http://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/en-EUMokoFeed10http://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/http://data5.blog.de/design/preview/ba/fcac7c69c248b0fff666fa2d6f9446_160x200.jpghttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/10/21/and-now-i-m-back-7216348/tag:mumzietales.blog.co.uk,2009-10-21:/2009/10/21/and-now-i-m-back-7216348/Wed, 21 Oct 2009 16:29:43 +0200 <p>Wow! I can't believe I've been away so long....so much has happened.</p> <p>I have FINALLY got a new job, not only that but I've started it too! I am now a full time worker, at a firm of solicitors. However my old firm won't let me go until I have worked my months notice, so I am working part-time at the old job and part-time at the new one until I finally wave goodbye to this God-forsaken-hole on Friday 30th! </p> <p>The new job is so busy, I don't get time to catch my breath or drink my coffee. But the times just flies by! Unlike here where I've been sat for three and a half hours twiddling my thumbs. </p> <p>I will be able to catch the train into work, as I will be working in town...and I get an hour and 15 mins for lunch! </p> <p>So...only a couple of weeks to go.....</p> <p>I am still working Saturday too though cleaning, and I hope to be able to stop that too. Its so much harder now I'm working full time...I only get Sunday off and I'm pooped then. However my house is tied up with the cleaning job, and if I lose one I lose the other too. So I will be homeless if I stop cleaning. I am desperately looking for another rental in the area, but with two dogs and two cats understanding landlords are hard to find.</p> <p>So there you go....and thats just work...I'll have to fill you in with the family news later as I want to start closing down the reception (even though I have half an hour to go).</p> <p>Hope you are all well....missed ya all.</p> <p>Mumzie </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/10/21/and-now-i-m-back-7216348/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>new-jobhttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/10/21/and-now-i-m-back-7216348/#commentshttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/09/24/fat-fab-and-forty-7031628/tag:mumzietales.blog.co.uk,2009-09-24:/2009/09/24/fat-fab-and-forty-7031628/Thu, 24 Sep 2009 15:19:03 +0200 <p>Firstly can I say a big thank you for all of the lovely messages I had wishing me Happy Birthday...it was lovely to log on today and get them all....</p> <p>I had a nice day, quiet, but nice. Just pottered about, went into town for an hour with hubby and Jess..then off to the pub for a meal. It was nice not to have to dash about....and now I'm 40 I will probably find dashing about even harder!</p> <p>Its strange the affect chaning from one age to another can have when there is a zero involved. I feel I have joined a whole new club...the over 40's! I do feel slightly more empowered, I am woman hear me roar! I am forty years old....and there is a certain wisdom that goes with that....</p> <p>So stand back....I'm coming through <img src="/img/smilies/graysmilewinkgrin.gif" alt=";D" class="middle" border="0"> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/09/24/fat-fab-and-forty-7031628/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>40http://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/09/24/fat-fab-and-forty-7031628/#commentshttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/09/16/bit-of-a-waste-of-time-6977969/tag:mumzietales.blog.co.uk,2009-09-16:/2009/09/16/bit-of-a-waste-of-time-6977969/Wed, 16 Sep 2009 17:37:08 +0200 <p>Saw the GP who said he would refer Jess to see someone to talk through her problems. However the waiting list is long.....</p> <p>Nothing else to suggest, he just sent us on our way. So I don't feel any further forward. </p> <p>Decided to tell my mum about it today and she went mad, told me I'm too soft on Jess who needs to be told to "toughen up and get on with it". She shouted at me for about 15 mins lecturing me on how to bring up my daughter....which makes me giggle considering how messed up I am. Don't get me wrong I'm not blaming all my problems on my parents, just some of them lol.</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/09/16/bit-of-a-waste-of-time-6977969/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>parentsgphttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/09/16/bit-of-a-waste-of-time-6977969/#commentshttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/09/15/mr-dirty-dancing-6971521/tag:mumzietales.blog.co.uk,2009-09-15:/2009/09/15/mr-dirty-dancing-6971521/Tue, 15 Sep 2009 19:57:56 +0200 <p>OMG...Patrick Swayze has died. I spent most of the late 80's madly in love with this man thanks to Dirty Dancing. Me and my best friend sat and watched the same sections of video over and over again....the start where she first meets him, the bit where baby goes to his room after they did the dancing in public thing and she spends the night, and then of course..."no one puts Baby in a corner"....</p> <p>I even went out with a guy because he looked like him...we didn't have much else in common and it didn't last long as I soon realised he couldn't dance like Patrick or be quite so damn manly!!! I was pretty shallow back then......</p> <p>But Patrick kept my hope alive that there were real men out there...who were the full package...I'm lucky to have found mine</p> <p>So RIP Mr Swayze.....x </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/09/15/mr-dirty-dancing-6971521/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>patrick-swayzehttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/09/15/mr-dirty-dancing-6971521/#commentshttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/09/13/a-bit-of-a-grey-old-day-6955017/tag:mumzietales.blog.co.uk,2009-09-13:/2009/09/13/a-bit-of-a-grey-old-day-6955017/Sun, 13 Sep 2009 15:34:37 +0200 <p>Well yesterday was just glorious, a really beautiful "glad-to-be-alive" kinda day. Today...forget it, hide the sharp instruments and cower under the duvet!