Morning! Am I first?

Susan xx

Hurray - simple things eh?

Advent guess - sledge either with or without presents!

Deevs you don't want to sort my mess out do you? this clearing out lark doesn't half make a mess.

Very dark and dreary here this morning but at least summer is round the corner.

Love and hugs to all

Susan xx

Susan - NO! (but thanks for the offer ....)

Nearly finished upstairs cleaning (interspersed by a bit of Champions League Pop Master on Zen's show - no women in the finals this year!?!). I think I need a break and some air so will have a shower and head to the retail park to pick up you know what for you know who next.

Chris, well done on the effort in getting the Mili Wives to #1. I have to confess, I feel a bit "Emperors New Clothes" in not getting all the hysteria and crying and don't get me started on the retweets ..... but yes, good effort Sir, and Mr Malone.

Dark and drab and dreary here to Susan. It's one of those days where it's raining but it's not raining. Just drizzle. Constant grey drizzle.

Hey ho!

Right, a bit of vacuuming and that's me done (for now!)

Deevs
x

Morning CE and everyone else,
Really weird that Chris, I just posted exactly the same on my facewipe status re summertime! Almost word for word! great minds eh?
Really grim and 'orrible in Manchester suburb today. Another day behind my desk, not really happy, would rather be out in the community doing my proper job!
Ah well .................

Ps did my bit for the M wives and bought the CD on Monday eve.
Jo x

Thanks Deevs and I knew that would be the answer which is exactly what Chrissie also said when I asked her to help me de-clutter - well it sounded as though she was so good at it!
Good luck with your danish brick buying. i have got my littlest nephew one of their storage bricks as they are lovely along with a build it yourself ballpoint (it's ok he can't read)

Sezza - glad for the explanation about Boy1 as I must say I was intreagued.

Right cuppa beckons and then I might even have to iron -groan

Sus xx

You all have to promise to keep boy1's activities to yourselves though - I am so mortified I haven't even told my Mum and Dad!!!

Tell you what Susan, I'll de-clutter if you iron for me! btw You don't want anything left do you? ;-)

I am so bored today!! No one here except me. No one around as it's cold and they are staying in the warm. Not much to do as I don't want to start anything new this week

So far I've written half my shopping list and tidied out my hand-bag!

Laters

Sezza xxxx

Here's a little something that I posted next door.....

https://www.timeanddate.com/calendar/december-solstice.html

Its tomorrow Chris!

MTF :)

Good on you Chris for the work you done on to help Milltay Wives get to number one

We won't tell a soul Sezza! And don't be mortififed - it's all part of growing up, isn't it? (says she with no children ....!)

Right, I've decided to nip into Tamworth to visit that other toy shop with the giant giraffe. I have an idea that won't go away .... :-)

Back later, hoefully laden with toys and maybe some beer!

deevs
x

Good afternoon everyone,

Pouring with rain and mild here in Ayrshire. OH wont be happy, as he is on standy for gritting, when you are on standby you can't drink and you can't really go anywhere, so he gets mad when the weather is mild and he isn't called out as he feels, your week is wasted anyway so you might as well get a few call outs to make it worth your while, oh well too bad, at least he shouldn't miss his Christmas dinner this year!

Today's advent calendar guess - A Stapler.

Have a good day.

X

Gail.

Ooops,
Forgot to have my guess for the advent window ............................a robin ski ing
Jo x

Hi everyone.

Hope all your Christmas preparations are going well.

Sorry I haven't been around for a while, I have had a bad flu bug and ended up back at the doctors last night, more antibiotics and painkillers. I now hope I don't end up with a perforated eardrum for Christmas.

Also I am supposed to be cooking for all the family Christmas day and Boxing day!

I am still smiling, just!

Ali, thank you for asking after me. xx

Chrissie, hope you're ok. xx

Advent calendar. A Smurf.

Lots of love to you all.

csn. xx

Afternoon,

I've been manipulated to within an inch of my life, but do feel a little less tense than I did when I walked into the physio's office.

Sezza, Apologies to Boy2, but glad you let us know and no I won't tell a soul. Believe me my youngest nephew has done worse!! xx

cns, Sorry you've been so poorly, hopefully you will recover in time to get the sprouts on ;) xx

Must be time for a mince pie, anyone care to join me?

AliB
xx

Hi all

Just popping in to register my advent calendar guess. A bell.

Laters

Mtd ffb xxx

Have just nipped out to the supermarket with the orange carrier bags and its like a smash and grab raid around the turkey counter!! Wow, how desperate some people are to get their hands on a turkey crown! I usually order my preferred Christmas bird/game so that I avoid that kind of humiliation!! Lol Still, I did shove someone to one side whilst leaning in the freezer to get my A. Bs Y puds! Just in case ........

Jo x

Afternoon all. Not feeling very jolly today...

