The Travelling Mam

A day out in Durham with Lady B

2010-03-23T13:10:00.006Z

My good friend Lady B celebrated her birthday yesterday, so I thought it would be quite nice to take her to Durham for a day out and a nice lunch. As we walked into the market square we noticed a colourful procession walking down the steps next to the entrance to the Indoor Market.

Being the blogger that I aspire to be out came my camera. At the time I had no idea what or who I was photographing!

Quite a memorable day for both Lady B and the Commanding Officer of HMS Bulwark. HMS Bulwark's crew were awarded the Freedom of the City.

The crew of HMS Bulwark can now march through the streets with swords drawn and bayonets fixed. The honour was conferred at yesterday’s meeting of the City of Durham Charter Trustees. Councillor Jeff Lodge was also made an Honoury Freeman of the City in the same ceremony.

Congratulations to all!

More photo's of Boston

2010-03-23T12:16:00.012Z

As I said in my previous post, my family and I flew over to Boston to celebrate Mr C's 60th birthday at the end of January. We had a fabulous time taking in as many sights as we could. I thought I would share a few with you. The above picture I took of Faneuil Hall and it was a really sunny but cold day. We ate lunch in Quincey's Market where there is a choice of many different foods from Italian, Chinese, Japanese, American Fast Food, Sea Food, Chowder, Ice cream etc etc etc. The place is really busy as the food is really good and excellent value for money.
More sight seeing to walk off our lunches and we walked across the common. The buildings in Boston are magnificent.

Then we walked through the park on our way back to the hotel.
There is such a lot of history in Boston. We would love to return to visit the places we didn't have time to see. Hopefully next time we could visit in the summer months!

Mothers Day Lunch and updates on travel

2010-03-14T17:05:00.009Z

Sorry for the break in my posts but this year has been really busy work wise, interspersed with travel for pleasure too!

I have just returned home from my son's house where he cooked me a traditional roast beef lunch for Mothers Day. I am so lucky!

In January I worked in Peterborough for a week but forgot to take my camera so no pictoral records to post. It was dark when I left my hotel and dark when I returned so any photos would be drab anyway.

At the end of January my other half Mr C reached the ripe old age of 60. As a treat I decided to take him to Boston Massachusetts, a place we both love. I arranged the flight and hotel over the Christmas break without his knowledge. I also thought it would be really nice to add to the surprise so I booked for both my son and daughter to travel out there ahead of us. They flew out at lunch time Friday 29th January and me and Mr C flew out at 3pm. He had no clue where we were going and the check in staff at our local airport were wonderful keeping the surprise secret too. We arrived at Heathrow with a couple of hours to kill before boarding our flight to Boston. The booking agent at BA had upgraded us to First Class as an extra treat to add to Mr C's surprise to off we went to the lounge for a tipple or two. Our flight came up on the board and we proceeded to the gate. He still had no clue! We got through the gate still keeping our destination secret and then on to the extra security check. The guy asked to examine Mr C's bag and gave the destination away by saying "I hope you have some warm clothes in there sir its minus 12 in Boston".

His face lit up, he couldn't understand how I had managed to keep the destination a secret for so long. Then it all went horribly wrong. The flight was cancelled due to the plane having been hit by lighting. We were booked into a hotel near the airport and transferred onto another operators flight the next day. I frantically text my son and daughter who by this time were out eating dinner having a ball!

The hotel we stayed in at the airport was really nice and they provided us with a complimentary dinner and breakfast the next day. We travelled back to the airport and checked our bags in again this time hopefully we would start our journey to Boston. As we were travelling on another airline our complimentary first class cabin was no longer available but who cares we were on our way.

We arrived in Boston around 6 in the evening and headed straight for a cab to the hotel.

It was minus 12 and the snow had been falling all day it looked fabulous.

We checked in and went up to our room which was actually a two bedroomed suite. The hotel knew that it was Mr C's 60th Birthday, How kind of them!

Well we got to our room and started to unpack when there was a knock on the door and the voice said "room service". I hid in the bathroom so Mr C would have to open the door and there they were our son and daughter "Surprise Dad"! He was speechless with a tear in his eye. Worth all the planning.

His birthday was the next day and he wanted to go the Hard Rock for lunch so we decided to walk from our hotel through Boston Common. Very picturesque.

The staff gathered round our table and sang Happy Birthday to him which made him very embarrassed but hey your only 60 once!

The next few days were a mixture of sight seeing and shopping and we had a truly wonderful time that I hope we will remember for a long time to come.

On our return home my next work related travel was to Colchester in Essex. Very pretty but once again I left my camera at home so sorry no pictures of the Colchester country side. Home for one day and off I travelled to Dover for a weeks work. The weather was horrendous. Torrential rain and snow too! Sorry but too busy for photos that week too, maybe next time, where ever that might be.

