-knacks or utensils on the counters. In the corner was a cardboard box filled with photos and glassware.
“Would you carry my bag out to the car?” she said. I took the suitcase to the cab, then returned to assist the woman. She took my arm and we walked slowly toward the curb. She kept thanking me for my kindness. “It’s nothing”, I told her. “I just try to treat my passengers the way I would want my mother treated.” “Oh, you’re such a good boy”, she said. When we got in the cab, she gave me an address, then asked, “Could you drive through downtown?”
“It’s not the shortest way,” I answered quickly.
“Oh, I don’t mind,” she said.
“I’m in no hurry. I’m on my way to a hospice.”
I looked in the rear view mirror. Her eyes were glistening.
“I don’t have any family left,” she continued. “The doctor says I don’t have very long.”
I quietly reached over and shut off the meter. “What route would you like me to take?” I asked.
For the next two hours, we drove through the city. She showed me the building where she had once worked as an elevator operator. We drove through the neighborhood where she and her husband had lived when they were newlyweds. She had me pull up in front of a furniture warehouse that had once been a ballroom where she had gone dancing as a girl. Sometimes she’d ask me to slow in front of a particular building or corner and would sit staring into the darkness, saying nothing.
As the first hint of sun was creasing the horizon, she suddenly said, “I’m tired. Let’s go now.”
We drove in silence to the address she had given me. It was a low building, like a small convalescent home, with a driveway that passed under a portico. Two orderlies came out to the cab as soon as we pulled up. They were solicitous and intent, watching her every move. They must have been expecting her. I opened the trunk and took the small suitcase to the door. The woman was already seated in a wheelchair.
“How much do I owe you?” she asked, reaching into her purse.
“Nothing,” I said.
“You have to make a living,” she answered.
“There are other passengers”.
Almost without thinking, I bent and gave her a hug. She held onto me tightly.
"You gave an old woman a little moment of joy,” she said. “Thank you.”
I squeezed her hand, then walked into the dim morning light. Behind me, a door shut.
It was the sound of the closing of a life.
I didn’t pick up any more passengers that shift. I drove aimlessly, lost in thought. For the rest of that day, I could hardly talk. What if that woman had gotten an angry driver, or one who was impatient to end his shift? What if I had refused to take the run, or had honked once, then driven away?
On a quick review, I don’t think that I have done anything more important in my life.
We’re conditioned to think that our lives revolve around great moments. But great moments often catch us unaware – beautifully wrapped in what others may consider a small one.
Kent Nerburn
===========================================================================
I wonder what you think of this?
I Found This Golden Nugget While Looking for Something Completely Different.
The writer said he would like it shared.
“We may not all live holy lives, but we live in a world alive with holy moments.” ~ Kent Nerburn
Twenty years ago, I drove a cab for a living.
It was a cowboy’s life, a life for someone who wanted no boss.
What I didn’t realize was that it was also a ministry.
Because I drove the night shift, my cab became a moving confessional.
Passengers climbed in, sat behind me in total anonymity, and told me about their lives.
I encountered people whose lives amazed me, ennobled me, and made me laugh and weep.
But none touched me more than a woman I picked up late one August night.
I was responding to a call from a small brick fourplex in a quiet part of town.
I assumed I was being sent to pick up some partyers, or someone who had just had a fight with a lover, or a worker heading to an early shift at some factory for the industrial part of town.
When I arrived at 2:30 a.m., the building was dark except for a single light in a ground floor window.Under these circumstances, many drivers would just honk once or twice, wait a minute, then drive away. But I had seen too many impoverished people who depended on taxis as their only means of transportation.Unless a situation smelled of danger, I always went to the door. This passenger might be someone who needs my assistance, I reasoned to myself.
So I walked to the door and knocked. “Just a minute”, answered a frail, elderly voice. I could hear something being dragged across the floor. After a long pause, the door opened. A small woman in her 80?s stood before me. She was wearing a print dress and a pillbox hat with a veil pinned on it, like somebody out of a 1940s movie. By her side was a small nylon suitcase. The apartment looked as if no one had lived in it for years. All the furniture was covered with sheets. There were no clocks on the walls, no knick-knacks or utensils on the counters. In the corner was a cardboard box filled with photos and glassware.
“Would you carry my bag out to the car?” she said. I took the suitcase to the cab, then returned to assist the woman. She took my arm and we walked slowly toward the curb. She kept thanking me for my kindness. “It’s nothing”, I told her. “I just try to treat my passengers the way I would want my mother treated.” “Oh, you’re such a good boy”, she said. When we got in the cab, she gave me an address, then asked, “Could you drive through downtown?”
“It’s not the shortest way,” I answered quickly.
“Oh, I don’t mind,” she said.
“I’m in no hurry. I’m on my way to a hospice.”
I looked in the rear view mirror. Her eyes were glistening.
“I don’t have any family left,” she continued. “The doctor says I don’t have very long.”
I quietly reached over and shut off the meter. “What route would you like me to take?” I asked.
For the next two hours, we drove through the city. She showed me the building where she had once worked as an elevator operator. We drove through the neighborhood where she and her husband had lived when they were newlyweds. She had me pull up in front of a furniture warehouse that had once been a ballroom where she had gone dancing as a girl. Sometimes she’d ask me to slow in front of a particular building or corner and would sit staring into the darkness, saying nothing.
As the first hint of sun was creasing the horizon, she suddenly said, “I’m tired. Let’s go now.”
We drove in silence to the address she had given me. It was a low building, like a small convalescent home, with a driveway that passed under a portico. Two orderlies came out to the cab as soon as we pulled up. They were solicitous and intent, watching her every move. They must have been expecting her. I opened the trunk and took the small suitcase to the door. The woman was already seated in a wheelchair.
“How much do I owe you?” she asked, reaching into her purse.
“Nothing,” I said.
“You have to make a living,” she answered.
“There are other passengers”.
Almost without thinking, I bent and gave her a hug. She held onto me tightly.
"You gave an old woman a little moment of joy,” she said. “Thank you.”
I squeezed her hand, then walked into the dim morning light. Behind me, a door shut.
It was the sound of the closing of a life.
I didn’t pick up any more passengers that shift. I drove aimlessly, lost in thought. For the rest of that day, I could hardly talk. What if that woman had gotten an angry driver, or one who was impatient to end his shift? What if I had refused to take the run, or had honked once, then driven away?
On a quick review, I don’t think that I have done anything more important in my life.
We’re conditioned to think that our lives revolve around great moments. But great moments often catch us unaware – beautifully wrapped in what others may consider a small one.
Kent Nerburn
===========================================================================
I wonder what you think of this?
Wednesday, 15 December 2010
Oh to Be The Artist of My Life
Life is a great big canvas, and you should throw all the paint on it you can.
Danny Kaye
Note to self.... colour your life in 2011.
Danny Kaye
Note to self.... colour your life in 2011.
Tuesday, 14 December 2010
Christmas List
Christmas Gift Suggestions:
To your enemy, forgiveness.