Christmas plans may have been sent a side swipe. My dear old nan (93) is very very very poorly, so bad in fact it has meant that my brother who resides in Canada is coming back to Heathrow on Friday morning for a week as he couldnt live with himself if he didnt say his goodbyes. So where my parents should have been heading up the motorway to spend the fesitivities with us is postponed and they will all be travelling up on Saturday now.

I have got to pop out and get an extra present for my brother who I cant wait to see as I havent seen him in 5 years and he is having a rocky time in ole canada (relationship break up) at the moment so it will be nice to be with him for a short time. So it is a go with the flow sort of thing and not too much planning as we dont know what is going to happen, I have a suspicion I may see slightly more of the M6/M25 than I had planned.

These things are sent to try us.

Christmas meal was good last night but I shall offer a word of wisdom to our midland/shropshirettes. Dont drive through Bridgnorth at 9.30 at night when it has been raining and is cold and especially when you dont know where you are going and are blindly following a sat nav. Heart in the mouth stuff.

Anyway onwards and upwards, good news is the satellite is fixed ready for christmas and the new tumble drier is currently draining the national grid at this present time as I need to catch up before christmas. Deevs did downstairs too this morning. Nothing nicer than a clean house.

Sorry if I sound a little despondent have a lovely day everyone. CB xx

CB - Hugs to you, sounds like you need them!

x

Gail.

CB,
So sorry to hear such sad news. Its amazing how things can suddenly stop us in our tracks and literally bring us grinding to a halt.
Hope you at least spend some quality time with your brother, even though under sad circumstances :( Your Nan at 93 bless her may well rally round though, where there's hope .... and after all its only another day in the year, loved ones are so important all year round.
Take care,

Jo x

Hi everyone:

Just a wee hello from a very busy and slightly stressed me! I couldn't tell you the last time I missed so many blogs. I managed to have a quick look the other day, but no time to dip in.

Susan: really good luck with the de-cluttering! I still have flashbacks when I think of everything I had to get rid of!

Gail: yes, I can imagine it must be a total pain to be on standby. But you and your lovely OH know how grateful I am that we are having some mild weather!

CSN: you poor thing, you have been through the wars. I would say to you, try to take things easy, but I know that will be impossible!

The Big Day sees MrS and I on our own as our daughter will be with her boyfriend, at his mum's. We will see her in the morning when she can open her gifts, and then we are having drinks with them in the evening. I will ensure that I keep just one gift back for her until the evening - I have been doing this for years, and it's always nice to get "just one more thing" isn't it?!

Mr Evans: may I offer my congratulations to you for your incredible effort in getting the wonderful Military Wives to No.1. Just fantastic. And, the story today of the solider getting back just in time to see his little boy's play had me in floods of tears - thanks for that! xx

Hope everyone is ok.

C xx

Chrissie,
My parents used to ask us to choose one of our presents from our "sack" (pillowcase!) to put under the tree until Boxing Day! Dont ask me why, but it did make Boxing Day a little more exciting!

Jo x

Thanks for the lovely hugs everyone, Joran I am hoping that she rallies round as she is hard ole nut and would take alot to crack her. My hubby calls her the original Lou Beale from Eastenders.

Feeling slightly off today and also it wont take much to push me over the edge at the moment.

Just got told that my brothers daughters mother wont even let him have his daughter from christmas eve to the wednesday bearing in mind the current situation and he never gets to see her at christmas normally. I am seething and so is her gran which means he has to chase around the country to do everything he needs to do in a week to get to see everyone. A little compassion from her would have gone along way really.

I dont think I could ever be that selfish.

Sorry for my miserable state I hope that everyone else is having a good day.

CB xx

Afternoon!

CB - sorry to hear your news, never good at any time of year, but enjoy the extra time with your brother...

The boy's girlfriend is here this afternoon - lots of shrieks and dinosaur chasing going on......at least they don't think the dog is the dinosaur!

I've had a gammy eye for the last few days, but didn't have to unstick it this morning, so hopefully I'm on the mend.

Sezza - I can see my boy doing that - once you start picking tho it's very hard to stop!!

Advent guess will be a candle again - if there isn't one I may cry!

ebx

CB: sorry to see the news about your nan. I hope she hangs in there. You are having a terrible day, and it's all a bit of a nightmare for you. Sometimes life it just so difficult. I do hope you manage to have some quality time with your brother who you haven't seen for so long. xx

Jo: that was a nice tradition, wasn't it? Stopped Boxing Day from getting a wee bit flat!

Eb: yes, hope you are on the mend. I did see your news regarding your partner's job, sorry about that. But it sounds like you have lots of good plans on the go!

Cheryl: Advent guess: a sack of toys (hope this hasn't come out already!)

C xx

CLP, many congrats to Gareth, the girls, you and everyone else involved, it's all in such a good cause.

Here's to the shortest day, cos that means it's only 6 months to my birthday - the day AFTER the longest day...

I hope everyone having problems gets some TLC, a hug and some good luck along the way, even though things can seem harder to deal with when we're supposed to be happy happy happy on the build-up to Christmas.

