Summer WIDT

[Mel]

Time for a change of season? Of course I am enjoying winter but am happy to go with the majority.
10/6/13 my son, Jim, turned 18, he was ridiculously excited and had a great day. It was public holiday so we all had the day off. His team had a catch up game so we watched football in the rain and went to the local for dinner, doesn't sound all that exciting but he says he enjoyed it. I now share a house with two adults, does this mean the work is divided three ways?

[Jules]

Definitely! A woman after my own heart, as the old thread is out of date and very slow these days.

It sounds like a great day for a new adult! How time flies. I'm not sure you'll suddenly notice equal sharing of house in tasks! You can try!

[CarolB was MNKB]

Sounds to me Mel like an ideal Birthday. Sometimes the biggest parties are not always the best. Being around friends and amply is though.
Boys! Housework/Chores... Eh. nah

[Claire Hawes]

Good luck with that splitting work 3 ways Mel! My two are...selective, shall we say, about what they do! Anyway Jack may be on the point of moving out - he and a friend are hoping to hear shortly that a flat they went to see at the weekend will be theirs to rent from the start of July. This is good news for us all really - he will be 25 in October so it's high time he started to live independently! Tom will be with us for a good while longer - he doesn't complete his training for another year, by which time his girlfriend will have completed her pupillage in Exeter, so the chances are high that they will set up home together down there. Then it will be back to an empty nest, just as OH starts to reduce his work commitments in a wind-down to retirement. Quite big changes ahead in the next couple of years for us anyway.

I did very little yesterday. After a lovely day at my sister's to mark my mum's 90th on Sunday, I woke up yesterday feeling decidedly below par with a sore throat, tight chest and a very uncomfortable left eye. I think it's possibly hay fever, not that I've ever had that before. I had a reasonable night's sleep but the eye is still sore and my chest still tight, which is a nuisance as I have a nice day to look forward to - I'm meeting a friend for coffee this  morning them we are going round some of the Open Studios on in town this week.

[Fran]

Hope you feel better soon Claire and can enjoy your day.
After the sunburn may have to go shopping today for a fleece!!!

[Shaun Finnie]

Yesterday afternoon the sun broke through the clouds for the first time in
over a week so I took advantage of it and went for little a walk around
home.

Unbelievably I managed to find a path I'd never seen before, hidden among
some manky, vandalised old garages that I usually avoid. Once I got past
that little rough area it opened out into a huge network of paths between
meadows and cow pastures. Honestly, it's miles of new walking and it starts
about a quarter of a mile from my house. How come I've never seen this
before? I've only lived here 23 years!

It was a bit like Brigadoon, only it was the Bullfinches that I fell in love
with, not Cyd Charisse.

Shaun

[glenc]

I think I saw a Bullfinch yesterday Shaun.  It was sitting in a small tree close to my house just singing away.  I was able to stand for a quite a while and watch it.  Sadly not many sparrows around here...they are my favourite bird.  Remind me of my childhood somehow.  I guess it was because they were so prolific then.

I sympathise with the eye, sore throat etc.  That is just how Hay Fever affects me.  I also feel dreadfully exhausted all the time with it.  I get fed up. I hate the winter because of the inevitable virus illnesses which I seem to fall prone to, then the summer is Hay fever.  That is why I love the Spring.  But we seem to have had less and less Spring weather this past few years.  Incidently I developed Hay Fever when I was in my 40s never having suffered before.  My Dad suffered terribly all of his life and then it disappeared in his early 50s.  A weird thing  all to do with allergic reactions I guess?

[Mel]

Bull finches are so beautiful. I remember seeing my first one, I was amazed.

[Jules]

Sounds wonderful Shaun - like your very own secret garden!!  I think it's an incredible discovery.  I have a comment on Bullfinches, more of a question, so will revert to the right thread!

Well, my parcel of clothes arrived and I'm pleased with each item, particularly the frock which will do well for the 50th Garden Party, provided summer returns!  I hope so, poor Tammy (SIL) is very stressed about it.

We had JSS in this morning for a 'review' about our house sale.  Well, more like a little roasting.  We really like the Director of the branch, but his staff aren't all that.  He said he felt he'd been put on the naughty step, and is determined to right some wrongs.  We'd complained back to the office about one of the viewing ladies who was consistently marching people through without pausing, very brusque.  She'd changed in the last couple of viewings, but the Director hadn't heard of our complaint and was furious.  They also said that the garden looks so different now (a month after the sale photos were taken), and wanted a sunny day to update - er, why didn't they do that in the last 10 sunny days??!!  All a bit sloppy, disappointing really.  Anyway.  Well will see.  If you hear of an explosion in Midhurst, that'll be the good ladies of JSS getting put on the naughty step.

We are going to our annual outing to the cinema (Last James Bond was the last thing we saw, Skyfall) to watch Under the Candelabra.  I'm really looking forward to it.  We go to Port Solent so can have a bite to eat before hand looking at the marina.

[Cally]

I love finding new and secret places Shaun. Sometimes you feel as if you are the first person there.

 

Our weekend was busy. there was a village gala and Ross wanted a friend from school to come. the boys had a nice time but it was a long day, especially as his friend is quite quiet and shy (and has ASD)  The sun shone with vigour all weekend. Ross loved cycling back to the field when Kris had gone home to help tidy up and just be part of the team, racing on his bike after the pick up truck back to the hall filled with boys and tables . he loves being independent.  On Sunday there was an open Farm day in the next village and Ross and his scout friends had made cakes for the tea so he went to help. I was going to drop him and David off to help and return to garden but found myself there all afternoon serving ice-creams and generally helping. It was a nice community weekend. 

Now I am trying to get on top of the garden again, plant wilting babies before they are overcome by heat etc... I love it but we need some rain and it may come sadly in time for Scouts tonight; it has turned pretty chilly.

 

Fiona, the physio has ultra sounded  it and strapped my shoulder and I have exercises and painkillers. It is much better but she said that acupuncture won't help as it works on the muscle and she is pretty sure this is the bursa. She told me not to cancel my injection and said that if it was her she would have it... so I shall be digging out the rescue remedy and take a deep breath!! July :-(

[Claire Hawes]

Lovely posts from Shaun and Cally, and Jules, well done on making JSS work for their no doubt not-inconsiderable fee! I've felt better as the day has gone on today though the eye is still sore; however, i am definitely on the mend.
 I met my friend and heard all about her trip to Costa Rica (she was a bit luke-warm about it, actually, and it wasn't terribly high on my "would like to visit" list anyway, so I can cross it off now!). then we went off to visit some Open Studios in the locality. They were all really interesting. One of the artists is the mother of a contemporary of Jack's from school,and we had a very interesting chat with her about her print-making. Also at her house (in her garden, more accurately) we saw the watering can sculpture here: http://suebrownprintmaker.blogspot.co.uk/ (you need to scroll down a bit) which I would really love in our garden but it costs £995, so rather out of my price range!!
 
As ever with these things, I am fascinated by the art that is going on behind very unassuming front doors or in sheds in back gardens. I'm also very envious of the stylish "eye" with which people decorate and furnish their houses!

