I was heading for another early night last night and just as I was on my way to bed, JR phoned. She'd read my usual weekend email and decided to give me a call. It was good to have a chat before bed and even though I took Eat, Pray, Love with me, with all intentions of reading a few chapters, I turned out the light as soon as I went to bed and promptly fell soundly to sleep.
I slept like a log and I'm much less sore today, I almost feel human, but decided not to workout this morning as I've somehow tweaked my back... probably from sleeping too long.
My voucher for my free Starbucks has arrived so I'm going to indulge in a tall skinny capp this morning. I've left the girls behind the bar figuring out how to process my voucher, and Mr Regular has made fun of me wearing my big coat as it's so mild today. He's right, I'm sweltering but no... I won't be owning up to that.
Full week in work this week, B arrives home from NZ on Thursday and that's the day I get my stitches out, have to say... not looking forward to that. I've only had stitches out once before and it turns my stomach, but I'll just keep thinking about; no more, welt inducing dressings ;)
Sunday, 26 February 2012
25th Feb 2012
Well, I've had a bit of a crush on Dean Cain for, oooh, approximately 19 years now, I've just watched him in an episode of Criminal Minds and yes... he looks a little sleep deprived, (rough around the edges,) but he is still very good looking.
I was feeling a bit sorry for myself yesterday. The cut stung to high heaven whether I did anything or no, just constant, and I now have new admiration for my cousin who had a big operation about 18 months ago which resulted in a large incision.
Hearing from you in the morning really cheered me up, but that was it for the day. J said she'd call over but I knew that she wouldn't. At 6pm, I took a sleeping tablet, and an hour later, took myself off to bed, were it took me around 3 hours to get comfortable, but I eventually drifted off.
I did do about 5 minutes of gardening, but I couldn't really be bothered... plus... it hurt.
So... it's a new day today, with a new challenge. I now have huge, red, itchy welts around my scar and stitches... yep... I'm allergic to the dressing. The welts actually look worse than the cut, which looks very neat and clean and non-aggravated.
I jogged for just 20 minutes this morning then hit the shower. Less than 48 hours without a shower and I already feel disgusting and as I lathered up my head, my hair seemed to come out in handfulls.
I was feeling a bit sorry for myself yesterday. The cut stung to high heaven whether I did anything or no, just constant, and I now have new admiration for my cousin who had a big operation about 18 months ago which resulted in a large incision.
Hearing from you in the morning really cheered me up, but that was it for the day. J said she'd call over but I knew that she wouldn't. At 6pm, I took a sleeping tablet, and an hour later, took myself off to bed, were it took me around 3 hours to get comfortable, but I eventually drifted off.
I did do about 5 minutes of gardening, but I couldn't really be bothered... plus... it hurt.
So... it's a new day today, with a new challenge. I now have huge, red, itchy welts around my scar and stitches... yep... I'm allergic to the dressing. The welts actually look worse than the cut, which looks very neat and clean and non-aggravated.
I jogged for just 20 minutes this morning then hit the shower. Less than 48 hours without a shower and I already feel disgusting and as I lathered up my head, my hair seemed to come out in handfulls.
Saturday, 25 February 2012
The Princess and the Pea, (a surgical tale.)
I first discovered my "pea," when I was around 18 years of age. It was located on the left hand of my torso, around 6 inches directly beneath my armpit, nestled on top of my ribs. "What do you think this is?" I asked many a person, I think Mike, who I used to tend bar with, was the first. I saw many doctors, not specifically for my pea, it was usually an aside, in the... "while I'm here, could you just..." It was always dismissed as a non-entity and even dismissed as a third nipple... good to know.
Anyway, over the past 18 months, it's become increasingly uncooperative. It 's sore frequently, it disturbs my sleep, (it's like sleeping on a stone,) and I'm constantly adjusting my bra as it's right in the way of comfort.
10 months ago, my latest doctor agreed that it could be removed, yesterday, Thursday, the day had finally arrived.
Thanks for wishing you were near by so that you could take me and then look after me for the day, that would have been fun. Anyway, in the absence of you, I took myself, only you, work and my cousin L knew I was going, just easier that way.
So, I drove myself, checked in and flipped through a magazine. Pretty much on time, they called my name and the man sitting opposite stood up, he must have been a bit nervous, he was definitely a man and I'm pretty sure we didn't share the same name.
I entered the small treatment room and was met with my doctor, Anita the nurse and a male, student doctor whose name didn't infiltrate my brain. "You dont' mind if Dr.... observes and assists do you?" Well, they have to learn but thank heavens I opted to wear my stretchy cropped top instead of a bra. Not that I would have minded stripping off in front of my Dr and Anita but I wasn't mentally prepared for an audience.
My doctor ran over the reasons why said "pea" was to be removed and explained about the risk of re-occurrence and infection, and she agreed that if she had one in that location, it would probably have bothered her too.
She ran over infection rates and told me that the last infection was a man who'd decided to swim in the sea while stitched, I added that it was his own fault he'd got infected, don't you agree?
I stripped down to my cropped top rather unceremoniously, everyone was kind of standing around while I did so, until I was half stripped off when someone pulled the curtain, too late.
I had a small drape over me from say, arm pit to half over my face. The anaesthetic hurt the most and Anita proclaimed she was going to do her, "nurse bit" and squeezed my hand. It was most welcome and ever so comforting.
My doctor did the excision and asked if I wanted to see my pea. I said yes, I've carried it around for about 25 years after all, and it's not everyday that you get to see something excised from your body. "There you go, the Princess and the Pea, you should sleep soundly now," proclaimed my doctor. It was tiny, well, pea sized, bright red, and gross.
