Got up earlyish to get Gemima ready for School and Aaron and I ready to trek off to SWF to stay with Keith until Monday.
Aaron went downstairs to retrieve his clothes from the dryer as he'd done his laundry last night and put the dryer on before he went to bed.
I heard a few raised voices and then Aaron stomped upstairs with a face like thunder. Turned out that after Nick had come home last night (he went for a walk after his strop and argument with me) he'd turned the dryer off. Consequently all of Aaron's clothes were still wet.
Aaron is convinced that he did it on purpose to make us late this morning.
Took my time getting Gemima and I ready as she doesn't start school until 8:55. Came downstairs with her at about 8:40 to Nick having a grump on the sofa about how he had wanted to leave with her 15 mins ago so he could play ball with her in the playground!
Oh, well excuse me! My psychic Jedi powers appear to have malfunctioned as I did not receive that telepathic message! Neither did Gemima by all accounts!
Mad rush to get her ready - well sort of - got her in the car within about 10 minutes!
Was standing in the open doorway on the passenger side of the car, giving Gemima her reading folder, when Nick blurted out that he was quite capable of taking her to school by himself. When I pointed out that I was not disputing this but that I like to come to her school to say goodbye and see her off, he got really annoyed, shouted at me that he was not having a go at me (the irony was not lost on me!) and then leaned over and tried to shut the car door, with me in the way, in some vain attempt to barge me out of the way with it, shouting at me to move!
Being the stubborn mare that I seem to have become of late, naturally I refused to budge until I was good and ready!
Thursday, 24 April 2008
Financial Form Filled
Finally got the financial forms as completed as possible. Still some gaps where I need information from documents that Nick has given to his solicitors.
Those still have not been forthcoming incidentally. Nick has said that he has instructed his solicitor to send them to mine... not that I think he has at all.
Dropped them in to my solicitor this morning. Have apppointment to discuss on Monday at 4:30pm.
Those still have not been forthcoming incidentally. Nick has said that he has instructed his solicitor to send them to mine... not that I think he has at all.
Dropped them in to my solicitor this morning. Have apppointment to discuss on Monday at 4:30pm.
Wednesday, 23 April 2008
Grrraaaaarrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr
HUGE disagreement with Nick this evening.
Still no joy on drafting some kid of proposal we can both agree to with regards to housing, residency, visitation and maintenance.
What started as a discussion ended up with me getting on my high horse for the first time and really giving him what for.
Its his own fault. He called me a bitch for NO reason!
I'm getting a bit tired of the name calling and had to point out that so far I have done absolutely nothing to be a bitch - far from it!
After much to-ing and fro-ing, he had the nerve to say that at least he had a reason for his bad behaviour!
That was a bit much for me. I was then compelled to point out that not only do I know several other people with MS who would not dream of using the MS to justify bad behaviour but that I am so sick and tired of him thinking he can be outrageously rude to me, often in front of the children and then hide behind the MS label as though it exonerates him from any responsibility for his actions!
God!
I am SO pissed off!
Still no joy on drafting some kid of proposal we can both agree to with regards to housing, residency, visitation and maintenance.
What started as a discussion ended up with me getting on my high horse for the first time and really giving him what for.
Its his own fault. He called me a bitch for NO reason!
I'm getting a bit tired of the name calling and had to point out that so far I have done absolutely nothing to be a bitch - far from it!
After much to-ing and fro-ing, he had the nerve to say that at least he had a reason for his bad behaviour!
That was a bit much for me. I was then compelled to point out that not only do I know several other people with MS who would not dream of using the MS to justify bad behaviour but that I am so sick and tired of him thinking he can be outrageously rude to me, often in front of the children and then hide behind the MS label as though it exonerates him from any responsibility for his actions!
God!
I am SO pissed off!
Tuesday, 22 April 2008
Knew It...!!!
Oh Dear!
Came home this evening to a very depressed and somewhat shell-shocked Nick.
He'd been to view the flat again this evening; this visit was for him to let them know what furnishings they could just leave that he could use. Apparently, despite them having told him a couple of days ago that he had first refusal, they today accepted a higher offer.
I actually felt quite sorry for him. I think he had really pinned his hopes on this place. It would have been ideal - it was near enough for the kids to visit regularly and far enough not to be neighbours.
Anyhow - suffice it to say he is no longer as motivated to come to any agreement and did not want to sit down and put anything in writing tonight.
Anyone surprised by this?
Came home this evening to a very depressed and somewhat shell-shocked Nick.
He'd been to view the flat again this evening; this visit was for him to let them know what furnishings they could just leave that he could use. Apparently, despite them having told him a couple of days ago that he had first refusal, they today accepted a higher offer.
I actually felt quite sorry for him. I think he had really pinned his hopes on this place. It would have been ideal - it was near enough for the kids to visit regularly and far enough not to be neighbours.
Anyhow - suffice it to say he is no longer as motivated to come to any agreement and did not want to sit down and put anything in writing tonight.
Anyone surprised by this?
Monday, 21 April 2008
Oooh, Oooh, Possible Agreement...
Well maybe - we all know Nick changes his mind more often than most people change their facial expressions.
Had a chat with Nick this evening. He seemed to be more upbeat than usual.
He has had a look at a 2-bed flat nearby and thinks he might be able to afford it. He wants to get in quick with an offer so is feeling motivated to come to an agreement.
His suggestion:
*He keeps any insurance payout from the Life/Critical Illness insurance and takes on all the debts accrued before the divorce was filed for.
*I take over the existing mortgage, leave his pension alone.
*He relinquishes any claim on the house at all.
Figures balance out and it will save us a lot of hassle through courts if we can agree now.
Have agreed, as it is late, to sit down together tomorrow evening and put together an agreement which we're both happy to sign which can be handed to our solicitors with the financial information forms.