To an opponent, tolerance.
To a friend, your heart.
To a customer, service.
To all, charity.
To every child, a good example.
To yourself, respect.
Oren Arnold
To your enemy, forgiveness.
To an opponent, tolerance.
To a friend, your heart.
To a customer, service.
To all, charity.
To every child, a good example.
To yourself, respect.
Oren Arnold
Thursday, 9 December 2010
I have been Tagged
I have been tagged by the lovely PJ and I hope I am doing this right.
I have to answer four questions set by PJ then set four of my own questions and past it forward to four other blogger's, so here goes......
THE 4 QUESTIONS
1. If you could live in another time period, which would you choose? The future? biblical times? 19th century? the 50's Whatever or whenever one you choose and why?
If you need to answer with the thought you would still have your same family then do so.
Oh boy is that a question to conjure with. I have always been a fan of history and there are many periods of historic interest I have longed to find a Time Machine to take me back to. To pick just one is very difficult, Plantagenet England, Tudor England, Victorian England, the Industrial Revolution. They all stir up curiosity in me, to have met Richard the Lionheart, or Sir Francis Drake or Sir Walter Raleigh. To have met the the great inventors and entrepreneur's of the Industrial Revolution, Richard Arkwight, James Watt, Thomas Telford, to name just a few. I can remember being totally enthralled in history lesson's. I would devour every word, written and spoken and be transported off in my imagination to which ever era we were being taught about. I think if I was given the opportunity to go back, I would pick the fifties. I would go back and give little Sheilagh Riley a pep talk and advise her she was just as good as everyone else and not to spend the most of her life in low self esteem with a huge inferiority complex. I can keep the dreams of bygone history, but would love to set that little girl on a different path.
2. What did you want to be 'when you you grew up'when you were a kid? Did you become that?
As a little girl I wanted to become a nurse, then a teacher, then a nun. I got to do none of these, thanks to my father who blocked every dream/ambition I had. I did become an adult literacy tutor for several years, but that is as far as I got with teaching ambitions. I have had several jobs, Lab Technician, market garden worker, barmaid, insurance clerk and doctor's receptionist. All far from those little girl dreams.
3. If you won a million dollars (after taxes) what would you do?
Can I have a million pounds please? :)
I would:
Pay off my three daughters mortgages and clear any debt's they had.
Buy a home for Ralph and myself with at least four bedrooms.
Gift some money to my brothers and sister.
Gift some money to several different charities.
Take my grandchildren to Orlando.
Buy my best friend a craft shop.
Invest the rest for our future.
4. What are you most afraid of and why?
Losing my husband,It took a long time for him to find me, I have made him promise that I can die in his arms. In about thirty five years time.
Time to tag 4 blogge'rs to answer 4 questions and then for them to pay it forward with 4 new questions to 4 new blogger's These are totally random picks...
Marie
Anne
Dana
Cath
Here are my four questions:
1.What is your favourite Christmas memory?
2. If money was no object, where in the world would you like to enjoy your dream holiday?
3. Do you think the internet is a blessing or a curse?
4. Are you a secretly addicted to a substance, food, tv show, or wierd pastime?
I hope you take part in this littel bit of fun:)
Happy Thursday...it's nearly the weekend.
I have to answer four questions set by PJ then set four of my own questions and past it forward to four other blogger's, so here goes......
THE 4 QUESTIONS
1. If you could live in another time period, which would you choose? The future? biblical times? 19th century? the 50's Whatever or whenever one you choose and why?
If you need to answer with the thought you would still have your same family then do so.
Oh boy is that a question to conjure with. I have always been a fan of history and there are many periods of historic interest I have longed to find a Time Machine to take me back to. To pick just one is very difficult, Plantagenet England, Tudor England, Victorian England, the Industrial Revolution. They all stir up curiosity in me, to have met Richard the Lionheart, or Sir Francis Drake or Sir Walter Raleigh. To have met the the great inventors and entrepreneur's of the Industrial Revolution, Richard Arkwight, James Watt, Thomas Telford, to name just a few. I can remember being totally enthralled in history lesson's. I would devour every word, written and spoken and be transported off in my imagination to which ever era we were being taught about. I think if I was given the opportunity to go back, I would pick the fifties. I would go back and give little Sheilagh Riley a pep talk and advise her she was just as good as everyone else and not to spend the most of her life in low self esteem with a huge inferiority complex. I can keep the dreams of bygone history, but would love to set that little girl on a different path.
2. What did you want to be 'when you you grew up'when you were a kid? Did you become that?
As a little girl I wanted to become a nurse, then a teacher, then a nun. I got to do none of these, thanks to my father who blocked every dream/ambition I had. I did become an adult literacy tutor for several years, but that is as far as I got with teaching ambitions. I have had several jobs, Lab Technician, market garden worker, barmaid, insurance clerk and doctor's receptionist. All far from those little girl dreams.
3. If you won a million dollars (after taxes) what would you do?
Can I have a million pounds please? :)
I would:
Pay off my three daughters mortgages and clear any debt's they had.
Buy a home for Ralph and myself with at least four bedrooms.
Gift some money to my brothers and sister.
Gift some money to several different charities.
Take my grandchildren to Orlando.
Buy my best friend a craft shop.
Invest the rest for our future.
4. What are you most afraid of and why?
Losing my husband,It took a long time for him to find me, I have made him promise that I can die in his arms. In about thirty five years time.
Time to tag 4 blogge'rs to answer 4 questions and then for them to pay it forward with 4 new questions to 4 new blogger's These are totally random picks...
Marie
Anne
Dana
Cath
Here are my four questions:
1.What is your favourite Christmas memory?
2. If money was no object, where in the world would you like to enjoy your dream holiday?
3. Do you think the internet is a blessing or a curse?
4. Are you a secretly addicted to a substance, food, tv show, or wierd pastime?
I hope you take part in this littel bit of fun:)
Happy Thursday...it's nearly the weekend.
Wednesday, 8 December 2010
Happy Birthday Darling
Today is my husband's birthday.
My toyboy;)
I feel like it is my birthday everyday being married to him.
I am such a lucky lady.
Tuesday, 7 December 2010
So Very Cold
There is a winter wonderland outside my window, the tree's are absolutely stunning, dressed with thick glistening frost. Against the ice blue sky it is a beautiful picture. My camera battery is charging so I hope to take some photo's before it disappears. I am so glad to be on late shift this week, so the roads have thawed a little before I leave home. It is so cold Titch has to be pushed outside to do what a dog has to do:) She doesn't stay out long at all..lol
It is so cold, comfort food beckons and I am trying hard to stay away from them most of the time. Tea and toast really grabs me at this time of year, it reminds me of childhood. My mother would get the kitchen warmed up of a morning by having the gas stove on with the door open, our school clothes would be on the clothes horse close to the heat. As we got dressed she would make toast, big thick slices spread with dripping (our poor arteries) and a pot of tea. We would huddle round the the stove and relish the tea and toast. One of the happier memories of checkered childhood.
