As part of my 101 challenge we were to go to the cinema, once a week, taking advantage of our monthly subscription to the cinema. We no longer have these subscriptions, having stopped them last year in an effort to save money.
But thanks to Lovefilm we are now seeing new movies at home. (OK it's not when they are brand new but it's cheaper than our cinema passes) So I will continue to list new movies watched, only they will be viewed in the "cinema" in our front room.
With that in mind here is the new movies watched in the last 2 months:
Monsters Vs Aliens - A good family romp - enjoyed this.
Observe and Report - Trash, had enjoyed Mall Cop thought this might be good too - Wrong! -Like Jack Black's Year One - painful to watch, and with far too much profanity just for the sake of it. Even my son (who normally loves this type of crap) found it dull and a waste of time.
Angels & Demons - Loved this, great plot, great acting especially Ewan McGreggor. I haven't seen Da Vinci Code but will definitely give it a look in now.
Bandslam - A coming of age type thing - liked this, was funny and quirky loved Lisa Kudrow's character, and the music was good too. Was blubbing at one point though, so you may need a hankie in your pocket when you watch it.
Showing posts with label Chit Chat. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Chit Chat. Show all posts
Friday, 22 January 2010
Just a sharp scratch..........
Napkin had to have blood tests, she has been very lethargic and her eating patterns are funny.
Now I know Napkin's is 18 but she's never had a blood test before and she wanted me with her.
She has her blood taken ("it was bloody sore" she says) and we go to leave the building. Suddenly Nurse appears "sorry but I need to take more blood". "Why" I ask. "Oh there is more than one test to be done" (Why didn't she read the chit in the first place) but never mind these things happen, so off Napkin goes to give more blood.
Well, good grief 4 holes later (3 of which are in the back of her hand) Nurse has finally gotten her blood and poor Napkin's arm is numb. To make matters worse whilst Nurse is chatting away to Napkin it transpires that they have an acquaintance in common. Nurse then proceeds to talk about a surgery this person has had that, as far as Napkin is aware nobody (including Napkin) knew anything about. Confidentiality!!!!!!
OK it wasn't a sex change op or anything weird but that's besides the point.
Now I know Napkin's is 18 but she's never had a blood test before and she wanted me with her.
She has her blood taken ("it was bloody sore" she says) and we go to leave the building. Suddenly Nurse appears "sorry but I need to take more blood". "Why" I ask. "Oh there is more than one test to be done" (Why didn't she read the chit in the first place) but never mind these things happen, so off Napkin goes to give more blood.
Well, good grief 4 holes later (3 of which are in the back of her hand) Nurse has finally gotten her blood and poor Napkin's arm is numb. To make matters worse whilst Nurse is chatting away to Napkin it transpires that they have an acquaintance in common. Nurse then proceeds to talk about a surgery this person has had that, as far as Napkin is aware nobody (including Napkin) knew anything about. Confidentiality!!!!!!
OK it wasn't a sex change op or anything weird but that's besides the point.
Wednesday, 20 January 2010
On-Line Grocery Shopping Part 1
So, as I said no car has meant moving into uncharted territory for me. I have a mistrust of on-line grocery shopping but I was willing to ignore my inner voices (no I don't need treatment for them) and give it a go.
First up Tesco. When we lived in Montrose, Tesco was our main supermarket so we shopped there a lot and generally I was very happy with their products and prices. My nearest big store here is across the other side of town but they deliver in my area so in for a penny.... as they say.
Found their site quite easy to use, found the special offers easily and selected my shopping. Bought a large amount of yogurts and the like and opted for the green delivery (no bags except for chemical products like bleach etc) so I was doing my bit.
Prompt delivery right at the beginning of chosen time slot. Driver nice but needed a hand to carry the shopping up the path as it was coming in trays and I had to empty them quickly so he could take them away again. (this was my chosen delivery option, but it was an awful messing about)
Driver hands me my sheet "only one substitute" he says but, as I have just emptied all the trays on to my sideboard in the front hall, I have noticed that there are a few things that I didn't remember ordering.
So off he goes and I now have to transport my shopping, armfuls at a time through to my kitchen (now to be fair he would have brought the trays to my kitchen for me, but the dogs were already hyper having been charging round the living room chasing each other, and I didn't think Tesco would take kindly to having one of their drivers slobbered all over!)
Consults my delivery sheet - all present and correct, off to a good start. Checks it against my computer order - 7 substitutes!!! I know it's petty but if I want a certain flavour or brand I expect to get it. Then when I went to put away my shopping I noticed that my yogurts (all 20 of them) went out of date within 2 days!! Now my lot love yogurt (except Babes fussy sod) but even we can't eat it that quickly, after all it was supposed to be a weeks supply.
You would think that the picker would look at the list and think "there's a lot of yogurts on this list better check for long dates" Am I expecting too much? I thought the whole point of shopping on-line was to make life easier. I am disappointed and thinking I should have listened to my inner voices!
Mr Tesco you will not be getting my on-line grocery shopping again, too many substitutes without notification and very poor product picking.
Chaotic Kerri Score 5/10
First up Tesco. When we lived in Montrose, Tesco was our main supermarket so we shopped there a lot and generally I was very happy with their products and prices. My nearest big store here is across the other side of town but they deliver in my area so in for a penny.... as they say.
Found their site quite easy to use, found the special offers easily and selected my shopping. Bought a large amount of yogurts and the like and opted for the green delivery (no bags except for chemical products like bleach etc) so I was doing my bit.
Prompt delivery right at the beginning of chosen time slot. Driver nice but needed a hand to carry the shopping up the path as it was coming in trays and I had to empty them quickly so he could take them away again. (this was my chosen delivery option, but it was an awful messing about)
Driver hands me my sheet "only one substitute" he says but, as I have just emptied all the trays on to my sideboard in the front hall, I have noticed that there are a few things that I didn't remember ordering.
