Soop's friendly KITCHENERS

We were out at a (indoor) bbq last night. Didn't notice the weather until about 9pm when we went outside for the formal opening of the new shower block (our friend has a caravan site) when it promptly started to hail and blow a gale. Not a problem for most people as they were well insulated with alcohol, I however, was driving so none for me. Good evening though as we met two new people who became instant friends and saw a friend I hadn't seen for a while.

We had been a bit worried about our fairly new neighbour as obviously something was changing his routine and we hadn't seen his wife for some time (though she is not so sociable as she is deaf). We didn't know if we would be seen as nosy neighbours and were not sure what to do. But when we got home late last night he was just coming in so OH went over to talk to him. Unfortunately his wife has leukemia and this caused a stroke on Monday night. He is very upset. Don't know what we can do. Even if she was allowed visitors we are not really on chatting terms with her yet. OH knows him quite well as they rebuilt our road last Autumn together. Luckily his brother lives near the hospital so I presume is feeding him but if I see him I will offer him dinner. Bit of a dampener to the evening.

I now know two people with leukemia, I thought it was more a children's illness. The other one is my son's fil.

Last night's lovely sky.

Aw! You lot are amazing. A very good afternoon one and all.

We've only just returned from the care home visit, I'm so sorry to have to dash away until later this afternoon. Sun shining and a little more outside decorating to be done.

By the way, cornergran my sister lives in MK. Our late father died in MK hospital. He was treated very well until the very end.

Paint pot calling. I have yet to read all your messages. PROMISE to do so a little later.

I have never been inside an Aldi or a Lidl so I have many treats in front of me I think. I have no idea when Lidl will open, it still looks suspiciously like the old Comet.

I thought that the postman would have been here wanting my signature for delivery of my birth certificate during my brief departure. If he did visit he did not bother to leave a note.

Luckily I took a book with me- I read for around 90 minutes after the procedure before transport arrived. It was an ordinary GP surgery (I had no idea) and a hospital rents a room for cardiology tests. It would appear that I have something called Bundle Branch block which some people are born with and some like me have no symptoms and it is only shown when an echo cardiogram is done. If one has symptoms a pace maker could fix the problem. I am certain I was only given the diagnosis because of my background. It is in the hands of my GP now.

I did not expect a GP surgery- I was hoping to buy coffee and a sandwich from a machine or even a stall but it was not to be. Luckily I arrived home before I pegged out from dehydration.

There have been a couple of heavy but short showers- I have the heating on as hypothermia is high on the list.

Anno we do not recognise or accept snow in NW London.

Tara will prance home in a few hours time as dry as a bone. She hates my new furniture, suits me as she is less likely to claw it. She retires to bed after her supper and then joins me when I go to bed.

Its ok * Charleygirl* he doesn't make a habit of naked exercising ( or indeed any exercising at all ) . This heinous act took place at 0600 before his shower when he was still working . Goodness knows what I was doing up...probably on my way to work also !! All I know is I nearly had to go back upstairs and lie down in a darkened room to recover !!

Hope the trip to the clinic is quick with not much waiting around.

The new shops should give Sainsbury's a run for their money. I cant do my entire shop at Aldi but what I do buy there is good value and surprisingly I've found their meat is very good.

'Perfect weather for clothes drying', eh, Charleygirl? Lucky you. When I drew the curtains this morning there were big fluffy snowflakes falling; now it's raining steadily - again. I hope it's going to be dry on the South Coast over the weekend as DGS2 (aged 10) is looking forward to going to a football tournament in Bournemouth. Apparently the team and their dads are going to stay in caravans which seems to be as much of an attraction to him as the footie. I'm trying (not) to imagine caravans full of wet boys and muddy boots - not to mention the dads.
I went to see my GP yesterday because I'm a bit concerned about my replaced hip. Ever since I wrenched it getting out of the back of a friend's three-door car, I've had difficulty getting my right leg out of cars. So I am going to have it X-rayed. Then on Tuesday I have an appointment to see the ENT consultant about my chronic sinusitis; still waiting for my next rheumatologist's appointment about my polymyalgia. It's all go!

Sorry you have yet something else to worry about Charleygirl it is never ending.
Hope of yet another treatment for AMD,some form of gene therapy but I fear it will be too late for us.
I have an appt for the orthopaedic clinic on May 12th much sooner than I expected I hope that doesn't mean a very long wait for an op, we shall see.
Hope it all goes well for you today and you are told the results straightaway.

I fell about laughing- you should have threatened DH that you would take a photo and post it to us lot. Why naked I ask? The mind boggles but under the circumstances it is better staying in shut down mode.

Sorry to hear that he is not feeling well and so close to departure for your hols. Hopefully you will all enjoy the tea party tomorrow. The peace and quiet afterwards will be appreciated.

It is sunny here but very cold. I am waiting for transport to take me to a clinic I have never heard of as I apparently need an echo cardiogram. Such a waste as it is perfect weather for clothes drying.

