Today is a celebration of the small pleasures; hanging out the washing on a day full of promise. Mornings are not my strong point, I always envied my old neighbour who would be out hanging her washing before I had showered. My lovely new neighbour shared her top tip... hang it out the evening before! I don't know why I'd never thought of that!
This morning I managed to fit in the washing before leaving for work. I also managed to bring it in again before it started getting damp again.
The smell of sun dried washing is hard to beat! Luckily the uniforms are clean, as pomegranate juice was smeared over dresses and t-shirts. The pomegranate is a sore point today as my OH threw most of it away, not realising that the seeds were the good bit!
Beautiful fragrant fruit thrown in the bin with the left overs..
Monday, 30 June 2014
Sunday, 29 June 2014
Sunny soupy Sunday
It's been a busy few days; Friday was an evening in. Film night for the girls and for us. I watched Wayne's World for the first time. I am sure that must be on some list of a hundred films to watch before you die. I was slightly comforted to think that it would only take me two years to watch them all, if I watched one a week!
Yesterday was a party day. The little one went to a Frozen Party; then she and her Dad watched the film in the evening. I went out with the older one and her friend to a 25 Wedding Anniversary Party (combined with 50th birthday party, 10th birthday party and a 21st birthday party) It was a really lovely event. The venue is a haven of tranquility in a buzzing part of the city.
Today I wrecked my day by having a lie in! I am sure the sleep did me good; but it got to lunchtime alarmingly quickly.
We had a "fridge soup". There wasn't much in the cupboards... alphabet pasta goes well in a Rustic Tuscan soup or Ruscan Soup.
My oldest and I had a wee bike ride; while the little one was at yet another party! It didn't seem sunny when we ventured out, but my face and neck tell a different story.
Tea was pie, a fake mince beef and onion. (Quorn) In fact it was almost a moussaka in a pie, once flavoured with red wine and aubergine. We had mini crumbles with the lovely rhubarb from my friend's allotment.
I am reading "How to be a woman" by Caitlin Moran. I am enjoying parts of it, but on a different level, I am finding it very challenging. I hadn't realised quite how much of a prude I am!
Lovely late night visitor, most welcome as he loves slugs!
Yesterday was a party day. The little one went to a Frozen Party; then she and her Dad watched the film in the evening. I went out with the older one and her friend to a 25 Wedding Anniversary Party (combined with 50th birthday party, 10th birthday party and a 21st birthday party) It was a really lovely event. The venue is a haven of tranquility in a buzzing part of the city.
Today I wrecked my day by having a lie in! I am sure the sleep did me good; but it got to lunchtime alarmingly quickly.
We had a "fridge soup". There wasn't much in the cupboards... alphabet pasta goes well in a Rustic Tuscan soup or Ruscan Soup.
My oldest and I had a wee bike ride; while the little one was at yet another party! It didn't seem sunny when we ventured out, but my face and neck tell a different story.
Tea was pie, a fake mince beef and onion. (Quorn) In fact it was almost a moussaka in a pie, once flavoured with red wine and aubergine. We had mini crumbles with the lovely rhubarb from my friend's allotment.
I am reading "How to be a woman" by Caitlin Moran. I am enjoying parts of it, but on a different level, I am finding it very challenging. I hadn't realised quite how much of a prude I am!
Lovely late night visitor, most welcome as he loves slugs!
Thursday, 26 June 2014
Thursday Curry Night
We tried a new restaurant tonight; it had been recommended by two different friends. We were advised to book; although actually we hadn't needed too.
It was fantastic food; delicious dosas and puri to start. The Puri were particularly fine; complex flavours including a pomegranate seed on top. The dosas were spicy; with delicious pickles to accompany them.
The restaurant is entirely vegetarian; so it made choosing a main course quite a challenge! You get so used to only having a couple of options on the menu; it is overwhelming to have so much choice.
We ended up with a tomato and paneer dish; with rich complex flavours and a vegetable dish; which was unlike anything I had ever eaten; a cashew butter was the base; it was sweet and warm.
It was still light when we left; the midsummer air was full of the scents of Lime and Philadelphus. Two of my favourite scents.
It was fantastic food; delicious dosas and puri to start. The Puri were particularly fine; complex flavours including a pomegranate seed on top. The dosas were spicy; with delicious pickles to accompany them.
The restaurant is entirely vegetarian; so it made choosing a main course quite a challenge! You get so used to only having a couple of options on the menu; it is overwhelming to have so much choice.
We ended up with a tomato and paneer dish; with rich complex flavours and a vegetable dish; which was unlike anything I had ever eaten; a cashew butter was the base; it was sweet and warm.
