Monday 27 December 2010
Tuesday 21 December 2010
7. Make a Christmas cake
So, not being one to do things by halves, I decided to make not one but nine christmas cakes! Ok, so they're only little ones but nine seperate cakes all the same.
I started back in October by soaking the fruit in brandy, then in November I made the actual cakes. For the last few weeks thay've been living in a cupboard and being fed brandy every few days.
And here they are, the finished articles. I've already given one to Lydia's teacher. Sadly I only have a rubbish iphone photo of that one, but trust me, it looked fab!
This is the recipe I followed Boozy Fruit and Christmas Cake
I started back in October by soaking the fruit in brandy, then in November I made the actual cakes. For the last few weeks thay've been living in a cupboard and being fed brandy every few days.
And here they are, the finished articles. I've already given one to Lydia's teacher. Sadly I only have a rubbish iphone photo of that one, but trust me, it looked fab!
This is the recipe I followed Boozy Fruit and Christmas Cake
Monday 20 December 2010
8. Lose 4 stones
(I might blog about something else soon...)
Today's rather dull update is that I lost 1/2lb this week. Good considering the chicken fried rice, pizza, chocolate, biscuits, warm coconut macaroons etc etc.
Now, let's see if I can keep up my no gain record next week...
Today's rather dull update is that I lost 1/2lb this week. Good considering the chicken fried rice, pizza, chocolate, biscuits, warm coconut macaroons etc etc.
Now, let's see if I can keep up my no gain record next week...
Monday 13 December 2010
8. Lose 4 stones
I didn't have high hopes this week. The Christmas thank you presents have started to arrive at work, as well as a chocolate hamper from our area manager.
Some kind of advent miracle occurred though and I lost 2.5lb again! I was so shocked I asked her to double check!
Some kind of advent miracle occurred though and I lost 2.5lb again! I was so shocked I asked her to double check!
Monday 6 December 2010
8. Lose 4 stones
2.5lb off this week meant I finally got my stone award. I also got slimmer of the week and am currently looking for recipes involving 3 apples, 2 kiwi fruit, a grapefruit, a courgette and a packet of chicken and mushroom pasta 'n' sauce.
So, a quarter of the way to my original goal. I'm at the annoying point where my clothes are too big but the next size down is still too small, hopefully I can rectify that by christmas.
Monday 29 November 2010
Monday 22 November 2010
8. Lose 4 stones
A rather miraculous loss this week, only 0.5lb but I really was expecting to gain. I've eaten a tonne of celebrations at work and my friend Kerry forced me to eat scones with too much cream at the 1st birthday party of her youngest!
I've now set my target on the SW website, it always seemed too far away but now I've lost almost a quarter of my original target it seems more achievable. It estimates that if I keep losing at the rate I have been I can be at that goal by my birthday. Hopefully, if I get my arse into gear I can do it before then.
I've now set my target on the SW website, it always seemed too far away but now I've lost almost a quarter of my original target it seems more achievable. It estimates that if I keep losing at the rate I have been I can be at that goal by my birthday. Hopefully, if I get my arse into gear I can do it before then.
Tuesday 16 November 2010
31. Get fitted for a bra
I can no longer throw them over my shoulder like a regimental soldier. Not clothed anyway.
Monday 15 November 2010
8. Lose 4 stones
I maintained. Grump. And the first person to say it's better than gaining will get a punch in the nose.
Tuesday 9 November 2010
86. Get new glasses
I've put this off for ages. I hate wearing glasses. Really, really hate it. I'd have laser eye surgery in a shot but I'm beyond skint and would have to sell a kidney or a child to fund it. This is a bit tricky as I can't see anything without them. I've had my current ones for 5 years and they really needed changing as a) They're knackered, b) my delightfully tactful husband told me they were dated and c)I can't bloody see anything, even when I'm wearing them.
So finally this month Iwas forced, kicking and screaming popped along for an eye test. After being told off by the optician for not being able to read the eye chart, even with my glasses on (I told you, it's a wonder they haven't sent me a guide dog) I spend an hour looking at frames. I hated them all. Every single pair. Too big, too small, too narrow, too Dame Edna, the arms are too wide, the wrong colour, too Elton John...
It took me a week to find an acceptable pair, well two as they were buy one get one free. I'm still not sure about them, they're different. I like familiar.
So finally this month I
It took me a week to find an acceptable pair, well two as they were buy one get one free. I'm still not sure about them, they're different. I like familiar.
Monday 8 November 2010
8. Lose 4 stones
2lb off. Consistency is my middle name. (it's not, it's Marie. Consistency is better though, more exotic, so I'm considering deed poll)
Monday 1 November 2010
Monday 25 October 2010
Friday 22 October 2010
22. Visit 5 different museums
Bolton Museum
It's half term, day 3. Three long days. We have a wobbly tooth so every other sentence is about the tooth fairy and when she's not talking about it she's wobbling it. Time to get out of the house! So off we went to Bolton.
First to the aquarium which has recently been made a bit more buggy friendly. It's only small but the girls enjoyed it, especially the exhibit about looking after the environment. Never has a retro crisp packet caused such excitement!
Lydia doing her best fish impression!
The upstairs to the museum. The local history exibit was closed (due to reopen tomorrow!) but we still managed to see the dinosaur, some (slightly horrific) mummies, and lots of other stuff. Best loved of all was the Noah's Ark. Lots of tantrums when it was time to move on!
It's a fabulous place and free! Much recommended by us.
It's half term, day 3. Three long days. We have a wobbly tooth so every other sentence is about the tooth fairy and when she's not talking about it she's wobbling it. Time to get out of the house! So off we went to Bolton.
First to the aquarium which has recently been made a bit more buggy friendly. It's only small but the girls enjoyed it, especially the exhibit about looking after the environment. Never has a retro crisp packet caused such excitement!
Lydia doing her best fish impression!
The upstairs to the museum. The local history exibit was closed (due to reopen tomorrow!) but we still managed to see the dinosaur, some (slightly horrific) mummies, and lots of other stuff. Best loved of all was the Noah's Ark. Lots of tantrums when it was time to move on!
