101 things in 1001 days

2011-11-28T21:15:00.000Z

Its all done now on the last available day too.
no time to update blog as too too busy completing the last ten challenges. Phew but all done was a bit worried wouldn't go for the real tattoo but that was done yesterday I suprised myself with that one.
Time for a rest now and time to fill in all the missing entries on the blog before turning into an ebook.
Its been great fun for me and I hope all the people that joined in with me and helped me on my way.

Have a Real Tattoo

2011-11-27T15:35:00.001Z

Thought I would go and have a real tattoo if I thought I was any way near getting to my 101 things so was duly booked by Rosie for Sunday my 100th thing. Rosie took the precaution of booking herself in after me so she could take my slot if I bottled out.
I decided to have a violet flower as my Mum is Emily Violet and Catrina is Catrina Violet and apparently we used to have a Great Aunt Violet.
I was booked for mid day so took pre-emptive pain relieving medication and took my rescue remedy with me as well as a drink and a bar of chocolate.
Ali the tattoo artist was very nice and showed me a design to start off with I was a bit worried about it having a stalk and a leaf and all as in more things to be tattooed and was a bit worried would end up with just a little dot.
we changed the design to just the petals and had it down sized a good few times until I felt it was going to be way too woosy to shrink it down any more.
We then discussed where would be the best place to have it that would be the least painful.and it seems it varied from one person to the other so I went for the place with the most skin available lol. sooo its just in front of and above my hip.
Rosie stayed to talk to me and Ali got to work it was bearable but better with a bit of chat.
I asked Ali to tell me the oldest person she had ever tattooed and it was a lovely lady of 77 who has quite a few and she is awesome.
Had to stop a few times and weirdly when Geri came into to look I couldn't cope and found it more painful or I am just a little bit mad.
Talking for distraction definitely worked so I asked Ali where was the weirdest place she had even tattooed someone. She said a very smartly dressed Indian lady came once and wanted a rather intimate tattoo of her husbands name which luckily was quite a short one. She did have to spend quite some time with her head up this ladies skirt which must have been amusing for the other customers. She did say you couldn't pay her enough to tattoo a man's ***** so guessing she has never done that.
I thought having it coloured in was worse than the actual black outline but it was soon over and now- its done.
Its healing up and am glad I had it done, its very pretty and has lots of shading and is very well done. Thank you Ali.
Not sure if I will have another done but was looking at tattoos for the feet today so... never say never

Go To a 3D Film

2011-11-26T20:17:00.001Z

On Saturday we went to the Science Museum in Kensington to go and see the Hubble Telescope film at the Imaxx cinema in 3D.
This is my first ever 3D film apart from long ago when I was a child and we had to wear cardboard framed glasses one red lens and one green.
We were well looked after paying a reduced rate for me and nothing for DH as carer and also were able to go into the lift instead of up 6 flights of stairs.
No food or drink allowed in this cinema which is marvellous no rustling of popcorn or slurping.
The introduction told us the screen was the size of 3 double deckers one on top of each other and lots more info about the sound system which I forget.
A pity still had adverts -not in 3D- but still annoying apart from the one for another 3D film about orangotangs and baby elephants. It was amazing I wanted to put my hand out and touch the baby orangotang that appeared to be right in front of my face. I am glad I didn't go to see anything scary am bad enough at a normal film.
The film started and it was really very good about various space missions to fix and update the telescope. I think I could have helped one astronaut put his boots on in front of me.
There were then so many fantastic images of the stars and galaxies all around us as well as images of the earth. I know its a clique but it really does make you feel very small and there really must be other people out there. How can we be alone in all this.
After the film we had a short look at a few iconic exhibits in the Museum- Stephenson's Rocket and a model TFord in black of course before going to a pub that we used to go to years ago when we were young and carefree. The Churchill in Church Street. Our friend was once famously barred from here for moving a chair from the restaurant to the bar. It was absolutely packed with people so great atmosphere good beer, so I'm told and good company. That was me.

ten days to go

2011-11-19T20:46:00.000Z

Ten days to go and ten things left to do!!
Not sure if this is possible but am going to give it a good go some are things that are half done so only a matter of completion.
Am going to call on all the help I can have completed the pubs with fires today and will see if can do anything else this weekend.
wish me luck

Pubs with fires

2011-11-19T18:54:00.000Z

Hooray have visited our last pubs with fires today have only ten days left to go to complete.
The pubs were a little disappointing, out of the three we visited only one had a fire alight not to mention the beer not very good in two out of three pubs. Will add more details when I work out how many 101's left to complete as have lost track and think may have to do one a day eek

Making Candles

2011-08-25T20:30:00.001+01:00

Decided this would be something I could do as stuck inside for a time owing to not feeling too great.
Thank goodness for the internet and Ebay as I was able to order all supplies needed and make a start from the comfort of my bed.
Went on short outing with GF and was really lucky to spot a candle making kit in a charity shop for £4, but have spent about £25 on supplies and equipment.
As an experiment started with some old bits of candle that I melted in a metal jug I had bought for this purpose in a saucepan of boiling water like melting chocolate.
No water must come in contact with the wax. The resulting liquid was a bit grey so I added some blue colour to it to disguise it which worked very well. The dirty bits also seem to sink to the bottom so just discarded that bit of wax.
I had bought wicks and little metal bits that hold the wick in place. Some molds came with the charity shop kit but I also used two small glass containers and some teacups.
Geri helped me to make them but we found the most important thing was just not to leave it at all but we had a saucepan lid ready to plonk on the top in case of emergencies.
So we ended up making two largish blue candles, two blue candles in the little glass containers and two purple, getting a bit flash now, candles in teacups.
This was all using old wax which was very satisfying apart from breaking one of our large glass holders trying to get the wax out but never mind.
Will certainly continue to make some and use some of the new wax too.
We lit the two blue candles and they burned lovely. Magic

Things left to do 10/20

2011-08-15T14:46:00.009+01:00

101 Things in 1001 day Linda's List
Left to do

Now have 20 things left to do from this list by 28th November 2011

Have only till November to finish my 101 list so need to get a wiggle on. some I know just won't get done because of time constraints and money as well soooo will concentrate on ones I can achieve including new additions.
no point in having targets you cannot achieve so it is a good compromise.

1. Try a first class lounge at the airport 2/2
2. visit all pubs in Surrey bit of 2010 good beer guide with fire with David 30/30
3. Make use of library go at least five times 5/5

4. Read a Turkish book or newspaper 1/1 have bought a Turkish cooking magazine
5. Make £50 to £100 pounds to help finance Turkey- music magpie and quidco £50
6. Go to Ritz for high tea 1/1 or maybe some other posh hotel went to high tea with my Mum and sister in Tiptree at the jam factory
7. Make a quilted picture 1/1
8. File all papers in new filing cabinet- completed 25/08/2011
9. .Make some candles 5/5
10. Go first class on a Train going to Lisa's wedding tomorrow first class
11. Declutter every cupboard in house 12/15 made a start on this cos of mouse
12. Spring clean every room- not me!! 4/8 Geri is doing this for me
13. Pay off half credit cards 7000/9000 (18000)
14. see a 3D film
15. Make some soap 0/4 soap on order
16. Visit 5 London markets 3/5 Covent Garden, Camden Market, Wimbledon Farmers Market
17. Insulate loft space and put flooring 0/1 loft space insulated by Tom but no flooring put in yet so half done
18. Write five thank you letters to people that have helped or inspired me. 2/5
19 . Try Sushi
20. Visit 5 Museums 4/5 John Soan Museum, Tiptree Museum, Horniman Museum, British Museum-on line to Look at Egyptian exhibition
21. Go to tea dance in afternoon 0/1 hoping to go to Spitalfields Market as they have a teadance on Friday afternoon
22. Have family portrait done 0/1
23. Go to Bath for a holiday 0/1
24. Go to a play by Shakespeare maybe at the Globe