It was still light when we left; the midsummer air was full of the scents of Lime and Philadelphus. Two of my favourite scents.
Wednesday, 25 June 2014
Sports Wednesday
My youngest had Sports Day today. Since last year; they have certainly developed their awareness of the competitive nature of Sports.
Some of the children were running like the wind! My daughter managed to run like the wind and collect her hat during each race; this extra obstacle didn't seem to prevent her team from coming first several times.
This year; the Sports Coach only wanted 9 parent volunteers; you couldn't hold them back! I had prepared myself for the event by wearing trainers and my sports bra; but I was not up off my feet quickly enough. I was relieved when I discovered that it was the sack race! Hard enough when you are 6; but when you are a little older than 21; the sack race is a little harder.
Some of the children were running like the wind! My daughter managed to run like the wind and collect her hat during each race; this extra obstacle didn't seem to prevent her team from coming first several times.
This year; the Sports Coach only wanted 9 parent volunteers; you couldn't hold them back! I had prepared myself for the event by wearing trainers and my sports bra; but I was not up off my feet quickly enough. I was relieved when I discovered that it was the sack race! Hard enough when you are 6; but when you are a little older than 21; the sack race is a little harder.
Mouse vs Man Tuesday
We have had a mouse in our house for quite a few weeks; it has resisted the poison and traps we have put down for it.
It has knocked light bulbs down in the cupboard... we are wondering if it is a higher form of mouse.
We noticed that it had chewed through my youngest's book bag; I don't know if she had a stash of sweets in there.. (Knowing her - the answer is a yes!) Annoyingly it had also chewed her raincoat which was in the bag.
Tonight we noticed it had eaten the peanut butter out of the trap; without tripping the trap. We reloaded with chocolate spread; and it seems to have done the same again.
War has been declared and poison has been placed in its nest.
We'll see who wins this one!
It has knocked light bulbs down in the cupboard... we are wondering if it is a higher form of mouse.
We noticed that it had chewed through my youngest's book bag; I don't know if she had a stash of sweets in there.. (Knowing her - the answer is a yes!) Annoyingly it had also chewed her raincoat which was in the bag.
Tonight we noticed it had eaten the peanut butter out of the trap; without tripping the trap. We reloaded with chocolate spread; and it seems to have done the same again.
War has been declared and poison has been placed in its nest.
We'll see who wins this one!
Monumental Monday
I am a few days late with this post. On Monday; a friend was staying with me; as she was at a conference at the University on Tuesday.
I took the day off work; and we caught the tram into Manchester. We experienced the dizzying heights of Cloud 23 Bar for the first time.
It was a fantastic June day; the views from Cloud 23 were unbelievable. Pennines in one direction; Peaks in the other. The service was attentive; but not over the top. We didn't eat there; just had coffees. A few years ago another friend and I had had a hilarious conversation with two Octogenarians; who had been visiting Cloud 23 with a view to booking it for their WI. They were scandalized by the cost of the coffees; but more shocking to them was the lack of biscuit on the side!
After our vertiginous coffee we descended and soaked up some rays on the balcony at Dukes 92. Beautiful greek salad; with falafel (and thin chips) and a sneaky glass of white wine.
We were challenging our vestibular systems completely; as we then went to look round the newly re-opened central library! Round buildings also make you feel quite giddy.
It was a great day; we laughed a lot!
I took the day off work; and we caught the tram into Manchester. We experienced the dizzying heights of Cloud 23 Bar for the first time.
It was a fantastic June day; the views from Cloud 23 were unbelievable. Pennines in one direction; Peaks in the other. The service was attentive; but not over the top. We didn't eat there; just had coffees. A few years ago another friend and I had had a hilarious conversation with two Octogenarians; who had been visiting Cloud 23 with a view to booking it for their WI. They were scandalized by the cost of the coffees; but more shocking to them was the lack of biscuit on the side!
After our vertiginous coffee we descended and soaked up some rays on the balcony at Dukes 92. Beautiful greek salad; with falafel (and thin chips) and a sneaky glass of white wine.
We were challenging our vestibular systems completely; as we then went to look round the newly re-opened central library! Round buildings also make you feel quite giddy.
It was a great day; we laughed a lot!
View from Dukes 92 Balcony
View from Cloud 23 Bar
Where we were!
Central Library
Sunday, 22 June 2014
Midsummer Weekend
A beautiful sunny weekend, and a Midsummer's day on a Saturday. A great combination! We were very late home from our school ceilidh; but even at 1130 there was still some light in the sky. It was one of those evenings when the sky was a dark rich green.
