Val's Cafe

Kitty

Silver (In honour of our favourite Unicorn and his family)
Walter de la Mare


Slowly, silently, now the moon

Walks the night in her silver shoon;

This way, and that, she peers, and sees

Silver fruit upon silver trees;

One by one the casements catch

Her beams beneath the silvery thatch;

Couched in his kennel, like a log,

With paws of silver sleeps the dog;

From their shadowy cote the white breasts peep

Of doves in a silver-feathered sleep;

A harvest mouse goes scampering by,

With silver claws and a silver eye;

And moveless fish in the water gleam,

By silver reeds in a silver stream.

https://drive.google.com/open?id=1uKzvXw_I17PEvtjCxhZsNL2eZ0jQ-ir1

Joan, Yes Holly is a lovely girl. We're very grateful to her, she is a similar age as our grandchildren. I know snow makes everywhere look pretty, but it scares me because of the cold and dangers of falling and slipping. You and Sue take care. t4591

Toni, I hope you get your glasses soon. I'm happy Sleek enjoyed her poem, and I chose the photo because I thought it was Sleek. Did you enjoy the curry? Of course you did.

Aidan, I didn't realise outer space was so GLITTERY.
OOO those Ricotta and Strawberry Toasties would have been just right for my breakfast, but I wasn't allowed until after Martin had done my fasting blood test. He arrived at 08.40 and had freezing hands. BRRRR Anyway it's all done and dusted so I grabbed that delicious food tout sweet. with a mug of hot coffee (instant)

Barbara, how are you managing with your new router? I wouldn't know where to start - even with instructions. I an just imagine Niamh with a giant bacon butty all dribbling down her chin. Your brother is in my thoughts and I'm sure the same goes for all of us. t4591

Vegan Rainbow Pie
Ingredients
For the filling
80ml olive oil, plus extra for brushing
2 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp ground cinnamon
1 tbsp vegan red wine vinegar
3 beetroots (about 400g), peeled and sliced into rounds about ½ cm thick
1 small celeriac (about 750g), peeled, cut into quarters and then sliced into triangles about 1 cm thick
4 thyme sprigs, leaves picked
4 fat unpeeled garlic cloves
3 large sweet potatoes (about 600g), peeled and sliced into rounds about ½ cm thick
2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp semolina
250g Swiss chard, leaves only (save the stalks to add to soups, stews and risottos)
For the pastry
150g coconut oil, plus extra for the tin
500g spelt flour
almond milk, for brushing

Method
First, make the filling. Heat oven to 220C/200C fan/gas 7. Mix together 1½ tbsp oil with the cumin, cinnamon and vinegar, and rub the mixture all over the beetroot. Put the beetroot into a small roasting tin, season well, then cover with foil and roast for 20 mins.

Meanwhile, toss the celeriac with 2½ tbsp oil, the thyme, garlic and some seasoning in a second roasting tin. Separate out the slices so they cook evenly, then cover the tin in foil. In a third roasting tin, mix the sweet potato with the remaining oil, the smoked paprika and some seasoning, and cover with foil. Once the beets have cooked for 20 mins, add the celeriac and sweet potato to the oven alongside them, and roast all the veg for 40 mins further or until tender. Remove the thyme sprigs, squeeze the garlic cloves out of their skins and mash them in with the celeriac, then leave all the veg to cool. All the veg can be cooked the day before and kept in the fridge.

For the pastry, boil the kettle and use some coconut oil to grease a deep 20cm springform cake tin. Pour the flour into a bowl and add 1 tsp salt. Mix the coconut oil with 200ml boiling water, stir until melted (put it in the microwave if need be), then pour into the flour and mix with a wooden spoon to form a dough. Working as quickly as you can (it’s best to roll the pastry when it’s warm), cut off a ¼ of the dough and set aside under a tea towel. Roll out the rest to 0.5cm thick, then use it to line the cake tin, pressing the dough into the corners and leaving any excess pastry overhanging the sides. Don’t worry if the pastry breaks – it’s very forgiving, so you can patch it up as you go. Heat oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6.

Now build the pie. Cover the base with chard leaves, then scatter over the semolina (which will absorb the beet juices), press in the beetroot, and season. Add another layer of chard, followed by the sweet potato, and season. Add a final layer of chard leaves, then top with the celeriac and season again.

Roll out the pastry you set aside to a thickness of 0.5cm to use as the lid. Put the lid on top of the pie and, using a fork, press together the overhanging pastry to create a crimped edge. Make a steam hole, then brush the top with a little almond milk mixed with a spoonful of oil (this will help to colour the pastry). Bake in the centre of the oven for 45 mins until the pastry is a deep golden brown. Leave to cool for 15 mins, then remove from the tin and serve in the middle of the table. Will keep for up to three days in the fridge (the pie is also delicious cold).

bubbles

Hi to all - t4591 t4591 A chilly breeze, but no frost, so no ninny walking down the ramp :roll: :roll: Don't worry, there is plenty of time yes :? :?

I know, I do look like my very young Brother, if I had one Thank you for saying such a kindness Toni

I did ask Mother why they had to go to Pluto, she needed some frozen nitrogen apparently - she said it is quite cool there, minus 233 degrees C. :shock: :shock: Sleek was thinking about Disney films and of course the door dog nee
They were there and back in 10 minutes - not bad for 4.6 billion miles :? :shock: :shock: nope, I didn't ask how............

Rosie is getting much better, I think she had been over, in the night, to see Mother, who was reminiscing about the old days at Hogwarts.
She had cleaned her latte cup - well, waved a wand at it. The thermal jackets are amazing, I want one too I needed one this morning at the GC, only had my think jacket on :shock: :shock: :roll: :roll:

Mother does like little presents, best not leave her half a mouse / vole / mole or birdie. She would be horrified Lavender and Heather, are most appreciated and stored in her ottoman of secrets.

Glad Mrs Darcey and Auntie Kari can keep warm, let's hope their heating is fixed and working a treat, by the end of the day. t4591

Dad had not been up long when we arrived at 10.30 - no worries, he was soon sorted, none of us had won the Euromillions - was it you :shock: - 105 million £££ OM Goodness, what a thing to discover. I would faint.

Dad ate scrambled eggs on toast at the GC as did Bill. I had a veggie breakfast and a cake - as you saw, well, I had to show someone

Sleeks nightly report was ok, we just need to keep an eye on Dads chest, he is sounding gruff, we don't want an infection lurking :? :?

Hope all specs are ready by tomorrow. 8) 8) You are right, we need to stop rushing, sit quietly and watch more t4591 t4591 The things we miss, as days fly by :shock: :?

The pictures are all lovely, I know what you mean, the formal ones, can all be very formal, with everyone "placed" by the photographer who says "cheese" or "smile" :? :? You certainly have a lot to sort through

Hi Joan and Sue - Dad is pottering along, we keep him organised with regards to pretty much everything day to day. He is bleeding a little he said today. He can go a fair few days with no problems.

He goes to see the Consultant on Tuesday, to find out about his bladder biopsies.

My Angina, not too bad, with all my pills and potions, to keep things on an even keel. Thank you for asking. (((((())))))

Hi Barbara - oooh, you are all high speed now, go team Barbara, sorting out all the elctronical things

They do improve them all the time, so that we have less outages or dropping offline, well, that's what they tell us :roll: :roll:

Glad you enjoyed the toasties and the chocolate brownie pie We aim to please t115006 t115006

We all need some of those sparkles in a jar

A HAT oh no, I would be fit to be tied :shock: :shock: , I cannot wear anything resembling a hat. Not sure what I will do when we win the lottery and go to the north pole to see Santa - :shock: :shock: I might make an exception then.

B is having a break from making, for a while. He has more than enough. Anything he makes now, will be out of choice or by request

Ahh, I see, Gdad has family around to keep their eyes on him, 24 / 7, that's good. Hope he is doing well and improving daily. t4591 t4591

I am sure Niamh has Mr B round her little finger, (which he doesn't mind a bit), putting in her requests for large bacon butties etc.