[glenc]

I 'kind of' found a secret place today.  Or, perhaps 'unexpected' would be a better description.  I was walking home and passed one of our very ornate churches, whereupon I noticed a small poster about some function and which featured a picture of a Labyrinth. I had read up on Labyrinths and their origins after reading about the one in Chartres Cathedral (which is a focal point of the novel 'The Cleaner of Chartres').

Anyway....some nice man came out of the church and spoke to me asking if he could help with anything. I replied I was looking at the Labyrinth picture etc and he invited me into the church to show me the one that was in there!!!  I got into quite a converstation about it and the result....I was invited to a Circle Dance group which meets and dances on the Labyrinth floor!!!!  So...watch this space. It was nice of them anyway to invite me.

[Jeannie's Hunter]

How lovely Glen - a bit of serendipity! I hope it comes off for you. X

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[glenc]

I suppose so Jeannie.  At the very least I will meet some nice people in a social setting.  I don't think it will have the heady excitement of tango but I feel that I should respond to what was a real act of kindness.And, having done it before, I know that it is good exercise!!

[Lesley Martin]

I don't know much about circle dancing - is it like country dancing or folk dancing? (and what is the difference between those, if there is any?)

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Lesley Martin

[glenc]

Hi Lesley - it is mainly Eastern European in origin.  But there are lots of Greek dances which are circle dance too.  People actually link hands in a circle and dance intricate patterns with their feet whilst moving the circle round (if that makes sense?!!).  There are not usually couples, nor is there any 'progression'.  It can get quite fast.

[CarolB was MNKB]

Shaun, how nice a secret place. Hope you find wonders there.

Jules hope the house sells soon.
And Claire hope you are feeling better.

The last two days at work have been hectic. Think i might already have said. But again today we had a computer crash and so all hands on deck again.
All was resolved by mid morning but I now have two days work to catch up on.
Ha ha I'm off this Thursday and Friday.
We are going to the Nec on Friday. gardening Show.

[Mel]

That sounds lovely Shaun. It's so strange how you can live in a place for years but it still surprises you.

[Jules]

Why do estate agents make me want to drown in gin and slide under the nearest bush?  When we eventually move house, and this episode is done, someone remind me never to sell a house again!  I want to be taken out of the next one in a wooden box.

[Sticky]

The Times+ evening was excellent. Much more entertaining (maybe not the right word given the subject matter) than the last one we'd been to. Paul Conroy was amusing, charismatic and obviously a very brave man, talking about reporting on the situations in East Timor, Sri Lanka, Libya and particularly Syria. Interesting too, to visit News International...

[Fiona]

That's an amazing find Shaun! It's ironic, but often the area we know
least about is right on our doorstep. I used to enjoy walking round
the neighbourhood at dusk - lamps on but no curtains drawn so I could
check out everyone's decor!

[glenc]

Best of luck Julia.  I have moved totally on my own (only son abroad) 3 times during the past 12 years and even if I hated Abingdon, I don't think I could be persuaded to move again. I had a very good estate agent this time but I am still trying to put right the fall-out caused by my very negligent solicitor.  The previous one was just as bad....I am beginning to think that it is easy money for some of them.  But I won't begin to rant!!!!  I do hope that things go better for you.

WIDT was go to my Voluntary job.  I don't know why, but I have never been so exhausted....even the guy in my post-work cafe haunt remarked on how tired I looked. (I think he probably meant 'wreck' !!!!).

[Fiona]

I love the watering can and the lawnmower Claire - I think you should
just get one. It's an investment!

Talking about your son, my 25-year-old "cousin" (who is really my
nephew - aaarghhh) is buying a new flat with his girlfriend. She's
selling her flat in Preston (which I'm sure was bankrolled by her
parents) and moving up here, so that's his deposit sorted. It's not
built yet, but a reasonable price and nice area.

I had a good trip to Perth on Monday - stayed with friends and had bar-
b-qued fish out on the terrace for dinner, surrounded by hens and
bantams, and George the very handsome cockerel. I came home with a box
of various tiny eggs from the different bantams. I was running a
training course in Dundee on Tuesday which went well - nice venue
overlooking the old ship Discovery. I set myself a challenge and just
managed to scrape an average 60mpg on the trip home ... took longer
than I would have liked as I couldn't drive at my customary fast
speed!

Yesterday we sang at the University's Commemoration event - 9 honorary
degrees awarded to, among others, Stephen Moffat and Emeli Sande
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-glasgow-west-22876269 Very good
day and we were complimented hugely on our singing!

Today has been a catch-up day - dealing with emails (mostly weddings),
shopping for food etc. I got a surprise phonecall from someone I knew
when I worked in London, asking if I would become an associate of
their company. It may or may not lead to some work for me, but it was
very nice to be asked (and if I do get work, it'll be a lot better
paid than in Scotland).

For those on Facebook, I'm going to upload some hen and bantam pics!

[Claire Hawes]

A blustery day here yesterday, but WIDW take Flossie up to Lower Slaughter for her "Rural Companions" training session. (We had to miss last week's because of her kennel cough.) The other owners and dogs were very friendly, but Flossie has got a bit rusty withsome of the ecercises she is supposed to do so lots of practising for us before next week's class!

Last night all four of us went out to a charity curry dinner, organised by a chap from my running club in aid of Alzheimer's Research. It was a good evening although my intention that it should be a celebration for Tom who finished his second year exams the day before, fell a bit flat because the final exam was apparently a disaster (in his words) and he is very glum about it. Ah well just have to wait for the results now,

[Shaun Finnie]

WIDTW...  go for a walk around a wood/lake area near a friend’s house. It was a good walk, quite hard, but I was surprised at how difficult I found it. I’m really out of practise / out of shape. And the best news was that we made it back to his just five minutes before the huge thunderstorm hit.

 

Shaun

[Jeannie's Hunter]

Well done Shaun - good to walk with a friend and put the world to right!

Sent from Jeannie's iPad

On 14 Jun 2013, at 08:35, "Shaun Finnie" <shaun....@sky.com> wrote:

WIDTW...  go for a walk around a wood/lake area near a friend’s house. It was a good walk, quite hard, but I was surprised at how difficult I found it. I’m really out of practise / out of shape. And the best news was that we made it back to his just five minutes before the huge thunderstorm hit.

 

Shaun

--

[Cally]

Oh dear! It is pouring with rain in between patchy dry spells so I suspect my afternoon tea in the garden will be in the house!  I was supposed to be tiding (and I have most tings in order) but somehow I ended up emptying the dog beanbag to wash and cut down to a more appropriate size. What a time to do it when I should be baking etc... (Mind you I had a lot in the freezer). Poor daisy looked really bemused as the beans were coming out of her bed, and then sat on the empty case looking quite miserable. If it stopped raining for long enough it would dry outside.

This morning I went for a walk with a friend and there was a tiny baby blue tit sitting on our path looking at us. Luckily the dogs did not see it.  And then later I was about to reach for a chive plant to give to someone delivering cakes for tomorrow and there was a large baby blackbird sitting no further than a metre away, on the plant looking at us. Mum was shrieking so we left it and I will give her the plant later!

I have really enjoyed seeing the birds and do not usually notice baby activity. 

We had 2 bats flying around outside the shed last night. I wonder if they have a bed there?

Well, a ginger bread is out of the oven, Ross is back from school raiding the tins and fridge and the ironing is calling so I had better go.

