28th December.....

So no blogs for a while mainly as we have all had our heads down toilets with a tummy bug which has gone on and on!

However, I think we are all making a recovery and despite some measly helpings at Christmas Dinner, we are now beginning to feel better.

We even ventured out to some friends house last night and while we were there we got talking about things we dont like so here are some of my lists!

Things I dont like                                  Things my body Rejects

Cauliflower cheese                                Ice cream

toad in the hole                                      cheese

Yorkshire pudding                                 chocolate

Macaroni Cheese                                   Crisps

Sushi                                                        foods cooked in certain oils

Overcooked vegetables

large quantities of fish

I will have a think and continue this list!!

where in the world.......................

has the time gone too!!

Part of it is me just trying to settle as quickly as possible into a new job, desperate to look competent!!

Another thing is that i just am not doing very much "blog-worthy", I always need a "reason" to write so I know I am not boring the readers.

I love Christmas, I love the food, the presents, the lights, the snow, etc etc so it is quite hard for me living with a person who doesn't really "bother" much about it, it gets hard to keep motivated!!

I also think this is a time of year you should spend with your family but distance for us makes that not possible!  It doesn't stop you wishing differently though.

Already a barrel load of presents under the tree and i am studying every cook book I can find to make this a perfect Christmas.  Nathaniel is very excited about it all and hasn't asked too many questions, this time last year he was a Shepherd in his school Nativity, how proud we were of him in his school production!!

Well time for bed and to think of some better blogs  - I always think of really witty things when I am asleep!

Night everyone

New job, new challanges!

So far the new job seems to be going well, I have been doing it a week now and have met with my preceptor a few times and done some visits and apparently I maybe able to do a solo one on friday or monday.

The hours also seem great, some days are full days and others are just 5 or 6 allowing me to sit fit in Karate lessons and playdates as well as home work!!

Currently I am still doing Marin general too, but not sure how long that will last, it they call me off much more then I have to swap cause a call off is an 8 hour day which I am not earning  - which if quite frankly a bit pointless, unless I need a rest or some time to catch up on things.

I am adjusting well despite not having my car to potter around in it is currently being fixed!

I must say it is quite nice to have an "office job" with a desk and phone and post-it's pads and pens, white relaxing unless all my phones go at the same time.

It is not all smelly houses and meeting in parking lots!!

So far .....so good

teeth

What do you think about my teeth, the squint-ness of them has bothered me for a long time and i decided I should see someone about getting them straightened, which I did.  Technology has moved on somewhat since I was young and they have invisible braces now so you dont have to look like a metal mickey/brace face!!

However, "invisaline" will not work on my teeth and the orthodontist doesn't recommend the ceramic pale version of the metal wires as they are awkward and stain.  So it is metal braces, but that is not the only part, to move my bite into place they need to move my jaw and I have 3 options

a - Have teeth removed

b - have jaw surgery

c - get a herbst brace

So as you can imagine, I am still thinking, and may keep on thinking for some time to come, 

I am actually scared shitless about the brace not really as concerned about the metal wires as I know they do hurt,

so metal braces for 2 years

a herbst appliance for 9 months

and a cost of $4500

I will continue to "think"

what do you think?? Would you do it!

a busy time

wow, what a busy time just now both good and bad, firstly, I have to mention Johnny who is struggling with his health at the moment but the doctors feel he is on the right treatment and that his pneumonia will soon be away, it must be hard for him, being alone, and vulnerable and not used to hospitals but he has some good friends checking on him as well as his mum!!

Get well soon Johnny!!

I also started my new job as a district nurse, full of nerves and wonder of how it will be but hopefully it will be great, I worked yesterday and then again thursday and friday! I will also still be working at Marin General so i hope I am not taking on too much - only time will tell, my bank account could definitely do with a boost!!

Happy Halloween

This time of year is full of excitement and wonderment, especially as the children discover the world of "pumpkin Patches" and "halloween"

Nathaniel has had a lot of fun going trick or treating and dressing up as well as carving and icking his own special pumpkin on a field trip with his school.

Today was lovely to see all the parents turn up to see the kids in their mix with their friends and watch them show off their costume.

Today was also the first time it has rained since March - although we desperately need rain couldnt it have waited until tomorrow?????

Happy halloween

no change here !!!

SO by now you are very well familiar with my moans and groans about my weight and lack of fitness,

I find this totally frustrating but dont seem to be doing anything about it, my usual complaints are I am too tired, or feeling sick.

Yes we have had a few colds around the place but the rate I am going I need tp give myself a kick.

2 things I am going to try is 1 - write a motivational message to myself each day!

                                                  2 - take on a personal trainer once a week

I am hoping the trainer will help me find that motivation again, as we approach the winter months that will be important as we take comfort in stews and soups for dinner salads take second place!

SoI will keep you updated on my progress and I am going to try really hard as it is only me that can do this no one else and so what if I need a little help to get to where I need to be!!

I have too many winter clothes that i want to fit into so lets hope in 1 month I can report some good changes!!

a new challenge!

An interesting thing happened to me on Saturday, and no it wasn't the patient dying, but one of my colleagues asked if I could knit.  Automatically, I said yes - you remember my tea cosy mum, and John you still have the masterpieces that are the Dr Who scarfs.

