Good Morning Thursday 11th December 2025

Hallo again GN's and thanks for your comments, I return a bit victorious, a bit deflated and very weary!! I wasnt sure the best way to go to the new Aldi as we have several railway crossings to add to the decision which way to go to. Put it in the satnav and it threw a wobbly declaring there was no such post code and offerering me many other places far and wide, Anyway I arrived in time to join the others waiting for the door to be openened by a paraolympic I was told, but didnt recognise anyone. Anyway, was there in time for the opening, and true to their word we were each given a paper to exchange for a small bag of fruit and veg which were waiting at the side after the checkouts. Due to never having an Aldi near me before I was a newbie altogether. First thing to learn that they dont have loyalty cards or disability buggies, but their aisles are wide enough to get down safely in one. So had to take one of the shallow trollies that I could lean against on the way round .That actually turned out to be a tick tick for me, as I now feel a little less stressed about the new buggy as it will have to be the thing to use there without a doubt. Wouldnt trust the yellow peril that far.

Then it is simpler as no messing about with loyalty cards etc, just pay by cash or card and that was fine. I thanked some of the assistants who helped me, and met a group of the bosses, both the new local one and the district boss too, and complimented them on a very good start, but did warn them about the satnav not working properly and advised them that they might either get on to the road people or in their next advert mention it was near such and such a roundabout, that most people know to save hassle. Anyway got my shopping and received my free little bag. One slightly sour note, - which neither the assistant nor I let him get away with - the offer was for the first 30 customers who got the little free bags and were given a paper to exchange for it. A very cheeky man , who had come in afterwards calmly paid for his goods and walked across to the free bags and picked one up, but between the assistant and my very teacher like and piercing voice, reminding him that he needed the paper to exchange for the bag, he hastily put it back on the correct place and said he "thought there was one for everyone" patently not true as by this time there was only about 7 left.

So it did at least mean that for once being awake early was in my favour. Even more because it was quite close to a very nice garden centre, where I have a card which owed me a free coffee, and so I was very pleased to go there, sit with my coffee, get in touch with a couple of people and have a little break before time to go off to the womens group.

Sadly the yoga lady was ill and so did not come, but actually we did ok as one of the other ladies has taught a bit of yoga in the past and we sat round and did some good breathing exercises and calmed down. Then I took over and we went on from that to talk of again breathing but related to singing. so firstly I had them taking deep breaths and then simply singing on one held note until all the breath was gone. Ver y
calming and concentrating, which fitted in with the previous bit. To finish off I got them all singing "while shepherds watch" but to the yorkshire tune of "ilkley moor baht at". Some had heard it before others never, but they enjoyed it and it certainly goes at more of a lick, if you are going round carol singers and can walk quite quickly to the next bit. So several were planning to go home and relay this to their families etc. So it was all very pleasant and we talked of our next weeks grand meal we are arranging, and of course it was time for buying some raffle tickets for the hampers and the christmas cakes 2 of them provided etc. I wished them all a free car parking space or a bus to come along quickly as I left!

Returned home but not before I had been to the post office, where I had taken all my hoarded 1st and 2nd stamps that I had found hidden in a drawer, only to find that I have to contact the royal mail on line cant just exchange them despite waiting for ages in the queue. Oh well did my best.

Now looking forward to receiving my new buggy and thank you for your comments. Slightly scared in case when it arrives, I feel that I have the wrong one, or cant use it or something stupid, but it is just that being on your own to make a big decision, I know. Well they have told me that it is all checked out etc and will arrive tomorrow pm I think, but I will be leaping in at the deep end, because the following day, it is going into the car and I shall hopefully get to Saltburn in one piece to see all the ice sculpture. Fingers crossed!

Hoping all your day has gone better and that things will improve for Marydoll. What a pity little miss kleptomaniac cant take away a lot of the bugs for you. Hope you had a good day with her anyway. She sounds quite a character and I am sure gives you something to smile about when days are tough. Take care and have a good evening all

Oh harrigran apparently it was a photo from this morning!
A case of ‘Red sky in a morning - shepherd’s warning” perhaps?

Georgesgran that sunset sky looked spectacular! Than you for sharing.

You have blue sky Blossoming cloudy here, your sky is amazing Georgesgran.

Good morning everyone from sunny Lancashire. It feels very mild outside.

MrB and I have been for a slightly different walk around the marina today as I needed to post a letter.

Still nothing from my doctor regarding my recent blood results. I have had to submit an online appointment request regarding a different problem so they should be contacting me about that. We shall see!

I’m thinking of our poorly grans and those with troubles, as always.

Wishing you all a good day, whatever you’re doing 🦩🦩🦩

Good morning, Michael12 and everyone!

Here in Appleby, we've had the great big storms and 70mph+ winds, torrential rain, freezing cold, and I've loved every second of it! It can blast 24/7/365 as far as I'm concerned!

