Life of a 20-something Housewife

The week continues

2009-10-15T21:22:00.004+01:00

I never got a chance to update last night as laying in Rune's bed until he went over, I beat him to it! Luckily did not do a repeat tonight!

Yesterday was a quiet day about the house, trying to declutter and organize the kid's toys, but I have resigned myself that I will have to do it when Phoenix is at school, and Rune is napping! The number of toys they pulled out of bin bags is unreal, and they are cleverly still playing with them today to lead me to believe they actually still want them.

After Lunch I had to go to the post office, we walked down the road that the post office is on and it was being resurfaced, much excitement for the boys... Steam rollers, burly men and hot tarmac!

By the time we had got back up the road to the library Rune was asleep so he was missed out on the park action. It was nice to play with Phoenix though, but he ended up ditching me for two other boys.

Once again today as been much the same, but finally my house is in some sort of order, and I have 4 bin bags of rubbish to throw out and 1 bag for charity of old toys etc. Can't wait for Hubby to come home as I'll know he'll be pleased. I've been a bit lazy recently about the house!

I also submitted my application for a school support assistant. I really really hope I get an interview, but not holding out much hope as I know a lot of people will apply for it.

Tonight's plan is type up a post about Planning Children's Parties, got the idea from a comment thread on Facebook this morning. Also order a few things online for Christmas.

My driving instructor was supposed to phone me back this evening, she hasn't, and she hasn't made a good first impression on me!

In Yummy Mummy Xmas '09 news: Still going well, had a few wee treats (a couple of marshmallows/chips/smarties) today but hopefully on the grand scheme of the week it won't matter. Hubby is now on 3 lates in a row and off Sunday, which will probably be the next time I will get to the gym, and to weigh myself. I am still only drinking 5 cups of tea a day, which is hard! I swear I have to stop myself boiling the kettle. Baby Steps!

Tomorrow's plan is to go to Calderglen Country Park, then Saturday Phoenix has a birthday party 11-1pm during which I will do a bit of Christmas shopping with Rune. Hopefully on Sunday Phoenix's rugby training will be on, and hopefully I'll get to the gym. Must remember to do the ironing on Saturday so that I have no excuse!

Back again!

2009-10-13T21:14:00.006+01:00

Just a quick update as I am trying to fill in my job application form, and hubby gets a bit huffy about me spending time on the Internet!

Yesterday we did go for a walk and the park - and it resulted in Rune not napping at all, Grr! I hate when our nap routine getting out of sync, worked hard to get him into the routine of having an afternoon nap and not a morning one.

We also tried having a clear out, but the less said about that the better. I have resorted myself to the fact that our house will be full of stuff until the boys are much older; will just have to take the grey hairs with dignity!

My boys enjoying some quiet time together this morning

Keith was off today, so Phoenix and I had a kinda' date day. We went into Hamilton in the morning to get a birthday present for one of his friend's (his party is on Saturday.)

Went home and had lunch with the other Martin boys of the house and then we all went for a walk down the woods for an hour.

Then Phoenix and I went swimming as Keith had promised he'd take him on his next day off, but he is out of action with this suspected broken rib! Spent a good 50mins in the pool and it was great to have a good giggle with Phoenix, can't remember the last time it was just me and him, must do it more often.

Came home and had dinner and then I went to the gym , second time this week (go me!) I have set up my other blog for my Yummy Mummy Xmas '09 target, I updated it yesterday, hopefully will have some time after I finish the application form....

I'm Back....... I hope!!

2009-10-11T14:22:00.005+01:00

I've been meaning to blog again for ages, but as always it seems to be at the bottom of my list of priorities.

Phoenix is off school for the October Break which is just lovely, so though it would be the perfect opportunity to blog what we get up to.

Today we have made gingerbread biscuits
Recipe here
Tomorrow's plan is sort out the toys (and get rid of some!) and maybe go out to the park at some point too. Oh, and the boys are making their own pizza for dinner.

Will blog tomorrow about the pizza's and have a diet post but can't decide if I should make it private or not, have embarassing pictures for it!

Will leave you with some pics of today

Quarter of a century

2009-03-23T21:10:00.005Z

25 today!

Was raging last night, Hubby went off to bed before 8.30pm, and I always feel like I have to go up... Didn't help that Rune had woke up, and it's so much quicker/easier just to feed him back to sleep. Put him in his own bed in with his brother last night. Ended up bringing him into our bed, and Phoenix soon followed him (as we had brought Rune in and he was lonely?!) Tonight has went a bit better, Rune has been sleeping now for a couple of hours, which is a bit better compared to him being in our bed!

So apologise about my Mother's day post, don't feel like I have done it credit, but may go back to and rework it another day.

So today is my birthday and I have over-eaten! Yikes, quite sleepy so will be logging off shortly to read my Torchwood novel and get my jammies on. My dear Friend Frenchie gave me books for my birthday - First 3 of the Twilight series which she is currently obsessed with (she is training to be an English/French teacher!) and has read Twilight 4 times now, and saw the film far too many times at the cinema! So will have to read that after Torchwood, although I had said this morning that I wanted to read the last Harry Potter.

Breakfast in bed again this morning (Eggs Benedict on muffins with ham again like Mother's day, as requested!) and I didn't end up getting dressed until midday. We went to Pizza Hut for a late lunch, came home and Phoenix and Keith finished decorating my birthday cake. Butterfly birthday cake as the birthday cards that they picked for me both had butterflies on them. As always the day has went too quickly.

Got a lovely charm bracelet from my dad, as well as lovely lush soaps (Yas!), and Hubby got me this recipe book that I had asked for in WH Smith last week. I want him to buy a car so but he is digging his heels, wants to wait 2 weeks until he turns 25 as he thinks his premium will drop. I doubt it will as he has only had his licence since last October. I doubt we will over use the car, but will be great for getting to the supermarket, and taking me camping to Keswick!

For many years I have been holding to this age, as if it will break me away from the 'young mum' group but I doubt it really will. I hate hearing 'oh, you're ONLY....' Yes Phoenix wasn't planned, but I planned to get married, I planned to have Rune, and yes when I am 50 Phoenix will be 30, (Rune 27) and I will still be young enough to enjoy myself, with my hubby. Yes I may not have had all the life experience I would have wanted before having kids, but having kids has changed me. It has changed my outlook on life - before kids I was obsessed with money, and I am sure if I had got a job after graduating, I would have became a full time working mum, no doubt trying to keep up with Joneses. Sometimes I am jealous of friends who are now buying their first houses, and can afford to spend money on it, as well as holidays and having a car. I am embarrassed by my house sometimes, the kitchen and bathroom do need a total overhaul, and to be honest, every room needs redecorated, but with one wage and 4 mouths to feed (and a cat) something has got to give. At times when I am jealous, I do need to remind myself why I am not working, and that's why our house is a mess, and it does make it worthwhile. At the end of the day, we are fed, warm and dry, and my four year old wished me a happy birthday just as he went to sleep. What more could I want?

Had also thought about my last few birthdays and it's amazing how so much can change in so little time. Think this will be the last of the reflective posts for a while, two in two days!

25th birthday - 2009 today
24th - 2008 Mummy to two boys
23rd - 2007 had decided to have another baby, and had just had the implant removed
22nd - 2006 Had decided to get married, with 6 months to plan and organise
21st - 2005 Mummy to a 6 month old,
20th - 2004 12 weeks pregnant and stunned my friends with my news when we were out for dinner
19th - 2003 Mum had died 2 weeks before and I was still very raw, dad signed birthday card from him and her
18th - 2002 All I can remember was having a Barbie cake, but no doubt went and got legally drunk
17th - 2001 celebrated by getting a tattoo, yikes!

Annual Performance Review

2009-03-22T19:33:00.004Z

I thought Mother's day could be a fitting time to do an Annual Performance Review.

I found it easier to write my 'things to work on' compared to 'strengths' which I think is only natural. I slept 7pm-1am last night and was lying in bed at 3am thinking about what would be in this blog so I apologise if it's crazy sounding!

Strengths:
Caring - want the best for my children
Pro-active and like to play with my boys
Try to give boys '1-on-1' time each, every day

Things to work on:
Give my full attention when needed and not be thinking about what needs done next in the house
Try to keep my temper, especially if I am tired/hungry/stressed

And finally an acronym to some up the mum I aspire to be
F.L.A.P. - Fun, Loving, Approachable, Present.

Busy week

2009-03-21T08:01:00.008Z

I have had a busy week but feels like I've got nothing to show for it!

Mon - Parents transition to school

All parents who children are starting school in my local authority were invited to attend an event. Went over the new Curriculum for Excellence which is moving away from the old 5-14 programme. It is thought to help educate the child as whole, taking in the kids strengths and weaknesses into account, but how practical that will be for a teacher with 20 kids we will wait and see. Up side is that it has been designed to be constantly reviewed so anything that doesn't work can be amended.

The morning gave me a lot of reassurance, and the professor who gave the talk on Curriculum for Excellence said that the best thing you can do for your child is read with them daily. Also to let them see you read and enjoying it. Like me and Keith said, do we read when they can see us doing it (during the day when they are awake) and therefore neglect playing with them etc, or wait until they are in bed? I did have a sly read of my book on the toilet the other day LOL. Multi-tasking to the max; toilet, reading, showing kids that I enjoy books too.

