Lets blame work for this week's post being late.
Oh how I'd forgotten how I hate early starts. Getting up at 5.20am and taking Skye for a walk when most of my neighbourhood are still in bed is strange...
Anyway getting back to my last week of freedom. I think I mentioned how ill I was feeling last Monday. Well, the illness grew into a full blown cough and cold and stopped me from doing exercise. I hang my head in shame as I tell you that last week's exercise total came to a measly one!
But I did manage to cram a lot of other things into the week despite feeling poorly (and quite sorry for myself) including a trip to the dentist, a facial, a yoga session, a trip to the doctors (nothing serious), a quiz night and a meal out with my dad and his wife as a huge thank you for selling my Punto (thanks again dad!).
At the weekend, I did a bit of shopping (looking for a dress for the big birthday) and failed to find anything...and to end the week; Sunday was a couch day. I spent it watching Gone with the Wind - what a long film. But a classic and I can see why.
I'll save the work edition for Week 35.
5 weeks to go...
Showing posts with label Weekly Diary. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Weekly Diary. Show all posts
Thursday, 1 March 2012
Monday, 20 February 2012
Week 33
Well, that was a strange day...
So that you can fully appreciate my week, let me take you back to last Monday. I started a highly productive week with a one mile swim. On Tuesday my handyman arrived and ticked off some of the jobs I've had on my to-do list for years including fitting a hanging rail to a wardrobe and installing a whirly gig in my garden (ah the smell of outside dried clothes - you cannot beat it). I have a problem doing nothing (i.e. on my laptop) whilst someone is working hard in my house/garden so I decided to do a bit of gardening. Quite a bit of gardening actually as I cut back all my plants in the front garden, filling 3 garden bags. With a quick stop for a cuppy with a friend, I was off to my Body Balance class in the evening (exercise no 2). On Wednesday I had a trip to the movies to see the award winning film, The Artist (which I would highly recommend) followed by a Body Combat class in the evening (are you counting this - no. 3). On Thursday I started the day with yoga and finished it by rearranging my wardrobe and making space for my (ahem) 50 pairs of shoes. Well actually, it started as 60 pairs but I only have room for 50 so I had the awful task of deciding which shoes went to the charity shop. It was a tense moment and I literally had to bag the shoes and take them straight round to the shop. Friday was an easy day with a leisurely swim (that's exercise no 5 in case you've lost count). On Saturday I was out and about from 10am till 6pm including 4 hours of driving in snow conditions. I know you must be exhausted from reading all this...bearing in mind that Skye is getting 2 x 30 minute walks per day too.
So you'd think that Sunday would be a day of rest...alas NO - I went to a yoga workshop (ran by my good friend Julie - who is a wonderful instructor). A two hour workshop of Ashtanga yoga (or rather power yoga) which pushes your body to the limit. Some of the postures are so intense - it is, quite literally, the hardest workout I have given my body. A relaxing hot bath followed the workout and then a good friend of mine popped round for a session of reiki. I was so looking forward to reiki - I was hoping that some of the reiki energy would seep into my body and ease out my aches and pains. After my friend left I finally relaxed and vegged out.
So that was a total of 6 workouts this week!!! Unbelievable isn't it?
As you can imagine, I woke up today feeling aches and pains all over my body. Every movement I make is painful. My poor shoulders and my aching hip flexers (which have never been stretched like that before). So not exactly the best day to make an appearance at my new job! What was I thinking?
I had agreed with my boss that I would go into work today to get some of the admin out of the way so I can start afresh next Monday. It was bizarre driving up to my old office (I can't remember if I mentioned that I'm going back to work for the company I left last July to embark on my exploratory career change). Everything was familiar to me. The people are great but the weirdest thing is the feeling like I'd never left. So strange. I only stayed a few hours and came home and threw off my work clothes (wearing heels during the day just doesn't feel right) and took Skye out for a long walk. I finally collapsed on the sofa early evening and have given my poor body a night off exercise. I still don't feel 100%. It almost feels like sensory overload...
Am I looking forward to going back to work? In all honesty, not really. I am one of those people who can happily busy myself every day as long as I have a dog to walk. But in reality, I miss the banter of my work colleagues. And I'm not a millionaire so I cannot fund a career break forever so, like most people, I need to work. It's going to be strange for a while but I'll settle back into the routine. I have to say, working a shorter week is going to be fantastic. But I do dread next Monday. A full day of work - oh how I'm going to miss Skye.
6 weeks to go...
So that you can fully appreciate my week, let me take you back to last Monday. I started a highly productive week with a one mile swim. On Tuesday my handyman arrived and ticked off some of the jobs I've had on my to-do list for years including fitting a hanging rail to a wardrobe and installing a whirly gig in my garden (ah the smell of outside dried clothes - you cannot beat it). I have a problem doing nothing (i.e. on my laptop) whilst someone is working hard in my house/garden so I decided to do a bit of gardening. Quite a bit of gardening actually as I cut back all my plants in the front garden, filling 3 garden bags. With a quick stop for a cuppy with a friend, I was off to my Body Balance class in the evening (exercise no 2). On Wednesday I had a trip to the movies to see the award winning film, The Artist (which I would highly recommend) followed by a Body Combat class in the evening (are you counting this - no. 3). On Thursday I started the day with yoga and finished it by rearranging my wardrobe and making space for my (ahem) 50 pairs of shoes. Well actually, it started as 60 pairs but I only have room for 50 so I had the awful task of deciding which shoes went to the charity shop. It was a tense moment and I literally had to bag the shoes and take them straight round to the shop. Friday was an easy day with a leisurely swim (that's exercise no 5 in case you've lost count). On Saturday I was out and about from 10am till 6pm including 4 hours of driving in snow conditions. I know you must be exhausted from reading all this...bearing in mind that Skye is getting 2 x 30 minute walks per day too.
So you'd think that Sunday would be a day of rest...alas NO - I went to a yoga workshop (ran by my good friend Julie - who is a wonderful instructor). A two hour workshop of Ashtanga yoga (or rather power yoga) which pushes your body to the limit. Some of the postures are so intense - it is, quite literally, the hardest workout I have given my body. A relaxing hot bath followed the workout and then a good friend of mine popped round for a session of reiki. I was so looking forward to reiki - I was hoping that some of the reiki energy would seep into my body and ease out my aches and pains. After my friend left I finally relaxed and vegged out.
So that was a total of 6 workouts this week!!! Unbelievable isn't it?
As you can imagine, I woke up today feeling aches and pains all over my body. Every movement I make is painful. My poor shoulders and my aching hip flexers (which have never been stretched like that before). So not exactly the best day to make an appearance at my new job! What was I thinking?
I had agreed with my boss that I would go into work today to get some of the admin out of the way so I can start afresh next Monday. It was bizarre driving up to my old office (I can't remember if I mentioned that I'm going back to work for the company I left last July to embark on my exploratory career change). Everything was familiar to me. The people are great but the weirdest thing is the feeling like I'd never left. So strange. I only stayed a few hours and came home and threw off my work clothes (wearing heels during the day just doesn't feel right) and took Skye out for a long walk. I finally collapsed on the sofa early evening and have given my poor body a night off exercise. I still don't feel 100%. It almost feels like sensory overload...
Am I looking forward to going back to work? In all honesty, not really. I am one of those people who can happily busy myself every day as long as I have a dog to walk. But in reality, I miss the banter of my work colleagues. And I'm not a millionaire so I cannot fund a career break forever so, like most people, I need to work. It's going to be strange for a while but I'll settle back into the routine. I have to say, working a shorter week is going to be fantastic. But I do dread next Monday. A full day of work - oh how I'm going to miss Skye.
6 weeks to go...
Monday, 13 February 2012
Week 32
I still like driving my car...