Since quitting my job a few days ago, I've been catching up on extra reading and sleeping! I'm still going through MrBallen Presents: Strange, Dark & Mysterious: The Graphic Stories, and I've just ordered his MrBallen Presents: Where Nightmares Live: The Graphic Stories (Mrballen Graphic Stories) to keep me occupied for a while too!

I've just come out of The Crown & Cushion, where I had a Full English and a huge glass of strawberry milkshake with cream, and am now off to the Co-Op just around the corner for grapes, cherries, bananas, tangerines, a 650g box of Coco Pops, Chat, That's Life, and Love It magazines, then home.

Two nights ago, when storm Bram was raging, this was about 7 pm, I went into the bathroom to clean the shower unit and realised the lightbulb had gone.

The kitchen and bathroom are directly next to each other, so I left on the kitchen light to see in the dim light in the bathroom, grabbed a new bulb from the kitchen drawer, and trotted into the bathroom, where as soon as I got through the door, I stopped dead, with my left arm up holding the bulb, like the Statue of Liberty! Opposite me, at the window, I very clearly sensed a man standing there facing me with his back to the window; I couldn't see him, but very strongly sensed him. For a few seconds, I just stood dead still, letting him decide what to do. Then, after those seconds, he vanished. I put a new bulb in, and everything was OK again!

I wasn't scared, just totally fascinated. It seems that spirits and electrics are quite strongly connected, so with Bram raging outside, the man must have found a natural window. I'll miss my lovely ghostly friends when I move in January!

Have a good one, all of you!

Mick, I see you have been roundly chastised by others for your dreadful food (treat) choice. What were you thinking? My late mother, my two grandsons and I are all diabetic and know a great deal about what to eat and drink, and what not to, so I feel I can legitimately tell you off! Getting your pills increased does NOT mean you can eat what you like! Please be careful. A diabetic coma is not funny and could kill you!
Sorry Mick, but one naughty treat leads to another and before you know it, you’ll be eating whatever you like. Please think before you buy.

Good morning all. Firstly, brain fog has struck again as I posted my good morning message on the wrong thread !🤯.

Grey skies and another rainy day in Glasgow.

After the meeting with my solicitor I didn’t hang around in the city as the miserable weather, noisy roadworks and construction didn’t make for a pleasant day in town and returning home was more appealing.

Best wishes to all for a good day and a better one with some respite for those struggling on with difficult times whatever they may be.

I think the brain fog may be clearing🤪🤞

A late for me morning all from a blue sky West Oxfordshire!

I overslept. I was on my feet a lot yesterday doing Christmas cookery - bread sauce, festive gravy, Yorkshire puddings and rum butter. I also made a pot of chicken stock which I’ll put in boxes, label and freeze this morning.

We’re out for lunch today. We couldn’t get a table until 2.15 pm so a late lunch for us.

Have a good day.

Good morning and I’m still lazing around while Dh is still snoozing. I’ll wake him up soon, but it’s peaceful without the tv blaring away all day. He has no interest in anything else.😢.

I must pop into town again as I forgot to get my friends birthday gift yesterday and I’m seeing her tomorrow. Other than that , a day at home , sorting out the presents, wrapping and a bit of housework.

I had a lovely lunch with special girl yesterday. She is a legal secretary and said she will help me with all things house sale related. It didn’t occur to me to ask her as she’s a mum of two small boys and is a very busy lady., but she insists she will make time……for me. Bless her heart ❤️.
I received my usual hamper for Christmas, from her dad . Every year for 24 years now, in appreciation for looking after C and her two brothers when their mum died aged 36.

Take care all and enjoy the day. 🎄

A late good morning Mick and all 🙋‍♀️

I have changed the bed and fed the washing machine, then I need to shower, dress and get to Mayflower Shopping Park to M & S Food Hall for clock and collect (why I didn’t arrange to pick up from the large M & S at Lakeside yesterday I do not know 🤦‍♀️)

Then I shall nip down the road to buy some gift bags for the last gifts, and a couple of raffle prizes.

Will read later with my coffeee.

Thinking of those with ills and worries 🎄🤶

Madeline good luck with the new buggy and the Aldi shopping.

Good morning Mick and everyone.
I'm looking forward to a catch up phone call from an Oxfordshire friend this morning.
Yesterday I coffee and lunch with an old Shropshire friend.
Later on this morning I shall finish off the Christmas cards and go to the post. I've posted the bulk of cards already.
Thinking of FGT MD DF and all who are finding life difficult to cope with.

Good morning from a sunny W Kent. I am off to the supermarket as we seem to have run out of things, not sure why. DH is not very well, coughing away.
The parcel to Scotland which has been causing me so much angst has finally arrived. 10 days late on a 24 hour tracked delivery. DD1 rather amused as someone has written in it ‘Needs to go to Scotland’ 😂
Best wishes

Good morning from breezy South Lanarkshire.

Yesterday’s nursery outing went well. The weather was fine for our walk to the church where the children were told the story of the first Christmas. They enjoyed the singing, Away in a Manger gets me every time.