Nick has also asked his solicitor to send my solicitor copies of all the forms he has given her.
Watch this space!
Had a chat with Nick this evening. He seemed to be more upbeat than usual.
He has had a look at a 2-bed flat nearby and thinks he might be able to afford it. He wants to get in quick with an offer so is feeling motivated to come to an agreement.
His suggestion:
*He keeps any insurance payout from the Life/Critical Illness insurance and takes on all the debts accrued before the divorce was filed for.
*I take over the existing mortgage, leave his pension alone.
*He relinquishes any claim on the house at all.
Figures balance out and it will save us a lot of hassle through courts if we can agree now.
Have agreed, as it is late, to sit down together tomorrow evening and put together an agreement which we're both happy to sign which can be handed to our solicitors with the financial information forms.
Nick has also asked his solicitor to send my solicitor copies of all the forms he has given her.
Watch this space!
Sunday, 20 April 2008
Doing Bugger-All Is Becoming A Habit!
Feeling tired and a bit listless today. Had weird dreams last night which I put down to anxiety over all the crap going on in my life at the moment.
Spent the afternoon doing battle with my procrastination gland and mercilessly forcing myself to finish the financial information forms. Brain was well and truly fizzing by the time I got through that lot - especially as some of the info I need to include, Nick has still got.
Cooked pork and pepper meatballs with noodles (rice for me tho) for dinner which everyone seemed to like and no-one seems to have come down with food-poisoning from!
Sadly had to leave SWF to come back to smelly London and smelly house. Finally got on the road at about 10.45pm so Aaron nearly got his wish of staying til 11pm!
Was nice to see Gemima tucked up in her own bed instead of sleeping on the sofa.
Nick had waited up for me. I suppose he wanted to chat but I was a bit tired by the time we walked through the door.
Spoke briefly about the financial information forms. Turns out that the information I need to complete it is all with his solicitor - the original copies - land registry docs, mortgage agreements, insurance policy docs!
I was not best pleased and have insisted that he contact his solicitor and get it back immediately as she should not have it!
I refuse to pay for mine to do the chasing when he should not have handed over originals to start with!
Grrr!
Spent the afternoon doing battle with my procrastination gland and mercilessly forcing myself to finish the financial information forms. Brain was well and truly fizzing by the time I got through that lot - especially as some of the info I need to include, Nick has still got.
Cooked pork and pepper meatballs with noodles (rice for me tho) for dinner which everyone seemed to like and no-one seems to have come down with food-poisoning from!
Sadly had to leave SWF to come back to smelly London and smelly house. Finally got on the road at about 10.45pm so Aaron nearly got his wish of staying til 11pm!
Was nice to see Gemima tucked up in her own bed instead of sleeping on the sofa.
Nick had waited up for me. I suppose he wanted to chat but I was a bit tired by the time we walked through the door.
Spoke briefly about the financial information forms. Turns out that the information I need to complete it is all with his solicitor - the original copies - land registry docs, mortgage agreements, insurance policy docs!
I was not best pleased and have insisted that he contact his solicitor and get it back immediately as she should not have it!
I refuse to pay for mine to do the chasing when he should not have handed over originals to start with!
Grrr!
Saturday, 19 April 2008
Dossy Day and Lasgane... again!
Dossy day doing bugger all except for a trip to Lidl for some bits.
Kids requested lasagne for dinner, so just for a change (ha ha) we had lasagne. Well, its been a good few weeks since I've made it I suppose!
Vampire-fest today too - watched all three Blade movies, although fell asleep for much of the first, spent part of the second washing up and then came up to bed halfway through the third.
So not a lot of actual watching was done by me then!
Kids requested lasagne for dinner, so just for a change (ha ha) we had lasagne. Well, its been a good few weeks since I've made it I suppose!
Vampire-fest today too - watched all three Blade movies, although fell asleep for much of the first, spent part of the second washing up and then came up to bed halfway through the third.
So not a lot of actual watching was done by me then!
Friday, 18 April 2008
Greenhouse and Kids at Work
Had another pretty good day at work today.
Have definitely made the right decision in changing jobs.
Have been on Greenhouse Duty since Tuesday evening when John (manager) went on leave and I'm proud to say I have managed to keep all the plants alive in his absence! Just hope that staff are able to continue this over the weekend while I'm away, or John will get the arse!
Jamie dropped Aaron off to me at work. I'd mentioned to some of the staff and client's that my son was coming to meet me and they were quite keen for me to brig him in to say hello, so I did.
One of the female clients was quite taken with him and had her pic taken with him, walked us to the car when we left and kissed him on the cheek to say goodbye! Poor Aaron didn't quite know how to react to that, just smiled and looked slightly scared!!
Put fuel in the car, grumbled about the fact that its gone up by 8p a litre in some places and then trekked off to SWF for the weekend.
Have definitely made the right decision in changing jobs.
Have been on Greenhouse Duty since Tuesday evening when John (manager) went on leave and I'm proud to say I have managed to keep all the plants alive in his absence! Just hope that staff are able to continue this over the weekend while I'm away, or John will get the arse!
Jamie dropped Aaron off to me at work. I'd mentioned to some of the staff and client's that my son was coming to meet me and they were quite keen for me to brig him in to say hello, so I did.
One of the female clients was quite taken with him and had her pic taken with him, walked us to the car when we left and kissed him on the cheek to say goodbye! Poor Aaron didn't quite know how to react to that, just smiled and looked slightly scared!!
Put fuel in the car, grumbled about the fact that its gone up by 8p a litre in some places and then trekked off to SWF for the weekend.
Thursday, 17 April 2008
Forms, Forms, Forms!
Spent a fun-packed evening going through all the crap I've gathered together for the financial information form that I have to complete for this divorce.