I did 5 lots of exercise this week - that is possibly a record for me. I can't see this lasting but I will try my hardest to keep up the good intentions. Swimming feels so good when I'm actually in the pool but its the getting there and the cold(ish) showers afterwards that doesn't appeal as much. I can actually feel my stamina increasing each time I swim and my time-trials are getting better. So much so that I decided I would try "butterfly" stroke for one length (25m). OMG...DO NOT TRY THIS UNLESS YOU ARE SUPER FIT. I could barely lift my shoulders out of the water. How embarrassing. I bet the lifeguards were laughing at me when my final 2 strokes looked more like doggy paddle.
Talking of dogs, Skye is doing great. I've started to increase her exercise and she is off lead most of the time now (unless there's a bouncy dog in the area). She's looking incredible. I'm constantly looking for any signs of a limp and sometimes my eyes deceive me and I think I see her walking oddly but maybe I'm just so used to seeing her limping. Either way, she is doing very well. We did a favourite walk in the woods this week - in the past she used to walk behind me - now she is striding in front of me most of the way round. I know she has a bit of arthritis in her elbows so she might limp now and again but the initial signs are good. The next two weeks I need to build up her off lead playing and jumping in and out of the car. She will be going back to my lovely dog-walker, Gladys, at the end of the month when I start my job so I need to ensure she's fully fit by then. Mental note to give her some reiki this week.
I had friends round to my house on Thursday for a meal and a reiki swap. It was so good to practise my reiki on humans again as opposed to animals. I am still available to practise on any willing people who want to try reiki. Even when I go back to work, I'll only be working 3 days so will have time to dedicate to my studies, my volunteering and my reiki.
With a couple of trips to visit my mum (who is a bit poorly just now) that was my week. Get well soon, Mum!!!
7 weeks to go...
I did 5 lots of exercise this week - that is possibly a record for me. I can't see this lasting but I will try my hardest to keep up the good intentions. Swimming feels so good when I'm actually in the pool but its the getting there and the cold(ish) showers afterwards that doesn't appeal as much. I can actually feel my stamina increasing each time I swim and my time-trials are getting better. So much so that I decided I would try "butterfly" stroke for one length (25m). OMG...DO NOT TRY THIS UNLESS YOU ARE SUPER FIT. I could barely lift my shoulders out of the water. How embarrassing. I bet the lifeguards were laughing at me when my final 2 strokes looked more like doggy paddle.
Talking of dogs, Skye is doing great. I've started to increase her exercise and she is off lead most of the time now (unless there's a bouncy dog in the area). She's looking incredible. I'm constantly looking for any signs of a limp and sometimes my eyes deceive me and I think I see her walking oddly but maybe I'm just so used to seeing her limping. Either way, she is doing very well. We did a favourite walk in the woods this week - in the past she used to walk behind me - now she is striding in front of me most of the way round. I know she has a bit of arthritis in her elbows so she might limp now and again but the initial signs are good. The next two weeks I need to build up her off lead playing and jumping in and out of the car. She will be going back to my lovely dog-walker, Gladys, at the end of the month when I start my job so I need to ensure she's fully fit by then. Mental note to give her some reiki this week.
I had friends round to my house on Thursday for a meal and a reiki swap. It was so good to practise my reiki on humans again as opposed to animals. I am still available to practise on any willing people who want to try reiki. Even when I go back to work, I'll only be working 3 days so will have time to dedicate to my studies, my volunteering and my reiki.
With a couple of trips to visit my mum (who is a bit poorly just now) that was my week. Get well soon, Mum!!!
7 weeks to go...
Tuesday, 7 February 2012
Week 31
Oh I do like driving my car...
Another busy week involving 4 sessions of exercise (get me? really going for it) - it helps that one of the instructors reminded us that February is regarded as Flabuary when most people give up their resolutions and their good intentions of keeping fit and eating well. I'm determined to avoid being another statistic...well, certainly up until the BIG DAY - which is only 8 weeks away. OMG.
So, I joined a book club this week (thanks to Shaz for hosting) where we discussed the book "One Day". I reckon book clubs are more girlie get-togethers involving wine than real serious book chat - though we did spend a good hour answering questions on the book. All in all, it was good fun - bring on the next one.
I spent Saturday in Edinburgh visiting my friend "Ray". We started off the evening with a bottle of champagne (has to be done) followed by a Thai meal and then onto vodka. A mini pub crawl in the Leith area finished off a great weekend. Just have to say Happy Birthday to Ray and Good Luck on the next adventure! And surprise, surprise - no hangover on Sunday...but a long, long train journey home...
A few other birthday mentions - it's a busy week for birthdays. Happy Birthday to Anna on her 30th! Happy Birthday too for Debbie and Katy!
And finally, great news - Skye has reached the end of her 2 month recuperation. The vet says I can start to increase her exercise though she is restricted to gentle walks and no vigorous play with other dogs. I still have to lift her down from the car but most other obstacles are ok. Here she is straight after her first 30 minute walk:
Another busy week involving 4 sessions of exercise (get me? really going for it) - it helps that one of the instructors reminded us that February is regarded as Flabuary when most people give up their resolutions and their good intentions of keeping fit and eating well. I'm determined to avoid being another statistic...well, certainly up until the BIG DAY - which is only 8 weeks away. OMG.
So, I joined a book club this week (thanks to Shaz for hosting) where we discussed the book "One Day". I reckon book clubs are more girlie get-togethers involving wine than real serious book chat - though we did spend a good hour answering questions on the book. All in all, it was good fun - bring on the next one.
I spent Saturday in Edinburgh visiting my friend "Ray". We started off the evening with a bottle of champagne (has to be done) followed by a Thai meal and then onto vodka. A mini pub crawl in the Leith area finished off a great weekend. Just have to say Happy Birthday to Ray and Good Luck on the next adventure! And surprise, surprise - no hangover on Sunday...but a long, long train journey home...
A few other birthday mentions - it's a busy week for birthdays. Happy Birthday to Anna on her 30th! Happy Birthday too for Debbie and Katy!
And finally, great news - Skye has reached the end of her 2 month recuperation. The vet says I can start to increase her exercise though she is restricted to gentle walks and no vigorous play with other dogs. I still have to lift her down from the car but most other obstacles are ok. Here she is straight after her first 30 minute walk:
8 weeks to go...
Monday, 30 January 2012
Week 30
Another productive week - at the end of which I have a job and a new car!
The job is still a little hush, hush (but most people who know me will be able to guess) so I'll tell you about the car saga.
Well, my little Punto proved to be a bad investment but I'm trying to see it as a positive impact on my life because it focused my attention on what was important. Without getting all deep and meaningful (I'll leave that for later on when I reflect on my mid-life-crisis), driving an unreliable car made me feel frustrated. I found that I chose not to drive to places because I wasn't sure if the car would make it - so it also had an impact on my social life. Everything came to a head when the engine kept over-heating...this came to light last week on my mission to the SSPCA - on the way home, the warning light came on. From this point onwards I decided that I HAD to get a reliable car if I was considering going back to work.
And this time, I wanted to take the plunge and get the most reliable car for country life - a diesel 4x4. So the hunt was on. My shortlist contained Honda, Toyota, Kia and Skoda. I am please to report that I test drove one of each rather than buying the first car I drove (lesson learnt from Punto experience). The Honda kept coming up on top. Toyota was a bit noisy, Kia was too high for Skye to jump into and the Skoda Octavia was too long and too rare. Having chosen a Honda - the hunt was on for the right car at the right price. After a bad experience at Arnold Clark (talk about slimy car-sales-man) my choices were limited. A general rule for buying cars in the North East of Scotland is to go south for cheaper cars so I found 3 Hondas in Edinburgh to test drive. It all happened so quickly...