I hope that your Brother gets the ok for his chemo, after his blood tests tomorrow. A lot of travelling for them and waiting around. Extra (((()))) as always t4591 t115006

Hi Kath - Silver will be most pleased, that you have posted a poem in honour of him and his family t115006 t115006 t115006
Lovely, as is the picture of them t4591 t4591

oh yes, we are surrounded by sparkles, but for the most part, we seem to ignore them. Sometimes we are reminded to stop and look, by rainbows and Northern Lights t115006 t115006



So nurse Martin had chilly hands :shock: bloods soon done, so you could enjoy the toasties

Rainbow pie, that looks wonderful, ta mi duck - perfect for supper wi sum chips

Hope any ouchies are not too bad (((()))) and the neighbours are quiet t4591

Hi Carol - hope you are both ok and keeping safe and warm, amidst your busy week. Out with Mr T for lunch today, I remember you have a funeral tomorrow, for one of the Church elders. t4591 t4591

Housekeeping has been in and there is laundry all over, well, there was, it has been corralled into the kitchen now and B has finished the beds. I am happy away, in wishy washy's laundry

Right, I will go, the washer is beeping and the dryer has finished.

Will call back later. Lots of love and sparkles to all t4591 t115006 Take care XXXXX Aidan

Malted Millionaire Shortbread

Turbogran

Evening all

I’m back again thanks Aidan your right about being able to rant and moan in this group and people understanding, think this is why I missed you all so much when I wasn’t posting much this is one amazing group of supportive people.

Well My last post said 4 weeks and 3 days it should have read 3 weeks and 3 days to our visit to Ramsgate.) So count down is now 3 weeks 1 day I believe without looking at my diary. It’s our rearranged Friday meal out tomorrow. Thursday as we have the funeral on Friday. Had a good knitting group today plenty of natter as well.

I have 2 more kids Christmas presents to buy and a birthday present for Graycie , And then all presents finished, except one for Mr T but that can wait till later.

As well as the ouchies from good old Arthur I think I might have a
Touch of sciatica in my left side of my back and under my sit a pon eases off after I have walked around a bit. But as always we plod along.
I think I have typed as much as I can for tonight. Must potter a bit

Love and sparkles to you all t115006 t115006 t4591 t4591

bubbles

Hi to all t4591 t4591 Chilly and sneaky breeze out there tonight :? :?

Hi Carol - oh yes, we can rant and shout and cry and laugh, often in the same day. :shock: There will always be understanding and a listening ear in this wonderful cafe. We missed you too, but knew that you needed your own time and space. t4591

I know we go off piste with our magical mysteries, a wee bit of escapism and a way of coping with some of the things that life throws at us - smack in the face most of the time

I see a week of the countdown has already vanished overnight :? :? 3 weeks now Until your visit to Ramsgate t4591 t4591

I hope the funeral goes well and I am sure your Church Elder will be fondly remembered t115006 t115006

You are almost caught up with present buying, I wonder what Mr T would like ? Has he dropped any hints at all

Let's hope the ouchies can be eased as soon as. Sciatica is very painful, as you rightly say, better when you have pottered about.

Some magical roses and a lovely candle, will help no end t4591



We do plod on, pottering is a must.

Sleek was over at siesta time, with Rosie and Mrs Darcey. They were watching a lecture on interstellar planet hopping, by Harry and Minerva. Much oooing and aaahing - It was so far above my hear, I fell asleep :shock: :roll:

Hi Toni, I hope Aunt Kari's heating is fixed t4591 and it won't be too long now, before you have a new combi fitted

Quiet evening here - catching up with wishy washy's laundry. At home today, apart from B nipping round to Dads on medication rounds.

Big HI to everyone else in and about t4591 t4591

Time I was doing my own bit of pottering. Leaving lots of love and sparkles to all t4591 t115006 Take care XXXX Aidan

Cheddar and Chive Hash Browns ( I could eat them right here, right now )

frogmorton

Good morning everyone

Aidan Sleek was full of that lecture :shock: I didn't understand more than a word of what she was saying :animal_busy: I asked her how come Mother can cope with Pluto when it's so cold, but won't go out here in our chilly temps? She's an old lady mummy she said and our cold is damp cold and it hurts her bones. Anyway she likes a lie-in!

I expect they wore their thermal jackets too... Rosie did indeed visit Tosca (she also calls her Mother - they all d apart from Tommy and Oreo and Jessie who call her Granny! She will have anew latte cup there now it was picked up and refilled this morning by Sleek who went out on her own. I have a feeling she's up to something :?

Sleek is keeping a closer eye on Dad's chest, but is happy he ate scrambled eggs on toast. Good hooman fud that she said. Your cake looked a-mayz-ing!! sigh and no I didn't win the euromillions this time :roll:

The photographer didn't take enough family posed group shots that was the problem! about 600 just of Tia and Mikey none of Aunts/uncles cousins etc I think it's this selfie culture to blame. How good do I look?!! Not so me, but your younger brother well he looks rather dapper!

I did a lot of ironing myself yesterday and cleaning too. I have my mojo back - it has been quietly AWOL with Carol's I think! Post-wedding downer?

Millionaire's shortbread? Oooh! lovely I am a sucker for that t4591

You'll be very pleased to know Kari's heating is fixed all fixed AS you know it was a one-off £300/ Well she got over £500 worth of parts and 3 hours labour so well worth it she thinks Mrs D said to turn off her electric blankie!!

Those cheddar and chive hash browns! wow! yum-eeee! Ta v much



Lovely to see you Carol. I hope the funeral goes as well as possible tomorrow ((())) Enjoy your rearranged meal today with Mr T maybe that's how your marriage has lasted so long? Making time for one another :? there's a thought.

3 weeks not 4?! Good job you sussed that out quickly

I get sciatica too sometimes heat is useful as was my tens machine before I killed it


Sleek loved her poem Kath very much she's still talking about it now and has printed a copy for her ickle house wall t4591

Moonlight does make things gleam silver especially these November full ones. Lovely poem and a good picture of Silver with his family too t115006

The curry was yum thank you very much and do I dare make the vegan rainbow pie for Kari? It looks so healthy they say we should have as much colour as possible in our diets...

I hope your fasting blood test results are good and the cold hands worth it!

Barbara! You read a computer magazine :shock: I never knew you were quite that techie!! Get you! I hope the new router makes a big difference

I am certain Grandad will do just about anything Niamh wants and adores being twisted around her little finger!!

Good news Kari has heating 3 hours it took the engineer but all done now bless her and Mrs Darcey.

Thinking of your bro today and fingers crossed his bloods have picked up.

Ah Joan no not all done. Some more lights to go in next week and 3 exterior as well as new boiler on 27th. At least Kari has heating now hers is fixed!! I hope we don't get snow just yet don't you?

love to everyone

Toni xx

dachshund

Morning everyone
. Barbara I hope your brother can have the chemo ((((((())))). Bought sue a new mouse it's red. (((((()))))
. Kathleen no I don't like the snow it's the only time the garden's look the same ((((((()))))
. Carol the day's go so quick ((((((()))))
. Aidan when I collect my tablets I can have 2 months for Christmas.
. That's good your Angina is behaving it's self(((((())))) love to your Dad ((((((()))))
. Toni that's good you all have heating now ((((((()))))
. take care love to Mig ((((((()))))
. Joan xx

Kitty

Poem of the day (We're off to N. Ireland today)

The Road To Cushendall by Kathleen

Where Antrim's mountains rise and fall
down towards the grey stone wall,
there the sea mist casts its pall
along the road to Cushendall.

Upon the rocks and crags so bare,
wild long grasses here and there
catch the wind like mermaid's hair
as it blows down to Cushendall.

Where the dark hills slope and lean
towards the gentle vale of green,
here the sea spray falls like rain
upon the road to Cushendall.

Beyond the shores of reddish clay
and out across the peaceful bay,
the purple hills of Scotland lay
looking down to Cushendall.

Beneath the Red Arch hewn from stone,
a weary traveler all alone
along the coast road leading home,
riding down to Cushendall.