On the going to the toilet during the day thing - I don't get any peace, normally have two children right beside me, both wanting me to chat to them while I do my business. The joys of motherhood. I doubt I will ever had a shower again without someone coming into the bathroom, hubby included!

Tues - Didn't have anything official, just the nursery run, and tidying the house. played outside in the afternoon, have photos......

I made a cracking chilli con carne in the slow cooker though!

Wed - hubby was off, went to the library while Phoenix was at playgroup and I got a Torchwood novel. We went into town in the afternoon to get some things, Phoenix got his haircut and I took Rune to the health visitor to be weighed (hadn't been weighed since 6 week check.) He's 21 lbs, I felt her bedside manner was terrible and thankfully my friend who is a health visitor has reassured me about Rune. I think it's because Phoenix was SO big that I find it hard not to compare Rune to that and worry. I had Brownies in the evening, and I really enjoyed myself, our pack is a lot smaller now (21 girls compared to nearly 40 a couple of years ago.) and I feel like we can give them a better level of care, if you know what I mean.

Thurs - My dad came over tea on Thursday, made stew in the slow cooker, put doughballs in but it wasn't quite doughballs but cooked-balls as I left them in too long. Suppose it added a different texture to it!

Fri - we had a birthday party 4pm-6pm for one of Phoenix's playgroup friends, were all knackered by the end of it, so by the time the boys were in bed I had well and truly clocked off!

Today - I feel that today is another round of washing hung out to dry (hurrah!) and some cleaning. Hubby is working 'til 2pm (likely 4pm he said before he left this morning) so will potter about the house.

Sunday - Tomorrow is Mother's day, and hoping for breakfast in bed and general spoiling. Hubby is off for the next 8 days on holiday, so will great to helping hand around.

Monday - My birthday and day 2 of spoiling, hopefully I won't have a princess comedown on Tuesday. Hubby is baking my cake, not sure what it is going to be but looking forward to the surprise

Shopping like crazy!

2009-03-16T20:45:00.004Z

I feel like I have been ordering lots online the past few days - I tend to go through cycles of ordering lots and then zilch, my postman must hate me when I am going through an ordering phase!

So far I have ordered a BBQ Sword for hubby's birthday...

New Robeez for Rune as be has just grown out of his last pair, and feel he's still a baby to have 'proper' shoes. Ordered Frog design, wanted the monkey but didn't have size (my boys have big broad feet).

And today I have ordered these:

Aren't they gorgeous?! They are for our picture day at playgroup, can't wait for it as last year Rune had the start of conjunctivitis and you could see it in the photo, well I could, so never gave it out to anyone (But I did buy it as it was the first picture of brothers after all.) Talking of conjunctivitis Rune has had it since Friday! Have tried breast milk, salt water and now trying cold tea (recommended by another mummy). To be honest I'm not cleaning his eyes enough (twice today, eek) so will make more of an effort tomorrow. Luckily, photo day isn't 'til 7th April, can only hope it has gone by then.

Logging off now so I can finish off my dear Friend's Christmas present. And what a dear friend she is, waiting patiently this long!

Phoenix through the ages

2009-03-13T12:46:00.011Z

Just looking through my photobucket has inspired to me to post photos of Phoenix. I can't believe how grown up he has become, and I'm still in denial that he's going to school this year! Will spend some time another day writing what Phoenix has been up to, Rune has just woke up!

Had originally put all the photos in the blog but made a slideshow instead :-)

Thursday 13

2009-03-12T10:15:00.006Z

I've noticed that Thursday thirteen is no more but thought I would do my own. Thought I would do realistic gifts I would like for my birthday (perhaps I'll send the link to the hubby!) and next week I think I will do 13 Unrealistic gifts for my birthday which will be on the following monday 23rd. Hubby's birthday is 6th April, and I've already ordered his!

#3: Thirteen realistic gifts I would like for my birthday

1. Sewing books
2. New running trainers
3. New running hoodie
4. New Clothes
5. Haircut
6. Lush products
7. New Hiking boots
8. New Jacket
9. Meal out
10. New recipe books
11. Baking things
12.
13.

Found the last few hard to think of!

The worst Blogger in the world...

2009-03-09T15:44:00.006Z

is ME!

I really am, started the below blog on Monday and I'm just getting back to it 48 hours later!

Blogging every 2 months isn't keeping it very current. I have many a time logged in to post but just not got round to it.

Thankfully my other new years resolution is going better! Since January I have lost just over 9kg (20lbs) and I feel good! Didn't realise I was carrying all this extra weight. I have 14lbs more to lose to get me back to the weight I was pre-Phoenix... 5 years ago! I have kinda' lost a bit of motivation the past week (with a 2lb gain, eek) but definitely starting jogging again this week. I hope to do a 10k run in May, so have just over 8 weeks to prepare. Since I haven't been running properly since October I have a bit of a challenge!

I managed to get out for a jog yesterday (tuesday) - only did 20 minutes so it's a start. It was frosty out but forced myself tothe park and ran round the football pitches. I couldn't turn around and go home again, as who knows when I would've went back out. Keith was also huffy that I was going out at 6.30am even though he didn't start work until 8am but I think he thought I was planning on a long run. The plan is to go out tomorrow and hopefully do 15mins run/ 1 min walk/ 15mins run, and that will have be back to nearer 5k again, I look forward to when I can manage that again, frustrated at myself that I have to work back up!

Just a little blog tonight as material arrived this morning and I am dying to go make reuseable sandwich bags that I stumbled across on another blog

'til next time!

x

The Wheels are turning

2009-01-03T12:43:00.003Z

Taken from Weight Watchers website.... Lesson 1:

" How weight loss works
The only scientifically proven method for losing weight involves burning more calories than you take in.
This is known as the law of thermodynamics. "

Thermodynamics... Argh! I am back in University with Thermodynamics with Mr Pollitt (who was a lovely old man, but couldn't capture his audience's attention.) I'm not even sure I could apply any laws of thermodynamics anymore, here's hoping my diet will not fail because of my lack of concentration at Uni.

I have been on the diet since Saturday, not bad going... Have been starting a diet every Monday for months now but breaking it by lunchtime. I think starting it on a Saturday may have broken my negative cycle. Only time will tell; Hubby is off tomorrow which will be the biggest test. My boys are gannets; grazing from one meal to the other, Rune included!

I also need to get back to the gym/running as I haven't done anything since October (which I'm embarrassed and disgusted about) I had all my running stuff on yesterday, new music added to player (obviously the crucial thing); and headed out, got as far as across the road, turned around and came back in the door... FAR too icy!

Phoenix has been back at Playgroup/nursery since yesterday, and it's great to get back into our normal routine, although The Wright Stuff hasn't started back on Channel 5, and I'm finding it hard to keep up with current affairs. I am also ashamed to say that I have found myself watching This Morning; totally cringe today when Fern Britton had 'Pants Cam' especially for a close up, in particular, side view, of models in their pants... Pants featured were Cocksox which I don't find sexy at all but find the shape of the manhood slightly disturbing.

Rune has had a cold for a few days, and yesterday has turned it into Conjunctivitis as well! Phoenix had gunky eye back in July and somehow Rune and I got it too, but determined this time around that only Rune will have it! Have an interview on Friday for a child activity worker, and I doubt Gunky Eye would have a good first impression!

Will update soon!!

2009...

2009-01-02T00:26:00.001Z

I plan to update this more!!

I have returned!

2008-06-15T22:53:00.002+01:00

Dear Sink,

I think from the state of you it can be easily seen that I have been AWOL. I really don't know why I stopped blogging.. Probably the sad fact of miss one day and then another and before you know it 9 months have passed and you think, I should really update! I have been reading a lot of blogs recently and it has awakened my need to blog again.

Well the big news since the last update: Baby Boy Rune Arlan was born at home Feb 13th at 13.11 weighing in at 8lbs 13oz. A total joy for all of us, and really pleased to say my family is complete, although a little sadened that I won't labour again.

What else, Start running which is my biggest passion at the minute (as well as breastfeeding!) and did the Race for Life 5k last Sunday. I'm just starting training for a 10K now. On the breastfeeding front, forgot how much I enjoyed it!

Phoenix is over 3.5y now (must change intro at top!); enjoying nursery and playgroup and boistrous as usual.

Darling Husband is great (got me a new heart rate monitor today for my running addiction!) which was nice of him considering it was Father's Day!!

So think that is all for today, and will update tomorrow!!!

Thursday Thirteen #2

2007-09-13T09:02:00.000+01:00

#2: Thirteen Facts about me

1) My real name is Natalie
2) My Name means "Birthday" and refers to the birth of Christ
3) I wasn't born at Christmas my birthday is March 23rd
4) I'm an Aries and have most of it's characteristics!
5) I'm 5 foot 3; used to think I was 5 foot 6 until my husband (then boyfriend told me otherwise!)
6) I'm a stay-at-home-mum; before I had kids I always thought I would be a working full-time mum
7) I have a degree in Chemical Engineering
8) I'm hoping to use this degree to step-stone to a Post grad in Primary Teaching once the kids are a little older.
9) My favourite colour is blue.
10) I'm a savoury girl; although do like the odd bit of chocolate!
11) I like to make lists
12) I dream of living in the lake district area and keeping chickens
13) I am right handed

Links to other Thursday Thirteens!

Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!

The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!

View More Thursday Thirteen Participants

Chickpea Curry

2007-09-07T07:30:00.001+01:00

chickpeacurry
Originally uploaded by bubblegum109

Courtesy of Asda Magazine

Chickpea Curry

Serves 4
Ready in 30 minutes
Price per Serving 50p

Per Serving
Calories 260
Carbs 39g
Fat 9g
Saturated Fat 1g

2tbsp sunflower oil
1 large onion, chopped
2tbsp curry powder, mild or medium
400g can chopped tomatoes
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
350g new potatoes, boiled and cut into 1cm cubes
400g can chickpeas, drained
2tbsp lemon juice
2tbsp mango chutney
Naan bread, to serve

1. Heat the oil in a saucepan, add the onion and cook until soft. Add the curry powder and stir over a low heat for 1 minute.
2. Add the canned tomatoes, garlic and 50ml water. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes. Add the potatoes, chickpea, and lemon juice and simmer, uncovered, for a further 10 minutes
3. Stir in the mango chutney and serve with naan bread and, if desired, more mango chutney

Mild Fruity Chicken Curry

2007-09-07T07:28:00.001+01:00

chickencurry
Originally uploaded by bubblegum109

Courtesy of Asda Magazine

Mild Fruity Chicken Curry

Serves 4
Ready in 40 minutes
Price per Serving £1.50

Per Serving
Calories 325
Carbs 23g
Fat 9g
Saturated Fat 2g

2tbsp sunflower oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
1tbsp curry powder
4 chicken breast fillets, cut into bite-size pieces
8 ready-to-eat dried apricots, roughly chopped
1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
25g split red lentils
2tbsp mango chutney
Rice, to serve

1. Heat the oil in a saucepan, add the onion and cook over low heat for 5 minutes. Add the curry powder, and stir over low heat for 1 minute
2. Stir in the chicken, apricots and sweet potatoes until they are coated in the curry. Add the lentils and 325ml water, and heat until simmering. Cover and simmer gently for 20 minutes
3. Stir in the mango chutney and cook uncovered for another 5 minutes. Serve with rice and extra mango chutney if desired.

Thursday Thirteen #1

2007-09-06T09:46:00.001+01:00

#1: Thirteen meals I will make in the next Thirteen Days

Being an ardent meal planner, I thought I would start by listing the meals I will cook in the next thirteen days - If you would like a recipe, let me know! :-) All the meals are homemade.

1) 6th - Sausages and Mash
2) 7th - Sweet Chicken Curry
3) 8th - Roast Lemon Chicken with Chorizo
4) 9th - Beef Stew
5) 10th - Fish n' chips
6) 11th - Sausage and bean hot pot
7) 12th - Macaroni Cheese
8) 13th - Chickpea Curry
9) 14th - Lentil and Bacon Soup
10)15th - Chicken Casserole
11)16th - Roast beef and trimmings
12)17th - Spaghetti Carbonara
13)18th - Butternut squash risotto

Links to other Thursday Thirteens!

Funny Blog!

2007-09-01T10:05:00.001+01:00

I found this via Thursday Thirteen (which I will be starting next week):

This is the lady's eBay add:

LOT-OF-POKEMON-CARDS-THAT-MY-KIDS-TRIED-TO-SNEAK-BY-ME

and her blog that I will be subscribing to:
http://mom2my6pack.blogspot.com/

A Blogthing

2007-08-30T20:57:00.000+01:00

You Are a Yellow Crayon

Your world is colored with happy, warm, fun colors.
You have a thoughtful and wise way about you. Some people might even consider you a genius.
Charming and eloquent, you are able to get people to do things your way.
While you seem spontaneous and free wheeling, you are calculating to the extreme.

Your color wheel opposite is purple. You both are charismatic leaders, but purple people act like you have no depth.

What Color Crayon Are You?

Surely not an update?

2007-08-30T14:51:00.000+01:00

Dear Sink,

Yes! I am still alive! Finally feel motivated again to start posting again... In the second trimester and the tiredness has finally past me (For now!)

What has been happening? Well Phoenix started 3 sessions at nursery; but I have decided today to pull him of nursery but have to give a month's notice. It just seems ridiculous to pay £150/month for someone to watch my child when I am a stay-at-home-mum. So I will increase his playgroup two sessions a week; giving Phoenix the social interaction I wanted from nursery and saving us nearly £120/month! £160/month actually if I count the bus fares to nursery. So Phoenix will go to the nursery 10 minutes walk from here in January when he gets his state funding. Probably means I won't be able to do my volunteering at the antenatal clinics but I think I will go to the hospital instead. I'm a bit upset about it but it's for the best. The extra money will be handy for Christmas and the baby landing in February. Just have to mean that I make an extra drive to do activities with Phoenix during the week until January; unofficial home-schooling.

I had my scan 4 weeks ago, and all is well with the baby and thankfully there was only one! I have started to feel the flutter movements, which I am totally surprised at, as I think I was about 20 weeks with Phoenix. Signed off from the consultant and I have midwifery care from now on, and spot on to have a home birth. I'm really looking forward to my home birth; I had a natural labour last time, in a midwife-led unit so this seems the obvious progression. I will have a birth pool for pain management and then deliver on dry land. I have shown Phoenix pics of a ladies giving birth from a book I had in my last pregnancy. Can't wait to deliver our new baby and then just had some family time the four of us. My plan is not to tell anyone that I have gone into to labour, but to tell them a few hours after the birth. As, I know some people won't be resist coming to see us as if I'm home, and as there will not be any visiting time restrictions... Well, there is now! If Phoenix finds the labour too much I will however phone my dad and June to come pick him up but have read a few sources on the Internet that say that nature has a way of making women labouring at night, thus ruling out the childcare need. Here's hoping. I'm wanting Phoenix to be there, as it will help with the bonding for him and his brother/sister; just like the labour/birth helps with both mine and Keith's bonding.

Think it's time for a new paragraph!

Apart from that, nothing much else to report. I am having a big drive to declutter the house (and raise some extra cash for Christmas!) So far got a few things on eBay, and I've made £9 on Green Metropolis.

On the recycling issue; it's very much in the media at the minute which is great and there are a good few programmes on the T.V.
BBC Three have 'Outrageous Wasters' which I have only watched once, but it was really enjoyable. The family on it had 15 T.V.s and they were only a family of 5!
Channel 4 have 'Dumped' about 11 people who will be dumped on a british landfill and have to survive, think it one to shock people about how avarice we all are.
I also got rid of my first thing on Freeshare (Glasgow's own freecycle which is owned by it's members). It was Phoenix's baby walker that was brand new in the box. I don't personally agree with them, so never used it. Gave it to a family with six (Yes six!) kids, and they were kind enough to give me a box of chocolates. So onwards and upwards, and quite literally as our loft is full of junk!

Signing off now,
Luv
Nat
xxx

A Meme

2007-07-04T08:47:00.000+01:00

I started this ages ago - Just getting round to publishing it - find it really hard to fill some of them out!

THREE THINGS THAT SCARE ME:

01 Dying before my 50th Birthday

02 Heights

03 Bridges (but that's an extension of the height fear)

THREE THINGS I LOVE:

01 My Family

02 Cookies just out of the oven

03 Laughing amongst friends

THREE THINGS I HATE:

01 Child abuse

02 Drama Queens

03 Unripe Bananas

THREE THINGS ON MY DESK

01 A Pen

02 Phoenix's Jar with coppers in it

03 A crossword

THREE THINGS I’M DOING RIGHT NOW:

01 Talking to Phoenix about Clusters Cereal

02 Feeling sick

03 Thinking about getting the dishes done

THREE THINGS I’D LIKE TO DO BEFORE I DIE:

01 Have another baby

02 Get a profession

03 Visit the Seven Natural Wonders of the World

THREE THINGS I CAN DO:

01 Cook

02 Sew

03

THREE WAYS TO DESCRIBE MY PERSONALITY:

01 Witty

02

03

THREE THINGS I CAN’T DO:

01 Drive

02 Knit

03 Handstands, or any gymnastics really!

THREE THINGS I THINK YOU SHOULD LISTEN TO:

01 3 Doors Down

02 Billy Joel

03 Johnny Cash

THREE OF MY ABSOLUTE FAVORITE FOODS:

01 Lentil and Bacon soup with crusty bread

02 Roast Chicken with the trimmings

03 Macaroni Cheese

THREE THINGS I’D LIKE TO LEARN:

01 How to Drive

02 How to knit

03 Calligraphy

THREE BEVERAGES I DRINK REGULARLY:

01 Tea

02 Water

03 Milk

THREE SHOWS I WATCHED WHEN I WAS A KID:

01 Captain Planet

02 Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego?

03 Thundercats

Gasp An update!

2007-06-20T14:53:00.000+01:00

Dear Sink,

Well look at this, I am updating! I really haven't had the motivation to update in the past two weeks as I have been much too tired. I will really really need to try better from now on.

The order of service is:

Baby

Phoenix

A.O.B.