I was very stressed over the weekend, wondering how on earth to do everything and be everywhere. I realised I don't need to do 'everything' and that others can and will help if you ask for it. I also know that not all problems can be so easily solved and feel for those who are having a tough time.

I've calmed down, made a few of my famous lists(!), done some delegating and there's now enough gin and chocolate in the house to sink a battleship/keep me happy, so all is well or better than it was!

I've missed a few advent guesses, but will hold out for my partridge in his pear tree, he's put away his tin hat from the stressed-out weekend and replaced it with his bobble hat/santa hat.

Love to all, see you when you/I pop back again soon

Ann xxx

Evening each

Definitely won't be seeing you at the beach Chris!! Looking forward to listening to the AA choir tomorrow (who'd have thought it?)

CSN - look after yourself.

Chrissie - nice to see you back.

Sezza - sorry, but the story of boy1 really made me laugh. If that's the worst he does, he's ok.

xxxxx

Evening all!

CB - I can't really add to anything already said above, other than I'm sending you a lorra love chuck, and maybe in 2012 we can have our own West Mids mini blog meet one day x

csn - you too. Concentrate on what the doc told you and have a relaxing few days. Like AnnieO has said above, we put ourselves under so much pressure to do everything when in reality others can help and if they dont' help, well, the world won't stop turning just because it's 25th December. Take care x

And Chrissie - you can calm down too me dear! x

Anyone else for a huglet? {{{{{{free huglets}}}}}}

I've had a really busy day today and feel like I have achieved something! The upstairs is clean and shiny, I've got some bits for Little Man via Tamworth and OurGoooos, the freezer is now defrosted and space made for all that delicious party food (ahem!), tea is cooking (meatballs in a tomato/garlic/basil sauce from "that" Swedish shop), the fridge is stocked with cold beer and my lovely man is on his way home.

Oh - I also bought a wreath today which Nic knows nothing about and it will greet him, all hollyfied and red berries, when he gets home. :-)

So, I can now reveal that today's Advent winner is .... nobody! The picture was a flurry of snowflakes. Very pretty, but not guessed by anyone. Soz, as the yoof say. xx

Relax, my friends. Relax.

Deevs
x

CB - I'm so sorry about your nan and I really hope she will be OK. My lovely uncle died suddenly last weekend, and it's really rocked the family, particularly my aunt as they'd been married 63 years and were devoted to each other. Between 'im indoors we've lost two uncles and an aunt this year so I really can't wait to see the back of 2011, although it looks like the funeral won't be until the beginning of January now so not the best start to a new year.

I've just got tomorrow at work and then I'm finished, and I just want to stay under the duvet. For now though I'm off to count my blessings as I know that underneath the mist I've got plenty.

Hugs to all who need them xx

jillygoat xx

Right Deevs - I'm sure you've got time now to clean my house. Was planning to do it tomorrow but it's all yours if you want it.

My youngest just loves those meatballs - he actually visits that shop just to get them at the cafe.

Oh, and Sezza, he's now in his thirties, doesn't drink or smoke, is a very responsible father of 2 little boys - but when he was a teenager he and his friends used to sneak beer into his bedroom (I didn't know this till recently) and I discovered an optic screwed to the inside of his wardrobe door. He went about with a ponytail, leather jacket and doc martins. So count your blessings my love.

xxxxx

Chris, your story about the boy whose serving father made it just in time to see him in the Nativity Show had me in tears. Re the mili wives - this bloke gets a bit way out sometimes, but I think he's hit the nail on the head here. It might have been bad publicity for Simon Cowell's single to be seen to be fighting the wives for the top spot - so maybe he deliberately sabotaged it by bringing it out early?

https://300wordtheses.blogspot.com/2011/12/military-wives-did-simon-cowell-scuttle.html

Watching David Bowie on BBC2. Well done John Henshall on finding his fisheye footage. Excellent.

xxxxx

Aww Thanks friends. I know he's not a bad lad really - just a broke one now!

CB, sorry to hear about your Gran. I hope it works out that this is a blip and just means you get to see your brother

Going to watch the military awards now - anyone got any hankies!

Sezza xxx

Any hankies?

Anyone?

sniff sniff

Sezza xxx

Sezza - I've got my tissues out. Watching BBC2 - Feed the World on again - and it's still relevant.

xxxxxx

Annie, you have a different thing to us. BBC2 here has Rick Stein!

Talk about sublime to the ridiculous!

Sezza xxx

Oh, and now it's the Pogues. xxxxxx

Sezza, Rick Stein is on here at 9.30. xxxx

I just love Kirsty McCall and the Pogues.

xxxxx

Evening all,

The millies, what a show! I have served for over 30 years in the Army and tonight I am as proud as I have ever been to be a fully paid up member of the armed forces. Well done to all involved, I never thought I would see the day that the services get such recognition on the television.

Keep smiling

Keith
xx

30 years Keith?

Still such a young 'un too.

Happy Christmas to you and all the other, fully paid up members.

