Tennis and tiaras *Possible SU Trigger*

[Paula]

(giggle)

[Suzi]

I still can't manage it, but am sticking with the crochet!

[Paula]

The good news, Katie and I have found a venue for her 21st, finally!

The devestating news is that Luna has had diarrhoea since Thursday and is very thin. I’m having to gently bring Si around to the fact it’s her time .......

[OldMike]

Good news about the 21st.

Sorry Luna isn't at all good (bear) (panda)

[Suzi]

Where's the venue?
How was your volunteering?
Oh I'm so, so, so sorry about Luna lovely....

[Jaquaia]

So, so sorry about Luna (panda)

[Paula]

My shift was great, I’m so glad I decided to go back :). The venue is a cafe which is in an old cowshed on a working farm - sounds nuts I know but Katie loved it!

[Jaquaia]

There are a few venues like that around here. I think they look fab!!!

[Paula]

It will be. And she’ll do all the catering and run a bar - so it’s relatively hassle free for me :)

[Angie]

I'm sorry about Luna hunni (bear)
Good news about the venue and your shift aswell

[Suzi]

Awesome about the venue! Sounds fabulous!

[OldMike]

My shift was great, I’m so glad I decided to go back :). The venue is a cafe which is in an old cowshed on a working farm - sounds nuts I know but Katie loved it!

So you'll sit about on hay bales chewing pieces of straw, sorry about this video, no I'm not (rofl)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lzGkB6YO9Yc

[Paula]

So, today is not going well. I spent the night on the sofa with Luna and had an accident to clean up after too. Si took over at half six and, at 9 I was woken up by the front door. Si slightly mixed up the dates and the bloke turned up early to lay the latex screed - which can’t be walked on for four hours - a bit tough with the dogs and even more with the shopping due at 2pm! And I really need to get Si to agree it’s time to call the vets ......

[Suzi]

Oh sweetheart poor Luna and poor you. I think you know when the time is right... Hope you get Si to see that she's really unhappy...

[Jaquaia]

(panda)

[OldMike]

(bear) (panda)

[Suzi]

How are you doing lovely?

[Paula]

Emotional ..... I’ve tried to start my capability for work form but didnt get very far. The floor’s going off well so hopefully will soon be done and we can get downstairs at least

[Flo]

Sorry you're having such a (swear)(swear)(swear)(swear)ty day love.....hope it improves for all of you soon.xx(panda)

[Suzi]

Oh love, is now the best time to be doing the WCA form? (panda)(panda)

[Paula]

It’s got to be in by 19 November and I was hoping to do a little bit a day to minimise stress. But I admit today probably wasn’t the best day to start

[Suzi]

Happy to talk it through with you over the phone if you need moral support at all...

[Angie]

(bear)

[Paula]

Thanks, Suzi

[Suzi]

How are things in Sparkles Towers today?

[Paula]

Hi all, sorry for the radio silence. We had to say goodbye to our beautiful Luna today, she was just in too much pain and distress. It’s been an unimaginably horrible day and a massive hole has been torn out of our family.

https://preview.ibb.co/k5aeNf/7-D1-A412-C-F565-416-E-9908-D35-B11115-E26.jpg (https://ibb.co/eemVTL)

[Jaquaia]

(panda)

[Angie]

(panda)

[Paula]

Thank you guys.

Today wasn’t all bad. Amongst all the trauma, the fitter completed our hall floor. Not the greatest light but it’s so pretty (and grey despite what the first photo shows)

https://image.ibb.co/jdUeoL/B7-F4-BE41-E412-464-A-BC60-E2-ACC7153-B2-C.jpg
https://image.ibb.co/iMV8hf/1939-E52-B-23-F8-46-F3-8-CD5-6614-CDBCB140.jpg

[Jaquaia]

So pretty!!!!

[Suzi]

Sorry about Luna lovely. (panda)

The floor is beautiful x

[Paula]

It is beautiful. Every piece of that herringbone was individual - we didn’t know that when we bought it and I’m sure the fitter was cursing us!

[Strugglingmum]

So desperately sorry about Luna. As a fellow pet mummy I feel your pain. big hugs sent your way.....but not too big in case i hurt your back again. Xx

[Paula]

Thank you, lovely

[Jaquaia]

How are you doing today lovely?