What's the news? Not an awful lot to be honest; still pregnant (I assume) and current symptoms include; tiredness, sore boobs and emotional. I don't even think I cried this much when my mum died, at least I had a reason for crying then, unlike now. Today I have only cried once which is good so far.

I still haven't phoned the doctors to get referred to the midwife, I really must do it; but I trying to fill up the next 6 weeks until the scan, especially since the Summer holidays are coming up and most of our activities stop.

What else; I have already decided on middle names - yet to run them past Keith though... But we know who's the boss!

For a Girl; Iris. For a few reasons. Firstly; 'Iris' by Goo Goo Dolls was our first dance. And also; Iris was the Goddess of the rainbow. I think it seems really pretty but not strong enough for a first name. I'm a bit mental when it comes to be names; Boys must have strong names with strong consonants. Girls can have soft consonants but most have a somewhat strong name. This is the reason why we didn't decide for Phoenix until he was 3 days old!

For a Boy; Arlan. It is the middle name of the man that wrote the reading that we read at our Wedding - The Art of a Good Marriage. Arlan means Oath. Thought it was quite fitting as our wedding was an oath to each other, and of course our family.

I really feel like this baby will bring us the full circle, and make it complete.

Phoenix is great at the minute; I love the little conversations I have with him; Just yesterday when we were coming back from the library he told me the baby would have a blanket inside my tummy, so it was snuggly and warm. He's a sweetheart. I can't believe how much I love him and Keith; but I think it's the oxytocin having a part too. His behaviour has it's moments but it will get there. We had swimming this morning... He can nearly swim! He has graduated from arm bands on to the swimming belt just for a little buoyancy, and it means he can move his arms better. My aim is for him to swim before his 3rd birthday - Just counted that it's 14 weeks today until then; so I think we could do if I take him at least once a week.

I have cut our T.V. due to the Panorama programme that was on Monday. Like most of the parents on the programme, I too feel that sometimes I can be lazy, and let that entertain Phoenix. Although he learns through t.v. thanks to Cbeebies (and the odd DVD!) we really were watching too much. Keith and I included. So, the maximum for Phoenix is two hours. When you think about is is a lot; so trying to watch a lot less than that. He has watched 30minutes so far today; and will watch probably another 30 minutes while I prepare dinner. I could really do that the now and means he doesn't need to watch anymore - will try my best!

I got the Gordon Ramsay autobiography 'Humble Pie' yesterday from library and I have finished it. It was one of those books that although you have put it down you still think about it while doing other things - I tend to read those books quickly! So I am going to read more since we are weaning off t.v. Just need to wean a little off the Internet now.

Tomorrow Phoenix and I are off on a trip to Almond Valley with playgroup. I am really looking forward to it, I will be making a little packed lunch later... Feta and Spinach 'sausage' roll amongst other things. I must remember to take camera to get pictures. I hope it's not wet like it was here this morning - Phoenix and I got soaked on way to swimming. Thankfully, it has cleared up now and I have managed to get two loads of washing out.

The difference two days make!

2007-06-07T14:38:00.001+01:00

The difference two days make!
Originally uploaded by bubblegum109

Dear Sink,

The top pregnancy test is the first one I took, and although it had faded, it wasn't as dark as the next one I took two days later. It really shows that the HCG hormones do double every 48 hours.

I've yet to contact the doctors for my midwifery care, will wait until the start of next week. I think you are definitely more laid back the second time around, with Phoenix I had my first midwife appointment at 6 weeks!

The only symptoms I have is extreme tiredness, and by the end of the day my boobs feel full, heavy and sore! We have my Aunt's wedding on Saturday and I really want to tell my Dad and sisters, but we will have to wait and see.

Phoenix has been really cute; he knows 'there's a baby in mummy's tummy' and knows it is a secret for now. I told him that he could tell Julie the secret and he went up to and whispered it. I think that's how I will tell my family, rather Phoenix will. He wants to call it SuperBaby, don't have the heart to tell him that is a definite no.

Not an awful lot happening, as I am too tired, I have a meal tonight with my fellow Brownie ladies; will get to go out an enjoy myself for a few hours.

Must go and get this house cleaned!

xxx

In the news today...

2007-06-03T15:57:00.001+01:00

In the news today...
Originally uploaded by bubblegum109

Faint, but it's there!

Based on my ovulation date, due date is Feb 10th, 2008 - My dad's birthday. I thought that was quite fitting. Although it will probably change once I get a scan.

I am very excited, and may burst!! I haven't posted in a wee while as I was obsessing about the two week wait but will be posting lots from now on in.

Baby is only a few millimetres long and looks like a prehistoric creature the size of a red lentil... But I can't help but feel proud about that!

Shortbread

2007-05-26T01:00:00.001+01:00

Shortbread
Originally uploaded by bubblegum109

Ingredients:

6oz Plain flour
4oz Soft butter
2oz Caster sugar
1oz Cornflour (cornstarch)

Method:

Mix the butter and sugar together (preferably with a wooden spoon) until it is pale and creamy. Sieve both the flour an cornflour into the bowl and mix well.

Put a small amount of flour on ur work surface and place the dough on this. Shake a little flour on top and roll out to about a quarter inch thick.

Prick with fork and cut into rounds with a cutter, or, if you want one large shortbread round, pinch the edges wih thumb and finger all round.

Use a palette knife to lift the shortbread onto an oiled baking tray and bake for 25 minutes in a pre-heated oven at 325F/170C/Gas Mark 3. If the biscuits are ready, they will be a pale brown and crisp; if not, return to the oven for 5 to 10 minutes.

Shake a small amount of caster sugar on top of the shortbread immediately after they have been removed from the oven. Use a palette knife to move them to a cooling rack and store in an airtight contianer once they are cold.

Plan of Action

2007-05-24T08:27:00.000+01:00

Dear Sink,

It's cleaning day today as I haven't really touched on it at all week. I just need to get dressed and be ready for work at 9A.M. sharp. What I would like to achieve:

A.M.

1) Clean clothes put away
2) 1-3 loads of washing
3) All carpets hoovered
4) All flooring brushed and washed.
5) The 27-Fling Boogie from FlyLady

P.M.

1) Go to post office, and then the shop for eggs.

2) I'm hoping to make this afternoon with Phoenix:

http://nami-nami.blogspot.com/2006/01/another-apple-cake.html

I was going to make the apple muffins, but this reminds me of the apple slice that you get at the bakers and I have been thinking about it for a few days now!

3) Dinner prepared.

4) Post recipes on here.

I do like my lists - I will achieve this today!

Luv
Nat
xxx

I am Neurotic

2007-05-23T21:30:00.000+01:00

Dear Sink,

I'm officially lost the plot. I nearly did a pregnancy test - 4 days past ovulation! Thankfully, I saw sense before I actually did (after many a website confirming that the hormone level wouldn't be great enough at this stage.) In my head I managed to haggle myself to 7 days past ovulation. I think I will have to give Keith the pregnancy tests to hide or I may pee on all of them before then. Argh! The days are ticking too slowly. I'm in two minds whether or not I am pregnant but hoping as the days pass I'll be more positive.

Second last night of Brownies before the Summer holidays tonight. I really enjoyed it - I was half dreading it all day; but always enjoy myself when I get there.

BRB - away to phone one of my breastfeeding mums.

Back - The lady is doing well. Her baby is 4 weeks and is having a growth spurt; frequent feeding to help increase her milk supply. Doesn't help when she has two other children to contend with!

Phoenix had his swimming lesson this morning. He did really well - has no fear of the water and kicking his legs really well. The instructor wants me to start showing him how to move his arms while kicking. I came home and told Keith I want Phoenix to be in the 2020 or 2024 Olympics for swimming. Yes, as I said, I am neurotic! Perhaps not as far as the Olympics, but I would like him to have a good swimming technique; anything after that is up to him. I will never become a pushy mum - just want Phoenix to be well-rounded.

I'm really tired, perhaps an early pregnancy sign.... Google.. LOL. I also have some pains in my tummy like mild cramp feeling; but think that is part of my neurosis coming through again.

I'm away to get my jammies on and curl up on the couch under a blanket - bliss!

Luv
Nat
xxx

Nami-Nami's Rhubarb Muffins

2007-05-21T21:31:00.001+01:00

PICT0061
Originally uploaded by bubblegum109.

2 medium eggs
150 ml sugar
250 ml plain flour
1 tsp baking powder
2 tsp vanilla sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
150 grams sour cream (20 or 30%)
50 grams butter, melted & cooled
400 grams rhubarb, (peeled and) chopped

Makes 12

Cinnamon and demerara sugar for sprinkling (optional)

Whisk eggs with sugar until pale and frothy.
Mix the dry ingredients. Add to the egg mixture together with sour cream and melted butter. Fold in the rhubarb.
Fill 12 hole muffin tray (they'll be pretty full, as rhubarb gives a lot of bulk initially, but shrink while the batter rises), sprinkle with cinnamon and demerara sugar
Bake at 225 C for 13-15 minutes, until muffins have risen and turned golden brown.
Cool a little before serving, as the rhubarb pieces can be very hot!

From Nami-Nami

2 Week Wait

2007-05-21T19:27:00.000+01:00

Dear Sink,

Once again, lack of updating.... Haven't updated in 6 days. Not an awful lot has been happening though.