So off he goes and I now have to transport my shopping, armfuls at a time through to my kitchen (now to be fair he would have brought the trays to my kitchen for me, but the dogs were already hyper having been charging round the living room chasing each other, and I didn't think Tesco would take kindly to having one of their drivers slobbered all over!)
Consults my delivery sheet - all present and correct, off to a good start. Checks it against my computer order - 7 substitutes!!! I know it's petty but if I want a certain flavour or brand I expect to get it. Then when I went to put away my shopping I noticed that my yogurts (all 20 of them) went out of date within 2 days!! Now my lot love yogurt (except Babes fussy sod) but even we can't eat it that quickly, after all it was supposed to be a weeks supply.
You would think that the picker would look at the list and think "there's a lot of yogurts on this list better check for long dates" Am I expecting too much? I thought the whole point of shopping on-line was to make life easier. I am disappointed and thinking I should have listened to my inner voices!
Mr Tesco you will not be getting my on-line grocery shopping again, too many substitutes without notification and very poor product picking.
Chaotic Kerri Score 5/10
Friday, 8 January 2010
Happy 2010 everyone. I wish you a happy and healthy one.
Sorry I've been missing but my Aunt who was diagnosed with cancer died on the 7th December, and my Dad has been in and out of hospital like a bloody yo-yo. So haven't really been on line at all. I'm away to spend some time catching up on what every ones been up to so will post more later.
Have missed you guys though, hope everyone is well and not too badly affected by this bloody snow. Even the kids are pissed off with it now. And I hate to think what my fuel bill will be for this quarter.
We are now also car less since our old banger failed it's MOT. What a time to be without a car honestly. Have had to resort to online grocery shopping - that's a post on its own.
On the plus side now that all the festive shenanigans are past we can try and get back to normality - I so miss normal!
Sorry I've been missing but my Aunt who was diagnosed with cancer died on the 7th December, and my Dad has been in and out of hospital like a bloody yo-yo. So haven't really been on line at all. I'm away to spend some time catching up on what every ones been up to so will post more later.
Have missed you guys though, hope everyone is well and not too badly affected by this bloody snow. Even the kids are pissed off with it now. And I hate to think what my fuel bill will be for this quarter.
We are now also car less since our old banger failed it's MOT. What a time to be without a car honestly. Have had to resort to online grocery shopping - that's a post on its own.
On the plus side now that all the festive shenanigans are past we can try and get back to normality - I so miss normal!
Thursday, 19 November 2009
Ever wondered.......
Why the sun lightens our hair but darkens our skin?
Why women can't put on mascara with their mouth closed?
Why you don't see the headline "psychic wins lottery"?
Why "abbreviated" is such a long word?
Why it is that Doctors call what they do "practice"?
Why lemon juice is made with artificial flavour but washing up liquid is made with real lemons?
Why the man who invests all your money is called a "broker"?
Why the time of day with the slowest traffic is called the rush hour?
Why there isn't mouse flavoured cat food?
Why Noah didn't swat those two mosquitoes?
Why sheep don't shrink when it rains?
Why they are called apartments when they are all stuck together?
You know that indestructible black box used in planes - why isn't the whole plane made of that?
If flying is so safe why do they call the airport terminal?
If con is the opposite of pro, is congress the opposite of progress?
An American friend sent me these ever wondered? questions in an email so thought I'd share them. Hope they made you laugh too.
Why women can't put on mascara with their mouth closed?
Why you don't see the headline "psychic wins lottery"?
Why "abbreviated" is such a long word?
Why it is that Doctors call what they do "practice"?
Why lemon juice is made with artificial flavour but washing up liquid is made with real lemons?
Why the man who invests all your money is called a "broker"?
Why the time of day with the slowest traffic is called the rush hour?
Why there isn't mouse flavoured cat food?
Why Noah didn't swat those two mosquitoes?
Why sheep don't shrink when it rains?
Why they are called apartments when they are all stuck together?
You know that indestructible black box used in planes - why isn't the whole plane made of that?
If flying is so safe why do they call the airport terminal?
If con is the opposite of pro, is congress the opposite of progress?
An American friend sent me these ever wondered? questions in an email so thought I'd share them. Hope they made you laugh too.
Tuesday, 17 November 2009
Laugh - I nearly wet myself.........
Has anybody else seen Miranda on the Beeb. If you haven't give it a look in, it's hysterical. Comedienne Miranda Hart calls it a semi autobiographical portrayal of her life. The social ineptitude of this woman is beyond words. Well done Miranda on a brilliant piece of comedy.She desperately wants to get it on with an old friend she's fancied for years but all attempts to create a "moment" between them are thwarted, usually by her. Last night saw her stuck in a plastic child's chair, running and falling flat on her face, trying to learn to Tango (and pouncing on some poor unsuspecting customer in her shop) and being mortally embarrassed by her Mum who is trying to find her a husband in the personal ads, and keeps trying to show her photos from her nudist holiday.
I'm not doing it justice so please have a look in.
Another thing that had me in stitches last night was Kim Woodburn's challenge on "I'm a celebrity get me out of here". She was sealed in a perspex box and put under water where they dropped yabbies and cockroaches on her along with golden balls she had to open and retrieve stars from. Her conversation all the time she was in the box , telling the nasty critters "oh you stink you nasty beggars" and "if you bite me again I'll bite you back" had my sides aching with laughter. I think she's a real character anyway, and love the way she interacts with the others. Whether it's all a put on who knows but it's certainly entertaining. Good on you Kim, not bad for a 67 year old.