[Paula]

Ok, drained. The house seems very empty

[OldMike]

So sorry about Luna, big (((hugs))) Paula (bear) (panda)

Like the herringbone flooring :)

[Suzi]

It is beautiful. Every piece of that herringbone was individual - we didn’t know that when we bought it and I’m sure the fitter was cursing us!
I bet he was! But it's a thing of great beauty!


Ok, drained. The house seems very empty

(panda)(panda)

[Jaquaia]

Take comfort in the fact that she had the best possible life and she knew she was loved (panda)

[Suzi]

Couldn't agree more with Jaq.

[Paula]

Take comfort in the fact that she had the best possible life and she knew she was loved (panda)

I know, it was the best thing for her. I’m sad but not feeling guilty. Si took me out for lunch - we were up your way, Suzi, at Silvermere Golf Club :). Jess is home from college again as she wasn’t feeling well - tbh she isn’t good at expressing her emotions so bottles it up and it comes out physically. I think she’s feeling better after a day dozing and chilling.

[Suzi]

Silvermere is literally 15/20 mins away from me! You should have stopped off for coffee!
Hope Jess is OK...

[Paula]

I’ve been a bit worried about Jess tbh. But was worried more about Luna and I couldn’t deal with both itms. Jess is introverted but has been retreating more into herself recently. I can’t remember the last time she went out with friends ..... but, she insists she’s fine so I just have to let her know I’m here if she wants to talk

[Suzi]

It's horrible when you know they need to talk, but wont/can't... (panda)

[Paula]

Oh yes .......

Si’s mum rang, I didn’t get to the phone quick enough so she left a message. She said how sorry she was about Luna and I felt like I’d been punched in the gut ;(

[Jaquaia]

(panda)

[Suzi]

(panda) hunni x

[Paula]

I’ve started my WCA - I’d forgotten how exhausting it is!

[OldMike]

I’ve started my WCA - I’d forgotten how exhausting it is!

Yet again Old Mike is flummoxed by abbreviations so is it the "Woodwork Career Alliance" or the "West Coast Avengers" or the "World Coal Association" am I getting close (giggle)

[Suzi]

Work Capability Assessment form Mike. It's horrible and eats away at your self esteem.. and is long...

[Paula]

I’ve not been coping too well today. Thing is, we’re all grieving so I don’t want to keep crying on their shoulders as it’s not fair on them. This has been a horrible week ....

[Jaquaia]

(panda)

[Angie]

(panda)

[OldMike]

(bear) (panda)

[Suzi]

Sweetheart cry with them. You are allowed to be grieving and crying and pushing yourself to do your WCA at the same time is just too much love. You really need to be kind to you right now and you aren't...

[Paula]

I know, but the WCA needs to be done. It’s just (swear)(swear)(swear)(swear) timing .....

[EJ]

(panda)

[Flo]

Morning Paula.....hope you're not feeling so miserable today. So sorry to hear about Luna, but you did the kindest thing so no guilt necessary. Hope Jess is feeling better too. It's early days I know but when you're all back on an even keel, there's another Luna out there who would give her eye teeth to be in such a loving, caring home like yours. You all have such a lot of love to give. By the way, I love your floor!!.....very classy indeed!! Lots of hugs sweetheart.(panda)

[Paula]

Instead of trying to get my fuzzy, cotton wool mind around the WCA, I’m going to chill and do some cross stitch. It’s really coming along now :)

[Suzi]

Good, I'm glad you are taking a day out..

[Paula]

Polo seems to be depressed which, I know, seems ridiculous but he’s lethargic, off his food and, well, just sad. Apparently it’s common.

[Jaquaia]

It doesn't seem ridiculous at all. Animals feel more than we give them credit for, he'll be missing Luna (panda)

[Suzi]

Polo seems to be depressed which, I know, seems ridiculous but he’s lethargic, off his food and, well, just sad. Apparently it’s common.
Definitely not ridiculous. Moiya and Crash were the same.. Lots of love and reassurance lovely...

[OldMike]

Polo is missing Luna she was his buddy for many years, I think dogs miss their pals much like us humans whereas cat's it was nice knowing you now where's my food.

It just takes time Paula (bear) (panda)

[Suzi]

How're you doing love?

[Paula]

Ok. I’m just binge watching Whitechapel with Rupert Penry-Jones (yum) today. And getting quotes for decoration for Katie’s party

[Jaquaia]

Swap? I'm studying emotional intelligence!!!