Oh joy. Finances. My favourite thing!
Did most of it. Just a few things to fill in later. Still need to get bank balances for my account and the joint account.
Sounds simple but I know they will be horribly overdrawn and I'm currently doing the ostrich thing and burying my head and not wanting to face it.
I have a feeling that I won't be able to afford to take on the mortgage and will have to sell the house anyway.
Not really the ideal time with the current market but may not have a choice.
Looks like I will be trekking off to the housing office with application forms for social housing then.
Deep Joy!
Oh joy. Finances. My favourite thing!
Did most of it. Just a few things to fill in later. Still need to get bank balances for my account and the joint account.
Sounds simple but I know they will be horribly overdrawn and I'm currently doing the ostrich thing and burying my head and not wanting to face it.
I have a feeling that I won't be able to afford to take on the mortgage and will have to sell the house anyway.
Not really the ideal time with the current market but may not have a choice.
Looks like I will be trekking off to the housing office with application forms for social housing then.
Deep Joy!
Long Commute!
Didn't have to be up quite so early today as I have no kids to transport anywhere! Dragged myself up and was out of the house by 7:30 and made it to work by 8:45!
Not bad going seeing as I had to go through the tunnel.
Quite a good day at work. Seem to be getting into the swing of things a bit more. Was easier to be able to get up and wander about and just observe what was happening with staff and clients. I now have a list of areas which I think need to be addressed and will be talking to the manager and director about these when I get back.
Feel more settled generally, which is good.
Not bad going seeing as I had to go through the tunnel.
Quite a good day at work. Seem to be getting into the swing of things a bit more. Was easier to be able to get up and wander about and just observe what was happening with staff and clients. I now have a list of areas which I think need to be addressed and will be talking to the manager and director about these when I get back.
Feel more settled generally, which is good.
Wednesday, 16 April 2008
Busy Day and off to SWF
Today went surprisingly well.
Did the admin bits that needed to be done, then took the opportunity to spend a fair bit of time wandering up and down the unit watching staff and clients and trying to get a feel for the place.
Glad I did. There are a few things I picked up on that need to be addressed as soon as!
Sorted my computer out. Organised all my email folders and my document folders and started the laborious process of trawling through the stuff my predecessor had done.
Got a call from Keith in the afternoon talking about his works curry evening in London tonight, which he might have to miss half of because the last train to SWF leaves Liverpool St around 10pm ish and they aren't due at the restaurant til 8pm.
Agreed that if Nick is back (because there are never any guarantees lately) then I will pick him up from North Greenwich, drive him home, stay the night and come back early in the morning.
Got to my sister's to find that Gemima had decided that she wanted a sleep-over! How convenient!
Dashed about getting her stuff. Left Nick a note. Stayed at Leanne's til about 9:30 then went off to Mum's to see Aaron, where I stayed until I had to leave at about 11pm.
Met Keith at North Greenwich at 11:30ish and drove back to SWF.
Long day. Totally knackered. Asleep pretty much as soon as my head hit the pillow!
At least there's no rushing back early as I have no kids to take anywhere.
Yay!
Did the admin bits that needed to be done, then took the opportunity to spend a fair bit of time wandering up and down the unit watching staff and clients and trying to get a feel for the place.
Glad I did. There are a few things I picked up on that need to be addressed as soon as!
Sorted my computer out. Organised all my email folders and my document folders and started the laborious process of trawling through the stuff my predecessor had done.
Got a call from Keith in the afternoon talking about his works curry evening in London tonight, which he might have to miss half of because the last train to SWF leaves Liverpool St around 10pm ish and they aren't due at the restaurant til 8pm.
Agreed that if Nick is back (because there are never any guarantees lately) then I will pick him up from North Greenwich, drive him home, stay the night and come back early in the morning.
Got to my sister's to find that Gemima had decided that she wanted a sleep-over! How convenient!
Dashed about getting her stuff. Left Nick a note. Stayed at Leanne's til about 9:30 then went off to Mum's to see Aaron, where I stayed until I had to leave at about 11pm.
Met Keith at North Greenwich at 11:30ish and drove back to SWF.
Long day. Totally knackered. Asleep pretty much as soon as my head hit the pillow!
At least there's no rushing back early as I have no kids to take anywhere.
Yay!
Tuesday, 15 April 2008
Going Solo
That's both me and Gemima!
Got a call from my sister this afternoon. Gemima is at her house again today. Apparently Gemima told Leanne that on the weekend, Nick had sent her to the local shops for milk.
Doesn't sound so bad until you realise that Gemima is a VERY petite 7-year-old who has not long grown out of her 5 year old's clothes and looks like a skinny little pixie!
The road she has to cross are both busy and cars speed up them. One is the main route through the estate and a bus route and is lined all the way with parked cars and vans!
I was furious!
Spoke to Gemima when I got home and she confirmed that he had given her money and asked her to get milk from the shop - but she is too short to reach the milk so had to ask someone to get it for her. That just buggered all the "don't talk to strangers" chats!
On the plus side, Gemima said she hadn't actually gone alone - she'd gone with her friend who is 10. Big deal. This estate is full of dodgy fuckers - what's a 10-year-old going to do to look after a 7-year-old?
On the down side, this isn't the first time she's been to the shops unsupervised! The week before he let her go with the boy across the road who is lso 7 and has the attention span of a goldfish!
Talk about irresponsible!
Tried to talk to him about it this evening but it would seem that he is not speaking to me and spend ALL evening on his phone to his sister!
As for my solo trip - the manager and the director have now both gone on leave and tomorrow will be my first day running the home.
Oh crap!!
Got a call from my sister this afternoon. Gemima is at her house again today. Apparently Gemima told Leanne that on the weekend, Nick had sent her to the local shops for milk.