</p> <p>Sundays are never a great day in our house, the shadow of what we all face on Monday overpowers most of the enjoyment to be had.<br> Me-having to go to that hateful place called work, where everyone is up their own backsides, and two faces are just not enough.<br> Hubby-another day of being eaten alive by midges and working for the landlord and his wife who speak posher than the queen and make you feel like you should tug your forlock and bow when you meet them!<br> Daughter- another day at that awful school, where Emo's and Ned's are at constant war, and the "populars" never let you forget you're not!</p> <p>I hope your Monday is going to be better than ours x </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/09/13/a-bit-of-a-grey-old-day-6955017/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>mondayblueshttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/09/13/a-bit-of-a-grey-old-day-6955017/#commentshttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/09/02/beautiful-autumn-6874832/tag:mumzietales.blog.co.uk,2009-09-02:/2009/09/02/beautiful-autumn-6874832/Wed, 02 Sep 2009 11:30:10 +0200 <p>My goodness what a ripe and beautiful day it is. Autumn always makes me think of words like, ripe, succulent, golden, amber, crunchy, crispy..oooohhh I love it. Its far nicer than spring or summer, the light takes on a golden glow that makes everything look better. The spiders webs just hang with sparkling diamonds that make you stop and catch your breath.</p> <p>Even Jessica said "Scotland looks pretty today" as we drove the bus at 7.30am (usually I can hardly get a grunt out of her at that time of day)!</p> <p>The tree's are starting to turn, and the horse chestnut tree at the end of the road is already several shades of gold and red.</p> <p>Is it me or does the air even smell sweeter?</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/09/02/beautiful-autumn-6874832/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>beautyautumnhttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/09/02/beautiful-autumn-6874832/#commentshttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/30/oh-no-it-can-t-be-6856932/tag:mumzietales.blog.co.uk,2009-08-30:/2009/08/30/oh-no-it-can-t-be-6856932/Sun, 30 Aug 2009 22:51:21 +0200 <p>Its Sunday night, almost Monday morning. Where on earth did the weekend go?! I know time seems to be gathering pace, is that because we're almost in Autumn? Is it because we're on the downhill slope to Christmas? Or is it because I'm getting older?</p> <p>Probably a bit of all of those things....</p> <p>Whatever you're doing...have a peaceful night and a beautiful morning x </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/30/oh-no-it-can-t-be-6856932/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>sundaymondayhttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/30/oh-no-it-can-t-be-6856932/#commentshttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/28/winners-and-losers-6841380/tag:mumzietales.blog.co.uk,2009-08-28:/2009/08/28/winners-and-losers-6841380/Fri, 28 Aug 2009 15:04:30 +0200 <p>Well, after dragging my sorry backside home last night I was greeted at the door by a smiling daughter and hubby. Wondering what they had broken, or lost Jess handed me a large envelope. Inside was a letter congratulating her on winning a story competition the school had entered her for. <img src="/img/smilies/icon_biggrin.gif" alt=":D" class="middle" border="0"></p> <p>After tears, hugs and much screaming, bouncing and ecstatics from my good self we sat down and it turns out there were 30,000 entries from all over the UK and a selection were picked to appear in a book that will be in ever Library in the UK! Jess was one of just two pupils from her school to be selected. Another wave, of proudness... I knew she had a talent that way when she won a poetry competition which schools all over the highlands entered. She won the Primary School entry.</p> <p>When we had calmed down slightly she went on to tell me about her Chemistry teacher. Now remember she had switched from French to Chemistry and was in her second lesson yesterday when the teacher started laying into her for no reason. When she handed Jess a book for stuff she would need to learn to catch up with the others Jess made a mock shocked face...and was shouted at by the teacher "This is a serious subject Jessica and if you don't think you can do the work you should leave now" She then asked Jess questions she had no way of knowing (bearing in mind it was only her second lesson) and basically by the end of the lesson Jess was so scared to open her mouth she couldn't wait to get out.</p> <p>Now I'm not trying to teach my grandmother to suck eggs...but surely teachers should realise that to shout at a pupil like that is not going to get them anywhere. I could understand if Jess was a bad kid..but she isn't. She is quiet and keeps her head down and gets on with it.......</p> <p>I was shaking with rage when I rang the school this morning. I'm going to speak to Jessie's guidance teacher next week.....