The New Year is Nearly Here...

Hello for the last time this year...

Just a quick note to wish you all a very pleasant, prosperous and lucky (could not think of another word beginning with 'p' that I wanted to use!) 2009.

I thought I would take a brief look at my 2008 and discuss plans for 2009.

As you are all aware, I began this year in Springs, South Africa. I can tell you that I had absolutely no idea that I would be where I am today, let alone be surviving and striving for a future!

The year began in a bad way. I was unable to continue with Masters in Psychology (because of my age - which I'm sure you have heard me harp on about....) Following this disappointing news, I applied for a job (which required four months of rigorous testing - which I passed) and at the last hurdle was turned down because of my skin colour and for being over-qualified (psychology degrees made me over-qualified for a job that does not even pertain to the field). I can however say that these failures (sorry Mum, 'let-downs') led to me being where I am today. After I was turned down for this job, I got in contact with a company who head-hunted (for want of a better word - yes, I know Dad, but sometimes it is best to be left in the dark...) me for Air Traffic Control in Maastricht, Holland. Within the space of a month I was in contact with a friend in Holland, arranged my accommodation, travelling and last visits.

By the end of April, I had said my goodbyes and had left for my life's journey to Amsterdam, Holland (all-expenses paid journey I might add... and not by my parents either!!!) I landed in Holland, scared and excited! Korneel met me at the airport (luckily, because had I had to make my own way somewhere I would have failed hopelessly!) and took me 'home'. That weekend I caught the train, to Maastricht, on my own for the very first time, stayed in a B&B on my own for the first time and went to my first real job interview (and as you may have noticed, I was unsuccessful at!) I caught the train back to Amsterdam, where I was to figure out plan C. The time away from home was to be brought to a HUGE reality-check when Peter-John was killed in a freak helicopter crash. I managed to survive (I don't know how I managed not to board the first plane home...)

Korneel helped me survive my first month away from home, and I was truly grateful to him for it. My second month away from home was to be had in England, with another set of truly great friends, Carl and Wendy. This was my BIG plan... move to England and get a job. Not that I knew what I was going to do, or where I was going to do it. I was just going to move to England and find a job... what a plan..........

I searched for two weeks before finding a temporary job with Bethany and Nick in Westcliff-on-sea, as their Au Pair. I had said to Bethany that I had a job interview in Sevenoaks in June. She had been so desperate that she hired me for a mere two weeks, drove me to my interview and then kept me on until my first client. The few weeks that I spent with them went by quickly. I grew to love them very much indeed, little did I know that I was going to be visiting them so frequently.

I got the job with Active Assistance. I had a weeks training and was sent out on my first job. In London (of all places to send a NEWLY qualified Personal Care Assistant!) The job had its ups and downs (as my first client had to be admitted to hospital involuntarily). I was quickly placed with another client in Kent. After this client, I decided that I needed a holiday, and so popped across to Wales to visit my Great Aunt Ivy, Martin and my Uncle Rhys. I had an absolutely fabulous weekend, and was made to feel so welcome. I was reminded just why blood is thicker than water! After the relaxing weekend, I had to go back to work, where I went to my worst client in Malvern Link. Although, I did manage to experience the 'nightlife' in Birmingham... After this assignment, I quickly moved far, far away, to my next client in Devon. I was so grateful to this client for making me feel at home (as it was the first client that had taken the time to make me feel like part of the family!) I was, however, very drained at this point and at an all-time-low, so I took a much-needed holiday.

I caught a plane across to Northern Ireland and visited family for two weeks. I had an absolute ball! I met family for the first time (grandfather, aunt, cousins... ) and made new friends too (Peter and Janet being two memorable ones!) My grandparents managed to cram in the whole of Northern Ireland in such a short space of time... I did not think it was possible!!!! The thing that stands out the most is that my gran decided that I should lose weight - her attempts at getting me to lose weight were the bits that have made my memories of the holiday brilliant! Unfortunately, my holiday had to come to an end, so I booked another client to return to...

I returned to England and headed for Hathersage (where I stayed in a Youth Hostel for one night before moving to my next client), Sheffield, Hertfordshire, Solihull (where I met Tony and Hilary, the most inspirational couple I have ever met!), Exminster and then York. I worked for a week in York, and then had a superb holiday there. It was just what I needed after the clients I had been to. After York, I headed back to my favourite client in Solihull. I have spent a whole month here, and am still absolutely LOVING their company (although, I could use the two weeks break I have coming up!)

Well, that is my year in a nutshell, with all the ups and downs!

As for 2009...

I have a job interview coming up in the first week... so with any luck my year will be off to a good start! After I get a job, I shall attempt getting my own flat (but time will tell as to when this will be!) I am not making any big plans for this year, as I think that baby steps are in order after the year that has just passed! I can say, though, that I am most proud of my courage to leave my comfort zone and head for the big 'unknown'. I would never have guessed I would be in this position, but I don't think I would have changed it for the world... as a great man once told me... 'It builds character, C.'

I couldn't agree more.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Flu again???!!!

Hello,

Can you believe Christmas 2008 has come and gone? It's crazy, where does the time go?

Well, a quick update on all that has happened these past few days...

I awoke on Christmas morning to find that I had an unwelcome present... flu... I stumbled out of bed, put a smile on my face and tried to enjoy the day ahead.
Hilary made bacon sandwiches and champagne for breakfast whilst I opened my presents (yes, I got presents!!!) I unwrapped three jumpers (one of which is pure cashmere...), a candle holder, some chocolates and various little goodies. I was really impressed.

After breakfast, we went to the hospital to see Tony. He appeared to be doing much better. We spent an hour with Tony and then went to the local pub to have our Christmas meal with the family. The meal was rather nice (although Hilary did not like it that much - it was served late, there were paper napkins and a paper table cloth and the service was a little slow - sounds like Africa to me!!!) By the time lunch was over, I was feeling rather dreadful, so Hilary went to the hospital alone, whilst her niece took me home to get changed and medicated!

We then went over to Hilary's other niece for post-Christmas lunch celebrations. Hilary met me there and we spent the rest of the evening drinking, eating chocolates and being merry (well, as merry as one can be with the flu!)

Boxing day arrived all too soon. I was still feeling achy from the flu. Hilary was out of bed roasting a turkey at 06h00. I got out of bed, got dressed and made a valiant attempt at looking happy and well around 10h00. Hilary went to the hospital whilst I had a bath and got dressed and upon her return, collected her dad. They came to the house to pick up the turkey and bits and bobs to take to Heather's (Hilary's sister). We arrived at Heathers place and began setting up for the post-Christmas dinner. We all sat down to dinner at around 16h00, where we had all the trimmings (again). It was a really nice meal and I had a strange sense of de ja vu!

After dinner, Hilary went to the hospital to see Tony. I stayed behind as I did not think spreading germs to hospital patients was a particularly good Christmas present. By the time Hilary arrived back, everyone was feeling a little peckish. We made snack baskets for the table, so that people could just help themselves as and when they pleased. The last part of the evening (nearing on midnight) saw us playing card games - which I was pretty good at! (If I say so myself!) But, by the time we got home, I was absolutely shattered.

Saturday and Sunday went by in a blur. I spent both days in bed. The aches from the flu were still running riot so I faded between consciousness and deep sleep for both days. Luckily (or unluckily) Hilary had come down with the flu too (she had been having the symptoms for the best part of a week before I got sick - so I can blame her for my illness) so she spent the two days in bed as well.

Today I am feeling 80%, Hilary is feeling 20% and together we feel 100%.

What a way to start the new year, huh?

Can you believe it is christmas already?

Good evening to everyone!

I have decided to write you a quick update, covering only the good stuff!

As you are, no doubt, aware, I am still in Solihull doing very regular trips to Heartlands Hospital.

I have had some very interesting times at the hospital this month (whilst I realise it can be rather sad for the people involved, you must understand that I am an outsider with relatively little to do!)

I have sat at the hospital every day for the last month, making sure that Tony receives the care he needs, the care he deserves. In this time, I have felt some sadness, some happiness, some anger and some love. I have seen a very confused man who hated the idea of wearing a night gown (which meant that I knew him more than I cared to!) I have seen a man survive a surgery which he was not supposed to. I have heard the sirens from the 999 call that an alzheimers patient dialed from her bedside phone. I have watched as the nursing staff fumble their way around the ward. I have felt the kindness, the caring and the warm consideration the staff show for their patients. I have seen the love one human can have for another. I have witnessed the raw grief a family has after their loved one dies. I have understood the apprehension felt by a man released from hospital after a three month stay. I have been surprised at the human spirit, the want to live, the need to survive.

The hospital has brought with it many ups and downs for both Hilary and Tony. I have spent many nights sitting, holding Hilary as she has wept, just as I have spent the days consoling Tony. Although we have spent some hard times together, Hilary and I have had many good times too (in between the copious hospital visits and crying sessions). We have sat and spoken until the early hours of the morning. We have gone out to breakfast together and visited many many friends and places. Hilary has cared for me in a way I thought only my mother could. She has made me feel so at home (perhaps even more so... she phones to check that I have eaten lunch, and then gets home and cooks me dinner [even though she is the one who is exhausted!]). She has cared for my every need (if I am cold, she has run a bath. If I am sad she says the right things. If I am missing home, she makes me phone). She has looked after me as though I am her daughter (just as she has reprimanded me for going out with wet hair!) She has made sure that I am comfortable (she even got me slippers and a gown so that I did not have to get dressed in the colder bathroom). I don't know how she can be such a giving, caring individual when so much has gone wrong for her. I just hope that I learn from her and become half the woman she is.

As you are aware, tomorrow is Christmas day. Hilary has made sure that I have presents under the tree (she has even ordered me some snow from Santa!!!!). Her friends have spared a thought and sent me Christmas cards (I felt so very special). Her family have included me in their celebrations. I am so grateful to them all. Tonight we are going to deliver some Christmas presents (and perhaps attend midnight mass!) and have some pre-christmas celebrations. Tomorrow we shall wake up, open presents and eat a large cooked breakfast. We will then visit Tony in hospital, followed by eating Christmas lunch/dinner with the family, another visit to the hospital and then back to see family. Boxing day should see us visiting some more family (between visits to the hospital) and then having a Christmas dinner at home with just the two of us (yes, another whole xmas dinner!)