So eventually she went to her car and got her needles and wool - it was actually a very busy day so obviously we were doing this on our break!! I was actually getting a bit nervous, I havent knitted anything in probably over 25 years, maybe I should have said I didnt know how to do it.......

So she produced her needles - whats that i asked! Oh needles have changed she said it was 2 pieces of wood and a plastic thread tying them together.

I showed her how to cast on (once I found the starter bit of wool) and showed her the 2 basic stitches and off she went.

I was quite proud of myself, being able to do that and even thought to myself I should go take it up again and knit something......................

so............watch this space!!

Homework

Wow - can you believe it my just turned 5 year old has started homework, and he is very excited about it and I am stressed about it, trying to fit it into the day with an already packed schedule of school, playdates and karate.

Somethings have to give so new rules have been enforced, Wii only at weekends, no playdates until 2.30 once homework has been completed!

It is making me very disciplined and finding the day is flying past but the work so far has been good and he is really coming on with his writing.

I was a little sad tonight though to see on his white board he had written, i am very sad mummy, he said he didn't think people liked him - the ones he doesn't know yet!! I told him not to worry about the ones he hasn't met and that everyone loves him and thinks he is a fun boy to play with!

He has recovered from being ill but has been mega sleepy which gives me enough time to settle in front of the TV and have a drink of wine!!

Cheers

well we made it

and since 10pm last night we have a 5 year old in the house.

Nathaniel had a lovely birthday yesterday playing with his new toys, being at school and the birthday dinner I made (it wasn't Celia's) but I made yummy birthday cupcakes too!!

We love you Nathaniel, you are such a bright spark and you say the most amazing things, but yet you still have the need for cuddles and a helping hand.

Every day daddy and I are amazed at everything you can do and how quickly you pick it all up, swimming, biking, scooting, reading, sums (even I haven't got that one down).

You have such determination and get so mad if things don't go your way immediately but hey...thats a daddy trait!!

You have taught us to be less selfish (mostly we kind of still like to sleep till 7am)!!

Happy birthday and hopefully the road to 6 will be a fun journey for you, just do

nt get bigger than me YET!!

Today is PARTY DAY!!!

So today is Nathaniel's birthday party, his birthday is in 2 days, on the 22nd September and we cant help but take our minds back to a year ago today.  During the festivities of the party we will certainly be thinking about dad.

Today last year he underwent his first of 4 surgeries and that was his below knee amputation.  No one can ever understand how that must feel like to a person, dad was obviously devastated but had been (briefly) extremely ill prior to this day and appeared to "accept the surgery with good positive thoughts"

Today we will celebrate life, Nathaniel turning 5, and dad still being around to help celebrate it, he has had another tough year but we are so grateful he is here

Due date!

So today 5 years ago was Nathaniel's due date, as I am not celebrating his birthday you understand he didn't arrive today 5 years ago. The pictures are taken from that day!!

So lets recap on that day!!

I cant remember much but I met Emily, (baby Holly) along with Jacky and her pal David for a bite at D Angelo's in Mill Valley, I ordered Pizza - I always did at an italian restaurant, but felt pretty sick and took most of it home. I have never gone back to the restaurant.

This was probably the hardest day of my pregnancy, all my "pregn

ant friends in the US" had gone early so I waited not sure when it would all take off, I maybe expected fire works but I didnt get them.

Fast forward 5 years, I am busy preparing for Nathaniel's birthday party and i swear I am making it smaller every year but here I am having 35 kids and parents to the party!!

I hope he enjoys it and as he started Kindergarten this year he has a few new friends at the party this year!!

Happy due date!! When were your's.  I think only Simon came on his due date

I pledge Allegiance to the United States of America

Today I had the pleasure of joining the other parents as we sat in on the Friday assembly at school.

All stand as the flag enters the room and the kids sang a little song

they then made the pledge - so if you dont know it here it is: - 

The Pledge of Allegiance

I Pledge Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands,
one Nation under God,
indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

Obviously we have no problem with him participating (well maybe a little sadness) but he is american and we are living in America, so thats understandable, I am not ready to stand there with my hand on my heart or left shoulder where ever they place it - it isnt necessary, but we should be able to encourage Nathaniel to learn the words and understand why he is doing it, I am not sure if teachers have discussed this - again i assume not! Your heritage is something to be proud of and lets face it, most of the American population stemmed back from Irish or scottish decent - a few will claim english heritage but it isnt as popular as being of celtic origin. They seem a little young to do this stuff, but oh well, the assembly was far to long and the noisy kids were the 4 and 5th graders!!

It was a nice event to see and I got to wave to Nathaniel - once he had stopped clowning around!!

September 11th 2001

What does this date mean to you??

I am sure you feel devastated, sad and very sorry for the families who's lives are devasted by this terrible event.

I feel all of the above but let me take you back to that day (in my mind)!!

September 11th 2001 Simon and I had been living in the US for 6 months and we had said goodbye to our friends Gilli and Steve on the 9th they had been visiting us.