Promise we will walk again
along the pleasant winding lane
that stretches out across the plain
when I return to Cushendall.

https://drive.google.com/open?id=1xBlKzONFQ3I2C7RKzobq6cE319ws9qte

Joan, I suppose I should look forward to snow covering our jungle. But I still dread it. :roll:

Toni, NOTHING is worth cold hands BRRRR. I hope Tosca and Sleek enjoy today's poem. If I remember rightly, I think they took the motorbike and sidecar touring along this beautiful coastal road. I bet Sleek has lots of photographs of it in her ickle house.

Aidan, very pleased to hear that dad had scrambled eggs at the GC. That would do him good. I have a peculiar pain today, it's like someone is driving nails through my bones. But it won't stop me from scoffing some Malted Millionaire Shortbread. Ta duck. t4591

Carol, so good to see you and catch up on family news. I hope all are well. Sorry the ouchies have got the better of you, and Sciatica is the bane of my life too. :?

Barbara, I hope GDad and your brother are bearing up. (((()))) to all.

Vegan Roast

Ingredients
1½ cups / 270 g canned white beans , drained and rinsed *
1 cup / 200 g artichoke hearts , packed in oil, NOT brined. Squeeze them gently to remove any excess oil before measuring.
4 cloves garlic
¼ cup / 28 g nutritional yeast
2 tablespoons / 30 ml Tamari or soy sauce **
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
¾ teaspoon dried sage
¾ teaspoon fresh or dried rosemary
¾ teaspoon dried thyme
2 tablespoons Better Than Bouillon No Chicken Base
½ cup / 120 mls water
2 cups / 256 g Vital wheat gluten

Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200 °C).
To a food processor add the beans, artichoke hearts, garlic, nutritional yeast, tamari or soy sauce, black pepper, sage, rosemary, thyme, Better Than Bouillon No Chicken Base and water. As it's a paste you don't need to dissolve it in the water. Just throw it all in. See notes for alternatives to the Better Than Bouillon.
Turn the food processor on and process until well combined and smoothish. It doesn't have to be super smooth. Very small lumps are ok. (see my pictures in the post above to see exactly how it should look).
Add the vital wheat gluten to the food processor and pulse until a dough is starting to form then tip out onto a clean surface. Bring it together with your hands and knead for 7 minutes. You can knead in a stand mixer if you prefer not doing it by hand, but don't use your food processor to knead. By the time you have finished kneading, the dough should be starting to look fibrous. See my picture in the post above as a guide. If it isn't, knead for a few minutes more.
Shape the dough into a log shape roughly 8½ inches long and 4 inches wide.
Get a long piece of foil (around 20 inches long) and place the roast right at the end of it, long side of the roast along the shortest side of the foil. Roll it up in the foil. Keep rolling it until you reach the end, so that the roast is surrounded by a few layers of foil. Then twist each end tightly shut so it looks like a Christmas cracker.
Place the foil wrapped roast onto a baking tray and place on the middle shelf of the oven and bake for 35 minutes. Turn it over and bake for another 35 minutes. Remove from the oven. Do not be tempted to open the foil. Leave it to rest in the foil for at least 30 minutes before opening and slicing, but it will stay warm for a few hours if you don't unwrap it.
For a much firmer roast, cool then refrigerate before slicing.

bubbles

Hi to all - t4591 t4591 A grey day, flat light and looks cold enough for snow. None forecast though. :?

Hi Toni - no, I glazed over within seconds, hearing about the planet hopping lecture. :shock: :shock:
The cold or heat, does not affect them, when going interstellar, as they are in a time shift, said Mother. Of course, silly me :roll: :roll:She agreed that Sleek was right too, I do like a lie in and Pendle cold, gets into your bownz :animal_busy:

Rosie is quite right, to call Mother, "Mother" and the youngsters can happily call her Granny. She says it is a term of endeer mont :?

I did notice the new thermal latte cup. Not sure what Sleek is up to - Mother knows, but is staying po faced about it :? :?

Dad was having a lie in this morning, just another hour he said, when B went round. He took all his meds, before getting comfy again. Bless. B will be round again shortly.

Sleek is reporting back to Matron, at least twice a day. So far, so good.

No, we didn't win 106 million ££ either. :shock: :shock: I think they are still waiting for the winner to come forward. WAIT, :shock: :shock: I would be banging on their doors !"!"!"

Oh, that's not so good, having no pictures of the wider family group at the wedding. All credit for capturing Tia's and Mikey's special day, but, you do like to see everyone together in a few pictures, it is traditional. Selfies and how good do I look. Not being one for them myself, I have to be coerced into them. My younger Brother, oh, he's very dapper indeed.

I looked at the shirts that needed pressing, but had a bout of I cannot be bothered - it must be that time of year, pre Christmas, post Wedding, low mojo time of year. It's the weather too, changing seasons and Beaver moons :shock: :shock: What we need a bright sparkles

Mother said we could borrow a mojo sparkler t115006



I am very pleased to hear that Auntie Kari's heating is fixed and both her and Mrs D are nice and warm
She did very well, with £500 worth of parts, plus labour, for £300. We don't mind a bargain like that.

I only had three ish :oops: cheesy hash browns. I think it was three.
Millionaires shortbread, with maltesers, bubbles would be so happy

I have just seen the Sisters, driving by in their Winnebago - quick, make room, they are en route for choir practice. I could see sparkling frocks hanging up :shock: :shock: :roll: :roll:

Hi Joan and Sue - yes, when it snows, everywhere looks so clean and white, all the gardens the same A big chilly blanket. Not good if you have to go out though. Ninny walking and no go for your buggies either.

Hope you are both ok and keeping nice and warm, with the heating working well.

Our surgery used to do 2 months supply, for over Christmas and New Year, but they stopped it a few years back - not quite sure why :? :roll:

Thank you for the hugs and well wishes. t4591 t4591 Dad was up and about this afternoon, B sorted out the tv, he likes to watch the films on TCM.

Hi Kath - oooh, off to the Emerald Isles.

Cyshendall, what a lovely poem and what an amazing location. It looks idyllic. A gorgeous bay and a stunning coastal road.

Thank you for sharing t4591 t4591 you clever person you

I showed the picture to Mother " oh yes, we have been there, it is most dee light full" Is there nowhere these two have not been and when did they go :shock: :shock: :shock:

Nails, oh, we don't want pain of nails being driven in. Grab one of Mothers sparklers, quick. t115006 t115006 (((()))) Hope they ease off asap.

Hope your Dad is ok, Anita keeping tabs, along with your phone calls. t4591 t4591

Vegan Roast, ta luv it looks wonderful - I am grab a plate. A melamine one is safest. :roll: :roll:

Hi Barbara - hope your Brother gets the go ahead for his chemo, after today's blood tests t4591 t4591 extra (((()))) and special thoughts t115006 t115006 Love to all and thank you for the picc of the flexifeet

Hi Carol - three weeks and counting. Hope you had a nice lunch with Mr T, was there time for coffee in your fav coffee house? (((())))

Time I was moving. I am sat sitting, like a big lump. :shock: :roll: move yourself Matron.

Right, off to potter a little. Drying nearly done. I will go find something sweet for us all.

Lots of love and sparkles to all t4591 t115006 t115006 will call back later XXXXX Aidan

Apricot Cream Cake with Mango Drizzle

frogmorton

Oh Aidan the apricot cream cake was as light as a feather no need to add any cream at all - imagine me saying that!!

I had a couple of three hash browns too (7, but shhhhh!!)

If I had won that money you'd wonder where I was!!

I think it's the weather/time of year Kari has felt a bit down too mind you it's been cold at hers! Yes she did well with her heating fixing bargain. Our specs are finally in both of mine too so will pick them up tomorrow

Would post a pic but i'm not that into selfies!!! Honestly the vanity of the younger generations :roll:

Sleek on the other hand....Selfies right left and centre

Pass me an uplifting sparkly I might need two.