The patio project has been progressing rapidly this weekend. The slabs are covering nearly half the cleared space. The cat next door but one is enjoying rolling in the dust and earth.
We had a beautiful sag paneer for tea tonight; followed by a microwave chocolate cake. It took five minutes to prepare, 7 to cook, 5 to cool and 2 to ice.
I was initially sceptical about the taste, but actually it was delicious. More of a pudding than a cake, but so light!!
The patio project has been progressing rapidly this weekend. The slabs are covering nearly half the cleared space. The cat next door but one is enjoying rolling in the dust and earth.
We had a beautiful sag paneer for tea tonight; followed by a microwave chocolate cake. It took five minutes to prepare, 7 to cook, 5 to cool and 2 to ice.
I was initially sceptical about the taste, but actually it was delicious. More of a pudding than a cake, but so light!!
Friday, 20 June 2014
Sunny Friday
It was a glorious afternoon; the children bounced out of school and handed all the possessions to me! That gave them hands free for ice creams on the way home.
My youngest is having her first sleep over - the excitement has been so intense that it has spilled over into tears and hysteria! They were both asleep by 10; having been to the park for a run around; watched Tangled ( for the umpteenth time) and had a midnight feast (at 9 pm)
While we were in the park; we saw the most amazing vapour trails making a perfect star shape!
And my tweet about Grand Designs was shown after the advert break on 47. That made my day!
Thursday, 19 June 2014
Grand Designs Thursday
Not much telly watching goes on in our house; but we do love a bit of Grand Designs! In fact to be truthful it is almost the only thing my other half and I watch together.
Kevin McCloud is a hero, I love his quips to camera.
Tonight a man was building a castle from mud and straw. It was one of the most beautiful projects I have seen on Grand Designs. The house/castle was gaudiesque, the two sons helped with the build. One of them sculpted a relief of a tree on the side of a wall.
There was something visceral about the way the layers of mud grew up to form walls. What joy it would bring you to look on a wall you had shaped by hand (and foot)
My creativity started and ended at the stove this evening. I wanted to recreate the jambalaya recipe, but hadn't the time to properly follow the recipe.
The meal I created was more of a spicy Mexican rice than a Jambalaya, but the children and their friends ate it lustily.
Our neighbour told us his son had spotted the girls and their dad on Google Earth. We found them too; skipping down the road! It was a lovely photo of them on a sunny day!
Our car was photographed twice for Street View, in London and Manchester! Good way to confuse Google!
Kevin McCloud is a hero, I love his quips to camera.
Tonight a man was building a castle from mud and straw. It was one of the most beautiful projects I have seen on Grand Designs. The house/castle was gaudiesque, the two sons helped with the build. One of them sculpted a relief of a tree on the side of a wall.
There was something visceral about the way the layers of mud grew up to form walls. What joy it would bring you to look on a wall you had shaped by hand (and foot)
My creativity started and ended at the stove this evening. I wanted to recreate the jambalaya recipe, but hadn't the time to properly follow the recipe.
The meal I created was more of a spicy Mexican rice than a Jambalaya, but the children and their friends ate it lustily.
Our neighbour told us his son had spotted the girls and their dad on Google Earth. We found them too; skipping down the road! It was a lovely photo of them on a sunny day!
Our car was photographed twice for Street View, in London and Manchester! Good way to confuse Google!
Wednesday, 18 June 2014
Rhubarb Wednesday
A lovely friend with an allotment gave me some rhubarb on Monday; huge fat sticks of it. We have a tiny clump in the garden; but it never does very well. We are usually lucky to get one small crumble.
My daughter had a friend for tea; so I thought I would make something with the rhubarb; but crumble didn't seem the right choice on such a hot day.
I did a quick "google" search of rhubarb and almond cakes; and then remembered a lovely plum muffin recipe I have.
The plum muffin recipe has some ground almonds in; so seemed ripe for adapting.
I love the pungent smell of freshly chopped rhubarb. (My daughter and her friend were not so keen!) I stewed it and then chucked it into the muffin mix.
It has made a lovely moist muffin with a pungent rhubarby kick!
The great thing is that I now have a huge box of stewed rhubarb in the freezer for a crumble on a wet day; or a fool on a foolish day!
My daughter had a friend for tea; so I thought I would make something with the rhubarb; but crumble didn't seem the right choice on such a hot day.
I did a quick "google" search of rhubarb and almond cakes; and then remembered a lovely plum muffin recipe I have.
The plum muffin recipe has some ground almonds in; so seemed ripe for adapting.
