Mother in law and me

Just to show that Steve's Mum is as mad as mine.

Mother in law: I've made you potato and onion flan

Gina: Mmn that sounds nice

Mother in law: With out the flan bit.

Happy new year everyone!

Mum and me

Mum: Did you see that picture of Barack Obama with no body hair?

Gina: What!?

Mum patiently: He is the next president of the United States

Gina: I know who he is! What do you mean he hasn't got any body hair?

Apparently Mum was talking about a photo of him in swimming shorts and he didn't have any chest hair.

Dog gone

I thought I'd do this quiz after I was introduced on Saturday as "This is Gina , she is into greyhounds.""As pets " I added , "I'm not weird."

You Are: 60% Dog, 40% Cat

You are a nice blend of cat and dog. You're playful but not too needy. And you're friendly but careful. And while you have your moody moments, you're too happy to stay upset for long.

Are You More Cat or Dog?

Bah!

Watched a bit of The Family Stone last night on Film Four. I didn't watch till the end because  I didn't need to - it was so predictable. i thought the warm and bohemian family were a bunch of bullies. The boyfriend kept going on about how he was going to marry Sarah Jessica Parker (well not her - her character) and then falls immediately for the sister .(as she falls off the bus - how zany and cute!) Ugh an awful film. And I think it is patronising and lazy heaping loads of minority stuff on one character. hey he is deaf! he is gay! he is white and has a black boyfriend! And he is still totally boring!

After Christmas

Well I have eaten my body weight in roast potatoes and brussel sprouts, drank bottles of champagnes and glasses of Baileys. Watched Gavin and Stacey, and A Matter of Loaf and Death.I have had a very lovely Christmas. 

Went in to Southend today, and regretted it. The shops were mad. I don't know why I expected any different.

Sunday

I've got period pain and aching legs. Apart from when I first started my periods ("became a woman") I've never been bothered by period pain. now most months I'm fine, but now and then the odd killer when gets through. Today we were meant to see a basket ball game, dropping in on Ma and pa Robbo on the way. The idea of sitting on a bench for a couple of hours is unbearable to me. So Steve has gone and I've stayed at home. I 'm feeling a bit fed up to tell you the truth.

At last!

At last! All the Christmas presents are wrapped, cards written AND posted  and I've just completed my mammouth Tesco shopping order on line!

Who knows I might even get the chance to blog more..

English wine and black dogs.

Steve has work and radio Christmas dos over the next 2 Saturdays, so last night we went out. We went to a vegetarian restaurant in Leigh, called My Kitchen. We've never been to a veggie restaurant before, and it made such a difference not to be a foot note on a menu. Everything was locally sourced, including the wine. I've never even knew that there were Essex vine yards. We had a bottle of Ruby red , and it was delish. very smooth. Steve really like it and he doesn't normally like red wine.  Unfortunately we hadn't any room left for dessert. I'd deffo go there again.

Pootling on the internet I came across this greyhound site, devoted to re homing black greyhounds. Apparently people tend to over look black dogs. Why? After I've brushed Tom, his coat just sines. I may be a tad biased, but he is a handsome devil. penny was mostly white with black bits, and although she was gorgeous too, her coat never shone like Tom's.  Of course looking at all these dogs makes me want to get another dog. But. A dog is a tie.  We tend not to go out Friday evenings as we feel guilty that Tom has been by himself all day. Steve comes home every lunchtime to let him out. When we go on holiday we have to add the extra expense of Tom staying at Hutton (its expensive as he stays in the lady's home. He has a wonderful time. but it is eight pounds a day. But we wouldn't feel happy putting him into kennels). We haven't been out for New Years Eve in yonks because of the fire works. The carpet in the hall way needs replacing, but is it worth it if we get another dog- as even the best behaved dog has the odd accident? However. Every day when I get back home there is some one who is over joyed to see me. The lovely feeling of a cuddling a dog, fondling little silky ears. The exercise of a nice long walk for both of us. The sight of Tom roaching on his bed. That greyhound grin that melts my heart.

Yikes! Long time no blog.

Just realised I haven't posted for ages. So what have I been doing? Well I've mainly been watching I'm a Celebrity Get me Out of Here, playing Mah Jhong on my super cheap Nintendo, wrapping Christmas presents and putting up the decorations. Even though Steve is six foot three and a half and could easily reach the top of the mirror, I clambered on the pouffe to decorate the mirror with fairy lights. Ho hum. He mumbled something about it being too early to put the decorations up but shut up when he realised I had my look of hate on. I just wanted a" thanks for doing that it saved me a job". Not cheeky back chat.

It is freezing outside. I like coming home to a nice warm house, but the walk to work is a bit nippy. In fact I've speeded up and am doing the walk in 17 minutes which is a personal best for me.

Addicted

Steve bought a Nintendo DS lite for his birthday and raved about it. he reckoned that  I would really like one. I wasn't keen on spending £1oo or so  on a game thing- as I am more of a book gal. Steve tried to tempt me with a second hand Nintendo DS, he thought they would cost about £60. Still more than I wanted to spend. I wasn't even sure I wanted the thing. Worn down by the Robbo nagging  I said I'd be happy to spend £20, knowing that he'd never get a Nintendo that cheap. And I was right he didn't get one for  £20, he got  one for £12 from E bay. £12!!  

And now I'm madly addicted to Mahjong.  Just one more game, one more game...I blame Steve.

Jewellery

 I was reading AOJ  's blog about precious items of jewellery and it got me thinking about what item I own means the most to me. My nan left me her gold locket. I don't wear it every day (although Nanny Sarah did, and she had the clasp taken out so the that a mugger couldn't rip if off her neck. Well, she did live through 2 world wars) . The necklace has a peculiar story. dad had bought it for a girlfriend who threw it back at him when they split up. It is a very nice necklace and I think Dad must have liked her a lot, but Dad always acts like he didn't even notice girls until he met Mum, so  I don't know the story behind it.  Then he did meet my mum (only she wasn't my Mum then), and reader he tried to give her the necklace!!! how cheap is that? I'm glad to say Mum told him to shove it and buy her a brand new necklace. So dad gave the necklace to his Mum, and now it has been passed down to his daughter. Weird eh?

However the piece that means the most to me are the diamond studs Steve got me. I didn't ask for them, I know (because he told me later)  he spent ages looking for just the right pair and he got it right. I've worn them more or less every day for the last 8 years. 

Well I never!

I was talking to my neighbour this evening, and she was telling me that she hasn't turned on her heating yet. I laughed and said she must be wearing a thermal vest.

"I'm not!" she said and lifted up her jumper to show a remarkably saucy bra for a Grandmother to be wearing.

Its not often I'm at a loss for words...

I don't believe it

At our works canteen there is a big flat screen telly that is tuned into News 24. At lunch there was the Breaking News tab.  I watched it thinking - is it interest rate? is it stuff about Baby P? No, it was announcing that John Sargent had left Strictly Come Dancing and the Direct General of the BBC was very sad that he is leaving.

Blooming hell! That is misuse of the Breaking News tab!

Dad

One of the reasons why I have a high embarrassment threshold is my Dad.  he is what people call a character.  

he rang me up this morning. This is the conversation:

Dad: You all right?

Gina: Yeah, you ?

Dad: Angela rang me this morning. You and Angela sound alike don't you

Gina (thinking has he only just realised that. Angela has been around 37 years and been talking for about 35 of them): Well we are sisters.

Dad giggling: Only Angela rang this morning and I thought it was you mucking about! And she kept saying it's Angela and I said naw its you Gina, mucking about.

Gina; What was she doing , asking for money?!

Afterwards I rang up Angela. She said it was the most bizarre telephone conversation she has ever had.

BTW I have never rang my parents pretending to be anyone other than me. Oh apart from that time I pretended to be calling from Mum's temping agency pretending to offer her a job as an usherette, but that was years ago.

Random bits

Bought a big Christmas stocking /bag thing and one of those cheap temporary Christmas shops that are in the High Street. Since we got Tommy we daren't put up a proper Christmas tree (the temptation to make his mark would be too great) so I put all the presents in a stocking. I notice last year it had got a bit thread bare so I bought a new one. Realised that I am really looking forward to putting up the Christmas decorations. I put them up on the first and take them done on the 27th.  

Talking of Tommy, I think he is cleverer than he lets on. The other night we were downstairs eating dinner and Tom was upstairs (sprawled out on his bed, or looking out of his bedroom window guarding against cats) and  I asked if he had finished and were the left overs for the dog, and Tom came running downstairs and sat opposite Steve, tail wagging. Then later that evening I asked where the dog was and he thumped his tail against the floor (he was lying on the floor the other side of the settee) it was if he was answering me!

On 11th November we observed the 2 minute silence at work. During the silence I pray - The Lords Prayer or Hail Mary. This year was the first time I thought - there's no one there. It was an uncomfortable feeling, but if I'm really honest with myself I don't believe.

Am fed up to the back teeth about the arguments against gay marriages. Especially "but they can't have children"card. AAARGGGGH!!!

Old Bags

Years ago I used to buy stuff on E bay. that was in the days the Robbos only had one computer between them (how did we manage?) and I used Steve's account. Then after a drunken episode bidding for shoes (the shame and don't ask) I kept away from E Bay. For years.