Oh dear me - was that what I saw flying up the lane (far too fast!) and making a sort of Motown noise?? the Winnebago :roll: So they will be in their finery tonight will they? :shock:

Go Dad having a lie-in why not once pills are taken. Sleek will be over to do her obs later. Kath too.

Kath Sleek just peeped over my shoulder - I've bin ther with Tosca mummy it woz fabyoulus.

I myself have never been to N Ireland but am now very very tempted indeed.

Lovely poem I love the pace of it

Looks like you have just put on Kari's Christmas dinner there my lovely! She will love the roast thanks. t4591

Joan how lovely a new red mouse for Sue Yes thanks we are all finally warm! Mind you Kari's house is taking some heating up you know :?

Right must have a little singing practise before tonight!

Love to all

Toni xx

barbara12

Evening all..Im afraid this might be short..I am struggling with these eyes..I have made my background black with white text enlarged but its still hard
Good new my brother can have chemo tomorrow..he has gone home today with the injection you mention for love white blood cells
Carol I hope the funeral goes ok ..bless..and its not long at all now till your see you family..and you will be packed with presents..
Kath I am so glad you have Holly..it must make a big difference remember running errands for people when I was young..but never got treated....I love reading the poems..thankyou especially the Walter de la mare one..and the rainbow pie is very interesting..
Toni I am glad to hear Kari's boiler is all fixed ..and she can turn off the electric blanket ..bless..all the parts are so expensive now..so she has done well there..yes chemo for my brother tomorrow..I remember our wedding pics..yes all that time ago..set pieces they were when I buy my mag they think its for my OH...
Aldan..its says a faster router so we shall see..we cant have the fibre...thankyou for the hash browns..but that cake wow.. you will read above my brother has his chemo tomorrow..poor thing is so tired they had to be up again this morning for 6 to get ready and the same tomorrow..but so glad its going ahead..
I am glad dad had something to eat ..bless him..did you say he had a bad chest..I hope he picks up soon t4591 thankyou for all the sparkles like you say we all need them
Yes you will need an hat for the North Pole..wounder if we have won ..Mr B keeps it in his pocket and dreams for a while
Joan thankyou my brother is having his chemo so a long day tomorrow..I hope you are all nice and snug...(((())))
Right will make a move
Love to everyone
t4591 t115006 t4591

bubbles

Hi to all t4591

Breezy, lots of pine needles and crisp dry leaves, blowing about

Did you say no cream on the cake, Toni :shock:



Smelling salts needed

That must be a first, I cannot remember you ever saying, no cream needed :shock:

It was a very light cake though and not a word, about the cheesy hash browns, 7 is the new 3

Not quite sure where we would be, if we won the lottery. Probably fainting again :? :roll: :roll:

Auntie Kari has been feeling a bit low too, it is doing the rounds. With the boiler going kaput, that would soon freak me out. I am glad it is fixed and your specs are ready, very good 8) 8) IT does take a while, to get the house warm again. It has been a really chilly spell.

Sleek loves her selfies, which she says are essential :roll: :roll: Loads of younger peeples seem to thrive on them. I cannot mention names, but sometimes I think, enough already :roll: :roll: ( no one on here, worry not).

Sparkly things on their way t115006 t115006

I knew it, the Sisters have been giving it large again :roll: :roll: :roll:
Sleek saw them parked up, rehearsing :shock: :shock:



I do hope they were more restrained, at choir practice :? :roll:

Thank you Sleek, Gdads obs seem fine, he was up and about when B took his evening meds round. We will see him this morning and go into town............

Sleek and Mother do like Ireland, Mother has one of the stones from the Giants Causeway, in her ottoman apparently - :shock: :shock:

Hi Barbara - sorry you are having a struggle with your poor eyes (((()))) t4591 t4591 I will send over an extra sparkle, from Mother t115006 t4591

That is good news, your Brother can have his chemo. I bet he is so relieved. (((())))

I am sure it will be a faster router - they improve them all the time. I would guess you get at least 40 mgb, the same as we do. Our Niece gets over 200 :shock: :shock: crazy fast.

Your Brother will be shattered by tonight, after two long long days. Tired out, but relieved that he has had the next round of chemo.

Thoughts and prayers continue. How is Gdad doing ? (((())))

Dad hasn't been chesty on Thursday, will see how he is today. It might just be a bit of a cold.

So, Mr B might have the winning ticket check it as soon as you can, rifle it out of his pocket

Hope your eyes feel a bit easier today ((()))

Hi Carol - will be thinking of you both at the funeral of the Church Elder. He will be sadly missed I am sure t4591 t4591

Hi to everyone else, in and about.

T room today, not been in this week, they will be wondering where we are.

B and SIL are over on Sat, so cake supply is necessary

Time I was pottering. Leaving lots of love and sparkles to all t4591 t115006 t115006 Take care XXXX Aidan

Drop Scones with Apple and Blackberry

frogmorton

Morning everyone

Why is it so cold when it's not icy? :roll:

Aidan I did say I didn't need cream on my cake!!! I know! shocking Mother has her fishy smelling salts at the ready. The cake was just so light

I think we would faint if we won the euro millions. It wouldn't spoil me though! no way I'd be just the same - only happier!!

Kari was more upbeat again yesterday and this morning we are off to fetch our specs finally with her DIL (my 'niece') and will have a pootle around the shops and probably a costa.

I think she's left the heating on permanent until the house is warmed through.

None of us are into selfies, but the kids are :roll: Sleek is too bless her and has one on Andromeda and the new Pluto one on her wall and in her phone. There is a stone from the giant causeway in Tosca's ottoman I know :shock: I'm sure that's never legal :?

The girls are all going to Rosie's this morning for a latte Charley and her GF will be out so Rosie wants to entertain bless her. She wants them all to look out of the windows at 'her' garden :animal_busy:

Oh the sisters! Well honestly they came within an inch of being banned by the choir mistress :roll: They had a few sopranos diva-ing along with them and she lost patience :shock: They had to have a 'time out' - a fair while at a minute a year of their ages too

They have promised to behave next time.

Sleek was happy with Dad last night, but is glad he is to see the urologist next week so she said. Glad he will be up for town today I'm sure you will entice his taste buds again

The drop scones were wonderful thank you and do not worry I DID add extra cream to mine

Barbara I am thrilled that your bro can have his chemo and is on the filgrastim (sp!) jabs too

You must tell them in the paper shop that it's YOU with the techie brain in your house

I am sorry your eyes were so tired last night ((()))

Kari is much happier now she has heat - she'll burn her bum if she's not careful leaning on the rads!!

Good morning to Sue and Joan - I hope you are out today? It's not to bad here no ice nor rain

Love to everyone

Toni xx

Kitty

Daily Poem

Nightmare
By Kathleen

Through the gate and up the hill
this winding path continues still.
To the castle at the top,
is this where I have to stop?
No - the path still twists around
behind the towers on both sides bound
by walls of stone, cold and grey,
where Kings are buried - so they say.
Through the tunnel down the side,
towards the lake where black swans glide.
Turn this curve, I'll soon be free
but wait - what is this I see?
I have arrived back at the gate
and now I know that it's my fate
to wander endlessly this course,
guided by some mystic force.
This trail is for eternity,
there will be no escape for me!

https://drive.google.com/open?id=1LnxH6YfDdVpM-FHQ8oUD8CNv1ac5scPC

Painting of the medieval Nottingham Castle

t115006 t115006 t115006 t115006 t115006 t115006

Aidan, So mother has a stone from the Giant's Causeway in her huge ottoman. No I won't laugh, I totally believe her. Did she tell you of their visit to Glenarm Castle? Oh yes, the Laird invited them both for 'tay' which in County Antrim entails a huge table groaning beneath the weight of plates of many cakes, home made bread, home made butter, home made jams etc. I kid you not Matron, I've been to one of those 'tays'. Not at the castle, but in a tiny farmhouse. My pal Sheila who originates in Glenarm and has a large family there, had an uncle who farmed the laird's land that surrounded the castle.

https://drive.google.com/open?id=1NU-mVzSYpmX9WccbjjmRbwotqgKMH9UD

Thank you for the drop scones, luv 'em mi duck.