I awoke with the alarm clock (about 7am) and heard the radio announcers chatting, Sarah and Vinnie were a popular Alice radio presenter, I heard part of what they were saying and I initially thought they were joking about the planes and then something seemed more real,

I ran to turn on the computer to see if there was anything on the internet, (forgetting that I could just turn on the TV) I was doing this as I am terrible for gossip and news!!  As I turned on the TV one of the towers fell down while they claimed was "live" I watched the same piece of filming for about the next 12 hours until I could go back to bed.  Over and over it went the same stuff,  I watched on and off after realising it was all the same stuff, but I could go no- where, the library's, shops and even the Golden Gate bridge were all shut.

I found this really hard to take in - why, mainly I felt because all this happened New York time and in California  by the time I got up, it was over and done with and just "old news", how can you live in a country and not know what is going on till too late - the time difference across the US is so great that can happen.

So the next few days with the Americans hell bent on revenge (you can tell they are new to this) I just didnt know what to think.  You see, terrorism to me is something that I have grown up with, going on holiday and getting the car searched for bombs, bombs going off in town centers the saturday before Mothers day killing fathers and children, buildings and stations being evacuated for "bombs", some blowing up big stations at commuter times! Infact the IRA bombed pretty much anything and everything, so to me this didnt have the affect that it seemed to have on everyone else.

People who do these things are very rarely able to be stopped and the people who suffer are basically the innocent victims of our politics.

So certainly remember September 11th it was a terrible tragedy, but also spare a thought for those who also were a victim of other terrorism acts,  and be aware!!

What do you stare at

What do you think about when you are in a dance class or exercise class??

My mind often wanders to the teacher, how tall/short they are and how they seem to be conveying the information too you and I must admit, my eyes are always drawn to their belly, wondering, how they can be that fat and teach a class, does that mean their class is no good??

I also hate the big mirrors in front of you that force you to look at yourself (never a pretty sight!)

That just gives me even more reason not to concentrate, can you see all the people behind you too!

Oh well, getting distracted never was helpful for me and my whole life is one constant distraction, always thinking about what to do next.

I am however generally enjoying the class and really hope it does help me get in shape even if it is just a little

End of the first week

Wow the first week went with out any hitches, Natey loves school and even took to the stage in Assembly to introduce the other kids to their class mascot.

I didn't attend the Assembly as I didn't know you could go - I guess i wasn't listening carefully enough but another parent filled me in.  However I was a little concerned that she mentioned everyone was laughing about how he speaks, I kind of have mixed feelings about this as this can move to bullying and teasing, he doesn't realize sometimes why people like or think his accent is funny and to stand on stage and people laugh at you can be daunting, in the early stages of school, you mix with new people and try and fit in and even at this young age impressions are made. We are proud of him no matter what he sounds like.

Anyway enough about that and onto the weather, it has been a scorcher here this week and I really try not to "go on and on" about the weather as I know some people are not so lucky to live in beautiful California, this whole week we have been over 100 oF every day, (you know it will be hot when it is 75 at 6am when I leave for work. This results in a lot of pool time and MANY changes of clothes. I went for a run today with Margaret, but with the heat and my knees being a bit sore it was more like a walk, running is definately better at about 65 oF

Tonight Simon and i are headed out on a "date night" with Lori and Andy Whittock, we are going to T-REX, 

I will probably struggle to find something weight watcher friendly but.....never mind, I am enjoying having the access to my weight watchers on my iphone as they now have a weight watchers mobile program, now I have no excuse to forget the Burgers and chips  I eat!!

OK I have sat here long enough filling you in on how hot I am

Have a wonderful WEEKEND, we have a 3 day weekend with Labor Day on Monday and start off Saturday with 2 afternoon Parties!!

Love to you all and a big welcome to SEPTEMBER - the month Nathaniel turns 5

First day of School

So, today is the day we have been waiting for all summer when Nathaniel John Eves hits the school trail.

He has been so excited but as I suspected he did not take kindly to me waking him up at 7am - what can I say he takes after his dad (although today daddy was up).  So Mr Grumpy got up sulked then went back to bed, after about 20 minutes he got up and had breakfast and got dressed, 

He was now excited, grabbing his backpack we went to the car, the journey was not problematic at all and we got to school at 7.55 so maybe we can leave 5 mins later tomorrow,

This gave him a chance to pick the best peg,  his new friend Vivian was also there with her mum and dad.

Having waited a long time and the doors hadnt opened he headed to the Monkey Bars for a quick play.  The headmistress (principle) was going around waving and chatting with parents, the school was full of excited chatter and the loveliest thing was that there was many mums and dads there to say goodbye to their child on the first day of school, not just for kindergarten, it is nice it is still a special family event.

We found his cubbie and off he went, to enjoy his day (hopefully), I will pick him up at 1.30

Super mario Thursday

Summer is drawing to a close and though there has been no let up in the weather (that is not a surprise) school will start on monday .  For Nathaniel it will be his first year of "official" education starting Kindergarten and the school year looks kind of intimidating with him only getting 4 weeks off between now and June 11th when he breaks up for summer, Nathaniel is so excited he just cant wait his new back pack arrived and he was able to put his special pencils and other goodies inside ready for his first day on monday.

The pace here has remained a little hectic but we are definitely having gaps for us to feel more "rested and happy", we have even managed to catch up on some TV in an evening and not got totally addicted to the Olympics!!