<img src="/img/smilies/icon_censored.gif" alt=">:XX" class="middle" border="0"></p> <p> <small> <a href="http://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/28/winners-and-losers-6841380/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>winningchemistrypoetryhttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/28/winners-and-losers-6841380/#commentshttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/27/this-is-not-good-6833860/tag:mumzietales.blog.co.uk,2009-08-27:/2009/08/27/this-is-not-good-6833860/Thu, 27 Aug 2009 13:55:29 +0200 <p>Oh heck, in 40 minutes I've managed to eat two bags of crisps, one of my Marmite sandwiches and a Jaffa cake bar! I've still another three hours to go!<br> After work I'm off to the "Company Update" which means I have to sit and listen to a load of boring talk about company profits and yardy yardy ya...I've usually nodded off by then.<br> I wouldn't mind but I HAVE TO GO not only to listen to the boring talk, but also help out. I wouldn't mind but myself and my colleague are the only ones who have children. She only lives five minutes from work but after working this afternoon, then this evening I have an hours drive and a family to take care of.<br> Oh I sound moany don't I? I should be grateful for my job, but I'm not. I hate having to pretent to be interested in corporate stuff...being polite to people I can't stand....I can feel the headache developing as I type : ( </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/27/this-is-not-good-6833860/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>company-updateboringhttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/27/this-is-not-good-6833860/#commentshttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/26/badly-behaved-6826409/tag:mumzietales.blog.co.uk,2009-08-26:/2009/08/26/badly-behaved-6826409/Wed, 26 Aug 2009 15:07:26 +0200 <p>Well, we went in to see Jessie's year head. He was very good, and listened as much as he talked. He even called in Jessie's guidance teacher, a lovely lady, and we all chatted there. Jess has agreed to give Chemistry a go. I told her, at least the teacher will speak to you in English so you're on to a winner already! So she has had her last French lesson, and gone into a small chemistry class, so I'm keeping everything crossed she will enjoy it. Though I expect she’ll come home one day with no eye brows!!</p> <p>She is also doing, History, Biology, Geography and Admin as her options, the rest like Maths and English she has to do. She wants to go into the police force after leaving uni, where she hopes to study psychology.</p> <p>It’s strange, she knows where she wants her life to go, me on the other hand, I'm almost 40 and I still don't know what I want to do when I grow up!</p> <p>The year head did tell me that Jessie's year is the worst they have had in the history of the school. They were warned about pupils when they left primary school to go there...and he says their behaviour has not improved. For some reason they think it is cool to have detention, or a punishment. It’s not seen as cool to succeed. What are we doing wrong for our young people? It amazes me, it really does. I think things are getting worse, no respect for elders, for other peoples possessions or for each other.... </p> <p>God help us when this generation is ruling the country!</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/26/badly-behaved-6826409/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>chemistryfrenchyobsoptionsschoolhttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/26/badly-behaved-6826409/#commentshttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/24/how-very-21st-century-we-are-6809003/tag:mumzietales.blog.co.uk,2009-08-24:/2009/08/24/how-very-21st-century-we-are-6809003/Mon, 24 Aug 2009 13:53:26 +0200 <p>Well, after meeting Jessica's new step-grandparents at the airport when she went on hols, it was the turn of the new step mum yesterday!</p> <p>My ex and his new wife are staying at my parents house for a couple of days along with Jess who has earnt a couple of days off school while her dad is visiting. So off we went yesterday, hubby and I to meet them. I haven't seen my ex for about 3 years, and he hasn't changed that much. Put on a bit of weight, gone a little greyer and got a better tan. His wife is...beautiful. She is only 32 and never had kids (so ladies she does have the flattest of tums). She was a little quiet, but then who wouldn't be staying with your new husbands ex parents-in-law and meeting his ex wife! But we had a coffee and a chat and it was "pleasant". I did feel plain, and fat and frumpy...I doubt my whole outfit (including shoes) cost as much as her t-shirt, but then I'm a receptionist not a doctor like her. The wedding snaps were just oh so perfect, Brides magazine type. But as I watched Jess hold centre stage I thought it doesn't matter how good you look, how much money you earn...that beautiful, articulate creature there is my daughter...and you can never match that.</p> <p>xx </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/24/how-very-21st-century-we-are-6809003/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>weddingsnew-wifemeetingsbeautifulhttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/24/how-very-21st-century-we-are-6809003/#commentshttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/21/that-feels-better-6775352/tag:mumzietales.blog.co.uk,2009-08-21:/2009/08/21/that-feels-better-6775352/Fri, 21 Aug 2009 18:31:53 +0200 <p>Well, hair done...beautiful. Until I try to do it. Its a Posh Spice Pob...slightly longer at the front and shorter and shaped more at the back. My hair is very straight and very thick so its a joy to feel this light headed. Only has it ever exposed the masses of grey hairs I have. Thats not counting the Mallen Streak I have... I have one grey one and one gringer one, either side of my head. Yes I know, very strange.