After a marathon walk to Gate 22 which took ages followed by a very long walk down the ramp we finally boarded the plane! I have never been on such a long walk to board a plane and was glad we had left the lounge before they called us or we could well have been late boarders!!
The flight was quite full and we had a mum and a two year old sitting in front of us and the dad was back in economy - very strange!! The little girl fell asleep as soon as we took off and we didn't actually hear anything from her until about two hours before we landed when she was sick!! The crew were very good and cleaned it up and there wasn't too much smell. I felt sorry for the mum and I think in the end dad was better off in economy although he did pop up to see them every so often.
We had dinner as soon as we were up in the air and I watched one film. We then settled down to sleep and surprisingly we did both sleep for sis or seven hours, when I woke it said 2.48 before landing and I was shocked. Jon slept very well, too which is even more unusual but then we had had a very busy time in the UK.
When we woke they gave us breakfast which was very strange as when we landed it was 4.30 in the afternoon.
The flight was very good with very little turbulents which probably helped with sleeping. The service was also very good. They collect the headphones and shut down the TV screens quite a long time before you land and I had five minutes of 50/50 to watch!!! I will have to wait till the next flight.
As we were in the upstairs bit of the jumbo we were down the stairs and Jon was second off the plane and the heat really hit us. We then had a short walk followed by the train to the main terminal. We had been given fast track passes for immigration and so we were out with out luggage in double quick time.
We walked along some very long corridors to the hotel and it was so hot and humid. We arrived at the hotel to see golf buggies for passengers and realised we should have checked in at the arrivals hall to get a buggy but we had got out so fast we didn't look around!!
The hotel was lovely and we checked in and were taken to our room on the fourth floor which was very nice and a very big bed. However, there was a very strong smell like varnish.
I decided to go and look for the swimming pool which took me quite a time as the whole place was huge. I found it and checked they had towels there and then went back to the room for my camera, of course, and my swimsuit before going back again.
It was by now dark as it goes dark very fast in the tropics and you don't get dusk as we do. The pool was lovely and nicely lit up. I had a swim and a sit in the jacuzzi next to the pool, took some photos and then headed in to get changed. I spotted some hot pools and gave them a try but didn't use the steam room or sauna.
After a shower I went back to the room where Jon was already changed and ready for dinner. After a quick change I was ready and we went down.
We sat in the bar and asked for a menu and couldn't believe it when they brought out two iPads with all the drinks on. You click what you want and it goes through to the bar and it is brought to you!!! I am not sure how old people cope with all this technology - Oh hang on I am old!!!!
I had a 'pink' pina colada and Jon had a mojito. When we had finished and we had to go and sign at the bar, so there is some security, the waitress asked if we had enjoyed our drinks and I said yes and asked her why it was pink. She told me they don't like to use sugar syrup and so use a pomegranate syrup to sweeten it! It was nice though.
We went into dinner where it was a buffet or menu. We asked for the menu and out came the iPads again. Every dish and drink has a description of what is in it but it makes choosing very hard work so we opted for the buffet and were so glad we did. They had such a choice of food and all of it pretty good. I had some really good butter fish with a lovely homemade tartare sauce. One thing that was strange was the carrots. They were baby carrots and very rubbery texture.
We had a bottle of wine and it was very expensive as wine is not popular in Malaysia and it is all imported.
The desserts were to die for with an amazing choice and I really pigged out but I only had a teaspoonful of each. However, the chocolate fountain had me drooling and I consoled myself with the fact that the grapes, bananas, apricots and figs were some of my five a day even though they were covered in chocolate. They had some lovely little cakes and fruit tarts and a lovely melon pannacota type dish, tiny chocolate chip cookies and some little chocolates and sweets which I think were made of quince. They had four varieties of ice cream, chocolate/vanilla, mint, green tea and mango. I loved them all even the green tea and the mint was with fresh mint and really good.
After all those puddings I was really glad we had walked to the hotel from the airport and I think walking from the lounge to Gate 22 was a good job, too.
We went up to bed and I thought I would sleep but the smell in the room was not nice and being very sensitive to smells I really didn't sleep well and woke pretty much every hour.
We were due to have an alarm call at 6.00 but I was up at 5.30 and in the shower and ready and dressed by the time the call came.
When we checked out and payed the bill I told the receptionist that the room had a horrible smell in it and he told me that they had had other complaints the night before and it was a lot of the rooms on that floor and the housekeeper was looking into it. A bit poor really as it was not a cheap hotel and I would have expected more than that.
We went into the lobby and the bellboy put our luggage onto a golf buggy and once out of the hotel the heat hit us again but not for long as the driver raced us along the corridors and we had to hold on tight with the wind blowing my hair all over the place but it was good fun.
We checked in and even our three kilos overweight was not a problem (the girl on the way out had told us off!) and we were soon through immigration even after a hold up with one man being searched and then taken off to another room for more searching!!! I'll never know why.
We then got on the train to international departures and then up to the Malaysian lounge where we had a very nice breakfast. Once breakfast was finished Jon told me we had 341 of the currency left and so I just had to go and spend it!! I looked at Channel No 5 but was short of 50 so bought the new Chanel, Chance which was 340 so I have one left. I was back in the lounge very soon and Jon said it doesn't take me long to spend money!!!
We still had a little while to wait so we had a glass of champagne.
Our flight was called and we headed off to gate C2 which was not too far away and boarded our flight
We were on a 777 for this leg and strangely it has a lot more leg room than a jumbo.
We tried to stay awake for most of the flight and I did pretty much but Jon had a sleep.
I watched last five minutes of the film I watched on the previous flight and then a
a couple of others, I am Sam was one and it was really good I also watched The Help again. We had lunch and then they put the lights down. I got to the stage where I didn't know what day it was let alone the time! The steward brought round ice cream in the middle of the night/day for all those that were awake which was us.
Once again a good flight with very little turbulents. We were served dinner and once again satay. We have had four flight and eight meals and chicken and beef satay to start them all - I never want to see it again even though I liked it. They start to serve two hours before you land but it really isn't enough time and they do rush you but it was a good meal, I had chicken byriani and Jon had lamb shank pudding was tirimisu.
Landing was very smooth and we touched down at 10.45 and had picked up our duty free bought on our way out, and cleared immigration and got our bags and were in the hotel at 11.15 pretty amazing!
I felt very tired and really hoped I would be able to sleep. It was also very cold in Auckland when we landed.
WEATHER
Cloudy as that is all we saw!
Friday, 31 August 2012
Wednesday, 29 August 2012
Last day in UK
This will be short as we are due to board soon.
A good night's sleep and up early to say goodbye to Heather as she had to go to work. It was very, very hard as she was so upset and has not been good all day, bless her.
My friend Mary came round to say goodbye and then Kirsty, James and Jon and Ii went to the pub down the road for lunch as we had nothing in and it was very good.
As we got back Rene was just going out so I ran over to say goodbye and got very wet. She was off to see her sister who is 'comfortable'. She was very upset and crying and I felt so bad as she is so frail. I was happy I caught her though.
Jane and Jason came over and we had a cuppa and a piece of wedding cake - yummy.
4.30 came round very fast and a very nice Mercedes came to pick us up. It was not so hard saying goodbye to the girls as it was to Heather.
We had a good drive down and the driver was good and I listened to an audiobook.
Check in was fast and we were just two kilos over so no problems.
Now sitting in the lounge on second glass of champagne and have been emailing Heather. Hopefully she will settle down in a couple of days but then K & J go away but she might get a friend to come and stay some nights with her.
I have very mixed feelings leaving this time, probably because we have had such a good time. However, reality means the fun ends and everyone has to go back to work
Weather
A dry start then rain but dry now 19 degrees
End of the one finger typing!
A good night's sleep and up early to say goodbye to Heather as she had to go to work. It was very, very hard as she was so upset and has not been good all day, bless her.
My friend Mary came round to say goodbye and then Kirsty, James and Jon and Ii went to the pub down the road for lunch as we had nothing in and it was very good.
As we got back Rene was just going out so I ran over to say goodbye and got very wet. She was off to see her sister who is 'comfortable'. She was very upset and crying and I felt so bad as she is so frail. I was happy I caught her though.
Jane and Jason came over and we had a cuppa and a piece of wedding cake - yummy.
4.30 came round very fast and a very nice Mercedes came to pick us up. It was not so hard saying goodbye to the girls as it was to Heather.
We had a good drive down and the driver was good and I listened to an audiobook.
Check in was fast and we were just two kilos over so no problems.
Now sitting in the lounge on second glass of champagne and have been emailing Heather. Hopefully she will settle down in a couple of days but then K & J go away but she might get a friend to come and stay some nights with her.
I have very mixed feelings leaving this time, probably because we have had such a good time. However, reality means the fun ends and everyone has to go back to work
Weather
A dry start then rain but dry now 19 degrees
End of the one finger typing!
Tuesday and only one day to go!
I WILL CATCH UP WITH THE MISSING DAYS OF MY BLOG WHEN I GET BACK OR MAYBE IF I MANAGE TO GET MY PACKING DONE AND HAVE TIME TO SPARE!
It was another lovely day this morning and I was up early and had the washing out and managed to get all my ironing done.
I had been in the kitchen since getting up but went into the living room and saw an ambulance across the road at Rene's house. I got dressed and went over just as they were bringing her sister, Fran, out. I managed a quick word with her and she said it was her heart.
I went in to speak to Rene who was obviously upset. Fran has two leaking heart valves and the paramedic thought it was probably an angina attack but they wanted her to go to hospital for tests.
One of the other neighbours, Edna, was there. She goes in to see Rene twice a day and is so good to her since I left. We had a chat and I came back.
Jon and I went into Newmarket for coffee and I bought a new nightie as I realised during my two hours lying awake, that I only had the one nightdress with me and I should have washed it as I would not be able to change it till next Sunday!! We also bought a little gift for my friend's daughter who had a baby on Saturday. She lives in London but her in laws live just down the road from here. I left it on their doorknob as nobody was in. Small world when my Kiwi friend's daughter meets a guy from Newmarket!!
Jane had invited us to lunch so we all went over to her house. It was a lovely day and although we had a very mini shower of rain the rest of the afternoon was sunny and we all sat outside and had a lovely time.
We got back and James had been to buy a huge steak to cook on the bbq for dinner. I had cooked a big piece when they stayed with us in NZ and he has been wanting to try one himself ever since.
I had folded all of our clothes and put them on the bed ready to pack so needed to do that or we would have no bed to sleep in.
James cooked the steak which was delicious and we were able to sit outside with the help later on of the chimenea. Kirsty, James, Jane and Jason all went into the hot tub and had a good time. Heather went to bed at a sensible time as she has to go back to work. Jon and I went off to bed about 11.30 and left them to it.
I can't believe we are going home tomorrow. It is going to be hard to leave this time.
WEATHER
Sunny ad 21 degrees
It was another lovely day this morning and I was up early and had the washing out and managed to get all my ironing done.