 

Fiona, you sound busy as always. Thinking of all those walking, moving , having parties (Mel) and living life.

[Mel]

I had a card from my MIL. Totally unexpected, I had thought we would never hear from her again after my FIL died in April. She has several times refused to let me and the boys visit over the years and wouldn't tell us that John had died, Andy's Uncle had to go against her explicit instructions to tell us the bad news. She wrote us a very nice note and I am feeling completely bemused but am very glad to be back in touch. I am not expecting too much from her but occasional contact is better than none. Andy was an only child so she is probably feeling very alone now and hopefully will appreciate her grandson's a little more.

[CarolB was MNKB]

Mel, how sad that she lost touch. Life as you know is very short. So lets hope she renews contact again.

Claire, I bet Tom did better than he thinks. Fingers crossed for him. X

Cally you send very busy, busy, busy..

Widt
We went to the Gardening show at NEC today. 7 hours of walking around and of course a little eating and drinkies in between..
We spent many pounds within our heads of course. There is plenty to see. And also next door was the good food show which nobody was stopped from going into. So we spent the last two hours spying the food hall. :-)
It was a lovely day.
We did of course spend money. We bought:
A patio heater. (Infa red on the wall type)
A door mosquito/fly screen ( for back door)
5 lanterns Moroccan style multi coloured glass
4 Olympic style flame garden lights. (Amber/orange colour) they also take a tea light ) the glass has a crackle glaze effect.
A lovely garden ornament. Mummy and baby owls in rusty looking copper like effect with a clear glass ball. This is one of those that you weight on a tiny ledge and it rocks in the wind etc. (does this make sense)? I will take a pic to show you..
Then we went into the food hall. And bought
3 bottles of Prosecco
1 bottle of damson Sloe Gin
6 mini cheesecake desserts for to tomorrow night to go with some berry fruits.
5 packs of various Sausages, including Venison and wild boar....
I think that's it. Lol but I'll let you know if I've forgotten anything...
But OMG we spent so much money in our heads. And we managed not to buy any plants. But I took pictures to look up various plants for the future.
A good day out. And it rained while we were inside...

[Claire Hawes]

Mel, that's a heartening step from your MiL

Carol that sounds like a very good day out! (is it wrong that of all your purchases, the damson sloe gin made my eyes light up?;-) ) I hope the lovely summer evenings return for you to really enjoy your garden purchases.

Very early start for me this morning - Tom and Tash were on the 5:30am train to London so guess who got up to drive them to the station? Then I was Run Director at parkrun. All went smoothly thanks to all the volunteers - and numbers were still excellent (220) despite the appalling rain and high wind which most people will have woken up to (I'd been up and watching it for hours by then!!) Luckily the rain stopped before the run and has only resumed this afternoon - miserable for all the outdoor summer events today though.

I'd like to do a long-ish run tomorrow but I appear to have tweaked my knee whilst gardening. Sigh - if it's not one thing (hip, achilles...) it's another! What it is to be  a finely honed athlete hahahahhah :-)

[glenc]

I know the feeling Claire (except for the athlete bit!!).  I worked on thursday and it was a mistake.  My knee and ankle really suffered and the result was ...I could not go to Tango today.  That'll teach me!!!  I never learn - many of my injuries over the years have been exacerbated by struggling to things and playing 'the brave soldier'.  Never appreciated I see in hindsight.
At the moment I feel as if I am falling apart  from the toes upwards.

WIDT was have a very slow walk into town to get a Daily Telegraph (walking brochure in side) and to go to aCraft Fair held in the Town Square.  Weather ok in the morning and then the heavens opened at 1.00 pm.  The poor things were drowned out (in spite of all the gazebos supplied by council).  The Town Band played bravely on until that 'Titanic' moment came!!  Sad after all of the effort.

[Shaun Finnie]

We went for a walk with my sister and her husband today. We took her to a small nature reserve about half an hour from her house that she' didn’t even know about. The new discoveries continue.

 

Shaun

[Fran]

It's so lovely to discover new places.  Have just returned from a visit to my brother who lives not far from Chester.  We were driving around and it never ceases to amaze me as to how many villages and rural spaces there are.  It was just that when I was growing up around that area we obviously never ventured that far!!  Oh to have had a bike in those days so I could have explored.

[Pippa]

Hi all popping in.

Nothing much to report. I did 4 zumba classes this week gardening and  a  5K run. Warm here at the moment but wet mostly. 

Son No 1 is moving to Bristol next weekend and his gigs are going well. Son No 2 has had a lets have a year out email from his girlfriend in Hong Kong so is in pieces. The timing was poor as he had had a week interning in London and though it was good and he did well in his presentations and making contacts he loves his girlfriend. She tried to skype him but he was at a Bruce Springstein concert at Wembley last night which was amazing 3.5 hours of The Boss. Anyway hopefully they will  make it up or have a pause for a year. He has been devoted and loyal and she was not an easy girl. I wonder if she is under pressure from the father and step mother to have time out. Anyway George is in pieces. Often work goes well private life does not. It is his first proper relationship so he is in pieces. I am not sure what to say really.  Yesterday I did a charity zumba class for Neuroblastoma with 50 others and we raised over £450.00. I have finished the 30 day shred having done levels 1-3 in a month and have lost 2.5 inches from my waist, 2 inches from hip and tum.  We went to an acoustic gig in Chesham last night with Mark Abis very melodic tunes and a surprise visit from James Garrett 21 who is the brother of one of our acquaintances.  It was great music and  we always  have a good time.

I am waiting on a decorator for the outside of our house and a plasterer this week or next depending on the weather.  Singing is going well with another session tomorrow. 

Jules you did the right thing telling the estate agent branch director you were not happy. A friend in Chalfont St Giles has had offers withdrawn on her 800K house due to job uncertainty. She is in Hong Kong currently and they want to move to Marlow. I told her that things were tough here. Hope you get a buyer soon.

Mel I would give your boys some house rules now they are adults and can do some of the chores.

Glen enjoy the dancing it sounds fun

Carol lovely purchases

Cally Hope you get some relief from your shoulder pain.

Claire lovely to hear your news.

Fiona also.

Shaun it is interesting how if you turn a different way it can make you look at your neighbourhood in a totally different light.

[Claire Hawes]

:-( Poor Goerge, Pippa - I've been through similar scenarios with my boys and it really isn't easy to console them. However both of mine have come through to be happy again as I'm sure will George. Sending you all some positive vibes xx

10 mile run done this morning, the knee was fine (I realised that any slight twisting of that foot as I landed made the knee twinge, so I had to concentrate on good form, no bad thing) but grrr my achilles and ankle on the other leg complained once I'd got to about 8 miles. I've RICE'd it and it is fine again now.

As I was running through the park I came upon one of the lads from my old tutor group so I stopped and had a chat. He and some of "my" boys are now at some alleged education centre - nothing like a proper school, and seem to do very little worthwhile learning :-( However that was always the intention of the local authority and the academy trust that took over our school, to farm the older ones off to some so-called alternative provision. He told me that another of my boys hasn't been in any sort of education for months (he is nowhere near school leaving age). If that's true it would of course be illegal, but everyone seems to be turning a blind eye to it. It made me glad in one way that I was out of the whole sorry situation, but very sad indeed for these boys who had already been dealt a poor hand when it came to family support and other issues, and who haven't been given the education which could have helped break that cycle.