25. Go on a narrow boat holiday or trip
26. Go to a gig and bravely in the mosh pit hopefully to see the Dualers- Dualers split up so will have to see someone else
27. Go to a foam party
28.. Go to a ballet
29. Dance with Anton DuBeck the American Smooth or Waltz
30. Go to Istanbul 0/1
31. Take part in a flash mob
32. Go Glamping
33. Go to Ladies day at the races
34.Lose 30lb and keep it off -9/30
35. Play on Wii 3 times a week for a month 4/12
36. Save towards emergency fund 200/1000
37. Go to cinema that has sofas in Knightsbridge 0/1
38. Stay in Belleek Castle 0/1
39. Go for a ride in a hot air balloon 0/1
40. Make air raid shelter into house 0/1
41. Learn to play ukulele one song well 0/1

Have a real tattoo when I complete my 101 of the number 101
purple=completed bold = working on

Take Some Good photos and enlarge and Frame Them

2011-07-15T16:33:00.001+01:00

Have completed this now by making an enlargement of the lavender Fields photos from Carshalton Lavender Fields. They are really beautiful to see and I had taken one of Ellen and Rosie and about 100 of the fields themselves so had a hard job choosing which one to use but eventually chose one that had a tree along one edge which I hope looks good. I was trying to take notice of my friends tips for good photos but am hoping to go on a short photography course to help me get the most out of my photos for the future.
I also have a lovely enlargement of Catrina in her paddling pool with her little feet sticking up behind her like two little ears.
I am going to also go through a lot of photos online and make a collage of family photos to have for our living room in Turkey.

Visit 5 London markets- Covent Garden

2011-07-15T16:23:00.000+01:00

Had a hospital appointment in Russell Square so decided to leave early and pay a little visit to Covent Garden Market as I hadn't been there for years.
If you haven't ever been it is very interesting with many street performers shops cafes and market stalls. as it was a Monday it was mostly antiques but other days have other specialities.
As you approach from the station there are a few performers who are painted gold and silver including Elvis and a cowboy. You need to pay a bit of money to make them move although several youngsters were enjoying trying to get them to move by blowing and tickling them but I guess they are well used to all the tricks and it must be worth it to them.
In the main square the performers seem to change hourly and can be complete rubbish or really good mostly magicians but the audience seem indifferent to their skills and cheer on cue for each and every one of them.
My favourite were a small group playing violins and a double base down in the lower food courtyard who although playing classical music were doing a fine job of being entertaining by can caning and general messing about.
A Chinese couple dressed as bride and groom and taking photos were also wandering about but don't think they were an actual newly weds, it was the baseball boots she was wearing that gave it away but no idea what they were doing other than what a good place to take photos.
The stall holders in the antique market were a motley crew of young and old watches comics and other bits and bobs.
I enjoyed a hotdog from the traditional cafe onions and red sauce of course, had a Thorntons double ice cream cone and then off to hospital appointment. I think will go to Portobello next. i am enjoying being a London tourist although I have lived here all my life I really have not been around much of it so this is a good way of doing it. and fun.

Ride a Horse

2011-07-15T16:08:00.000+01:00

Who would have thought that the opportunity to ride a horse would just turn up when visiting the ancient site of Miletos in Turkey.
Just walking around with my good friend Kym and another couple we spotted a shepherd who was offering rides not really quite the same as donkey rides at the beach but still.
After telling Kym it was on my list a deal was struck and I was led over to a large flat piece of stone to get on.
The "saddle" was his coat upside down and the reins were hang on tight to the main.
I was very glad to know the Turkish for slowly and had a hair raising ride- for me that is while saying "Yavash yavash" every few seconds.
So didn't fall off or go very fast and think you must need to be really fit to really truly go horse riding but hey 5 Turkish lire well spent and another off the list .
While there with Kym I got her to share a skill with me as she is a fantastic photographer so she gave me a good few tips although we were hampered by the fact that I had forgotten my own camera.

Do all fitness DVDs in cupboard

2011-04-10T21:45:00.000+01:00

Have tried all these DVDs now and am keeping only one of them, I realise that even fitness goes out of fashion and some of these are laughable with the outfits they are wearing as well as being too fast or too difficult for me.
I guess that home exercise DVDs are not really for me am better going to a class or swimming.
Am really enjoying the pilates class I am going to so will stick with that for a while and then try to give the wii another go.

London Bus Trip

2011-04-10T21:25:00.002+01:00

Have received a lovely gift for Mother's Day of a trip on a London Bus Tour from number one son.
Just need to work out when to go and it is sorted,

Random Acts of kindness

2011-04-10T21:24:00.000+01:00

Have you ever been in the supermarket with a basket of goods just totting it up to see if you can afford to buy all of it and then realising that you can't you stare at the items trying to decide which to discard?
When my kids were small money wasn't always in great supply so there would be times when this would be me.
So in Sainsbury's last week I spotted me 20 years ago frowning into my basket so I delved into my purse found a fiver and handed it over. The poor lady didn't know what to do but I convinced her it was a genuine offer and to enjoy it, it was just before Mother's day and she was trying to buy a treat for her Mum.
She was grateful and I was very happy too honestly I think i get more out of these little acts than the recipients.
Lovely day happy shopping.

Camden Market and random act of kindness

2011-03-02T18:30:00.001Z

Although I have lived in London all my life it is amazing how little I know about it so have decided to become a bit of a tourist while we are still living here.

I had a voucher for a fish pedicure to be taken in Camden Market at Zoola fish so decided to go with a friend to visit and mooch around market.
We went by tube as it goes direct to Camden from Morden and I got a cab into Morden as I was running late.
The cab driver had not yet put on his computer for Computacab so he let me ride for nothing with the proviso of making a donation to RNLI. But doesn't it make you feel good when someone is just kind for no reason.

We got to Camden and isn't it just lovely and lively, we started in Inverness Street Market which my friend took a picture of as she is from Inverness and then made our way to the Stables Market after having a Chinese buffet including pudding for £6.80 bargain. I wonder if the prices go up in the summer for the tourists,
The market is full of lovely bronzes of horses as it used to be a horse hospital for horses pulling the barges on the canal.
We got to the fish pedicure place and it was very basic and not at all comfortable. Sooo we didn't really fancy it but I spotted two young girls who were thinking about so I handed them my vouchers job done no waste and we could carry on mooching around.
I loved the clothes there but only bought some orange oil because Ellen says I need it for cleaning but I don't really know what to do with it.
Would like to go again sometime as well as to Portobello and Spitallfields market.

Go for Flotation Session

2011-02-18T20:51:00.002Z

Went last week for this with a friend. Got a voucher from Groupon so it was only £15 instead of £45 bargain.
We arrived and a very sleepy sounding man took us through to look at one of the pods which are like a large enclosed pool with a door.

He explained how to use it and that you couldn't get locked it and could keep the light on if you wanted although it was a very dim light.
Everything was there from earplugs and Vaseline to cover your cuts to a pillow and water spray in case you got the salty water in your eye.
He advised us to float naked as even a swimming costume would feel strange against your skin.
So after undressing I got and sat down and put the neck pillow around my neck to start with and left the light on.
Some music softly played but he had explained that it would fade away and would start up again to signal the time to get out.

I lay down and floated without any effort because of all the salt in the water after a few minutes I took the neck pillow away and tried to just relax into it.