It's a fabulous place and free! Much recommended by us.
Wednesday 20 October 2010
7. Make a Christmas cake (part one!)
So I've started my christmas cake! I bought the fruit weeks ago but I've only just got round to acquiring some brandy (thanks MIL!) I'm following the recipe from Ruth Clemens' blog The Pink Whisk (she was a finalist on the BBC programme The Great British Bake Off)
I've been soaking it since the weekend and stiring it everyday. It's currently living in the cupboards wrapped up in cling film and a tea towel.
It smells lush!
I've been soaking it since the weekend and stiring it everyday. It's currently living in the cupboards wrapped up in cling film and a tea towel.
It smells lush!
Monday 18 October 2010
16. Bake once a month
This month has been a quieter one, baking wise. I'm not really the kind of person who makes muffins with crushed up bran flakes, I'd rather do with out!
I got an urge to bake in saturday though, so I flicked through my new baking book and settled on lamingtons. And very good they are too (I've eaten several since weigh in!)
15. Cook 10 things from a recipe
Slimming World Lamb Dhansak (from SW magazine October 2010)
Serves 4
Fry Light
1 carrot, chopped
1 onion, chopped
1 red pepper, deseeded and chopped
1 garlic clove, crushed
2.5cm fresh root ginger (i used my namesake, lazy ginger!)
1tbsp tandoori spice mix
397g lamb, cubed
255g cherry tomatoes
400g can green lentils inc water (I did this in the slow cooker and it was too watery.would leave the water out next time)
284ml lamb stock
salt and pepper
basmati rice
fresh corriander (i left this out. fresh corriander has no place in my house. bleugh)
Spray a large, deep frying pan with fry light and place over a medium heat. Add the onion, carrot and red pepper and cook, uncovered for 10 minutes.
Add the garlic, ginger and spice mix and cook for a further 2 minutes, stiring constantly.
Stir in the lamb, cherry tomatoes, lentils and lamb stock. Season well and bring to the boil. Cover and cook for 25 minutes until lamb is tender. Cook the rice in boiling water for 10 minutes and drain.
When the curry is ready, stir in most of the coriander and check the seasoning. Sprinkle the remaining corriander over the curry and serve with the rice (but no naan bread as a sharwoods plain naan is 16.5 syns!!)
Serves 4
Fry Light
1 carrot, chopped
1 onion, chopped
1 red pepper, deseeded and chopped
1 garlic clove, crushed
2.5cm fresh root ginger (i used my namesake, lazy ginger!)
1tbsp tandoori spice mix
397g lamb, cubed
255g cherry tomatoes
400g can green lentils inc water (I did this in the slow cooker and it was too watery.would leave the water out next time)
284ml lamb stock
salt and pepper
basmati rice
fresh corriander (i left this out. fresh corriander has no place in my house. bleugh)
Spray a large, deep frying pan with fry light and place over a medium heat. Add the onion, carrot and red pepper and cook, uncovered for 10 minutes.
Add the garlic, ginger and spice mix and cook for a further 2 minutes, stiring constantly.
Stir in the lamb, cherry tomatoes, lentils and lamb stock. Season well and bring to the boil. Cover and cook for 25 minutes until lamb is tender. Cook the rice in boiling water for 10 minutes and drain.
When the curry is ready, stir in most of the coriander and check the seasoning. Sprinkle the remaining corriander over the curry and serve with the rice (but no naan bread as a sharwoods plain naan is 16.5 syns!!)
8. Lose 4 stones
Half a pound. Half a measly pound.
I weighed at a different time of day so that'll be it won't it? It'll mean a better loss next week won't it? (the only acceptable answer is yes by the way!)
I weighed at a different time of day so that'll be it won't it? It'll mean a better loss next week won't it? (the only acceptable answer is yes by the way!)
Monday 11 October 2010
8. Lose 4 stones
2lb off this week. Treated myself to a stale cake from Greenhalghs. This town needs a Starbucks!
Monday 4 October 2010
8. Lose 4 stones
So I've made a start on #8. I've joined Fat Fighters Slimming World.
First weigh in this week and I've lost 4lb.
First weigh in this week and I've lost 4lb.
Sunday 26 September 2010
16. Bake once a month
I've baked a few times this month. For the school autumn fayre I made Rocky Road, Brownies and fairy cakes (pink glitter for girls and Ben 10 for boys. Nothing like a gender stereotype cupcake topping!) People were very complementary and my tins came back empty so I presume they were ok!
I also made Victoria Sponge cupcakes which were fabulous in my head but slightly disastrous in real life (all the jam sank to the bottom) but apparently went down with Paul's colleagues!
Yesterday as a treat for no crying at swimming lessons (hey, bribery is a mum's best friend) we made smarties cookies. Biscuits are not my forte. They're kind of like unrisen cakes (there's some ingredients mentioned in the method that aren't on the list which threw me a bit) but they're edible. It could be that I'm just greedy and will eat anything though...
I also made Victoria Sponge cupcakes which were fabulous in my head but slightly disastrous in real life (all the jam sank to the bottom) but apparently went down with Paul's colleagues!
Yesterday as a treat for no crying at swimming lessons (hey, bribery is a mum's best friend) we made smarties cookies. Biscuits are not my forte. They're kind of like unrisen cakes (there's some ingredients mentioned in the method that aren't on the list which threw me a bit) but they're edible. It could be that I'm just greedy and will eat anything though...
Tuesday 7 September 2010
34. Go swimming with the children
Obviously there's no pictures. I contemplated taking a picture of us outside the pool but wasn't sure that being labeled a nutter was much better than a pervert. I may go back and recreate the moment when the pool is closed (would that make me less of a nutter or more?)
I've not been swimming for 6 years, since I was thinner. Thanks to this project I've bought a costume (two actually, thanks to the children helpfully removing the labels so I couldn't send one back) and actually been swimming. I actually had fun. Well, if I ignore the part where I couldn't find my underwear. I was panicking ever so slightly. I couldn't decide which would be worse, going without any underwear or asking at reception if anyone had handed it in. Turns out I'd stashed it in the leg of my jeans, presumably so I'd know where it was. Oh and the less said about Lydia weeing on my flip flops the better...