Thursday - up early, pack an overnight bag (just in case) drive to mum's to drop Skye, top up Punto coolant, drive to nearest train station, get train to Edinburgh, on train text my good friend to line up crash pad if car sale came off. My first stop in Edinburgh was purely determined by the fact that one garage offered to collect me from the station. My train arrived at lunchtime and after a smooth drive and umpteen negotiations - 4 hours later I did the deal. The clincher was that they would fast track the car through the MOT and service and would allow me to drive the car home the very next day. Result.
Luckily, my friend, Ray, put me up for the night and we enjoyed an impromptu girls night in with a bottle of pink Prosecco and Cadbury's cream eggs. Ray literally lives round the corner from the garage so it worked out quite well. I spent the Friday morning watching Andy Murray get beat in the Australian Open semi-finals before the garage called to say my car was ready. Woo hoo.
A smooth drive home (with a stop at mum's to pick up Skye) got me back home just in time for a quick turnaround to join my friends for a pre-arranged meal. The food was absolutely fabulous so I need to give a bit of publicity to Cafe Boheme.
Saturday was another busy day because I had abandoned my little in Punto at the train station so I had the tense situation of driving it to my dad's for a safety check. What a difference driving the Honda v's the Fiat. Fortunately my dad has agreed to try and sell the Punto for me - my saviour.
The end of the busy week was a sad one because I said goodbye to the Guide Dogs that I've been working with for the last 6 months. They are amazing dogs and I've learnt so much from the people who work there.
One of the guide dog activities involves stimulating the dog's mind with interactive games. I was impressed at how quickly the dogs grasped the concept of hidden treats and sliding hatches...so I thought Skye would enjoy them too. Skye's boredom intensified due to lack of walking and playing (I was scared of over-stretching her legs if she played hide and seek in the house)...so I invested in a couple of interactive games for Skye and she loves them.
And to end on a high note another bonus for Skye:
Skyebird and Dougal - get ready to hit Europe!!!
9 weeks to go...
The job is still a little hush, hush (but most people who know me will be able to guess) so I'll tell you about the car saga.
Well, my little Punto proved to be a bad investment but I'm trying to see it as a positive impact on my life because it focused my attention on what was important. Without getting all deep and meaningful (I'll leave that for later on when I reflect on my mid-life-crisis), driving an unreliable car made me feel frustrated. I found that I chose not to drive to places because I wasn't sure if the car would make it - so it also had an impact on my social life. Everything came to a head when the engine kept over-heating...this came to light last week on my mission to the SSPCA - on the way home, the warning light came on. From this point onwards I decided that I HAD to get a reliable car if I was considering going back to work.
And this time, I wanted to take the plunge and get the most reliable car for country life - a diesel 4x4. So the hunt was on. My shortlist contained Honda, Toyota, Kia and Skoda. I am please to report that I test drove one of each rather than buying the first car I drove (lesson learnt from Punto experience). The Honda kept coming up on top. Toyota was a bit noisy, Kia was too high for Skye to jump into and the Skoda Octavia was too long and too rare. Having chosen a Honda - the hunt was on for the right car at the right price. After a bad experience at Arnold Clark (talk about slimy car-sales-man) my choices were limited. A general rule for buying cars in the North East of Scotland is to go south for cheaper cars so I found 3 Hondas in Edinburgh to test drive. It all happened so quickly...
Thursday - up early, pack an overnight bag (just in case) drive to mum's to drop Skye, top up Punto coolant, drive to nearest train station, get train to Edinburgh, on train text my good friend to line up crash pad if car sale came off. My first stop in Edinburgh was purely determined by the fact that one garage offered to collect me from the station. My train arrived at lunchtime and after a smooth drive and umpteen negotiations - 4 hours later I did the deal. The clincher was that they would fast track the car through the MOT and service and would allow me to drive the car home the very next day. Result.
Luckily, my friend, Ray, put me up for the night and we enjoyed an impromptu girls night in with a bottle of pink Prosecco and Cadbury's cream eggs. Ray literally lives round the corner from the garage so it worked out quite well. I spent the Friday morning watching Andy Murray get beat in the Australian Open semi-finals before the garage called to say my car was ready. Woo hoo.
A smooth drive home (with a stop at mum's to pick up Skye) got me back home just in time for a quick turnaround to join my friends for a pre-arranged meal. The food was absolutely fabulous so I need to give a bit of publicity to Cafe Boheme.
Saturday was another busy day because I had abandoned my little in Punto at the train station so I had the tense situation of driving it to my dad's for a safety check. What a difference driving the Honda v's the Fiat. Fortunately my dad has agreed to try and sell the Punto for me - my saviour.
The end of the busy week was a sad one because I said goodbye to the Guide Dogs that I've been working with for the last 6 months. They are amazing dogs and I've learnt so much from the people who work there.
One of the guide dog activities involves stimulating the dog's mind with interactive games. I was impressed at how quickly the dogs grasped the concept of hidden treats and sliding hatches...so I thought Skye would enjoy them too. Skye's boredom intensified due to lack of walking and playing (I was scared of over-stretching her legs if she played hide and seek in the house)...so I invested in a couple of interactive games for Skye and she loves them.
Skyebird and Dougal - get ready to hit Europe!!!
9 weeks to go...
Monday, 23 January 2012
Week 29
Mega week!I'm pleased to tell you that Module 2 of my Dog Behaviour Diploma has been submitted. It was quite an interesting module - talking about the genetics of dogs and their instinctive behaviour - I now regard Skye's sniffing habits with a whole new level of respect - she has to interpret so much information with her nose!
As the week continued, I made a whole load of progress on my "to-do" list:
What a week...I feel totally energised.
I celebrated my achievements (any excuse) with a night out with the "yoga girlies" on Friday. As I enjoyed the fabulous food on offer, I was totally unaware of the wine consumption and, as a result, I crossed that line...into the boozy world where all logic escapes us...we finished the night with a double baileys each and didn't even flinch when the barman asked for £24 for the 4 drinks - ouch indeed.
I know I got home safely (thanks to one of the girl's husband) but I did my usual routine: cup of tea and toast, switch on the tv, start watching my sky+ recording and fall asleep...2 hours later - down 2 glasses of water (and pray it's still going to avert the hangover) then crawl to bed and sleep for 3-4 hours. After those few hours of sleep I peered through my eye slits - checking that Skye was safely asleep next to me and tried to recount the number of drinks consumed. All of this wouldn't necessarily matter if I hadn't arranged to meet someone late afternoon on the Saturday. My usual hangovers last until 6pm. Oh crap!
So I lay still as I tried to calculate when it would be safe to drive: number of units of alcohol (14 or 15) v's number of hours since alcohol consumption began - oh my it takes a lot of brain power to figure these things out when you're not feeling 100%. I also tried a bit of reiki on myself, to keep the vomiting hangover at bay, but I kept nodding off. Finally I decided the best option to combat any feelings of illness was a kick of adrenalin. So, with my gorgeous Skye willing me to take her out, I jumped out of bed and threw on some clothes and ventured outside to give Skye her morning walk. I deliberately chose not to wear a hat so the freezing temperatures would cause an adrenalin surge to my brain and ensure any pending hangover would disappear. As I returned home, my efforts paid off and I felt ok...not great...but ok.
Any slight movement of the body resulted in my head catching up a few seconds later. I downed water and tried to concentrate on something (other than my feeble body) by switching on the TV. How bizarre to see something as "viewed" on your sky+ and have no recollection of it's contents.
After a cold shower (another attempt to get the adrenalin flowing), I felt more alive and managed to make it to my meeting. I got home early evening and only then did the real hangover kick in...then I crawled into bed and slept for 12+hours...bliss.