Mum announces that she would like a small shoulder bag for Christmas.  That poor woman has hardly any handbags (a small note of sarcasm there) I looked around Southend today, but wasn't too impressed with the stuff I saw within my budget. So I signed up to Ebay today and put a bid on a Tula bag. And got outbid in the last few seconds.  I was strangely relieved as I'm not too sure that Mum would have been overly thrilled with what is someone else's old bag.

Mum wants a bag because she borrowed a Radley bag when we went to Center Parcs, but those little babies go for 75 quid!

Random thoughts on a drizzly day

Wouldn't it be nice if today was the last day people let off fireworks until New Year's Eve? What do you think the chances of that happening?

When I was younger  I thought it was really sad that married people didn't bother with special Christmas presents. My Mum would explain to me that when you're spending out of the joint bank account, it isn't the same. And reader its true! Steve and I don't buy each other presents any more. I could try putting a spin on it and saying that when you know you love each other you haven't got to prove it by buying a present. 

Why  do other people's houses feel cold?

What rhymes with....

At the moment I'm reading "What rhymes with Bastard?" by Linda Robertson. I find her story touching because Linda is very honest about her own short comings. How never feeling that you quite belong, that you're not good enough led her to put up with so much rubbish. Saying that I find the pair of them irritating (which I think Linda intends) and at this stage of the book, think they deserve each other.

BTW Linda is always saying how friendless she is...and then mentions her friends. She has got more friends than I have!

Bits and Pieces

A few points:

This morning I'm sitting reading the paper, drinking a cup of tea. The door bell rings  and it is a salesman from Eon. Now I hate people trying to sell me stuff at the door. But I'm polite, I appreciate the man has a job to do.  I told him I was happy with my energy provider (stupid term) and he asked me who my energy provider was. Instead of telling him to mind his own business and set Tommy on him, I just said that my husband takes care of all that (Steve was upstairs and said he had to choke back a laugh, hearing me being such a 50s wife) and the man sneered at me. No need for that was there?

I popped in to Sainsburys yesterday and the Big Issue seller was aggressive. I'm not being bullied into buying a copy, and anyway Ricky Gervais is on the cover and I hate him. I used to dislike him when he was on Liquid News before he became famous. That dislike has grown in to hatred.

About 4 years ago I bought 3 pairs of jeans from Peacocks. They were the best jeans ever. But Peacocks don't do that style any more and I really need to buy new pairs. Today in George  I bought 2 pairs. I did  my normal tests  in the changing room (sitting down, bending over , walking , to see if the jeans stayed put - I hate jeans that gradually ride down and I'm in horror  of  builders bum).  Obviously changing room tests aren't the same as real life, but I have high hopes.   

When I got home and opened the door I could hear scrabbling in the kitchen. I don't know what happened but Tom couldn't get up from the lino. He wasn't crying, didn't look in pain and  I lifted him up and put in the hall. Tom walked away, and if a dog can look embarrassed, he did. I think he is ok. Made mental note to always shut the kitchen door when we go out.

Terror in the Playzone

At Center Parcs there is a Playzone/arcade thing. Steve and I had an enjoyable game of air hockey.  Then Steve suggested we go in this car simulator thing. Like street racer but you are in this car. I said "ok". We squeezed in (having bulky coats and bags with us - and don't forget this game is aimed at kids and I have a decidedly grown up bottom.) Once in side Steve said "Right I'll pull over the roof" and as he did so, the side doors shut and we were completely enclosed in this tiny space. Reader,  I never realised that I am claustrophobic.

Gina: Oh I don't like this.

Steve: It'll be ok when it gets going..

Gina grabbing at door handle and door won't open: GET ME OUT! GET ME OUT!

Steve unable to get door open starts hitting the STOP button. But nothing is happening. I suppose it is unusual to try and stop the game before it starts. Steve opens the "sun roof" to let some air in.

Steve: I think we may have to do the ride.

Gina: GET ME OUT! GET ME OUT!

Luckily the stop button thing kicked in and the doors opened. Reader,  I was shaking. I had gone from calm to barmy on 0000000.000001 seconds.

Later telling the Little Dudes how their aunt went barmy, they told me no one can hear you shouting in that car terror thing. It turns out earlier in the day they had got trapped in it and luckily Dave realised it wasn't moving and got a member of staff to let them out.  I'm NEVER getting into one of those things again. 

Fun! Fun! Fun!

Last night we got back from a long weekend at Centre parcs.  We had 2 chalets, the Robbos and my parents ; and in the other Angela , Dave and the little Dudes. Steve and I rented bikes - and its true you don't forget how to ride a bike.  I was a bit wobbley at first but was soon racing Steve. Us ladies kicked off the holiday going to the Aqua Spa (I've raved about the Centre parcs beauty treatments before.) we all did bowling (and I got a strike!) I did silk painting (I found the technique difficult but Jim was v. patient. The finished piece of art is now sitting on the window sill). The husbands played pool( and were shocked at how bad they are now - apparantly they wer ebrill when they were teenagers). The Dudes and Grandparents had a horse carriage ride. Angela, Littlest Dude, Mum and I played ping pong (mum and LD were vicious) Little Dude and Dave played pool. We all did short mat bowls. Amongst all this there was much swimming and the boys playing in the adventure playgrounds. It was fun and we all went home exhausted.  What I like about Centre parcs is that you do things that you would never normally do (in my case riding a bike, silk painting and ping pong.) Every night we were all soundo by half ten and up again at 8 raring to go. 

Saturday

Last night we went out for dinner with Tim and Sharon. I can't remember the last time we all went out and it was a really good night. You could see the effects of the credit crunch - 20% of set meals and the place was half empty.

I think we were talking about crushes and Sharon announced that she couldn't see the appeal of Angelina Jolie....and the lads went very quiet and a bit uncomfortable looking. Although they denied it, they so love her.

I took the test

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The Loyal Friend
Others see you as sensible, cautious, careful & practical. They see you as clever, gifted, or talented, but modest. Not a person who makes friends too quickly or easily, but someone who's extremely loyal to friends you do make and who expects the same loyalty in return. Those who really get to know you realize it takes a lot to shake your trust in your friends, but equally that it takes you a long time to get over if that trust is ever broken.

Feet and other things beginning with f.

I had a pedicure today. My feet were covered in paraffin wax ( a rather nice sensation) and then the hard skin was skimmed off and my toe nails painted and cuticles trimmed. 

I've always thought my feet were a bit yucky and I have the very bad habit of picking at my feet. Natalie said that my feet weren't as bad as I thought they were and she could tell that I wear good (ie sensible ) shoes.  And its true I do wear good shoes. My Clarke shoes are the very antithesis of f* me shoes but so what. When I wear them I feel like I'm putting on a pair of slippers. I want comfort when  I'm walking .  I agree with Nigella Lawson, high heels are for the bedroom. If I'm going have the discomfort (I do I mean agony) of wearing f* me shoes I want to be well and truly ****'d.

Wot I'm reading

I am reading The End of Mr Y by Scarlett Thomas . I first discovered Scarlett Thomas  a few years ago through her Lily Pascale crime series. They were 3 in total, but I read on her website that she didn't feel comfortable with the crime genre, so she won't be writing any more.  I liked Lily, she was how I liked to have been when I was in my early 20s , cool and independent. her own woman. Lily was  half French- I'd love to be half French and fluent in the language , rather than wholly English with one useless French O level (how can you learn a language for 5 years, get a qualification in it and still not be able to speak it or understand it? How?) I remember in one scene Lily is asked if she has got any chocolate and she thinks she may have some Green and Black in the fridge. And I thought yeah there are the girls that buy Green and Black and the girls who buy Cadburys. Guess which one I am.

I've read her other books, Going out, Popco, Bright Young Things. I didn't like Going out so much, but I think that's because I just finished Lily Pascale and the book was completely different from what I was expecting. I'm enjoying The End Of Mr Y. Auriel, the heroine , doesn't have much money. She lives in a freezing cold flat without any nice things. Auriel follows what interests her. She hasn't joined the rat race. Now I have joined the rat race, and given the current economic climate I very much want to stay there.  The idea of not having a nice warm home, my ornaments, my candles, my  treasures makes me feel ill. I'm more than happy to get up very early, work hard in a job that no one has ever had a burning ambition to do in order that I can afford the life style I have.

I do recommend Scarlett's books. I won't say much about them because I don't want to spoil them for you, but they do make you think.

Don't mess with me..

here is your handwriting analysis.

 Gina uses judgment to make decisions. She is ruled by her head, not her heart. She is a cool, collected person who is usually unexpressive emotionally. Some may see her as unemotional. She does have emotions but has no need to express them. She is withdrawn into herself and enjoys being alone.

The circumstances when Gina does express emotions include: extreme anger, extreme passion, and tremendous stress. If someone gets her mad enough to tell her off, she will not be sorry about it later. She puts a mark in her mind when someone angers her. She keeps track of these marks and when she hits that last mark she will let them know they have gone too far. She is ruled somewhat by self-interest. All her conclusions are made without outside emotional influence. She is very level-headed and will remain calm in an emergency situation. In a situation where other people might get hysterical, she has poise.

Gina will work more efficiently if given space and time to be alone. She would rather not be surrounded by people constantly. In a relationship, she will show her love by the things she does rather than by the things she says. Saying "I love you" is not a needed routine because she feels her mate should already know. The only exception to this is if she has logically concluded that it is best for her mate to hear her express her love verbally.