So for now, good night

Being "hot hot hot"

This has been a most memorable day, not only have I (for the first time in ages) felt "awake", today was the day Nathaniel aged 4 5/6th swam a length of the pool 12 times totally unassisted and in fact I was at the other end of the pool cheering him on (as were the rest of the pool) of course  in his favourite words "I have never seen a 4 5/6th boy swim as good as that" he now definitely has his eye on the prize (well several ) he thinks he can do the fast swimming, diving, and ladies Gymnastics - YES he has been enjoying the Olympics with me, he likes to snuggle on the sofa next to me and tell me that he could have done what they did....but better - oh the optimism is funny!!

So today was a sweltering day, another of the many hot days when it reaches over 40 oC (104 oF), so we spent the morning in the pool with our friends Melissa, Jack and Ryan but after Pizza karate was calling so headed over there for his class.  On our return we decided it was too hot for anything so hit the pool once again, and the joy in his face as he achieved all his new goals - pure joy and the first thing he wanted to do when he got out the water (after I dragged him out) was to call "daddy", but the ansaphone was on so he left a message and daddy soon called back.

and now I am sitting trying to keep cool I have changed my jammies 3 times trying to find something cool and I eagerly await 4am when the wind picks up and the air becomes fresh and cool - at least till about 8am when it gets roasting again,

so for now, maybe an ice lolly is in order..................night night

oh and my leg still hurts today but I have managed some decent exercises mainly in the pool and the wii fit!!

Sunny Tuesday

I got the day off today which has been a blessing my leg has been hurting more than normal since yesterday and all today to the point I needed to have some pain killers,

Nathaniel and I had a lovely day headed to The Ranch to see Lollypop with Katrina and Bonnie which was a lot of fun and we even had a picnic lunch, after that we headed to the pool, I have been swimming so much this week it has been fun and it is so exciting to see Nathaniel's progression with his swimming, when we left the UK in February,  I was sure he would be swimming by the end of summer, but with taking so long away I began to think maybe not but this week he has just been going for it to the point that he is jumping really far and swimming to the sides and swimming in widths really well,

He only has a week and a half before school starts so we are really making the most of our time, although we will still have most of the afternoon's.

It was really hot today so it is so nice to just spend 2 hrs or more in the pool,

However it is nearing his bedtime so I should go get his story read!!

What has your Tuesday been like,

I am off to watch the olympics with a nice glass of wine (I had given up for a week but really fancy a nice cool glass of wine to relax!!)

CHEERS:)

Work, work, Work

Thats all I seem to have done since I returned from the UK, although i haven't really, and this 5 day stretch is tiring too, today I decided I needed knew nursing shoes as my feet hurt so much and my leg is really sore where I broke it, I guess it just is also in connection with me working more, 

Tomorrow is my last day till saturday - yippee.

Nathaniel wants to swim every day (which is good cause it is just so hot over here another heat-wave - over 100's again) he is getting so confident which is fantastic though we still take good care to make sure no drowning occurs.

The olympics have started - what is your favourite event??  I think China and the US think they are the only ones competing but they just have the most available money to put time and effort into sport where as other countries the Athletes usually have full time jobs and practice in their spare time!! I also think the gymnasts seem to have got really chubby especially their legs, I am sure they use to be like scrawny little girls, there was even a 33 year old woman in there from the german team!!!! The synchronized diving is just plain creepy!!

Oh well,

Better go bed, morning will be here before I know it!! Happy Tuesday!

Camping,

Camping was a fun time for the 3 of us. I joined Simon and Nathaniel for the last few days of their trip.

Simon had never done camping before so I wasn't sure what I would find as I arrived that sunday evening, but what I found was our friends enjoying a campfire and awaiting dinner (we were cooking it)

The next 48 hours was full of fun adventure and total relaxation, we had forgotten whet it was like not to check emails every five minutes, but to just talk, relax and enjoy our friends company.  There certainly was a lot of talk making it an annual event and our family would certainly sign up.  We would also be a bit more prepared next time around.

Swimming, toasting marshmallows and hikes as well as certainly too many bottles of wine, nathaniel just loved being out doors and keeping the fire going!!

The last day we enjoyed a cheeseburger from the local cafe and boy it tasted nice, slowly integrating us back into civilisation,

Thank you to all our friends who had a fun time with us!!

I did it....

Not a bad time either around 2.14/2.17

phew, it was very cold,

more later!!

So here goes

August 3rd 2008

I woke up to pee around 1.10 and after that just dozed a little and by 3.00 I was so fed up I just got up the alarm was due to go off at 3.30,

So with a sip of hot tea (didnt want to drink too much) and some melon,

I got dressed up with my number and shoe tag on. Off i went I arrived at the parking lot a little early and then Margaret, her friend Trine and myself heading in, timing was perfect, we parked, pee'd and dropped off our bags, and then waited in line,

Suddenly we were off, Margaret and Trine went speeding off I preferred a slower start, 1, 2, 3, 4 the miles were passing by, a hard climb up to the golden gate bridge beaconed - oh dear, eventually at the top I started the run over the bridge, I knew by the time I finished the bridge portion I would only have 3 miles left and who cant run 3 miles - easy!!