Thanks for dropping by!

Mrs C

Snow, snow and more snow

2010-01-06T21:38:00.003Z

We have had snow everyday since New Years Eve. Its not really that cold just now, but boy is it deep.

The roads are very slippery because of the lack of grit and salt.

I have taken a couple of pictures of what used to be my garden.

You can just about see the bird bath in the back garden: and the front gate is the only clue that I have a path in the front garden up to the porch.

The heating is now off the timer and on 24/7 so heaven help up when the bills come in, but there is nothing nicer that being toasty warm watching the snow through the living room window. I am very fortunate to be able to work from home during this spell of severe weather, but I am thinking of those who have to make the trek to work. Take care everyone.

Mrs C

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2009-12-31T10:22:00.003Z

Happy New Year to all my friends old and new and those I am yet to meet! Good Luck, health and happiness for 2010.

Mrs C x

SEASONS GREETINGS TO ALL!

2009-12-25T05:50:00.006Z

Seasons Greetings to all in Blogland.
Mrs C X

I'm dreaming of a White Christmas

2009-12-21T21:22:00.019Z

It has snowed practically every day since last Thursday, and has been extremely cold. It was really bad on Saturday, so me and Mr C set about getting the house decorated for the holiday season, a little late I know but hey we both work full time.

We started with the tree and progressed to the fire surround. We always get a little carried away!

I then moved onto decorating the window, where I suspended two blown glass baubles and three stars from the curtain pole using mother of pearl effect Christmas cord, and place my candle bridge in the middle of the window sill.

Next..............the hall

We had the radiator cabinet made to measure last week and I bought the letters in Florida during our last holiday. Well worth carrying them home as they cost only pennies.

Then right on cue just like a scene from a film, the postie knocked on the door and handed over a parcel which turned out to be my Christmas Stocking Swap. How exciting.

Off came the paper to reveal my stocking made especially for me by Mel, in her favourite CK fabric.

Thanks Mel its lovely!

The stocking was full of gifts.

A huge bar of chocolate, a floral decorated miniature mirror, three decorative heart shaped pegs, a coffee fragrance sachet,(my favourite smell) a lovely Russian Santa Claus doll Santa containing a fragrant candle (a gorgeous Christmassy smell) and a festive coaster.

And a magnet with a picture of a chicken on, which has pride of place on the fridge freezer.

Thanks again Mel, all my gifts are lovely

Merry Christmas!

Sunday Evening at the O2 Academy

2009-12-08T22:12:00.003Z

We got back from Lichfield mid afternoon, just time for forty winks then into the shower and changed to head into town to the O2 Academy to see our son and his friends in their band who were supporting Tradgedy a "Metal Tribute to The Bee Gees".

To say we felt old would be an understatement. Our son's band opened the evening and we were so proud! We wish them all well.

The main band were fantastic. We have never seen anything like them and would recommend their show to everyone. Quite bizarre listening to Bee Gees songs being sung in the style of Heavy Metal. - Fantastic. The band were dressed in Lycra and were covered in glitter. If you get the chance - Check them out!
We slept really well that evening - "The oldest rockers in town"!

A visit to Lichfield

2009-12-08T21:33:00.004Z

This weekend me and Mr C travelled to Lichfield to stay the weekend with our daughter and her boyfriend.

She wont be coming home to us for Christmas as her boyfriends Mum and partner will be staying with her over the holidays. (only fair, but I will really miss her).

We arrived Friday evening after a very slow drive due to road works. She made us a wonderful supper of stuffed mushrooms to start (Mushrooms stuffed with cream cheese and wrapped in prosciutto , then baked in the oven - yummy) for main course we had Hunter's Chicken served with Mashed Potato, Green Beans and Carrots (again fantastic) our pud was Apple Strudel served with cream. I was really impressed, I taught her well! I forgot to mention the bottle of wine which was also very well received.

On Saturday after breakfast, we walked into Lichfield and took in some of the sites. Its a lovely place with some really picturesque buildings., like the Cathedral with three spires.

We stopped off at a tea shop and had pots of tea and toasted tea cakes - wonderful!

Saturday evening I booked a restaurant where we had traditional Christmas fare to make up for the fact we will be apart on Christmas Day. The food wasn't too great but the company made up for it.

Sunday morning came around all too soon, so we had to pack up our bags and say our goodbye's, wiping away the tears we headed off home.

My week in the Derbyshire Peak District

2009-11-29T17:31:00.007Z

This week my work took me to the Derbyshire Peak District. Whilst driving there on Monday I encountered some really heavy rain that was running like rivers down the sides of the roads and the windscreen wipers couldn't clear the drops off my windscreen fast enough! Very scary indeed.

The roads are very steep but the scenery is beautiful, even through the rain. The rest of the week was cold but the sun came out to reveal the most wonderful architecture and scenery. I cant believe I walked up and down those streets three days in a row!