[glenc]

Well everyone sounds very busy and things appear to be (mostly) going well for everyone.  Never had those kinds of upheavals with my son, or, perhaps he just never told me.  He was busy celebrating Fathers' Day and his birthday today.

Glad the leg/ankle held up Claire.  I am definitely phoning the GP for another appointment with mine.

WIDT was.. I set out on a short and gentle walk just to collect the newspaper and also to give the 'Walking' schedule a whirl.  I have decided to follow a walking programme set out by a Sports Scientist, Joanna Hall, which has been published in the Telegraph.  My, there is a lot to think about in terms of technique.  Today was gently walking but concentrating on walking through the whole sole of the foot and opening up the ankle.  Doing this whilst maintaining a correct posture is quite difficult.  But it made me think about my left leg which is a problem.  Long term injuries have made me very 'lazy' with that leg and I tend to let it drift.  So this should go a way towards correcting it.  So should the return to dancing.

Anyway, I am going to chart it for 28 days and see if I get any results...or, indeed, maintain the momentum.  

Glad you enjoyed your walk Shaun.

[Claire Hawes]

Glen I'm coming to realise that good form doing something as "simple" as walking or running becomes much more important the older we get because,as you say, old injuries have a habit of making themselves felt! Good luck with the walking programme - I must have a look and see if the info is on the Telegraph website as it sounds interesting.

[glenc]

Yes Claire you are quite right.  It may be more difficult for us to achieve the things we did so effortlessly before but one does realise. I think, that we need to do them to maintain things that we hitherto took for granted.  That sounds very formal but you know what I mean....keeping the 'older' body moving properly.  Or maybe slowing the deterioration....I speak only for myself with that comment!!!

[Mel]

Today I am wearing an old pair of jeans that I haven't fitted into for ages. I feel quite a sense of achievement. Had to go searching through the old clobber as my jeans kept falling down when I was walking, not a good look! And very uncomfortable.
We had a massive 18th birthday party on Saturday, about 100 teenagers out on my new back deck and around the fire Jim built in the back garden. It went surprisingly well. Only a couple of them got really drunk, another couple (girls needless to say) got very over emotional and ended up in tears, but their friends helped out and all ended well. The others just seemed to have a really good time. I co opted some of my friends to come and help out with going round with food, stopping drunken teenagers wandering off etc and I'm sure it made a difference just having a few adults around.
Pippa we've had a couple of breakups with long term girlfriends, extremely painful but the one where there was a prospect of getting back together was far more damaging I think. The alternating hope and despair was just awful.
Have a good week everyone.

[Jules]

Mel, we shall have to have one of those photos of you in your bigger jeans holding out the waist band to show off the shrunken you!  Mind you, Pippa, you'll be a candidate for that with those inches.  You must be on your third set of clothes this year!  How are you finding maintenance in 5:2 - a couple of people I know have struggled if they do anything other than 5:2 - i.e. it's creeping back if they don't stick with it.

Poor George, my heart goes out to him.  I remember being so broken hearted.  It's a right of passage, and he will recover, although I'm sure it's so painful for you to watch.  At least he's talking to you about it, Pippa.  There's nothing you can or should do, except be there.  I agree, the ones that are a "break or a maybe" are worse to deal with.

Glen! You missed Tango for washing up?!  Something wrong there!  I hope that it recovers for next week AND that you have made it to the GP.  The walking programme sounds interesting.  I'll have a look - although if you've scanned it, are you able to attach on here?  We can all benefit then!

What a mad weekend, but all very successful.  Birthday girl (SIL) had a fab time, which is the main thing.  Pete and I ended up cheffing at the BBQ so completely stank of bonfire!!  We are on a tight turnaround, back to the boat tomorrow. :-) But before then - ironing, tidying (viewings, viewings), briefing viewing ladies of the new team on board, boat provisioning, packing... and going to the pub!  The exhibitors of Milland are gathering to have a celebratory drink or three.....

[glenc]

Well Julia I missed tango BECAUSE of washing up. I worked on the thursday and it ruined my knee and ankle for the saturday.  So I have ducked out of washing up for the rest of the summer.  Tango next saturday for sure.  I had to see a podiatrist today and he tells me that I have torn a tendon in my ankle.  It is healing ok and I can walk on it and dance carefully, so long as I don't overdo it.  have to see the GP about my knee though.!!!  Amazing what you find out from the experts....I have a snapped tendon (or ligament) in my right foot but it is an old injury.  And...I well remember the accident some years ago but did not realise at the time what damage I had done.  He also diagnosed what is wrong with my heel just by feeling it with his thumb!!  I am falling apart!!

 The walking programme (more on OMG)  is actually in the form of two booklets of explanatory notes. (She has done a book and DVD though).  I did not scan the programme only the little recording chart.  Sadly this means nothing without the booklet to hand., so it would not be of any use here.

[Jules]

Oh Glen, all I can say is ouch!  At least you know what you're dealing with - for the ankle at least!  Is the tendon linked to the snapped tendon/ligament from the old injury (whether the same foot, or the other for compensating).  

Shame about the booklet, but I understand.

Pete and I have decided to have another go at 10,000 steps per day, so have ordered pedometers.  We last did it a few years ago when we were both 'working'.  I think we're more sedentary now unless we go for a walk/exercise, so it will be interesting!  Anything to boost a bit of motivation!

[glenc]

Julia the booklets are quite hefty and they would not be suitable for a link.  However, this trainer does have a website I think.  Or, if you google her, I am sure that there will be details of the walking technique somewhere on the web. Her name is Joanna Hall and the programme is called 'Walk Active'.  She does training days ...one of them is a package at Champneys by the way.  They might have some info about her?

Sadly the injured/snapped tendons are on opposite feet.....hence I have been compensating and need to even up my walk and alter the pronation.

Hope the 10000 steps works. I would have thought that a busy person such you must easily clock up this amount per day??

[Sticky]

Hello all, don't know what's going on but I haven't had  any updates for several days... I didn't do anything that I'm aware of but they just stopped!!! I hope that I've re-signed up but we'll see...

Sure that I've missed news but hope to catch up I due course!

[Claire Hawes]

Interesting Steph I haven;t had an updates either but hadn't noticed as I keep up with THC via a quick check on 0n the internet rather than via email!

[Jeannie's Hunter]

Sent from Jeannie's iPad

--

[Jeannie's Hunter]

I have only had a few updates too! Mind you, I have been rather remiss about writing myself as gardening takes priority then I run out of time!

I was at the lung specialist today and he didn't think I would have to go back which is a great relief. If only the Cardiologist would say the same.

It's been great weather for gardening and I have spent hours outside - tired but happy! Everything is so lush and I keep having to either tie up or cut back. Unfortunately, the forecast is for much colder weather this weekend which is a drag. Off to prepare a meal for friends coming up tomorrow - hope we have sunshine!

Sent from Jeannie's iPad

[Pippa]

Hi All

re new challenges Kettlebell today 25 mins with 8K kettlebell. Son George was my tutor and said that " he was impressed with me". Still to master the swing though.

New singing Abba and John Rutter!  Working towards singing at a wedding on 20th July!

