Saving the Vorwuls since 3289

It was another lovely spring day yesterday. As James had a day off we headed to Beamish again and continued on our plan to visit the parts of the museum you can only reach by foot. Including yesterday, a restored farmhouse which had the most adorable sunbathing pig, and a field of hens and turkeys. Which led to the turkey situation.

James thinks he can do a great turkey impression. Now, I'm no turkey expert so can't say if it is or not, but it is enthusiastic and loud, and he was talking to the turkeys, causing a little girl who was also watching them to give him a very dubious look. She eventually went off with her dad, and we wandered off too.

Later in the day, got on one of the restored buses, and guess who gets on? The little girl and her dad. Now the buses are small and a lot of people got on, so the dad was practically sitting on my lap next to me with the girl sitting on his knee. James was sitting opposite us, and the dad went, 'oh look, it's the turkey man' Which cracked me up, as the girl still looked very dubious.

Later still, onto a different bus, and who was sitting on the seat opposite? The girl and her dad, I'm sure they must have thought we were stalking them at that point. We had a bit of a chat, and then they got off at the next stop, no doubt hoping they'd never see turkey man again *g*

Another thing that happened yesterday. There was a very loud knock at the door, James looked out the window, and it was a policeman. As it was heading toward seven I was already in my PJs, feet up in the recliner and ready for some TV while James was relaxing too. Of course that changed in an instant because I don't know about others, but seeing the police at the door always makes me think worst case scenarios.

Thankfully, it wasn't. He was there to take a statement about Rosie's window being broken. I was surprised it took so long, or that we weren't given any warning he was coming, but it does sound like they've got the investigation in hand.

To end, have a Kevin photo. This is the view I now get when I'm in the bath. There used to be nice succulents and ornaments up there.

We went to see Novocaine at Metrocentre on Saturday. It wasn't my choice, and it wouldn't have been my first pick to watch, but it was okay. It was funnier than I thought it would be, but I still spent a lot of time with my eyes shut, and the main plot was very thin. So while it wasn't as bad as I expected, I wouldn't actually want to see it again.

Apparently, one of the ladies from class saw me there, but didn't say hello as I was talking. I just hope I didn't walk past and totally blank her. Sometimes, I'm terrible at not recognising people when they're away from the places I know them from.

Sunday was Mother's Day, so we visited my MiL and went to see Corey. That was an interesting visit as just before we arrived water had started pouring through his bathroom ceiling light. He lives in a house turned into two flats, and it seems the waste pipe had come loose when the family above drained their bath, so the water came through Corey's ceiling. On the plus side, both flats have the same landlord and he had a repairman out within an hour.

The clocks had also gone forward that day, but I don't actually mind the spring forward time change, especially as there was no alarm on a Sunday.

Yesterday, I just wasn't feeling going to class for some reason. I even considered not going but in the end pulled myself together, and as usual enjoyed it, and felt much better for going. The talk bit did overrun by quite a bit, so we only ended up doing 20 mins of exercise, so just two quick circuits. Including the three level step of DOOM!

Walked home and chatted to my friend most of the way -- and the fact I've made a friend there who wants to walk home with me continues to be happy making -- finished tidying when I got back, including drying a wash on the line -- hello warm sunshine, I have missed you -- and was looking forward to a lobster bath when Kayleigh messaged asking if I could watch Bodhi for an hour.

I said yes, but when Kayleigh and Lucy finally brought Bodhi she was exhausted after a full day at nursery, including an early breakfast club start, so she refused to stay and insisted she was going to the shop with her mams. In the end they had to take her, and then Lucy sent me a photo of Bodhi fast asleep in her car seat, saying she'd dropped off literally seconds after being strapped in.

I assume one stayed in the car with B while the other shopped, as they had to go shopping as poor Tiny the tortoise's enclosure had been infested with ants. They think they'd hatched from sand/pulp stuff he lives on, which is a horrible thought. So, they'd gone out to get all new bedding, pulp/sand etc.

It was a Bodhisitting day today, so we ended up at Moobears, where the mascot of the day was Bluey, which caused great excitement as Bluey is one of Bodhi's favourites right now. Then she got upset when Bingo wasn't there, too. But we did get some good photos, including James dancing with Bodhi and Bluey, which was adorable. We also booked Bodes in for the Easter Monday Tinkerbell party, so that should be fun.

We've been taking advantage of our Unlimited Odeon card and saw Marching Powder last week, which was pretty much Danny Dyer playing Danny Dyer and seemed to have a ratio of one swear word for every four other words. Then yesterday we saw Snow White, which was okay. I enjoyed all the singing and dancing scenes, and it was very pretty to look at, but nothing I'd make an effort to watch again.

Thursday it was another lovely spring day so we took advantage of our yearly pass and headed to Beamish, the open air living museum. This time we walked to a part we normally miss out as it's up a big hill and can only be reached by foot, but we were both glad we'd made the effort as the hall and tavern were lovely to visit. Plus, there were two adorable ginger pigs to admire. By the end of that visit, we'd managed a three-mile walk, which was pleasing.

Nikita from Strictly is doing his solo tour at the moment and reviews have been great. Sadly, it's not coming to Sunderland, and the Newcastle showing is sold out. Which is typical, as the rave reviews make me want tickets so badly. Especially after seeing Nikita give Vito a lap dance as part of his latest show. I mean, come on, that outfit, that dance. I need to see! I even got close to buying tickets for the Edinburgh show, but sadly, that's next week when I'm cat and tortoise sitting, so an overnight stay somewhere isn't possible.

I may have gone to the giant charity shop again, and may have bought more clothes. Included in that was an amazing wool blend coat which is thick, has multiple pockets and is really good quality. Normally I would have passed it by as it was priced at £20, but there was a 25% discount on all the winter coats, so £15 for something that really is good quality was a steal. Though, when I got it home I did discover it's dry-clean only which is a pain.

I also got the greenhouse tidied when it was nice, so everything there is good to go once the weather gets more consistent. Because right now we're having some lovely days, but also frosty nights. But as soon as we're having more sun, the greenhouse is ready.

I enjoyed weight management class today, especially the exercise part

I went to Durham with James on Saturday, taking the bus to get there. It was a chilly but sunny day, and I enjoyed the walk, and couldn't resist a look into the Donkey Sanctuary charity shop where they sell every item for £1. I came out with three new to me long line tops and at this point I really need to go through my wardrobe and sort out my clothes. That or ban myself from charity shop buying.