Don't know if I'll continue to watch the series now Jordan's arrived, I'm afraid I find her insufferable. I would have thought given her son Harvey's recent health scares she had more need to be staying out of the lime light for a while and focusing on him, but then again maybe in reality she's not the attention seeking hussy she appears to be.
Monday, 16 November 2009
Dropping like flies!
As I have previously posted my Aunt is unwell, so right now I'm visiting her nearly everyday: fetching her shopping, sorting her medication, and keeping her company.
Now my Dad seems to be getting ill. He's had the doc out several times having developed a rattle in his lungs, however now he seems to be having problems with his sugar levels too. Having had diabetes for years he is very good at monitoring his sugar levels and keeping them quite regular, but these last few days he's been all over the place. He awoke the other night feeling all funny so checked his levels and he was way down at 2.5. I'm getting quite concerned about it.
My Mother in law went in to hospital today to have her knee replaced so she is going to be needing a little extra help for a while, and my father in law has been having funny fainting fits.
My Babes is in a lot of pain again having got more protruding discs, although this time it's in his neck, and is waiting to hear back about an operation date.
To top it all Mouse has a dreadful head cold and is snuffling about the place.
I promise I am not putting anything in the water but they're dropping like flies all around me. So be warned, I may be hazardous to your health!!!!!
Now my Dad seems to be getting ill. He's had the doc out several times having developed a rattle in his lungs, however now he seems to be having problems with his sugar levels too. Having had diabetes for years he is very good at monitoring his sugar levels and keeping them quite regular, but these last few days he's been all over the place. He awoke the other night feeling all funny so checked his levels and he was way down at 2.5. I'm getting quite concerned about it.
My Mother in law went in to hospital today to have her knee replaced so she is going to be needing a little extra help for a while, and my father in law has been having funny fainting fits.
My Babes is in a lot of pain again having got more protruding discs, although this time it's in his neck, and is waiting to hear back about an operation date.
To top it all Mouse has a dreadful head cold and is snuffling about the place.
I promise I am not putting anything in the water but they're dropping like flies all around me. So be warned, I may be hazardous to your health!!!!!
Saturday, 14 November 2009
Human Behaviour
I was standing at the bus stop the other day, and just a couple of yards away a water main cover had been oozing mud (granted, due to all the rain recently it looked more like oil) on the pavement. There wasn't heaps of it but it was a small shallow puddle.
Anyway, as I stood there. watching the people walking by I was amazed by how many people looked at the puddle and then looked upwards as if this black slick was a deposit from a huge bird or somehow some giant tap was dripping on the pavement.
Why do we do that? Is it that we are so taken aback by the sudden appearance of something out of the norm that we suspect divine or alien interference of some kind? Do we suspect someone has thrown it out of a window, or that someone is hanging out the window watching us to see our reaction?
I also found it fascinating the lengths people would go to, to avoid standing in the puddle - most didn't just step over it, but stepped to the sides as far as they could get away from it - was this in case it should suddenly leap from the ground and attack them?
In the 10 mins I stood waiting only one couple walked through it and they were so deep in conversation they didn't notice until it was too late, but even they looked at the puddle then looked skywards!
What bizzarre things we are!
Anyway, as I stood there. watching the people walking by I was amazed by how many people looked at the puddle and then looked upwards as if this black slick was a deposit from a huge bird or somehow some giant tap was dripping on the pavement.
Why do we do that? Is it that we are so taken aback by the sudden appearance of something out of the norm that we suspect divine or alien interference of some kind? Do we suspect someone has thrown it out of a window, or that someone is hanging out the window watching us to see our reaction?
I also found it fascinating the lengths people would go to, to avoid standing in the puddle - most didn't just step over it, but stepped to the sides as far as they could get away from it - was this in case it should suddenly leap from the ground and attack them?
In the 10 mins I stood waiting only one couple walked through it and they were so deep in conversation they didn't notice until it was too late, but even they looked at the puddle then looked skywards!
What bizzarre things we are!
Monday, 2 November 2009
Sweet Sixteen
OMG last night whilst surfing the channels with Mouse came across a thing on MTV called "My Sweet 16" the gist of which seems to be rich kids organising and having a 16th birthday party.
Turned out the first girl featured was actually turning 15. This mega beatch first had a party to give out her invites. For this she was punted (or whatever you do with a gondola) around a lake dressed up to the nines whilst she repeatedly swore and bitched about being in the boat, even though it had been her idea. Then having returned to her garden she used a megaphone (and it was a regular sized garden) to call out her friends to come out to accept their invitations, which by the way were in DVD form so they could have keepsakes!!.
Her party theme was an old style Venetian Court for which she wanted jesters, so needless to say 2 little guys came out and showed off their dancing skills much to the girl and her friends amusement (personally I thought it was insulting to the guys but they were obviously happy to oblige).
Then at the actual party she had several (one assumes) close friends who made up her courtiers. She was so rude and nasty to them screaming at them to get in line and hold their masks at the exact position she wanted, bitching because they were laughing at the outfits she'd made them wear. Mouse said if her friend behaved like that she would have gone home and left her to it.
She had one of the jesters dress as a cop and perform a striptease down to his boxers (15 years old - what is her Mother thinking). Then Mum and Dad having spent $300,000 on this party gave her what she asked for as a gift a term studying in a school in Paris. How she thank dear old Mum and Dad - snatched the microphone from Mum and yelled "Hey Mother F*****s I'm going to France" Who are these people?
Mouse and I were utterly astounded even though the swearing was bleeped I'm sure even Mouse knew what she was saying. Mouse was disgusted by her behaviour, one wonders if the girls friends behave the same or if they just put up with it because she's a rich brat.
