* I couldnt find you mummy. I looked in my bed, I looked in Jamies bed and I looked in your bed. I thought you were sleeping in the bath?!
* I missed you while you were away mummy-I wanted to fart on you!!
* Can we play hungry hippos?
* I've missed you not reading me my bedtime story..................can we have another one
* Daddy let me eat spaghetti bolognaise in Jamies bedroom - you never let me do that
Sunday 27 November 2011
Wednesday 23 November 2011
Cardiff, here we come
I am about to embark on a weekend away with 5 lovely lady friends (I use the word loosely for some of them, they know who they are ;-) We went to Bristol last year and had the most fantastic time. Full of fun, lots of laughter, an alcoholic tipple or two, some great food but the best thing of course, was the company and amazing friendship we all share.
So far my packing consists of a pair of pyjamas and a bottle of Presecco, so Id better get the heck off of here, otherwise I'm in for a very cold weekend. See you on the other side...............hopefully
So far my packing consists of a pair of pyjamas and a bottle of Presecco, so Id better get the heck off of here, otherwise I'm in for a very cold weekend. See you on the other side...............hopefully
Crafty goings on with The Ayres'
Saturday saw a brand new experience for me - having my own stand at a local craft fair. Well, I say my own stand - I was selling my husbands gorgeous drift wood Christmas trees, my dads stunning hand painted Father Christmas driftwood hanging decorations and my mums beautiful felted snowmen & hearts. So really and truly, I was an absolute fraud with a capital F fronting the stall having not crafted a single contribution!! Well, if we're nit picking, I guess I will have, at some point, helped with the collecting of the drift wood............does that count??
The day was a great success on many levels. I took orders of 3 trees and sold some of each of my parents items, which for the first fair, I was delighted with. Other successes were sitting opposite a very talented friend, aminnybouquet , watching her embroider for most of the morning. The concentration and genuine love of the project she was working on was clear for all to see. Helped along by her gorgeous young daughter, it was amazing to see a little dot threading a needle and sewing so diligently. Beautifully behaved (which for some 5 & 6 year olds in a confined space would prove very challenging), she sat either immersed in her sewing, in her reading or in her amazing chocolate cake lolly. I had one at the end of the day and boy, was it worth the wait.
The day was a great success on many levels. I took orders of 3 trees and sold some of each of my parents items, which for the first fair, I was delighted with. Other successes were sitting opposite a very talented friend, aminnybouquet , watching her embroider for most of the morning. The concentration and genuine love of the project she was working on was clear for all to see. Helped along by her gorgeous young daughter, it was amazing to see a little dot threading a needle and sewing so diligently. Beautifully behaved (which for some 5 & 6 year olds in a confined space would prove very challenging), she sat either immersed in her sewing, in her reading or in her amazing chocolate cake lolly. I had one at the end of the day and boy, was it worth the wait.
Friday 18 November 2011
As proud as a mother hen
An exciting discovery in the Ayres household tonight
From this........
Then this..... (my three daft ladies found their own way not only up on to our trampoline, but safely into the netting enclosure and were bouncing, yes you read that correctly, bouncing up and down)
To the very first (and it has to be said very decently sized) ........
From this........
Then this..... (my three daft ladies found their own way not only up on to our trampoline, but safely into the netting enclosure and were bouncing, yes you read that correctly, bouncing up and down)
To the very first (and it has to be said very decently sized) ........
More of the same please ladies xxx
Monday 14 November 2011
You gotta see this
A choir with a difference. Turn your volume up nice and loud, start by watching and then listen with your eyes closed to the rain. Look how they create the sound of thunder!!
Sunday 13 November 2011
I get knocked down, but I get up again, you aint never gonna keep me down
Three times....three flaming times I hit the deck today...literally. Although a gorgeous bright and reasonably warm morning, it was damp and after letting the chickens out, on my return to the house, I slipped on the decking. Stanley was eating his breakfast at the kitchen table at the time (which overlooks the garden) and I looked up, somewhat sheepishly it has to be said to peals of laughter. "Ha ha, ha ha mummy. You felllllllll over". Yeah thanks for coming to my rescue Stanners! Luckily I landed on my derrier which it has to be said, is pretty well padded, so nothing too serious.
Next I step out to hang the washing on the line thinking to myself "Right, mind the decking, its w...............................eeeeeeeeet". Over again, this time slipping on the top step and unfortunately I fell backwards and scraped my lower spine. The only saving grace this time, was that no one was there to witness my misfortune!!
Finally, after a mammoth dog poop picking session, would you believe I slipped on the very same step but on the way up this time and scraped both my shins and battered my pride. Legs are still hurting and swollen and it has to be said, should be very bruised but I came in and took Arnica straight away which I think has really helped in keeping the bruising to a minimum.
So guess what I'll be doing next week?? Borrowing a pressure washer from one of my long suffering friends and blasting the living daylights out of the algae that has formed on that flaming decking!!
Next I step out to hang the washing on the line thinking to myself "Right, mind the decking, its w...............................eeeeeeeeet". Over again, this time slipping on the top step and unfortunately I fell backwards and scraped my lower spine. The only saving grace this time, was that no one was there to witness my misfortune!!
Finally, after a mammoth dog poop picking session, would you believe I slipped on the very same step but on the way up this time and scraped both my shins and battered my pride. Legs are still hurting and swollen and it has to be said, should be very bruised but I came in and took Arnica straight away which I think has really helped in keeping the bruising to a minimum.
So guess what I'll be doing next week?? Borrowing a pressure washer from one of my long suffering friends and blasting the living daylights out of the algae that has formed on that flaming decking!!
Wednesday 9 November 2011
Friday 28 October 2011
New laptop = New woman
I had not realised just how long it had been since last updating Ayres Rocks!
I have been without a computer for what seems like a lifetime (although in reality it is only 3 weeks). Plus hubby has started his 6 month stint working away from home and with 2 projects I am running alongside Music Train, there just aren't enough hours in the day.
I am genuinely alarmed at how quickly this year seems to have gone. 8 more weeks and its Christmas - How did that happen!!!??
I have lots to fill you in on which I will do over the next few days. As a family we haven't seen Dean for 2 weeks and he's only back for 3 nights so we have lots to pack in and I don't want to waste it on the computer (although it has to be said I am willingly doing so right now as Dean & Jamie are watching the new A Team movie which is of no interest to me). I am happy providing their tea, hot chocolate and mint aero ;-)
So if you'll forgive me, I'm signing off for 72 hours.........but I'll be back ;-)
I have been without a computer for what seems like a lifetime (although in reality it is only 3 weeks). Plus hubby has started his 6 month stint working away from home and with 2 projects I am running alongside Music Train, there just aren't enough hours in the day.
I am genuinely alarmed at how quickly this year seems to have gone. 8 more weeks and its Christmas - How did that happen!!!??
I have lots to fill you in on which I will do over the next few days. As a family we haven't seen Dean for 2 weeks and he's only back for 3 nights so we have lots to pack in and I don't want to waste it on the computer (although it has to be said I am willingly doing so right now as Dean & Jamie are watching the new A Team movie which is of no interest to me). I am happy providing their tea, hot chocolate and mint aero ;-)
So if you'll forgive me, I'm signing off for 72 hours.........but I'll be back ;-)
Friday 19 August 2011
Remember me????
Two months have flown by since I last sat my toosh down in front of Ayres Rocks blog spot and I am hopeful that I can once again make a more regular appearance after my poor show of late.