We decided to eat out, and I had very delicious jackfruit fajitas, then as we had time before the film started, went to the Chinese Supermarket next to Odeon where I continued my kimchi tasting and bought myself some more. I was actually surprised at just how many kinds they had, and was tempted by a radish kimchi, but in the end went for the bargain of a two for one deal. I've tried it since then, and it's not as liquid as the first kind I tried, but still just as delicious.

The film we went to see was Mickey 17 and I liked it for the most part. It was interesting sci-fi and Robert Pattinson was great in it, and the parallels to current politics were obvious, with Mark Ruffalo playing the main idiotic politician with very Trump like mannerisms. The plot got a bit bumpy towards the end, but it kept my attention throughout. What I didn't like was, and I'll cut for

Rosie the car gets her new glass tomorrow, which I'm glad about as a bin bag and lots of tape doesn't make for a very secure vehicle. Typically though, the appointment to fit it is an hour after the start of a funeral of a neighbour. Technically, we could still go and get back in time, but it would mean leaving as soon as the service was over and hoping there were no delays. Certainly not ideal, but at the same time, I'd like to go pay my respects.

I didn't realise it had been so long since I last updated, but as I've just said elsewhere, it's been a busy few offline weeks.

Of the good. Excellent long walks to High Force and Gibside. I won't talk about them here, but if you want to see photos there are posts on my insta, which is here We went to see The Last Showgirl at the cinema, which was better than I was expecting, and got some good mall walking in that day.

Monday class was good, we talked about the immune system and I partnered with my usual lady as we encouraged each other on. Especially on the three level step complete with carrying a 10kg grab bag, which was one of the stations. I hate it I do.

James' phased return is going nicely, and he's back up to full hours from next week.

The best good, James applied for a grant from his work union to pay for the deposit for our new motability car, and after a lot of waiting, it was approved this week. As the deposit is 1k, as you can imagine, not finding that ourselves has taken a lot of weight from our shoulders. Our new car is actually at the garage now, just waiting to have the adaptions fitted, so soon Rosie will go, and hello, Bluey. (Bodhi picked the name)

Our bank randomly gave its members £50 each. The money isn't in the accounts yet, but will be next month, so that's money to look forward to.

Not good or bad, but why I was offline so much this last week. I've Bodhisat every single day this week, as she wasn't well enough for nursery. I love spending time with her, and she's fun to be with, but still, three-year-olds are like live wires and five days in a row is a lot. Especially so as a few of them I was up there from 7am.

The bad. After years of having cats, Kevin is the first one who has decided to jump up to the bathroom windowsill, and knocked down one of my owl ornaments, smashing it. I've had to take everything off the windowsill, as the thought of lying in the bath and getting hit on the head by a flying T. rex wasn't appealing.

The extra bad, I was Bodhisitting today, James was off work, so the plan was we'd go up there for 7am, then James was taking my SiL to a hospital appointment at 11 while I waited for Kayleigh to come home. Then, this afternoon, we'd planned a walk and maybe a cinema trip.

But, got to the garages, and found out that overnight, someone had broken into our car, and also a neighbours. The whole back window was smashed out, and they'd taken a bag off the back seat. A bag that contained a few pencils and pens James uses when he's drawing.

Obviously, we couldn't drive to Kayleigh and Lucy's, so I called Lucy who agreed to bring Bodhi to our house, leaving James to try to sort out the car. End result of that after a load of calls, because the car is technically driveable, there's no chance of a hire car, and the earliest the glass can be replaced is Tuesday. So, right now the window is covered by a bin bag and a load of tape, and we'll bus it this weekend if we go out. Then, James will have to carefully drive to work on Monday.

James does have his bag back now, because they'd left it at the top of the estate when they realised it contained nothing valuable, but we've still got a £50 glass excess to pay on Tuesday, so hello and goodbye unexpected money. It was nice to enjoy the thought of you for all of a few days.

Catch up tomorrow hopefully, Kayleigh bought me a thank-you bath bomb today, and I intend to lobster bath it and luxuriate knowing I don't have to be up and about early tomorrow morning.

My MiL's visit went nicely, she's pretty easy to host, but still, I was glad to get in my pjs and chill last night after she'd gone home. With James being at work on Thurs and Fri, we stayed in those days. Well, she did, I had to walk to the doctors for my annual blood tests and B12 on the Thursday.

On Saturday we drove over the moors to Barnard Castle where it was market day. But amazingly, we got a prime parking spot, and it was sunny enough to eat outside. We also hit the honesty stall at the farm and came home with three trays of eggs and two bags of potatoes. One of the trays was for us, so plenty of eggs for scrambled eggs for a while.

Yesterday we went to the Italian restaurant on the seafront we like and had a Sunday dinner. Had a bit of a drive after before dropping my MiL off and going for cat litter and then home to a lobster bath and relaxing after reclaiming my recliner.

One bad thing that happened on Saturday night. James had another fall. We'd gone to bed, and he always takes his leg and splint off before doing so. For some reason, he decided to try and move the Alexa around on the chest of drawers in front of our bed, over balanced, bit hard, totally bent the hospital table that was there, knocked the drawers over, which catapulted the tv off the top, which smashed, as did an ornament I kept there.

Thankfully, apart from giving himself a fat lip he was fine physically, and insurance means we can get a new TV, but man, I did not need to hear more sounds like that.

Today was weight management class, and that went nicely. The topic was motivation and we had an interesting talk about what motivates people. The three level step was also there, complete a 8kg kettle bell to hold if you wanted to push yourself while stepping. I swear, that thing will start haunting my dreams soon!

I ended up at Moo Bears both Saturday and Sunday at the weekend. Each visit went well, and helped keep Bodhi entertained, and contained which is important. They had character mascots turn up on both days. Sonic the first day, Dougie from Hey Dougie the second. Bodes was fine for the first, she knows Sonic to look at but has no real emotional attraction to him. But Dougie is one of her favourites and she got a bit overwhelmed seeing him.

I had to laugh on the Saturday visit. Moos have some new staff members atm and they'll still learning the ropes. They'd had Dougie as the mascot on the Friday, too, but instead of putting the costume away behind the scenes had left it in the foyer. As Dougie is a rather rounded shape, it was easy to see him, apparently unskinned and balancing on his head. After a few kids asked why Dougie was there and also upside down, three staff member carried the costume through the café, trying to hide the identity with a carefully held binbag. I was highly amused watching, and bet they never forget to put the costumes away again.

Weight management class yesterday was about metabolism, and was really interesting

I called into the chemist after class, and they finally had my new compression wraps, it only took nearly two months for them to arrive. So I've been wearing those today.

