Little Bits Of Waffle

Happy New Year!

2012-01-23T13:04:00.001Z

Today marks the start of the Chinese Year of the Dragon so it seems pretty apt, being a dragon myself, for me to 'pick up the pen' again, sit myself down and revisit the blog I have so rudely been neglecting.

In the spirit of new beginnings, I have had a rethink about my goals for this year and have changed some of my 101 goals to reflect this. This post on Facebook by Exceptional Living really struck a cord with me:

Quite a few of my goals involved buying/acquiring new items that I just don't need and can't really afford. So out with them (apart from hats and shoes ;-) ). I've also added a goal about living frugally for a year which will hopefully develop into a natural habit. I've picked up some tips already so I'm already noticing the savings which will hopefully help me achieve some other goals and clear off debt. There are a couple more mother/son bonding goals, some 'just for me' goals and even one to boost the dog's fitness levels. The garden make-over isn't 'needed' as such but I would love to attract more birds and wildlife and utilise our outdoor space more.

Here are the new goals:

4.Redesign and make-over garden

14.Take 101 'Mum and son' photos

25.Wear a dress everyday for a week

46.Sleep on an overnight train (Son's request)

54.Try three different alternative/complimentary therapies

68.Clock up 500 hours walking the dog

78.Halve my debt

98.Live frugally for a year to help fund these goals

I'm going to concentrate on some 'catch-up posts' this week to get me back on track

Watch 26 movies I've never seen starting with each letter of the Alphabet

2011-12-08T21:06:00.000Z

Another catch-up post: Blackpool

2011-12-06T22:37:00.002Z

The littlen and I went on a coach trip to Blackpool organised by the Leasowe Help for Heroes group. The weather was pretty awful but it didn't matter as I had pre-booked tickets online for The Tower (The Circus, The Blackpool Eye with 4D show, Jungle Jims and the Ballroom) and Madame Tussaud's. I can't stress to you enough what a good move that was as the queue to get into the tower alone was HUGE. When you pre-book you get to use a fast track entrance Woohoo! Clever mummy! It's also cheaper than paying on the door and you can get different offers for different bundles.

It was a full on but fantastic day.

I hadn't been up the tower since I was a kid when there was a tiny shop at the top and a post box. We sent a postcard to ourselves as it had a special 'Posted from the top of Blackpool Tower' stamp that they used. Here is a retro pic of an incredible cool kid in a visor with two of her brothers and her dad at the top of Blackpool Tower.

The recent revamp includes a 4D cinema experience. It's quite short but it made me smile from ear to ear for the duration. Then it was up in the lifts to the top of the tower for a tip toe across the glass floor. I tried my hardest to persuade the littlen to lie down on it for a photo but he was having none of it and you know how he gets annoyed if I do anything that isn't in the 'How your mum should behave' handbook so I couldn't even lie down for a photo myself.

I found this cool video on youtube that shows the views off much better than my pics

Our next stop was the Tower Circus which was fab. We grabbed a *cough* healthy lunch of Popcorn and Candyfloss while we enjoyed the show. We where up in the balcony which was great for the trapeze act and a safe distance from Mooky the Clown. I'm *not keen* on clowns and when I say *not keen* I actually mean *petrified* but to be fair to Mooky his arms did prove to be a great distraction from my clown phobia (Mmmmmmmmm). I didn't realise beforehand but the whole circus ring can actually be lowered into a pool of water and there is a cool water finale at the end of the show.

All in all a brilliant show, well worth a visit.

We headed to the ballroom after our trip to the circus. The littlen refused to dance with me and yet got VERY cross when I started to dance with an invisible partner.

"MUMMY! People are LOOKING!" etc.

Took a few snaps and watched some very talented dancers whirling around while we listened to the Wurlitzer organ then it was straight on to Jungle Jims. Had a nice little break in there whilst entrusted with littlen's shoes and coat. All the kids in there seemed to be on fast forward. I suppose they know the clock is ticking! It's a good job I had fired mine up with candyfloss and popcorn. Littlen emerged happy, calm and sweaty.

The clock was ticking for us too now so we rushed from the Tower to Madame Tussaud's. I was a little worried about what the littlen would think of it but he actually really enjoyed it. Lady Gaga was his favourite although I suspect it was because she was one of the few he recognised.

So after a meal, a whizz around a couple of arcades and the obligatory purchase of some light up headwear we headed back to the coach for a trip through the illuminations.

Such a great day. Can't wait to go back.

Legoland Windsor

2011-12-06T20:32:00.002Z

I've been meaning to do a quick blog about our trip to Legoland Windsor for a while. It was a bit of a trek down there but well worth it. The hotel I had originally booked had a plumbing problem so they arranged for us to stay at another local hotel, The Kings Paget which was fine. A big family room and nice food for breakfast which was all we needed.

Legoland was brilliant. So much to do and lots of lego creations to spot as you walk around the park. The queues weren't too bad and the staff were friendly and seemed very genuine in their eagerness to assist.

It really is a great place for all the family. Not that us grown ups were taking things too seriously at all. Here's Pol relaxing on Laser Raiders:

There are plenty of eateries around the site and all seemed pretty reasonable compared with other theme parks I have been too. The food we had was freshly cooked and tasty. If you are lucky enough to go be sure to upgrade your meal to include the lego chips....they are GORGEOUS! I upgraded the littlen's but not my own...worst decision of the year....I have been weeping ever since.

Our favourite ride was the Viking River Splash which we enjoyed three times in a row. We all got drenched in not just cold but ICY cold water. It gets you from all directions and there is little hope of not ending up sat in a puddle of it. Luckily we had the opportunity to go in one of those family drier booths to warm up afterwards. Unsurprisingly it didn't manage to dry my jeans but it did mess up my hair and take the chill off my jeans which was good enough for me. Warm wet jeans are better than cold wet ones right?

There was a hairy moment when I was emotionally blackmailed onto the Pirate Ship (The Jolly Rocker). I had a bad experience on one when I was a child so now avoid them at all costs. My cousin thought it would be funny to sit me at the top end of the ship so I was not only faced with being 'rocked' high up in the air.... stomach somersaulting .... I was also battling gravity as it lifted me out of my seat on the way down . TERRIFYING. I tried to escape it in Legoland.

It almost worked too.

There was a problem however... each row has to have an adult at either end.

Argh!

We were only on the 'bottom' row though so I thought that I would be OK.

Nope.

It was just as bad as I remembered. As soon as the ship started swinging I regretted it. I wasn't alone with this thought either. The lady directly opposite me was screaming and trying to use her small child as some sort of human shield. I could see some little kids on the higher levels opposite with real terror on their faces...probably forced aboard by their evil cousins.

I closed me eyes and tried some Buddhist breathing techniques.....in through the nose......out through the mouth. I did this for the entire duration. This probably freaked those poor kids out even more but I didn't care. It stopped me from throwing up on them. They should be grateful.