MTF :)

Evening All,
Yes Me too have been watching the award giving programme. There are some very brave people out there and do it with out a thought for their own safety,very humbling indeed.

In the kitchen tonight ,have just put a cake in to the oven ,and it's smelling rather nice.

Jilly ,so sorry to hear of your sad news ,please except my condolences,it's aways very poignant at this time of year isn't it.

CB, So sorry to hear of your bitter sweet news .I hope that your nan rallies will be thinking of you ,but the sweet part will the seeing of your brother ,how lovely for you .

Chrissie, Have been thinking of you and your first xmas with Mr C, sounds like youve got it sorted and good to me.

Sezza ,I had a little laugh to my self ,mums the word by the way ,but i thought it showed a bit of impish spirit. likes Anie said if thats all hes done ,he's OK.love it

Micheal Bubble has just started so it's sounding a bit like Christmas .

Right got to get up and see how the cakes doing ..

Take care ..Bids.xxx.

LOL Sallie, I started early and have had a really hard paper round. xx

Hard paper round Keith?

Mine was in Wales, dew!

MTF :0

Was that a Bids, that I saw dropping by just now?

Hi Keith ,nice to see you ,how are you diggling???

MTF,yes twas me popping in ,have been a bit dilatory of late but feeling more alert now...

Bids.xxx.

What the 'ecky thump does 'dilatory' mean Bids?

Have you swallowed a dictionary?

MTF :O

Slow dear slow.xxx

: 0))...

Nice and easy does it Bids.

MTF :)

Morning all

Mrs Early Bird here - been up since 6 as Himself has gone in early as it's his last day today and he's still go sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo much to do.

Me? Today? Busy!

Will dip in and out as chores (and goose delivery) allow.

Have a fabtantastical day.

Deevs

x
x
x

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LADY CHARDS

x x x

Chris you have managed this year to turn the listening public to mush. I used to really hate Christmas, mainly because of the really NAFF songs you get this time of the year. However, you have rekindled Christmas for me with the Military Wives single and today the Kids singing, Brilliant Mr Evans. You deserve a Knighthood for services to Christmas

Morning all

CB - hugs to you re your nan, my nanna is spending christmas with my parents and us this year foir the first time in ages, really looking forward to it as she is old and we all know people don't last forever - so big huds coming your way

re: military wives song - the hard nut if the blog, miss I don't cry at anything cannot listen to that song without - singing along - its very catchy I think! The trailer for the BF show with Jezza Vine had me in tears though, there is something about split families that makes me sad.

I heard on BBC tv this morning that there are so many lonely people this Christmas, I was wondering if there is a way we could be put in contact with someone to visit, seeing as I have time on my hands and hate the though of anyone being alone - any ideas?

I'm going to chase up the charity 'contact the lonely' but any other ideas would be greatful.

Happy birthday lady Chards

Me

Baggy - maybe try the Salvation Army as a first point of call, or does your local town have a Christmas "do" for the Homeless? Maybe you could visit a Homeless shelter and spread some Baggy Love!

x

Happy Birthday Darling Debs!!

Hope you're off for one of your infamous "quiet" drinks tonight, Luvvy!!!

Baggy, maybe ask your minister if he or she knows anyone who would appreciate a visit? If it's maybe just a bit short notice, you could find out who would appreciate a visit occasionally in the New Year?

Morning and best wishes to all the blogger and lurkers as you dash about this morning

I think Chris as never said a truer word than this monring - KEEP IT SIMPLE!!

Have fun and love the one's you're with!

Sezza xxx

ps I've just persuaded the Coffee Morningers to chase the slightly depressing music for some good old classic Christms songs - Bring on the Bing!!!

Morning all - thank you for all the hugs and lovely words, I am feeling slightly more optimistic today, spoke to my mum last night and nan has improved slightly, mum is off up the hospital today. It is difficult being the other end of the country but I am feeling quite happy about seeing my bruvver as I havent seen him in so long.

The boy came up with a great suggestion for what to buy him present wise, all the things he cant get in canada in a box, so I am off to the bottom slapping shop at lunchtime to buy double deckers, pot noodles, cheese and onion crisps, braaaawwwwwannnn sauce, and a certain packet of ciggies, along with other things I know I shouldnt condone the smoking but as I havent seen him in ages I have to swallow my morals for just one day.

Deevs definately in the new year shall have that meet up. Although I am the queen of no holidays until end of March.

Bagpuss I saw that this morning about people being lonely over christmas, my next door neighbour is 80 and I do her shopping for her every week and have done for years, I am always popping into see her she had a family rift up to a few years ago but they are back in contact now but she has always said she appreciates what both me and my lad do for her. In fact she is having her dinner from ours this year, I shall nip round and pop it in to her before 3, she is partially sighted and doesnt like to eat in front of people just in case she drops it. Bless her.