I don't think that I could ever repay Hilary for all her kindness, for all her love, I just hope that what I do have to give, my friendship, will suffice.

And now, a word to you all...

I truly hope that Christmas reminds you of everything you have to be grateful for. I hope that it reminds you of all the good things that have happened in your life this year and all the happy moments and memories you have made.

Thank you for reading my blog (even if it is just because you are nosey!)

All that is left for me to do now is to wish you a VERY Merry Christmas. May your celebrations be heartfelt, wonderful and truly memorable.

Stay safe,
All my Love
C@~

And on and on it goes!

Hi again (I know, I know, I am really outdoing myself!)

 

Well the weekend has passed in quite a flash!

 

I was able to sleep in on Saturday morning (and thus by default was unable to sleep past 09h00!) I spent the morning watching television in bed, followed by the afternoon shopping!!!! Is was a rather nice day (albeit a freezing cold day!) out.  Saturday evening Hilary and I came through to see Tony, made him comfortable and then went home for dinner.

 

Sunday arrived with a phone call from the hospital. Tony was in a bit of a panic (medication induced hallucinations) which meant Hilary was also in quite a state! We sat on her bed with tea, whilst she cried.  10h00 arrived and we were collected by Hilary's good friends and taken out to the german Christmas Market in Birmingham!  It was really nice.  We had a walk around the market looking at all the Christmas goods with brief breaks at the german sausauge stand, the german chocolates stand, the coffee stand and the roasted chestnut stand (and what would  

a break be without testing the wares???). Well after the market, we headed to the Birmingham art museum for a nice pot of tea in the warmth, beauty and glory of the museum.  It was rather nice.

 

We left for home, popping in at the symphony hall and conference centre it was a really good day out. We got home, had tea, and watched television until it was time to go and see tony at the hospital. 

 

The following weeks saw me visit Tony in hospital in the morning (until about 15h00) and then going home, after which, Hilary would go to the hospital for the 18h00-20h00 visiting hours.  The weeks go by very slowly, but very quickly (if you get what I mean??)

 

This last weekend saw the same routine play out - Saturday and Sunday, I get up late and then go to the hospital for night time visiting hours with Hilary.  Saturday after the hospital, Hilary and I went out to dinner at a friends place (but were really exhausted when we got back).  Sunday seemed to go down without a hitch... until about 23h00 when we got a phone call from the hospital asking Hilary to please come in to help calm Tony down... seems he is still suffering from hallucinations...

 

So...

 

Nothing changes.

 

I wonder what is going to happen this week...  

Solihull begins...

Hello again!

I got up at 07h00, showered, dressed had breakfast and caught the
number two bus to the train station at 08h10. I boarded my train at
08h44 to Birmingham New Street. At 11h30 it arrived and I changed
stations to Birmingham Moor Street (which was horrible because I had
to walk between stations with two REALLY HEAVY bags). But, I managed
it (it was that or leave my bags behind...) I then boarded another
train to Solihull, where I was to find myself at exactly 12h11. I
phoned Hilary to come and collect me from the station (when she
arrived, the previous PA handed over and left to catch her train!)

I got back to the house and was filled in on all the problems that
Tony is facing.

Unfortunately, Tony is back in hospital. He had an ulcer just outside
his stomach, on entry to his intestines (where there were loads of
blood vessels). This meant that there were a lot of complications to
the surgery. Tony will most likely be in hospital for the next few
weeks (unless he makes a really quick recovery, which is highly
unlikely...) I am reminded of the awful time when my grandfather went
into hospital (although I was unable to be there, I could feel the
pain of everyone around me, I could see the effect it had on everyone
and I knew how hard it was for everyone)

So, my job is a little more simple (and thus a little more boring!).
I get up at 07h00, catch a taxi to the hospital (to make sure that the
hospital staff do all the right things - as treating people with
spinal injuries is a specialised field and so the staff are not
trained on how to deal with it). I then sit around until about 14h00
(after the second rounds are conducted so that I can turn Tony before
I leave). I then phone the taxi to come and collect me and drop me
off at home. I then keep myself entertained for the rest of the day.
This might sound really easy, but let me tell you, it is rather dull
and for this reason makes me rather tired. It is a constant battle to
try and entertain myself (as anyone who knows me will tell you!)
Around 17h00, Hilary gets home from work exhausted, stressed,
emotional and just shattered. We have tea together and she talks.

It is so sad to see something so terrible happen to someone so nice.
I always amazes me just how much she cares for everyone else. She has
phoned me everyday to find out how I am coping and if I have had
lunch, she has made me dinner every night (even though I try to stop
her). She has made sure that I am quite comfortable (even taking
towels out for me and placing them on the radiator so they will heat
up before I shower) and she has told me that I will have the weekend
off to relax (as apparently I have been working too hard). I know
that everything happens for a reason, so I hope that this one will
pass quickly for her. I try to offer her emotional support, so we sit
and chat most nights, Hilary tells me that her husband is tetraplegic,
her sister has multiple sclerosis and her father is 97 with recurring
bowel cancer... She says: 'I must have done something really bad in
my last life...'

I listen...

What is wrong with me????

Hello to you all!

No doubt you remember me ending me last blog saying I was going to be
going out to the local pub and listening to a local band? Followed in
quick succession by: 'what can go wrong???'

You would think that by now I would know to keep my hand plastered to
my wooden head when I tempt fate (yes, Shaun, she visited!) turns out
that when you tempt fate she tends to take you up on it... I got
wrapped up and ready I go out, headed downstairs and out the front
door where I noticed that it was snowing, yes, you read correcty,
SNOWING!!!!!!!!!!!!! So I turned around and headed for the comfort and
warmth of the hostel!

Saturday night was this spent indoors, wrapped up, watching the x-
factor (not such a bad thing!!)

I woke up on Sunday morning giddy and excited and chuffed and eager
and cold! I hurried downstairs, scoffed my breakfast and headed out to
go and play in the snow (well, I say snow, but it was a rather
pathetic layer of icey slush that's only goal was to penetrate the
warmth of my shoes and soak my socks!) BUT never mind, it was
technically still snow!!!!!!

I headed for town where I wondered about, in and out of shops (looking
at all the local collectables). Once I was bored of that, I went for
a walk along the river, stopping once for tea and then heading for the
city walls (again) where I walked on the outskirts of York city
centre. By that stage, it was dark (and I had forgotten to go shopping
for dinner - all the shops were closed [Sunday sees all grocery stores
close at four] which meant I had to head back into the city for a meal
out!) I was looking for a place to grab some grub when I saw marks and
spencers was still open (so I treated myself to soup and baguette!)
I headed back to the hostel as I figured that my nose would look a
whole lot better once it had defrosted!

Once defrosted I went to my room to get my stuff for a shower. I was
collecting my stuff, and chatting to a new girl in the room (Anna, who
was starting her new job on Monday morning at the university). Halfway
through our conversation, another girl came in (Karen), I greeted
her. Turns out she is from Alberton!!! We got on like a house on
fire. I decided to skip the shower and head down to the bar for drinks
with her (yes, the hostel had a bar- but it was dead ALL THE TIME!!)

We were sat talking (and writing postcards) when we were joined by
another girl (Kat) from Norway. Before long, another guy came into the
bar, ordered a drink and sat studying (that will give you a good idea
of the atmosphere in the bar!) It was at this point that we decided
that we would do a bit of touring together the next day (all the bits
I had not yet done). Around 23h00 Karen went to shower. I was sat
finishing my parcel when the guy (the one sat studying) came over and
asked if he could join me (Kat stood up and went to bed). I smiled
and accepted. For the next few hours we sat talking. We were joined
by one of the hostel staff, once reception had closed.

It was early Monday morning when I fell into bed. I had to be up a few
hours later (but as you know, I am quite used to surviving on a few
hours sleep!). Around 07h00 I got up, showered, dressed and headed
down for breakfast. I met up with Karen and Chris (the guy in the
bar) and together we headed for town.

I posted my parcel and then went to the Minster (the cathedral). I
paid for my torture (otherwise known as the climb up the tower). The
tower is only open for five minutes every hour (because there are 275
steep steps to the top and because it is VERY narrow). Luckily Chris
and I were right at the back of the queue, so we did not have any
pressure to hike to the top). On entry to the tower we were asked if
we suffered from claustrophobia, asthma, or any heart problems and
then reminded that it was going to be very tough going (great!!! What
words of encouragement!!!). We reached the halfway point where we had
to cross over a narrow bridge to the other set of steps. As chris
crossed, he looked as though he had some magnetic attraction to the
railing (turns out he is scared of heights - as he suffers from
vertigo). He rushed to the other side whereas I took my time so I
could recover! The second half of the climb was by far the worst, as
the space to climb was cut in half and the steps were much steeper. I
found myself climbing up the tower sideways (wondering why I had done
this to myself!) when finally I heard chris tell that he was at the
top (now, you must remember that it is a spiral staircase, so I had no
idea how many turns he had taken ahead if me... I just kept hoping it
was around the corner!)
Finally, I reached the top, it was beautiful. We spent a good few
minutes taking photos and enjoying the scenery. But, before long it
was time to climb back down (isn't it funny how the climb down is so
much quicker and easier???)

We met Karen at the bottom and headed out for a tour of the city
Walls. We got on the wall and walked until we reached the other side
of York (where the wall comes to an abrupt end). We got off the wall
and headed for Betty's tea shop (quite a famous tea shop - where they
serve high tea!). We stood in the queue for about 20 minutes, eagerly
waching the people in the window (secretly hoping that our droole
would make them eat faster!) We eventually got a table (and as luck
would have it, it was in the window next to the queue outside!) and
browsed the menu. We ordered tea (as you do) and cake. They brought
the cake trolley around for us to choose from. It was ever so elegant.
We drank our tea and had our samples (teensy tiny cakes), took a
number of photos and then left!

After that experience, Karen wanted to do Jorvik (which Chris and I
had already done) so we walked her there and told her to call when she
was done. Whilst she was busy we went for a stroll along the river and
chatted. It was rather nice.

Before long, she was done, so we went and collected her and headed for
a pub. We had a round of pints (Yorkshire terriers) then another
(black sheep). We then decided that we should try another pub and so
headed toward the lamb and lion. We got inside, had another local brew
(ghost something or other) in front of the fire. Before we knew it,
chris had to leave for Sheffield and we had a ghost tour to catch.