I had been in the kitchen since getting up but went into the living room and saw an ambulance across the road at Rene's house. I got dressed and went over just as they were bringing her sister, Fran, out. I managed a quick word with her and she said it was her heart.
I went in to speak to Rene who was obviously upset. Fran has two leaking heart valves and the paramedic thought it was probably an angina attack but they wanted her to go to hospital for tests.
One of the other neighbours, Edna, was there. She goes in to see Rene twice a day and is so good to her since I left. We had a chat and I came back.
Jon and I went into Newmarket for coffee and I bought a new nightie as I realised during my two hours lying awake, that I only had the one nightdress with me and I should have washed it as I would not be able to change it till next Sunday!! We also bought a little gift for my friend's daughter who had a baby on Saturday. She lives in London but her in laws live just down the road from here. I left it on their doorknob as nobody was in. Small world when my Kiwi friend's daughter meets a guy from Newmarket!!
Jane had invited us to lunch so we all went over to her house. It was a lovely day and although we had a very mini shower of rain the rest of the afternoon was sunny and we all sat outside and had a lovely time.
We got back and James had been to buy a huge steak to cook on the bbq for dinner. I had cooked a big piece when they stayed with us in NZ and he has been wanting to try one himself ever since.
I had folded all of our clothes and put them on the bed ready to pack so needed to do that or we would have no bed to sleep in.
James cooked the steak which was delicious and we were able to sit outside with the help later on of the chimenea. Kirsty, James, Jane and Jason all went into the hot tub and had a good time. Heather went to bed at a sensible time as she has to go back to work. Jon and I went off to bed about 11.30 and left them to it.
I can't believe we are going home tomorrow. It is going to be hard to leave this time.
WEATHER
Sunny ad 21 degrees
Saturday, 25 August 2012
Friday and Saturday- wonderful days
Friday
I started the day by wishing Kirsty a Happy Wedding Day and then she showed me her dress and there was a lot of tears which doesn't bode well!
We all got dressed and went down to the Jockey Club where we had been given the use of a seven bedroom town house to get ready. So much space and all so old with lovely paintings on the walls. We had tea and coffee left in the kitchen and Jane had brought pastries for breakfast.
Kirsty was very calm and as soon as we got there Rochelle started on her hair and Natalie did my makeup and I felt very pampered.
By the time I put my dress on and hat I felt like a million dollars.
The photographer arrived and started taking photos of us all getting ready and she was a very nice lady and made us very relaxed.
Sam laced up Kirsty's dress and then the big photo shoot started. I have never had so many photos taken but it was all lovely and I managed to control my tears.
We had photos taken outside by the statue of Hyperion a very famous Newmarket horse.
We then all had some champagne and the photographer went over to Waterbeach to take photos of James at home.
We had to put all our bags together and the staff took them all over to our rooms at the Jockey Club.
We walked round to the main entrance where the cars were waiting and Jon came round and he was quite emotional to see Kirsty and he looked so smart in his tails and had no need to worry that he would be too short!
We drove to the church and we went in and it all looked lovely, we were ten minutes late and the vicar was a bit annoyed but I thought all brides had to be late!
I will never forget seeing Jon and Kirsty walking down the aisle, he looked so proud and although no photographs were allowed in the church it will be in my mind forever. I then looked across at James and he had tears in his eyes, too. I managed to control myself and enjoyed the service. I did my reading and only had a wobble on the last word which was 'love'.
The rest of the day was just wonderful and everyone had an amazing time. The canapes when we got back to the Jockey Club were delicious as was the champagne and the photographer took photos and a young man, Will, sang on the terrace and the weather was lovely.
We had the line up which the very nice French head waiter had asked us to hurry along as the chef was coking scallops and was getting worried if we were late.
We took our places and the room looked beautiful, all white and navy with vases of peacock feathers on the tables. The photographer had already printed a photo and framed it and put it on the top table by the time we sat down! Kirsty and James loved the champagne flutes we had bought for them and had engraved with Mr and Mrs Kemp.
The meal was beautiful and everybody enjoyed it. The desserts were presented to the top table with dry ice which smoked all over them and it was very effective.
Them came the speeches and Jon did such a good one which amused everyone. The best man's was not as shaming as it could have been and James' dad also did a speech.
The rest of the evening went very well with lots of chatting with family and friends. Jon's sister, Christine, had brought a portable printer with her and printed off some photos which was so nice of her and lovely to have straight away.
I think I talked for England that night and my voice was hoarse. My friend Mary said I should take my hat off for the evening but I enjoyed wearing it so much I didn't want to!!
The evening guests arrived and we had more talking and some dancing. I think I managed to get to speak to most people but it was hard work remembering names.
Jon left to go to bed before me as he was really tired and I finally gave in about 12.30.
Our room at the Jockey Club was lovely although not the one we were supposed to have. James and Kirsty had requested the rooms they used to use for the honeymoon suites for his parents and us. His parents got theirs on the ground floor but we didn't. However, the room was still beautiful.
I didn't not take long to fall asleep!
WEATHER
Sunny 22 degrees.
Saturday
I was awake by 7.30 and enjoyed a hot shower in the very large bathroom.
We went down for breakfast to the Coffee Room and it was all set out very nicely. We met up with my sister, Malcolm and then Kirsty and James. James' family soon joined us and it was a very subdued but happy meal.
We then packed our bags and loaded the car with all the boxes and flowers to get back to Centre Drive.
Once unloaded the house looked like I had never tidied it but not to worry.
We spent the rest of the morning trying to put things away and then it was soon time to take my sister, Barbara, to Ely to get her train back to Southport. Due to races there was a lot of traffic but we had plenty of time so no problems. It was lovely too see my sister, just a shame it was so short a time.
We got home and then got ready to go to the races to see Steps. James had set up a gazebo and his family were already there with the M&S picnic and lots of wine and champagne.
Some went off to put bets on and I stayed in the gazebo for most of the time and in fact only saw about five horses the whole day! It started to thunder and we had an amazing storm and people were drenched and the ground under our gazebo became like a lake and we all had to sit with our feet up on the chairs. Lots of people left the races as they were so wet and muddy but eventually the rain did ease. I went across to the Food and Drink tent as I wanted to see a young lady who is a friend of my cousin's daughter and I have been in contact with her on Faceebook. She makes the most amazing cupcakes and so I wanted to say hello and buy some, they didn't disappoint!
Steps came on and I couldn't find any of the others so stayed with Mary and Roger. It was by now thundering again and I felt very uncomfortable being out in the open holding an umbrella in a thunderstorm so we went into the stand and watched on the big screens.
Once the concert ended I went home with Roger and Mary and the rest of the group went to Sam's for tea. Sam works in the racing industry and has a flat more or less on the racecourse which is very convenient.
Jon had felt very tired just after the first race and as he and Malcolm could see the weather closing in they had gone home in a taxi and he had had a sleep.
I got back and had a cup of tea and was glad to be in the dry.
We ordered an Indian takeaway and slowly through the evening we had some very tipsy daughter's and their men arrive back at the house.
Jane and Jason got a taxi back to Soham as Jane said the bed settee was too uncomfortable to sleep on.
I fell into bed and didn't take long to get to sleep after another very busy day.
WEATHER
Thunder and lightening, rain 19 degrees
I started the day by wishing Kirsty a Happy Wedding Day and then she showed me her dress and there was a lot of tears which doesn't bode well!
We all got dressed and went down to the Jockey Club where we had been given the use of a seven bedroom town house to get ready. So much space and all so old with lovely paintings on the walls. We had tea and coffee left in the kitchen and Jane had brought pastries for breakfast.
Kirsty was very calm and as soon as we got there Rochelle started on her hair and Natalie did my makeup and I felt very pampered.
By the time I put my dress on and hat I felt like a million dollars.
The photographer arrived and started taking photos of us all getting ready and she was a very nice lady and made us very relaxed.
Sam laced up Kirsty's dress and then the big photo shoot started. I have never had so many photos taken but it was all lovely and I managed to control my tears.
We had photos taken outside by the statue of Hyperion a very famous Newmarket horse.
We then all had some champagne and the photographer went over to Waterbeach to take photos of James at home.
We had to put all our bags together and the staff took them all over to our rooms at the Jockey Club.
We walked round to the main entrance where the cars were waiting and Jon came round and he was quite emotional to see Kirsty and he looked so smart in his tails and had no need to worry that he would be too short!
We drove to the church and we went in and it all looked lovely, we were ten minutes late and the vicar was a bit annoyed but I thought all brides had to be late!
I will never forget seeing Jon and Kirsty walking down the aisle, he looked so proud and although no photographs were allowed in the church it will be in my mind forever. I then looked across at James and he had tears in his eyes, too. I managed to control myself and enjoyed the service. I did my reading and only had a wobble on the last word which was 'love'.
The rest of the day was just wonderful and everyone had an amazing time. The canapes when we got back to the Jockey Club were delicious as was the champagne and the photographer took photos and a young man, Will, sang on the terrace and the weather was lovely.
We had the line up which the very nice French head waiter had asked us to hurry along as the chef was coking scallops and was getting worried if we were late.
We took our places and the room looked beautiful, all white and navy with vases of peacock feathers on the tables. The photographer had already printed a photo and framed it and put it on the top table by the time we sat down! Kirsty and James loved the champagne flutes we had bought for them and had engraved with Mr and Mrs Kemp.
The meal was beautiful and everybody enjoyed it. The desserts were presented to the top table with dry ice which smoked all over them and it was very effective.
Them came the speeches and Jon did such a good one which amused everyone. The best man's was not as shaming as it could have been and James' dad also did a speech.
The rest of the evening went very well with lots of chatting with family and friends. Jon's sister, Christine, had brought a portable printer with her and printed off some photos which was so nice of her and lovely to have straight away.
I think I talked for England that night and my voice was hoarse. My friend Mary said I should take my hat off for the evening but I enjoyed wearing it so much I didn't want to!!
The evening guests arrived and we had more talking and some dancing. I think I managed to get to speak to most people but it was hard work remembering names.
Jon left to go to bed before me as he was really tired and I finally gave in about 12.30.
Our room at the Jockey Club was lovely although not the one we were supposed to have. James and Kirsty had requested the rooms they used to use for the honeymoon suites for his parents and us. His parents got theirs on the ground floor but we didn't. However, the room was still beautiful.
I didn't not take long to fall asleep!
WEATHER
Sunny 22 degrees.
Saturday
I was awake by 7.30 and enjoyed a hot shower in the very large bathroom.
We went down for breakfast to the Coffee Room and it was all set out very nicely. We met up with my sister, Malcolm and then Kirsty and James. James' family soon joined us and it was a very subdued but happy meal.
We then packed our bags and loaded the car with all the boxes and flowers to get back to Centre Drive.
Once unloaded the house looked like I had never tidied it but not to worry.