Have a lovely day everyone from a slightly more optimistic CB xx

Hi everyone:

Most important thing to do today: wish the lovely Debs a very happy birthday!
Hope you have a great day. xx

I'm starting to get quite excited about Christmas - first time in years I have felt like this! I honestly think Chris has a lot to do with it, both MrS and I agreed this morning that listening to Chris is just so uplifting.

Jillygoat: I am sorry to hear about your Uncle. So hard for your Aunt - she must have spent almost her entire adult life with him. This is going to be so difficult, I know, but I am sure you will all support each other. xx

Bids: thank you. We are really looking forward to having our Christmas Day together. xx

Hi Annie, and thank you. xx

Cheryl: I am trying to stay calm, honest! I wonder if small sherry this evening would help ...?

CB: lovely to see that you are feeling a bit more optimistic - it really comes over in your writing. What a terrific idea for gifts for your brother - he will love all that!

Right, back to the grindstone. Have a good Thirsty Thursday, everyone.

C xx

Good morning everyone from a very grey and mild Ayrshire.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY PENGUIN WOMAN!!

Our workplace closes tomorrow lunchtime for a fortnight and our boss always takes us out for lunch but because we go straight from work, it really isn't convenient for me as I start at 8 and would have to do the horses/dogs and be at work partyfied (made up word), I just always take the last day as a holiday, so I will probably not be back here until I'm back at work, as you know we don't have broadband at home, maybe I will brave it sometime but it really is awful, you click on a site, go and make yourself a cup of tea and when you come back the site might just be open! So I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas and New Year!! Thank you for the lovely cards we have received from bloggers, I haven't sent any but I will make a donation to a charity in lieu.

Today's advent calendar guess is - Windchimes.
Tomorrow's guess is - Bathroom Scales
Saturday's guess is - A Teabag.

XX

Gail.

p.s. Had a bit of a disagreement with my colleague yesterday and you could cut the atmosphere in here with a knife, just as well we're on holiday soon!

Me again.

Well, the day was kind of turned on its head, task wise, when the goose turned up at 8.45. So I have now done ELH and I can safely say ... NEVER AGIN!

I always used to start my Christmas food/drink shopping in November for the non-perishables and store them away. That hasn't happened since my move here but as of next year, I will start to buy things in November and even if I have to build another cupboard or throw away shoes to make space, I am not doing it all in one go again next year. It's jsut too much. By the time I got to the end, the large trolley was full (i usually only drive a small one) and I could hardly turn it round. My back is now killing me and my nerves are in tatters.

But I have Irish Cream Liqueur!

Right - a bit calmer now. Off to unpack it all.

Deevs
x

Morning all,
And what a lovely one it is here in the Manchester Suburbs!
CB - so glad you are feeling more optmistic today!
Mercy dash for me last night to my sons flat (thankfully not too far away).
My little grand daughter (3 and an all important half) had developed spots, and my son wanted to know what the symptoms of the dreaded meningitis are!
Enough said! "I'll be round in 5 minutes!"
Thankfully (although I dont think my grand daughter will thank me) it looks like chicken pox!
Such a shame though, today was Christmas play followed by Christmas party at her nursery.
Oh well :(
Hope evryone else is well today, last day behind my desk and finish at 3.30! Whoooopeeee!
Advent guess for today for Deevs - a goose!

Jo x

Good morning Christmas Eve, Eve

My last day @ work today. They have a tendency here to say 'right everyone clear off' so thought I'd come on now and send my best wishes to all for a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year 2012.

Of course, now I've said that we'll be here until the last gasp!

Regards PJ

Honestly, all this weeping!!

I've just heard JV trailing his show linking up troops and their families and I can feel the eyes starting to fill!

I am turning into a hopeless wreck - I think it must be my age!

Sezza xxx

Sorry Baggy,
Also meant to mention re your "lonely people thread " to try your local Age UK/Age Concern office. They may know of older people who are alone at this time of year and in need of companionship throughout the year too. I know some run "Befriending services" which are invaluable.
I think you will find local contact details through www.ageuk.org.uk

Jo x

thanks everyone for your suggestions, I will look into it.

I saw that they need people to host tea parties monthly but you need a downstairs loo so I can't so that :-(

My guess for today, a parrot.

Greetings CLP, Tash & ALL Blog Pals...

Bingo Star 'ere...

A just wanted ter say a can't fully blog terdee as am too busy preparing for Christmas and 2012 by knocking me plaster off me walls in me new old 'ouse!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

And sorry ave not been able ter blog all week, the reason ave been busy working 'ard as a trucker!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1

But the good news is ave finished trucking for Christmas.... So time ter tackle me rising damp.... talkin' of which.... Ave gotta go!!!!!!!

Bye for now!!!!!

Seasons Greetings Ter The CLP, Tash & ALL...

Bingo Star 'ere... Again...

