🦞🦂 *What are we up to?*🦂🦞

Not for me the flowers, love hearts and sweet words of love and appreciation for my role as a caring mother.
🙄.

Thinking about you NN xxxx hope all comes right

Are you travelling back tonight, Grammaretto? Safe journey, your break sounds and looks like a proper break.

As well as your instinct in finding the right words for the right occasion, NN, you have the ability to bring a smile to our faces. #Every little helps.

A difficult Mothering Sunday for you, NS, firsts both in the absence of Mr. NS's mother and for your sad DD and DGD.
I hope you managed to strike the right note and bring a little joy to those close to you.

Thinking of Jan and Mr. Jan at this worrying time, hopefully family lifting your spirits today and in the forthcoming weeks and months💐.

Kaimoana, it does seem that you are having help input into planning a possible move, let's hope things move forward to everyone's satisfaction.

What a delight Gubbins continues to be!

My big chaps are only our resident crows, Russell andCheryl and their various hangers on. But they are so funny, a delight to watch and uncannily perceptive ...

Guessing you had a super time, Doodle, with your boys and a cook-free day!
Nice flowers?

I had an orchid, choccies and a Very Cheeky card, showing a total lack of respect from a DS who should know better.
I will post a photo to - hopefully- bring a smile to your faces.

*Happy Mothers Day*💐

Kaimoana... I'm going to borrow Gubbins statement....as my legs have definitely not been interested on multiple occasions over the last few months and are still complaining a little but 6 weeks post op I can see a light at the end of the tunnel.

I hope that whatever you decide re a move brings you peace of mind and body too.

Ixion...I did giggle about your delicate moment and a high flying tree surgeon...were you tempted to wave? Thank you too for your lovely comment about something I'd written.

Notspag..how are things with you? Have things become any clearer?

Grammaretto... Did you see the seals? and did you dance? I spent New Years Eve in Scotland one year and there was a 5 course meal followed by country dancing....I was in awe at the stamina of my fellow guests who were all Scottish...I could hardly move let alone strip the willow. ( Have I remembered that right?)

Doodle have a lovely Mother's day with your sons

It doesn't hurt me like it used to, my new approach to the situation means I can think of my girls and pray that they are well, happy and safe and hope today they will be making memories with their children.

Ixions embarrassing moment reminded me that I didn't tell you what happened literally as I was about to go into theatre...having had an hour being talked to by anaesthetists, clinical staff and my 2 surgeons and just as I was about to be taken through to change my consultant said...right last thing to do is mark the area I'll be operating on...I stood up and just as I was about to lower my trousers and awful thought hit me and I blurted out... I'll just stand against this wall if that's ok....my consultant concerned that I was about to fall said..are you ok....to which I replied...yep I just hadn't thought this through and I'm wearing a thong. Cue laughter all around.

"hangout for the big chaps " please explain - surely there are no workmen resident in your branches?

The moving is up to me Doodle and someone is looking into what is available, plus I am to be assessed to see what I can cope with, given that I have already lost one eye and the other is fading.
Not to mention the very obvious (to me) lack of mental acuity.

Like it or not (and I don't) if might be a rest home for my own safety.

Meanwhile, I soldier on dropping things and trying to decipher this keyboard and the posts on here .

Gramaretto what a lovely time you’re having. So pleased for you. It all sounds fun. What a beautiful place. Enjoy yourself at he dance,

Kaimoana so pleased you are getting to spend time with your son and the lovely Gubbins. What a character she is. Glad the patch helps. Any news on moving?

Oh ixiion it could only happen to you🤣🤣. Acrobatic tree surgeons swinging past at an inconvenient time .

Going to have a roast dinner with DS2 tomorrow and popping in to see DS1 on the way. They only live about 10 mins from each other which is nice.

Very tired these days so off to bed soon

Ah yes the flying fox! Not sure where the name comes from but it's a great favourite.

The day has been well up to the expected high standard. The weather cheered up, the demonstrations sorry Kaimoana are excellent as is the food.

I even bought a pot against my better judgement.

Tonight is the ceilidh but I would really rather have an early night.

I may not stay the distance.

Here is the view from the centre. We have been told if we don't see seals, we aren't looking.

Woke today to a wonderful spring morning - warm (I think!) and very sunny. Tubs are looking good, tho'I don't think that the daffs I ordered were really from the miniature bulb section, but they are beautiful, all the same.

The birds are singing, fit to bust, but the bigger old hands appear somewhat discombobulated by the lowering of their branches in the pear tree.

The eponymous trees we have, governed by preservation orders, received their not so regular cull yesterday. Always an eye-watering bill, but undoubtedly safer than any potential claim from pedestrians, cars or lorries should bits fall on them.

This time we included the pear tree in the garden, its topmost branches a hangout for the big chaps on the lookout for action. Now they will have to set their sights a little lower ...

When we first moved in, decades ago, a chap who did work for us commented on the fact that, as a child, he used to scrump the fruit so I am thinking it must be at least 100 years old. Only a slight set back when part of it was set alight when our late neighbour lit a bonfire underneath its hanging boughs.

