Yesterday was a strange day. Rosie announced at the breakfast table that she woke up in the middle of the night to see her bed shaking. She couldn't decide whether it had happened or whether it was a dream. I reassured her by saying that of course it was a dream. Graham then appeared saying he had just heard on the radio that there had been an earthquake Apparently it measured 5.2 on the richter scale, being the biggest one in England since 1984. We slept through the whole thing which lasted 10 seconds apparently.
Harry forgot his games gear so I quickly popped into the office before going home to collect it and take it to school before driving to Ampthill for ' Safeguarding Children' training. Driving to work I saw the person who I have mentioned previously who has turned back to alcohol and is now homeless. She was walking along the road with her partner. They both were carrying large plastic bags and her partner looked like he was carrying a couple of sleeping bags. I felt very sad. On the way home I then witnessed an accident. A car crashed into a man on his bike and he was lying on the ground in the middle of the road. I was stuck in a traffic jam but strangely enough stopped outside the surgery on Pemberley Avenue. There were lots of people around so I knew somebody would have phoned for an ambulance. Anyway I jumped out of the car and ran into the surgery and ran up to the reception to the front of the queue and asked if a Dr could go to the accident scene. A receptionist said that someone would so I got back into my car. I then saw a Dr saunter out of the surgery, not exactly running but walking towards the man on the ground. The traffic still wasn't moving so I turned round and went another way home but still had to pass the top of the road where the man was lying inert on the ground. As I drove past I became upset as I concluded that he was either dead or the people who were stood around staring at him were completely heartless as the poor man was lying there on his own. There was nobody on the ground with him holding his hand or reassuring him.
I dropped Harry's bag off at school and then drove to Ampthill. I spoke to a friend on the phone for most of the journey, particularly as I felt I needed to off load about what I had seen. She also knows the homeless woman.
I was late to get to the training and had to walk into a room full of people. The training was excellent despite not being able to concentrate on it for the first part of the day. On the way home I spoke to my Mum who had woken up in a shaking bed due to the earthquake. She was so scared but knew it was an earthquake so was able to get back to sleep quickly.
Graham was back early but didn't want to go to Cell group as he had to get up at 4am to catch a flight to Brussels. I went along and I was the only person that turned up (they knew I was going)! The three of us had a good time though and talked about God's grace and Paul's recent awesome sermons. We prayed for some time and I was glad that I went.
Today has been a great day. I went swimming and swam a mile first thing and then had a coffee with a friend. I then went to Cornerstone and made Mother's Day cards and finished my pin cushion mouse at the craft table. It was good to talk to some of the clients which is easier to do when sat at the craft table.
I then went to a friend's for lunch. I haven't seen her for ages so it was good to catch up with her. Two of her children are in the same classes as Charlie and Harry and are good friends. It was also useful to compare notes about them and the school. She made some fantastic brocolli and stilton soup for lunch. By the time I arrived home it was too late to start any housework so I just sorted out the washing and checked my emails before setting out to watch Rosie in her first cross country run. I arrived at Newnham school where schools from all over Bedfordshire were taking part. It was great to see 3 mothers of children that were at toddler group and playgroup with Rosie. We were all so pleased to see each other. Rosie and one little boy were Mary and Joseph in the playgroup nativity when they were 3 years old. Rosie was also racing against her old best friend from Lower School and hadn't seen each other since last year as they are now at different schools Rosie did really well in the girls race and came 36 out of 128. Her school won the competition and all the girls who took part received a medal and had their photo taken. I felt very proud of her.
Harry had had a bad day at school, mainly because he was told he needed his hair cutting by the head of year. His hair is quite long now as he likes to think he is a bit of a hippy. I'm now not looking forward to the weekend as there will be much misery when he has it cut. It is also his birthday party on Saturday so he feels the day will be ruined by a haircut. Charlie has had a good day at school and has been picked to play football on Saturday.
Friday 29 February 2008
Wednesday 27 February 2008
Tuesday 26th February 2008
I was so determined to be positive today and to shine for Jesus today. The day was beautiful to begin with and so warm and sunny. I thought of the scripture 'This is the day the Lord has made and be glad and rejoice in it' (Psalm 118:24) as I was pulling into the car park and all was well with the world. Then out of the corner of my eye I saw the homeless couple again curled up asleep in a door way covered by a sleeping bag. I wanted to speak to them again but didn't want to wake them up so I walked to my office.
My first visit had cancelled as she wanted me to visit when her partner could be present which is next week. It was just as well really as I was very busy. I was on the way back to my office in the afternoon when I received a phone call from a colleague who had just seen one of my clients in her clinic. There are major child protection concerns which meant I had to make a phone call to social services and was late to collect Harry from school. We then went to collect Rosie who was late back from seeing Hamlet at the Derngate theatre in Northampton. Graham appeared after flying back from Prague so he was able to take Rosie to her swimming lesson which meant I could get on with some ironing. I have just changed the bedclothes in Rosie's bedroom and have finally sat down. I'm thinking about tomorrow and deciding whether I should go on my prearranged 'safeguarding children' training or stay in the office as I will be expected to attend a CP conference if one is arranged. I have just finished reading 'Whatever happened to the Ark of the Covenant' by Nick Page which was very well written, informative and very amusing too. Just found his website:http://www.nickpage.co.uk/
Well I'm off to bed to read
My first visit had cancelled as she wanted me to visit when her partner could be present which is next week. It was just as well really as I was very busy. I was on the way back to my office in the afternoon when I received a phone call from a colleague who had just seen one of my clients in her clinic. There are major child protection concerns which meant I had to make a phone call to social services and was late to collect Harry from school. We then went to collect Rosie who was late back from seeing Hamlet at the Derngate theatre in Northampton. Graham appeared after flying back from Prague so he was able to take Rosie to her swimming lesson which meant I could get on with some ironing. I have just changed the bedclothes in Rosie's bedroom and have finally sat down. I'm thinking about tomorrow and deciding whether I should go on my prearranged 'safeguarding children' training or stay in the office as I will be expected to attend a CP conference if one is arranged. I have just finished reading 'Whatever happened to the Ark of the Covenant' by Nick Page which was very well written, informative and very amusing too. Just found his website:http://www.nickpage.co.uk/
Well I'm off to bed to read
Tuesday 26 February 2008
Monday 25th February 2008
Yesterday was great. I took Rosie to her first netball match. I was absolutely mesmerised by the whole thing. I have never seen so many girls at any one time. It was a huge tournament with teams from all over Bedfordshire taking part. Rosie's team lost all the five matches they played but she still enjoyed it. I had to go and collect Harry from church after the first match. I can't believe we have added something else to our Sundays! Charlie also lost his rugby match but wasn't bothered by it. Graham was on the door at church so we went early. The service was amazing again with another excellent sermon on Grace from Paul. We can now download the sermons so we must work out how to do that.
After church we went round to a friend's to give her her birthday present. We stayed for a drink and then came home. A lot of rushing around ironing and getting things ready for school and work followed and I just had enough time to sit down and watch Lark Rise. Yet another good episode. I think it must be the last one next week. What will I do with my Sunday evenings then!