A wanted ter share with ALL these 3 brilliant versions of Christmas song that yer never 'ear on the radio:

Coldplay - https://youtu.be/IW1fcNSNjT4

U2 - https://youtu.be/cLShxhQwwwA

Natalie Imbruglia - https://youtu.be/5_ZtINNAtTo

If a 'ad me own radio show.... for sure a would play these ter add interesting variety all in the add of makin gme listeners feel extra warm and ter build me ego as a most unique and INDEED nice radio presenter!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Tatty bye for now!!!!!!

PS Soz should ave put an 's' after Christmas.... And mean't ter write 'aid' not 'add' after 'in the'..... And me 'g' in 'gme' is mean't ter be on the end of 'makin' aka 'making me'!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Soz all.... Me mind is in pain after knocking me plaster off me wall!!!!!!!

Afternoon all

CLP - thanks for keeping us all going in the mornings, it makes a huuuuuge difference!

First: Happy Birthday Debs!

Second: the sun is out here, and the blog seems a little sunnier too which is good to see. Sending hugs and huglets to add to those already on offer.

Deevs, have you recovered from your trolley trauma yet?? I managed a short trolley dash earlier, the turkey is to be collected tomorrow and there's bread and a few fresh vegs to be got on Saturday morning, so things feel more under control now.

A few of us are off to the pub tonight which is a bit of a rarity and there are presents to be exchanged, so it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

Happy Thursday
Ann xxx

Ho!Ho!Ho!, PantomimePenny here, FULL of cold and not much cheer :(

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEBS xx

Pen x

Chrissie and Bids - thank you so much xx

Am clearing off at 3pm so in case I don't get the chance to get back on here before Christmas, and at the risk of repeating myself, I'd like to take this opportunity to wish you and those you hold dear a very Happy Christmas and New Year.

jillygoat xx

well seeing as people are disappearing early (some people are at work until whatever clock tomorrow) can I wish you all a happy Christmas with your familes :-)

Don't worry - I'm going nowhere!

Annie - having spent almost 3 hours outside in the cold, untangling and then hanging Christmas lights, the trolley dash seemed like a breeze in comparison!

I made myself a "To Do" list at 6.30 this morning, and so far I've done more that's not on the list than is. Not even started the downstairs housework yet .... grrrrrr!

Well, Nic needs a few lie-ins and I'm an early bird so I guess icing the Christmas Cake and a bit of polishing can wait until the morning. For now .... presents to wrap for him to take to Little Man's tonight.

I need wine!

Deevs
x

Hi all,
Just back from our "local" (an x railway station waiting room but turned into a pub) very nice - couple of glasses of wine, and Christmas songs in background, as a previous blogger said "its beginning to feel a lot like Christmas!"
On the down side (not sure, need to google it soon) the suspected chicken pox outbreak turns out to be suspect hand foot and mouth (letter home from nursery!) Yikes ..... Never dealt with this when mine were little!
Any experiences of above gratefully received!
Hope all those who wont be blogging after today have a wonderful healthy, happy, well earned Christmas rest!
Amen

Jo x

Oh Joran we have a local like that in our area, not quite local but not that far away for a drive out. They do the ole real ales there too was thinking about it the other day may make a visit during the festive season.

Got my sprout run done at lunch time just turkey to fetch on Saturday and beer, have two crates in the garden keeping cold but need to get some more and then there is New Years eve as I have invited the family and extended to mine instead of going out, approx 40 people should be interesting round ours.

Still feeling optimistic and got a load of stuff for Canadian Brothers visit all those delights you can't get in Canada so he will be truly stuffed with junk before he leaves.

Upstairs to do tonight a bit of ironing and I am ready, dont finish till lunchtime tomorrow but if you are not going to be here again ...... Have a lovely christmas everyone and see you in between and the new year.

Cockney bird xxx

Afternoon All,

Now if I didn't know any better I would say that looking out of the window it seems like a summer's day!! Clear blue sky and the sun has got his hat on. It's only when you go outside you know that it's not summer!!

I had to leave work early today, as I couldn't log onto the internet and after an hour and a half of trying I gave up. So that's me done until the 3rd January :)

Big hugs to those that need them and I can see that there are a few of you xxx

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE LOVELY DEBS xxxxx

Jo, Someone I know their kids had that and it is quite contagious so be careful, make sure everyone washes their hands a lot, including little one xx Hope it clears up soon.

Advent guess for today is a present.

Right off to do some ironing.

AliB
xx

Afternoon,

I've been trying to post of my new shiny phone all morning, but I seem to be missing the post comment button...........strange!

We've been making biscuits today, to leave out for santa in the hotel (yum), the boy wanted help so there is probably more flour on the floor than in the biscuits!

I feel a bit guilty - my preparations for Christmas involve packing a suitcase and driving to Wales........although making sure Santa knows where the boy will be has taken some work and explanation...

Happy Birthday Debs xx

ebx

Congratulations to the Mil Wives Choir, I wish you the very best in your endeavours.

It would be lovely if my friend, Nicky Clarke, could be given a mention as she was the Army wife from Catterick Garrison who approached Gareth Malone and the BBC with the idea of setting up a choir. At the last minute he took the idea to use in another garrison (I think because his wife was pregnant and he didn't want to have to travel so far - quite understandable).

