tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22525989056089492402024-03-06T02:29:28.949+00:00Camping and other stuff with Theo's NanaThe Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05280788936885348945noreply@blogger.comBlogger1335125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2252598905608949240.post-69457154701710894762022-05-07T10:08:00.003+01:002022-05-07T10:08:29.867+01:00Beautiful New life Last Wednesday morning- 4th May 2022 - my beautiful Grandson Theo was born. He is a little smasher. He gave his Mum - Danielle, and his dad - Gareth, some cause for concern as he struggled a bit to get out and then struggled a bit to start breathing properly - but with the help of the wonderful NHS staff he did escape the confines of Mum's cosy womb and arrived with gusto. WELCOME little man - named Theo Peter and weighing in at a mighty 2.94 kilogrammes (6.4lbs in old money) - which is more or less about the same weight as his Mum was when she arrived back in '89. I can't even begin to describe the feeling of love I have for him. It's like no other. I am going down to his home on Monday to meet him. Prepare for photos and loads of baby spam. I make no apologies. The Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05280788936885348945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2252598905608949240.post-9927396787685657992015-05-30T08:56:00.001+01:002015-05-30T08:56:23.107+01:00PlatitudesFucking cancer. A friend of mine has just been diagnosed with breast cancer. Pretty fucking dire if you ask me. This friend is somebody I've known for over 20 years but we're not particularly close. When I heard that she had the buggering 'C'. I messaged her to offer support. I live close to her..I work from home...I can take her call at any time, and there's lots that I can do to assist ...shopping, cleaning, talking...that kind of stuff.<br />
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Immediately she accepted. I'm honoured to be honest. Seriously. Big time. That she would think little old me worthy of helping her through this.<br />
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I have no idea how good I'll be ...but she's given me her trust with this and I am determined that I am not going to let her down.<br />
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Yesterday she had a biopsy to take samples from the tumours (one biggish one and three smaller ones) and I offered to go with her to hold her hand. She accepted. So there we were in this room...with a doctor and a nurse (who were lovely)...a big probe type thing and an ultrasound machine.<br />
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She bore this with an amazing amount of courage and grace. If it were me I'd have been crying and dissolving into a puddle of snot, wee and tears. She was laughing, chatting and even when it was uncomfortable (understatement of the century...a big metal probe going through your skin...digging into your flesh and snipping bits of you away?) she was dignified to a level that was, quite frankly...astonishing.<br />
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After the deed was done we went back to her shop for tea and chocolate biscuits. We thought that was the least she deserved. Frankly I think she deserved two nights with George Clooney, a winning lottery ticket and at least one pair of Manolos. And that's just for starters.<br />
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Anyway - as is often the case when your world is collapsing around you - you see the funny side. We got chatting about platitudes. The things that she's expecting people to say to her. Well meaning utterances of such banality and ridiculousness..... We laughed so much about this that we decided to start a list of "Platitude of the day". I promised her I would text her every morning with the very worst platitude I could think of for that day.<br />
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So...'what doesn't kill you makes you stronger'.....'it's always darkest before the dawn'....'you'll look great with no hair'....etc etc etc..... that kind of thing. Personally I can't imagine anything more annoying and insulting.....imagine having to fight this battle and then having dumb folks saying dumb things to you...and then having to smile graciously and accept their kind words? I'd be on a murder charge within hours.<br />
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Anyway - that's all apart from to remind the girls out there to check their boobs for lumps. Please. For me.<br />
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XXXThe Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05280788936885348945noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2252598905608949240.post-61813532516547567962015-03-28T14:40:00.000+00:002015-03-28T14:41:26.618+00:00Abbeydale produce market <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />The Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05280788936885348945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2252598905608949240.post-89622142645245746392015-03-28T09:26:00.000+00:002015-03-28T09:26:00.500+00:00Sparrow's fart in Castleton<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />The Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05280788936885348945noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2252598905608949240.post-3478239651397965722015-03-19T18:37:00.000+00:002015-03-19T18:48:48.038+00:00Driving, Alzheimers and my MumToday has been a very demanding day. Very. Demanding. Indeed. My Mum has alzheimers. I haven't mentioned this before - because - well - I haven't mentioned much about anything for a while. Anyway - at the beginning of December she had an accident and broke her ankle - which meant being off her feet for a couple of months. She very kindly loaned me her car. In the ensuing time period her driving license was revoked by the DVLA - because she hadn't responded to their letter asking her to have a driving assessment. She got annoyed and threw the letter in the bin with the attitude of "who are they to tell me I can't drive?". The result being that her license is now withdrawn - and if she wants to drive again she has to take another test.<br />