Barbara, such good news that your brother can have his chemo, he will be relieved. When I had Filgastrim it caused such pain in my hips and thighs as my body began to increase the neutrophils. Rather like the pain I have now. The nurse kept stuffing me with Ibuprofen and paracetamol. Please make sure he asks them for any pain relief he needs, bless him.
I'm so sorry your eyes are playing up. t4591

Joan, my new mouse is red and black, I got it from Amazon, It's wi-fi.

Vegan chocolate coconut truffles
Ingredients
3/4 cup canned full-fat coconut milk
10 ounces bittersweet vegan chocolate (finely chopped)
Optional: 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon coconut extract
1/4 cup cocoa powder
Optional: 1 pound chocolate candy coating
Optional: toasted or flaked coconut
Optional: Himalayan salt
Steps to Make It
Gather the ingredients.

Place the finely chopped chocolate in a medium, heat-safe bowl and set aside.

Place the coconut milk in a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Heat the coconut milk until it is just under a boil—bubbles should appear along the sides of the pan, but it shouldn’t be bubbling vigorously.

Pour the hot coconut milk over the chopped chocolate and allow it to sit for 1 to 2 minutes so the chocolate can soften. Gently whisk them together until the chocolate is melted and it becomes a smooth, shiny chocolate ganache.

If you leave the ganache plain, it has a subtle fruity flavor from the coconut milk, but it is not extremely noticeable and you could add other extracts or additives to make other flavors of vegan truffles. If you want to increase the coconut flavor, add the optional 1/4 teaspoon of coconut extract to the ganache. Taste it and add up to 1/4 teaspoon more if you prefer a stronger coconut flavor.

Press a layer of cling wrap directly on top of the ganache. Refrigerate it until it is firm enough to scoop and roll, approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. Check the consistency at the 1-hour mark and give it 30 more minutes if necessary. If you wait too long it will get very stiff and hard to work with.

Pour the cocoa powder in a shallow bowl. Dust your hands lightly with cocoa powder. Use a spoon or a small candy scoop to form small ganache balls, and roll them between your hands to make them round. Roll them in a thin coating of cocoa powder, or shredded toasted or untoasted coconut. You can eat these truffles as is at this point.

Or, if you would prefer chocolate-covered truffles, melt the optional chocolate candy coating in the microwave in 30 seconds intervals until it is smooth and fluid, mixing between intervals.

Using forks, toothpicks, or dipping tools, dip each truffle in the chocolate until it's completely submerged in the coating. Bring it up out of the coating and tap the fork or utensil against the lip of the bowl to remove excess chocolate. Place the truffle on a foil-covered baking sheet, and while it is still wet, sprinkle the top with toasted or untoasted coconut, or Himalayan salt.

Repeat until all the truffles have been dipped. Place the tray in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to set the coating.

Enjoy!

bubbles

Hi to all - t4591 t4591

Grey day, rather chilly, then having hot flashes at the T room - :roll: :roll: Cannot win :? :?

Hi Toni - Good job Mother had her smelling salts, to revive me, after you saying "no cream"

We would not be different people either, as you say, the same, but able to make anonymous, lovely changes, to peoples lives and live in a country pile (with lifts and a pool) with a moat

Glad Auntie Kari is feeling more upbeat and has a warm bottom with her rads on constant for a while. New glasses, some shopping and of course a Costa with your Niece too.

Mother has a selfie of her in a galaxy, as yet undiscovered by man - so far away it is unfathomable, even in light years. Not sure the stone is legal, from the Giants Causeway, Mother keeps it under a blankie. She has had is for over a 100 years apparently. :shock:

They had a lovely time at Charley's this morning, Rosie was the perfect host and they all admired Rosie's garden, giving lots of encouragement to Rosie, about venturing outside at some point. t4591 t4591

I knew the Sisters were on thin ice - serves them right for pushing their luck with the choir mistress. Mother Superior has ordered them back to the Convent in the far northern Isles of Scotland, for some "reflection" and quiet time. :roll: :roll:

Dad was very slow this morning, didn't really eat more than a teeny bit of his scrambled eggs on toast at the T room. Made sure he had a huge coffee (much to his shock) I said, you need to drink, if you are not eating much, even more so. Good job we were only a few yards from Hilde. He made it round Sainsb, just a couple of aisles. Stopped in the car at Tesco and also at the hospital, my new crutches were ready.
They are NEON blue hand and elbow areas, with reflectors on them, how jazzy are they :shock:

Before the day really started. I was summoned round to M next door, by her Sons' GF. Chest pains :shock: :shock: again - doesn't want an ambulance......................right. Tottered round. Other neighbours were there. I asked three questions, got the answers, said right, 999. No messing about, you cannot take the risk. None of us want to be admitted, but, I am not leaving until I hear one is on the way.
4 lots of GTN, chewed an aspirin and the pains were easing a bit, so I left, as the crew were appearing. Still waiting to hear...........I suspect unstable angina, but, blood tests will be needed to confirm that.

Never a dull moment. :? :?

Hi Kath - another very good poem. In dreams, we often feel as if we are in a loop and getting nowhere. Running, or feeling as if we are being chased - :shock:

Only nice dreams of unicorns and roses now t115006 t115006 t4591 t4591

Love the painting of Nottingham Castle

Glenarm, oh wow, I want to live there, right now t4591 t4591 Mother has not said a word of it, but it does not surprise me one bit, Sleek and Mother, have a past, that defies logic and reality. :shock: :shock:

I bet you had a fabulous tay, table laden with all manner of goodies - we need to go - Toni will get the bus - mind you, I don't do ferries cross the Irish Sea

You're quite welcome to the drop scones, glad you luv em ducky.

((((())))) for those darned ouchies - I will send the possums over, bush babies too. t4591 t4591

Do I hear chocolate, as in truffles, oh my, ta luv, I will just have one - or two - ish.............

Hugs to both - how is Holly, looking after you with errands She is a love.
Hope Dad is ok too. t4591 t4591

Hi Barbara - hope you are ok and that your Brother and his GF are too. They will be having a long day, up at the crack of dawn and not home until late. Sending extra ((((())))) strength to them both. t4591 t4591

Are you eyes less troublesome today (((((())))))

Hi Carol - thinking of you today and hoping that the funeral went as well as can be on such occasions. t4591 t4591 ((((()))))

Time is running away with me. So I will leave lots of love and sparkles to all. t4591 t115006 t115006 Will call back later, take care XXXXX Aidan

Mince pie Cookies

bubbles

Hi to all t4591 t4591

Hope everyone is as ok as possible - it is pretty grey and damp out - mizzling t111055

Barbara I hope your Brother went on ok with his second round of chemo and he has his filgastrim to boost those neutrophils - he and his GF will have had a long day, so some rest and chill time is necessary - sending lots of sparkles and love t4591 t115006

I am guessing Niamh will be with you, having a sleep over with Daddy and waiting for her grown up, big bacon butties, this morning
Gdad will make sure of it.

Carol I trust things went ok on Friday, you were all in our thoughts and prayers. t4591
Hope you are continuing to feel more back to normal. Anti ouchies on their way t115006 t115006

Toni - I hope you enjoyed your shopping trip with Aunt Kari and your Niece A visit to Costa I might guess rude not to go in when you are passing the door eh

M is home, Matron was spot on with the unstable angina diagnosis - all her bloods were fine, no raised enzymes, which is a relief. They did want to keep her in for 24 hours, but Friday night, not much chance of a bed, so she came home and will rest.
Spoke to her for a long while - she was glad I went round and called the shots

Sleek went round later, her obs visits are getting wider and wider. Dad was asleep in bed when B went round with his pills in the evening. He did get up though. See what Bro [img][/img]and SIL say today. We have a eenor mouse blueberry cheesecake and cream. SIL can be fussy, if she turns her nose up I will have to bite my lip........... :roll: :roll: there are mini lemon cheesecakes, as a back up :? :roll: :roll:

Sleek was over at siesta time, I was dozing off, while they went into Mothers Ottoman - I am sure there is a "gate" in there somewhere, that we are not privy to..... t115006

They both sent some sparkles for us all (Sleek insisted on the jewellery) Mother just said, "yes dear" :roll:



Hi to Joan and Sue - I hope you managed to gather all you needed on Friday. Did you have time for lunch with your friend (((())))

Well, time I was pottering a bit more. Ouchies will increase if I don't move........ :roll: :roll:
Quiet evening, watching the Davis Cup, then the golf on in the background.

