Sunday, 26th July.
Up early as Bobby and Arthur’s pal Walter coming to put plug in shed so that the buggy can be charged up. Bobby came up to look at it. Unfortunately he didn’t get the job he was after, but he has some other prospects lined up.
Pretty cold this morning, so put conservatory heater on and read the Sunday papers.A bit warmer now.
Saturday. 25th July.
Arthur along for a blether.Stuart and Lisa moved out of Stephen’s house to her granny's house, so they’re getting the house ready for a new tenant.
Helen and Al came with soup for me. They're off to Blairgowrie for weekend. She wrote out recipe for pasta sauce, so went up to shops to get ingredients but couldn't get courgette .Really enjoying my buggy. Went to see Jean later and she gave me courgette, also some pea pods from the garden.Margo phoned. She says Jonathan still playing the mouth organ. Keir is trying to play too. Managed to get jacket to match her dress for the wedding,
Friday,24th July.
John’s birthday today. Still missing him so much, but remembering the happy times we always had on his birthday, especially the last one, when we had such fun in the garden with all the family. He would have enjoyed supervising Bobby and Gavin erecting the shed.
They arrived early and Kay and the bairns came too of course. They enjoyed helping with fetching and carrying.Their main job was to organise all the packaging and put it in the bin. They especially enjoyed breaking up the polystyrene by jumping on it! Dick came to take me for my shopping and hairdressing and they loved that as he always makes such a fuss of them. While I was away Kay made sandwiches etc. They’re off to Scone palace tomorrow for another week’s camping. Hope the weather holds for them. Shed looks really good.
Thursday, 23rd July.
Bobby away for his interview at York. Keep thinking about him. Shed arrived from Tesco. Was at Port Seton to have eyebrows done, then Helen's for tea. Always enjoy Al's pasta dishes.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Sun and Rain
Wednesday, 22nd July 2009.
I'm looking out the window at the sun shining at the moment, yet not long ago the rain was coming down in sheets. The weather is so unpredictable, yet they say that's what makes the Scottish character- we're prepared for anything! Certainly wasn't prepared ffor lightning the other night. Chris and Rita here this afternoon, so had a good blether, but couldn't take my buggy out as too wet.
Yesterday Margo and the bairns here. Keir seemed to have grown a lot in a fortnight as, like Douglas he's nearly as tall as me now .It was lovely to see them after their holiday.They're going to a wedding where John is to be best man, so brought the dresses to show me.Wish I'd taken a photo, as they looked lovely.Margo is having a family photo taken, so i look forward to seeing that. Margo's dress is turquoise shading to purple and Ailie's is pale green with embroidery on the bodice. She is very excited as she's going to be wearing high heels.The boys are wearing kilts.
I had promised I'd take them to the Aroma for lunch, but it was so wet, Margo Ailie and Keir went down for "cairrie oots"while Jonathan and I set the table. They went into the baby shop, thought it was lovely.
After that the sun started shining again, so got the buggy out to show them and they had a high old time watching me, especially when I went along the back road and turned. They were all falling about laughing!
Arthur's pal, Walter was here fixing a plug outside to put inside the shed for the buggy. It's coming tomorrow and Bobby and Gavin and Bobby are putting it up on Friday. Bobby going for an interview for a job tomorrow. Hope he gets it.
I'm really enjoying going out in my buggy. I feel much more independent and I've met loads of people and stopped for a chat. Haven't ventured down the street yet, but may try at the weekend.Looking forward to going to the library. Reading "Ulverston" by Adam Thorpe at the moment. I'd forgotten how good it was! Kay gave me it years ago, but I'm enjoying it again. Reading some of the "Twilight" series too. They're for Ailie really, but thought I'd read them first to see what makes them so popular with teenagers.Going to read " the Great Gatsby" again too, as Jonathan is studying it for Higher and he was asking me about it.
May be going to the caravan at Blairgowrie with Helen next week. Kirsten was at the garden party at Buckingham Palace yesterday. Helen sent me a photo of her and Kenny. She looked fantastic!
I'm looking out the window at the sun shining at the moment, yet not long ago the rain was coming down in sheets. The weather is so unpredictable, yet they say that's what makes the Scottish character- we're prepared for anything! Certainly wasn't prepared ffor lightning the other night. Chris and Rita here this afternoon, so had a good blether, but couldn't take my buggy out as too wet.
Yesterday Margo and the bairns here. Keir seemed to have grown a lot in a fortnight as, like Douglas he's nearly as tall as me now .It was lovely to see them after their holiday.They're going to a wedding where John is to be best man, so brought the dresses to show me.Wish I'd taken a photo, as they looked lovely.Margo is having a family photo taken, so i look forward to seeing that. Margo's dress is turquoise shading to purple and Ailie's is pale green with embroidery on the bodice. She is very excited as she's going to be wearing high heels.The boys are wearing kilts.
I had promised I'd take them to the Aroma for lunch, but it was so wet, Margo Ailie and Keir went down for "cairrie oots"while Jonathan and I set the table. They went into the baby shop, thought it was lovely.
After that the sun started shining again, so got the buggy out to show them and they had a high old time watching me, especially when I went along the back road and turned. They were all falling about laughing!
Arthur's pal, Walter was here fixing a plug outside to put inside the shed for the buggy. It's coming tomorrow and Bobby and Gavin and Bobby are putting it up on Friday. Bobby going for an interview for a job tomorrow. Hope he gets it.
I'm really enjoying going out in my buggy. I feel much more independent and I've met loads of people and stopped for a chat. Haven't ventured down the street yet, but may try at the weekend.Looking forward to going to the library. Reading "Ulverston" by Adam Thorpe at the moment. I'd forgotten how good it was! Kay gave me it years ago, but I'm enjoying it again. Reading some of the "Twilight" series too. They're for Ailie really, but thought I'd read them first to see what makes them so popular with teenagers.Going to read " the Great Gatsby" again too, as Jonathan is studying it for Higher and he was asking me about it.