This morning, it was James' physio appointment at 8:30, a time we'd picked, so there was a chance to get parking, and that worked nicely. As always, I was half expecting him to be discharged from physio, but he's still not there yet. So, next appointment is in six weeks. After leaving the physio dept we headed for the hospital canteen for breakfast, and not going to lie, it was delicious. I love beans that have been stewing away, and the hospital scrambled egg is always tasty.

Then after that I went on a tour of some of the charity shops, and got more dresses in the next size down. Very nice they are too. The biggest charity shop we went to had a fabulous selection, as they've a huge shop over two floors, but strangely, they didn't have a fitting room meaning I had to take a chance on things fitting. Thankfully, three dresses did, and the one that didn't was just a touch too tight. So, for a grand total of £25 I've got seven new to me dresses.

It's been such a nice, sunny day today, it's been good to be out walking around, even if it was just to appointments and shops. Then, when I was taking the recycling out I saw the first daffodil had opened in the garden, a lovely reminder that spring really is close.

Thank you to @misbegotten and @romantical for the cards that arrived yesterday, and the messages inside. Both made me smile.

Also, thank you to everyone who sent birthday wishes yesterday, I loved every one ♥

With going out on Sunday, and with having plans for a sibs dinner on Friday, I didn't go out anywhere yesterday apart from to the shops to buy some plain t-shirts to go with the very jazzy cat print trousers James bought for me. I now have four pairs with different prints, and I like every one.

My brother and nephew called with chocolates and flowers, I saw Bodhi, Lucy and Kayleigh, Corey, my in laws and Pauline phoned, so on top of the messages from friends, I felt nicely celebrated.

Today, Kayleigh, Lucy and Bodes have gone away for two nights, so I'm on cat looking after duties. Thankfully, James finishes work at 2 this week, so I'll have a lift to the nighttime visits, but I'll be walking it in the morning. And I say cat looking after duties, I don't remember if I ever said but one of Bodhi's Christmas presents was a baby tortoise, so I need to look after him, too.

Not that he needs much looking after for just two days, just some fresh food mainly and making sure his heater is working properly.

Thank you so much @solariana for the beautiful kitty birthday card. Your timing was pretty perfect. You're the best ♥

I had such a good day yesterday.

I said that Pauline had invited me to lunch, just at hers, but it was nice to hang with her and her daughter for a couple of hours. Plus, I got to cut a cake and be sung to. Not a birthday cake especially, but still, the effort was there.

Went from there for a bit of a drive, and we called into the charity shop where I came out with two new dresses, one of which has leopards on. Quickly called in at my in laws and then went off for tea at an Italian restaurant. The food was delicious, and we had fun chatting to the party that was sat next to us.

Left there, and as there was still an hour before the show, we went to the pub next door to the theatre, had a diet coke each and people watched from a prime spot in the window.

Then it was show time, and oh man, it was fabulous! I was expecting good things and got them. The atmosphere was electric and just everything about the show was perfect for me. The songs, the setting, everyone on their feet toward the end and bouncing. At one point I looked around and James was having a moment with a guy in the row in front of us, both of them singing and rocking out together and it was joyful!

Highlight for me was The Black Parade, I do have a video clip of that, but really, no one needs to hear me wailing away, so if you want to see a version someone else videoed, you can do so here which also shows the set nicely, though we were in the stalls not the balcony, so had a closer view, and Zombie, so good! I've shared the official version from the Orchestra before, but no harm in sharing again.

Now I'd better get ready as it's class day, then, I'm picking Bodhi up from nursery then watching her until 8. This no Bodhisitting in February is going well as you can see *g*

Briefly as I'm heading out for the cinema soon.

I enjoyed the new Bridget Jones film much more than I expected, it helped it was in my favourite cinema screen too.

The visit to Mog on the Tyne was lovely, but also sad. One of the cats had already gone to its furever home, and two more are going before the official close date. Plus, it was obvious the staff were really sad about things, with the manager especially upset. They did say it's a financial shut-down due to an oversaturated market, which isn't really that surprising with three other cat cafés in the area and a dog café literally next door.

I was looking at photos before I went, and our first visit was Feb 2016, a few months after they first opened. I'll miss them.

Yesterday we went for a visit to Beamish Open Air Museum instead of going swimming. It was bitter cold but instead of getting transport we walked between the different areas, so soon warmed up. I shared a cone of chips and a cup of tea from the fish shop with James, and that was our valentine's meal *g*

As opposed to Kayleigh and Lucy who went the whole hog with their Valentine's Day, candles, electric thank goodness, going up the stairs, rose petals, heart balloons and multiple presents to each other. It was like Valentine's Day had exploded in their house.

Pauline phoned wanting to put on a birthday tea for me. It was going to be Thursday, but has just phoned to say she's realised that's after my birthday, so would tomorrow be okay instead. I said yes, forgetting we're actually going to The Rock Orchestrate by Candlelight at the theatre tomorrow.

Thankfully, she asked us to hers at 3, so there should be time for both. I'm looking forward to the show so much, I mean, look at this setlist from a show a few days ago.

I was curious what MCR song they'd perform and can't be disappointed at Black Parade.

I suppose I should go and get ready to go out. At least the weather isn't as bad as forecast, there was a yellow warning for snow and ice, but that was cancelled overnight and the few snow flurries we had haven't settled. So, big coat time again, but at least no snow.

This post has been sitting in an email draft for ages, so finally finishing it.

I've been waiting for Ryan Ross to show his face for a while now, and he finally did so, not only posing for a photo with Dallon Weekes, but performing on stage with him too. I mean, come on, way to mesh two Panic eras together. Also, hi RyRo, I enjoyed seeing you even if you're well past the years of birds on your face and frolicking around in long johns.

I've been to the Metrocentre and the cinema twice last week. One day we saw Hard Truths which was nothing like I was expecting, and a film that I liked but would never want to watch again. And the next day Mufasa: The Lion King, which was pretty enjoyable, too.

Sunday was a lot of driving as it was Corey's birthday yesterday, but he was at work then so we'd planned to meet on a day he was off. So, we went to Kayleigh's, Pauline's, my MiL's, gathering cards, did a quick grocery shop, then drove to Gateshead to spend some time with the kidlet. Who is very much not a kidlet now, but will carry that name from me forever.

Monday was the usual class day, another solo one with James being at work. We talked about drinks, and I was paired with one of the ladies I really like for the exercise part, which was good. Plus, I got some extra cardio minutes scuttling down to the gym trying to stay warm as it was sleeting. I even wore my big coat, which is a rare thing.

It was also a day I ended up Bodhisitting as Bodes wasn't well so couldn't go to nursery. The plan was Kayleigh would pick me up after class and take me to hers, but in the end Lucy had to speed down to get me as Kayleigh was buying a new to her second hand car, and it took much longer than she was expecting.