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Last week her car failed its MOT. In a huge way. It requires about £450 work to get it roadworthy - and as the car is only worth about £200...it's just not worth it.<br />
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Alzheimers patients forget lots of things - but equally can get fixated on things. Mum is currently fixated on her car and being able to drive again. Her car represents her independence and it's quite understandable that she doesn't want to stop driving. However, the safety of other road users and pedestrians is also important - and her driving simply isn't safe anymore. The DVLA decision to revoke her license was a relief for all of us - as it meant that the decision to persuade her to stop driving had been taken out of our hands and we could join in with her when she verbally berated the DVLA for daring to do such a thing.<br />
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This morning she phoned me to demand that I bring the car back to her because I had 'stolen' it from her and she wanted it back. No amount of explanation would appease her, she didn't care that has neither license nor MOT nor insurance. She called me some very choice names. I was shocked at her outburst - my Mum has never had a hot temper...but this morning it was scorching.<br />
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She won't ever drive again...but getting her to understand this is akin to pushing water uphill. This disease is vile. Vile. Vile. I don't like to hear my Mum in such an angry distressed state. I don't like it that she simply doesn't have the ability to comprehend and remember information - especially when it's unpleasant...and that reminding her just repeats her distress over and over and over again. This morning she hated me.....I know that my Mum doesn't hate me - but I felt the full force of her temper and anger today...it's not actually her temper or her anger...it's the disease. But the disease is a twat - because today...it ruined her day and it ruined mine. The balance between keeping her safe and keeping her happy is very difficult to get right - if possible at all. I fail at it spectacularly...over and over again. The disease is progressive...so ...in other words...all of this will just get worse.<br />
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I have no idea how to lead my Mum and her damaged mind over the hill so that she understands and accepts that she won't drive again...I'm working on this...it's my current project.<br />
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Alzheimers is a fucker.The Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05280788936885348945noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2252598905608949240.post-12537910878599629622015-02-24T20:22:00.000+00:002015-02-24T20:22:07.728+00:00La TrixWell...here I am. I've been out this evening - out for tea with a very special friend. My best friend in fact. She mentioned my blog and said that she still looks to see if I've written anything. My friend doesn't live here any more...she lives in another country...but she visits home regularly and when she does we see each other and - like all great friendships - it's like I only saw her a few days ago. I love her....my friend...an awful lot. We've been friends for over 20 years and she's the one who has been there for me time and time and time and time again. She has comforted me when I've been hurting and laughed with me when I've been happy. She cheers me on from the sidelines (always) and loves me unconditionally. And I love her that way too. She knows all my secrets and she 'gets' me every single time. She's got my back, and she takes care of me. She's part of my family and I'm part of hers.<br />
There is nothing I could do that would shock her or cause her to turn away from me...and likewise...there's nothing she could do that would cause me to turn away from her. I have other friends, and I'm blessed because they are all very special to me.<br />
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But this one friend - she's the very best. She's funny, and smart, and kind, and beautiful inside and out. She gives everything in her heart to those that she loves, and she never stops giving. In all the years I've known her she has never said one unkind thing to me...and I know there must have been times when I've driven her nuts :)<br />
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If I was a drinking girl I would raise my glass to her - but I'm not - so here I am tipping my coffee cup to her instead. Thank you La Trix for being there for me and making my world a much nicer place. I love you - my dearest friend XXXThe Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05280788936885348945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2252598905608949240.post-5182865877612810472014-12-03T03:52:00.000+00:002014-12-03T03:52:13.495+00:00Tune of the day - Wednesday 3rd DecemberOver on another social media website (shhhh) we've been highlighting our favourite music choices. I say 'we'...but it's actually a solo venture. I an attempt to begin blogging again after a gap of a few months (we say 'few'...but we mean many) (it's that 'we' again). I was also reminded recently about blogging a a dear friend asked for advice regarding starting a blog of her own.....that got me thinking.<br />
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So here's something to start with.....Blower's Daughter by Damien Rice.<br />
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This song was used in the soundtrack of the film Closer from 2004. As well as recommending the song.....I can also recommend the film.The Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05280788936885348945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2252598905608949240.post-26512220372270457012014-08-27T09:21:00.001+01:002014-08-27T09:21:19.255+01:00Drinks with an old pal.In case you were wondering...I'm still single. We're coming up to five years now and never a dalliance in sight. The trauma of the last relationship ending has just taken so very long to heal.....<br />
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Last week I went out to meet an old friend for a drink (brief history...we worked together some 26+ years ago...found again on FB (as you do) and arranged to meet for a bevvie or three).<br />