One moment of potential embarrassment when the tree fellas had moved to the second tree, whose majestic branches and irksome foliage mark the changing of the seasons from upper window in the cloakroom.

Normally, an unhindered and secluded view. But not when a strapping chap swings past on ropes as you are quietly performing.

Ah, so that's what a flying fox is!
Had to look it up!

I've often wondered if people who are losing their mins, know it. Well, I am and I do. I’ve done some seriously barmy things recently.
I puzzled for ages over Grams post in which the word 'demonstration' occured.
All I could see was demon stration and I could not work out what a 'stration' was.

Fun with Mila and Daddy today: DS2 told me Mila said, when asked to go upstairs to get changed, "You'll have to carry me because my legs aren't interested."

Daddy was helping her with the glitter volcano (BP, citric acid, glitter) she was making at my house and she said, 'Thanks. Mister.'
She is so droll.

We went to the playground, it’s local and has an extra high slide, which being intrepid she loves. Her favourite though is nearer home and has a flying fox.

I've only been able to read a tiny percentage of what you all posted above but it seems as if not eveeryone is at peace right now.
I hope things improve soon. \

As for me, still a pirate with a patch and it certainly has eased my right eye. I don't wear it all the time, just when I begin to feel the ache.

.

Awake in the middle of the night. I'm too hot!
I hope you manage to sleep tonight Ixion

We arrived in really good time and it is nice to be by the sea and to see so many familiar faces. Some of us have been gathering each year since the 1980s.

I'm looking forward to seeing the demonstrations tomorrow. It's not hands on this time but just watching and listening to the brilliant potters. I mustn't buy anything. 😊

Any news from Kaimoana?

Hopeless here - second night on the trot I have nodded off throughout the evening😡

Catch up tomorrow - honest!

Hope Grammaretto has arrived safely for her weekend away.

Sounds like the dancing was fun Grammaretto yes i remember having energy to do all sorts when I was younger.
Hope the weather is good for you at the seaside. It’s been very windy here too.
Thinking of Kaimoana and wondering how you are? Lots of love and hugs to all

The weather has been atrocious today, with icy wind and driving rain. So different from this time last year when we were basking in sunshine at the seaside. I'm going to the same place so the seaside will still be there but a shame if it rains.

I should pack but I'm tired after ceilidh dancing. 3 teenagers from France joined in. They were great. I asked what they'd done today. They went to Dundee by bus to see the Discovery and then St Andrews. Such energy!
Were we once like that?

Thanks for the hot chocolate Jeeves. I needed that.

I'm glad you enjoyed your art session Doodle those art friends sound lovely company. ♥️

Any news Jan? How are you doing?

Night nigh

Evening all. Art today was not great. Another to be filed in the bin I think. Company was lovely though and we had a good chat. Afternoon tea at church with sausage rolls, scones and cakes. Very nice.
Walking group tomorrow

Grammaretto the Scottish system is completely different from here. Not sure which is the better one to be honest. I hope it all works out for you. I’d like to see you in a comfortable home near your friends.
Had a nice day at church then went for a walk as it was sunny. Came home and tackled the jigsaw. Off to bed now. My eye is irritating me. It feels like something in it but I can’t see anything. Night night all

The meeting didn't happen but I had a chat with my solicitor who will market the house and come to see it next week.
He asked me if any of my clutter had gone since he was last here a year ago 😂

It can still be the music school but they need to find a way of financing the project.
I hope they can.

I shall bid for the house but it will be all digits crossed and a miracle if I am successful. I have put in a note of interest so if it goes to a closing date, I'll be told and can bid. The Scottish system is usually closed bids but it's beginning to change. Lots of properties are fixed price nowadays.

Ooh a silver chain for your shell Doodle how lovely is that 😊

My potters away weekend is being thwarted by the dreadful Glasgow fire. I was going by train but now it's bus and car.

Love to all you Lobstars xxx

Jan sorry don’t know anything about immunotherapy but I have heard it’s being used more now instead of radiotherapy. Hope it works well for your Dh. Hope the sessions go well.
Grammaretto is music man still on the scene then? I just hope that whatever happens it’s the right thing for you.

What started off a a quiet day to myself ended up with me visiting two people for coffee today who phoned just on the off chance. Nice day. Did some shopping too and managed to find a long silver chain (to buy) that I’ve been looking for for a while. DH bought me a necklace years ago with a tiny silver shell on it. I haven’t been able to wear it because the chain is short and my neck is bigger than it was.

Things are moving apace now, Grammaretto. Do keep us posted. Is your offer on your the new house based on sealed bids?

Everything crossed for you and Mr.Jan too.💐. Knowing nothing of immunotherapy, I can but wish you both well -at least the driving and frequency of trips won't be such a worry now.

How are you finding the eyepatch, Kaimoana? Have you any more thoughts on the wisdom of moving? How's the book progressing?

I was so sorry to hear of your DD's unhappiness, NS. And, by extension, the sorrow which washes over all the family.