Student doctor was a tad heavy handed, amused me the way he rested his arm on my pelvis like I was a sideboard. From listening to my doctor and student doctor's conversation, sounds like he's been surgical so far, so he's probably used to his patients being unconscious. Anyway, he was allowed to stitch under the strict supervision of my doctor. She was supportive and calm and instructive, but it was clear he hadn't been practising the way they do on "Grey's Anatomy," in fact, not even sure he's ever sewn a button on, anyway, my doctor made him snip out my stitches and start over. "I'm just being a perfectionist." Said my doctor as she peered over my drape, upside down at me. "Perfection is good" I replied.
It was eventually time to get up off the bed. I asked my doctor about running tomorrow and she said it may be a bit uncomfortable. I was thinking about the sweat angle after the infection talk. Maybe don't run tomorrow and don't shower for 24 hours to give the skin time to knit together. I stood their talking in my underwear although I felt like I was wearing work out gear thank heavens, student doctor looked a tad embarrassed, I felt fine, or, as fine as you can standing there half naked in front of strangers and I was congratulated upon doing, "really well and being very chilled." Well, I was just glad to see the back of it to be honest.
It was all over and done with in 30 minutes, I thanked everyone and headed home.
J arrived shortly after I got home, to pick me up. She's oblivious and I was fine. We wandered around Ikea then the upgraded M&S at Gemini, where we had the "healthy option" lunch, I had chicken in red wine and J had pork loin with cider and apple sauce. The meal was delicious and it's a gorgeous day with blue skies and the sun shining. Seems like the first of the year.
The anaesthetic began to wear off around 1.30pm and I started to sting, big time. Got home at 3pm and started to iron, didn't dare sit down or I would not have got up again.
You did come with my by they way, in the form of Pandora, and it was so good to have you along chick.
Anyway, over the past 18 months, it's become increasingly uncooperative. It 's sore frequently, it disturbs my sleep, (it's like sleeping on a stone,) and I'm constantly adjusting my bra as it's right in the way of comfort.
10 months ago, my latest doctor agreed that it could be removed, yesterday, Thursday, the day had finally arrived.
Thanks for wishing you were near by so that you could take me and then look after me for the day, that would have been fun. Anyway, in the absence of you, I took myself, only you, work and my cousin L knew I was going, just easier that way.
So, I drove myself, checked in and flipped through a magazine. Pretty much on time, they called my name and the man sitting opposite stood up, he must have been a bit nervous, he was definitely a man and I'm pretty sure we didn't share the same name.
I entered the small treatment room and was met with my doctor, Anita the nurse and a male, student doctor whose name didn't infiltrate my brain. "You dont' mind if Dr.... observes and assists do you?" Well, they have to learn but thank heavens I opted to wear my stretchy cropped top instead of a bra. Not that I would have minded stripping off in front of my Dr and Anita but I wasn't mentally prepared for an audience.
My doctor ran over the reasons why said "pea" was to be removed and explained about the risk of re-occurrence and infection, and she agreed that if she had one in that location, it would probably have bothered her too.
She ran over infection rates and told me that the last infection was a man who'd decided to swim in the sea while stitched, I added that it was his own fault he'd got infected, don't you agree?
I stripped down to my cropped top rather unceremoniously, everyone was kind of standing around while I did so, until I was half stripped off when someone pulled the curtain, too late.
I had a small drape over me from say, arm pit to half over my face. The anaesthetic hurt the most and Anita proclaimed she was going to do her, "nurse bit" and squeezed my hand. It was most welcome and ever so comforting.
My doctor did the excision and asked if I wanted to see my pea. I said yes, I've carried it around for about 25 years after all, and it's not everyday that you get to see something excised from your body. "There you go, the Princess and the Pea, you should sleep soundly now," proclaimed my doctor. It was tiny, well, pea sized, bright red, and gross.
Student doctor was a tad heavy handed, amused me the way he rested his arm on my pelvis like I was a sideboard. From listening to my doctor and student doctor's conversation, sounds like he's been surgical so far, so he's probably used to his patients being unconscious. Anyway, he was allowed to stitch under the strict supervision of my doctor. She was supportive and calm and instructive, but it was clear he hadn't been practising the way they do on "Grey's Anatomy," in fact, not even sure he's ever sewn a button on, anyway, my doctor made him snip out my stitches and start over. "I'm just being a perfectionist." Said my doctor as she peered over my drape, upside down at me. "Perfection is good" I replied.
It was eventually time to get up off the bed. I asked my doctor about running tomorrow and she said it may be a bit uncomfortable. I was thinking about the sweat angle after the infection talk. Maybe don't run tomorrow and don't shower for 24 hours to give the skin time to knit together. I stood their talking in my underwear although I felt like I was wearing work out gear thank heavens, student doctor looked a tad embarrassed, I felt fine, or, as fine as you can standing there half naked in front of strangers and I was congratulated upon doing, "really well and being very chilled." Well, I was just glad to see the back of it to be honest.
It was all over and done with in 30 minutes, I thanked everyone and headed home.
J arrived shortly after I got home, to pick me up. She's oblivious and I was fine. We wandered around Ikea then the upgraded M&S at Gemini, where we had the "healthy option" lunch, I had chicken in red wine and J had pork loin with cider and apple sauce. The meal was delicious and it's a gorgeous day with blue skies and the sun shining. Seems like the first of the year.
The anaesthetic began to wear off around 1.30pm and I started to sting, big time. Got home at 3pm and started to iron, didn't dare sit down or I would not have got up again.
You did come with my by they way, in the form of Pandora, and it was so good to have you along chick.