I had been told that it would be very relaxing and could give some pain relief for my muscles because of being weightless.
I found that I became very aware of the blood pumping through my head and was quite breathless.
I kept taking some deep breaths and telling myself to relax but it was no good I wished I had my I pod with me then I could have listened to that. In the end I had to leave the door open a little bit to let some air in until the hour was up. I didn't notice any great effect on my pain levels so don't think I will go again but will try lots of Epsom salts in the bath instead cheaper and at least I will be able to breath.
My friend loved it and is going to go again but we both agreed that £45 would be a bit much for it but not too much to pay with groupon

Read 50 Books

2011-02-11T21:24:00.001Z

Fishy Pedicure

2011-01-27T14:32:00.001Z

Realise that I am unlikely to get to the place in Turkey where the fish nibble away at your feet so decided to go here and actually went to Rose Hill with my GF.
One of the people working there was Turkish so I think that is as Turkish as it will get.
Anyway we arrived and had our feet washed not for out benefit but for the fish. They don't like cream or dirt or normal water.
We sat on a little bench and gingerly put our feet in the water with the fish aarg.
So it was weird but not too weird unless you looked at all these little fish nibbling away at your toes and heels and all of your feet. They don't have teeth so can't hurt you but it is a strange sensation to have all these fish in the water with you. The water is not too warm as it has to be the right temperature for the fish not you but I would have liked it to be warmer. We stayed there for half an hour and the fish had made a good job of most of the hard skin as well as your cuticles. I think I would have liked a bit more care as it would have been easy for the therapist to have got rid of your remaining hard skin with very little effort.
The fish apparently have something in their saliva like hand cream to soften your feet too so no more treatment other than a dry off.
Quite fun, quite mad may go again sometime but pretty expensive for what it was.

Go to Three Art Galleries

2011-01-15T19:47:00.000Z

Have started to go out with DH on Saturdays to London to be tourists. Last Saturday we went to the Courtaud Gallery at Somerset House to see an exhibition of Cezanne paintings. We also saw Van Gogh with his ear cut off and some of Toulouse Latrec.
Outside they still had the ice skating ring so we watched them go around and around for a little while.
On the way back to Waterloo I spotted a pub called The Hole In the Wall which was featured in a book of Strangest Pubs in Britain that dh got for Christmas so we had to go in. i can feel another addition to the 101 list coming on.
This week we went to the National Gallery we couldn't see the Canelleto exhibition it was sold out but there were more than enough famous pictures to gaze at.
The Sunflowers by Van Gogh lovely Cannelettos not in the exhibition and David ordered a print on canvas in the gift shop of Eecherberg because he loved the blue sky in it.
We only stayed an hour so I didn't get too tired but I was happy with the pictures that we saw so off to the pub a very narrow pub called The Harp lovely beer so DH said and very comfy upstairs in what appeared to be a front room but full so could still people watch.
Having visited the Dulwich Picture Gallery again to look at a few Canelletos last year this completes my visiting 3 art galleries.

Happy New Year 2011

2011-01-01T21:54:00.000Z

Happy New Year to you all and now I realise that time is getting on and I really need to get a wiggle on if I am going to complete my challenge.

I have until 29th November 2011 to complete the remaining 38 tasks.
have got a few lined up for January and have a setback on one that is losing weight, how annoying it is to lose the same pounds over and over again. So like lots of people am back on a diet from Tuesday as that is the end of the holiday for New Year and will need to try to get back into an exercise routine or it will all be for nothing the weight that I lost already I mean.
Some are already more than half way done so shouldn't be too difficult to get on with but some will be a real challenge.
Onwards and upwards.

Go to the Theatre Three Times- The Railway Children

2011-01-01T21:46:00.000Z

Got tickets to go to this which is at Waterloo Station and your seats are on the platform.
Was really looking forward to it and it was fantastic. The steam train form the old film comes into the station and the whole show is performed on platforms moved around on the track.
We had really good seats and I had a red flag to wave at the point after the earthquake when Bobby is waving her torn petticoat to warn the approaching train of danger on the track.
Of course when I looked around i was the only one waving a flag but no matter I certainly wasn't the only one crying at the end when Bobby sees her Daffy at the station come home from prison
. My Daddy , My Daddy
It was completely magical and I would go again if I could get anyone to go with me.

Take Dance Class

2011-01-01T21:26:00.000Z

Couldn't convince David to go with me for dancing lessons so had to compromise. Have applied more than once to go to see Strictly Come Dancing without success but then spotted Zumba dance classes with Lilia Copolova from Strictly.

Mad a booking and went along it was quite early in the morning but I arrived in good time. Lilia arrived on the dot to take the class she has someone else to take the money so although pleasant enough she was I suppose maintaining some distance from us.

Have been to Zumba classes before but Lilia's classes were much more dancey and I suppose more technical.
I did enjoy the class but think I prefer the more informal approach of my usual instructor who is not famous.
Wanted a photo of her with me but was too shy to ask.
After watching the New series of Strictly would love to add onto my list to dance with Anton DuBeck.
How fantastic would it be to dance with him and be spun around in the air in the American Smooth. if he can chuck Ann Widdecombe about I am sure he would manage to chuck me around the floor,

I guess that of course going to my belly dancing classes also counts really as having dance lessons as well as sharing a skill with Joyce who is by far the better dancer when she helped us with the steps for the show. her memory for the steps is much better than mine.

Library and sharing a skill- quilting

2010-10-22T13:50:00.001+01:00

Have managed to drag myself along to the local library to get some books on quilting to find that it is all change at the library. You can now take out 20 books if you want to although I don't know how you would carry so many books. Borrowing and returning is now all self service like self service at the supermarket.
You've got to wonder what the poor librarians think with all this automated what is their job all about?
After my library visit went to a friends house who showed me how to do log cabin quilting which was very enjoyable and started me off on my next craft making project.

Turkish Massage

2010-10-18T19:39:00.001+01:00

I was very keen to go to a Turkish Haman to have a soap massage but could not find anyone that was willing to go to one with me. I asked my new Turkish neighbour who agreed to take me but not locally as she said they were all "piss" dirty in Turkish.
On the day before my last day in Turkey we went to a five star hotel called Blue Moon in Sagur near Maveshir.
It is a lovely hotel and the haman was beautiful first we went in the sauna to remove toxins especially if you smoke which we don't but was still swaeting madly. Then out for a cool shower and into the steam room, this was way too hot for me and I could only manage a few minutes before being led into the haman and having buckets of hot water thrown over me.
The masseur convinced me it was perfectly safe no men allowed and I was persuaded to remove my bikini top. As it was it was only myself S and the masseuse so it was fine.
I lay down on the marble slab to be rubbed vigourly with a rough glove to remove dead and dirty skin more buckets of water then I was covered in soap and massaged which was strangely creamy and lovely.
S got the camera to take my picture covered in bubbles then more buckets of water.
I sat up to have my hair washed while being clasped to the bosom of the masseuse which felt strangely like having your hair washed by your Mum but not un pleasant then more buckets of water until shockingly the last one which eas Freeeezing brrrrr.
i was then taken to the relaxation room for a face mask to be applied wrapped up given apple tea and left to relax for a few minutes. bliss
Lastly I had an aroma- therapy massage but included a medical massage on my knee as it was painful which appeared to be something like germolene but was strangely hot then cold.
Suitably pummeled and cleaned I lay for a few minutes to relax and recover but it was absolutely lovely.
i was glad i went to a posher one instead of the local ones nad it was also like having a spa day in Turkey

squares blanket

2010-10-16T19:29:00.000+01:00

Decided I would start and complete my blanket in Turkey the wool is inexpensive and I have plenty of time on my hands so instead of just playing games on my ipod, I knitted away for nearly all of the five weeks I was there.
I made 30 squares about 12 inches by 12 inches in pinks and purples arranged them in a pattern and then completed the marathon task of sewing them all together about two days before i was due to leave.
I think it looks really lovely and will be very cosy when watching TV or lounging around on the cooler evening. I may add a rib around the edges next time I go but it is finished really.
I also found it a great distraction from wanting to eat snacks like chocolate and crisps so hope it will help me with my target to lose some weight.
Have more squares that my Mum and sister have made me so am going to join them together to make another blanket here for the summerhouse.