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It went well...so much alcohol was consumed...I wobbled home...and was later bombarded with text messages of the almost sexual nature!<br />
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The next day we arranged to meet for lunch. Both pretty fragile to be honest. We agreed to see each other again, and he was going to call me.<br />
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Since then....nothing. Not a sausage (ooo err Missus). Nada.<br />
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I AM going to get a cat :)The Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05280788936885348945noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2252598905608949240.post-81224157789550324002014-06-20T17:16:00.001+01:002014-06-20T17:17:02.758+01:00*waves from the barricades*I'm here. I know you probably think I've disappeared..but no. I'm still here. Which is a good thing...let's face it - if not, you would have heard about it on the International news. A loss so great would have been reported.<br />
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I'm in a little town in the North, living in an attic (I kid you not) and sharing facilities with a 70+ year old dutch woman - who is lovely, albeit a vegetarian yoga enthusiast. Takes all sorts.<br />
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My job? Well, after a long while of doing the diving stuff and working with people whose manners and standards leave a lot to be desired (think about moody belgians with very bad breath...and angry englishmen with a huge case of small man syndrome...and arrogant teenagers with sex addictions...and ...oh I could go on...but what's the point?)...I now have a lovely little job which involves working from home in the cloud. Suits you, Sir. Suits me too. My desk is five yards from my bed, and I can work in jogging bottoms. I have a coffee machine.....doesn't really get any better than that...does it?<br />
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Past-times? Hiking, just taken up running (more about that in a later post), family tree stuff and photography. Oh yes, and thanks to lovely daughter and her equally lovely boyfriend...a very strange and unexplained addiction to lego. Small people playing house...yes..that will do it every time.<br />
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Friends? all still here - apart from the wondrous and voluptuous Fifi La Trix who buggered off to Spain a while back - but she returns from time to time - although not nearly enough...mind you I can't say anything about that seeing as I went off on adventures and was missing in action for nearly four years.<br />
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There's lots to tell and I'll get started soon...but just wanted to let you know that I'm back.<br />
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XXThe Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05280788936885348945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2252598905608949240.post-55496679203226224572012-12-02T15:34:00.001+00:002012-12-02T15:34:21.108+00:00It's nearly YuletideI've been missing a lot of this year. Not really...what I mean is I've been missing blogging about it. So here's a quick rundown.<br />
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I am now a Padi Staff Instructor. That means that I can assist in teaching new instructor candidates. Amongst all the other stuff that I teach. <br />
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I survived the mad busy summer.....working 7 days a week for weeks on end...and made two trips back to sunny Malta. Once for a wedding and then again in September for a whole ten days just to do some lovely diving in warm water. That was lovely! I also had my birthday whilst I was there and had a great night out for dinner with friends.<br />
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Now The festive season is looming and a trip home is on the cards. Dan and I are helping in a homeless shelter on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.....she suggested it and I thought it was better to give than to receive and all that! <br />
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That's about it really.....apart from this year...like last year has passed without me being kissed!<br />
The Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05280788936885348945noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2252598905608949240.post-48929314332229984342012-07-17T18:05:00.000+01:002012-07-17T18:07:56.787+01:00Have you missed me?Well..Hello. Offers up a tiny wave in a kind of timid way. I'm sorry I've been away for so long - but this place is like a kind of fourth dimension...people have been known to disappear and never be seen or heard of again.
Anyway - that hasn't happened to me...I'm still here. Still in very funky Whittlesea where inter-breeding first became popular..I suspect it started here before even Wath Upon Dearne...and that's saying something.
I haven't written much of late - because apart from work - nothing else ever happens here. Last week I got my Master Scuba Diver Trainer rating - which for anybody with a forces background is a bit like a Sergeant - to get this you have to have taught so many folks to dive - and also be qualified to teach various diving specialities. I am now a Nitrox Instructor, Deep, Underwater Navigation, Peak Performance Buoyancy, Wreck, and Dry Suit Instructor - as well as a certified Gas Blender. That's some going - and it's taken my little brain by storm.
I've been back to Malta for a few days - to do some diving in clear water and to attend a friend's wedding - and have booked flights to return there for 10 days in September.
Next Month I am doing my Staff Instructor course - which means I will be able to evaluate and help to train new instructor candidates.
Oh yes - after a long spell of 26 years - my very first ex-husband has now been in touch via Facebook! Don't you just love Facebook? That means I am now friends will all three of them! I think that's quite something. Never a cross word that can't be mended years later by a social networking site. Time heals all things!
Anyway - I may blog again in a few days about some of the mad things that happen round here - and I might just have to fill you in on Kitchen Lynn and her lovely attitude...but that's a long story for another day.