I had that terrible cold last week and it made me really bone idle; especially where the house work is concerned. Our bedroom is a tip at the minute - I'm sure if I don't clean it before the Hubby comes home I'm going to be in trouble. On the upside; re-organised Phoenix's room yesterday; and it is nearly the way I want it to be. I really need to get rid of some toys, like 50% of them!

We had a visit from the health visitor last week - everything went well and got our second Bookstart which Phoenix and I were chuffed about. I have always been concerned about Phoenix's weight/Height as he is such a big boy - and because he doesn't stop eating. I'm scared that I'm going to make him obese. But as his height and weight are both on the 91st centile he is in perfect proportion. He's just a big, hungry boy!

For National breastfeeding awareness week I went up to the hospital - I met a woman who had twins on her fourth pregnancy. She had twin boys at 36 weeks so now has 5 boys.. The twins weighed 7lbs 9 and 7lbs 14.... for 36 weeks gestation! I was totally amazed. Women like that are just remarkable.

Talking of babies; lasts the fertile period now over and now I am concentrating on the next two weeks - really really really hoping to be pregnant and I'll be gutted if I am not. I think we've done it as plenty of 'baby dancing' but still have a niggling doubt.

I tried Nami-Nami's Rhubarb muffins; they were really nice - thinking of making her apple muffins some time this week also. I will have to go onto her page and write a wee review after this. I also made the cookies I made for Valentine's Day for Keith on Saturday; however added a bit too much cocoa powder so they were not as nice. Will post link separately. I also made shortbread - Will post yet another link separately and put pics up on flickr account.

Today, Phoenix and I met Emma and Dean for a play date (How American!) at the park. Phoenix walked most of the two odd miles to Blantyre with only a few carries from me. I'm really pleased - the boy seems to have good stamina. I got the bus home as Phoenix was knackered - he fell asleep on the bus! He's still asleep now on the couch; 2.5hrs later so thinks it's safe to say he's out for the night.

Plans for this week - Mothers and Toddlers tomorrow, swimming lessons on Wednesday and then get this house gutted Thursday.

Will log off now!
Luv
Nat
xxx

nami-nami: a food blog

2007-05-15T22:18:00.000+01:00

Dear Sink,

nami-nami: a food blog

I've stumbled on the above blog - I'm going to make the rhubarb muffins tomorrow; just need to get some sour cream in. Phoenix starts swimming lessons tomorrow so will pick it up after that, on the way back up the road.

Sorry I haven't posted; I have 3 blogs saved to draft - I haven't had the energy to finish them as I have had a cold all week. It seems to have passed now. Thankfully.

It's ovulation week this week. Keith and I have been doing lots of practising for the big day; so fingers crossed this will be our month. I am very excited and getting totally carried away but this may be my last baby so I may as well relish it!

It's National Breastfeeding Awareness Week. The Lanarkshire Breastfeeding Initiative are relaunching their website tomorrow, won't be able to attend because of the swimming lessons, but just had a nosey at the site and it looks really good... Argh, Just noticed that I feature on the website; not chuffed - at least it was only a head shot and can't see my hips!

I'm really tired so signing off now. Hope to update a lot sooner next time!

Luv
Nat
xxx

Veg Update

2007-05-08T09:34:00.000+01:00

The veg have came on great over the weekend; the potatoes have exploded; I think we will need to thin them down!
This weeks plan is to get the peas out, thin the seedlings with weather permitting!

First Row L-R: Potatoes, garlic, carrots
Second Row L-R: Beetroot, onions

May Day!

2007-05-01T21:56:00.000+01:00

Dear Sink,

The day has arrived... May 1st - The date which Keith and I had decided we would start 'trying'. It feels like it has been a life-time waiting on it coming, but I am so chuffed it's here!

Sadly however, as previously mentioned; I am now on day 17 of my cycle with ovulation past; so looks like we won't be quite trying just yet. I'm giddy.

We went to mothers and toddlers today where Phoenix got to dress up as a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle - My lord he was a happy boy!

Afterwards, heading into the town centre to get a few pieces for our trip; I still need to get Kag in a Bag; we'll probably get that tomorrow when we head through to Glasgow.

I was wanting to get some cleaning done upstairs when I came home; but totally lost the motivation once we had got home; we had been out from 9am 'til 2pm so were both knackered. On the up side; got two loads of washing washed and hung out on the line. Phoenix and I also spent the best part of the afternoon playing with a train set; so some quality time can't be sniffed at!

Dinner was random tonight; mackerel in spicy tomato sauce; with plain rice and salad. It was ate and enjoyed; and nutritious which is probably the main thing as it wasn't a culinary masterpiece.

I'm really tired tonight; so sorry if this blog lacks charms.

Here are our potatoes; which are coming on great!

Bye for now,
Natalie
xxx

Traffic Light Risotto

2007-04-29T00:07:00.000+01:00

Adapted from recipe in Tana Ramsay book.

200g Risotto Rice
500ml Chicken stock
25g Butter
1 butternut squash, diced with skin removed
1 pepper, chopped
1 onion, finely sliced
1-2 handfuls of spinach, torn
A few slices of smoked bacon
125g Parmesan, grated

Serves 4
Prep Time - 10 minutes
Cooking time - 30 minutes

1. Put everything except the bacon and parmesan in oven proof dish, cover and place in oven at 200C. Cook for 30minutes.

2. Five to 10 minutes before cook time has finished, cook the bacon and leave to one side.

3. Take risotto out of oven, and remove lid. Stir to loosen any stuck at the bottom, there may be some liquid left but that will be absorbed. Sprinkle over parmesan and stir through.

4. Serve with the bacon on top, either whole or broken into pieces.

This is an ideal one pot dinner; perfect for days when it's hard to get motivated about dinner; and still healthy. It has a variety of colours of vegetables, which are important for giving the full range of vitamins. I like to replace some of the stock with wine, but it is not necessary.

This will be a long post!

2007-04-28T20:48:00.000+01:00

Dear Sink,

I started off well but I have been lacking commitment recently!

Where shall I start? Frenchie left on tues; was quite emotional on Monday night - cried myself to sleep; so dramatic! LOL. It already seems like an eternity ago that she left. Patiently waiting on blogs of her adventures!

Not an awful lot happening, the house is in pretty bad shape; I've been really lazy this week - I'm hoping with Keith off this week I will get motivated.

Keith is away out tonight, hence the reason why I'm online. He and Kitch spent the day laying flooring in the living room - finally got rid of our smeggy carpet. It makes such a difference it is unreal, I am so much more positive about this house because the reception room is not embarrassing! The flooring will make a home birth so much easier! LOL.

Keith is off on a much deserved holiday this week, and we have decided to go away for the next weekend to Keswick, Keith's second home. I'm really looking forward to it, and Phoenix won't stop talking about Mountains! I have never been away with Keith, or Phoenix for that matter; First Proper Holiday. I have ordered a new camera especially for the occasion, and we have bought Phoenix a pair of hiking boots. I want to hire bikes but Keith is not too keen. There is a stone circle just outside Keswick which we will definitely be going to, just a shame it isn't the Summer Solstice. I would love to be at Stonehenge for either Summer or Winter Solstice; perhaps even the one at Keswick will give us some fertility! Hehe.

Not bad going; didn't mention babies for a few paragraphs in. Roll on Tuesday and May 1st... Except I have already ovulated this cycle; albeit 2 days earlier than last cycle; so won't get pregnant this cycle. I am hoping the reason why I ovulated earlier was due to the fact my body was getting used to having the implanon removed. A few Internet sources say that the first part of a woman's cycle, the follicular phase, can vary cycle to cycle, but I am slightly worried as I increased my evening primrose oil from 1000mg to 1500mg per day. [Mental Image warning!] It certainly made a big difference to my cervical mucus this month; I am so glad that May is finally here. Feels like I have been treading water waiting for it coming. Keith has been a real sweetheart about having a baby recently; feel like this is just the perfect time for us - everything is just clicking.

I had a little health check last Friday at a forum that I was volunteering at. Cholesterol, glucose and blood pressure where all check. And I am pleased to say that I was perfect for all of them. It really enforced the healthy eating that I strive to give my family, and of course myself. One of my biggest goals in life is to see my 50th Birthday. Anything after that is a gift.

What else, Phoenix and I tried to go in the town this afternoon; but Phoenix was sick on the bus! The biggest amount I have ever seen. Luckily, we had got on the bus early, and it went through the loop of our scheme, and we were only 5 minutes from home when it happened. The bus driver had to ask everyone else to leave the bus so that he could get a clean one. Quite embarrassing thinking of it now, but I was only thinking of Phoenix at the time. He had the sick all down him, and I carried him home so I got the sick wetness on me. Yuck. He spent most of the afternoon sleeping, and has been sick a further 4 times. He hasn't been sick since 7ish so hopefully that's the end of it.

I will post some recipes that I have been meaning to do.
Goodbye for now!
xxx

68% Green; could do better

2007-04-26T08:49:00.000+01:00

I will try and update this later; on buying a sugar thermometer for the husband - he wants to make marshmallows. We are hopefully getting our new pets delivered today... Worms! We're going to have a wormery out the back as well as using the compost bin. I am definitely an ebay addict again; also bidding on a rug and a camera!