[Paula]

Nope ;)

[Suzi]

Sounds like a good day lol

[Flo]

Ooh!..another Rupert Penry-Jones fan!...slurp!!...how's the cross stitch coming along? I've started my card to Ian. It's a partridge in a pear tree! It's all very glittery and the metal threads are a swine to keep together! When you lick them to poke them through the eye of the needle they all fall apart again,AAGGGHHH!...I'm on the partridge now! Have a good day love.xx

[Angie]

Flo with the threads put them together dont lick them put a small dab of clear nail varnish over the last inch or a tiny bit of superglue, let it dry then thread it as it will keep the threads together for you.

[Paula]

This is where I’m at to date. I’m really enjoying this one. Flo, the easiest way, I found, to deal with metallic thread is to cut it relatively short and use thread wax https://www.amazon.co.uk/Beadsmith-Strengthening-Conditioner-Quilting-Crafting/dp/B00JIT4JEW/ref=sr_1_4?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1541412444&sr=1-4&keywords=Thread+wax

https://image.ibb.co/ftW9YL/3-CA1-C650-846-C-45-BD-86-F5-89820-E7-A2599.jpg

[Jaquaia]

That's stunning!!!

[Suzi]

That looks beautiful Paula!

Hope you're having a good morning gorgeous lady x

[Paula]

It’s Si’s birthday today. He’s made up with his War of the Worlds tickets :). One of his presents from the girls was 2 metal wallet cards - one for each dog, with their kennel club names and tattooed numbers. Luna’s says Champion Racer, Polo’s Champion Tea Drinker. His hay fever was bad (and in November lol!)

[Suzi]

Happy birthday Si! Those wallet cards sound lovely and perfect!

[OldMike]

Happy Birthday Si (party)

PS. The cross stitch looks lovely :)

[Jaquaia]

Happy birthday Si!

[Suzi]

Hope it's been a good day lovely x

[Paula]

It has, though I’m knackered. Out for lunch and out for dinner! He loved his War of the Worlds tickets :)

[Suzi]

Glad he loved the tickets! A recharging day for you tomorrow?

[Paula]

It’s STAIRLIFT day!!

[Suzi]

Happy stairlift day gorgeous!

[OldMike]

Woo hoo stairlift day yay (party) hope all went well :)

[Paula]

Well, it’s in and the engineer tells me it went well! Mixed feelings, it’ll take some getting used to lol.

I’ve also managed to complete (subject to input from others) my WCA. (whew)

https://image.ibb.co/cgDHvA/45820-C7-A-6355-414-B-9887-EEA07-DA08693.jpg

[Suzi]

It's kinda like a rollercoaster ride! Seriously, it seems "well cool!" Have you had a go on it yet?

[Strugglingmum]

Ooooooo hopefully you're pain free going up and down stairs now!! when I take my meds at night and then start to do something and they suddenly kick in, my hubby would love a lift to plant me in instead of half carrying me. :P

[OldMike]

You'll soon get used to it and if it gets you up and down downstairs easily that's all that matters, it looks quite compact with all the fold down armrests etc.

[Paula]

It's kinda like a rollercoaster ride! Seriously, it seems "well cool!" Have you had a go on it yet?

Lots of times. Turning the corner at the top of the stairs is a bit disconcerting (it’s higher than you think!) but I’m getting used to it. It’s not quite as slow as I thought and can be sped up a little if I want.

I’m at work this afternoon and Jess has her theory driving test (for the third time of asking, let’s hope this is the last ....).

[Suzi]

Good luck Jess!

Is it easier though with the Stair lift? Is it because of pride that you're finding it hard to accept?

Enjoy work lovely!

[Paula]

Pride? Yes, absolutely. It is easier, however.

[Suzi]

Then maybe you need to take it as a win because you'll have those spoons to use on something more lovely?

[Paula]

I’m trying.

Good news though, Jess has passed her theory test (third time lucky) (party)

[Suzi]

Well done Jess! :)

[OldMike]

Definitely take it as a win as it far better than struggling up and down the stairs. When I saw Jess passed her theory, I wondered theory of what, then I saw the light it was part of the driving test.

[Paula]

Odd day today. Was so chuffed this morning with Jess. But this afternoon, was told that my best friend’s sister is in ICU. She’s bleeding internally and they don’t know how to stop it. They thought about sending a wire through the vein to cauterise it but a CT showed it was seeping out from lots of places. They really don’t want to operate as she’s just had her second chemo round and she has no white blood cells to counter infection. But she’s in agony and having to have blood treatments and transfusions to top her up......