On Sunday I was working at the guide dogs. As usual, I dropped Skye at my mums and whilst there I had a bit of an accident (possibly a result of my over-indulgence on Friday). Muddy shoes off at the door, meant I was walking around in my socks. I was coming downstairs with phone in one hand and diary in the other when I slipped on the top step! The diary went flying. My clutch on my phone got tighter and, as a result, the only thing that would break my fall was my poor coccyx. I bumped down 5 steps before I finally stopped myself. OMG the pain. My mum's concerned shouts of "oh Julie" stopped the minute she saw me doubled up laughing hysterically. She joined in the hysterics - tears were streaming down my face - not sure due to pain or laughter.
Following this, I had to go and work with my beloved guide dogs - a great tonic to take your mind off any negative thoughts. After work, I came home did a bit of reiki on my coccyx and had a hot bath and remarkably the pain is easing today. I've just been for a swim which eased the pain too: pre-swim - I could hardly tie my shoes laces; post-swim - I could bend my knee right up to tie the laces.
On the positive side, is it possible that the pain in my coccyx is similar to the pain Skye feels every day with her lumbo-sacral disease? If so, it is reassuring that the pain is bearable except for a few twinges now and again.
10 weeks to go...
As the week continued, I made a whole load of progress on my "to-do" list:
- The job hunt started in earnest and I have to say it's looking quite positive but I can't say too much yet...
- I visited the SSPCA and spoke to the manager about moving up the "waiting list" for volunteering work.
- I found a handyman to quote me for all the outstanding house and garden projects!
- I started the car hunt and test drove 2 Honda CRVs (I finally learnt my lesson after the last car purchase - not to buy the first car I see!!!) - luckily my dad is getting involved in the search as I wholly appreciate his input.
- I booked flights to visit the family in Holland.
What a week...I feel totally energised.
I celebrated my achievements (any excuse) with a night out with the "yoga girlies" on Friday. As I enjoyed the fabulous food on offer, I was totally unaware of the wine consumption and, as a result, I crossed that line...into the boozy world where all logic escapes us...we finished the night with a double baileys each and didn't even flinch when the barman asked for £24 for the 4 drinks - ouch indeed.
I know I got home safely (thanks to one of the girl's husband) but I did my usual routine: cup of tea and toast, switch on the tv, start watching my sky+ recording and fall asleep...2 hours later - down 2 glasses of water (and pray it's still going to avert the hangover) then crawl to bed and sleep for 3-4 hours. After those few hours of sleep I peered through my eye slits - checking that Skye was safely asleep next to me and tried to recount the number of drinks consumed. All of this wouldn't necessarily matter if I hadn't arranged to meet someone late afternoon on the Saturday. My usual hangovers last until 6pm. Oh crap!
So I lay still as I tried to calculate when it would be safe to drive: number of units of alcohol (14 or 15) v's number of hours since alcohol consumption began - oh my it takes a lot of brain power to figure these things out when you're not feeling 100%. I also tried a bit of reiki on myself, to keep the vomiting hangover at bay, but I kept nodding off. Finally I decided the best option to combat any feelings of illness was a kick of adrenalin. So, with my gorgeous Skye willing me to take her out, I jumped out of bed and threw on some clothes and ventured outside to give Skye her morning walk. I deliberately chose not to wear a hat so the freezing temperatures would cause an adrenalin surge to my brain and ensure any pending hangover would disappear. As I returned home, my efforts paid off and I felt ok...not great...but ok.
Any slight movement of the body resulted in my head catching up a few seconds later. I downed water and tried to concentrate on something (other than my feeble body) by switching on the TV. How bizarre to see something as "viewed" on your sky+ and have no recollection of it's contents.
After a cold shower (another attempt to get the adrenalin flowing), I felt more alive and managed to make it to my meeting. I got home early evening and only then did the real hangover kick in...then I crawled into bed and slept for 12+hours...bliss.
On Sunday I was working at the guide dogs. As usual, I dropped Skye at my mums and whilst there I had a bit of an accident (possibly a result of my over-indulgence on Friday). Muddy shoes off at the door, meant I was walking around in my socks. I was coming downstairs with phone in one hand and diary in the other when I slipped on the top step! The diary went flying. My clutch on my phone got tighter and, as a result, the only thing that would break my fall was my poor coccyx. I bumped down 5 steps before I finally stopped myself. OMG the pain. My mum's concerned shouts of "oh Julie" stopped the minute she saw me doubled up laughing hysterically. She joined in the hysterics - tears were streaming down my face - not sure due to pain or laughter.
Following this, I had to go and work with my beloved guide dogs - a great tonic to take your mind off any negative thoughts. After work, I came home did a bit of reiki on my coccyx and had a hot bath and remarkably the pain is easing today. I've just been for a swim which eased the pain too: pre-swim - I could hardly tie my shoes laces; post-swim - I could bend my knee right up to tie the laces.
On the positive side, is it possible that the pain in my coccyx is similar to the pain Skye feels every day with her lumbo-sacral disease? If so, it is reassuring that the pain is bearable except for a few twinges now and again.
10 weeks to go...
Monday, 16 January 2012
Week 28
pro·cras·ti·nate (v.intr.) :- To put off doing something, especially out of habitual carelessness or laziness.
I am the queen of procrastination but I feel I am building up to something big...next week is going to be awesome and I already have great news but I'm going to make you wait until next week's post to tell you about it...
My diploma module 2 is staring at me and the list of jobs I promised to do during my "time off" is still has long as my arm...
But this week has mostly been about fresh starts. I've been for a haircut and a facial and I've given Skye a well deserved bath - so I'm starting to feel the freshness of a new (and extraordinary year). I've also done a bit of research into my gorilla holiday so things are happening but at a slower rate.
Things ramp up next week, I promise...
I am the queen of procrastination but I feel I am building up to something big...next week is going to be awesome and I already have great news but I'm going to make you wait until next week's post to tell you about it...
My diploma module 2 is staring at me and the list of jobs I promised to do during my "time off" is still has long as my arm...
But this week has mostly been about fresh starts. I've been for a haircut and a facial and I've given Skye a well deserved bath - so I'm starting to feel the freshness of a new (and extraordinary year). I've also done a bit of research into my gorilla holiday so things are happening but at a slower rate.
Things ramp up next week, I promise...
Friday, 13 January 2012
Week 27
The peace and quiet is suffocating...
After the blissful festive period when my house was full of energy and laughter, it is now alarmingly quiet. It didn't help that I spent most of the week lazing about...so a new week starts and I'm raring to go.
After the blissful festive period when my house was full of energy and laughter, it is now alarmingly quiet. It didn't help that I spent most of the week lazing about...so a new week starts and I'm raring to go.
Monday, 2 January 2012
Week 26 - Happy New Year!
Why is it when you have all the time in the world to do something, you put off till the last minute?
Every year I have been organising and hosting a "Family Challenge". The last 2 years, I've been working full time and have managed to carry off a massive event starting with a treasure hunt and ending with a pub quiz. This year, I hadn't even planned the treasure hunt until Thursday and the Challenge was planned for Friday!!! I have had all the time in the world to come up with the quiz questions and again I left it till the last minute...
Regardless, it was still a good event even though the treasure hunt involved walking and my family got soaked to the skin! However the rest of the day went well...the Hague Hippos took an early lead but the Xtra Factors were only ever a few points away...they were catching up and it was neck and neck for a while until the quick fire rounds kicked in. The first was a "Who's line is it anyway" round and involved me and J reciting a famous line from a film and the first team to guess the film and actor got 2 points. Even though the films ranged from 1960's to cartoons to recent films the Xtra Factors didn't stand a chance against my brother who always claimed he was Barry Norman/Jonathon Ross/Claudia Winkleman depending of which era you watched the "Film Programme". Even when my brother retired to bed with "food and drink issues" the Hague Hippos won and took the trophy back to Holland with them.
Hogmanay was a quiet evening. I had drinks with my good friend Debbie and had a wonderful girlie chat, along with a few vodkas and home at a sensible time so as to do my first footing without a hangover. Does all that make me sound old? Well, it is the big year after all...40th birthday planning starts here and now....