Love love, love xxThe Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05280788936885348945noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2252598905608949240.post-79672748075107783962012-04-07T22:21:00.004+01:002012-04-07T22:30:24.067+01:00Well...here I am in Sheffield for Easter weekend. It feels kind of odd to be honest. I got back late on Thursday after my train was delayed just a quarter of a mile outside the a station...for over an hour...I could have walked back quicker! Got back to Mum's eventually and had some food and an early night. Mum's memory is getting worse...she now has to write everything down...she just forgets stuff as soon as you tell her something. She also repeats herself continuously. I've done the same thing for years ever since a bad car accident in my early 20's...so I understand..but it can be frustrating.<br /><br />Friday lunchtime saw us all going out for lunch to celebrate the twin's birthday.. My dear friend Hazel came along too...and a good time was had by all. <br /><br />Friday night saw me meeting up with the divine Mrs Morris for a few drinks and supper. I love that lady!<br /><br />This morning we bobbed down to Meadowhall....for a spot of retail therapy and to meet up with Dan and Alex. Then I hot-footed it up to Fiona's. How excited I was to see her again. I love that girl. So much.<br /><br />We spent the afternoon laughing and giggling and doing girly stuff including charity shop shopping. <br /><br />Tonight has been relaxing....a nice tea of egg and chips....and watching tv.<br /><br />I love being home. XThe Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05280788936885348945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2252598905608949240.post-90800679664430084592012-03-25T18:10:00.002+01:002012-03-25T18:19:29.794+01:00Well...Hello!Feels like I haven't been on here for ages! (well...that's because you haven't you daft bint!).<br /><br />Anyway...I've been busy. Teaching. Which I love. I've just spent the weekend teaching two great chaps the Rescue Diver course. It's a brilliant course - very hard work. Those of you who have been reading this blog for a while may remember when I took my <a href="http://www.tracydavy.com/2010/02/what-have-you-done-today-part-2.html">Rescue Course</a> - and how emotional it was for me. For a diver..it's the first time that their consciousness is expanded to think about others before themselves. It's extremely hard work...physically and mentally...and to pass the course is a great achievement. To teach it is an ever bigger thrill!<br /><br />The chaps I have taught today - Paul and Adrian - are amongst my favourite students and they worked hard and did well. I was very proud of them.<br /><br />All in all - a great weekend !The Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05280788936885348945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2252598905608949240.post-9809552536562529642012-03-04T19:51:00.003+00:002012-03-04T20:00:28.811+00:00RobertOooh today has been a good day. I've been teaching. Originally I thought I was teaching a rather large chap on a course called 'Peak Performance Buoyancy'. PPB is all about being streamlined in the water - getting your weighting correct and being able to control your position in the blue by using just your lungs. If you can get your buoyancy right...you will never damage coral...use less air per dive..and just be a better diver. It's a great course. Sadly Fatboy didn't turn up...but Robert did. Let me tell you about Robert. Robert is 24 years old - but Robert has learning difficulties and has a learning age of 10. He struggles to read and write. He can get agitated if things don't go right first time. Frustration can get the better of him. But I like Robert. He's kind and gentle, respectful, has lovely manners, and a great sunny disposition. I taught Robert on his dry suit course just before Christmas and apparently he likes and trusts me. <br /><br />He asked for me specially when he booked (with his Dad's help) his PPB course. He is an absolute pleasure to teach. He wants to learn and he wants to please. The academic parts of the course take a little longer...and I have to explain every question to him in simpler language than is written in the manual...but he understands...and he's always done his study before he comes to the dive centre (I wish all the students did that).<br /><br />Today's dives went well - Robert is good in the water - and the look of sheer joy when we finished the dive and I told him he had passed the course was the very reason I started doing this job.<br /><br />Robert is an un-complicated young man. He wants to dive. He wants to dive well. And it was absolutely my honour and pleasure to teach him today.<br /><br />That is why I love what I do.The Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05280788936885348945noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2252598905608949240.post-46519360908865055382012-02-27T18:44:00.002+00:002012-02-27T18:50:49.819+00:00...and other news..Update!Well.. I passed all my exams...thank you for asking..and am now spammily qualified to teach loads of stuff to loads of folks under water! Which is good. I am quite proud of me'sen to be honest.<br /><br />The friend thing went a bit tits up though....and I'm not entirely sure what happened. We had a great day in London (see previous post) and then he went off skiing for a week. He text me last night to say he was home...but then proceeded to start 'sex-texting'...which was all a bit strange to be honest. I mean...I like him and all...but we've never even kissed...so it all felt a bit sudden! Maybe he'd been drinking? I have no clue. Anyway I had to let him know that although I liked him and was interested in getting to know him better - I wasn't ready yet for that sort of carrying on! Does that make me sound prudish? I'm all for a a bit of naughty texting when you're in a relationship with somebody and there's a level of trust there and so on....but it just didn't feel like the right time. I sent him a very carefully worded text...trying deperately not to hurt his feelings ....and haven't heard from him since. So that's the end of that then! <br /><br />I am truly hopeless at this man thing. And I mean truly hopeless. I may take up knitting and get a cat.