May be going to the caravan at Blairgowrie with Helen next week. Kirsten was at the garden party at Buckingham Palace yesterday. Helen sent me a photo of her and Kenny. She looked fantastic!
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Rae
Thursday,18th July.
Feeling sad today. At funeral of my dear friend and colleague Rae. We first met at university, then both ended up at Ross High. Rae wouldn’t want me to be sad as we had lots of laughs over the years.We used to call her “Rae’s a laugh” at school.
Sat up in my wee bower after tea listening to a blackbird singing its heart out and drinking in the smell of the honeysuckle and the climbing rose. Bobby came up to see how the widening of the new path is doing. It will be finished tomorrow.
Feeling sad today. At funeral of my dear friend and colleague Rae. We first met at university, then both ended up at Ross High. Rae wouldn’t want me to be sad as we had lots of laughs over the years.We used to call her “Rae’s a laugh” at school.
Sat up in my wee bower after tea listening to a blackbird singing its heart out and drinking in the smell of the honeysuckle and the climbing rose. Bobby came up to see how the widening of the new path is doing. It will be finished tomorrow.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Scooters
Sunday, 12th July
Kay and Gavin arrived. Been camping at Loch Lomond and had a great time. The boys thought it was very funny to see me on my scooters! Douglas seemd to have stretched when he was away and now to his delight, he is taller than me. It's not hard right enough as I'm not quite five feet. Robert brought me radishes he had grown in the garden so I had them with my salad for tea. Delicious. Going to phone him to tell him I enjoyed them.
Saturday, 11th July.
Bobby came up to walk round to Rita’s with me, though I told him I’d be fine. Stopped at Dick & Joyce’s, then Nettie Mack’s. Had lunch with Rita,then came back on my own and really enjoyed it Lovely morning of course and the gardens seem to be at their peak just now with the rowan trees heavy with berries just ready to turn red. After tea went up to top shops as I needed a few things and stopped for a chat to one or two people I know. Arthur phoned from Paxos. Coming home on Monday.Stephen was camping at Blair Atholl, then went to York.
Friday,10th July, 2009
Finally took the plunge and bought a scooter/buggy . Before it arrived Bobby came to to cut down the honeysuckle at the back gate as there is not much space to turn the corner. Then Stuart arrived to help him,then Stephen and finally Helen.Trying to decide where to keep it so thought best place was round the back of the conservatory. We’re going to look at little sheds for it at B&Q. Rita loaned me hers on Monday, so that I could practise and Helen walked beside me. I was fine- the only difficulty was turning in the front gate. Anyway Stephen and Helen went a wee walk with me on my own one so I was OK. It's great to be independent!
Stephen off to T in the park.
Kay and Gavin arrived. Been camping at Loch Lomond and had a great time. The boys thought it was very funny to see me on my scooters! Douglas seemd to have stretched when he was away and now to his delight, he is taller than me. It's not hard right enough as I'm not quite five feet. Robert brought me radishes he had grown in the garden so I had them with my salad for tea. Delicious. Going to phone him to tell him I enjoyed them.
Saturday, 11th July.
Bobby came up to walk round to Rita’s with me, though I told him I’d be fine. Stopped at Dick & Joyce’s, then Nettie Mack’s. Had lunch with Rita,then came back on my own and really enjoyed it Lovely morning of course and the gardens seem to be at their peak just now with the rowan trees heavy with berries just ready to turn red. After tea went up to top shops as I needed a few things and stopped for a chat to one or two people I know. Arthur phoned from Paxos. Coming home on Monday.Stephen was camping at Blair Atholl, then went to York.
Friday,10th July, 2009
Finally took the plunge and bought a scooter/buggy . Before it arrived Bobby came to to cut down the honeysuckle at the back gate as there is not much space to turn the corner. Then Stuart arrived to help him,then Stephen and finally Helen.Trying to decide where to keep it so thought best place was round the back of the conservatory. We’re going to look at little sheds for it at B&Q. Rita loaned me hers on Monday, so that I could practise and Helen walked beside me. I was fine- the only difficulty was turning in the front gate. Anyway Stephen and Helen went a wee walk with me on my own one so I was OK. It's great to be independent!
Stephen off to T in the park.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Wednesday, Ist July, 2009
"Hot July brings cooling showers
Apricots and gilly flowers."
Wish the cooling showers would hurry up! Don't mean that really, as it's good to have the sun.We see so little of it during the year.
Gas man back with new part, so working fine now. Bobby came up to put orange tip butterfly back on hut and move the hanging basket.. Brought loads of information about scooters for me, so hopefully Helen will take me to see them this week.
Heard thunder rumbling, so may not need to water garden tonight.
Tuesday, 31st June, 2009
Very humid again today. Think the heat makes my pains worse.Cooler indoors, but sat up in my "bower" with a cooling drink and the Scotsman.Text message from Stephen. He is camping at Blair Athol. I Remember we went there with the twins when they were in their early teens. Beautifui place. They loved paddling in the river and making friends with other children. One night we got dressed up and went to the theatre at Pitlochry to a concert. The open air theatre was great too, doing traditional Scottish music.
Stuart came along to put out re-cycling boxes for me, so had a nice chat with him.
"Hot July brings cooling showers
Apricots and gilly flowers."
Wish the cooling showers would hurry up! Don't mean that really, as it's good to have the sun.We see so little of it during the year.
Gas man back with new part, so working fine now. Bobby came up to put orange tip butterfly back on hut and move the hanging basket.. Brought loads of information about scooters for me, so hopefully Helen will take me to see them this week.
Heard thunder rumbling, so may not need to water garden tonight.