Re 5:2 maintaining one day a week is easy. I am still losing weight 21 lbs now and inches waist is 31.5 which is very pleasing. 

Hope all is well with your various challenges.

[glenc]

Well done Pippa.  I know very little about this diet but it appears to have worked wonders for you.  I understand the idea of the  calories restriction on 'fast' days but what do you eat for the other 5/6?   Do these have a calorie limit or are they like a diet in terms of what foods you should avoid?  I suppose I should look it up but a quick run down from someone who is participating is always  more insightful.

[Jeannie's Hunter]

I started the 5:2 diet on Sunday, making Sunday one of my fasting days. I have already lost four pounds!

I have Dr. Michael Mosley's The Fast Diet book and have ordered the 5:2 recipe book fromAmazon. There is a good website on the fast diet with loads of interesting titbits to red. .wwwthefastdiet.co.uk 

I did not find it difficult at all on the fasting day and have not been noticeably hungry on the other days either.

Sent from Jeannie's iPad

[Shaun Finnie]

Good news about your lungs Jeannie. Look after yourself.

 

Shaun

[glenc]

Yes Jeannie that is good news.  Hope your health goes from strength to strength.

I had a pedometer on since breakfast (admittedly not early) and since then I have done two loads of washing, tidied the kitchen and cloakroom, got the garden furniture out and mowed the lawn.  Steps registered...a measly 600.!!!  Lot of walking in a house to clock up 10,000!!  The only way I can ever get that kind of 'milage' is to go out for walks and I don't always have the time.  Weather here by the way is awful.  It is dull and hot (25/6), humid and oppressive.  Where did that fresh Spring weather go...we seem never to have a Spring these days.

I have mowed my small lawn twice over and now I need a shower.

[Pippa]

Hi all

Glen 

You basically eat 500 cals on a fast day 2 in the week ( you can make it go along way with soups, salads etc I do not have alcohol on those days).  and then anything else up to 2000 cals on the other days of the week. The deficit between the two is why you lose. Weight.  There is a facebook page called 5:2dietbook which is a closed group. I think the Michael Moseley Horizon programme can be found on the internet still.

Jeannie that is brilliant!  

Hot here also. Done a zumba class today, some kettlebells and some pruning. Hot here. Waiting for British Gas man to appear to service the boiler.

Good luck with the pedometer walking all who have one.

My sweetpeas are just beginning to come out. My sisters ones same variety purple and scented are out in Chiswick.

[Pippa]

http://thefastdiet.co.uk/

This should give you an idea.

On Wednesday, 19 June 2013 15:20:32 UTC+1, Pippa wrote:

Hi all

Glen 

You basically eat 500 cals on a fast day 2 in the week ( you can make it go along way with soups, salads etc I do not have alcohol on those days).  and then anything else up to 2000 cals on the other days of the week. The deficit between the two is why you lose. Weight.  There is a facebook page called 5:2dietbook which is a closed group. I think the Michael Moseley Horizon programme can be found on the internet still. You do need to really eat what you like on the other days. You can record your cals, exercise on myfitnesspal.co.uk

[Fran]

Well my birthday is carrying on!!!  Had a lovely lunch with friends today and have a friend staying with me so any excuse to carry on celebrating!!!  Had to smile on Saturday when my PT handed me a present, a tin of shortbread biscuits and a packet of M&S chocolate t-cakes - very healthy eating!

Mel very impressed with your weight loss and what a lovely feeling needing to get into smaller sized jeans.

Pippa you continue to be very inspirational with all your classes and now the kettlebells.  You are very good and committed.

Jeannie what fantastic news about your lungs this is just the bit of luck you needed. 

My sister is now in the UK and staying with her son not that far from me.  The family are coming over to me at the weekend for a meal so I now have to find an extra dining chair - my flat is only small so it will be very cosy.  There is a Jamie Oliver recipe for shoulder of lamb cooked on a bed of rosemary and garlic, cover in foil and place in a preheated maximum heated oven then turn oven down to 140 degrees and slow cook for 5 hours - sounds good so will try that.  Having to venture further a field to find a butcher as it would be good to get a decent piece of meat and not something from a supermarket!!

[stevie_fa...@hotmail.com]

Still not getting digest emails inspite of trying all I can think of... Any suggestions, anyone???

[glenc]

Glad your celebrations are continuing and it is great that your sister is now in the uk.

I am tempted to have a go at the 5:2 diet but not sure whether I would be good at sticking at the calorie counting.

At the moment I have been eating freshly prepared soup by the gallon.  I have had a 'weird' (achey) stomach this past couple of weeks and I have been trying to eat food which is easy to digest.  Tonight is the first protein for days (2 oz lightly cooked turkey with avocado and tomatoes).  I haven't lost any weight though!!

I went to walk to the shops eventually and managed to clock up another 6000 steps.  I have absolutely no chance of reaching 10000 if I stay at home.  However, I feel that the walking programme is making much more aware of my gait and posture.

[Jeannie's Hunter]

Glen, you do not have to calorie count on the 5:2 - that's the joy of it! You can eat whatever you like (watching portion sizes) on five days and there are loads of recipes for your two 'fast' days.

Sent from Jeannie's iPad

--

[glenc]

Well Jeannie you sound to be giving it a vote so maybe I will once my digestive system has settled down.  I might see if I can source some recipes from the web though, I have bought enough books.

[Jeannie's Hunter]

There are quite a few recipes on the website Glen!

Sent from Jeannie's iPad

[Jules]

This website drives me nuts at times! Couldn't get it to allow me to reply. And, no, Steph, I am not getting digests despite going in to check the settings.... grrrr....

Anyway. Jeannie! She who has good lungs! Am so thrilled, relieved to hear that. It must be a massive relief. Fingers crossed for the cardiologist... Plenty to keep you occupied with gardening and 5:2-ing until then!

Glen, I fear that on a more normal day, our steps will be low. We've had a super start but it is exceptional. Summer has been perfect here today in Mylor - warm sun, blue skies all day, so we made the most of it. Unfortunately not sailing as Pete helped a friend move his boat.... So I cleaned the teak! We are expecting a lot of rain tomorrow so I'm sure we will do very few steps. Unless we are very brave and put the foulies on to get the paper!

We've been around to the "new" house today. What a stunning wisteria they have! They also have too many crawling things growing up the house - perhaps creeping things is a better word. I cannot understand why people grow things up really beautiful buildings. There is going to be some major ripping out of plants when we move in. The poor house looks choked. We had the searches back today - solicitor worried about flood risk. IT'S AT THE TOP OF A HILL. The lawyers add stress with their nonsense. I think I might just pass out when we've actually exchanged property.

Fiona, we had a lovely evening with Ken and Alison, beginning the evening with drinking champagne on their new Rustler. She's beautiful, and Alison has commissioned the best shower, and we both love her full length mirror..... Neither are a feature on our boat! They seem very happy, and it's great to be a part of their excitement.

[roseg]

Jeannie, glad to read your good news.  Sorry about all the various injuries, and hope you will all manage to get the various joints, limbs etc back into working order.