[Jaquaia]

I have no words so will just leave these (panda)(panda)(panda)

[OldMike]

(bear) (panda)

[Angie]

(bear)

[Strugglingmum]

Just sending love. Xx

[Suzi]

I am so sorry lovely! In my thoughts. If there's anything I can do then shout..

[Paula]

I’m really, really tired today, I think the last couple of weeks have caught up with me. So today will be focused on self care - cross stitch, read my magazine and watch Strictly :)

[Suzi]

Woohoo! Good for you! :)

[Paula]

Owowowowowowow I’ve got tooth ache ;(

[Suzi]

Oh no! I'm rubbish with teeth, they really turn my stomach so I can't help at all.... out of hours dentist?

[Strugglingmum]

Oh no. One of the worst pains. Any whiskey???

[Paula]

(rofl) I’ve never been convinced of the whiskey cure, thoughive also never needed an excuse for whiskey ;)

[Strugglingmum]

Well the way I look at it, if itvdoesnt cure the pain it might help you forget about it:P

[Paula]

(giggle)

[Suzi]

How many whiskeys have you tried? Did it help?

[Paula]

Lol, I got rid of all the spirits in the house when I went on a diet. So regretting that decision right now (rofl)

[Suzi]

You have a husband.. why didn't you send him out for some?!

[Strugglingmum]

How many whiskeys have you tried? Did it help?

Maybe she is lying pain free somewhere. :P

[Paula]

You have a husband.. why didn't you send him out for some?!

He was watching a film, I didn’t want to disturb him ...

[Suzi]

Really?? I'm sure he would have switched off and done anything he could to make you more comfortable x

How are you today?

[Paula]

*sticks her tongue out and grumbles about certain people always being right*

My tooth is ok today but I promise I’ll call the dentist tomorrow. It’s ‘finish WCA’ day today .....

[Suzi]

Have you finished it?

[Paula]

It’s done! I’m exhausted.

[Angie]

Rest tonight ?

[Paula]

Yes...

[Suzi]

Did my garbelled notes help at all?

[Strugglingmum]

Well done you. You deserve a medal working thru it. X

[Paula]

Did my garbelled notes help at all?

Absolutely! I thought I was honest with myself about the impact of my health - turns out not so much so thank you for the insights (Kiss)

[Suzi]

Oh I am pleased that I could help. Well done for doing it!

[Paula]

What an evening. So,it all came to a huge head with Katie’s job yesterday. Her boss was sacked and Katie is now left with managing the store with next to no staff at the busiest time of the year and a district manager who said, when Katie asked what were her labs for going forward, ‘I have no plan’. Katie has been under enormous pressure for months now as her manager was on long term sick and head office have been useless at helping her. When she agreed to stay a year ago, she was promised proper, formal management training which never materialised and could have helped her with these sort of situations. All this, and she’s also going through her own disciplinary, and trying to deal with a team who are traumatised as half of them are gong through disciplinary too.

She got home last night and was in floods of tears, she feels sick every day and has lost weight she can’t afford to lose. She’s waiting a call back from the doctor but has called in sick.

[OldMike]

(bear) (panda)

[Suzi]

Poor Katie!
What on earth are they all having disciplinary for? I'm so glad she's got you to turn to. What a completely crappy situation.

[Paula]

There were issues over what treatments staff were having and how much they should have paid. Katie didn’t do anything wrong but was managing the store when some of it was happening. There’s all sort of politics involved tbh and the union rep has told Katie the company are planning on putting all the other members of staff in the store on disciplinary!

We’re waiting for a call from the doctors. She’s also spoke to her union rep who’s told her to get a sick note from the GP stating workplace stress and then resign with immediate effect. The workplace stress bit will ensure the company can’t go forward with the disciplinary

[Jaquaia]

It all sounds utterly ridiculous!

[Suzi]

What an absolute nightmare! Even worse that she had the choice of this one with management training or the other job she was offered! Is there any point in getting in contact with them and seeing if they were recruiting? I know she'll need some time to work through this though. Poor love.