Since my last entry back in June, we have returned home, still unfinished, still with boxes left to unpack and a piano in storage but certainly livable and definitely more spacious than when we departed back in March. Already our lives feel transformed with the boys now having their own rooms which couldn't have come at a more appropriate time. We have a power shower which is mighty hard to step out of first thing in the morning, a beautiful new carpet under foot which runs throughout all bedrooms, the landing and the stairs which has improved the flow, but most importantly we have a kitchen breakfast room which means the return of a dining table after nearly 2 years without one. It has been really detrimental to our family not having space for it over the last 24 months as there had been nowhere to sit and share an evening meal during which to discuss the goings on of each others day. No large table to sit and prepare my lesson plans or for Jamie to do his homework and no table for Stanley during his 'toddlerdom' to learn table manners. So we welcome the return of our four-legged friend. No not our dog Tia (although she obviously came home with us) - our country pine chunky table and chairs.
The solid oak floor sits piled up in our lounge. Dean said it needed 4 weeks to acclimatise to the room temperature before he could lay it. I'm guessing the said pile may become beautified with Christmas decorations in four months or so as Deans work schedule looks absolutely manic, but we shall see. We need to finish painting in the kitchen, splash backs behind the cooker, kick boards fitted to the bottom of the kitchen units etc, but I have to say, Dean has done an amazing job. A massive thanks to my little brother Bill who has plastered the house from top to bottom single handed for us. My other brother Craig came down for a week to push the painting on and my dads talents were wasted really as he was the guy that got lumbered with tip runs, mixing up muck etc but a very important role none the less. What a great family I have xxxxx
Since being back on 'the street', we have been largely blessed with great weather and the infamous Kilk mist has been kept at bay. Jamie has been able to play out with one of his best friends which is one of his favourite past times at the moment and he has finally nailed riding his bike, so there is no stopping him now. Stanley's curls seem to be dropping out which is making me feel a bit sad as he had an admirable and beautiful mop top going on. I had his hair cut last week as I thought it was the length that was pulling it down but alas, they've not sprung back yet. I remember my hair going funny when I was about his age and mum recalls having to cut it all off, really short, I mean really really short. His hasn't lost the condition though like mine did so maybe its just his baby curls falling out :-(
Dean has been away up country for nearly 2 weeks and has got another 5 or 6 days to go yet before he returns. He has been 'crafting' for three previous customers he has worked for on and off over the last 7 years back up in Hertfordshire so its nice for him to be asked to return to familiar faces. I decided not to run any summer holiday classes this year as with all the upheaval of the renovation work etc, I really felt like I needed some down time and quality time with the boys. I definitely think I made the right decision. We've enjoyed flying kites, beach days, feeding the ducks, cooking, camping in the garden, library visits, splashing about in Bideford Park - all the simple things in life which have brought us a lot of pleasure. I'm still working hard on all the marketing for both Deans business and mine, but I can do this when the boys are in bed (well, when I'm not on facebook or watching the TV!). Speaking of which, Ive got a stall at Bude Carnival tomorrow, meeting and greeting, making and decorating shakers etc so Id better get off here for now and get some preparation done. I'll be back...............
Since my last entry back in June, we have returned home, still unfinished, still with boxes left to unpack and a piano in storage but certainly livable and definitely more spacious than when we departed back in March. Already our lives feel transformed with the boys now having their own rooms which couldn't have come at a more appropriate time. We have a power shower which is mighty hard to step out of first thing in the morning, a beautiful new carpet under foot which runs throughout all bedrooms, the landing and the stairs which has improved the flow, but most importantly we have a kitchen breakfast room which means the return of a dining table after nearly 2 years without one. It has been really detrimental to our family not having space for it over the last 24 months as there had been nowhere to sit and share an evening meal during which to discuss the goings on of each others day. No large table to sit and prepare my lesson plans or for Jamie to do his homework and no table for Stanley during his 'toddlerdom' to learn table manners. So we welcome the return of our four-legged friend. No not our dog Tia (although she obviously came home with us) - our country pine chunky table and chairs.
The solid oak floor sits piled up in our lounge. Dean said it needed 4 weeks to acclimatise to the room temperature before he could lay it. I'm guessing the said pile may become beautified with Christmas decorations in four months or so as Deans work schedule looks absolutely manic, but we shall see. We need to finish painting in the kitchen, splash backs behind the cooker, kick boards fitted to the bottom of the kitchen units etc, but I have to say, Dean has done an amazing job. A massive thanks to my little brother Bill who has plastered the house from top to bottom single handed for us. My other brother Craig came down for a week to push the painting on and my dads talents were wasted really as he was the guy that got lumbered with tip runs, mixing up muck etc but a very important role none the less. What a great family I have xxxxx
Since being back on 'the street', we have been largely blessed with great weather and the infamous Kilk mist has been kept at bay. Jamie has been able to play out with one of his best friends which is one of his favourite past times at the moment and he has finally nailed riding his bike, so there is no stopping him now. Stanley's curls seem to be dropping out which is making me feel a bit sad as he had an admirable and beautiful mop top going on. I had his hair cut last week as I thought it was the length that was pulling it down but alas, they've not sprung back yet. I remember my hair going funny when I was about his age and mum recalls having to cut it all off, really short, I mean really really short. His hasn't lost the condition though like mine did so maybe its just his baby curls falling out :-(
Dean has been away up country for nearly 2 weeks and has got another 5 or 6 days to go yet before he returns. He has been 'crafting' for three previous customers he has worked for on and off over the last 7 years back up in Hertfordshire so its nice for him to be asked to return to familiar faces. I decided not to run any summer holiday classes this year as with all the upheaval of the renovation work etc, I really felt like I needed some down time and quality time with the boys. I definitely think I made the right decision. We've enjoyed flying kites, beach days, feeding the ducks, cooking, camping in the garden, library visits, splashing about in Bideford Park - all the simple things in life which have brought us a lot of pleasure. I'm still working hard on all the marketing for both Deans business and mine, but I can do this when the boys are in bed (well, when I'm not on facebook or watching the TV!). Speaking of which, Ive got a stall at Bude Carnival tomorrow, meeting and greeting, making and decorating shakers etc so Id better get off here for now and get some preparation done. I'll be back...............
Saturday 11 June 2011
Thursday 9 June 2011
Great entertainment value
I have been treated tonight to a 'second hand' concert courtesy of my mum and brother Bill with hilarious excerpts. My dad brought mum a ticket to see Elton John in Cardiff for Christmas last year and we brought an accompanying ticket for my brother too. So off they set this afternoon in hot pursuit of the Motor point Arena (previously known as Cardiff International Arena).
Billy and I have been pianists since children so are naturally wooed by Elton's talents and have been playing his music for many years. I went to see him in a beautiful intimate open air concert at Burleigh house some 15 years ago (that's shocking - makes me feel really old) but mum and Billy had never had the pleasure.........until now. He may have had a drug problem, be a bit of a diva, and a little arrogant, but you cannot take away the mans talent and his ability to write a great song in 15-30 minutes.