So my relationship with bread has been a long one, I always head for bread when I am cold, low, sad, lonely of just cheesed of with the world. We try not to have bread in the house now, but Ralph brought a loaf home last night and I can hear it calling to me... but I am not cold, low, sad or lonely, maybe a little cheesed of with work but not so bad to dive into the comfort of bread and butter. So I will go and have a bowl of porridge instead, the birds can have the bread.
Keep warm and safe.
It is so cold, comfort food beckons and I am trying hard to stay away from them most of the time. Tea and toast really grabs me at this time of year, it reminds me of childhood. My mother would get the kitchen warmed up of a morning by having the gas stove on with the door open, our school clothes would be on the clothes horse close to the heat. As we got dressed she would make toast, big thick slices spread with dripping (our poor arteries) and a pot of tea. We would huddle round the the stove and relish the tea and toast. One of the happier memories of checkered childhood.
So my relationship with bread has been a long one, I always head for bread when I am cold, low, sad, lonely of just cheesed of with the world. We try not to have bread in the house now, but Ralph brought a loaf home last night and I can hear it calling to me... but I am not cold, low, sad or lonely, maybe a little cheesed of with work but not so bad to dive into the comfort of bread and butter. So I will go and have a bowl of porridge instead, the birds can have the bread.
Keep warm and safe.
Sunday, 5 December 2010
Weekend Joy
Ralph and I had a great weekend, the weather yesterday was dire and made me grumpy. It spoilt my plan's for Ralph's birthday weekend. We left home at noon instead of ninish as the rain was so heavy. When we got to Caernarvon it was still raining so it was the perfect excuse to browse my favourite shop in this lovely Welsh town. "Celtica" is a fabulous shop and I could spend a fortune, but I didn't..lol
The rain eased off so we went for a walk around the town and had some chips out of the wrapper, delicious. We bought a couple of bits and bobs before heading back to the hotel. We then went for a delicious meal before settling into our room to watch X Factor semi final.
Today we met my Bezzy and Phil for lunch, Ralph's birthday treat from them both. The meal was awesome and Phil was on form, which was good for Trish. I saw spark's of the old Phil, wish we could drag him back from the brain injury the changed both their lives so drastically.
The rain eased off so we went for a walk around the town and had some chips out of the wrapper, delicious. We bought a couple of bits and bobs before heading back to the hotel. We then went for a delicious meal before settling into our room to watch X Factor semi final.
Today we met my Bezzy and Phil for lunch, Ralph's birthday treat from them both. The meal was awesome and Phil was on form, which was good for Trish. I saw spark's of the old Phil, wish we could drag him back from the brain injury the changed both their lives so drastically.
Here or two images that gave me JOY today.
Phil the Fluter with his Father Christmas beard, his grandchildren love it. So do I:)
The snow on the mountains of Snowdonia the mountains were magnificent today.
The drive home was scary it was foggy and that really frightens me, but we got home safe.
Thankfully.
Friday, 3 December 2010
I Curled up on the Sofa
I curled up on the sofa with Titch yesterday, very lazy I know, but I enjoyed it.
My girlies are due to come and make cards this afternoon, but it is so cold
I am not sure it is a good idea. We will see if it warms up at all, but the
forcast doesn't look promising.
Ralph and I are due to spend the weekend in Caernarvon North Wales, meeting up with Trish and Phil on Sunday. I just hope there is no more snow to stop us getting together. We will be having a birthday meal for Ralph, it is his birthday on Wednesday. I am really looking forward to getting together with them both.Oh well, I best go get ready for work and face defrosting my little car. Have a good Friday.
My girlies are due to come and make cards this afternoon, but it is so cold
I am not sure it is a good idea. We will see if it warms up at all, but the
forcast doesn't look promising.
Ralph and I are due to spend the weekend in Caernarvon North Wales, meeting up with Trish and Phil on Sunday. I just hope there is no more snow to stop us getting together. We will be having a birthday meal for Ralph, it is his birthday on Wednesday. I am really looking forward to getting together with them both.Oh well, I best go get ready for work and face defrosting my little car. Have a good Friday.
Thursday, 2 December 2010
So Cold
It is bitterly cold here, I just cannot get my feet warmed up.We have not had much snow here in Runcorn, but boy is it cold! I think a big bowl of soup and crusty bread are the order of the day. Then I must venture out into my Scrappy Shack and get started on some Christmas cards. I am running very lLate this year. I really just want to just snuggle on the sofa with Titch and watch mind numbing daytime tv, what shall I do?.....
Tuesday, 30 November 2010
Unexpected Funday with My Man
Ralph had an appointment at the hospital today about his eye's. Because had to have drops to open his eye's he was unable to drive. Therefore I had to book a day's leave to drive him. We had a really nice day, after the hospital we went to IKEA saw some furniture that we may be buying early next year. Then we went to the newly refurbished and extended M&S, oh did they have some gorgeous stuff in there. Got a few idea's for Christmas and if we win on the lottery we will be buying the furniture there rather than IKEA...
We then went to B&Q and got a heater for my shed, Ralph wanted one that I can leave on constantly to keep the chill off during this cold spell we having. He bought me some scrapbooking paper's at the weekend and I think he has begun to realise the value of the papers I have in my shed..lol So he doesn't want them getting damp, they never have before, but this heater is a little extra insurance.
We then came home and had fish and chips from the local chippy. Now we are just relaxing watching tv and drinking tea. A simple day of simple pleasures, love it, love it love it!!
We then went to B&Q and got a heater for my shed, Ralph wanted one that I can leave on constantly to keep the chill off during this cold spell we having. He bought me some scrapbooking paper's at the weekend and I think he has begun to realise the value of the papers I have in my shed..lol So he doesn't want them getting damp, they never have before, but this heater is a little extra insurance.
We then came home and had fish and chips from the local chippy. Now we are just relaxing watching tv and drinking tea. A simple day of simple pleasures, love it, love it love it!!
Monday, 29 November 2010
Christmas is Coming....
I haven't let my self think about Christmas until now. I wouldn't discuss it before our holiday, when we came back I was just revelling the fabulous memories. Now we have been to the Thankgiving meal it is time to put the memories on hold for now and start thinking about Christmas.
So we start with list's, list's for this, list's for that. Christmas present's, cards, food and plans.
What are your plan's?
What traditions to you have?
Do you think Christmas is too commercialised and materialistic now?
What do you do you retain the meaning of Christmas?
So we start with list's, list's for this, list's for that. Christmas present's, cards, food and plans.
What are your plan's?
What traditions to you have?
Do you think Christmas is too commercialised and materialistic now?
What do you do you retain the meaning of Christmas?
Sunday, 28 November 2010
Where Did That Weekend Go?
Something has got to me done about this thief who keeps stealing time!!!
I am sure it was Friday last night, but my television is showing Sunday night's programme's. Now come on own up, who is doing it? Well if you are not going to own up, at least stop it!!