Monday
Went to the gym after the school run. Did 50 mins of aerobic activity and felt good afterwards. I am feeling fat today though and don't appear to have lost much weight since Christmas! I had coffee with two women one whom I know from the gym and another from the village. I then went home and read some more of Exodus and did some housework before driving to The Horse and Jockey to meet a friend for lunch. Graham keeps teasing me about all the socialising I am doing at the moment and meeting up with friends for lunch! It is no wonder I'm not losing weight.
After lunch I went to Tesco and then met Rosie from school. The boys walked home. Tonight has been the usual Monday night activities. I'm off to bed soon so I can read. Work tomorrow.
After church we went round to a friend's to give her her birthday present. We stayed for a drink and then came home. A lot of rushing around ironing and getting things ready for school and work followed and I just had enough time to sit down and watch Lark Rise. Yet another good episode. I think it must be the last one next week. What will I do with my Sunday evenings then!
Monday
Went to the gym after the school run. Did 50 mins of aerobic activity and felt good afterwards. I am feeling fat today though and don't appear to have lost much weight since Christmas! I had coffee with two women one whom I know from the gym and another from the village. I then went home and read some more of Exodus and did some housework before driving to The Horse and Jockey to meet a friend for lunch. Graham keeps teasing me about all the socialising I am doing at the moment and meeting up with friends for lunch! It is no wonder I'm not losing weight.
After lunch I went to Tesco and then met Rosie from school. The boys walked home. Tonight has been the usual Monday night activities. I'm off to bed soon so I can read. Work tomorrow.
Sunday 24 February 2008
Saturday 23rd Feb 2008
Can't believe how quickly today has gone. Took Charlie to football. He was playing in the B team against Bishops Stortford. They won so he was really pleased. He then went into town with his friends. We took Harry to the music centre to buy him a new guitar for his birthday next week. We bought him an electro acoustic Washburn. It was expensive but we feel money worth spent as he plays the guitar so much and is not into playstations or electronic games at all. He was grinning from ear to ear and made everybody lunch when we came home including Rosie's two friends.
I then took Harry to his friend's from school who lives about twenty minutes away. Rosie and her friends were collected by a friend's mother who took them to the cinema to watch Alvin and the Chipmunks. I then went back into town and to John Medhurst's to buy a friend a nice present for her 5oth! Can't believe she is 50. I bought her a silver chain with an unusual pendant. I also saw the Pandora bracelets which are lovely. They are inexpensive ( well the silver ones are) and the charms vary in price. As it is Mother's Day next week I may drop some hints! I don't have much jewellery at all. My wedding ring and engagement ring are my most precious and valuable which I wear always.
We had invited friends round tonight but they couldn't make it. It is nice to have an evening in. Graham and Charlie are now watching France versus England rugby on the television. I am going to do a spot of ironing then sit down with a glass of Spier sauvignon blanc. I may pick up my knitting if I have time.
I then took Harry to his friend's from school who lives about twenty minutes away. Rosie and her friends were collected by a friend's mother who took them to the cinema to watch Alvin and the Chipmunks. I then went back into town and to John Medhurst's to buy a friend a nice present for her 5oth! Can't believe she is 50. I bought her a silver chain with an unusual pendant. I also saw the Pandora bracelets which are lovely. They are inexpensive ( well the silver ones are) and the charms vary in price. As it is Mother's Day next week I may drop some hints! I don't have much jewellery at all. My wedding ring and engagement ring are my most precious and valuable which I wear always.
We had invited friends round tonight but they couldn't make it. It is nice to have an evening in. Graham and Charlie are now watching France versus England rugby on the television. I am going to do a spot of ironing then sit down with a glass of Spier sauvignon blanc. I may pick up my knitting if I have time.
Pandora silver chain with merano glass and silver charmsSaturday 23 February 2008
Friday 22nd February 2008
I feel totally chilled after such a relaxing day. Graham took the day off work and we met up with friends. We had such a laugh together. We swam and drunk coffee and ate a fantastic lunch together- all healthy stuff as it was a health farm we were at. Graham had a massage and did a spinning class. He feels so less stressed which is great.
Rosie has a friend here for a sleep over, Harry has just returned from church and Charlie is still there and will be brought home later by his friend's mother.
Today I am thankful to God for the following:
My health- how I appreciate being able to swim and exercise. My foot is on the mend, although I still can't walk on it properly.
My husband and children and family- I am so looking forward to spending the weekend with them
My friends- I love spending time with different friends. The friends we were with today we have known for years. We first met at our old church in Cambridge when we were expecting our first children. They live about a 45 minute drive away from us now but we still keep in touch and are going to Center Parcs with them over the Easter break.
My bible notes for today are about building strong characters and relying upon God's word and not the wisdom of the world. How true is that! Almost finished Genesis. I never tire of creation. Reading about the creation of this beautiful world and Noah's story got me thinking tonight about how much I appreciate the beauty of creation, and particularly mountains and lakes. We still haven't booked our holiday this year. We have been to the same part of Switzerland for the past 18 years as we love the scenery and walking in it so much. However we are thinking of doing something different this year, but can't decide. There is so much of our beautiful country to see and I feel the children are growing up without visiting some of our country's finest places.
Rosie has a friend here for a sleep over, Harry has just returned from church and Charlie is still there and will be brought home later by his friend's mother.
Today I am thankful to God for the following:
My health- how I appreciate being able to swim and exercise. My foot is on the mend, although I still can't walk on it properly.
My husband and children and family- I am so looking forward to spending the weekend with them
My friends- I love spending time with different friends. The friends we were with today we have known for years. We first met at our old church in Cambridge when we were expecting our first children. They live about a 45 minute drive away from us now but we still keep in touch and are going to Center Parcs with them over the Easter break.
My bible notes for today are about building strong characters and relying upon God's word and not the wisdom of the world. How true is that! Almost finished Genesis. I never tire of creation. Reading about the creation of this beautiful world and Noah's story got me thinking tonight about how much I appreciate the beauty of creation, and particularly mountains and lakes. We still haven't booked our holiday this year. We have been to the same part of Switzerland for the past 18 years as we love the scenery and walking in it so much. However we are thinking of doing something different this year, but can't decide. There is so much of our beautiful country to see and I feel the children are growing up without visiting some of our country's finest places.
Lovely InterlakenFriday 22 February 2008
Thursday 21st February 2008
A much better day today although I woke in pain from my foot. I noticed signs of infection around the toe which had spread from the cut so I made an appointment to see the nurse practitioner at the surgery. I went swimming beforehand and managed a mile. The nurse practitioner turned out to be one of my clients who was a participant in my research project. It was nice to see her. Anyway she confirmed my foot was infected and prescribed some antibiotics for me.
I then went to the drop in centre. The two girls who were doing the life shapers course have dropped out which is very sad as they were making such good progress.
I then went to meet a friend for lunch at The Park. It was good to catch up with her. Back at home I phoned my Mum who seems well and didn't have any time for housework (shame) before collecting the children.
Once back at home I struggled to give the children something to eat before having to leave early to drop Harry and Rosie off at friends before taking Charlie up to school for parents evening. I was really cross with Graham although it wasn't his fault but his flight back from Paris was delayed so he missed the whole thing! He was really upset as well. Anyway it was Charlie's best parents evening ever and a complete surprise as I was expecting the worst following his awful report before Christmas. It appears that he has started to work hard and take part in lessons which has resulted in some really good grades. I felt very proud of him and most importantly he was really pleased with himself.