I do have one nice memory of the Jolly Rocker though. The husband of the screaming woman opposite asked Pol if she would take a photo of them and handed her his phone. Pol was a bit confused by his phone she promptly took a really close up photo of her own face and handed it back to him. One for the album. Yohoho!

91.Make Christmas decorations

2011-12-06T18:04:00.009Z

Oops I have been neglecting my blog again. I will try to do some catch up posts over the next couple of days to get back on track.

The littlen and I attended a Christmas Craft day at his school. We made a candle holder centerpiece and a Christmas wreath. I've been watering them and they are both holding up although I'm not sure whether they will make it to Christmas day.

Behold our Christmas creations:

Goals Completed: 4/101

65 Grooving Mums

2011-11-23T23:21:00.006Z

The Grooving Mums bloghop was started by Kate over at Kate on Thin Ice to encourage us ladies to twinkle, sparkle and generally bring a bit of oomph back into our lives. Some helpful inspiration on the road to finding or reinventing ourselves.

Take the first step in faith. You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step. Martin Luther King, Jr.

My Grooving Goals for this week are:

1)Weight Loss & Fitness: Tomorrow I shall be re-starting my diet and fitness routine. My pooch will be joining me on this journey as he has piled on the weight whilst recovering from his knee operation and is now well enough to build up his leg muscle again.

After splitting with my ex I immediately lost a lot of weight, it was a ridiculous amount really but I have piled that and more back on in the happiness that I have found since! I know I need to take control of it before it spirals any further.

I've decided to have my weight recorded by my local NHS Health Trainers just for the extra support really. I'm not sure if all areas have them but you can click on the link for details of the Wirral Trainers, classes, etc.

I have the ticker's over there at the ready and will update them weekly =>

2) Get my groove back Tied into the above I am literally going to get my groove on. I am going to do at least three dance based exercise sessions this week. This can be Zumba, Dance Central or one of my many dance dvds.

3) Look after my health: Visit the Doctor and Dentist

4) Be Creative: Make a start on some Christmas Crafts with the littlen

5) Money: Kate's prompt about money has made me think that it's a good time to start goal number 50.Keep a spending diary. I know the run up to Christmas is a bit of slog anyway financially but I think it might help me.

So there we have it. I will keep you posted on how I get on

Music Therapy

2011-11-22T21:49:00.020Z

HimupNorth has kindly tagged me in Mammy Woo's Music Therapy meme.

Picking three beautiful songs that move me in some way should be pretty easy right? :-S The hardest part is narrowing it down to three.

I suppose I've gone with the goosebump factor, songs that can swing my emotions for one reason or another.

1)'One Day Like This' Elbow with the BBC Concert Orchestra

This is one of those rare songs that uplifts me and makes me weep like a baby at the same time. There are a few songs that my son sings to me but this is the one that gets me EVERY time. Such a beautiful song.

2)'When You Were Sweet Sixteen' - The Furey Brothers & Davey Arthur

Ahhh first love. This makes me melt into a puddle. There's just something so simple and pure about it. It takes me back to a simpler time and is one of those songs that I wish someone would sing to me*.

When first I saw the love light in your eyes,
I thought this world held nought but joy for me
And even though we drifted far apart
I never dream but what I dream of thee

I love you as I never loved before
Since first I saw you on the village green
Come to me or my dream of love is o're.
I love you as I loved you,
When you were sweet
When you were sweet sixteen

3)'Last Night I Nearly Died' - Duke Special

I love Duke Special and had trouble picking between this song and 'Freewheel' (both are in the video above). Both inspire me and remind me not to get stuck in situations where I'm not happy. They move me in a 'kick up the bum' sort of way. I love the lyrics in both. 'Last night I nearly died' edged in there though as despite it sounding upbeat, there is such a sadness to it. It can make me cry but light a fire in my belly at the same time.

Passing this challenge on by tagging these peeps:

Jane at Blog from the Bog

Bev at Mindful Productivity

Lana at Storyledge

Graeme at Graeme Lamb Media

Kate at Kate on Thin Ice

Suzcat at Suzcat Silver Designs

and Twitter peeps:

@The_Holy_Log

@ricardopresto

Let me know if you would like to be tagged in it too (or untagged) or you can post your three song/music choices in the comments box.

*Not you strange man at the bus stop.

November's 'New experience'

2011-11-20T17:17:00.018Z

The thing I love most about the 101 list is that you never quite know where it is going to lead you. I have met so many lovely people and have had such great experiences since starting my first list. When I set this goal for myself I imagined trying new foods, new dance classes, new sports. I never imagined I would be having a near death experience, hallucinating in a room full of fog...and loving it!

Kurt Hentschläger's art installation 'Zee' is an experience you have to try for yourself. I will attempt to describe my experience of it here although I have tried and deleted this post many times already.

I'm not going to lie to you, having to sign a disclaimer and being given advice on how to breathe wasn't the most settling thing in the world. While I was signing I asked the lady if they have had many problems and she replied "Yes...an awful lot" in a hushed tone that seemed to trigger my 'Sonic Syndrome'. I used to love playing Sonic the Hedgehog as a kid until the mass media revealed that the evil hedgehog was causing epileptic fits. I played with trepidation after that, always being on guard in case this time was the time flashy sonic might find that spot in my brain and cause me to fit. So as I entered the room...following the rope and breathing through my nose as instructed...there was that same trepidation.

For a brief moment I could see the people ahead of me making their way into the light, the fog consuming them one by one. There was a timely chain reaction as they did, a brief *cough* from each person as the smoke hit their lungs. I followed the rope around until the person in front of me came to a halt. I turned my back to the main source of light as it was incredibly bright. The fog became thicker. We had been warned that the fog/smoke has an unpleasant smell. Those of you who know me will be aware that I have no sense of smell but when things smell REALLY strong.....I can 'taste' them (sometimes this is very bad news for me). In 'Zee' I could 'taste' icing sugar....(yay)... although i'm not sure if this was psychological.

The music grew louder and the 'dancing' lights began, brilliant colours and shapes, like having kaleidoscope eyeballs. I could hear muffled talking in the distance which made me wonder whether I had actually passed out. It was a weird dream like feeling. Am I awake? Am I still alive? I kept one hand on the rope at all times just to reassure myself that I was still upright.

There was also an incredible feeling of isolation. I have since discovered that a friend who has also experienced 'Zee' found this very overpowering and had to leave because of it. She said that she felt a loneliness she had never experienced before. I found the isolation strangely comforting and it was at this point that the 'Sonic syndrome' left me and the euphoric feeling set in. I don't know if it's because I spend a lot of time on my own anyway so have learnt to deal with it or some inner 'faith'; something just 'washed' over me and I was suddenly bursting with happiness.

So there I was, standing 'alone' in a room full of fog with twelve other people, grinning like the Cheshire cat, in total awe of the light display in front of me...or 'inside' me might be a better description as I think it's very much an internal thing although it is projected out. Every now and then I would see a familiar place in the distance but when I tried to concentrate on it and figure out where it was, it would go again. The more I tried to focus on it the quicker it would go. It was a familiar place, like a warm memory, a comforting one but alas it was unreachable. I've since wondered if it would have appeared in full if I'd have just ignored it. Like a reward for fully 'switching off'.