Then, yesterday was another Bodhisitting day, covering the few hours between Kayleigh leaving for work and Lucy returning. I phoned Corey late afternoon to wish him happy birthday, and he was having a pint after work with his friends, so had a quick check in before he went off for, probably, another pint.

Today Bodhi is still off nursery, but they didn't need me as Lucy would be home before Kayleigh started her shift. Which was good as I've been out for dinner with Pauline and her daughter, and while I would have rearranged if needed, I enjoyed going out and the company.

James is off for a few days now, so tomorrow we're off for what will probably be my last visit to Mog on the Tyne, woe!, and then moving on to Metrocentre as we've tickets to see Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy in the afternoon.

Friday is potentially, a going swimming day, that is if my costume still fits. Also, Valentine's Day, though for us all that means is swapping cards, because man, Feb remains an expensive month.

Then Saturday we have tickets to see Captain America: Brave New World. So, some nice things coming up.

Sad news last night when Mog on the Tyne posted that they're closing at the beginning of next month. I've been there so many times, taken multiple online friends there for visits, and while there are other cat cafés in the area still, Mog has always been my favourite. I'll miss them, the staff, the place itself, and especially the cats.

Murphy and Kevin went for their annual boosters and health check last week. All went well, except for Murphy yowling like he was being murdered on the way there, and then being told by the locum vet he's overweight. Which we knew, but our usual vet always says it's about health not numbers and Murphy is healthy, just a bit of a chunk.

Kevin was given some medicated powder to sprinkle over his food to try to get rid of his constant congestion. He hasn't got an infection right now, but you can hear he's got a congested nose, so hopefully, this new approach will help.

That appointment was at 9am, and in the rush to crate two cats and get there on time, I forgot to take the vaccination records, so had to go back later to drop them off, and then back again to pick them up. Which wasn't in my plans for the day. Especially, as James had a physio appointment at the hospital at 11.

I was half expecting him to be discharged, but his strength still isn't there yet, so he's back at the end of next month and has been given more strength building exercises to do, focusing on building up his biceps and triceps. He was also reassured that the pain he's having in his arm will be because he's using it much more now he's back at work, and isn't anything to worry about.

Left the physio gym and had dinner at the hospital canteen as the food is tasty and cheap, and we had nearly two hours to spare before the third appointment of the day, in another place of course, so James could see the podiatrist. Cutting someone else's nails is a hard no for me, I'll do anything else but that? Nope. Thankfully, other people will do it while making sure James' foot remains as healthy as possible. So, that was a quick and positive appointment.

That was the Wednesday, on the Monday I'd gone to weight management class, where we talked about portion sizes, which is still an issue for me, and for the exercise part of things I was paired with a new lady who said she wanted to challenge herself and take the three level step, leaving the two level for me. And, who was I to say no to that? Though, when she also took the higher strength resistance band to do rows I could really feel the difference using the less powerful one. I didn't like that, so claimed the higher one myself on the next circuit.

Another two days included time at the play cafés, I can't even remember which days now, but they were fun. I was looking at the calendar when I took Bodhi home and as of now I'm not needed for any Bodhisitting the whole of Feb, and Kayleigh said neither her or Lucy have any intention of picking up overtime, so it should stay like that. Do I believe that I won't be asked at all this month? Not a chance.

Yesterday we decided to go to Durham on the bus, have a walk to the cathedral and then back through Durham to get some steps in. On the way I called into a charity shop and scored a lovely dress and top for £1 each, which, bargain. I also got a dress from a different charity shop on Saturday which looks excellent on, but now feels really expensive at a cost of £5.

I also finally bought some kimchi when we called in Lidl on the way home. I had some with my dinner, and loved it, but it's much more liquid than I was expecting. Which I found as when put some on my sandwich and the bread got soaked. Still delicious, but so much juice.

No class today as Rosie has taken some annual leave, so I've made soup and hit YouTube for some online routines. I may even go for a walk later, or you know, stay in and catch up online.

I have a couple of flist people who were in the red warning zone for Storm Eowyn, so I hope you're all okay. I had to walk to town to pick up James' prescription from the chemist and one gust nearly blew me over, and we were just in an amber zone. So, red must have been so much worse.

Thankfully, with piling a load of heavy garden ornaments and planters against the wobbly bits, the fence has survived another day, and the flower shelf is hanging on. The planters and plant pots on it, not so much.

Today it was the funeral of the mam of one of James' friends, so we attended that. She was obviously a popular woman, as a load of people had to stand, including me. So, my knees were protesting after standing for nearly an hour as the service included performances from a male group choir as well as the usual parts from the family and humanist celebrant.

After, we had a walk to see the relatively recently revealed statue of Molly, who represents the woman shipyard workers who helped keep the docks running in world war one and two. It was a nice statue, but smaller than I was expecting. Still, it was a good, if blowy, walk along the river.

Bodhisitting tomorrow, and it seems doing this less often now she's at nursery isn't actually going to be true as this will be the third time this week, including picking her up from nursery one afternoon, and a morning at Silly Billy's play cafe. It was funny picking her up from nursery as it's the same one Corey went to, and while the inside had obviously changed, the walk there was exactly the same. She also came out with a filthy cardigan and looking like she'd been dragged through a hedge backwards, so obviously that part of nursery hasn't changed either *g*

James' first week back at work has gone well, and I met him at Tesco one day so got to try out the walk there from home for the first time, and like I expected it's a very nice walk. Though, I badly overestimated how long it would actually take so need to remind myself ten minutes is more than enough time to get there.

I don't know if it had been recced somewhere, but lately, I've been getting such lovely comments on the Tints verse stories. One did make me pause a little as the commenter said nice things, then mentioned how cool it was they were commenting on something written 15 years ago and how fandom stretched in time, and man, 15 years. What is time? That was back at the start of my prolific years, which sadly I suspect will never come again. Well, maybe if I ever get sucked into a next big thing that captures me as much as bandom did back in the day, but I doubt that.

From season three has started, and I need to watch the first ep that I've got recorded. I never thought I'd get into the show, as I'm a bit of a wuss, but I really like it. Though, wouldn't watch alone at night. I've also got a new episode of Hudson and Rex freshly downloaded and ready to watch. I really do love that show a lot, and would really like a Rex of my own.

The ice melted this week and the sun has been out, so we've been out for walks earlier in the week. To the Wetlands one day, and another day to Herrington Country park. Things were a bit soggy still, but it was lovely to be out in the sunshine and fresh air again.