We spent the rest of the morning trying to put things away and then it was soon time to take my sister, Barbara, to Ely to get her train back to Southport. Due to races there was a lot of traffic but we had plenty of time so no problems. It was lovely too see my sister, just a shame it was so short a time.
We got home and then got ready to go to the races to see Steps. James had set up a gazebo and his family were already there with the M&S picnic and lots of wine and champagne.
Some went off to put bets on and I stayed in the gazebo for most of the time and in fact only saw about five horses the whole day! It started to thunder and we had an amazing storm and people were drenched and the ground under our gazebo became like a lake and we all had to sit with our feet up on the chairs. Lots of people left the races as they were so wet and muddy but eventually the rain did ease. I went across to the Food and Drink tent as I wanted to see a young lady who is a friend of my cousin's daughter and I have been in contact with her on Faceebook. She makes the most amazing cupcakes and so I wanted to say hello and buy some, they didn't disappoint!
Steps came on and I couldn't find any of the others so stayed with Mary and Roger. It was by now thundering again and I felt very uncomfortable being out in the open holding an umbrella in a thunderstorm so we went into the stand and watched on the big screens.
Once the concert ended I went home with Roger and Mary and the rest of the group went to Sam's for tea. Sam works in the racing industry and has a flat more or less on the racecourse which is very convenient.
Jon had felt very tired just after the first race and as he and Malcolm could see the weather closing in they had gone home in a taxi and he had had a sleep.
I got back and had a cup of tea and was glad to be in the dry.
We ordered an Indian takeaway and slowly through the evening we had some very tipsy daughter's and their men arrive back at the house.
Jane and Jason got a taxi back to Soham as Jane said the bed settee was too uncomfortable to sleep on.
I fell into bed and didn't take long to get to sleep after another very busy day.
WEATHER
Thunder and lightening, rain 19 degrees
Thursday, 23 August 2012
Thursday One day to go!
So much has happened and I can't remember exactly what we have done!
I know I went through the house tidying once Kirsty and James had taken all the boxes down to the Jockey Club.
We went over to Fordham to collect mine and Mary's hats and they came in huge, beautiful boxes and I love it just as much as I did when I saw it the first time.
We must have had lunch at some point but not sure where or what!
We set off to go to Waterbeach church for the rehearsal. I have to say I was not impressed with the lady vicar and I found her to be rather abrupt but I am sure she means well.
The rehearsal went well and we all know what we have to do. I practised my reading and I just hope I can do it without tears.
We got home and then it was more or less time to get ready to go out for dinner with Malcolm, Heather, Jane and Jason and then meet with Jon's family who would be arriving from Cornwall.
Kirsty stayed in for the evening with Sam, James' sister as she still had a few things to sort out. On the whole she is now very calm.
We went to the Premier Inn for dinner and while the food was not brilliant we did have a very good night.
It was lovely to meet up with Kay, Ann, Tony and Glenn and we sat drinking and chatting far too late before walking down the High Street to get a taxi.
Really looking forward to the big day now.
I know I went through the house tidying once Kirsty and James had taken all the boxes down to the Jockey Club.
We went over to Fordham to collect mine and Mary's hats and they came in huge, beautiful boxes and I love it just as much as I did when I saw it the first time.
We must have had lunch at some point but not sure where or what!
We set off to go to Waterbeach church for the rehearsal. I have to say I was not impressed with the lady vicar and I found her to be rather abrupt but I am sure she means well.
The rehearsal went well and we all know what we have to do. I practised my reading and I just hope I can do it without tears.
We got home and then it was more or less time to get ready to go out for dinner with Malcolm, Heather, Jane and Jason and then meet with Jon's family who would be arriving from Cornwall.
Kirsty stayed in for the evening with Sam, James' sister as she still had a few things to sort out. On the whole she is now very calm.
We went to the Premier Inn for dinner and while the food was not brilliant we did have a very good night.
It was lovely to meet up with Kay, Ann, Tony and Glenn and we sat drinking and chatting far too late before walking down the High Street to get a taxi.
Really looking forward to the big day now.
Wednesday, 22 August 2012
Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday
Not really sure where the time is going!!! I just haven't had the time to type this up so it is going to be short and sweet and include three days.
Monday was so busy, Jon, Heather and Jason went to Great Yarmouth for the day.
I went into Newmarket in the morning and walked around all the hairdressers in town trying to get a trim and the last one finally fitted me in for 12.00 so I just had enough time to drop off Jane's bridesmaid dress to be pressed and then had a quick coffee at the surgery with the girls and it was nice to see the old faces.
I enjoyed my relaxing haircut and then dashed out to meet Sonia (I worked with her at the surgery) for lunch which was very nice. A quick run to the dry cleaners to collect the dresses and then into a taxi and home.
I had five minutes to change before Mary collected me to go to Bury St Edmunds to have tea with some of my Tangent ladies at Janet's house which was lovely and we sat in her beautiful garden and all had a catch up.
I got back and made some dinner for Jon but I wasn't hungry.
Tuesday
We left to go to London and Jason drove and it only took an hour and a quarter. We saw the Olympic stadium and arrived at the Dome just in time for a coffee before Jon and Heather had to go and tog up for the walk across the top. So glad I didn't do it.
We went for lunch after the climb and I really enjoyed it as I could have as much salad as I liked, I have had salad withdrawal since arriving here.
We then went to the new Thames cable car but unfortunately all the cars had been taken off to allow a tall ship to pass under and we had to wait till 4,00 for it to restart. the tall ship was a bit of a disappointment as although it was tall it was quite small!!
We had an ice cream while we waited and then queued up which took rather a long time and so by the time we were ready to get on poor Jason just couldn't do it and went to wait for us to come back. I have to say it was rather scary and Jon has my nail marks in his arm to prove it!
We had to get off at the other side and queue again but it didn't take long and going back was better till the end bit when you drop down a lot. We got some nice photos from up there though.
Jason felt very bad when we spoke to him but it would have been too much for him and at least he tried.
We got into the car and drove home as I felt that was enough for one day for Jon. We missed all the rush hour traffic and we got home in just over an hour,
The gardener came and is going to come in on Friday and Saturday so it will all be finished for Sunday. Hopefully it will help James as we know it is an awful lot of work for him to keep on top of with all his travels as well not to mention all the planning for the wedding he is doing.
Heather and I went out to Tesco and brought dinner back. I am just loving Tesco as there is sooooo much choice and I had never noticed before.
Wednesday
We went over to meet Sara, my nephew's partner. They are down for the wedding and have parked their caravan in a field in Wicken but there are no other people on site and Mark has had to go to London for two days so she is on her own with the dog. Jane and Jason picked her and the dog up and we met them in Ely and walked along the river before having a lovely lunch at the Maltings.
We left for me to have my nails done and they went on to have a look at the cathedral.
Jon dropped me off at Mary's and Stacey, her beautician friend, came to do my nails. She had a terrible job removing the gel polish and it took her ages but I en joyed the relaxing chat and cups of tea. My nails look very nice now though.
I got back and cooked dinner and we all ate together - the last supper!
Jon went to bed as he has not been sleeping and is very tired. Heather gave him a different pillow to see if it helps.
I stayed up with Kirsty and James making chocolate trees for the wedding which were a nightmare to do but look very good now they are finished.
I went to bed very tired.
WEATHER
Mixed weather over the last few days but no rain! Sun and cloud mainly and low 20's
Monday was so busy, Jon, Heather and Jason went to Great Yarmouth for the day.
I went into Newmarket in the morning and walked around all the hairdressers in town trying to get a trim and the last one finally fitted me in for 12.00 so I just had enough time to drop off Jane's bridesmaid dress to be pressed and then had a quick coffee at the surgery with the girls and it was nice to see the old faces.
I enjoyed my relaxing haircut and then dashed out to meet Sonia (I worked with her at the surgery) for lunch which was very nice. A quick run to the dry cleaners to collect the dresses and then into a taxi and home.
I had five minutes to change before Mary collected me to go to Bury St Edmunds to have tea with some of my Tangent ladies at Janet's house which was lovely and we sat in her beautiful garden and all had a catch up.
I got back and made some dinner for Jon but I wasn't hungry.
Tuesday
We left to go to London and Jason drove and it only took an hour and a quarter. We saw the Olympic stadium and arrived at the Dome just in time for a coffee before Jon and Heather had to go and tog up for the walk across the top. So glad I didn't do it.
We went for lunch after the climb and I really enjoyed it as I could have as much salad as I liked, I have had salad withdrawal since arriving here.
We then went to the new Thames cable car but unfortunately all the cars had been taken off to allow a tall ship to pass under and we had to wait till 4,00 for it to restart. the tall ship was a bit of a disappointment as although it was tall it was quite small!!
We had an ice cream while we waited and then queued up which took rather a long time and so by the time we were ready to get on poor Jason just couldn't do it and went to wait for us to come back. I have to say it was rather scary and Jon has my nail marks in his arm to prove it!
We had to get off at the other side and queue again but it didn't take long and going back was better till the end bit when you drop down a lot. We got some nice photos from up there though.
Jason felt very bad when we spoke to him but it would have been too much for him and at least he tried.
We got into the car and drove home as I felt that was enough for one day for Jon. We missed all the rush hour traffic and we got home in just over an hour,
The gardener came and is going to come in on Friday and Saturday so it will all be finished for Sunday. Hopefully it will help James as we know it is an awful lot of work for him to keep on top of with all his travels as well not to mention all the planning for the wedding he is doing.
Heather and I went out to Tesco and brought dinner back. I am just loving Tesco as there is sooooo much choice and I had never noticed before.
Wednesday
We went over to meet Sara, my nephew's partner. They are down for the wedding and have parked their caravan in a field in Wicken but there are no other people on site and Mark has had to go to London for two days so she is on her own with the dog. Jane and Jason picked her and the dog up and we met them in Ely and walked along the river before having a lovely lunch at the Maltings.
We left for me to have my nails done and they went on to have a look at the cathedral.
Jon dropped me off at Mary's and Stacey, her beautician friend, came to do my nails. She had a terrible job removing the gel polish and it took her ages but I en joyed the relaxing chat and cups of tea. My nails look very nice now though.
I got back and cooked dinner and we all ate together - the last supper!
Jon went to bed as he has not been sleeping and is very tired. Heather gave him a different pillow to see if it helps.
I stayed up with Kirsty and James making chocolate trees for the wedding which were a nightmare to do but look very good now they are finished.
I went to bed very tired.
WEATHER
Mixed weather over the last few days but no rain! Sun and cloud mainly and low 20's
Sunday, 19 August 2012
Sunday
It was another hot day today.
Kirsty and I went to All Saint's Church to hear the last reading of her bans. There were quite a few people there and I was surprised how young the congregation was. It is now far more relaxed than when I used to go to church, very modern in that they don't have prayer books or hymn books, it is all on a big screen.