<br /><br />On a more serious note - I am a bit sad - I really hoped this chap might turn out to be a really good friend.<br /><br />Ah well....The Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05280788936885348945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2252598905608949240.post-68808430654808405842012-02-23T21:31:00.004+00:002012-02-23T21:49:34.059+00:00Oxygen Partial Pressures......and other news<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_au8LSe0-5fII0XwukFRnSZxsHP_jmk-Mrcj3uZbb4lu69ftk_Y-FISHkgulD6CqrbyAEjp3nTx2fnuMu2NC-EMugwN0oD39OQ9HdyU85zJ3JeQ-xbNkHpK-xv5fb9mgT48OR48lBCn0/s1600/eanx.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 172px; height: 198px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_au8LSe0-5fII0XwukFRnSZxsHP_jmk-Mrcj3uZbb4lu69ftk_Y-FISHkgulD6CqrbyAEjp3nTx2fnuMu2NC-EMugwN0oD39OQ9HdyU85zJ3JeQ-xbNkHpK-xv5fb9mgT48OR48lBCn0/s400/eanx.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5712451472707561586" /></a><br />Forgive the title readers...it's all to do with dive physiology. I'm doing some courses at the moment....to be able to teach more stuff to student divers. By Monday I will be a qualified Deep Diving Instructor, a qualified Underwater Navigation Instructor, and a qualified EANx Instructor (that's Enriched Air...or Nitrox....for those of you who don't know...) as well as a qualified Dry Suit Instructor and Open Water Instructor - which I am already. For the Eanx qualification I have to understand Oxygen partial pressures and how this is affected by depth...did you know that Oxygen can be toxic at depth? Can cause convulsions and then death? Oooo how dramatic! I kind of understand it - but have to be able to teach it...it's all about partial pressures and that kind of Einstein stuff. (Sighs Deeply). Tissue saturation and rates of recovery...blah blah blah....I will know enough to pass the exams by Sunday afternoon...I will..I will..I will.<br /><br />In other news...we have had a day out of the 'fun' variety. Last Saturday in fact. Bobbied off to London for the day. On t'train. I went to meet a friend. Ahem *coughs*. A male friend. He is only a friend...but that doesn't mean that I wouldn't quite like the idea of him becoming something more. Mind you - I have absolutely no idea how he would feel about that idea...and I also have no idea how old he is. If I were to hazard a guess I would say about 38 - but I could be wrong. His twitter name has the number '78 in it - which would seem to suggest he's only 34. But it's really difficult to tell. He could well be a few years older than that. <br /><br />Anyway - he's very nice and he makes me laugh...but I am not going to say a single word to him about me 'liking' him in that way. I would rather keep him as a friend than risk chasing him away running scared for the hills because an older woman fancies him. I would have thought all this stuff would be easier now that I'm older and more experienced...but NO..if anything it's more difficult than ever! The other difficulty is that he lives in another country for 6 months of the year...and if I'm going to do the jiggy dance with someone (figuratively I might add)...it has to be somebody I can see a few times each week. <br /><br />As always I will keep you informed. Right...back to studying Oxygen behaviour at depth....laters xThe Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05280788936885348945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2252598905608949240.post-15471063600661845142012-02-13T20:33:00.003+00:002012-02-13T20:37:18.788+00:00Some daysSome days I could just scream. Really. Some days I could bash my head against a wall until I go dizzy. Some days I could cheerfully hit somebody - a random anybody. Some days I could pack a bag and set of running and keep going until God knows when. Some days I could tell the entire world to sod right off. Some days I could just shout and scream and not stop until I have told every single person who has ever hurt me or disappointed me or pissed me off or lied to me or duped me or cheated me exactly what I think of them. With knobs on. Someday I just could. Today was one of those days. It will be over soon as I'm going to bed early (Just to get the day over). Hopefully tomorrow will be different.The Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05280788936885348945noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2252598905608949240.post-60831258845014566222012-02-13T03:26:00.004+00:002012-02-13T03:35:46.569+00:00Sod off Valentine...Oooh...it's that time of year again. The time when we spinsters hang our heads in shame. Tomorrow is the feast of St Valentine - the day for lovers everywhere. Lovers? Everywhere? There's none round here :)<br /><br />I should get a card - from a twitter pal - who was also bemoaning the lack of love in his life - so quick as a flash (total opportunist) I messaged him to say I'd send him one if he'd return the favour.....I WILL HAVE A RED ENVELOPE to wave around tomorrow. I posted his card on Saturday and hopefully he did the same thing. <br /><br />So - that begs the question...Do I really want a significant other? Well - to be honest - there are some things that I miss. I miss witty conversations, shared jokes, deep and meaningful chats about all manner of things. I miss physical contact. Obviously I miss dancing the horizontal mumba...but I miss hugs, touches, cuddles, holding hands...just being in physical proximity to somebody. I miss the feeling of 'being in this together'...I miss having someone to cheer for...I miss knowing that somebody is thinking about me from time to time throughout their day. I miss phone calls and texts and somebody doing something just because they think I will like it. <br /><br />And the things I don't miss? Well...it's a long list and far too long to embark on here :)<br /><br />Happy St Valentine's day everyone :)The Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05280788936885348945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2252598905608949240.post-15197590948433658112012-01-29T19:00:00.003+00:002012-01-29T19:06:44.874+00:00Young coupleYesterday I was teaching. At the Pool. Doing what we call a 'Discover Scuba Diving' experience. It is exactly what it says on the tin. Not too difficult...not too hazardous..and can be lots of fun. I really like it when the student 'gets it' and loves it and wants to go on and do more.