I’ve a few wee bits and bobs to get so I’ve press ganged DH into going to the shops, his reward will be a coffee and a mince pie. He’s easily bought!

I’m having my hair cut later, I’m quite nervous as I’ve decided it’s too long so may have a fair chunk of it chopped off but then again I may chicken out once I’m in the chair.

Thank you Karma, we do enjoy making them.

MD I’m always impressed by how much you manage to get done despite your health issues.

Beautiful photo Georgesgran.

Have the best day possible everyone.

Good morning all from the Scottish Borders. Blowing a hoolie!
I have yoga this morning followed by u3a social this afternoon and ceilidh dancing tonight.
Yesterday I managed to book my 8 leg return trip to the outer Hebrides in January. Its very cheap for me on bus and ferry, so if it all has to be cancelled, I won't lose much. Reminds me I still haven't claimed for the delayed train ticket.

I must be too rich

Beautiful sky Georgesgran

The car trips and changes of meds sound horrendous, Marydoll I hope having your DGD to distract you make up for it. I think you should write a book. You write so well.

I began the c cards last night by making a list and doing the ones for abroad! Stamps are another huge expense. I may do an e card after all.

My Helper wants to go to Malta next Bella after hearing it's 21°.

Hoping everyone has a happy day.

Good morning everyone from a fine and dry Northampton, feeling quite chilly, but I have a cat on my lap to warm me up!

Had a nice gentle day in yesterday, slowly decorating my downstairs rooms - I am now finished, and quite pleased with my efforts.

DD-out-law had sent me some ideas from DGD2's Christmas wish list, so I ordered a couple of things; she wanted books and a special set of gel pens.

I only now have to get an M&S voucher for an old friend, and I'm done.

A morning of pottering, and after lunch I'm off to the.hairdresser.

Mince, mash and peas for dinner tonight - comfort food! Last night I made a chicken rendang stir-fry and rice.

Wishing all a pleasant and peaceful day.

Good morning from a brightening Berkshire.
Yesterday I made a visit to my BIL and SIL in Surrey with DD and took cards and Xmas gifts. My SIL is a talented cook and we had lamb followed by a delicious pavlova, not something I have ever had a success with, being heavy handed…

This morning I go into London with DD to take in Winter Wonderland Hyde Park, a meal with my sister followed by the Nutcracker ballet. My DD is a very good PA, organising everything! I have my opera glasses to hand🎭

RosesandLilac I was interested in your remarks about your financial advisor yesterday as I’m not happy with mine, having had different advisors too, the latest confusing me re some shares which have resurfaced since my DH died. I have an advisor so I don’t get confused!

Sorry you have had trouble with your mouth Ekwanimitee and thoughts to all.

MD, I absolutely love, love the idea of a pancake natter! What an inspired misprint…. Thank you for the giggle..

That photo is amazing Georgesgran, I just stuck my head out of the en suite window to witness the same.
Pound to a penny GD will post on Instagram tonight, she photographs the dawn as she travels to Durham High. She is doing photography for GCSE art.

Good morning from a dry Suffolk after a sunny day yesterday. Unfortunately the lanes are still awash with mud and the sun did nothing to dry then up.

A very busy day ahead…stretch class soon and then I’ll fit in a quick visit to my dear friend who is still in the nurse led part of the local hospital, separate by several miles from the main one.

She always has a big party on 12th night and was talking about it when I visited her on Monday. She needs things to think about for when she is back home but there is no date for that.I don’t want to be discouraging but don’t imagine she will be up to such a mammoth plan.

I’m then meeting 3 friends for lunch which we do every 6 weeks or so. Luckily the pub chosen is close to the hospital. We go here every year for our Christmas bash and the food is usually excellent.

Hope all have a good day however you plan to spend it.

Jaxjacky

merlotgran I had a similar problem with them, now use ASDA.

I will definitely change opticians when my next routine eye test is due, Jaxjacky. I’ve heard quite a lot of negative comments about Specsavers recently.

Good morning from a dry but windy NE.
Sister and BIL visited yesterday and we went shopping, it clashed with the school run so the roads were busy. I did manage to get most things but not the vegan sauces that I wanted for my store cupboard and I forgot the tinned prunes.
I was too tired to cook last night so had a ham salad wasn't hungry anyway.
DD arrived in Germany last night to spend some time with my sister and celebrate her 85th birthday.
A long and tiring journey.
A quiet day with a little housework and a few gifts to wrap.
Have a good day.

Thought you might like this - the phone camera doesn’t capture all the colour. Absolutely magnificent!!

Good morning everyone from Inverness where it’s dark and looks dry
A busy day yesterday at the gym and in town but I’ve a quiet morning planned today. I’ll need to finish writing the Christmas cards and get them posted and wrap a few gifts. This afternoon I’ve an online volunteering session for a couple of hours.
How lovely from the mums monk so nice to be appreciated
Very well done ginny 👍
Thinking of everyone with worries and struggles, hope today is gentle and take care all whatever the day brings 💐