Gina is not subject to emotional appeals. If someone is selling a product to her, they will need to present only the facts. They should present them from a standpoint of her sound judgment. She will not be taken in by an emotional story about someone else. She will meet emergencies without getting hysterical and she will always ask "Is this best for me?"

 People that write their letters in an average height and average size are moderate in their ability to interact socially. According to the data input, Gina doesn't write too large or too small, indicating a balanced ability to be social and interact with others.

 Gina will be candid and direct when expressing her opinion. She will tell them what she thinks if they ask for it, whether they like it or not. So, if they don't really want her opinion, don't ask for it!

 In reference to Gina's mental abilities, she has a very investigating and creating mind. She investigates projects rapidly because she is curious about many things. She gets involved in many projects that seem good at the beginning, but she soon must slow down and look at all the angles. She probably gets too many things going at once. When Gina slows down, then she becomes more creative than before. Since it takes time to be creative, she must slow down to do it. She then decides what projects she has time to finish. Thus she finishes at a slower pace than when she started the project.

She has the best of two kinds of minds. One is the quick investigating mind. The other is the creative mind. Her mind thinks quick and rapidly in the investigative mode. She can learn quicker, investigate more, and think faster. Gina can then switch into her low gear. When she is in the slower mode, she can be creative, remember longer and stack facts in a logical manner. She is more logical this way and can climb mental mountains with a much better grip.

 Gina is a practical person whose goals are planned, practical, and down to earth. This is typical of people with normal healthy self-esteem. She needs to visualize the end of a project before she starts. she finds joy in anticipation and planning. Notice that I said she plans everything she is going to do, that doesn't necessarily mean things go as planned. Gina basically feels good about herself. She has a positive self-esteem which contributes to her success. She feels she has the ability to achieve anything she sets her mind to. However, she sets her goals using practicality-- not too "out of reach". She has enough self-confidence to leave a bad situation, yet, she will not take great risks, as they relate to her goals. A good esteem is one key to a happy life. Although there is room for improvement in the confidence catagery, her self-perception is better than average.

 Gina is selective when picking friends. She does not trust everyone. She has a select group of people that are truly close to her, usually two or three. She is careful when choosing her inner circle of friends.

 For a graphologist, the spacing on the page reflects the writer's attitude toward their own world and relationship to things in his or her own space. If the inputted data was correct Gina has left lots of white space on the right side of the paper. Gina fills up the rest of the page in a normal fashion. If this is true, then Gina has an unhealthy relationship to the past and has a fear of moving forward. The right side of the page represents the future and Gina seems unwilling to face the fear of getting started living now and planning for the future. Gina seems to be clinging to past events and spending lots of time thinking about what happened. It would be best to leave the past behind and move on. Stop crowding that left margin.

Seaside and raindrops

I love taking Tommy for a walk when it is raining. This is because only the "proper" dog owners still take their dogs out in horrible weather, so you don't have to worry about people who can't control their dogs. For me the only drawback about having an ex racer is that you can't let them off the lead. When off lead dogs come running up to on lead dogs, for some reason it never ends that well. I find it easier to just avoid the situation. But on rainy days I don't have to worry, any off lead dogs soon return to their owners when called.

When we got home we were both dripping wet but happy. It doesn't take much. I dried Tom and he is laying by the radiator and I'm going to have a nice hot, bubbly bath, followed by a fried egg and tomato sauce sandwich. Yum yum.

I couldn't help but wonder...

I watched The Sex and the City film on DVD last night (£8 from Tescos, what a bargain) I had seen it at the pictures, so it was the second time I've watched it. I'm a Sex and the City geek. These people are real to me.

My main gripe was the Miranda /Steve storyline. By the end of the film when they had reconciled, she had come to terms with him shagging else where as she was too exhausted from being a working mum to "meet his needs". They were having energetic sex (and it you haven't seen and I've spoiled it for you, tough you've had ages to go see it) - and I couldn't help but wonder -what had changed? Miranda was still a working mum, where she had suddenly found all this extra energy? I thought that was the fairy tale ending rather than Carrie and Big getting married.

Still who watches SATC for believability? I love it. I love the way they are all loaded. That they say how busy they are but they have always got time to go out together. The weird clothes Carrie wears (which none of the other characters ever comment on). Their fabulously big apartments. it is pure escapism. A fairy tale for people like me.

Soul Mates?

Do you believe in soul mates, that there is some one out there for everyone that is perfect for them? That is just a matter of finding them?

I've thought about this a lot, partly because people have said "Oh you and  Steve are soul mates" and I've always thought, no it isn't as easy as that. I've had serious relationships before Steve that crashed and burned, but at the time I thought they were"the one". Now I think "Oh Gina what were you thinking!"

 I think, no I know, that you BOTH have to work at relationship, but there has to be something there  to work on.  And feelings do change. I think that a good relationship  is a magical mixture of luck and work.

Now would do I mean by working on a relationship. These are a few things:

Not blaming them for your inadequacies.

Not expecting them to change, but don't try to stop them changing

Treating them with kindness.

Counting to ten, or ten thousand

Remember you might not have meant what you said in anger..but too late it has been said.

Learning to forgive them

Making time for fun- which funnily enough can be difficult.

Respecting their boundaries.

Allowing yourself to be open with them.

Right, I'll get off my soap box now.

Dogs

Today Angela went to see Chris the Clairvoyant.  One of the things she told Angela was that I should get another dog. Which is odd, as when we where in Wales  we were asked a few times why we've only got one dog.  It has been something we've been discussing - but I think at the moment we are happy as we are.

I'm Back

We've just come back from our holiday in Wales and to be honest am a bit down in the dumps because I loved it. We've taken the dogs on holiday with us before, but to be honest it hasn't been as relaxing as it could be. this is because the garden wasn't dog proof, the dogs couldn't get upstairs and you couldn't leave then unattended.  However Little Dumpledale Farm is completely dog friendly, nice settees with throws over then for dogs to snooze on, a dog proof garden, a little conservatory that (the one time we left Tom) we felt happy leaving him and he had the safe garden to roam in. We ok'd first with Carol and Trevor - who are very laid back, and friendly.  I admit we were extremely lucky with the weather - it didn't rain once. We had days out in Tenby and St David's but we mainly relaxed. At least Steve relaxed after he made the fire each day....it is so much easier to flick a switch!

When we were in St David's a Welsh woman asked me directions, I laughed and said that I thought she was more local than I was, but she didn't find it funny.

Learnt some Welsh by reading the (large) road signs - Awfan is slow, ysgol is school and Dim is no. At least I think they are.

Sad but true

Mum: Are you going to watch Tess of the D'urbanvilles *

Gina: Good God no! it was bad enough reading Thomas Hardy at school. Every one dies! Thomas Hardy is miserable!

Mum; Like Far from the madding Crowd. Who was in that?

Gina: Bathsheba**

Mum: So who is in Tess of the D'urbanvilles?

Gina: Mum!

Mum (sheepishly) Oh yeah!

*or however you spell it

**ditto

It is only dinner

I enjoy watching MasterChef. I like MasterChef in all its forms - the celebrity, the professional and the ordinary.  I thinkMichel Roux jr is brilliant, he doesn't play up to the camera at all and I love him a little bit. However the look of terror on the contestants' faces, the self hatred when things go a little bit wrong does wear a bit thin. Has the director told them to look scared? If it was MasterDoctor or Master Surgeon I could understand it- you don't want to be cocking that sort of thing up. 

500th post

This is my 500th post (just in case you missed the title of this post). When I first started I worried that I would run out of things to say, but I've realised that is no big deal. If I can't think of anything to blog about,  I don't.  When I first started writing it I didn't think I'd get any readers and can still remember the thrill I had when I got a comment from some one I didn't know. 

There are things I steer clear of blogging about. Steve isn't keen that I mention his family, so I try not to do that too much. I try not to slag people off,  I just compose hate filled posts in my head instead.

I know that I'm not a blogging superstar, that I'm not going to get a book deal but I can't imagine not blogging now. I do love my little blog, it is something of my very own.

Why do you like blogging?

mmnn

Your Independence Level: High

You are extremely self reliant and autonomous. You are definitely into doing your own thing. But you also wouldn't turn down help if you needed it. You follow your own path, but you don't do so blindly.

How Independent Are You?

Its funny, my family say I'm too independent but I never believe them. I think I'm one of the most dependent people I know.

Blue and Green should never be seen and other rubbish.

"If you wear spectacles you should not wear earrings"  I read. That's stupid. I hate,hate, HATE so called fashion rules. Like lipstick and nail polish should match, the colour of shoes and handbags should match. Gold and silver shouldn't be mixed. Socks and sandals shouldn't be worn together...oh hang on I agree with that one.

Friday

I haven't enjoyed today much.  I seemed to be manning the idiot phone line. Then on the way home I was sitting next to someone who had a wind problem.

Bring on the weekend!

And she is only 13!

Watch this

Back home

We've just come back from a few days in Thursford. I've done one load of washing and the second load is swishing around. 2 loads and we were only away 2 days! We travelled there Monday night. The country is very dark at night isn't it? I like street lights and pavements myself. We had a day trip to Wells and was rewarded by the sun coming out. Tommy loved all the long walks and sniffings.

Definitely have lost all cravings for meat. Steve's Mum and Dad and brother (Linda, Pete and Dave)  ate chicken legs  and spare ribs last night and I thought "oh yuk!"