Friday, 24 February 2012
Whitney
I watched 2.5 hours of Whitney Houston's funeral this evening, (and that wasn't even all of it.) On the whole, even for such a large church, it seemed like an intimate affair, filled with people in the congregation who loved and, or admired her. Kevin Costner spoke lovingly, movingly, poignantly, and funnily of his former co-star and recalled how they'd waited a year to make, "The Bodyguard," as only Whitney would do and she was on tour beforehand. Many others had loving words, then it seemed to descend into; "this is the biggest audience I'll ever have, so I'm going to make the most of it." I wonder if Whitney's life was littered with people trying to make the most of their association with her.
http://youtu.be/3JWTaaS7LdU I still prefer the writer's version, I believe it to be sweeter, but you can't deny that this version is iconic. Maybe it's that early 90's romanticism, maybe it's the voice that could shatter glass, it all adds up to beautiful, memorable and purely Whitney.
http://youtu.be/dYJQo5UEOFY I got goose bumps listening to this, and I'm not even American.
http://youtu.be/3JWTaaS7LdU I still prefer the writer's version, I believe it to be sweeter, but you can't deny that this version is iconic. Maybe it's that early 90's romanticism, maybe it's the voice that could shatter glass, it all adds up to beautiful, memorable and purely Whitney.
http://youtu.be/dYJQo5UEOFY I got goose bumps listening to this, and I'm not even American.
Sunday, 19 February 2012
February 18th 2012
So, yesterday worked out pretty well for me. I got through all of my washing and ironing. I deep conditioned the head. I did the warm up and tum section of my Pilate's DVD and boy can I feel it today. While you're working out, you're thinking; "this is so easy, how can it be doing anything?" But having been to classes, I know that Pilate's is a bit of a stealth workout and while it seems easy at the time, you know about it the next day. I'm glad I didn't power through the whole thing, probably wouldn't have been able to move today if I had, but it's made me want to fit in a workout, far more often. I can feel those muscles recoiling as we speak, my hat is off to Ms Margot Campbell.
I'm sitting here with my filter coffee after having chatted with Fay for a good while, I'm the only customer at the moment, so it's allowed. She looks great and since August last year, has lost 4 stone, not too shabby at all.
There is a new study out in the US (fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) of Mental Disorders,) which rather boldly proclaims, that if you are either; shy, lonely or bereaved then you should be categorised as being mentally ill. Wow, that's a pretty sweeping statement from, I'm guessing, a group of people who have never been; a) shy, b) lonely or c) bereaved, and thank God, they really should count their blessings. Lucky them. I have been one or more of the above, at, well... most times in my life, so I guess that means that I'm mentally ill. You guessed all along didn't you?
The UK is currently garnering signatures to block the publication of the report in the UK, maybe... just maybe, we have not lost all of our respective marbles over here, (in this department at least.) What a ridiculous report. Do these people know anything of human nature or have they been in front of their computers for too long analysing data?
If nothing else, then the report is thought provoking, but given the choice, I know that I'd rather be deemed as being mentally ill rather than being unable to recognise loneliness, shyness or someone struggling with bereavement.
I'm sitting here with my filter coffee after having chatted with Fay for a good while, I'm the only customer at the moment, so it's allowed. She looks great and since August last year, has lost 4 stone, not too shabby at all.
There is a new study out in the US (fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) of Mental Disorders,) which rather boldly proclaims, that if you are either; shy, lonely or bereaved then you should be categorised as being mentally ill. Wow, that's a pretty sweeping statement from, I'm guessing, a group of people who have never been; a) shy, b) lonely or c) bereaved, and thank God, they really should count their blessings. Lucky them. I have been one or more of the above, at, well... most times in my life, so I guess that means that I'm mentally ill. You guessed all along didn't you?
The UK is currently garnering signatures to block the publication of the report in the UK, maybe... just maybe, we have not lost all of our respective marbles over here, (in this department at least.) What a ridiculous report. Do these people know anything of human nature or have they been in front of their computers for too long analysing data?
If nothing else, then the report is thought provoking, but given the choice, I know that I'd rather be deemed as being mentally ill rather than being unable to recognise loneliness, shyness or someone struggling with bereavement.
Saturday, 18 February 2012
Feb 17th 2012
It's Friday and I'm so glad I'm off today. We've been under pressure this week to meet a deadline, but without the support or resources that would make life easier. Still, the days passed quickly even if my hands did feel like they were about to fall off from the wrists from trying to type so quickly to get through it all. Made things pretty pressurised but it was fine, more of the same next week and probably the week after.
I've felt all week like I was getting a cold and seemed to be rapidly going downhill yesterday but I'm convinced that it's just the air conditioning in work. I don't feel too bad today, plus, 9.5 hours sleep last night helped a lot.
I've had the munchies for low grade carbs all week and I now look and feel like the Pillsbury Dough Boy. I'm having a last day of indulgence to get it out of my system, then I'm going to be super strict from tomorrow, for at least a week, even if it's just to undo the damage I've done this week.
So I slept great, as I said and jogged for 30 minutes, (was supposed to be longer but I ran out of time.) I'm having a "me" day today, (in between washing and ironing.) My hair is in desperate need of a cut and it hates my current shampoo, but it will have to wait until payday for a makeover. I was telling a friend in work that I have a few grey hairs and I was going to buy a hair dye after payday, plus I'd heard that it really helps to condition it. Anyway, she begged me not to do it yet, (she thinks it wrecks your hair,) and the next day, brought me a deep conditioner, so I'm going to deep condition the head later. I'm also going to aim to do my Pilate's DVD that I bought a few weeks ago and which I've only dabbled in so far. I've been looking forward to having a go, so can't wait to do that. And at some point, I really want to indulge in a little Ryan Gosling watching in "Crazy Stupid Love", well... someone's got to ;)
I've felt all week like I was getting a cold and seemed to be rapidly going downhill yesterday but I'm convinced that it's just the air conditioning in work. I don't feel too bad today, plus, 9.5 hours sleep last night helped a lot.
I've had the munchies for low grade carbs all week and I now look and feel like the Pillsbury Dough Boy. I'm having a last day of indulgence to get it out of my system, then I'm going to be super strict from tomorrow, for at least a week, even if it's just to undo the damage I've done this week.