Karen and I headed for the Minster (where the tour starts) at 19h30.
We met Kat outside and enjoyed a freezing cold night of ghost tales.
By the time the tour was done, we headed back to the hostel as we were
in desperate need of some dinner. We finally ate around 23h00. I had
had to change rooms in the hostel, so was now in the same room
(coincidentally) as Kat.

Tuesday morning arrived, I headed for my old room (where I had left
all my bags - as my new room was on the other side of the hostel
amongst a myriad of staircases). I got dressed, and took all my bags
to the B&B (Astley house) where I was staying last night. I then
headed back to the hostel to collect Karen for our day out!

We went into town to do some shopping, followed by some tea drinking!
She then went to the castle museum and the dungeon with Peta (an
Australian girl in the hostel), whilst I wondered the streets/
bookstores of York and went to buy my train ticket to Solihull for
tomorrow. Around 16h00, we met up outside the dungeon and went for
drinks. By this stage, there was another member (Darren) who met Karen
and Peta in the museum. We all went to a pub for dinner and drinks. I
managed to tick off the last thing on my list of things I wanted to do
in york (eat Yorkshire pudding!)

We all headed back towards the hostel. I said my goods byes and headed
for the comfort of Astley House.

I got inside, made some coffee, climbed into bed and watched telly. It
was really nice. I fell asleep and was dead to the world dreaming of
my next adventure...

Holiday in York

Hi,

Let me start by saying: York is an AMAZING place!

My holiday began the moment I put my suitcase in my room and made my bed. I zooted out of the hostel at a speed near to that of sound and into town. The walk into town is quite long (about 15-20 minutes), but once you are in the town, the world (well, york) is your oyster! Tuesday afternoon was spent in York Art gallery (where there was a special exhibit by Tracy Chevalier on 'A Thousand Words' - which was pretty cool. They allowed you to write comments on a wall by the pictures on what you think the painting depict/what the portraits are thinking etc. There was another special exhibit on, entitled 'Out of the Shadows' which showed the use of light and dark in pictures). After the museum, I walked around York a little and then headed back to the hostel for some dinner. I had just gotten dinner when Shaun phoned, so we spent a good part of the evening talking.

Wednesday arrived. I got up around 07h30, got dressed and went down to breakfast (which is included in the price). I was absolutely astounded by the buffet selection on offer. I had the choice between juice, stewed fruits, cheeses, meats, scrambled egg, sausages, baked beans, hash browns, toast, chocolate croissants, buns and cereal. This is all followed by a selection of tea, coffee and hot chocolate... it was a really nice start to a busy day. I went back upstairs to collect my belongings and headed out on the town. I started the day walking to the Minster for some photos, then to the cat gallery (which, as you may have guessed is a shop dedicated to cats!!!!!!!) I then went and waited for the two hour guided tour of York. The guide was a gentleman who was born and raised in York, who gave a very in depth, personal view of York and its changes. It was a VERY good tour. After the tour had ended, I went to the railway museum. The railway museum is the largest in the world (but it seemed surprisingly small). It was worth a visit, but I would suggest that anyone visiting gets the audio commentary to accompany it (otherwise it does not make as much of an impact as it would/should). By the time I had finished these two outings, it was dark (granted it gets dark around 16h00 here at the moment). I headed back for the warmth and comfort of the hostel. I got back to the hostel, hired a towel and went for a LONG hot shower.


Thursday arrived, I got out of bed around 08h00 and went for breakfast. After breakfast, I gathered my stuff and headed out for some more sight seeing.
I walked into town along the river Ouse. I got into town and did some general site-seeing. I started with the 10 acres of museum gardens (botanic gardens in the middle of York). It contains the remains of St Mary's Abbey (as well as its associated chapel and undercroft), the west corner of the roman fort, the multangular tower and parts of the roman walls. There is also the Anglian tower (which is not all that impressive). The garden now houses the Yorkshire Museum and its octagonal obseravtory. What I found most interesting was that Dame Judi Dench filmed her first movie in front of St Mary's Abbey (typically, I would find that interesting!!!!) After touring the museum gardens (and messing with the squirrels - of which there are thousands (well, you catch my drift!)) I went to the middle of the town, to the Shambles.

Apparently, the Shambles is Europes most visited street. I'm not 100% sure why, but I do know that for some strange reason I tend to end up in the street every time I take a wrong turn (so that's how they get it to be the most visited street in Europe!!!!) Well, the Shambles was once home to as many as 26 butchers. They would hang up their meat on hooks outside their shops and then get rid of all the innards (which they would only wash down the street twice a week) - which is why the street has pavements. The shambles is also well known because of the tilt of the buildings (which make the roof tops nearly touch each other) as well as the shrine to Margaret Clitherow (not her real home though - typically, the council bought the house and converted it into a shrine to her... her home was thought to be number 10 shambles (but no-one really knows)). Turns out she was found guilty of housing catholics and so was sentenced to be pressed between two slabs, and starved... (who needs hanging or fire when you have rocks???)

After visiting this 'lovely' place, I turned off the shambles and headed into newgate market. The market boasts 110 stalls within Europe's largest single pedestrianised area (the market is apparently the heart and soul of the city and offers a wide variety of dried goods, fruit, vegetables and well as meat and fish). So, york offers yet another large place (makes me wonder if they are compensating for something!!) At the market, I purchased a hat, some gloves and some socks (I just could not resist the socks.... um... I think I'm going to have to join the Socks Anonymous club!)

All the walking around had made me hungry, so I popped into pizza hut for some lunch (not very healthy, but it was warm and comforting!)

After lunch, I went to the shortest street in York, called Whip-ma-whop-ma-gate, which is 35 metres long (I think the name is longer than the street!). In Anglo-Saxan times, it was referred to as Whitnourwhatnourgate ('neither one thing, nor the other')... After that exhausting walk along the street I went for a walk along the city walls. I went to each of the enterances (Bootham bar, Monk Bar, Walmgate Bar and Mickelgate Bar) which was very interesting. After all this site-seeing, I went back to the hostel, stopping at the shops on the way to get something for dinner!

I made some tea and then went upstairs to watch some television. Once I was sufficiently tired, I went to the room to get ready for bed. It was there that I met Tracy. Tracy is a nurse from Hong Kong, who is visiting England for 13 days and is staying with her friend in London. Needless to say, we were both here alone and so decided to do the big sites together the following day.


I went down to reception and bought a York Pass (a card that allows you access to all the sites for free [you pay £23 for the card]). The guy at reception said jokingly that we were going to have a long day. I laughed and said that I planned to fit in most of the sites. He laughed and said that he did not think it was possible... I said I learned tourism from a pro and that we would speak again after the days' outing.... Then I went back upstairs and readied myself for bed. After lengthy discussions with Tracy, and many plans made, we went to bed.

Friday morning saw me up at 07h00, and eating breakfast around 08h00. Tracy and I left the hostel at 08h30 for our long day out. On the way out the door, the guy who sold us the passes wished us good luck, laughing...

Well, the first order of business was to walk along the river Ouse on the Dame Judi Dench walk to the York Boats (to see what time they depart), then up to the Minster. We got to the Minster just before it opened so that we could take some photos. After our photo session, we went into the minster. It is a gothic cathedral, and is the second largest in Northern England (Of course, Cologne cathedral is the biggest - so York was outdone there). It is the seat of the Archbishop of York (which is apparently the second highest office of the church of England - again outdone there). BUT, never fear, the cathedral has something that is the BIGGEST and BESTEST and BRIGHTEST and........ (I know that bestest is not a word...) Well, the Great East Window of the cathedral is the largest expanse of medieval stained glass in the world. The cathedral also has the five sisters window (each lancet is 16 metres high!!!!!!!!) and the famous rose window! So the cathedral was well worth a visit!
After the cathedral, we went to the museum gardens (yes, I had done them the previous day, but Tracy hadn't, so I took her on the very brief tour through there on our way to the york boats).

We got onto the York boat which took us upstream and then back downstream and dropped us off where we began. Along the way, we had the tour of the river and all the buildings along the rivers edge. It was rather fascinating. Apparently, in April 2000 the river flooded due to excessive rainfalls. The river rose a scary 5.4 metres (but the riverside houses were saved because York had had a flood earlier and had learned their lesson, so installed a flood wall along the front of each of the properties). However, a local pub (which has been flooded out no less than three times was not spared - turns out they didn't learn their lesson!) We sailed up to the millennium bridge (which is a walking/cycling bridge which joins each side of the river and promotes the healthy way instead of car travel!) The only downside to the boat was that it was FREEZING (that will teach me - a water cruise in winter time....) I turned to Tracy, who said she was also cold. She then handed me a sachet marked with tons of Chinese writing. She said that I must just rub the bag and it would start heating up. It did. It was fantastic. I warmed up a little bit (well, as much as a tiny little pouch can warm one up!) After the 45 minute cruise we went to the other side of York, to Cliffords Tower (Also known as York Castle).

We climbed up the several steps to get into the tower. It is apparently a 'quatrefoil plan' (which is like a four leafed clover - sounds rather impressive though, don't you think), and is rather unusual (they say that it is a copy of a french equivalent)... it has two levels (which means it has a spiral staircase - which i hate!) Now for the encyclopedic part: The tower was an experiment in improving flanking fire by reducing dead ground visible from the summit of the keep.

Enough of that... from the tower you could see most of York, it was really impressive and rather pretty. At the foot of the tower, they had set up an outdoor ice rink (I should have know then that summer was over!) We climbed back down the stairs (both spiral and the ones leading up to the tower) and headed across the way to the castle museum.

The castle museum is one of Britain's leading museums depicting everyday life. It has loads of rooms showing how people used to live, from household objects (like vacuum cleaners, irons, washing machines) to actual environments (kitchens, prisons, streets, shops, rooms). The museum is best known for its recreation of Kirkgate. The street has all the old fittings, lights, and atmosphere. It even has a REAL policeman patrolling the streets. Whilst we were there the street turned from day into night, it was really awesome. I peeped through a keyhole in one of the doors and got to spy on people in a shop (projected images from the Victorian era!) The museum has a special display on the sixties at the moment, which shows the fashion, the music and the everyday life (including listening in on phone calls between people!!!) this meant that i got to see a meccano set (I bet you are smiling now... ah, the memories!!!!!!! (and if you are my age, you are smiling and nodding!!))