I love the pungent smell of freshly chopped rhubarb. (My daughter and her friend were not so keen!) I stewed it and then chucked it into the muffin mix.
It has made a lovely moist muffin with a pungent rhubarby kick!
The great thing is that I now have a huge box of stewed rhubarb in the freezer for a crumble on a wet day; or a fool on a foolish day!
Tuesday, 17 June 2014
Book Club Tuesday
Tonight I sat in my friend's garden, eating home grown strawberries, drinking home brewed beer, discussing many things. It doesn't get much better than that!
We did occasionally talk about the book; Americanah. None of us had finished it, that in itself was a good discussion point; beautiful descriptions, but maybe the narrative rate was too slow to engage us.
My friend lit her chimonea, we ate home made flapjack and compared notes about what the children were learning at school. We shared holiday stories and planned escapes from the humdrum of life.
Next book, Mansfield Park, an escape in itself.
Arrived home to find my DH had saved the washing up and tidying up for me. Such a treat! I should save it for him when he goes out, instead of selfishly hogging the job to me self.
To be fair, we often do end up washing and tidying together. It is 30 minutes in our busy days to chat and catch up.
We did occasionally talk about the book; Americanah. None of us had finished it, that in itself was a good discussion point; beautiful descriptions, but maybe the narrative rate was too slow to engage us.
My friend lit her chimonea, we ate home made flapjack and compared notes about what the children were learning at school. We shared holiday stories and planned escapes from the humdrum of life.
Next book, Mansfield Park, an escape in itself.
Arrived home to find my DH had saved the washing up and tidying up for me. Such a treat! I should save it for him when he goes out, instead of selfishly hogging the job to me self.
To be fair, we often do end up washing and tidying together. It is 30 minutes in our busy days to chat and catch up.
Monday, 16 June 2014
Singing Monday
Today our singing group met at my house for lots of wine beer crisps and strawberries and a little bit of singing.
My other half was out practicing with his band which is why the singers met here instead of at someone else's house.
The children were very good; the little one came down a couple of times to say hello and to tell me how much she was enjoying our singing!
We had a new recruit tonight - another bass to double our numbers of low voices! It made a huge difference to the sound we made. I hope we didn't annoy the neighbours too much.
My bites are numerous and very itchy; the antisan is working a little. I definitely think it is time to start investing in Avon "Skin so softly" - goodness knows what is in it that keeps off the mosquitoes!
The age of our singing group is reflected by this photo - everyone needed to borrow reading glasses!
My other half was out practicing with his band which is why the singers met here instead of at someone else's house.
The children were very good; the little one came down a couple of times to say hello and to tell me how much she was enjoying our singing!
We had a new recruit tonight - another bass to double our numbers of low voices! It made a huge difference to the sound we made. I hope we didn't annoy the neighbours too much.
My bites are numerous and very itchy; the antisan is working a little. I definitely think it is time to start investing in Avon "Skin so softly" - goodness knows what is in it that keeps off the mosquitoes!
The age of our singing group is reflected by this photo - everyone needed to borrow reading glasses!
Sunday, 15 June 2014
Midgey Weekend
My Saturday started well, with my first run for weeks with my friend, her son and the dog. It was a nice morning and the run did me good!
After lunch we set off to the peaks to a camping barn near Buxton. Great location but very remote!
We were meeting friends who were over from Germany for a month and four other families.
The children last met 3 years ago; so I wasn't sure how they would get on.
I needn't have worried. A few shared activities (loom bands, stained glass painting, origami) and bunks to climb on and they had instantly gelled!
They all slept well despite the uncovered sky lights!
The bunkbarn was fully catered and the food was amazing.
The only down side was that there were loads of midges and mosquitoes!!
I need to cover myself with Antisan before bed.
Here are a few views of the barn and from the barn.
After lunch we set off to the peaks to a camping barn near Buxton. Great location but very remote!
We were meeting friends who were over from Germany for a month and four other families.
The children last met 3 years ago; so I wasn't sure how they would get on.
I needn't have worried. A few shared activities (loom bands, stained glass painting, origami) and bunks to climb on and they had instantly gelled!
They all slept well despite the uncovered sky lights!
The bunkbarn was fully catered and the food was amazing.
The only down side was that there were loads of midges and mosquitoes!!
I need to cover myself with Antisan before bed.
Here are a few views of the barn and from the barn.
Foodie Friday
Slightly late in posting this blog from Friday. I had a great night out with my two friends from yoga. We were contemplating that it was 11 years since we had all been lying with our legs up the wall while we were all pregnant.
We ate at a great restaurant in Bramhall which did lovely veggie food. I had a great stew with couscous and falafels. We had beautiful Eton Mess for pudding.