Tuesday, 31st June, 2009
Very humid again today. Think the heat makes my pains worse.Cooler indoors, but sat up in my "bower" with a cooling drink and the Scotsman.Text message from Stephen. He is camping at Blair Athol. I Remember we went there with the twins when they were in their early teens. Beautifui place. They loved paddling in the river and making friends with other children. One night we got dressed up and went to the theatre at Pitlochry to a concert. The open air theatre was great too, doing traditional Scottish music.
Stuart came along to put out re-cycling boxes for me, so had a nice chat with him.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Faulty Fire
Sunday 28th June, 2009.
Thought the house was going to go up in flames last night! Put on fire in living room as it had become rather chilly, then it wouldn't switch off! Annual maintenance had been done on Monday, so tried to phone, but couldn't get through. Knew Arthur was playing at wedding and Bobby was doing the taxis, but finally got in touch with Bobby and he came straight up. He couldn't manage it either at first, but finally it switched off. Margo phoned emergency number on Sunday, so man coming on Monday.
Didn't make church as I hardly slept. Lovely when Margo, Jonathan and Ailie arrived. Ailie was all dressed in yellow, even her nails painted to match!. She was desperate to go and see Sandra's dog Molly, so Jonathan chummed her. Bobby popped in to see if we'd managed to contact British Gas. Arthur and Catherine came in to see cheerio as they're off to Paxos in the early hours. Kay phoned later,telling me about Douglas's school concert. He was the compere and she said he was really funny. Like Uncle Bobby I think!
Thought the house was going to go up in flames last night! Put on fire in living room as it had become rather chilly, then it wouldn't switch off! Annual maintenance had been done on Monday, so tried to phone, but couldn't get through. Knew Arthur was playing at wedding and Bobby was doing the taxis, but finally got in touch with Bobby and he came straight up. He couldn't manage it either at first, but finally it switched off. Margo phoned emergency number on Sunday, so man coming on Monday.
Didn't make church as I hardly slept. Lovely when Margo, Jonathan and Ailie arrived. Ailie was all dressed in yellow, even her nails painted to match!. She was desperate to go and see Sandra's dog Molly, so Jonathan chummed her. Bobby popped in to see if we'd managed to contact British Gas. Arthur and Catherine came in to see cheerio as they're off to Paxos in the early hours. Kay phoned later,telling me about Douglas's school concert. He was the compere and she said he was really funny. Like Uncle Bobby I think!
Saturday, June 27, 2009
The Trades
27th June, 2009
The Trades holidays. Lots of people (including me) in the Pans still refer to the start of the school holidays as that. Funny too, even those who can choose any time during the summer to go away, still go the first two weeks, rain hail or shine.
I remember us going away to the caravan with just enough money to last us for the week, as John didn't get paid holidays then.We dug up all the vegetables from the garden, I'd saved up loads of tins,made lots of jam (fruit from the garden), the grannies gave the bairns loads of pocket money and we were off! Happy days!
Despite all the hype I still feel a bit sad about Michael Jackson.What a sweet child he was and his voice was lovely.
Helen came up and planted my hebes, so the garden is looking nice.
Jean and I are going out for tea tonight, so I'm off to review my wardrobe!!
The Trades holidays. Lots of people (including me) in the Pans still refer to the start of the school holidays as that. Funny too, even those who can choose any time during the summer to go away, still go the first two weeks, rain hail or shine.
I remember us going away to the caravan with just enough money to last us for the week, as John didn't get paid holidays then.We dug up all the vegetables from the garden, I'd saved up loads of tins,made lots of jam (fruit from the garden), the grannies gave the bairns loads of pocket money and we were off! Happy days!
Despite all the hype I still feel a bit sad about Michael Jackson.What a sweet child he was and his voice was lovely.
Helen came up and planted my hebes, so the garden is looking nice.
Jean and I are going out for tea tonight, so I'm off to review my wardrobe!!
Friday, June 26, 2009
Douglas and Granny
Friday. 26th June.
Sun struggling to come out today but still quite warm. Arthur had to get car fixed, so Dick took me for shopping, hairdresser etc. Joyce asked me to come for lunch, so said OK, though Chris coming about three.Good blether with Sharon then chatted with an old friend in store. Said how much she'd enjoyed Arthur singing at the senior citizen's concert during Gala week.He's playing at the Labour club tonight, then a wedding on Saturday with the band.Margo on the phone saying she'll pop in when she's down, but can't stay as the bairns have parties on.
Dick and Joyce took me to Thornton's coffee shop for lunch. It was lovely. Had a cheese and ham toastie - delicious. Back in plenty time for Chris.
Printed photos from Kay of Douglas in Gala, then watched Telly. Usual rubbishy soaps, but switched to BBC4 for programme about Mendelssohn and the Nazis which was excellent. Enjoyed The Pre-Raphaelites on Wednesday,followed by The Book Quiz which was all about poets and poetry. Good for me to use my brain a bit!
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Varied week
24th June, 2009.
At Jean Whitelaw's funeral on 19th and it was just as she had wished, a celebration of her long and happy life.
On Saturday, Jean and I went to the Aroma late afternoon and then to Alison's new shop, Carousel.It's lovely so I bought a couple of pressies for new babies I know.Arthur came to pick us up, then we watched a DVD of "Slumdog Millionaire" which Helen gave me for my birthday. At first we found it a bit disturbing with all the violence, but later found it fascinating and so cleverly done.The ending was lovely.
A mixed day on Sunday. At church. Lovely to see the wee ones from Sunday Club being presented with prizes. Afternoon, Bobby took me to cemetery to plant the summer bedding. Blue pansies and Pink begonias with cineraria for John and geraniums and cineraria for Geordie. Felt a bit down but cheered up when Kay arrived to take me the Town House in Haddington for the boys' music concert.Really enjoyed it-From the pre school tots to the seniors they were all excellent.The wee girls were all wearing pretty dresses and the boys were very smart with their colourful shirts. Very proud of Robert playing xylophone and recorder and Douglas playing his exam pieces on piano.I could see their teachers were very encouraging.
