Buying

When we were on the way back from dropping Freya AND Toby at Julia's we went shopping briefly. First of all I wanted a bottle of Whiskey to go with the two bottles of Green Ginger Wine that Brian dropped off for me yesterday. Secondly (and this is why we went to Tesco's) I wanted to buy a jug with a lid on so instead of mixing single drinks worth of Mac I will be able to make a few days worth and keep it in the freezer

Off, in a bit

So this morning firstly we are going to Lloyd's TSB to find out why my cash card isn't working, then we are going over to take Freya put for the day

Then we went out for a Christmas dinner, me and Freya (and Paul) it was very nice and it was nice being with Freya too

And WOW but afterwards I went to a woman's shop with Freya, just good lord, it didn't hurt as much as I expected and she got what she wanted

Surprise

And tonight I was sitting here minding my own business when somebody walked up and said "Hello". It was Brian, Julia's father they are visiting from Leighton Buzzard for a few days and he came to see me. It was a bit emotional for me but after talking to him I know that Julia did love me, but I was taken away from her.

Cashless

So today, amongst shopping trips, I went to the hole in the wall to try and use my other cash card, not debit-worthy. I checked my PIN beforehand and put it in. I entered my PIN and it said "This PIN has been blocked". Hoo-flipping-ray, it was just after the banks close for the day when I discovered this, so tomorrow, before we go and get Freya I have to go to Lloyd's Bank and try to be assertive

Ybot

Then out of the blue Toby came round to see me tonight, to wish me a Happy Christmas etc. I was able to give him the first of 3 presents that Davy and Nora sent for all 3 of my kids

Winner

And today I was looking in my bag and I found the T-shirt that I won last night at the Folk Club charidee raffle

Here Now

He is here now, I almost immediately went for a nap, now wait and see.....

Then we went out for a drive along the A40 to Llandeilo, via where we usedta live, and back along the B4300, the old A40, back along the other side of the river

But today was proof in so many small ways that my memory is getting better, we drove along the A40 then I was able to say "Turn left here" and go straight to our old house with out having to follow the signs on the next turn. Also he said "Which way back?" and I was able to say "B43-summat" - I remembered that too

Weary

So there is no-one here this morning but I am glad of that as I am still tired

Folky

And an excellent time was had s'evening at Llanelli Folk Club, which now can sell Whiskey Macs

Eaten

Today I tried to spend sum cash on my visa card and it wouldn't. So we paid cash, went out of the shop and tried my card in a hole in the wall to get the balance. It ate it. THEN we went into Lloyds Branch and she said, dunno why it wouldn't work, so she cancelled it and ordered me a new one, which has to be sent to my sisters address as she is in charge then the next day they send new PIN no. so hopefully within a few..... it's Christmas and new year....within a few weeks I shall be able to spend again. She tried it and my cash point card still works so at least some cash can be mine

Done It Up

And this morning I managed to get my right boot on properly, didn't need to take it off and a MOS undo it and try again but the laces, doing them up, proved much too difficult

& At 'Em

This morning I woke up about 8.00 thought "Not yet" rolled over and fell back to sleep, didn't wake up 'til 11ish

Dear

So tonight I have taken my asthma medication which I left behind when going to Scotland and on my bed is a splint for my right arm which I also "forgot" but on purpose this time

Eventua-flippin-ly

Gosh, it took ages this coming home, it seemed quick to Bristol on't plane but it has taken ages, and 2 motorway services closed so no dinner, ever since. At last we made it etc

And we had to call in the petrol station of a services and eventually found a cheese'n'onion pasty to have for tea

Waiting

And so here I am today waiting to go back to Wales

Bed Soon

So today I had the rest of my visit to Scotland, after lunch tomorrow I will set off in Ian's car (as Carly goes to work first) but I seem to have a lovely time visiting. Ed will meet me at the airport tomorrow lunchtime

Pressie

And he isn't wearing it today but after he wore it all day yesterday it probably needs washing

Cake

And we had my Christmas cake last night and it was delicious. The Royal Icing was a bit too hard but the cake was delicious

Well

So today is the last time I am at Carolyn's. I am paranoid...

Hippy Chrimbly

So I have been here all day, with my parents and Ian's Mum as visitors, me Carolyn and Ian and 3 of their 4 kids. We had a delicious dinner earlier and I have been eating sweets as if I am neglecting my diet all night

George Michael

I was watching some news and it mentioned George Michael and how he needed a tracheotomy, like I needed some years ago. I was talking about it to a MOS and she told me how when the switched off my breathing machine that "they" thought I was gonna be dead at once

Wow

Just wow, well today I am in Scotland with extra guest's my parents and Ian's mother who arrived this morning. They are all very impressed with how much better I am generally getting better

And today my father paid me £50 as his five pounds for every pound I have lost. The first of many payment

s

weary

Gosh, what a day27. so Ed came to mine at 8.00 s'morning then drove for hours to reach Bristol airport then we got on a plane and flew to Glasgow where some of my family were waiting and the other half are coming tomorrow

Sam

Then later today that Sam chap came to see me and just generally be clever and good at 'puters etc. He is planning, if he can, to do a PhD in Biofuels which makes me a bit proud. He's my son and he wants to save the world. And we wished each other happy Christmas and Sam set up a Dropbox (which has extra size because he invited me) and he said that he really rates his Kindle too and he has already bought loadsa books so he will be able to Dropbox them to me for Christmas

And today I was having a crisis with BT, my email server was too knackered to post again today, I cried at Sam, he spent 35 seconds on my PC and it was working again

Alone

Then because Ed has so many hours with me tomorrow etc he went off today and left me alone

Packing

And we packed my luggage for tomorrow and he wrote down a list of additions that we need to pack last thing tomorrow morning

New Cushion

And the man came to deliver my new wheelchair cushion s'morning and just good lord, I feel much higher up than before, I think the old cushion must have been knackered

Warm

And last night in bed, as usual the heating switches off at midnight, and I was so warm(1) that I didn't need to pull my duvet over me at all last night

(1) Or so drunk??????