Every year I have been organising and hosting a "Family Challenge". The last 2 years, I've been working full time and have managed to carry off a massive event starting with a treasure hunt and ending with a pub quiz. This year, I hadn't even planned the treasure hunt until Thursday and the Challenge was planned for Friday!!! I have had all the time in the world to come up with the quiz questions and again I left it till the last minute...
Regardless, it was still a good event even though the treasure hunt involved walking and my family got soaked to the skin! However the rest of the day went well...the Hague Hippos took an early lead but the Xtra Factors were only ever a few points away...they were catching up and it was neck and neck for a while until the quick fire rounds kicked in. The first was a "Who's line is it anyway" round and involved me and J reciting a famous line from a film and the first team to guess the film and actor got 2 points. Even though the films ranged from 1960's to cartoons to recent films the Xtra Factors didn't stand a chance against my brother who always claimed he was Barry Norman/Jonathon Ross/Claudia Winkleman depending of which era you watched the "Film Programme". Even when my brother retired to bed with "food and drink issues" the Hague Hippos won and took the trophy back to Holland with them.
Hogmanay was a quiet evening. I had drinks with my good friend Debbie and had a wonderful girlie chat, along with a few vodkas and home at a sensible time so as to do my first footing without a hangover. Does all that make me sound old? Well, it is the big year after all...40th birthday planning starts here and now....
Week 25 - w/e Christmas Day!
I've been so busy recently that I haven't posted for about 3 weeks so I'm trying to catch up now...
The week running up to Christmas was magical. Partly the anticipation of my family arriving from Holland and just the general excitement of this time of year!
It's was a busy week but I managed to escape the madness of the shops - my Sainsbury's food order was delivered on Tuesday and all my Christmas presents were ordered online too. I did venture into the city on Wednesday for a lunch date with an old work colleague and was surprised that it wasn't mobbed - has everyone done their shopping online?
On mad Friday I met up with some of my work colleagues for a few drinks - it was great to catch up with them. But I ducked out early mainly because I didn't want a hangover on Christmas eve and also to get home for Skyebird.
On Christmas Eve my family arrived from Holland. I had to put a poster up in my sun porch to make sure Santa knew that J was staying at my house. I think J was impressed.
The energy levels intensified with a 7 year old in the house and I can say it truly made my Christmas complete. We told J that he could not get up on Christmas morning before 7.30am (in an attempt to give the adults a chance to get a good sleep) but at 7.29am all 3 bedroom doors opened and all adults said to J "We've been up for ages waiting on you" - I think we were just as excited as him. First thing - check that the beer, banana cake and carrot had been eaten then we tiptoed into the living room and lo-and-behold a massive sack of presents were waiting for J.
So many gifts!
The meal had been meticulously planned over the whole day with lots of gaps between courses so we didn't end up feeling stuffed. Each person had a chance to cook or present something they baked earlier so it was a combined effort and I think it went really well. My brother cooked the main course and during the course, we were joined by some friends:
The week running up to Christmas was magical. Partly the anticipation of my family arriving from Holland and just the general excitement of this time of year!
It's was a busy week but I managed to escape the madness of the shops - my Sainsbury's food order was delivered on Tuesday and all my Christmas presents were ordered online too. I did venture into the city on Wednesday for a lunch date with an old work colleague and was surprised that it wasn't mobbed - has everyone done their shopping online?
On mad Friday I met up with some of my work colleagues for a few drinks - it was great to catch up with them. But I ducked out early mainly because I didn't want a hangover on Christmas eve and also to get home for Skyebird.
On Christmas Eve my family arrived from Holland. I had to put a poster up in my sun porch to make sure Santa knew that J was staying at my house. I think J was impressed.
The energy levels intensified with a 7 year old in the house and I can say it truly made my Christmas complete. We told J that he could not get up on Christmas morning before 7.30am (in an attempt to give the adults a chance to get a good sleep) but at 7.29am all 3 bedroom doors opened and all adults said to J "We've been up for ages waiting on you" - I think we were just as excited as him. First thing - check that the beer, banana cake and carrot had been eaten then we tiptoed into the living room and lo-and-behold a massive sack of presents were waiting for J.
So many gifts!
The meal had been meticulously planned over the whole day with lots of gaps between courses so we didn't end up feeling stuffed. Each person had a chance to cook or present something they baked earlier so it was a combined effort and I think it went really well. My brother cooked the main course and during the course, we were joined by some friends:
Who can beat a line up like that at Christmas time?
Week 24 - w/e 18th Dec
Well, I think I've cracked Skye's toilet issues. On a desperate day when she hadn't done anything at all (and I'd been out with her 5 or 6 times waiting patiently for her) I took drastic steps and let her off the lead and miraculously she circled there and then and did it. What a result. I swear she looked at me as if to say "what took you so long to get it?". Since then we have a little routine which involves surveillance of the area prior to letting Skye off lead so she can do what she has to then straight back to the house. It seems to work though she's still puzzled at the new routine.
She's been getting lots of reiki from me and we also had a visit from my animal healer, Bob, who has helped Skye enormously over the last few years. He was able to tell me which areas to concentrate on.
The week ended with a night out with the lovely yoga girls on Friday and a meal with friends on Saturday (I think I posted about the aromas in my kitchen when I was cooking on Saturday). It's been a week of indulgent food and I think it's going to continue through the rest of December...
The rest of the week has been Christmas planning. I am hosting Christmas this year and feel remarkably organised - presents wrapped and massive food order placed.
She's been getting lots of reiki from me and we also had a visit from my animal healer, Bob, who has helped Skye enormously over the last few years. He was able to tell me which areas to concentrate on.
The week ended with a night out with the lovely yoga girls on Friday and a meal with friends on Saturday (I think I posted about the aromas in my kitchen when I was cooking on Saturday). It's been a week of indulgent food and I think it's going to continue through the rest of December...
The rest of the week has been Christmas planning. I am hosting Christmas this year and feel remarkably organised - presents wrapped and massive food order placed.
Thursday, 15 December 2011
Week 23
Oops...with all the excitement of getting Skye home, I totally forgot to do my weekly update.
The major news, of course, was Skye's operation. Now that she's home it's actually been quite tough to adapt. Skye has a new lease of life and is desperate to get outside and run and jump but she is restricted to the house for a month and, even in the house, she is not allowed upstairs, on the sofa or on her look-out post in my sun porch. And on top of that, her food has been reduced by a third. The quizzing looks she's giving me are unreal. She's allowed out to do her business but she's quite fussy about where she goes and it's a battle of wills to get her to go. I try to stay calm. I've tried the encouragement route and the silent route and nothing works. If I persevere, I WILL manage to break her OCD over her toilet movements.
I had my mum up for dinner on Saturday night and I made quite a feast: a roast chicken and trimmings followed by Jamie Oliver's Apple Pepper Pot Cake which was truly delicious. You can probably tell that I am a huge Jamie fan and most of my favourite meals come from his recipes but I just love his enthusiasm for food.
The week has also been about Christmas planning. I put my tree up - and I'm so chuffed with it. I have a purple tree - I don't think my photos will do it justice but I promise you it looks great.
So the party season is upon us and I have my first Christmas party next week followed by a dinner party at my house with some friends. More cooking which I'm loving...
The major news, of course, was Skye's operation. Now that she's home it's actually been quite tough to adapt. Skye has a new lease of life and is desperate to get outside and run and jump but she is restricted to the house for a month and, even in the house, she is not allowed upstairs, on the sofa or on her look-out post in my sun porch. And on top of that, her food has been reduced by a third. The quizzing looks she's giving me are unreal. She's allowed out to do her business but she's quite fussy about where she goes and it's a battle of wills to get her to go. I try to stay calm. I've tried the encouragement route and the silent route and nothing works. If I persevere, I WILL manage to break her OCD over her toilet movements.