We went to a Thanksgiving lunch today and it was delicious. I had:
Smoked Haddock Chowder
Turkey, Maple Coated Ham
Mash Potatoes
Sweet Potatoes
Corn Fritters
Sprouts with Walnuts and Lemon
Gravy
Pecan Pie
It was scrummy.
While we were eating, I asked Ralph what he was thankful for, he said, a happy marriage and a wonderful wife:) But many other things also. I tried to whittle my list down, it is so long, so this is my top five:
1. My Faith, if I had not had a deep belief in God my life would have ended a long time ago.
2. My Beloved. He has turned my life around. People who have known me over the years often comment about the difference in me now. His love and belief in me is amazing, how could I be anything but eternally grateful.
3.My Family. There have been many ups and downs over the years, the tears, the pain, the heartache. but what doesn't kill you makes you stronger, we are stronger, my daughter's have given me so much JOY in their children, my gorgeous grandchildren.
4. My Health. As we get older, the body starts to protest at years of being taken for granted. I have a few problems, but they are manageable. I thank the Lord when I see some of the health problems my contemporaries have.
5. My Home. We both lost the homes we had built up when we went through divorce's. I left a four bedroom house I owned to live in rented accommodation. but the peace I felt was so well worth it.
Ralph gave up a beautiful bungalow that he owned too. They were both unhappy homes and we both had to get out. We now live in our little Shoebox and we are blissfully happy. The plan for 2011 is to redecorate and refurnish and get rid of a lot of "Stuff" but more of that later.
My Home is in my man's arm's, so where ever he is I am Home.
I am so Very Very Thankful.
I am sure it was Friday last night, but my television is showing Sunday night's programme's. Now come on own up, who is doing it? Well if you are not going to own up, at least stop it!!
We went to a Thanksgiving lunch today and it was delicious. I had:
Smoked Haddock Chowder
Turkey, Maple Coated Ham
Mash Potatoes
Sweet Potatoes
Corn Fritters
Sprouts with Walnuts and Lemon
Gravy
Pecan Pie
It was scrummy.
While we were eating, I asked Ralph what he was thankful for, he said, a happy marriage and a wonderful wife:) But many other things also. I tried to whittle my list down, it is so long, so this is my top five:
1. My Faith, if I had not had a deep belief in God my life would have ended a long time ago.
2. My Beloved. He has turned my life around. People who have known me over the years often comment about the difference in me now. His love and belief in me is amazing, how could I be anything but eternally grateful.
3.My Family. There have been many ups and downs over the years, the tears, the pain, the heartache. but what doesn't kill you makes you stronger, we are stronger, my daughter's have given me so much JOY in their children, my gorgeous grandchildren.
4. My Health. As we get older, the body starts to protest at years of being taken for granted. I have a few problems, but they are manageable. I thank the Lord when I see some of the health problems my contemporaries have.
5. My Home. We both lost the homes we had built up when we went through divorce's. I left a four bedroom house I owned to live in rented accommodation. but the peace I felt was so well worth it.
Ralph gave up a beautiful bungalow that he owned too. They were both unhappy homes and we both had to get out. We now live in our little Shoebox and we are blissfully happy. The plan for 2011 is to redecorate and refurnish and get rid of a lot of "Stuff" but more of that later.
My Home is in my man's arm's, so where ever he is I am Home.
I am so Very Very Thankful.
Friday, 26 November 2010
Reward's and Award's
We went to an awards dinner last night. Ralph's firm were rewarding innovation and my guy was rewarded:)
I was so proud I could have burst when he went up for his award. He is a very quiet, private man and I knew he felt very uncomfortable being called up on stage in front of a room full of people. But I was so proud of him.
I feel so privileged to be his wife .After a very checkered life and expecting to be miserable for the rest of my life. This man came into my life at a time I was on the floor, physically, mentally and emotionally. He helped me with his kind words and simple encouragement. His belief in God revived my love of Christ and encouraged me to get strong again and claim my life back.
Rewards and awards he deserves them all, he made me feel like a million dollars last night. He bought two dresses for me for the occassion while I was away at the weekend. I had planned to wear a borrowed dress. Both of them suited me perfectly, I have never had this sort of love and attention in all of my life.
He won an award last night, I won an award beyond words when I married Ralph White.
I thank God every day for him.
I was so proud I could have burst when he went up for his award. He is a very quiet, private man and I knew he felt very uncomfortable being called up on stage in front of a room full of people. But I was so proud of him.
I feel so privileged to be his wife .After a very checkered life and expecting to be miserable for the rest of my life. This man came into my life at a time I was on the floor, physically, mentally and emotionally. He helped me with his kind words and simple encouragement. His belief in God revived my love of Christ and encouraged me to get strong again and claim my life back.
Rewards and awards he deserves them all, he made me feel like a million dollars last night. He bought two dresses for me for the occassion while I was away at the weekend. I had planned to wear a borrowed dress. Both of them suited me perfectly, I have never had this sort of love and attention in all of my life.
He won an award last night, I won an award beyond words when I married Ralph White.
I thank God every day for him.
Thursday, 25 November 2010
Happy Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving
For each new morning with its light,
For rest and shelter of the night,
For health and food,
For love and friends,
For everything Thy goodness sends.
Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882)
Happy Thanksgiving to all my lovely friends across the ocean.
I am so thankful to have "met" you.
I am making a list of what I am thankful for, I could be some time.......
Monday, 22 November 2010
Crafting Friends.
Sunday afternoon, all crafted out, the friends we shared the weekend with.
Left to right: me, Trish, Estella, Cheryl and Sue.
We all shared a table as we did last year and it was great.
We plan to meet up again at Port Sunlight in April 2011.
I will take photo's of the project's we did and post them soon.
Getting over the weekend and back into "normal" mode is taking time.
I have a lot's of thoughts racing around my brain at the moment, plan's and dreams.
I cannot share them right now but once they have been made real,
you will hear me shouting from the mountain top.
I am still sorting my holiday photo's but will share some with you each day this week.
Can't believe we have been home two weeks...Who is robbing time?
Sunday, 21 November 2010
The Retreat
The retreat was Wonderful.
Spending time with Trish was just the BEST.
The projects were inspiring.
The gifts delightful.
It was a joyful time from beginning to end.
Now looking forward to the next one in April.
But it was even more wonderful to come home to my darling.
This man of mine is SIMPLY the BEST.
Spending time with Trish was just the BEST.
The projects were inspiring.
The gifts delightful.
It was a joyful time from beginning to end.
Now looking forward to the next one in April.
But it was even more wonderful to come home to my darling.
This man of mine is SIMPLY the BEST.
Friday, 19 November 2010
I am Retreating.....
Definition:
Retreat noun ( POSITION ) /rɪˈtriːt/ n • [C usually singular U] a move back by soldiers or an army, either because they have been defeated or in order to avoid fighting
the retreat from Dunkirk
Enemy soldiers are now in (full) retreat.
[C] a private and safe place
a country/mountain/lakeside retreat
[C or U] a period of time used to pray and study quietly, or to think carefully, away from normal activities and duties
We went on (a) retreat at/to a monastery in Wales.