Monday, weather really warm. When I went to open back gate in the morning the air was heavy with the smell of honeysuckle -lovely! Helen phoned to to say that Kirsten was coming from town to pick me up and bring me down for lunch.Enjoyed that, then she was telling us all about the "Take That"concert she had been to the night before. Sounded fantastic! Later went to shops. Ended up staying for tea.
Wednesday, another scorcher, Rita phoned to say she was coming along on her scooter so that I can try it out, as I'm thinking of buying one. I'm never stuck for a lift, but it would make me more independent, though I don't think I would go very far. Anyway, got on fine, so going to look at them next week. Douglas phoned, very excited, to tell me he had passed his piano exam, with merit. So proud of him.
Thursday, 25th. Helen planted some pots for me before we went to "The Mallard" in Gullane to meet Nan and Jerry for lunch. They're great company and the lunch was delicious. Took them home to North Berwick, then had a wander up Gullane main street. Some beautiful shops but very expensive but went into Bethany shop where I bought four books (that's all I need!) On way home at Shona's shop in Port Seton to buy cards for silver wedding and golden wedding.
Watched telly while doing my knitting, then phoned Margo, who was away swimming. so enjoyed a long chat with Jonathan. It's great to be able to talk to him about what he's doing at school now that he's in S5 and doing HIghers. He's going to Paris with the school orchestra, so he's looking forward to that.
At Jean Whitelaw's funeral on 19th and it was just as she had wished, a celebration of her long and happy life.
On Saturday, Jean and I went to the Aroma late afternoon and then to Alison's new shop, Carousel.It's lovely so I bought a couple of pressies for new babies I know.Arthur came to pick us up, then we watched a DVD of "Slumdog Millionaire" which Helen gave me for my birthday. At first we found it a bit disturbing with all the violence, but later found it fascinating and so cleverly done.The ending was lovely.
A mixed day on Sunday. At church. Lovely to see the wee ones from Sunday Club being presented with prizes. Afternoon, Bobby took me to cemetery to plant the summer bedding. Blue pansies and Pink begonias with cineraria for John and geraniums and cineraria for Geordie. Felt a bit down but cheered up when Kay arrived to take me the Town House in Haddington for the boys' music concert.Really enjoyed it-From the pre school tots to the seniors they were all excellent.The wee girls were all wearing pretty dresses and the boys were very smart with their colourful shirts. Very proud of Robert playing xylophone and recorder and Douglas playing his exam pieces on piano.I could see their teachers were very encouraging.
Monday, weather really warm. When I went to open back gate in the morning the air was heavy with the smell of honeysuckle -lovely! Helen phoned to to say that Kirsten was coming from town to pick me up and bring me down for lunch.Enjoyed that, then she was telling us all about the "Take That"concert she had been to the night before. Sounded fantastic! Later went to shops. Ended up staying for tea.
Wednesday, another scorcher, Rita phoned to say she was coming along on her scooter so that I can try it out, as I'm thinking of buying one. I'm never stuck for a lift, but it would make me more independent, though I don't think I would go very far. Anyway, got on fine, so going to look at them next week. Douglas phoned, very excited, to tell me he had passed his piano exam, with merit. So proud of him.
Thursday, 25th. Helen planted some pots for me before we went to "The Mallard" in Gullane to meet Nan and Jerry for lunch. They're great company and the lunch was delicious. Took them home to North Berwick, then had a wander up Gullane main street. Some beautiful shops but very expensive but went into Bethany shop where I bought four books (that's all I need!) On way home at Shona's shop in Port Seton to buy cards for silver wedding and golden wedding.
Watched telly while doing my knitting, then phoned Margo, who was away swimming. so enjoyed a long chat with Jonathan. It's great to be able to talk to him about what he's doing at school now that he's in S5 and doing HIghers. He's going to Paris with the school orchestra, so he's looking forward to that.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
East Linton Gala
Thursday, 18th June.
Celebrated another birthday last weekend. Lots of cards and presents.Kay, Gavin and the boys arrived on Friday afternoon bringing flowers, books and goodies, including birthday cake! Robert was so excited, setting out the table in the garden. I really enjoyed all the fun, yet after they'd gone home I really felt very weepy, thinking about John. Maybe it was because I know how much he would have enjoyed all the fun too.
On Saturday was at East Linton gala to see Douglas in his role as consort. Just before we left the house, Helen picked up a towel in case it rained and we had to dry our seats. A good job too, as I think everyone on the platform had to borrow it! just as they were ready to have the ceremony, the heavens opened and the rain poured down. However, everyone went into the tea tent and it turned out to be a really happy day. The Queen was lovely, all the maids looked very sweet and Douglas looked really handsome in his kilt.
On Sunday Margo and Jonathan arrived, then Arthur. Jonathan enjoyed blethering to him about records etc. Later he was telling me all about being in 5th Year. I really enjoyed talking to him about about the texts he's going to be studying in English which include "The Crucible" and "The Great Gatsby" Went to the cemetery with flowers and tidied up the spring flowers.
Bobby took me to Strawberry Corner to buy new plants for Summer. He's going to put them in at the weekend. Still hasn't found another job yet, so doing the taxis in the meantime. At Afternoon Tea today and going to Jean Whitelaw's funeral tomorrow.
Celebrated another birthday last weekend. Lots of cards and presents.Kay, Gavin and the boys arrived on Friday afternoon bringing flowers, books and goodies, including birthday cake! Robert was so excited, setting out the table in the garden. I really enjoyed all the fun, yet after they'd gone home I really felt very weepy, thinking about John. Maybe it was because I know how much he would have enjoyed all the fun too.