I left 'Zee' on a high with a feeling of euphoria that lasted for days. My eyes feel as if they have been 'fixed' somehow. Like now I am really seeing things...now I am really seeing the world. I feel as if I have had a very personal encounter with a higher being that has somehow made me reconnect with myself....not bad for a room full of fog and lights.

'Zee' is at FACT Liverpool until 27th November (Free entry)

A couple more 'ticks'

2011-11-17T17:58:00.005Z

5. Make a wish at 11:11 on November 11, 2011

Ok so this 'goal' is slightly easier than some of the others. It was easy to remember too as it followed shortly after the two minute silence for Armistice day. I was over in Liscard and could hear the Ferry horn (?) sound at 11am to signal the start of the silence which I think is a lovely idea. I found it really moving.

I made my wish at 11 minutes and 11 seconds past 11.

85. Influence a person to make a day zero list

We are lucky enough to have some NHS Health Trainers in our community. They offer courses to improve and promote healthier behaviour and lifestyle choices. I have joined a course called 'Action for Happiness' to give me some tools to fend off the blues and also hopefully some that I can pass on to the littlen to help him.

The course is brilliant. Really motivating, uplifting and inspiring. The other peeps on the course are lovely and there is a very friendly, supportive atmosphere. I was telling them about my dayzero list as we were talking about the importance of having goals; things to work towards and look forward to. I returned the following week to discover that I had inspired one lady on the course to make her own dayzero list! This week another lady and our fabulous Health Trainer announced that they are also making one. It was so lovely to read through their amazing goals.

Goals Completed: 3/101

80. Get the European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL)

2011-11-17T17:30:00.003Z

Eek I have so many catch up posts to do! I've been busy with the littlen and also studying for my ECDL (European Computer Driving Licence). Hopefully I will catch up over the weekend.

I started the course last Monday through Learndirect. It began with diagnostic tests in English and Maths which were a bit of a shock to the system. I don't think I've even looked at a fraction since studying GCSEs many moons ago and here I was sitting a GCSE level test with no preparation at all. Well a huge thank you to Mr McGinn, Mrs Ralph, Mr Bellis and Mrs Robinson because all of that mathematical knowledge you crammed into my head all those years ago in Plessington somehow made it through to 2011. I'm sure everyone enjoyed me quietly singing the Pythagoras song too although it did get me thinking about Mr McGinn's yacht!

As a result of my diagnostic results, I didn't have to do the English and Maths sections (hurrah!). Which was a bit of a relief given my English degree and Financial Planning qualifications. That would have been slightly embarrassing. :-S

I also got to skip Level 1 of the IT course (ECDL Essentials) as I passed the diagnostic test for that too (Yay!)

So finally I could get stuck into Level 2. Each section starts with a 'What do you already know' quiz and ends with a similar marked 'What you have learnt' exercise. The sections are broken down into smaller chunks and they do manage to hold your attention as there are lots of interactive bits.

When you have worked through all of the sections you sit three mock exams and then finally the four exams.

I passed today!

Presentations: 83%
Spreadsheets: 89%
Word Processing: 97%

Improving Productivity

Performance: 94%
Knowledge: 92%

Goals Completed: 1/101

The Sugarcraft & Cake show 2011 at the NEC Birmingham

2011-11-08T21:28:00.003Z

I had such an inspiring day on Saturday. The cake and sugarcraft creations were incredible!! It's definitely put me in the mood to try a bit of creative cake making myself.

Here we go again....New 101 in 1001 days list

2011-11-05T00:01:00.000Z

1.Answer the "50 Questions That Will Free Your Mind"

2.Watch the sunrise and sunset in the same day

3.Watch 26 movies I've never seen starting with each letter of the Alphabet

4.Go to a concert

5.Make a wish at 11:11 on November 11, 2011

6.Complete a 365 day photo challenge (Carried over from last list)

7.See the Northern Lights

8.Write a short story

9.Write a song

10.Visit Italy

11.Reach my goal weight

12.Get a full body massage

13.Eat only raw food for a day

14.Ask 5 friends to suggest one book, and read them all

15.Read 5 biographies

16.Design and sew a dress

17.Paint a canvas and hang it on my wall

18.Write a list of 100 places I would like to visit in my lifetime

19.Make a list of 100 things I want to do before I die

20.Have professional photos taken

21.Write something and submit it for publication

22.Write a children's book

23.Keep a “My Day in Six Words” journal for 6 months

24.Complete the A-Z of Me in photos

25.Continue on with one good deed a month

26.Make a pop-up book

27.Ask friends to suggest movies and watch ten of them

28.Make something out of every cookbook I own

29.No pop (soda) for at least one month

30.Compose 12 poems (carried over from last list)

31.Row a boat (Carried over from last list)

32.See a lounge singer (Carried over from last list)

33.Make a list of 100 things about my childhood (carried over)

34.Decorate 5 cakes with different themes

35.Walk Hadrian's Wall

36.Trace my family tree

37.Take part in NaBloPoMo

38.Attend a faery festival

39.Learn 'The Siege of Ennis' (Irish Folkdance)

40.Complete all of the dances on Dance Central (Xbox)

41.Complete two short courses

42.Sleep on a boat (Son's request)

43.Sleep in a castle (son's request)

44.Sleep in a treehouse (Son's request)

45.Make an animation with my son (Son's request)

46.Make a film short with my son (Son's request)

47.Make a music video with my son (Son's request)

48.Make a clay sculpture with my son (Son's request)

49.Submit a video clip to 'You've Been Framed'

50.Keep a spending diary

51.Drop two dress sizes

52.Tick one thing off my Bucket/Someday list

53.Have a Reiki Session

54.Try three different types of exercise class

55.Buy a pair of lovely high heeled shoes & learn to walk in them

56.Make (and try) five different cocktails
57.See a stand up comedian live

58.See seals in the wild

59.Find my dream job/career

60.Visit Buckingham Palace (Son's request)

61.Have a Hallowe'en party

62.Make a mosaic

63.Enter 101 competitions

64.Send 10 handwritten letters to people who make me smile

65.Paticipate in the Grooving mums blog hop

66.Buy 5 things off Etsy

67.Buy an amazing bed

68.Do one thing a month I have never done

69.Join Postcrossing.com and send 10 postcards

70.Make a time capsule

71.Get the autograph of one person I admire /or have photo taken with them

72.Write a list of songs that I want to be played at my funeral

73.Get laser hair removal

74.Kiss someone under the mistletoe

75.Volunteer 101 hours

76.Get five new hats

77.Attend a film festival

78.Buy or acquire 1 kitschy item a month

79.Learn to drive a car

80.Get the European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL)

81.Climb 'The Reek'

82.Visit Clare Island

83.Walk to Hilbre Island

84.Make a candle

85.Influence a person to make a day zero list (101 in 1001 days list)

86.Try glass blowing

87.Make Boxty

88.Visit the four Panopticons in Lancashire

89.Design a 'Big Art' installation

90.Make a wall hanging

91.Make Christmas decorations

92.Make some faery wings

93.Decorate the littlen's room

94.Perform in a handbell ringers group

95.Take a flower arranging course

96.Take part in the Santa Dash

97.Draw fake watches on 10 people

98.Construct an inukshuk

99.Make robot models from recycled bits

100.Do 10 things to recapture my youth

101.Play a song on a steel drum (steel pan)

Chester Zoooooooooo

2011-10-19T09:45:00.002+01:00

We had excellent weather for our trip to the zoo; crisp and bright. The animals seemed to like it as we spotted some that have been difficult to see in the past. The littlen was not impressed with the amount of butterflies that landed on me in the butterfly house. I think it's down to my sugar addiction but don't tell him that! He tried his best to get one to land on him with no luck. He did have a few bats brush past him in the 'bat cave' though! I know which I prefer!