The bridge however was very windy and really cold so my leg muscles in shorts dint like it and it was hard for me to get up any speed, this was disappointing and my split time at 7.5 miles was 1hr 16mins, I carried on though struggling a bit from 10 miles and even nearly got run over by a fire engine who had to come to attend to some injured runners (but not me) Mile 11 seemed to go on for about 10 miles, it was torture, but eventually I hit 12 and then only 1.1 miles to go, then only .5, .4. 3 etc....then, it was all done,

Finished in 2 hrs 14 not my best but not my worst time and more I was trying to get a personal goal achieved - which I did do,

I headed off to collect my medal and any free swag I could get my hands on then headed home,

Hurrah me!!

Getting closer

2 days till race day and I collected my race bib and timing chip, wow the buzz of the tents was amazing and it was hard not to get swept up with it, even Nathaniel wanted to run, as we walked along the starting route Nathaniel was asking where he would sit to cheer me on, sadly they are camping but as it is such an early race it would be hard for them to be there, i start at 5am.

so some stretching, feet care and rest is what I need for now, working tomorrow and then a brief 2 miles just to stretch out the muscles,

no turning back now,

I am bib number 13951

finally a training run!

Today, I finally found the energy (and someone to look after Natey) so I could run, this was huge being able to go out at a decent time as evenings I am getting so tired and mornings Simon is off for work,

So, I managed 3 miles, not super fast but definately got there and it has motivated me a little, my leg hurt a bit after, but thats OK, I can try doing more stretches!

Not a bad start maybe I can do 4 miles tomorrow (or even 6)

K

What Kind of Fool,

Fed up of being Lazy and sitting around thinking about another half marathon 2 months ago I signed up for the SF 1/2 Marathon, hoping I could get some running in the UK, but didnt manage much and I have been working and suffering from tiredness related to the time change! Now I have a few days till the race, I am definitely panicking about how unprepared and heavy I am.  How do you have the energy I am asked, I don't but sometimes you have to dig deep and find your reserves! 

There are 2 options for me,

1 - Not to Run

2 - Run 

What would you do???

Every part of me is definitely hoping step 1 could be an option but for me I signed up for this race to know I could still manage 13.1 miles after my broken leg, so,  OK I wont qualify for the olympics but I know there must be a beer tent at the end (there actually isn't) - surely thats enough motivation.

Realistically I will let myself down if I don't go for it,

I wont break 2 hrs, but if I get to the finish line, maybe it will motivate me for the rest of the summer, I have till Nathaniel's birthday in september to loose the 20 lb necessary to fit my clothes again. So hang on to your Zimmer frames, I am off to the start line.

zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

so tired so tired, what I would do for a lie in been scheduled to work the past 3 days and although I got saturday off they called me twice between 5.30 and 6 so that was the end of my rest, I really feel I need some rest to reboot.

I am having trouble even contemplating my race on Sunday,

Some happy news though I had a new baby born to me on Saturday, baby Iphone has already made mummy very happy and is so great fun, Simon went and got one for both of us so now we can chat non stop, I really do love it , Thanks Simon!!!

Off to see Mamma mia tonight, but first I need to find a nice glass of wine!!!!

3am

what am I doing up, I should be back to bed, I have just told Nathaniel the same, instead I am on the computer and sorting out the kitchen,

my body needs to sort it's self out I am working tomorrow, so will need rest for that!

Nathaniel just informed me that his heart has stopped beating - I think he means he cant feel it just now.

The departed

I sit here writing this at 7 pm, I have been up for over 24 hrs and I am feeling very sleepy and tired, so here is the summary of our departure.

We arrived at the Hotel ibis and was able to go bowling and to Mcdonalds before we retired for the evening, our hotel was actually very good.  The next day started off at 6 am, when i awoke, Nathaniel slept till 7.30 then we got the bus to Heathrow terminal 5, half way round on the bus we realized we had left blankie on the bed (rescue attempts have been success

ful).

Entering terminal 5 I was this time around able to enjoy the whole building and not jus

t the toilets from my arrival with an upset stomach.  It looked wonderful and dropping our bags and getting through security promptly gave us time to explore the shops, we first headed for breakfast at Gordon Ramsay's new restaurant "Plane Food" it was relaxing and very lovely and Nathaniel wanted to go back for lunch but given the option of the plane journey he decided that was better.

Our flight was pretty uneventful, apart from very dodgy TV systems and really crap movies that I had never heard of and a faulty air conditioning system that left me melting.

Finally arriving in SFO, I scrambled about to try and find an ATM to get some cash so I could pay for the bus and taxi that took me about 30 ins and another 30 mins waiting on the bus (wasn't our day), eventually landed home just after 5, please let it be bedtime now, Nathaniel's dose on the bus seems to have given him a second wind:(

Now to download 420 pictures from my trip....................and get some shut eye!!

Plodding on.............to the very end

OK, everyone is going to think I hate the UK, which is totally not true but I do hate travelling for 5 weeks non stop, it is hard, very hard (I know you all think I moan but try it and see what you think), this is the 5Th time I have done it since Nathaniel was born and each time alone, so by the end I am desperate for home, my routine, work, my own bed, see Simon and more importantly a bath.