I stayed in a really nice hotel called "The Red House" (photo taken from their website, as I arrived after dark!)

My bedroom was warm and cozy, and was decorated in cream. It had its original fire place, but it was there for decoration only unfortunately.

The owner and staff of the hotel were very welcoming and I would recommend anyone to stay there if they get the opportunity! I am off to John Lewis next week to try and buy a similar bedspread. I met some lovely people during the course of the week, one of whom makes knitted tea cosy's that she sells from her home in one of the villages. She has sparked my interest in knitting again and I have made a couple for her to add to her collection. Unfortunately I forgot to take picture before I handed them over. I will take pictures of my next creations as soon as I finish them. Thanks for stopping by.

Mrs C

A wet and windy Sunday in Northumberland

2009-11-22T17:31:00.004Z

At 9 a.m. the sun was shining brightly although the wind was quite strong. If you look closely you can see the swan on the lake!So we decided to take a walk up into the village, to the bus station where there was a Continental Market due to open and 10 a.m.

We put our coats and boots on and headed to the door when the heavens opened again, so instead of walking we did things the lazy way and got into the car! When we got there it was dark and pouring - the poor stall holders looked freezing. A quick whiz around and then off to the newsagents for our papers.

On our way back to the car with only the Sunday papers purchased the sun came out! So we just had to go back an buy some scrummy olives.

Have a good evening all.

Mrs C x

Fishy Find

2009-11-22T17:24:00.004Z

We went out for a walk yesterday in between down pours and Mr C got his eyes on this in the local RSPCA charity shop. I think it is really quite awful but he loves it so I had to indulge him. We think it is a soup tureen, which is why I put the ladle into it! Doesn't he look miserable?

I dont believe they got through again!

2009-11-15T20:39:00.002Z

John and Edward are through again. They cant sing, and they cant dance either. Surely they cant win..............
Can they?

First in the queue

2009-11-13T17:25:00.015Z

Today Marks & Spencer held a Christmas penny bazzar which opened at 9:00am.

I met up with my bezzy mate BH at 8:15 and we headed off to the store to join the queue.

Imagine our surprise and excitement to find out we were actually first in the queue.

Just before the doors opened Santa and his helper came out and handed out chocolates and discount vouchers to be used against full price purchases in store.

We were then given a flyer showing what goods were on offer to us and we were told we could choose five. Ooh the excitement!

We both had a photo taken with Santa but don't feel brave enough to share the pictorial evidence - sorry!

Then................

The doors opened an we were invited in. I was met by a sales assistant holding a red and white carrier bag. "What 5 items would you like madame" then I made my choices.

I got a mug,

A money box complete with lock!

A tea towel.

A note book.

and

A key ring which has a trolley token on it!

There were no charges for the goods but everyone was asked to make a donation to the Breast Cancer Research charity, which I always like to support anyway.

Happy with our gifts we then headed off to Mc Donald's for breakfast. (not the healthiest we agreed, but none the less very acceptable!)

A very fulfilling Friday 13th!

Then off to work. Not so exciting but still it pays for the shopping trips and scones on Monday!

Have a good evening all. Mrs C x

Remembrance Sunday 2009

2009-11-08T10:45:00.004Z

At 11am today we will be participating in 2 minutes silence in remembrance of our service men and women who have fallen. I will also be thinking of those who have been injured and those who are still serving, as well as their families.

Thank you to all of you service men and women past and present.

Poppies are sold every year by the Royal British Legion to help fund their charity work. I will wear my poppy with pride!

T T M x

THE DECLUTTER HAS BEGUN

2009-11-07T16:55:00.006Z

I decided not to go shopping this afternoon, and I am really glad I stayed at home. The weather took a turn for the worst and it is pouring with rain and really cold.

I logged on to my laptop to check my e-mails and started checking out other blogs. Whilst checking out Country Heart and Home, I came across a reference to Flylady.

The site is inspirational, with motivational videos. One suggestion is that to start de-cluttering we get a black bag and select 27 items to throw out. It didn't take me long at all. Look out Anthea you have competition!

I have now been through most of my magazines (why I hang on to them I really don't know) but the majority of them are now in the recycling box ready for Thursday. I will move upstairs tomorrow hopefully and by Monday the charity shops in the area will have some new stock.

I have kept my Weight Watchers mags and I am just now waiting for my slimming mojo to return. I went to fat class this morning and managed to stay the same weight as last week, which is quite an achievement as I have been taking cough medicine like it is going out of fashion.

Have a good evening and check out Country Heart and Home and FlyLady!

T T M x

Pumpkin Soup Mmmnnnnn

2009-10-30T20:01:00.008Z

As it is Halloween tomorrow coupled with the drop in temperature today, I decided to buy a pumpkin and make some delicious warming soup.