I've not been swimming for 6 years, since I was thinner. Thanks to this project I've bought a costume (two actually, thanks to the children helpfully removing the labels so I couldn't send one back) and actually been swimming. I actually had fun. Well, if I ignore the part where I couldn't find my underwear. I was panicking ever so slightly. I couldn't decide which would be worse, going without any underwear or asking at reception if anyone had handed it in. Turns out I'd stashed it in the leg of my jeans, presumably so I'd know where it was. Oh and the less said about Lydia weeing on my flip flops the better...
Tuesday 31 August 2010
Triple Whammy!
A day out to the seaside on a lovely, sunny bank holiday meant I could cross three things off my list!
24. Paddle in the sea
80. Build a sandcastle
98. Visit a place I haven't been since childhood
I also managed to get a family photo (by getting Paul to balance the camera on a wooden post whilst I shouted "Don't knock it off!" "If you drop it in the sand I'll cry!" and other helpful things.)
13. Have 10 family photographs taken
24. Paddle in the sea
80. Build a sandcastle
98. Visit a place I haven't been since childhood
I also managed to get a family photo (by getting Paul to balance the camera on a wooden post whilst I shouted "Don't knock it off!" "If you drop it in the sand I'll cry!" and other helpful things.)
13. Have 10 family photographs taken
Sunday 29 August 2010
11. Go on 10 dates
I can't help but think I was being slightly ambitious when I thought up my list. 10 dates? 8 months in and I've only managed 1! We, I mean we.
Anyway, yesterday was our anniversary. We've been married 6 years now. Here we are, the happy couple. We scrub up ok don't we? Shame that was the last time I actually scrubbed up at all!
So, my mum looked after the children while we went to the cinema. It was the first time I'd been to the cinema to see an adult film (hey, not that kind of adult film!) in more than five years. When we got there I realised why. How expensive? £7.50 each for the film, £7.40 for a hotdog and a coke. Mental. But I enjoyed it, and I even laughed at Adam Sandler.
Anyway, yesterday was our anniversary. We've been married 6 years now. Here we are, the happy couple. We scrub up ok don't we? Shame that was the last time I actually scrubbed up at all!
So, my mum looked after the children while we went to the cinema. It was the first time I'd been to the cinema to see an adult film (hey, not that kind of adult film!) in more than five years. When we got there I realised why. How expensive? £7.50 each for the film, £7.40 for a hotdog and a coke. Mental. But I enjoyed it, and I even laughed at Adam Sandler.
Wednesday 25 August 2010
35. Throw away 10 things from each room
I've had a bit of a clearout of Lydia's wardrobe. I was supposed to be looking for stuff to eBay but I got distracted by the 5 years of birthday and christmas cards that were in there. I decided to keep just the 1st birthday ones and then the ones from mummy and daddy for the other birthdays. The amount I'd saved was starting to get ridiculous. I also binned the shoe boxes I'd been inexplicably been keeping. I have no idea how it all fitted in as I seem to have thrown lots away but created no extra space!
Hopefully my clutter mission will continue at the weekend!
Hopefully my clutter mission will continue at the weekend!
Friday 6 August 2010
16. Bake once a month
It's only the 6th of the month and I've already baked twice!
Brownies: http://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/1223/bestever-brownies?pager.offset=120
They really are the best ever! I put turkish delight in mine (I seem to have a fetish, I made (slightly disastrous) TD cupcakes last week too) They were fantastic. I'm rubbish at brownies. I made some a few weeks ago that were like chocolate cake that wasn't quite cooked through, urgh. Have I mentioned how good these were? Delicious!
Fairy Cakes: I intended taking some of the brownies to work but I ate them all instead. So yesterday I knocked up a quick batch of buns. Well, it was supposed to be quick but I was a bit mithered and was trying to simultaneously make tea. Result = 1 egg smashed all over the floor and one tray or slightly over cooked chips! Still, the cakes went down ok. I might even do it again for them!
Brownies: http://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/1223/bestever-brownies?pager.offset=120
They really are the best ever! I put turkish delight in mine (I seem to have a fetish, I made (slightly disastrous) TD cupcakes last week too) They were fantastic. I'm rubbish at brownies. I made some a few weeks ago that were like chocolate cake that wasn't quite cooked through, urgh. Have I mentioned how good these were? Delicious!
Fairy Cakes: I intended taking some of the brownies to work but I ate them all instead. So yesterday I knocked up a quick batch of buns. Well, it was supposed to be quick but I was a bit mithered and was trying to simultaneously make tea. Result = 1 egg smashed all over the floor and one tray or slightly over cooked chips! Still, the cakes went down ok. I might even do it again for them!
Wednesday 28 July 2010
22. Visit 5 different museums
We paid a visit to the grandly titled Museum of Museums today. The reality isn't quite as grand! Situated in an old warehouse at the Trafford Centre, it comprises lots of exibits from other museums including an exibit about the FA cup from The National Football museum, some vintage cars, a couple of trams and buses, some cool vintage ice cream vans and some war memorabilia.
We enjoyed it (Charlotte possibly less than the rest of us, she spent a lot of the time saying "I go home Now!") and Paul got to harp on a bit about Bolton Wanderers and the White Horse cup final (first football game at wembley, estimated 300,000 fans, Bolton won 1-0 blah blah blah. I do listen sometimes!)
It's not fully open at the moment so entrance is free (normally £6 for adults and £4 for children, personally I doubt it's worth that, unless they get a lot more stuff, but I'm a bit tight now I have to pay for 4 people!)
http://www.museumofmuseums.org.uk/
Tuesday 13 July 2010
16. Bake once a month
July's bake isn't really a bake at all (I have made other things, pistachio cupcakes, but I didn't take any nice photos!) Lydia and I made Rocky Road for her to give to her teacher as a present. Yummy and very easy, even for a 5 year old!
Wednesday 7 July 2010
83. Listen to 10 artists I've never heard of
4/10 Eliza Doolittle.