On the way home from school on Friday we had called in to our favourite shop in Didsbury and bought the perfect Father's Day Gift...
We ate at a great restaurant in Bramhall which did lovely veggie food. I had a great stew with couscous and falafels. We had beautiful Eton Mess for pudding.
On the way home from school on Friday we had called in to our favourite shop in Didsbury and bought the perfect Father's Day Gift...
Thursday, 12 June 2014
Kitten Thursday
I took the girls to see my friend's gorgeous kittens today. The kittens were just starting to explore the great outdoors. It was hilarious to see the bemused looks on their faces as they climbed down the steps to the garden.
The girls were delighted to meet the kittens and loved feeding them with chicken and encouraging them to play with the catnip toys.
It has been a beautiful day today. I got scorched by the sun in 15 minutes (selling more ceilidh tickets)
I've had a lovely spontaneous evening with the "ceilidh committee". Little ceilidh planning was done, lots of pims drinking and good food eating.
I had strawberries from my friend's allotment, they were so good, fresh and sharp.
The girls were delighted to meet the kittens and loved feeding them with chicken and encouraging them to play with the catnip toys.
It has been a beautiful day today. I got scorched by the sun in 15 minutes (selling more ceilidh tickets)
I've had a lovely spontaneous evening with the "ceilidh committee". Little ceilidh planning was done, lots of pims drinking and good food eating.
I had strawberries from my friend's allotment, they were so good, fresh and sharp.
Wednesday, 11 June 2014
Cookie Wednesday
Today was the first day of my campaign to sell tickets for the PTA ceilidh. I managed to sell 23; not bad for the first day. We do seem to have picked a popular weekend this year; Dolly Parton; Weddings and 40th Birthday Parties; seem to be clashing.
Daughter Number 2 was off on a play date tonight; which gave Daughter Number 1 some nice 1 to 1 time. She wanted to bake cookies; which was great - sorted for lunch boxes for the rest of the week. The cookies do seem to be the size of a side plate! We made three times as many as recommended by the recipe... so they would have been the size of dinner plates.
It also gave us another opportunity to eat MUSHROOMS - this time in bolognese. A recipe I had made once for my friend's children before I realised quite how unpopular mushrooms are with most small children.
Daughter Number 1 informed me she was meant to take in poetry books to school tomorrow. I found a book I had had for 0' Level. (I also have two of my A' Level poetry books - but I don't think Larkin or TS Eliot are necessarily suitable for 10 YOs!)
I had marked in the book the poems I had studied. In those days we learnt the poems by heart and then were able to quote lines in our essays. I remember walking the dog during my 0 and A Levels and having chunks of poems and novels going round and round in my mind.
I wouldn't have been able to re-call any of the poems if asked; but on re-reading the words are like old friends; comforting and familiar. I always consider myself a poor rote learner; I must have worked hard to have embed those words and phrases.
From the Lucy Poems, William Wordsworth
A violet by a mossy stone
Half hidden from the eye!
-Fair as a star, when only one
Is shining in the sky.
I hope we manage to find a poem that she enjoys for tomorrow; I started telling her the first lines of another favourite; "Do not go gently into that good night" - "What is about?" she said; "Dying" I said. "That's nice" she said with her customary sarcasm!
Here is one of the monster cookies..
Daughter Number 2 was off on a play date tonight; which gave Daughter Number 1 some nice 1 to 1 time. She wanted to bake cookies; which was great - sorted for lunch boxes for the rest of the week. The cookies do seem to be the size of a side plate! We made three times as many as recommended by the recipe... so they would have been the size of dinner plates.
It also gave us another opportunity to eat MUSHROOMS - this time in bolognese. A recipe I had made once for my friend's children before I realised quite how unpopular mushrooms are with most small children.
Daughter Number 1 informed me she was meant to take in poetry books to school tomorrow. I found a book I had had for 0' Level. (I also have two of my A' Level poetry books - but I don't think Larkin or TS Eliot are necessarily suitable for 10 YOs!)
I had marked in the book the poems I had studied. In those days we learnt the poems by heart and then were able to quote lines in our essays. I remember walking the dog during my 0 and A Levels and having chunks of poems and novels going round and round in my mind.
I wouldn't have been able to re-call any of the poems if asked; but on re-reading the words are like old friends; comforting and familiar. I always consider myself a poor rote learner; I must have worked hard to have embed those words and phrases.
From the Lucy Poems, William Wordsworth
A violet by a mossy stone
Half hidden from the eye!
-Fair as a star, when only one
Is shining in the sky.