So I slept great, as I said and jogged for 30 minutes, (was supposed to be longer but I ran out of time.) I'm having a "me" day today, (in between washing and ironing.) My hair is in desperate need of a cut and it hates my current shampoo, but it will have to wait until payday for a makeover. I was telling a friend in work that I have a few grey hairs and I was going to buy a hair dye after payday, plus I'd heard that it really helps to condition it. Anyway, she begged me not to do it yet, (she thinks it wrecks your hair,) and the next day, brought me a deep conditioner, so I'm going to deep condition the head later. I'm also going to aim to do my Pilate's DVD that I bought a few weeks ago and which I've only dabbled in so far. I've been looking forward to having a go, so can't wait to do that. And at some point, I really want to indulge in a little Ryan Gosling watching in "Crazy Stupid Love", well... someone's got to ;)
Monday, 13 February 2012
Sunday 12th February
I was feeling a little blue last night, but speaking to you this morning cheered me up no end, thank you. It's bitterly cold and I only jogged for 30 minutes but feel much better for it. I've managed quite a bit since Friday.
Mr Regular is in and is showing me how to pay using the app on his phone again, then asks if I'll be paying by cheque. It's a lot quieter when he's not in.
I've just made myself smile, something Bernard told me a couple of weeks ago about my mind being illogical and how I always do, two or three things at once, well, I'm currently writing to you, and reading two books, Eat, Pray, Love and a guide to a particularly annoying star sign which I'm trying to fathom. I spend a few minutes on each and keep rotating, it's a wonder I get anything done really.
Well, I did need some comfort food today, I opted for Heinz Cream of Tomato soup with wholemeal bread and butter and it really hit the spot.
Okay, so I ended up watching bits of "Home Alone" this afternoon, and okay... I cried. I need to get a grip, what the heck is wrong with me? Home Alone was swiftly followed by "Bugsy Malone," which we did as a school musical. I was one of Blousey Brown's friend's, a chorus line girl and yes, I had a line to say but no, I can't remember it, okay... I can, but I'm not saying ;)
So the weekend is all but over, I feel like I've eaten my body weight in rubbish but I don't recall that I actually did.
Just watched a bit of the red carpet arrivals at the Baftas, Sir Tom Jones is going to blast proceedings off apparently with a rendition of "Thunderball", to commemorate a half century of James Bond. Can't wait to hear that. I have my fingers crossed for "Drive" as Best Film, that's the one I told you about but I'm heavily biased as I haven't actually seen the other nominees plus Ryan Gosling is in "Drive." What else do you need though? Really.
I watched the last episode of Cloudstreet and it did not disappoint, it was brilliant and heart rending and beautiful. Watch out for that one.
My weekend is over and I must depart. Have a great week x
Mr Regular is in and is showing me how to pay using the app on his phone again, then asks if I'll be paying by cheque. It's a lot quieter when he's not in.
I've just made myself smile, something Bernard told me a couple of weeks ago about my mind being illogical and how I always do, two or three things at once, well, I'm currently writing to you, and reading two books, Eat, Pray, Love and a guide to a particularly annoying star sign which I'm trying to fathom. I spend a few minutes on each and keep rotating, it's a wonder I get anything done really.
Well, I did need some comfort food today, I opted for Heinz Cream of Tomato soup with wholemeal bread and butter and it really hit the spot.
Okay, so I ended up watching bits of "Home Alone" this afternoon, and okay... I cried. I need to get a grip, what the heck is wrong with me? Home Alone was swiftly followed by "Bugsy Malone," which we did as a school musical. I was one of Blousey Brown's friend's, a chorus line girl and yes, I had a line to say but no, I can't remember it, okay... I can, but I'm not saying ;)
So the weekend is all but over, I feel like I've eaten my body weight in rubbish but I don't recall that I actually did.
Just watched a bit of the red carpet arrivals at the Baftas, Sir Tom Jones is going to blast proceedings off apparently with a rendition of "Thunderball", to commemorate a half century of James Bond. Can't wait to hear that. I have my fingers crossed for "Drive" as Best Film, that's the one I told you about but I'm heavily biased as I haven't actually seen the other nominees plus Ryan Gosling is in "Drive." What else do you need though? Really.
I watched the last episode of Cloudstreet and it did not disappoint, it was brilliant and heart rending and beautiful. Watch out for that one.
My weekend is over and I must depart. Have a great week x
Sunday, 12 February 2012
11th February 2012
So, as I write to you, it's now almost 3pm and the temperature has managed to get up to zero. You're jealous aren't you, and wishing you were here?
I was bombarded with texts this morning while I worked out, first Mandie, my much trusted beautician and then unexpectedly, Carol, she wanted to know if I was visiting my usual haunt this morning, she was also heading in that direction and she'd meet me for a catch up. Totally out of the blue and just lovely. I spent the first 20 minutes at Starbucks catching up with Fay, 10 minutes reading then Carol arrived, it was a whistle stop catch up bearing in mind that our catch ups usually last at least 4 hours, we did exceptionally well to cram in her major stuff within 30 minutes then we both had things to do and places to go, it was lovely though and definitely warmed my cockles.
The icy wind is biting and I can't feel my fingers once I've pumped petrol into the tank for two minutes. I head to my eldest sister's as it's her birthday and spend the next 45 minutes thawing out and chatting. I'm not sure if it's the age difference or a result of the past almost 9 years, but we seem to have hit our stride, finally. I try not to do anything to annoy her, she still can't resist having a dig but it's not necessarily aimed at me anymore and we kind of co-habit the same airspace for a short amount of time, without too much damage being done to either. Does that make sense? I love her, she's my sister, and I go out of my way to try to make sure she doesn't hate me too much. That's all I can do.
I whacked my elbow this morning and now it's twinging, probably just the cold though rather than anything major.