Thursday there was a mix-up as I hadn't realised I needed to Bodhisit that day. At the start of the month, Kayleigh always sends me a photo of their family calendar with days I need to babysit marked by my name. Thursday I saw both Kayleigh and Lucy were working, but my name wasn't there, which usually means Bodhi is going to Lucy's sister's house, but this time it was just an oversight and my name had been left off. But an oversight that was caught in time, so we got to go check out Silly Billy's play café. Where, not only did I get to dress as a dinosaur, admittedly, only the headgear, but still … but also got to repeatedly crawl around the first level of the thankfully, small soft play area.

It also meant that day, we had to bump our one to one progress meetings with Rosie, so that's now happening straight after class on Monday. I'll also have to go to the pharmacy that day as I picked my prescription up yesterday and when I checked it last night, saw they'd also put someone else's meds in the bag. They're a chewable version of my prescribed vitamins -- which were also in the bag -- so nothing dangerous if I'd taken by accident, but they could have been. And it's a careless mistake that should never have happened and needs flagged.

Yesterday we also took my MiL out for the day. She asked if we would and James wanted to check his distance driving, so we headed over the moors to Barnard Castle then back toward home so we could have tea, taking advantage of the half price Toby Carvery offer. It wasn't a particularly physically active day, but man, I was tired last night, and James was actually in bed by eight.

Today was a Bodhisitting morning, then tonight we're off to the theatre to watch Joseph and the Technicoloured Dreamcoat. Which means at some point soon I really need to get changed and look semi presentable. I know I'll have a good time, but I have to admit, staying home and watching the new Gladiators seems just as appealing right now.

Christmas cards were still arriving last week. Thank you, @sperrywink, @stellamira, @nopseud, and madam-beetroot who has deregistered, but still keeps in touch elsewhere. You're all great ♥

Bodhi starts full-time nursery today. She goes Monday to Wednesday, and is enrolled in the breakfast club so can go from 7-30 up until 6. This means I shouldn't have to Bodhisit so often, though do have her most of the coming Saturday. Another plus is this nursery is located in the town we all live in, so is walkable if I ever need to pick her up. So a big day for her, and I'll message and see how things went later, as the girl is not a morning person at all.

Last week went Monday -- weight management class with the theme of getting back on track after Christmas. Nothing really new to share, as it was mostly about the struggle to refocus. Only one new exercise in the circuit, too, but it was a killer. Which it shouldn't be as all it involved was holding a small foam block in front of you, standing on one leg and twisting your upper body, but I found it so hard.

Tuesday was a Bodhisitting day, but it was icy and cold, we just stayed at Kayleigh and Lucy's.

Wednesday Rosie -- the car -- had to go in for her MOT and service, and what a clusterfuck of a day it was. We had to be at the garage for 8:30, which meant a very early start to the day as we knew the car would need de-icing, and then of course, the drive. We got there, waited until the place opened, James handed over the keys, went out with the service guy to show him how to change the flip pedals, only to see Rosie had a completely flat back tyre. The service guy made a pointed comment that damage would have been caused by driving on a flat tyre, but the thing was. It wasn't flat when we started out from home.

Anyway, four hours waiting at the garage later, Rosie had passed her MOT, they'd blown the tyre back up and said James had to drive straight to a Kwik Fit to get a replacement. Thankfully, there was a branch only a couple of miles away, and they were great there, fitting us in and changing the tyre within an hour as it turns out there was a screw embedded in it. Also, thankfully, tyre changes are covered via the Motability scheme so it cost us nothing.

Thursday was another Bodhi day, and we headed for Moo Bears for the nine opening time. Where we found out the lady we enjoy talking to there was leaving. She's going part-time to another play café, one that's bigger than Moo's but also much closer to home for us, and one I never knew about. So I suspect we'll be trying that out at some point. They were also doing a giveaway that day, five people winning a fully stamped loyalty card that meant a free visit next time. It was supposed to be at random, but we got it as the first people through the door, and hey, I'll take that.

Not sure what happened on Friday, I do know we took a lot of donations to the tip shop one day, so that was probably then. So, decluttering is still happening.

Saturday we headed to Metrocentre for two reasons. To check, James could comfortably drive that far as his work is about ten minutes further, and he starts back soon. And to go to the cinema. We saw We Live in Time, and it was pretty good. Nothing stand out but I enjoyed it. I don't think I said, but I also saw Better Man last weekend. I'm not a particularly huge Robbie fan, but do like his music and it soon became normal he was portrayed as a monkey. So yeah, I'd recommend that film.

Yesterday was the usual Sunday shopping and a good house clean. I've also been making soup to use up the remaining veggies I got from the supermarket price wars. During the week I made vegetable with white miso, which I liked, James not so much, so I ended up eating nearly all of it. Yesterday, broccoli and Stilton. Which is nice enough, but is missing something. I may try adding some chilli flakes when I heat it up for dinner later.

Then today is weight management class again soon. So, back full circle and on it goes.

@misbegotten, I got your card, thank you so much! ♥

James had another appointment with his consultant yesterday, and it went really well.

Before the hospital appointment we called into Sainsburys as they're hugely reducing the Christmas stock. I got quite a few cheese truckles for 1p, some party food packs for 75p and best of all, Felix cat treats boxes for £1.75. Each box has five full size packets of treats in, so it made sense to stock up. So Murphy and Kevin are set for a while.

After two people on my flist recommended it, I've started to watch Matlock, and it's fun so far. I didn't see the twist at the end of the first ep coming, and I'm eager to watch more.

This morning it was tip day, and I dropped off five big black bags of rubbish and an old standard lamp. There wasn't actually room in the car to take the donations, so they'll go later. We did call in the tip shop anyway, where I was restrained and didn't buy any new books, no matter how temping the price was. But, James did buy himself two little 0.5 kg dumbbells, which will be perfect for his strength building.

After that we drove to Corey's and posted birthday cards for his girlfriend through the door as neither were awake at the time. But, Sharna got them on the right day, so I'll mark this day as productive.

May 2025 be good to us all.

Over the last few days I got mail, thank you, @venetia_sassy -- your card was brilliant and made me smile a lot, @sylvaine, a card complete with tea, thank you! and @pushkin666, such a lovely message. Thank you all ♥

I was in bed well before midnight last night, but did wake up just before 12 so got to see the fireworks both on the TV and out of the window. Then went back to sleep, which was just fine by me.

Today I've taken all the decorations down, and put them away so everything looks tidy again. Helped by the fact that yesterday, we did a serious declutter of the huge walk in hall cupboard, so all the decoration boxes could go in there instead of the bedrooms. I've now got a tip slot booked for Saturday for the bags of rubbish, and at the same time will drop off a load of donations to the tip shop.