Excellent Folky

And we went to Llan-summat Folky Club and it was more excellent than usual

Tim

Timmy came here s'morning. We talked some bollox then went out to.... to...... to that Evil Tesco's shop, yes, I know, but we went there to try and pick up an 'normal' sized organic loaf as the sliced there today one I buy in Morrison's doesn't fit properly in the toaster. And I had to buy some more Organic Juice as I had finished this weeks smaller amount and I'm not going away for 2 days yet

Just In Time

And I took a phone call s'morning from someone who said "We shall deliver ur new wheelchair seat on Thursday, will u be in?" so I said "Y-E-flipping-S"

More Shopping

After lunch we went back to town and I bought a smaller pot of Listerine Mouthwash which will be easier in my hand luggage to Carolyns in a few days

Chocolate

Then "someone" gave me a piece of exploding chocolate that they had brought, which was unusual, scary but pleasing too

Also later today "someone" went around the shop and bought 2 Twix, 1 each, which we then bit the end off the bits, then bit the other end off and sucked up some hot coffee thru it. Then wait 10 seconds and nibble the rest, melty and mmmmm

Shopping

Then me and Paul went to town and had to look in 2 shops but eventually found a Bah Humbug, it's Christmas hat, which pleased me.

Alarm Clock

And this morning my alarm clock went off and woke me. Although I wasn't deeply asleep still...

Burry Port

Burry Port Folk Club tonight, I didn't sing owt despite many requests and I didn't have too much to drink

Boots

This afternoon I went for a nap, took off my boots and taking Paul's advice from yeaterday I undid all the laces in the right boot from top to bottom. Then I had a nap, sat back up and reached for my boots. The right one I was nearly putting it on by myself, I paused, put on the straightforward left one then tried again. And YES, I was able to put the right boot on and then tie it by myself. The first time I have ever been able to do that since I got my new splint and boots!!

Me&Ed

Then later (it seems much later as I have been up for hours) that Ed chap came in, put my splint on for me etc, then took me to Morrisons to do the small rest of the weeks shopping. Now we are back at home and hoping to go back out after lunch (when hopefully it's drier) to buy some bits for my toothbrush

We have already phoned the airline and checked that when I clicked on "wheelchair" that they paid attention

Then we went to Superdrug to get more heads for my electric toothbrush, and it was half the price of buying 'em online. Half!!!

ETB

So s'morning after lying awake for a bit, got dressed etc, sat outside for a bit, was half way thru eating an enormous bowl of breakfast when the alarm clock went off

Weird Dream

And when I was asleep last night I seemed to think that the batteries had fallen out of my camera, I had put them together but had 2 pieces left over. When I woke up my camera was still in my bag and functioning

Superfood

Then today while we were in't shops we saw, and bought, a coconut, a superfood which I thoroughly enjoyed, both the milk and eating the flesh

Out&About

Then this afternoon we went to a)Morrison's Supermarket where I bought some weekly supplies which we bought back here and put it away, then b)We went to Matalan where I bought another black bobble hat to keep in here as well as the one in the boot of the car, and a pair of fingerless gloves so hopefully I can wear gloves and operate my gadgets too

2nd Dull Day

And this was the planned dull morning but yesterday was dull morning because the staff came in l8r so they could stay l8r as I was busy having a Chrimbly Dinner with 2/3 of my kids

Christmas Time

So me and Toby and Freya went out for dinner tonight, that Sam is still at college so couldn't come, and we had a delicious sort of Christmasy dinner

Crisis

And I was too late going for a nap today, I didn't go to bed until 15 minutes before Freya arrived and ever since I haven't felt 100% up to the day

Well

So today was mostly a boring day, I had no-one in s'morning and Ed and Timmy came in s'afternoon and mostly chatted between themselves while I read outside etc. Later on I answered a txt from Toby saying "Can u pick me up from here instead of me walking to yours" and then later still, when Freya had come in too, we went out for our Christmas Dinner together which did make me feel a bit like a Dad again

I am getting better

Gosh.

Well tonight the bossy woman from here came in to write up my ISP and we were talking about me and other residents etc. And I nearly cried because she was telling me about how I am changing as she sees it in the year and three quarters I have been living here

L8r

Then l8r we went shopping in Waverley Stores, where I bought not quite as much as last week as I am going away, and we had to say "No eggs next Friday, please" as I will be in Glasgow instead of shopping here

And today I was wearing my wrist creature to show them, she said "Look at the arse on that" etc etc

Wimming

And this morning we went to the swimming pool which I wasn't looking forward to but actually I felt much better afterwards. We walked and walked loads with me concentrating on keeping my right foot level, then we did some stretches of the legs and the arms and even tho it did hurt with my right arm and leg they did move up about as far as my left ones were.

So yes, I wasn't looking forward to it but it was actually noticeably good for me

And when I was finished I walked to the steps of the pool, right leg first, then left then.... then.... my right leg wasn't strong enuf to lift when I was slightly out of the water, so left, left, left, I climbed out of the pool by myself!!!

Colgate Sensitive Pro Relief

A week ago if I brushed my teeth then tried to rinse with cold water it hurt. Also if I drank hot tea/coffee it hurt. So a week ago I bought some new toothpaste, Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief (noisy link), and now my teeth don't hurt. As I have already got a (bigger) 2nd tubs it will be a while b4 I know if they are seriously saying "It'll be forever"

Fark

Then today apropos of nowt I took out our travel documents for going to Glasgow at the weekend and on the returning one is still said 23rd not the 27th. Aargh, Ed phoned customer services and talked to them for half an hour while being charged £90 for changing the time on the flights

Dentist

Well, afterwards I went to the dentist which was scary having a massive root canal job done. It hardly hurt me at all but I couldn't close my mouth or speak for about 40 minutes

JIT

And just in time b4 the dentist the wheelchair fixer man came, fixed the brake that doesnt stop the wheel going round and noted the 2 other repairs that we need new parts for

F*ck, f*ck, f*ck,

Going to the dentist in a hour for my special long appointment

Stuff for Scotland

So first thing s'morning me and Ed loaded up his car (well actually Ed alone) with all sorts of "stuff" to take to Scotland. Well stuff that we don't need to see in the next week so it is now loaded into his car and tonight it will be loaded into his Mum's car and she is driving to Scotland tomorrow, via loadsa stops on the way so Ed's uncle will have all my stuff and bring it to the airport next Friday

Mañana

So tomorrow first I have the wheelchair fixer coming to fettle my 'chair and then, in the afternoon, a long dental appointment where they are gonna take my temporary fillings out and fill the enormous hole that I think goes between 2 teeth

Evening

And at the folk club tonight I just drank pints (2) of Guinness instead of my "usual" shorts and it felt OK

More Afternoon

Then I went to bed for a 30 min. rest. Afterwards we went shopping just to take more cash out of the bank and to buy more blueberries.