Outdoor Cinema

2010-10-14T19:24:00.000+01:00

We had a mini version of an outdoor cinema in Turkey on our roof terrace wrapped up in a sheet to keep the mosquitos at bay.
We watched our favourite film The Holiday on the laptop with shared headphones and drinks.
Very enjoyalbe me DH and Mr Napkin head- just love you Jude Law

Outdoor Cinema

2010-10-12T19:17:00.000+01:00

I couldn't get to see mamma Mia at Dulwich picture Gallery last year but was able to go with my daughter and good friend to see Hairspray at Dulwich picture Gallery.
We arrived early with chairs sweets and drinks in a bag as well as warm clothes despite it being an August evening it was quite chilly.
There were various stalls for food and drink and a special stall where you could get your hair done in a beehive which I did. Lots of people had come in fancy dress as characters from hairspray and we wished we had too but next year will definitely do depending on what it is.
Jenny Eclair awarded prizes for best costume and best beehive and I won a prize in the raffle- a flask.
There was a dancing lesson to dance along to one of the songs but not the lyrics which we were hoping for but never mind it was great fun and we will definitely go again next year.
Had a spare ticket so just gave it away to someone waiting in the queue they offered money but I refused. !st RAK

Making a patchwork Quilt

2010-10-10T22:10:00.000+01:00

My next making project is to make a patchwork quilt. i have an idea to make an inspiring quilt for myself or my friend's daughter who is ill with some panels that have inspiring messages on it nothing boring though.
I sorta got the idea from a talking book i have about a signature quilt and watching The Waltons where the mother was ill and her friends all made a quilt for her with get well messages on so just have to think of some good messages to put on it.
like: You always had the power
        Love and gentle hugs
        Got enough spoons
        Peace and love
        This too will pass
       Pacing is the key
       Stay inside your energy envelope.

Will have to do a little research
May start with a baby quilt with welcome messages on it though. Small will be easier.

Last Day 1001 days 28th November 2011

2010-10-10T20:32:00.003+01:00

I was just wondering how long I had left to do this challenge and thought I would be able to find a countdown gadget to add to it but to no avail.

Anyway after doing a little search I realise I have until 28th November 2011 to complete my challenge so maybe can - relax for just a little. panic over

Visit library 5 Times

2010-10-10T20:05:00.002+01:00

I don't know why i am having difficulty completing this unless it is becasue it is something I think I ought to do rather than something I really want to do.
I tried to go to the library in Turkey but couldn't find it but I am now going to find a few famous libraries to go to like the British Library and any others that may be more interesting than just the local.

Listen to All songs on Ipod

2010-10-10T20:02:00.000+01:00

Have now listened to every song on my Ipod from A to Z sometimes I got a very strange mix from classical to belly dancing music to 60's to modern.
Some I hated some I loved some I wondered why I had one version not another but it was an interesting experience.
I will add my favourites soon on a seperate post and I was also inspired to create a Desert Island Disc List from my absolute favourites after listening to the deset island disc podcasts.

Random Acts of Kindness

2010-10-10T19:57:00.000+01:00

As i can't complete my rice challenge to freerice I have decided to do at least five random acts of kindness instead.
Nothing really planned but if an oppurtunity arrises I will just step up and do.
So my second one was that I was in Tesco Metro and if you had a Santander card it wasn't working at the till. I had a different card but another young girl didn't so I just paid for her shopping it was about £10 so no big deal., She offered to pay me back but I just said don't bother just pass it on sometime if you see someone in need.

Drive open Top Sports Car

2010-10-10T19:17:00.000+01:00

While we were in Turkey in September we hired a very old jeep and went sight seeing in it. The roads were rough and the jeep was even rougher so I only drove it for a very short way but it was enough to fulfill my ambition.
The wind in my hair DH by my side and beautiful countryside around us. Thrilling.
OK not exactly open top "sports" car but good enough no complaints from me- one day an e type jag

Watch 50 DVD's

2010-08-30T18:38:00.000+01:00

Just watched a really rubbish copy of Nanny McPhee and the big Bang but really enjoyed even though it was rather predictable.

Am currently watching The Birdcage never watched it before but it is pretty funny about a gay couple who have a son who is getting married so they are pretending to be father and uncle.

Go To a Beer Festival

2010-08-28T18:37:00.000+01:00

Back again to Hampton Court for a beer and Jazz festival. Although it is August it was absolutely freezing so had to dress for winter or freeze.

Wasn't really sure what I was doing when I was arrived as I don't drink beer or any alcohol (too many tablets) and not that keen on jazz. Anyway DH friend had saved us seats and the music wasn't half bad. Couldn't really join in guess what beer this is game but still managed to have a good time and got warm for a short time by having a little dance up with the crowd at the front. Hot chocolate at the station with marshmallows and a flake while we waited for the train not saying this was the best bit but... hard to be out sober with people getting more and more drunk but hey ho its another 101

Wear Everything in my Wardrobe Once or give it away 80/100

2010-08-25T15:53:00.001+01:00

Had a good look at my wardrobe and went through it throwing out at least 50 things to a charity shop I mean.
Sadly then decided to arrange it by colour and order skirts trousers tops etc.
Realised I have worn everything apart from some very posh outfits or black clothes bought for a funeral so feel like this has been completed well enough to be counted off.
It does seem better to have less clothes but clothes that I feel good in.
Am a little worried that I won't be able to fully complete my challenge but am soldiering on and having a good look at my targets. Adding a few more and looking at ones that could be completed fairly easily if I put my mind to it.
Strangely find myself doing some again I guess because I have enjoyed them and some that should be really easy are proving problematic- such as going to the library 5 times- easy you would think but haven't found it so.
Am not losing interest but am not able to do some because of money or time or sickness but I WILL complete it.

Adding More Things to my List

2010-08-03T20:48:00.000+01:00

I have decided to add about 10 or more things to my list as I realise that some of them just won't be achievable mostly because of monetary constraints so think will add some more that I can achieve.

Was wondering if it was cheating but its my list my rules I guess so am thinking about what things to add that will be interesting, achievable and not cost too much.

I had thought about adding more on although it is strange that people often say how on earth did you think of 101 things when in reality I could add more and more things on as I think of them.

The trouble is I have forgotten the ones that I wanted to add on but will give it some thought and add them on as I think of them. So it may become about 121 things but I will only complete 101

Go to Flower Show

2010-08-03T20:38:00.000+01:00

Had a lovely time at Hampton Court Flower Show. Was unable to go last year owing to painful foot so very happy to be able to go this year.

The gardens were really lovely got a few freebies mostly food and shopping bags.

The garden I liked the most was by Emaeus a charity working with homeless people who not only provided hostels but work food shelter and can only gushingly say- love. They had beautiful glass etched glass panels that said "Here You Are Loved". I don't know why it made me feel tearful sitting there but it was just beautiful.

Another garden was made by a 15 year old boy and showed an easel with paints on the floor sorta spilled onto a paved painters palette. Very clever,

Ellen has an idea for her own garden of a Mad Hatters Tea Party including a fairground ride seat from a teacup ride. I think she should try to exhibit it at Hampton Court anyone can try so why not.

Had a lovely picnic provided by Joyce and then watched a bit of Shakespeare which has inspired me to add go to a Shakespeare play to my list.

Gratitude Journal- carrying on 2

2010-07-03T14:25:00.000+01:00

1. Went to Ireland with Terry and Linda to visit with Michael and Eileen

2. All wanted to go to Cork so with organisation was able to go and enjoyed outing. Eileen bought lots of clothes and we were her personal shoppers.