[Strugglingmum]

Poor Katie. It sounds horrendous. What awful stress to be put under. It is so difficult to give up a job but its not worth making herself ill. I hope she takes union advice. Sending you big hugs tooxx

[OldMike]

Sounds a right to do with all the staff being put on disciplinary notice, who needs that kind of stress, poor Katie (panda)

[Paula]

Having spent most of the morning on the phone to the union rep and legal advice line, Katie resigned with immediate effect. She’s considering pushing for constructive dismissal but she’s got time to make that decision. She actually had a bit of a panic attack over something really minor this afternoon (we can all relate to that...) so she’s really struggling. I spent most of the day with her sorting it all out and just ‘being’ with her itms. What amazes us is that the District Manager said she was shocked! How did she think Katie was going to react?? Still, she’s already been approached about a couple of jobs so hopefully she won’t be out of work for long.

I’m happier news, I’ve found my dress for Katie’s party (party). It’s absolutely gorgeous!

https://www.simplybe.co.uk/shop/chi-chi-london-lace-dip-back-dress/wz984/product/details/show.action?pdBoUid=8015#colour:Red,size:

[Jaquaia]

I love that!!!

[Strugglingmum]

The dress is Gorgeous!!!!
So glad Katie has got you and by the sounds of it great union advice. Sending hugs. Xx

[Suzi]

That dress is stunning! You'll look drop down dead gorgeous as always!

So glad that Katie has got offers and stuff, but I hope she's going to take some time to work through things too.

[Paula]

The back is all tiny buttons! It’s beautiful :)

Edit. Crossed posts Suzi. Yes, I’ve told her to sit back and chill for a bit - she’s been so stressed for so long and I worry about her mental health. She’s thinking about visiting mum and dad for a day or two

When do we stop worrying about our kids?

[Suzi]

It really is..

OO that means you'll need some new shoes, a new handbag, oo and crutches to match!

[Paula]

Got the red crutches! I’m not sure whether to go with black accessories or red. Decisions, decisions ;)

[Jaquaia]

I think black.

[Suzi]

Definitely black and diamonds ;)

[Jaquaia]

Yes! Lots of sparkle!

[Strugglingmum]

Wss^^^^(party)

[Paula]

Had the weirdest thing last night. Apparently I was running in my sleep, like dogs do! Si thought it was hilarious, my knee didn’t think so (shake)

And sparkles a given (giggle)

[Suzi]

OO ouch! Bet your knee is really sore today! But yes, that is hilarious!

[OldMike]

Had the weirdest thing last night. Apparently I was running in my sleep, like dogs do! Si thought it was hilarious, my knee didn’t think so (shake)

And sparkles a given (giggle)

You weren't barking and carrying a stick at the time were you, I shouldn't laugh but I will (rofl)

Your poor leg (panda)

PS. That dress looks fab, oops I'm back in the 60's, fast forward to the 21st century, that dress looks wicked :)

[Paula]

It’s alright, Mike, I used the word ‘ace’ yesterday and got told off by Katie ;)

[Paula]

I sat down to watch an hour long TV programme at 8am today. I’m still just halfway through it now .... every time I’ve tried, something else has come up inc the British Gas Engineer coming to fix 2 leaky radiators, constant questions and conversations about jobs from Katie (she’s got an interview today - yay!), trying to get Jess up and out to college etc etc. Don’t get me wrong, I’m grateful that I’m around to deal with this stuff, but I just want to watch my programme! ;).

[Suzi]

I'm having a similar day! It's driving me bonkers!
Hope you've managed to finish it! What were you trying to watch?

[OldMike]

Fixing leaking radiators is easy all you need is some PTFE tape and a couple of big spanners (giggle) as for Katie's job interview that's a little more difficult and when it comes to getting that teenager Jess off to college that is damn nigh impossible even if you get her out the door she'll probably counter with the bus hasn't turned up yet ;)

[Paula]

Lol Mike, you’re not wrong there ;)

The programme was Leverage - it on Fox and very lighthearted

[Jaquaia]

I've not watched that in ages! It was very strange seeing Jane from Coupling being intelligent!

[Suzi]

Haven't seen that!

How was the rest of your day?

[Paula]

Frustrating, irritating. And I’m feeling it a bit - far too much stress for my mind and body to handle recently. Still, Katie had a telephone interview today and they’ve asked her to go in at 10am tomorrow for a face to face interview, which is fantastic.