After the castle museum, we went to Jorvik (what??!! I hear you ask). JORVIK.....It is a world famous viking centre (naturally!). Jorvik was Yorks' prior name. It is one of the most popular visitor attractions in the UK (outside London). It has had over 14 million visitors over the last 21 years. The centre reconstructs the viking-age streets as they would have been in AD975. It is rather cool. You hop into a time capsule that takes you back to the viking era. You are met by a viking (who speaks English - go figure!) who helps you onto a pod that takes you back to 2008. The pod moves around real environments. When the chocolate factory was knocked down, archaeologists found evidence of the vikings, and so dug up evidence and have since reconstructed their villages, their work, their clothes, their faces... By the end of the pod ride, you are in a museum that shows you the DNA collection and how they reconstructed the scenes.

After touring Jorvik we went to the dungeons. You enter the dungeons and are taken into the world of torture, deathly tales, court proceedings and scary realms. It was such good fun! We were there with another two groups (one was Chinese - and would jump at anything, the other were English and enjoyed it as much as I did!) I really had fun (Tracy was clinging to me like there was no tomorrow!) I was asked to volunteer in the butchers room (where he opened up a person, then took me into the back room to open me up), I was sentenced to be hanged for being a witch who was heard chanting to the devil and conjuring up one of the other guys in the room (but not before I was tortured - with thumb presses and he was tortured by having his tongue pulled out). It was really good fun!!!!!

No day would be complete without a trip to the local brewery. We got to the brewery for the 15h30 tour. It was moderately interesting. We were shown around the place told how they make the beer and had some general chit-chat. It made me think though, about the ingredients that most brewers use. By the time we left the tour, we had touched every ingredient in their beer. It made me wonder if beer really is good for you!!??

After the brewery, we went to the Yorkshire museum. The museum houses the archaeology, biology, astronomy and geology collections of York. The collection was interesting, but after the days events, I found it a surprising let-down. Perhaps this was because we had been overwhelmed by such awesome stuff, that in comparison, this was just not as good as it may have been a day earlier.

Alas, all the attractions had now closed... which meant that I could take Tracy to all the tourist spots that were not indoors (shambles, shortest street, cat gallery etc). She appeared to enjoy them as much as I had yesterday! We walked back through the city, stopping to gather some dinner and headed for the warmth of the hostel.

We arrived back at the hostel, made some dinner and said our goodbyes. Tracy left to catch a train to London at 20h00. I finished my supper and gloated to the receptionist about the fact that I had managed to see eight paying sites and several non-paying sites.... he could only blush....

Like I said, I learned from a pro!!!!

I hired a towel, went up to my room, gathered my stuff for my shower and had the most enjoyable hot shower! After my shower, i went and sat on my bed with my book. The bedroom door opened and that was the last I saw of my book. A lady had walked in (she was in her mid 60's) and began a discussion with me. Tried as I might to shut her up, she kept on talking about her life, her children, her adventures, her work.... I gave up, lying back on my bed whilst she spoke. I thought she was just about talked-out when another elderly lady entered the room... OH BOY... they began telling me about all the places i should visit, all the places they had been... I could not help but think: 'why me?'

I woke up this morning after a night close from hell (all the ladies in the rooms had a night-time quirk: one snored, one tossed and turned and the other spoke in her sleep) hoping it had all been a bad dream. Alas, it was far too close to reality. I got up and dressed and went downstairs for breakfast as quickly as I could. I got my food and sat down. I tucked in. The joy of eating food at my own pace, alone, was short-lived. The old ladies sought me out of the crowd and joined me. Great.

Turns out one was here to pray in the cathedral (a life-long dream), the other was here for some Palestinian society meeting (great, of all the people in the YHA I have to get the two nutballs eating breakfast with me).

I have spent the entire day indoors today, as it is a whopping 3 degrees outside (and there is a threat of snow/rain for the next few days). This is not going to stop me though (I laugh in the face of adverse weather conditions). I will be going out tonight to a local pub to have a local brew and listen to a local band...

what could go wrong????

Exminster and beyond...

Hello everyone!

It has been a while since I last updated this blog, and sadly, not much has changed.

I went back to Exminster on the 25th for two weeks. The first week was REALLY REALLY boring, as my client stayed in bed for most of it (it was midterm at college). I sat around the house in a sort of daze where one day fell into the next and smudged over the previous. The stay had been much like the last one... sleeping late, sitting around the house, messing about online and just generally doing nothing! As such, I managed to get some paperwork in order, walk the dog several times and do LOADS of household stuff... I arrived in Exminster on Saturday and by the following Saturday, my client had only gone out once... (to a carvery with his mother - I was only invited because he cannot transfer into and out of the car with one person - how special did I feel!!???). The second week improved greatly (well, as great as could be expected in comparison to the first week).

Monday morning arrived bright and early. I was up at 06h00 to get my client ready for his six-monthly check-up in Salisbury at midday (sometimes the job really does suck!). My clients father drove us to the hospital, which took two hours each way, so by the time we got back home it was cold, wet and dark and we were all tired.

Tuesday saw my client in bed recovering from the long journey to the hospital, conveniently, 'staying off his pressure sores'.

Wednesday morning began bright and early, having to get up around 07h00 to get my client dressed and ready for college (I remember those days... up at 5am, dressed and out the house for 6am to get to Observatory in time for the staff meeting - but NEVER in my life did I think it could take close on 120 minutes to get out of bed, showered and dressed). We got in the car and drove to college, where I sat (bored out of my mind) in the class with my client. I found it rather surprising how the learners are still spoon-fed at such a high level. The level of immaturity really made me wonder if it is a good idea that they start school so early and finish it around age 16. This pondering lasted a whole four minutes of the long school day...

I must admit though, that when I put my iPod on and listened to some music followed by watching some TV in the class I felt a little naughty (as though I was supposed to be listening and learning!) It was actually good fun to look around the room at all the bored faces and know that I was not at school anymore!

Thursday and Friday were filled with more college (early mornings and late nights), so by the time Saturday arrived, I was glad to be able to sleep in a little (only a little though, as I had to hand over to the next PA).

The PA arrived whilst I was baking. She looked at me rather strangely (almost accusingly 'why are you not packed and ready to go'). I had to explain to her that my clients father had allowed me to stay there a few extra nights before my next client. I got to know her a little, and discovered that she had flown over from South Africa with Jo (this meant that I had now met both girls, who flew over from the Cape, who trained with Jo... but sadly, still no Jo...)

Once I had handed over, Saturday afternoon was spent lazing around the house, followed by some television viewing (not too different from work really) and an early night in bed (which is really different from work with this client!!!). The really weird part was when my client called for something, I had to resist the urge to get up and get it for him (it's amazing how guilty that can make you feel)...

I was up EARLY on Sunday morning for some much needed retail therapy... I got showered, dressed and onto the first bus into Exeter. I spent the ENTIRE day there shopping (and surprisingly, only spent £60)... Let me tell you what I bought (daddy, this is the part where you scroll down because it is most likely not terribly interesting to you!)

I bought: 5 white blouses, 5 Jerseys, 1 pair of black trousers (yes, "trousers". I had to learn that the hard way - pants are apparently underwear and are not vaguely similar to trousers... go figure!), a thick jacket, 5 pairs of underwear, a scarf and 2 hoodies... followed by lupper (yes, LUPPER!) - which was a really yummy burger, chips and pudding from the giraffe (a restaurant that was bombed a few years ago)

Once I was all shopped-out, I headed back to the bus station. Unfortunately, as luck would have it, I missed the bus by three minutes (this meant that I would have to spend the next hour waiting in the cold for another bus). I got back to Exminster around 18h30, watched some television, chatted and then hit the sack.

Monday morning saw a bright and early start to the day, as I had to catch the train to York... YES.... YORK... I left Exminster at 08h00 and got to York around 15h00 (it was a VERY long journey). I stayed in the youth hostel that night and then travelled to my client the following morning.

I arrived at my clients home around 12h30 for my weeks' stay. The week was rather drawn out. My client was on complete bed rest (don't I just have all the luck??) This meant that the highlights of the week were going out to get groceries, medicines, groceries and more medicines... Needless to say, I was very glad it was only one week there. I did not find very much appealing - my client could drink anyone/thing under the table, he smoked until there were no cigarettes left (I had to hold the cigarettes, light them, flick their ash and put them out.... YUCK!!!!!!!!!!!), he slept during the day and then was awake all night long (which meant that I basically never slept). He had a few visitors (but nobody I would like to see in a dark alley)...

So, to spare you the boring details, just know that it was a week of my life wasted.

After the assignment had come to an end, I went back to the youth hostel (the YHA) for a holiday!

My Last client...

Hello again!

I hope that this blog finds you all well!

I was originally placed in Solihull for precisely one week.  I caught the train from Chalkwell into Fenchurch street (Tower Hill), travelled across to Kings Cross and then headed for Solihull.  The journey was rather long and very tiresome.  I arrived in Solihull and phoned my clients wife to come and collect me from the station (I must admit, I am getting rather good at demanding people work around me!!! - Hey... stop chirping, it IS a new skill!)

Anyhow, Hilary collected me from the station and we drove a short distance to her home.  I received handover from the last PA and settled into my new environment.  The first things I noticed were that the bungalow was very neat, very clean, rather warm and seemingly familiar...

Hilary told me to unpack and place my case in the garage whilst she made me a cup of tea (now that is what I call 'service'!) My client was whisked away to physiotherapy by Solihull ambulance service, which left me the entire afternoon to do something with.  The late afternoon was drawing in quite quickly and I was feeling more and more tired.  Hilary said that I should go for a nap whilst Tony was out... I did... 

The first day was a little akward, as I was still getting my bearings and watching how stuff was done.  I noticed that Hilary was working from home (as she does everytime a new PA arrives).  Around 18h00 she got up and made tea.  It was nice, one meat and three vegetables (just the way Nanna cooks!) I was not expected to do anything (so needless to say, I felt rather guilty!)  For some strange reason, I began settling in and becoming quite comfortable... I became very aware of this at each passing moment and could not place my finger exactly on why.  As I sat wondering what was so familiar, it suddenly dawned on me... My grandparents home is coloured the same way (calm, neutral colours, where everything has its place and fits immaculately), their attitudes are so similar (caring, loving, calming) and they make me feel as welcome and at home. 