</p> <p>Jess has gone to mums as I have five dirty cottage to clean tomorrow so busy busy busy. Then on Sunday her father arrives with his new wife, they are staying with my mother and father as they have a huge house and we don't have the room here. Saying that I couldn't imagine sleeping under the same roof as my ex and his new wife, very weird. My parents still get on with said ex despite the awful time he put me through. But then again its all water under the bridge and at the end of the day he is Jessica's father, there is nowt I can do to change that.</p> <p>So the ex Mrs Y will meet the new Mrs Y......very interesting. She is eight years younger than me, and completely different to me in every way possible. She is a tom boy and I'm a girlie girl. She is tall and slim I am petite and round. She has no boobs and I have enough for the whole of the Highlands! She is built for speed and I am built for comfort lol!</p> <p>As long as they are happy I'm over the moon. He is a pain, and he drives me to distraction sometimes, but I'm glad he has found someone. We were together 15 yrs before the divorce, thats a long time. There were moments of shear hell, but I have the wonderful Jess to be grateful for. </p> <p>So hubby and me will have the house to ourselves tonight and until Tuesday. Egg and chips for tea me thinks...light a few candles, run a bath...and then...well...Desperate Romantics eat your heart out lol!</p> <p>May all your weekends be a naughty but nice x </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/21/that-feels-better-6775352/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>ex-hubbynaughty-but-niceweekendnew-wifenew-hubbyhttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/21/that-feels-better-6775352/#commentshttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/21/the-sun-is-shining-6773058/tag:mumzietales.blog.co.uk,2009-08-21:/2009/08/21/the-sun-is-shining-6773058/Fri, 21 Aug 2009 12:49:59 +0200 <p>Which is pretty rare up here in the frozen north. Only I have a hair appointment which will mean I will be hot and sticky and covered in those razor wire strands of hair that get everywhere! Won't be able to wait to dash home and into the shower...which will then get my new hair doo wet! Hey ho!</p> <p>I am feeling very grateful, my parents are paying for the trip to the hair dressers for me, I don't have any spare cash, and I usually get my hair cut for my birthday, but mum said I needed it now so to go early. </p> <p>I often wonder what I'd do without my parents, especially mum. We speak every day on the phone, usually two or three times a day. I would miss her so much if anything were to happen to her. I have been very fortunate with my parents, they may not be perfect, but they're mine...and I'm eternally thankful of that and tell them on a regular basis.</p> <p>Friday hugs to one and all x </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/21/the-sun-is-shining-6773058/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>haircutfridayparentshttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/21/the-sun-is-shining-6773058/#commentshttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/20/no-blog-yesterday-as-was-very-very-pissed-off-6766957/tag:mumzietales.blog.co.uk,2009-08-20:/2009/08/20/no-blog-yesterday-as-was-very-very-pissed-off-6766957/Thu, 20 Aug 2009 15:41:46 +0200 <p>Won't go into the ins and outs of it, but the head-bitch at work decided I couldn't have the time off to see my shrink as they were all going to be far too busy...but instead of taking it lying down as I would usually...I told her I was not happy about that, and she knew I had been waiting on the treatment for a year. At which point she started ranting and raving...and much arm flinging, very unprofessional.... Now if it had been a hospital appointment to see someone about a bad wrist, or some such I bet they wouldn't have said no, but as soon as I mention my depression they don't want to know. Its like a bad back, if they can't see it they don't believe it!!!</p> <p>Needless to say I was steaming! I have re-arranged the appointment, and it may mean I can't have as many sessions as I was originally planning but fingers crossed something is better than nowt.</p> <p>As for work...they can all go *@** themselves....mmmm, that feels better. Release those feelings instead of bottling them up.</p> <p>Here's to the ever so slightly more empowered me. x </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/20/no-blog-yesterday-as-was-very-very-pissed-off-6766957/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>head-bitchempoweredhttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/20/no-blog-yesterday-as-was-very-very-pissed-off-6766957/#commentshttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/19/a-cute-email-i-got-sent-6759751/tag:mumzietales.blog.co.uk,2009-08-19:/2009/08/19/a-cute-email-i-got-sent-6759751/Wed, 19 Aug 2009 15:39:10 +0200 <p>Puppy Size<br> This is one of the neatest stories you will ever hear. You will know precisely what this little girl is talking about at the end.</p> <p>'Danielle keeps repeating it over and over again. We've been back to this animal shelter at least five times. It has been weeks now since we started all of this,' the mother told the volunteer. </p> <p>'What is it she keeps asking for?' the volunteer asked.<br> 'Puppy size!' replied the mother </p> <p>'Well, we have plenty of puppies, if that's what she's looking for.' 'I know..... we have seen most of them, ' the mom said in frustration... </p> <p>Just then Danielle came walking into the office </p> <p>'Well, did you find one?' asked her mom. </p> <p>'No, not this time,' Danielle said with sadness in her voice. 'Can we come back on the weekend?' </p> <p>The two women looked at each other, shook their heads and laughed </p> <p>'You never know when we will get more dogs. Unfortunately, there's always a supply,' the volunteer said. </p> <p>Danielle took her mother by the hand and headed to the door. 