Deer Rutting at Tatton Park

2011-10-12T14:20:00.013+01:00

Another late entry...Eek....will get back to blogging regularly soon...honest.

On Sunday I headed over to Tatton Park for a walk organised by the Cheshire Wildlife Trust in the hope of seeing some Deer Rutting. The rutting had already taken place earlier in the week and the deer were already in their groups, although we did see one stag 'stealing' a couple of does from another group.

The largest Stag was very impressive. I took a few snaps but didn't fancy getting too close :-S He was busy bossing around some younger stags while his huge group of ladies looked rather bewildered, although all does look somewhat bewildered! Lol.

There were a couple of bucks having a 'play' rut which was great fun to watch.

Living Playground

2011-10-12T13:41:00.010+01:00

The littlen's school are creating a 'living adventure playground' for the pre-school children at the moment. They invited parents to a day course to learn how to weave willow into structures. I jumped at the chance and spent Saturday working with the others to create a willow wigwam village.

It was great fun and so satisfying as you see results straight away. The amazing thing is that the willow will continue to grow so the wigwams will change from season to season. The new growth and foliage can be woven into the structures to strengthen them.

I think they are fabulous and am so impressed with them that I am considering creating a structure in my garden. Such a low cost way of creating something amazing.

Red squirrel spotting

2011-10-12T13:12:00.010+01:00

I went over to Formby a couple of times last week. The Indian Summer had brought out the crowds on Saturday. It was very busy but I think most people were heading down to the beach. The littlen and I still managed to spot one Red Squirrel and we were pleased with that. When I returned on Wednesday I was treated to around six different squirrels! This is the most I have ever seen in one visit and is hopefully an indication that the squirrels are making a strong comeback. I managed a few snaps but my little camera struggled to capture them.

So how did I do?

2011-09-30T14:19:00.010+01:00

Goals Completed**************drum roll*********** 82/101

Here are the goals that I didn't manage to complete:

5 ~ 365 : a photo a day project

This fell apart several times!

8 ~ Compose twelve poems

I have composed a few but I'm a bit shy when it comes to posting them up.

12 ~ Row a boat

Never made it there

14 ~ Get and learn Photoshop
I took a photoshop course but haven't got around to buying it yet.

16 ~ Raise £1000 for charity (www.justgiving.com/run-mummy-run)

I've raised £785.89 on the fundraising page and probably donated another £100 to friend's who have been fundraising. I'm about £100 short but i'm still proud of myself :)

19 ~ Paint a portrait
22 ~ Start my memoirs
26 ~ Make home made ice cream
I just never got around to these

29 ~ Complete Top 100 movies meme (91/100)
So close!

36 ~ Lose two stone
One and a half stone (and counting)

37 ~ See a lounge singer
Nope :(

41 ~ Write a song
I think I'm going to carry this one over onto my next list.

56 ~ Teach littlen to ride a bike
He outgrew his bike. Might carry this one over too.

72 ~ Make perfume from petals (with littlen)
74 ~ Edit home video footage
Just never got around to these

77 ~ Complete 10 creative projects with the littlen. (7/10)
I probably have completed this as we're always making things but I can't be 100% sure.

87 ~ Make a list of 100 things about my childhood (45/100)
I've made the list, just haven't transferred it to the blog

94 ~ Cook from scratch at least four times a week (for a month)
I doubt this will EVER happen! Lol!

97 ~ Enter a creative writing competition
Maybe I'll carry this one over too.

Here are the completed goals:

1 ~ Buy a calendar and diary
2 ~ Declutter bedroom
3 ~ Read 20 books
4 ~ Go for a health check up
6 ~ Visit the cinema once a month for
7 ~ Complete two short courses
9 ~ Learn how to write my name in Japanese
10 ~ Send someone an anonymous rose
11 ~ Build a sandcastle
13 ~ Go fruit picking
15 ~ Make 'my mix' cd
17 ~ Read a Marvel comic book
18 ~ Get photo taken with Santa
20 ~ Find my favourite poem
21 ~ Dance in the rain at night
23 ~ Wash the dishes straight after dinner every night for a month
24 ~ Run 5km
25 ~ Make snow angels
27 ~ Go on five dates
28 ~ Scrapbook
30 ~ Start a dream diary
31 ~ Tidy garden
32 ~ Donate clutter to charity shop
33 ~ Kiss a cowboy
34 ~ Pogo stick
35 ~ Make a photo slideshow dvd for my mum
38 ~ Build a bear
39 ~ Design and make a t-shirt
40 ~ Try ten different types of cheese
42 ~ Try Yoga
43 ~ Use book crossing
44 ~ Do ten full push-ups
45 ~ Give five random gifts to people for no reason
46 ~ Write letters to five people who have influenced/inspired me
47 ~ Grow vegetables
48 ~ Make an origami animal
49 ~ Make a wishing jar or Wishing Board
50 ~ Try three different types of dancing
51 ~ Have 12 Pamper sessions
52 ~ Be creative every day
53 ~ Volunteer for something
54 ~ Read 'To kill a mockingbird'
55 ~ Visit a butterfly house
57 ~ Watch a ballet
58 ~ Perform in a show
59 ~ Buy something for a stranger from their Amazon wish list
60 ~ Visit a maze
61 ~ Dress up to watch The Oscars
62 ~ See a musical (in the theatre)
63 ~ Pick a book completely at random in the library
64 ~ Make a mud pie with the littlen
65 ~ Teach the budgies a word
66 ~ Visit a windmill
67 ~ Buy fresh flowers or a house plant twice a month for a year.
68 ~ Have a reading with a psychic
69 ~ Fly a kite
70 ~ Go through the bat cave at the zoo
71 ~ Visit Achill Island
73 ~ Make a painting using feet only
75 ~ Visit the Williamson tunnels
76 ~ Have a tea party
78 ~ Tie dye a top
79 ~ Say hello to at least one stranger a day
80 ~ Make a photo slideshow of 2008
81 ~ Request a song on the radio
82 ~ Visit a castle
83 ~ Watch the sun set
84 ~ Win a competition
85 ~ See 3 Films at the Cinema in One Day
86 ~ Get in touch with two people from my past
88 ~ Pass on a nugget of knowledge a day
89 ~ Sign a Petition
90 ~ Make a year of wishes jar for a friend (I made a Book of Wishes instead)
91 ~ Clear £1000 debt
92 ~ Identify 100 things that make me happy
93 ~ Get a photo I've taken printed on canvas
95 ~ Scatter some wild flower seeds
96 ~ Tick at least one thing off my bucket list
98 ~ Compile meaningful quotes in a journal
99 ~ Leave a note in a library book
100 ~ Stick to an exercise routine for at least a month
101 ~ Grow some sunflowers

The 'Me' CD

2011-09-26T20:52:00.012+01:00

I'm struggling with this a little as I'm finding that (and I think this is the same for everyone) the songs I relate to vary depending on my mood. So this isn't really a reflection of 'me', more of 'me at the moment' and what reminds other people of me. if that makes any sense?