It's quite possible that everyone else has heard of her and are wondering if I've been living on the moon. I don't get much chance to listen to the radio at home and I used to keep up to date with new stuff at work but now we're not allowed a radio *weep*
Anyway, I read something in a gossip column about Eliza Doolittle (it was the daily mail but keep that to yourselves ok) so I looked her up on We7.com (I've ditched spotify, we7 is much better). It turns out I quite like her. Maybe new music isn't all noise.
It's quite possible that everyone else has heard of her and are wondering if I've been living on the moon. I don't get much chance to listen to the radio at home and I used to keep up to date with new stuff at work but now we're not allowed a radio *weep*
Anyway, I read something in a gossip column about Eliza Doolittle (it was the daily mail but keep that to yourselves ok) so I looked her up on We7.com (I've ditched spotify, we7 is much better). It turns out I quite like her. Maybe new music isn't all noise.
Sunday 4 July 2010
Quick catch up
16. Bake once a month
I baked fairycakes for my sister's birthday. This month I'm going to try and bake something other than cupcakes!
20. Go to the theatre
I took Lydia to the Octagon in Bolton to see a fabulous adaptation of Whatever Next!
We both loved it (me a little bit more than her possibly!)
75. Grow and eat our own strawberries
I've planted a little strawberry plant in a pot at the back, fingers crossed we get some fruit from it!
I baked fairycakes for my sister's birthday. This month I'm going to try and bake something other than cupcakes!
20. Go to the theatre
I took Lydia to the Octagon in Bolton to see a fabulous adaptation of Whatever Next!
We both loved it (me a little bit more than her possibly!)
75. Grow and eat our own strawberries
I've planted a little strawberry plant in a pot at the back, fingers crossed we get some fruit from it!
17. Make birthday cakes for each of the girl's birthdays
For Lydia's birthday I decided to make not one, but 24 cakes!
She wanted Hannah Montana cakes so I bought little plastic rings from ebay for the top of them. I had a little wobble midweek and decided to buy a plastic flavoured one from Morrisons. Then I had an unexpected morning off work on friday so I decided to give them a go. They turned out much better than I had expected them too. So good I've been asked to bake for the PTA's autumn fair!
She wanted Hannah Montana cakes so I bought little plastic rings from ebay for the top of them. I had a little wobble midweek and decided to buy a plastic flavoured one from Morrisons. Then I had an unexpected morning off work on friday so I decided to give them a go. They turned out much better than I had expected them too. So good I've been asked to bake for the PTA's autumn fair!
Tuesday 1 June 2010
9. Read 10 books
I've just this minute finished another book! Since I finished the last I've tried to read a few more (twilight-rubbish, latest Marian Keyes- not as good as her others) but I find it hard to read these days. Too much internet I suspect. Anyway, cutting to the chase, I picked up Girl Friday by Jane Green in the supermarket. I've read a few of her early ones when I used to read a book a week on my journey to and from Manchester but I've read nothing of hers for years. It's got shocking reviews on Amazon but I thought it was ok, typical chick lit which, to be honest, is the best I can manage these days!
Monday 24 May 2010
56. Make a daisy chain
Modern daisies are not like the daisies of my childhood. For a start there aren't millions of the pink tipped beauties everywhere you look. Maybe there still is on the school field but I think they'd object to me just rocking up 15 years later to pick daisies. And they might ask for the Tricolore back.
Anyway, the ones in my mum's garden are a lot weedier than old school daisies, thinner stems which made nipping them with my (much bigger) hands very difficult. It took me ages to do and I was quite proud that I'd managed it.
Then this happened. Trashed in seconds and I remembered why I hadn't spent much time making daisy chains in recent years.
Anyway, the ones in my mum's garden are a lot weedier than old school daisies, thinner stems which made nipping them with my (much bigger) hands very difficult. It took me ages to do and I was quite proud that I'd managed it.
Then this happened. Trashed in seconds and I remembered why I hadn't spent much time making daisy chains in recent years.
Monday 17 May 2010
May 17th 2010
So, as it turns out I'm a rubbish blogger. Who knew? (people who subscribed to my last blog, hush now) So this is another catch up post! I promise I'll get better. And I haven't got my fingers crossed behind my back or anything.
15. Cook 10 things from a recipe
This month I've been meal planning in an effort to eat better. Nothing fancy, spag bol, sausage casserole that kind of thing. I googled for ideas and found a recipe for Spanish Rice on netmums that we tried. It was lovely and easy and I'll definitely make it again.
16. Bake once a month
A while ago I was seduced into buying novelty shaped cupcake cases in John Lewis. I hadn't had chance to try them out until last week when Lydia had her class dog to stay (not a real dog, they'd have had no hope of her going near one of those never mind having her picture taken with it!) We had to do lots of 'fun' things with him so Lydia could write in his diary. So, chocolate cupcakes it was!
26. Wear make up, just because
Today I am wearing make up and the most exciting place I went was Morrisons. That's definitely just because!
28. Give away all the books that won't be read
I've had a big clearout of all my books. We've got nowhere for bookshelves so they're just gathering dust under the bed. I've kept the ones I love and the ones I'll read again then I've put 2 huge boxes in the cellar for carboot season. There were some baby books that I wanted to get rid of but I didn't really want to sell (I have no idea why, I think it's the idea of people trying to haggle over the price of things that mean something to me) so I packaged them up and sent them to my lovely friend Laura who is expecting her first baby. I hope they're as helpful to her as they were to me. (I binned the unhelpful, Gina Ford type ones long ago!)
35. Throw away 10 things from each room
This month I blitzed the bathroom where I threw out lots and lots of half used shampoos and things. I also cleared my bedroom, as well as shifting all the books out I chucked handbags and shoes and made a big ebay pile.
47. Release a balloon with a message on a label
When a kind man in Clinton Cards gave the girls a balloon each we decided to attach a label to one and let it go. Now I have to decide whether I should write her a letter myself or wait and see if someone really finds it and writes to us!
65. Text or email a friend every month
One of my oldest friends is pregnant and I sent her a quick text to say hi and that I hope she's doing ok.