'Don't worry, I'll find one this weekend,' she<br> said. </p> <p>Over the next few days both Mom and Dad had long conversations with her. They both felt she was being too particular. 'It's this weekend or we're not looking any more,' Dad finally said in frustration. </p> <p>'We don't want to hear anything more about puppy size, either,' Mom added. </p> <p>Sure enough, they were the first ones in the shelter on Saturday morning . By now Danielle knew her way around, so she ran right for the section that housed the smaller dogs. </p> <p>Tired of the routine, mom sat in the small waiting room at the end of the first row of cages. There was an observation window so you could see the animals during times when visitors weren't permitted. </p> <p>Danielle walked slowly from cage to cage, kneeling periodically to take a closer look. One by one the dogs were brought out and she held each one.<br> One by one she said, 'Sorry, but you're not the one.' </p> <p>It was the last cage on this last day in search of the perfect pup. The volunteer opened the cage door and the child carefully picked up the dog and held it closely. This time she took a little longer. </p> <p>'Mom, that's it! I found the right puppy! He's the one! I know it!' She screamed with joy. 'It's the puppy size!' </p> <p>'But it's the same size as all the other puppies you held over the last few weeks,' Mom said. </p> <p>'No not size... The sighs. When I held him in my arms, he sighed,' she said.<br> 'Don't you remember? When I asked you one day what love is, you told me love depends on the sighs of your heart. The more you love, the bigger the sigh!' </p> <p>The two women looked at each other for a moment. Mom didn't know whether to laugh or cry. As she stooped down to hug the child, she did a little of both. </p> <p>'Mom, every time you hold me, I sigh. When you and Daddy come home from work and hug each other, you both sigh. I knew I would find the right puppy if it sighed when I held it in my arms,' she said. Then, holding the puppy up close to her face, she said, 'Mom, he loves me. I heard the sighs of his heart!' </p> <p>Close your eyes for a moment and think about the love that<br> makes you sigh. I not only find it in the arms of my loved ones, but in the caress of a sunset, the kiss of the moonlight and the gentle brush of cool air on a hot day. They are the sighs of God. Take the time to stop and listen; you will be surprised at what you hear. 'Life is not measured by the breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.'</p> <p>I hope your life is filled with Sighs!!!</p> <p>Appreciate every single thing you have, especially your friends! Life is too short and friends are too few. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/19/a-cute-email-i-got-sent-6759751/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>puppy-sizelovehttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/19/a-cute-email-i-got-sent-6759751/#commentshttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/18/and-breathe-6750342/tag:mumzietales.blog.co.uk,2009-08-18:/2009/08/18/and-breathe-6750342/Tue, 18 Aug 2009 10:26:02 +0200 <p>Well that’s it, back to school. It was a fun drive into work to see all the children clustered round exchanging holiday news in their sparkly new uniforms, new shoes and new bags. You could tell the new ones, stood slightly back looking like a startled rabbit caught in the headlights.</p> <p>Jess went off OK, better than OK actually so I'm keeping fingers crossed the routine will help.</p> <p>However found out from her pompous head of year that she cannot do art as she wishes but could do chemistry or home ec. Now do either of those sound remotely like art? No! They told her she couldn't do RE or music either....honestly I give up with that place. Why do they offer classes then take them away?</p> <p>Secondary education in this country is a complete joke. Unless you can go private you might as well forget it.....Yet in junior school her teachers were bursting with enthusiasm and bubbly and bright, poles apart from the rather drab excuses for teachers that take her now. After meeting them all the only one who isn't like that is her maths teacher who is young and full of idea's. Thank God.</p> <p>I'm not knocking teachers I know how hard it is for them, but they seem to make it hard for themselves too. Jess said her teachers don't want to interact, they just spout information at you with monotone voices. </p> <p>Oh dear shall I get off my soap box now?!</p> <p>x </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/18/and-breathe-6750342/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>teachersback-to-schoolhttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/18/and-breathe-6750342/#commentshttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/14/thank-crunchie-its-friday-6721583/tag:mumzietales.blog.co.uk,2009-08-14:/2009/08/14/thank-crunchie-its-friday-6721583/Fri, 14 Aug 2009 11:02:13 +0200 <p>This one seems to have taken its time getting here. Phew, at last though, its Friday. This time last week I was in Stratford Upon Avon and enjoying the sunshine....today I'm sat here in my jimmy jams with a pile of washing to do and the rain is lashing against the windows. </p> <p>The cats are sheltering in the garage not wanting to cross the yard to come in, the dogs are sighing heavily as they can't go out, Jess is snoring loudly in bed and I...well I am thinking is it time for lunch yet?!