17) Fredrika Stahl - Twinkle Twinkle Little Star

18) Lisa Hannigan - Lille

19) Lucie Silvas - What you're made of

20) The Corrs & Bono - When the stars go blue

I asked the littlen for a song that makes him think of me and he came up with these two:

21) The Killers - Read my Mind

22) Avril Lavigne - Alice

Here's a link to a youtube playlist of all of the songs on the list :)

Goals Completed: 82/101

Spirited Away (2001)

2011-09-25T21:06:00.000+01:00

This film is so beautiful it actually made me cry.

There is no way I'm going to make it to the end of the top 100 films but I think 91/100 is not bad going! Spot the ones that got away here

Happy Stuff 93 - 100

2011-09-21T19:44:00.018+01:00

93. Helping others

94. Cream Teas

95. Winding my mum up
I don't have a suitable photo of this in action but it helps that my mum is the most gullible person in the world (in a nice way)

96. Discovering new places

97. Inspiring quotes
This one is on my bedroom wall

98. Benny's expressions
I love the expressions that Benny 'pulls'. I especially like the way he wiggles his eyebrows. He is recovering at the moment after tearing his cruciate ligament (knee ligament) so he is having to take it easy and is looking pretty miserable :-( Here is a pic of him following his operation:

99. Currane

101. The 101 list.

Time is almost up for this list but I am already excited about making another!

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Here is the completed Happiness list in all it's glory (although not in the correct order that they were posted....just to confuse you);-P

1.The Gummi Bears theme tune
2.'Something about you' by Jamelia
3.People watching
4.Starry nights
5.Swinging on a swing
6.The Rain
7.Dancing
8.Laughing til it hurts...or I think I'm going to pee myself... or both
9.Rainbows
10.Bubble baths
11.Waking up and realising I can still stay in bed for a while
12.Fairytale romance
13.Running in the wind
14.Dreaming
15.Being so engrossed in a book that you can't put it down
16.Bouncing up and down
17.Hot chocolate with squirty cream
18.Chanting
19.Hugs...BIG squeeeeezy ones
20.Wookies!
21.The sudden inspiration to write something
22.Cloud watching
23.Walking the dog
24.Picnics
25.Listening to other people's childhood stories
26.Finding a bargain at the shops
27.Doing the twisty, alphabet thing with apple stalks to discover the initial of my true love
28.Drunken, middle of the night texts from friends
29.Crunching through autumn leaves
30.Novelty Windmills
31.Spontaneity
32.My child laughing! Especially when he can't stop. I also love it when he talks to himself when he's playing. Infact just him full stop!
33.Going to the cinema
34.Falling asleep next to somebody
35.Father Ted
36.Making somebody laugh.
37.Brushed cotton bedding
38.Random conversations with strangers
39.Hearing a favourite song randomly on a bad day.
40.Caterpillars, Butterflies & Ladybirds
41.Lighthouses
42.Smiles from strangers
43.My Grannie's homemade soup
44.Random acts of Kindness
45.Being creative
46.Windy days and flying kites!
47.Christmas Eve and Christmas Morning with my son
48.Experiencing new things
49.Spending time talking to family and friends
50.Photographs
51.Passion
52.Make a difference/ helping people
53.That feeling right after you brush your teeth
54.Smooching
55.Running into an old friend I haven't seen for ages
56.Ticking off a goal
57.Beauty
58.Having a great date
59.Sushi
60.Charlie Brooker
61.That achey pain the day after exercise
62.Faeries
63.Kissing in the rain
64.Long phone chats
65.Bubblewrap
66.Coloured fairylights
67.Receiving an unexpected handwritten letter
68.Painting
69.Singing, despite the fact I am awful.
70.Sparkly things...especially shoes
71.Playing in the snow
72.Day trips
73.Angels
74.Pyjamas
75.Photo booths
76.The website: www.photofairytales.co.uk
77.Pressing the foil lids on the top of glass milk bottles
78.Sitting in front of a turf fire in Winter....glorious
79.Baked Alaska
80.Friends (The tv show)
81.Mooching around Ruins
82.Libraries
83.Laundry drying in the wind
84.Big knickers
85.Walking through woods, especially when they are full of bluebells
86.Windchimes
87.Possibilities, Optimism
88.Castles
89.Having a clean, tidy house
90.La Princesse
91.Brodyquest (Youtube)
92.My boyfriend (now ex but ah well)
93.Helping others
94.Cream Teas
95.Winding my mum up
96.Discovering new places
97.Inspiring quotes
98.Benny's expressions
99.Currane
100.The 101 list

Goals Completed: 81/101

Last minute push to the finish

2011-09-19T18:51:00.003+01:00

3 ~ Read 20 books Woohoo at last I can tick this one off

45 ~ Give five random gifts to people for no reason I really enjoyed this...Just little thoughtful things like bookmarks or photos. Anything to make someone smile :)

46 ~ Write letters to five people who have influenced/inspired me
I enjoyed this one too, although they are far too personal to post on here.

Goals completed: 80/101

50 ~ Try three different types of dancing

2011-09-18T15:32:00.006+01:00

Here are the four types of dancing that I've tried since I started the blog. I also tried a tribal dance while on retreat in Southern France but I forget what it was called (doh!) All of the dancing was great fun and I'd recommend you all to give them a try!

Goals Completed: 77/101

Boom!

2011-09-13T19:05:00.001+01:00

There is no fancy way of saying this....well there probably is but that will/may come at a later date....I split up with my boyfriend. I asked him to include me more in family group get togethers and it turns out that he would rather break up with me than do that. So there you go. Just over a year together and now nothing. Surprisingly I'm OK, possibly due to the fact that his life was so messy that it was exhausting dealing with it all. Still sad to lose him though.

Although I had a little chuckle before over the timing of it. I wished on a shooting star last year and he came into my life the following day. So I feel that this week's Supernova (exploding star) is very apt!

16)

I hear thunder...