On Saturday was at East Linton gala to see Douglas in his role as consort. Just before we left the house, Helen picked up a towel in case it rained and we had to dry our seats. A good job too, as I think everyone on the platform had to borrow it! just as they were ready to have the ceremony, the heavens opened and the rain poured down. However, everyone went into the tea tent and it turned out to be a really happy day. The Queen was lovely, all the maids looked very sweet and Douglas looked really handsome in his kilt.
On Sunday Margo and Jonathan arrived, then Arthur. Jonathan enjoyed blethering to him about records etc. Later he was telling me all about being in 5th Year. I really enjoyed talking to him about about the texts he's going to be studying in English which include "The Crucible" and "The Great Gatsby" Went to the cemetery with flowers and tidied up the spring flowers.
Bobby took me to Strawberry Corner to buy new plants for Summer. He's going to put them in at the weekend. Still hasn't found another job yet, so doing the taxis in the meantime. At Afternoon Tea today and going to Jean Whitelaw's funeral tomorrow.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Busy weekend
!7th May, 2009
Beautiful sunny morning. Started reading all the details of the furore at Westminster, but got fed up with it, so was glad when Margo, Jonathan and Aiie arrived. Ailie had brought her History project to show me and it was excellent. Jonathan had a look at my computer, which has been going a bit wonky, so it seems to be OK now.
Had a cup of tea, then we went to visit John.Margo had brought lovely cream roses, The pansies and sweet williams are still blooming so we'll wait a week or two before putting in summer bedding.
Text from Helen with a photo of the bride and groom.
16th May, 2009
At coffee morning in aid of Breast Cancer Moonwalk in Church Hall. Good to see so many young people there and lovely to see two new babies sound asleep in beautiful Silver Cross prams. I believe coach built prams are becoming popular again.
I remember how proud I was of mine.
Kay phoned to say she wouldn't manage to come up tomorrow . It was the school's summer fete today, so she was going back tomorrow to clear all the stuff away.Coming for lunch on Wednesday.
Rita invited me to a dinner in the Salvation Army hall at night, which I thoroughly enjoyed. It was to celebrate the 90th anniversary of the S.A. starting in the Pans. They had cooked all the meal themselves and decorated the hall etc. then there was a sing song.
All this gadding about enjoying myself is so exhausting!
Beautiful sunny morning. Started reading all the details of the furore at Westminster, but got fed up with it, so was glad when Margo, Jonathan and Aiie arrived. Ailie had brought her History project to show me and it was excellent. Jonathan had a look at my computer, which has been going a bit wonky, so it seems to be OK now.
Had a cup of tea, then we went to visit John.Margo had brought lovely cream roses, The pansies and sweet williams are still blooming so we'll wait a week or two before putting in summer bedding.
Text from Helen with a photo of the bride and groom.
16th May, 2009
At coffee morning in aid of Breast Cancer Moonwalk in Church Hall. Good to see so many young people there and lovely to see two new babies sound asleep in beautiful Silver Cross prams. I believe coach built prams are becoming popular again.
I remember how proud I was of mine.
Kay phoned to say she wouldn't manage to come up tomorrow . It was the school's summer fete today, so she was going back tomorrow to clear all the stuff away.Coming for lunch on Wednesday.
Rita invited me to a dinner in the Salvation Army hall at night, which I thoroughly enjoyed. It was to celebrate the 90th anniversary of the S.A. starting in the Pans. They had cooked all the meal themselves and decorated the hall etc. then there was a sing song.
All this gadding about enjoying myself is so exhausting!
Friday, May 15, 2009
Stephen's birthday
15th May 2009.
Last Saturday at Goth with Jean for our tea. Watched DVD of South Pacific when we came home, and we were so engrossed in it that we didn't realise it was nearly midnight! Sunday enjoyed being at Stephen's surprise 30th birthday party. One of the happiest days of our lives when he was born - our first grandchild. Saying that, we were happy at the birth of every one of them.
Monday 11th
"Ross High ladies" as we term ourselves, met at the Longniddry Inn for lunch, so had a good blether about everything under the sun, but what made it special was that Kate was able to come. She's been really ill with ovarian cancer but was full of fun as always. Sheila was telling us about her son Michael's "Schoolovision 2009" and I see there's a report on it in the EL NEWS today.
Tuesday,!2th.
Helen brought me some groceries.She's off to New York for Al's Nephew's wedding. It's in the conservatory in New York Central Park, so I'm looking forward to seeing the photos. I had a text from her today saying " At the Met" , so I sent one back saying 'watching Coronation Street!"
Wednesday, 13th
Lovely sunny day, though a bit cold.Gilbert was here first thing, to varnish the front door as it was very shabby, then he painted the hut, so everything is looking spick and span. He even varnished the butterflies.
Lovely to get a visit from Jan and Georgie, who had been at the park. They really cheered me up, as I had been feeling a bit down. Georgie is so cute and I enjoyed her singing. I'm looking forward to watching the sunflower they planted grow.
Rita came round in afternoon,. It was good hearing about her holiday at Dunblane Hydro. Reminded me of the happy times John and I spent at Crieff Hydro.
Thursday, 14th May.
Another sunny day. Jim, the gardener came,cut the grass etc and tidied up the edges. Going to come back another day to cut the hedge.
Friday, 15th May
What a contrast in the weather. Very wet and cold. Arthur took me to hairdresser,got some odds and ends. Had to hurry home as Catherine's mum having to go into hospital.
Last Saturday at Goth with Jean for our tea. Watched DVD of South Pacific when we came home, and we were so engrossed in it that we didn't realise it was nearly midnight! Sunday enjoyed being at Stephen's surprise 30th birthday party. One of the happiest days of our lives when he was born - our first grandchild. Saying that, we were happy at the birth of every one of them.
Monday 11th
"Ross High ladies" as we term ourselves, met at the Longniddry Inn for lunch, so had a good blether about everything under the sun, but what made it special was that Kate was able to come. She's been really ill with ovarian cancer but was full of fun as always. Sheila was telling us about her son Michael's "Schoolovision 2009" and I see there's a report on it in the EL NEWS today.