We had a phone call to say that they arrived safely and in good time, and that they were just locating the hotel that they would be staying in before the return journey tomorrow morning. They reported that the concert was set to start at 8pm, they had fab seats with a great view and then we sat in wait. The next phone call came at 8.10pm and we were treated to "Saturday Nights Alright" which we sat listening to on loud speaker for a bit (until they cut us off without warning) and then the calls came thick and fast, 1 after another with some great classics eg Sacrifice, Crocodile Rock, Yellow Brick Road. We realised it was absolutely pointless even answering the call with a 'hello' as they obviously couldn't hear a thing we were saying. We just sat and listened and enjoyed sharing the moment with them. Alongside Elton in the background, we were treated to blasts that went something like this "laaaaaaaaaa, la la la la laaaaaaaa, la la la la laaaaaaaaa, la la la la laaaaaaa" (Can you guess which tune this was their accompaniment for??) but it caused a bit of a titter and was lovely to hear them enjoying themselves. It was touch and go as to whether mum would be able to accompany Billy as she had experienced terrible tooth ache for the last couple of nights, but it seemed to have subsided by this morning so she risked it. I'm guessing the sore throat she is bound to have from all that singing will take her mind off the tooth ache ;-)
Billy and I have been pianists since children so are naturally wooed by Elton's talents and have been playing his music for many years. I went to see him in a beautiful intimate open air concert at Burleigh house some 15 years ago (that's shocking - makes me feel really old) but mum and Billy had never had the pleasure.........until now. He may have had a drug problem, be a bit of a diva, and a little arrogant, but you cannot take away the mans talent and his ability to write a great song in 15-30 minutes.
We had a phone call to say that they arrived safely and in good time, and that they were just locating the hotel that they would be staying in before the return journey tomorrow morning. They reported that the concert was set to start at 8pm, they had fab seats with a great view and then we sat in wait. The next phone call came at 8.10pm and we were treated to "Saturday Nights Alright" which we sat listening to on loud speaker for a bit (until they cut us off without warning) and then the calls came thick and fast, 1 after another with some great classics eg Sacrifice, Crocodile Rock, Yellow Brick Road. We realised it was absolutely pointless even answering the call with a 'hello' as they obviously couldn't hear a thing we were saying. We just sat and listened and enjoyed sharing the moment with them. Alongside Elton in the background, we were treated to blasts that went something like this "laaaaaaaaaa, la la la la laaaaaaaa, la la la la laaaaaaaaa, la la la la laaaaaaa" (Can you guess which tune this was their accompaniment for??) but it caused a bit of a titter and was lovely to hear them enjoying themselves. It was touch and go as to whether mum would be able to accompany Billy as she had experienced terrible tooth ache for the last couple of nights, but it seemed to have subsided by this morning so she risked it. I'm guessing the sore throat she is bound to have from all that singing will take her mind off the tooth ache ;-)
Saturday 28 May 2011
Random thoughts at midnight
1) Wondering if maidincornwll , thedaytodavis & stephanieeee are having a good time in Bristol at the Dot to Dot music festival-wish I was there :-(
2)Wondering how the wedding of one of my old primary school friends has gone today as she marrys my dads cousin (who'd have thought that we'd end up being members of the same family 27yrs down the line). Wishing I was there too :-(
3)Still thinking about my 2 cousins who had some dreadful news this week. You'll be in my thoughts daily for a long time to come xxx
4) Wishing the wind & rain would die down a bit - it's keeping me awake.
5) I must remember to buy some olbas oil tomorrow
6) Getting excited about being back in my own home. Dean laid the slate floor in our new kitchen today so going over for a nose tomorrow
7) Doing mums horses for her while she's away. I've had a shower but can still smell them
8) Glad I finally got my rebooking stats done tonight (only 5/6 weeks late).
9) God my feet are cold
10) Need to remind the hubster to repair the polythene cover over the rabbits hutch which has been ruined
11) Thinking I need to go to sleep now. Nity nite
2)Wondering how the wedding of one of my old primary school friends has gone today as she marrys my dads cousin (who'd have thought that we'd end up being members of the same family 27yrs down the line). Wishing I was there too :-(
3)Still thinking about my 2 cousins who had some dreadful news this week. You'll be in my thoughts daily for a long time to come xxx
4) Wishing the wind & rain would die down a bit - it's keeping me awake.
5) I must remember to buy some olbas oil tomorrow
6) Getting excited about being back in my own home. Dean laid the slate floor in our new kitchen today so going over for a nose tomorrow
7) Doing mums horses for her while she's away. I've had a shower but can still smell them
8) Glad I finally got my rebooking stats done tonight (only 5/6 weeks late).
9) God my feet are cold
10) Need to remind the hubster to repair the polythene cover over the rabbits hutch which has been ruined
11) Thinking I need to go to sleep now. Nity nite
Sunday 22 May 2011
We're on the 'home' straight
Well, 2 months down and 3 weeks to go.
It has been a very unique couple of months living back with my mum and dad, and when some families would have murdered each other under the intensity of having parents, youngest brother, me & hubby, 2 children, 3 dogs and at the last count 5 cats under the same roof, not to forget 2 ponies, 4 sheep, a handful of chickens and the cat protection pen in the 'garden' whom mum fosters for, (sharp intake of breath), in a warped way for the most part, it has been quite enjoyable.
Its funny how the generations do things differently, for example how we bring our children up today compared with how we were raised, the different routines that people adopt etc. Jamie has absolutely thrived on the experience that's for sure. He's had one of his uncles playing football with him in the field most days after school/dinner which has kept him fit and active, infact that's something we've all joined in with from time to time. He's also really relished time with nanny and dosh (the name dosh came to be when Jamie couldn't pronounce pops when he was younger, and so DOSH just stuck!) Jamie will definitely miss the cuddles, the listening ears and the treats that come from living with such a lovely pair of grandparents.
Mum and dad wont miss the chaos that comes with 2 children I shouldn't think. My parents moved down here for the rural and remote setting, the quiet retreat, and the comings and goings of family life has simply taken over. I feel we are a whirlwind that has decided upon Worden and that doesn't sit comfortably with me. I don't pretend to be the tidiest person in the world but at least my clothes haven't ended up on the roof this time (that's a story from my teenage years-I'll save that for another day). Juggling the school and pre-school runs, lesson planning and teaching, organising the launch of Deans new website and helping steer his business in an exciting new direction, trying to keep on top of 2 sets of accounts (but failing with this one I feel), endeavouring to maintain some form of a social life (not doing too well with that one either, sorry girls), helping with decisions on the renovation project, getting Jamie through his first set of SATS, trying to remain human throughout it all, it has been nothing short of bedlam, but we are nearly there and I cant wait to breath a sigh of relief and hopefully take my foot off the accelerator for a while.
We are forever grateful for the roof my parents have offered to our family unit, for the dinners cooked nearly ever night (god damn, I'll have to start baking, boiling, brewing, browning, frying, grilling, heating, roasting, simmering, sizzling, steaming, stewing and toasting again soon, boo). For putting the washing machine under intense pressure, for the support, the ideas, the laughs, the pancakes, the honesty........ We love you lots and look forward to being able to give you your house back, not necessarily as we found it, and welcoming you to what will feel like our new home for a meal around the table (something we hadn't had room for for nearly 18 months). Excited to see what awaits us around the next corner.......
It has been a very unique couple of months living back with my mum and dad, and when some families would have murdered each other under the intensity of having parents, youngest brother, me & hubby, 2 children, 3 dogs and at the last count 5 cats under the same roof, not to forget 2 ponies, 4 sheep, a handful of chickens and the cat protection pen in the 'garden' whom mum fosters for, (sharp intake of breath), in a warped way for the most part, it has been quite enjoyable.
Its funny how the generations do things differently, for example how we bring our children up today compared with how we were raised, the different routines that people adopt etc. Jamie has absolutely thrived on the experience that's for sure. He's had one of his uncles playing football with him in the field most days after school/dinner which has kept him fit and active, infact that's something we've all joined in with from time to time. He's also really relished time with nanny and dosh (the name dosh came to be when Jamie couldn't pronounce pops when he was younger, and so DOSH just stuck!) Jamie will definitely miss the cuddles, the listening ears and the treats that come from living with such a lovely pair of grandparents.