Your Life is 68% Green

You live a very green life, and you're aware of how your actions help the earth.
Of course, it's hard to be totally green. But when you make a tradeoff, you know why you're making it.

How Green Is Your Life?

I'm good at cutting up butternut squash

2007-04-18T15:29:00.000+01:00

Dear Sink,

Argh,
I haven't updated in a wee while sorry! Very busy. Where shall I start?
I went to my cousin's 21st Birthday party last Friday - I had a really good night; not much drinking for me, but good to catch up with the relatives. The Buffet was amazing. Perhaps the best Buffet ever. Yum Yum.

I have spent the rest of the week playing catch up in the house. I have seriously lacked any motivation this week - I am a bit down about Frenchie leaving so I think that's a part of it. Also, the old period came on Sunday so it always takes me a day or two to get back to normal. To top it off, I have three woman I have supposed to have phoned for the breastfeeding thing weeks ago, and now I am getting totally worked up about it. I keep reminding myself that it is peer support, and extra support, but I'm feeling guilty in case the woman have had a problem. Argh! I have kept myself wake in bed every night for the past week or so, worrying about it. I should really do it now, but instead I am on here! I am silly moo!!!!!!! I have promised myself that I will do it tomorrow, but then again, I have been doing that for weeks now!! Every time the day comes I just say, tomorrow, or it isn't convenient. What to do? Ok, will phone tomorrow, and like I say, it's just an extra ear for the women.

The dentist just phoned, to say that it was time for our 6 month check. They normally send out a letter; quite impressed as I have made the appointment for Phoenix and I for 11th May.

On the decluttering front; I did the cupboard in the spare room - I have 4 bin bags for the charity shop, and organised it a bit better. I managed to declutter underneath our bed, and filled 1 bin bag of rubbish! Just need to the drawers and wardrobe now, and our room should be pretty organised. Keith needs to get rid of some clothes. He has more than me, and he hardly wears most of them. Once I have finished our room, it'll be onto Phoenix's room of toys! I'm thinking I will box some of them and put them up the loft, or just give them away. The thing is, once you start taking them out to put in the bin, even though he hasn't played with them in ages, he starts playing with it again! Nightmare.

To top it all off, I am desperate to be pregnant again! Only on cycle day 4; last month I ovulated on day 11; so it would mean I ovulate next Wednesday.. Just did a ovulation predictor. If I did get pregnant this month the baby would be due Jan 18th. I really don't want a baby born in January, it's the worst month of the year, for me anyways. To top it off, it's Nicola's birthday on Jan 14th and my mum's would've been Jan 5th. Ideally I want to get pregnant in May, as if I get pregnant in June baby would be due March 10th; which is too close to both Leanne's and Craig's birthdays and my mum's anniversary. Both images are from Ivillage a website I really love, and log onto to everyday.

Also, found something else on ivillage. It's called a Chinese gender predictor. It says if I got pregnant this month it would be a girl; where as next month is a boy. I would rather have a boy again. The next third child (Touch wood!!) I would like a girl. But ultimately, of course, it wouldn't matter just wistful dreams, a girl has to use measures to keep within the agreed May 1st promise!

We're having 'Traffic Light Risotto' for dinner tonight. Started off as butternut squash risotto but I added spinach and red pepper; I'll add recipe after this, but may have to be later as the boy is due to wake from nap.

Signing off,
Natalie

Historic Scotland Free Weekend

2007-04-17T10:23:00.000+01:00

Free entry to Historic Scotland Venues around the country including Edinburgh Castle on Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd April.

Historic Scotland's Website

Update urgently required!

2007-04-17T10:18:00.000+01:00

I must update this, will update later; for now a blogthing that I'm sure Frenchie will enjoy xxx

You Are a Key Lime Cheesecake

Unconventional and quirky, you live to shock people.
You see the world in very weird ways. Sometimes you even surprise yourself!

What Kind of Cheesecake Are You?

My Psyche is Yellow

2007-04-12T08:42:00.001+01:00

I think this hits a few nails on the head!

Your Psyche is Yellow

You have a ton of energy - both physical and mental endurance.
You are rational and logical, and you can help almost anyone think clearly.
Optimistic and bright, you also have a secret side that's a little darker.

When you are too yellow: You will do anything to get your way, and no one will be the wiser

When you don't have enough yellow: you lack confidence, drive, and humor

What Color Is Your Psyche?

Sneaking on....

2007-04-11T17:50:00.000+01:00

Dear Sink,

My two boys are napping on the couch, so I have sneaked for some relaxing time.
House has been cleaned today, the big clean, and as well as 3 loads of washing, all of which are hanging out to dry.

Phoenix planted 'Forget me not' and 'poppy' flowers with the gardening tool set Frenchie got him from Easter. I have taken a picture of it, had to take it with my phone camera as digital camera is broken. It is really bad quality! I'm going to keep a photo diary of it so that Frenchie can see it while she is away. We will have to get a new camera, or at least, I will use Keith's phone!

I started decluttering our bedroom when I was cleaning this morning, but I had to stop, as we don't have anymore room in our refuse bin, and it doesn't get collected until Monday. Hopefully I will still be motivated my then. I have joined FlyLady.net , in the hope to help me declutter better. As said before, the house is clean, is just full of junk!

After lunch, Phoenix and I painted a mirror frame. It was previously white but I want it lilac, as we have a wind chime in the hall that is made from lilac rock crystals. I want the hall to be decorated a light lilac colour, that will happen in time.

Poor Keith is knackered, the shop's alarm went off 3 times last night, and he answered all 3 alarms calls at which meant getting out of bed and making sure the store was secure. I think he's supposed to be going swimming tonight with Kitch, will double check when he wakes up... They should wake shortly.

Dinner is nearly ready. We're having Spaghetti Bolagnaise from the Tana Ramsey recipe book. I have made it once before, and it has been the best recipe I have tried as it has a lot of sneaky veg in it. Since Keith and I have been living together, spaghetti bolagnaise has been the recipe I have had most difficulty making. It was just that every time I made it something wouldn't be quite right. One time I didn't cook the pasta long enough, and I can cook pasta! LOL. I think I am over my bad luck streak, thankfully.

I have also just joined up for Green Metropolis . It's a website where you sell on you're old books, and unlike Amazon or Ebay, you make £3 from every book sold, and 5p goes to the Woodland Trust to plant more trees. I think I will list some books later. All part of my declutter plan!

Time to head off, Keith is awake, and will be looking for his dinner.

Bye,
Natalie

Phoenix at Easter

2007-04-10T22:36:00.000+01:00

Phoenix in the garden, playing football with Frenchie's brothers, Jay and Stephen. Last wee pic is of Emily my niece with Frenchie's brothers.

I need motivation: One Room per Week.

2007-04-10T20:26:00.000+01:00

Dear Sink,

I have had this window opened for ages to write the blog, but keep getting caught up in other things.

Yikes, haven't posted in two days.... Yesterday was quite productive. It was Bank Holiday Monday, Keith was off and we hadn't made any plans. Actually, Keith had. He helped his dad in the morning move some stuff from his old house - it was finished a lot quicker than expected. The day was overcast, with light showers now and again so we managed to spend the best part of the afternoon in the back garden.

Keith and Phoenix gutted the hut, totally transformed it, into a workable storage place. Now we have a mountain of junk (sadly, none of it is free-cyclable) that has to be uplifted. Grass seed was also put down as it was patchy - it was previously stoned; last year we lifted all the stones and seeded it. I planted the chitted potatoes into a pot, as I had read that they are easier to control then. I will plant a few more chitted potatoes in a few weeks so that we have a steady crop. Hopefully will get out in the garden tomorrow or Thursday and do the rest of the veg. So the gardens have just about been spring cleaned - now I really need to start the house! My husband is a hoarder. Actually, so am I. And Phoenix has a soft spot for crap toys that you get free with magazines. So, once the garden waste has been uplifted by the council I will start one room per week in the house. Keith wants me to start with our bedroom, and I probably will as it's a small job (Compared to paper trail in the living room or the stockpile of toys and outgrown clothes in Phoenix's room.)

Today has been a quieter day. Keith back to work, and Phoenix and I had a lazy morning. We headed in the town after lunch as I needed to get bits and pieces. Phoenix was a total gem, walked beside me the whole time and I even managed to get to try on two dress in New Look (I didn't buy any as I needed a SMALLER size which they didn't have!) Phoenix was totally amazed at the changing rooms, I have never taken him into them before; and he said the first dress I tried on was lovely. It was one of those tunic dresses; they really aren't a flattering cut -make me look pregnant.... Something I do not want to look like just yet!!

I did a pregnancy test today - Or as the 'trying for a baby' forum boards call them: POAS (Pee On A Stick). It thankfully came back negative. I really don't want an Xmas baby, or a January baby for that matter. It's 12 days past ovulation for me, so hopefully the old period will be here in the next week. By the time it will have finished it will be nearly May and then we can really try!

I should really head off, the husband is home, and I should be attentive.
A museum in Edinburgh have a Pixar exhibition, we are going to take Phoenix - thinking Sunday; just read that it's running up to the end of May so maybe don't need to rush; and it means we can visit Claire and Joe also when we're through.

Pixar at National Museum of Scotland

Just had a good look at the museum website - it looks really good, think we will have to make a day of it!