Tomorrow is a busy day as James has got an appointment with his doctor at 9, then I have a lymphoedema appointment at 11 and then James has a physio appointment at the hospital at 2, all of them in different places. The first doctor appointment is to discuss a letter from the doctor stating James will need a longer than usual phased return. He had a long term sick telephone meeting with a more senior level manager on Monday and together they've decided he'll go back in the last week of this month, which gives him time to build up strength in his arm again. And before his pay will drop to half, which wouldn't be good in the slightest. But he seems happy at that timeline, just needs the first month or so to be slow.

Also on Monday we did a bit of Bodhisitting, and went to weight management class. You may remember Rosie asked if people wanted to attend as the other two locations wouldn't be running and people said yes. Well, when we first arrived I couldn't see anyone else and thought we'd have her sole attention, but in the end two other ladies arrived too and it was a good class. We had a new bit of kit to try, though I'm not sure what it's real name is. It's the pole that you can attach weights on either side, but ours didn't have those. It did weigh 9kg, though, which sounds nothing until you've done a few circuits including overhead presses.

Gladiators celeb special is on tonight, but sadly I'll have to wait to watch as it's something I watch with James and he's off out to watch Sunderland play with my brother. This match, man. It's been a hassle. They originally wanted to go on boxing day, then realised Sunderland were playing away. So booked for this match, and then realised it's a 8pm kickoff. Add in we're under a weather warning for wind and ice, I suspect they're both wishing they hadn't booked. Not that they've said, and I'm sure they'll have a good, if a bit cold, time.

As for me. I plan on a long bath and then some tv watching under my heated throw.

I've had a very lovely Christmas.

Christmas Eve started going to Morrisons first thing to pick up the cream cake and fresh buns and bread. Took those home and gathered bags together before heading off to meet Kayleigh, Lucy, and Bodhi for our annual Christmas Eve Costa. And yeah, I know we often go at other times, but this Christmas Eve Costa has somehow become a thing. Kayleigh's bestie was also there with her daughter and two young nieces, so we settled in for well over an hour.

Then it was delivering presents to my in laws, my brother, and Pauline. Then back to my brother's when Pauline asked if we'd deliver her presents to him.

Christmas day we picked up Corey at 10am, and I was happy when he said he was planning to stay overnight, though it did mean a quick tidy and cover change of his bed as all the empty decoration boxes were on it. Once we'd picked him up, it was another drive around all the family as everyone wanted to see him. Then finally home early afternoon where I made a delicious Christmas dinner, even if I do say so myself.

Corey liked his new pans, and the other stuff we'd got him, and he bought his dad an excellent t-shirt and three boxes of chocolates, while I got two Lush gift sets and a comforter body spray. I got some lovely presents this year, though it was the year of duplicate themes, as James bought me a cat patterned dress and cardigan and Kayleigh got me a cat patterned cardigan too. While between James, Pauline and my MiL I got three new wax melt burners. Which were all thoughtful, as I do love stuff like that, just I laughed when I opened the third one. The one from James is electric to replace the one in the kitchen which got smashed when a bottle fell on it and has been held together with tape ever since. It's beautiful with a stag pattern, so I'm looking forward to setting that up. And in a total shocker from Kayleigh, she bought me a bottle of Karma perfume from Lush. It's the scent I love the most, and I wear it daily, but had run out a month or so ago, so I was thrilled to get it, but what surprised me the most was the size of the bottle. I always get the smallest size, but this one was the next size up and just, I'll be smelling delicious all year.

I managed to watch Wallace and Gromit and Gavin and Stacy on Christmas day, but everything else got recorded and will be watched in the next few days, I hope. I did like the last G&S, and thought the ending was very fitting.

Corey was at work, so we took him home around midday yesterday and my plan was to come home and put on the usual Boxing Day buffet, but I wasn't that hungry and neither was James, so I just made a sandwich and one box of the party food. Honestly, I was just so tired yesterday that I seemed to spend late afternoon and the evening on the verge of falling asleep. I'll have to watch the Strictly special again, as I zoned through most of it, and we were in bed just after 8. Which was ridiculous, but all the very early mornings and the late night before caught up with me.

Today we're off to Pauline's as she's having a small gathering at midday. So, the plan is to go to that and then home for some catch up TV and the rest of the party food that needs cooking.

I posted some photos on Insta if you'd like to see. I did wear the light up antlers and James was given some beard baubles, which of course he wore. My insta is public so they should be visible, but if they're not and you do want to see, I'll repost here,

I got mail from @nopseud, thank you so much! ♥

These last few days have consisted of many very early starts, getting to the shops for opening times. Which worked out as it meant we could actually get parked, and get the shopping done before it got manic. One day we went to M&S and by the time we left the queue to get in was massive and the staff were policing a 'one in, one out system'. But, apart from picking up buns and a fresh cream cake tomorrow, everything is done now.

Cards and presents sent. Gifts bought and 90% wrapped, groceries and Christmas treats done. This morning I finally delivered the cards to neighbours, so I'm feeling nicely accomplished.

We took my MiL out for lunch one day, too, and yesterday took flowers to my FiL memorial spot. Where something good happened. The spot is in the garden of a little café at the top of the street where my in laws used to live. So, we went for breakfast after leaving the flowers, and without thinking, James ate for the first time without needing help. Which means, as of now, the hospital table and gadget he was using to help eat have been put away, hopefully, never to be needed again.

Of course, that one step forward came with a step back, as he's back on antibiotics for his leg. Thankfully, he feels fine in himself, but the doctor just can't seem to find the right product to kill the infection completely, so said if this round doesn't work he'll be referred to dermatology at the hospital.

James is also wandering around with his usual fairy lights wrapped around his leg, but has also topped that by wearing a Grinch Santa hat complete with lights wrapped around it, too. So he looks nicely festive.

No class today as Rosie is on annual leave. She did ask the group if we wanted to meet up next Monday or have the time off between Christmas and New Year, and everyone said they wanted to attend. I may regret that by next Monday, though *g*

Tomorrow, after picking up the cake etc, we're meeting Kayleigh, Bodhi and Lucy for our traditional Christmas Eve Costa. I'll be wearing my Christmas dress and this year also have light up clip on reindeer antlers, because, why not? Then it'll be dropping off the family presents before coming home to relax.

I've already got a lot of festive TV specials to watch, but am looking forward to Strictly, Doctor Who, Call the Midwife, Bake Off, Great Pottery Throwdown and Gavin and Stacy. Tbh, I could quite happily watch BBC1 for a lot of Christmas Day.

Thank you @dine, @frausorge and @spikedluv for the cards, and @pensnest for the parcel of deliciousness. You're all great ♥

A catch-up of the last week.