Thoughts on a damp day

Put the stove on last night and turned the radiators on this morning. Am typing this wearing a jumper and I'm wondering what happened to Summer.  Do you know I didn't buy any summer clothes this year? I couldn't have gone shopping that in that narrow window of opportunity!

Took Tom out for a walk and bumped into a couple that I used to work with, Gordon and Sam(antha).  When I left my last job they were in the process of buying their house. As I hadn't seen them I assumed it fell through (everyone knows everyone here) but no, they moved and been living here a year. They had their 2 dogs with them and the dogs all gave each other a good sniffing whilst we had a catch up.

Yesterday I was cutting a potato and nearly sliced off the top of my finger. Blood everywhere and it took ages to stop bleeding. There were drips of my blood all over the work top. Bit disgusting.

I've been meaning to blog about this for ages, I'm fed up of Da Vinci code type books boasting that they are better written by better writers than Dan Brown. I like Dan Brown books, they're exciting and you do care about the characters. I was lucky enough to read the Da Vinci Code, before it became famous.  When I started to read it, I didn't know what it was about. I knew it was a work of fiction but it did get me interested in the divine feminine. In fact before I read that book  I didn't know there was a divine feminine ( and me with my  RE O level).

The Robbos were shouting at each other this morning.

Steve:Not everything is about you!

That stung- that's my line! I said (or rather yelled) that first (cica 1996 or 97?). He stole one of my put downs! 

My!My!

a quick blog while I ran my bath - Finally saw Mama Mia with Mum and Angela  last night and we all loved it. It is a complete chick flick.  There was one man at the cinema and he did look a bit fed up.

Hello Mum!

My mum has got a lap top and she's gonna use it (and shop, shop shop!). She'd said she read my blog , so....hello Mum!

You Are Much Closer to Your Family

You consider your family members to be your some of best friends. And you can count on them more than anyone else in the world. You're very similar to your family, and you find it easy to get along with them. You know that they understand you and love you for who you are.

Are You Closer to Your Friends or Your Family?

Weekend

We saw REM at Twickenham last night and it was BRILLIANT. I'd go as far as to say that it was the best gig I've ever been to. There was a good mixture of well known ones, new ones and really early ones. the place had a great vibe and Michael Stipe even went in with the audience and the place just went WILD.
The only odd thing was that the Robbos went hungry as there wasn't any veggie food there. All the veggie stuff was sold out. Luckily I had made a pack lunch for the coach (when the things you do automatically once you're middle aged) so we weren't starving.
Talking of veggie stuff, AOJ suggested I might be lacking something as I'd started to crave meat. The other day Steve bought loads of FRESH veg (as opposed to the frozen stuff that I tend to use during the week) I cooked it all up and - hey presto!-not craving the meat. So I think you had something there AOJ! Which just goes to show that there is a difference in frozen and fresh nutrients (and "they" tell us there isn't).

A Lazy blog

How many people live in your house?
Two people, one dog, about 10 fish (they wouldn't keep still).
Do you like your siblings?
For the first 18 years- not at all- since then love her to pieces.
What color are your nails?
Unadorned finger nails, ruby black toe nails.
What’s your favorite place on earth?
My bed, lying next to Mr Robbo is the honest answer. however a Thai beach comes a close second.
Ever punch someone in the face?
My Dad. me and Angela were playing in our bedroom (this was years ago, this was in the 70s) and Dad made us jump and I punched him in the smacker. he was quite proud really.
Did you have a dream last night?
I've been reading Kim harrison's All hallows series, and the dream was about demons.
Where is your top from?
George at Asda
Are you mad at someone?
No, for a change..
Where’s your best friend?
In Essex
Last place you bought something from?
A chinese takeaway this evening.
Last person you were in a car with?
Mr Robbo.
What bank do you use?
Nosey!
Do you like being in photos?
Accepting rather than like.
Who’s your last missed call from?
3 Customer Services.
Ever broken something at someone else’s house?
I must have done, but it must have been years ago as I can't remember.
Are you a good driver?
NO!
What's on your mind right now?
Doing this
When is your birthday?
march
What kind of mobile phone do you have?
A Silver one.
How old will you be in 5 years?
45. hang on 45!
Are you a movie buff?
I like to think so.
If you could move tomorrow, would you?
it would have to be somewhere fantastic as I really like where I live now.
Do you like the weather today?
Not overly much. overcast and muggy.
Do you like the outdoors or indoors better?
Indoors
How tall are you?
5 foot 7 1/2
If you had to choose an age to remain for the rest of your life what would it be?
What like if I got bitten by a vampire? I like the age I'm at now.
What’s something in your past you wish you could relive?
Saying my wedding vows as i can't remember what the heck I said.
What is your favorite thing to do on the weekends?
Having lots of cups of tea and reading the papers. taking Tom on a walk.
Favorite nearby vacation destination?
Center Parcs!
How’s the weather?
English.
Does anything on your body hurt?
No
What was the last television show you watched?
Sex and the City
Do you prefer orange or cherry ice-pops?
Neither
Do you like pickles?
Pickled Onions, Branston.
Does your hair still smell like shampoo?
yes
What’s plugged in in the nearest socket?
PC and telly.
What was the last thing you wrote by hand?
A cheque
What’s your favorite tv advert?
haven't got one.
Do you pay attention to celebrity gossip?
Yes.
Have you sung out loud today?
At work, under my breath.

Oh Lordy, if you read Dan's blog this meme goes on a lot longer. Igive up!

Fish and Meat

I believe that animals have souls and feel emotions. They might not feel these emotions the way we do, just as all animals breathe but have different ways of going about it. (I'm thinking lungs and gills here).
Six years ago we bought an aquarium, some tetras and 2 cat fish. Those original tetras have long since died and been replaced by platys but the cat fish are still going strong. Well one of them is still going strong, the other one is dying. The other cat fish is lying near it. This has been going on all afternoon. I think the fit cat fish cares.

Talking about animals, I don't eat meat on ethical grounds, not because I don't like the taste. Saying that I haven't missed meat much (unlike fish - that is a real struggle and I have fallen off the wagon LOADS of times) but the past couple of weeks I have craved meat. In particular I nice crispy chicken leg. Oh yes. then that got me thinking to a nice rare steak and onion rings. I'm not going to eat meat though as I know I'd feel terrible. Perhaps it is the meat free equivalent of a 7 year itch?

Feng what?

Your Feng Shui is Decent

Your home is a comfortable enough place. After all, it is your home. Truthfully, though, it may be a bit too cluttered and stale. Try rearranging your furniture, donating unwanted items, and bringing in some natural elements. You may be surprised how much more relaxed you end up feeling.

How's" Your Feng Shui?

I would LOVE to rearrange the furniture, but Mr Robbo won't let me. He reckons we have got the perfect lay out. And after some secret rearranging I have to say he is right. So now I want to buy NEW furniture...

Things we say

I just read "No I don't want to join a book club" by Virginia Ironside . I really enjoyed it and it made me laugh. The heroine is a middle class lady who refers to cakes as being "scrummy", Isn't scrummy a nice word? I wish I used the word scrummy to describe delicious things. Sadly when I've eaten something gorgeous I refer to it as "well horny". As in:"That cake was well horny". Hasn't quite got the same ring.
However one expression I shall be using from the book is a CRAFT moment instead of a senior moment. Craft as in: can't remember a fecking thing.

Friends

I'm reading this book "Still thinking about you" by Adele parks. At least I think it is called that as I seem to give books titles (eg American Gods/Gods of America) It is about a group of close knit friends attending a friends wedding. it is refreshing because it seems to be saying close knit friends are necessarily a good thing. Something I whole heartedly agree with. Before I met the gorgeous Mr Robbo I was engaged to Another Steve. Steve had kept in touch with a lot of hos school friends (something I hadn't managed to do) and at first I thought it was really nice. We'd all meet up, go to concerts, weekends away, we had our local.......and everyone knew everyone's business and had an opinion on it. Another Steve's bestest friend never said 2 words to me(but it took me a little while to realise that he wasn't shy but just deemed me unworthy of speaking to), his brother would say make Another Steve promise not to tell me stuff he told him (which he wouldn't have done anyway..but it all seemed so dramatic). I found it quite claustrophobic.

Now a days Steve and I have friends and it is nice, but we all don't live in each other's pockets, which is even nicer.