We had a good family talk this evening about getting another dog. We’ve decided not to - Polo will be 12 in April and it wouldn’t be fair on him to have to cope with a young dog. There’s a particular greyhound at the kennels that has been with them for 18 months and we’d have loved to give her her forever home, but we have to put Polo first

[Strugglingmum]

(panda)

[OldMike]

Could you not take on this young greyhound for a trial period to see how Polo got on with him/her they may get on like a house on fire, just the thoughts of a cat person miaow :)

Edit: Just read this young dog is a her so Polo might love a young lady to look after ;)

[Strugglingmum]

Could you not take on this young greyhound for a trial period to see how Polo got on with him/her they may get on like a house on fire, just the thoughts of a cat person miaow :)

Edit: Just read this young dog is a her so Polo might love a young lady to look after ;)

(rofl)

[Paula]

Lol Mike. We did think of that but at best Polo’s got probably 18 months, he’s got severe arthritis in his hips, nerve damage to one leg and is basically a grumpy old man. Any younger dog wouldn’t get the walks she needs and her playmate is unlikely to want to play ;)

[Suzi]

(panda) We weren't sure when we had Casey, but she just trained every other dog we ever came into contact with! I can understand why you wouldn't want to, maybe they have a middle aged one who might be a better fit?

[Paula]

Tbh, at the moment I don’t want to fall in love with another one, itms.

I got to work earlier, my boss (and friend) asked how I was and I promptly fell to pieces on her shoulder :(

Anyway, brighter news! Katie had her face to face interview this morning. The Sales Director told the recruitment consultant that Katie’s a superstar. She’s meeting one more person Monday, but it’s looking really positive. She’s chuffed to bits.

[Jaquaia]

Did it help getting things out?

[Suzi]

That's brilliant news for Katie! She's awesome!

[Paula]

A little

[Paula]

That's brilliant news for Katie! She's awesome!

Yes, she is :)

[Suzi]

Glad you got some of it out love.
Katie obviously had a good teacher...

[Strugglingmum]

[QUOTE=Paula;380001

Anyway, brighter news! Katie had her face to face interview this morning. The Sales Director told the recruitment consultant that Katie’s a superstar. She’s meeting one more person Monday, but it’s looking really positive. She’s chuffed to bits.[/QUOTE]


Go Katie!!! Bet that gave her confidence a boost. Fab news. Xx

Can understand about the dog, took me 9months before I could even think of another..
I just wasn't ready to give my heart again, it wouldn't have been fair on a dog if I had taken 1 at that time. Give yourself time. It's still very early days. X

[Suzi]

I hope you're recharging this weekend love.

[Paula]

We’re out for dinner with friends tonight. We haven’t seen them in ages so I’m looking forward to it. Otherwise, I’m chilling :)

[Strugglingmum]

Oooo. Lovely plans. We did the shopping early this morning so I came home and had a nap. Recharging. X

[Paula]

Important self care :)

[Suzi]

Exactly! I'm proud of both of you!

[Allalone]

I’m chilling/recharging too. Got my feet up on the sofa, cuppa, coconut cookie, snuggly blanket and Ted!

[Strugglingmum]

I’m chilling/recharging too. Got my feet up on the sofa, cuppa, coconut cookie, snuggly blanket and Ted!

Sounds perfect. I walked Katie and then had to bath her. That lovely wet dog smell:P

[Jaquaia]

My pup smells of cherry and vanilla when I bath her! It smells so nice I sometimes use it on my hair! (giggle)

[Strugglingmum]

Hope you had a nice evening. Xc

[Paula]

Had a lovely evening :) ate too much, drank a little too much and laughed hugely! Got home and decided to watch Strictly - I’m a wee bit tired (exhausted) but totally worth it

[Suzi]

So glad you had a lovely time hunni... Today a pacing day?

[OldMike]

Sounds like a marvelous evening hope you had lots of pudding ;)

[Flo]

Well that sounds like a wonderful evening! Laughter does amazing things! Put your feet up and reminisce!(bear)

[Paula]

I’m taking it easy ;)

[Strugglingmum]

Lovely relaxing day.... just what Sundays were made for. Enjoy it

[OldMike]

I'ts funny when you work you look forward to Sundays but when you're retired everyday is a Sunday ;)

[Paula]

I'ts funny when you work you look forward to Sundays but when you're retired everyday is a Sunday ;)

Though still only a baby ;), I’m actually officially retired! So, yep, I concur lol

[Suzi]

Hope you've been resting all day..... Although I doubt it!

[Paula]

Actually *pokes tongue out* I was so tired I went to bed at 8.30 (so not grumbling about being ordered to by hubby)

[Suzi]

I'm flabbergasted that you listened to anyone!

How are you today? Bright and perky or grumpy and flopped?