I am retreating to regroup my thought's, my creative self, my joy in friendship's renewed..
I am retreating to gather idea's for the future, to plan the future, to brainstorm the future.
I an retreating to have a JOYOUS three days with my Bezzy.
Hope you have as good a weekend as I know I am going to have.
Retreat noun ( POSITION ) /rɪˈtriːt/ n • [C usually singular U] a move back by soldiers or an army, either because they have been defeated or in order to avoid fighting
the retreat from Dunkirk
Enemy soldiers are now in (full) retreat.
[C] a private and safe place
a country/mountain/lakeside retreat
[C or U] a period of time used to pray and study quietly, or to think carefully, away from normal activities and duties
We went on (a) retreat at/to a monastery in Wales.
I am retreating to regroup my thought's, my creative self, my joy in friendship's renewed..
I am retreating to gather idea's for the future, to plan the future, to brainstorm the future.
I an retreating to have a JOYOUS three days with my Bezzy.
Hope you have as good a weekend as I know I am going to have.
Thursday, 18 November 2010
Simply the Best
Simplify:
To make something less complicated and therefore easier to do or understand.
I am working on it, but it is not simple!!
To make something less complicated and therefore easier to do or understand.
I am working on it, but it is not simple!!
Having a rest from it today, getting ready for my weekend with Trish. Cannot wait, we do so much talking,laughing some crying even. We always have the best of times. We need those times, she held me up for years in my unhappiness as I struggled to keep going in a sad marriage. She now revels in my happiness and is witness to a complete turnaround in my life. I have the privileged of 'looking after' Trish when we have our weekends. These are her 'respite' weekends' where she is removed from her very busy daily life. Where she is making decisions and organising many people hourly in her working life. In her personal life she has to make every decision that a married couple make together as her husband is not capable due to brain injury. From what to have for tea, to whether to sell up and downsize. When she is with me the only decision she has to make is wether to have another coffee or not. She is an amazing woman, dearly loved by all that know her. I am so blessed that she is my Bezzy Mate.
1986
2009
Tuesday, 16 November 2010
The Simple Womans Daybook
This is my first time taking part in this lovely movement, so here goes...
FOR TODAY
Outside my window...
There is a bright sunny crisp morning, the tree's are now bare and looking starkly beautiful. I adore tree's no matter how they are dressed.
I am thinking...
About what I will do today in the simplification of my life. More clearing of drawers and cupboards in the kitchen. I started yesterday and was delighted with my progress but ashamed of the two bin bags full of out of date foodstuffs. I must not let that happen again.
I am thankful for...
Oh where do I start? Today I am thankful for my husband, it took me a lifetime to find him, but oh boy he was worth the wait. We have been married just two years, two of the happiest years of my life. I thank God every day for this wonderful man.
From the kitchen...
A state of flux is apparent in my kitchen as I look for simplicity.
I am wearing...
Pink pj's with sheep gambolling all over them.
I am creating...
A simpler life.
I am going...
To work this afternoon, late shift is great when you need to get things done in the house.
I work at a very busy GP practice and enjoy my job most of the time.
I am reading...
Nothing at the moment, I get lost in book's and all plans go out of the window, so reading is on hold for the time being. Unless you count article's on decluttering and simplifying of course.
I am hoping...
To complete the tasks I have planned, trouble is I am a the world's best procrastinator..
I am hearing...
Birds in the garden, Titch trotting in and out, I think she is waiting for her breakfast.
Titch is my Jack Russell cross, she is great company. She was my wedding present from my husband.
Around the house...
We live in what we affectionately call a shoebox, a one bedroom bungalow. It is bursting at the seams with too much STUFF, hence the simplifying.
One of my favorite things...
Handbags, I think I need therapy, or more self storage..lolol
A few plans for the rest of the week:
Pack my case for the weekend.
Pack my crafting tools for the weekend.
Contain my excitement for the weekend.
My best friend Trish and I will have three whole days together at Rosemary'a Retreat.
Here is picture for thought I am sharing...
While on holiday in the USA I was stuck by the number of flag's in front gardens, town centre's, public building, national parks. This is at the Rockerfeller Centre. American's wear their love of country on their sleeves, we British are a little more reserved, too reserved in my opinion.
Monday, 15 November 2010
Started
The simplification of Sheilagh's life has started today.
Have deleted my other blogs, will just keep this one going.
Have emptied three drawers in the kitchen.
Boy do I keep some crap:(
I have a lot of sorting to do and I am ready to do it.
I may be gone a while.....
Have deleted my other blogs, will just keep this one going.
Have emptied three drawers in the kitchen.
Boy do I keep some crap:(
I have a lot of sorting to do and I am ready to do it.
I may be gone a while.....
Sunday, 14 November 2010
Rememberance Sunday
"They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old.
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them".
Respect Honour Gratitude Rememberance
Saturday, 13 November 2010
Changing For the Better
I have slept so much this week it is scaring me, I have slept in twice, getting into work late and I don't like it. Jet lag shouldn't last this long should it? My boss who is twenty years younger than me tried to reassure me yesterday by saying she didn't feel right for over a week when she came back from the states. So it is a week now, there should be an improvement from tomorrow...
I have done some serious thinking since getting home and things are going to change. I have had a talk with my darling and he is supporting me in my decisions. I feel happier, calmer and optomistic. The changes will be positive, gradual, healthy and rewarding.
My life is going to be simplified, purified and energised.
I have done some serious thinking since getting home and things are going to change. I have had a talk with my darling and he is supporting me in my decisions. I feel happier, calmer and optomistic. The changes will be positive, gradual, healthy and rewarding.
My life is going to be simplified, purified and energised.
Watch this space.
Friday, 12 November 2010
Thursday, 11 November 2010
Lest We Forget
IN FLANDERS FIELDS
Remembrance Day
by John McCrae
In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place: and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved, and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.
Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
WE SHALL NOT SLEEP,
THOUGH POPPIES GROW
IN FLANDERS FIELDS.
God Bless each and every soldier who has sacrificed their lives for our freedom.
On this Rememberance Day.
Jet Lagged Still?
I am falling asleep in the afternoon's when I get home from work, feeling heavy and tired.My concentration is all over the place, getting back into the work routine is difficult. Slept in this morning, was ten minutes late for work.
Getting back into a healthy eating routine, it is great to have fresh veg with meals instead of fries, fries or fries... I gain three pounds while on holiday, I expected it to be far more, so I was delighted when I got weighed on Friday. I have lost that three pounds already and looking forward to losing some more. Ralph gained one pound!! We believe it was all the walking we did, a lot of walking, a huge amount of walking. We got strange looks from people whilst walking in some parts, seems the car takes the strain in the states:)
I cannot wait until Friday night at 8:50 when my guy gets home from work and we have the weekend together. I have missed him. Having three weeks of being a couple 24/7 was wonderful. I am so blessed that he found me.
Jet lagged She saying Good Night God Bless.