3. Saw all boys- great nephews they were very cute

4. Back to Colchester flights were both on time and uneventful

5. Stayed overnight and went to Mum's on Saturday for a visit

Gratitude Journal- carrying on

2010-06-30T23:02:00.000+01:00

1. Woke up dizzy but had a duvet day in bed. Had relaxing bath

2. Gina and family have booked to come to Turkey at the same time as Geri

3. Thomas bought a fork to do the lawn as well as insulation for the loft its on my 101 list

4. David made dinner gammon and pineapple followed by a nice cup of tea and biscuits

5. Got new Satnav for our outings to pubs it is lovely white pearl and posh

Gratitude Journal- one month 30

2010-06-27T23:02:00.000+01:00

Its my birthday today- happy birthday me

1. Thomas came back form dinner with C and we had a long chat about when he was in the scouts and all the camps he went to

2. David brought up my phone to me when I had left it downstairs

3. Geri is looking forward to Turkey in May whoop whoop

4. My online support group now has a Facebook page

5. Have now completed my 30 days of gratitude but will carry it on because it makes me so happy

Gratitude Journal- one month 29

2010-06-24T23:01:00.000+01:00

1. Slept in late had leisurely breakfast then messed on laptop

2. Went to visit my friend P who has broken her ankle. She had received the card I made her and also one one from S which was lovely- hand embroidered

3. Met her Mum and sister in law gave her Mum a brooch to cover a tear on her blouse

4. Entered four online competitions- someones got to win

5. E and R came to visit and brought me maltesers yum

Gratitude Journal- one month 28

2010-06-21T23:01:00.000+01:00

1. Have booked flights to Turkey for our September 2nd to 16th September

2 David tidyed up a lot of the garden the broken glass and bits. He is going to pull up some of the black bamboo at the weekend

3. Tom took the conservatory plants outside for an airing in the sunshine

4. Have been wearing a pedometer today which said I did 3000 steps but it was really 1500 still that is good enough

5. Had lovely dinner with David and Tom

Gratitude Journal- one month 27

2010-06-18T23:00:00.000+01:00

1. woke up at 5am listened to Deepak Chopra the Soul of Healing Meditations then slept deeply till 8.30am when the phone rang
2. The sun is streaming through the window and warming my face and arms. Lovely
3. Got up and walked in the garden then sat in the summer house
4. Made a card for Phillipa using WORDLE and posted it to her
5.Tom made me pancakes for lunch yum yum

Gratitude Journal- one month 26

2010-06-15T22:59:00.000+01:00

1. Have got my third just because gift today a voucher for Mad about Cards for Danielle. isn;t the internet wonderful
2. Got a pedometer to see if I can up my exercise at the same time limiting it to keep inside my energy envelope
3. Bought Ellen and Rosie "red" things for their new kitchen as a house warming present
4. Made a list of things to work on from my 101 things for March- 20 rhings to work on
5. Meditated this morning starting a month of meditating every day

Gratitude Journal- one month 25

2010-06-12T22:59:00.000+01:00

1. Had a lovely sleep and lie in
2. Got up because the sun was shining so brightly
3. Had a little walk in the garden
4. Am planning dinners for rest of week using up what we have as well as new things
5. Ellen and Rosie are coming and we are going to Tandem Centre for little look at shops

Gratitude Journal- one month 24

2010-06-09T22:58:00.000+01:00

1. Had really good time at the party and stayed out till 2am !!
2. Woke at 11am didn't feel too bad. David made me breakfast in bed and then brought me tea cake and papers
3. Had lazy day at home reading papers by fire
4, Pretended we had gone to one of our pubs and had interesting chat about ideal pub. Lovely fire can't beat our own one
5. Had interesting chat with Tom about time

Gratitude Journal- one month 23

2010-06-06T22:58:00.000+01:00

1. Ellen and Rosie moving today. Minded Catrina and Jason came with the dogs
2. Everyone helped with the moving taking stuff, cleaning and minding
3. Had lovely bath and rest in afternoon before going to Terry's party
4. Gave Danielle new card making kit, she was very grateful it was nice to see her so animated
5. Kevin said he was very grateful to our family for all the help we give them for Dan it was much appreciated

Gratitude Journal- one month 22

2010-06-03T22:57:00.000+01:00

1. Have ordered a Sat Nav for us to use on our weeekend pub trips
2. Have managed to save the euros Peggy gave us for Turkey even though we have paid for the kids to go to Ireland
3. David made a lovely fire
4. We think we can use old candles to make new ones if we buy some wicks
5. Lent Suzanne my scales so she could make a cake and then she sent us a slice

Gratitude Journal- one month 21

2010-05-30T22:57:00.000+01:00

1. Had another lovely sleep and it is a bright sunny day
2. Made lots of cards today for birthdays ans wrote some
3. Have made another card kit for Dan she is poorly again
4. Helped Ellen and Rosie with support for house moving made them dinner
5. Peggy has booked all kids into b and b now and is paying for them as she is their grandma

Gratitude Journal- one month 20

2010-05-27T22:56:00.000+01:00

1. Spoke to Eileen on phone she liked the card I had made for Michael
2. Peggy has booked bed and breakfast in Ventry for all the kids
3. Sue put some lovely pics up on facebook of Mum with me her Liz and Linda and Teresa
4. Geri put up[ if you have lovely daughters paste this up on facebook .Added handsome sons
5. Sue added grandchildren and I added aunts and uncles on and on

Gratitude Journal- one month 19

2010-05-24T22:56:00.000+01:00

1. Have booked to go to Ireland to see Michael with Linda and Terry
2. Tom paid for chinese for us for dinner
3. Spent a happy hour messing on the laptop
4. Have decided that a little bit of housework counts as exercise so loaded the dishwasher
5. Geri is able to stay in her flat for another six months

Gratitude Journal- one month 18

2010-05-21T22:55:00.000+01:00

1. Had a really good nights sleep
2. Went to Morden to get prescriptions for me and David 11 for me 1 for David
3. Had tea with Joyce and talked about a happiness project. Need to buy her a lovely book for it
4. Went out with Ellen and Joyce to get furniture and bits and bobs for her new house
5. Joyce had a brainstorm of getting a van for Ellen to move with from B and Q- a man with a van problem solved

Gratitude Journal- one month 17

2010-05-18T22:54:00.000+01:00

1. Tidyed up the living room, Joyce helped me "wrap" sofa cushions so no pressure to make cushions if not up to it. Looked good
2. Tom cleared fireplace and swept up which was a great help
3. Met Tom's girlfriend she is very nice
4. Lovely to come down to tidy living room and kitchen- lets hope can keep it like that
5. Had lazy day in bed, had nice bath and feel tired but OK

Pubs with Fires White Bear Fickleshole

2010-05-16T16:09:00.000+01:00

When you approach this pub you are just leaving suburbia and suddenly come across this lovely pub but now you are in the country.

We went to the this pub twice without the camera or no batteries so ended up going there for a lunch with a friend to get the picture only to find three fireplaces there all alight on a Tuesday afternoon.

Lovely pub great food hard to get to in rush hour though for us.

Gratitude Journal- one month 16

2010-05-15T22:54:00.000+01:00

1. David is off today so we are going to the pub later
2. Proof-read David's report - nice to feel needed
3. Had a lovely trip out to three nice pubs on our list 14/35
4. Got a good story in one about a regular who used to say Shut the F**ing Door. landlord said he would be banned if he said it again so he made a sign STFD and put it above the door. It has been there for twenty five years.
5. Had quick dinner at home leftover sfor David and spaghetti on toast for me. David made a lovely fire

Pubs with Fires Stephen Langton Friday Street

2010-05-13T16:09:00.000+01:00

This is a lovely looking pub and very out of the way with a restaurant attached. Beautiful windows.

We have been to this pub a few times in the past when we were walking once memorably with Jackie and Rick and kids when they were small. We were made very unwelcome then and they asked us to take the kids out of the garden so that they could let the dogs out. We arrived at ten to three and were clearly discussing food only to be told when we decided that food stopped at 3, you'd think they could have said hurry up and order.

The kids were then playing on the verge and got told off for making soil fall on to the manager's car. The barmaid- his girlfriend- kept saying have you seen what they've done?

For a long time after our friends kept sending them postcards saying have you seen what they've done from wherever they had gone on holiday.