Doesn't sound so bad until you realise that Gemima is a VERY petite 7-year-old who has not long grown out of her 5 year old's clothes and looks like a skinny little pixie!
The road she has to cross are both busy and cars speed up them. One is the main route through the estate and a bus route and is lined all the way with parked cars and vans!
I was furious!
Spoke to Gemima when I got home and she confirmed that he had given her money and asked her to get milk from the shop - but she is too short to reach the milk so had to ask someone to get it for her. That just buggered all the "don't talk to strangers" chats!
On the plus side, Gemima said she hadn't actually gone alone - she'd gone with her friend who is 10. Big deal. This estate is full of dodgy fuckers - what's a 10-year-old going to do to look after a 7-year-old?
On the down side, this isn't the first time she's been to the shops unsupervised! The week before he let her go with the boy across the road who is lso 7 and has the attention span of a goldfish!
Talk about irresponsible!
Tried to talk to him about it this evening but it would seem that he is not speaking to me and spend ALL evening on his phone to his sister!
As for my solo trip - the manager and the director have now both gone on leave and tomorrow will be my first day running the home.
Oh crap!!
Monday, 14 April 2008
Late Start and Long Day!
Woke up at 5:48am! That might sound early but given that I was supposed to have been up at 4:30am and should have been pretty much back in London by 5:48, that was in fact cause for panic!
Got dressed, grabbed my stuff and was out of Keith's door by 6:03! Something of record for me, I can tell you!
Made it back home by 7am. Got Gemima up and ready for Nick to take her to the GP for her appointment which he had thouht was at 8:30 but turned out to be at 10:45!
Gemima didn't want to go to my Mum's today so I made a quick call and Nick dropped her round to my sister instead. Gemima had a great day playing with my niece, Shivaani. They went for a 3 mile walk through Oxleas woods apparently! She was very tired when I came to collect her!
As for me - what a busy day! Had to drive the Land Rover to collect a new client and their belongings. Bloody thing is an automatic. I've never driven and automatic! Like driving a sodding Go-Kart!
And then, to top it off, I had to help my manager interview a new staff member. I've never interviewed anyone before so it was a completely new experience.
Was totally knackered by the end of the day.
Also was told that not only is my manager going on leave until Monday, the director is going on leave until Wednesday next week. They are both leaving tomorrow afternoon!!!
Yours Truly will be in charge of running the place!
Yikes!
I have only been there a week. I haven't a fucking clue what I'm doing!!
Watch this space!
Got dressed, grabbed my stuff and was out of Keith's door by 6:03! Something of record for me, I can tell you!
Made it back home by 7am. Got Gemima up and ready for Nick to take her to the GP for her appointment which he had thouht was at 8:30 but turned out to be at 10:45!
Gemima didn't want to go to my Mum's today so I made a quick call and Nick dropped her round to my sister instead. Gemima had a great day playing with my niece, Shivaani. They went for a 3 mile walk through Oxleas woods apparently! She was very tired when I came to collect her!
As for me - what a busy day! Had to drive the Land Rover to collect a new client and their belongings. Bloody thing is an automatic. I've never driven and automatic! Like driving a sodding Go-Kart!
And then, to top it off, I had to help my manager interview a new staff member. I've never interviewed anyone before so it was a completely new experience.
Was totally knackered by the end of the day.
Also was told that not only is my manager going on leave until Monday, the director is going on leave until Wednesday next week. They are both leaving tomorrow afternoon!!!
Yours Truly will be in charge of running the place!
Yikes!
I have only been there a week. I haven't a fucking clue what I'm doing!!
Watch this space!
Sunday, 13 April 2008
Dossing, Marmite and Hockey
Wouldn't be a proper Sunday without an Ice Hockey fix! Got up late and spent the best part of the day dossing on the sofa watching hockey, followed by some dodgy vampire flick.
Breakfast was gluten-free pittas with philadelphia, marmite and bacon. Sounds revolting but tastes yummy! Dinner sounds nicer; chicken in garlic and mushroom sauce with roast veggies! Yum! Even if I do say so myself!
Aaron is still at Mum's so I'll be staying another night then!
Breakfast was gluten-free pittas with philadelphia, marmite and bacon. Sounds revolting but tastes yummy! Dinner sounds nicer; chicken in garlic and mushroom sauce with roast veggies! Yum! Even if I do say so myself!
Aaron is still at Mum's so I'll be staying another night then!
Saturday, 12 April 2008
Vendetta!!
Despite being knackered after yesterday, Keith and I couldn't miss out on our monthly visit to Vendetta...
Me - not ready for my pic to be taken!
Keith being Glitzy and fab in his Chinese dress.
Awwww... aint it sweet!!
Me - not ready for my pic to be taken!
Keith being Glitzy and fab in his Chinese dress.
Awwww... aint it sweet!!
Friday, 11 April 2008
Long Drives, Hailstorms, Sunshine and Flowers
Set off from SWF for Stratford on Avon at around 11ish - slightly later than planned due to tiredness, hair washing and a general inability to get ready in any reasonable amount of time at all! Sam and Sophie opted to stay at home rather than coming with us, so Keith and I headed off together.
After alternating between whizzing and trundling around the M25 we finally ground to a halt and began the arduous crawl onto the M1, which remains plagued by roadworks that appear to have been there since the dawn of time.
Proceedings were livened up somewhat by a heavy hailstorm, thunder and lightening and some fantastically interesting clouds!
Don't knock it - entertainment is hard to come by in a traffic jam!
After a couple of hours we stopped at a dodgy service station for what was meant to be coffee, only for Keith to be informed by text from his Mum that they were heading off for the crematorium by 2.15 - which left only half an hour to get there!
Yeah right! Not even with my racing abilities!