Then tonight we go to another folk club, the Queen Vic in Llanelli

Busy Afternoon

Then this afternoon Sarah the OT came and we finished making my Christmas Cake which is being taken to Scotland tomorrow!!!!

Busy Morning

Oh what a morning we have had. Timmy came round at 10 then by about quarter past we were heading off to Carmel to take pics of broken gates etc. I usually go out later but today needed to finish early as Sarah the OT is coming round to finish my Christmas cake, which a MOS mother is taking to Glasgow to his granny's tomorrow. Next weekend at the airport said granny is gonna meet up with him anyway so hopefully she will bring my cake along, so no scary baggage handlers will be involved

What A Day

So s'morning I had no staff as they were having a meeting about me. Then later Paul came roughly simultaneously with Denyse my case manager. She listened to me for a bit, said "You'de better get these Disabled Abseiling folk to get in touch" then they continued their meeting while I went to bed. Half an hour later I got up just before Denyse went away 'til after Christmas. She left me a Xmas card which was a bit embarrassing as I didn't have one to return

Then later that Freya came around and was very pleasant, summat is working on her

Aargh

So first of all we went to Headway where they were having a free dinner 'cos it's Christmas. It was delicious food but not a roast dinner, in fact it was curry and bits. Then we went to Headway for what I thought would be our last meeting. But within about 20 mins or so I had agreed to get involved in a Disabled Abseiling do about April or May so we'd better go along 'til then at least

Then we went to The Friends Arms and had a small drinky or two then came home

Clean Up

Then after lunch I had to go and run a bowl of water and do the washing up early today as I am not to have dinner tonight, we are being fed at Headway

Phew

So Ed came round s'morning, put away my washed sheets etc, then took me to (More Reason's To Shop At) Morrison's where we bought food etc, then came back here where he used his Memory Stick to transfer some staff(y) forms over to the new laptop so someone else can look after them

And then I asked Ed to mend my bracelet. I thought there was a bit of string in the drawer but I actually found elastic. So excellent, it is tight fitting round my wrist but pulls off easily.

And he had to phone the wheelchair fixing people (3 times) and make an appointment for them to come and "fix" 3 different issues, next Thursday

More Reason's To Shop At...

And Timmy came round after lunch. First of all we went to Morrison's and bought half of my list for Monday's trip as it was a bit big. Especially as I am buying the minimum in supermarkets and most of it in the health food shop.

Then that Toby came round and was a bit...... un-himself. We took him home in the car and .... he is going to bed early tonight as he hasn't been to bed for a number of days

Sunday Morn

And this is the only daytime during the week where I am alone. "Ooh what fun we had" (not WS). Just a dull, raining, morning

Napless

And we were so busy today that I had no time for a nap. I promised Timmy that I would have one after tea but I have been so busy catching up with the day that it is now much too late to nap and I have just put my dinner on't table.So I will have to see how I feel as the night goes on

And it is a quarter to ten now, I am still awake but thinking of bed soon. So yes, I am a couple of hours missing

What A Day #58 (3)

Then when we were on the way back we went, got Toby and took him to the Hospital to meet his new baby sister which was making me a bit emotional but went well. I wasn't allowed in to see them as non family members are only allowed in briefly but it went well anyway

What A Day #58 (2)

Then we stopped and had lunch in a motorway services as it was getting late

What A Day #58

So Timmy came in s'morning, faffed about for a bit then took me to Pedalpower in Cardiff. Firstly we had a conference as last time I was there I needed a special pedal on the RHS to protect my foot etc but since then I have a new splint and there is no need for any of that nonsense, I just get on a bike and go. It was excellent, I cycled for three quarters of an hour. The only issue I had was that the pedals were about 1mm too close to the seat so my right leg was hurting for 10 degrees of a circuit but not by much

L8r

So then he finally arrived today, we did boring paperwork etc then there was a knock at the door. It was a chap delivering the new lapdogtop that is gonna live here, and we will move sum files from my PC to it so I will be less crowded etc

After hours of setting it up and putting antivirus on etc we went to Waverley Stores where I didn't buy as much food as last week. We also went into Tesco for summat and I bought some newbie frozen food to try

Phone Call

And I have just taken a phone call from Paul and he said "There has been a huge crash outside Pembroke Dock and they have closed the road, I may be a bit late"

Better Code

And for some reason I was searching Google again and for some reason I discovered how to put an MP4 in the body of a webpage instead of the head like I had to do

Windy

Well luckily the weather here isn't as bad as Scotland ATM and thank lord that it is happening now instead of the 23rd. Anyway we sheltered indoors s'morning then went to the gym after lunch and good lord. 1) I got the assistant singing Rocky Horror at one point and 2) I am so much better

Wow

What a day, the dentist wasn't too mad but a bit expensive and the folk club tonight was excellent even tho I am uploading a HUGE file ATM

More Scared now

And yes I am more ill at ease because at 11.30 I have an appointment with the dentist

Fear

And yes I am slightly ill at ease because at 11.30 in't morning I have an appointment with the dentist

Walkies

So Timmy came in s'morning, caught up on paperwork then took me to the first gym session I have had with my new splint. So I walked in and did loads of timed walks etc then loadsa standing up exercises etc. They were pleased at my progress and so am I

And then later that Freya came over for dinner. We had the same dinner as last week but this time I tried turning the pies over in a small plate holding them in place with a T-towel instead of trying to use both hands and this time the pies worked, it tasted and looked beautiful

Burry Port

And we went to the Folk Club where they sell whiskey macs.... And for the first time in 8½ years as my left hand was no longer holding a walky stick I was able to walk to the bar, by a drink and carry it back by myself, walking

Ding

So then later Ed came and got me, initially took me to (More Reasons To Shop At) Morrison's where I bought more stuff than usual. And today we went up the first aisle with me in my 'chair then at the end I stood up, attached my hands to the trolley and walked everywhere we needed to go to buy stuff, still stood up went thru the till, still walked outside pushing the trolley

Goodbye

And this morning for a couple of hours my sister and her hubby were here before they set off to Scotland again. I will see them in 18 days as then I will be in Scotland for Xmas

Evenly Walking

And I today fitted an insole into my left boot so..... dunno.... but it feels better. More evenly heighted or summat

MOS

And I was having my usual moan about being here amongst much iller people and the MOS said "Yes, most of the other residents should be in here, they should be in a home", I said "Like across the road", she continued "Not in a getting better place like this"

Tenby

So Carly and Ian came over to mine about half past 11 today as they had been in a shop and they said "No, we can't sell you anything until 11AM". We had a conference about the seaside, I said "Nah, too far" but Carly insisted so Ian drove us to Tenby and it didn't look good, couldn't find anywhere to eat so we came back and had a delicious sandwich (with freebie salad and crisps) in (More reason's to shop at) Morrisons and it was lovely if a bit long routed.