Lots of love and sparkles to everyone t4591 t4591 t115006 t115006 Take care XXXXX Aidan

Scottish Oatmeal Blueberry Pancakes

frogmorton

Oh Aidan those pancakes! To die for!!

Ok so Dad isn't eating enough at all. I hope he at least finished the drink you gave him? Poor Man he is so tired. It's not the new meds is it? for the dementia? Just a thought. Good BIL and SIL will be here they should be part of discussions....

Sleek has indeed checked in on Mandy as well overnight - several times I believe. She said 'Mandi lyvz nere Tosca's Grandad Mummy'.

I love the pic they chose especially the bling - go Sleek! I asked bout the selfie in the yet to be discovered galaxy so was allowed to see a 'screen shot' of it :roll: Also when asked she admitted there is a secret gate, but then lips sealed :shock:

The girls went upstairs and downstairs looking outside of all windows with Rosie much reassurance given - Sleek even nipped outside and showed Rosie how much fun it is out there for when she is ready of course :animal_busy:

What a scare with M you had! Dialing 999 is for the best but honestly 4 GTN sprays?! That is a LOT :shock: :?

Loving the sound of the new crutches neon blue is that blue for boys?!! Could I have pink. I think reflectors are a god idea though.

Woke up at 4 am - got up at 5am with migraine aura. Out tonight at village 'barn dance' :shock:

The sisters are in contemplation are they? No bad thing methinks will they be allowed out to practise this week I wonder :roll:

We can go to Glenarm in the hot air balloon if I can find it...…

Hi Kath spooky atmospheric poem for the day yesterday :shock: We've all had those sorts of nightmares haven't we?

Glenarm looks lovely maybe we should buy it when we win the euromillions? Tay there would be delightful! Yes the girls have been :roll: they do rather like the nicer things don't they? How lucky are you having a friend who lived on the Lairds land

Lucy did not have the filgrastim as you know it being in injection form, but had those pains anyway as her cells recovered on their own. She had codeine for her pain. Not allowed any nsaids with leukaemia sadly and anyway they give her belly ache :roll:

Hmmm should I get some truffles for Kari do you think?

I hope Joan and Sue had a nice day out yesterday t69044

Love to everyone

Toni xx

dachshund

Morning everyone
. Kathleen how are you (((((()))) love to your Dad(((((()))))
. Barbara sorry your eye's are bad (((((())))) that's good your brother can have chemo ((((((()))))
Aidan you are a good neighbour (((((((()))))) all the best for your Dad's tests (((((((()))))
. Toni everyone is nice and warm now (((((())))) you still have to wait for your new boiler (((((((())))))
. have a good weekend everyone
. take care. love to Carol Mig (((((()))))
. Joan xx

Kitty

Todays Poem (box of tissues needed )

A Frog's Fate by Christina Georgina Rossetti

Contemptuous of his home beyond
The village and the village-pond,
A large-souled Frog who spurned each byway
Hopped along the imperial highway.

Nor grunting pig nor barking dog
Could disconcert so great a Frog.
The morning dew was lingering yet,
His sides to cool, his tongue to wet:
The night-dew, when the night should come,
A traveled Frog would send him home.

Not so, alas! The wayside grass
Sees him no more: not so, alas!
A broad-wheeled waggon unawares
Ran him down, his joys, his cares.
From dying choke one feeble croak
The Frog's perpetual silence broke: -
‘Ye buoyant Frogs, ye great and small,
Even I am mortal after all!
My road to fame turns out a wry way;
I perish on the hideous highway;
Oh for my old familiar byway!’

The choking Frog sobbed and was gone;
The Wagoner strode whistling on.
Unconscious of the carnage done,
Whistling that Wagoner strode on -
Whistling (it may have happened so)
‘A froggy would a-wooing go.’
A hypothetic frog trolled he,
Obtuse to a reality.

O rich and poor, O great and small,
Such oversights beset us all.
The mangled Frog abides incog,
The uninteresting actual frog:
The hypothetic frog alone
Is the one frog we dwell upon.



Sorry Toni. t4591

Joan, I usually feel a little better by late morning early afternoon, thank you. (((()))) hugs to you both.

Toni, I hope todays poem didn't upset you too much - poor Froggy. Yes, we really must at least visit Glenarm one day. I went there at 17 with my then friend Sheila. All her uncles were farmers in various areas around there, but the laird's farm was the biggest. We walked through the cows field one night. No lights. we found ourselves surrounded by them. Oh we had some adventures.
Help yourselves to truffles for Kari and you.

Aidan, I'm so sorry to hear of M's heart problem. I know you will keep tabs on her. Also sorry to hear dad's not eating well. :? Loving the pink puss and the Scottish Oatmeal Blueberry Pancakes. TA.

Very glad to hear Barbara's brother had his chemo. Prayers and hugs for you all. (((( t4591 ))))

Vegan Aubergine stew (Courtesy of IBS Network)
Ingredients
 1 aubergine
 1 tbsp of olive oil
 100g carrots
 1 tin of tomatoes
 1 tsp of cinnamon
 1 tsp of paprika
 1/2 tsp of nutmeg
 150g walnuts
 150g of sharply flavoured cheese (if vegan you can use alternative vegan cheese)

Method
Chop the vegetables and walnuts
Fry the spices in the oil to release their flavour.
Add the vegetables to a casserole dish with the tomatoes and mix in the spices and add salt to taste.
Cook for 1 hour at gas mark 6, 200° C
Crumble the cheese, sprinkle on the top of the casserole and grill to melt
Serve with crusty bread (gluten free or otherwise for those following a low FODMAP or gluten free diet.)

barbara12

Evening all Niamh has gone home now..
Aidan I am sorry dad is not himself..I think when they lose there partner.. bless him..he does sound tired but sometimes that is good t4591 t115006
Thankyou my eyes are getting worse they seem to go in firs and starts..not nice trying to see my comp..but never mind we get round these things
Poor M..she does have it bad with angina..like you say she is much better going to hospital..
I forgot to mention the lovely rose and candle..how beautiful....sorry forgot the goodies.. :?
My brother and his gf got home at 10.30 last night..so this morning they had a lie in..dont blame them..he says he has a few bags flushes he mentioned..but said the chemo was the biggest bag..
Yes grown up buttys for Niamh...and chief was thanked for the good bacon..
Toni I am glad to hear Kari is a little more upbeat..bless maybe you all going out to pick up your glasses will help..dont blame her for keeping the heating on..
I have bought my comp mag now since I got mine in 1998..its only a cheap one but learned me loads..
Thankyou..you will know all about the injections and things.. (((())))
Joan I am finding ways around these eyes..thankyou did you hear about your blood test...(((())))
Kath your poem the nightmare..is me all over when a sleep ..I am always lost and walking here there and everywhere.. but just cant find my way.. and thankyou for the info on the injections..he wasnt goid today but not sure if it's the chemo or injections...(((())))
Right I am have curry tonight..when Mr B get back with it
Love to everyone
t4591 t115006 t69044

bubbles

Hi to all - t4591 t4591

Finally, time to pen a little note

Hi Toni - glad you enjoyed the oat pancakes, I only had 4, I think :oops: :?

I hope your migraine aura's did not develop any further (((()))) up at 5 :? :?

Dad wasn't as bad on Sat - a bit brighter - Bill went to collect him and bring him round here, before Br and SIL came. He enjoyed his blueberry cheesecake and cream and had all of his drinks, ( I made sure, by pleasantly nagging ) The drugs don't really have too many side effects. They are up for review on Tuesday as well, two appointments that day. :roll:


They were here till gone 5 :shock: , so Dad was ready for off and we were nearly ready for naps.