I hope we manage to find a poem that she enjoys for tomorrow; I started telling her the first lines of another favourite; "Do not go gently into that good night" - "What is about?" she said; "Dying" I said. "That's nice" she said with her customary sarcasm!
Here is one of the monster cookies..
Tuesday, 10 June 2014
Jambalaya Tuesday
I was very late home from work today; I completely lost track of time and it was only when the security guard came round for the third time; that I finally realised quite how late it was!
Nothing beats getting home to find your tea on the table. Tonight it was Veggie Jambalaya. Don't think I have ever eaten Jambalaya before. It was delicious and a good addition to the weekday tea repertoire. A "Masterchef " moment! Both the girls enjoyed it as well.
While I was washing up tonight; I saw a most unusual sight. A fox running up the garden; pursued by a cat! I think the cat then thought better of it and leapt up onto the shed roof.
Unfortunately I wasn't quick enough to get a photo. The fox looked in good condition compared to some urban foxes I have seen.
Nothing beats getting home to find your tea on the table. Tonight it was Veggie Jambalaya. Don't think I have ever eaten Jambalaya before. It was delicious and a good addition to the weekday tea repertoire. A "Masterchef " moment! Both the girls enjoyed it as well.
While I was washing up tonight; I saw a most unusual sight. A fox running up the garden; pursued by a cat! I think the cat then thought better of it and leapt up onto the shed roof.
Unfortunately I wasn't quick enough to get a photo. The fox looked in good condition compared to some urban foxes I have seen.
Monday, 9 June 2014
Date and Pecan Loaf Monday
Back to work today after a busy weekend.
Torrential rain is always best viewed from inside the office; there is something very comforting about watching stair rods run down the windows.
The end of the day was beautiful, sun out, birds singing and the smell of warm wet pavements.
I am on my own in the house tonight; a rare occurrence. My other half is practicing for a gig on Wednesday. (another night he will be out)
I tried to get the children into bed quickly so I could carve out some time for myself. (I missed yoga tonight) However I ended up reading double chapters to both of them; so they were in bed no earlier than usual. I made myself hoarse with a Scarecrow Voice (reading Wizard of Oz to the youngest!) We also laughed til we cried reading her school reading book together. She has a play to read; so we divided the characters between us. It wasn't until halfway through the book that we realised that I was doing a deep gruff voice for a girl; not a boy as I had thought! Couldn't tell from the name or the pictures! We kept her with a deep gruff voice!
I have been listening to Andy Sheppard "Learning to Wave"; whilst doing the clearing up. One of my favourite albums. I listened to it a lot when my oldest was tiny. I love the lyrical tunes; but also the fact he was inspired to compose by his own developing child.
I did some midnight baking last night for a work meeting...
This is all that was left
Torrential rain is always best viewed from inside the office; there is something very comforting about watching stair rods run down the windows.
The end of the day was beautiful, sun out, birds singing and the smell of warm wet pavements.
I am on my own in the house tonight; a rare occurrence. My other half is practicing for a gig on Wednesday. (another night he will be out)
I tried to get the children into bed quickly so I could carve out some time for myself. (I missed yoga tonight) However I ended up reading double chapters to both of them; so they were in bed no earlier than usual. I made myself hoarse with a Scarecrow Voice (reading Wizard of Oz to the youngest!) We also laughed til we cried reading her school reading book together. She has a play to read; so we divided the characters between us. It wasn't until halfway through the book that we realised that I was doing a deep gruff voice for a girl; not a boy as I had thought! Couldn't tell from the name or the pictures! We kept her with a deep gruff voice!
I have been listening to Andy Sheppard "Learning to Wave"; whilst doing the clearing up. One of my favourite albums. I listened to it a lot when my oldest was tiny. I love the lyrical tunes; but also the fact he was inspired to compose by his own developing child.
I did some midnight baking last night for a work meeting...
This is all that was left
Sunday, 8 June 2014
Patio Sunday
A slow start this morning, probably a result of the Pimms last night.
Today I eschewed the chance to poke around other people's gardens, in favour of digging our own. It was a really lovely day for Didsbury Open Gardens, but I am sure I would have ended up with garden envy.
Instead I dug up lots of crocosmia, which were planted much to close to the house. I also re-potted a tomato that was doing well in the porch. Hopefully it will carry on happily in its new home.
The children had a good time playing in the garden with the old pop-up tent and a doll's pram that had been in the shed a while.
We have eaten well today, Mexican breakfast wraps for lunch! (With home made salsa) and butternut squash curry for tea.
The patio...