They have gone off now for 40 mins to let me have my daily nap

Ho hum, this afternoon I was stuck trying to make conversation with Ian as Carolyn was being nosey looking through "my staff"'s notes about my life

And then we went and knocked on Toby's door, took him out for a meal, to The West End on Lammas Street (?) and then brought him back here so I could give him his new alarm clock

It seemed a bit odd having Toby with my when I met then. I used to do this when he was 4ish, now he is bigger and trying to prove himself as an adult

Well

So s'morning Paul came over for a bit, took me out shopping then we were back home before Carolyn and Ian arrived. OK they phoned first and said "Delayed flight" but they turned up in the end. They spoke to Paul for a bit then he went away. We went out and I bought them dinner, to say ta to Carolyn

And she did comment that she hasn't seen me since April and now I seem much better and happier in myself. So I think credit to Denyse and Ed and Paul and Timmy

Sloe Gin

I had the only sloe gin I am having tonight a few minutes ago. But I feel the need to neck it, I finished it in about 2 seconds. Not having any more now

What A Day #58

Good lord, a strange and busy day has been had. Paul came in, faffed about for an hour or so then Sara(no h) the Physio came in.

She had phoned me and said "I had a leak at my house last night, I'm coming but will be half an hour late". Good lord etc, that combined with how long we talked about my walking etc(1) meant there was no time for swimming today.

After lunch we went out, faffed around town loads, got the bits for my cake, went to the health food shop and got my shopping. And in Waverley Health Food I stood up and walked about, did my shopping from upright. The women who works there was well pleased

(1) Hence me walking better now if I try it

Awake

(Sigh) The first time I looked at my clock this morning it sed 10 to 6. I lay there awake and sulking 'til 7.10 when I got up

I think in the past I used to enjoy occasional lie-in's but since I was forced to stay in bed for a number of years it has worn off, I need to get up now ASAP

Big Difference

I am still astonished at me walking with no 'stick in my new boots and splint. Just generally shouting with joy and so on

Ding

So Ed came in s'morning. Just before he came in Linda Smith was 4 minutes early to cut my toenails. After she finished he faffed about for a bit then took me to the Gym for my weekly exercises. It feels really different with my new splint but I suppose we gotta get used to it. When we went into the gym on my wheelchair then I stood up and walked everywhere with no 'stick. I think it was the furthest I have managed. There was only 1 step that was wonky, I couldn't make it, I waited there for Ed to catch me up then took hold of his arm took 1 step then let go again

Singing

And I was brave/mad enough to sing at the folk club tonight and everyone clapped!!!

Busy

With Timmy today, first of all he was here, first of all we went to Swansea and bought tickets for our new years day treat. Then when we came back Sarah the OT came and did some more cake making with me. Today we rolled out the Marzipan and coated the cake in it

But I did find it much easier standing up and walking about in he kitchen, it is becoming a new habit

& At 'EM

So today I got up, put on my new boots (and not the large right one until Timmy gets here), had breakfast, did my washing up and was in't loo, ½ way through a poo and my alarm clock went off

What A Difference

So now that my foot doesn't hurt I am wearing my splint to bedtime. In the morning I will put on my size smaller boot on my right foot 'til someone is here that can fit my bigger one, which I assume will be all day and night again

Not Pink DM's

And we went to Clarke's and had my feet measured etc. They only had one pair of boots that fitted me with my splint on, so at a guess I'd better not buy Pink DM's on the web as they won't be over width like my new boots

And by g*d what a difference, at a guess now I should be walking more and ditching my wheelchair. G*d, it seems scary and intimidating but that's me, scary and intimidating so......

DM's

And I was looking on Amazon at Pink DM's boots but they are all womens boots, there are only Converse Boots in pink male so dunno what to do now

And this morning chappy came here and wrapped up Toby's bike in bin bags bubble wrap so now I am awaiting the pick up from TNT

Out-ish

So last night I had a lift miles away to the folk club. When we got there it was still full of drunk wedding guests who were s'posed to have gone an hour before and hadn't. Us and another musician left in disgust. The manager was being really stroppy and they wouldn't leave

Expensive

So Ed came in s'morning, took me shopping first, then came back, did paperwork while I had my lunch, then continued paperwork while I had a nap.

Then he took me to the f***ing dentist who struggled to get a filling in my back tooth, but finished off with a total of 3 fillings. My next appointment is going to be even more expensive as they tackle the temporary filling below it.

And now that the anaesthetic is wearing off it feels like my normal gub, no pain or even discomfort. VBG

Don't Mention It

And I am sh*tting my self as I am going to the very expensive dentist tomorrow

SA

And a MOS brought in her photos (as promised yesterday) of her 5 week stay in her native country South Africa. Just wow, lions and tigers, walking with a Cheetah on a lead. One of the lion cubs growled at her fiance when he stroked it. Just WOW

Healthy, Wealthy, Wise

So last night I went to sleep at normal time, in bed this morning without my alarm clock set and I woke up 10 minutes after my alarm clock goes off normally

Napping

And as I was out after lunchtime and going miles away I didn't have time for a nap. So in the car on the way back I said "Nap", turned off the music and shut my eyes for 25 mins.

Well it is now 8 minutes to 12 and I am still awake

Dinner

And for tea tonight, same as I do most weekends, I had pizza which I made myself from Naan bread. The Naan bread, as usual, came from a packet of two. But most weekends I have pizza and oven chips but tonight (and yesterday) the Naan bread was so big that I ate it alone. Dunno why, I thought I had bought my usual variety bit obviously it was a big sister

And luckily last night I made the pizza before I put the chips on as I realised there was no need

Busy Afternoon

This morning I had no-one with me but I still woke up 5 minutes before my alarm clock would have been set to IYSWIM.

After lunch Claire (She doesn't have pink hair) came round and talked about Freya's second meeting and genarally said she was lovely and has learned this and loves you etc

Then Timmy who had come while Claire was talking took me miles west to Haverford West to Sportsdirect looking for Pink DM boots as recommended by someone on the interweb. But they don't have and DM's let alone pink ones. We had a coffee then looked everywhere else but couldn't find any.