Graham is off work tomorrow so we are meeting our friends at Henlow Grange where they are members. So it should be a good day.
I then went to the drop in centre. The two girls who were doing the life shapers course have dropped out which is very sad as they were making such good progress.
I then went to meet a friend for lunch at The Park. It was good to catch up with her. Back at home I phoned my Mum who seems well and didn't have any time for housework (shame) before collecting the children.
Once back at home I struggled to give the children something to eat before having to leave early to drop Harry and Rosie off at friends before taking Charlie up to school for parents evening. I was really cross with Graham although it wasn't his fault but his flight back from Paris was delayed so he missed the whole thing! He was really upset as well. Anyway it was Charlie's best parents evening ever and a complete surprise as I was expecting the worst following his awful report before Christmas. It appears that he has started to work hard and take part in lessons which has resulted in some really good grades. I felt very proud of him and most importantly he was really pleased with himself.
Graham is off work tomorrow so we are meeting our friends at Henlow Grange where they are members. So it should be a good day.
Thursday 21 February 2008
Wednesday 20th February 2008
Have had a couple of busy days at work. I felt really low yesterday and so tired. I went to bed at 9pm and read but was asleep by 10pm. My foot is very painful from where I trod on something sharp last week which ripped through my sock and caused it to bleed. I don't know what I stood on, but I have have had a good look at my foot and can't see anything stuck in it. Nevertheless it is very sore and I am having problems walking on it. Work is stressful again. I don't know whether it is because I had a week off last week and I'm catching up with stuff or the demands of the caseload are getting to me again. A family I have supported for some time may go to child protection as the situation has deteriorated. I also have to visit a same sex partnership next week who have just had a baby. I pray that God will give me the grace to cope with a situation I do not condone.
Today I found out we may be moving office again! I can't believe it. I am going to try to forget about work until next week.
Anyway I have finished work for the week and am looking forward to the drop in centre tomorrow. One of my colleagues is going to call in to see what we do with a view to referring a client. She told me today she was a Christian which was great to hear and very encouraging. I told her about our early morning prayer meetings. She is also in work early so would love to join us. After work Rosie and I popped round to our neighbours who have just had a baby with a card and present. He is gorgeous.
I looked at the house on Monday-definitely not for us.
Today I found out we may be moving office again! I can't believe it. I am going to try to forget about work until next week.
Anyway I have finished work for the week and am looking forward to the drop in centre tomorrow. One of my colleagues is going to call in to see what we do with a view to referring a client. She told me today she was a Christian which was great to hear and very encouraging. I told her about our early morning prayer meetings. She is also in work early so would love to join us. After work Rosie and I popped round to our neighbours who have just had a baby with a card and present. He is gorgeous.
I looked at the house on Monday-definitely not for us.
Monday 18 February 2008
Monday 18th February 2008
The children have gone back to school today and I'm back at work tomorrow. We've had a great weekend. The boys went to Kings Lynn to evangelise and to launch a new church which is part of New Frontiers. Graham and I took Rosie and her friend swimming and we swam a mile whilst they played.
Saturday evening I went to a friend's for dinner. She had hosted a testimony evening and had invited somebody who I work with and who also lives in the village where my friend works as a Pharmacist to give her testimony. There were ten women including a couple of non Christians. The testimony was very powerful and impacted us all. God is the God of miracles and it never ceases to amaze me how He can transform a person's life for the good.
Yesterday we had a lazy morning as Harry didn't have to play in church. After lunch we walked for 1 hour around the village and looked again at that house for sale. Still unsure about it but to decide one way or the other I am going to view it this afternoon. Church was brilliant. Paul preached on grace again. He is such an anointed man. The sermon ended with us listening to the following song by The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir:
http://video.google.co.uk/videoplay?docid=-1709490819750611989&q=this+is+how+it+feels+to+be+free&total=1360&start=0&num=10&so=0&type=search&plindex=0
Woke up early after sleeping fitfully. I seemed to be awake on and off from 3am onwards. It was soooo cold this morning( -5 degrees) but it is the first morning I haven't switched the lights on. It is definitely getting lighter. I dropped the children at school but felt too cold to go to the gym so I went straight to Sainsbury's instead. I will cycle round the village later today so will get some exercise along with doing the housework which I will start after I have written this. I am sat overlooking my lovely garden writing this. The sun is shining and the layer of frost on the grass is gently melting and receding from the rays of the sun.
Saturday evening I went to a friend's for dinner. She had hosted a testimony evening and had invited somebody who I work with and who also lives in the village where my friend works as a Pharmacist to give her testimony. There were ten women including a couple of non Christians. The testimony was very powerful and impacted us all. God is the God of miracles and it never ceases to amaze me how He can transform a person's life for the good.
Yesterday we had a lazy morning as Harry didn't have to play in church. After lunch we walked for 1 hour around the village and looked again at that house for sale. Still unsure about it but to decide one way or the other I am going to view it this afternoon. Church was brilliant. Paul preached on grace again. He is such an anointed man. The sermon ended with us listening to the following song by The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir:
http://video.google.co.uk/videoplay?docid=-1709490819750611989&q=this+is+how+it+feels+to+be+free&total=1360&start=0&num=10&so=0&type=search&plindex=0
Woke up early after sleeping fitfully. I seemed to be awake on and off from 3am onwards. It was soooo cold this morning( -5 degrees) but it is the first morning I haven't switched the lights on. It is definitely getting lighter. I dropped the children at school but felt too cold to go to the gym so I went straight to Sainsbury's instead. I will cycle round the village later today so will get some exercise along with doing the housework which I will start after I have written this. I am sat overlooking my lovely garden writing this. The sun is shining and the layer of frost on the grass is gently melting and receding from the rays of the sun.
Friday 15 February 2008
Valentine's Day
We've had a couple of busy days. On Wednesday we drove to Bolton to see my mum. It took 3 hours to get there and the traffic wasn't too bad on the motorway. The weather was absolutely glorious and so warm. It was 15.5 degrees and 18 in North Wales apparently, warmer than the weather we sometimes have in Summer.
We went to the Thatch and Thistle for a meal which was really nice, but didn't end up eating until 2.30pm as it took us ages to get there due to there being an accident near the Reebok Stadium. Anyway in the pub we had a pleasant surprise. Both my mum and I at the same time saw Vera Duckworth( Liz Dawn ) walk into the ladies. We waited until she came out and then Harry went up to her and asked her for her autograph. She is such a lovely lady and her friend who she was with said that she wouldn't mind having a photograph taken. So Charlie took a couple of photos with his phone. Once I've worked out how to download them onto the computer I will get a couple of copies as my mum would like one. After our brush with the celebs we walked to my Dad's tree. I couldn't believe how much it had grown and it was nice to see the daffodils shooting through the ground which Christine had planted. The views were spectacular and we could see the coast and the Welsh mountains and the mountains in the Peak District. We did a short walk before heading off to Rivington and to the gift shop where I bought a couple of cards for a friend's birthday and my neighbours who have had a baby boy.