Anyway under new management we have been back twice since once to take the picture just before Christmas much nicer reception and more friendly. Then again a few weeks ago on Easter Monday and guess what no food on Mondays even Bank holidays

Gratitude Journal- one month 15

2010-05-12T22:53:00.001+01:00

1. Got email from Bruce from CFIDS to say about using pedometer for pacing and to do between 1000 and 5000 steps a day if you have fibro or CFIDS. Never thought about using one for limiting activities. Good idea
2. Went to Crooked Billet with David Pierce Michelle and Rosie
3. Pub was full of medical students in fancy dress- best ones Avatar- great for people watching
4. Had lovely dinner here and chocolate cake- vegetarian lasagne leek and mushroom
5. Talked about Ireland trip Michelle is sorting accomodation at hostel

Gratitude Journal- one month 14

2010-05-12T22:53:00.000+01:00

1. Made two lovely cards for my Mum for her birthday and Mother's day.
2. Made two homemade pizzas for dinner, will make them again including the bases and cost out if they are cheaper or no
3. Ellen and Rosie came to do more packing. Sat with ellen while she packed giving advice on "keep or throw". Got lots of bits to add to my card-making stock.
4. Thomas bought energy saving bulbs for his room because he knows I am worried about the electric bill
5. Am in bed with my little heating pad warming my back so although it is cold I am toasty

Pubs with Fires Plough Downside

2010-05-10T16:08:00.000+01:00

David drinking Shere Drop but it wasn't good.

Nice pub we got a seat by the fire friendly pub and a lovely big fire. lots of nice seats outside by the river.

A man came and put logs on the fire he was wearing sunglasses inside? He apparently was the logs-man who delivered to the pub so of course it was in his interest to put a few more logs on the fire. He said he delivered 700 logs a week to the pub that is a lot of logs.

Gratitude Journal- one month 13

2010-05-09T22:52:00.000+01:00

1. Beautiflu sunny day today, sun is streaming in the window giving heat and good feelings
2. Walked in garden down to the summer house, pulled up a few dead plants. Spring is coming
3. Was going to go to brighton but David talked me out of it. He knows better than me what is the best thing for me sometimes
4. When we were driving to a pub saw a road called "Quality Street" how sweet
5. We went through a village saying welcome to Holland like the welcome to Holland story.

Pubs with Fires Swan Hotel Staines

2010-05-07T16:15:00.000+01:00

This was the first pub we went to on our tour of Surrey pubs it was actually an hotel and was quite far away. We forgot the camera and took the picture on David's new Ipod Nano anyway we ended up taking a video by mistake so sure pic won't be much good.

David wasn't too impressed with this pub but it was very comfortable but unmemorable.

Gratitude Journal- one month 12

2010-05-06T22:51:00.000+01:00

1. Got a really good parking space just across the road from the pub
2. David was saving the most comfy seat in the pub for me. A big chair right beside the blazing coal fire
3. Have booked flights to Ireland for us all to go and vouchers for pierce and Michelle to go for Rolands 90th birthday
4. David made a lovely fish dinner for us when we got in
5. Feel tired but happy going to my cosy bed

Pubs with Fires Surrey Oaks Newdigate

2010-05-04T16:13:00.000+01:00

David drinking Ranmore Surrey Hills they have a good selection of beers.

As we go in there is an enormous cat just sitting on the bar. Some other customers say it is called Theo. Not many customers but pleasant enough pub comfy seats friendly.

Gratitude Journal- one month 11

2010-05-03T22:49:00.000+01:00

1. Geri and Paddy got a cheque back today for some of their deposit from the dispute service two thirds of it
2. Went shopping with Joyce for a good chat and wander around the shops
3. Am going out for a drink with David tonight
4. Got a lovely tshirt and waistcoat in Primark- there goes my February clothes allowance
5. Am lucky to be able to park for free and near the shops

Pubs with Fires Old House at Home Dormansland

2010-05-01T15:58:00.000+01:00

David drinking spitifre

No seats in pub so we sit outside very busy hops hanging everywhere it looks a bit like a tatty front room. There is an old map of Dorman's Park Estate on the wall.

David takes ages to get served but he says that the girl is very apologetic and is keeping her eye on who is next- its all because " Trevor's not here".

Great for people watching while I wait there is a group of men from Kingston Phoenix Cycling Club all different ages having lunch. one catches my eye he looks quite old but appears to be wearing a Super hero top blue with a big yellow star on the front. He has lots of thick dark curly hair like a cartoon hero- I think he is superman's Dad. One of his friends says "Why do so called friends keep sending you rubbish emails"- amen to that.

its quite cold outside so we drink up quickly and go.

Gratitude Journal- one month 10

2010-04-30T22:47:00.000+01:00

1. Its a lovely sunny day today
2. Went to lunch with Arthritis group. Diane gave me a lift home
3. Was able to get a lift there thanks to my taxicab card for £1.50
4. Minded Catrina for a few hours so that Geri could have a few hours with Paddy
5. Ellen and Rosie have signed the contract to buy their house and are moving in two weeks

Pubs with Fires Plough Inn Dormansland

2010-04-29T16:03:00.000+01:00

David drinking London Pride- beer in good condition

Lovely puppy at bar nice big friendly pub as you go in the sign on the outdoor seating says "You MUST smoke here.

Lots of books on the shelves but horror of horrors the fireplace is not in use although it looks nice enough with old candles and bits and bobs in it. The TV stand is made of two wine boxes and the tables have the classic candles in wine bottles going on.

David tells me how to boil an egg as told by Delia so you warm it in your hand first bring it to the boil and cook for one minute then you leave it to stand for six minutes with the lid on then eat it.

It turned out a bit watery but I don't think I would have the patience to be waiting when you can just time it for three minutes.

People watching was good two old lady walkers had plastic bags on their feet and bad hair. in fact every woman there was having a bad hair day- not me- another lady trying to get past said loudly "coming through with two big dogs"- very posh and English.

This pub had the most fantastic toilets full of newspaper cuttings in the mens's have to take David's word for this but the ladies was marvelous it had fresh flowers and twigs with feathers together with a basket with towels and another with deodorant and hand cream.

It also had lovely shoe pictures with a man sitting or standing on the toe.

Gratitude Journal- one month 9

2010-04-28T22:46:00.000+01:00

1. Tom offered to take me to see my Mum next week for overnight stay Wednesday to Thursday
2. Put pics on facebook of Mum and her rat and also her with Anthea and her three girls
3. Have cut medication today and feel OK
4. Rained all day but we were cosy inside
5. David made a lovely fire

Pubs with Fires King William IV Mickleham

2010-04-26T16:11:00.000+01:00

Have been a good few times to this pub in the past when we used to go walking with the kids but have tried twice to get into it now but it seems to be closed at random times.

Its also quite hard to park near it and you end up having a long walk up the hill to it to find it closed so may give up or try again in the next winter

Gratitude Journal- one month 8

2010-04-25T22:45:00.000+01:00

1. Tom rang to see if I wanted anthing from supermarket- thoughtful
2. Enjoyed Catrina for afternoon she slept in my arms -aaah
3. Joyce came back for tea and chat
4. Danielle enjoyed making a card for her nan with stuff I gave her
5. Ellen made everyone pancakes for shrove Tuesday -yum

Pubs with Fires Royal Oak Staffhurst Wood

2010-04-23T15:16:00.000+01:00

Lovely pub good log fire with lovely views over countryside. Sat right beside the fire near two men with laptops looked like father and son with son giving father a lesson on Java and Excel.

Toilets are so small you set off the hand drier every time you move on the loo.

Interesting pictures Churchill with a machine gun an indenture maybe for the pub. lots of hand bells like Bells whiskey.

Strange meat on menu- kobe Steak burger with a whole leaflet devote to explaining what it is.

Japanese wagyu meat the tastiest in the world wa- means super gyu means cattle form Voelas Hall in North Wales the herd live a life of luxury with good food and the cows are massaged to improve the quality of the meat. didn't try it but it is tempting.

Gratitude Journal- one month 7

2010-04-22T22:44:00.000+01:00

1.Finished dyeing sofas
2. Told joy how good they looked as I followed her idea
3. joy took us to belly dancing
4. Sat out but wrote down how to do steps
5. Videoed us doing belly dancing so far

Pubs with Fires Plough Stoke D'Abernon

2010-04-20T15:07:00.000+01:00

David drinking - on the rails good selection of beers

Pub empty only mein host and one local on the phone by the fire of course so had to wait to take picture.