We watched '300' last night. I really enjoy; obviously I will compare it to Gladiator, except it was much better than that.

Ok time to go, Keith has gone to bed and I'm away for a snuggle and to watch C.S.I.

Goodnight
xxx

P.s. Will upload some pics of Phoenix from Easter.

Over Indulged

2007-04-08T21:47:00.000+01:00

Dear Sink,

First off, a little word cloud that was created with this blog so far; quite interesting to see how it changes over the next while.

Keith is just out with Haggs for a quiet drink. He texted me to ask what I thought of the name 'Jone' for a boy, it's a rugby player's (Jone Tawake) name. I looked it up and most of the baby name places say it's a girl's name; is Hebrew and means 'Gift From God'. I think that one is out! It's quite nice that he has started to think of names (although not pregnant yet sadly!) It shows that I am not the only one getting excited about the prospect of having another child. What I really want is for Phoenix and the new baby to be best of friends. You seem some families where the brothers and sisters get on and it's really nice. I get on with my sisters but I am not as close to them as I would like to be.

Just put on some music there; I haven't listened to music on the P.C. in ages down to one thing or another. Listening to Cyndi Lauper's version of 'Unchained Melody'.

Just remembers, Happy Easter! We've had a busy day - don't we always? We invited Nic, Laura and Emily; Frenchie and her brothers through for an Easter Egg Hunt, but it turned into a barbecue (Thanks Keith!) It was a lovely day just chatting and enjoying the kids. The weather wasn't as great compared the past few days we have been having but at least it was dry. I had the paddling pool set up outside with those plastic softplay balls; but brought it into living room before everyone arrived. The living room is a boom sight! Ah well, I will get it all tomorrow. Phoenix is filthing from playing outside, but he was too tired for a bath so will have to give him a good scrub in a shower tomorrow! I read 'The Lorax' to him tonight. We have a few Dr Suess books, and I borrowed this one from the library the other day. It has a really good message in it about protecting you're environment, especially since it was published in the 70's. I love Dr Suess books, positive with good morals, rhyming and enough nonsense to keep a child entertained. I really want to collect the lot. When I become a teacher, Dr Suess will be one I'll be reading to the children, and Roald Dahl. I feel the best gift you can give a child is the love of books. Although, I have a tendency to only read parenting, breastfeeding or recipe books at the minute. I will have to make the effort to read more for pleasure (although the previous topics mentioned are! LOL); but I am saying is more for entertainment. That will have to wait though; I have a Lance Armstrong biography that I am currently reading and after that I want to read either a biography of William Shakespeare or some of his plays. He was on Doctor Who yesterday - Phoenix really enjoyed it and so did I, although I was concerned that he would be frightened by the witches but he wasn't - and there was no nightmares last night so should be ok.

Phoenix thankfully only got two Easter eggs - we still have chocolate from Xmas!! I really don't give him a lot, but it's hard when he knows it's there. We gave Phoenix a bag of Raisin and Sultanas fruit bag from Asda - last of the big spenders! LOL. I also got some lil' chocolate eggs for the Easter egg hunt. It worked out that he only had one of those and one caramel chocolate bunny so didn't over indulge in chocolate.

We did over indulge in other things; like sausages, hamburgers, crisps, a gateaux cake and fizzy juice. Well I did, Phoenix ate moderately. And of course, he didn't have the fizzy juice! We rarely buy it in, only for guests, so my tummy is slightly unsettled at the minute due to the bubbles.

I'm heading off to make a cuppa' tea and have a scan throw my parenting forums.

Goodnight
xxx

The Best Chicken and Sweet Leek Pie with Flaky Pastry

2007-04-07T15:07:00.000+01:00

Courtesy of Jamie's Dinner published by Penguin Books

Serves 4

Olive Oil
2 knobs of butter
1kg boned and skinned chicken thighs, cut into pieces
2 medium leeks, trimmed, washed and sliced into 1cm pieces
2 carrots, peeled and roughly chopped
3 sticks of celery, finely sliced
A small handful of thyme, leaves picked.
2 tbsp flour
1 wineglass of white wine
285ml milk
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
255g good pork sausages
1 x 500g pack of all-butter puff pastry
1 egg

Preheat oven to 220C
1. Take a large casserole pot and add a lug of olive oil and butter. Add the chicken, leeks, carrots, celery and thyme and cook slowly on the hob for 15 minutes.
2. Turn the heat right up, add the flour, and keep stirring for a couple of minutes.
3. Add the wine, a wineglass of water and the milk. Season with a little salt and pepper, then cover and simmer very slowly on the hob for 30-40 minutes until chicken is tender. Stir every so often so it doesn't catch on the bottom of the pan. The sauce should be loose but quite thick. Keep simmering with lid off if it is not quite thick enough.
4. Pour chicken mixture into pie dish. Squeeze the meat out of the sausage skins, roll into balls, brown them into a little oil and sprinkle them over the stew.
5. Roll out pastry to about 0.5cm thick. Egg-wash the rim of the dish and drape over pastry, using a knife to trim the edge of the dish.
6. Egg-wash the top of the pastry to make it go golden while cooking, then pinch it to crimp it round the edges. Use back of knife to lightly criss-cross the top - allows the pastry to go crisp and flaky.
7. Cook the pie in centre of oven for 30 to 40 minutes, until golden on top.

This makes a lovely Sunday Lunch; A lot of reading but worth it! The pie cooks quicker in my oven than stated - so watch it so it doesn't burn. Jamie's says that it can also be a stew; just stop at Step 4.

Victoria Sponge

2007-04-07T14:58:00.000+01:00

Courtesy of 'Million Menus' published by Parragon Books

Prep Time 10 mins plus 20 mins cooling
Cook Time 25-30 mins
Serves 8

175g butter, softened, plus extra for greasing
175g self raising flour
1 tsp baking powder
175g golden caster sugar (ordinary caster sugar can be replaced)
3 eggs
Filling
3 tbsp raspberry or strawberry jam
600ml double cream (I only used 300ml), whipped
16 fresh strawberries, halved
caster sugar, for dusting

1. Preheat oven to 180C, then grease and line the bases of 2 x 20cm round sandwich tins. Sift the flour and baking powder into a bowl and add the butter, sugar and eggs. Mix together, then beat well until smooth.

2. Divide the mixture evenly between the prepared tins and smooth the surfaces. Bake in the preheated for 25-30 minutes, or until well risen and golden brown, and the cakes feel springy when lightly pressed.

3. Leave to cool in the tins for 5 minutes, then turn out and peel off the lining paper. Transfer to wire racks to cool completely. Sandwich the cakes together with the raspberry jam, whipped double cream and strawberry halves. Sprinkle the caster sugar on top and serve.

I only have one 20cm cake tin, so I had to make one; let the tin cool, clean and reuse it so it took a little longer to make - but definitely worth it!

Sweet Chilli Chicken Burgers

2007-04-07T14:48:00.000+01:00

Courtesy of Asda Magazine

Cost per serving £1.71
Serves 4
Takes 20 mins +30 mins marinating (the longer you marinate the chicken, the more intense the flavours. If possible infuse overnight.)

Per Serving
Calories 460 Carbs 36g Fat 18g Saturated Fat 3g

4 chicken breasts (remove skin)
Juice and zest of 1 lime
3 tbsp olive oil
4tbsp sweet chilli marinade, plus extra for glazing
Black pepper
4 white or brown rolls
2tbsp mayonnaise
1/2 red onion, sliced
A few lettuce leaves

1. Place chicken breast on a board, cover with clingfilm and flatten with a rolling pin until 1cm thick. Repeat.
2. Put chicken, lime juice and zest, olive oil and marinade into a large freezer bag. Season with black pepper. Secure the top and give it a shake and roll, massaging marinade into the chicken. Set aside for 30 minutes, or, if there's time, overnight.
3. Remove chicken from marinade. Cook on griddle until cooked, turning once and brushing with marinade while cooking. Serve in soft seeded rolls spread with mayonnaise, topped with red onion and lettuce leaves.

This recipe was originally for barbecue; cook for 10 mins. Or under the grill until the juices run clear.

Easter Weekend

2007-04-07T14:28:00.000+01:00

Dear Sink,

Although promised, I didn't get the chance to get on yesterday to update. I was busy during the day, and it was Keith's birthday so spent the evening with him. We sat on the couch; watched the Lee Evans DVD and scoffed crisps; until I fell asleep!

I sent Phoenix to nursery in the morning as I didn't to unsettle his routine. It was really quiet because of the public Holiday; Phoenix had fun so that's the main thing. I spent the afternoon making a Jamie Oliver chicken and leek pie (One of Keith's favourite) and a Victoria sponge cake instead of a birthday cake. Phoenix and I also made fairy cakes and Phoenix decorated them with blue icing and hundreds and thousands.

We were out the back this morning at 10am and I cut the grass and started to tidy it a bit for tomorrow's Easter Egg Hunt. Beds have been stripped and the covers are now drying on the line. I try to do them every Friday but I totally forgot about them yesterday, and I had quite a bit of washing to do.