I had my mum up for dinner on Saturday night and I made quite a feast: a roast chicken and trimmings followed by Jamie Oliver's Apple Pepper Pot Cake which was truly delicious. You can probably tell that I am a huge Jamie fan and most of my favourite meals come from his recipes but I just love his enthusiasm for food.
The week has also been about Christmas planning. I put my tree up - and I'm so chuffed with it. I have a purple tree - I don't think my photos will do it justice but I promise you it looks great.
So the party season is upon us and I have my first Christmas party next week followed by a dinner party at my house with some friends. More cooking which I'm loving...
Tuesday, 6 December 2011
Week 22
The tension mounts. A new month brings new events. Skye had an appointment at the orthopaedic vet in Fife on 1st December and the outcome is that she will be getting an operation on her elbows on Wednesday - OMG - the worry....
I may have mentioned earlier that Skye has been limping on and off for a couple of years now. Since our road trip and the cold weather setting in, Skye has been getting slower and slower. It's painful to watch a healthy 8 year old dog walking like a teenage dog. My mind was made up in the summer that now is a good time to operate. The only problem was that the vet and I could not agree which leg Skye was limping on. I am adamant that she has problems on her left leg and we have the results of a CT scan (from 2 years ago) that show she has a fissure in her left leg. However the vet is certain that Skye is limping on her right leg. And you don't want to argue with a vet - they know what they're talking about.
So a compromise was reached: they will operate on Wednesday and remove the fissure in her left leg and ALSO use a scope to investigate the right leg. If something shows up, operate accordingly. So both legs will have keyhole surgery and Skye will likely be kept in till Friday. Thereafter she will be house-bound for the rest of December and then on restricted exercise for another month after that. Poor Skye. She will get lots of reiki to help her body heal quickly and I've arranged for my mum to come up at the weekend to give her TLC too.
The rest of the week was pretty busy...a night out with the girls on Friday to celebrate Debbie's birthday - Happy Birthday Debs! Then, following my work at the Guide Dogs on Sunday, I went to my dad's house for tea. Amazingly, for the first time EVER, my dad cooked for us - a succulent fillet steak cooked perfectly for me...thanks Dad (I had to mention this because my dad only ever reads my blog when he gets a mention).
Oh well, I'm a bit distracted just now so I'll leave it there for now...I just hope everything goes well tomorrow for my beautiful Skyebird.
I may have mentioned earlier that Skye has been limping on and off for a couple of years now. Since our road trip and the cold weather setting in, Skye has been getting slower and slower. It's painful to watch a healthy 8 year old dog walking like a teenage dog. My mind was made up in the summer that now is a good time to operate. The only problem was that the vet and I could not agree which leg Skye was limping on. I am adamant that she has problems on her left leg and we have the results of a CT scan (from 2 years ago) that show she has a fissure in her left leg. However the vet is certain that Skye is limping on her right leg. And you don't want to argue with a vet - they know what they're talking about.
So a compromise was reached: they will operate on Wednesday and remove the fissure in her left leg and ALSO use a scope to investigate the right leg. If something shows up, operate accordingly. So both legs will have keyhole surgery and Skye will likely be kept in till Friday. Thereafter she will be house-bound for the rest of December and then on restricted exercise for another month after that. Poor Skye. She will get lots of reiki to help her body heal quickly and I've arranged for my mum to come up at the weekend to give her TLC too.
The rest of the week was pretty busy...a night out with the girls on Friday to celebrate Debbie's birthday - Happy Birthday Debs! Then, following my work at the Guide Dogs on Sunday, I went to my dad's house for tea. Amazingly, for the first time EVER, my dad cooked for us - a succulent fillet steak cooked perfectly for me...thanks Dad (I had to mention this because my dad only ever reads my blog when he gets a mention).
Oh well, I'm a bit distracted just now so I'll leave it there for now...I just hope everything goes well tomorrow for my beautiful Skyebird.
Tuesday, 29 November 2011
Week 21 - Going Dutch
The week started with a bang or rather a whir. I was about to head off on my travels (first stop my mum's house to drop off Skye) and I heard a very strange whirring sound coming from my car. I have to admit, when I bought the car, I had a bad feeling about it. Everything in my gut said to walk away but my stubbornness and the fact that Dougal's tax was running out the following week meant that I was under pressure to buy something. And so it is that I found myself feeling nervous about the car and something goes wrong with it on my travelling day. The noise was enough to put me off driving it so I took it to my reliable garage and left it in their hands to fix the problem - oh the joys of buying a cheap car...a huge lesson learnt here.
But SuperMum to the rescue!!! My mum collected me and got me to the train station for the first leg of my journey. I was flying from Edinburgh on Wednesday evening so I took advantage of being in my favourite Scottish city and met up with a friend for lunch and a catch up then I booked myself in for an appointment at the Mole Clinic. I urge anyone who has fears about skin cancer to get their moles checked out. It's such a good service and only took about 30 mins for a professional to individually check every single mole on my body and give me the all clear. Being a redhead, and prone to burning in the sunshine, means that I'm a high risk category for skin cancer so it was a relief to get the all clear for now.
The flight to Amsterdam was uneventful and the transition to my brother's house was super efficient as only the Dutch can be. I had a lovely warm welcome from my family who collected me from the train station. I have to say the house is stunning - so homely and welcoming. All credit must go to my sis-in-law who has an eye for interior decoration. Here's the guest bedroom:
Our days were full but relaxing all the same. On the work/school days my SIL and I negotiated the Dutch trams and buses and enjoyed taking in the splendour of restaurants and cafes. There's a different vibe in Holland when it comes to eating out and I love it. People watching is a sport in it's own right and there is no shortage of "buzz" to add a little bit of spice to a latte and apple pie. Talking of which, we found a place called the Pancake Farm which had the most amazing cafe, play park and picnic area (for the warm sunny days). And to top it all, the Dutch are a dog friendly nation so they are welcome in most places and I was pleased to see dogs at the Pancake Farm. Skye's going to love it.
We went to see Born to be Wild at the IMAX theatre which was an emotional rollercoaster because it talks about the plight of Orang-utans and Elephants and the wonderful people who have set up centres to rehabilitate orphans. The sights are spectacular and the sound of Morgan Freeman's voice narrating the story makes it a must see!
At the weekend the four of us decided to take a cycle into the centre of town where I was meeting up with one of my Borneo friends (who lives an hour away) and we were taking J to see Happy Feet 2. Now, I have to tell you about my cycling experience. Firstly I would like to say that I normally embrace new things and would always urge people to immerse themselves in the local culture. I feel it's only right that visitors also do the same. So cycling was high up on my list of things to do in Holland. We were setting off on 3 bikes (one had a tag-along for J). Easy - all I had to do was follow the leader. Unfortunately I started off at the back of the convoy. I watched my brother wobble with J on the back and that made me wobbly. Plus the cars are so close. Plus there's so much to negotiate - cars coming from different directions, pedestrians, trams, buses and traffic lights specifically for bikes. So you can imagine my fear when we came to our first junction. Red lights. But there are so many lights, I'm not sure which one is for us. I see the ones directly in front of us turn green and SIL took off. Then a car from our left started to turn right...and my brother had to swerve to avoid him. Seeing this, I slowed to stop and my hesitation made the car edge further to the right then I realised if I let him go, all the other cars turning right would proceed and I would be stranded so I started cycling again and looked up and saw all the lights in front of me were now red!!! Holy Moley! My family were way ahead. So I just went for it and hoped that nothing would hit me. My heart was in my throat. And the tears pricked my eyeballs but I blinked them away and cycled as hard as I could to join my family who were completely oblivious to my trauma. At the next stopping point I asked to go in the middle so I had help either side of me. We made it and I had a gorgeous pasta lunch to calm the nerves and fill the tummy. The way home was more relaxed, possibly due to the reduced traffic, and I actually started to enjoy the feeling of wind in my hair. We've since dissected my cycle fears - I'm a control freak and I always prefer to know what I'm doing and where I'm going so, being in the hands of others, makes me more nervous. My solution? On my next trip, my brother is going to set me free with a bike and a map and I'm going to meet one of them at a cafe in the centre and find my own way there and back. This challenge also makes me nervous (probably moreso) but I'm in complete control and, as long as I study the map, I know I can do it safely...it might take me twice as long as everyone else but failure is not an option...so bring it on...