 

I haven't been getting email updates either for the last few days, so have ticked the 'Email updates to me' box at the top of this and crossed fingers.  Bit of bother with the computer recently: last week I noticed that I wasn't getting emails for the account I use for household stuff, tested in Windows Live and on webmail, and discovered that I could send from that a/c but not receive.  There followed an hour on the phoneon Friday night with a couple of charming Yahoo people from India, who took over my computer and checked absolutely everything ... to no avail.  More of the same, but shorter, on Sunday night.  I was pretty sure it wasn't my computer that was the problem, but they always assume that it is.  After the problem was 'escalated', the problem disappeared on Monday evening - all now appears to be working.  Now to sort out Word, which keeps crashing on me.

 

Busy as usual: forgot to go to Gardeners' World on Friday; coat minding for dance group at Leamington Peace Festival Saturday midday, followed by Action Group event  to let people see the latest plans.   On Sunday  I had a proper look at the Peace Festival and investigated a ukelele group that we might book for an event:  they were very good and also great fun.  The weather stayed more or less dry, contrary to the dire forecast.  Visit to Kenilworth Castle on Monday with friends from Essex, and dinner Italian style.

 

Ramble this morning, the first one of the year in short sleeves;  it was rather hot, and I dozed off watching tennis on TV this afternoon - must find the result of Laura Robson's game, which was still going on when live broadcasting finished.

 

Next week I'm off to Saumur in the Loire Valley with a U3A singing group (not singing, just making up numbers and doing a spot of interpreting).   I last went there exactly 50 years ago, with my parents: can't wait!.

[CarolB was MNKB]

Jeannie, I am so pleased for you. One stress relief sorted. X

Fran, Ikea for fold up chairs. We have 15 which come in handy. £15 each.

[Jeannie's Hunter]

Can you enrol under another name and password Steph? I had to do that when they updated the site all that time ago. Good luck!

Sent from Jeannie's iPad

On 19 Jun 2013, at 19:42, stevie_fa...@hotmail.com wrote:

> Still not getting digest emails inspite of trying all I can think of... Any suggestions, anyone???
>

[glenc]

Well I cannot help anyone on the enrolling front.  I was 'lost' to THC for several weeks and it was only quite by chance that I got back on site.  Luckily with a 'new' (old) but permanent computer, I have been able to bookmark the site.  I cannot get it at all on my tablet.

What I am doing to day is clearing out my airing cupboard and having to refold everything to fit the quart into the pint pot.  I only started with ironing the tea towels for my Voluntary cafe job and then looked in one of the three clean laundry baskets and decided that in order to jam them back into the airing cupboard I needed to do some drastic reorganisation.  Oh for one of my former big houses....so much easier to keep tidy and clean.  I need to get a move on though, I have to deliver said tea towels and fit in my walk.  It is going to be showery and thundery later so I want to avoid a drenching.

I have my pedometer on but I don't think that I will clock up enough steps in the house to satisfy it!!!

Besides, somewhere, somehow today I have got to go and fit in 15 of OWP (Optimum Walking Pace).  I need an isolated spot for that...don't want anyone to think that I am a refugee from The Ministry of Funny Walks.!!!!

[roseg]

I checked in the 'Edit my membership' page, and I am still signed in
for the 'digest', so it must be a problem with Google, not with us, I
think.

[Pippa]

Hi all

Rose you so busy. Laura Robson lost sadly.

I am back from a 2 hour+  ramble to Chesham entirely through woods Chesham Bois, Great Bois Wood very ancient, Hodds Wood and into Chesham. I had lunch at the theatre there then saw a showing of "Late Quartet" which was very absorbing about a quartets personal lives. I met not a soul but heard bird son and missed the heavy rain which fell whilst I was in the theatre thankfully.

Got home to find George was here with the car after all and had not thought to text me!

My first scented sweetpea is out a beautiful old fashioned white one.

Jeannie good to hear about your lungs one less worry.

I agree Carol Ikea is great for folding chairs we were going to get some to kit Nick's flat out when he moves finally this weekend. 

Mel glad you survived the 18th party. Loved your decked area. I was amused to hear that the girls were emotional ! twas the same with our boys parties!

George has been making great contacts in the city. He was mistakenly asked to do a 6th month internship meant for graduates as they said he was at least 2 years ahead of their other candidates and he was very impressive. We will go to see him in a group seminar in the first week of July at Close Investment house where he is taking part in their " Leaders of The Future Programme".

[Pippa]

Glen I tried that walking programme. Don't remember the OWP though !

All the best with it I am sure it will speed you along at a great pace. What news on the dancing front?

[glenc]

Thanks Pippa.  OWP is 'Optimum Walking Pace'. It is walking as fast as you can without breaking into a trot/run, whilst maintaining the technique.  The plan gets you to do 15 minute sessions of that whilst out on a walk.  First week on 3 days and then increasing thereafter.

The dancing was great. However, I have (as you probably know) torn a tendon in my ankle when I fell a 3 weeks ago.  I, stupidly, worked last week on thursday (didn't want to let the Cafe down). Result was swollen ankle and knee so I couldn't go to dance class on saturday.  Intend to be there this week though.

Your ramble sounds good. I might consider a 'short' walk with the Nordic Walkers tomorrow but I am wondering about the weather.

[Claire Hawes]

Great news Jeannie! What a relief - fingers crossed for the cardiologist now.

Lots of positivity coming from many of you - lovely!

I've been busy gardening, doing some minor redecoration (repairing Flossie's puppy misdemeanours!) and finally started on sorting out clutter. I've gone through one bookcase (I had to move it for the painting) and have a pile of books which will go to the Red Cross Bookshop tomorrow. Not much, but it's a start! This afternoon the dog and I were up at her training session - she has to concentrate so hard, poor love, but it is good fun!. We were doing gundoggy stuff like having "lines" (no dogs allowed forward of the guns) etc. I will never put any of this into shooting practice but it is interesting and I hope eventually to have a beautifully behaved dog to show for all this work!

I am wondering whether to set the alarm for 4am tomorrow. The local Lido (a wonderful Art Deco open air pool) is opening early for a dawn swim, to greet the start of the longest day. The cafe is also opening for bacon sarnies afterwards! It's a lovely idea, though I know the water will be perishing (it is allegedly heated). Anyway, I shall set the alarm and see how the mood takes me in the early hours!

[Cally]

A quick catch up; where has the week gone.

Carol, you sounded as if you had a lovely day at eh NEC. 

Mel, pleased that you heard from your MIL. She may have seemed to treat you badly but she was probably dealing with her own grief... I hope that this reparation is long term and real, though it may move slowly.

Pippa, I love John Rutter music.  I play his Christmas cd every year!  Sorry to hear about Georges time apart. It is a painful life sometimes, but all is learning and usually something good comes out of it though it does not feel like it at the time.

 

Well, we were so fortunate for our afternoon tea. About 25 to 30 people came and spent a lovely afternoon wandering round the garden and sitting out while their tea was topped up. The island in the kitchen groaned with cakes and the sun shone. 1/2hour after they left it began to drizzle!  far to many cakes left over for my waistline which has vanished.  Ross took some to scouts, I to work and lots are for the village BBQ tomorrow. The ones that I have left in the freezer are chocolate cake which is great as the boys love it and I can leave it!  I lost 4lb in 2 weeks, was 1/2lb short of getting my bails done as a reward for losing and now I have put on 2lb. :-(

I am pleased that there is some rain tonight as the garden is very dry, though it would be good if it dried for the weekend as we have the Whitehaven festival, a village BBQ and my SIL and husband visiting.