Stuff I have and haven't done

I pinched this from The Lurchers:

01. Bought everyone in the bar a drink - well we put money behind the bar at our wedding reception.
02. Swam with wild dolphins Well not swam exactly, more like paddled.
03. Climbed a mountain
04. Taken a Ferrari for a test drive
05. Been inside the Great Pyramid
06. Held a tarantula
07. Taken a candlelit bath with someone
08. Said ‘I love you’ and meant it
09. Hugged a tree
10. Bungee jumped
11. Visited Paris
12. Watched a lightning storm at sea1
3. Stayed up all night long and saw the sun rise
14. Seen the Northern Lights
15. Gone to a huge sports game
16. Walked the stairs to the top of the leaning Tower of Pisa (now closed to the public)
17. Grown and eaten your own vegetables
18. Touched an iceberg
19. Slept under the stars
20. Changed a baby’s diaper
21. Taken a trip on a hot air balloon
22. Watched a meteor shower
23. Got drunk on champagne Yes, I thought my head was going to explode the next day.
24. Given more than you can afford to charity
25. Looked up at the night sky through a telescope
26. Had an uncontrollable giggling fit at the worst possible moment
27. Had a food fight
28. Bet on a winning horse Red Rum at the grand national.
29. Asked out a stranger
30. Had a snowball fight
31. Screamed as loudly as you possibly can
32. Held a lamb
33. Seen a total eclipse
34. Ridden a roller coaster
35. Hit a home run
36. Danced like a fool and not cared who was looking - that's how I dance.
37. Adopted an accent for an entire day
38. Actually felt happy about your life, even for just a moment
39. Had two hard drives for your computer
40. Visited all 50 states
41. Taken care of someone who was shit faced
42. Had amazing friends
43. Danced with a stranger in a foreign country
44. Watched wild whales
45. Stolen a sign
46. Backpacked in Europe
47. Taken a road-trip
48. Gone rock climbing
49. Midnight walk on the beach
50. Gone sky diving
51. Visited Ireland
52. Been heartbroken for longer than when you were in love
53. In a restaurant, sat at a stranger’s table and had a meal with them
54. Visited Japan
55. Milked a cow
56. Alphabetized your cds
57. Pretended to be a superhero
58. Sung karaoke
59. Lounged around in bed all day
60. Posed nude in front of strangers
61. Gone scuba diving
62. Kissed in the rain
63. Played in the mud
64. Played in the rain
65. Gone to a drive-in theater
66. Visited the Great Wall of China
67. Started a business
68. Fallen in love and not had your heart broken
69. Toured ancient sites
70. Taken a martial arts class
71. Played D&D for more than 6 hours straight -what is D & D?
72. Gotten married
73. Been in a movie
74. Crashed a party
75. Gotten divorced
76. Gone without food for 5 days
77. Made cookies from scratch
78. Won first prize in a costume contest
79. Ridden a gondola in Venice
80. Gotten a tattoo
81. Rafted the Snake River
82. Been on television news programs as an “expert”
83. Got flowers for no reason
84. Performed on stage
85. Been to Las Vegas
86. Recorded music
87. Eaten shark
88. Had a one-night stand
89. Gone to Thailand
90. Bought a house
91. Been in a combat zone
92. Buried one/both of your parents
93. Been on a cruise ship
94. Spoken more than one language fluently
95. Performed in Rocky Horror
96. Raised children
97. Followed your favorite band/singer on tour
98. Created and named your own constellation of stars
99. Taken an exotic bicycle tour in a foreign country
100. Picked up and moved to another city to just start over
101. Walked the Golden Gate Bridge
102. Sang loudly in the car, and didn’t stop when you knew someone was looking -
103. Had plastic surgery
104. Survived an accident that you shouldn’t have survived.
105. Wrote articles for a large publication
106. Lost over 100 pounds
107. Held someone while they were having a flashback
108. Piloted an airplane
109. Petted a stingray
110. Broken someone’s heart
111. Helped an animal give birth
112. Won money on a T.V. game show
113. Broken a bone
114. Gone on an African photo safari
115. Had a body part of yours below the neck pierced
116. Fired a rifle, shotgun, or pistol
117. Eaten mushrooms that were gathered in the wild
118. Ridden a horse
119. Had major surgery
120. Had a snake as a pet
121. Hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon
122. Slept for more than 30 hours over the course of 48 hours
123. Visited more foreign countries than U.S. states
124. Visited all 7 continents
125. Taken a canoe trip that lasted more than 2 days
126. Eaten kangaroo meat
127. Eaten sushi
128. Had your picture in the newspaper
129. Changed someone’s mind about something you care deeply about
130. Gone back to school - well did a few Open University courses.
131. Parasailed
132. Petted a cockroach
133. Eaten fried green tomatoes
134. Read The Iliad - and the Odyssey
135. Selected one “important” author who you missed in school, and read
136. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
137. Skipped all your school reunions
138. Communicated with someone without sharing a common spoken language
139. Been elected to public office
140. Written your own computer language
141. Thought to yourself that you’re living your dream
142. Had to put someone you love into hospice care
143. Built your own PC from parts
144. Sold your own artwork to someone who didn't know you.
145. Had a booth at a street fair
146: Dyed your hair
147: Been a DJ
148: Shaved your head
149: Caused a car accident
150: Saved someone’s life

Saturday

There was an article in The Telegraph today about child free couples. That is people who chose not to have have children. It was a weird article. These couples were saying that they were happy with the choice they made. They certainly weren't anti children or anti family. Apparently there has been a recent study that couples with out children are "happier" (But how do you quantify happy?) The article finished with the writer stating that breast feeding protects women from certain cancers. So what ? What has that got to do with anything? It felt like the journalist had to put in a disclaimer. There are quite a lot of family life columns in the weekend section, they don't end with the disclaimer "however people that chose not to have children are happier, according to recent study."

Yuk

Last night I dreamt that all my teeth were falling out. First of all it was one by one and then they were coming out in clumps. When I woke up the first thing I did was run my tongue around my mouth to make sure that they were all still there. I think flossing my teeth is really freaking me out...

Bits and Pieces

Finished American Gods. Enjoyed it, but got side tracked by wikipedia-ing (is that a word?) all the gods' names to find out who they were.
Did some gardening this morning -with all the sun and rain we've had lately the passion flower and the flower that I don't know the name of , were making a bid to take over the garden. Gardening for me these days is mainly cutting stuff back. Before we got the dogs I used to plant a lot of bedding plants, but with old wee wee boy (that's Tom not Steve)they don't last that long.
Bought some dental floss yesterday. I've never really got on with flossing before(it feels weird and I'm scared my teeth will fall out) but am determined to get in the habit. It still makes my toes curl though.

Dad's London

My Dad was born in East London during the war. In the early sixties he joined the merchant navy and travelled to South America. He has done may different things, but he has some very funny ideas.
Even though he has travelled to the other side of the world the fact that I work in South London freaks him out. He doesn't like crossing the river. I've always known that about him. What did surprise me today was when he announced that people from East London are taller than people from North London. He reckons it is because there is more of a cultural mix in East London than North London (is that even true?). I must ask him about his thoughts on West London....

BTW

Erm, just realised Gods of America is actually called American Gods. Still it is nice to make up your own titles, liking making up your own lyrics to songs.

Books

Still reading Gods of America, and -I was right, it is similar to The Stand. G of A deals with the old faiths/gods being forgotten and dying in the face of the new gods -technology. The Stand is about old fashioned values (family, making do, faith) versus technology (nuclear weapons, consumerism.)
Am liking G of A, but not gripped by a need to know what happens. I'm quite happy to read it at lunchtimes. Whereas if I loved it I would have read it by now. I guess I'm not that bothered about what happens to Shadow.

Monday Scribble

Started reading Gods of America, the feel of it reminds me of The Stand by Stephen King. Also Neil Gaiman wrote in his preface that I'm reading a 12000 word longer book than the original edition. Not sure if that is a good thing or not..
Thought I saw Frank Lampard in a blue Porsche driving along Lower Thames Street this evening.

Sunday

I bought a book today, it is "Gods of America" by Neil Gaiman. It was in the fantasy/sci fi section, not a section I wander over to. This is based of an out dated notion I've got that fantasy/sci fi is aimed at smelly hippies and I'm not a hippy. Although I do have startlingly hippyish tendencies - not eating meat, been recycling for years,shopping in Oxfam....Anyway I'll let you know what I think of the book.
I bumped into my Dad down the high street. I shouted "Hello Good looking!" and when he turned round (he did look a bit surprised)said "Know your name then!" He was having a wander whilst Mum was playing her bowls match.

Desert Island Discs

Hannah listed her desert island discs. Here are mine and my reasons:

At my most beautiful - REM
This was the first dance at our wedding. Well we could shuffle about slow dancing to Losing My Religion!

Voulez Vous - Abba
I've loved Abba since I was six years old and they won Eurovision with Waterloo. I like the karate chop moves you can make when dancing to this song ( to the Uh -huh bit)

Bed shaped - Keane
Not really sure what they're talking about - is it dying? but I love warbling along to it. Ooooohhhh I don't think sooo.

You can't always get what you want - Rolling Stones
It played around inside my head when I was coming to terms with being "child free"

Love is all around - Wet Wet Wet
I just really really like this song. I'd like it played at my funeral- Steve is under strict instructions not to play the REM version.

Love plus One - Haircut One Hundred
it reminds me of when I was 14 and full of hormones. I really loved Nick Heywood. I was shocked watching "Bands Reunited" at how short he was.

Monday

The ticket machine ate my season ticket this evening! Luckily the nice man managed to get the ticket out for me. that ticket cost more than my car.

Sunday

During the week I caught the tail end of a documentary about being gay. John Barrowman was trying to find out if you are born gay or if it was a choice. he was speaking to a man who had made a considered decision to be straight. He had married and had children. The man argued that just as you can give up smoking, even if you still crave a cigarette - you could give up the gay life style. John pointed out that smoking is bad for you, being gay shouldn't be. I felt really sorry for the man...and sorrier for his wife.