BB, CC, BB, WW

Gosh. What a day again. So Paul came round this AM, we did some paperwork and sorted out the Petty Cash etc. Then we went swimming in the swimming pool which wasn't as excellent as last week but it was still OK. We came back here for a bit then went shopping to Waverley Stores where again I spent much too much on food.

Then it was getting to the end of selling Toby's bike on ebay and we suddenly did it

Iechyd Da

And we went down to Club Iechyd Da for their once a month folk night tonight and it was as excellent as ever.

Unfortunately Freya was sick at school today and couldn't come along but I did meet that Ruth there and we exchanged greetings etc

Foot Splint

So today we went to Cardiff and got given my new foot splint. I was under the impression that I would try it on today and go back in a fortnight and get it, but he was so impressed with my walking that I got it today. So it will do with my boots, no pink DM's for now

Timmy

So Timmy came round today for a long shift. This morning wee went and did a top up shopping (and he bought a pie for tonight) then later Sarah The OT came in and topped up my cake etc. We peeled off all the paper and I, even I, could smell it. We started a discussion about The Hero's Journey by 2 folk who deal with military brain injury's which is gonna take up some time for us
After dinner we are going out to a Llanelli Folk Club

And we went to t'Folk Club and it was there, Jackie was there too so I tried to behave somewhat but it was difficult

As on the way back we ran over a cat. And we were being followed much to closely by another driver so we couldn't break really hard. "Only a fool breaks the two second rule"

Nappy

And I said I wasn't gonna nap today but he told me all sorts of reasons why I should and I believed him and went to bed for just half an hour but it does improve my afternoon and how I react to stuff etc. I am currently trying to convince myself hence writing it up here

Gosh, I am up about an hour and a half later than when I went to bed last night, after a half hour snooze

What a treat

And that Freya came over for tea tonight and it seemed a bit strange in so many ways. First of all F seemed easier to be around for whatever reason tonight. And the pies which we had for dinner seemed really nice, as was pudding etc.

Dull

And me and Paul had a meeting with Denyse which was good then a meeting with my social worker and a financial advisor which was as dull as ditchwater. They were repeating what they said to Denyse on't phone last week etc. They had to come here to meet me dunno why but there you are

Kindle

And on my reading device, my Kindle, I am currently 40% of the way through my first Terry Pratchett novel and just WOW, it is cute and easy etc. It is the first proper big book that I have read in 8½ years...... happy chappy

Offy

Folky tonight, hooray etc

Monday

So s'morning me and Ed went to the supermarket where I hadta buy almost nowt, as I went there on Saturday but I did need some perishables

After my nap we went out and about in town, going to Jenkin's for a mini cheese and onion pasty etc.

Nap-py

But I did nap for half an hour today as we are going out tonight and I wanna stay awake

No Nap-py

And here I am again without a nap today

With Toby

Well that Toby came round and we put his bike on ebay and then made a nice dinner. He had to leave soon after dinner to meet someone but......

Tum ti tum

Oh what fun we have had today. We went out and bought some egg tins for putting them in't oven (MINETR) so tonight fior dinner with Toby I shall have 2 fried eggs baked in the oven instead, I will tell you what they are like

And WOW yes, they were excellent, my egg broke as I put it in and just was lovelier.

Napless

So tonight I have not had a nap at all. I am absolutely knackered about half past 10 so I am gonna go to bed soon. Who knows, g'night

Timmying

So Timmy came in today. Firstly he had to take me out for a couple of hours to leave the space free for Freya to meet up with Denyse my case manager and Claire, a psychobabbler. That went well, apparently, and we went round town looking at stuff etc. Later we went to Halford's and bought a pink tree air freshener for my car. As well I filled in some bumph about my parenting roles which will be added to and discussed next time Claire comes here

Napless

And I didn't have a nap today, no time etc, and I am still awake!! (ObAnd playing with text features on Blog-maker, so VBG.)

Terry Pratchett

So I am currently reading a Terry Pratchett novel on my Kindle. (How up to date am I?) Today's section involved a witch tatalking about witch duties. EG She has to cut an old woman's toenails. So my "witch" is coming here...... ...

Returned Tool

Then this afternoon Paul picked summat out of the floor on the back of my car, it was a strange tool, sort of like an ex-screw driver that someone had taken a grinder too. So we went back to the Vauxhall Garage who were working on the rear of my car a few days ago and gave it back. The chap said "Huge thanks, that would have cost loads to replace"

Weary

Gosh, what a day #27½. So firstly me and Paul went swimming, to the Leisure Centre. And for some reason I felt that it was doing me so much good that I could put up with it. Just WOW, my stretchability has improved more. Since swimming every time I have got out of my car I have just been able to move my right leg out by itself, without needing to grip it in my knee and pull it up over the bits, like such a big improvement.

And WOW too, at the end of my session I simply climbed out of the swimming pool via the ladder. On my second attempt but I haven't managed that for more than 8 years!!!

Then as we had lunch in town at the swimming pool we were in town at a loose end so I went to Morrison's and bought some of next weeks shopping, to make Monday lighter, then I went to Waverley Store's and bought the majority of this weeks shopping, but they had no Mushrooms. So we had to go to that place that got my heart beating, Aardvark Wholefood's, where I used to work. When we got there I parked my wheelchair outside, stood up and walked in, bought some mushrooms and left. What they must think...

Ed-ding

So we had nowt to do for the rest of the day. We sat here, discussed my father's christmas pressie etc. What fun we had

Gymless

And I had been in town this AM buying some stuff, when I got in the car to come back my mobile phone rang. I answered and he said "Hello, this is..... from Carmarthen Leisure Centre, Sam is off sick, so no gym for you today". Sh*t, I don't enjoy it but it is making me better

More Tim(my)

Then tonight we went miles away to the Queen Victorio Bar in Llanelli where they had an excellent folk night. And I remembered what spirit to drink if they don't have a whiskey mac. ObAnd Jackie was there too which filled my heart with.......