</p> <p>Off to the GP today for some cognitive therapy, not been before but I've heard good things about it. Have to go to work afterwards, but hey, at least the process can begin. </p> <p>So heres to a fun Friday for everyone, though its times like this I wish I was five again, in bright wellies, plastic mac and big clear umberella and holding my mums hand could go splashing through every puddle I saw. Isn't it funny that when you're a child you can still find fun in rainy days? What a pity we lose that.</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/14/thank-crunchie-its-friday-6721583/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>rainy-daycognitive-therapypuddleshttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/14/thank-crunchie-its-friday-6721583/#commentshttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/13/reading-6716455/tag:mumzietales.blog.co.uk,2009-08-13:/2009/08/13/reading-6716455/Thu, 13 Aug 2009 14:54:37 +0200 <p>While I was off down in Banbury, I read a couple of books. I hadn't read anything for years! How shocking!</p> <p>I read Reading Group by Elizabth Noble which I bought for £2 in a charity shop. I devoured it in a matter of days. Its delicious, the story of a group of women bought together in a reading group and how their lives develope over a year. Though it does also review 12 books, one each month which I thought was a great idea. I felt quite upset when the book ended as I felt the loss of the relationship I set up with the group of characters.</p> <p>Then I read Dead Until Dark by Charlaine Harris. A funny vampire book, which I picked up as it was on special offer in Tesco, and also its just been made into a series on tv. It was a great murder mystery, but it also had some quite raunchy bits too! I got so into the story, and characters I read it in just a couple of days. I loved it. There are many more books in the series so I can't wait to get the next one.</p> <p>I can honestly say I loved reading again...but its finding the time, and space...but if you're looking for a couple of good reads try them out..... </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/13/reading-6716455/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>the-reading-groupdead-until-darkhttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/13/reading-6716455/#commentshttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/13/chaos-in-the-house-6715121/tag:mumzietales.blog.co.uk,2009-08-13:/2009/08/13/chaos-in-the-house-6715121/Thu, 13 Aug 2009 10:54:18 +0200 <p>A sleepover was had at ours last night. I wouldn't mind but one of the children that stayed it total and utter pain. Its the same one who played up at the 14th birthday bash. I have tried to like her, tried my hardest but I just can't do it. </p> <p>The house looks like we had 20 kids staying not 2! Despite this and the huge looming black cloud of my debt I am feeling a little lighter today, though I have no idea why! </p> <p>So heres wishing one and all a cheery Thursday and a sparkly day to boot...x </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/13/chaos-in-the-house-6715121/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>cheerysleepoverhttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/13/chaos-in-the-house-6715121/#commentshttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/12/ground-open-up-and-swallow-me-please-6708450/tag:mumzietales.blog.co.uk,2009-08-12:/2009/08/12/ground-open-up-and-swallow-me-please-6708450/Wed, 12 Aug 2009 14:53:55 +0200 <p>Well, into town goes I and Jess. Firstly to see the dentist who couldn't remember saying he was going to refer Jess to have a brace fitted. After basically calling me a liar I insisted he see her again, and when he did he apologised and confirmed that yes she did need a brace! Why oh why would I have made it up in the first place?! If it wasn't for the fact Jess gets treated on the NHS at that practice I'd move her!</p> <p>Then into town for some serious school uniform shopping. Find a top and a trousers in Quiz, great thinks I. Pay up and then off to New Look...we find the perfect jacket, off to the tills again...and my card is declined. I can feel the blush start. I make my excuses and leave minus the jacket. When I get to the cash machine my hands are shaking. To my horror I am totally over my over draft (more bank charges) and it will not let me have any more money.</p> <p>Luckily I have £15 to buy dinner tonight as Jess is having two friends over for a sleep over. But I have no money to pay the council tax on Friday, and no way of getting any. I can feel the clammy panic rising in me as I think of all this. The holiday to England cost so much in fuel and that was my undoing. A transaction for petrol took four days to come through and I had forgotten about it. </p> <p>So I'm sat here now feeling a total and utter waste of space. I can't keep my head above water no matter how hard I try. The thoughts of moving seem further away than ever. </p> <p>I can't even be bothered to pretend to be happy or coping.....</p> <p>I know I'm not the only person who is struggling for money, but even that thought doesn't offer any sort of comfort. Inside my own mess of a head I feel a failure....the slightest incline looks like a mountain...and I don't have the energy to deal with it.</p> <p>Sorry peeps, a very down and grumpy Mumzie today.... : ( </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/12/ground-open-up-and-swallow-me-please-6708450/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>downdeclined-cardmiserablehttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/12/ground-open-up-and-swallow-me-please-6708450/#commentshttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/11/brolly-or-not-6699438/tag:mumzietales.blog.co.uk,2009-08-11:/2009/08/11/brolly-or-not-6699438/Tue, 11 Aug 2009 15:40:53 +0200 <p>What is with this damn weather? I get up to blue sky, then the heavens open and the wind whips up to the point I wouldn't be surprised to see the Ark floating away down the road!