Guilty and Anxious

Over the past couple of months I have learnt something new about myself. I've always thought of myself as easy going, relaxed and a tad on the lazy side. I may have been like that once, but I'm not like that now. I'm anxious and feel guilty a lot of the time. I'll give you some examples:
Feeling guilty -the feeling that I could do more. I don't walk the dog enough, the fish tank needs cleaning, we should really sort out the hall way, I should exercise more, I eat too much, I drink too much, I spend too much money, the garden needs a clean up...oh the list goes on and on and on.
Anxious: How will I be able to afford to retire? Someone is sitting on MY seat on the train- where shall I sit now?, I'm too loud, some one might park in front of the garage, if my neighbour decides to move who will move in next door? What if Steve dies? what if he leaves me?

Now these thoughts aren't in the fore front of my brain, more like a low level buzzing. So now I'm aware of them what am I doing? Well I'm taking deep breaths and as far as I can I'm trying to live in the moment. Everything is ok now. I can't know what is going to happen, but whatever does happen I'll find a way to deal with it. I'm not perfect but so what? I do okay.

Yesterday on the train home, a commuter started chatting to me. Some one I didn't even know. This is unheard of,as a rule we all studiously ignore each other, even if we know each other all you will get is a strained "hello". We only chatted for a few minutes, but it was really nice. A bit of friendliness.

Well Really!

I'm reading "Every which way but Dead" at the moment. Its about a witch, vampire and a pixie beating the bad guys (or demons or elves). Unlike some books I attempted to read, Keri Arthur springs to mind- it isn't heavy on the sex. In fact although there is a good story somewhere in her books, I got fed up with the heroine staring at men's "front trouser" bit to see if they were "excited". Any hoo I'm in the canteen at work , munching my salad when I realise I'm reading a pretty detailed sex scene. And it goes on for pages. I read it, as thankfully there wasn't any staring at the aforementioned front bit and I'm glad that Kisten and Rachel are finally getting it together - but it did feel odd reading all that at work.

me again.

Favorite person (outside family)?
If I'm counting Steve as family which I suppose I am, it would be Sharon. I met her through Steve about 11 years ago, and she is now married to one of Steve's friends. We have been through quite a lot together (marriage, fertility, moving house.. and had a good larf as well.

Favorite food?
Kung Po prawn with cashew nuts and vegetable rice. I'm ADDICTED.

Quirks about you?

I can read extremely fast.

How would the person who loves you most describe you in ten words or less?
Ah but who loves me most?

Any regrets in life?
I regret that when my nan died when I was a teenager and didn't have as much time for her as I used to.

Favorite Charity/Cause?
retired greyhounds.

Favorite Blog recently?
I have a few I read everyday- Dan, AOJ and the Lurchers, Hannah and the Secret Blogger.

Something you can’t get enough of?
Lie ins.

Worst job you’ve ever had?
Not the job itself but i once worked in an office full of really unpleasant people. I didn't talk to anyone during the day.

What job would you pay NOT to have?
The nit nurse.

If you could be a fly on the wall, where?
In a Executive Director's office. What do they do?


Favorite Bible verse right now?
I haven't got one.

Guilty Pleasure?
Crisps and red wine.

Got any confessions?
Naw, not me.

If you HAD to spend $1,000 on YOURSELF, how would you spend it?
I'd buy a piece of jewelery.

Favorite thing about your house?
I love my house. i suppose my favourite room is the living room. It looks out on to the garden.

Least favorite thing about your house?
The bathroom is a bit (!) tired

One thing you are bad at?
Sums.

One thing you’re good at?
Cooking.

If you could change something about your circumstances, what?
I'd relax more and worry less.

Who would you like to meet someday? Living or dead?
My grandparents.

What makes you feel sexy?
Erm...i don't want to answer that.

Who is your real life hero?
My mum.

What is the hardest part of your job?
The travelling.

When are you most relaxed?
When I'm sleeping.

What stresses you out?
My routine being disrupted.

What can you not live without?
Me of course! In the end it all comes down to me.

Do you agree or disagree with the recent article that reported that blogs are authored by narcissists?
Disagree.

Why do you blog?
I find it therapeutic. I blog for myself and it is a nice bonus if someone reads it.

Go Gina go!

I get home at 6.05pm. last night I looked at my watch and saw it was 7pm . In that 55 minutes I had:
Prepared dinner (cooked cheesey bake - delish)Whilst dinner was cooking I:
Cleared the clothes horse
put load of washing on. When the washing finished hung out clothes on clothes horse.
Swept the patio.
had a cup of tea.
That's quite a lot isn't it?

Dentist.

I went to the Dentist today for a check up. He talked about my bacteria ridden gums, but wouldn't clean my teeth (you know the industrial clean the dentist does, obviously I clean my teeth.) he said I had to make an appointment with the Hygienist. So I went to make an appointment and the receptionist told me it was 45 quid.
Gina: 45 quid!!
Receptionist: Shall I just book you in for your next 6 month check up?
Gina: Will the dentist tell me off?
Receptionist: No, you don't have to see the hygienist. The dentist has suggested it, bit you don't have to see her.
Gina: Ok, I'll just book for a check up.

I felt really fed up, what with my bacteria ridden gums and all. As I don't believe I have got bacteria ridden gums and I know how to clean my teeth I don't trust my dentist anymore.
I will, however, buy some dental floss. And try not to be too squeamish to use it this time.

Doctor Who

Just to say the episode hasn't aired yet, but I hope that there is a new Doctor. I think David Tennant is good as the Doctor but it would be brilliant to be truly surprised by a show. At the moment no one knows for certain what will happen and I think that is rare in this internet age. Unfortunately I won't be able to watch the final episode tonight as to my huge surprise it seems that I do have something called a social life.

Crisps

Coming back from walking the dog this morning I saw my neighbour and his neighbour. Now my neighbour is very pleasantly padded but there seems to be less padding now.

me: Have you lost weight? You look like you've lost weight.
My neighbour (grimaces): Yes the doctor put me on a diet.
Me: harsh. But it is working.
My neighbour; I haven't eaten crisps in 3 months.
His Neighbour (who is thin): I love crisps.
me: me too.
My neighbour: I used to eat ten packets a day. I'd rather eat crisps than dinner. I love crisps.
Me: I'd rather eat crisps than chocolate
His neighbour: me too.
Then we all went quiet thinking about how much we love the crisps.
This morning I looked up from reading the paper to see a cat standing in the doorway. Luckily Tom was asleep and didn't see it and I shoo-ed it away. As Tom is older now I'm not sure he could catch a cat - but I don't want to put it to the test.

Back to work

*sigh*

Writing

I have started writing again. Just bits and pieces, nothing major. Just playing with a few characters. The Open University are accepting registrations for their level 3 Creative Writing course. I'm not sure whether to register. I know what I need to do - just sit there and write. It slipped by last year - although last year was MAD (I didn't write about it on the blog because it was stuff happening to other people)but I'm back to writing again. Using a pen and paper- a PC is just too distracting for me. I really enjoyed the last course, and found the tutor's comments helpful and encouraging - but I'm not sure. Anyway I have got till September to make up my mind.

But I miss him!

Steve has got a (unpaid) Saturday job at Phoenix FM last night he went to the staff meeting. And although I had a pleasant evening to be truthful I'm always a little bit bored when Steve's not about. Its weird because when we are in the house together we're not often in the same room. Take now, Steve is downstairs, probably mucking about on the laptop and I'm upstairs in the computer room. I am happy in my own company ... but I like knowing he is about.
Mmmn I hope I'm not coming across a a smug married. I hate smug marrieds, they make me want to shag the husband just so I can wipe the grins off their smug married faces. I know that that might be a tad of an over reaction.
BTW I think Steve told me to pay attention when he was speaking to (at) me earlier. I didn't take him up on it (cheek!) as I wasn't sure he said it, as I was, in fact, not paying attention

That dress

As I'm off work I caught a bit of "This morning". They were doing bridal fashion. The bride to be was wearing this big meringue number but had this big f off dragon tattoo down her back. Now you'd think tattoo girl would like something a more edgy to get married in wouldn't you? But there is something about that big ol' wedding dress. Now I was 30 when I got married. It was a small wedding held at a registry office. I imagined a trouser suit, or a chic designer dress. Reader I ended up in a big ol' white dress, a crown and a veil! I don't know if it is hormones or what but there is something about that white wedding dress that is irresistible.

61 As a 1930s wife, I am Superior Take the test!

Surprise! I bought a book! From a bookshop!

After yesterday's post about boring book shops, I popped into Waterstones, more out habit than anything else. Looking through the horror section, I saw "Lonely Werewolf Girl" . The title seemed to be a bit of a pee take - there a lot of werewolf /vampire books that could have the same title (or perhaps lonely, horny werewolf/vampire)- that I started to flick through the book, liked what I saw and bought it. I'm really enjoying it. Good characters, good words and a nice sly sense of humour underlying it all.

Book shops

I'm getting fed up with bookshops.Being a book junkie I never thought I'd be saying that. But these days shops don't sell books that I want to read. They seem to sell a very narrow range of authors. I'm sure that this has to do with with economies of scale and all that sort of stuff, but it means I end up using Amazon when I'd much rather spend my money in a book shop. Its nice whiling away an hour, picking up books, having a quick flick to see if I want to buy it. These days I find bookshops boring and samey. It is a shame. And I don't get the same "hit" buying books from Amazon.

10 niggles

I ripped this from Ms Mac. its about 10 things that wind you up.

1. Whilst in the hospital I noticed that the nurse would take Steve's blood pressure, temperature without introducing herself or saying what she was going to do. A Doctor asked Steve to open his mouth, took a look and then walked away.Why? A quick explanation would have been nice.