Tim(my)

So s'morning Tim(my) came round again, we set off for Carmel to do my taking pictures job but on the way we stopped at Leekes of Cross Hands and had lunch. I thought about yesterday's 2 dinner crisis and decided, on the way there, that I was just going to have summat that I haven't eaten many of out recently, a Cheese Toastie and by gosh it was lovely. From there we went off to Carmel and took some photos. After we came back I had a sleep for ½ an hour

Daughter

Then that Freya came round and had her tea and some cheesecake with me

Timming

So Tim came along alone this morning and soon had to take me to the Carmarthen Leisure Centre and I had an hour of gym. Including 10 mins on a bike and, for the first time, a hand bike, which I pedalled with my hands not my feet

Along The Way

And along the way I had to buy another plain black eyepatch as the patterned ones are making my eye sore. After we bought it we went into Cafe Iechyd Da for a brew and I asked the woman waiting if she could draw. What can I say, I think it's a "YES"

Paul alone

So today I had an extra session with Paul as Ed's away.

He couldn't come to mine until after lunch time, which he did, then we went in and dropped my car off at Ceir Cawdor Cars then we spent the next 3½ hours walking around town, shopping some and having a coffee then they phoned back and it was ready. Then we nipped to shops where thankfully I had bought most yesterday. Then we came back here and I cooked, then we went out to Headway which as usual failed to excite me

Timmying

So today I had the first unaccompanied session with Tim(my) and I think it went well-ish. He was supposed to be here with Toby but as Toby is away at min. he wasn't. Earlier today we went round Morrison's shop and I bought loadsa stuff to make tomorrows shop quicker. Later we found somewhere else to eat, I don't think I have been there before but it was a very nice feed. And cheesecake afterwards

That Chap

Then seconds after Claire CS(N)GPH left that Toby came round to borrow train fares to Wolverhampton to see that Julie who he was living with for ages as loadsa folk are paying for that, and he agreed to pay it into my bank account when he's there to prevent him spending it when he comes back

No pink hair

Then Claire, the psycho who had seen the kids, came to see me. I feel like crying as she was saying some very positive stuff about the kids and our relationship. She told me about the future, plans, too

Lunch

So for lunch today I opened the salad that I bought last night and the small packet of potato salad that I bought too. Good lord, it is more than 8 years since I ate potato salad and it is beautiful/delicious

Busy Bathroom

So before lunch I was sitting on the loo. The phone rang and by the time I had picked up my bum-bag and taken it out it had rung off. It said "The call was from Denyse" so I rung her back. While we were talking (and I couldn't wipe my bum as my good hand was busy holding the phone) the door knocked, a MOS to see me. So I had to say to Denyse "Hang on" take the phone away from my mouth and shout "Come back in ten minutes, I'm on't loo"

"Efficiency and progress.....

....are ours once more"

The strange lyric came into my head today. After much puzzling I looked online and it is The Dead Kennedys. So dunno but I like it

(The link is probably not WS)

"Kill, kill, kill the poor"

Sigh

So we had a late start s'morning as "they" had a meeting about me, but before the meeting Paul and Ed came over and took back the cake tin for Sarah (OT). Then they went away to the meeting for the rest of the morning, I didn't see them 'til after lunch. Then they came up and Paul did paperwork while me and Timmy played backgammon. It was the first time I have played in over 8 years and by g*d but it was fun. I lost the first match by one piece and won the second by 13!!!

Then after our games we went to Waitrose Stores and spent far too much on quality food

Carless

And "they" went to the Vauxhall garage and picked up my car but it hasn't been properly mended, on Monday someone will leave it in again

No Car

And the car wasn't finished yet, hopefully it will be finished by tomorrow lunchtime when Paul will be able to pick it up

Splinted

Good lord. So Ed took me to Cardiff to the splint fitters this afternoon. Gosh, so I only had a model made but it feels good already. In a few weeks I need to go back for the first fitting then another couple of weeks and it will be finished.

And I didn't have time for a nap today

Blogging

And as I was mid-blog this AM and it suddenly said "New, improved, download" and I thought for a bit then did it, and my blog now looks a lot better, some of my issues have been fixed. Still have to add links and bold etc but it is better

Ed-Ding

So Ed came round at 10 this morning. He phoned Ceir Cawdor Cars in Carmarthen and said "The window winder for the back seat is broken" and they agreed to take it in this afternoon and have a look. So he will drive me to Cardiff (the splint fitter) in his car and hopefully pick up mine when we get back

Folking

And we went out tonight to a new Folk Night (for me) at the Queen Victoria pub in Llanelli. It seemed to start off with 6 folk playing tunes to each other but did brighten up in the end

Caking

And today, later, that Sarah the OT person is coming here and we will together make a huge christmas cake. In a few weeks we will marzipan it then ice it the week after.

And it was excellent looking

And today we (well Ed) took it out of it's tin and set it on the box. And it looks even better now

Reader

And this morning as I no longer have 100+ Ixion emails to read, I have made a start reading my device. And wow it's excellent, much better for me than a paper book, but how to choose new books?

Reading Device

Then when we came back here Paul went to ask them at the office and they were able to present me with my new Kindle which does seem way more handleable than a physical book

Busiest Day

Good lord, so s'morning we went out to the Gym where I managed to impress the (beautiful) Gym Lady and we discussed what I need to keep doing in the future, then we went and had a lunch at gym which was way too hot to eat even as it was nearly finished. Mid bite Paul looked at his watch and said "Gosh, that has taken ages at gym come on, hurry up" then we got in my car and headed for Priory Day Hospital where another woman measured me etc then made a new arm splint to be worn at night.

Drunk

We went out to a Folk Club where I got drunk on whiskey macs

Visitor

Then that Freya came in, it was good. Tomorrow I won't be here so she came today

Shitty Day

Lord. This morning Ed came and got me. First thing we went off to Morrison'ds and did some shopping.

After lunch we went down and got that Toby chap to enable him to use the phone. He phoned chap and basically got f*cked off, he said there were no places available at college for now. So I dunno what Toby will do now, perhaps try A-levels again next year but for now...... dunno

Then we went off to Tesco's to have a look at the Kindle e-readers thing. Dunno, it seemed quite useable so we came back here and I bought one off Amazon to save £50. Dunno, there seem to be e-books everywhere, free ones, cheap ones and upwards. Dunno, see how it goes

Drink a drink

To Lily The Pink.... (noisy)

Earlier tonight I poured myself a drink, perhaps a double whiskey worth. On drinking it I felt obliged to tip my head back and glug it down in one. Later I poured another and the same went. Luckily I show restraint on my pouring, otherwise I would be sick through drink in about four minutes

Paul AND Timmy

Then later in the afternoon Paul AND Timmy showed up, first of all we went to Carmel and showed Timmy where we go so I can take photo's, then we came back here and I fed a hungover chap called Toby. Once I had finished lecturing him we loaded his bike into the back of the car so we could take him home