McFly is performing at the festival but I am months too late to get any tickets! All snapped up the fastest ever.

 

My shoulder has improved a lot despite not being very good at doing the exercises. However I suspect that the injection will still happen as the problem is still there but not as acute.

[roseg]

Digest emails seem to be back, got 2 tonight.

[Claire Hawes]

Hmm, still no emails for me yet :-(

Cally that afternoon tea sounds lovely - you are a star to put that on!

I have been for my dawn swim and I LOVED it!  I got up at 4, and by 4:30am I was queueing outside the Lido along with maybe 200 other people - all ages from 6 to maybe 76. The entry fee was a donation to Winston's Wish, a locally based charity. There was thick cloud, unfortunately, so we didn't actually see the sun rise, but we were counted down to the official sunrise time and then everyone got in the water together. I'd been worried that the water would be cold but actually it was just right - not too hot and not too cold. It's a big pool (50m long) but even so with the crowd that were in the water it was imppossible to do front crawl so I stuck to a rather inelegant head-up breast-stroke so I could see oncoming traffic! (There were lanes as well, but they were full of the tri club in their wetsuits powering up and down.) Really lovely start to the  day - when I got back home it was not even 6am so I took Flossie out for a very early walk, much to her surprise!

[glenc]

Sounds magical Claire.  Wish I had a fraction of that energy and motivation. I am not much of a swimmer but we have a marvellous outdoor pool here by the side of the river, I always wish I could pluck up the courage and go in for a swim.

[Jeannie's Hunter]

That sounds like a wonderful start to your day Claire - I feel the happy vibes! Very dull and misty here today so, once Bill is up, we will go for our shopping and coffee of course.

I spent all afternoon in the garden yesterday, chopping off branches of trees. I thought I would only do a 'tidy' but carried away with the saw and the lopper and was out for hours. However, I am very pleased with the results and I must have used up lots of calories! 

Yesterday was my second fast day on the 5:2 and I managed it very well, with only a few 'allowed' nibbles on berries. I am finding it very straightforward to use and will weigh on Sunday morning to get my first result.

Sent from Jeannie's iPad

--

[glenc]

Sounds good Jeannie.  I am tempted to have a go just to shed this stubborn 4/5 lbs which won't go.  However, I struggle at the moment with being on my own every evening (and day) and boredom sets in and I nibble.  Not much nibbling, obviously, otherwise I would be more than 4lb over what I want to be.  But whether I could stand the 'fasting' days I don't know.  It is ironic I suppose, when I was at work all day I never thought about food and often didn't eat, hence my 'struggle' in those days to get up to size 8 !!!! 

 Now it should be easy with only having myself to cater for, but being on my own is the 'trap'.

I took your information, by the way, and went on to the website and printed off a few recipes...lots of things I loved.  It does look easy to follow but we shall see.

[Claire Hawes]

(I hope) I've attached the blog entry I wrote regarding my swim this week for my Fetcheveryone page. There have been lots of lovely comments on the topic - I think it may spark a few more people to follow suit next June 21st!

Tom's 23rd birthday today and it's just like old times - he has filled the house with his friends to help him celebrate :-) We have young people currently fast asleep all over the house! It's lovely. Unfortunately OH is missing out as he has gone to the States for a few days. (However that's quite nice for me as I have some snoring-free nights!!)

Have a good weekend everyone!

[Pippa]

Claire your swim sounds amazing. My sister rates open water swimming perhaps you will try that out next.

Today I pottered in Old Amersham lots of sales on which I mainly resisted and my favorite independent shoe shop is closing so I bought some gorgeous nude coloured wedge pumps. I got wet alternately with warm sunshine. Agh strange weather we are having. We  visited a couple of open studios in Amersham One weavers so we had a short guide to different types of weaving saw two spinners at work. Next a furniture maker who seemed desperate to get commissions who did glorious  makes in cherrywood. Mark Newson is his name. It was in the studio of Ruby Sharp a ceramic maker so she showed us how a puzzle jug works.

Dinner and the final of the voice for me soon whilst Will watches the  Cardiff Singer of the year. Only a short walk today but all the washing and ironing done. Tomorrow if it is drier I will do a long run.

Thanks Cally for your kind words re George. He seems a little better and I have emailed his girlfriend who is sadly having treatment for depression but she says she is hopefully it is helping her.

Glen hope the walking nordic or otherwise continues.

Jeannie good going on the fasts. They seem to be going ok for you. The first week you may find you lose more than in the next few weeks as it is mainly water.  I have steadily lost 2lbs now a total of 23 lbs since the start of February. I tried on 12 size tops in Phase Eight today but nothing in the sale really grabbed me. Hobbs has gone very young in my opinion. 

[Fiona]

Wow! Amazing weight loss for Mel, Jeannie and Pippa - well done girls!  My GP suggested I might find the 5:2 diet an effective way of shifting some weight, but I haven't psyched myself up for the starvation days.  Like Glen, I would find it difficult being at home all day near the fridge and not eating much.

More good news on the work front - someone who attended my training course in Dundee has been in touch to ask if I'd go to Aberdeen to deliver a day's training in her organisation at the beginning of September.

Jules I love the sound of Ken & Alison's boat - he dotes on her so much that he'd probably agree to a gold-plated shower if she wanted one!  She's certainly not one to skimp on home comforts.

Who mentioned Ikea? Aaarghh! Spent 4 hours yesterday making an Ikea bed. I've new tenants in one of the rented flats, and I'd left one bedroom unfurnished (had to throw out a bed that was trashed by the previous tenants!) to see what the new tenants wanted. So the bed was delivered but I had to go home and get a screwdriver halfway through (so much for allen keys).  Then something that should extend wouldn't, and a whole set of screws were too small, so I had to go off again to Ikea for more. I had thought I'd have it built before the plumber, who was fixing a leak in the bathroom, had finished, but he was gone within an hour!  I think these tenants will have more respect for the flat - they've put throws on the new sofas, and have a nice rug and cushions to match.

My new wardrobes will be installed on Monday/Tuesday so I've started emptying the old ones - I am such a hoarder - keep things just in case they become useful at some stage!  Not looking forward to the upheaval, but I must be strict about what goes back into the room!

[Jeannie Hunter]

Well Fiona,,

I had a trawl through my wardrobes today and filled two sacks for the Heart charity shop! I have bought quite a few new things recently, and like to put something out when something new comes in.  My daughter in law introduced me to a site called Poetry, which has just the sort of clothes I like and I had an e.mail to say their sale was starting - no sooner said than done!!

Ready for my next fast day tomorrow, so will see how that goes - weigh in too, so here's hoping.

[Cally]

Aargh my message has disappeared!  Your houseful sounded very happy Clare and really nice.

Today after the village BBQ where my SIL and husband helped us win the quiz!  we had a lovely dry walk against the forecast. Then headed to Whitehaven for the Whitehaven festival, perusing the made in Cumbria food tents.  We saw Rosemary shlager doing a demo as we peeked through a clear Marquee but sadly didn't see jean Christophe Novelli.  Heard the Jam practising for tonight's concert too.  My SIL bought a pricey set of pans so I feel as if the visit was successful and not to pricey (for me!)