One of the doctors I used to work with goes to this church and plays the guitar and sings and one of my friend's husbands plays the drums and I saw them both and had a chat. My friend, Kim, came and sat by us. She had been sitting near the back and thought it was me and then when she heard Kirsty's name she came and sat by us which was nice. Not sure if I liked the modern way or not but we were made to feel very welcome which is what it is all about.
We got back and I finally managed to phone one of my sisters and have a chat and I look forward to seeing her on Thursday. I just need top get round to calling my other sister now.
Jon and Heather had been out for breakfast so didn't want lunch. I had forgotten to have breakfast and so needed my lunch.
Jon, Heather and I then went into Cambridge shopping and I managed to find some lovely navy sandals to go with my outfit which I think will look much better than the shoes. Jon also bought some shoes and flip flops and I got a few toiletries from Boots so I think that is the shopping done now,
We saw some lovely little Radley handbags in cream and so we bought one for Jane and Heather as a bridesmaid present.
On our way home we passed by the shop where Jane works and had a cup of tea in the coffee bar. We gave Jane her bag which she was so happy about and also the shoes we had bought for her to wear in the evening but they are too small so she will need to change them but on the whole she was very happy with the shoes and bag.
We got home and James looked remarkably well after his stag do and they all had a good time. In the evening we had a lovely bbq which James cooked and we sat outside talking. I love this weather, we had a few rumbles of thunder today and a few spots of rain. We are all checking the weather for the weekend but it keeps changing but looks good for the wedding but at the moment rain on the Sat and Sunday so we will need a gazebo for the garden.
WEATHER
Hot and sunny 30 degrees
Kirsty and I went to All Saint's Church to hear the last reading of her bans. There were quite a few people there and I was surprised how young the congregation was. It is now far more relaxed than when I used to go to church, very modern in that they don't have prayer books or hymn books, it is all on a big screen.
One of the doctors I used to work with goes to this church and plays the guitar and sings and one of my friend's husbands plays the drums and I saw them both and had a chat. My friend, Kim, came and sat by us. She had been sitting near the back and thought it was me and then when she heard Kirsty's name she came and sat by us which was nice. Not sure if I liked the modern way or not but we were made to feel very welcome which is what it is all about.
We got back and I finally managed to phone one of my sisters and have a chat and I look forward to seeing her on Thursday. I just need top get round to calling my other sister now.
Jon and Heather had been out for breakfast so didn't want lunch. I had forgotten to have breakfast and so needed my lunch.
Jon, Heather and I then went into Cambridge shopping and I managed to find some lovely navy sandals to go with my outfit which I think will look much better than the shoes. Jon also bought some shoes and flip flops and I got a few toiletries from Boots so I think that is the shopping done now,
We saw some lovely little Radley handbags in cream and so we bought one for Jane and Heather as a bridesmaid present.
On our way home we passed by the shop where Jane works and had a cup of tea in the coffee bar. We gave Jane her bag which she was so happy about and also the shoes we had bought for her to wear in the evening but they are too small so she will need to change them but on the whole she was very happy with the shoes and bag.
We got home and James looked remarkably well after his stag do and they all had a good time. In the evening we had a lovely bbq which James cooked and we sat outside talking. I love this weather, we had a few rumbles of thunder today and a few spots of rain. We are all checking the weather for the weekend but it keeps changing but looks good for the wedding but at the moment rain on the Sat and Sunday so we will need a gazebo for the garden.
WEATHER
Hot and sunny 30 degrees
Saturday, 18 August 2012
Saturday
It was really hot last night and I really wanted a drink of water but couldn't be bothered to get up!
Jason came over this morning and then James' dad and they went off for the stag do.We had a text photo of James later in the morning of him wearing a superman outfit!!!!
Kirsty went with Sam for her final dress fitting.
Heather and I went into Newmarket and I tried the jacket that I had put aside but it didn't look right so I will keep on looking.
We bought some food from M&S for lunch and some strawberries to go with the champagne. We went home and Jon was busy in the garden when we got back and has bought a few flowers to go around, with such a lot of rain this summer and James being away so much there were no bedding plants but the hanging baskets are looking very good.
Jane had arrived and went through her boxes and enjoyed a trip down memory lane and looking at her school reports.
We had a nice lunch but it was too hot to eat outside, really never expected this weather.
We then went into Cambridge and Heather thought the traffic and parking would be bad so we opted for the Park and Ride but the bus was not air conditioned and the ride was awful and seemed to take forever and we were all dripping by the time we got off and we then had a 15 minute walk through a very crowded Cambridge - bloody tourists!
We arrived at the hotel for tea very hot and sweaty and it was so nice to go down to the cellar where it was really cool. Kirsty, Sam and Linda were already there and had cooled down from there walk into town, too.
We ordered tea and it was all very nice with sandwiches, fruit cake, Madeira cake, scones and cream, chocolate cake and carrot cake and the carrot cake was awful! When our bill came and the waitress asked if we had enjoyed it. We said we had and could she please box up what we hadn't eaten but i told her not the carrot cake as it was really not nice. The head man came out with a new bill and they had discounted one afternoon tea and apologised which was very nice of them. We took the rest of the things home with us.
Jane didn't want to go on the punt so she went home and we walked to the punts. Sam didn't like the look of two of the companies and took us round to one that I didn't know was there and just a bit further up the river. We decided on a private punt which was just a bit more expensive but much better to have it to ourselves. the young 'chouffer' was very pleasant and we gave him a glass of bubbles and a strawberry only to later learn he was only 17!!!
It was by this time a little cooler and not so busy on the river. We didn't want the full tour so he just chatted to us about things and it was lovely, so relaxing and peaceful and the hot bus ride was long forgotten.
We saw one person fall in and passed a punt with lots of 'Essex' types in it being very loud!!
We enjoyed our two bottles of champagne and it was a shame when we got back to the moorings.
We then walked across to the bus station to get on our park and ride Sam and Linda one way and us the other. Kirsty and I needed a loo but the ones in the shopping centre were closed as it was by this time 8.20 and we hadn't realised. We manged to find one open and after a quick wee the bus arrived and off we went for another hot bus ride.
We were meant to buy dinner and all five of us were going to have 'the last supper' but it was much later than we thought it would be and we were all too full of food so Jon went to get himself something.
When we got home he was sitting out on the deck with Jane so we joined them and had a nice evening together.
Jane left about 10.00 as she has work tomorrow.
All in all a very enjoyable day.
Jason came over this morning and then James' dad and they went off for the stag do.We had a text photo of James later in the morning of him wearing a superman outfit!!!!
Kirsty went with Sam for her final dress fitting.
Heather and I went into Newmarket and I tried the jacket that I had put aside but it didn't look right so I will keep on looking.
We bought some food from M&S for lunch and some strawberries to go with the champagne. We went home and Jon was busy in the garden when we got back and has bought a few flowers to go around, with such a lot of rain this summer and James being away so much there were no bedding plants but the hanging baskets are looking very good.
Jane had arrived and went through her boxes and enjoyed a trip down memory lane and looking at her school reports.
We had a nice lunch but it was too hot to eat outside, really never expected this weather.
We then went into Cambridge and Heather thought the traffic and parking would be bad so we opted for the Park and Ride but the bus was not air conditioned and the ride was awful and seemed to take forever and we were all dripping by the time we got off and we then had a 15 minute walk through a very crowded Cambridge - bloody tourists!
We arrived at the hotel for tea very hot and sweaty and it was so nice to go down to the cellar where it was really cool. Kirsty, Sam and Linda were already there and had cooled down from there walk into town, too.
We ordered tea and it was all very nice with sandwiches, fruit cake, Madeira cake, scones and cream, chocolate cake and carrot cake and the carrot cake was awful! When our bill came and the waitress asked if we had enjoyed it. We said we had and could she please box up what we hadn't eaten but i told her not the carrot cake as it was really not nice. The head man came out with a new bill and they had discounted one afternoon tea and apologised which was very nice of them. We took the rest of the things home with us.
Jane didn't want to go on the punt so she went home and we walked to the punts. Sam didn't like the look of two of the companies and took us round to one that I didn't know was there and just a bit further up the river. We decided on a private punt which was just a bit more expensive but much better to have it to ourselves. the young 'chouffer' was very pleasant and we gave him a glass of bubbles and a strawberry only to later learn he was only 17!!!
It was by this time a little cooler and not so busy on the river. We didn't want the full tour so he just chatted to us about things and it was lovely, so relaxing and peaceful and the hot bus ride was long forgotten.
We saw one person fall in and passed a punt with lots of 'Essex' types in it being very loud!!
We enjoyed our two bottles of champagne and it was a shame when we got back to the moorings.
We then walked across to the bus station to get on our park and ride Sam and Linda one way and us the other. Kirsty and I needed a loo but the ones in the shopping centre were closed as it was by this time 8.20 and we hadn't realised. We manged to find one open and after a quick wee the bus arrived and off we went for another hot bus ride.
We were meant to buy dinner and all five of us were going to have 'the last supper' but it was much later than we thought it would be and we were all too full of food so Jon went to get himself something.
When we got home he was sitting out on the deck with Jane so we joined them and had a nice evening together.
Jane left about 10.00 as she has work tomorrow.
All in all a very enjoyable day.
Friday, 17 August 2012
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday
Time is going by so fast and there is so much to do and so many people to see and I haven't managed to phone anyone yet!
Tuesday we spent all day clearing the loft and packing boxes, so much stuff.
In the evening we went to dinner at James' house with his parents and sister. It was such a lovely warm evening and we were able to sit outside which was lovely. We had a lovely dinner and sat chatting. Jon, unfortunately, was very tired and nodded off sitting in the chair and was very embarrassed but everyone understood.
Wednesday morning we had a lie in but really should have been up earlier as we went down to Audley End to catch the train to London and only just made it,
We arrived at Liverpool Street and as our ticket time for the exhibition was 12.00 we only just had enough time to get the tube across to the Palace.
When we got out it was raining and we had nothing with us so bought an umbrella and I bought a poncho which ripped pretty much as soon as I put it on!! We grabbed a coffee and walked/ran up and arrived just on time.
the security to get into the Palace is like an airport and it was very busy. We could have missed the exhibition as it was all anatomy pictures of Leonardo da Vinchi and I thought it was going to be his paintings so we didn't actually stay long there.
We then went into the State Rooms, more queueing and more security. You get given an audio guide with headphones which was very good and you walk through at your own pace. I loved it all and it was a shame not to be able to take photos. Some of the ceilings and chandeliers are just wonderful.
We had lunch when we got out and managed to share a table with an American couple who were very impressed with it all. We then walked through the gardens and back out to the street and down to the Mews and more security. We enjoyed the Mews as it was more relaxed but by this time we were getting very tired.
We then went to the front of the Palace and took some photos before getting the tube to Tower Bridge to take photos of the Olympic rings. Another quick trip to Liverpool Street and hopefully a cup of tea but as we arrived the train was about to leave and so we ran for it!!! We were very thirsty!
When we arrived back at Audley End we rang Jane and said we would go over to see her. The GPS on the car gave us directions and told us to stay on the A11 'for a long time'!!