2011-08-27T11:21:00.010+01:00

Neil and I got stranded in New Brighton last night due to a sudden downpour. We had a lovely romantic walk down there in the sun and had perched in a shelter to have some chips. The heavens opened. It was coming down at such a rate that the road was soon flooded. The sky was putting on a fantastic light display so we both had our cameras out trying to capture a lightning bolt. Things got a little close for comfort when the fence in front of us was struck (see pic below). There was then an almighty banging and clattering on the shelter we where in as that was hit. It became a little scary as there didn't seem to be any sign of it stopping. There was a heavy blast of hail and then things seemed to quieten down so we took the opportunity to make a dash up to the train station. I was knee deep in water crossing the prom road and cars were struggling to move through it.

Scary to think of how quickly it flooded. I suppose the prom tends to get hit because the rest of the roads are hills that feed the water onto it. It was quite an experience but it seemed to stop as quickly as it started.

Back to Achill

2011-08-25T12:55:00.029+01:00

Lakeshore B&B Galway

2011-08-25T12:20:00.025+01:00

Lakeshore B&B is a lovely little place on the shores of Lough Corrib in County Galway. The owner is a lovely lady, there is a real family feel to the place. Up the back of the house we followed a sign directing us to a scenic walk. It was truly stunning. The Irish breakfast was scrummy too. If it's good enough for Qui-Gon Jinn, it's good enough for us! :)

Kilrush Dolphin Discovery

2011-08-25T11:49:00.015+01:00

We set off from Limerick on our daytrip in search of Dolphins. It was a very scenic journey to Tarbert in County Kerry where we took the car ferry over to Killimer. It was pretty much one straight road (much to Neil's delight).

As you can tell from the photos, we were incredibly lucky with the weather.

The boat trip itself was just over two hours long. It was so relaxing that the littlen fell asleep on our way out to find the dolphins. Luckily, they waited for him to wake up before revealing themselves. I'm proud to say that my eyesight must be incredibly good as I was the first to spot one! The dolphins took my breath away. They were very tricky to photograph but I managed to catch a few. If I'd have throught on I would have captured them on video and then took some stills. Not to worry though, i'm pleased with them. It was an amazing day and the kids all agreed, their favourite experience of the holiday.

Limerick, you're a laaaaaaadyyyyyyyy

2011-08-25T11:14:00.018+01:00

We were lucky enough to have two rooms which overlooked the River Shannon in Limerick. The Jury's Inn did us proud! Lovely service there too. Here are a few snaps taken around Limerick City:

71 ~ Visit Achill Island

2011-08-25T10:30:00.020+01:00

Goals Completed: 76/101

Oh the Green and Red of Mayo....

2011-08-25T10:04:00.018+01:00

Neil and I took our boys on our first family holiday last week. It was stuffed to the brim with adventure as we mooched around the West. We started and finished in Achill, my favourite place on earth. I spent so much time in Currane in my youth that it feels like home to me. It hurts to leave although I imagine lots of people feel that way after their first visit.

Liverpool

2011-08-12T19:23:00.001+01:00

Eleanor Rigby, picks up the rice
In the church where a wedding has been
Lives in a dream

Waits at the window, wearing the face
That she keeps in a jar by the door
Who is it for?

21 - Dance in the rain

2011-08-08T15:13:00.004+01:00

Yay! Finally ticked this one off. No photos of the actual dancing though I'm afraid but here's a daft one of Neil and I taken just before it

Goals Completed: 75/101

Pirates!

2011-08-07T13:06:00.005+01:00

The littlen headed off to the Pirate Muster in New Brighton today. Here he is in the pirate outfit we made.

The Chocolate Cellar

2011-08-02T07:12:00.016+01:00

The littlen attended 'The Mad Hatter's Tea Party' at the Chocolate Cellar in Liverpool yesterday. He had an amazing time. He made yummy chocolates (marshmallow top hats mmmmm), had his face painted, played games and of course had a tea party. He has been raving about it all night. We will definitely be back for more of their workshops. The staff there are lovely and nothing will top their hot chocolates! Pop in for one if you're in the city centre they are delicious.

Fancy a cuppa?

2011-07-29T20:27:00.007+01:00

The littlen and I went to the tea rooms in Wallasey Village today for a spot of lunch. It was scrummy! The chocolate cake comes highly recommended. The littlen even got to make a fancy sugarcraft butterfly there.

Reflections on the Waterfront

2011-07-24T19:28:00.017+01:00

Yesterday evening we headed over to Liverpool for 'Reflections on the Waterfront', a celebration to mark the 100th anniversary of the Liver Building. We started at the new Museum of Liverpool which is amazing. So much to see and do. It was incredibly busy but we still had a good mooch about. Outside there were plenty of colourful characters performing and the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra keeping everyone entertained with Beatles hits. We all had a bit of a boogie as the sun set.

The highlight though was a fantastic light display on the Liver building itself by The Macula. I've linked to a youtube video below so you can have a look if you missed it.

It was a great (if a bit windy) evening.

Look who we spotted today on our way to the shop...

2011-07-24T18:01:00.002+01:00

...a young fox! It's quite unusual to see them in the daylight so I hope he/she is alright.

Fun and Follies in Shropshire

2011-07-12T20:53:00.004+01:00

We had a fab time in Shropshire over the weekend. Ashlea Pools was quite tricky to find as it was actually down on the Herefordshire border as opposed to by Shrewsbury like we thought...oops. The log cabin was lovely, really spacious and the site itself was so quiet and peaceful. Lots of wildlife around too with bunnies and ducks roaming around. The hot tub was a hit with everyone. Some lovely evenings spent in there.

We spent Saturday at Hawkstone Follies. Oh my goodness, I wish this place was closer to where I live as I would be there all of the time! It was amazing! So much to see there, I'd love to go back. The littlen loved the tunnels and caverns. I packed some cheapy torches for the kids to use in the tunnels but you can manage ok without one. There are a lot of steps though....especially on the 'lower' route which we took back. A really great day out. Visit if you get the chance.

On Sunday we headed into Bridgnorth for a mooch about. We went on the cliff railway and had a wander up to the old castle.

The Boyf's charity abseil

2011-07-03T20:34:00.010+01:00

I'm so proud of Neil today after he abseiled 85ft to raise money for a children's hospice. The abseil took place at Trevor Rocks, Llangollen and Neil did a fab job. Well done gorgeous!

Adventures in The Albert Dock

2011-06-25T20:29:00.018+01:00

33 ~ Kiss a cowboy

2011-06-19T09:43:00.009+01:00

Not as difficult as I thought it would be as my Uncle John had a Wild West themed fancy dress party for his 60th birthday! It was a fab night. I passed on the bucking bronco though as there was no elegant way to fall off ;-)

Goals Completed: 74/101

Random things to do in Liverpool:

2011-06-11T15:11:00.012+01:00

Sample the 'Ron Zacapa Experience' at Alma De Cuba...although visiting Alma De Cuba is an experience in itself. The originally Catholic church (and later Polish church) has been converted into a gorgeous venue. We had popped in for a pud but after deciding that a slice of fudge cake just wouldn't do the venue justice, we threw caution to the wind and opted for the Ron Zacapa Experience. Some chilled mineral water, a shot of the 23 yr old rum, some homemade chocolate orange fudge, and an espresso. The idea is to take a small amount of each in that order. It was delicious! I'm not going to attempt to describe it.....oh alright then...it left me with a warm feeling in my heart that lasted a few hours...although that could have just been the rum ;-) It's not something that I would go for again but it was well worth the one off experience.