I loved the show last Friday, though I should have known I would as in terms of the media we like, I'm very different to Kayleigh, so odds on, if she hated it I would love it. The show was more performance theatre than anything with a plot and I laughed so much at the clowns, especially when we got wet when they threw water at the audience, then one came and dried then polished James' head. The fake snow blizzard was amazing and the giant balls that were thrown out on the audience at the end made me feel like a kid again. It was great.

Nothing much to share about weight management class on Monday, it was about fruit and vegetables and nothing exciting was talked about. But there was a new man starting. He was older and had been a personal trainer way back in the day, and you could tell as after the exercise part he went around to everyone congratulating for finishing along with a hi-five, and hey, I'll take it. Along with the applause for finishing the circuit, it was my favourite part of the class.

Tuesday it was a Christmas meal meet up with Pauline and her daughter, and was memorable for mostly the wrong reasons. We went to a restaurant in a retirement village, which seemed like a weird choice in the first place, but Pauline had been there before and rated the food. Well, the public health people had turned up for an unannounced spot check, so the staff were frantic and everything was behind, and we got no food until an hour after we booked. The veggie option was vegetables from the main dinner, and that was it, though they did bring out a jug of gravy not made with meat juices. The fire alarm kept going off, and to top it all, a big group had come in, apparently from a church, and the head lady kept standing up, banging her spoon on the table very loudly, telling people to be quiet, then praying at length. You just had to laugh, really.

We spent the afternoon at Corey's one day. It was the longest drive James had done for a while, but it went okay. Corey asked for some good quality pans for his Christmas present, as he wants to replace the stuff he got when starting uni. So, we bought him some ninja pans and a separate good quality frying pan. And his usual Lindt sweets and Lush stuff, just so he has some fun things. It was lovely to see him, it had been far too long since I'd been able to give him a big hug in person, so he got quite a few that afternoon.

Yesterday we went to Durham on the bus, and ended up walking to the cathedral. It was a lovely, crisp, sunny day and I enjoyed the walk and was impressed with the accessibility improvements that have been made in the cathedral. Every door is now touch operated -- with the original wooden doors always open between the new modern ones. There were ramps or alternative routes next to every set of steps, and even a small lift to get down to the café level. I especially liked the nativity crib, which had been themed to the North East, so the donkey was a pit pony and the shepherd was a man in a flat cap with a whippet.

We had planned on eating dinner at Durham, but quickly realised that wasn't going to happen two Saturdays before Christmas as every place was packed. So, we had a mooch around the market, got the bus home, got off at our town and had a festive bake from Greggs instead.

There was also two sets of Bodhisitting in there, too. But I can't even remember what days now.

Oh, and the decorations are up. The tree in all its overdone tacky glory, the sparkle deers are sparkling, the dinos are lit up, and Kevin is constantly climbing the tree. Seriously, at this point I've become resigned to the bottom right of the tree being without any decorations with the branches bent down.

It was also the Strictly final last night. The winner wasn't a surprise in the slightest, but I enjoyed the show, especially as I wasn't really invested in anyone winning.

And now I'm about to try and catch up a bit on here while James watches Red One on Prime. Not sure why it's on there so quickly, but it's good background watching.

I came downstairs this morning, and both of James' number balloons are deflated. I'm not pointing any fingers, but did

I got everything done that I wanted yesterday. The doctors for my injection first thing, then drive to the outlet retail park before the shops opened, so it was easy to get a parking spot. The main shops open at 10 there, so we tend to plan to get a parking spot early, then have breakfast at Subway. Which is what happened yesterday, with a tasty breakfast sandwich, and a not so tasty surprise of finding an insect at the bottom of the cup of diet coke we were sharing, making that discovery when we'd nearly finished drinking. As the cups are stored upside down, all I can think is it fell in from the pop machine while I was pouring, that or the ice machine. The lady serving was very apologetic and offered a bottle drink for free instead and also cookies. I accepted the drink, not the cookies, though didn't really expect anything.

Got the things I wanted from there, well mostly, the things my MiL liked have been sold, and James surprised me with a heavily discounted Yankee Candle advent calendar, so now I have three on the go, two candle and one chocolate.

From there it was off to check out the new Tesco, and it really is a very shiny shop. They've done a great job building on the old pit site and the landscaping is great. Including a purpose built path that snakes off the retail park to our estate and has benches all along the route.

Only negative thing was we stopped for some petrol, and the bank reserved £120 instead of the £15 we'd actually spent. I know it's a thing to prevent people driving off without paying as the pumps are card only, but it's something that's not actually used in any of the other garages in the area. From a FB post on a local group, it caught a lot of people off-guard, and I can see the frustration as the money still hasn't been released this morning.

Then in the evening we headed to the Indian Restaurant for our festive curries with Pauline, my brother and nephew. As always it was a good time with good food and company. My nephew made me laugh when we were leaving, he's 17 now and used to be very reserved, but is much more chatty now. I always hug my brother goodbye, as does Pauline and we ended up in this strange double hug as we both went in at the same time. But it worked out, and my nephew announced after he wanted a double hug too, so we had to do it again *g*

Tonight we're off to see Slava's Snowshow at the theatre. I thought it looks great, but Kayleigh and Lucy went to see it last night and hated it, so much so they left at half time. Kayleigh said it was weird but I'd probably love it. So, we shall see. I do like a bit of audience interaction and have been looking forward to being blasted with fake snow.

Thank you, @turlough, for the parcel that arrived. I haven't opened the present inside, but will put it under the tree when I put it up ♥

Which won't be until the weekend now, as the tumbler repairman had to get parts and can't do the repair until Friday. So, the place is still in a mini, cluttered mess with stuff that is normally stored away.

I'm usually reluctant to pick up calls from unknown numbers, but did today, and was glad I did. Turns out, I'd nominated Consett Cats -- the rescue where we got Murphy and Kevin -- for a twelve good deeds of Christmas thing on Facebook, and my entry was one of the ones picked. The rescue will be getting £100 and some shopping vouchers, which is fantastic. Especially so as normally, I'd send them donations every now and then, but haven't been able to do so as regularly recently.

James had a physio appointment at the hospital today, and it went really well. We managed to actually find a parking spot, admittedly, as far away from the physio gym as it was possible to get. But silver lining, got a good walk due to that. The therapist is really pleased with how he's healing, and has given exercises to help flexibility and has told him to leave the brace off in the house at all times, only wearing it for security when he starts driving long distance again or going to busy places.

They've agreed aiming for Feb to go back to work is realistic, and will start to focus on building up strength from an appointment the first week of January, as right now there's still a bit of swelling to get rid of. So, a good result all round.