I used the flesh of the pumpkin which I softened in some oil along with 2 carrots, a large onion, half a leek and 2 veggie stock cubes. I added enough water to half fill my pan and left it to cook for about 45minutes. Next step I added a handful of fresh coriander then blitzed it down with a stick blender. Eh voila, a delicious pan of soup.

THE HAUNTED HOUSE

Well I couldn't just throw the pumpkin away, so I decided to check out Google images for a template and get creative. I then set about marking the picture onto the pumpkin by pricking it with a skewer. The next part was the hardest, I had to cut through the pumpkin around my guidelines, then the worst thing ever happened my cutting tool snapped and I had to finish my effort with a small knife.

Well about an hour later the lantern is finished and ready to light the candle.

Not bad for a first go,, don't you think!

Oh and the soup was delicious.

Have a good weekend everyone

T T M X

Christmas is coming!

2009-10-28T20:57:00.007Z

Me and my other half Mr C, went shopping for a new kitchen at the weekend, not really the thing to do this near Christmas but hey ho! Well after we spent a kings ransom we drove over to the local outlet shopping centre for a walk about and we saw these lovely decorations in the entrance. On the way out we noticed there were illuminated reindeer on the hillside too, but as I was driving I didn't get the chance to take a photo, sorry!

We couldn't resist this plate with the glittery snowflakes on the border

Then we saw another so had to have that too!

And then we spotted some cute little decorations for holding Christmas Cards, then a wooden snowman for the tree, and a little silver star with some stones set into it, a snowman plaque,to mention but a few.

I can't wait for December!
TTM X

MY VERY FIRST CRAFT FAIR

2009-10-16T22:18:00.004+01:00

This afternoon on my return home from Liverpool, I met up with my very good friend BH and her mum at the Xmas Craft Fair at Newcastle Arena. I had an absolute ball visiting all of the stalls. Thanks to both of them for inviting me. X

We all signed up to a Ribbon Workshop which was excellent (My thanks to the guy who showed us what to do he was great, and he supplied us all with some fudge to eat whilst we eagerly created out wreaths!)

I came home very excited with my new crafty creation, and Mr C just could not contain his laughter. He said he could not determine whether it was for Halloween or Christmas and he then went on to say "has some one created a Saint Spare Ribbons Day?" Philistine ! Well I was pleased with my efforts!
Mind you on reflection when you see it in a photo it does look like an explosion in a ribbon factory!!!!!!!!!!
Night all X

A week in Liverpool

2009-10-16T21:33:00.009+01:00

I have spent this week working in Liverpool and I stayed in the Crowne Plaza which is located across the road from the Liver Building. I took this photo this morning before breakfast whilst loading the car.
Is quite an impressive building and very bizarre that on Monday evening there was a documentary on TV all about the Liver Birds on top!

Over the course of this week I am afraid I have taken a few picture in an attempt to get the perfect one!

I went for a walk each evening into the town centre (for a spot of exercise honest) and came across the Cath Kidston store tucked away in a lane just of the main Liverpool 1 shopping area. The staff were lovely and didn't mind me taking these pictures.

This morning on the drive home I stopped at a traffic light outside a sandwich shop called Ate days a week, and at that very moment what came on the radio, but Eight Days a Week by the Beatles - Spooky or what!!!!!

T T M X

More shopping in Orlando

2009-10-14T21:25:00.007+01:00

Back in Orlando we hit the shops but not before calling in at the Cracker Barrel for brunch. I always like to pay a visit as the goodies they sell in the shop are amazing. They have a large selection of Halloween items.............

They also have a good selection of Christmas themed ornaments and tree decorations. Like I say it is always well worth a visit.

I also noticed their thanksgiving displays and I couldn't resist this Harvest Angel. She is gorgeous isn't she?

I saw something unbelievable in Florida Mall. A Surf simulator in a store. My goodness what will they think of next?

Then on Friday Mr C took me to the Mall at Millenia to the Tiffany Store to buy me a birthday gift. He bought me a charm bracelet and a selection of charms. (How lucky am I?) Photo's to follow, as my prized possession is at home and I am sitting in a hotel in Liverpool writing this blog trying hard to catch up and stay awake! Nearly there.

A long weekend in Miami 26th September 2009

2009-10-14T20:10:00.008+01:00

On Friday of our first week I drove Mr C and my very good friend Lady B (who lives in Orlando 6 months of the year) down to Miami to visit her son. What an adventure, I am so proud of my achievment in mastering the traffic. Master B gave me a bit of advice - when you see a brake light in front of you just accelerate. Well blow me but it worked every time! We dropped Lady B off at Master B's house and after a drink (coffee for me, beer for Mr C, wine for the B's) we drove to Miami Beach to check into our hotel. A very pleasant surprise awaited us. The hotel upgraded our room which was great. When we looked out of the window we were well impressed. It was sunset so I had to take a photo.