Mum and dad wont miss the chaos that comes with 2 children I shouldn't think. My parents moved down here for the rural and remote setting, the quiet retreat, and the comings and goings of family life has simply taken over. I feel we are a whirlwind that has decided upon Worden and that doesn't sit comfortably with me. I don't pretend to be the tidiest person in the world but at least my clothes haven't ended up on the roof this time (that's a story from my teenage years-I'll save that for another day). Juggling the school and pre-school runs, lesson planning and teaching, organising the launch of Deans new website and helping steer his business in an exciting new direction, trying to keep on top of 2 sets of accounts (but failing with this one I feel), endeavouring to maintain some form of a social life (not doing too well with that one either, sorry girls), helping with decisions on the renovation project, getting Jamie through his first set of SATS, trying to remain human throughout it all, it has been nothing short of bedlam, but we are nearly there and I cant wait to breath a sigh of relief and hopefully take my foot off the accelerator for a while.
We are forever grateful for the roof my parents have offered to our family unit, for the dinners cooked nearly ever night (god damn, I'll have to start baking, boiling, brewing, browning, frying, grilling, heating, roasting, simmering, sizzling, steaming, stewing and toasting again soon, boo). For putting the washing machine under intense pressure, for the support, the ideas, the laughs, the pancakes, the honesty........ We love you lots and look forward to being able to give you your house back, not necessarily as we found it, and welcoming you to what will feel like our new home for a meal around the table (something we hadn't had room for for nearly 18 months). Excited to see what awaits us around the next corner.......
Monday 9 May 2011
What a find!
I had 15 minutes to kill in town today between appointments and dragged Stanley into 3 charity shops. I couldnt believe my eyes when I saw a Harry Potter Board Game for £2......yes, two pounds. My two boys are 'expeliarmous' (spelling?) mad at the moment. They live, eat and breath Harry Potter and I far too regularly for my liking have to pretend to be Ron Weasely so think I earned myself some extra brownie points today.
On a down side, I have had enough! Every photo Im in, every shop window I pass, every mirror I try to avoid has a chubby cheeked, squatty little blob smiling back (at least I do smile I guess) so that is it. I finally give in and declare myself officially on a diet. From tomorrow 10th May I set myself a 12 week challenge. I wish I could get running again as this definitely helps me to lose inches but still living at mums, I am already clocking up loads of miles (in the car I hasten to add) getting the boys to school and pre-school and then on to Bude to teach. I feel like I am spending half my life in a car travelling somewhere at the minute and the new beginners group of WRN is just not happening. Once we move back and we live that much nearer and life has calmed down a bit and returned to some sort of normality (whatever the heck that is) I will definitely join again. Im not like some of my friends - I dont really enjoy running as such but love the way it makes me feel afterwards and what it does to my body. So less bread, more water, more fruit, no biscuits with my tea, definitely no more bags of MARS planets and therefore I sadly need to delay the visit to Trelawney Tea rooms which I hear is divine. I am announcing it publicly so that I cant back down. Heres to banishing the bloating and bingo wings and bringing on the beauty.
I hate this recent picture taken at Crealy so Im posting it to compare before and after shots and to spur me on in moments of weakness
On a down side, I have had enough! Every photo Im in, every shop window I pass, every mirror I try to avoid has a chubby cheeked, squatty little blob smiling back (at least I do smile I guess) so that is it. I finally give in and declare myself officially on a diet. From tomorrow 10th May I set myself a 12 week challenge. I wish I could get running again as this definitely helps me to lose inches but still living at mums, I am already clocking up loads of miles (in the car I hasten to add) getting the boys to school and pre-school and then on to Bude to teach. I feel like I am spending half my life in a car travelling somewhere at the minute and the new beginners group of WRN is just not happening. Once we move back and we live that much nearer and life has calmed down a bit and returned to some sort of normality (whatever the heck that is) I will definitely join again. Im not like some of my friends - I dont really enjoy running as such but love the way it makes me feel afterwards and what it does to my body. So less bread, more water, more fruit, no biscuits with my tea, definitely no more bags of MARS planets and therefore I sadly need to delay the visit to Trelawney Tea rooms which I hear is divine. I am announcing it publicly so that I cant back down. Heres to banishing the bloating and bingo wings and bringing on the beauty.
I hate this recent picture taken at Crealy so Im posting it to compare before and after shots and to spur me on in moments of weakness
Friday 6 May 2011
Sneaky peak at some pics from Deans new gallery for Coastal Carpentry
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| Handcrafted bed made from Stained Glass from a reclaimed pub door |
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| A large extension built for an exquisite country house |
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| Pool house built plus decking and reclaimed posts erected |
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| Close up of the large garden room built |
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| Games room |
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| Front door made with bulls eye glass detail |
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| Interior of the garden room (shame you cant see the work that has gone into the vaulted ceiling) |
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| Hand crafted braces |
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| Oak panelling |
What a clever hubby I have. Cant wait to be living back in my own home under the roof he crafted and the whole house he will have transformed with his own fair hands. Then I'll know how his clients feel having done such a 'proper job'.
Thursday 5 May 2011
Dear blog, forgive me for I have sinned.
I have neglected you, failed to tend to & nurture you. Let me offer up an explanation to see if I am worthy of forgiveness.
1) Easter holidays - consisted of sun, the gnome reserve, chocolate, a trip to Atlantic village to experience the pirate ship (twice), a day with my eldest to Westward Ho! in sweltering temperatures using up our 2ps in the arcade & eating chips on the beach, (does anyone know the relevance of the explanation mark after the name of the said ho!) Glowing with pride watching the London marathon knowing that thedaytodavis was running her little cotton socks off in aid of the NSPCC, gave my Music Train equipment a thorough clean as I moved out of the old and into the new. Ate more Easter eggs, caught up with friends although not as many as I'd have liked. Had a bit more chocolate, visited the library ***note to self remember to return books this Friday***, slept under canvas in mums garden, got sunstroke after a day out at Crealy (Exeter)....am I forgiven yet?? Nope, okay then, lets also try.....
2) Last week - The small matter of the Royal Wedding to watch. Couldn't tear myself away. I wouldn't want to be in Kate's shoes for all the tea in china but she looked stunningly beautiful, and I felt they looked very much in love. I just hope they are allowed to enjoy their life and love together without too much press intrusion - here's hoping. The boys and I made our own flags early that morning and whilst I was glued, they dipped in and out of it, Jamie more than Stanley.
Then there was a trip to Hertfordshire for the topic box meeting accompanied on the journey by my mum. We ran into a man (not literally) at a petrol station on the outward bound journey who is definitely famous but neither of us can recall exactly who he is. Guess he can't be that famous then. Also for a bit of light relief after washing my hands at said services, I noticed the strength of the hand dryer was unusually efficient and caused the skin on the back of my hands to contort in all sorts of weird and wonderful shapes. It got me wondering as to what other parts of my body may look like being blown by the Dyson. Answer is flipping terrible but it made mum laugh. Upper arms or should I say slowly developing bingo wings were wobbled profusely, as was my tummy when I limboed underneath it. Never trying that again.