On Sunday we went to the NEMO Science Centre in Amsterdam where J got stuck into the science experiments and we all learnt something too.
In all, it was a fantastic holiday. A huge relief to see my family so happy and settled in a country that seems to "suit" them if you know what I mean.
My journey home involved trains, planes, buses more trains and my fabulous mum to drive me and Skye home. A dog's welcome home is unsurpassed.
But SuperMum to the rescue!!! My mum collected me and got me to the train station for the first leg of my journey. I was flying from Edinburgh on Wednesday evening so I took advantage of being in my favourite Scottish city and met up with a friend for lunch and a catch up then I booked myself in for an appointment at the Mole Clinic. I urge anyone who has fears about skin cancer to get their moles checked out. It's such a good service and only took about 30 mins for a professional to individually check every single mole on my body and give me the all clear. Being a redhead, and prone to burning in the sunshine, means that I'm a high risk category for skin cancer so it was a relief to get the all clear for now.
The flight to Amsterdam was uneventful and the transition to my brother's house was super efficient as only the Dutch can be. I had a lovely warm welcome from my family who collected me from the train station. I have to say the house is stunning - so homely and welcoming. All credit must go to my sis-in-law who has an eye for interior decoration. Here's the guest bedroom:
Our days were full but relaxing all the same. On the work/school days my SIL and I negotiated the Dutch trams and buses and enjoyed taking in the splendour of restaurants and cafes. There's a different vibe in Holland when it comes to eating out and I love it. People watching is a sport in it's own right and there is no shortage of "buzz" to add a little bit of spice to a latte and apple pie. Talking of which, we found a place called the Pancake Farm which had the most amazing cafe, play park and picnic area (for the warm sunny days). And to top it all, the Dutch are a dog friendly nation so they are welcome in most places and I was pleased to see dogs at the Pancake Farm. Skye's going to love it.
We went to see Born to be Wild at the IMAX theatre which was an emotional rollercoaster because it talks about the plight of Orang-utans and Elephants and the wonderful people who have set up centres to rehabilitate orphans. The sights are spectacular and the sound of Morgan Freeman's voice narrating the story makes it a must see!
At the weekend the four of us decided to take a cycle into the centre of town where I was meeting up with one of my Borneo friends (who lives an hour away) and we were taking J to see Happy Feet 2. Now, I have to tell you about my cycling experience. Firstly I would like to say that I normally embrace new things and would always urge people to immerse themselves in the local culture. I feel it's only right that visitors also do the same. So cycling was high up on my list of things to do in Holland. We were setting off on 3 bikes (one had a tag-along for J). Easy - all I had to do was follow the leader. Unfortunately I started off at the back of the convoy. I watched my brother wobble with J on the back and that made me wobbly. Plus the cars are so close. Plus there's so much to negotiate - cars coming from different directions, pedestrians, trams, buses and traffic lights specifically for bikes. So you can imagine my fear when we came to our first junction. Red lights. But there are so many lights, I'm not sure which one is for us. I see the ones directly in front of us turn green and SIL took off. Then a car from our left started to turn right...and my brother had to swerve to avoid him. Seeing this, I slowed to stop and my hesitation made the car edge further to the right then I realised if I let him go, all the other cars turning right would proceed and I would be stranded so I started cycling again and looked up and saw all the lights in front of me were now red!!! Holy Moley! My family were way ahead. So I just went for it and hoped that nothing would hit me. My heart was in my throat. And the tears pricked my eyeballs but I blinked them away and cycled as hard as I could to join my family who were completely oblivious to my trauma. At the next stopping point I asked to go in the middle so I had help either side of me. We made it and I had a gorgeous pasta lunch to calm the nerves and fill the tummy. The way home was more relaxed, possibly due to the reduced traffic, and I actually started to enjoy the feeling of wind in my hair. We've since dissected my cycle fears - I'm a control freak and I always prefer to know what I'm doing and where I'm going so, being in the hands of others, makes me more nervous. My solution? On my next trip, my brother is going to set me free with a bike and a map and I'm going to meet one of them at a cafe in the centre and find my own way there and back. This challenge also makes me nervous (probably moreso) but I'm in complete control and, as long as I study the map, I know I can do it safely...it might take me twice as long as everyone else but failure is not an option...so bring it on...
On Sunday we went to the NEMO Science Centre in Amsterdam where J got stuck into the science experiments and we all learnt something too.
In all, it was a fantastic holiday. A huge relief to see my family so happy and settled in a country that seems to "suit" them if you know what I mean.
My journey home involved trains, planes, buses more trains and my fabulous mum to drive me and Skye home. A dog's welcome home is unsurpassed.
Tuesday, 22 November 2011
Week 20
Look not from the mind but from the soul
For the life that is coming is already before us
Waiting to open up the world
Just look more closely
Find the eyes to see.
What a fantastic week. Lots of amazing things happened this week...
First of all, I got news today that I passed my first module of my diploma which was a huge relief. When you are studying from home, you have no one to compare answers with or chat to about the work so there's a bit of doubt when submitting answers - did I write enough/do I need to elaborate more/etc? So getting a pass was an added bonus to a truly great week.
On Wednesday I visited one of my oldest friends - in terms of length of friendship not age. "L" has recently moved to one of the most gorgeous parts of Scotland where she is undertaking a Sarah Beeny scale renovation of a mansion...or should I call it a castle? I never quite know but it certainly is grand in scale and beauty. L is a truly inspirational person as I watch her juggle workmen, 2 young children and 2 dogs whilst her husband works abroad. Often, when I spend quality time with a person, the repercussions reverberate for days afterwards. And each time this happens, I never get a chance to thank that person or at least acknowledge the impact they have on my life. Well, I'm trying to put this right by thanking L here and now for her words of wisdom. One of our deep and meaningful conversations touched on life's regrets...I proudly sat there and convinced L that I had none. Only later, when I was "going for it" in my body combat class, did it dawn on me that I do have one regret that I've kept locked away in my innermost soul for years. I don't want to go into the details but I am so thankful that it has surfaced now and I am forced to deal with it because it will undoubtedly help me in the next phase of "finding myself". I want to tell L that I appreciate our chats and you will never know how much they help me.
On reflection, it is poignant that certain friends pop into and out of our lives at exactly the time that we need them.
As if on cue, I went to visit another friend "M" the following day. M is one of the most spiritual people I know and she always knows the right thing to say. As if she read my mind (which was dealing with the issue of regret that I discovered yesterday) she offered me a foot spa which did a major detox of my whole system...the timing was perfect and helped me tie up a few lose ends in my head. M's message to me is:
Find your passion and you will find your path.
She also provided the quote at the top of this post which she got from the magical book Celestine Prophecy - a must read for all!
To bring closure to my spiritual week, I had a lovely session of power yoga on Thursday which gives me a chance to connect with the soul and then a refreshing swim on Friday which cleansed the soul. I cannot emphasise enough how this week's events were perfect timing in my life. To celebrate all of this coming together I had a lovely night out with the girls on Friday.