84. Have a pro photo taken of Charlotte
Tried. Failed. She hates men, including photographers. We'll try again in a couple of months!
96. Be strict and delete all the rubbish photos
Tried. Failed miserabley. I looked at the first file and I couldn't delete any! There are 30 photos. All 30 are rubbish. Complete crap. I still couldn't bear to delete them. They're more than just photos, they're moments in time, moments I'll never get back. I'll buy a hard drive.
97. Get copies of all the old photos and make an album
My mum gave me some photos of me that were from the albums she took from my nana and grandad's house when my nana died. I bought an album and put them in (this is very good going for me, I have drawers of photos and drawers of albums. They rarely meet.)
15. Cook 10 things from a recipe
This month I've been meal planning in an effort to eat better. Nothing fancy, spag bol, sausage casserole that kind of thing. I googled for ideas and found a recipe for Spanish Rice on netmums that we tried. It was lovely and easy and I'll definitely make it again.
16. Bake once a month
A while ago I was seduced into buying novelty shaped cupcake cases in John Lewis. I hadn't had chance to try them out until last week when Lydia had her class dog to stay (not a real dog, they'd have had no hope of her going near one of those never mind having her picture taken with it!) We had to do lots of 'fun' things with him so Lydia could write in his diary. So, chocolate cupcakes it was!
26. Wear make up, just because
Today I am wearing make up and the most exciting place I went was Morrisons. That's definitely just because!
28. Give away all the books that won't be read
I've had a big clearout of all my books. We've got nowhere for bookshelves so they're just gathering dust under the bed. I've kept the ones I love and the ones I'll read again then I've put 2 huge boxes in the cellar for carboot season. There were some baby books that I wanted to get rid of but I didn't really want to sell (I have no idea why, I think it's the idea of people trying to haggle over the price of things that mean something to me) so I packaged them up and sent them to my lovely friend Laura who is expecting her first baby. I hope they're as helpful to her as they were to me. (I binned the unhelpful, Gina Ford type ones long ago!)
35. Throw away 10 things from each room
This month I blitzed the bathroom where I threw out lots and lots of half used shampoos and things. I also cleared my bedroom, as well as shifting all the books out I chucked handbags and shoes and made a big ebay pile.
47. Release a balloon with a message on a label
When a kind man in Clinton Cards gave the girls a balloon each we decided to attach a label to one and let it go. Now I have to decide whether I should write her a letter myself or wait and see if someone really finds it and writes to us!
65. Text or email a friend every month
One of my oldest friends is pregnant and I sent her a quick text to say hi and that I hope she's doing ok.
84. Have a pro photo taken of Charlotte
Tried. Failed. She hates men, including photographers. We'll try again in a couple of months!
96. Be strict and delete all the rubbish photos
Tried. Failed miserabley. I looked at the first file and I couldn't delete any! There are 30 photos. All 30 are rubbish. Complete crap. I still couldn't bear to delete them. They're more than just photos, they're moments in time, moments I'll never get back. I'll buy a hard drive.
97. Get copies of all the old photos and make an album
My mum gave me some photos of me that were from the albums she took from my nana and grandad's house when my nana died. I bought an album and put them in (this is very good going for me, I have drawers of photos and drawers of albums. They rarely meet.)
Tuesday 13 April 2010
April 11th 2010
19. Have a picnic in the park.
Woo hoo! It's sunny!
For Charlotte's birthday I decided to invite a few friends round and have a little teddies bears carpet picnic. Our house is teeny so it was to be an intimate affair and not much chance of letting the children play outside in our courtyard garden *cough* as the weather was predicted to be grim (when I decided to host there was supposed to be snow on its way!). If only I'd known that the weatherman would be so wrong. It was a glorious weekend so a quick change of plan meant we headed off to the park.
Our local park used to be rubbish, only a year ago I blogged (in my rather neglected park blog) about how rubbish it was. 2 swings and a rubbish slide thing. And lots of dog poo and broken bottles. Oh how it has changed! There's park benches, lots of little children's equipment, a deathslide, some big swings. Fab.
We threw down some blankets and cracked open the sandwiches. The children had a fab time and so did we. I think we needed wine though. Must plan better next time.
It's such a shame that the weather can't be guaranteed, it would have been lovely to invite everyone but I couldn't risk that it might rain and we'd all be wedged in our front room!
Woo hoo! It's sunny!
For Charlotte's birthday I decided to invite a few friends round and have a little teddies bears carpet picnic. Our house is teeny so it was to be an intimate affair and not much chance of letting the children play outside in our courtyard garden *cough* as the weather was predicted to be grim (when I decided to host there was supposed to be snow on its way!). If only I'd known that the weatherman would be so wrong. It was a glorious weekend so a quick change of plan meant we headed off to the park.
Our local park used to be rubbish, only a year ago I blogged (in my rather neglected park blog) about how rubbish it was. 2 swings and a rubbish slide thing. And lots of dog poo and broken bottles. Oh how it has changed! There's park benches, lots of little children's equipment, a deathslide, some big swings. Fab.
We threw down some blankets and cracked open the sandwiches. The children had a fab time and so did we. I think we needed wine though. Must plan better next time.
It's such a shame that the weather can't be guaranteed, it would have been lovely to invite everyone but I couldn't risk that it might rain and we'd all be wedged in our front room!
April 10th 2010
16. Bake once a month
Continuing the 'Birthday Weekend' (I thought you only got those when you turned 18 or something. 2 is little, hope we're not setting a precedent) I made baby owl cakes to go with the now deceased mummy owl. Poor orphan owl cakes.
Continuing the 'Birthday Weekend' (I thought you only got those when you turned 18 or something. 2 is little, hope we're not setting a precedent) I made baby owl cakes to go with the now deceased mummy owl. Poor orphan owl cakes.
April 9th 2010
89. Visit a farm
April 9th was my baby's birthday. Not so much of a baby now, a big number two girl who can talk, and is starting to count, surf the internet and browse you tube on an iphone and spending most of her time arguing and fighting with her sister. Bliss...