 

How are you enjoying the 5:2:

 diet Jeannie?  I am thinking of eating supper much earlier as when David was away I did and it stopped all the munchies. We usually all eat together but if he wants to help me lose weight he may have to compromise for a bit and eat his later on return from work. Tonight is ridiculously late as we have been out and I did not realise that the meat needed so much cooking. I should have put it in the slow cooker.

[Cally]

On Monday, June 10, 2013 9:26:23 PM UTC+1, Mel wrote:

Time for a change of season? Of course I am enjoying winter but am happy to go with the majority.
10/6/13 my son, Jim, turned 18, he was ridiculously excited and had a great day. It was public holiday so we all had the day off. His team had a catch up game so we watched football in the rain and went to the local for dinner, doesn't sound all that exciting but he says he enjoyed it. I now share a house with two adults, does this mean the work is divided three ways?

[Mel]

Did a "try shooting" experience at the Olympic venue this morning with my boys. It was quite challenging. Jim was exceptional according to the guy in charge but Tom and I were just average.

[Pippa]

Hi all

Quiet Sunday so a morning kettlebell session with George and kate kettlebell mine! I mastered The Swing hurray!. It was easier when I did not think about it. Then a short run. Windy here but we managed to cook a BBQ in our Aquaforno. Delicious shoulder of lamb, kebabs and roasted veg followed by summer pudding. I have been practicing for my wedding singing in a month. We are singing " The Beauty of The Earth" and Jerusalem and another hymn. It is all very exciting to be part of a couples big day and trusting of them to use us I think! 

Saturday despite the rain we went to 2 local open studios near us one on Weaving with a fasinating Canadian and 2 spinners then a ceramicist and a glorious furniture maker called Mark Newson. Sadly we have no need for furniture.  Today Nick moves from Cardiff to Bristol with a man with a van. So the start of a new beginning. I hope all his stuff fits in his room in the flat. He is moving from a  large bedroom victorian villa to a 3 bedroom maisonette with a kitchen diner. At least we moved furniture and kitchen stuff in for him.

Claire great summing up of your swim.

Glen and Fiona. 5:2 fasts are easy if you eat protein/salad or veg and lots of water honestly. 

Jeannie keep it up.

[Pippa]

I know of Poetry as a site. Nice clothes.

[glenc]

Thanks Pippa. I may give one day a go and see if I can manage.  Actually I have discovered something that I had not thought of with the fasting days.  I have always been encouraged to drink lots of skimmed milk (initially because my mother had osteoporosis and I was painfully thin).  Now I drink it in tea....and I cponsume loads of decaff rea in a day.  I LOVE tea and that would be hard to give up for a whole day.  However, I have just realised that I probably consume about 250 calories per day in tea alone.  Not sure that I could fast and do without the tea.

I guess the best way to find out is give it a try one day next week.

[Pippa]

not many cals in tea esp decaffinated earl grey.

Example menu for a fast day

Portobello mushroom with a poached egg, Lunch soup, dinner, prawn/ or other protein salad with tablespoon of balsamic vinegar. Lots of water and decaf tea or green or herbal tea

Mel shooting day sounds fun. I have tried pistol shooting and clay shooting as my son is good at the latter.

[glenc]

You read my thoughts Pippa - I just came on to the site to ask you what you ate in a typical day!!

I think I could probably manage on that menu food-wis3 (if I had plenty of distractions to occupy my 'boredom' time).  However, I drink decaff teas with milk....my favourite tipple!!! So giving up the cuppas would be a hardship!!  Maybe I am going to have to work at this!!

[Jeannie's Hunter]

You wouldn't have to give up your tea with milk Glen - just have to work out what else you can have to make up 500 calories. I have just finished my fast day and ate two eggs with tomatoes for breakfast, a bowl of berries at lunch time to keep me going and a roasted pepper salad for my evening meal. I drank Chai tea, fruit teas, coffee and loads of water during the day and an honestly say I am not feeling hunger pangs. By the way, I have lost five pounds this week!

Sent from Jeannie's iPad

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[glenc]

Brilliant Jeannie.  I have just waved goodbye to my son and grand daughter a couple of hours ago and am now feeling lonely.  Hence a craving for something sweet.  Not hunger just a craving!!

[Pippa]

Brilliant Jeannie. That first loss is usually the largest though apparently. Great fast day choices Jeannie.

[Pippa]

Glen normal mug of tea and semi skimmed is 40 cals. Decaf Earl grey with semi skimmed is 5 cals. I alternate between green tea, earl grey black and water on a fast day.

[Shaun Finnie]

WIDT...   was sign off the cover image for my novel. I’ve just got to work through the final draft now and it’s done!   Ooh, exciting times.

 

Shaun

[Jeannie's Hunter]

The best of luck Shaun - great news! X

Sent from Jeannie's iPad

On 24 Jun 2013, at 15:11, "Shaun Finnie" <shaun....@sky.com> wrote:

WIDT...   was sign off the cover image for my novel. I’ve just got to work through the final draft now and it’s done!   Ooh, exciting times.

 

Shaun

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[Pippa]

Great to hear your news Shaun.

[Shaun Finnie]

WIDTW....   went over to Doncaster to walk around a large nature reserve with my Beloved and one of our friends. Beloved was happy because she saw some orchids and got some great close-up photos of a pair of swans & their four cygnets which she’s sent in to our local TV news program. We walked about seven miles and I was pleased because I saw my first Kingfisher of the year. Beautiful.

 

Rarest sighting of the day though (for those interested) was a small, rather nondescript brown bird called a Cetti’s Warbler. They’re not very flashy to look at but they are rather elusive.

 

Shaun

[Pippa]

Sounds a fabulous day Shaun. Kingfishers are so beautiful and also making a rare sighting must have been a thrill.

[glenc]

Pleased you had a good day Shaun.  My brother often saw Kingfishers when he was fishing and had some articles published about wildlife on the river.

I am so pleased to see that there is life out there in the Universe!!  Here on the uninhabited Planet Glen life has been very lonesome.  I have not been well (some kind of stomach bug) and have taken to my bed for two days.  Not an email, text, letter or phone call have I received. reality of of living alone I guess but this is when it begins to hit home.  (In case you think I haven't communicated either...I have left loads of texts and phone messages etc...guess peole are busy).

As long as the good weather lasts another couple of days so that I can enjoy it when I am fit to go out.

P.S. I watched an old 'Inspector Morse' yesterday and I am sure that he mentioned a 'Sorrow' of Swans.  Rather nice eh?

[Jeannie's Hunter]

Sorry you have been in bed again Glen - you have had a rough time this year so far. I have been remiss in not answering posts even though I have enjoyed reading them. 

I have only once in my life seen a kingfisher and that was in New Zealand - I still recall the thrill!

Do hope that you wupill soon be up and about again - take care. X

Sent from Jeannie's iPad

[glenc]

Thanks Jeannie.  I was not of course referring to the posting on here....THC has been a bit of a liifeline with the outside world.  Rather, I was talking about lack of communication with friends and family (or lack there of)....nobody to miss my presence really.

But...hope springs eternal!!!!!

I have had a bad year but not anything too serious really.  On the bright side, I guess the past two days have been 'fasting' days!!!!