68 ~ Have a reading with a psychic

2011-06-05T11:02:00.004+01:00

I went to see a Psychic in Moreton yesterday. I have seen him before and I'm always very impressed with his readings. When I had a reading with him a few years ago, he actually told me about my son's deafness before I knew about it or he had been diagnosed. I'm not too sure whether to put his predictions on here or not :-S I suppose the easiest one to keep an eye on is that I will be pregnant within ten months!

Goals Completed: 73/101

Up on the roof

2011-05-30T22:31:00.013+01:00

A couple of small lifts and 108 steps take you to the top of Liverpool's Anglican Cathedral. The Tower stands 154 metres above the River Mersey and the views are amazing, even on a wet day like today. The Cathedral is the largest in the UK and well worth a visit even if you don't fancy paying out for the Tower experience. It's free to mooch around inside and there's plenty to see.

Beeston Castle

2011-05-27T10:13:00.012+01:00

Windmill Open Day

2011-05-14T20:30:00.014+01:00

Free tours of Bidston Windmill happen once a month through the summer. We had a fab time and were all really surprised at the amount of equipment remaining and at how big it is inside! There are plenty of people there to answer any questions that you have and you get to wear a very fetching hard hat.

The next open day is on the 9th July 2011 10:00am - 12:00pm

Llandudno in photos

2011-05-12T12:21:00.018+01:00

Carsington Water - in pictures

2011-05-05T10:21:00.011+01:00

Last minute Easter jaunt to Matlock Bath

2011-05-02T16:53:00.002+01:00

Due to some crappy circumstances we ended up taking a spontaneous trip to Matlock Bath over Easter. It turned out to be a fantastic trip and we had a ball. It was romantic and therapeutic...just what was needed! We spent the third day in Carsington Water and I'll post up some photos from there in the next entry. Enjoy the pics :-)

93 ~ Get a photo I've taken printed on canvas

2011-04-29T18:18:00.002+01:00

I've actually had several photos printed on canvas as a gift in a photo montage. I shall try to get a photo of the finished product!

Goals Completed: 72/101

Birthday day trip

2011-04-15T22:46:00.028+01:00

I had a fab day out on Wednesday for my birthday. Neil took me for a mooch around Speke Hall. His Grandad used to be a tour guide there so it's a rather special place for him. We had a lovely day. Unfortunately photography isn't allowed in the house itself which is a shame as it is beautiful. You will just have to go and see for yourselves :-) We went on to a walk around Sefton Park afterwards and then New Brighton AND THEN Hoylake. Neil cooked me a meal too which was scrummy. Yesterday Brodie and I had our final day of our Photobook Adventure course. We've both really enjoyed it and will miss it. I may put some of the story/photoshopped pictures on here at some point :-) We also had cake..well actually two birthday cakes...one from my Mum and one from Neil. No candles though.....because of the fire risk ;-)

51 - Have 12 Pamper sessions

2011-04-07T20:45:00.001+01:00

My final pamper session was a crystal clear microdermabrasion facial. There wasn't really anything relaxing about it to be honest. It felt like somebody was sandblasting my face :-S It did leave me with a lovely fresh 'glow' for a few days though. Goals Completed: 71/101

78 ~ Tie dye a top

2011-04-01T15:05:00.002+01:00

Brodie and I actually Tie Dyed three tops. It was great fun. Brodie has a real skill for it although he now wants to tie dye everything we own!

Goals Completed: 70/101

96 ~ Tick at least one thing off my bucket list

2011-03-31T17:42:00.005+01:00

Do something nice for someone who will never find out

At first I registered with The Anthony Nolan Trust to donate stem cells. It was incredibly simple to do. An online form and then supplying a bit of spit in a special tube they send you. It takes about fifteen minutes. So I'm all registered with them and will remain on the register until someone needs me. In the meantime Neil suggested that we both go and give blood. This was a little odd as we are both very squeamish when it comes to blood and he has a phobia of needles. I mean, I don't actually know anyone who LIKES needles but you know what I mean. So last night we both went along to a local session. It was fairly quick and painless although I did go a bit light headed afterwards. I felt like a right 'nana' but the staff where all so lovely, I was fine within a couple of minutes. Neil was incredibly brave and had no problems at all. We are the same blood type, so I supppose in theory we could both save the same person. It was an amazing feeling afterwards. It reminded me of this quote: “Often we set out to make a difference in the lives of others only to discover we have made a difference in our own.” ~Ellie Braun-Haley. I would encourage anyone who is able to go and donate. We are already planning our next donation in sixteen weeks time. You can find out the date and times of local sessions here.

Goals Completed: 69/101

Wirral Coastal Mooch

2011-03-26T13:26:00.003Z

Neil and I went on a mega walk on Wednesday. We set off from Neston train station down to Parkgate and then pretty much stuck to the coast all the way around to Leasowe. There were some times when we ventured onto the Wirral Way but that was no hardship. It was a lovely leisurely walk and the weather was perfect. We had a little loo stop at Thurstaston and a quick look at the birdies from the bird hide. After a late lunch, a yummy cream tea at Cha in West Kirby, we where back on our travels down to red rocks and then across the (very wet and sloppy) sand to Hoylake. Then it was just a straight run through to Leasowe...stopping for lots of pics as usual. My little toes were beginning to feel very squished so I was relieved to get home. Must invest in some proper walking shoes/boots.

67 ~ Flower Power

2011-03-20T18:33:00.005Z

I can finally tick another goal off.

67 ~ Buy fresh flowers or a house plant twice a month for a year.

Definitely something I will continue to do. It makes a huge difference having plants and flowers around the house.

Goals Completed: 68/101

Supermoon!

2011-03-20T17:37:00.004Z

My boyfriend Neil and I went for a long walk last night in the hope that last night's mega moon would fight away the clouds and put in an appearance. Oh my goodness, where we in for a treat! We reached Seacombe Ferry and decided to stop to take a few photos of the Liverpool waterfront. We couldn't have timed our stop any better as soon there was a red glow rising from behind the buildings. It was beautiful and very graceful to watch. The photos we took really don't do it justice.

Leasowe to New Brighton in pictures

2011-03-19T20:28:00.009Z

Happy St Patrick's Day!

2011-03-17T18:03:00.015Z

Happy Paddy's Day everyone! Neil and I had planned a nice Irish breakfast over in Liverpool this morning. Of course when we got into O'Neill's it was already jam packed and four/five people deep at the bar. There was a great atmosphere in there and we have already planned next years St Patrick's Day! I treated us to some cupcakes from Cupcake Revolution The Chocolate and Guinness cakes were divine! The sparkly shamrock ones are green velvet mmmmmmm.