On Thursday in work, one of my friends stared at my hair then asked if I'd bought any of those "twisty" things that she'd recommended a few months beforehand. I took this as a polite; "what the heck is the matter with your hair and can't you do anything better than that?" For a few weeks now, I've been wearing the hair up in a giant clip. It's desperately in need of a cut but the gas and electric need to be paid first and while I know it's not the height of, well... anything, it's tidy right? Well, tidy it may be but it pushed Caroline to ask if I hadn't yet tried the twisty things.
Truth was, I bought recommended twisty things months ago but couldn't quite grasp the knack of the up do using just these. Anyway, for the past two days, I have worn hair up with twisties and three Kirby grips and you know, it's not bad and yes okay, I admit it... marginally better than the clip. I need more practice but so far, so good and still better than the clip. In case they make it to your shores, they are actually; "Goody spin pins."
I was bombarded with texts this morning while I worked out, first Mandie, my much trusted beautician and then unexpectedly, Carol, she wanted to know if I was visiting my usual haunt this morning, she was also heading in that direction and she'd meet me for a catch up. Totally out of the blue and just lovely. I spent the first 20 minutes at Starbucks catching up with Fay, 10 minutes reading then Carol arrived, it was a whistle stop catch up bearing in mind that our catch ups usually last at least 4 hours, we did exceptionally well to cram in her major stuff within 30 minutes then we both had things to do and places to go, it was lovely though and definitely warmed my cockles.
The icy wind is biting and I can't feel my fingers once I've pumped petrol into the tank for two minutes. I head to my eldest sister's as it's her birthday and spend the next 45 minutes thawing out and chatting. I'm not sure if it's the age difference or a result of the past almost 9 years, but we seem to have hit our stride, finally. I try not to do anything to annoy her, she still can't resist having a dig but it's not necessarily aimed at me anymore and we kind of co-habit the same airspace for a short amount of time, without too much damage being done to either. Does that make sense? I love her, she's my sister, and I go out of my way to try to make sure she doesn't hate me too much. That's all I can do.
I whacked my elbow this morning and now it's twinging, probably just the cold though rather than anything major.
On Thursday in work, one of my friends stared at my hair then asked if I'd bought any of those "twisty" things that she'd recommended a few months beforehand. I took this as a polite; "what the heck is the matter with your hair and can't you do anything better than that?" For a few weeks now, I've been wearing the hair up in a giant clip. It's desperately in need of a cut but the gas and electric need to be paid first and while I know it's not the height of, well... anything, it's tidy right? Well, tidy it may be but it pushed Caroline to ask if I hadn't yet tried the twisty things.
Truth was, I bought recommended twisty things months ago but couldn't quite grasp the knack of the up do using just these. Anyway, for the past two days, I have worn hair up with twisties and three Kirby grips and you know, it's not bad and yes okay, I admit it... marginally better than the clip. I need more practice but so far, so good and still better than the clip. In case they make it to your shores, they are actually; "Goody spin pins."
Saturday, 11 February 2012
Feb 10th 2012
Well, I started the week all cheery and happy as it was a short one but it's had it's challenges. The weather for one, -4 some mornings which I know isn't terrible but let me tell you, it's not good with my circulation. Even with the scarf that B bought me which has gel packs that you heat up in a microwave and slot into the neck and each end...(which you can tuck into your waistband... don't ask,) you still arrive at work with fingers unable to work anything intricate until the circulation is restored. This takes around 10 minutes of sitting in the heated lobby when I arrive in the building.
I've been on different duties this week and so the work has been beyond mind numbing, still... I am employed, which is what pays the bills... almost.
So, it was a short week for me this week, which is what kept me going. On Thursday, I breezed into work, expecting an easy, breezy day as it was, after all, my Friday, but my computer was dead. Whoever had been on the evening shift the night before had killed it and so I had to re-locate, fumigate the desk and keyboard etc, not a great start. I'm being unkind, the night shift person may not have killed it, the way our systems are, it may have committed suicide.
I went to the, "just out of the office" Starbucks at 11am for a, "cheer me up," because stomach is bad too at present, and it was a disaster. Took twice as long to get as a trainee was on, (I know they have to learn and I don't mean to be horrible,) then when I got back to work, it was no more a cappuccino than I am Muhammad Ali. So disappointing.
Anyway, the day perked up when my computer crashed and I had to call the help desk. The "helper," sounded a little impatient at first but after 2 minutes, proclaimed that he could talk to me all day. We continued to chat which I believe is still called having a conversation but my colleagues were insinuating, while I was still on the phone, that I was flirting. I swear I wasn't but while they were sounding out things like; "GSOH," I was trying not to get distracted. Anyway, an hour later, computer was fixed.
I got a good eight hours sleep last night but still woke early this morning, pretty close to my normal time. I wasted much of the early hours Google-ing things I'd been meaning to Google all week, reading and eating breakfast before I jogged for an hour. Yes... an hour. I cajoled myself into it after 30 minutes, 10 minutes at a time, as I don't like odd numbers. I did pretty well and even though the last 10 were tough, I was quite proud of myself, it's been a while since I did an hour in one go.
So, I'd asked J if she wanted to go out on Friday as she's had a rough few weeks and I was off today. She said she'd like to go to town... where I work, which I usually avoid like the plague but she offered to drive and I really didn't mind. I can't remember the last time I had a leisurely shop there, I usually can't wait to get away from the place.
Anyway, J drove as promised, and when we got there, we headed for... yep...Starbucks. No sooner had I spotted an "old" manager I knew then I turned to see two "old" customers that I hadn't seen for a couple of years! It was like a Starbucks reunion! Cathy, the Manager was co-managing while waiting for her new store to be ready to open and my old co-customers didn't usually go there so Julie, decided this was serendipity at it's best. I can't argue with that. It was such a lovely start to the day. Not only would I have not gone there by choice, but I got to see old, familiar and lovely faces while I was there, it really made my day.