Anyway for her birthday we decided to go to a farm a few friends had recommended, Park Fold Open Farm in Bolton. I've always been a bit wary of open farms, there's quite a few big ones around here where they seem to want to bleed every last penny from you by having animal themed bouncy castles and huge entrance fees.Not that I've ever been to one, that's just the impression I've got when I've looked into it. I wanted something a bit more like an actual farm. But clean. No stinky pigs for me! Park Fold is exactly that, it was lovely. Because of the time of year there was chicks and ducklings, lambs and piglets. Lydia got to feed a lamb (Charlotte wouldn't go near, she wouldn't even stroke one) and we petted rabbits and guinea pigs. The girls played on tractors outside (we had a fabulous day, the first of a few days of lovely spring sunshine). We even went on a tractor ride (This was a bit hairy and at times I imagined overturning into the pond and how our horrific deaths would be reported in the Daily Mail. I'm a touch melodramatic.)
Much fun was had by all. Even me.
April 9th was my baby's birthday. Not so much of a baby now, a big number two girl who can talk, and is starting to count, surf the internet and browse you tube on an iphone and spending most of her time arguing and fighting with her sister. Bliss...
Anyway for her birthday we decided to go to a farm a few friends had recommended, Park Fold Open Farm in Bolton. I've always been a bit wary of open farms, there's quite a few big ones around here where they seem to want to bleed every last penny from you by having animal themed bouncy castles and huge entrance fees.Not that I've ever been to one, that's just the impression I've got when I've looked into it. I wanted something a bit more like an actual farm. But clean. No stinky pigs for me! Park Fold is exactly that, it was lovely. Because of the time of year there was chicks and ducklings, lambs and piglets. Lydia got to feed a lamb (Charlotte wouldn't go near, she wouldn't even stroke one) and we petted rabbits and guinea pigs. The girls played on tractors outside (we had a fabulous day, the first of a few days of lovely spring sunshine). We even went on a tractor ride (This was a bit hairy and at times I imagined overturning into the pond and how our horrific deaths would be reported in the Daily Mail. I'm a touch melodramatic.)
Much fun was had by all. Even me.
April 8th 2010
17. Make birthday cakes for each of the girl's birthdays
So, here it is, the first of the birthday cakes!
Charlotte turned two on April 9th. At the moment we have a bit of a thing for owls, I seem to be subconsciously drawn to them, and we have lots of clothes with owls on. A while ago my lovely friend spud made one for one of her megaboys and I fell in love with it. It looks fantastic but was so simple to make and it tasted quite delicious too. Sadly there wasn't much to taste. After a birthday tea at my parents I carefully put the cake into the tin, using the lid as the base so the sides wouldn't get squashed when I was getting it in and out. I then carefully handed it to my husband, explaining that the tin was supposed to be upside down so not to turn it the right way. Then he carefully carried it outside and dropped it on the drive. I might have had a small breakdown.
So, here it is, the first of the birthday cakes!
Charlotte turned two on April 9th. At the moment we have a bit of a thing for owls, I seem to be subconsciously drawn to them, and we have lots of clothes with owls on. A while ago my lovely friend spud made one for one of her megaboys and I fell in love with it. It looks fantastic but was so simple to make and it tasted quite delicious too. Sadly there wasn't much to taste. After a birthday tea at my parents I carefully put the cake into the tin, using the lid as the base so the sides wouldn't get squashed when I was getting it in and out. I then carefully handed it to my husband, explaining that the tin was supposed to be upside down so not to turn it the right way. Then he carefully carried it outside and dropped it on the drive. I might have had a small breakdown.
Wednesday 17 March 2010
March 13th 2010
25. Buy 10 bunches of flowers
I bought Paul's mum some tulips for mothering sunday and whilst I was there I picked up a bunch of dafodils for myself. They've not opened yet, I'll take a photo when they do as they're very spring like!
I bought Paul's mum some tulips for mothering sunday and whilst I was there I picked up a bunch of dafodils for myself. They've not opened yet, I'll take a photo when they do as they're very spring like!
Tuesday 16 March 2010
March 16th 2010
5. Have my haircut every 6 months
I went in and told her to do what ever she wanted. I'm not sure I'm feeling the love atm, I'm telling myself it will grow. My fringe is already doing my head in, and as we speak I have one of Lydia's clips clipping it out of my eyes!
I went in and told her to do what ever she wanted. I'm not sure I'm feeling the love atm, I'm telling myself it will grow. My fringe is already doing my head in, and as we speak I have one of Lydia's clips clipping it out of my eyes!
March 15th 2010
16. Bake once a month
Last month I bought a new cupcake book, the Primrose Bakery cookbook. There are some gorgeous cakes in it, the peanut butter ones were lovely.
Today I made coffee cakes with coffee buttercream. Yum!
Last month I bought a new cupcake book, the Primrose Bakery cookbook. There are some gorgeous cakes in it, the peanut butter ones were lovely.
Today I made coffee cakes with coffee buttercream. Yum!
Wednesday 3 March 2010
I am a bad, bad blogger!
I have been keeping up with the list though, honestly! February was a little bit hectic and Lydia was off school for 2 weeks after she developed chicken pox part way through half term! So, I'll catch up here the things that I've done.
10. Send 10 cards, just because
I sent Dawn a fab card with old ladies in a social club on the front to let her know I was thinking about her.
16. Bake once a month
This month I made themed chicken pox cupcakes with Lydia!
25. Buy 10 bunches of flowers
I bought myself some gorgeous tulips
35. Throw away 10 things from each room
I had a clear out of some of the junk in the kitchen, I think it might take a few goes to make it look clutter free though!
52. Get curtains for the lounge
I did it!! We've lived here almost 10 years now and have never had any curtains! We're up steps and not overlooked so it never seemed like a priority but when I saw some nice ones reduced at Tesco direct I decided to go for it. The window is huge so all the ones I really like are very expensive so I just got some plain ones.
55. Dance around with the girls once a week
I love doing this! Lydia calls them slipper parties as I get them ready for bed and we have a last minute burst of energy before milk and stories. Paul's just got Just Dance for the wii so I expect that will be brought out regularly now!