It would be great if she could acknowledged for being the inspiration...............

Ali - yayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy! It's a pile of presents, so have a point!

My batteries have all nut run out now - I've done so much today and am now officially shattered. Just a few bits to do when Nic goes to see MiniMan tonight (NYE secret stuff!) then that's it ..... done.

Switching orf now to concentrate on tea.

Have a lovely evening friends.

Deevs
x

Wow - I've won :))))

Who needs Sports Personality of the Year when you can win a point on the Blog Advert Calendar Guess - Yay indeed.

I'd like to thank my Mum and Dad, my family, my Bestest Friend in the Whole Wide World. I'd also like to thank Deevs for being the Master of the Calendar and the rest of my fellow Bloggers for being such great people...thank you, thank you, thank you.

Hee Hee

AliB
xx

Ali - what a wonderful acceptance speech. just the right tone and didn't go on forever gushing to all and sundry xx

Susan x

Wow, Now I can say I know AliB, winner of the blog point, 22/12/11!!!

If I should vanish for any number of days, it's probably because I've thrown this lap top out of the window!!

It has decided to randomly not connect to the innertent and is really starting to wind me up!

Other than that, am fine

Have just been catching up on some recorded programmes - that Prof Brian Cox is a clever chap isn't he? And such a brilliant teacher. I almost undestood some of what he was saying!

Now watching Sir Steve Redgrave receive his lifetime award. Have said to the boys, their school should write to congratulate him as their house is called Redgrave after the great man himself!

Sezza xxx

Hi Chris,
Powerful documentary tonight which made my Christmas a lot more special, to be honest. Is it too late for a knighthood for Gareth? Inspiring bloke, and inspirational ladies, too, of course. Have a great Christmas you lot. Pete - Liverpool.

Morning all

Firstly - Happy Birthday Baggy - I'm sure a lot of us have fond memories of your birthday 2 years ago (was it really that long since I met you all for the first time?)

Pete - I saw the end of that documentary (again...) last night, I agree there should be some sort of honour for Gareth for bringing it all together and his services to tissue sales.....

Off to work soon for the last time this year, with a bit of luck we will get an early pass as well. I have finished all the shopping (including food) for the weekend so now I can relax.

My thoughts are with Roo (and Jasper) (((((((Hugs))))))))) to both of you.

My advent calendar guess today is a bell.

I hope everybody has a good Christmas Eve, Eve.

Laters

mtd ffb xxx

Dear All,

Just popping in as I know that some of you wont be around after today,and I dont want to miss you ,I know I've now missed Gail.

First of all ,thank you to all that have sent cards ,they are lovely and and a pleasure to view. I also would like to wish you all a Peaceful and loveing Christmas and hope that you all sail through it without any problems .
At our Christmas day meal we always drink to absent friends ,you all will be included ,as I thank you for your company over the last year ,but most of all for your frienship.

MERRY CHRISTMAS ...FROM.KEN + BIDS...XXX

Not forgetting the lovely Baggy ,Haapy birthday Baggy ,hope that you have a lovely day.

Bids.xxx.

Happy Birthday Baggy xx

Love & hugs to everyone else. Have a very Merry Christmas bloggers one and all.

Keeeeep posting!

Love

Susan xx

Morning All,

Haven't been around for a while as I haven't been at my desk so not logged in during the day & the laptop packed up at home, so I'm now waiting for Santa who I hope is bringing me a new one :-).

How is everyone? I really haven't been able to catch up, but I notice MTD sends hugs to Roo - what's wrong?

Happy Birthday to all those who have had them recently & to everyone ........ MERRY CHRISTMAAAAAAS (Noddy Holder style).

I'm signing off until after the big day, so will raise a glass to you all & 'see' you in the New Year - stay safe & happy

CG xxxx

Happy Birthday Baggy!!

I was thinking about 2 years ago today as well.

Can't believe it is really 2 years - and when we meet up any time it only seems like 5 minutes!

Laters

Sezza xxxx

Two whole years ago?

Blimey! What a change in the weather too. I stopped looking at the car thermometer after it plunged below -16c.

Today, a balmy +12c here in West Somerset.

Happy Birthday Baggy, hope you have a lovely day.

Happy Christmas too, to all Bloggers.

MTF :)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BAGGY x x x


Very fond memories of 2 years ago today - quite literally, the day that changed my life - and I wouldn't do any of it any differently.

Well, I got up this morning to a clean, tidy house. Everything in order, every present wrapped and under the tree, fridge full, laundry basket empty (for now) ...... and Nic still upstairs in bed having a very well deserved lie-in, catching up with some sleep. Yep, the Christmas holibobs can now begin!