[Paula]

Ermmmmm somewhere in between? (giggle)

[Suzi]

Perky and grumpy? OO Dangerous mix!

[Paula]

So, news ......

KATIE’S GOT A JOB!!! She’s super excited too :) she starts 1 December. (whew)

In other news, Polo’s got cataracts, bless him .....

[Suzi]

Woohoo for Katie - what's the job?

Poor Polo!

[Strugglingmum]

Well done Katie. ....and time to take it easy before she starts and get over the stress.
Poor Polo. Will they operate?
We had a lab went blind. He actually coped very well sniffling around. He was quite elderly so as long as he could find his food and bed he was pretty chuffed. X

[Jaquaia]

Woohoo Katie!!!!!

Poor polo (panda)

[Paula]

Katie will be doing telesales (to companies, not people) in a communications company. The company are known for promoting within and already think she’s awesome and a natural salesperson. 9-5 and 5 minutes from home :)

Polo is an old dog so won’t be having any treatment. Tbh the dog we just lost (Luna) had glaucoma so we’re used to dealing with sight loss. He’ll be fine

[Suzi]

Brilliant news for Katie! 5 mins from home is perfect!
How are you today lovely?

[OldMike]

Good news about Katie.

You're giving Polo a good life, as long as he has love and food that's all he needs.

[Paula]

I’m ok. Except being up at 5.30 with Polo, love that dog ...

[Jaquaia]

3am for me with Talia...

[Suzi]

I had a (swear)(swear)(swear)(swear)ty night too... (panda) Ladies..
Hope you're pacing today?

[Paula]

Katie and I went out for lunch. It was lovely except I had a headache before I left and it’s still here, adding in a bit of nausea.

Still, for the first time ever, I’ve bought a Christmas jumper ;)

[Suzi]

You have never had a Christmas jumper???? I can't believe that!

[Jaquaia]

Neither have I! But I have a jumper with a bunny wearing glasses on it...

[Paula]

You have never had a Christmas jumper???? I can't believe that!

It’s true!

[Suzi]

You have no idea what you've both started........... Fair warning has been given!

[Paula]

(giggle)

Ermmm, I might have found the cause of my headache ...... my foot is burning, big time, so there is a possibility I didn’t take my Pregabalin this morning (blush)

[Suzi]

Yeah that'd cause a headache at the least..... You OK? You've missed meds a couple of times recently...

[Paula]

Yeah, my memory and concentration is always the first thing to go when I’m stressed, and I’ve been stressed.... but I’ve taken a Pregabalin at 6pm, the headache is going. Stomach’s a little delicate still but that’ll pass

[Suzi]

How are you this morning?

[Paula]

Tired but otherwise ok :)

[Suzi]

Meds?

[Paula]

Done ;)

[Suzi]

How's your day going?

[Paula]

Bloody awful. Got a call from college to tell us Jess is missing loads of lessons and is very behind on coursework in every subject.

[Strugglingmum]

(panda) really feel for you.
Isn't wonderful with children how we get one sorted and then another one gives us reason to stress. Do you think they plan it or are given lessons on how to do it???

[Suzi]

Bloody awful. Got a call from college to tell us Jess is missing loads of lessons and is very behind on coursework in every subject.
Oh no! Not again?!
Did you have any idea?

[Paula]

(panda) really feel for you.
Isn't wonderful with children how we get one sorted and then another one gives us reason to stress. Do you think they plan it or are given lessons on how to do it???

Lol, it’s definitely planned!


Oh no! Not again?!
Did you have any idea?

No idea, we’ve got an email and there’s loads not done.

[OldMike]

Mmmmm, Jess has missed more lessons again, unfortunately with my limited parenting skills I can't really advise you.

[Suzi]

What's the plan with her love?

[headspace]

cant bare tennis and far too muddy to wear a tiara.... can we have horses and poo picking teheee......... xxxx

[Suzi]

You are welcome to have your own thread with horses and poo lol

[Paula]

I really enjoyed work today but still can’t get over how exhausted I get from just 3 hours. Good job it’s worth it :)

Katie wanted the 4 of us to go to the cinema tonight - spirit is strong but body very, very weak so I’ve said no ....

[Strugglingmum]

(panda)

[Angie]

(bear)

[OldMike]

I really enjoyed work today but still can’t get over how exhausted I get from just 3 hours. Good job it’s worth it :)

Katie wanted the 4 of us to go to the cinema tonight - spirit is strong but body very, very weak so I’ve said no ....