Quick change of route later we decided to head off to the crematorium ourselves and meet everyone there.
It was good to see Keith's Mum again. She reminds me so much of my Nan. Sad to see her under the circumstances though. And I got to meet even more members of Keith's family - although again it was lovely but sad under the circumstances.
The sun finally decided to show itself during the service which was actually quite nice. I sat there listening to extracts from a book describing flowers and beaches while I was holding Keith's hand and watching the sun shining on a large bouquet of flowers through the big windows. It was calm and slightly surreal. Although it was difficult for Keith and his family, the service was peaceful; and for me, who didn't really know his Nan at all other than meeting her briefly at Christmas, it painted a lovely picture of her.
After the service we went back to Keith's Mum's house, where we stayed until about 8pm. We opted to avoid the M1 on the way back and took a somewhat scenic route around the middle of nowhere before finding the road we were meant to be on and heading off back to SWF.
It was almost midnight by the time we got back to the house. Roughly 9 hours of driving today. Was shattered by the time we got back and was fighting to stay awake. In future - we leave Keith's Mum's no later than 7pm - and avoid the touristy bit around the middle of nowhere! Finally fell into bed just after midnight and slept like a log!
After alternating between whizzing and trundling around the M25 we finally ground to a halt and began the arduous crawl onto the M1, which remains plagued by roadworks that appear to have been there since the dawn of time.
Proceedings were livened up somewhat by a heavy hailstorm, thunder and lightening and some fantastically interesting clouds!
Don't knock it - entertainment is hard to come by in a traffic jam!
After a couple of hours we stopped at a dodgy service station for what was meant to be coffee, only for Keith to be informed by text from his Mum that they were heading off for the crematorium by 2.15 - which left only half an hour to get there!
Yeah right! Not even with my racing abilities!
Quick change of route later we decided to head off to the crematorium ourselves and meet everyone there.
It was good to see Keith's Mum again. She reminds me so much of my Nan. Sad to see her under the circumstances though. And I got to meet even more members of Keith's family - although again it was lovely but sad under the circumstances.
The sun finally decided to show itself during the service which was actually quite nice. I sat there listening to extracts from a book describing flowers and beaches while I was holding Keith's hand and watching the sun shining on a large bouquet of flowers through the big windows. It was calm and slightly surreal. Although it was difficult for Keith and his family, the service was peaceful; and for me, who didn't really know his Nan at all other than meeting her briefly at Christmas, it painted a lovely picture of her.
After the service we went back to Keith's Mum's house, where we stayed until about 8pm. We opted to avoid the M1 on the way back and took a somewhat scenic route around the middle of nowhere before finding the road we were meant to be on and heading off back to SWF.
It was almost midnight by the time we got back to the house. Roughly 9 hours of driving today. Was shattered by the time we got back and was fighting to stay awake. In future - we leave Keith's Mum's no later than 7pm - and avoid the touristy bit around the middle of nowhere! Finally fell into bed just after midnight and slept like a log!
Thursday, 10 April 2008
Chef Sam!
OK - so the going out for a meal plans didn't happen - which is just as well because my budget is maxed out already!
Sam saved the evening, making his fab burgers which were lovely as always. Ate far too much and trundled off to bed early, ready for the long drive tomorrow.
Sam saved the evening, making his fab burgers which were lovely as always. Ate far too much and trundled off to bed early, ready for the long drive tomorrow.
Off to SWF Today
Going to see Keith this evening. I know its a day early but we're heading off to Stratford-upon-Avon tomorrow morning for his Nan's funderal.
Sadly tomorrow is also Sophie's 18th birthday.
Plans are to go out for a meal with her tonight... and we'll see what else happens over the weekend.
Sadly tomorrow is also Sophie's 18th birthday.
Plans are to go out for a meal with her tonight... and we'll see what else happens over the weekend.
Wednesday, 9 April 2008
Malcolm's Leaving Do
After work I popped back to Sidcup to meet up with friends from LDT and to say goodbye to Malcolm, my old manager, who is leaving the team this week.
He won't be going far - he's off to be the Safeguarding Adults Co-ordinator for Bexley so no doubt I'll be staying in touch anyway!!
Gathered in Pizza Express after deciding to leave the pub, as they wouldn't allow children - even into the restaurant bit - and Jo had brought her 3-year-old with her.
Much better venue anyway so good move! It was lovely to see everyone again but reminded me how much I will miss seeing them on a regular basis.
Malcolm got lots of prezzies and was trying not to be emotional.
Lovely way to spend the evening - even if I couldn't stay for long.
Pics are on my phone and will be published here soon!
He won't be going far - he's off to be the Safeguarding Adults Co-ordinator for Bexley so no doubt I'll be staying in touch anyway!!
Gathered in Pizza Express after deciding to leave the pub, as they wouldn't allow children - even into the restaurant bit - and Jo had brought her 3-year-old with her.
Much better venue anyway so good move! It was lovely to see everyone again but reminded me how much I will miss seeing them on a regular basis.
Malcolm got lots of prezzies and was trying not to be emotional.
Lovely way to spend the evening - even if I couldn't stay for long.
Pics are on my phone and will be published here soon!
Tuesday, 8 April 2008
Brain Fizz and Homework!
Work was a little less overwhelming today. Probably because I have some small idea of the pattern of things here now. I have no doubt I'll get into the swing of it and be up and running in no time!
I think I felt this confused when I first started at LDT - and I knew that inside-out after about 6 months so I know I'll be fine!
Got given homework to do tonight! Which is good because although I know I've spent 2 days trying to take things into my brain, I also feel somewhat unproductive, which isn't good!
So, this post is short and sweet because I have a service user guide to go and re-write and make accessible for our service users to understand. Currently, its 11 pages of closely typed jargon which only lawyers and directors can understand!