Tried to find out why it is called Stoke D'Abernon but couldn't find anything

Basic pub no frills big conservatory with a good view over the country side. lovely ladies toilet with old dresser for sink.

Pubs with Fires Royal Oak Great Bookham

2010-04-20T14:57:00.000+01:00

David drinking Hammer head beer not bad
Nice pub wasn't where I thought it was, sat right by the fire comfy seats with barrel tables and a piano in the corner. Had a secret door leading to.... Nice friendly pub local but friendly.

Publican sounded gay but was talking about his children was busy ordering dark beer even though he doesn't drink dark beer.

Was intrigued by sign over door that said STFD so asked a local at the bar. So here's the story an old local man who was a bit of a curmudgeon apparently would tell everyone going out to Shut The F***ing door so the landlord said to him if you say that again you are barred. Next day he bought the sign along and hung it above the door - that was twenty five years ago and whatever happened to him? good story though.

Gratitude Journal- one month 6

2010-04-19T22:43:00.000+01:00

1. Thomas bought me an airplant
2. David made me breakfast in bed on Sunday
3. We went out to two nice pubs with fires for my 101 pubs with fires
4. Thought of a new book idea "The Real Ale Drinkers Wife"- how to enjoy drinking with your DH when you don't drink- people watching, photos, reviews
5. Uploaded photos of fires to Picasso and named them all as well as organising photos on Picasso

Pubs with Fires Jolly Farmer Bramley

2010-04-17T14:42:00.000+01:00

David drinking Oakham Bishops Farewell - eight beers on offer David says too much how can you have too much of a good thing? Friendly pub and open after three on a Sunday.

David says this pub does not count as all three fires were GAS shock horror its my list though so I can include what I like. One fireplace is the most unusual I have ever seen surrounded by odd things like a ventriloquist dummy lots of jugs and kettles very interesting.

On the way into pub lots of posters of Bramley players local theatre. Pub is jam packed with knicknacs.

big antlers on walls collection of plates, mugs, money? beer mats on ceiling. Two pictures of naked ladies bu the fireplace a bit racey. Tables were sloping down drinks in danger of falling off the tables.

David shows me how to play with beer mats making them flip but I can't flip one let alone progress to more than one.

Gratitude Journal- one month 5

2010-04-16T22:42:00.000+01:00

1. Waited in for parcels they all came, card making, phone for David and dye for sofa
2. started dyeing second sofa and cushions so won't need new ones £50 saved Hooray
3. Made some cards for my February birthdays. Will make March ones and thank you ones and write and post tomorrow
4. Looked after Catrina 2-7 while Geri minded Dan. She is funny but she has a bit of a temper. She opened a bar of soap and tried to eat it.
5. Only took pain medication at night today

More slate for back Garden

2010-04-14T15:45:00.001+01:00

We have finally ordered the slate and it came today. Thomas is now spreading it in the garden over the bare areas. It will look much better and fuller although Tom thinks we will probably need more again but it is too expensive.

Pubs with Fires Three Horseshoes Thursley

2010-04-14T14:31:00.001+01:00

Have been getting on with this but will have to postpone until winter as none of the fires will be alight. Think this could make a good book called the Real Ale Drinkers Wife- how to enjoy the pub when you don't drink beer

1 Three Horseshoes Thursley known locally as "Shoes"

David was drinking Shere Drop

If you leave you have to say "see you later" made us think of the Prisoner be seeing you

Lovely friendly pub full of walkers hogging the fire lovely food menu. Loud but good natured.

One bar with lots of old pictures one of a lovely old red car.

When ~I took my picture of the fireplace a man at the bar offered to lie down in front of the fire with his dog- NAKED great offer but he was only joking. Him and his friend were firefighters and discussed safety of fireplace which had a big electric fire lighter poking out of it.

Loud oooh when puddings came out and little gentle row over which belongs to who

Gratitude Journal- one month 4

2010-04-13T22:37:00.000+01:00

1. Have received lovely Just Becuase gift form Sue- a heated throw which has been lovely and cosy while it has been snowing

2. Have been poorly but am feeling bit better, coping most days and getting some things done.

3. Had big tidy up of bedroom when David was in Ireland but it needs doing again :-)

4. Have completed 40 things on my 101 list- how cool is that.

5. Went to two lovely pubs last weekend with David and was brave enough to take the pictures straight away of the real fires.

Gratitude Journal- one month 3

2010-04-10T22:31:00.000+01:00

1. Changed flights for Turkey so that we can go to Ireland for Rolands 90th birthday. David was very grateful
2. Have made lots of cards must now send some of them. Enjoyed making them
3. Took knitting to Mum's so have now started new blanket for Catrina.
4. Have completed hard level on Blip Bloink on ipod hooray!!!
5. Had lovely visit today form Jenny. Will try to see her more often we were non-stop talk

Gratitude Journal- one month 2

2010-04-07T22:27:00.000+01:00

1. Feel very calm and happy a lot of the time.
2. Dyed our large sofa it looks like new.
3.Dying other sofa which will save money for the future.
4 Coooking more to save money on food and eat better
5. Went to a quiz night and enjoyed it- feel like my brain is working OK

Gratitude Journal- one month 1

2010-04-04T22:22:00.000+01:00

Am writing a month of a gratitiude journal with 5 things every day even if I think I have had a bad day the challenge is to find 5 things to feel grateful for.
1 Had lovely few days with Mum
2. Felt able to drive so that makes me feel more confident in being able to drive
3. Went to dinner with ~Mum, Teresa, ans Susan- Mum and her three girls
4. Anthea came to visit and we laughed and laughed together it was like being children again
5. Anthea gave Mum her wedding bouquet how lovely is that

One Year gone already- March 2010

2010-03-03T12:49:00.001Z

Looking back at my older posts I realise that 1st March 2010 is my one year anniversary of the day I started so there are 39 things completely done and several that are being worked on this month. I think that getting that many done in a year is actually brilliant and owe my sticking to my target setting as a side effect of having a chronic illness and learning about target setting from various courses that I have attended. So there is a positive out of a negative.

Looking at the ones remaining on my list I think the only thing that could stop me completing all is lack of funds rather than will power and am already thinking about new items to add onto my list.

Gratitude Journal

2010-03-03T12:38:00.000Z

Have been working on this for the last month and cannot tell you how much better it makes you feel to concentrate on all the good things that have happened during the day and forgot about any little thing that might have gone a bit wrong.

i am going to post the journal entries one each day for the month of March although they will really be for February. I will i think continue to do the gratitude journal though as it makes me feel happy happy happy.

Sorry will post again soon

2010-03-03T12:35:00.000Z

Sorry not to have posted for so long. Its not that I haven't been working on my 101 list just life happened and this went to one side. Will get back into regular posting NOW

Free Rice Scam?

2010-01-03T19:57:00.000Z

Logged on to free rice and completed 4000 grains but another link sent me to a whole list of articles saying it was a scam!! Although "some" rice is being donated and it is under written by the World Health Organisation it seems that it is not a charity and is mostly a money making enterprise for the owners of the site who have made over a million from it already. not sure about continuing with the project - will have to think about it, check it out a bit more and if it is definitely a scam choose a different 101 instead of it but am debating whether it should be a charitable one or just something really fun.

Ukelele and Learning Turkish

2009-12-27T19:56:00.001Z

Was very lucky to get a ukelele for Christmas as well as a book and CD for learning Turkish, thanks to Sue and Terry and Linda. They must have been peeking at my 101 list. So now i know whqat to concentrate on in January and all the way up to May when I have my next trip planned to Turkey.
Have a DVD with the ukelele as well as the loan of a CD and DVD from Joy. So will give it a good go. Utube here I come lol.
Forgot all about the free rice so did 4,000 today.