<br /><br />Yesterday I had a lovely young couple who are engaged to be wed - and wanted to see if Scuba diving was something they could do on honeymoon. (Probably when they're bored of shagging).<br /><br />The guy was great - got it straight away - and had a huge grin on his face. My work here is done. His fiancee was a whole other matter. She didn't want to be there...had a face like a smacked arse....wouldn't carry her kit (which is heavy) and made hapless boyfriend carry it for her...and did nothing but moan and whinge for the entire two hours. Oh it did make me cross.<br /><br />So here's a few words of advice for you dear. Try popping a smile on your face. Your husband to be won't be around for too long if you're always mardy. If you don't join in things with a willing heart and a joyous attitude - he'll be running off with somebody altogether more smiley!<br /><br />I wonder how they'll get on?<br /><br />(Editor's note - these words of advice were very well thought out by a woman who has managed to lose 3 husbands!!)The Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05280788936885348945noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2252598905608949240.post-73270308036704862522012-01-24T20:39:00.002+00:002012-01-24T20:56:49.867+00:00January Pale BluesI thought I'd better sit right down and write myself a letter...and make believe it came from you...tum te tum....No, actually I didn't. I was shamed. My dear friend and partner in madness - The wondrous Claire - who writes <a href="http://tactless-blonde.blogspot.com">a blog</a> - and is one of my all-time favourite peeps...has awarded my blog the Leibster Blog award. Regular readers may remember that another dear pal - Ali - awarded it to me last year. It's an award for a blog that is loved (apparently). Anyway - I am very honoured to have been awarded such a thing. It makes it all worthwhile.<br /><br />I must admit to having been a bit un-communicative of late. I haven't written...I haven't phoned (funnily enough - our Dan has been vexed texting me to say exactly the same thing)..and even my usually sharp and witty tweets have become softened round the edges - and well..I'll say it..a tad DULL.<br /><br />That's the thing about January though isn't it? It's shit really. Christmas has been and gone - and left behind in its wake a mountain of debt that makes the Eiger look like a pimple on a teenager's bum. The nights are long..the days are cold and most of us are afflicted with a melancholy that knows no bounds. Another year has gone by - and we're still stuck in a shit-hole of a life - another 12 months - another 52 weeks wasted - as we didn't get a single step nearer to our dreams. <br /><br />I did get nearer to my dreams - I am now doing what I love - but perhaps when sending my dream into the ether I wasn't specific enough. Yes I wanted to teach scuba diving...which I'm doing...but what I actually wanted (but forgot to mention) was that I'd like to do that somewhere tropical - The Maldives? The Seychelles? ...somewhere...but not in a flooded gravel pit in friggin' Peterborough!<br /><br />I also wished for more male attention - but yet again - lacked specifics. Sadly this has manifested itself in a cute friendship with a young man who has learning difficulties - who has now declared his undying love for me via Facebook - after I spent most of last weekend showing the utmost patience and understanding whilst teaching him to dive in a drysuit. He has now decided - in a very lovely but oh so simple way - that he loves me. The trouble is - he's 19 - and works on a lathe at Remploy. He's truly sweet - but he's not going to be my next MR.<br /><br />My dear Dan is going off on an adventure soon - trekking across the Sahara..to raise funds for much needed water supplies. Brave Girl she is. I am very proud. To be her Mum. But in my January Blue Phase...I am thinking that I don't deserve such a shiny star as her in my life. I have never done anything to warrant such a mega chic. <br /><br />Oh yes - I'm learning French too. Oh la la. Why? I have no clue..perhaps because I'm bored in the long evenings. Perhaps because my dream man - when he eventually appears - will be french - and I should be prepared. Who knows? Not me. Je ne sais quoi.<br /><br />Anyway - only a few more days of January left now - and then we can look forward to Feb 14th. Which will be as much as a non-event this year as it was last.<br /><br />Meanwhile...I'll just sit here and wait for spring. And for Godot.The Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05280788936885348945noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2252598905608949240.post-70398706110411076742012-01-02T08:25:00.005+00:002012-01-02T08:33:56.469+00:00A bit sadThis morning I am a bit sad. Not a big bit - just a little bit. Why? The New Year will do that for you I figure. Saying goodbye to the last 12 months...which has been great - and wondering which way life will take me in the next 12 months.<br /><br />Sad that I don't see my lovely lovely friends and family anywhere near often enough. And sad because I said adieu to our Dan yesterday. I have had a lovely break - but this being the 2nd Christmas that I have been single probably didn't help. Not that I don't want to be single anymore - I actually quite like some aspects of being a Spinster (great word)...but do get a bit lonely from time to time. It would be nice to have somebody to share things with.<br /><br />Yesterday afternoon we went for coffee - en famille. The subject of my hapless love life came up - much to the amusement of everybody - me included. My Auntie said something witty - and it hurt. I can't even remember what she said. I had to leave. The Table. And go to the ladies powder room and have a little cry. I didn't cry for long - only a couple of drops. Then I returned to the table all bright-eyed and bushy tailed. I didn't want to her think that she had upset me - or she would have been mortified...and anyway, I couldn't have explained what it was that I was upset about.