Aldi has opened about 2 miles away and I believe that the queues, human and cars were out in the main road. A Lidl is opening even closer to me and Sainsburys is wedged between the two- that store will notice the draught I think. None is within walking distance.

Good morning everyone , as cake is not to everyone's taste first thing there are bacon sandwiches on offer this morning , a little on the crispy side...all you have to do is choose white or granary bread and are you a ketchup or brown sauce kind of gal / or Pompa?

Charleygirl we'll take very little in the way of clothes. This has been one of our favourite destinations for 25 years and we have it down to a fine art now and an excuse for a little wardrobe refresh !!

The hula hoop is for DGS3 - at the hotel where they will end their stay they have an afternoon pool party for little ones and he wants to take part in the hula hoop competition so a bit of practice is in order. Grampy went through a stage of exercising on his Wii and one memorable morning I wandered downstairs and popped my head in the lounge to see what he was doing and he was hula hooping ( with an imaginary hula hoop no less) naked - all part of the online exercise. I was traumatised for days

Hope the lost birth certificate arrives today because then you will find it at home in its secure hiding place too !!

oh soop I love the sound of your gathering . That's right up my street. And all the better for being a surprise event. Now you're both feeling better that trip to see your grandson will be even more fun . Wait till he sees his treasure boxes !

Alea so its a race to see who arrives first? DH to his home or the new baby !! How exciting . I cannot imagine how eager you all must be to meet the new arrival. Does your DD know if it is a boy or a girl?

Today , Grampy has succumbed to my bug and is not feeling the ticket but is off for his pre holiday haircut. All this work meant a trip to the osteopath last night for a 'tune up' for his back so he is in the wars a bit. I think our desire to have everything returned to normal will have to be put on hold until after our holiday. Which is no problem , we have all the time in the world and our focus tomorrow is DGS4 2nd birthday . Most of our family will attend a tea party for him so it will be lovey to see my brother and sister etc.

Have a lovely Friday one and all ! x

That sounds better news, Alea. Hope things continue to improve. It's been absolutely freezing here today, so can understand the baby's reluctance to come and meet the family. Incidentally, MK hospital was my 'local' many years ago, or it was once it was built, initially we had to travel to Stoke Mandeville, including one dramatic night when my husband picked up a smoke belching chip pan which of course burst into flames - yes, he knew he shouldn't, one of those things, fortunately the burns healed well. We havent had a chip pan since! My Mum spent many weeks in there, her treatment was a relief from her previous hospital and a mystery complaint was finally diagnosed, but that would have been back in the 80's - or I think it was, doesn't time pass?

Sorry didn't mean all that to be bold.

I thought I'd pop into the kitchen for a change of venue ( been with Phoenix and others in the toilet...don't ask ) and what I'd the first thing I see but a deer's bottom courtesy of *soop

Alea glad to hear your DH is in a better ward and they at last know what's wrong. Do hope he feels better soon. Do let us know as soon as you have news about a new arrival. I bet you can't wait. ?

soop I am accused of being sarcastic but I am not knowingly. I hope when you arrive home tomorrow after the care home visit that it is raining and you can have a well earned rest. With luck the rain will start when you are sitting in a chair with a cup of tea or coffee near by.

Alea it sounds with luck that your DH will get a much needed rest tonight. Luckily the problem has been identified- the RF has some explaining to do methinks.

Charleyg I love your wacky sense of humour. Very like my own.

I've enjoyed not being over busy today. Tomorrow...care home visit. Afternoon...back to catch up with all our special Kitcheners.

My love to you all. Keep snug. That wind has bite.

Alea I'm pleased to hear that your husband's infection has been identified. He must have been in considerable distress and us lot hope to learn that he's beginning to respond to treatment. Also, being moved to a smarter, quieter ward will help to lift his spirits. Windows with a view, matter. As do upgraded shower rooms. When I was in one very ancient hospital in Glasgow, the shower room was dire. I was inclined not to venture into it. All change (for the better) since that experience.
If baby's head is engaged...not too long to wait for his/her arrival in the world. Something truly special for you and your family to look forward to.

I agree, Rory always has the same expression. One would never think of his background- he always looks as though he has been settled in your lovely home since birth.

soop I do hope that you are resting today- I am glad that you cannot garden.

No sign of the birth certificate- it is not the fault of the company, it is in the hands of Royal Mail. I stayed in yesterday and today, yesterday was the estimated day of delivery but nothing yet. I am out all day tomorrow so that of course is when it will arrive. Luckily I had the foresight to pay an extra £3 so I was able to scan it today, I now have everything to hand and will be able to post it on Tuesday. R M has a novel way of tracking- I will be emailed after delivery.

I have had the heating on since early morning it has been so cold. It is now warmer.

I have a season ticket for hospital visits, I am off again tomorrow. My body does not comprehend that the brain is 29 years old.