The next few days passed by quite quickly.  I felt more and more comfortable (and yet missing home more and more because of the familiarity).  Thursday arrived, Tony and I sat and discussed anything and everything (including the ins and outs of his accident and its repercussions).  When Hilary got home from work, we were still sat discussing their social life.  Hilary walked through the door and stopped dead in her tracks.  It was so noticeable that it made me quite concerned.  She walked round to face Tony and ask if he was ok.  I got that much more concerned.  She followed her question by: 'you don't have the TV on... is everything ok?' I smiled, he nodded.  I decided to make myself scarce and so went to the kitchen to put the kettle on.  Hilary came in behind me and told me how impressed she was that I had managed to talk to Tony without the TV being on (apparently he has not done this since his accident...) The rest of the evening went off without a hitch.  I was left wondering why my face had glowing fluorescent signs on it saying 'talk to me.... talk to me...'  

Friday night arrived, and saw me, Tony and two of his friends going to the local pub (apparently I had convinced him that it was a good idea to go to places he had not been since his accident... who knew...) It was a REALLY nice evening out.  We had pub grub (which was, as expected, rather yummy), a couple pints and then went back home.  We arrived back, Hilary had had time to soak in the bath and relax.  She looked better.  We went inside and had some tea.  Before long, it was bedtime.

Saturday arrived and Hilary gave me the day off.  She said that she knows how hard I had been working and that I deserved some time off (I like these people more and more!!!!).  Needless to say, I took the time gladly.  Hilary decided that it would be a good idea to drop me off in town, so that I could get away and not be 'tempted' (as she put it) into working... Just before I was ready to go, they called me into their room.  I went in, they handed me some money.  I turned them down as politely as I could, saying that I cannot accept their money.  I explained that I was not allowed to, and that I am already paid for my time there.  Needless to say, they would not let me leave without taking their money (salt and vinegar chips experience).  They said that I should get something for myself and that they wanted to see what I got... I was absolutely flattered.

Whilst in town, I bought myself a watch (with their money), some pyjamas (from M&S - excuse us!!!!) and various other items.  It was a lovely outing!  Around 16h00 I phone Hilary to come and collect me (as I was feeling REALLY guilty for being out).  We got back home and Hilary told me to go and sit down (she said that I had done enough and that she would do the rest of the evening...)

Sunday came around, I got out of bed, made my bed (yes, I can actually make my bed!!!!) and went to put the kettle on.  Hilary came through to the kitchen and collected her cup of tea.  On her way back to her room, she looked into my room.  She stopped, turned around and came back to me, saying that I should come and sit on her bed and drink my tea (because my bed was already made).  Later that afternoon, we had guests around for Sunday lunch.  It was lovely, they really made me feel like part of the family.  I felt so settled.

Monday morning arrived and I got a phone call from Active asking if I could stay on for a few extra days, as the PA who I was handing back to would not be able to get there for the Wednesday.  I really did not mind whatsoever.  So my time there was extended until the Friday. I turned over and before I knew it, I had tea in bed... I felt suddenly overwhelmed, thinking about home.  I stopped myself from thinking as I had to get Tony up and dressed by 08h00 (which can take up to two hours) as he had an appointment at Oswestry (one of the brilliant spinal injury care units - bordering Wales).  We were collected by a transit vehicle from Oswestry, and taken to the appointment.  We spent the best part of the day there.  We eventually arrived back from Oswestry, cold and tired.  The day had taken its toll on Tony, so he spent Tuesday day in bed.  On Tuesday night, Tony and Hilary decided that they would like to take me out to dinner down at the looal pub.  It was absolutely freezing cold outside, but they were insistent on going.  We got down to the pub, had an awesome meal, a few drinks and a good chat and then zooted back home (fighting the cold at every step)!

Wednesday and Thursday passed without much excitement.  Friday arrived and it was time to pack and get going.  As I was on my way to the car, Hilary handed me a coat (which she said I could have as it no longer fitted her) and Tony gave me his blessings.  Hilary drove me to the train station, on the way saying that if I needed a place to stay at any time, I was welcome back.  I  got out the car, dragging my suitcase behind me, sad, but knowing that I would return.

So much for all the updates...

Hello hello!

(I started writing this blog on Wednesday, and have just managed to
sit down and complete it... So please excuse the initial references to
two weeks ago!)

I have so much to say and so little time to say it (four hours
travelling should just about do the trick though!!)

- apparently it didn't!!!!!!

Last week was a blast! I managed to see the outside world with my
client, visiting physiotherapists, gyms, shops, take-out places,
shops... Such fun, such fun...
One highlight was that on the Tuesday after physio and before gym, we
went to get some lunch (no, that was not the highlight!!) after lunch
we stopped to buy some cigarettes. I ran in with my clients money,
having parked on a double yellow (luckliy driving someone who is
disabled I can do that!), and asked for the cigarettes. The guy behind
the counter asked me for my ID... I was flabberghasted!!! I said I was
23, he insisted on my ID, but I managed to convince him I was over age
and that my bag was in the car! He let me buy them with great suspicion!

HOWEVER,

It did not end here, we went shopping later on in the week, where my
client wanted to purchase a potato peeler. I picked it up and went to
the till to pay. The man behind the counter asked me for my ID. I
laughed, thinking he must be joking. He calmly explained that you have
to be over 18 to buy a knife or any object that could be used as a
weapon. He then insisted on seeing my drivers card...

Twice in one week... I tell you!!!

Anyhow, I left this placement just as I was starting to get frustrated
with the small things!

I had a brief break at Bethanys place (Friday to Tuesday) where I took
the time to look, and apply, for more jobs.
I walked around westcliff on saturday, visiting the main street (where
I bought my mum some flowers... Brownie points!!!) and got some
application forms to a local care agency.

Sunday saw me going to a forest with the family and some friends. We
stopped for Sunday roast at the local pub and then took the dogs and
kids for a walk. In total there were 5 adults, 6 children (Bethany's
three, and a boy (age 6) and his sisters (twins aged 2)) and 3 dogs
(you can imagine the chaos!!!) halfway through the walk, we stopped to
build a den out of dead trees and branches (it was really cool!) the
men were in their element, the kids mildly enjoyed it, the women
tolerated it and the dogs could care less! After we had built the den
and the kids had played in it, the hilarious bit began! One of the
little girls with us went to her mum and announced 'mummy, I need a
poo'. Her mum started chuckling, saying that she was going to have to
wait... But, to cut a long story short, by the time we left the
forest, there were 3 wet patches, two piles not resembling dogs poo,
and a few messed up leaves!!!!

Then on Monday, after dropping the boys off at school, I went for
coffee and read the local newspaper.

Tuesday saw Corley stay home from school as well as Bethany stay home
from work (her clients had cancelled at the last moment and Corley
developed an infection in his belly button). This all lead to us going
to Rachel's house and then out to lunch in Leigh-on-sea. It was
really lovely.

Wednesday arrived and chaos rained. I got up early to help Bethany get
the boys dressed and fed before school. They all rushed out the door
with seconds to spare!! I changed suitcases and left for the train
station (in the pouring rain). I boarded the first of three trains to
Solihull, Shirley, where I find myself now...

I shall keep you in suspense until at least Monday!!!!!!!!

Another week goes woosh...

Howdy!

This week has been rather dull I'm afraid... So, you may want to stop
reading as I am going to do a bit of complaining!!!!

Hmmm...... Where to begin.....

My client is the same as all my other clients... Get up early, follow
same dull routine, make food, more routine, get to bed REALLY late,
then up early again. We NEVER leave the house, we watch sports, I
cook, clean, vacuum (and yes, I even dust!!! Bet that made you smile!!!)

Let me fill you in on the interesting stuff that has occurred this
week...

I have been job hunting (online) - without much success! I shall
endeavour to visit a job centre as soon as I can get to one (and
actually have the time to do it [but, you will be glad to know that
Active says they are happy to keep me on for as long as I would
like!!!!! <ha ha, he he he.... Ow, my stomach hurts...>])

My client has had loads of medical issues which required the doctor to
come out and pay him a visit (the sad part is that this was a
highlight of my week!!)

Other than that, I have been visited by two HUGE spiders - each about
three inches long and two inches wide (no, that is not its size when
squashed!!!!) but, I do think they would have given Muffin a run for
her money!

I am so glad this client has not asked me to get rid of them (as you
could imagine what my reaction would be...) As it is, I make sure I am
a good ten feet away at all times with my feet off the ground (and if
it moves in my direction, I greet it and politely move away - um...
Yeah right... more like run away, arms flaling, screaming!!!)

I have managed to cook a roast dinner (roast beef potatoes, carrots,
cauliflower and cheese sauce, gravy, yorkshire pudding and stuffing)
as well as pudding (chocolate fudge cake and double cream). No, i was
not feeding the masses, all that food was requested by my client for
us and his brother (needless to say I was absolutely stuffed after the
meal!!) Oh, another highlight (before i forget) is that i made my
very first apple crumble and homemade custard this week (yes, it was
rather yummy)!!!

The week ahead looks as though it is going to be a little more
interesting, as we have a visit to the physiotherapist, doctors and
shopping planned (but we shall see how long those last!!!)

As for the near future, I have two clients booked... yes, TWO!!!!
(Active has really outdone themselves this time!) I have a few days
with Bethany planned this weekend, then am headed to Shirley for a
week. Following this, I have another break followed by a stay in
Exminster (Exminster sound familiar??? It should, as I have been asked
by the client, his family and the district nurses to return!) I am
looking forward to going back...

Well, that is all for now folks!!!!

Stay tuned for the next installment!

Let's all say aaaah...

Hello hello everyone!! I am in such a good mood today (I don't know
why because I am off back to work...) hmmm..... Maybe it is because I
just had an awesome week off, or maybe it is because this is the first
time I have only ONE suitcase with me (I have left most of my stuff
with Bethany this time...) Either way, I'm still in a good mood!!!

This is my first post from my mobile and let me tell you, it is VERY
difficult not to write using sms language (bt I'll try 2 spre u of
that!) Anyway, as promised, here is one of many more updates!