<br /><br />But her comments stung. Really. <br /><br />I am crap at the love-life thingy. Really I am. I may just get a cat.The Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05280788936885348945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2252598905608949240.post-63685369606801614152012-01-01T08:00:00.002+00:002012-01-01T08:17:02.763+00:00Happy New YearIt's here then. 2012. Full of promise and exciting possibilities. I will probably be spending most it on remand for murder if Dear Mother doesn't stop making a bloody racket in the kitchen. It's 7am and she's clearing out the Christmas Fridge. I am very glad that I'm going back to Whit tomorrow. Ten days is about as much as anybody can take...(I know - I did three months last year - but desperate times require desperate bunking up at Mother's)...Never...Ever...Again.<br /><br />I've had a brillzoid Christmas with dear Family and dear Friends. Have spent quality time with luscious daughter....the divine Mrs Smith....the wondrous Mrs Morris - including a very stressful half hour when I failed to rouse Mother from slumber and we almost called the fire brigade...almost...but not quite....and that following a few drinkies and a curry. <br /><br />I spent a cracking evening with the Briddons - where the amazing Victoria cooked lovely food - and the children were delightful and the company was very much funnikins and the laughter was lots and lots :)<br /><br />I also had a lovely lunch with the Billster. Gentleman of great wit and charisma..who I love dearly. Sadly he was having probs of the romantic nature...so I advised and comforted (I think) and encouraged and reminded him just how wonderful he is. He'll sort it - he's a clever chap.<br /><br />I made a quick visit to my favourite clothes shop yesterday and bought one or two items of splendour. It's cheap - but stylish...a bit like me really!<br /><br />Tomorrow I'm going back to Whit - but have a dinner appointment with a Gentleman Caller. It's not somebody I've met - he's a twitter friend. But - he makes me laugh and seems to be quite bright and shiny. So..we'll see what (if anthing) develops. Mind you...seeing as he's just got back from a week away with another Lady - I don't think Romance will be on his mind. Which is a shame - perhaps 2012 will be another man-free year for me.<br /><br />So - quick backwards glance at 2011...<br /><br />Spent most of the year with cracking people (I am blessed)...end of April saw me running away to Malta for the Summer to work with the fabulous Martin Stanhope and Julian Doyle - learning diving skills and teaching skills and getting a tan - and catching the eye of a 35 year old (ooh - get her!)....and generally having a wonderful time - it was a blast - and I will never EVER forget last Summer. August saw me returning back to the UK to do an intensive course and pass some difficult exams to qualify as a Scuba Diving Instructor. What a day that was! Proud? I'll say.<br /><br />The Autumn months saw me staying in Peterborough and learning more about my chosen trade - under the watchful eye of the wonderful Lynn Smith - my mentor - and a true Dame!<br /><br />Last year brought no romance..no gentlemanly dalliances...no snogging whatsoever...but much, much fun and laughter...much learning...and much happiness.<br /><br />Here's to 2012 xThe Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05280788936885348945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2252598905608949240.post-63845451931788576032011-12-27T15:07:00.002+00:002011-12-27T15:34:16.120+00:00So...on a scale of one to ten......how bad was it for you? Mine wasn't that bad - as it happens.<br /><br />Bro came to fetch me from Whittlesea (not by the sea) and if you manage to ignore the hair-raising driving in his little mid-life crisis two seater sports car back up the A1 (during which I alternated between whimpering about the speed and whimpering because I was convinced I was going to pee my pants any second)(Note to self : Purchase Tenna products without delay) it was a very pleasant journey. I Particularly liked the swearing and flashing lights at other drivers who DARED to pull out in front of us. No..honestly...I did.<br /><br />We got back in time for 'almost-deaf' mother to put a veritable feast of Hot roast chicken and home-made chips (with lashings of soft white bread and butter) in front of me - in the guise of a feast. Actually it was a feast. A very welcome one. Mother may not be able to hear very well or think that clearly - but she cooks a mean chip. <br /><br />Xmas Eve morning saw the return of the lovely prodigal daughter. It was lovely to see her again...she's so sweet and kind - and we spent most of the afternoon laid on the sofs...snuggling. And laughing. And snuggling...and laughing. Oh yes - and demolishing a huge tin of Quality Street!<br /><br />Eve evening was spent at Great Aunt's house. My Mum's cousin To be exact. Her brother was there too. He used to be on the telly. He was a comedian. And a singer. This is the second year that we have spent Christmas with him. He loves to entertain. The problem is...he's not very entertaining...but nobody has thought to point this out. Tempted though I was...I managed to refrain. It wasn't too bad if you were wearing ear plugs. <br /><br />The big day dawned and I got a few gifties. The very best one was from Prodigal daughter - she sponsored the education of a child in Africa for an entire year on my behalf. I cried when I opened the envelope.<br /><br />Got marched off to the pub by dearest brothers. Just the 3 of us. First time ever. Gin and tonic. Pissed little sister (me).<br /><br />Lunch was...well Christmas Lunch. Lots of food and sore belly. Can't really say much more than that. Oh yes - what the say about sprouts is true. Excuse me.<br /><br />Entertaining Uncle kept trying to hold the stage. Aha...because we were prepared and fore-armed...he never really got the chance to get totally into his stride. It was amusing watching him try though. This culminated in him insisting that I Google his name on my I-phone. You couldn't make this stuff up.<br /><br />The day of the Box was spent a) entertaining the entertaining Uncle who just happened to be passing by (WTF) and decided to drop in for a quick coffee...lasting one and half hours (he fibbed because you can't just 'pass' my Mother's. It's on a cul-de-sac.)<br /><br />And then I went to Fi's for Boxing Day afternoon party. Turkey and Pork Sandwiches. Pickled Onions...oh yes...an ex-boyfriend from some ten years or more ago - who still thinks that the best thing for me would be to be with him. But only after I've apologised for all I did wrong when we were together...and then promised to change in ways too numerous to mention. Sadly I decided to pass on this....although a more attractive proposition would be hard to find...