Getting back into a healthy eating routine, it is great to have fresh veg with meals instead of fries, fries or fries... I gain three pounds while on holiday, I expected it to be far more, so I was delighted when I got weighed on Friday. I have lost that three pounds already and looking forward to losing some more. Ralph gained one pound!! We believe it was all the walking we did, a lot of walking, a huge amount of walking. We got strange looks from people whilst walking in some parts, seems the car takes the strain in the states:)
I cannot wait until Friday night at 8:50 when my guy gets home from work and we have the weekend together. I have missed him. Having three weeks of being a couple 24/7 was wonderful. I am so blessed that he found me.
Jet lagged She saying Good Night God Bless.
Tuesday, 9 November 2010
My Man is Home.
I can breath easy again, my man is home.
his friend Ian's funeral was a Humanist funeral and
neither Ralph, his mum or myself have every attended
a humanist funeral. Ralph said it was very nice but different.
I hope Ian rests in peace where ever he is.
Night God Bless.
his friend Ian's funeral was a Humanist funeral and
neither Ralph, his mum or myself have every attended
a humanist funeral. Ralph said it was very nice but different.
I hope Ian rests in peace where ever he is.
Night God Bless.
Monday, 8 November 2010
Random Pictures
Just been going through some of the photo's from our holiday, I picked out a few to share.
Not been able to focus my thoughts since getting back, so photo's may begin to tell the story of our FABULOUS Trip.
Not been able to focus my thoughts since getting back, so photo's may begin to tell the story of our FABULOUS Trip.
Saturday, 6 November 2010
Saturday Night
We have been so tired and emotional today. I think jet-lag hit good style, in fact I think it is more than jet-lag. Last night we had two lots of bad news and came back down to earth with a jolt. We heard that Ralph's beloved Uncle Bobby has prostate cancer, I know from my job that this cancer is one of the one's can be managed if not beaten. So we are hoping and praying this will be the case with this lovely gentleman.
Then we heard that one of Ralph's best friends passed away this week. Ian was only 57 and a larger than life character. Ralph is understandably very upset. He is going up to Dollar on Monday for the funeral on Tuesday. Not the happiest of end to our holiday but one that has re enforced our belief that we should plan for the future but live for today and enjoy every moment.
This is not the post I had planned for today but the circumstance's have altered my thoughts, but I will post about our holiday with picture's soon.
Enjoy your weekend and love your life.
Then we heard that one of Ralph's best friends passed away this week. Ian was only 57 and a larger than life character. Ralph is understandably very upset. He is going up to Dollar on Monday for the funeral on Tuesday. Not the happiest of end to our holiday but one that has re enforced our belief that we should plan for the future but live for today and enjoy every moment.
This is not the post I had planned for today but the circumstance's have altered my thoughts, but I will post about our holiday with picture's soon.
Enjoy your weekend and love your life.
Friday, 5 November 2010
Home is Where the Heart Is.
We are home, safe and sound and happy to be back.
Going to see my girlies now and pick up Titch.
Will post tomorrow about how I am feeling about the past three weeks.
Going to see my girlies now and pick up Titch.
Will post tomorrow about how I am feeling about the past three weeks.
Thursday, 4 November 2010
Where Did Those Three Day's Go????
They say time flies when you are having fun.
Well we have been having FUN!!!!!
New York is AmazinglyFantasticallyAWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!
We have loved every second spent is this FABULOUS city.
We have got to come back.
Trish I am telling you now, Turkey has had it, it is New York for us next year.
I am so in love with New York.
Last night we met the lovely Buttercup. What a great evening we had, again as with Kathleen, it was so easy, comfortable and a delight to meet a very special lady. She has a great attitude to life and I learnt a thing or two from her last night. If you have not met this lovely lady you need to pop across to her blog and say hello.
We are having trouble downloading photo's, tonight ( I think my little notebook is overloaded with three weeks worth of photo's) but I will bore you silly when we get them sorted. And the photo of Carol and I will be one of the first.
We are flying home tomorrow 6:30 pm, I am sorry our holiday is coming to an end. It has been everything I had hoped for and more, we have met some truly delightful people, seen some amazing sights and enjoyed the United States of America. but I have to be honest and say, I am ready to go home, I miss my family, my bezzy and my doggy.
Thanks for the pleasure America, we will be back.
Well we have been having FUN!!!!!
New York is AmazinglyFantasticallyAWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!
We have loved every second spent is this FABULOUS city.
We have got to come back.
Trish I am telling you now, Turkey has had it, it is New York for us next year.
I am so in love with New York.
Last night we met the lovely Buttercup. What a great evening we had, again as with Kathleen, it was so easy, comfortable and a delight to meet a very special lady. She has a great attitude to life and I learnt a thing or two from her last night. If you have not met this lovely lady you need to pop across to her blog and say hello.
We are having trouble downloading photo's, tonight ( I think my little notebook is overloaded with three weeks worth of photo's) but I will bore you silly when we get them sorted. And the photo of Carol and I will be one of the first.
We are flying home tomorrow 6:30 pm, I am sorry our holiday is coming to an end. It has been everything I had hoped for and more, we have met some truly delightful people, seen some amazing sights and enjoyed the United States of America. but I have to be honest and say, I am ready to go home, I miss my family, my bezzy and my doggy.
Thanks for the pleasure America, we will be back.
Monday, 1 November 2010
The View
The View of New York from the B&B is FABULOUS!!!
It changes from moment to moment with the light and the ships passing by.
The sun is beaming on New York right now and we are just out to enjoy it.
Have a Happy Monday.
It changes from moment to moment with the light and the ships passing by.
The sun is beaming on New York right now and we are just out to enjoy it.
Have a Happy Monday.
Sunday, 31 October 2010
Sunday So it Must Be NEW YORK!!!
Guess where we are?
Lady Liberty Looking As Lovely As I Thought She Would!!
Amazing Skyline!!
Not The Ferry Across The Mersey!!
It's been a long day, but we have arrived and cannot wait to see the city that never sleeps tomorrow.
The B&B is a little tired, but it is clean and the bed is comfy, so it's ok, I was disappointed when we got here, but after the Shaker Farm B&B anything would disappoint. So we are relaxing watching Titanic and tomorrow we shall hit the town. Sightseeing tomorrow and Tuesday, meeting Buttercup on Tuesday evening, shopping Wednesday. Home Thursday...
Friday, 29 October 2010
Beautiful Boston
Well my man did good, we got to Boston, dropped the luggage at the hotel and got the car back to the airport before 11am. We also got the money back for the car repair that we had to sort early in our trip.
They tried not to pay us, saying we hadn't paid for roadside recovery or the damage waiver. We had and when the Manager checked, they soon paid up, thankfully.
We have spent a relaxed afternoon walking around the city. Just about ready to go out to experience the city at night. Halloween has started in earnest today and we have seen quite a few people dressed up this afternoon, so we expect to see a lot more tonight.
The train to New York is booked, the suitcases sorted, one already locked and ready for the journey home. So the only thing to do tomorrow is relax and have fun.