<br> Now at work the sun is shining and its boiling. I don't think I will need my daughters Pooh bear brolly now, but if I hadn't bought it I'd have been drowned on the way to the office from the car park!<br> In "one of those moods" today, I want to move but the task is so vast I don't know where to start. I need a job, but living 600 miles away doesn't make interviewing very easy. I need a house but a job is needed first to get the money to pay the rent. I need to move our house, but where to without a house? Oh dizzy me!<br> So I find myself unable to think straight at work, and have spent most of the day on-line doing very little. I will need at least a week to get myself sorted I think. Post holiday blues, and the feeling of being trapped...I hate that don't you? I am trapped in a pattern of life I can't get away from my own personal "groundhog day". </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/11/brolly-or-not-6699438/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>groundhog-dayworktrappedhttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/11/brolly-or-not-6699438/#commentshttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/10/home-sweet-home-6691701/tag:mumzietales.blog.co.uk,2009-08-10:/2009/08/10/home-sweet-home-6691701/Mon, 10 Aug 2009 14:38:48 +0200 <p>Well, what a nightmare of a journey home. On top of which when we got home the midges were out to get us! But after a fitful nights sleep I've found myself at work, with the look of one slightly confused!</p> <p>I amazed myself at remembering my password after two weeks leave! I'm surprised I could find my way here after the damage I must have done to my brain cells after so much drink last week. </p> <p>We have come to a very important decision though, we are moving. Scotland is beautiful, but we live so far from everywhere, and the joy of having everything to hand in Banbury is just too much to resist any longer.</p> <p>So I am now going to spend every free moment going through employment websites and estate agents as we try to arrange a new life from about 600 miles away!</p> <p>I hope to read everyones posts in between time...lots to catch up on x </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/10/home-sweet-home-6691701/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>holidaysmovingconfusionhttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/10/home-sweet-home-6691701/#commentshttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/06/five-minutes-6663963/tag:mumzietales.blog.co.uk,2009-08-06:/2009/08/06/five-minutes-6663963/Thu, 06 Aug 2009 14:27:19 +0200 <p>On a library computer with just five minutes to go....so just a quickie.<br> Weather in Banbury is crap...and its been bloody gorgeous at home.<br> Jess rang up first day of hols to explain how she had burnt to a crisp from head to toe, needless to say I was one unhappy mummy!<br> Several homesick phonecalls later she finally settled in around day three.<br> Shes flying home now but I won't get to see her till Saturday as shes staying with her grandmother for a couple of days.<br> Ex hubby is going to get the biggest flea in his ear when I get hold of him!<br> Off to the pub tonight to have a final grown up drinky-poo. I have never spent so much time in pubs as I have this past week! Blissful!<br> Well haven't time to check in with you all as now got just three mins...but when I get home on Sunday I can't wait to see what you've all been up to.<br> Tatty-bye x </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/06/five-minutes-6663963/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>expubdrinky-pooshttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/08/06/five-minutes-6663963/#commentshttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/07/26/where-has-the-time-gone-6591228/tag:mumzietales.blog.co.uk,2009-07-26:/2009/07/26/where-has-the-time-gone-6591228/Sun, 26 Jul 2009 13:19:21 +0200 <p>I haven't been on much the last few days, my employers decided to work me harder in five days than they have in two years!</p> <p>Now I am frantically throwing things in suitcases..panic finally setting in. I managed to get to church first thing, which was lovely as they had a preacher from Canada who had the most restful voice, it was nice to settle into the peace and harmony if only for a short while. Now my world is full of the sound of the washing machine and the steam iron as I run from room to room with arms full of clothing. </p> <p>The animals know something is afoot, and P-cat has decided enough is enough and has taken himself off out. Molly too is fed up of not finding anywhere to lay herself down...but the dogs are sat under the kitchen table looking out with sad dolful eyes. Tomorrow we will leave them for two weeks, and they know full well whats going on. Thankfully mum and dad will take good care of them (and our house) while we're gone....but I can't explain that to them.</p> <p>Wish me luck as we journey from the Highlands down to Banbury....spend two weeks with the monster in law and somehow manage to get back without her! I can hear her packing now.....but after she came up with us the last time and stayed three months and started me on the road to my nervous breakdown, she'll be coming back up over my cold, dead body!!!!!</p> <p>Take care peeps and see you in two weeks. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/07/26/where-has-the-time-gone-6591228/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>animalsholsmonster-in-lawhttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/07/26/where-has-the-time-gone-6591228/#commentshttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/07/23/you-know-you-re-day-is-going-to-be-shite-when-6571345/tag:mumzietales.blog.co.uk,2009-07-23:/2009/07/23/you-know-you-re-day-is-going-to-be-shite-when-6571345/Thu, 23 Jul 2009 09:31:37 +0200 <p>you've had to pick up dog poo and mop up pee from your beige carpet before breakfast!</p> <p>I was doing so well being positive for a change, then this...it wouldn't have been quite to bad if:</p> <p>1. I hadn't walked through the pee in bare feet<br> 2. My mother wasn't coming today<br> 3. I have to work afternoons and have shet loads to do this morning</p> <p>Ah....I feel a large black cloud gathering over head as I type....</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/07/23/you-know-you-re-day-is-going-to-be-shite-when-6571345/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>damn-dogpeebad-daypoohttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/07/23/you-know-you-re-day-is-going-to-be-shite-when-6571345/#commentshttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/07/17/six-minutes-6532373/tag:mumzietales.blog.co.uk,2009-07-17:/2009/07/17/six-minutes-6532373/Fri, 17 Jul 2009 11:56:15 +0200 <p>...till I have to leave for work and I'm running round half dressed dripping toothpaste all over the carpet while preparing lunch for Jess.....</p> <p>And still find time to sit here and type too....multitasking at its best.</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/07/17/six-minutes-6532373/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>multitaskinghttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/07/17/six-minutes-6532373/#commentshttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/07/16/another-day-in-the-world-of-mumzie-6527108/tag:mumzietales.blog.co.uk,2009-07-16:/2009/07/16/another-day-in-the-world-of-mumzie-6527108/Thu, 16 Jul 2009 15:07:56 +0200 <p>Things seem to be gathering pace...though towards what I have no idea! It must be Jessica's holiday....list's have been made.... shopping time laid by....money put to one side...painkillers stowed away in handbag.</p> <p>I am in a constant state of nervous excitement and dread. I feel I want to slow the days up so that I can put off the inevitable parting that I must go through with Jess, and even sat here in the sterile environment of my reception at work I can feel the sting of tears.</p> <p>While Jess is away I will be at my monster-in-laws so I will have no internet access, so I can't even come here for some comforting words of support. </p> <p>Who would be a mother?!</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/07/16/another-day-in-the-world-of-mumzie-6527108/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>motherhoodhttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/07/16/another-day-in-the-world-of-mumzie-6527108/#commentshttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/07/15/jabs-6518942/tag:mumzietales.blog.co.uk,2009-07-15:/2009/07/15/jabs-6518942/Wed, 15 Jul 2009 14:46:55 +0200 <p>Well, off I went with a rather pasty faced teenager to see the doctor. Despite my ex husband informing me I was being "neurotic" it turned out Jess did need a jab, for Hep A. Luckily I hadn't left it too late, and she had it this morning.</p> <p>Needless to say no tamiflu, the doctor said despite Jess having asthma she would be OK. Mmmm, wonder if she'd say that if it were her daughter.</p> <p>As for my other worries when my daughter is on hols with her father how can I raise them now, especially in light of the "neurotic" statement?! I did mention to him that it wasn't called that if you were a mother, its called "caring"!!!!</p> <p>Men, well ex husbands to be exact!!!!</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/07/15/jabs-6518942/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>jabstravelex-husbandshttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/07/15/jabs-6518942/#commentshttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/07/13/rush-rush-rush-6503717/tag:mumzietales.blog.co.uk,2009-07-13:/2009/07/13/rush-rush-rush-6503717/Mon, 13 Jul 2009 12:04:36 +0200 <p>Monday and is just full of rushing about...here there and just about bloody everywhere!</p> <p>Hubby is home poorly, daughter is sound asleep as all good teenagers should be at lunch time...and I am sat here thinking I've been up since 9 and surely should be further forward thant this! I now have an hour to get ready to leave for work...then three hours at work...to spend an hour driving home all for just £14! The other ten I earn will go on petrol to get me there. God I hate Mondays.</p> <p>Lol...at least I have a job, as poopy as it is I'm working and earning....I've decided this week to look for the "silver lining"...and that was my one for the day!</p> <p>Hope you all have a spiffing Monday....</p> <p>Mumzie x </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/07/13/rush-rush-rush-6503717/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>workmondayhttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/07/13/rush-rush-rush-6503717/#commentshttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/07/11/the-me-i-used-to-be-6491072/tag:mumzietales.blog.co.uk,2009-07-11:/2009/07/11/the-me-i-used-to-be-6491072/Sat, 11 Jul 2009 15:07:00 +0200 <p>How strange? I have just read a very articulate and interesting blog...that I could have written myself just 8 or 9 years ago. It was like reading an old diary, but it was written by a woman I have never met, never known.</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/07/11/the-me-i-used-to-be-6491072/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>bloghttp://MumzieTales.blog.co.uk/2009/07/11/the-me-i-used-to-be-6491072/#comments