Before I continue, let me apologize for a number of things - firstly,
for the poor writing of the last blog (it was just so so very long and
I got bored reading, re-reading, editing and typing it-poor excuse I
know!) Secondly, the spelling on this blog is going to be 'american'
as my phone automatically edits it accordingly ('what', I hear you
say... 'the phone has a down side...' <smirk smirk>)

If you managed to read my last essay without falling asleep, you will
know that I have just spent a week in Westcliff-on-sea. I arrived
there late Thursday night (having missed my first train from kiveton
park-as the station layout was pathetic and I was dropped off late
because the PA I handed over to was late [as usual] and all the trains
I boarded seemed to be running late). Bethany was very nice about it
(as it appeared to fit in perfectly with her schedule). We arrived
home where Bethany handed me dinner and pudding (she is ever so
thoughtful like that). We chatted for a long while before going to
bed. It was nice!

The rest of the week went by rather quickly! Here were the
highlights...

The weekend went by quickly, the boys were rehearsing for their
concert, Bethany was working and helping out with the production.
Paige and Cane visited, Nick busied himself around the house and I
went out for walks.

On Monday I began feeling the all-to-familiar feelings of flu... This
left me a little grumpy. But never mind!

Tuesday saw me going to a shopping mall alone for the first time since
South Africa, where I did some much needed retail therapy (new phone,
vitamins and my first set of 'fat' clothes ='( ) then i met up with
Bethany and took her out to lunch!

Wednesday Jai had a tooth pulled (under anaesthetic), and after that
we went to Rachal's (Nick's sister) where we stayed for dinner.

Thursday I cleaned around the house, fetched the boys from school,
made dinner and packed my little bag!!!

Friday I left for work at 08h30.

I am now in Hatfield, Hertfordshire typing the remains of this blog on
a fine Saturday morning.

For all my stalkers...

Hello again all my loyal followers!!!! I bet you are asking yourselves (and some of you are asking me) why my blog posts are getting further and further apart??? Well, I have been thinking of an excuse, and the only one that seems to pop up consistently is that I am busy working (how many times have you heard that one???)

I have spent the last four weeks in Lisburn in Northern Ireland, visiting family and working in Sheffield. Many, many things have happened since I arrived, so, as expected, this blog is going to be REALLY long. Perhaps you should make yourself a cup of coffee before you continue. Are you ready?

Here goes.

The day had been long and there had been many delays in public transport (from busses to trains to more busses). I was glad, and slightly relieved, to have left England, and my job, for a short while. The plane glided onto the runway in Northern Ireland at 22h30, on my grandfathers birthday, 19 August, and came to a chauffeur stop near the terminal. I got off, tired, excited. I walked into the hot terminal buildings and stood looking for the familiar face of my uncle Wayne. I saw him standing next to a pillar with my two cousins Zach and Lauren. They were staring at the masses of people, trying to sift me out of the crowd. I walked towards them and went completely unnoticed until I was right in front of them. I spoke to my cousins for a while, got my bag off the conveyor belt, and was whisked from Belfast International Airport to my grandparents home in Lisburn. My holiday began.

When my uncle pulled into a parking bay, I looked at all three homes in front of me, trying to decide which one would be my grandparents’ when I noticed some movement in one of the windows. The blind obscuring my view into the lit room had been shifted. Light flowed out from where the blinds had been moved followed by a strangely familiar face… my grandmother.

Zach and Lauren ran to the front door in competition, my uncle and I followed. I was nervous, apprehensive, shaking (I can’t be sure if this was from the freezing cold or from nerves). The unfamiliar feelings of uneasiness, of not knowing what to expect (as this was the first time I would be meeting my grandfather and staying in their home) overwhelmed me. The front door was quickly opened by my grandmother. She was excited. She hugged me. I was numb. Everything happened in a blur. We were led into the front room. My bags were taken. I was told to sit down. Polite conversation was had. My uncle and cousins left. I was alone for a brief moment.

My grandmother whisked around, the moment their car had disappeared out of view, and led me into the kitchen to hand me a sandwich (which she had made earlier) and a cup of coffee. I was led back into the lounge where I ate, drank and spoke. I’m not sure if the right way of describing the ensuing conversation would be to say that it was polite and stilted, or if it is to say that there was so much to say that the topics shifted rapidly, each overstepping and overshadowing the last. Once I had finished my sandwich, and we had had enough time examining each other, it was bedtime. I was led upstairs. Given the tour of my room and left alone. Alone at last, I looked around the room, I turned to look at my bed, a most welcome site. I crawled into bed and snuggled between the sheets. I closed my tired eyes and waited for sleep to arrive. Something was keeping me awake. I could not put my finger on what it was. I just knew that it was annoying me. I lay there in anticipation of the nice sleep I was about to have. Awake. Tic. Tock. Tic. Tock. Now if you know me, you know that I CANNOT sleep near a clock or wristwatch. I grabbed a pillow, shoved it over my head and before long was fast asleep.

I began the 20th of August at 09h00 with a nice hot bath. Once I had finished my morning routine, I went downstairs and was greeted at the bottom of the stairs, by my grandmother, with a hug. She led me into the kitchen where I was faced with a table, covered with all sorts of things. She then told me to sit down. I sat in the place that all the bowls faced. I was to begin my breakfast with cereal (which I could choose from a huge selection), fruit juice and coffee. Whilst I was eating, my grandmother sat and spoke to me. It was nice. She explained that she had not made me an Ulster fry for breakfast, as it was deemed to be too fattening (and apparently I was in no need of that!) I was nearing the end of my cereal when my grandmother sprang out of her chair and busied herself behind me. I continued eating. Once I was done, there were two buttered slices of toast on a plate next to me and a banana, with all the spreads you can imagine. My empty bowl was whisked away and cleaned as I ate my toast. I finished off my breakfast with the banana and last few sips of coffee. I was then told what the day/week’s plans were. I must admit, I rather liked having everything planned for me (all I had to do was show up!)

A few minutes after breakfast, my grandfather asked me if I was ready to go (‘so soon’, I thought to myself). I smiled and nodded. We all rushed out the door and before I knew it, my grandfather was dropping us off at the bus station in Lisburn. We briskly walked into the bus station (when I say ‘we’, I mean that my grandmother briskly walked, I tried to keep up). My gran went over to the information desk to enquire about the bus into Belfast. She was given directions and before long we were on a bus to Belfast centre. About ten minutes into the journey, a man sitting alongside me tapped me on my shoulder. He began gesturing (which, being South African, I ignored). My gran leaned across me to find out what he was on about. He pointed to the seat in front of us. We both slowly peered over the top of the seat, not knowing what we were about to find. There, perched on the edge of the seat was a tiny little bird. My gran and I laughed, as we had both thought that the squeaking noises we had heard on the bus had been from the poor shape it was in… Needless to say, this little bird got quite a bit of attention from all the people on the bus. Luckily though, the man who had been doing all the pointing, got off the bus, taking the bird with him.

We eventually reached Belfast centre. We hopped off the bus and began our walk. My gran led the way, with me doing my best to keep up with her. She pointed out various sites and told me stories about each of them. Then, along one of the streets, we saw a man holding a pole, with a giant pointing hand on it (much like the one Sherelyn saw in Germiston!) The hand read ‘open top tours’. My gran made a bee-line for him. She asked him a lot of questions, whilst I stood there smiling (typical tourist!) Before I knew it, he was leading us through Marks and Spencer towards his tour bus. We eventually reached the location of the tour bus and after much bargaining, my gran got the ticket prices to which she wanted them. We then boarded Allans open top tour of Belfast.

Well, I tell you, I have never seen so much crammed into one tour! I will list all the sites we saw, and if you are interested in any of them, you can look them up!!!

Places seen on tour: International Youth Hostel (Sandy Row, Donegall Road); Great Victoria Street (Europa hotel (in the guiness book of records as the most bombed hotel!!), Jury’s hotel, Day’s hotel, Grand opera house, Crown bar, Europa bus centre); Belfast welcome centre (City hall, Linen hall library, Donegall place shopping precinct); Divis Street/Northumberland Street (Falls road, Republican murals, Divis tower, Peace line, St. Peter’s cathedral); Shankill road/Agnes street (Shankill road); Crumlin road (Crumlin road jail, Court house, Mater hospital); Donegall Street (St Annes cathedral, Cathedral quarter, University of Ulster, Belfast Telegraph, Irish news); High street (Malmaison hotel, Albert clock, Customs house square, Victoria centre, Laganside bus station); Queens road (Odyssey pavilion, W5, Titanic quarter, Harland and Wolff cranes, S.S. nomadic); Newtownards road/Templemore avenue (Short strand, Loyalist murals, Loyalist memorial garden, St Matthews catholic church); Holywood arches (C.S. Lewis – Narnia statue Stormont – parliament buildings, Stormont estate); George best city airport (airport and tourist information); Waterfront hall (Hilton hotel, Waterfront hall, St Georges market, Law courts, Central station); City hall (Ten square hotel, City hall, Commercial centre, bars and restaurants); Shaftesbury square (Benedicts hotel, Lavery’s gin palace, Equality commission); University road (Queens university of Belfast, Ulster museum, Botanical gardens, Stranmillis road).

After the long tour, we went to Great Victoria Street Mall, where my gran took me up a spiral staircase that seemed to go on forever (when we got to the top I felt quite sick – like the feeling you get on a merry-go-round). The view from the top of the tower was awesome. You could see 360 degrees of Belfast (which meant that I could see all the places on the tour we had just been on!) Next thing I knew my gran was talking to some random stranger about his fear of heights (what he was doing all the way on the top of the highest building in Belfast, I do not know!) Once she had discussed his fear with him we left and headed for home. We caught a train to Lisburn. Then, when the train stopped, we hopped off and began the LONG walk home (Needless to say, my gran had neglected to tell me just how long the walk was going to be!) We got home and within a few minutes (16h00), she had dinner on the table (this would have been fine if it was something you just microwave, but it was cottage pie, peas and butternut, followed by chocolate cake). I was exhausted by the day’s activities, so sat in the lounge watching the 6 o’clock news and CSI until 22h00.