65. Text or email a friend every month
Text my lovely friend to let her know I was thinking of her.
87. Get an iPhone
Wooo! I got it the minute my contract was up! Love it, currently boring everyone with photos of every boring detail of everything, just because I can!
See, I have been productive. Kind of! Must update more in March!
10. Send 10 cards, just because
I sent Dawn a fab card with old ladies in a social club on the front to let her know I was thinking about her.
16. Bake once a month
This month I made themed chicken pox cupcakes with Lydia!
25. Buy 10 bunches of flowers
I bought myself some gorgeous tulips
35. Throw away 10 things from each room
I had a clear out of some of the junk in the kitchen, I think it might take a few goes to make it look clutter free though!
52. Get curtains for the lounge
I did it!! We've lived here almost 10 years now and have never had any curtains! We're up steps and not overlooked so it never seemed like a priority but when I saw some nice ones reduced at Tesco direct I decided to go for it. The window is huge so all the ones I really like are very expensive so I just got some plain ones.
55. Dance around with the girls once a week
I love doing this! Lydia calls them slipper parties as I get them ready for bed and we have a last minute burst of energy before milk and stories. Paul's just got Just Dance for the wii so I expect that will be brought out regularly now!
65. Text or email a friend every month
Text my lovely friend to let her know I was thinking of her.
87. Get an iPhone
Wooo! I got it the minute my contract was up! Love it, currently boring everyone with photos of every boring detail of everything, just because I can!
See, I have been productive. Kind of! Must update more in March!
Thursday 11 February 2010
I failed!
7. Spend 1 day without internet each month (0/33)
I couldn't go a whole day without logging on. I tried so hard! There were days when I didn't log on all day but then forgot and checked facebook on my ipod. Or I suddenly needed something from Next! I am addicted. Instead of cutting it out totally for one day I'm going to try to stay off when the girls are around.
I watched this very apt children's programme this morning:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00qp1pm
And this article:
http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/features/2843636/Meet-single-mum-addicted-to-the-internet.html
I couldn't go a whole day without logging on. I tried so hard! There were days when I didn't log on all day but then forgot and checked facebook on my ipod. Or I suddenly needed something from Next! I am addicted. Instead of cutting it out totally for one day I'm going to try to stay off when the girls are around.
I watched this very apt children's programme this morning:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00qp1pm
And this article:
http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/features/2843636/Meet-single-mum-addicted-to-the-internet.html
February 11th 2010
9. Read 10 books
I've just finished my first book! Not my first book ever, but my first book for a long time. I find it really hard to concentrate since I had babies. I find I need complete silence to read and that doesn't happen often and even when it does I'm glued to the internet.
So the first book was Dear Fatty by Dawn French. I bought it ages ago after someone told me they'd enjoyed it but never quite got round to reading it. I enjoyed it too. It was very funny in parts and also quite sad, I had a good old weep!
If anyone wants to read it I'm happy to pass it on.
I've just finished my first book! Not my first book ever, but my first book for a long time. I find it really hard to concentrate since I had babies. I find I need complete silence to read and that doesn't happen often and even when it does I'm glued to the internet.
So the first book was Dear Fatty by Dawn French. I bought it ages ago after someone told me they'd enjoyed it but never quite got round to reading it. I enjoyed it too. It was very funny in parts and also quite sad, I had a good old weep!
If anyone wants to read it I'm happy to pass it on.
Monday 25 January 2010
January 24rd 2010
21. Go to the cinema
On sunday morning we got up early (too early for a sunday, sundays should be alarm free) and took the girls to the cinema as a treat for Lydia's good schoolwork. Kids AM is only 95p each so if they didn't like it then it wasn't a massive loss. One of the reasons I've not been to the cinema is the extortionate price (that and the fact Dave has fallen asleep during every film I've ever watched with him)
Charlotte was surprisingly good. She's a bit of a menace at the best of times so I was slightly worried about taking her somewhere she'd be enclosed and have to stay quiet. Three packets of raisins and almost a whole tub of popcorn kept her occupied though!
This is what we went to see. I secretly enjoyed it. Guinea Pigs rock.
The girls waiting for the film to start. I didn't get any decent photos as Lydia puts her hands over her face, Victoria Beckham style, when the flash goes off!
On sunday morning we got up early (too early for a sunday, sundays should be alarm free) and took the girls to the cinema as a treat for Lydia's good schoolwork. Kids AM is only 95p each so if they didn't like it then it wasn't a massive loss. One of the reasons I've not been to the cinema is the extortionate price (that and the fact Dave has fallen asleep during every film I've ever watched with him)
Charlotte was surprisingly good. She's a bit of a menace at the best of times so I was slightly worried about taking her somewhere she'd be enclosed and have to stay quiet. Three packets of raisins and almost a whole tub of popcorn kept her occupied though!
This is what we went to see. I secretly enjoyed it. Guinea Pigs rock.
The girls waiting for the film to start. I didn't get any decent photos as Lydia puts her hands over her face, Victoria Beckham style, when the flash goes off!
Tuesday 19 January 2010
January 19th 2010
83. Listen to 10 artists I've never heard of
Today I posted on twitter asking for recommendations of new music I could listen to. A couple of people replied (Nic, Powderfinger are indeed fab but I'd heard of them so they couldn't count). One of them was Blake McKibben. He asked if I'd look him up on iTunes if I had the time. So I did. I listened to the little snippet things and it sounded ok so I downloaded it. It's fab, I love it and have already listened twice. The internet rocks. Sometimes.
Here's the link to his stuff on iTunes if anyone wants to give him a listen
http://tiny.cc/blakemckibben
Today I posted on twitter asking for recommendations of new music I could listen to. A couple of people replied (Nic, Powderfinger are indeed fab but I'd heard of them so they couldn't count). One of them was Blake McKibben. He asked if I'd look him up on iTunes if I had the time. So I did. I listened to the little snippet things and it sounded ok so I downloaded it. It's fab, I love it and have already listened twice. The internet rocks. Sometimes.