3) This week so far - Did all my lesson prep, and taught the 6 classes for the first time in my newly smelling, beautifully painted and it has to be said very welcoming new premises. The feedback from the mummy's have been very positive which is also so far my experience of all who work there. The room is very light and airy and I have more space here to store my equipment which is great for me. Saves my back and means I am driving less of it around in my car which can only be a good thing as far as fuel consumption goes. I have also been working hard to get photos and blurb done for Deans new website ready for the launch of COASTAL CARPENTRY......watch this space. All this whilst still living with my parents while the renovations trundle on - 4 more weeks and Id like to think we would be able to start thinking about moving back home again.
4) Finally, tomorrow I have a wedding with a difference of my own to attend. What sort of people let me know they want my attendance the day before the event? How well prepared can the bride and groom be at such sort notice? What the hell am I going to wear when most of my clothes are buried in the back of the lock up unit? And what will Stanley have to wear that is suitable for him being the pageboy? I'll tell you. Stanley's pre-school are holding a mock wedding in our village church hosted by the local vicar and we are all invited to celebrate the occasion. Should be quite amusing I'm guessing, very cute and I cant wait to see who is actually getting married. That'll be one for the Parish News.
1) Easter holidays - consisted of sun, the gnome reserve, chocolate, a trip to Atlantic village to experience the pirate ship (twice), a day with my eldest to Westward Ho! in sweltering temperatures using up our 2ps in the arcade & eating chips on the beach, (does anyone know the relevance of the explanation mark after the name of the said ho!) Glowing with pride watching the London marathon knowing that thedaytodavis was running her little cotton socks off in aid of the NSPCC, gave my Music Train equipment a thorough clean as I moved out of the old and into the new. Ate more Easter eggs, caught up with friends although not as many as I'd have liked. Had a bit more chocolate, visited the library ***note to self remember to return books this Friday***, slept under canvas in mums garden, got sunstroke after a day out at Crealy (Exeter)....am I forgiven yet?? Nope, okay then, lets also try.....
2) Last week - The small matter of the Royal Wedding to watch. Couldn't tear myself away. I wouldn't want to be in Kate's shoes for all the tea in china but she looked stunningly beautiful, and I felt they looked very much in love. I just hope they are allowed to enjoy their life and love together without too much press intrusion - here's hoping. The boys and I made our own flags early that morning and whilst I was glued, they dipped in and out of it, Jamie more than Stanley.
Then there was a trip to Hertfordshire for the topic box meeting accompanied on the journey by my mum. We ran into a man (not literally) at a petrol station on the outward bound journey who is definitely famous but neither of us can recall exactly who he is. Guess he can't be that famous then. Also for a bit of light relief after washing my hands at said services, I noticed the strength of the hand dryer was unusually efficient and caused the skin on the back of my hands to contort in all sorts of weird and wonderful shapes. It got me wondering as to what other parts of my body may look like being blown by the Dyson. Answer is flipping terrible but it made mum laugh. Upper arms or should I say slowly developing bingo wings were wobbled profusely, as was my tummy when I limboed underneath it. Never trying that again.
3) This week so far - Did all my lesson prep, and taught the 6 classes for the first time in my newly smelling, beautifully painted and it has to be said very welcoming new premises. The feedback from the mummy's have been very positive which is also so far my experience of all who work there. The room is very light and airy and I have more space here to store my equipment which is great for me. Saves my back and means I am driving less of it around in my car which can only be a good thing as far as fuel consumption goes. I have also been working hard to get photos and blurb done for Deans new website ready for the launch of COASTAL CARPENTRY......watch this space. All this whilst still living with my parents while the renovations trundle on - 4 more weeks and Id like to think we would be able to start thinking about moving back home again.
4) Finally, tomorrow I have a wedding with a difference of my own to attend. What sort of people let me know they want my attendance the day before the event? How well prepared can the bride and groom be at such sort notice? What the hell am I going to wear when most of my clothes are buried in the back of the lock up unit? And what will Stanley have to wear that is suitable for him being the pageboy? I'll tell you. Stanley's pre-school are holding a mock wedding in our village church hosted by the local vicar and we are all invited to celebrate the occasion. Should be quite amusing I'm guessing, very cute and I cant wait to see who is actually getting married. That'll be one for the Parish News.
Thursday 21 April 2011
Happy 'present' day Stanners
Such a run of birthdays this time of the year and I cannot believe that my baby is now 3.
I say baby, Stanley, you were one of those who seemed to stay a 'baby' for a very short time. Your independance and strong character along with your willfill mind and determindness means that you have felt like a young man (and actually often like an old man who has been here before) for a very long time. Today we celebrate your spark, your cheekiness, your curls, your charismatic charm, your energy and your go get 'em attitude. Love you lots little man. Here's your life in pictures..
I say baby, Stanley, you were one of those who seemed to stay a 'baby' for a very short time. Your independance and strong character along with your willfill mind and determindness means that you have felt like a young man (and actually often like an old man who has been here before) for a very long time. Today we celebrate your spark, your cheekiness, your curls, your charismatic charm, your energy and your go get 'em attitude. Love you lots little man. Here's your life in pictures..
Friday 15 April 2011
A blog full of absolutely useless information
The Ayres' have been truly engaged by various forms of written prose recently. Cuddled up on the bed during Jamie's bedtime story tonight 'Not bad for a bad lad' by Michael Morpurgo, with my voice cracking I said "oh silly mummy, I cant read properly because I'm crying". His response was "I think I am too". We both sat there with tears silently rolling down our cheeks, enthralled and sharing that special moment. It is an inspiring tale about what happens when you show someone how to follow their dreams - with some gorgeous illustrations too.
Here's a list of our top books of the summer so far :-
JAMIE - Aged 7
All kinds of feelings - Emma Brownjohn (A lift the flap book with game at the end-great for encouraging children to observe the feelings of others and recognise changes in their own emotions-**HIGHLY RECOMMENDED**
Not bad for a bad lad - Michael Morpurgo
You're a bad man, Mr gum
STANLEY - Aged 3
Pirate Pete - Kim Kennedy
The huge bag of worries - (great for encouraging children to look at and help discuss their emotions)
The troll - Julia Donaldson (author of the Gruffalo)
Peter Pan - JM Barrie
HAYLEY - Siblings without Rivalry - Adele Faber & Elaine Mazlish
How to talk so kids will listen & listen so kids will talk - Adele Faber & Elaine Mazlish
Playful Parenting - Lawrence J. Cohen
DEAN - Homebuilding and renovating magazine
Inspired I believe by our trip to a small planetarium on the Isle of Wight, Jamie decided that he wanted to write a Space project over the Easter holidays. So we visited our local library and found a great book unsurprisingly called SPACE! 1000 facts by John Fardon. Sat around the table after dinner one evening once the children were in bed with my husband, parents and youngest brother, I thought Id flick through the said book to brush up on my skills and hopefully impress the mind of my ever enquiring 7 year old. Well, the whole evening turned into a debate largely going something like this :-
* My brother decided he felt The big bang theory was very wishy washy
* I was mortified to think that in five billion years time, the sun will have burned out and the earth will have turned to a cinder long before, meaning life as we know it will be wiped out including all my family (my brother was keen to point out that that far down the line, my extremely distant relatives will probably resemble an electronic droid or something similar)
* We all had a big laugh at the name of the astronomer 'Nicholaus Copernicus' - Childish I know, but funny at the time
* We tried to recall the last time Halley's comet passed through (which after researching was 1986)
* We remembered that we had all watched a satellite last summer passing overhead in the evenings
(..................................this drivel went on for some time) and we finished deciding to obtain and watch together Apollo 13.