Happy Halloween
They tried not to pay us, saying we hadn't paid for roadside recovery or the damage waiver. We had and when the Manager checked, they soon paid up, thankfully.
We have spent a relaxed afternoon walking around the city. Just about ready to go out to experience the city at night. Halloween has started in earnest today and we have seen quite a few people dressed up this afternoon, so we expect to see a lot more tonight.
The train to New York is booked, the suitcases sorted, one already locked and ready for the journey home. So the only thing to do tomorrow is relax and have fun.
Happy Halloween
Friday so it Must be Boston?
Well here I am snuggled up in this huge bed at 6am Friday morning, my husband snoring at my side...ahhh bliss. today we leave this delightfully, delicious, darling house. Kathy and Joe are really lovely folk and made us feel so at home. Joe has got the same coughing lurghy as me and Ralph wasn't too good yesterday either.
We went to Vermont yesterday, again we had a lovely time despite me coughing and Ralph starting with a cold. We went to Quechee and visited Simon Pearce, a wonderful glass blowing studio. Ralph took some photo's but didn't download them due to feeling rough, but I will post some as soon as I can. We then went to Quechee Gorge, I didn't go down as my chest was rattling good style, but I encouraged Ralph to go, I am looking forward to those photo's too. Then we had lunch in a diner where the soft drinks were served in jam jars!! Novel..lol
Then we drove through Hanover, a very pretty but busy town. The traffic was horrendous and we couldn't find anywhere to park, so didn't stop:( when we got back to the B&B Ralph had a nap and I had a chat with Kathy. We discussed, kitchens, schools,daughter's, grandchildren, she is a brand new grandma to Mickey age 6 weeks. Respect, Sunday school, cooking and several other subjects, so it was a good old blether as they say in Scotland.
We packed up our case last night and will be leaving here at 8am to get to Boston, drop the bags off at the hotel and return the car by 12 noon. Then we have a day and a half in Boston before a train ride to New York. I cannot believe our two weeks in New England is drawing to a close.
Well my guy has just woken up so it is time to shower and get dressed for breakfast, then we will hit the road. Have a great weekend.
We went to Vermont yesterday, again we had a lovely time despite me coughing and Ralph starting with a cold. We went to Quechee and visited Simon Pearce, a wonderful glass blowing studio. Ralph took some photo's but didn't download them due to feeling rough, but I will post some as soon as I can. We then went to Quechee Gorge, I didn't go down as my chest was rattling good style, but I encouraged Ralph to go, I am looking forward to those photo's too. Then we had lunch in a diner where the soft drinks were served in jam jars!! Novel..lol
Then we drove through Hanover, a very pretty but busy town. The traffic was horrendous and we couldn't find anywhere to park, so didn't stop:( when we got back to the B&B Ralph had a nap and I had a chat with Kathy. We discussed, kitchens, schools,daughter's, grandchildren, she is a brand new grandma to Mickey age 6 weeks. Respect, Sunday school, cooking and several other subjects, so it was a good old blether as they say in Scotland.
We packed up our case last night and will be leaving here at 8am to get to Boston, drop the bags off at the hotel and return the car by 12 noon. Then we have a day and a half in Boston before a train ride to New York. I cannot believe our two weeks in New England is drawing to a close.
Well my guy has just woken up so it is time to shower and get dressed for breakfast, then we will hit the road. Have a great weekend.
Thursday, 28 October 2010
What Day Is It?
Is it Wednesday?
Both Ralph and I have lost track of the days, he had to check his phone tonight to find out what day it is!!
Tonight we are in a very beautiful B&B in Enfield New Hampshire, the owner's Kathy and Joe are wonderful, the house is stunning and our room divine, the bed is HUGE!!!!!!
Photo's will follow.
Our last night in North Conway was very nice, until I lay down on the bed and saw that the ceiling was swarming with ladybirds/ladybugs!! I jumped out of my skin, Ralph went down to reception and they sent someone up to our room with a vacuum cleaner!! Seems it is a regular occurrence if the weather gets warm?? Even the chambermaid this morning said she had them in her house...yuck yuck yuck!!!
Needless to say we left as soon as we could. On our way here to Enfield (in the rain may I add) we called into an AMAZING shop called Kokopelli and spent a few bob!! Ralph had said before we came on holiday that he would like to get a pair of cowboy boots and a leather waistcoat (Vest) guess what? he got them today plus a stetson, oh he looks good in a steston..mmmm. We had the best shopping experience at Kokopelli, the staff were wonderful. I got a couple of things too, but that is another post in it's self;)
We had lots of rain today, but we cannot complain, the colours of the leaves were even more intense, as though the rain had washed the dust off of them. I was on the lookout for a rainbow as the light was just right for one, but I didn't get lucky. Though Kathy said she saw a very vivid one on her way home from shopping, she was further south than us.
One of the really sad things we have noticed driving through New England, is the number of vacant, abandoned houses there are. The economic crisis is plain to see in all three of the states we have visited.
We came through some very rundown area's today, reminiscent of gypsy sites at home. Watching tv and all the political adverts you can see there is a big divide in this country and Mr Obama is not very popular. It will be interesting to see the results of the mid term elections. That is another thing, the negative propaganda that is put out here, it is not allowed in the UK, it is an eye opener to say the least.
Anyway, enough of that, I will end tonight just saying we had a delicious meal in an Italian restaurant called "The Three Tomato's". The atmosphere was great, the service superb and the food....mmmmmmmmmmmmmmm
I refuse to get on the scales when we get home...lah.lah.lah.lah.lah.lah....
Both Ralph and I have lost track of the days, he had to check his phone tonight to find out what day it is!!
Tonight we are in a very beautiful B&B in Enfield New Hampshire, the owner's Kathy and Joe are wonderful, the house is stunning and our room divine, the bed is HUGE!!!!!!
Photo's will follow.
Our last night in North Conway was very nice, until I lay down on the bed and saw that the ceiling was swarming with ladybirds/ladybugs!! I jumped out of my skin, Ralph went down to reception and they sent someone up to our room with a vacuum cleaner!! Seems it is a regular occurrence if the weather gets warm?? Even the chambermaid this morning said she had them in her house...yuck yuck yuck!!!
Needless to say we left as soon as we could. On our way here to Enfield (in the rain may I add) we called into an AMAZING shop called Kokopelli and spent a few bob!! Ralph had said before we came on holiday that he would like to get a pair of cowboy boots and a leather waistcoat (Vest) guess what? he got them today plus a stetson, oh he looks good in a steston..mmmm. We had the best shopping experience at Kokopelli, the staff were wonderful. I got a couple of things too, but that is another post in it's self;)
We had lots of rain today, but we cannot complain, the colours of the leaves were even more intense, as though the rain had washed the dust off of them. I was on the lookout for a rainbow as the light was just right for one, but I didn't get lucky. Though Kathy said she saw a very vivid one on her way home from shopping, she was further south than us.