Fear

So a MOS was in here s'morning looking through my cupboards, they went into the bottom LHS cupboard, turned it around and I had to watch as a full, unopened bottle of Sloe Gin fell out of the cupboard and didn't break on the floor below

Hectic Week

Good lord, looking at my calendar for next week I am intimidated. Monday go shopping as normal then put up with Freya having an early visit. Tuesday go to Gym then off to Priory Day Hospital to have my right hand splint made. This is why Freya had to come a day early. Wednesday have a massive session with the OT as we are making a Christmas Cake, then go out in the evening. Thursday go to Cardiff to have my right foot splint cast which hopefully is gonna make such a difference to my walking. Friday wait here by myself as they are all having a meeting

Slow Start

So just b4 lunchtime today Ed came round then 20 minutes later Denyse (my case manager) and Clare, Clare, she has (no) Pink Hair (a psychologist who is attached to me somehow) came round and told me that they would see both the kids in the day. Then me and Ed went out to let them get on and both the kids came and were "talked at"

And according to both kids it was productive. So god knows but...

Tomorrow

They have started me with a review of what they are talking about, tomorrow

No nap

I didn't have a nap today but sat outside, not speaking to anyone, not reading owt, to rest my brain. Dunno, it wasn't as useful as lying down for half an hour but it did work some

That Toby

When I was out today that Toby came round, apparently. He came back this evening and asked if I could stop his pocket money for a fortnight and lend him £20 to buy a mobile as he is stuck. I said "Promise you won't buy beer etc", he said "Yes, I got to come here in't morning" so I lent it to him and waved goodbye. 40 minutes later he txted me from his new phone

More Shopping

Then we went for an earlyish trip to Waverley Stores and bought loadsa food and veg and coffee and loo roll etc.I found out that they don't sell pitta bread but that can be a treat for monday from Morrisons

Lunch

Then as we had taken so long at hospital we went for lunch on the way home. At the filling station I bought a C&O pasty, a drink of apple juice and a cuppa coffee.

Bitter tears. Or happiness

So this morning I had to get up extra early to meet Ed and he took me to Singleton Hospital, the Orthoptics Department where they did all kinds of tests to my eyes and basically said that my right eye is much better than it used to be so lets not look at groovy glasses ATM as they might stop it getting even more better by itself.

Weary

Gosh, more of this "What a day" stuff

So first of all me and Ed drove to Singleton Hospital in Swansea to check out where I need to go tomorrow, where they are gonna try me out in some special glasses to fix my double vision.

Then at 12 o'clock we went to the swimming pool which I enjoyed as much as ever (1)

Then we went and sat in a carp ark and ate cheese and onion pasties and custard slices

THEN we came back here and got online faffed about loads then eventually I spent far too much on flights from Bristol airport to Glasgow airport to see my sister at Christmas. Ed is coming up with me and flying back later the same day, then flying up again to meet me on the way home

(1) Last night I packed a bag, Ed looked thru it and checked today.When we got to the swimming pool we realised that we hadn't packed a towel. Ho hum, I borrowed Ed's then he got less dried than usual

Recommendation

And the dental hygienist said to me today "Yes, you are brushing well, how long are u taking?". I said "Dunno" and she advised me to brush for 2 minutes, which as I tried it tonight means brushing for about twice my "normal" brushing technique

OT

Then Sarah the OT came here and was talking about fatigue and brain injury, about how common it is and strategies for dealing with it. And I seem to have most of those strategies in place already

Toby

Then we had lunch while waiting for Toby who was due to contact the college, but he didn't come until after the man he was trying to contact had gone out.

Later, after he had left, my phone rang and it was the chap from the college wanting to tell Toby "Good news" so I will have to contact him tomorrow

Pink

And while I was at Hygienist someone delivered my new hand-luggage for the plane, a Pink Rucksack

Hygenist

So this morning me and Paul and Timmy went to the hygienist at the dentist and had her clean my teeth big style. She commented on how much better they look than last month when I saw her so obviously I am doing summat right

Exhausted

Well phew, today's over now

So s'morning I went to the gym and did loadsa exercises, with the woman I was s'posed to see on Thursday as the other one was off sick. But she will be off on Thursday so..... In the course of our exercises I stood up from normal chair without using my hands at all, I just properly stood up

Then later that Freya came in and had a good session mainly chatting with my MOS.

She also met Tim, my new MOS who is having a "being carried" week

Napless

And as we had such a busy day today I had no chance for a nap, I tried to nap in the car coming home but I couldn't really. I sort of half napped and by god but I can feel it now.

"Early to bed, early to rise, healthy, wealthy, wise"

Shop, late

Then after my usual dinner time we were finally able to go to Morrison's and get the weeks shopping

Visitor

When we were briefly in the house there was a knock on the door and it was that Toby chap on his new bike, which he had got from a "do up an old bike" place for free and he has done a good job making it look posh once more. He said that he was interviewed at college s'morning and basically they said "F. off looser, no place for you on A level course any more" but they did say "We will redecide next year" and he has the rest of the year to learn skills like metalworking or summat. I think he sounded reasonably positive about the future, so wait and see now

Lunch

So this morning all 3 of my MOS came round and we all set off for Cardiff. When we arrived there a couple of hours later Denyse came and met me and we went to a pub for lunch. All other 3 went off to the cycling practice place which was why we were here and learned how to accompany me while I sat and talked about me getting better with that Denyse lass. Eventually they came back, we all talked for a bit then said "Ta ra" and we headed west again

Eating Alone

And I was supposed to have dinner with Toby tonight but he didn't come here and his phone is lost so I can't get hold of him

Well his mum contacted me and brought him round later, oh god what a life he has

Loadsa Sleep

Well I had an extra hour in bed last night, woke up, got up, lay back down then then went back to sleep for a bit

Clock

So I was looking at the clock by my bed in order to change it. On the top is a button marked DST so I tried and pressed it, it said "On", I pressed it again and it changed to "Off" and my clock will be right tomorrow. As easy as that

Washing

So it sez in my diary "change sheets" as usual, once a fortnight, on Monday. But as we will be out at Cardiff all day Monday I thought "Better do it tomorrow" but more thoughts about this there will be a queue as I change and wash my clothes tomorrow. So I had to say to a MOS that I usually take the sheet off and a MO my S puts the new sheet etc on, so could he help. All done and dusted.

And I was a bit impressed with how well he put on the quilt cover etc, then it occurred to me, that must be 50% of his sad job.