Free Rice

2009-12-20T20:47:00.000Z

Haven't had a go on this in a while but realise will need to get a wiggle on if am going to reach my target of 1000.000 grains. Am going to try to do 2000 a day for a while to see if can get my figure up. May do calculation to see how long that will take. Its something to do in the winter anyway. Some of the words are very hard too. Ig you don't know what it is it is a word game and for every one you get right you donate 10 grains of rice to hungry people in the third world.
Its multiple choice with one word sand four possible meanings. I believe a man made it up for his children to play but decided it could be used to make money for charity at the same time. Have done my 2000 for the day.

Making Cards

2009-12-18T21:02:00.000Z

Have had a go at making cards and have made 2 Christmas cards and 7 birthday cards. Could do with a bit of help and advice on this but maybe taking my bits next week to lunch with Joy and Joyce.

Ordered lots of fairly cheap items from mad about cards some for as little as 25p but still managed to spend 17 pound, hopefully will be able to make at least fifty cards from that though. Tried some with stickers, painted a few and some with stamps. Think they look better if stickers are used for Happy Birthday/ Merry Christmas etc and stamps better used for inside the card.

Will do a bit of research on internet for ideas but enjoyed the session and something to do on a cold wet snowy day.

Talking Books

2009-12-15T18:48:00.000Z

Have now managed to put 13 talking books onto itunes and only have to look at the instructions fleetingly ;-).
Am really enjoying listening to them but am going to try and read a few more books as I think that only listening to books has made me less aware of the strucutre of books and I think I will need this skill when I get around to editing the book "what I wrote"

Write a Song

2009-12-06T22:17:00.000Z

It's a bit cheesey and may need editing but this is my attempt at a song.

It takes a special kind of man to care for a woman like me
Are you that special kind of man to care for a woman like me?
You are that special kind of man that I need

I neeed to be pampered
I need special care
I need care and attention
and to know that you're there

Chorus:
It takes a special kind of man.....

I need love and reassurance
each and every day
I need you to be there for me
no matter what I say

It takes a special kind of man.....

I need you to know if I'm feeling OK
I need you to be right here for me
each and every day

It takes a special kind of man....

I know you can't fix me
I know you can't help
But knowing you're here for me
Is all that I need

It takes a specail kind of man.....

Book Hotel on Friday go on Saturday

2009-12-06T21:59:00.000Z

Had a lovely night way in a hotel on Friday booked Thursday, think this fits in to above criteira anyway as I just mean something last minute. We went to stay at the Hurtwood Inn in Peaslake which is also one of my pubs with fires and we then visited two more pubs with fires so that task it getting along too. Was very excited when found out that one pub with real fire also was a comedy club so was thinking not two but three birds with one stone ;-) but although in Surrey it wasn't that near where we were staying so will do that one another time.
It is quite hard to get the photos of the fireplaces because people are sititng in front of them or they are not lit. You also feel a bit self conscious taking the pics but the last one we were in I just snapped it on the way out only to hear a local say "What was all that flashing about". Have laso forgotten the camera and had to take ot on an ipod nano video so will need to transfer it. Anyway now have done 6 out of forty so getting on with it.

Writing a Book

2009-12-06T21:55:00.000Z

Well if you can believe it I did it. 50108 words. It was hard going but have managed it. Have put it away now and will not think about it for a while but will edit it in a few months time. Feel like carrying on writing now like some short stories but am fresh out of ideas so will just stick with blogging for a while. Hoping to restart other blog too, have been unwell and lacked motivation to carry on but will start it again soon.
Anyway it is a fantastic achievment I think even it nothing happens to it but it sitting on my computer as one enormous file.

Writing a Novel 43365 words and counting

2009-11-29T22:20:00.000Z

I cannot believe I have made such progress in the last few days. My hands are aching my arms are aching but I think I may just make it to 50,000. Have one day left to go with 6700 words to go.
Have no idea if I even have much more to write but am going to drag it out of myself tomorrow. So near and yet so far right but I really have got to do it don't you think. Wish me luck am amazed by how far I've come but am really determined to get there. Off to bed now am dreaming that am tapping on a keyboard in my sleep and tryingg to think of a bit more plot to write as am not sure I have enough content to fill up the last leg of this task. Phew will let you know how I get on tomorrow.

Writing a Novel

2009-11-26T15:08:00.001Z

Unfortunately owing to being really poorly and in bed for more than a week have not been able to keep this up. I have only 4 days left to go and am only a third of the way there. Will carry on and see how many words I can achieve or will add on my "lost days" to get to mid- December to give myself a fighting chance. Have managed 16,560 words so far out of 50,000. Don't really think it is any good not able to stick to a style but never mind am still writing away. Hope to get back to both blogs for December so will be writing here anyway.

National Novel Writing Month

2009-11-03T21:16:00.000Z

I am taking part in this challenge I started on the first of November and have managed to write 4984 words so far which is amazing to me. You are meant to not proof read not woory too much about grammer or plot but just let it come. It is amazingly freeing to just write without thinking is this actuallt any good and just treat it as a first draft. I am guessing that the firsr week will be easier than the next few as I have no idea where my story is actually going. Anyway I am not expecting to get it published any time soon if at all but it will be a great achievement for my 101

I Beat David on the Wii haha

2009-10-31T13:42:00.000Z

Ellen brought round a new Wii game Wii sports resort with sensors and I have finaly beaten David not once but twive first on table tennis and then again on canoeing yippee, how great is that.
Have also taken Ellen out for a meal to complete taking all my children out to lunch, we went while Rosie was at college. It was good to just chat one to one as don't see so much of her since she moved out. David is thinking of doing this now too.
Have started going to pubs with fires and went to The White Bear in Farleyhole a lovely pub with lots of little rooms, it was packed and we were lucky to get a seat. It is just beyond Croydon and then you are suddenly in a country lane and then there is this lovely pub. We couldn't find the fire at first but did eventually find it. Omly had my phone with me for a pic so will need to go back to take one with the camera. Am thinking of making a poster of all the fireplaces and maybe a book or booklet maybe CAMRA might be interested lol. May go back there today for early drink.

Belly Dancing

2009-10-16T19:55:00.000+01:00

I cannot tell you how much fun it was to go to this class last Tuesday and I am really looking forward to next Tuesday.

The people in the class were really welcoming and although it was run by age concern there seemed to be all ages there so no worries about fitting in.

The class really suited me as it was mostly on the spot without much movement of feet so it didn't make it too painful for me and I could sit out any time without anyone fussing. I still managed to do a good bit of it and felt so good afterwards. I would recommend it to anyone for fun and exercise and also a great feel good factor that is hard to describe.
All the ladies were wearing belts with coins that made a lovely rattly noise when they wiggled so am looking forward to getting one of those. hope to be able to take a picture next week.
The teacher is really good and even to warm up and cool down exercises are belly dancing moves if that is the right word.
Anyway if you get a chance to go to a lesson then defintely do.

Holidaying with Kids and other things

2009-10-12T20:07:00.001+01:00

Have just spent a lovely week in Cornwall Geri and Catrina came but the rest of the kids didn't for various reasons. Geri beat David at go-karting which has always been on her wish list a bonus to beat him as well lol. Before I went I had a go at dying my eyelashes myself made a bit of a boob in not putting enough mixture in but it was noticable enough for a friend and Geri to comment so will do this again. Wore makeup when we went out so am putting this in as once for this task.
There was a lovely spa at the hotel so this counts as a spa visit and it was so lovely and warm that I was able to continue my swimming challenge and have now completed 24700 metres which is actually 16.5 miles out of 21 whoopee do.
For August and September I set myself a challenge not to buy any clothes and amazed myself by being able to do it for two months instead of one. I also find myself shopping in a different more thoughtful way not just mindlessly buying yet another top or skirt. May think about having one month of being allowed to buy and then one month not, it was cetainly very interesting to note how I felt differntly about shopping after not doing it for a fairly short space of time. Am also looking at ways of looking at my own wardrobe as a "shop" by putting some away or in a different wardrobe, just out of interest. We all need to be a bit more frugal these days so no harm to buy less, Am looking forward to the belly dancing class tomorrow, shoud be fun.