Tuesday,!2th.
Helen brought me some groceries.She's off to New York for Al's Nephew's wedding. It's in the conservatory in New York Central Park, so I'm looking forward to seeing the photos. I had a text from her today saying " At the Met" , so I sent one back saying 'watching Coronation Street!"
Wednesday, 13th
Lovely sunny day, though a bit cold.Gilbert was here first thing, to varnish the front door as it was very shabby, then he painted the hut, so everything is looking spick and span. He even varnished the butterflies.
Lovely to get a visit from Jan and Georgie, who had been at the park. They really cheered me up, as I had been feeling a bit down. Georgie is so cute and I enjoyed her singing. I'm looking forward to watching the sunflower they planted grow.
Rita came round in afternoon,. It was good hearing about her holiday at Dunblane Hydro. Reminded me of the happy times John and I spent at Crieff Hydro.
Thursday, 14th May.
Another sunny day. Jim, the gardener came,cut the grass etc and tidied up the edges. Going to come back another day to cut the hedge.
Friday, 15th May
What a contrast in the weather. Very wet and cold. Arthur took me to hairdresser,got some odds and ends. Had to hurry home as Catherine's mum having to go into hospital.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Celebrations
6th May, 2009.
This is getting really terrible.I'm just not managing to get into the habit of blogging again. Maybe it's because I don't have much to blog about!. Anyway here I go again. Was at my cousin, Agnes's 80th birthday party on 11th April at the Bruntsfield hotel (Very posh) and enjoyed it very much. She was a doctor and when we were both at Preston Lodge, I was always being told I should study hard like her and go to university, but I was too interested in other things then -boys mainly! Not John though, he came later and was worth waiting for.It was Helen's birthday too. Can't believe she's sixty five! We still call her "the bairn". Last week she was away with friends to Liverpool, doing the Beatles tour and had a great time. Next week she's off to New York for Al's nephew's wedding.The reception is in New York Central Park, so I'm dying to see the photos. I'll miss her when she's away, as she usually pops in two or three times a week. Dick and Joyce are London this week.Hope they got on all right as Dick's not been very well.
I'm feeling a bit better, now that I'm off the steroids thank goodness, but still not very great at walking. I'm very lucky, as I can always get lifts.
I was at Margo's on Easter Sunday and Ailie came to stay for two nights. It was great having her. We went to Sandra's on the Monday as she wanted to see Vincent, so we both enjoyed that too. Nice visit from Louise who had been at York and brought me a bag with" Betty's" on it from the cafe, a ceramic butterfly for the fridge and a Maggie o' Farell book "The Vanishing Act of Esme Lennox", which I thoroughly enjoyed.I was really taken by surprise with the ending!
Jonathan was here this weekend and It was great having him too. It was supposed to be a study weekend, as his Standard Grade exams start this week, but we only looked at a couple of English papers, but I could tell he will do well anyway. He did his Italian on Monday and has Music on Thursday and English on Friday. Bobby and Arthur here on Saturday sorting out stuff in the hut and Margo was looking for wood to make swords for Ailie for her Highland Dancing. Her Grandpa would have enjoyed making them,but her dad's going to have a bash.
Pleased to hear Carol Ann Duffy has been made made Poet Laureate. Very well deserved.
Monday night I watched a programme on BBC4 called "A poet's guide to Britain" which was mainly about Wordsworth's sonnet "Composed upon Wesrminster Bridge", which is one of my favourites. It was very well done. When I was at London last year, I wanted to stand on the bridge and say it but we couldn't get off the bus!
Yesterday, Kay and the boys came to take me out. We were going to go to Merryhatton, but decided to go to the cafe in Port Seton instead, where we had a lovely lunch,then went to Helen and Al's. She showed us her wedding outfit which is lovely and of course Al will be wearing his kilt.When we came up, Kay helped me to make soup and the boys watched a video of Laurel and Hardy. No matter how many times they watch it they fall about laughing every time! It's a treat to hear them.
Today, I pottered in the garden for a wee while, trimming clematis etc. but I can't do much.It was pleasant sitting in the fresh air though when the sun was out, so had my cup of tea alfresco.
Margo called in on her way to band practice. Gave me three lovely photos of Keir, which were taken by a specialist photographer at school.
Find Corrie quite intriguing at the moment. Wonder if Ken is going to be found out?
This is getting really terrible.I'm just not managing to get into the habit of blogging again. Maybe it's because I don't have much to blog about!. Anyway here I go again. Was at my cousin, Agnes's 80th birthday party on 11th April at the Bruntsfield hotel (Very posh) and enjoyed it very much. She was a doctor and when we were both at Preston Lodge, I was always being told I should study hard like her and go to university, but I was too interested in other things then -boys mainly! Not John though, he came later and was worth waiting for.It was Helen's birthday too. Can't believe she's sixty five! We still call her "the bairn". Last week she was away with friends to Liverpool, doing the Beatles tour and had a great time. Next week she's off to New York for Al's nephew's wedding.The reception is in New York Central Park, so I'm dying to see the photos. I'll miss her when she's away, as she usually pops in two or three times a week. Dick and Joyce are London this week.Hope they got on all right as Dick's not been very well.
I'm feeling a bit better, now that I'm off the steroids thank goodness, but still not very great at walking. I'm very lucky, as I can always get lifts.
I was at Margo's on Easter Sunday and Ailie came to stay for two nights. It was great having her. We went to Sandra's on the Monday as she wanted to see Vincent, so we both enjoyed that too. Nice visit from Louise who had been at York and brought me a bag with" Betty's" on it from the cafe, a ceramic butterfly for the fridge and a Maggie o' Farell book "The Vanishing Act of Esme Lennox", which I thoroughly enjoyed.I was really taken by surprise with the ending!