2. Drivers not indicating.

3. Queuing up and the person being served having a chat with the cashier - and keeping us all waiting.

4. Before we got the dogs - clearing up cat sh!t in the garden, when we don't have cats.

5. Selfish dog owners.

6. Getting the washing out of the washing machine and realising a tissue had got in with the wash. White papery bits everywhere.

7. People that a strong moral view on something that doesn't affect them. For instance it is relatively easy to decide gays should sacrifice having a family if you yourself are a fertile heterosexual.

8. Women (and I'm afraid it is women) who go on and on about their diets. I've got my own weight issues (and they are boring enough) I don't need to hear yours. And we all know the answer - eat less, move more.

9. Cars blocking the garage. it rarely happens - but even that is too often.

and finally...Mr Postman, Mr Takeaway Menu Man....SHUT THE GATE! SHUT THE GATE!

And I thought I was easy going!

Hospitals.

Steve had his operation yesterday, to remove a cyst on his scalp. The doctor did a really brilliant job. We thought that he would have to have his head shaved, but he still has his full head of hair. Aren't hospitals boring and depressing? I think Doctors and Nurses must have a real vocation - the hours are horrendous and the wards are pretty drab.
I've been (trying ) to look after Steve, but I'm not a nautural nurse. Although I did get up at 7 this morning and walked the dog for an hour so that Tommy wouldn't disturb Steve's sleep. How good am I ?!

Sex and the City

Saw the SATC film this afternoon and really enjoyed. Laughed out load a few times, but the film isn't as funny as the series. the film was more serious - forgiveness is the main theme of the film. It makes me wish that they would do another series - there is still life in those four women. It also made me go out and buy loads of fabulous clothes!
I read on Oh No that Coutney Cox wants to a Friends film,that might be interesting.As long as they didn't split up Ross and Rachel (again).

Thursday

Hurray!!! 2 weeks and 1 day off work and it starts NOW. I'm hoping for lots of lie ins and laziness.
Read The Woman in Black by Susan Hill yesterday. I read it really, really fast, because I needed to know what would happen. It is very creepy book. I had to get up in the middle of the night to let Tom out for a pee and I got the willies thinking about the story.
Meeting my Mum tomorrow and we are going to see "Sex and the City". I loved the TV series so I'm hoping I won't be disappointed. I've ignored the reviews because most of the reviewers have been men. I'm not being sexist but surely SATC is the ultimate chick flick?
Ugh not going to write anymore because this PC keeps playing up.

C2C

Friday evening I had to get the train home from Liverpool Street rather than Fenchurch Street because they were dismantling the bomb.
This is what the station announcer said "Those using the C2C service, this service is leaving from platform18. Stand right along the platform. Do NOT stand at the edge. let people off the train FIRST."
Well really, us C2C commuters know to do that. We were all behaved, standing quietly waiting for the train. He made us sound like dangerous hooligans, all standing in a clump teetering on the edge and forcing our way past the poor people trying to get off the train.

Bombs away

There has been "disruption" on the railway due to an unexploded bomb. . Its weird to think that a bomb that would have wiped out my Dad's family (they refused to be evacuated) made me late for work, sixty years later.

Sunday

Last night we went to Tim and Sharon's for dinner. And very nice it was too. However we left at about 10.30 because all of us was soooo tired. Its shocking. In our younger days if we all met up the we'd consider leaving at 1am an early night; Sharon and I would be quite drunk. Now it is an early night and (relatively) sober.
Sharon and Tim haven't got children either and we were all discussing how he hate it when politicians talk about families when they actually mean parents. I don't have children but I'm still part of a family.
Talking of families its my parents' birthdays next week. Although there is a 6 year age gap there is only 4 days between their birthdays. Bit inconsiderate if you ask me. Dad is a nightmare to buy for because he never wants anything but I'd feel v. mean not getting him anything.

Karma

Reading Sharon Stone's comments on China and karma made me decide that I don't believe in karma. Bad things happen to good people and good things happen to bad people. I think if you are a good person if something bad happens to you, you are better equipped to deal with it. For instance you have friends and family that will help you out (just like you helped them out when they needed it) which you probably won't have if you are a selfish son of a b.
I'll give an example:
Mum and Dad are members of a local club. Dad was in the Gents and a man was in there having a bad nose bleed. There were other people there leaving him to it. Dad helped the bloke - I think he reassured he would be ok, got him more tissues - no big deal. Months later we were planning to go on holiday. We saw a nice villa on the internet and Mum e mailed the owner. The owner turned out to be the Nose Bleed Man- and he gave us a nose bleed discount. Now is that karma or just if you're nice to other people they tend to be nice in return?

Bank Holiday Monday

it is pelting down with rain and windy. I don't think many people will be going to the Airshow. What a shame.

Quirky Robbo

Your Quirk Factor: 46%

You're a pretty quirky person, but you're just normal enough to hide it. Congratulations - you've fooled other people into thinking you're just like them!

How Quirky Are You?

he and me

I stole this from a SidewaysLook
How long did you date?
We met in November 96 and married in February 99.
How old is he?
He is 38.
Who eats more?
Steve does, but I drink more more than he does.
Who said “I love you” first?
Me.
Who is taller?
Steve. he's 6 foot 3 and a half.
Who sings better?
Oh Steve does. But then anyone sings better than me. Even Posh Spice.
Who is smarter?
We're about the same. he can add up where I can't.
Whose temper is worse?
I think it may be me.
Who does the laundry?
Me
Who does the dishes?
Steve
Who sleeps on the right side of the bed?
i do . i think. I'm not good with left and right. Ah Steve has just confirmed it. I do sleep on the right. I think he is smarter than me.
Who pays the bills?
We both do.
Who cooks dinner?
me or the Chinese takeaway.
.Who drives when you are together?
I don’t drive, so that’d be him.
Who is more stubborn?
I don't think either of us is stubborn.
Who asked who out first?
We met on a blind date.
Who kissed who first?
He did. I think. I was a bit sozzled actually.
Who is the first to admit when they are wrong?
Me. Even when I'm right!
Whose parents do you see the most?
It evens out, but we're seeing mine more at the moment because they have Sky sports.
Who proposed?
Neither of us did. which is strange when you think about it..
Who is more sensitive?
It depends. I think my sense of humour is more evil.
Who has more friends?
Steve does.
Who has more siblings?
Steve has 2 brothers and I have one sister.
Who wears the pants in the family?
The dog.

Suitcases with wheels

I never had an opinion on those suitcase trolly things until I started working in London. They are a menace. You have to be careful not to trip over them. Why don't people carry suitcases anymore? And some of them are really small so they can't be that heavy.
Lazy lot.

More memes

Oh all right Dan - if you insist...

1. Where is your mobile phone?
Downstairs on the coffee table.
2. Your significant other?
Sitting on the settee, sorting out the change box and talking got his brother on the phone.
3. Your hair?
short and high lighted.
.4. Your skin?
Keeps my insides in.
5. Your mother?
Glamorous and feisty.
6. Your favourite thing?
My eternity ring.
7. Your dream last night?
I can't remember.
8. Your favourite drink?
I've already told you !
9. Your dream / goal?
To be happy.
10. The room you're in?
Computer room.
11. Your ex?
No idea.
12. Your fear?
Heights
13. Where do you want to be in 6 years?
No idea. i can never answer that question in job interviews.
14. Where were you last night
Here.
15. What you're not?
Depressed.
16. Muffins?Sausage and Egg McMuffinOr Chocolate Chip
- Choc chip.
17. One of your wish list items?
A diamond as big as a smartie.
18. Where did you grow up?
I think I actually "grew up" when I went travelling. I go taller living in London and moved to Ilford when I was 11.
19. The last thing you did?
Talked ot David.
20. What are you wearing?
clothes.
21. Your TV?
Off! I'll be watching How to Look Good Naked later on.
22. Your pet(s)?
Tropical fish and a greyhound.
23. Your computer?
says yes.
24. Your life?
I'm a lucky girl.
25. Your mood?
Tired
26. Missing someone?
No.
27. Your car?
Is in the garage.
28. Something you're not?
A man.
29. Favourite store?
TK Maxx! TK Maxx!
30. Your summer?
Only 4 weeks to my annual leave!
31. Like someone?
Yes.
32. Your favourite colour?
Green
33. Last time you laughed?
Today at work.
34. Last time you cried?
Last April when Penny died.

Go on Hannah - you know you want to...

Euuw Yuk!

I haven't been on Face book for ages and I clicked on to it and clicked on a friend (a real life friend as well) and she had horrible-ness on her "wall" or whatever you call the thing where you can read every one's messages. Put it this way, I definitely haven't got penis envy.
I think I'm too old for Face book.
I really wish I hadn't seen that. Oh yuk er roo.

Mind reader Dan

I entitled this Mind reader Dan cos in answer to question 28 - he put...well click on his link and find out for yourself.