So, it was just icy cold, my body was fine in my new coat but I felt like I didn't have jeans on, the cold wind just blew right through my legs to the bone.
J and I wandered around the shops until noon then headed for Wagamama's. You know what I had; miso soup, (left the pickles,) a few of J's edamame beams with garlic and chili salt and we both had yaki soba, oh and I had pinot grigio blush as I wasn't driving, for once. All was delicious and our James Morrison lookalike waiter was quite the flirt. As we settled the bill, he told me that he and I would get on well if we went out for lunch as he liked to have wine with lunch too. J was convinced this was flirtation. Was it? What is going on? Do I have a sign over my head saying; "flirt with me?" I blame the full moon.
For the last few days, I have been seriously missing a female friend to go shopping with... even window shopping would do, and in particular... I'm missing you. I know I shouldn't say this out loud as you're probably not only missing a female friend to shop with but somewhere decent to shop at. I don't care chick, when I win the lotto... we'll meet in Sydney and put things right ;)
I've been on different duties this week and so the work has been beyond mind numbing, still... I am employed, which is what pays the bills... almost.
So, it was a short week for me this week, which is what kept me going. On Thursday, I breezed into work, expecting an easy, breezy day as it was, after all, my Friday, but my computer was dead. Whoever had been on the evening shift the night before had killed it and so I had to re-locate, fumigate the desk and keyboard etc, not a great start. I'm being unkind, the night shift person may not have killed it, the way our systems are, it may have committed suicide.
I went to the, "just out of the office" Starbucks at 11am for a, "cheer me up," because stomach is bad too at present, and it was a disaster. Took twice as long to get as a trainee was on, (I know they have to learn and I don't mean to be horrible,) then when I got back to work, it was no more a cappuccino than I am Muhammad Ali. So disappointing.
Anyway, the day perked up when my computer crashed and I had to call the help desk. The "helper," sounded a little impatient at first but after 2 minutes, proclaimed that he could talk to me all day. We continued to chat which I believe is still called having a conversation but my colleagues were insinuating, while I was still on the phone, that I was flirting. I swear I wasn't but while they were sounding out things like; "GSOH," I was trying not to get distracted. Anyway, an hour later, computer was fixed.
I got a good eight hours sleep last night but still woke early this morning, pretty close to my normal time. I wasted much of the early hours Google-ing things I'd been meaning to Google all week, reading and eating breakfast before I jogged for an hour. Yes... an hour. I cajoled myself into it after 30 minutes, 10 minutes at a time, as I don't like odd numbers. I did pretty well and even though the last 10 were tough, I was quite proud of myself, it's been a while since I did an hour in one go.
So, I'd asked J if she wanted to go out on Friday as she's had a rough few weeks and I was off today. She said she'd like to go to town... where I work, which I usually avoid like the plague but she offered to drive and I really didn't mind. I can't remember the last time I had a leisurely shop there, I usually can't wait to get away from the place.
Anyway, J drove as promised, and when we got there, we headed for... yep...Starbucks. No sooner had I spotted an "old" manager I knew then I turned to see two "old" customers that I hadn't seen for a couple of years! It was like a Starbucks reunion! Cathy, the Manager was co-managing while waiting for her new store to be ready to open and my old co-customers didn't usually go there so Julie, decided this was serendipity at it's best. I can't argue with that. It was such a lovely start to the day. Not only would I have not gone there by choice, but I got to see old, familiar and lovely faces while I was there, it really made my day.
So, it was just icy cold, my body was fine in my new coat but I felt like I didn't have jeans on, the cold wind just blew right through my legs to the bone.
J and I wandered around the shops until noon then headed for Wagamama's. You know what I had; miso soup, (left the pickles,) a few of J's edamame beams with garlic and chili salt and we both had yaki soba, oh and I had pinot grigio blush as I wasn't driving, for once. All was delicious and our James Morrison lookalike waiter was quite the flirt. As we settled the bill, he told me that he and I would get on well if we went out for lunch as he liked to have wine with lunch too. J was convinced this was flirtation. Was it? What is going on? Do I have a sign over my head saying; "flirt with me?" I blame the full moon.
For the last few days, I have been seriously missing a female friend to go shopping with... even window shopping would do, and in particular... I'm missing you. I know I shouldn't say this out loud as you're probably not only missing a female friend to shop with but somewhere decent to shop at. I don't care chick, when I win the lotto... we'll meet in Sydney and put things right ;)
Friday, 10 February 2012
Dream On
And so, the psychic, Bernard, also told me that I need to learn how to quiet my mind, I'm always doing two or three things at once. He's right. It's not making me ill, but it is draining my energy, won't argue with that. I told him that I'm too impatient to meditate, and I find deliberately trying to relax... plain boring, not to mention annoying and my brain just won't switch off. Okay, so, maybe he has a point.
He said I should try past life regression. I can't remember if he said that I was a Princess or that I think I was a Princess ;)
He told me men are a bit thick. Note, his words, not mine. I expect people, (men,) to know things when really, they need them spelling out.
My major news this weekend... I finally lost my 3lbs of Christmas blubber, which has been hanging on to me like a walrus hangs onto, well, blubber. I'm so relieved. Onward and upward now.
It's now Sunday and the predicted snow never fell. Some parts of the county had 6 inches or more but not us, thank heavens. We did however have continual sleet from 11am until past my bedtime. I've never known it to continue for so long. It's always morphed into something else... rain... snow, but not this time, just plain icy sleet.
The sleet did of course freeze, so my road is like an ice rink with the ice cracking beneath my tyres. The tree that overhangs my drive is dripping water as the icicles melt from it's branches. I'm hoping we've thawed a bit more by noon.
It felt so good to catch up last night and I felt so much better having spoken to you in person. Thanks again for phoning.