Phoenix is currently sleeping on the couch, holding onto Buzz lightyear and Woody. His new way of saying he's tired is going upstairs for a pillow and bringing it downstairs - it's quite cute! He's being very grown up about a nap. After he wakes up we'll go back outside and clean up a little bit more. I need to finish off the railings tonight - the hedges out of the front need cut but I don't think I trust myself with the hedge trimmer!

I've invited Frenchie through tomorrow as well - just trying to maximise the time Phoenix and I spend with her before she heads off onto her adventures. She has a blog which can be viewed Here. I was quite sad after our telephone call this morning. It seemed like ages away when she announced she was going travelling; but it has certainly crept up quickly. I will cry like a baby when she goes. Hopefully when she returns I'll have a newborn baby - The perfect thing to bribe her home again!

Tonight's dinner is sweet chilli chicken burgers; we have had them before which are really nice - will add that recipe aswell as the pie and sponge cake.

Knackered

2007-04-05T21:00:00.000+01:00

Dear Sink,

I've had another busy day; I'm too tired to write anything so will write extra tomorrow.

Love
Nat
xxx

Falafels

2007-04-04T21:36:00.000+01:00

Fafalels

1 can of chickpeas, drained
1 medium onion, chopped finely
1-2 cloves garlic, finely chopped or crushed
2 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp ground coriander
6 tbsp chopped parsley (Less if it's dried)
1/2 tsp chilli powder
2 rounded tbsp plain flour
1 tsp salt

Oil for shallow frying.

1. Add all ingredients to food processor and pulse until texture of coarse breadcrumbs.
2. Take about 1/2 tbsp and roll into a ball, until sticky and then roll in extra flour. Do the same for the rest of the mixture
3. Heat oil until really hot, and then fry falafels until golden, turning regularly.

Serve in a pitta bread with salad; traditionally with mint sauce but I put in cheese as it's yummy!

Day 2

2007-04-04T20:46:00.000+01:00

Dear Sink,

Not really off to a good start - forgot my login details for the blog; but got here eventually.

It's been a long day but I've got lots done so pleased. Keith was off today, as he normally is on a Wednesday as I have Brownies at night, but that is off this week because of the Easter Holidays.

I got two loads of washing (dark and light) washed and hung outside all before 10am this morning; so it started off productive. We got ready and headed in the town. We finally went to a cafe called The Capocci Man, which I have never been to in all these 6 years that I have been with Keith. The reason is because Keith would refuse to go in as he say it's over priced. Well, it's week after pay week so we can be cocky; and he was right, it was over priced for what we got. £15 for macaroni cheese; cheeseburger and chips, and sausage and chips, plus 3 drinks. So, I won't ask to go there for a while. There's plently of other cafes in Hamilton, that serve the same quality, if not better, at a lower price.

After that we headed to the park in Cadzow Glen; Cadzow Glen is beside the Town Hall come Library come Registry Office where we got married. We got our pictures taken in the Cadzow Glen so I always like to go, and reminisce about our Special Day. Phoenix had fun as always but we didn't stay too long as he was knackered. We headed to Asda as I didn't think the fishmonger would still be open, just to get some Haddock for dinner. We started to head home, and Phoenix fell asleep on Keith's shoulders.

Phoenix had woke by the time we had got home, so we had a quiet half an hour just so that he could relax a little. Phoenix and I headed out the back to do paper mache masks for my cousin Julie's 21st party which is a masquerade theme. I ended up finishing both of them as Phoenix ended up digging in the garden; telling me where our veg is going to grow. I really need to get on that this week; Hopefully have time Friday afternoon.

For dinner tonight I made mashed potato, mashed carrots with cumin and breaded haddock. I got the recipe for the breaded haddock out of the the Tana Ramsey book even though it was supposed to be fish fingers; but that was too much faffing for me tonight. Finished dinner off with some Smartie ice-cream which was lovely.

Got Phoenix in a bath as he is getting his picture taken at playgroup. We put in the Lush 'Black Pearl' bath bomb which makes the water look slightly black but smells nice - must have lavender in it as it smelt quite calming.

Off topic - just googled 'smelt' as I thought it sounded funny and wasn't sure it was right. Smelt is British English and Smelled is American English. Both are acceptable. Good to know for future reference.

I brought Phoenix downstairs after his bath so that I could blow dry his hair, and I gave his fringe a little trim. I was a bit scared to do it as I used to always cut my hair as a child and there are many a picture of me with a squinty fringe. I vowed always to get the hairdresser to cut his hair, but it really needed done for the picture. Trimmed his nails as they were talons, including his big toes which are lovely pink sparkly number at the minute. I painted them the other day as we had a make up special together. It was really funny - I put eyeliner and mascara on him and he looked good. Keith and Phoenix both have really long eyelashes and both suit eyeliner. I need to find black nail polish for Phoenix just in case he asks for his fingernails to be painted in the future.

I took Phoenix up to bed tonight as Keith was out painting the railing outside. I read 'Tiger Trail', 'We're Going on a Bear Hunt' and 'Old Bear' tonight. I didn't finish 'Old Bear' as Phoenix was getting unsettled with it - he gets that way when he's tired. Also sang 'Ali Bali Bee', 'Wild Mountain Thyme' and 'Skye Boat Song' - a few Scottish songs tonight. I think it's good for Phoenix to know traditional songs; as they are part of his heritage after all.

I learnt (or learned? Just like smelt and smelled I guess!) 'Wild Mountain Thyme' in Primary 7 and think it's a really beautiful song; makes my all tingly hearing it, especially the third verse.

After Phoenix was down for the night I went out to help Keith with railings. After that was finished Keith went up for a shower so that he didn't smell like turps at work tomorrow and I came on here to write this. Keith is doing the dishes at the minute, and after he is finished I will make Falafels for him to take to work tomorrow. My Falafels are legendary - I will post the recipe.

Just googled traditional Scottish Songs as my 2nd verse for 'Ali Bali Bee' isn't quite right. Found a sight with a song about Greenock. It's quite Nice.

http://www.rampantscotland.com/songs/blsongs_greenoak.htm

The Green Oak Tree
Chorus
Here's to the Green Oak that grew at the square;
Here's to its roots that are still slumbering there;
Here's to my townsmen whaure're they may be;
I'm proud that I'm a branch o' the Green Oak Tree.
I'll sing about a wee toon that stands upon the Clyde,
It is the toon whaur I was born, it fills my heart with pride.
My mither often telt me as she crooned me on her knee,
That Greenock took its name frae the Green Oak Tree.

May Greenock like the Green Oak Tree still flourish 'neath the sun,
Her trade and commerce still increase for a thousands years to come.
And may each son o' Greenock as he battles thro' life's storm,
Be honest, true, and ne'er disgrace the toon whaur he was born.

Noo Greenock's no' a bonny toon I've heard some folk complain,
And ithers say when they go there, they nothing see but rain!
But let them say whate'er they may, wi' them I'll no agree,
For aye the name o' Greenock toon shall still be dear to me.

I must get the music for this and sing to it to Phoenix.
Goodnight
xxx

Easy Beef Stroganoff Recipe

2007-04-03T22:51:00.000+01:00

Courtesy of Asda Magazine.

Easy Beef Stroganoff

Serves 4

Ready in 30 minutes
Price per serving £1.90

Per Serving
Calories 380 Carbs 6g Fat 26g Saturated Fat 14g

450g sirloin steak, trimmed of fat
1 tbsp sunflower oil
15g butter
1 large onion, thinly sliced
250g mushrooms, sliced
284ml carton soured cream
1 tbsp coarse grain mustard
1 tbsp flat leaf parsley (optional)
Rice, to serve

1. Cut steak into strips, about the size of your little finger. Heat oil and butter in a pan, cook steak until browned on the outside, remove, leaving the fat in the pan, and keep warm. Add onion to pan and cook until soft. Add mushrooms and cook until shrunk and all juices have evaporated.

2. Return meat to pan, stir in the soured cream and mustard and heat through. Sprinkle on parsley and serve with rice and broccoli.

First Post

2007-04-03T21:42:00.000+01:00

Dear Sink,

Today has been a good day. Tues is a maintain day in the housework routine so had a quiet morning with Phoenix playing with a tea set and having our snack as a picnic on living room carpet. Just spent the rest of the early afternoon pottering about and doing a meal plan and shopping list until Keith came home from work. After Keith got a bite to eat we headed out to Morrisons to get the monthly shop.

We didn't get in to nearer to 6; Keith put 'Night at the Museum' on and settled Phoenix down while I made Beef Stroganoff recipe that I got from the Asda magazine. Poor Phoenix fell asleep before dinner was ready and we have just moved him from the couch to his bed 10 mins ago. He's knackered!

Just watching CSI and trying to motivate myself to tidy up the toys. I will post the Beef Stroganoff recipe in seperate post and then I'll head off.

Good night,
Love
Nat
xxx

You Are The Magician

You are powerful and wise - beyond what anyone can see.Deeply complex, you have the resources to connect to the spiritual and material world.You posses the knowledge to manipulate your life and the lives around you.You also have a great healing power, should you choose to use it.
Your fortune:
You have unhidden powers that you have yet to tap into. Soon, you will better understand how to use your intellect and intuition. Believe it or now, you will discover how you can manipulate yourself and others for good.You are at the beginning of a path of spiritual enlightenment.

What Tarot Card Are You?