Today I eschewed the chance to poke around other people's gardens, in favour of digging our own. It was a really lovely day for Didsbury Open Gardens, but I am sure I would have ended up with garden envy.
Instead I dug up lots of crocosmia, which were planted much to close to the house. I also re-potted a tomato that was doing well in the porch. Hopefully it will carry on happily in its new home.
The children had a good time playing in the garden with the old pop-up tent and a doll's pram that had been in the shed a while.
We have eaten well today, Mexican breakfast wraps for lunch! (With home made salsa) and butternut squash curry for tea.
The patio...
Festival Saturday
Didsbury Festival; s great community day. For the first time for years, I wasn't responsible for setting up a stall; I joined my daughter and her friends in the Parade. She was sporting pink leg warmers and a pink head band. (So were many otheres in the Parade... the fancy dress shop must have done well this year)
I was trying to channel my lost youth, and went for 80's style make up and a scarf tied round my head. A few people didn't recognise me. My other half had a flash of nostalgia, as it was still the 80's when we got together (just!). The jacket I wore was my Uni interview jacket, so was genuinely from the 80's.
Our school didn't win, although we deserved to if it was judged on strength of numbers and parent participation!
The rain stayed off the parade, the heavens opened as soon as it finished. I watched the dog show for the first time ever. I was affronted on my friend's behalf that her dog didn't win "prettiest bitch". I didn't stop to see who won waggiest tsil, the rain was so heavy that the tails were all looking very droopy.
The sun came out for the last half hour, I was on the stall for a while; flogging slightly soggy cakes, to anyone that wanted them. I love it! I see people there from all parts of my life. It is good if I am on a stall, I can chat at leisure. The children's tolerance of my stopping to talk to random strangers (in their eyes) is very low!
We spent the evening joining some neighbours to celebrate their 15th Wedding Anniversary. A lovely end to the day, Pims on Special offer...
I was trying to channel my lost youth, and went for 80's style make up and a scarf tied round my head. A few people didn't recognise me. My other half had a flash of nostalgia, as it was still the 80's when we got together (just!). The jacket I wore was my Uni interview jacket, so was genuinely from the 80's.
Our school didn't win, although we deserved to if it was judged on strength of numbers and parent participation!
The rain stayed off the parade, the heavens opened as soon as it finished. I watched the dog show for the first time ever. I was affronted on my friend's behalf that her dog didn't win "prettiest bitch". I didn't stop to see who won waggiest tsil, the rain was so heavy that the tails were all looking very droopy.
The sun came out for the last half hour, I was on the stall for a while; flogging slightly soggy cakes, to anyone that wanted them. I love it! I see people there from all parts of my life. It is good if I am on a stall, I can chat at leisure. The children's tolerance of my stopping to talk to random strangers (in their eyes) is very low!
We spent the evening joining some neighbours to celebrate their 15th Wedding Anniversary. A lovely end to the day, Pims on Special offer...
Friday, 6 June 2014
Friday curry
Mutter paneer, tarka dhal and a pint of cobra. Much appreciated Friday Night pleasures! Along with the lovely company of the year 5 Mums. A great end to the week!
The day had been full of small pleasures; home made biscuits at a workshop, a cup of tea made for me, kind words from friends.
A beautiful sunny afternoon; a walk home through the park; unexpected meetings with friends. Children playing happily in the newly mown grass.
When we finally got home from school, I cooked tea, and was surprised that I had had no requests for telly or entertainment. I crept upstairs to find the two girls in our room, reading Calvin and Hobbes. They were there for an hour, peaceful and together!
They often leave us a little memento of their stay in our room, today it was a dog!
The day had been full of small pleasures; home made biscuits at a workshop, a cup of tea made for me, kind words from friends.
A beautiful sunny afternoon; a walk home through the park; unexpected meetings with friends. Children playing happily in the newly mown grass.
When we finally got home from school, I cooked tea, and was surprised that I had had no requests for telly or entertainment. I crept upstairs to find the two girls in our room, reading Calvin and Hobbes. They were there for an hour, peaceful and together!
They often leave us a little memento of their stay in our room, today it was a dog!
Thursday, 5 June 2014
Hair Cut Thursday
Our lovely hair dresser was here today after the children got back from school! She has transformed my hair into glossy straight locks; shame that I wasn't going out anywhere tonight!
We had lovely sag paneer for tea; although I was contemplating with my friend why the new paneer they stock in the local supermarket doesn't fry as well as the old stuff? That is a first world problem if ever there was one!
It has been a glorious evening and the children have all been out on the avenue kicking balls around and playing on the swing.
I'm just having a sneaky "Old Peculiar" to round off the day... I think that sums things up for today!