And at risk of boring you to death, I hereby endeth the lesson
Here's a list of our top books of the summer so far :-
JAMIE - Aged 7
All kinds of feelings - Emma Brownjohn (A lift the flap book with game at the end-great for encouraging children to observe the feelings of others and recognise changes in their own emotions-**HIGHLY RECOMMENDED**
Not bad for a bad lad - Michael Morpurgo
You're a bad man, Mr gum
STANLEY - Aged 3
Pirate Pete - Kim Kennedy
The huge bag of worries - (great for encouraging children to look at and help discuss their emotions)
The troll - Julia Donaldson (author of the Gruffalo)
Peter Pan - JM Barrie
HAYLEY - Siblings without Rivalry - Adele Faber & Elaine Mazlish
How to talk so kids will listen & listen so kids will talk - Adele Faber & Elaine Mazlish
Playful Parenting - Lawrence J. Cohen
DEAN - Homebuilding and renovating magazine
Inspired I believe by our trip to a small planetarium on the Isle of Wight, Jamie decided that he wanted to write a Space project over the Easter holidays. So we visited our local library and found a great book unsurprisingly called SPACE! 1000 facts by John Fardon. Sat around the table after dinner one evening once the children were in bed with my husband, parents and youngest brother, I thought Id flick through the said book to brush up on my skills and hopefully impress the mind of my ever enquiring 7 year old. Well, the whole evening turned into a debate largely going something like this :-
* My brother decided he felt The big bang theory was very wishy washy
* I was mortified to think that in five billion years time, the sun will have burned out and the earth will have turned to a cinder long before, meaning life as we know it will be wiped out including all my family (my brother was keen to point out that that far down the line, my extremely distant relatives will probably resemble an electronic droid or something similar)
* We all had a big laugh at the name of the astronomer 'Nicholaus Copernicus' - Childish I know, but funny at the time
* We tried to recall the last time Halley's comet passed through (which after researching was 1986)
* We remembered that we had all watched a satellite last summer passing overhead in the evenings
(..................................this drivel went on for some time) and we finished deciding to obtain and watch together Apollo 13.
And at risk of boring you to death, I hereby endeth the lesson
Tuesday 12 April 2011
Time waits for no man (or woman)
The days are flying past so quickly at the moment, I don't feel like my feet are touching the ground.
With Music Train last week, the term came to a crescendoing climax seeing each class celebrating the forthcoming Easter holidays sharing hot cross buns, ginger bunny biscuits and chocolates kindly left by the Easter Bunny. It is so strange to think that potentially I would have finished teaching the last of my Bude classes and yet here I stand sit, with a re-jigged plan and I now need to get my head around re-booking forms, class numbers and a brand new venue for May. I am really looking forward to teaching Peter and the wolf next term. Written by Prokofiev in 1936, it is a piece of music I remember first being introduced to over 25 years ago at junior school
Prokofiev was instructed to write a musical symphony for children with the intent to cultivate musical tastes in children from the first years of school. It is scored for flute, oboe, clarinet in A, bassoon, 3 horns, trumpet, trombone, timpani, triangle, tambourine, cymbals, castanets, snare drum, bass drum and strings. Each character in the story has a particular instrument and a musical theme. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ILI3s7Wonvg I have lots of puppets with this topic which always goes down well with children so I am looking forward to having lots of fun. Class numbers continue to grow with 2 new families joining us at the end of last term and three new babies joining at the beginning of next. I really feel that Bude has truly taken Music Train to its heart and for that, I am very lucky.
The weekend saw '21st!!' birthday celebrations of a dear friend from the village although the evening saw me driving which is a rarity (thank goodness). Still, great fun was had by all and Helen carried off the black wig (that looked more like a mangled guinea pig) and pink gaudy birthday cake classes beautifully. Is there anything that lady wouldn't look stunning in? And here is the picture to prove it - ONLY JOKING HELEN ;-)
The order of the day today is fun in the sun so lets get up and at em and see what the day has in store for the Ayres family......
With Music Train last week, the term came to a crescendoing climax seeing each class celebrating the forthcoming Easter holidays sharing hot cross buns, ginger bunny biscuits and chocolates kindly left by the Easter Bunny. It is so strange to think that potentially I would have finished teaching the last of my Bude classes and yet here I
Prokofiev was instructed to write a musical symphony for children with the intent to cultivate musical tastes in children from the first years of school. It is scored for flute, oboe, clarinet in A, bassoon, 3 horns, trumpet, trombone, timpani, triangle, tambourine, cymbals, castanets, snare drum, bass drum and strings. Each character in the story has a particular instrument and a musical theme. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ILI3s7Wonvg I have lots of puppets with this topic which always goes down well with children so I am looking forward to having lots of fun. Class numbers continue to grow with 2 new families joining us at the end of last term and three new babies joining at the beginning of next. I really feel that Bude has truly taken Music Train to its heart and for that, I am very lucky.
The weekend saw '21st!!' birthday celebrations of a dear friend from the village although the evening saw me driving which is a rarity (thank goodness). Still, great fun was had by all and Helen carried off the black wig (that looked more like a mangled guinea pig) and pink gaudy birthday cake classes beautifully. Is there anything that lady wouldn't look stunning in? And here is the picture to prove it - ONLY JOKING HELEN ;-)
The order of the day today is fun in the sun so lets get up and at em and see what the day has in store for the Ayres family......
A bit of all Wight
A rare treat - 4 days away enjoying quality family time. We set off for the ferry in hot pursuit of The Day To Davis and her family and what a fantastic time we had. A jam-packed extended weekend enjoying fishing, swimming, a model village, several ice creams, penny slot machines on the pier, the cinema, an aquarium, planetarium.....we really did go for it! Amongst the day trips, some of the bits I enjoyed the most were activities around the caravan. Our accommodation situated side by side, meant it was perfect for toy exchanges, book and story sharing, bed hopping (by the children I hasten to add!!!) and Dean and I were spoiled with fine cuisine cooked by the highly skilled and very talented Mr D from www.thecastlerestaurantbude.co.uk/ Smoked haddock risotto washed down with a glass of Rose was just what the doctor ordered.
We have shared some special times making many a happy memory. Here are just a few snap shots.....
We have shared some special times making many a happy memory. Here are just a few snap shots.....
Wednesday 6 April 2011
HALT
My life seems to have been an absolute emotional rollercoaster over the last three months, and it's not going to stop here. Having agreed to make the move back to Hertfordshire, transferring schools for Jamie wasn't as straight forward as Id have liked. So we have decided for the time being to slow the move right down and Dean has agreed to commute for a while so that he can assess the work situation before we all jump ship. The children can continue at their school and pre-school respectively which they both love and I too can carry on with Music Train. I will be able to remain around my tight network of friends and have the nearby support of most of my family, and on Deans weekends home, we will be able to enjoy quality family time together. We will be able to enjoy our home together once the refurbishment is complete (we're still on schedule for June) - it has been no fun for anyone living on a building site for the last 18 months and although a commute is far from ideal, it will at least give everyone some breathing space and time to make sure decisions aren't rushed. So that's things as they stand at the moment........
Where did those 7 years go?
7 years ago on 31st March I was about to embark on the most amazing journey-that of motherhood. When I think back to your arrival into the world, and how tiny and fragile you were, I can still hear those sounds you made as you were struggling for breath. A brief cuddle and you were taken from me into the unfamiliar and somewhat frightening surroundings of the Special Care Baby Unit where you stayed for 10 days. You were a mass of wires and sensors and I had to wait a further 5 days from the evening you were admitted before I could have another precious cuddle!!