I think I felt this confused when I first started at LDT - and I knew that inside-out after about 6 months so I know I'll be fine!
Got given homework to do tonight! Which is good because although I know I've spent 2 days trying to take things into my brain, I also feel somewhat unproductive, which isn't good!
So, this post is short and sweet because I have a service user guide to go and re-write and make accessible for our service users to understand. Currently, its 11 pages of closely typed jargon which only lawyers and directors can understand!
Monday, 7 April 2008
New Job
After a quick text to my new manager, John, it transpired that the monsters' bout of Chicken Pox was no barrier to me starting work today, so off I trundled, a little nervous but very excited about starting in my new role as Unit Manager.
Spent much of the day reading through policies and procedures, being introduced to staff and trying to absorb some of the information which was doing its best to overload my brain!
Thoroughly knackered by the time I got home - not helped by forgetting to have breakfast and lunch and then getting to Mum's to find that she had not been shopping and there was no food in the fridge there either!
Ah well - will eat tomorrow!
Spent much of the day reading through policies and procedures, being introduced to staff and trying to absorb some of the information which was doing its best to overload my brain!
Thoroughly knackered by the time I got home - not helped by forgetting to have breakfast and lunch and then getting to Mum's to find that she had not been shopping and there was no food in the fridge there either!
Ah well - will eat tomorrow!
Itchy, Spotty children!
Woke Gemima up this morning to discover that she has Chicken Pox! Called Aaron who is staying at my Mum's to see how he is and he has them too!
Spotty, sulky Gemima
Spotty but slightly less sulky Aaron
Spotty, sulky Gemima
Spotty but slightly less sulky Aaron
Shock Wake-Up Call
Was woken up this morning at 4:23am by a phone call from my Mum, worried because Jade had said she was coming back home to her house last night but had still not returned.
I was supposed to get up at 4:30 anyway but that had well and truly woken me up.
Tried contacting Jade but no answer on her phone. Texted her and headed off to London.
Finally got hold of her at just after 6am! She'd gone out and forgotten to take her phone and later realised that she'd run out of credit! She ended up staying at her friend Hanni's
I could have cheerfully strangled her!!
Still - took my mind off my nerves about starting my new job today!
I was supposed to get up at 4:30 anyway but that had well and truly woken me up.
Tried contacting Jade but no answer on her phone. Texted her and headed off to London.
Finally got hold of her at just after 6am! She'd gone out and forgotten to take her phone and later realised that she'd run out of credit! She ended up staying at her friend Hanni's
I could have cheerfully strangled her!!
Still - took my mind off my nerves about starting my new job today!
Sunday, 6 April 2008
EIHL - Sunday
Woke up early and headed off into town to watch the Junior England -v- Scotland game. It was a good game, although we missed some of it so Keith could pop out for a chin-wag with Scott Neil, Edinburgh Caps manager.
England beat Scotland 4-0 much to Keith's disgust as he was supporting Scotland!
Keith and I nipped off to Pizza Hut for lunch as we won't have time for a meal in the evening because of the long trek back to SWF!
Coventry Blaze -v- Sheffield Steelers
Well, we had returned to the rink hoping for an exciting final. Sadly that didn't happen.
Whatever it was that the devils had been drinking yesterday, Blaze had been drinking today and they were noticeably absent from the game for the most part.
The Steelers played a good game yet again and won by a clear 2-0.
Some pics of us before the game:
Insanely large hockey shirt!
Same size shirt on Keith!
Us on the tram!
Shaggy on the tram!
All the Sunday Pics HERE: Sunday Pics
Long and uneventful drive back to SWF but was too tired to go home to London so I stayed the night at Keith's.
England beat Scotland 4-0 much to Keith's disgust as he was supporting Scotland!
Keith and I nipped off to Pizza Hut for lunch as we won't have time for a meal in the evening because of the long trek back to SWF!
Coventry Blaze -v- Sheffield Steelers
Well, we had returned to the rink hoping for an exciting final. Sadly that didn't happen.
Whatever it was that the devils had been drinking yesterday, Blaze had been drinking today and they were noticeably absent from the game for the most part.
The Steelers played a good game yet again and won by a clear 2-0.
Some pics of us before the game:
Insanely large hockey shirt!
Same size shirt on Keith!
Us on the tram!
Shaggy on the tram!
All the Sunday Pics HERE: Sunday Pics
Long and uneventful drive back to SWF but was too tired to go home to London so I stayed the night at Keith's.
Saturday, 5 April 2008
EIHL - Saturday
Awesome! Woke up to cooked breakfast before heading off to Nottingham by tram! Novelty for me. The last time I travelled by tram was in Amsterdam in 1999!
Keith and I popped into Void to check out the fab goth clothes and boots before grabbing coffee and going off to the rink to get our tickets.
Excellent seats - thanks to press passes courtesy of Edinburgh Caps!
Met up with some of Keith's friends before heading off to our seats to watch the Semi Finals
Coventry Blaze -v- Newcastle Vipers
Blaze are apparently not a particularly popular team with fans of other teams and this was evident in the huge amount of chanting in support of the Vipers.
A very exciting game. Lots of scraps. Blaze did go on to win 4-2 but it was never a certainty and the game was exciting right up to the end.
Keith and I nipped out for lunch along with thousands of other hockey fans and managed to find a quiet little Chinese restaurant which seemed to have been overlooked by the chip-munchers! Had a fairly relaxed lunch and lots of water to make up for the vast quantity of alcohol consumed last night!
Slow stroll back to the rink with brief stop on the way to pick up painkillers for Keith who didn't have a hangover at all!
Sheffield Steelers -v- Cardiff Devils
The Steelers, like Blaze, not particularly well-liked by any supporters other than their own and those of the Belfast Giants. The majority of the stadium came out in support of the Devils.