Here's the link to his stuff on iTunes if anyone wants to give him a listen
Saturday 9 January 2010
January 9th 2010
83. Listen to 10 artists I've never heard of
Ellie Goulding
I came across her name whilst reading the bbc news website. She's won the BBC's Sound of 2010. Apparently "her "folktronica" sound mixes a traditional acoustic approach with a more cutting-edge electronic style".
I'm starting to think I haven't heard of these people for a reason and I should stick to Girls Aloud!
94. Watch all the upopened dvds I own
Last night I watched Devil Wears Prada. I bought it when it first came out on DVD as I reallyy wanted to see it at the cinema but I didn't have anyone to see it with (what's that I hear? Is it a small violin ;o) ) As with every other DVD I've bought in the last few years it's been on the shelf, unwatched.
I actually really enjoyed it and it was good to turn off the laptop for a while.
Ellie Goulding
I came across her name whilst reading the bbc news website. She's won the BBC's Sound of 2010. Apparently "her "folktronica" sound mixes a traditional acoustic approach with a more cutting-edge electronic style".
I'm starting to think I haven't heard of these people for a reason and I should stick to Girls Aloud!
94. Watch all the upopened dvds I own
Last night I watched Devil Wears Prada. I bought it when it first came out on DVD as I reallyy wanted to see it at the cinema but I didn't have anyone to see it with (what's that I hear? Is it a small violin ;o) ) As with every other DVD I've bought in the last few years it's been on the shelf, unwatched.
I actually really enjoyed it and it was good to turn off the laptop for a while.
January 7th 2010
16. Bake once a month
Another snow day and I'm starting to go a bit stir crazy. I thought baking with two was a bit ambitious (especially when one of the two is Charlotte) so we opted for something easy. Chocolate Wheels.
Take a sheet of ready rolled puff pastry, spread with chocolate spread, roll up, slice, bake for 20 minutes.
I put them in the oven so it's baking, ok?
Another snow day and I'm starting to go a bit stir crazy. I thought baking with two was a bit ambitious (especially when one of the two is Charlotte) so we opted for something easy. Chocolate Wheels.
Take a sheet of ready rolled puff pastry, spread with chocolate spread, roll up, slice, bake for 20 minutes.
I put them in the oven so it's baking, ok?
Tuesday 5 January 2010
January 5th 2010
49. Build a snowman
When my husband woke me up at 7am to tell me that I wouldn't have to get up to get L to school (I know, he could have quietly turned the alarm clock of and left me to sleep!), I knew there was one task I would be able to cross off. There was a bit of snow when I went to bed so I thought I could make a mini one today but no, when I got up it was indeed deep. Wooohooo!
To set the scene, this is the street outside my house. Lydia is lying in the middle of it. The car is parked, it looks like I've thrown her in front of a moving car but I haven't!
This is the side of my house (and Paul building a bigger and better snowman)
And here we are, me and my snowman!
When my husband woke me up at 7am to tell me that I wouldn't have to get up to get L to school (I know, he could have quietly turned the alarm clock of and left me to sleep!), I knew there was one task I would be able to cross off. There was a bit of snow when I went to bed so I thought I could make a mini one today but no, when I got up it was indeed deep. Wooohooo!
To set the scene, this is the street outside my house. Lydia is lying in the middle of it. The car is parked, it looks like I've thrown her in front of a moving car but I haven't!
This is the side of my house (and Paul building a bigger and better snowman)
And here we are, me and my snowman!
Monday 4 January 2010
January 4th 2010
12. Put photographs in every frame I own
This might not seem like an important task but trust me, if you could see how many photoless frames i have you would realise I'm not far out with my estimate! There is also quite an imbalance between the photos of the children. Definitely precious first born syndrome. It's going to be quite a while before I can cross this off The List.
So, this is the first photograph I've put in a frame. What's bad is that I don't think I like the frame. I think it needs a plain frame and a mount. There's only one thing for it, I'll have to buy another frame...
This might not seem like an important task but trust me, if you could see how many photoless frames i have you would realise I'm not far out with my estimate! There is also quite an imbalance between the photos of the children. Definitely precious first born syndrome. It's going to be quite a while before I can cross this off The List.
So, this is the first photograph I've put in a frame. What's bad is that I don't think I like the frame. I think it needs a plain frame and a mount. There's only one thing for it, I'll have to buy another frame...
January 3rd 2010
83. Listen to 10 artists I've never heard of
A friend suggested that I check out Laura Marling. I looked her up on spotify (how good is that by the way? can't believe I only got it this week). I'm on track 7 and I'm still not sure if I like her or not. I will give her another listen another day, maybe she's a grower.
Please feel free to suggest stuff I might not of heard of. Some of my favorite music has happened on my this way.
A friend suggested that I check out Laura Marling. I looked her up on spotify (how good is that by the way? can't believe I only got it this week). I'm on track 7 and I'm still not sure if I like her or not. I will give her another listen another day, maybe she's a grower.
Please feel free to suggest stuff I might not of heard of. Some of my favorite music has happened on my this way.
Friday 1 January 2010
January 1st 2010
So here it is. The start of a new year, of a new decade and of a new challenge for me.
I first heard of the 101 things in 1001 days project last year when a few virtual friends started their projects. I tried to make a list then but I didn't get very far and I soon lost interest. I followed some of their blogs and decided that one day I'd join in with them, if I could think of enough exciting things to put on my list. And so today is that day.
Whilst compiling my list I decided that the things didn't have to be huge things, or important things or even very exciting but that they must all mean something to me. I hope they might be of interest to some of you too.
I do reserve the right to change my list at anytime, it's my project remember!
So, here we go...
I first heard of the 101 things in 1001 days project last year when a few virtual friends started their projects. I tried to make a list then but I didn't get very far and I soon lost interest. I followed some of their blogs and decided that one day I'd join in with them, if I could think of enough exciting things to put on my list. And so today is that day.
Whilst compiling my list I decided that the things didn't have to be huge things, or important things or even very exciting but that they must all mean something to me. I hope they might be of interest to some of you too.
I do reserve the right to change my list at anytime, it's my project remember!
So, here we go...
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