Just touching base for an hour before popping back to the hospital.
DH has E. Coli in one of the bile ducts plus a lingering chest infection. He has now been moved to the Gastro Ward which looks a bit brighter and more modern, having been recently refurbed (what a difference that makes) and with only 5 beds in the bay should be quieter than where he was up to now. MK are in contact with the Royal Free regarding his treatment as he is "under" their Hepatology /Gastro -Enterology department.
(He is expected to be there until some time next week.)

No sign of the baby yet although his/her head is engaged. I think it's too cold to come out!

Charleyg Rory uses the same expression no matter what he's up to. Supercilious springs to mind.
Did the postie deliver?

The waves are crashing on the shore. Snow frosting the tops of the mountains. No possibility of working in the garden today.

I've been searching on eBay for a suitable jacket for my friend. I located around 20 possibilities. She phoned to say could I help her to select the most suitable for a concert she's attending at the end of next week. That's a big ask but I did my best. Now I'm hoping that the delivery will be in time. A bank holiday throws deliveries out of kilter.

Beautiful photos- as always- Rory knows how to pose.

every day...

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Hello dear Kitcheners...there is a white topping to the Paps of Jura. Big, wet, snowfall earlier on. It's extremely blustery and chilly with it.

harrigran It is lovely to have you pop into our Kitchen. I trust that you are making a good recovery. I'm sending you my love. x

Lona I so enjoyed the virtual hot cross bun (dripping with butter.) You are a thoughtful lady.

Alea Any good news regarding your dear husband?

NanaandGrampy Our family gathering group is increasing by the day. Total to date...16! Although there is oodles of time to prepare (16 weeks) ), I've already planned what I shall wear. Daft as a brush...me.
Not too long now before we visit Torben in Sussex. Bag packed.

I read on Facebook that PPIs may cause dementia. I had a fright. I've been taking them for a few years because I've a hiatus hernia. The family immediately rallied and made me feel less anxious.

Here are three new pics for you share. bags the deer visit almost day.

Alea winning that super prize of food and alcohol at the Chinese restaurant will put a spring in your step today. Something very nice to look forward to when DH is back on his feet. I do hope that he is feeling better today.

NanaandGrampy I agree, I did a lot more when I was working. Now I no longer buy a daily newspaper because I do not get around to reading it for a few days. I think though that I would have clothes etc organised if I was going on the big trip that you have organised. I do not "do" lists but I would have clean clothes etc laid out on a bed.

Who is going to use the hula hoop ring? Grampy? The two boys are quite young to use it the way that is was supposed to be used.

Another perishing day here but the the sun is out, I should not complain.

Day 2 of staying indoors hoping that Royal Mail will deliver a copy of my birth certificate. I am 100% certain that it will arrive tomorrow when I will be out for most of the day. C'est la vie.

Morning my lovelies

Another early start for me as today I shall be mostly being Mums taxi and then off to my lovely lady for a waxing and super pedicure prior to my hols

Alea how exciting for you!! And your DD of course. I shall look forward to that first picture of a cuddle with Nana ! I often wonder with all the hustle and bustle how anyone gets well in hospital !! I do hope your DH is feeling better today and didn't have too disturbed a night, a good nights sleep really does help when you're not feeling well.

Charleygirl yes she has beautiful hair doesn't she. The picture doesn't show it too well but it has a real hint of gold. I did enjoy my cuddles . Swimming was a bit of a let down as the pool was shut due to a chemical imbalance. I did venture outside with the little chap but the hail ( WHAT was I thinking ????) forced us back inside to his disappointment. However Grampy saved the day with a trip to the café at Tesco and the purchase of a Lego car !! Oh and a hula hoop ring !! He has diverse tastes lol

soop deer!! At the bottom of your garden. I am beyond envious . Loving Brackens picture too she is so lovely.

Cornergran I know what you mean about being treated like a muppet by contractors. We chose our recent carpet fitter because he treated us like adults even though he was a touch more expensive. He did a smashing job and the lounge and dining room are coming together beautifully . We're so pleased . Ill post a picture when its all done .

My holiday is coming up fast and I chuckle when I think about how organised I was when I was working and weeks before I would have lists and piles of things out waiting to be packed. Retirement has made me far more laid back and with 4 days to go.....the sum total of my preparations ....zero !!

Anyway, thank you for the lovely hot cross buns Lona a favourite of mine with lashings of butter !! Have a good day everyone x

Morning all! I looked out of the window at 6.50 and it was snowing huge flakes! Lasted about 5 minutes, all gone now and bright sunshine!
Round to my ds's later to let the TV man in and also to pass the time while my last house viewers do the tour.

I've left some toasted hot cross buns with lots of butter and a fresh pot of coffee for anyone who drops in to the kitchen xx
Have a good day

Hello, you don't normally see me in here especially at this time of the morning. Harsh frost last night makes everything look very wintery and pretty, the poor plants will be suffering.