However, despite having about 90% of the crowd behind them, the Devils seemed to be asleep for the majority of the game and it was sadly quite dull to watch. The Steelers were never really challenged and to give them their due, played a good game and came away with a 2-1 win.
So the Finals will see the two most disliked teams in the league go head to head. It will be interesting to see who gets the bulk of the support.
Keith, Shaggy and I had dinner at TGI's. JD ribs! Awesome! Ate WAY too much... but it was worth it!
Pics HERE: EIHL Saturday Pics
Keith and I popped into Void to check out the fab goth clothes and boots before grabbing coffee and going off to the rink to get our tickets.
Excellent seats - thanks to press passes courtesy of Edinburgh Caps!
Met up with some of Keith's friends before heading off to our seats to watch the Semi Finals
Coventry Blaze -v- Newcastle Vipers
Blaze are apparently not a particularly popular team with fans of other teams and this was evident in the huge amount of chanting in support of the Vipers.
A very exciting game. Lots of scraps. Blaze did go on to win 4-2 but it was never a certainty and the game was exciting right up to the end.
Keith and I nipped out for lunch along with thousands of other hockey fans and managed to find a quiet little Chinese restaurant which seemed to have been overlooked by the chip-munchers! Had a fairly relaxed lunch and lots of water to make up for the vast quantity of alcohol consumed last night!
Slow stroll back to the rink with brief stop on the way to pick up painkillers for Keith who didn't have a hangover at all!
Sheffield Steelers -v- Cardiff Devils
The Steelers, like Blaze, not particularly well-liked by any supporters other than their own and those of the Belfast Giants. The majority of the stadium came out in support of the Devils.
However, despite having about 90% of the crowd behind them, the Devils seemed to be asleep for the majority of the game and it was sadly quite dull to watch. The Steelers were never really challenged and to give them their due, played a good game and came away with a 2-1 win.
So the Finals will see the two most disliked teams in the league go head to head. It will be interesting to see who gets the bulk of the support.
Keith, Shaggy and I had dinner at TGI's. JD ribs! Awesome! Ate WAY too much... but it was worth it!
Pics HERE: EIHL Saturday Pics
Friday, 4 April 2008
Play-Offs in Nottingham
Finished work after lunch and headed off to SWF to pick Keith up before heading off to Nottingham for the EIHL Play-Offs.
LONG drive there - total of four and a half hours on the road for me - lots of roadworks and one particularly memorable idiot in a blue van who thought it was a good idea to drive up about a foot away from the back of cars to intimidate people out of his way.
For a change I couldn't be bothered with the argument and moved over - and I was glad I did because when he tried the same trick on the car which had been in front of me, that driver did what I usually do and tapped his brakes, causing blue-van-man to have to brake suddenly.
I thought WW3 was about to break out after that as the two vehicles engaged in a bit of a dog-fight across two lanes. Stupid and dangerous stuff - luckily I was able to get past and away without really getting involved in it all.
Keith's friends, Shaggy and Helen very kindly put us up for the weekend. Dinner was pretty much ready when we arrived. Jambalaya, courtesy of Helen. Swiftly followed by copious amounts of Rum (for me) and JD (for Keith), then bed on an inflatable lilo in the living room.
Apologies to Shaggy and Helen's four cats who were evicted from their usual night-time haunt as I am allergic to them!
LONG drive there - total of four and a half hours on the road for me - lots of roadworks and one particularly memorable idiot in a blue van who thought it was a good idea to drive up about a foot away from the back of cars to intimidate people out of his way.
For a change I couldn't be bothered with the argument and moved over - and I was glad I did because when he tried the same trick on the car which had been in front of me, that driver did what I usually do and tapped his brakes, causing blue-van-man to have to brake suddenly.
I thought WW3 was about to break out after that as the two vehicles engaged in a bit of a dog-fight across two lanes. Stupid and dangerous stuff - luckily I was able to get past and away without really getting involved in it all.
Keith's friends, Shaggy and Helen very kindly put us up for the weekend. Dinner was pretty much ready when we arrived. Jambalaya, courtesy of Helen. Swiftly followed by copious amounts of Rum (for me) and JD (for Keith), then bed on an inflatable lilo in the living room.
Apologies to Shaggy and Helen's four cats who were evicted from their usual night-time haunt as I am allergic to them!
Sad Goodbyes
Last day at work today. Spent the morning clearing my desk and scrabbling about trying to finish all the last-minute bits I'd not done.
Went to the pub at lunchtime and met up with some colleagues for a goodbye lunch, which was nice.
Got three bunches of flowers, several cards, vouchers for Boots and for Dream Catcher in Sidcup (very nice little shop with pretty shiny things), a Managers Handbook (yeah, thanks Alex!), red wine and Rum!
Managed not to cry as I said goodbye to people - I was very proud of myself!
It's strange to think I don't work at LDT any more. I've been there for three and a half years. I will miss it much more than I thought I would.
Went to the pub at lunchtime and met up with some colleagues for a goodbye lunch, which was nice.
Got three bunches of flowers, several cards, vouchers for Boots and for Dream Catcher in Sidcup (very nice little shop with pretty shiny things), a Managers Handbook (yeah, thanks Alex!), red wine and Rum!
Managed not to cry as I said goodbye to people - I was very proud of myself!
It's strange to think I don't work at LDT any more. I've been there for three and a half years. I will miss it much more than I thought I would.
Quote of the Week
Thursday, 3 April 2008
Oh Dear, All Emotional Again
Well what an emotional day its been today. I've been up and down like a yoyo!
I was all happy and chirpy this morning. Came into the office and my friend Jo gave me a pretty bag with two prezzies and a card. She'd wanted to do something for me by herself apart from the joint card and prezzie that people usually get at their leaving do.