The best thing about the whole programme was the photo shoot she wanted for her birthday pictures. She had this poor horse wearing a horn head piece to make it look like a unicorn so she could be a fantasy princess. The horse didn't like it (how strange!) so threw its head back in an attempt to dislodge it and smacked her in the face with the horn. It was so funny and you couldn't help thinking well done horse. Needless to say, she wanted off the horse right away and bitched that it was a horrible horse and had ruined her photos.
When these parents watch back the programme do they think OMG we've created a monster or do they just think WOW our baby's on MTV, sadly I think it'll be the latter!
Turned out the first girl featured was actually turning 15. This mega beatch first had a party to give out her invites. For this she was punted (or whatever you do with a gondola) around a lake dressed up to the nines whilst she repeatedly swore and bitched about being in the boat, even though it had been her idea. Then having returned to her garden she used a megaphone (and it was a regular sized garden) to call out her friends to come out to accept their invitations, which by the way were in DVD form so they could have keepsakes!!.
Her party theme was an old style Venetian Court for which she wanted jesters, so needless to say 2 little guys came out and showed off their dancing skills much to the girl and her friends amusement (personally I thought it was insulting to the guys but they were obviously happy to oblige).
Then at the actual party she had several (one assumes) close friends who made up her courtiers. She was so rude and nasty to them screaming at them to get in line and hold their masks at the exact position she wanted, bitching because they were laughing at the outfits she'd made them wear. Mouse said if her friend behaved like that she would have gone home and left her to it.
She had one of the jesters dress as a cop and perform a striptease down to his boxers (15 years old - what is her Mother thinking). Then Mum and Dad having spent $300,000 on this party gave her what she asked for as a gift a term studying in a school in Paris. How she thank dear old Mum and Dad - snatched the microphone from Mum and yelled "Hey Mother F*****s I'm going to France" Who are these people?
Mouse and I were utterly astounded even though the swearing was bleeped I'm sure even Mouse knew what she was saying. Mouse was disgusted by her behaviour, one wonders if the girls friends behave the same or if they just put up with it because she's a rich brat.
The best thing about the whole programme was the photo shoot she wanted for her birthday pictures. She had this poor horse wearing a horn head piece to make it look like a unicorn so she could be a fantasy princess. The horse didn't like it (how strange!) so threw its head back in an attempt to dislodge it and smacked her in the face with the horn. It was so funny and you couldn't help thinking well done horse. Needless to say, she wanted off the horse right away and bitched that it was a horrible horse and had ruined her photos.
When these parents watch back the programme do they think OMG we've created a monster or do they just think WOW our baby's on MTV, sadly I think it'll be the latter!
Friday, 30 October 2009
Another email questionnaire has been doing the rounds and since I've been so hectic and not had time for posting, I thought I'd cheat and use it. Feel free to join in.
1. Were you named after anyone?
Yes, my Mum's best friend who died whilst she was expecting me
2. When did you last cry?
2 days ago, whilst watching a movie
3. Do you like your handwriting?
Yes, when it's neat
4. Do you have kids?
Yes, 3
5. If you were another person would you be friends with you?
Yes, I hope so
6. Do you use sarcasm a lot?
Sometimes
7. Do you still have your tonsils?
No
8. Would you do a Bungee Jump?
NO
9. What is your favourite cereal?
Probably weetabix
10. Do you untie your shoes before you take them off?
Only trainers have laces and no
11. Do you think you are strong?
Emotionally yes
12. Favourite ice-cream?
Tiger tail ( a liquorice flavoured Baskin & Robbins)
13. What is the first thing you notice about people?
Their hair
14. Red or Pink?
Red
15. What is the least favourite thing about yourself?
Weight
16. Who do you miss the most?
My Mum - every day
17. What colour shoes are you wearing?
White trainers
18. What was the last thing you ate?
Scampi ( last nights tea)
19. If you were a crayon what colour would you be?
Blue
20. Favourite smells?
Blue Moon roses, Oriental lilies and Parma Violet sweets
21. Who was the last person you spoke to, on the phone?
Mother-in-law
22. Favourite sports to watch?
Gymnastics and figure skating
23. Eye colour?
Brown and occasionally blue!
24. Hair colour?
Various - out of a bottle
25. Last beauty treatment?
Eyebrow wax
26. Do you wear contacts?
Yes, clear and blue for fun sometimes!
27. Favourite food?
Scampi
28. Scary movies or happy endings?
Both, but I need a cushion for scary movies
29. Last movie you watched?
Marley & me
30. What colour of shirt are you wearing?
Black
31. Summer or Winter?
Summer
32. Hugs or Kisses?
Both
33. Favourite dessert?
Probably cheesecake
34. What book are you reading at the moment?
Carrot cake murder by Joanne Fluke
35. What is on your mouse pad?
Star wars X-wing fighter!!!!!!!!
36. What is your wallpaper?
Picture of my Mum
37. What did you watch on TV last night?
Bones
38. Last piece of music listened to?
In the shadows by The Rasmus
39. Rolling Stones or Beatles?
Beatles
40. What is the farthest you have been from home?
Louisiana, USA
41. Do you have a special talent?
I can do the splits!?!
42. What is your ring tone?
Gungan March from Star Wars (sad I know) used to be Marilyn Manson!
43. Message Alert?
Yoda - Message from the dark side there is! (even more sad)
44. Favourite sound?
Laughter especially Napkin's she always cracks me up.
Well that's it hope you got a laugh.