Fast forward seven years, I love the way your beautiful big blue eyes twinkle when your favourite piece of music is played, the way your soft creative hands resemble daddy's, the way you tell me you love me right to the moon & back. The way your smile is changing as your big teeth emerge, the way you can pick up your guitar and naturally keep rhythm and can play more chords than I can, your honesty when on the rare occasion these days we go clothes shopping and you advise me on an outfit in the changing rooms. The big bear hugs you give me, when we walk along holding hands and at 7 you still don't mind doing so (I feel my days may be numbered there).
Happy birthday big boy xx
Fast forward seven years, I love the way your beautiful big blue eyes twinkle when your favourite piece of music is played, the way your soft creative hands resemble daddy's, the way you tell me you love me right to the moon & back. The way your smile is changing as your big teeth emerge, the way you can pick up your guitar and naturally keep rhythm and can play more chords than I can, your honesty when on the rare occasion these days we go clothes shopping and you advise me on an outfit in the changing rooms. The big bear hugs you give me, when we walk along holding hands and at 7 you still don't mind doing so (I feel my days may be numbered there).
Happy birthday big boy xx
Thursday 24 March 2011
Curtains
Theatre has always been a huge part of my life. My nan and my great uncle used to take me every year to see The Nutcracker Ballet in London which was a real treat as a young child and those memories I still hold very dear to my heart especially as neither are longer with me now. They also used to arrange the annual Christmas pantomime for us which became a ritual where around ten family members descended upon our then local theatre for fun and frolics. We were always the loudest row with group participation which used to thrill me immensely. I wanted theatre to be a large influence on the boys' childhood too and I have been very fortunate that my brother has chosen his career path in this area and he has been a huge inspiration to them both.
Since the move down to Cornwall, I haven't been to as many theatre productions, partly due to travelling distances, but also there just hasn't been the huge selection of shows to see that there is in and around London and the home counties that I'm used to. Lara and I took our eldest sons to see Goodnight Mr Tom a few weeks ago at the Theatre Royal, Plymouth which was a very moving and thought provoking production. It is a book written by Michelle Magorian that I remember enjoying when I was at primary school and I was equally as moved when John Thaw played the lead role in the television dramatisation a few years ago. A tale of two broken souls at very different ends of the age scale, celebrating the value of love and proves that friendship knows no barriers http://www.goodnightmistertom.co.uk/ Highly recommended if the tour comes to a theatre near you.
Nothing much since then has tickled my fancy locally however there are two future performances which have caught my eye and very annoyingly, if all goes to plan, I shall no longer be a Cornish resident by then to enjoy them. Paul Zerdin is at the Landmark Theatre on Monday 22nd August 8.15. I have seen him perform before and he is a hugely talented and hilarious ventriloquist, not to mention in my opinion very easy on the eye (!) and is well worth a watch. If it is anything like the last show of his I saw, your sides will be aching from all the laughter, so this is an absolute must see.
Kisses on a postcard is also showing locally at Queens Theatre on Friday 23rd - Sunday 25th September and then again Friday 30th Sept-Sunday 2nd Oct. Similarly to Goodnight Mr Tom it is a tale of wartime childhood but this is a true story of one ordinary boy and his brother, packed off to a small west country village from war torn London. The production features popular music from WW2, hymns, children's and folk songs and I would have definitely booked tickets for Jamie and I had we still been about.
On a completely different note altogether, people are obviously reading this blog as I have had quite a few messages over the last few days congratulating me on my twenty four mile run. Sadly I have to confess that the font I have chosen to use on this blog does not clearly show punctuation marks. It is not very good with :-) !!!! or seemingly . I only managed to run two point four miles which for me is still quite an achievement but alas not the 24 as it would appear - I am saving those types of distances to the dynamic Davis who incidentally is running the London Marathon next month in aid of the NSPCC. For anyone wishing to donate I know she would be delighted with any spare pennies you may have http://www.justgiving.com/thedaytodavis
Thought of the day :- Don't wait for your ship to come in, swim out to get it
Since the move down to Cornwall, I haven't been to as many theatre productions, partly due to travelling distances, but also there just hasn't been the huge selection of shows to see that there is in and around London and the home counties that I'm used to. Lara and I took our eldest sons to see Goodnight Mr Tom a few weeks ago at the Theatre Royal, Plymouth which was a very moving and thought provoking production. It is a book written by Michelle Magorian that I remember enjoying when I was at primary school and I was equally as moved when John Thaw played the lead role in the television dramatisation a few years ago. A tale of two broken souls at very different ends of the age scale, celebrating the value of love and proves that friendship knows no barriers http://www.goodnightmistertom.co.uk/ Highly recommended if the tour comes to a theatre near you.
Nothing much since then has tickled my fancy locally however there are two future performances which have caught my eye and very annoyingly, if all goes to plan, I shall no longer be a Cornish resident by then to enjoy them. Paul Zerdin is at the Landmark Theatre on Monday 22nd August 8.15. I have seen him perform before and he is a hugely talented and hilarious ventriloquist, not to mention in my opinion very easy on the eye (!) and is well worth a watch. If it is anything like the last show of his I saw, your sides will be aching from all the laughter, so this is an absolute must see.
Kisses on a postcard is also showing locally at Queens Theatre on Friday 23rd - Sunday 25th September and then again Friday 30th Sept-Sunday 2nd Oct. Similarly to Goodnight Mr Tom it is a tale of wartime childhood but this is a true story of one ordinary boy and his brother, packed off to a small west country village from war torn London. The production features popular music from WW2, hymns, children's and folk songs and I would have definitely booked tickets for Jamie and I had we still been about.
On a completely different note altogether, people are obviously reading this blog as I have had quite a few messages over the last few days congratulating me on my twenty four mile run. Sadly I have to confess that the font I have chosen to use on this blog does not clearly show punctuation marks. It is not very good with :-) !!!! or seemingly . I only managed to run two point four miles which for me is still quite an achievement but alas not the 24 as it would appear - I am saving those types of distances to the dynamic Davis who incidentally is running the London Marathon next month in aid of the NSPCC. For anyone wishing to donate I know she would be delighted with any spare pennies you may have http://www.justgiving.com/thedaytodavis
Thought of the day :- Don't wait for your ship to come in, swim out to get it
Monday 21 March 2011
Its just another manic monday
The progress on the house in just 1 week is in my opinion, nothing short of amazing. Dean has been a real trooper and the upstairs is already transformed with thanks also to my dad and Billy who have had the dusty jobs and tip runs to contend with. It is now officially a 3 bedroomed cottage and the extra space upstairs will make a huge difference to us for the short time we will live there, and hopefully make it all the more saleable for any potential buyers who may be viewing it in the very near future.
My job this morning was to strip the wood chip wallpaper in the boys old room and I must say, what an amazing job I did...........of ducking out of it! I accidentally (on purpose) left my old clothes at home and as I couldn't possibly work in the same attire that I did the school run in, went round to my friends for a girlie group catch up with biscuits which is more the norm of a Monday morning. Sorry Dean. I promise to be more productive at the painting stage and know a bunch of ladies who for a cuppa and some cake will clean the house from top to bottom for us.