I haven't had a bath in over 4 weeks (had one since my arrival), that is probably why i am all stung out and tense, I miss relaxing in the bath about 3 times a week, please don't miss interpret that statement, I have been having Showers regularly but for me my bath is my favourite - I definitely don't smell.
The picture above is us on yet another journey, Nathaniel listening to the Ipod as I work out station stops and plan our routes, this journey was taking us into London, it was a fun day going to regents park and catching up with my friend Santosh. Our trip has been good on the mostly getting to catch up with everyone and still missing a few people as despite everything 5 weeks isn't enough. Nathaniel and I are ready for home and with only 3 days left, we can definitely begin to reminisce about our lovely trip. I also apologise for the times I have been abrupt or tired but, it is hard and i get stressed with everything to think about and my main concern has always got to be Nathaniel. I am sure he will definitely remember his trip, even if it is just climbing trees at the Farmers Boy pub, or a playground .

Thank you for having us, but I also have to be totally realistic, with rising costs, school holiday limitations and how all our trips have gone, 5 week trips and touring the country wont be on the agenda for a while, i have to put my thinking cap on to figure something more practical out and for those we stayed with i know you will agree! Nathaniel has been totally amazing, so understanding and polite, it is a lot for a 4 year old to do (cause he understands it all more I have to explain it all) and I know he is looking forward to the moment when he wakes up and doesn't ask the question "who are we seeing today" but just comes through for a morning cuddle on the bed!!

For those who have Skpye - skype us, we would love it, email us for our skype address,

Otherwise........So long from my holiday diary!

sigh...............

sometimes through this trip I just want to do nothing and sit around for a few hours, today is definately one of them, having been on a tight schedule for the past 4 1/2 months and our only free day is Tuesday i definately, feel like being a slob, not that it is an option today.

Oh well, 5 days left till we arrive at the hotel for our last night

The last leg..............................part 1

St Albans is the last part of my journey and after 3 train rides from Birmingham plus a taxi, we made it to St Albans and to Sylvia (Simon's mum's house), It was for us time for a big Sigh, we have reached our final destination, the next place we go will be home to San Francisco.

Shortly after we arrived, Gilli and Stan arrived and he is the most adorable little boy we all had fun chatting, eating and drinking, after dinner, Gilli left and Simon and Sylvia had some fun bonding time writing stories and reading a book.

I am desperate for bed, I was lugging all the suitcases....however Nathaniel has other ideas!!

Eventually..... I got to sleep and suddenly find we have 9 days left, so what have we been upto the past week of our Hertordshire leg

Wed - a relaxing time until late afternoon with Sylvia, I explored the changes in St Albans and Nathaniel and grandma explored the fun of just being together, later that afternoon we headed over to The Pratt Household to spend some days and nights with Isabelle, Jessica, Lily and Nick,

Thurs - we had a playdate with Charlie, Jack and Sean which was a crazy few hours of boy play, the afternoon we hung out in the Garden of lily's house having some much needed out door time

Friday - we caught up with best friend Charlie Duffin, and it was fun, we then moved over to Stanmore to cath up with Greg and Rachelle before they headed out to France. Rachelle and I hit a bollywood night for great food and way too many drinks....of course this was regretted on saturday but we survived and Richard came over for dinner.

Sunday saw us relax at stanmore in the garden before I headed over to Hertford to catch up with gilli, Steve and Stan

Monday and Tuesday have been relaxing days I am getting tired and really beginning to get excited about heading back to the US and seeing Simon and my house. Nathaniel also feels the same.

not long now

Birmingham..............

Nathaniel and I left Newcastle on a very wet Monday morning, using British Rail and our travel card we sped south, The train are looking pretty nice since i last used them a few months ago or maybe it is just the East coast ones that are a bit slummy!!

The journey was only 3 hrs so we played games, dozed and ate our picnic lunch, i was just disapointed I got no phone reception at all. Arriving in Birmingham New Street, Daniel and Neil Robinson were there to meet us, we sped back to their house and had 24 hrs of fun with them and jacky and Frankie, playing, the nice walk along the canal and feeding the ducks, with - you guessed it rain!!!!

The next day we departed for our journey to ST ALBANS our final destination.

Glasgow and beyond

Tuesday - with John feeling a little queezy we decided to drag him round the science Center in Glasgow, as John has all his clocks set hours in advance we arrived there at 10.30 and spent 6 hrs learning how to build Rockets (and fire them across the park), juggle (with scarfs and balls and then moved on to spinning plates), blow bubbles and many other cool science things, we enjoyed a picnic lunch and a Nando's dinner,

then returned home to rest, a long day but........................John is feeling better.




Wednesday - Headed over to Loch Lomond after taking the train from Coatbridge to Balloch, again it was a very grey and wet day but we felt we could still see some amazing sites and it would be a fun train ride. Exploring the woods, seeing the lake and enjoying a pub lunch were some of the adventures we saw and also had the chance to introduce Nathaniel to Midgies, it was so exciting he wanted to back the next day too...