1. Were you named after anyone?
Yes, my Mum's best friend who died whilst she was expecting me
2. When did you last cry?
2 days ago, whilst watching a movie
3. Do you like your handwriting?
Yes, when it's neat
4. Do you have kids?
Yes, 3
5. If you were another person would you be friends with you?
Yes, I hope so
6. Do you use sarcasm a lot?
Sometimes
7. Do you still have your tonsils?
No
8. Would you do a Bungee Jump?
NO
9. What is your favourite cereal?
Probably weetabix
10. Do you untie your shoes before you take them off?
Only trainers have laces and no
11. Do you think you are strong?
Emotionally yes
12. Favourite ice-cream?
Tiger tail ( a liquorice flavoured Baskin & Robbins)
13. What is the first thing you notice about people?
Their hair
14. Red or Pink?
Red
15. What is the least favourite thing about yourself?
Weight
16. Who do you miss the most?
My Mum - every day
17. What colour shoes are you wearing?
White trainers
18. What was the last thing you ate?
Scampi ( last nights tea)
19. If you were a crayon what colour would you be?
Blue
20. Favourite smells?
Blue Moon roses, Oriental lilies and Parma Violet sweets
21. Who was the last person you spoke to, on the phone?
Mother-in-law
22. Favourite sports to watch?
Gymnastics and figure skating
23. Eye colour?
Brown and occasionally blue!
24. Hair colour?
Various - out of a bottle
25. Last beauty treatment?
Eyebrow wax
26. Do you wear contacts?
Yes, clear and blue for fun sometimes!
27. Favourite food?
Scampi
28. Scary movies or happy endings?
Both, but I need a cushion for scary movies
29. Last movie you watched?
Marley & me
30. What colour of shirt are you wearing?
Black
31. Summer or Winter?
Summer
32. Hugs or Kisses?
Both
33. Favourite dessert?
Probably cheesecake
34. What book are you reading at the moment?
Carrot cake murder by Joanne Fluke
35. What is on your mouse pad?
Star wars X-wing fighter!!!!!!!!
36. What is your wallpaper?
Picture of my Mum
37. What did you watch on TV last night?
Bones
38. Last piece of music listened to?
In the shadows by The Rasmus
39. Rolling Stones or Beatles?
Beatles
40. What is the farthest you have been from home?
Louisiana, USA
41. Do you have a special talent?
I can do the splits!?!
42. What is your ring tone?
Gungan March from Star Wars (sad I know) used to be Marilyn Manson!
43. Message Alert?
Yoda - Message from the dark side there is! (even more sad)
44. Favourite sound?
Laughter especially Napkin's she always cracks me up.
Well that's it hope you got a laugh.
Saturday, 17 October 2009
What a difference a day makes......
.......24 little hours.
Wednesday night off to bed all is well. Thursday morning awoken by the phone at 7a.m. Voice screaming Kerri, Kerri down the phone. After a few startled seconds realised it was my Aunt she had fallen and been unable to get up. Rushed up there, got her picked up and thought she may have broken her leg. Phoned NHS24 , yadda yadda yadda ambulance arrives off to hospital for checks.
Followed her up in the car, am asked to come through and sit with her as she is quite agitated. By now they were suspecting a mini stroke had caused her to fall and they were sending her for a brain scan to confirm. 30 minutes later Doc says "good news its not a stroke but bad news there is a secondary tumour in her brain." Whoa, back up there, what?
How very strange that conversation is - we both understand perfectly well what she is saying as she is telling us but it's so surreal. Doc is wonderful, tells us she knows it's a big shock and do we have any questions? What do you ask? The thing you want to ask is how long?
My Aunt is quite matter of fact, "these things happen" she says. We all knew it'd probably be cancer that would get her in the end, after all she's been a heavy smoker for years but still it seems unexpected.
People may criticise me for sharing this, but I find it quite cathartic to write it down. I'm not looking for sympathy, I just want to put it out of my head for a bit then take it in again more slowly, if that makes sense. It does to me anyway, and I guess that's all that really matters. We are lucky in that we have time, all may it be short, so many people do not. The adage "live each day as if it's your last" seems to have renewed meaning.
There may be some tears, but certainly not from her, it is not in her nature to feel sorry for herself, and I am more than willing to keep laughing with her right till the end.
Wednesday night off to bed all is well. Thursday morning awoken by the phone at 7a.m. Voice screaming Kerri, Kerri down the phone. After a few startled seconds realised it was my Aunt she had fallen and been unable to get up. Rushed up there, got her picked up and thought she may have broken her leg. Phoned NHS24 , yadda yadda yadda ambulance arrives off to hospital for checks.
Followed her up in the car, am asked to come through and sit with her as she is quite agitated. By now they were suspecting a mini stroke had caused her to fall and they were sending her for a brain scan to confirm. 30 minutes later Doc says "good news its not a stroke but bad news there is a secondary tumour in her brain." Whoa, back up there, what?
How very strange that conversation is - we both understand perfectly well what she is saying as she is telling us but it's so surreal. Doc is wonderful, tells us she knows it's a big shock and do we have any questions? What do you ask? The thing you want to ask is how long?
My Aunt is quite matter of fact, "these things happen" she says. We all knew it'd probably be cancer that would get her in the end, after all she's been a heavy smoker for years but still it seems unexpected.
People may criticise me for sharing this, but I find it quite cathartic to write it down. I'm not looking for sympathy, I just want to put it out of my head for a bit then take it in again more slowly, if that makes sense. It does to me anyway, and I guess that's all that really matters. We are lucky in that we have time, all may it be short, so many people do not. The adage "live each day as if it's your last" seems to have renewed meaning.
There may be some tears, but certainly not from her, it is not in her nature to feel sorry for herself, and I am more than willing to keep laughing with her right till the end.
Sunday, 11 October 2009
Recovering.....
Not from my birthday celebrations, but from another bloody bout of cold/flu/sore throat stuff. I seem to be getting more than my fair share this year, think I better get some extra vitamins inside me.
I have been miserable all week, missing out on 2 meetings, a meal with a friend, a trip to the pictures and a friends 80's theme 40th birthday party which I was really looking forward to. It's the busiest my social calendar has been in ages and I missed the lot.