It could be because you're new to the job and may get easier over time either that or you had to deal with particularly irascible patients/visitors of the Victor Meldrew type. (bear) (panda)

[Paula]

None of the above, Mike, I’m afraid. It’s a job I’ve done before and am completely comfortable with, and I only had one visitor - I was actually doing some research today. It’s just that I’m in pain, and that wears me out. But it’s worth it

[Suzi]

But you've also got loads of other "stuff" going on too...... Be kind to yourself!

[Paula]

So, part 1 of being nice to myself was watching Mamma Mia 2. Cue singing, drooling over pierce brosnan and Andy Garcia, and lots of tears! I LOVED it!

Part 2 of being nice to myself is sitting down with my extra nice mango vodka and Strictly :)

[OldMike]

Just for you Paula, couldn't get Marti Pellow (too busy aparently ;) ) so I got you a cello instead.

Can You Feel the Love Tonight / Cello cover - Vesislava Todorova

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7CkkjiNVoUo

[Allalone]

Extra nice mango vodka sounds better than my loose leaf chamomile tea!:P

[Strugglingmum]

So, part 1 of being nice to myself was watching Mamma Mia 2. Cue singing, drooling over pierce brosnan and Andy Garcia, and lots of tears! I LOVED it!

Part 2 of being nice to myself is sitting down with my extra nice mango vodka and Strictly :)

(panda)

[Suzi]

Hmm Mango vodka!

So, what's on taking care of you for tomorrow?

[Paula]

Tomorrow we’re sitting down with Jess to figure out the way forward with college. Self care may be limited .....

[Suzi]

Hope that today is easier on you all than it sounds like it's going to be...

[OldMike]

Paula hope you manage sort out what is going on with Jess. (bear) (panda)

[Paula]

Aaaaaaarrrrrrrrggggggghgggggg got atext from MIL ‘we’re going past your front door, we’ll be popping in this morning!’

[Jaquaia]

Is she likely to stop for long?

[Paula]

An hour or so

[OldMike]

Aaaaaaarrrrrrrrggggggghgggggg got atext from MIL ‘we’re going past your front door, we’ll be popping in this morning!’

How inconvenient, though will probably be a good diversion (assuming you get on with mother in law that is).

[Suzi]

Oh bugger!

[Paula]

My MIL is an amazing woman but very high maintenance and time with her is never relaxing. She also doesn’t ‘believe’ in depression ........ And she is very particular so I’ve been running around tidying up. (Si doesn’t get it, but I bet most women do.) I’m much happier knowing about a visit with more notice (ie at least a month lol) so am very stressed right now

[Suzi]

I totally get exactly what you mean.... Hope she goes soon and you can go back to the scheduled stuff - does she know about the issues with Jess?

[OldMike]

MIL doesn't believe in depression arggghhhh I think she needs some serious education in that direction.

[Paula]

MIL doesn't believe in depression arggghhhh I think she needs some serious education in that direction.

Believe me I’ve tried - sometimes you just have to roll with it


I totally get exactly what you mean.... Hope she goes soon and you can go back to the scheduled stuff - does she know about the issues with Jess?

She doesn’t, she’d be horrified to know Jess was thinking of dropping out. We’ll tell her what she needs to know, when she needs to know it

Having said all that, I’m pleased to report that I was wrong. We actually had a really nice couple of hours :)

[Suzi]

Hoorah! Hope the rest of the day has been nice and relaxing...

[OldMike]

Hope you managed to get a chat with Jess (re. college etc) after MIL made her grand departure (giggle)

[Suzi]

Do you have a plan re Jess?

[Paula]

Do you have a plan re Jess?

We’ve worked through everything college says she’s not done - 4 she thinks she has, 2 she didn’t know about and 2 she’s doing tomorrow as she’s not in college. We’ve told her tutor and have asked some questions. We’re just focusing on getting her through this bit and to end of term, then go from there

[Suzi]

So glad she's got you to help her through x

[Paula]

So glad she's got you to help her through x

She’s not, she’s already annoyed with me pushing her to do the work ;)

[Suzi]

ROFL. I sympathise. Ben's quite (swear)(swear)(swear)(swear)ed off with me insisting on proofreading each essay and "helping" him with revision.........

[Paula]

Joy. Si’s been sent home from work after throwing up, and Jess has just told us she was ill in the night too ....