We enjoyed seeing Jane and Jason's house which is really nice and we enjoyed watching the rabbits playing in the garden with the cats which was really cute. Jon and Jane went out for fish and chips and mushy peas.
Thursday
We spent all day doing things in the house, sorting the space over the garage and packing all the boxes up, washing and doing odd jobs around the house. We took loads of things down to the charity shop again and put lots of stuff into the skip. We are getting there but it looks like a pigsty at the minute!!
We went out with Roger and Mary for an Indian at night which was very nice. We walked home and we were glad to get into bed.
Friday
I was awake early so went down and did all my ironing. It is another lovely day, we are being so lucky with the weather.
Jon took me to meet Elaine at the Bedford Lodge (I used to work with Elaine at the surgery). We sat outside and had lunch in the sun and a lovely catch up. We watched all the people arriving to stay at the hotel, Jessie J is playing at the racecourse tonight, all with their fancy clothes. Elaine brought me a lovely bunch of flowers. I had a very nice roast beef sandwich.
Elaine dropped me off in Newmarket and I went to buy cards and confetti and just happened to find two very nice dresses!!! I saw a jacket in CC which might go with the dress that I have bought for Jane's wedding. They have put it on hold for me and I will go in with the dress to see if it matches.
I got a taxi back home and had a cup of tea and a sit down before getting ready to go out for dinner with my friends from the surgery where I worked.
I met Sonia at 7.00 and we had a drink and a catch up before going across the street to the Thai restaurant for a lovely dinner. there were ten of us and we all had a good time.
We, Sonia, Justine and I went back to the Rutland for another drink - tonic water - and then Justine's husband picked us up and took me home.
It was really hot last night but I am not complaining.
WEATHER
Mostly hot and sunny, some cloudy spells 24 -28 degrees.
Tuesday we spent all day clearing the loft and packing boxes, so much stuff.
In the evening we went to dinner at James' house with his parents and sister. It was such a lovely warm evening and we were able to sit outside which was lovely. We had a lovely dinner and sat chatting. Jon, unfortunately, was very tired and nodded off sitting in the chair and was very embarrassed but everyone understood.
Wednesday morning we had a lie in but really should have been up earlier as we went down to Audley End to catch the train to London and only just made it,
We arrived at Liverpool Street and as our ticket time for the exhibition was 12.00 we only just had enough time to get the tube across to the Palace.
When we got out it was raining and we had nothing with us so bought an umbrella and I bought a poncho which ripped pretty much as soon as I put it on!! We grabbed a coffee and walked/ran up and arrived just on time.
the security to get into the Palace is like an airport and it was very busy. We could have missed the exhibition as it was all anatomy pictures of Leonardo da Vinchi and I thought it was going to be his paintings so we didn't actually stay long there.
We then went into the State Rooms, more queueing and more security. You get given an audio guide with headphones which was very good and you walk through at your own pace. I loved it all and it was a shame not to be able to take photos. Some of the ceilings and chandeliers are just wonderful.
We had lunch when we got out and managed to share a table with an American couple who were very impressed with it all. We then walked through the gardens and back out to the street and down to the Mews and more security. We enjoyed the Mews as it was more relaxed but by this time we were getting very tired.
We then went to the front of the Palace and took some photos before getting the tube to Tower Bridge to take photos of the Olympic rings. Another quick trip to Liverpool Street and hopefully a cup of tea but as we arrived the train was about to leave and so we ran for it!!! We were very thirsty!
When we arrived back at Audley End we rang Jane and said we would go over to see her. The GPS on the car gave us directions and told us to stay on the A11 'for a long time'!!
We enjoyed seeing Jane and Jason's house which is really nice and we enjoyed watching the rabbits playing in the garden with the cats which was really cute. Jon and Jane went out for fish and chips and mushy peas.
Thursday
We spent all day doing things in the house, sorting the space over the garage and packing all the boxes up, washing and doing odd jobs around the house. We took loads of things down to the charity shop again and put lots of stuff into the skip. We are getting there but it looks like a pigsty at the minute!!
We went out with Roger and Mary for an Indian at night which was very nice. We walked home and we were glad to get into bed.
Friday
I was awake early so went down and did all my ironing. It is another lovely day, we are being so lucky with the weather.
Jon took me to meet Elaine at the Bedford Lodge (I used to work with Elaine at the surgery). We sat outside and had lunch in the sun and a lovely catch up. We watched all the people arriving to stay at the hotel, Jessie J is playing at the racecourse tonight, all with their fancy clothes. Elaine brought me a lovely bunch of flowers. I had a very nice roast beef sandwich.
Elaine dropped me off in Newmarket and I went to buy cards and confetti and just happened to find two very nice dresses!!! I saw a jacket in CC which might go with the dress that I have bought for Jane's wedding. They have put it on hold for me and I will go in with the dress to see if it matches.
I got a taxi back home and had a cup of tea and a sit down before getting ready to go out for dinner with my friends from the surgery where I worked.
I met Sonia at 7.00 and we had a drink and a catch up before going across the street to the Thai restaurant for a lovely dinner. there were ten of us and we all had a good time.
We, Sonia, Justine and I went back to the Rutland for another drink - tonic water - and then Justine's husband picked us up and took me home.
It was really hot last night but I am not complaining.
WEATHER
Mostly hot and sunny, some cloudy spells 24 -28 degrees.
Monday, 13 August 2012
Sunday and Monday
We had a reasonable sleep last night but I woke at 5.50 and was wide awake so got up and did my ironing.
It was a lovely morning apart from one of the cats bringing in a robin poor little thing.
Jon and I went into Newmarket for a coffee and then to M & S to buy some things for lunch.
We got back by 12.00 and our friend, Elaine, had called to say she would be arriving about 12.30 so I had time to hang out the easing on the new line. Unfortunately, the pole was not in deep enough and it leaning over and will need a bigger pole.
Elaine arrived and it was lovely to see her again after 17 years and Jon hasn't seen her for about 30 years- her and her husband were witnesses at our wedding.
We had a lovely catch up and saw her daughter's wedding album. We had lunch outside and it was really hot.
When she left Jon and I went into Cambridge to see where Jane works. It is a lovely shop with some lovely things.
We then went home and I went across to see Rene and Fran for a chat.
I saw Jane come home and so I went home where we had a very nice BBQ before watching the closing ceremony of the Olympics.
We all went to bed very late and very tired!
Monday
We had a really good might and didn't wake till nearly 7.00.
Once everyone had left for work Jon and I went into the loft and started sorting boxes ready for them to go into storage when the house is rented. It looked like it was going to be a huge job but once we got stuck in it didn't take too long but it was pretty tiring running up and down stairs with all the boxes.
I found my wedding dress and it still fits! I also found my lovely fur coat that is not PC to wear!
After lunch Mary came to take me to Fordham to sort out a hat. I had said I didn't want a big one but ended up with a big one but it is very nice.
On the way back we stopped at Tesco to buy a pizza for Heather and I.
We had a nice evening doing wedding things with Kirsty and James. Jon went out with some friends for an Indian. He came home very tired as he walked all the way and after all the work in the house today has been too much so I think we need a quiet day tomorrow .
WEATHER
Sunday hot and sunny 27 degrees
Monday some cloud and a few spots of rain 24 degrees
It was a lovely morning apart from one of the cats bringing in a robin poor little thing.
Jon and I went into Newmarket for a coffee and then to M & S to buy some things for lunch.
We got back by 12.00 and our friend, Elaine, had called to say she would be arriving about 12.30 so I had time to hang out the easing on the new line. Unfortunately, the pole was not in deep enough and it leaning over and will need a bigger pole.
Elaine arrived and it was lovely to see her again after 17 years and Jon hasn't seen her for about 30 years- her and her husband were witnesses at our wedding.
We had a lovely catch up and saw her daughter's wedding album. We had lunch outside and it was really hot.
When she left Jon and I went into Cambridge to see where Jane works. It is a lovely shop with some lovely things.
We then went home and I went across to see Rene and Fran for a chat.
I saw Jane come home and so I went home where we had a very nice BBQ before watching the closing ceremony of the Olympics.
We all went to bed very late and very tired!
Monday
We had a really good might and didn't wake till nearly 7.00.
Once everyone had left for work Jon and I went into the loft and started sorting boxes ready for them to go into storage when the house is rented. It looked like it was going to be a huge job but once we got stuck in it didn't take too long but it was pretty tiring running up and down stairs with all the boxes.
I found my wedding dress and it still fits! I also found my lovely fur coat that is not PC to wear!
After lunch Mary came to take me to Fordham to sort out a hat. I had said I didn't want a big one but ended up with a big one but it is very nice.
On the way back we stopped at Tesco to buy a pizza for Heather and I.
We had a nice evening doing wedding things with Kirsty and James. Jon went out with some friends for an Indian. He came home very tired as he walked all the way and after all the work in the house today has been too much so I think we need a quiet day tomorrow .
WEATHER
Sunday hot and sunny 27 degrees
Monday some cloud and a few spots of rain 24 degrees
Saturday, 11 August 2012
Friday and Saturday
After very little sleep due to waking up at 2.00 and not sleeping again till 4.00 then awake again at 4.30 till 5.00 and then finally I slept till 8.30 which was nice.
We sorted out the rest of our clothes and put the cases away and did a few things around the house.
Jason came to collect us and take us over to Bury to collect the car and we then went out for lunch. After that we went to Tesco and did some shopping and bought some food for the picnic for the races.
We bought a piece of coconut matting for the ar4ea near the back door as the old bit is very worn.
We got back and had a cup of tea and then just enough time to get ready to go to the races.
We only saw two races as most of the time was spent trying to buy drinks but it was a good night. Tom Jones, after the racing, was really good and we had a good sing along.
At the end of the evening we went to get a taxi and waited for more than an hour and everyone was getting very angry as there were so few taxis coming into the racecourse.
In the end we got onto a shuttle bus and usually they only go to the high street but this kind driver took us to the bottom of Centre Drive which was so good of him and then all we had to do was walk up the street but my feet are killing me.
I was more than ready for bed and had no trouble sleeping.
Saturday
We had a good night and were up at 8.00 and after a shower and breakfast Heather and I went up to the racecourse with Jon to collect her car and then we drove to Milton Keynes,
We did very well and actually managed to find my outfit by 2.20 but I also bought two other dresses, one will do for Jane's wedding but I will need to find a jacket to go with it and the other one will do for the races on the day after the wedding. I thought it was too short for me but the lady in the shop and Heather both said it looked good.
I bought the bag and I also had to buy some flat sandals as my feet were killing me! Heather bought a few bits and we had a lovely lunch at Yo Sushi.
We left to come home at 5.00 and got back at about 6.30 tired but relieved that I had got something to wear and I am very happy with it.
We had an Indian takeaway for dinner.
I spoke to my friend Mary and she is taking me to look at hats on Monday.