(wry smile).<br /><br />Today I have been out with Mother. In the car. I don't think she knows about 4th and 5th gear as we seem to go everywhere in 3rd. Even dual carriageways at speeds of more than 45mph. Yes...really.<br /><br />This afternoon I have been doing my roots. Looking this good takes work. <br /><br />Tomorrow I am having lunch with the very divine Mr Bill Rusling. Wonderful friend of great gaiety. I am very much looking forward to that. Later in the week I am having lunch with the wondrous Ms Scott and Ms Ridall. There will be wine. And laughter. And snorting. And then I shall be having fun and frolicks with the awesome Mrs Morris. I can't wait to see her. I loves her...I does.<br /><br />There will be more frolicks with Mrs Smith...and then I am having tea with the delightful Briddon family on Friday. <br /><br />So - all in all - I reckon all of that little lot comes out with a tally of about 11. So - that's how good it was. 11 out of 10.The Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05280788936885348945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2252598905608949240.post-36022741130014910392011-12-18T15:21:00.004+00:002011-12-18T15:35:08.965+00:00Merry Fuckwit<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ5qjpJ39aiHRci_rI-8SIbRRHpNKzqzWJe-JjIbGZzg57o3UWGueq5KE2Z66gB1rJNQvwKSxaDMws9OqvCPVjI2Xwp_4OhJ_-FImVCvDcPxbX8CWkWojh6aqUgrkm3rd0W7J4owPSw0w/s1600/spice.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 176px; height: 117px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ5qjpJ39aiHRci_rI-8SIbRRHpNKzqzWJe-JjIbGZzg57o3UWGueq5KE2Z66gB1rJNQvwKSxaDMws9OqvCPVjI2Xwp_4OhJ_-FImVCvDcPxbX8CWkWojh6aqUgrkm3rd0W7J4owPSw0w/s400/spice.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5687489059847383042" /></a><br /><br />Well..it's on its way. Just 7 more sleeps. Bloody Christmas again. I don't like it. I don't like it all. I have just been to the shop and purchased a small box of Quality Street to try and get me in the mood. Result? I feel sick and still don't like Christmas.<br /><br />Because I have no splash cash...I have bought no presents. I told my family this a month ago. I asked them not to buy me anything - and the money that they would have spent....give it to a charity. Did they listen? Nah. So now on Xmas day I will have to be the receiver of gifts with nothing with which to reciprocate. Cue - embarrassment - cue shame - cue self-loathing. My dear brother just rang and asked me what I would like if I were to get something. I said I didn't want anything - and he said 'I know...but if you did'......doh.<br /><br />In other news....the lake is freezing. Not literally...it's still a relatively balmy 5 degrees in there - but if you factor in how much quicker water conducts heat than air (about 20 x) you can see why I get so flipping frozen. Luckily training dives only have to be 20 minutes duration...and I'm telling you...if we get to 20.01...we've failed!!!! The divemasters and shop staff are primed to be waiting on the jetty with lashings of hot chocolate. I'm having brandy in mine this week.<br /><br />Tomorrow and Tuesday I am teaching a dry suit course...in order to gain my dry suit teaching qualification. So today I am studying 'performance requirements' a la PADI.<br /><br />It's a bit dull, and a bit dry, and a huge tome...but we've made notes....and we'll be okay.<br /><br />My other bro is all lined up to come and fetch me next Friday and return me to the bosom of my family for Xmas. It will be lovely. Oh yes it will. Please remember that apart from our Dan I will be the youngest person round the table. That's going to be a laugh a minute - isn't it? Combined age for 7 people?...a massive 394 years.<br /><br />Merry Christmas everybody xThe Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05280788936885348945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2252598905608949240.post-50271025605040772302011-11-28T06:34:00.006+00:002011-11-28T06:48:50.791+00:00Awarded!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaGxDb0dtLvMuDP9exl2Z-MAxqOd0A_Ell5W_Ejm8Gm_fM4uQ4-g53GnINn3n2oVv0ko2004D4TFr55qCW_wQJtrAvn9eTS4D8cKlaKXs0iQGnSsXUztXPwtctTsQdREPD6USy04vKHJI/s1600/liebster-blog-image21+%25281%2529.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 55px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaGxDb0dtLvMuDP9exl2Z-MAxqOd0A_Ell5W_Ejm8Gm_fM4uQ4-g53GnINn3n2oVv0ko2004D4TFr55qCW_wQJtrAvn9eTS4D8cKlaKXs0iQGnSsXUztXPwtctTsQdREPD6USy04vKHJI/s400/liebster-blog-image21+%25281%2529.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679932161578917202" /></a><br />Today I have been given an award. What for? I hear you ask. For being amazing? witty? sexy? accomplished? a great diving instructor?...no! Although all of these things are worthy of note (harrumph). No..I have been given a lovely award for this blog! From a lovely lady and dear friend. She likes to read my adventures. Apparently she enjoys them. She has great taste and is very good at appreciating the finer things in life! <div><br /></div><div>In the true spirit of the award...I now have to give the award to five other blogs worthy of note. So here are my nominations.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.imarriedashaman.com/">I married a Shaman</a> - wonderful musings from a lovely artistic soul</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://ali-fantasticreads.blogspot.com/">Fantastic Reads</a> - Thoughts about books (and other stuff) from the most well read person I know</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.briddon.com">Briddon</a> - The thoughts of dearest Christian. </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://tactless-blonde.blogspot.com/">Blonde Ramblings!</a> - wonderful and witty, sharp and daring. The lovely Claire bites back</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://makingmyfamily.blogspot.com/">Does this stroller may me look gay?</a> - the journey of two husbands and their little family</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Take a look at these blogs - they are worthy of note!</div><div><br /></div><div>That's all :)</div>The Authorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05280788936885348945noreply@blogger.com1