She got me a crystal guardian angel which is currently hanging in my car (which, lets face it, is probably where I most need a guardian angel!)...
...and her daughter chose a very pretty pen with a woodland faerie perched atop a toadstool on it.
Her card read...
Work like you don't need the money
Love like you've never been hurt
Dance like no-one's watching you
Awesome... I do try to do all three... I think!
That made me all sad and teary but I was able to contain it.
Then I went into the group I've been helping to run for the last couple of years. That was sad. Two of the group members had only found out this afternoon that I am leaving tomorrow.
On the funny side, after we'd had a chat for a bit and I'd explained briefly and vaguely my reasons for leaving, they came over to say goodbye. Its an all male group and there were five attending today. There was an awkward moment with each of them as they came over, unsure whether to hug me or shake my hand. Its a common thing for me with some of my clients so I took the initiative and offered my hand.
Most of them accepted that and shook my hand, all except the last person I said goodbye to, who is usually ultra-polite and proper. Not today though - today he ignored my hand and grabbed me in a big bear hug and wished me all the best!
The funniest part of that was the other 4 men who all looked at each other as if to say "why didn't we do that!" At that point I thought it best to scoot off back to my office and end with a smile on my face instead of feeling sad.
But the saddest part of all today was saying goodbye to my manager, Malcolm, who won't be in tomorrow as he has to look after his son.
He's an awesome manager. I've worked with a lot of people and can honestly say he is the best manager I've worked with yet - and he's been a good friend when I've needed one too. I will miss him.
He's off to pastures new himself next week so I will see him at his leaving do, which I am coming back for. But it was a sad moment just the same.
I was all happy and chirpy this morning. Came into the office and my friend Jo gave me a pretty bag with two prezzies and a card. She'd wanted to do something for me by herself apart from the joint card and prezzie that people usually get at their leaving do.
She got me a crystal guardian angel which is currently hanging in my car (which, lets face it, is probably where I most need a guardian angel!)...
...and her daughter chose a very pretty pen with a woodland faerie perched atop a toadstool on it.
Her card read...
Work like you don't need the money
Love like you've never been hurt
Dance like no-one's watching you
Awesome... I do try to do all three... I think!
That made me all sad and teary but I was able to contain it.
Then I went into the group I've been helping to run for the last couple of years. That was sad. Two of the group members had only found out this afternoon that I am leaving tomorrow.
On the funny side, after we'd had a chat for a bit and I'd explained briefly and vaguely my reasons for leaving, they came over to say goodbye. Its an all male group and there were five attending today. There was an awkward moment with each of them as they came over, unsure whether to hug me or shake my hand. Its a common thing for me with some of my clients so I took the initiative and offered my hand.
Most of them accepted that and shook my hand, all except the last person I said goodbye to, who is usually ultra-polite and proper. Not today though - today he ignored my hand and grabbed me in a big bear hug and wished me all the best!
The funniest part of that was the other 4 men who all looked at each other as if to say "why didn't we do that!" At that point I thought it best to scoot off back to my office and end with a smile on my face instead of feeling sad.
But the saddest part of all today was saying goodbye to my manager, Malcolm, who won't be in tomorrow as he has to look after his son.
He's an awesome manager. I've worked with a lot of people and can honestly say he is the best manager I've worked with yet - and he's been a good friend when I've needed one too. I will miss him.
He's off to pastures new himself next week so I will see him at his leaving do, which I am coming back for. But it was a sad moment just the same.
Wednesday, 2 April 2008
Work, Work, Pub, Work...
Quite a busy day today really. Spent much of it whizzing about trying to wrap things up before I go. Had a nice long lunch in the pub next door. Quite a few of the social workers, the CLASS team and the Nursing team popped over to have a drink and say goodbye.
The proper leaving do is on Friday but there are quite a few people who don't work Fridays or can't make it so it seemed like a good idea to have a goodbye diet coke today too!
Felt weird starting the goodbye process with colleagues.
This whole leaving my job thing is starting to feel a bit scarily real now.
The proper leaving do is on Friday but there are quite a few people who don't work Fridays or can't make it so it seemed like a good idea to have a goodbye diet coke today too!
Felt weird starting the goodbye process with colleagues.
This whole leaving my job thing is starting to feel a bit scarily real now.
Tuesday, 1 April 2008
Puppini Sisters
Went with Keith to see the Puppini Sisters at Koko (used to be Camden Palace). It was a little different to what we usually go and see - being 1940's style swing.
I wasn't sure what to expect really. I love going to theatre and always like seeing new things so I knew we'd have fun anyway but this trio were amazing and I enjoyed myself far more than I had expected to.
Its not often that I hear people sing and am amazed by their voices but all three of these ladies were awesome. And the show was good too! Even had a couple of burlesque entertainers and the process of changing their own costumes was about the most original I've seen!
Entertaining ourselves with the wine menu at the pub across the road from Koko just before the show
Us watching the show
The Puppini Sisters
Costume changes
One of the burlesque performers
You can see all the pics here: Puppini Sisters
I wasn't sure what to expect really. I love going to theatre and always like seeing new things so I knew we'd have fun anyway but this trio were amazing and I enjoyed myself far more than I had expected to.
Its not often that I hear people sing and am amazed by their voices but all three of these ladies were awesome. And the show was good too! Even had a couple of burlesque entertainers and the process of changing their own costumes was about the most original I've seen!
Entertaining ourselves with the wine menu at the pub across the road from Koko just before the show
Us watching the show
The Puppini Sisters
Costume changes
One of the burlesque performers
You can see all the pics here: Puppini Sisters
Pics That Made Me Laugh...
Various pics posted on MySpazz....
Posted by Keith on my comments...
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Posted by Keith on my comments...
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