Discussions are not easy when they are here, as Dad is always here too, so if he nips to the loo, then we all rattle away like the clappers. A lot depends on bloods Monday and biopsy results Tuesday. We need to know all there is to know.

I have a mountain of observation charts from her Sleekness MD
All seem ok, within normal values. She is VERY thorough indeed. Mandy does live near to Tosca's Gdad, she is quite right.



A selfie in the unknown galaxy - amazing. I think Mother has pictures of it too, but is keeping them hidden in her ottoman of secrets. There is a gate said Mother, then she clammed up and faced the wall, not speaking

Mother is pleased with Rosie's progress and said her mow joe will come back soon, with lots of en kurridge ment

We have had lots of scares with M. She was having up to 10 lots of GTN in a day :shock: :shock: That was in the run up to her last heart attack.
I don't take a chance now, it is 999. I can do nothing really, apart from keep her calm and slow her breathing down. I know what it is like, all too well, you think you are going to die. As soon as the first responder or ambulance arrive, I leave them to it.

I am sure you can have pink crutches, even the physio said, these are really jazzy Why not. Not quite sure where I am tottering off to with my reflectors :shock:

A barn dance, goodness, not been to one of them in about 40 plus years. We used to have them in the farms, around Gotham, where Dad was the Rector. Great fun.

Mother Superior said that the Sisters will not be able to come to choir this coming week. :? Their contemplation and extended time of silence is much needed.

A hot air balloon, over the Irish Sea - well, I guess it is better than a boat, as long as we are all covered in parachutes :shock:

I read that the holder of the winning euromillions ticket, has come forward - only 106 million ££ :shock: :shock: :shock:

Hi Joan and Sue - hope you are both as ok as can be. ((((()))) - Dad was a bit better on Saturday, but still not eating or drinking enough. Thank you for the hugs and well wishes for his results on Tuesday. t4591 t4591

Hi Kath - oh poor froggy - Byways and less highways are needed, bless.

Sounds like you had a wonderful time over at Glenarm, with your Friend. In the middle of a field of cows, in the dead of night There must be a poem in there somewhere

The cows of Glenarm who mean you no harm.........................

I seem to be keeping tabs on everyone - sometimes it feels like I was never retired :shock: :roll: :roll: I don't mind, but it is frustrating not having any medical equipment to hand.

Glad you enjoyed the pancakes and glittery pink puss cat Sleek, she has so have bling t115006 t115006

Aubergine stew, looks delicious, ta luvvy. I assume the burgers are veggie ones? They look yummy too.

Hope any ouchies are not too bad (((()))) t4591 t4591

Hi Barbara - You will have had your feet up, with your curry, relaxing after Niamh's visit

Dad is tired, the energy is just not there. Something I have seen so many times, but are powerless to change. :? :? Very difficult, but, we keep upbeat and keep things going along.

I am sure it is very difficult to see the computer, with your eyes deteriorating (((((()))))) some days better than others. Let's pray for more better days t4591 t4591
M knows we are close by if needed - night and day

Sparkles, oh yes, we need them, let me go gather some more t115006
I love this one



I am sure you Bro and GF needed a lie in, after the long day at hospital. ((((())))) It takes a long time to run the chemo and the flushes through, especially when you can see a clock :roll: :roll:

Niamh is now on grown up bacon butties - go Niamh and the chief caterer was thanked accordingly

Hi Carol - hope you week end is going ok. It will be strange at Church, with one less member of the congregation Sending (((((())))) t4591 t4591
I have lost my countdown, two weeks and five days ?

We needed our siestas, I did not take much rocking and I don't think Mother used her sleepy spell either. Sleek came over to watch 90 day Fiance' - Mother slept right through it :roll: :roll:

We have caught up on tennis, ski jumping and the golf is on in the background. Too many things on in a day, at the moment.

We will have a "just us two" trip to Loom Loft https://www.loomloft.co.uk/

It is on the outskirts of Clitheroe, all of 3 miles, so not a long journey. Guessing it is going to be super £££, but nice to look. Their coffee is about £5 a cup - so we will go to Costa, afterwards.

Right, time I was moving again. So, I will leave lots of love and sparkles to everyone, in and about. t4591 t115006 t115006
Take lots of care XXXXX Aidan

German Blueberry Bread

frogmorton

One very tired Toni here after the villages (us and the next village)ance. A very late night for little old me!

Sounds like you did well there the 4 of you, Aidan, and said what needed saying about Dad when you could. Not easy when you want to be respectful is it? Tuesday is most definitely 'D' day.

Sleek said all obz were wivin normol pa-ram-itaz.

Poor Mandy she will be terrified is there anything she can do? Could she loose some weight/exercise or anything - If I was here I'd never sleep again

I think the standard colour crutches are ok (looks like you've just had an injury ) but that reflectors are a good safety feature. You know for when an aeroplane gets too close behind you...…

I think our choir mistress might have had one too many last night she was inviting all and sundry to join choir :shock: The sisters would not be impressed at all. There extended period of contemplation is very very necessary indeed bless them

Tosca said that she and Sleek with Mrs D's help can get you over without the need for transport no problem :? :shock:

Loom Loft looks amazing! Maybe not at those prices. Sleek said it's nothing special she and Tosca have been already :roll:

Ta for the German blueberry creation with added cream it is wonderful!!

Barbara chemo takes forever! not as bad as if they want to give you a couple of bags of blood though :roll: They vary in size and we used to have a read of the size to calculate how long we'd be waiting Flushes are essential though we don't want chemo in the veins won't do much good there.

I hope bro and gf are recovered today.

Kari is feeling much better thank you she really wasn't herself at all and the house is hated up to normal service is resumed :animal_busy: Mrs D has kept her jumper on having unusual fur.

Niamh has gone to mummy's then? I bet you all miss her so much especially now she's such a big girls with her grown up bacon butties and being a junior and all....

If the computer mag is enjoyable you carry on! Me I wouldn't know where to start :oops:

Bet you enjoyed your curry we had fish and chips at the barn dance I only had the chips - forgot to order my veggie :roll:

Kath! Oh my!! Poor poor little froggy :shock: :shock: I am trying not to think of him, but rather the overall picture of us humans blithely driving over wildlife right and centre

Thank you I took several truffles for Kari, but she'll eat them one at a time as she's dieting. Nearly at 2 stone lost!

That aubergine stew is good for IBS that's good to know and lovely too

Ignored the burger though :shock:

Joan yes we are all warm now but we are still waiting for our boiler - will be this week along with fancy-pants kitchen lights and outside safety ones

Love to everyone!

Toni xx

dachshund

Morning everyone I hope you all have a good day
. Kathleen it's a shame when animals get run over((((((()))))
Barbara how many doses of chemo does it take ((((((()))))
. My blood test was alright thank you ((((((()))) sorry your eyes are bad ((((((()))))
. Aidan sorry about your Dad you have to do the best for them ((((((()))))) working the hospital you know more about things. Dementia I know our friend has it. Thinking of all of you(((((((()))))
. take care love to Toni Carol Mig ((((((((())))))))
. Joan xx. Morning Toni ((((((()))))

Kitty

Daily Poem (Tennis and Betjeman, what could be better?)

A Subaltern's Love Song By John Betjeman

Miss J.Hunter Dunn, Miss J.Hunter Dunn,
Furnish'd and burnish'd by Aldershot sun,
What strenuous singles we played after tea,
We in the tournament - you against me!

Love-thirty, love-forty, oh! weakness of joy,
The speed of a swallow, the grace of a boy,
With carefullest carelessness, gaily you won,
I am weak from your loveliness, Joan Hunter Dunn

Miss Joan Hunter Dunn, Miss Joan Hunter Dunn,
How mad I am, sad I am, glad that you won,
The warm-handled racket is back in its press,
But my shock-headed victor, she loves me no less.