By now it was getting quite late and the traffic was not easing so we dropped my mum off at home and then set off. The traffic was awful and it took me an hour to do about 20 miles. We stopped off at the Birmingham Ikea for refreshments and I bought a couple of things including a cake stand with a glass dome and two mirrors one for our room and the other for Rosie's. The children were great and played number plate bingo to amuse themselves. We eventually returned home at 10.30pm and went straight to bed.
Yesterday I seemed to spend most of the day accommodating the children and their friends. What a different day weather wise and a total contrast to the previous day. It was so cold and grey. We drove to Harold Country Park to meet a friend and her children. We had a lovely amble around the lake and stopped for coffee and hot chocolate at the end of the walk. We then drove home and I took Charlie into town to meet his friend who had come on the train from Luton. I also dropped Rosie off at a friend's. I then came back , did a spot of housework and then played backgammon with Harry who was pleased as he won.
Things then started to get frantic as I had to collect Charlie and his friend, make everybody tea, take Rosie to another friend's for a sleepover and take Charlie's friend to the train station. Graham was late back from Milan as his flight was delayed and we were late for our Valentine's meal at the golf club! The meal was fantastic. We had stilton stuffed mushrooms for starters, I had sea bass with a salad and new potatoes for the main course and Graham had fillet steak, followed by peach creme brulee which was delicious. We had a bottle of sancerre which we didn't finish so we brought it home. I was presented with a white candle with red hearts on wrapped in cellophane which was a nice touch. The meal wasn't too expensive so we will definitely return. Graham had bought me a nice card, a cd, a book and some underwear! I hadn't bought him anything. Never mind.
It is Friday and the weather is pretty grey and cold again. Graham's parents are coming over this afternoon so we will do some baking this morning. The boys have a special outreach weekend at church and will have to be at church for 7.15am tomorrow as they are going to Kings Lynn for the day. Anyway, must go and play backgammon again with Harry. Charlie is still in bed ( no surprise ).
We went to the Thatch and Thistle for a meal which was really nice, but didn't end up eating until 2.30pm as it took us ages to get there due to there being an accident near the Reebok Stadium. Anyway in the pub we had a pleasant surprise. Both my mum and I at the same time saw Vera Duckworth( Liz Dawn ) walk into the ladies. We waited until she came out and then Harry went up to her and asked her for her autograph. She is such a lovely lady and her friend who she was with said that she wouldn't mind having a photograph taken. So Charlie took a couple of photos with his phone. Once I've worked out how to download them onto the computer I will get a couple of copies as my mum would like one. After our brush with the celebs we walked to my Dad's tree. I couldn't believe how much it had grown and it was nice to see the daffodils shooting through the ground which Christine had planted. The views were spectacular and we could see the coast and the Welsh mountains and the mountains in the Peak District. We did a short walk before heading off to Rivington and to the gift shop where I bought a couple of cards for a friend's birthday and my neighbours who have had a baby boy.
By now it was getting quite late and the traffic was not easing so we dropped my mum off at home and then set off. The traffic was awful and it took me an hour to do about 20 miles. We stopped off at the Birmingham Ikea for refreshments and I bought a couple of things including a cake stand with a glass dome and two mirrors one for our room and the other for Rosie's. The children were great and played number plate bingo to amuse themselves. We eventually returned home at 10.30pm and went straight to bed.
Yesterday I seemed to spend most of the day accommodating the children and their friends. What a different day weather wise and a total contrast to the previous day. It was so cold and grey. We drove to Harold Country Park to meet a friend and her children. We had a lovely amble around the lake and stopped for coffee and hot chocolate at the end of the walk. We then drove home and I took Charlie into town to meet his friend who had come on the train from Luton. I also dropped Rosie off at a friend's. I then came back , did a spot of housework and then played backgammon with Harry who was pleased as he won.
Things then started to get frantic as I had to collect Charlie and his friend, make everybody tea, take Rosie to another friend's for a sleepover and take Charlie's friend to the train station. Graham was late back from Milan as his flight was delayed and we were late for our Valentine's meal at the golf club! The meal was fantastic. We had stilton stuffed mushrooms for starters, I had sea bass with a salad and new potatoes for the main course and Graham had fillet steak, followed by peach creme brulee which was delicious. We had a bottle of sancerre which we didn't finish so we brought it home. I was presented with a white candle with red hearts on wrapped in cellophane which was a nice touch. The meal wasn't too expensive so we will definitely return. Graham had bought me a nice card, a cd, a book and some underwear! I hadn't bought him anything. Never mind.
It is Friday and the weather is pretty grey and cold again. Graham's parents are coming over this afternoon so we will do some baking this morning. The boys have a special outreach weekend at church and will have to be at church for 7.15am tomorrow as they are going to Kings Lynn for the day. Anyway, must go and play backgammon again with Harry. Charlie is still in bed ( no surprise ).
Wednesday 13 February 2008
Later on ..
Just had my next door neighbour's mother knocking at the door to inform me that my neighbour is in labour and is in hospital. The car was recovered tonight abandoned in the next village. The police think it was left with a view to the thieves returning at a later date after they had established whether the car had a tracking device attached.
Just had a go on a 'brain trainer' and was most pertubed that I had a brain age of a 61 year old! I had another go ten minutes later and it had come down to 42- much better but I am aiming for the brain of a twenty year old.
It has turned very cold again. The pattern seems to be cold and frosty mornings, bright and sunny days and cold and frosty evenings. Apparently it was the wettest January for decades and the warmest February so far for years. We're off to see my Mum tomorrow and will need to leave early so will finish now.
Just had a go on a 'brain trainer' and was most pertubed that I had a brain age of a 61 year old! I had another go ten minutes later and it had come down to 42- much better but I am aiming for the brain of a twenty year old.
It has turned very cold again. The pattern seems to be cold and frosty mornings, bright and sunny days and cold and frosty evenings. Apparently it was the wettest January for decades and the warmest February so far for years. We're off to see my Mum tomorrow and will need to leave early so will finish now.
Tuesday 12 February 2008
Tuesday of half term
Another beautiful sunny day. My washing is on the line which is great.
Yesterday there was a knock on the door at 10.30am. I opened the door to see a police woman stood there. She quickly reassured me that everything was ok and that she was doing a house to house enquiry as my next door neighbours were broken into during the night and car keys plus their car were stolen amongst a handbag and wallet. My poor neighbour is due her first baby this week. How awful for them. She said their car had been stolen to order as it is worth a lot of money ( £30,000). We went round later with with some flowers and Harry made a honey and sultana cake for them. Charlie reckoned it didn't happen to us as we had prayed the night before that God would protect us ( and also our car is not worth a lot of money)!
Rosie had two friends round to play and my colleague came round with her son for lunch. It was lovely to see her and to catch up with all her news. Charlie took her son outside to play football and the girls went out on a bike ride round the village.
After my friend left Rosie persuaded me to take her to New Look to buy her a fleece cardigan. Can't believe how much she is into clothes and shopping and she is only 9! Rosie's friend stayed the night and they watched Narnia whilst the rest of watched Chevy Chase National Lampoon's European vacation. It is very rude in places but very funny.