One of the really sad things we have noticed driving through New England, is the number of vacant, abandoned houses there are. The economic crisis is plain to see in all three of the states we have visited.
We came through some very rundown area's today, reminiscent of gypsy sites at home. Watching tv and all the political adverts you can see there is a big divide in this country and Mr Obama is not very popular. It will be interesting to see the results of the mid term elections. That is another thing, the negative propaganda that is put out here, it is not allowed in the UK, it is an eye opener to say the least.
Anyway, enough of that, I will end tonight just saying we had a delicious meal in an Italian restaurant called "The Three Tomato's". The atmosphere was great, the service superb and the food....mmmmmmmmmmmmmmm
I refuse to get on the scales when we get home...lah.lah.lah.lah.lah.lah....
Wednesday, 27 October 2010
I am Out of Words!!!
Two Days at The Green Granite Inn, North Conway, New Hampshire.
A-W-E-S-O-M-E.
The weather sunny and warm. The sky so clear and crisp.
The mountains AmaZing, the tree's Beeeeeeeeeautiful.
Heavenly!!!!!!!!
A-W-E-S-O-M-E.
The weather sunny and warm. The sky so clear and crisp.
The mountains AmaZing, the tree's Beeeeeeeeeautiful.
Heavenly!!!!!!!!
Monday, 25 October 2010
Hello from Bethel
We are all snuggled up in a lovely B&B in Bethell, we have just had fabulous pizza in a restaurant down the road. My cough is back with a vengeance and it is very tiring. We have been having a great time, driving thorugh miles and miles of wilderness here in Maine. If anyone doubts the existence of God, they should just drive through the Amazing natural Splendour on this earth. At times the journey was very spiritual, passing through this huge natural cathedral of nature, I found it very emotional at times.
We travelled up from Bangor to Millinocket to meet up with Kathleen, my first face to face meeting with a blogger friend. what a lovely lady she is, she treated Ralph and I to lunch at a cracking restaurant. Ir belongs to a family of lumberjacks who have a reality tv show, I cannot remember the name of it but it was a great experience. After lunch Kathleen directed us to a drive that she likes to do with her husband Lyle. It was beautiful, miles from nowhere and not a car or house for miles. Ralph took some great photo's, I will borrow them when we get back home and publish them on here.
we then went to find the accommodation Ralph had booked for the night as we had decided not to go back to Bangor after meeting Kathleen. He wanted to stay in a cabin for a night, so he booked one........ It was a little yellow box, I couldn't stop laughing when I saw it, it was very basic, but cosy and the owner gave us some delicious hot muffins straight from the oven..mmmm
After settling in and freshening up, we went off to meet Kathleen and her husband Lyle for a meal, boy oh boy do you serve big in America. I ordered spaghetti and meatballs, but I was defeated as soon as it was put in front of me!
The evening was lovely though, I could have sat all night and listened to Lyle, he is such a character. I felt as though I had known Kathleen for years and we have the same thoughts on a variety of topic's.
Ralph and Lyle
We travelled up from Bangor to Millinocket to meet up with Kathleen, my first face to face meeting with a blogger friend. what a lovely lady she is, she treated Ralph and I to lunch at a cracking restaurant. Ir belongs to a family of lumberjacks who have a reality tv show, I cannot remember the name of it but it was a great experience. After lunch Kathleen directed us to a drive that she likes to do with her husband Lyle. It was beautiful, miles from nowhere and not a car or house for miles. Ralph took some great photo's, I will borrow them when we get back home and publish them on here.
we then went to find the accommodation Ralph had booked for the night as we had decided not to go back to Bangor after meeting Kathleen. He wanted to stay in a cabin for a night, so he booked one........ It was a little yellow box, I couldn't stop laughing when I saw it, it was very basic, but cosy and the owner gave us some delicious hot muffins straight from the oven..mmmm
After settling in and freshening up, we went off to meet Kathleen and her husband Lyle for a meal, boy oh boy do you serve big in America. I ordered spaghetti and meatballs, but I was defeated as soon as it was put in front of me!
The evening was lovely though, I could have sat all night and listened to Lyle, he is such a character. I felt as though I had known Kathleen for years and we have the same thoughts on a variety of topic's.
Ralph and Lyle
Kathleen and Me.
Thank you Kathleen, it was a pleasure and I now what to meet more blogger friends. And remember, you promised NOT to give up blogging.
Thursday, 21 October 2010
Wednesday Wonders and Woe's.
Again the weather has been so fantastic, I cannot believe it, summer is here in Portland. Though there was frost on the ground this morning. a day of lighthouse spotting was planned, but we only got half a day:(
The hire/rental car started flashing that we had a flat tyre/tire, so we pulled in at a petrol/gas station, as Ralph tried to fill the tyre/tire the value blew out.... three hour's and $202 later we were on our way, the tyre/tire sensor had to be replaced and re calibrated as well as the tyre/tire being repaired. Not happy bunnies but we went off on our delayed trip.
The day got better and better by the minute. We had a great afternoon, Ralph had his first lobster roll and thoroughly enjoyed it. We went to Two Lights and Portland Head Light and walked around Fort William.
We had a bit of bother with the sat.nav/gps and it got us lost , so we missed out on two other lighthouses we were hoping to catch for sunset. Hey ho....
Eating tonight on the way home was at "Friendly's" I had a chicken salad and it was scrummy. Ralph is sick of fries/chips already..lol I have said I am living on fruit tomorrow, I feel stodged and bloated, five days American eating is telling on me already. What is it in the food over here that turns poo green? I am going for healthy options from now on.
Blogger is not playing again with my photo's, I don't know when I will be back on line as the hotel for the next three days doesn't have wifi in the rooms....but I will be back, sometime soon.
The hire/rental car started flashing that we had a flat tyre/tire, so we pulled in at a petrol/gas station, as Ralph tried to fill the tyre/tire the value blew out.... three hour's and $202 later we were on our way, the tyre/tire sensor had to be replaced and re calibrated as well as the tyre/tire being repaired. Not happy bunnies but we went off on our delayed trip.
The day got better and better by the minute. We had a great afternoon, Ralph had his first lobster roll and thoroughly enjoyed it. We went to Two Lights and Portland Head Light and walked around Fort William.
We had a bit of bother with the sat.nav/gps and it got us lost , so we missed out on two other lighthouses we were hoping to catch for sunset. Hey ho....
Eating tonight on the way home was at "Friendly's" I had a chicken salad and it was scrummy. Ralph is sick of fries/chips already..lol I have said I am living on fruit tomorrow, I feel stodged and bloated, five days American eating is telling on me already. What is it in the food over here that turns poo green? I am going for healthy options from now on.
Blogger is not playing again with my photo's, I don't know when I will be back on line as the hotel for the next three days doesn't have wifi in the rooms....but I will be back, sometime soon.
Wednesday, 20 October 2010
Random Pictures
Ralph Buying Bagels
No We Didn't!!
Andy Up a Tree
Andy Smelling Devine
I Love This
And This
Oh and Him
Just a Touch of Colour
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