We have so many things to do and so many people to see. Jane is getting upset as she wants to see us but she is working a lot and things are getting very complicated as she now lives in Soham and is not just down the road. I understand that she feels she is missing out but it is hard keeping everyone happy.
WEATHER
Really warm and sunny 26 degrees
We sorted out the rest of our clothes and put the cases away and did a few things around the house.
Jason came to collect us and take us over to Bury to collect the car and we then went out for lunch. After that we went to Tesco and did some shopping and bought some food for the picnic for the races.
We bought a piece of coconut matting for the ar4ea near the back door as the old bit is very worn.
We got back and had a cup of tea and then just enough time to get ready to go to the races.
We only saw two races as most of the time was spent trying to buy drinks but it was a good night. Tom Jones, after the racing, was really good and we had a good sing along.
At the end of the evening we went to get a taxi and waited for more than an hour and everyone was getting very angry as there were so few taxis coming into the racecourse.
In the end we got onto a shuttle bus and usually they only go to the high street but this kind driver took us to the bottom of Centre Drive which was so good of him and then all we had to do was walk up the street but my feet are killing me.
I was more than ready for bed and had no trouble sleeping.
Saturday
We had a good night and were up at 8.00 and after a shower and breakfast Heather and I went up to the racecourse with Jon to collect her car and then we drove to Milton Keynes,
We did very well and actually managed to find my outfit by 2.20 but I also bought two other dresses, one will do for Jane's wedding but I will need to find a jacket to go with it and the other one will do for the races on the day after the wedding. I thought it was too short for me but the lady in the shop and Heather both said it looked good.
I bought the bag and I also had to buy some flat sandals as my feet were killing me! Heather bought a few bits and we had a lovely lunch at Yo Sushi.
We left to come home at 5.00 and got back at about 6.30 tired but relieved that I had got something to wear and I am very happy with it.
We had an Indian takeaway for dinner.
I spoke to my friend Mary and she is taking me to look at hats on Monday.
We have so many things to do and so many people to see. Jane is getting upset as she wants to see us but she is working a lot and things are getting very complicated as she now lives in Soham and is not just down the road. I understand that she feels she is missing out but it is hard keeping everyone happy.
WEATHER
Really warm and sunny 26 degrees
The journey
We were up very early 5.30! They came to get the cases and we were waiting in the lobby for the taxi by 7.00.
He arrived at 7.20 and I was getting a bit edgy- I hate being late. It was a big Mercedes and a young man but he drove it like an old man and even little mopeds overtook us. He took a different route to the journey down and it was longer and he didn't speak one word just sniffed the whole trip.
We arrived at the airport at 8.20 and our flight was 10.05. Checking in was quick as we were Business and we also get a priority pass for Immigration and security so we were through and on the train very fast.
We found the Air Malaysia Lounge and went up for breakfast - scrambled eggs, hash brown, tomato and toast. We then had a coffee and some pastries. A trip to the loo and then our flight was called
KLIA is a huge airport with amazing shops and hopefully we will get time to look around on our return.
Our seats were on the upper deck of the Jumbo with only about 14 passengers in the cabin which probably takes 24 so we had three crew to look after us.
As soon as we took off they served lunch!!! I was still too fll from breakfast so didn't have the satay entree or the tuna starter. I did try the rib of beef but it was like string. I had the ice cream and a glass of champagne.
We then settled down to watch some films, The Lucky One - a weepy, Salmon Fishing in the Yemen which I saw at the cinema and was just as good the second time. I then tried to have a sleep. It couldn'.
I called the steward and asked him for a cup of tea and Jon had one, too. I asked for a biscuit and he told me there was a tray all set out with help yourself snacks. Jon was going to get some but the steward made up a plate for us with biscuits, cheese and chocolate which was much better than the lunch and it was a really goodie of tea - probably won't want the next meal when they serve it two hours before we land. Not sure what they will call it as it will be about 2.00 UK time but as most people are now asleep it will feel more like breakfast! I wonder who works all these meals and times out!
I then watched another film, Flicker 3 which was another weepy.
Now I writings blog ready to publish later. It is south easier having my iPod and writing as I go as opposed to the hand written notes I used to make and then have days to catch up when I get back.
Not sure what to do now as we still have about 3 and a half hours!
Well the rest of the flight went well and I read for most of the time.
We also had another meal which was much better and with two glasses of champagne it went down very well.
The landing was very good and we made the approach to Heathrow across London and it was really good to see the city and the Olympic stadium. We landed early which was good.
Jane and Jason were waiting for us and all in all we made good time and were out of the airport and on our way pretty fast.
We had a smooth trip home but we did get into a lot of traffic on the M25.
We had a nice evening at home with everyone and Heather cooked a nice dinner but we had had so much food all day that we weren't very hungry but it was nice to be all together.
I think day flights are a better option as you don't actually miss a night's sleep and don't feel bad about not sleeping at all.
We unpacked and sorted ourselves out and then went to bed at about 11.00.
He arrived at 7.20 and I was getting a bit edgy- I hate being late. It was a big Mercedes and a young man but he drove it like an old man and even little mopeds overtook us. He took a different route to the journey down and it was longer and he didn't speak one word just sniffed the whole trip.
We arrived at the airport at 8.20 and our flight was 10.05. Checking in was quick as we were Business and we also get a priority pass for Immigration and security so we were through and on the train very fast.
We found the Air Malaysia Lounge and went up for breakfast - scrambled eggs, hash brown, tomato and toast. We then had a coffee and some pastries. A trip to the loo and then our flight was called
KLIA is a huge airport with amazing shops and hopefully we will get time to look around on our return.
Our seats were on the upper deck of the Jumbo with only about 14 passengers in the cabin which probably takes 24 so we had three crew to look after us.
As soon as we took off they served lunch!!! I was still too fll from breakfast so didn't have the satay entree or the tuna starter. I did try the rib of beef but it was like string. I had the ice cream and a glass of champagne.
We then settled down to watch some films, The Lucky One - a weepy, Salmon Fishing in the Yemen which I saw at the cinema and was just as good the second time. I then tried to have a sleep. It couldn'.
I called the steward and asked him for a cup of tea and Jon had one, too. I asked for a biscuit and he told me there was a tray all set out with help yourself snacks. Jon was going to get some but the steward made up a plate for us with biscuits, cheese and chocolate which was much better than the lunch and it was a really goodie of tea - probably won't want the next meal when they serve it two hours before we land. Not sure what they will call it as it will be about 2.00 UK time but as most people are now asleep it will feel more like breakfast! I wonder who works all these meals and times out!
I then watched another film, Flicker 3 which was another weepy.
Now I writings blog ready to publish later. It is south easier having my iPod and writing as I go as opposed to the hand written notes I used to make and then have days to catch up when I get back.
Not sure what to do now as we still have about 3 and a half hours!
Well the rest of the flight went well and I read for most of the time.
We also had another meal which was much better and with two glasses of champagne it went down very well.
The landing was very good and we made the approach to Heathrow across London and it was really good to see the city and the Olympic stadium. We landed early which was good.
Jane and Jason were waiting for us and all in all we made good time and were out of the airport and on our way pretty fast.
We had a smooth trip home but we did get into a lot of traffic on the M25.
We had a nice evening at home with everyone and Heather cooked a nice dinner but we had had so much food all day that we weren't very hungry but it was nice to be all together.
I think day flights are a better option as you don't actually miss a night's sleep and don't feel bad about not sleeping at all.
We unpacked and sorted ourselves out and then went to bed at about 11.00.
Wednesday, 8 August 2012
Last day.
After a very hot night it was nice to get up and shower even though it was only 7.00
We went for breakfast and got an outside table by the pool which was lovely and breakfast was really good again.
After breakfast Jon sent an email to Mr Kuan and his son NaeiDi to thank them for dinner last night NaeiDi replied by return and said 'it was a pleasure to meet you and your Mrs' !! Lol
We then went down to the little beach which is so clean with lovely sand and nobody else on it. There was a small fishing boat moored nearby and a young Malaysian couple came along and said they were going out for a trip around the bay and would we like to join them. It was a kind offer but I didn't fancy it.
After a paddle we went to watch bathe a pet. They had all been bathed and were being fed. A man came along with a lovely young rooster called Junior and he gave me some grain to feed h and he then put him ony shoulder where he sat happily feeding from my hand.
We spent the rest of the morning by the pool before going to have pizza again for lunch.
We spent the afternoon by the main pool as there was more sun there but it was very hot and I spent most of the time in the pool.
We went back an packed ready for our early start tomorrow.
We went to watch the sunset but it was not very spectacular.
After a cocktail in the bar we went for dinner. It was hard to choose as the menu is not particularly inspiring, I went for the chicken Jon had the other night and he had the fish and chips. It was OK but nothing special.
We then went to reception to pay our bill but had to wait for a large group of Nigerians who were checking in and there was a strong smell of pot around!
The bill paid and all good so back to the room for the last night.
We wanted to sit in the sun and do nothing and that is what we have done and very nice it was.
WEATHER
Sunny 32 degrees
We went for breakfast and got an outside table by the pool which was lovely and breakfast was really good again.
After breakfast Jon sent an email to Mr Kuan and his son NaeiDi to thank them for dinner last night NaeiDi replied by return and said 'it was a pleasure to meet you and your Mrs' !! Lol
We then went down to the little beach which is so clean with lovely sand and nobody else on it. There was a small fishing boat moored nearby and a young Malaysian couple came along and said they were going out for a trip around the bay and would we like to join them. It was a kind offer but I didn't fancy it.
After a paddle we went to watch bathe a pet. They had all been bathed and were being fed. A man came along with a lovely young rooster called Junior and he gave me some grain to feed h and he then put him ony shoulder where he sat happily feeding from my hand.
We spent the rest of the morning by the pool before going to have pizza again for lunch.
We spent the afternoon by the main pool as there was more sun there but it was very hot and I spent most of the time in the pool.
We went back an packed ready for our early start tomorrow.
We went to watch the sunset but it was not very spectacular.
After a cocktail in the bar we went for dinner. It was hard to choose as the menu is not particularly inspiring, I went for the chicken Jon had the other night and he had the fish and chips. It was OK but nothing special.
We then went to reception to pay our bill but had to wait for a large group of Nigerians who were checking in and there was a strong smell of pot around!
The bill paid and all good so back to the room for the last night.
We wanted to sit in the sun and do nothing and that is what we have done and very nice it was.
WEATHER
Sunny 32 degrees
Tuesday, 7 August 2012
Tuesday
Woke to a lovely sunny day. Breakfast was so much better today. Seems like the weekend is not a good time to stay here as so many visitors come down from the city and they just can't cope. Today we got a nice table as soon as we went in, I know we were there earlier but it was still quiet when we had finished.
It was nice to have some lovely fruit as yesterday it was uncovered and lots of flies which are a big problem here. I then had French toast and maple syrup and some really good coffee followed by some Danish pastries. Jon had an omelette and beans.