Jonathan was here this weekend and It was great having him too. It was supposed to be a study weekend, as his Standard Grade exams start this week, but we only looked at a couple of English papers, but I could tell he will do well anyway. He did his Italian on Monday and has Music on Thursday and English on Friday. Bobby and Arthur here on Saturday sorting out stuff in the hut and Margo was looking for wood to make swords for Ailie for her Highland Dancing. Her Grandpa would have enjoyed making them,but her dad's going to have a bash.
Pleased to hear Carol Ann Duffy has been made made Poet Laureate. Very well deserved.
Monday night I watched a programme on BBC4 called "A poet's guide to Britain" which was mainly about Wordsworth's sonnet "Composed upon Wesrminster Bridge", which is one of my favourites. It was very well done. When I was at London last year, I wanted to stand on the bridge and say it but we couldn't get off the bus!
Yesterday, Kay and the boys came to take me out. We were going to go to Merryhatton, but decided to go to the cafe in Port Seton instead, where we had a lovely lunch,then went to Helen and Al's. She showed us her wedding outfit which is lovely and of course Al will be wearing his kilt.When we came up, Kay helped me to make soup and the boys watched a video of Laurel and Hardy. No matter how many times they watch it they fall about laughing every time! It's a treat to hear them.
Today, I pottered in the garden for a wee while, trimming clematis etc. but I can't do much.It was pleasant sitting in the fresh air though when the sun was out, so had my cup of tea alfresco.
Margo called in on her way to band practice. Gave me three lovely photos of Keir, which were taken by a specialist photographer at school.
Find Corrie quite intriguing at the moment. Wonder if Ken is going to be found out?
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Dining Out
Sunday, 5th April
The rest of March was quite busy.Out for lunch a few times, first with my nephew from Ireland with Helen and Al. Then Kirsten took her Mum and I out for Mother's day. At Margo's for tea and at Helen's lots of times. Enjoyed a visit from Kathleen and Christine, both in English dept at Ross High. Christine is still working so she was giving us all the news of changes in education.
History Society meeting was really interesting as it was a talk and slides about "MAK Merry" pottery
http://www.eastlothianmuseums.org/exhibitions/tranent/objects/makmerry3.htm
Was at another daffodil tea in the Salvation Army hall, where there was more musical entertainment.
Lots of family comings and goings. Jonathan did really well in his prelims at Standard Grade,so then had to choose subjects for Higher. It's quite difficult for them at that age as they don't really know what they want to do career wise. The way things are at the moment, there's not much security in any job.
Bobby's job seems to be more secure now, but six months is a long time to be unemployed. He's still doing the taxis at the weekend though, so that's been a help.
Stuart's birthday was on the second. Can't believe he's twenty seven! I told him his grandpa was that age when we got married!. His brother Stephen will be thirty in May! Makes me feel ancient!
Arthur and Catherine are away to Lanzarote for a week, so the boys have been told to look after their grannies!
Delighted to get a phone call from Douglas telling me that he is going to be consort at East Linton gala. He is very excited and so am I. They were here yesterday and put up new fat balls on the apple trees for me and Kay sorted out my new keys and is having copies made.
The garden is so nice and fresh just now. I just love the spring colours of purple or blue contrasting with the yellow daffodils. The peacock butterflies have come back really early, plus a big fat bumble bee was buzzing about in the conservatory one day. Last year they were very small, so here's hoping they're going to thrive this summer.
Jean and I out go out often on a Saturday for lunch/tea so yesterday we decided to go to the Aroma, Catherine gave us a lift,but when we got there it was closed, so we went to the Goth instead. Lovely soup then fish and chips only £5.95!(oap special!)
Helen brought me Arnold Bennet's "Untold Stories" from the Book Festival so enjoyed reading that. Must order more of his from the library.
The rest of March was quite busy.Out for lunch a few times, first with my nephew from Ireland with Helen and Al. Then Kirsten took her Mum and I out for Mother's day. At Margo's for tea and at Helen's lots of times. Enjoyed a visit from Kathleen and Christine, both in English dept at Ross High. Christine is still working so she was giving us all the news of changes in education.
History Society meeting was really interesting as it was a talk and slides about "MAK Merry" pottery
http://www.eastlothianmuseums.org/exhibitions/tranent/objects/makmerry3.htm
Was at another daffodil tea in the Salvation Army hall, where there was more musical entertainment.
Lots of family comings and goings. Jonathan did really well in his prelims at Standard Grade,so then had to choose subjects for Higher. It's quite difficult for them at that age as they don't really know what they want to do career wise. The way things are at the moment, there's not much security in any job.
Bobby's job seems to be more secure now, but six months is a long time to be unemployed. He's still doing the taxis at the weekend though, so that's been a help.
Stuart's birthday was on the second. Can't believe he's twenty seven! I told him his grandpa was that age when we got married!. His brother Stephen will be thirty in May! Makes me feel ancient!
Arthur and Catherine are away to Lanzarote for a week, so the boys have been told to look after their grannies!
Delighted to get a phone call from Douglas telling me that he is going to be consort at East Linton gala. He is very excited and so am I. They were here yesterday and put up new fat balls on the apple trees for me and Kay sorted out my new keys and is having copies made.
The garden is so nice and fresh just now. I just love the spring colours of purple or blue contrasting with the yellow daffodils. The peacock butterflies have come back really early, plus a big fat bumble bee was buzzing about in the conservatory one day. Last year they were very small, so here's hoping they're going to thrive this summer.
Jean and I out go out often on a Saturday for lunch/tea so yesterday we decided to go to the Aroma, Catherine gave us a lift,but when we got there it was closed, so we went to the Goth instead. Lovely soup then fish and chips only £5.95!(oap special!)
Helen brought me Arnold Bennet's "Untold Stories" from the Book Festival so enjoyed reading that. Must order more of his from the library.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Raffles
Saturday,14th March.