However I am not going to moan on heaps, I have managed to read 2 books this week, both Joanne Fluke murder mysteries. I really enjoy them, they are an easy read with believable characters and a good amount of suspects to keep me guessing for a bit. I usually do figure out who the killer is early on but then I tend to do that with most mysteries.
Also had heaps of postcards this week and some letters from my new found pen pals in Finland, Germany, and America. They really cheered me up.
Thanks to GGOM by the way, for posting about sky player, after a bit of palaver have managed to download some of the episodes from Season 4 of Bones that I missed. Enjoyed opener of Season 5 too, so glad to have it back. What about True Blood folks? - I'm still undecided will give it a couple of weeks. Don't think I'm going to enjoy the new Stargate Universe though, I found it a bit too confusing, however it could just be because I was poorly so will give it another chance too.
Saw a quirky little movie this week too from Lovefilm called "Is anybody there" with Michael Caine. It's about a young boy who lives with his parents in a old peoples home and how disconnected they all are. Cue Michael Caine as a new but reluctant resident who befriends the little boy and tries to bring some life into the place. It was endearing, funny, sad and at times painful but worth the watch. Babes even enjoyed it and I didn't think it would be his type of film at all.
I have been miserable all week, missing out on 2 meetings, a meal with a friend, a trip to the pictures and a friends 80's theme 40th birthday party which I was really looking forward to. It's the busiest my social calendar has been in ages and I missed the lot.
However I am not going to moan on heaps, I have managed to read 2 books this week, both Joanne Fluke murder mysteries. I really enjoy them, they are an easy read with believable characters and a good amount of suspects to keep me guessing for a bit. I usually do figure out who the killer is early on but then I tend to do that with most mysteries.
Also had heaps of postcards this week and some letters from my new found pen pals in Finland, Germany, and America. They really cheered me up.
Thanks to GGOM by the way, for posting about sky player, after a bit of palaver have managed to download some of the episodes from Season 4 of Bones that I missed. Enjoyed opener of Season 5 too, so glad to have it back. What about True Blood folks? - I'm still undecided will give it a couple of weeks. Don't think I'm going to enjoy the new Stargate Universe though, I found it a bit too confusing, however it could just be because I was poorly so will give it another chance too.
Saw a quirky little movie this week too from Lovefilm called "Is anybody there" with Michael Caine. It's about a young boy who lives with his parents in a old peoples home and how disconnected they all are. Cue Michael Caine as a new but reluctant resident who befriends the little boy and tries to bring some life into the place. It was endearing, funny, sad and at times painful but worth the watch. Babes even enjoyed it and I didn't think it would be his type of film at all.
Wednesday, 30 September 2009
44
Today is my Birthday so I thought I'd show you some of my lovely gifts. I got beautiful handmade cards from my kids and some money plus
gorgeous bag from my bruv Ewan, Sandra, Holly, Rhea and Fern
excellent book I wanted from Babes
yummy jelly snakes and turkish delight from Mouse
neat candy bouquet from Peanut
and my favourite a set of vouchers from Napkin, which I can trade in at a time of my choosing. An excellent gift idea because its so personal and it didn't cost her a penny (she is a poor student after all) She also bought me a bag of my favourite jelly babies but I'm afraid I've scoffed all of them already!!
lovely body scrub set from my Uncle Billy
gorgeous bag from my bruv Ewan, Sandra, Holly, Rhea and Fern
excellent book I wanted from Babes
yummy jelly snakes and turkish delight from Mouse
neat candy bouquet from Peanut
and my favourite a set of vouchers from Napkin, which I can trade in at a time of my choosing. An excellent gift idea because its so personal and it didn't cost her a penny (she is a poor student after all) She also bought me a bag of my favourite jelly babies but I'm afraid I've scoffed all of them already!!First and Last
So reports for duty on Tuesday, have to tell them how much money I have on me (security?) am given a key card so as to be able to operate the till. I say hello to another member of staff who asks me if I can see to the magazine returns (no problem have done this hundreds of times in previous jobs). Go behind the counter to stack some returns and the staff member says "cheerio I'm off to do some shopping."
That's it I'm on my own!. There is a supervisor on duty but she is through the back in the office "just buzz if you need me". WTF - Is this the norm nowadays? I would never have expected someone to cope on their own on the first day when I trained staff. I'm all for not looking over someones shoulder, and allowing them to get on with it but I felt as if I'd been thrown overboard without a life jacket.
The store was really busy and I got myself so worked up trying to serve everyone quickly so as not to get queues building up. I was buzzing the supervisor every 5 mins it felt like and people were getting so impatient. I kept apologizing and saying it was my first day could they please bear with me (until I was told not to tell customers it was my first day because they might take advantage of me?)
Some customers were changing their minds about what they wanted, they had some cigarettes on special, and after you'd scanned the brand they'd asked for they would say "Oh whats that ones, I'll have them instead" not really a problem you'd think but I'd have to buzz again to get an entry voided. (we are not allowed to do it ourselves).
Didn't get my break till 3.45 and even then only got 5 mins. I came out at 5p.m and thought right never again.
Perhaps I am being a big girls blouse and perhaps I am not in touch with how things are in the workplace but quite frankly I don't care. I would never treat a trainee member of staff like that so why should I accept it. The staff I met were friendly enough, but the job is obviously not for me!
That's it I'm on my own!. There is a supervisor on duty but she is through the back in the office "just buzz if you need me". WTF - Is this the norm nowadays? I would never have expected someone to cope on their own on the first day when I trained staff. I'm all for not looking over someones shoulder, and allowing them to get on with it but I felt as if I'd been thrown overboard without a life jacket.