We were out by the adult only pool by 9.00 and had it all to ourselves. We spent our time between the pool and sunned and had visits from peacocks, squirrels and two lovely monkeys. The young man looking after the pool supplied us with bottles of water.
At lunch time we went to the cafe and had a pizza again. There is not much choice for light snacks but they make a really good pizza and the beer is cold.
We bought an ice cream and went back and spent the afternoon on our deck
A contact of Mark's rang and is meeting us at 6.00- a bit of business, might be nice if he takes us out to dinner! I'll finish this later as it is time for a shower.
Well, 6.00 turned into 7.00. Jon met him in the lobby and he was with his son and they wanted to take us to dinner so Jon called me and off I went to meet them.
Very polite and both spoke good English, the son studied at Herts UNO. They took us to a restaurant that the reception had recommended as they do not know this area. Unfortunately, we couldn't find it and although we enjoyed the drive around they were embarrassed.
We finally found it after stopping to ask three times! It was called Sea View and served fish - fresh from the tanks in the entrance! It looked pretty rough but obviously popular with locals. We told them to choose as the menu was abou ten pages long.
Jon and I asked for beer to drink and they both had fresh coconuts with a straw and a spoon. The spoon was to eat the flesh when the mill was finished. I asked what it was and they told me they are Thai coconuts and very good and the next thing I had one put in front of me. I wasn't sure I wanted coconut milk with my dinner and beer!
The food started to arrive, raw chopped garlic, pickled green chilli, tofu in a sesame sauce, some sort of cabbage in a sauce, a whole sea bass with veg and sauce, chicken with chilli and cashews and a huge plate of crabs cooked in black pepper and a bowl of rice each.
It was a good dinner but hard work and VERY messy. I really liked the tofu, the cabbage and the chicken dish (apart from the green chilli which I thought was a green bean and I was very glad I had the coconut milk as I thought I just might die!!). The crabs were very hard to eat for little reward and very messy and the portion of fish I had was full of little bones and I don't do bones!
All in all it was a nice evening. They took us back to the hotel and he gave Jon some catalogues and wanted to give us some samples to take back to NZ but we said we had no room or weight allowance left.
Only 9.30 and back in the room so looks like an early night which is just as well as we were awake so early.
WEATHER
Sunny with some cloud 32 degrees
It was nice to have some lovely fruit as yesterday it was uncovered and lots of flies which are a big problem here. I then had French toast and maple syrup and some really good coffee followed by some Danish pastries. Jon had an omelette and beans.
We were out by the adult only pool by 9.00 and had it all to ourselves. We spent our time between the pool and sunned and had visits from peacocks, squirrels and two lovely monkeys. The young man looking after the pool supplied us with bottles of water.
At lunch time we went to the cafe and had a pizza again. There is not much choice for light snacks but they make a really good pizza and the beer is cold.
We bought an ice cream and went back and spent the afternoon on our deck
A contact of Mark's rang and is meeting us at 6.00- a bit of business, might be nice if he takes us out to dinner! I'll finish this later as it is time for a shower.
Well, 6.00 turned into 7.00. Jon met him in the lobby and he was with his son and they wanted to take us to dinner so Jon called me and off I went to meet them.
Very polite and both spoke good English, the son studied at Herts UNO. They took us to a restaurant that the reception had recommended as they do not know this area. Unfortunately, we couldn't find it and although we enjoyed the drive around they were embarrassed.
We finally found it after stopping to ask three times! It was called Sea View and served fish - fresh from the tanks in the entrance! It looked pretty rough but obviously popular with locals. We told them to choose as the menu was abou ten pages long.
Jon and I asked for beer to drink and they both had fresh coconuts with a straw and a spoon. The spoon was to eat the flesh when the mill was finished. I asked what it was and they told me they are Thai coconuts and very good and the next thing I had one put in front of me. I wasn't sure I wanted coconut milk with my dinner and beer!
The food started to arrive, raw chopped garlic, pickled green chilli, tofu in a sesame sauce, some sort of cabbage in a sauce, a whole sea bass with veg and sauce, chicken with chilli and cashews and a huge plate of crabs cooked in black pepper and a bowl of rice each.
It was a good dinner but hard work and VERY messy. I really liked the tofu, the cabbage and the chicken dish (apart from the green chilli which I thought was a green bean and I was very glad I had the coconut milk as I thought I just might die!!). The crabs were very hard to eat for little reward and very messy and the portion of fish I had was full of little bones and I don't do bones!
All in all it was a nice evening. They took us back to the hotel and he gave Jon some catalogues and wanted to give us some samples to take back to NZ but we said we had no room or weight allowance left.
Only 9.30 and back in the room so looks like an early night which is just as well as we were awake so early.
WEATHER
Sunny with some cloud 32 degrees
Monday, 6 August 2012
Sunday and Monday
It will be short as my battery is low.
Woke up with a horrible headache after not such a good night. Had breakfast and checked out of hotel.
Across to the airport and checked and through security in about 20 min.
Went into lounge where we had free Internet. We had a coffee and I had to go and buy some tablets for my headache.
Finally time to board. Nice seats and plenty of space in them to lie down flat but no glass of bubbly!!
Not a bad flight a bit bumpy in parts. The food and service was not uptown Air NZ standard for Business Class but the seats make a good bed.
We landed early 8.00 local time and were out and in the taxi in 30 min. The journey to the hotel was an hour.
Lovely place and our room is lovely with a nice little deck over the sea.
Went to get some food and very welch cold beer. By the time we had finished it was 3.30 am Kiwi time!
Off to bed.
Monday
Woke after a good night, very warm but the fan although noisy keeps the from cool.
Breakfast was mayhem, too many people for too small dinning room. We waited over half an hour for a table and finally got one on the fourt floor in a room being used as overflow and which was nearly empty! Hopefully tomorrow will be better as lots go back to KL today after weekend. Breakfast was OK
Sat out on our deck and read all morning. Went to the bar for a pizza for lunc. We then walked all around grounds and along beach, very pretty.
Sat by pool for a few hours before going back for a siesta.
Out for a late dinner and we had some good Malaysian food.
Back to the room now ready for bed - so relaxing!
This is very difficult typing with one finger.
Weather
Overnight thunder, cloudy but no sun 32 degrees.
Woke up with a horrible headache after not such a good night. Had breakfast and checked out of hotel.
Across to the airport and checked and through security in about 20 min.
Went into lounge where we had free Internet. We had a coffee and I had to go and buy some tablets for my headache.
Finally time to board. Nice seats and plenty of space in them to lie down flat but no glass of bubbly!!
Not a bad flight a bit bumpy in parts. The food and service was not uptown Air NZ standard for Business Class but the seats make a good bed.
We landed early 8.00 local time and were out and in the taxi in 30 min. The journey to the hotel was an hour.
Lovely place and our room is lovely with a nice little deck over the sea.
Went to get some food and very welch cold beer. By the time we had finished it was 3.30 am Kiwi time!
Off to bed.
Monday
Woke after a good night, very warm but the fan although noisy keeps the from cool.
Breakfast was mayhem, too many people for too small dinning room. We waited over half an hour for a table and finally got one on the fourt floor in a room being used as overflow and which was nearly empty! Hopefully tomorrow will be better as lots go back to KL today after weekend. Breakfast was OK
Sat out on our deck and read all morning. Went to the bar for a pizza for lunc. We then walked all around grounds and along beach, very pretty.
Sat by pool for a few hours before going back for a siesta.
Out for a late dinner and we had some good Malaysian food.
Back to the room now ready for bed - so relaxing!
This is very difficult typing with one finger.
Weather
Overnight thunder, cloudy but no sun 32 degrees.
Saturday, 4 August 2012
Saturday
I woke up feeling very calm considering we are leaving today. Made me realise how relaxed I am now about travel, three and a half years ago would have seen me as a complete mess!
I realsied I had given all the eggs away yesterday so we couldn't have the planned scrambled eggs for breakfast - oops. Jon had beans on toast and I had porridge - very healthy.
Heather phoned and we had a chat about what we are doing when we are home and things are getting complicated with dates she has off for her holidays and things I already have booked but I am sure we can sort it all out.
I couldn't put it off any longer so at 10.00 we finally took Tot to the kennels ;-( I hate to see her little face looking at me with those sad eyes. Once again she wouldn't walk with them and so had to be carried. I can still see her little face looking back at me - what a horrible dog owner I am!!
We then went for a coffee and then back home to tidy up and sort out my passwords for my blog and FB and hotmail etc. As I don't usually log off and it is a long time since we have been away I had them all mixed up in my mind. I now have a secure app on my iPod which has all my passwords. I just need to remember that password now!!!!!
We left for the airport at 3.00 and had good journey up. Checked into the hotel and then managed to watch some of the Olympics for the first time!
We later went across to the pub in the airport and had their really good fish and chips and watched the rugby before going back to the hotel and bed.
WEATHER
Cloudy with showers 16 degrees
I realsied I had given all the eggs away yesterday so we couldn't have the planned scrambled eggs for breakfast - oops. Jon had beans on toast and I had porridge - very healthy.
Heather phoned and we had a chat about what we are doing when we are home and things are getting complicated with dates she has off for her holidays and things I already have booked but I am sure we can sort it all out.
I couldn't put it off any longer so at 10.00 we finally took Tot to the kennels ;-( I hate to see her little face looking at me with those sad eyes. Once again she wouldn't walk with them and so had to be carried. I can still see her little face looking back at me - what a horrible dog owner I am!!
We then went for a coffee and then back home to tidy up and sort out my passwords for my blog and FB and hotmail etc. As I don't usually log off and it is a long time since we have been away I had them all mixed up in my mind. I now have a secure app on my iPod which has all my passwords. I just need to remember that password now!!!!!
We left for the airport at 3.00 and had good journey up. Checked into the hotel and then managed to watch some of the Olympics for the first time!
We later went across to the pub in the airport and had their really good fish and chips and watched the rugby before going back to the hotel and bed.
WEATHER
Cloudy with showers 16 degrees
Friday, 3 August 2012
Packing done!
The fridge is looking very empty now as I took all the perishable food out to take to Sharon and Les and everything in the pantry is in plastic boxes just in case a mouse moves in while we are away!!
Jon went off to work and I was getting ready and Heather called just to say hello but we didn't have much time to chat.
I went off to Red Cross and as there is no new stock in there was not a lot to do. Sharon told me that Des had a terrible hangover after dinner last Saturday- I wonder why that was!! Sharon's mum, Margaret, has just come back from six weeks in the UK and she brought me a lovely fridge magnet (she knows we have a big collection) with a little piece of Honiton lace on it and a lovely travel manicure set and a stick of rock from Teingmouth. Very kind of her. The shop was busy and the morning passed and it was soon time for coffee and cake. They are all going to miss me so much when I am away or maybe it will just be the cake every week they will miss!!!
I left to have my hair done and then came home for lunch and watched Neighbours so I am up to date with it now. I will have a lot to watch when we get back though.