We're meant to be visiting Nic's 100 year old "great aunt" today (although I think she's actually a cousin ...?) but she's not been very well all week so we're jsut awaiting the verdict from his mum as to whether she's (a) up for visitors and (b) contagious before we decide if we're visiting or not. Then this evening we're taking MiniNic to our fave pub up the road for a meal, as we won't see him after today until Tuesday 27th.

AlibB - loved the acceptance speech - you're as bonkers as me!

I too would like to say thank you to everyone for the lovely array of Christmas cards. This blog is such a special place which has produced many, many friendships over the years - and long may it continue!

I'll be back in a minute (after the 3 minute time lapse) with a Question Of The Day for all of you just killing time until the boss says you can go home ....

Happy Friday everyone.

Deevs
x

Friday 23rd December 2011 - Question Of The Day:

What's been your highlight of 2011.

Over to you .....

Deevs
x

Morning All,

Not sure what the weather is doing as I am still in bed!

Fantastic show this morning Chris, Mary Berry what a legend - thank you for waking me up every morning and setting me up for the day. A very Happy Christmas to You, Tash, Noah, Jade and the Bump xxx

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BAGGY xx

Deevs, I think my highlight of 2011 was meeting Sir Cliff :) So thanks for choosing me to help out at CiN xx

Right best get up now and so some wrapping and cleaning.

AliB
xx

P.S. Good luck Hels Bels xxx

Ooooh Deevs crikey what has been the highlight of 2011.

Too many to mention, getting my hours back and a payrise, spending lots of lovely time with my boys, getting to give my little brother a big hug tomorrow. Having lovely friends and family and of course the blog..... What more could be said. Here's to 2012 "raises a glass of something pink with bubbles".

HAVE A LOVELY CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR EVERYONE.... ENJOY IT!

You're right, CB - too many to mention. My highlights, but in no particular order are .....

Seeing everyone at CiN, their happiness and hard work - and thinking "I did this!" (not forgetting the Sweet Child Of Mine finale ...)

The Cannock blog meet in the summer - a lazy afternoon in the park, with picnics, games and friends. Simples!

Nic saying he would support me in my new business venture. I'd be lost without him.

Our first overseas holiday. An idyllic 10 days of doing nothing, together.

On balance, it's not been a bad year!

Deevs
x

It's Chriiiiiiiiiiiiiiiistmas!!!!!!!!!!!!

All home now, turkey ready for it's final journey to Mum's Oven!

What a good feeling!

Someone had the discourtesy to come into my office and talk to me for the last but of the show this morning and I was trying to listen to the wonderful Hels Bells - I'll have to go back and listen again

Laters

Sezza xxx

Afternoon,

Happy Birthday Baggy!

I'm being driven to distraction by the boy - he's very, very, very, very excited about Christmas (Awwwww!) but is also very, very, very, very tired (because of the excitement I think!), and whiny, and indecisive...........which is testing my patience to the limits!!

Got to do the packing today.....including a goodie bag of food for me and t'other for the hotel room! We're only going for three nights but I have a feeling the car will be full!

Highlight of 2011 - watching my baby grow into a proper little (bonkers) man and giving up work......probably the best thing I could have done. Here's to 2012 and all the adventures we're going to have!

ebx

Highlight of my year apart from the fantastic day we had at CiN has to be my daughter deciding to get married next February closely followed by seeing George Michael perform at the arena in Verona.

Merry crimble to you all xx

Sus x

Hello.

My highlight of the year has to be surviving when I was 'close to the edge' back in April. After something like that we stop worrying about things that don't really matter and appreciate far more all the good things in life which we usually take for granted. I could name some of the things but the list would be endless, all of us have so much to be thankful for despite the inevitable sad times.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to everyone.

MM xxx

***Happy Birthday Baggy***

MM xxx

Afternoon each

Happy Birthday Baggy - and a belated Happy Birthday to our Debs.

Deevs, the highlights of my year are always when the family get together and I see them all getting on, laughing and enjoying their time together. I'm blessed with children who are really nice people, in-laws who couldn't be better and grandchildren who are, let's face it, the handsomest, most intelligent, nicest kids.

Happy Christmas to you all and I hope 2012 brings health and happiness.

Love, xxxxxxx

Happy Birthday Baggy!

Final trolley dash done, turkey safely stashed, lists 99% ticked (rest doesn't matter!) and tree decorated with every available bauble - this year's tree-decorating style is OTT... fab-u-lous!

Love to Hells Bells, CLP will miss you and so will we!

My highlights? Hmm, CiN day was very special and the R2 Festival in a Day with my lovely pals was pretty special too, both courtesy of R2 n the blog - so I have a lot thank you guys n R2 for!

Peace, love and patience to all, and hugs as ever,

Ann xxx

Have just checked with Santa and there's 0 days, 14 hrs and 27 mins left.

For those with children or grandchildren, I hope you're tracking Santa with Norad.

xxxxx

Happy birthday Baggy! xx

A very merry christmas to all of the bloggers on here and of course to Christoph!

Hugs to those who need them and I hope Santa brings you everything you all wish for!

Keep smiling

Keith
xx