I had the weirdest dream which I blame on the herbal sleeping tablets my niece and God-daughter recommended. I dreamt that I overslept, took it out on Mum who was still here, (for which I felt terrible for,) phoned work and blamed sickness for my being late. (Never have I done that in my life, I can't lie.) I also dreamt that B, who has a phobia of water due to lifelong ear problems,) was swimming, (she can't swim,) in at least shoulder depth Ocean water, looked at me and dipped under the water to swim under an upturned rowing boat!
I woke at 5.30am, the herbal stuff obviously doesn't work... except for inducing weired dreams. Dream on.
He said I should try past life regression. I can't remember if he said that I was a Princess or that I think I was a Princess ;)
He told me men are a bit thick. Note, his words, not mine. I expect people, (men,) to know things when really, they need them spelling out.
My major news this weekend... I finally lost my 3lbs of Christmas blubber, which has been hanging on to me like a walrus hangs onto, well, blubber. I'm so relieved. Onward and upward now.
It's now Sunday and the predicted snow never fell. Some parts of the county had 6 inches or more but not us, thank heavens. We did however have continual sleet from 11am until past my bedtime. I've never known it to continue for so long. It's always morphed into something else... rain... snow, but not this time, just plain icy sleet.
The sleet did of course freeze, so my road is like an ice rink with the ice cracking beneath my tyres. The tree that overhangs my drive is dripping water as the icicles melt from it's branches. I'm hoping we've thawed a bit more by noon.
It felt so good to catch up last night and I felt so much better having spoken to you in person. Thanks again for phoning.
I had the weirdest dream which I blame on the herbal sleeping tablets my niece and God-daughter recommended. I dreamt that I overslept, took it out on Mum who was still here, (for which I felt terrible for,) phoned work and blamed sickness for my being late. (Never have I done that in my life, I can't lie.) I also dreamt that B, who has a phobia of water due to lifelong ear problems,) was swimming, (she can't swim,) in at least shoulder depth Ocean water, looked at me and dipped under the water to swim under an upturned rowing boat!
I woke at 5.30am, the herbal stuff obviously doesn't work... except for inducing weired dreams. Dream on.
Sunday, 5 February 2012
Fish Injury
I know you're thinking; "how could she possibly injure herself with a fish?" Well, to begin with, and in my defence... it was frozen. The fillet was a little too long for the pan and I wondered if I could possibly snap it on the kitchen worktop with my hand firmly placed in the middle of said fish. The answer was yes... you could, but as it snapped, half the broken piece scraped up my wrist, and so, you learn something new every day, don't you?
Next, I once again, came to the thunderous conclusion that I really do need to get out more. After the fish incident, I reached into the freezer to pull out a bag of cauli and got excited when it turned out to be a bag of cauli florets and not stalk heavy, quarter cauli that are usually in the bags I get. Not only would they cook more quickly as I was hungry but this would also save on the gas. How can you possibly get excited over florets? Easy... I obviously have nothing more exciting to engage me! I know... I used an exclamation mark after me giving them up, that's how bad it is.
Well, it's now Saturday and we're scheduled to have snow today. It's supposed to arrive around 3pm, then yesterday, it was brought forward to noon, so I have one eye looking out of the window at all times just in case it switches again and arrives earlier still.
Work has been bad this week and really quite stressful, it was as if all of the most annoying, most irritating people in the world had been sent to do their worst... on me. Did you know for instance, that people without kids, do not really need a break at Easter do they??? I cannot publish my reply but I was measured, calm and to the point, whilst I seethed inside.
We have had a switch around in work and the most annoying and venomous people that surrounded me, have been moved while I have stayed in the same seat... as of Monday. I have one word to say... karma.
I took Sue to a psychic night on Wednesday. I wasn't supposed to be having a reading but I couldn't resist another session with the very insulting but really lovely man that I saw a few months ago. He was slightly less insulting this time around, but he did say a lot of the same things. He can't possibly say the same thing to everyone he reads, nor could he possibly remember me, so this only goes to prove to me that he is in fact genuine.
Anyway, I'm still around 450 years old according to my hands, (and boy, do I feel it,) yes, I do get a lot of Deja Vu and yes, I do, usually feel like I don't fit in. (I'm so very lucky that my true friends love me anyway... regardless.) I should have past life regression because I was a Princess, or think I was, can't quite remember what he said but... note the subtle difference? I have an illogical mind, I won't argue with that. I'm still no domestic Goddess, I don't buy fruit, correction... I buy fruit, it goes off and I throw it out. I really should eat some. I don't suffer fools gladly, (when did I ever?) I tend to be a bit of a dragon at times... I'm sure I am. Duly noted, I need to correct that. I attract people with problems. I have water hands, I did ask what that means and he told me but I can't actually remember the answer, I think he meant that I'm drawn to water and said basically, if I'm around water, I'll be happy... which is true. He sees me in a new job within 12 weeks. I'll live into my 90's, I'll have the choice of two men, but the right one is around me now.
My coffee this morning is hot, hot, hot, like it's been ready for ages. It's just what I need this morning and my body is topped up with heat, I'm almost too warm. The new manager is actually an old and familiar face to me. She isn't old at all but was a barista at my old Starbucks haunt about 4 years ago. It was nice to see a familiar face and she seems to have the place running ship shape and Bristol fashion.
Next, I once again, came to the thunderous conclusion that I really do need to get out more. After the fish incident, I reached into the freezer to pull out a bag of cauli and got excited when it turned out to be a bag of cauli florets and not stalk heavy, quarter cauli that are usually in the bags I get. Not only would they cook more quickly as I was hungry but this would also save on the gas. How can you possibly get excited over florets? Easy... I obviously have nothing more exciting to engage me! I know... I used an exclamation mark after me giving them up, that's how bad it is.