Llangollen

2011-03-05T10:07:00.050Z

One of my Christmas presents from Neil was a mini break in Llangollen which we took earlier this week on St David's day. After some inital car trouble we where soon on our way. The hotel room, a Junior Suite at The Wild Pheasant Hotel and Spa, was lovely. Neil, being the amazing boyfriend he is, had also arranged for me to receive some flowers and chocolates. :-) After a scrummy Cream Tea at the Cottage Tea rooms, we had a mooch about town and a short walk down the canal were we fed the ducks. Then it was back to the hotel for a few hours in the spa (heaven) and our evening meal. The following day we walked down by the river into town and then (after buying some chocolate oatie cakes and more bread for the ducks) we walked along the canal to the Horseshoe falls. Just down from the falls we came across a lovely 'living church yard'. It was such a beautiful, calm place. We had a bit of a magical mystery tour as we headed back towards the Chainbridge hotel for a coffee. I like these mooches the best as you never know what you will come across. We had spotted the Dinas Bran castle ruins on our travels earlier that day and decided we would walk up there in the afternoon. The views from the top are well worth the walk up. As you can see from the photos, the weather was warm but comfortable and the sky was a glorious blue! After another trip to the tea rooms for yet another Cream Tea...well we had earned it!....we walked back to the hotel for the car. Yet another amazing time!

Valentine's Day

2011-02-16T11:32:00.003Z

Neil spoilt me rotten on Valentine's Day. Red roses, chocs, a lovely day in Chester and he cooked me a scrummy meal in the evening! Love him so much x

7 ~ Complete two short courses

2011-01-08T20:33:00.004Z

Well after another huge gap in list updates I am back to report that I completed my Sign Language course so I can tick another goal off. Woohoo! I enjoyed it so much that I have signed up for another more advanced course that starts in a couple of months.

Goals Completed: 67/101

Northop Hall Country House Hotel & Ewloe Castle...in pictures

2010-12-31T10:35:00.027Z

"I know I'm awake but it feels like I'm in a dream" ~ In Bruges

2010-12-15T18:11:00.018Z

After a nail biting journey over the Moors through a very scary blizzard, Neil and I arrived in snowy Hull for our Romantic mini-cruise to Bruges. Following weeks of annoying my friends by insisting our trip was going to be like being on 'The Love Boat' and singing the theme tune continually, I was pleasantly surprised to discover it WAS like 'The Love Boat'! We were both rather giddy as we took it all in. The food onboard was delicious. SOMEONE even went back to have a second helping of dessert only to realise on his way back from the counter that he was full and couldn't eat another bite. He still sat looking longingly at it though. ;-) I tried my hand at Roulette for the first time (great fun) and we won the Bingo jackpot Woohoo! Our cabin was cosy and comfortable even when the sea was so rough on the first night that we were sliding up and down the bunks! Bruges itself was beautiful. The crunchy snow just made it all the more fairytale like. We had such a fantastic time. We had a good mooch about the town starting at The Belfry. The cold air was quite sharp on the chest on the climb up there but the view from the top was well worth it. Just stunning. We stumbled upon The Basilica of the Holy Blood and both said a prayer over the relic (fabrics containing the blood of Christ). It was very moving. After a huge serving of Stoofvlees for lunch we took a million photos, smooched at every opportunity and eventually crunched back to the bus station for our lift back to the boat. From first boarding the ship to digging the car out when we returned to Hull. It was an amazing magical trip that I'll never forget.

Number 92 of 100 things that make me happy

2010-11-06T18:00:00.002Z

Well he's not really a thing as such but my gorgeous boyfriend Neil ♥

My CD

2010-11-04T18:25:00.007Z

15) This one has been requested by my gorgeous boyfriend Neil. He says it reminds him of me. I love you Mr Flanagan. Paul Weller - Who brings Joy The lyrics are beautiful:

You who brings joy
into the world
Makes me swirl
of such love
and all you ask in return
is to be loved
and love you I must
compelled by god
or some invisible force

I just want so much
to be here for you
you my darling
who brings so much joy

Every laugh has an echo
every movement a feat
I humble in your complexion
so perfect so complete
you who brings joy
into the world

In your eyes lie a heaven
In your voice sweet caress
It is you who takes over
whose gentle arms I rest
you who brings joy
into the world
makes me swirl
of such love

It's been a while...Oops

2010-11-03T18:56:00.006Z

Oh dear. I can not believe how long it has been since I last posted about my goals :-0 So a quick catch up on some goals I have completed.

101 ~ Grow some sunflowers I managed to grow two. I do have photographic evidence but can't find it at the moment.

23 ~ Wash the dishes straight after dinner every night for a month

39 ~ Design and make a t-shirt A lovely gift for someone who was incredibly delighted with it!

In other news.... I'm currently in the middle of a Sign Language course so will soon be able to tick off Goal 7.

Goals Completed: 66/101

Port Sunlight Village

2010-10-11T20:39:00.019+01:00

Today on Bidston Hill

2010-10-09T20:52:00.029+01:00

Wirral mini mooch: Royden Park & New Brighton

2010-10-09T19:22:00.018+01:00

Mooch around Loggerheads Country Park, Mold

2010-10-04T12:25:00.016+01:00

On Saturday Neil took me to Loggerheads. We had a good mooch about and the nicest Gammon and pickle sandwich I have ever tasted!

Tour of Leasowe Lighthouse

2010-10-03T21:06:00.009+01:00

Every great dream begins with a dreamer.

2010-09-22T20:41:00.023+01:00

'Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.' ~ Harriet Tubman I mentioned to Neil that I really wanted to go and see 'Dream' over in St Helens. Surprisingly he had never heard of it but being the lovely boyfriend he is, planned a little day trip there :-) Dream is twenty metres high and built on a former coal mine. It was quite easy to find from the town centre just by following the brown signs. It's hidden from view on the walk up to it and the pair of us where quite awe struck as we rounded the bushes and were suddenly met with her.

We followed the path around and came across this bench: "My name is yellow. I am hope and protection, a ray of sunlight underground, my song of freedom dances in the miners' hearts. Proud to do my duty. I sit and watch over them." There is something very sad about 'Dream'. Maybe the 'feel' of it changes depending on the weather. I would love to go back on a clear day and see her surrounded by blue skies.

Number 91 on the 'Things that make me happy' list

2010-08-16T21:56:00.005+01:00

I'm getting scarily close to completing this list :( I have had such a fun time thinking of things to go on here. I may have to continue over the hundred.

91. BRODYQUEST

I LOVE YouTube tribute vids...I LOVE cheesily happy music...I LOVE Adrien Brody. There isn't much that could be done to improve this video...well except maybe a bit more nakedness ;-) but you know what I mean he he. It's such a great mood lifter. It amazes me how creative people can be. Wouldn't you love to spend a few minutes inside the head of the guy who created it? No? Well you're going to if you watch it. Go on....it's only four minutes of your life.