Harry has a friend here at the moment and I'm just about to take Charlie into town to meet his mates at Subway. Rosie has gone to MK with her friend and mother. No doubt more shopping. I've cleaned all the downstairs windows and I've got the kitchen and conservatory floors to mop when I get back. I was hoping to get out into the fresh air today but doesn't look likely now.
Yesterday there was a knock on the door at 10.30am. I opened the door to see a police woman stood there. She quickly reassured me that everything was ok and that she was doing a house to house enquiry as my next door neighbours were broken into during the night and car keys plus their car were stolen amongst a handbag and wallet. My poor neighbour is due her first baby this week. How awful for them. She said their car had been stolen to order as it is worth a lot of money ( £30,000). We went round later with with some flowers and Harry made a honey and sultana cake for them. Charlie reckoned it didn't happen to us as we had prayed the night before that God would protect us ( and also our car is not worth a lot of money)!
Rosie had two friends round to play and my colleague came round with her son for lunch. It was lovely to see her and to catch up with all her news. Charlie took her son outside to play football and the girls went out on a bike ride round the village.
After my friend left Rosie persuaded me to take her to New Look to buy her a fleece cardigan. Can't believe how much she is into clothes and shopping and she is only 9! Rosie's friend stayed the night and they watched Narnia whilst the rest of watched Chevy Chase National Lampoon's European vacation. It is very rude in places but very funny.
Harry has a friend here at the moment and I'm just about to take Charlie into town to meet his mates at Subway. Rosie has gone to MK with her friend and mother. No doubt more shopping. I've cleaned all the downstairs windows and I've got the kitchen and conservatory floors to mop when I get back. I was hoping to get out into the fresh air today but doesn't look likely now.
Monday 11 February 2008
Sunny Sunday
Another beautiful day. I looked out for my garden visitors this morning but none arrived. Graham took Harry to church and Charlie to rugby and then I collected Harry later and made a roast chicken lunch. I was just about to serve it up when a friend called to ask me to endorse her passports. She ended up serving Graham's meal whilst I sorted out her paperwork as he had arranged to meet his friends for golf.
Last night was ok. Our friends had made a huge effort to produce a fantastic meal, but I felt uneasy and uncomfortable at times as I didn't know the other couple that well although they seem very nice. Graham told me off when we were cycling home for being judgemental. The sermon this afternoon was very apt about God's grace coming into our lives to help us to do things we cannot do ourselves. I probably could have made more of an effort last night. I have just opened my new Joyce Meyer book that a friend left in my pigeon hole in church for me this afternoon at a random page and started reading it. This is what I read:
If you are struggling with something in your life, ask yourself honestly if you are putting your faith in God, believing that His grace will meet the need, or if you are relying on your own abilities and leaving Him out of the loop? Grace is God's power coming into your situation to do for you what you cannot do for yourself, but you must choose to trust Him and receive His gift of grace. When you keep God in the loop by trusting Him to help you in the difficult areas of your life, you will become a woman of faith who enjoys the abundant grace of God. AMEN to that!
Something really exciting happened today at church. I was on the door welcoming and was chatting to a lady I just know to say hello to when she asked me if I was Harry's mum. I said I was and then she proceeded to give me an envelope. She told me to read the letter in it before I gave it to him. Last week the whole church prayed for the yr 7s to 9s and I saw her praying with Harry although he couldn't remember anything she had said. I took the piece of paper out of the envelope and this is what was typed on it.
3 February 2008 4pm Service
For Harry
The adults in the congregation were invited to pray for the S to Ns. As I stood in front of Harry it was as though the Lord was saying to me, ' Music, his music, My music.' So I prayed with you that music for Jesus would be important for you all your life. As I prayed this I saw a picture of you Harry, somewhat older than you are now, perhaps even as old as I am; you had a head full of white hair and a white beard, but the important thing was that you were leading God's people in worship still with your guitar.
I will exalt You, my God the King;
I will praise Your name for ever and ever.
Every day I will praise You
and extol your name for ever.
Great is the LORD and most worthy of praise.
Psalm 145: 1-3a
How awesome is that!
Half term tomorrow. It will be great not to leave the house at 7.45am. Hope the children lie-in. I know Charlie will!
Last night was ok. Our friends had made a huge effort to produce a fantastic meal, but I felt uneasy and uncomfortable at times as I didn't know the other couple that well although they seem very nice. Graham told me off when we were cycling home for being judgemental. The sermon this afternoon was very apt about God's grace coming into our lives to help us to do things we cannot do ourselves. I probably could have made more of an effort last night. I have just opened my new Joyce Meyer book that a friend left in my pigeon hole in church for me this afternoon at a random page and started reading it. This is what I read:
If you are struggling with something in your life, ask yourself honestly if you are putting your faith in God, believing that His grace will meet the need, or if you are relying on your own abilities and leaving Him out of the loop? Grace is God's power coming into your situation to do for you what you cannot do for yourself, but you must choose to trust Him and receive His gift of grace. When you keep God in the loop by trusting Him to help you in the difficult areas of your life, you will become a woman of faith who enjoys the abundant grace of God. AMEN to that!
Something really exciting happened today at church. I was on the door welcoming and was chatting to a lady I just know to say hello to when she asked me if I was Harry's mum. I said I was and then she proceeded to give me an envelope. She told me to read the letter in it before I gave it to him. Last week the whole church prayed for the yr 7s to 9s and I saw her praying with Harry although he couldn't remember anything she had said. I took the piece of paper out of the envelope and this is what was typed on it.
3 February 2008 4pm Service
For Harry
The adults in the congregation were invited to pray for the S to Ns. As I stood in front of Harry it was as though the Lord was saying to me, ' Music, his music, My music.' So I prayed with you that music for Jesus would be important for you all your life. As I prayed this I saw a picture of you Harry, somewhat older than you are now, perhaps even as old as I am; you had a head full of white hair and a white beard, but the important thing was that you were leading God's people in worship still with your guitar.
I will exalt You, my God the King;
I will praise Your name for ever and ever.
Every day I will praise You
and extol your name for ever.
Great is the LORD and most worthy of praise.
Psalm 145: 1-3a
How awesome is that!
Half term tomorrow. It will be great not to leave the house at 7.45am. Hope the children lie-in. I know Charlie will!
Saturday 9 February 2008
Remembering Alison
The day was absolutely beautiful. The sun shone all day and there wasn't a cloud in the sky. Graham went to collect his Mum and Dad and then we drove to Cambridge stopping off at Chris's house before going to the cemetery. Alison's ashes were in a beautiful wooden casket and Graham and Chris lowered them into the ground via two purple ribbons ( purple was her favourite colour). Keith the college chaplain officiated and there were lots of tears and grief overflowed to all her friends who were present. It is so hard to see eighty year old people grieve for the loss of their child. I was determined to be strong for everyone and God enabled me to do that. Keith allowed a period of silence and all that could be heard were the birds sweetly singing in the trees a first sign of Spring.
My friend called first thing and read psalm 65 out to me over the phone. However I was just about to go out of the door to take the children to school and couldn't really concentrate. Once back at home I opened my bible and read psalm 46 as I thought that was the psalm she gave to me.
Psalm 46
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,
though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging. Selah
There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells.
God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day.
Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall; he lifts his voice, the earth melts.
The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah
Come and see the works of the LORD, the desolations he has brought on the earth.