Lesson plans for this week nearly complete, I have been blown away by the songs and rhymes Stanley has been singing to me. Being the teacher, I am well aware of all the benefits of music and how children's learning through a mix of repetition and new material takes place, but it is really all falling into place with Stanley now. Mum has been bringing him to my classes since I started teaching and sometimes I forget that my own son is one of the class members and that he too will be benefiting, along with all the other children. He has particularly enjoyed Eyes, nose, cheeky cheeky chin over the last two weeks and Ive heard him mixing a pancake when he was playing with his dolls house. Ive also heard him talking through some of the months of the year this week which is in the key song we are doing in every lesson this half term, so it is a great reminder to me that Music Train and the ethos behind it, really is a winner. Cant believe we only have 3 weeks left
My job this morning was to strip the wood chip wallpaper in the boys old room and I must say, what an amazing job I did...........of ducking out of it! I accidentally (on purpose) left my old clothes at home and as I couldn't possibly work in the same attire that I did the school run in, went round to my friends for a girlie group catch up with biscuits which is more the norm of a Monday morning. Sorry Dean. I promise to be more productive at the painting stage and know a bunch of ladies who for a cuppa and some cake will clean the house from top to bottom for us.
Lesson plans for this week nearly complete, I have been blown away by the songs and rhymes Stanley has been singing to me. Being the teacher, I am well aware of all the benefits of music and how children's learning through a mix of repetition and new material takes place, but it is really all falling into place with Stanley now. Mum has been bringing him to my classes since I started teaching and sometimes I forget that my own son is one of the class members and that he too will be benefiting, along with all the other children. He has particularly enjoyed Eyes, nose, cheeky cheeky chin over the last two weeks and Ive heard him mixing a pancake when he was playing with his dolls house. Ive also heard him talking through some of the months of the year this week which is in the key song we are doing in every lesson this half term, so it is a great reminder to me that Music Train and the ethos behind it, really is a winner. Cant believe we only have 3 weeks left
Saturday 19 March 2011
Answers on a postcard
You may remember we are staying at my parents while we have extensive word done on our house and tonight, while they are out with friends, I stumbled across this in a saucepan.
I am slightly fearful as to what is planned for Sunday dinner?????????
Something funny for money
Friday as I'm sure most of you know, saw the return of Comic Relief and before I had children, if I'm honest and slightly ashamed to admit, I think I was slowly become immune to these types of events. However I was deeply moved this year on two levels. Firstly Jamie who is very nearly 7, took a real interest in the imminent arrival of the special day and gave me a shopping list consisting of a red nose for him and Stanley-check, a red nose for the car-check and some red hair spray or a wig-check.
On Thursday evening, he and I went to the bedroom and had a mini fashion show, pulling out all items of varying rouge shades so that he could design the perfect outfit of his choice. He chose his red pyjama bottoms, his red England tshirt to go under his red hoody top, accompanied by red slippers, red hair spray and the face of a clown with of course the honorary painted red nose. A great choice I think you'll agree?
After an immensely fun day of activities and fundraising at school, he came home and we watched some of the programme on BBC1. When we were by ourselves, he became deeply moved by one of the appeals in particular which featured ques of poorly children in Uganda with malaria waiting to get admitted to hospital after lengthy and tiring journeys. He was baffled by the fact that these children were unnecessarily ill due in part, to lack of funds and therefore unable to purchase preventative equipment such as mosquito nets which cost only £5. During this feature it also said that 1 child dies every 45 seconds and when I told him that it would take approximately just over an hour to loose the equivalent of all the children in his school, the tragedy of it all really hit home. Jamie's school works closely with a Ugandan school so this brought about further empathetic discussions and for the first time, he really seemed to grasp the whole concept.
For me, being fortunate enough to have given birth to two gorgeous and healthy boys, watching various excerpts where parents had suffered painful losses of their children through often no fault of their own, made me very reflective. Until you are a parent, I don't think you can truly understand the effect they have on your life and the unconditional love you feel. The thought of me being faced with the choices or decisions that these people had to make is nothing short of horrifying.
Another disaster in the news at the moment is obviously the Tsunami tragedy in Japan. Again to have whole towns completely wiped out seems unimaginable and even after seeing the endless footage on the news, I have trouble grasping the absolute devastation these people must be facing. My very close friend Katie who is a leader for Bude Women's Running Network and will be running The London Marathon this year (amongst others) made me aware of runforjapan.com where you dedicate a run to the people of Japan. In the pouring rain on Friday morning we both went out and ran 2.4 miles and on my return I donated and dedicated to this very worthy cause. The thought of her very tasty homemade scones that were calling me with the clotted cream and jam really spurred me on. I am fairy new to running and whilst I am not someone who naturally enjoys it, I feel great afterwards with a real sense of achievement and that is all thanks to the great encouragement of these two ladies maidincornwall.blogspot.com and thedaytodavis.co.uk Check them out. They are both very clever and inspirational ladies who Im fortunate to be able to call my very close friends and for anyone in the vicinity of Bude who is looking to start some exercise/running, meet new people and improve your fitness gradually, BWRN comes highly recommended http://www.womensrunningnetwork.co.uk/womens_running_network_join_us/find_a_running_group/South_West/Cornwall/Bude.htm
On Thursday evening, he and I went to the bedroom and had a mini fashion show, pulling out all items of varying rouge shades so that he could design the perfect outfit of his choice. He chose his red pyjama bottoms, his red England tshirt to go under his red hoody top, accompanied by red slippers, red hair spray and the face of a clown with of course the honorary painted red nose. A great choice I think you'll agree?
For me, being fortunate enough to have given birth to two gorgeous and healthy boys, watching various excerpts where parents had suffered painful losses of their children through often no fault of their own, made me very reflective. Until you are a parent, I don't think you can truly understand the effect they have on your life and the unconditional love you feel. The thought of me being faced with the choices or decisions that these people had to make is nothing short of horrifying.
Another disaster in the news at the moment is obviously the Tsunami tragedy in Japan. Again to have whole towns completely wiped out seems unimaginable and even after seeing the endless footage on the news, I have trouble grasping the absolute devastation these people must be facing. My very close friend Katie who is a leader for Bude Women's Running Network and will be running The London Marathon this year (amongst others) made me aware of runforjapan.com where you dedicate a run to the people of Japan. In the pouring rain on Friday morning we both went out and ran 2.4 miles and on my return I donated and dedicated to this very worthy cause. The thought of her very tasty homemade scones that were calling me with the clotted cream and jam really spurred me on. I am fairy new to running and whilst I am not someone who naturally enjoys it, I feel great afterwards with a real sense of achievement and that is all thanks to the great encouragement of these two ladies maidincornwall.blogspot.com and thedaytodavis.co.uk Check them out. They are both very clever and inspirational ladies who Im fortunate to be able to call my very close friends and for anyone in the vicinity of Bude who is looking to start some exercise/running, meet new people and improve your fitness gradually, BWRN comes highly recommended http://www.womensrunningnetwork.co.uk/womens_running_network_join_us/find_a_running_group/South_West/Cornwall/Bude.htm
Thursday 17 March 2011
Anyone for pancakes?
It has to be said that pancakes are not eaten in our house as often as Id like. Whilst I can make a good batter mixture, I am useless at cooking and flipping them, and that role has always been assumed by the males in our family. There is a great pressure with the children watching that you don't drop it or mangle it, and the sharp intake of breath as the said pancake leaves the frying pan and flies through the air in what feels like slow motion, followed by the large cheer and round of applause as it lands perfectly, is too much for me to bear. It seems that Pancake day this year has unlocked something in us all, as since then, they have been a frequent visitor to our dining table. Some days have seen the traditional lemon and sugar, alternatives have been mashed banana and honey (those who come to Music Train will be singing the infamous banana song and no doubt "mashing" as you read), and my current favourite is cherries and ice cream. The boys have both enjoyed under the supervision of Dosh (their grandad) trying out their tossing skills with remarkable accuracy.
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