I am sure you will be fortified by the lovely message from NN, who, as usual, comes up with just the right words❤️

DH had a course of immunotherapy for his kidney cancer Jan
He did well on it. I took him in to the cancer centre for the infusions every few weeks for about 18 months. It was good and had no nasty side effects, until it stopped working for him and the cancer took over again.
Such sad days.

I'm just tired now. I have to drive to Gaelic tonight because I'm the transport.

Tomorrow morning music man and architect are meeting here. I hope we can work something out.

It'll be an early night for me.

Hello Lobstars. Sorry to hear your newsnonSpaghetti Similar thing happened to my eldest daughter after she had been married just a year. However all turned out well and my daughter and ex son in law now have other partners and are very happy.
Had a long day at the hospital yesterday but Consultant decided DH should have immunotherapy rather than radiotherapy. Has anyone had any experience of Immunotherapy? Anyway his first session is Monday and its one session every three weeks for probably 2 years. Luckily he has hospital transport. Was somewhat annoyed when DH sat down in Consulting room and the Consultant looked at him and said “Do you know why you are here?” Which I thought was very condescending. Just because youre old doesn’t mean you are stupid.
Oh dear Gramaretto you too are having problems. Doodle hope youre both hip improves. We do all seem to be having problems dont we?
Its a beautiful sunny day here although nor particularly warm. We’re expecting friends this afternoon but they are at the hospital and seems unlikely they will get here this afternoon now.
Actually we have been out with other friends for coffee this morning so quite happy to sit around reading and dozing this afternoon!

Sorry forgot to say love the photos. What a beautiful place you live.

Oh Notspaghetti I’m so sorry. We all hope our children will be happy in their lives. Must be such a hard time for you. Hope it sorts itself out if possible.
Good thinking from Kaimoana

NN most things feel better when the sun comes out don’t they. My hip feels a bit better thank you. I think I might have been exercising in the wrong way and stretching too far. I’ve tried walking more upright and I think it’s helping. It always hurts in the evenings though. Hope you’re doing well,

Grammaretto it’s a shame your DC aren’t more supportive of your ideas but I expect they’re doing their best to look out for you, big decision and I can understand only too well how your are missing your Dh right now. Is the new house near your current one? Same village? Hope everything works out well for you you deserve it. A big hug would be welcome by all I think.
Jan thinking of you both,

https://www.gransnet.com/uploads/talk/202603/medium-30iexh-1000021111.jpg https://www.gransnet.com/uploads/talk/202603/medium-dxsru5-1000021110.jpg

All the poor Lobstars and their loved ones. I want to wrap you all up in a big warm cuddle.

It's so sad when your DC are unhappy NS
That's all we want and need is for them to be happy.
I'm sure your DD will again especially with your support.

How did it go today Jan? Gosh you've had more than your fair share of bad luck.

I'm putting in an offer for the house though there's little chance of securing it.
No it isn't ready to move in but it does have foundations. Everything needs doing.
I would have to live somewhere else while the work's done

I will be putting my house on the market.

I have instructed my solicitor!
I've not told any of my DC. I will ofcourse when they need to know but they are so critical of my decisions.

I miss DH more than ever.

I went on a walk today with a pal - a reccie for a walk we are leading in May.
We changed our minds completely after doing part of it. We hadn't examined the contour lines on the map 😯. and hadn't realised how popular the route is with mountain bikers and horses.

Instead we shall walk along one side of a river and come back along the other side!

BTW Naughtyneine the weather makes a huge difference to aches and pains.
Remember to soak in an epsom salts bath at every opportunity.

Jan, I hope today goes as well as it can and the travel issues are resolved and hospital transport is available for your DH.

NS that's very sad news, maybe a little time apart will bring clarity for them both and they will find a way to talk again and find a way forward, it may not be together but with your love and support hopefully they can all find happiness again. I will keep them and you in my prayers

I love the little army Ixion...not so much the creme egg though....When we were first married my ex used to buy me one every Sunday , I didn't have the heart to tell him I hated them and used to fling them into the tallest least used cupboard in the kitchen....all was well until he opened it one day and 23 creme eggs cascaded out😂

Kaimoana I do sympathise with the dread of clearing out ready to move but if it means you will be more settled and have access to more maybe it would be a good thing. Would your son be able to pitch in and help? I hope the right decision for you comes soon

Grammaretto...it sounds like it is time to put your house on the open market and see what happens re music man. You can't really be expected to put your life on hold much longer. Spring is always a good time for selling homes apparently so fingers crossed you will be able start making plans very soon. Does the new place have all the basics in place, kitchen etc?

Doodle do you find the damp weather makes the hip ache worse?...it did mine pre op but that also might be down to me feeling so much better when the sun was out. It's the same at the moment too, the weather over the last few days has been damp and grey and my hip and thigh have complained every time I've stood up...DH says rather than the weather it is probably because I've had a four and half hour operation and my femur has not only had the original stem and cement removed but a new stem inserted too....he's probably right but I know for sure when the sun comes out it definitely won't hurt as much

Thank you. ❤️