We showered and changed as quite as we could then it was off for a spot of posing on Lincoln Road. I just love it! And I had'nt had a drink all week due to being the designated driver or should I say the only driver! Bless him he has promised to take some driving lessons this century but I am not holding my breath.

My turn for a drink I have'nt had a Margarita in ages (February) so this one didnt take long to finish off!

Then I got my eye on the selection available. Fantastic. (I dont get out much!)

We ate our meal alfresco whilst people watching, followed by another drink then back to the

hotel for a well earned sleep.

On Saturday we decided to take a little light exercise in the form of a walk along the boardwalk. Some of the sights (joggers) were a sight to behold. Some of the girlies were jogging half naked. Mr C was dumfounded. I think most of the runners were merely posing for the delight of the tourists. More photos of hotels and views of the beach. Sorry I didnt take any of the joggers!

We passed the Versace Palace. Those people stood talking for ever so I just took their photo too!

We then went to a deli for lunch before continuing to walk the length and breadth of Miami Beach. We returned to the hotel at 4pm and needed a lie down before showering and driving to Master B's house for dinner. But not before capturing another amazing sun-set!

On Sunday we went to church to hear Master B sing a solo (amazing rendition of You lift me up), then back to Lincoln Road for a lunch of Pizza before travelling back to Orlando for dinner at Lady B's house, then back to our villa for a night cap and then bed, exhausted.

Our Florida Vacation (part one)

2009-10-12T20:04:00.008+01:00

Well it seems like a life time since I posted my last entry.

We left England for Florida on 19th September and landed in Sanford Orlando at 1:30pm just in time for lunch. I took these photos as we were coming in to land. Sorry about the glare of the flash, I forgot to switch it off and there was no time to take them again.

We collected our luggage and headed off to collect the keys to the rental car. The guy on the desk was leaving that day so he said he wanted to make sure we got the best deal ever. He gave us the tank full of fuel for free then offered us a Hummer. Can you imagine little 5foot 21/2 inches of me driving a beast like that? (Mr C does not drive you see)I think not so I took delivery of a lovely Chrysler and drove to our rented villa in Kissimme. Just me and Mr C and they gave us a three bedroomed villa, it was great! We dropped off our bags and headed off for some dinner. We just got a take away of chicken and salad with a bottle of wine for me and some bottles of beer for Mr C. We managed about 6 hours sleep then were wide awake so showered and headed of to Ihop for breakfast of omlette and pancakes. Well worth the wait said Mr C! Now off to the shops, well it has to be done with all those outlet malls. Mr C bought 3 bags full of Nautica as usual but I seemed to have lost my shopping mojo.

Monday we drove to Downtown Disney which is always worth a visit as they have a Gioradelli Ice Cream Parlour my absolute favourite. I had a banana split and Mr C had a very berry sundae. We were a little disappointed as the treats were served in disposable containers instead of the usual glass sundae dishes.

We are a couple of kids when it comes to ice cream. It looks good does'nt it? Mickey and Minney said Hello!

More adventures later as my internet connection is running really slowly.

Messing about

2009-09-17T22:28:00.004+01:00

I have been trying all evening to change the background on my blog and have eventually managed to do it. Yeah! Only trouble is I don't know how to change the banner to match the background. Maybe it is because I am sleep deprived or maybe it is because I am not very good. (I have been up and about since 5 am this morning). I am on the holiday count down now and cant wait until Saturday when I board my flight to Florida.

I am initially going to Orlando where I will catch up with my good friend Lady B and then next week-end we will drive to Miami to meet up with her son for a couple of days. I love the States!

T T Mx

The last days of summer

2009-09-14T21:52:00.005+01:00

Friday and Saturday were both beautiful days in the North East. The sun shone brightly and the temperature was really very warm. I thought it would be a lovely day for a walk down by the river.

The trees looked really pretty with the sun shining full on them

Now off through the fields. Hi Baabra nice to see ewe!

How peaceful the English country side is. We are so lucky. TTMx

Coming Home - Wednesday evening

2009-09-14T21:41:00.004+01:00

The best part of going away is coming home, don't you think? I took these photos when we were coming in to land in Newcastle last week, following my trip to Reading. The sun was still shining on the river around St Mary's Lighthouse.

Then we followed the River Tyne until we got to Wolsingham then came down to land.

Next time I take Aeriel photos I will try and remember to take the flash off so the pictures are a little clearer. Thanks for stopping by TTMx

Getting heavier!