So much for me keeping my blog up to date! Never mind, here I go again. Saturday. was at Rural coffee morning in Tranent with Rita. Enjoyed delicious home baking, won an Easter egg in the raffle,a collector's doll and a make up bag in the tombola. Stephen came up for us, so I gave him the Easter egg for Lara and gave the doll to Ailie.
Monday, had a visit from Irene Paulat whose husband Arno worked beside John and we were good friends. He died quite recently so we both felt a bit sad, but we remembered the good times too.Arno was a prisoner of war billeted in Gosford House when he met Irene. It was funny, my brother met his wife Katharina when he was stationed in Germany and she came over here to marry him in 1948.
Helen's off to the book Festival in Glasgow for two or three days.Wish I was able to go, but I'll hear all about it when she returns.
Enjoyed daffodil tea with Mussical Youth and Encore, Again won a raffle prize a box of chocolates this time.
I think I'll have to bring my blog right up to date as I'll never remember everything
So much for me keeping my blog up to date! Never mind, here I go again. Saturday. was at Rural coffee morning in Tranent with Rita. Enjoyed delicious home baking, won an Easter egg in the raffle,a collector's doll and a make up bag in the tombola. Stephen came up for us, so I gave him the Easter egg for Lara and gave the doll to Ailie.
Monday, had a visit from Irene Paulat whose husband Arno worked beside John and we were good friends. He died quite recently so we both felt a bit sad, but we remembered the good times too.Arno was a prisoner of war billeted in Gosford House when he met Irene. It was funny, my brother met his wife Katharina when he was stationed in Germany and she came over here to marry him in 1948.
Helen's off to the book Festival in Glasgow for two or three days.Wish I was able to go, but I'll hear all about it when she returns.
Enjoyed daffodil tea with Mussical Youth and Encore, Again won a raffle prize a box of chocolates this time.
I think I'll have to bring my blog right up to date as I'll never remember everything
Monday, March 9, 2009
Monday, 9th March 2009,
Back blogging at last! It was well before Christmas when I last blogged, so I can't remember every detail, but I enjoyed all the festivities, despite shedding a few tears when I was on my own, thinking of John. Christmas day was lovely with the whole family coming and going all morning, then a delicious Christmas meal at Catherine and Arthur's in the afternoon followed by a sing song. Margo's on Boxing day, New year's day at Kay's, at Helen's a lot and so on and so on. Another highlight was Chris and Jim's Golden Wedding at the Juniper Lea restaurant.At quite a few Burns evenings in January, mostly women only, with haggis etc and musical entertainment (not me though) so enjoyed that very much.
The band was playing at the Royal Musselburgh on Hogmanay, so Margo stayed the night. She also stayed two weeks ago and brought Keir, as his wee football team was playing at Pinkie School. It's the first time he stayed over and it was lovely to have him. He's a very tidy wee boy and folded up all his clothes, tidied his bed up etc. I'll have to have Douglas and Robert to stay next, maybe during the Easter holidays. Jonathan has stayed a few times of course. It's great discussing what he's doing in English.He did really well in his prelims for Standard Grade, so now he's to make his choices for Higher!
We were all saddened at the beginning of the year as Catherine Wilson, John's niece died after a long illness aged just 50, She lived in America, but we kept in touch by email.Her husband died just after John, so she came home to East Lothian in the last stages of her illness. She always came over at New Year and her brother used to bring her to our New Year party. Glad I was able to visit her before she died.
Didn't have my party this year, as I didn't feel up to it, but I may wait till my birthday and have it in the garden.At the moment, the garden is looking quite pretty as the grass is quite lush and there are clumps of golden and purple crocuses dotted about with pale blue hepatica in odd corners.
Highlight in February was an invitation to a retiral dinner in the Goth for the deputy head at Ross High. Sandra took me, so sat with her and Christine. Had a great time,loads of people there I knew, so some great laughs and reminiscences.
Back blogging at last! It was well before Christmas when I last blogged, so I can't remember every detail, but I enjoyed all the festivities, despite shedding a few tears when I was on my own, thinking of John. Christmas day was lovely with the whole family coming and going all morning, then a delicious Christmas meal at Catherine and Arthur's in the afternoon followed by a sing song. Margo's on Boxing day, New year's day at Kay's, at Helen's a lot and so on and so on. Another highlight was Chris and Jim's Golden Wedding at the Juniper Lea restaurant.At quite a few Burns evenings in January, mostly women only, with haggis etc and musical entertainment (not me though) so enjoyed that very much.
The band was playing at the Royal Musselburgh on Hogmanay, so Margo stayed the night. She also stayed two weeks ago and brought Keir, as his wee football team was playing at Pinkie School. It's the first time he stayed over and it was lovely to have him. He's a very tidy wee boy and folded up all his clothes, tidied his bed up etc. I'll have to have Douglas and Robert to stay next, maybe during the Easter holidays. Jonathan has stayed a few times of course. It's great discussing what he's doing in English.He did really well in his prelims for Standard Grade, so now he's to make his choices for Higher!
We were all saddened at the beginning of the year as Catherine Wilson, John's niece died after a long illness aged just 50, She lived in America, but we kept in touch by email.Her husband died just after John, so she came home to East Lothian in the last stages of her illness. She always came over at New Year and her brother used to bring her to our New Year party. Glad I was able to visit her before she died.
Didn't have my party this year, as I didn't feel up to it, but I may wait till my birthday and have it in the garden.At the moment, the garden is looking quite pretty as the grass is quite lush and there are clumps of golden and purple crocuses dotted about with pale blue hepatica in odd corners.
Highlight in February was an invitation to a retiral dinner in the Goth for the deputy head at Ross High. Sandra took me, so sat with her and Christine. Had a great time,loads of people there I knew, so some great laughs and reminiscences.
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