Well, it's now Saturday and we're scheduled to have snow today. It's supposed to arrive around 3pm, then yesterday, it was brought forward to noon, so I have one eye looking out of the window at all times just in case it switches again and arrives earlier still.
Work has been bad this week and really quite stressful, it was as if all of the most annoying, most irritating people in the world had been sent to do their worst... on me. Did you know for instance, that people without kids, do not really need a break at Easter do they??? I cannot publish my reply but I was measured, calm and to the point, whilst I seethed inside.
We have had a switch around in work and the most annoying and venomous people that surrounded me, have been moved while I have stayed in the same seat... as of Monday. I have one word to say... karma.
I took Sue to a psychic night on Wednesday. I wasn't supposed to be having a reading but I couldn't resist another session with the very insulting but really lovely man that I saw a few months ago. He was slightly less insulting this time around, but he did say a lot of the same things. He can't possibly say the same thing to everyone he reads, nor could he possibly remember me, so this only goes to prove to me that he is in fact genuine.
Anyway, I'm still around 450 years old according to my hands, (and boy, do I feel it,) yes, I do get a lot of Deja Vu and yes, I do, usually feel like I don't fit in. (I'm so very lucky that my true friends love me anyway... regardless.) I should have past life regression because I was a Princess, or think I was, can't quite remember what he said but... note the subtle difference? I have an illogical mind, I won't argue with that. I'm still no domestic Goddess, I don't buy fruit, correction... I buy fruit, it goes off and I throw it out. I really should eat some. I don't suffer fools gladly, (when did I ever?) I tend to be a bit of a dragon at times... I'm sure I am. Duly noted, I need to correct that. I attract people with problems. I have water hands, I did ask what that means and he told me but I can't actually remember the answer, I think he meant that I'm drawn to water and said basically, if I'm around water, I'll be happy... which is true. He sees me in a new job within 12 weeks. I'll live into my 90's, I'll have the choice of two men, but the right one is around me now.
My coffee this morning is hot, hot, hot, like it's been ready for ages. It's just what I need this morning and my body is topped up with heat, I'm almost too warm. The new manager is actually an old and familiar face to me. She isn't old at all but was a barista at my old Starbucks haunt about 4 years ago. It was nice to see a familiar face and she seems to have the place running ship shape and Bristol fashion.
29th January 2012...continued
The winter fuel bills have arrived and, after I picked myself up off the floor, I set about the meticulous crafting of my food and essentials shopping list for the next two months while I budget. Minimalistic isn't the word but it will at least make me think twice about the Walkers Sweet Chili crisps that I treat myself to at the weekend and which are, lets face it, a bag full of fat. Also decided that if I have a bigger breakfast, I won't need to fork out for lunch will I?
No jogging today, I woke only to decide that I was going to give it a miss, but I did do some toning and I'll do more later. I can't believe it's Sunday already, and that's after a 3 day weekend. It's all but gone and so is January, amazing.
Vera Wang has been photographed for Harper's Bazaar, in a swimsuit and heels, at the age of 62, she looks simply stunning. It's no wonder that she can make any bride look spectacular, when she looks like that. Just inspirational. I am spurred on.
No jogging today, I woke only to decide that I was going to give it a miss, but I did do some toning and I'll do more later. I can't believe it's Sunday already, and that's after a 3 day weekend. It's all but gone and so is January, amazing.
Vera Wang has been photographed for Harper's Bazaar, in a swimsuit and heels, at the age of 62, she looks simply stunning. It's no wonder that she can make any bride look spectacular, when she looks like that. Just inspirational. I am spurred on.
29th January 2012
I nipped into Elle Macpherson intimates yesterday. I have to confess that I am, in fact, addicted. I've been a customer now for around four years and I nose around at least once a week to see what's new.
I tumbled into the store 4 years ago, desperate to find a last minute, nude/strapless bra to go under a dress I had for an impending, family wedding. I'd been everywhere, and I mean everywhere, but nothing looked good, or even came close to fitting properly.
The sales assistant took one look at me, (didn't even come near me with a tape measure,) proclaimed me to be a totally different size to that which I'd worn for the past, however many years, handed me a bra and shoved, (okay, she didn't really shove me but strongly directed me...) into the changing rooms, only for me to emerge 2 minutes later, looking and feeling like Jessica Rabbit. Since then, I've been hooked. The discounts are amazing, the service, range and heck, the way the garments make you feel, are just wonderful and I wouldn't shop anywhere else for my intimates. I popped in today as I had time to kill and the sale continues so I bought a navy blue chemise for £12, should have been £45. I looked at "chemise" in the supermarket yesterday. It was a pack of 2, for £6. I think I'll stick to my Elle Macpherson one, thanks all the same.
I met my sister and God-daughter for coffee just after my Elle encounter. We had a good catch up and both were looking well after a few months of illness for one, it was good to see.
I tumbled into the store 4 years ago, desperate to find a last minute, nude/strapless bra to go under a dress I had for an impending, family wedding. I'd been everywhere, and I mean everywhere, but nothing looked good, or even came close to fitting properly.
The sales assistant took one look at me, (didn't even come near me with a tape measure,) proclaimed me to be a totally different size to that which I'd worn for the past, however many years, handed me a bra and shoved, (okay, she didn't really shove me but strongly directed me...) into the changing rooms, only for me to emerge 2 minutes later, looking and feeling like Jessica Rabbit. Since then, I've been hooked. The discounts are amazing, the service, range and heck, the way the garments make you feel, are just wonderful and I wouldn't shop anywhere else for my intimates. I popped in today as I had time to kill and the sale continues so I bought a navy blue chemise for £12, should have been £45. I looked at "chemise" in the supermarket yesterday. It was a pack of 2, for £6. I think I'll stick to my Elle Macpherson one, thanks all the same.
I met my sister and God-daughter for coffee just after my Elle encounter. We had a good catch up and both were looking well after a few months of illness for one, it was good to see.
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