He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth; he breaks the bow and shatters the spear, he burns the shields with fire.
Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."
The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah
I meditated upon it thinking it didn't sound like the psalm which was read out to me but incredibly apt and texted her to thank her. She replied saying it was psalm 65! So I read that and thought that psalm 46 comforted me as opposed to psalm 65 which is a psalm of thanksgiving.
Psalm 65
Praise awaits you, O God, in Zion; to you our vows will be fulfilled.
O you who hear prayer, to you all men will come.
When we were overwhelmed by sins, you forgave our transgressions.
Blessed are those you choose and bring near to live in your courts! We are filled with the good things of your house, of your holy temple.
You answer us with awesome deeds of righteousness, O God our Savior, the hope of all the ends of the earth and of the farthest seas, who formed the mountains by your power,having armed yourself with strength,
who stilled the roaring of the seas, the roaring of their waves, and the turmoil of the nations.
Those living far away fear your wonders; where morning dawns and evening fades you call forth songs of joy.
You care for the land and water it; you enrich it abundantly. The streams of God are filled with water to provide the people with grain, for so you have ordained it.
You drench its furrows and level its ridges; you soften it with showers and bless its crops.
You crown the year with your bounty, and your carts overflow with abundance.
The grasslands of the desert overflow; the hills are clothed with gladness.
The meadows are covered with flocks and the valleys are mantled with grain; they shout for joy and sing.
Amen!
After the service we went to The Boot in Histon and had some sandwiches and coffee. There were about twenty of us who sat and talked about Alison. I had mixed feelings about the day. It was a good thing to meet and commerarate Alison's life but I just felt it was reliving the whole funeral again. It also brought home to me the need to proclaim the gospel and tell people about Jesus as life is so short. We still don't know whether Alison gave her life before she died and according to Chris she told the nurses she didn't believe in God. However that was before we saw her in hospital six days before she died and we were able to tell her that many people were praying for her. She said that we should encourage the children to continue to be involved in church which has stuck in my mind as if she didn't have an iota of faith why would she say that.
We drove back to Bedford and stopped off at Tesco to do a weekly shop. Graham was a nightmare in the store-much worse than the children trying to sneak all kinds of things into the trolley including an abs trainer! We did giggle at the checkout when the cashier thought Graham was one of the packing staff as the blue checked shirt and blue jumper he was wearing is exactly like the uniform of the Tesco staff!
We then collected Rosie from school who was surprised to see her Dad in the playground as he is never around to pick her up from school. Harry and his friend walked home from school and Charlie went to his friend's before going up to church.
Dashed around making tea for the children and Graham before taking Rosie to ballet. Graham took Harry and his friend to church and then I collected Rosie to take her to a friend's before going out for the evening. I went to my other book club which doesn't appear to be a book club anymore! It started out as a Christian reading group but last night over some lovely food we shared our passions. One woman brought her violin and played a couple of beautiful heartwarming, soul searching pieces which are played at Jewish festivals. I talked about my work with families at Cornerstone and somebody else talked about her passion to encourage women with their self esteem. Unfrotunately I had to leave early to collect Charlie and three other children from church to take them home but it was a good evening.
I am sat writing this in the conservatory over looking the garden. It is another beautiful day and the sun is slowly melting all the frost in the garden. The daffodils are shooting up through the ground although are not ready to bud yet. So far this morning I have seen two squirrels chasing each other, two robins on the fence and two magpies in the willow tree amongst other birds. Spring is definitely approaching.
Graham has gone to a men's breakfast at church, Charlie is still in bed, Rosie is watching Wallace and Grommit and Harry is still at his friend's. I must go and get on with the day. We're off to some friends' for dinner tonight which will be nice.
My friend called first thing and read psalm 65 out to me over the phone. However I was just about to go out of the door to take the children to school and couldn't really concentrate. Once back at home I opened my bible and read psalm 46 as I thought that was the psalm she gave to me.
Psalm 46
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,
though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging. Selah
There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells.
God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day.
Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall; he lifts his voice, the earth melts.
The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah
Come and see the works of the LORD, the desolations he has brought on the earth.
He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth; he breaks the bow and shatters the spear, he burns the shields with fire.
Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."
The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah
I meditated upon it thinking it didn't sound like the psalm which was read out to me but incredibly apt and texted her to thank her. She replied saying it was psalm 65! So I read that and thought that psalm 46 comforted me as opposed to psalm 65 which is a psalm of thanksgiving.
Psalm 65
Praise awaits you, O God, in Zion; to you our vows will be fulfilled.
O you who hear prayer, to you all men will come.
When we were overwhelmed by sins, you forgave our transgressions.
Blessed are those you choose and bring near to live in your courts! We are filled with the good things of your house, of your holy temple.
You answer us with awesome deeds of righteousness, O God our Savior, the hope of all the ends of the earth and of the farthest seas, who formed the mountains by your power,having armed yourself with strength,
who stilled the roaring of the seas, the roaring of their waves, and the turmoil of the nations.
Those living far away fear your wonders; where morning dawns and evening fades you call forth songs of joy.
You care for the land and water it; you enrich it abundantly. The streams of God are filled with water to provide the people with grain, for so you have ordained it.
You drench its furrows and level its ridges; you soften it with showers and bless its crops.
You crown the year with your bounty, and your carts overflow with abundance.
The grasslands of the desert overflow; the hills are clothed with gladness.
The meadows are covered with flocks and the valleys are mantled with grain; they shout for joy and sing.
Amen!
After the service we went to The Boot in Histon and had some sandwiches and coffee. There were about twenty of us who sat and talked about Alison. I had mixed feelings about the day. It was a good thing to meet and commerarate Alison's life but I just felt it was reliving the whole funeral again. It also brought home to me the need to proclaim the gospel and tell people about Jesus as life is so short. We still don't know whether Alison gave her life before she died and according to Chris she told the nurses she didn't believe in God. However that was before we saw her in hospital six days before she died and we were able to tell her that many people were praying for her. She said that we should encourage the children to continue to be involved in church which has stuck in my mind as if she didn't have an iota of faith why would she say that.
We drove back to Bedford and stopped off at Tesco to do a weekly shop. Graham was a nightmare in the store-much worse than the children trying to sneak all kinds of things into the trolley including an abs trainer! We did giggle at the checkout when the cashier thought Graham was one of the packing staff as the blue checked shirt and blue jumper he was wearing is exactly like the uniform of the Tesco staff!
We then collected Rosie from school who was surprised to see her Dad in the playground as he is never around to pick her up from school. Harry and his friend walked home from school and Charlie went to his friend's before going up to church.
Dashed around making tea for the children and Graham before taking Rosie to ballet. Graham took Harry and his friend to church and then I collected Rosie to take her to a friend's before going out for the evening. I went to my other book club which doesn't appear to be a book club anymore! It started out as a Christian reading group but last night over some lovely food we shared our passions. One woman brought her violin and played a couple of beautiful heartwarming, soul searching pieces which are played at Jewish festivals. I talked about my work with families at Cornerstone and somebody else talked about her passion to encourage women with their self esteem. Unfrotunately I had to leave early to collect Charlie and three other children from church to take them home but it was a good evening.