1. Last movie you saw in a theater?
I think it was The last of the Bourne films. It was v good. I think action films are always better at a cinema.
2. What book are you reading?
Blood at the Bookies by Simon Brett. I'm re reading it. I re read a lot.
3. Favorite board game?
I hate board games.
4. Favorite magazine?
it used to be Good Housekeeping, but I think magazines just try to make you feel bad about yourself and flog you stuff.
5. Favorite smells?
I like the perfume "fragile" and some grapefruit bath gel we've got.
6. Favorite sounds?
This is corny but i do like to hear Steve laugh.
7. Worst feeling in the world?
Being stuck on a train dying for a pee.
8. What is the first thing you think of when you wake up?
During the week i don't think I'm on auto pilot. At the weekend I think "yah its the weekend!"
9. Favorite fast food place?
Subway
10. Future child’s name?
Future dog's name might be more like it. Chuckles.
11. Finish this statement. “If I had lot of money I’d….?
Well how much money? Billions I'd donate big to charities.
12. Do you sleep with a stuffed animal?
Panda if I have trouble sleeping. it really does work.
13. Storms - cool or scary?
Cool, but the dog doesn't like it.
14. Favorite drink?
Chauteau neuf du pape.
15. Finish this statement, “If I had the time I would….”?
Do some serious gardening.
16. Do you eat the stems on broccoli?
Sometimes.
17. If you could dye your hair any color, what would be your choice?
The colour it is now.
18. Name all the different cities/towns you’ve lived in?
London, Ilford, Upminster, Portsmouth, Perth Australia, Westcliff and Shoeburyness.
19. Favorite sports to watch?
If I'm in the mood -Rugby.
20. One nice thing about the person who sent this to you?
He is a mind reader.
21. What’s under your bed?
Carpet
22. Would you like to be born as yourself again?
Yeah.
23. Morning person, or night owl?
Neither. I don't like getting up and I can't stay up late.
24. Over easy, or sunny side up?
Sunny
25. Favorite place to relax?...
At home, in the living with the patio doors open.
26. Favorite pie?
Lemon meringue.
27. Favorite ice cream flavor?
Cookie dough.
28. Of all the people you tagged this to, who’s most likely to respond first?
Hannah....

Tidy Up

I have had a spring clean on my links to other blogs. I got rid of the ones that haven't been updated and added ones in that I read but never got round adding to my list. have a peek you may find them as interesting as I do.

Of course its all about me

You know why it rained today? its because I got my new super comfy sandals delivered.

Auras part2.

I've re-read the last post and its a bit -bleuh. I;ll describe the evening and hopefully it wil lread better.
Barry held the workshop in his conservatory, there was 15 of us there. Barry was helped by Barbara- dishing out drinks, making sure everyone was comfortable etc.It was a mixture of ages, mainly women. There were 3 men there, 2 of whom wore pony tails. We were all given a chart. On it was a woman and her chakras were marked along her body. barr ygave a talk of what chakras meant and their associated colours. Then he asked us to colour in the chart with the colours we thought we had. Most of us found this difficult. Barry told us to relax and listen to ourselves. then he went round the group, one by one. It was quite funny the way he told people that they had got in wrong ("Angela you are never bronze! What made you think that ?"), or the colours clashed or was impossible. He also threw in readings....he knew that I had been depressed, that I had changed jobs.
After he had wowed us all, we broke for tea and biscuits. Then we were invited to do a flower reading, we had been asked to bring a flower along ...although Angela and I had forgotten, so Barbara gave us a flower when we came in. Now how can you read a flower? How can that tell you anything about some one? Well Barry did! He then "made" us in turn attempt to give a flower reading. We had to pick a flower we were drawn to and listen to our spirit guide. barry believes that we all have guides. Jokingly I said to Barry where was mine, and he answered - right behind you. I didn't do very well at that, but Angela did.
Then we had a raffle. It was odd the mixture of mysticism and a very English social evening, but it did make it al lseem less strange.
Then we had to split into pairs. We had to introduce ourselves and imagine the other's name above their head. See what colours it suggested to us and what we felt that meant. As ever, I was the odd one out and I was paired with Barbara. We sat opposite holding hands. holding hands! I don't even hold Steve's hand. I went first. Barbara told me to concentrate and try to see with my "third eye" She suggested closing my (real) eyes. Now Barbara was wearing white trousers and a blue top, so I don't know if this influenced me. After much concentration (Economics A level was easier) I saw the number BARBARA in blue letters with a white mist around the letters. In the holes of the a and b I saw a yellowy green. Now what does mean? She told me to ask my spirit guide . This took a leap of faith as I didn't believe that I had a spirit guide. After much gut wrenching concentration ( and it felt like it came from my gut) I thought that she was probably a teacher, interested in nature, a very confident, calm person.
Then it was Barbara's turn. She told me that she was a teacher of sorts, a medium. that the white mist was excellent as her spirit guide is Egyptian and that they are represented by mist. Then she gave me a reading. She said that my grandmother was there, a very short , very plump lady. that is my Mum's Mum, Nanny Emma. I was amazed as she never liked me and Angela at all, obviously I didn't say that to Barbara. Barbara said that she wanted to say sorry. That made me feel very happy. Barbara mentioned Joan, who is my Mum's elder sister, She said she was at peace and happy, she had been ready to go. That was good to hear as Joan had been very ill and had suffered a lot. Barbara then went on to say that animals are drawn to me and that my spirit guide is a China man.
I know that this may seem strange, I totally believe my dead grandmother has apologised to me but I'm freaked out by having a spirit guide. Not freaked exactly ..more puzzled.As I said in the earlier post all this for £5.50. To me it demonstrates Barry's and Barbara's genuine-ness and generosity.
In the previous post I've linked to Barry's site and there are details of his workshops there.

Auras.

On Monday Angela and I went to the Aura evening, hosted by Barry De Rose. Barry is a genuine, warm hearted man and it was a very interesting evening. I got the feeling that he really wants to help people -and he can't help himself in giving them a reading. I didn't feel I was being ripped off, and I didn't feel I was being fed a line. We were "encouraged" to sit in pairs and read each other auras. We had to picture the other person's name and see it in colour. Barry told us ot ask our spirit guide for help...as I write this it seems mad, but it wasn't. In fact I don't think I'm doing the evening justice. I felt that Barry thinks we have all got the ability - we just need to open up and listen. from an economic point of view it was a cheap night out - at 3 hours tea and biscuits thrown in for £5.50! I don't think Barry is in it for the money.

Saturday

I had my haircut this morning (so much better than my last hair cut - hair don't rather than hair do) . Then walked round to Angela's and had lunch and a good old natter. We're going to her neighbour's on Monday. We're going to learn how to read auras. I must admit I feel a bit like Pam from Gavin and Stacey. I'll let you know how we get on.
Low light of the week: Wednesday evening, sitting in front of the fridge defrosting the freezer bit with a hair dryer.

Fences

When we moved into our house the garden fence was very rickety. We live in a block of six houses and the garden fences are about 5 foot high. The gardens back on to an alley way where our garages are.
When we decided to get the dogs we knew we would have to sort out the fence. Greyhounds can jump and the Re homing lady said that the fence should be six foot. I must admit it did look a bit unfriendly -all these little fences and our big fortress fence. However our neighbour got her fence done as well. Now I can see the people next to her are doing a big fence. it does look better ...and it isn't as unfriendly as it could be because we chat over the adjacent fences.
OMG what am I doing? I've just blogged about fences. And I did so because I thought Alan building his fence was interesting. Gina Robbo? Gina Boring more like!

Significant Others

I spend 3 hours a day travelling to work. And that gives me extra thinking time. I stare out of the train window and think about things. Then I have a little snooze. Its a hard life. The past couple of days I've been thinking about past relationships and how I feel about those people now.
I think what ever happens with me and Steve, he will always be a significant other. Knowing him has made a difference to the person I am today. He has influenced my life.
Now I met Steve when I was 28, so he wasn't my first boyfriend. Aside from him there have been 2 other men that I thought I was in love with. let's call them A and B. Thinking about B it is frightening how he has faded from my memory. I now regard him as a blip along the way. nothing that serious. But reader how devastated I was when he dumped me! I was engaged to the bloke!
bloke A - well I still dream about him. They are nightmares. I met him when i was 16 and he was 22. Now what 22 year old is interested in some one that much younger than him? I think the answer is an insecure, bullying one. But then I might be a tad biased . But sadly I think A is a significant other - in that his horrible behaviour did leave his mark on me. Towards the end of our relationship bloke B was a bit of a sod and did some hurtful things - but looking back I think that wasn't on purpose. He was in a situation he wanted to get out of and didn't handle very gracefully. Whereas I know Bloke A went out of his way to try and undermine and make me feel bad because he could and he liked to do so. However he had underestimated me because one day I walked. And I don't think he ever thought I would do that.
Funnily enough a year after I left him A wrote me a letter apologising for his behaviour, he said that he had always been jealous of me. Oh and by the way could we get back together? The letter went straight in the bin.

Tuesday

Slept really well last night . Hurray!
I've been feeling "on edge" today. Generally worrying about things that might never happen. I hate it when I get like this!

Sleep and stuff

I didn't sleep very well last night. Steve couldn't sleep and I could hear him pressing the keys on his phone. I didn't say anything, but lay there with my eyes shut seething.
Whilst drying my hair this morning my hair brush fell apart. As I have no idea how long I've had it, suspect it must be very old indeed.
Tom peed up against the radiator this evening. There was no need as he had just been let out. and if he wanted to go out he should have barked, like he normally does.
Apart from that it has been a good day.

Bar Code Question.

Has any one out there got a device that can scan bar codes on their mobile phone? I'm told it is all the rage in Japan and was wondering if it was catching on over here....

I over heard a girl saying " I'm 24 I'm old enough to do what I want" Darling- you are never old enough for that.