Thursday - Heading back over to Edinburgh to spend time with Julie, Cameron, Andrew and Gracie, after a few hours at their house we headed to Vogrie Country Park for a play and a picnic. The climbing frames were amazing and the kids had a lot of fun playing in the bushes and climbing trees, unfortunately the rain came down and although not too bad and certainly didnt bother the kids as they fished for frogs and tadpoles, during the pine cone hunt it just got so bad we had to make a dash for it! We are still drying off...............................................after a great mac and cheese dinner, we headed home exhausted! The day ended with torrential rain and thunder and lightening which had John hiding under the bed for the rest of the evening

Nathaniel with Cousins Andrew (left) and Cameron (right)

Friday - A very relaxing morning before we drove down from Coatbridge to Carlisle to meet mum who took us back to Newcastle, we stopped at Morrisons for some grub and then headed back, despite the rain, the journey was uneventful and since about 5pm the sun has actually been out making me extremely excited about tomorrow's prospects - we shall see!!



Only 2 days left in the North....................................

Scotland Calling....

As i sit here snoozing away trying to upload my blog I discover, it isnt so easy to do here at my brothers house, not sure the problem he has a good computer, ahhh well,

so a recap from the past few days,

Saturday - We travelled up to Scotland in the van with a ramp and easier access - (boy those straps were hard though and despite getting dad locked in a toilet (long story ) we made our way to Uncle Alex house for pie and beans - yum, it was very strange Aunty Jean not being around you expect her to walk in the door at any moment but we were lucky that Janet and Kyla and Chris and Louis, Finlay and Hannah could join us - heck, we even helped build a bbq, we then headed speedily across Edinburgh to Colinton and had a lovely fe whours with brother Neil and his family, eventually we got to sleep about 10.30 after a very long day.

John Being attacked by his nephews and Gracie

I am now staying at Chez Main in Coatbridge where you have buckfast on tap and also tons of pizza's and tatties. I have no idea how John and mum think I will get through all the alcohol but I will try..........................................



Sunday we visited the Falkirk Wheel and the rob roy center in Callander taking a lovely drive through the trossachs and stirling shire, Nathaniel is still having a very profitable time weather wise (plenty rain) Despite Johnny feeling sick he was a trooper till the end and even stayed for dinner at Guidi's.

Everyone aboard the canalboat on the falkirk wheel

Monday - Nathaniel and I headed into Glasgow by train after waving off Petrus and Aggie at the train station, John was still very poorly and was staying in bed. Nathaniel was very excited to be in Glasgow and was shouting "yeh Glasgow" and even more excited that he had come to visit Dr Who's house!! Oh WOW,

Now on to the rest of the week!!

So far 2 dry days!!

meeno mino

above is Great Grandad, Nathaniel and Gran

Today we thought the rain would not arrive and we could celebrate day 2 out of 7 of no rain, it did, however and as Nathaniel and Meeno mino were busy playing Tetherball in the garden he came running in he seemed to have forgotten all about the £1 he was owed.

Meeno mino is his new invisible friend (he tells you he is invisible so you cant see him).

Nathaniels new favourite place, PC world where he can play wii and playstation 3 as well as x-boxes, after PC world (it is actually a computer supply store) after that he enjoyed an ice cream with great grandad and a game of Snakes and Ladders.

Being a reasonably religeous family, it is rubbing off very well on Nathaniel and he has indeed turned quite "holy" saying prayers every meal time (about 12 times) and hope god has a good journey on the plane etc etc, it is funny how innocent minds work.

Another good thing happened today, Nathaniel and dad were heard laughing and having fun, this is great that dad is feeling better enough to have a good laugh with his grandson - Nathaniel certainly appreciates it!

Early start tomorrow for our trip to Edinburgh and Glasgow (to see my brothers) and I will catch up with you all when i can

Moving on to week 2 and a new destination

Closing Newcastle

With just 2 days left here in newcastle, Nathaniel and I are both suffering from delayed jetlag, tired and napping it leaves us awake till midnight some nights and very lethargic throught the day, the weather although isnt too terrible, it rains most days and is just so unpredictable.

We are now both missing our home and Simon but my head is wondering how Heather is getting on with Miss California.

I am really hoping some energy will kick in soon,

I cant stay tired forever! At least as I lie here Natey is in bed and has been since 8.30 last night so that has to be a good thing

A new week - Monday to Wednesday

Monday - the day started well, I awoke at 6 (Nathaniel popped into the bed) had a quick chat with Simon on Instant messenger) and then headed out and completed a 6 mile run, not bad and my new trainers still were white despite the rain and mud on the paths. Nathaniel is very keen to climb up the loft.

A trip to the park and Asda and we ended the day with a stroll around hexam and a definate unrealistic expectations with regard to a wheelchair and a steep slope, it was a beautiful place and we enjoyed the shops, garden and park, Natey picked us flowers.

Nateys grace - Dear god, thank you for our dinner, and I hope you have nice dinner too with your..... (does god have a son? he asked and dad breathed as if it was his final breath, I assumed he was shocked by the question mum thought he was ill, we didnt discover who was right! ) with your son and a good breakfast too and if you tell me what you want I will make it for you, Amen

Tuesday - We had a quiet morning, I caught up with a few phone calls then met a friend Emma, Her mum and kids Zach and Caitlin, mum came too and we had a lovely lunch chatting and eating at the Toby Carvery, the rain started again so only 1 dry day so far, and we have had the forcast for another 5 days rain, I laugh when people say we experienced a bad summer last year this year is proving no different.