I woke up on the 21st at 09h00. The house was still. I had a bath and went down to eat the meal on the table (which was laid out in exactly the same way, cereal, fruit, juice, spreads, bread and coffee). I tucked into the meal and before long the front door opened. My gran came in and hugged and kissed me. Shortly after, Adrianna (my other cousin, age six) came into the kitchen, nervously. She greeted me shyly and quickly left. Once I had finished my breakfast and my gran had unpacked all her groceries we left for a day in Newcastle, a catholic town. The drive there was fairly long. My gran had allowed me to sit in the front seat of the car (as I was a tourist, and this would allow me to see more), whilst she sat in the back with Adrianna. After a while in silence (as my grandfather does not listen to the radio whilst he drives), Adrianna began asking the famous question: ‘are we nearly there?’. This continued until we parked the car. My gran, Adrianna and I got out the car (leaving my grandfather in the car to read his newspaper) and went for a walk along the coastline. My gran wanted to show me the tidal pool at one end of the beach, so we briskly walked there. On the walk, my gran picked blackberries to eat whilst Adrianna kept on the side of my gran, furthest from me. She kept peeping around my gran to get a look at me (I kept my distance, and just smiled if I caught her eye - before the day was out, Adrianna was quite comfortable talking to me). We walked back to the car, drove to the harbour to eat lunch (which appeared out of nowhere!) Once we had finished lunch, we drove to Coco’s play place for Adrianna (this is an indoor amusement park). We spent one and a half hours there, following Adrianna around the place. We left there and on the walk back my gran bought us some ice-cream. We got back to the car having eaten our ice-cream’s, when my granddad drove us all back home. On the drive back home, we came across many, many, sharp bends. On one of the sharpest bends, there was a note on the tree (the tree appeared to be strategically placed – so that cars could barely avoid it) that read: ‘are you ready to meet your maker?’ I had a really good giggle, but when asked to explain myself, I merely said that I had a very warped sense of humour!

We got back and Adrianna and I sat and coloured in for a few minutes before my gran called for tea. She had managed to whip up some crumbed turkey breast, squash, mixed vegetables and chocolate cake for us and some spaghetti bolognaise for Adrianna (as this is all she will eat). Having eaten our dinner, Adrianna went for a bath (and played with her troll [can you believe trolls are still available???] and tea set). After her bath, we played with her hedgehog hand puppet (courtesy of daddy!) whilst my gran brushed her hair and then fed her some porridge. We went downstairs after this and Adrianna ate a banana whilst we played dominos, snakes and ladders and pick-up-stix (with LOTS of rule bending!!!!). Whilst we were playing on the carpet in the lounge, Glenda (my Aunt) arrived to collect Adrianna. She stayed a while, sussing me out and then had to go home to put Adrianna in bed. Before retiring to bed, I asked my granddad what time he would like to leave in the morning for the days’ sightseeing. He turned to my grandmother and said ‘I did not coerce her into getting up early, she asked me’. I smiled, knowing that getting up at 09h00 was out of the question (as they had previously hinted that that was a good lie-in). Shortly after this discussion was held, I went upstairs to bed. I got a phone call from Shaun, telling me that he got the job – which lasted until 23h00, when I retired to bed.

22 August saw me up and dressed by 09h00 (to my grandparents absolute amazement!). The weather was dull and cool. We drove to Dunluce Castle, where we all walked around the castle in the gusting wind. We then exited the castle, my grandfather headed for the car (wishing me luck – which made me quite curious) whilst we headed for the lower area of the castle (which meant climbing down STEEP steps to get there… and as we all know - what goes down, must come up!!!!) This did not present a problem to my gran, who appears to be the fittest person I know. Upon return to the top of the castle, I had to stop midway to catch my breath, whilst my gran looked down at me from the top of the stairs (how embarrassing!!!) We got back to the car and my grandfather commented ‘you’re still alive then, are you?’, I smiled now knowing why he had wished me luck. We left the castle area for Giants Causeway. We arrived at a tourist-packed location. My grandfather said that he would be staying in the car (this time, I seemed to know why he opted out of the experience). My gran and I merrily walked toward the causeway. Upon reaching the entrance, I saw one of the steepest hills I had ever seen. I knew this was going to be fun and games. We walked down towards the causeway (along the path, as there is a bus that takes people down to the bottom that shows no consideration for pedestrians). You just know that when you are leaning backwards whilst walking down a hill that you are going to suffer going the other way – I did. We reached the bottom of Giant’s Causeway, where there are some phenomenal rock formations and mountainsides. My gran carried on walking down a path. Whilst she was walking, she was telling me about the organ on the side of the mountain (A cold feeling overflowed me. I knew that this discussion was leading one way – ‘let me show you’…) We walked and walked and walked. We came across a man and his car (just before another steep hill). My grandmother approached him, asking him what he was doing there. He informed us that the path had been shut due to landslides from all the rain they had been having. She jokingly stated to him that I would be glad (what she did not know is that if I was not already in a relationship, I would have married him, had his children and catered to all his needs for this little bit of information!!!!) My gran was disappointed, as the organ was off-limits, as were the stairs to the top of the mountain (I was so so so so so happy and relieved). We then turned around and began the walk back to the car. I took a deep breath and began praying for the torture to end. The hill was indeed steep. So steep that I was leaning forward whilst walking so that I would not feel like I was going to fall backwards. My gran on the other hand was picking and eating blackberries along her merry walk. We got to the top. I had to look down and check that my legs were still attached. Unfortunately, they were.
Then, my gran turned to me and asked if I would like to go for coffee to warm me up… (warm me up??? After that battle???) Of course, I agreed, but only because it was coffee and time alone to sit and talk to her. On one hand I wish we had not had a discussion (as she informed me that the buses that kept whizzing by up and down the hill were free… FREE!)

After Giant’s Causeway we went down to the beach in Port Rush to have lunch (near the place where my grandfather had grown up). We ate lunch and then my grandmother suggested that her and I walk to the swimming pools on the beach and then walk to Betty’s home. My grandfather nearly choked at the suggestion (from that I knew just how far Betty’s home was going to be). My gran, puzzled, said that I would be able to see so much more walking there than I would by being driven. I could not help but ask her: ‘Are you trying to kill me?’. My grandfather laughed. This brought up a lengthy debate, with a slight compromise – her and I would walk to the swimming pools and then we would be driven to Betty’s place (phew!)

We got out the car and began our walk to the pools (which was a rather nice walk). We returned to the car and were driven around Port Rush (with granddad showing me where he grew up). Then we went to Aunt Betty’s (Granddads sister). We pulled into the driveway, and then phoned her to ask if it was ok that we were there as early as we were. She said it was ok. So granddad asked if she would come and unlock the gate. We sat and chatted for about 90 minutes. We would have stayed longer, but we had another engagement with Peter and Janet a little further up the coast, in Castlerock.

We left Betty’s place and drove to Castlerock. We got there around 17h00. Janet met us outside and led us in to the back part of her home, where Peter was sitting. We all sat down in the sunshine. Janet then went into the kitchen, and came back with teas, hamburgers, lots of different sandwiches and some little cakes. We had our tea when Janet offered to show me around Castlerock. We all hopped into her little Peugeot and were whisked around the area. She showed us the prison, the castle, the ferry to southern Ireland (£15 return ticket for an 8 minute journey), the church in the mountain, the view from the top of one of the mountains (overlooking castlerock and southern Ireland). We got back to the house at 19h00 where we had another drink and further conversations. We left their place at 19h45, as darkness was falling. Peter asked if we wanted to stay the night, but we graciously refused, with granddad stating that it would be nice to use his car’s headlights (I firmly placed my head in the sand and pretended that I had not heard this comment). We finally arrived home at 22h00. I got into bed, exhausted.

At 09h00 I got up and had breakfast. I lost track of time whilst I spoke to granddad. This meant that I rushed around like a headless chicken to get dressed and packed for my stay at Glenda’s place. Granddad drove me to her home and dropped me off. The initial part of my stay was a little awkward. I was unsure of what she was like now (as I had met her a long time ago, and we had not seen eye to eye). We went to Jumping Jacks (a children’s playplace). Her and I had coffee whilst Adrianna played. We began apprehensively, not knowing what to talk about, not knowing what was acceptable to talk about. By the time we left, we were slightly more comfortable with each other. We dandered home, so that we could meet Kinsley and go out for tea. We left for a little restaurant where we quickly ate dinner and went home (Kinsley does not like to take his time in these places). We opened a bottle of wine, watched X-factor and began talking. Turns out we had A LOT to talk about (with the aid of LOTS of wine, vodka, coke, pernot and blackcurrant juice), as we only managed to get to bed at 02h30.

Surprisingly, I was up and about at 06h00. Nobody else was awake, so I went back to bed and finally fell out of it at 09h00 in defeat. I ate breakfast, which Glenda had cooked for me (an omelette – which I had permission from my gran to eat whilst I was there [you see, my gran is watching my weight for me]). Glenda went out for a ‘power walk’ (the latest craze). When she got back, we all got showered and dressed (understandably, they were both feeling a little under the weather and tired). We then got in the car and went to Oxford Island farm/gardens. We wondered around for a while (with Kinsley beating us to the end with 20 minutes to spare). On the way home, we stopped to get some plants for their front garden and at Tesco to get some more drinks. Once we arrived home, everyone busied themselves with something – Kinsley planted, Glenda ironed, Adrianna went across the street to play with her friends and I watched TV. The afternoon passed by quickly, seeing Kinsley make a roast chicken, potatoes and corn. Around 19h00, the phone rang and I got to chat to my family in SA for… um… three hours…….. By the time I had finished on the phone, Glenda, Kinsley and Adrianna had gone to bed. I helped myself to dinner and watched TV until midnight.

The next morning came far sooner than it should have. I turned over at around 09h00 and fell back asleep. I eventually got out of bed at 10h30. Glenda made me breakfast (again) – this time a somewhat more unhealthy breakfast (potato bread and egg). We waited around and chatted for a while. We eventually decided to make the most of the weather and go out for a walk to see the local horses. It was a nice walk, and we managed to get back just as it started to pour with rain! We had lunch (soda bread, tomato and cheese and Adrianna had spaghetti bolognaise). We then left for my grans place. On the way home, we stopped at the local activity centre (where there is an indoor heated pool, a diving pool, a gym, squash courts, indoor water amusement park etc). We got to my grans place, Glenda and Adrianna came inside for a short while, but soon left (as Glenda had an aerobics class at 18h00). Shortly after they left, my gran served tea (pork, squash, mashed potato and onions). Following the meal, we sat and watched some television. My gran went upstairs to read around 21h00 whilst my granddad and I sat and watched Pierrepoint. I then decided to go to bed and listen to some music before bed.