I am sat writing this in the conservatory over looking the garden. It is another beautiful day and the sun is slowly melting all the frost in the garden. The daffodils are shooting up through the ground although are not ready to bud yet. So far this morning I have seen two squirrels chasing each other, two robins on the fence and two magpies in the willow tree amongst other birds. Spring is definitely approaching.
Graham has gone to a men's breakfast at church, Charlie is still in bed, Rosie is watching Wallace and Grommit and Harry is still at his friend's. I must go and get on with the day. We're off to some friends' for dinner tonight which will be nice.
Friday 8 February 2008
Thursday 7th February 2008
I went to the gym first thing and felt energised throughout the day. I then went to the drop in centre which was good. I gave one of the girls the book I had read over the weekend and pray that God will reveal Himself to her through the book. All the girls managed to do the course again this week which is brilliant.
One mother told me she had stolen some gripe water from a shop this week as she had no money to buy any! These girls are so desperate.
After lunch and a very long phone call with Sarah I took the car to be valeted. It was so embarassing and I kept apologising about the mess. I guess I should have cleaned it myself this afternoon but the guys did such a good job and I want it to be just perfect for taking Graham's Mum and Dad to Cambridge tomorrow for Alison's internment. Anyway it looks fantastic and I can't remember it ever looking so clean. I then dropped a birthday present off at a friend's and took a bunch of flowers round to another friend whose birthday it is today. I was supposed to be going out for a meal tonight with her and some other friends but cancelled as Graham is out swimming and I will be out tomorrow night and Saturday. I felt bad that I cancelled but quite pleased with myself that I'm managing my time a little better this year.
Spoke to my Mum today who has an appointment to see the Dr tomorrow as she still has a problem with her throat. I tried to reassure her by saying it could be due to the bronchoscopy she had a couple of weeks ago. It is half term next week so we will go and see her and visit my Dad's tree.
Before Graham went out I had a phone call from somebody who had some baby equipment for one of the families I am involved with, so we quickly went out to deliver it. The family were so grateful for the cot and high chair. They don't have much and it was really humbling to see. Their baby is absolutely gorgeous and I know I see so many babies and they are all beautiful but this one is special. It may be due to his circumstances but he is just so delightful. It is a real privilege to work with this family and I was pleased to see they had tidied the house up and made an effort with their laundry. I know I wasn't there in my work capacity but couldn't help to comment on their progress. Long may it continue.
Not looking forward to tomorrow but I will be strong and do my best to support Graham and his parents in their grief. I know God will be with me.
One mother told me she had stolen some gripe water from a shop this week as she had no money to buy any! These girls are so desperate.
After lunch and a very long phone call with Sarah I took the car to be valeted. It was so embarassing and I kept apologising about the mess. I guess I should have cleaned it myself this afternoon but the guys did such a good job and I want it to be just perfect for taking Graham's Mum and Dad to Cambridge tomorrow for Alison's internment. Anyway it looks fantastic and I can't remember it ever looking so clean. I then dropped a birthday present off at a friend's and took a bunch of flowers round to another friend whose birthday it is today. I was supposed to be going out for a meal tonight with her and some other friends but cancelled as Graham is out swimming and I will be out tomorrow night and Saturday. I felt bad that I cancelled but quite pleased with myself that I'm managing my time a little better this year.
Spoke to my Mum today who has an appointment to see the Dr tomorrow as she still has a problem with her throat. I tried to reassure her by saying it could be due to the bronchoscopy she had a couple of weeks ago. It is half term next week so we will go and see her and visit my Dad's tree.
Before Graham went out I had a phone call from somebody who had some baby equipment for one of the families I am involved with, so we quickly went out to deliver it. The family were so grateful for the cot and high chair. They don't have much and it was really humbling to see. Their baby is absolutely gorgeous and I know I see so many babies and they are all beautiful but this one is special. It may be due to his circumstances but he is just so delightful. It is a real privilege to work with this family and I was pleased to see they had tidied the house up and made an effort with their laundry. I know I wasn't there in my work capacity but couldn't help to comment on their progress. Long may it continue.
Not looking forward to tomorrow but I will be strong and do my best to support Graham and his parents in their grief. I know God will be with me.
Thursday 7 February 2008
Wednesday 6th February 2008
I have had a good day at work and spent the morning in 'growth monitoring training' in Ampthill. I caught up with computer, paperwork and phone calls this afternoon before finishing for almost two weeks as it is half term next week.
Charlie was polite today and appeared to make more of an effort with Harry this morning which was encouraging.
Graham is on his way back from the airport but it means we have missed the first cell group this year. We are finding it difficult to attend mid week meetings as Graham seems to be always away or working late on a Wednesday. Just had an email from Anne to say it is three years ago that they went to live in Canada. Life is flying by.
It has been a lovely sunny day today but it seems much colder this evening and I've just looked outside to see a layer of frost on the roof of the car. Charlie and his friends were convinced yesterday that a tornado hit Bedford in the afternoon. It certainly became very windy and we had a hailstorm and thunder and lightning. Charlie said he saw a large cloud spiral in the sky. I haven't heard anything on the news but perhaps it may be in the local papers this weekend.
Charlie was polite today and appeared to make more of an effort with Harry this morning which was encouraging.
Graham is on his way back from the airport but it means we have missed the first cell group this year. We are finding it difficult to attend mid week meetings as Graham seems to be always away or working late on a Wednesday. Just had an email from Anne to say it is three years ago that they went to live in Canada. Life is flying by.
It has been a lovely sunny day today but it seems much colder this evening and I've just looked outside to see a layer of frost on the roof of the car. Charlie and his friends were convinced yesterday that a tornado hit Bedford in the afternoon. It certainly became very windy and we had a hailstorm and thunder and lightning. Charlie said he saw a large cloud spiral in the sky. I haven't heard anything on the news but perhaps it may be in the local papers this weekend.
Wednesday 6 February 2008
Shrove Tuesday
An ok day today, although started off badly after an argument in the car on the way to school with my 14yr old son!
Work was good but I felt very sad when I visited one of my families who I have been working with for some time as they appear to have reverted back to how they were prior to my input and that of social services. The house was disgusting with about 10 dirty nappies and wipes on the floor along with dirty cups, plates, bottles strewn everywhere. The kitchen was appalling with all the surfaces filled with dirty crockery, cigarette butts and rubbish. Thankfully the baby is ok and is thriving and gaining weight well.
I went to the hairdresser's at lunchtime and had my roots coloured. It also gave me time to reflect on my work and my next plan of action with this family. I then visited two more families and then called back into the office to deal with a couple of phone enquiries including one from social services about another family.
It is pancake day today so made savoury chicken pancakes followed by lemon and syrup sweet ones. The children loved them. Rosie had her swimming lesson and then I tackled the ironing pile.
Finished Isaiah today. My bible notes were about how God protects us and I read psalm 91 again. ' The angel of the Lord guards and rescues all who reverence him' (Psalm 34:7).
Had a long chat with Charlie again about his behaviour. He apologised to Harry which was encouraging. Graham is back in Milan for one night and is having a tough time. He didn't sound very happy when I spoke to him and he is very tired as he had to leave at 4.30am this morning to catch his flight.
Our new church website is up and running. It is great!http://www.brickhillbaptistchurch.org
Monday 4 February 2008
Into February......