I lie here at night listening to the rain and as I look out the window I am reminded how light it gets here 10.30pm and still as bright as ever......oh well, time to sleep.


Wednesday - a quiet day, I ran for over 6 miles over the derwant walk, to be totally honest it started off as a 3 mile run but then it was kind of easy and beautiful so i kept going then got lost, after a few detours i finally made my way home thanks to my forerunner. Arriving home I found Nathaniel still in bed refusing to get up till i got back - bearing in mind i had been gone for over an hour and a half it was almost lunchtime, we headed to the shops briefly and then the park returning as there was an urgent need for a poo (natey not me).

Cbeebies was the order of the day for the afternoon and then a quick drive in the van borrowed for our drive upto Edinburgh, a chip supper was in order for dinner and the rain came down and down...........................................................................................................................

Sunny Sunday.......................

really?? No not really, another rainyday initially which dried up but ended up with terrible gales, so we went to the beach- go figure that!!

The morning started by my dream about what route I would take to go running but when I awoke I was just still too tired, going to bed late at night and with jetlag has just been too much, also a few minutes into getting up the rain started, so it was just a relief that I hadnt gone out.

Instead of staying home stir crazy we decided to head to South Shields and the beach.

Arriving there it was windy but not too bad and we strolled along the beach front and headed to the funfair, Nathaniel had some shots on the rides and we shared some candy floss, after lunch we headed back to the beach as Nathaniel wanted a swim, it was so windy the sand actually hurt our legs but Nathaniel still enjoyed himself,

After a quite visit to the park and an omlette dinner, it was time yet again for bed

First Saturday

After waking at midnight briefly and had some apple juice and a chocolate biscuit cracker sandwich, Nathaniel slept till 9.30 am - fanastic and I did a 3 mile run, so from that you can tell we are feeling better.

He also earned his 2nd pound (he gets one for ever rainy day), he was having a lot of fun in the rain getting wet jumping in the puddles and exclaimed he wants to move to Newcastle but daddy has to come too. Our first meal out was to Nando's and we ate so much I dont think we will be able for any dinner, we had a glass of wine and i ended up walking round Newcastle, in the cold wet rain almost falling asleep (note to self, dont eat and drink so much at lunchtime). I bought some magnetic games so we could wait playing ludo and Snakes and Ladders while Dad looks at the military bookshelf in Waterstones book shop.

We made it home and developed a second wind but I expect it wont last long!

The weather forcast is rain till thursday but i know it wont really be that, we are not that unlucky...............................................are we???

Now I just need to figure out what the number is for my phone, I have totally forgot it.

Fly Hi and Adore

So the anticipation of flying is always full of mixed emotion, excitement, dread, the thought of the flight is so unknown and predictable.



Running down the gangway into the plane, you feel you could do this anytime you want. Such excitement and Nathaniel still has time to pause for 20 push ups.



Finding seats, moving blankets and positioning pillows are always important as well as trying to figure out what you may need for the first hour of the journey while the seat belts sign is still on.

Onboard we pop on our free socks and resist the temptaion to clean your teeth with the free toothbrush straight away.

Nathaniel didnt like the smell in the toilet, I tried to tell him it was "lemon fresh" smell but he didnt believe me,

He enjoyed Horton hears a who and i watched fools gold, Ps I love you and The other BOlyen Girl all of which i have seen but easy watching .

Only one major inciodent happened Nathaniel got stuck in the toilet and couldnt get out he was crying and thinking he wouldnt ever get out or see me again (he had insited on going himself, the time lapsed was only a few seconds but hours to him)

Security at London Heathrow continue to cause me great stress and upset, I really got upset at them and they stupid rules, i cant help but totally assume they are just using the "terrorist" game to make money, As if I have got nothing better to do than be a terrorist.................dont get me started,

We arrived safe and well at Newcastle and Nathaniel spent the next few hours asking to go home. I told him the planes only run every 5 weeks.

Lets hope for a happier boyt after a good night sleep.......................I am exhausted

Today is the day!

Today Nathaniel and I fly back to the UK for 5 weeks, there is definitely mixed feelings and the usual  - dread, of the journey, once I am on a journey it is fine but those days and hours leading up to it are hard.  Trying to work out if we have bought everything, packed everything, you know you can always buy something if there is a desperate need, but I do like to try not to muy too much

Nathaniel has been very excited to Fly as he was looking forward to playing the games, especially hangman so we felt very sad to tell him we would not be on the "GiGi" plane but instead British Airways and with the terrible selection of movies listed below, I hope we sleep soundly! He is also very worried about the rain (remember he is experienced in UK weather) so I have told him I think it wont rain every day and I will give him a pound for every rainy day and we will count the rainy days - he seems happy with that

1.	Movie	The Spiderwick Chronicles
2.	Movie	Charlie Wilson's War
3.	Movie	Fool's Gold
4.	Movie	Semi-Pro
5.	Movie	National Treasure: Book of Secrets
6.	Movie	Dan in Real Life
7.	Movie	Reservation Road
8.	Family movie	Cars

My ipod is full to the brim and I have a ton of Audio books too which seem his latest craze!

So at 1.30 Simon will come pick us up, we will get a subway sandwich then jump the Marin Airporter from San Rafael to the airport,

Flight departs at 6.50pm

see you somtime