2009-09-10T21:16:00.002+01:00

I went to face the music at fat class on Saturday and as predicted I gained weight, a total of 2.5 pounds. Even though I was expecting it I was still devastated! After the class my friend Lady B and I went for bacon butties and coffee in Asda. I always cheer my self up with food then feel terrible afterwards, how stupid am I? In the afternoon my hubby and I travelled up to the retreat where he is in mid DIY project hopefully to be completed this weekend. He worked outside in the sunshine and I sat inside reading my magazine looking for inspiration. We drove into the village and bought fish and chips for supper. They were really good and I washed mine down with a large glass of red. I managed to curb my cravings on Sunday, promising myself a "fresh start". I kept within my allocated points allowance all day. Whoopee!

Monday (my favourite day) my good friend BH and I went to our favourite tea shop, where we had our usual fresh cream fruit scone, with strawberry jam and a pot of tea. Wonderful as ever! I do enjoy our Mondays when we put the world to rights willing the other to finish first. I only had a snack in the evening so managed again to keep within my meagre points allowance.

Tuesday I travelled to Reading for a team meeting. First food of the day was a panini courtesy of British Airways. Not too bad but the start of things to come. On arrival at the office we were met with a buffet lunch - not good because when I see it I eat it! There were a good selection of unhealthy wraps and flat breads followed by mini fresh cream cakes. Tuesday evening we all met up in a restaurant and had huge burgers and fries accompanied by a couple of large glasses of wine and followed by McFlurry ice creams. Then back to the hotel and off to bed, my tummy groaning under the strain of all that food.

Wednesday up with the larks and down to the restaurant for a full English breakfast and a pot of coffee then off to the office for part two of the meeting. The only thing keeping us all going was the interest of what the buffet lunch would hold today. We were devastated to find out that there were no cream cakes - they had been replaced by danish pastries! When the food was done so were we and off we travelled back to Heathrow to start our homeward journey. The shopping in terminal 5 is amazing. Harrods, Tiffany, Bulgari to name but a few. I couldn't even manage a cup of coffee I had eaten so much during Tuesday and Wednesday. On the plane I partook of a bottle of red wine but they have stopped providing sandwiches which have now been replaced by nibble packs of seeds and raisins.

Wednesday also saw both of my good friends BH and Lady B travelling off to their respective foreign homes. I hope they both had safe journeys and are having a wonderful time. I am not bitter honest, and its nearly time for me to fly off to USA!

Enough of this rambling, which incidentally has at least stopped me from eating.
Have a good evening all. TTM x

Pre Holiday Panick!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-09-05T07:47:00.006+01:00

Oh no, its that time of year again, its the countdown to my holiday!

As usual I have done nothing but eat and now its panic stations because none of my clothes fit. Why do we do this to ourselves? I am due to get weighed at my Fat Club this morning and no doubt my leader will say, "You have gained weight, are you happy with that?" - What can you say to that then?

Why cant someone come up with calorie free desserts? We had a bake sale yesterday to raise money for the Cancer Research Charity, so I had to participate. There were muffins, sandwich cakes, danish pastries, cheese cakes and all manner of sweet temptations. What is a girl to do in such circumstances, and it was to raise money for a very worthwhile cause.

I have two whole weeks to try and do something about it, and tomorrow is another day, so wish me luck!

TTM X

Wednesday (the new Monday)

2009-09-02T20:51:00.006+01:00

As Monday was a Bank Holiday I missed my usual Monday outing with my good friend BH. Not to be disadvantaged we decided to take a trip out today instead.

Whilst out at the weekend, BH found a fantastic store "Wooly Blue" full of pretty things. Off we went this lunchtime on a mission, camera's in hand, both drooling at the thought of the beautiful things contained inside. We don't know how long the shop has been there but it was only 15 minutes drive from where we work so it was quite a find. Some of the treasures contained within were by Kath Kidston and Gisella Graham to mention but a few.

Once we had both made a small purchase, off we went in search of a cuppa. BH only partook of a cup of tea (What resolve, but then again it is nearly Thursday which is truth at the scales day at Fat Fighters!).

I could not resist a toasted tea-cake because a drink is too wet without one! My weigh in day is not until Saturday.

Have a good evening., and thanks for stopping by. T T M

Bank Holiday Weekend

2009-08-31T21:10:00.008+01:00

We have spent the weekend based at our "Country Retreat" and have had a blissful time.

Needless to say I have been shopping in the village for pretty things to adorn my display cabinets.

I bought a really sweet (pardon the pun) strawberry jam pot which originated at Fortnum and Mason. Sorry my photo is a bit rubbish but its been thundering and the lightning is so scary, I am just trying to take my mind off the scariness by updating my blog!

I have also bought a lovely honey pot in the shape of an old hive with honey bees on it!

My sister and her husband came to visit yesterday and stayed the night, it was really nice to see them. We drove to Kelso today which is just over the border in Scotland and took in some of the sights. We saw the remains of an old church and the workmanship is fantastic. It is humbling to look at such works to think that when it was constructed they didn't have access to the machinery available to builders today.

Next stop down to the river to see the swans and cygnets.