Weight management class was about protein on Monday

I've an appointment for my B12 injection tomorrow, at 8:45, what was past!me thinking making it that early? Then we're going to the outlet shopping place again, as my MiL saw some things she liked, which we obviously couldn't buy when she was there. Also, James has a £5 birthday gift voucher from Lindt burning a hole in his inbox. I think we'll also check out the new Tesco that's at the end of our estate as it opens in the morning.

Some of you will remember me posting about the constant thud of the pile driving as they were building it, and now everything is completely finished. It's an extra, so is huge, and everything looks so shiny and new. I don't know if it'll be my new regular shopping place, but I can't say it won't be the most convenient, as it's literally a five-minute walk away.

It was James' birthday yesterday, so

We were supposed to be going out for dinner, but ended up just going for a drive to the coast instead, as James has a head cold and said he wouldn't be able to enjoy the food. Personally, I blame going to Moobears the other day and being surrounded by so many germy children.

My brother called in though, and suggested we all meet up within the next couple of weeks with Bodhi, Lucy and Kayleigh. So, we'll try to get that arranged, and it can do double duty as our usual festive meet up and birthday dinner in one.

Chris was also telling me he's been getting a dog, and has called him Ralph. So, he's got no cause to laugh at Kevin's name now. Though, for me, the name Ralph will always remind me of the Judy Bloome's book Forever.

Then Kayleigh and Bodhi called in en route to going to see Santa at a local winter wonderland, so James had a nice day even though we didn't do anything special.

Weight Management class later and I think I'm going solo as James' cold hasn't got better at all and the weather is wet and cold, so staying in seems sensible. Then this afternoon a man is coming to try and repair our tumble drier, so right now the kitchen is in chaos, filled with everything that's usually stored on top of the tumbler. Which admittedly, is a lot, and it's probably good I'm being forced to sort through it. But right now I'm pointedly ignoring the mess.

If I can't see it it's not there, right?

I had such a lovely surprise last night. Huge thanks to @misbegotten for the delivery. You are wonderful ♥

I was just reading about how Bob from MCR has been found dead. It's shocking news, with some sad details, so be warned if you're going to read the link.

While I didn't like how things ended with him and the band, he was still a huge part of my bandom fannish experience for a long time. So yeah, a shock to read.

Back to the last week.

Monday I was back to weight management class after not being able to go last week, and people asked where I'd been the Monday before. Not going to lie, it was nice to have been missed.

Tuesday we had to go select our new Motabilty car. You have to get a new one every three years, and we were a little behind picking which one we wanted with James not being able to drive to the different garages. In the end we've gone back to Vauxhall, and are getting the new Mokka. We both love the MG's still -- which Rosie is -- but the deposits for the scheme have rocketed and a lesser spec car to what we have now would have been over 2k deposit. So, back to the Mokka we go. Bye bye electric tailgate and electric glass roof, we'll miss you. Though, the new one won't be available until the end of Feb, so we'll have Rosie for a while yet.

Wednesday we were supposed to take Pauline out, but she cancelled due to having a chest infection. So, instead, James had a doctor appointment, then we headed out shopping ourselves. Mainly because we needed a new microwave as our old one developed a big hole in the bottom under the turntable, which seemed a bit dangerous.

Thursday, we took my MiL out for the day. We went to a local outlet place where I picked up some presents, and got

Yesterday, James did a tip run for my in laws, then we had Bodhi for the rest of the day so Lucy and Kayleigh could go do their Christmas shopping. We went to MooBears, and I got to sing along and have a little ~~sway~~dance with her when Mikey and Minnie arrived for photo ops. Then it was off to McDonalds for something to eat and to laugh at her being so excited about the Grunch theme *g*

Yesterday evening also included balloon shenanigans, it's James' 50th tomorrow and I asked Kayleigh if she could get me some number balloons. What she actually got was a freebie from Facebook when someone was giving away a 50 balloon display, and the things are huge. So, I had to keep James out of the way while she got them into the house. They're now in his craft room, because that room is always kept shut to keep out the cats. Which I thought was the perfect place as he hasn't been in there for ages. Except, today he intends to fix the toilet seat, which cracked the other day, so I'm keeping everything crossed he doesn't decide he needs something from that room.

Finally, Strictly did a lovely pro dance last Sunday, where some pros danced with guest dancers, and while I really enjoyed every pairing, the one with Nikita stood out. In my head, it's part of the rooftop universe, where he's now moved on from dancing in his hoodie to an open shirt. Obviously, while trying to make rooftop!Vito jealous. I feel they had a brief fling, happiness on the rooftops and amongst the washing lines, then Nikita went off to dance school, dancing with other guys, but always yearned for those simpler days.

Every year, @turlough makes me a new knitted sparkle deer for my herd, and the latest arrived this week. Isn't it adorable!? Look at that face. Look at the delicate sparkles! I can't wait to add him to the others. Thank you so much, Turlough ♥

Well, it did snow earlier in the week and the temp dropped drastically, but the roads were clear, so we drove to the hospital on Tuesday. Despite going early, arriving at nine for a ten am appointment, we were lucky to get the very last disabled bay in the car park, as cars were double-parked everywhere, including on side roads.

Because we were early we'd planned on having breakfast in the staff/visitor restaurant, and that's exactly what we did, then off to the appointment. It was positive in some ways as the physio showed some simple exercises to build up James' shoulder, but as the report from the consultant from the appointment the day before hadn't reached the system yet, she couldn't really give any elbow exercises as while James could tell her he'd been okay'ed to release the brace, as there was nothing official to state that, she had to err on the side of caution. She did say he can't lift anything heavier than a glass of water atm, so guess I still have to carry shopping bags myself.

That day we also headed out to a local restaurant for a joint birthday celebration for my BiL and my nephew. The food was tasty and the company good. But I was very glad we didn't have to get the bus when we stepped out into the bitter cold and dark.

Wednesday turned out to be an unexpected Bodhisitting day. Lucy's job means that she can come home between calls if she hasn't many people to see. So, she dropped Bodhi off here for an hour around 1pm, picked her up again, then we went to their house for 6 and stayed until around half eight. Lucy did say she'd bring Bodhi to ours again, but I didn't like the idea of her having to be out so late, so it was just easier going there.

Yesterday we went to see Wicked, and I enjoyed it so much. Though, somehow it had escaped me that it was only half of a two film situation. Still, it was fun to watch and the hours flew by.

Today Storm Bert has hit, it's snowing heavily is very windy, and I have no intention of leaving the house. Instead, I've got a veggie soup cooking in the slow cooker, have Christmas films on as background noise and intend to get caught up online while snuggled in my Oodie.