I started the packing and I was surprised how well it went. Jon came into the bedroom and said 'it will never all fit' I told him to go away and leave me to it - it all fitted and it weights the correct amount yeah!!
The dog is following me around the house wherever I go at the moment, it is the packing that has done it. Poor little girl, I hate leaving her in kennels.
We heard today that it has been the wettest July here in 60 years!!! it sure has.
We did intend to go down to the local bar for dinner tonight but when we got there we didn't like the look of it and so we drove into town to a steak bar that I had heard was very good. You order a steak and then help yourself to the salad bar as much as you like and it was very good and the steak was melt in the mouth.
We got back and watched Coronation Street. We can't watch it while we are in the UK as we are only just on the Christmas train crash here so 19 months behind!!!
Well time for bed now. I hope I haven't forgotten anything!! Too bad if I have, no space and no more weight.
WEATHER
Cloudy with showers and sunny spells 16 degrees
Jon went off to work and I was getting ready and Heather called just to say hello but we didn't have much time to chat.
I went off to Red Cross and as there is no new stock in there was not a lot to do. Sharon told me that Des had a terrible hangover after dinner last Saturday- I wonder why that was!! Sharon's mum, Margaret, has just come back from six weeks in the UK and she brought me a lovely fridge magnet (she knows we have a big collection) with a little piece of Honiton lace on it and a lovely travel manicure set and a stick of rock from Teingmouth. Very kind of her. The shop was busy and the morning passed and it was soon time for coffee and cake. They are all going to miss me so much when I am away or maybe it will just be the cake every week they will miss!!!
I left to have my hair done and then came home for lunch and watched Neighbours so I am up to date with it now. I will have a lot to watch when we get back though.
I started the packing and I was surprised how well it went. Jon came into the bedroom and said 'it will never all fit' I told him to go away and leave me to it - it all fitted and it weights the correct amount yeah!!
The dog is following me around the house wherever I go at the moment, it is the packing that has done it. Poor little girl, I hate leaving her in kennels.
We heard today that it has been the wettest July here in 60 years!!! it sure has.
We did intend to go down to the local bar for dinner tonight but when we got there we didn't like the look of it and so we drove into town to a steak bar that I had heard was very good. You order a steak and then help yourself to the salad bar as much as you like and it was very good and the steak was melt in the mouth.
We got back and watched Coronation Street. We can't watch it while we are in the UK as we are only just on the Christmas train crash here so 19 months behind!!!
Well time for bed now. I hope I haven't forgotten anything!! Too bad if I have, no space and no more weight.
WEATHER
Cloudy with showers and sunny spells 16 degrees
Thursday, 2 August 2012
Positive news
Neither of us slept very well last night, just those little niggling thought in the back of our minds.
We left for the hospital in separate cars as Jon needed to get to the office for a board meeting as soon as he was finished. The traffic was awful, it was school run time, and we arrived a few minutes late. Typically, they called us in on time and so we missed our slot, last time we waited more than 20 minutes. However, we didn't have to wait long and we were called in.
Apart from Mark, the surgeon, a stoma nurse sat in with us to explain about the bag. She gave us three books to read about it all and showed us a bag and how it works. I can actually feel Jon's reaction to it without looking at him.
We chatted to the doctor and he told us the radiotherapy had done its job but he can still feel the lump. In view of where the tumour is and the fact that he is trying to avoid Jon having a bag for life, he has decided to open Jon up, rather than do keyhole surgery, as this will give a better result. It will take longer to recover but if it achieves what we want then that is the best option. There is also a higher risk of infection but we will cope with that if it happens. He has booked Jon in for 11 September and said this will give him time to get over the flight. So all very positive and he seemed pleased with Jon's general health.
We left with lots of reading and some forms to fill in and get back to them. Jon needed to get back to the office so we opted to fill in the forms at home. He was weighed and measured and then we left.
I stayed in the cafe for a coffee as I had missed breakfast and Jon went to work.
I had to find a fuse for out adaptor and I was having trouble and had tried many shops so I headed off to the last DIY store and then didn't have it either but did tell me where I would be able to find it. Off I went to the other side of town and fortunately I found it.
I had the car loaded with the recycling and found myself equal distances from both centres but decided to head for the one at the Mount and then go home that way. I ended up doing a big circle of the whole town!!
When I got in I sent out emails to people telling them about Jon and then intended to take the dog out but we had a big shower so couldn't go. I had an early lunch and did a few bits around the house. I did manage to get the dog out a little later for a quick walk.
I then went off to have my manicure and pedicure. When I got there she had a card and a present for me and when I opened it I found it was from my friend Carol. She is not very well and had a bad cough and cold and didn't want to pass it on to me so, as she lives near the salon, she dropped it off for me. It was a lovely card to wish us a good trip and some lovely hand cream.
It took two hours to have my finger and toe nails done and they look very nice - I just hope they last.
I bought some bread on the way home and was glad to be back and just missed another shower.
I lit the fire and made a cake - I had a lot of eggs to use up. I then prepared the vegetable for the stir fry.
Heather bought me a little key ring some time ago and it has a digital photo frame on it. she put photos of Thailand on it for me when she gave it to me and I have been trying to work out how to put more on but it takes a long time and I have lots of other things I need to get done.
Jon was late in as he had been for a haircut.
We had dinner and watched some TV.
I will try for an early night again.
WEATHER
Cloudy with sunny spells and showers 15 degrees.
We left for the hospital in separate cars as Jon needed to get to the office for a board meeting as soon as he was finished. The traffic was awful, it was school run time, and we arrived a few minutes late. Typically, they called us in on time and so we missed our slot, last time we waited more than 20 minutes. However, we didn't have to wait long and we were called in.
Apart from Mark, the surgeon, a stoma nurse sat in with us to explain about the bag. She gave us three books to read about it all and showed us a bag and how it works. I can actually feel Jon's reaction to it without looking at him.
We chatted to the doctor and he told us the radiotherapy had done its job but he can still feel the lump. In view of where the tumour is and the fact that he is trying to avoid Jon having a bag for life, he has decided to open Jon up, rather than do keyhole surgery, as this will give a better result. It will take longer to recover but if it achieves what we want then that is the best option. There is also a higher risk of infection but we will cope with that if it happens. He has booked Jon in for 11 September and said this will give him time to get over the flight. So all very positive and he seemed pleased with Jon's general health.
We left with lots of reading and some forms to fill in and get back to them. Jon needed to get back to the office so we opted to fill in the forms at home. He was weighed and measured and then we left.
I stayed in the cafe for a coffee as I had missed breakfast and Jon went to work.
I had to find a fuse for out adaptor and I was having trouble and had tried many shops so I headed off to the last DIY store and then didn't have it either but did tell me where I would be able to find it. Off I went to the other side of town and fortunately I found it.
I had the car loaded with the recycling and found myself equal distances from both centres but decided to head for the one at the Mount and then go home that way. I ended up doing a big circle of the whole town!!
When I got in I sent out emails to people telling them about Jon and then intended to take the dog out but we had a big shower so couldn't go. I had an early lunch and did a few bits around the house. I did manage to get the dog out a little later for a quick walk.
I then went off to have my manicure and pedicure. When I got there she had a card and a present for me and when I opened it I found it was from my friend Carol. She is not very well and had a bad cough and cold and didn't want to pass it on to me so, as she lives near the salon, she dropped it off for me. It was a lovely card to wish us a good trip and some lovely hand cream.
It took two hours to have my finger and toe nails done and they look very nice - I just hope they last.
I bought some bread on the way home and was glad to be back and just missed another shower.
I lit the fire and made a cake - I had a lot of eggs to use up. I then prepared the vegetable for the stir fry.
Heather bought me a little key ring some time ago and it has a digital photo frame on it. she put photos of Thailand on it for me when she gave it to me and I have been trying to work out how to put more on but it takes a long time and I have lots of other things I need to get done.
Jon was late in as he had been for a haircut.
We had dinner and watched some TV.
I will try for an early night again.
WEATHER
Cloudy with sunny spells and showers 15 degrees.
Wednesday, 1 August 2012
I could sleep for a week.
I had a lot to do this morning so I was up early. I had my hair coloured and dried by 9.00.
I took Tot out for her walk and when I got back I did some hand wool washing which I should have had done last week.
The photos for my friend from her sister have still not arrived. I emailed her and she said she sent them a week ago so not sure where they have got to.
I then went out for my appointment with the osteopath. My leg is so much better now, still not right but much better.
I then went to meet my friend Ros for a coffee. I won't see her again till the end of September as she goes to the UK as we come back!
I then went across to Bayfair as I wanted to get a present for Kirsty for her wedding day from Jon and I. I got the thing I wanted and I am sure she will love it.
I also spent time trying to find a fuse to go in our travel plug but none of the shops seem to have them. Most of our things have NZ plugs on so we need adaptors to take with us. I have one more place to go tomorrow.
I also went to the post office to post a parcel to Jon's nephew as I don't think I will have room in the case so it is better to post it.
I got back for a late lunch and then set to to fold all Jon's shirts for packing which took ages and they will all need ironing when we get there anyway after nearly a week in the case!
I felt so tired I could hardly keep my eyes open so think I had better get to bed early tonight. I lit the fire and watched a couple of episodes of Neighbours before Jon came in.
I have been taking food from the freezer this week and tonight we had some nice leftover beef which I had frozen with the gravy and it was really nice. I still have lots of vegetables in the fridge so need to use them up for tomorrow as that will be our last meal as we are out for dinner on Friday night.
WEATHER
Some cloud with sunny spells 16 degrees.
I took Tot out for her walk and when I got back I did some hand wool washing which I should have had done last week.
The photos for my friend from her sister have still not arrived. I emailed her and she said she sent them a week ago so not sure where they have got to.
I then went out for my appointment with the osteopath. My leg is so much better now, still not right but much better.
I then went to meet my friend Ros for a coffee. I won't see her again till the end of September as she goes to the UK as we come back!
I then went across to Bayfair as I wanted to get a present for Kirsty for her wedding day from Jon and I. I got the thing I wanted and I am sure she will love it.
I also spent time trying to find a fuse to go in our travel plug but none of the shops seem to have them. Most of our things have NZ plugs on so we need adaptors to take with us. I have one more place to go tomorrow.
I also went to the post office to post a parcel to Jon's nephew as I don't think I will have room in the case so it is better to post it.
I got back for a late lunch and then set to to fold all Jon's shirts for packing which took ages and they will all need ironing when we get there anyway after nearly a week in the case!
I felt so tired I could hardly keep my eyes open so think I had better get to bed early tonight. I lit the fire and watched a couple of episodes of Neighbours before Jon came in.
I have been taking food from the freezer this week and tonight we had some nice leftover beef which I had frozen with the gravy and it was really nice. I still have lots of vegetables in the fridge so need to use them up for tomorrow as that will be our last meal as we are out for dinner on Friday night.
WEATHER
Some cloud with sunny spells 16 degrees.
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