I am now sitting listening to the pouring rain and watching lighting which I find very scary. Hey did I mention I now have gone all high tech with my mobile broadband. It doesn't work at high speed due to our location but I still have access to my emails and the blogs I am following. Thank goodness for technology eh!

Have a good evening. TTMx

Designer Memory Jogger

2009-08-24T18:49:00.002+01:00

My memory is not what it used to be so I have decided to carry a small note book around with me in my handbag, using it for to do lists. The only one I could lay my hands on today was a boring school note book.

Not to be deterred I decided to give it a cheapo designer treatment!

I printed off a colour copy of a fabric swatch (KC) which I enlarged on the photo copier and then I covered my notebook, the way I used to do when I was at school many years ago. I have also laminated it using a method suggested to me by my good friend BH, (Iron the laminated sheet onto the book as obviously it will not feed through the laminator, making sure to place a cloth between the iron and the lamination sheet). It now looks lovely. All I need now is to remember to use it.

Have a good evening.

A wonderful weekend in the country

2009-08-23T22:07:00.006+01:00

We have just returned from a lovely weekend in our "Country Retreat". Nothing to hear but the sounds of the birds singing. Ah it was bliss. The sun was shining on Friday evening when we arrived, so after unpacking the car, we sat outside with a drink and enjoyed the evening air and the sounds of silence. Saturday was another fabulous day, sun shining brightly. Unfortunately when the sun shines my hubby takes to doing his DIY, so no peace for me! We drove to the nearest town for some supplies to allow him to finish his project. I took some photos of the view on the way to the store. In the distance is the sea honest!

We bought the bits and pieces and stopped off at M&S Food to pick up something nice for supper. The roads were so quiet it was like a piece of heaven in the countryside.

When we got back we sat out in the sunshine, again with a drink and some olives while our evening meal was cooking. We ate our meal outside too as it remained quite warm. Then inside to catch the first episode of X-Factor. Needles to say there was no DIY done at all on Saturday, ah well there is always next weekend!

Today started off well but by 9:30 the torrential rain started and didn't stop! We headed back home and stopped of to visit my Dad, where we stayed for tea. He always cooks something nice for our tea and today was no exception. Thanks Dad. X

My day

2009-08-19T20:46:00.006+01:00

Its been a strange day, weather wise today. I thought I would take the day off as the weather forecaster said it was going to be the last day of summer, the sun was shining brightly and the birds were singing. Anyway my conscience got the better of me and I went into the office. On the way in it got darker and darker but the temperature kept on rising.

Everything I have touched today seems to have gone wrong, tasks that should have taken minutes took hours. I was late for my dental appointment but my bad day changed when she said no treatment needed and you really don't need to see the hygienist either. Well the tooth fairy must have been looking down on me!
I cant wait for the weekend when I can return to our retreat. My very good friend BH bought me the sweetest present; a ceramic chicken which I love. She has pride of place on my dining room window in the retreat.

How cute is she?

Enjoy the view

2009-08-18T20:35:00.005+01:00

Thanks for your kind comments. I was so touched that you took the time to drop by and read my entries that I am now hooked on blogging!

I thought you may like to share the view from my "weekend retreat" where you can also see my breakfast companions! If you look closely at the picture above you can actually see the armarda of ducklings coming to feast on my bread! They are really cute arent they?

Calais for tea

2009-08-17T19:32:00.010+01:00

As I was working in Dover last week, I thought it would be an adventure to get the ferry across to Calais for tea on Wednesday. I have never driven onto a Ferry before or anywhere in France for that matter! I booked my ticket on the Internet and turned up at the port as instructed an hour before departure. I still had on my business suit so looked really out of place amongst the rest of the holiday makers making their way to Europe. Any way off I went following the instructions till I was pulled over by the security guys to have my vehicle searched. Honestly they let all the suspicious folk drive past and stopped me. I had nothing more than a briefcase in my boot! I then drove through passport control not even having my passport examined and drove onto the ferry. I was so proud of my achievement. The crossing was really calm and then it was time to drive off into France. This again I managed to do without any problems. I drove down the motorway and followed my instructions to the Wine Warehouses. Well - I have never seen anything like it, most were closed (it was after 8pm when I got there) and those that were open were dirty and dusty warehouses and their prices were more or less the same as at home. I then decided it was time to eat so followed the signs to the Plage (beach) and there were several restaurants advertising mussels (one of my favourite foods).

Well they were all closing for the evening so I ended up buying frites & mayonnaise, but I did order them in French having previously been coached in the art of shopping by my good friend BH! It was then time to head back to the ferry for the journey home. There was a 45 minute delay then back on board. I got back to my hotel just after 1 am. Straight to bed for me, but what an adventure. Its days like this that make me love my job.