As if that wasn't enough, I also have a holiday to look forward to. This week, I'm off to Holland to visit my nephew, J. You can read about his adventures on my sister-in-law's blog: http://shortbreadandstroopwafels.blogspot.com/
Tuesday, 15 November 2011
Week 19
So after a week of wine, rich food and very little sleep, this week has been about redressing the balance. It's been exercise all week - body combat, yoga and back to swimming!
Practising my reiki has been another priority and I am grateful for my willing friends who continue to let me practice on them.
I've also completed the first module of my Dog Behaviour Diploma. I'd forgotten how difficult it is to read something then answer a question and try to put the facts into your own words. I also spent longer than I would have wished researching one question which asked for "the British writer who published the first dog breed book in 1800 which identified 15 breeds". Easy - straight to Google - except it wasn't that easy and it took hours of my time. Fingers crossed that I've passed this first module...
So a few strange things happened to me this week: Let me begin by asking you this: if you found yourself in the woods in the dark and you heard a strange sound, would you go and investigate? They do in the horror films. And strangely, so do I. I guess it depends on the sound but just the other day I heard a strange knocking sound in the woods and could not help myself but go and have a look (I felt safe with Skye but not entirely sure what she would do in an emergency). It turned out to be trees swaying in the wind and knocking into each other...
And another spooky situation...I was walking through a closed caravan park with a few static vans...the park is in complete darkness except for the moonlight and I heard a mobile phone ringing sound coming from one of the empty vans....
Spooky or what?
Practising my reiki has been another priority and I am grateful for my willing friends who continue to let me practice on them.
I've also completed the first module of my Dog Behaviour Diploma. I'd forgotten how difficult it is to read something then answer a question and try to put the facts into your own words. I also spent longer than I would have wished researching one question which asked for "the British writer who published the first dog breed book in 1800 which identified 15 breeds". Easy - straight to Google - except it wasn't that easy and it took hours of my time. Fingers crossed that I've passed this first module...
So a few strange things happened to me this week: Let me begin by asking you this: if you found yourself in the woods in the dark and you heard a strange sound, would you go and investigate? They do in the horror films. And strangely, so do I. I guess it depends on the sound but just the other day I heard a strange knocking sound in the woods and could not help myself but go and have a look (I felt safe with Skye but not entirely sure what she would do in an emergency). It turned out to be trees swaying in the wind and knocking into each other...
And another spooky situation...I was walking through a closed caravan park with a few static vans...the park is in complete darkness except for the moonlight and I heard a mobile phone ringing sound coming from one of the empty vans....
Spooky or what?
Friday, 11 November 2011
Week 18
November brings about a change. As I said in last week's post, I was feeling a bit down at the end of October...so I had to do something about it and I turned to my reiki master for help. I was feeling a little bit "lost" - perhaps at a cross-roads or a decision making point but I definitely didn't feel grounded. Trude Bacon is my reiki master and I had a session with her this week and I can tell you the change was dramatic. I told her about my feelings and that I needed to be grounded...well, when she worked on my feet, I actually felt like I had lead slippers on. I felt my feet were so grounded they were going to pull me off the table. As well as feeling rooted to the earth, I also felt a weight lifting. I cannot recommend Trude highly enough.
The rest of my week got better and better...I continued my reiki practice with friends on Wednesday night (they also cooked dinner for me so that was a bonus) and on Thursday my beautiful friend Sandy arrived from Switzerland. And, as an added bonus, my friends Pauline and Lizzie arrived from London on Friday for a "Borneo girls" reunion. It was Sandy's first time in Scotland and I was worried because on Thursday morning the wind was blowing a hoolie and the rain was torrential! But, as if my good fortune couldn't get any better, the skies cleared on Friday and the whole weekend was calm with the most stunning blue skies.
I had an absolutely awesome time with my gorgeous friends. Our routine was mainly eat, walk Skye, eat, walk Skye, drink wine, eat, sleep... Pauline and Lizzie left on Sunday and Sandy stayed an extra couple of days so I was able to show her some typical Scottish sights like a historic ruin, a beautiful sandy beach, bonfire night and our heather clad hills with customary "famous" grouse.
The rest of my week got better and better...I continued my reiki practice with friends on Wednesday night (they also cooked dinner for me so that was a bonus) and on Thursday my beautiful friend Sandy arrived from Switzerland. And, as an added bonus, my friends Pauline and Lizzie arrived from London on Friday for a "Borneo girls" reunion. It was Sandy's first time in Scotland and I was worried because on Thursday morning the wind was blowing a hoolie and the rain was torrential! But, as if my good fortune couldn't get any better, the skies cleared on Friday and the whole weekend was calm with the most stunning blue skies.
I had an absolutely awesome time with my gorgeous friends. Our routine was mainly eat, walk Skye, eat, walk Skye, drink wine, eat, sleep... Pauline and Lizzie left on Sunday and Sandy stayed an extra couple of days so I was able to show her some typical Scottish sights like a historic ruin, a beautiful sandy beach, bonfire night and our heather clad hills with customary "famous" grouse.
Week 17
Ok so I am late with my posts. I want to tell you that I have such a fun-packed, rollercoaster lifestyle that I had no time to do my blog...but that would be untrue. To be honest, I hit a wall - not literally. I found myself with lots of negativity and feeling quite down so I really didn't "feel" like doing my blog. But I turned it around and I'll tell you how in Week 18.
This week is the turning point: Summer officially ended and the clocks went back and the dark nights drew in...some people might blame the darkness for my lethargy but in all honesty, this is my absolute favourite time of year. With the most stunning autumn colours, it actually feels like walking under a tunnel of gold at times. I don't think my photos can do it justice but here's some of the better ones:
And of course, with the change in season brings stormy seas:
This week is the turning point: Summer officially ended and the clocks went back and the dark nights drew in...some people might blame the darkness for my lethargy but in all honesty, this is my absolute favourite time of year. With the most stunning autumn colours, it actually feels like walking under a tunnel of gold at times. I don't think my photos can do it justice but here's some of the better ones:
And of course, with the change in season brings stormy seas:
Thursday, 27 October 2011
Week 16
Happiness is only real when shared
Is it? I'm not totally convinced but it came from a film I watched recently called Into the Wild which I urge you to watch - a totally thought provoking film. A true story too which made it even more poignant.
It's been a strange week - it's almost as if I don't know what to do with myself now that the road trip is over and Dougal is off the road.
One thing worth noting - I'm back in the fast lane! I bought a car this week - a Fiat Punto! Not exactly the fastest car on the road but it means I'm back in the overtaking lane - somewhere that Dougal is unaccustomed to!
Other big news this week is that I have started a Dog Behaviour Diploma through the British College of Canine Studies. The first module is in which means study time...
And even bigger news...my nephew is back from Holland for a week's holiday. It's so wonderful to have his energy around - it is totally uplifting!
Monday, 17 October 2011
Week 15
First of all, Happy Birthday to Skye who is 8 today!!!
I'm just wondering if it's right to give Skye a bath on her birthday? She's got a juicy steak to look forward to tonight!
Not much to report this week. It's been a week of rest and relaxation as I get back into my reiki.
But I did have one major achievement this week - I bought myself a wee car - a Punto! I get it later this week.
And I did say that I would come to some decisions this week about an animal behaviour course. Well, I am doubtful about going back to Uni so I am looking into doing online courses through the COMPASS Education and Training website. My application should be in at the end of the week when I've worked out which course to do.
That's all for now folks!
I'm just wondering if it's right to give Skye a bath on her birthday? She's got a juicy steak to look forward to tonight!
Not much to report this week. It's been a week of rest and relaxation as I get back into my reiki.
But I did have one major achievement this week - I bought myself a wee car - a Punto! I get it later this week.
And I did say that I would come to some decisions this week about an animal behaviour course. Well, I am doubtful about going back to Uni so I am looking into doing online courses through the COMPASS Education and Training website. My application should be in at the end of the week when I've worked out which course to do.
That's all for now folks!
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