I haven't blogged for a few days. I must quickly look back to see where I left off.....
Have had a good few days. My sore throat thankfully didn't get any worse and I felt much better by Saturday. On Friday I went to the gym then into town. I read my first couple of blogs and began to think that a month had gone by and I hadn't progressed any further with my research. I went to the library and found some books about remakable Christians who came from Bedford including John Bunyan, John Howard, Trevor Huddleston and John Berridge. It is a start.
I then drove to Ravensden and met a couple of friends for lunch in 'The Horse and Jockey.' The food was absolutely delicious. I had a salad with scallops and chargrilled courgettes. After lunch I went to another friend's and we prayed about both our dreams and visions for the future.
I went to see Harry playing his clarinet in a school concert in the evening. I felt very proud of him. Both Charlie and Rosie had gone to friends' for sleepovers. However Rosie got cold feet and I had to go and collect her after Harry's concert finished.
Saturday was a strange day with Graham away for most of it. I organised the children against all adversity it seemed at the time to go to a women's breakfast organised by one of the churches. I went with two friends, the third having cancelled at the last minute as she wasn't feeling well. Well we got a shock as we walked through the door and found out who the speaker was. We all felt it was definitely meant to be us being there to hear the speaker. The topic was on change and we can either embrace change or try to avoid it. Either way change is going to happen so we might as well embrace it.
After the breakfast I collected Charlie from his friend's. Rosie was at a church event all day and Harry stayed at his friend's until late afternoon. Charlie went to town with his friends and at one point I felt almost at a loss what to do as I was on my own. It just didn't feel right. Graham came back from Frankfurt and we had a lovely evening. Graham's boss has now decided to cancel the other 2 weekends this year due to everyone being disgruntled about it. Now that is an answer to prayer.
Sunday found us doing the usual rugby, taking Harry to church and Rosie to a party. Church was great as usual. The worship was excellent and the sermon uplifting and challenging ( about the prodigal son).
Today Graham worked from home for most of it which meant we could have lunch together which was nice. I went to the gym first thing and then Sainsbury's. The afternoon was spent doing housework as usual. I listened to an old Sue Rinaldi cd which I haven't played for a while. I had forgotten how good it is, particularly when played loud. I will try and find a link to one of my favourite songs.
I read a book on Saturday about an ex addict( Barry Woodward) who was dramatically healed from all his addictions. He is now an evangelist. His testimony is amazing and I just couldn't put it down. I will give it to one of the girls on Thursday. I'm now reading a Joyce Meyer book which is great as it is so affirming but very much like a couple of her other books I've read.
Somebody has just sent me this link. It is fantastic and so true! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uFYcmZEOvW4
Have had a good few days. My sore throat thankfully didn't get any worse and I felt much better by Saturday. On Friday I went to the gym then into town. I read my first couple of blogs and began to think that a month had gone by and I hadn't progressed any further with my research. I went to the library and found some books about remakable Christians who came from Bedford including John Bunyan, John Howard, Trevor Huddleston and John Berridge. It is a start.
I then drove to Ravensden and met a couple of friends for lunch in 'The Horse and Jockey.' The food was absolutely delicious. I had a salad with scallops and chargrilled courgettes. After lunch I went to another friend's and we prayed about both our dreams and visions for the future.
I went to see Harry playing his clarinet in a school concert in the evening. I felt very proud of him. Both Charlie and Rosie had gone to friends' for sleepovers. However Rosie got cold feet and I had to go and collect her after Harry's concert finished.
Saturday was a strange day with Graham away for most of it. I organised the children against all adversity it seemed at the time to go to a women's breakfast organised by one of the churches. I went with two friends, the third having cancelled at the last minute as she wasn't feeling well. Well we got a shock as we walked through the door and found out who the speaker was. We all felt it was definitely meant to be us being there to hear the speaker. The topic was on change and we can either embrace change or try to avoid it. Either way change is going to happen so we might as well embrace it.
After the breakfast I collected Charlie from his friend's. Rosie was at a church event all day and Harry stayed at his friend's until late afternoon. Charlie went to town with his friends and at one point I felt almost at a loss what to do as I was on my own. It just didn't feel right. Graham came back from Frankfurt and we had a lovely evening. Graham's boss has now decided to cancel the other 2 weekends this year due to everyone being disgruntled about it. Now that is an answer to prayer.
Sunday found us doing the usual rugby, taking Harry to church and Rosie to a party. Church was great as usual. The worship was excellent and the sermon uplifting and challenging ( about the prodigal son).
Today Graham worked from home for most of it which meant we could have lunch together which was nice. I went to the gym first thing and then Sainsbury's. The afternoon was spent doing housework as usual. I listened to an old Sue Rinaldi cd which I haven't played for a while. I had forgotten how good it is, particularly when played loud. I will try and find a link to one of my favourite songs.
I read a book on Saturday about an ex addict( Barry Woodward) who was dramatically healed from all his addictions. He is now an evangelist. His testimony is amazing and I just couldn't put it down. I will give it to one of the girls on Thursday. I'm now reading a Joyce Meyer book which is great as it is so affirming but very much like a couple of her other books I've read.
Somebody has just sent me this link. It is fantastic and so true! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uFYcmZEOvW4
Friday 1 February 2008
Thursday 31st January 2008
A very windy and blustery day today. The temperature has dropped and there has been snow in parts of the country. I spoke to my mum today and they have had a slight dusting of snow in the north west.
I went to the gym first thing but came home again as there was no hot water. They were waiting for the engineer to come out to mend it. I do hope it will have been repaired by tomorrow. Graham was at home first thing before going to work and then to the solicitor's with his parents to sort out wills. It seems a depressing thought but has to be done particularly as one of the trustees was Alison.
I went up to the drop-in centre. Two of the girls were really low and on edge and anxious about going up to their group. However after a bit of encouragement and cups of strong coffee and a fag outside they decided to go!They stayed there all morning and looked more at ease after the session finished. They both said they enjoyed it and were glad they had made the effort to go.
The afternoon seemed to go so quickly. I took Harry's banjo to the music centre to be restringed as the 5th string snapped yesterday when he was playing it. That put me in good books. I did some housework and then it was time for the school run.
I think I am a bit under the weather as I have a sore throat. I'm going to have an early night as I have a busy day ahead, although a nice one.
I went to the gym first thing but came home again as there was no hot water. They were waiting for the engineer to come out to mend it. I do hope it will have been repaired by tomorrow. Graham was at home first thing before going to work and then to the solicitor's with his parents to sort out wills. It seems a depressing thought but has to be done particularly as one of the trustees was Alison.
I went up to the drop-in centre. Two of the girls were really low and on edge and anxious about going up to their group. However after a bit of encouragement and cups of strong coffee and a fag outside they decided to go!They stayed there all morning and looked more at ease after the session finished. They both said they enjoyed it and were glad they had made the effort to go.
The afternoon seemed to go so quickly. I took Harry's banjo to the music centre to be restringed as the 5th string snapped yesterday when he was playing it. That put me in good books. I did some housework and then it was time for the school run.
I think I am a bit under the weather as I have a sore throat. I'm going to have an early night as I have a busy day ahead, although a nice one.
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