26 August arrived at 09h00. I went downstairs, ate the breakfast, which was still neatly presented on the table, and cleaned up. By 10h00, my grandfather arrived back home. He informed me that my grandmother was out on one of her walks in the market, and that she would be back later on. I surfed the net until she arrived back home at 11h15. Around midday, she made us all some lunch. We were then dropped off in Lisburn by my grandfather. My gran showed me around the shopping centre of Lisburn, rather quickly, seeing us stop for coffee shortly after visiting the cotton mill (which is in the centre of Lisburns shopping streets!) Around 15h00, we walked to the bus station and caught the bus home so that my gran could be home in time to make tea for my granddad.

I woke up rather early on the 27th of August (08h00 – scary huh??) and pottered around until 10h30, when my Uncle Wayne, Zach and Lauren came to collect me and take me out (my aunt was unable to make it as she was home babysitting their new puppy). He drove us to Newcastle where we had lunch (chicken mayonnaise sarmie, coffee and pie) and then drove around the mountains, in the direction of Newry (instead of turning around and following the same route back), home. We got a little bit lost on our way (as my uncle had not been out Newcastle way for a long while), but it was an adventure nonetheless. This route back to my Uncle’s home led us past a new shopping centre, where we stopped for coffee at Costa’s. Zach and Lauren had a drink and sweet treat before we left for home.

On approaching his house, I noticed that it is situated in quiet little neighbourhood (well, when I say quiet, I mean that there was NOBODY outside or around the streets), where the homes are very similar to each other. We pulled up outside, the kids ran for the front door (in the usual competitive manner). The door was opened by my Aunt, Maurise. I was led into the house by Zach and Lauren who were VERY eager to show me the robot they had built (which had a notice on it which read: ‘Welcome Carissa’) and then I was briefly introduced to Maurise. My uncle took me on a quick tour of the house before making us some coffee. I was led to the front room to drink my coffee. I sat across from Maursie and my uncle sat to the left of me. Zach and Lauren disappeared to play with some friends in the street. I felt rather awkward, not knowing what to say or do. I think my uncle was most amused by the situation (him being the only person each of us knew). I tried to make some conversation, but I fear it was rather stilted. Gradually, conversation was growing (well between my aunt and uncle really, I seemed to be a spectator), just in time for tea. I was handed the Chinese take-away menu whilst the conversations continued. My uncle then went out to get the Chinese whilst my aunt and I spent some time chatting. My uncle arrived back with food in hand and we all adjourned to the kitchen for a meal at the table. It was lovely, there was enough food there to feed the masses. Zach and Lauren went outside to play with the neighbours’ children whilst we finished eating.

Before long, a water fight had broken out outside. Maurise had wanted my Uncle to check that the puppy had not escaped, which led to my uncle getting in on the action (under the pretence that he was checking that no one got hurt). It ended up with Zach holding the hose pipe and Lauren the water pistol… one guess as to which side won??? Eventually the fun and games came to an end outside and the crowds dissipated. My uncle came back inside to help clear the table/dishes and make some more coffee. We sat and spoke a little while longer, and were then forced to end on account that I was to be back at my grandparents’ home by 21h00.

We arrived at my grandparents’ and saw the same routine play out. Race to front door. We sit in front room and have brief chat. They leave. I sit and chat. Gran goes to bed to read. I sit with granddad and watch television. I go to bed.

I woke up on Thursday morning, knowing that Adrianna was there again today. I went downstairs just as they left to go and do the weekly shopping. So, I sat and ate breakfast and cleaned up followed by a quick bath. I got back downstairs as they arrived back. My gran unpacked her groceries and then we left for Bangor. My grandfather stayed in the car whilst my gran, Adrianna and I went for a walk to the local mall in Bangor. We walked around the mall and on the way out, my gran stopped at their library, whilst Adrianna played on one of the children’s amusement machines. We walked back to the car and drove to the seafront to eat lunch. After lunch, Adrianna and I went to play on the swings and the beach before going to Pickie Park.
My grandfather drove us to Pickie park where my gran bought Adrianna and I a ticket to go for a ride on the swans. So, I went along with it. Adrianna got onto the swan, followed by me. We pedalled and pedalled (Adrianna was doing the steering – so we hit everything and went in circles a number of times!) By the end of our time on the swans, I was pedalling, Adrianna was ‘steering’ and my gran was in absolute stitches (from the safety of the shore!) Our number was called and we were to return the swan to the front of the lake. Well, if you had been there, I reckon you would have been laughing too! The only time we managed to go in a straight line was if we were going backwards, so this is what I did. I pedalled backwards just far enough to be able to float in safely… but Adrianna wanted to go in forwards, so she started pedalling the other way… I tell you, I am glad I was not one of the swans on the lake, as we managed to hit EVERY other swan there… I was so RELIEVED when I got off the swan (not only because I was no longer going in circles and hitting everything, but because I was on DRY land!)
Just as I got off the swan, my gran presented me with more tokens. I looked at them, and at her and then at the train I was going to be expected to ride on. I smiled. I got on the train with Adrianna and we chugged along merrily from one end of the park to the other, crossing under a bridge (where my gran was standing and waving). We got off the train and Adrianna was taken to the jumping castle (thank goodness adults are not allowed on those, as I fear my gran may have handed me a token too!) After Adrianna was done there, we played in the park for a while and then Adrianna went to swim in the paddling pool. My gran and I sat and drank coffee whilst Adrianna (and her new friend) splashed and ran around the pool. It was a most enjoyable outing, if I say so myself. We left for the car and home around 15h00. My gran made another wonderful dinner, whilst Adrianna and I played games on my laptop. Glenda came to fetch Adrianna and stop for a quick chat. Once she had left, I went upstairs and chatted to Shaun and Jo.

The next morning went by rather slowly. We decided to go out to Oxford Park after lunch. We wondered around there for a while, had a cup of coffee, and then wondered some more. We drove home and my gran made tea. My gran and I then went out for a walk (which was long, fast and tiring!!!) We got home, I was exhausted (my gran looked as she did when we left). I chatted to shaun for a while and then went to bed.

30 August arrived bright and early. My gran did some cleaning around the house, my grandfather read the newspaper (as he did every morning) and I sat on my laptop planning my route to my next client. Around midday, we went to Glenda’s for lunch (she had made chicken and broccoli pie, corn and roast potatoes, followed by apple pie). My grandparents then left so that they could make it home in time to cut the lawn. Glenda and I sat and chatted until it was time for tea. We decided to get Chinese for tea. Glenda went to fetch the Chinese, dropped it off for me and then went to watch the bands march past. Around 20h00, we went to one of her neighbours’ houses for drinks. Glenda left to put Adrianna in bed at around 02h00. Kinsley and I arrived back home at 03h00.

At long last, I slept in until 11h00!!!!! I got up, had a nice lazy morning. By 14h00, we had all decided that we were going to go ten pin bowling. Kinsley won, followed by Glenda, myself and then Adrianna. We arrived back home around 16h00. I listened to some music in the front room, whilst Glenda lay outside in the sun napping and Kinsley lay in the front room counting light leaks. I then went for a walk to the river to take some pictures. I arrived back and played with Adrianna, whilst Glenda made tea (delicious chicken and mushroom with rice). I hung around watching television until midnight, when I finally fell into bed.

The 1st of September arrived. I woke up late again, had a shower and made some breakfast. Glenda got back from dropping Adrianna at school and going for a swim and did some ironing whilst we chatted. We went to fetch Adrianna from school and went to my grandmothers place. We sat and chatted for a while. Glenda left so that she could make tea and go to her aerobics class. My grandfather got home from visiting his friends at the golf course and we had tea. I went upstairs to check my email and book a place to stay in England when I returned.

Tuesday 2 September arrived bright and early. I did the usual routine, followed by a bit of packing. After lunch, we went out to the local art centre. We walked around in the centre, looking at the pottery section, the music section, the ballet section and the corporate section (where they have conferences). We then went for an aimless walk along the river (which was rather nice, as my gran and I chatted about all sorts of things). We got back to the car and went home for tea. I said my last good night to my gran and grandfather, and went to bed.

Wednesday, my last day in Northern Ireland arrived at 09h00. I went downstairs, had my last breakfast spread and did my last bit of packing. At 10h00 my Uncle came by to say his goodbyes. At 10h40 we left for the airport. My grandparents dropped me off at the airport around 11h30. I said good bye to them and thanked then profusely.

I went inside and checked in. I then went and had lunch and waited for my plane. There was an announcement just before the check-in desks opened, saying that my plane had been delayed due to meteorological conditions. So, I went and got a cup of coffee. Eventually, I got on the plane and was whisked away to England. I landed in Bristol International Airport, caught a bus to Bristol Temple Mead train station. From there, I caught a train to Sheffield (which took ages and was delayed). From Sheffield, I caught a train to Hathersage. Once I was at Hathersage, it was dark, cold and raining. I had to walk to the YHA (Youth Hostels Association). I could not find the hostel, so had to stop to ask several people. Eventually, I asked two guys walking by. They led me to the YHA (where they were staying!). I checked into the YHA at 21h30 and went to bed shortly afterwards!

I got up bright and early on the 4th of September and caught a bus to Sheffield, followed by another bus to Dinnington (where I was collected by my next client’s wife and 19 month old son). The next two weeks went by VERY quickly. I would go to bed around 23h00, turn my client at 05h00, get up at 08h30 and get my client dressed and ready for the day ahead by 11h00. Breakfast would be made, followed by lunch (14h00). Then my client’s wife would come home and make tea (between 17h00 and 19h00). At 21h00 the second carer would come in (to look after my clients nightly needs and to help me turn him at 05h00). Everything would then start all over again. My client very rarely went out and watched an enormous amount of television (particularly sport). This gave me a lot of time to clean, do dishes, vacuum etc.

Near the end of my stay with this client, I was assigned my next client, so I was able to plan ahead for this week. So, I am now staying with Bethany in Westcliff-on-sea.

Last thing before I end this blog…

Because I had managed to drop my phone one too many times (resulting in it losing signal and forgetting that it had a SIM card in it), I have purchased a new telephone (the iPhone 3G ) this means that I can now update my blog on the go – I know, I know, all talk, no action… but I shall really, really, try to keep you all up to date way more frequently.

I apologise for keeping you waiting and for writing such a long blog.

So I say, go on, make it up to yourself, have another cup of coffee!