Girly weekend July (London)

2009-08-17T18:43:00.005+01:00

My beautiful daughter is a huge fan of The Wizard of Oz, so I thought it would be lovely, as I don't see much of her, if we met up in London and I took her to see a show. Wicked is the prequal to the Wizard of Oz and is currently playing in the west end. I booked dinner and a show tickets on lastminute.com which cost £60.00 each.

I also booked a nice hotel in Kensington so we could have a good old girly weekend. Our trains arrived in London within half an hour of each other so we met up in Kings Cross and travelled by tube to our hotel. We checked in and were given our room key. The room was very nice but only had a double bed in it and I had booked a twin room. I rang down to reception and they were full of apologies but said they had no twin rooms left and shock horror all they could offer me was an Executive Room which had a massive king size bed! Well not wishing to be rude I felt compelled to accept! The room was absolutely fantastic with posh toiletries, complimentary chocs, water, tea, coffee and an umbrella. After that surprise we got changed and headed off for our pre theatre meal. The restaurant was amazing and the three courses were delicious as was the complimentary glass of wine. Then we walked across the road and into the theatre, again we were thrilled with the seats which had excellent views of the stage. The show was excellent too! Back to the hotel for a drink and bed. The next day we ate breakfast in the hotel and then went across the road for our hair cut. Once we were transformed we headed off to Madame Tussuad's where we took loads of photos with the celebs.

Back to the hotel for a shower and out for more food.
Next day we were up bright and early for breakfast before heading off to the National History Museum. I was again surprised and had a lovely time looking at the dinosaurs. After a couple of hours we then headed off to Harrods to rub shoulders with the rich folk and the rest of the tourists! I bought a couple of shopping bags, one for me and one for my good friend BH, then we headed off for some lunch in their sushi bar. My daughter loved every mouthful, but I have to confess I wasn't impressed at all! Back to the hotel for our bags and then we caught the tube to our main line stations. We then sadly said our goodbyes and travelled to our respective homes. I had a lovely weekend and cant wait for the next one.

Glasgow for the Eagles Concert (July)

2009-08-17T17:36:00.005+01:00

I travelled to Glasgow in July with my hubby and we stayed in a lovely hotel overlooking the SE CC on one side and the BBC Scotland building on the other. The weather that weekend was fabulous so we decided to go for a walk into the city centre on the Saturday morning. Well imagine our surprise when we couldn't get across the road for hundreds of marching bands. We timed it badly as we had to stand for ages watching the bands and their followers. It was the Orange march. We eventually got to the shops and I have to say I was well impressed. We shopped for hours stopping only for lunch. I am quite lucky in that we both enjoy shopping (well I think he does too). We then went back to our hotel for a quick shower and change and off to Hamden Park for the Eagles concert. The concert was opened by Paul Carrick who was absolutely amazing and then on came the Eagles. To say they were impressive would be an understatement. It was hard to believe they were live as they were absolutely pitch perfect. The only disappointment was they finished dead on 10:30 with no encore.

We then went back to the hotel for something to eat and a few drinks.

Next day (Sunday) we had a late breakfast and took our cases to the station, (daylight robbery for the left luggage service) and off to the shops again. This time we bought a saxophone which my hubby had always wanted. Another piece of musical equipment to gather dust in the bedroom no doubt, but hey life is short! We caught the train back in the evening after a lovely weekend.

Blog Novice

2009-06-24T21:14:00.004+01:00

Well here I go in the fantastic land of bloggers thanks to my very good friend Blueberry Heart, who very kindly helped to get me started. I sit for hours reading other blogs so thought why not give it a go!

As my name suggests I travel quite a lot through my job and stay in some very nice places most of the time. Last week I had the good fortune to be working in the Norfolk Broads. Well the weather was scorching on Monday then the heavens opened, there was forked lightning and very loud thunder. Not my favourite type of weather, least of all when I am driving around strange roads. Well I dived into Tesco and took refuge for an hour until I was getting some rather strange looks and had to brave the lightning strikes and flooding. Fifteen minutes later and soaked to the skin I arrived back at my hotel. Shower and jammies on I settled down to watch tv (which I do too much I am afraid), and read my new magazine.

Several years ago when my children were small, I was an avid knitter and loved to create patchwork quilts and cushions. Well whilst in Tesco I decided to purchase a magazine that caught my eye because it had everything I would need to create some rather bright granny squares in crochet along with step by step instructions for those of us who havent picked up a crochet hook in decades. Needless to say I managed to look at the photos of what could be achieved and then promptly fell fast asleep. Work took over the rest of the week too and I arrived home on Friday evening fit for nothing but sleep again.

Saturday I took part in The Midnight Walk along with BH and Miss J. We raised a good amount for the St Cuthberts Hospice in Durham, burned a few calories over the 10k, then promptly ate them back again in the form of a sticky bun, provided at the end of the walk, which was delicious I have to say!

Sorry I have no pictures yet but I am only a novice!