The store was really busy and I got myself so worked up trying to serve everyone quickly so as not to get queues building up. I was buzzing the supervisor every 5 mins it felt like and people were getting so impatient. I kept apologizing and saying it was my first day could they please bear with me (until I was told not to tell customers it was my first day because they might take advantage of me?)
Some customers were changing their minds about what they wanted, they had some cigarettes on special, and after you'd scanned the brand they'd asked for they would say "Oh whats that ones, I'll have them instead" not really a problem you'd think but I'd have to buzz again to get an entry voided. (we are not allowed to do it ourselves).
Didn't get my break till 3.45 and even then only got 5 mins. I came out at 5p.m and thought right never again.
Perhaps I am being a big girls blouse and perhaps I am not in touch with how things are in the workplace but quite frankly I don't care. I would never treat a trainee member of staff like that so why should I accept it. The staff I met were friendly enough, but the job is obviously not for me!
Training
OK in on Monday for 4 hours training which consisted of 2 hours on selling age restricted products (completing a booklet), then being shown round the front and back of the store. Then the rest of the time on tills (well till as only one was working).
Struggled to get my head round it as the experienced member of staff was so quick. The till has a prompter if you sell an age restricted product (store has an under 25 policy so, even if you look 18 unless you look over 25 you must have ID). I get the point of this and on the whole most regular customers know and understand their policy, and are happy to comply, but there are those who clearly look over 16 or 18 but have no ID and they can get quite pissed when refused.
They also have one of these pay point machines. I really struggled with that. I don't consider myself slow, in fact I'm usually quite a quick learner, but you can do so many different things with this machine. You have to push different buttons according to what the customer wants, phone top up , pay a bill, put money on gas cards, money on these funny fork like things that go into electricity meters, debit card payments, cash back.
Then there's the lottery machine, all singing, all dancing, nobody actually came in to buy the lottery so I couldn't really get proper training on it.
Never mind Tuesday is my first day so I'm sure whoever I'm on with will help me..........
Struggled to get my head round it as the experienced member of staff was so quick. The till has a prompter if you sell an age restricted product (store has an under 25 policy so, even if you look 18 unless you look over 25 you must have ID). I get the point of this and on the whole most regular customers know and understand their policy, and are happy to comply, but there are those who clearly look over 16 or 18 but have no ID and they can get quite pissed when refused.
They also have one of these pay point machines. I really struggled with that. I don't consider myself slow, in fact I'm usually quite a quick learner, but you can do so many different things with this machine. You have to push different buttons according to what the customer wants, phone top up , pay a bill, put money on gas cards, money on these funny fork like things that go into electricity meters, debit card payments, cash back.
Then there's the lottery machine, all singing, all dancing, nobody actually came in to buy the lottery so I couldn't really get proper training on it.
Never mind Tuesday is my first day so I'm sure whoever I'm on with will help me..........
Saturday, 26 September 2009
I got the job!!
I got a call to say I've got the job, and can I go in for training on Monday. So pleased with myself, have now got to go and buy a pair of smart black trousers (shopping yay!) to wear, they will supply the polo shirt but I can wear my red blouse for now.
It is exciting and terrifying at the same time. When I got pregnant with Peanut, I left full time employment and office work, after that I only ever worked part time (off and on) mostly shop work. However, I haven't worked in a shop since 2004 when I went to college, then on to Uni.
I am sure I will pick it up again easily, it's hardly rocket science, but its the thought of the unknown again that scares me. I enjoy working with the general public though and because it's a local shop I will know a lot of the customers.
It's another goal completed on my 101 list too.
It is exciting and terrifying at the same time. When I got pregnant with Peanut, I left full time employment and office work, after that I only ever worked part time (off and on) mostly shop work. However, I haven't worked in a shop since 2004 when I went to college, then on to Uni.
I am sure I will pick it up again easily, it's hardly rocket science, but its the thought of the unknown again that scares me. I enjoy working with the general public though and because it's a local shop I will know a lot of the customers.
It's another goal completed on my 101 list too.
Friday, 25 September 2009
Pea soup from a chicken........
Anyone else remember that advert for stock cubes or was it just a Scottish one. There were a whole series of them I think. The wife was called Elspeth I think and there was something to do with a hen night and Tom Jones' "What's new pussycat" but I remember the tag line Pea and ham from a chicken , now that's clever!
Anyway enough of this rubbish, I just wanted to post that I'd made pea soup on Wednesday night and it was delicious - 2 ham stock cubes and a bag of frozen peas what could be simpler.
Got a call yesterday to go for an interview for a job I applied for ages ago. Interview went well so hopefully I'll be successful. It's only 10 hours a week in my local shop but it's something.
Anyway enough of this rubbish, I just wanted to post that I'd made pea soup on Wednesday night and it was delicious - 2 ham stock cubes and a bag of frozen peas what could be simpler.
Got a call yesterday to go for an interview for a job I applied for ages ago. Interview went well so hopefully I'll be successful. It's only 10 hours a week in my local shop but it's something.
Tuesday, 22 September 2009
Soup
Shoestring Alley has posted a lovely recipe for soup which I am going to try but it reminded me of my first attempt at soup making which I though I would share with you.
My Nana and Mum were both great soup makers so when Babes and I moved into our first (owned) flat. My Nana gave me her recipe for Scotch Broth. A relatively simple recipe and having soaked my pulses overnight and rinsed them, I put all my ingredients into my humongous soup pan and put it on at a slow simmer.
Now being the smart (not) person that I was, I thought, it'll be OK to leave it whilst, I just pop round to the shop and get a loaf, then Babes can have a lovely plate of soup when he comes in from work. The shop is just a few doors down and it'll just take me minute. Of course when I get to the shop I meet an old neighbour who wants to know every detail that's happened in our lives in the last 10 years. Not wanting to be rude, I stand chatting, trying to make my excuses and escape but always being asked another question.