Her father's euonymus shines as we walk,
And swing past the summer-house, buried in talk,
And cool the verandah that welcomes us in
To the six-o'clock news and a lime-juice and gin.

The scent of the conifers, sound of the bath,
The view from my bedroom of moss-dappled path,
As I struggle with double-end evening tie,
For we dance at the Golf Club, my victor and I.

On the floor of her bedroom lie blazer and shorts,
And the cream-coloured walls are be-trophied with sports,
And westering, questioning settles the sun,
On your low-leaded window, Miss Joan Hunter Dunn.

The Hillman is waiting, the light's in the hall,
The pictures of Egypt are bright on the wall,
My sweet, I am standing beside the oak stair
And there on the landing's the light on your hair.

By roads "not adopted", by woodlanded ways,
She drove to the club in the late summer haze,
Into nine-o'clock Camberley, heavy with bells
And mushroomy, pine-woody, evergreen smells.

Miss Joan Hunter Dunn, Miss Joan Hunter Dunn,
I can hear from the car park the dance has begun,
Oh! Surrey twilight! importunate band!
Oh! strongly adorable tennis-girl's hand!

Around us are Rovers and Austins afar,
Above us the intimate roof of the car,
And here on my right is the girl of my choice,
With the tilt of her nose and the chime of her voice.

And the scent of her wrap, and the words never said,
And the ominous, ominous dancing ahead.
We sat in the car park till twenty to one
And now I'm engaged to Miss Joan Hunter Dunn.



Joan, especially hedgehogs. They roll into a ball for protection, then SPLAT. :?

Toni, the burger pic was a mistake, but it was vegan and from the IBS Network. It was probably quite nice. Nedder mind

Aidan, So gentle nagging got dad eating and drinking on Saturday, good for him. t4591 I rang my dad today. He doesn't know how long he's got to have the catheter in. The first time he had one (10 years ago) the doc said he had something growing in his bladder that affects his water works, but couldn't remember what it was. Any ideas? Anyway he's got it into his head that the kidney infection means he has a kidney problem. :? Anita is on top of things and making sure he goes to all his appointments ad eats well. He managed to get to the Friday club last week, so things are looking up.
Chris and I had our hair cut yesterday, phew that was a weight off me mind duck. Thank you for the German Blueberry Bread.

Barbara, I hope your brother is given the necessary meds to help him with the chemo affects. Anti sickness pills, pain killers etc. The Macmillan nurse could talk to him about what's available for him. They also provide some brilliant booklets that he might find helpful. Love and huge to him and his lovely G/F (((()))).

Eggplant Hummus Veggie Burgers

olive oil
4 thick slices of eggplant
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
2 teaspoons oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 hamburger buns
lettuce leaves
red onion slices
hummus
tomato slices
Sprinkle eggplant slices with salt and let stand for 30 minutes, then pat dry.

In a small bowl, stir together about 2 tablespoons of olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt and pepper. Brush each side of the eggplant slices. Heat a pan or BBQ grill and cook each eggplant slice for 3-4 minutes per side.

Toast or grill the buns. Top the bottom buns with lettuce, onion slices and eggplant slice, then spread desired amount of hummus. Top with another eggplant slice, tomato slice and the top of the bun. Or use your preferred toppings, enjoy!

bubbles

Hi to all t4591 t4591 A very grey and misty day - Pendle has vanished completely - :shock: perfect for gathering by her Sleekness. Is it me, or has it gone a good deal warmer - I was in my own summertime earlier :? :roll:

Sleek was eager to tell Mother, that Mummy woz very tyred aftar all the danc syng in the burn - ("no dear, a burn is a stream, a barn is for dancing in") :roll: :roll:

We are used to very late nights - but I know you are not particularly a night owl :? :?

We did just about get everything said, that we needed to say - the rest is by phone, much easier in many ways.

I am with you on the not sleeping ie M, with her angina - that is where my intractable insomnia started - 1994, after my first heart attack and then the second one just before Christmas 1999 - my Cardio said that is is a very common thing to happen. I was and still am, to a lesser extent, of the thought, that if I am awake, I am ok - if I sleep, I won't wake up.
It does get a little easier with time, but, your mortality niggles you, at the back of your mind. :roll: :roll:

But, we carry on carrying on And now, with my super blue crutches, there will be no stopping me, reflectors and all

We are on the aircraft descent route into Manchester - I will have to hide my reflectors

So, the choir could soon be too large to fit into Westminster Abbey :shock: :shock: after the choir Mistress had had a wee too much pop last night and invited everyone she met goodness knows who will turn up on Thursday :? :? :roll: :roll:

Mother Superior will not mention the little indiscretion from the choir mistress.

Sleek said that Mother has a spell to turn people temporarily tone deaf Might come in handy.

So our puskins can gather and collectively move me over to Ireland, that sounds fine - I can do that t115006 t115006

We could not find Mr Mojo this morning, so we didn't venture out to LoomLoft or Costa The Girls were right, it is nothing that we have not seen before and the coffee is owver pryced

Just being "at home", would be more restful, (apart from B's nipping round to do pill rounds at Dads).

Litter tray bleached, fresh litter, fresh sweets, fresh everything Lots of shrieking, Mother cannot wait for Sleek to come over at siesta time, to throw litter and spit sweets into the water dish :roll: :roll:

Glad Auntie Kari is feeling better and the house is nice and warm. Way to go, 2 stone lost, very well done t4591

Hi Joan and Sue - glad you bloods were ok Joan, t4591 t4591 Thank you, we do what ever we can, for Dad. We will know more this week, when we have more results in from scans and biopsies.

Love to both and the doggies too t4591 t4591 ((((()))))

Hi Kath - thank you for the wonderful poem from J Betjemen - he really had a way with words

Written in 1941, :shock: Joan Hunter Dunn died at the age of 92 in 2008 Fascinating to read of the person, behind the poem.

I guessed the burger might have been a veggie one, which is good, because I ate one

A little Matronly persuasion never goes amiss. Dad seems relatively ok today, B has set his tv onto the football channel, he is a big Man U fan. He will likely fall asleep, but never mind.

Dads catheter could well stop in a fair while, they will change it as and when, they can indwell for a lot longer these days. What could be growing - well, it could be polyps, they can often grow in the bladder, usually they cause no problems, but are monitored, to check if they are benign.
An enlarged prostate could cause problems with passing urine. Lesions are quite common too.

If he has a renal infection, it is usually just that, an infection, which will respond to the right antibiotics.

Anita sounds to be doing a great job and making sure he is eating well and going to all his appointments - we are all in similar positions with Dads. :? :?

Glad he went to his Friday club, that must be an improvement t4591 t4591

I hardly recognised you both, with your hair cuts - nice and short, easy care
Hope any ouchies are not too troublesome t4591 t4591 ((()))

Ta for the aubergine and hummus burgers - gorgeous, will go nicely for supper Luvly. with extra helpings of mayo

Hi Barbara - I hope you are all ok and that your Bro is feeling a bit better today. He will have a supply of anti sickness meds etc. Often chemo will alter your taste buds, makes things metallic - I hope he is managing to eat something and drink plenty too. Prayers and thoughts continue t4591



Hope your eyes are not too bad today (((())))

Hi Carol - how has your week end been? We must be on 2 weeks 4 days countdown now. A more restful evening and not too busy on a Monday - plenty of time for you

Hi to everyone else in and about, Crinkly, Mig, Mell, DD, SW, Toady Kerrin Christine Elizabeth and all..................

Time for a cuppa, before a nap. Will pop in later. Lots of love and sparkles to everyone t4591 t115006 XXXX Aidan

Fresh Strawberry Lemon Shortcake Muffins

bubbles

Hi to all t4591

Just a quick note, hoping that everyone is as ok as possible. We were late with supper, as B was round at Dads for a while. He has bloods this morning, but, we will see how he is, not great at the moment. :? :?

Sorry to write such a short post.

Lots of love and of course some sparkles t4591 t4591



Strawberry Pound Cake - says it is perfect with a morning cup of coffee - who am I to disagree