We had lovely sag paneer for tea; although I was contemplating with my friend why the new paneer they stock in the local supermarket doesn't fry as well as the old stuff? That is a first world problem if ever there was one!
It has been a glorious evening and the children have all been out on the avenue kicking balls around and playing on the swing.
I'm just having a sneaky "Old Peculiar" to round off the day... I think that sums things up for today!
Wednesday, 4 June 2014
Baby Wednesday
Today was a day full of small pleasures. Two friends from work came with their gorgeous babies.
It was a great excuse to have a big tidy of the house, it needed to be made baby friendly! The lego we had been building last week had to go away and all the tiny beads that had been scattered needed a home.
I cooked a tapas style lunch, a courgette and pepper frittata, some roast tomato patats bravas and a greek salad.
It is one of my greatest pleasures, cooking whilst listening to music. Today it was hits from the 80's.
My younger daughter was on a play date, so my older daughter and I had a very enjoyable time sewing. I sewed badges on the Rainbow's Uniform; she made a rabbit out of two old gloves! It was lovely to be working on different projects, while at the same time sharing a creative space.
The play date also meant we could have "Mushroom pie" for tea. A cheat pie really; mushrooms and quorn in a white sauce, flavoured with mustard, tarragon and mushroom ketchup, stuck in a pie dish with ready rolled puff pastry on top. Totally delicious and a 40 minute meal!
It was a great excuse to have a big tidy of the house, it needed to be made baby friendly! The lego we had been building last week had to go away and all the tiny beads that had been scattered needed a home.
I cooked a tapas style lunch, a courgette and pepper frittata, some roast tomato patats bravas and a greek salad.
It is one of my greatest pleasures, cooking whilst listening to music. Today it was hits from the 80's.
My younger daughter was on a play date, so my older daughter and I had a very enjoyable time sewing. I sewed badges on the Rainbow's Uniform; she made a rabbit out of two old gloves! It was lovely to be working on different projects, while at the same time sharing a creative space.
The play date also meant we could have "Mushroom pie" for tea. A cheat pie really; mushrooms and quorn in a white sauce, flavoured with mustard, tarragon and mushroom ketchup, stuck in a pie dish with ready rolled puff pastry on top. Totally delicious and a 40 minute meal!
This is Mitts the bunny
Tuesday, 3 June 2014
Small pleasures
Since completing my #100happydays challenge, I've missed writing the blog. (I should go back to writing on the laptop, it is much easier than the tablet.)
At school, we performed lots of musicals; we were an all girls school so we often had to borrow boys from The Boy's Grammar for our perfomances. One exception to this was when we performed Oliver! Our biology teacher was Bill Sykes, he had a huge voice and carried the part off brilliantly. The part of Fagin was played by one of the 6th Formers; she was excellent too and has subsequently become a stand up comedian.
I was in the Chorus, male street urchin, in borrowed boots, flat cap and jacket. I am usually pretty poor at remembering words to songs, but Oliver is an exception. I took my daughter to see a performance at The Palace Theatre a few years ago, and I could still remember every word!
That's what gave me the name for my new blog, one of Nancy's songs... "Small pleasures, small pleasures, who can deny us these? Gin toddies; large measures, no skimping if you please"
The small pleasures are important.
I got home from work today very late, a delicious pasta bake was waiting for me, the children were happy and being very kind to each other. I'm relishing reading Teddy Robinson stories to my youngest and enjoying trying to read The Owl Service with three different Welsh Accents to my oldest!
Here is a picture from a weekend walk.
At school, we performed lots of musicals; we were an all girls school so we often had to borrow boys from The Boy's Grammar for our perfomances. One exception to this was when we performed Oliver! Our biology teacher was Bill Sykes, he had a huge voice and carried the part off brilliantly. The part of Fagin was played by one of the 6th Formers; she was excellent too and has subsequently become a stand up comedian.
I was in the Chorus, male street urchin, in borrowed boots, flat cap and jacket. I am usually pretty poor at remembering words to songs, but Oliver is an exception. I took my daughter to see a performance at The Palace Theatre a few years ago, and I could still remember every word!
That's what gave me the name for my new blog, one of Nancy's songs... "Small pleasures, small pleasures, who can deny us these? Gin toddies; large measures, no skimping if you please"
The small pleasures are important.
I got home from work today very late, a delicious pasta bake was waiting for me, the children were happy and being very kind to each other. I'm relishing reading Teddy Robinson stories to my youngest and enjoying trying to read The Owl Service with three different Welsh Accents to my oldest!
Here is a picture from a weekend walk.
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