Eventually, her bus comes and I can run home to my soup. I open the flat door to a cloud of steam and rush into the kitchen to switch off the gas. I open the window and as the steam clears I notice that my walls are not only wet with condensation but the super "postbox red" paint I had lovingly decorated my kitchen with is running down the walls in streaks.
Needless to say I've never left a gas on again, but my poor kitchen never recovered and had to be repainted. Oh and as for the soup it was disgusting, just a big stodgy mush. To this day I have never made Scotch Broth again.
My Nana and Mum were both great soup makers so when Babes and I moved into our first (owned) flat. My Nana gave me her recipe for Scotch Broth. A relatively simple recipe and having soaked my pulses overnight and rinsed them, I put all my ingredients into my humongous soup pan and put it on at a slow simmer.
Now being the smart (not) person that I was, I thought, it'll be OK to leave it whilst, I just pop round to the shop and get a loaf, then Babes can have a lovely plate of soup when he comes in from work. The shop is just a few doors down and it'll just take me minute. Of course when I get to the shop I meet an old neighbour who wants to know every detail that's happened in our lives in the last 10 years. Not wanting to be rude, I stand chatting, trying to make my excuses and escape but always being asked another question.
Eventually, her bus comes and I can run home to my soup. I open the flat door to a cloud of steam and rush into the kitchen to switch off the gas. I open the window and as the steam clears I notice that my walls are not only wet with condensation but the super "postbox red" paint I had lovingly decorated my kitchen with is running down the walls in streaks.
Needless to say I've never left a gas on again, but my poor kitchen never recovered and had to be repainted. Oh and as for the soup it was disgusting, just a big stodgy mush. To this day I have never made Scotch Broth again.
Monday, 21 September 2009
Turned over a new leaf....
OK its more tree than leaf but you get the ideaMy Mother used to always say just "turn over a leaf" when something had gone wrong or upset me, or if she wanted me to change a behaviour, like an untidy bedroom. In other words put it behind you and move on. So I am turning over my new leaf today (granted it's been turned over so many times it's in danger of disintegrating but who's counting)
I weighed myself yesterday and, whilst it is nowhere near where I need it to be, it was not quite as bad as I expected. In fact I'm actually 2lb down from what I was last time so that's actually a boost.
I have taken a couple of days to list everything I want to do and a timescale, a realistic one, that is achievable. I love making lists. Having done that, I am now full of positive energy and raring to go (it's that new leaf I'm telling you, it's got magical powers!) (and no it's not one of THOSE leaf's !)
Menu Planning done, shopping list done, list of things I want to achieve each day this week done, I am so organised it's like a military operation. So "Operation Arse Kick" has commenced with much approval from General Babes, who says the watch word is Proactive not Reactive. This may be a long campaign but we will be victorious!!! (Oooh I feel all Winston Churchill)
So once more into the breach or something like that anyway.
Wednesday, 16 September 2009
Motivation.......
...Where is it?
I am still CHAOTIC, I am still FAT or to be truthful I'm MORBIDLY OBESE, still trying to RESTORE ORDER, and still trying to GET ON THE RIGHT PATH with my life.
What happened to my enthusiasm for life. Why have I settled in to this mundane existence again? Where has the real Kerri gone? I used to be vivacious, I used to jump out of bed in the mornings eager to meet the challenges of the day. I had a purpose.
I've always been a bit chaotic but not like this, things are getting out of hand. Had visits from Shopaholly, her sister Rhea and my brother the other day. Rhea was full of motivation for all the plans they have for the farm. She acts like the Project Manager geeing them all up, organising them, and putting in to action all the ideas. Holly was doing her best (bless her) to motivate me health wise, and my brother was his usual self, full of fun and winding the bloody dogs up.
I love when they visit, and don't see enough of them, but we are going to try and rectify that. I suggested that we all get together for a pot luck day. Everyone brings something either, starter, main or dessert (Holly could bring her delicious cupcakes) and we can just chill and have a good natter. Hopefully the first one will be soon.
That horoscope trait about hating to be alone is so true. I miss interacting with people. I become bored with my own company too easily and I need stimulation or I just shut down.
Think I'm going to take a couple of days, and plan how to get myself back on track, re-motivated and try to find my lost mojo, as it were. It is my birthday soon, and I REFUSE to let this downward spiral continue.
I am still CHAOTIC, I am still FAT or to be truthful I'm MORBIDLY OBESE, still trying to RESTORE ORDER, and still trying to GET ON THE RIGHT PATH with my life.
What happened to my enthusiasm for life. Why have I settled in to this mundane existence again? Where has the real Kerri gone? I used to be vivacious, I used to jump out of bed in the mornings eager to meet the challenges of the day. I had a purpose.
I've always been a bit chaotic but not like this, things are getting out of hand. Had visits from Shopaholly, her sister Rhea and my brother the other day. Rhea was full of motivation for all the plans they have for the farm. She acts like the Project Manager geeing them all up, organising them, and putting in to action all the ideas. Holly was doing her best (bless her) to motivate me health wise, and my brother was his usual self, full of fun and winding the bloody dogs up.
I love when they visit, and don't see enough of them, but we are going to try and rectify that. I suggested that we all get together for a pot luck day. Everyone brings something either, starter, main or dessert (Holly could bring her delicious cupcakes) and we can just chill and have a good natter. Hopefully the first one will be soon.
That horoscope trait about hating to be alone is so true. I miss interacting with people. I become bored with my own company too easily and I need stimulation or I just shut down.
Think I'm going to take a couple of days, and plan how to get myself back on track, re-motivated and try to find my lost mojo, as it were. It is my birthday soon, and I REFUSE to let this downward spiral continue.
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