Dull

Nowt to do today

Listen

And today I had an explore in Julia's CD that she made for me entitled "Stuff Neil used to listen to" and I found a folder marked "Harvey Andrews". Good lord, I haven't listened to this for X years but wow, it is excellent

Spending

Well s'morning Small Paul came, did paperwork for a bit, then took me to the swimming pool. But it's half term so it was much too busy for us. After a bit of a performance we went and had a lunch outside Greggs Bakers in Carmarthen. Then as we had nowt to do until I went and did my shopping later we went out Christmas Shopping. Gosh it was hectic but I thing we got about 70% of my list so.... busy, hectic but good.

Later still we went to Waverley Stores where I didn't need as much this week as usual but we did it.

Iechyd Da

And we went to the monthly folk club tonight, me, Freya and Little Paul to drius there and back. It was an excellent night out

Nappy

So I am off to bed for ¾ of an hour then get up, greet Freya and go to Iechyd Da folk club

Gyming

Well I went to the gym with Sam today, I did the walking machine and an extra minute on the cycling machine. But the walking wasn't working very well as my right foor was trying to turn over loads every step. But "they" said that when I have me new splint it won't do that "at all" so impatience now

Scales

And I went to town with Ed in my "supposed to be there" time and bought some kitchen scales. I was a bit worried that I wouldnt be able to read the dials but we got a modern digital version

Confusion

So they emailed me yesterday afternoon when I was out and I didn't get back until after they had gone home but as I was about to leave for CAVS today they emailed me and said "No can do this morning. Afternoon?", I said "No gym" and we left it at that, they will phone me tomorrow and arrange a different day to work for them

Caking

Then Sarah the OT came round with a big bag of goodies, most of which is now in a tin sitting on the shelf in my kitchen to be shaken every day for another week. The ingredients for my christmas cake, we started it today

Pictures

And the "Neil's Pictures" folder on my PC was getting a bit large so I got them together and put them on 3 CD's. No index or sorted out but there is a rough date

Hoist Service

And the gentleman came to service my bedroom hoist this morning. I said "But U have lived here for 18 months and I have never had to use that" but he had to check and test it

Unnapped

And because I was distracted today I didn't have a nap. And now, at 7 o'clock, I can really feel the difference. I am falling asleep now

Jackery

And as I was bored today I went to the kitchen and made some more flapjacks. They are very nice but I am a bit stuck on one issue. Some of them are too crumbly, but how can I tell that from mixing the mixture?

Aargh

And Paul has just phoned me, he has broken down on his way here. Should I scream or shout or.....

(sigh)
Haven't heard from him for a couple of hours but he has phoned the gym and told 'em no can do today

FC

And this evening I was at the folk club which we only goto once a month or so

Hippy

So this morning I am waiting for a parcel being delivered by HDNL.

It stands for Hippy Dickhead, Neil Layabout

No delivery yet, hope tomorrow

Ybot

And Toby came round tonight. I felt a bit..... sheepish because I felt the need to say boring parent stuff but I hope for the best.

And I told him to come here on the 5th November when I will be away in order to have 2 women talk to him about me and my issues

Right Shoe

And it feels nearly as tight as the left today.... so obviously summat is improving

Napper

And I lay down after lunch again for ¾ of an hour

Tied Right Shoe

So I was sitting outside s'morning when a MOS walked past. I said "Can you tighten my right shoelaces for me?", she said "I'll be back in 2 minutes" so I waited. I was thinking about my right shoe I nearly thought "It's tight enough today" but in the end decided to wait for her. When she came back and was re-tying my shoelace she commented to me that it was much tighter than it usually is so obviously I am getting better at stretching my right hand to tie shoelace. About time too

Sigh

Saturday, no staff.

But after lunch I will try this nipping off for a sleep for 45mins thingy....

"Oh what fun we had..." (noisy)

Chewing

And tonight I have just eaten my dinner and I was able to chew it with both sides of my mouth (Hooray)

Shops

Then we went out to Tesco's to buy a "making flapjacks" tray and a measuring table spoon. We got the tray there but had to try in Morrisons where we immediately found what we had been looking for for ages in Tesco.

And later we went to Waverley Stores and bought loadsa food but no flapjacks this week

Lunch

Then we came back "here" for lunch, I expected not to be able to chew, so I was expecting my tin of veggie soup but I was actually comfortable enough to chew one of my homemade flapjacks so with a cuppa coffee I called that lunch

Aargh

So at 10 o'clock s'morning Paul came round, did some paperwork then took me to the highlight of the day.

THE DENTIST

They did 2 fillings on the RHS but judging by the amount of drilling they needed they must have been well rotten.

Fear

And tomorrow morning I have a dentist appointment, a long one this time

What A Day #27

Gosh another full day. Yetanother one, I need a holiday.

Anyway I was here s'morning, Ed came and did paperwork and talked for an hour then Linda Smith the very expensive toenail cutter came and did my nails, next time she will be coming back a couple of weeks later as they were still a bit short.

Then we went out for lunch, went to one supermarket and were greeted by a huge queue so we went off to another shop/café and had loadsa salad and a piece of Homity Pie which was actually a let down after the delicious salad.

Then we went off to the gym. Where I was back on form, flirting outrageously again, although I did have to tell today's MOS, Sam to tell Tuesdays MOS that I wasn't angry with her and that hopefully I would flirt again next Tuesday.

Then I went to bed for a 45 minute lie down which I think I stayed awake for but it made me look more presentable afterwards

Deleted

And I was just about to go to bed tonight when I suddenly thought "No, check your trash folder". I looked and only messages with 19th on were there, 18th had deleted automatically. As I discovered last night, it now automatically deletes anything over 1 day old

Rain

And I took my bin out s'afternoon. I got outside and it was raining. I thought "It need's to be done" and carried on down across the car park and put the bin there. As I turned round to come home it stopped raining, so I went back upwards, homewards, under a sunny sky

Nap-py

Then after she had gone I went to bed for half an hour, with curtains open etc

OT

Then after lunch Sarah OT came.

First we made some flapjacks in a pan she brought, I had forgotten how easy it was so on my shopping list for next week is a baking tray.

We left them to cool and went into town to buy the fruit etc for my Christmas Cake

While we were discussing stuff here Denyse phoned and complimented me on having a mid-afternoon nap.

Lunch

And for about 2/3 of my lunch today I had an apple which again I ate with a knife cutting it into bits. I think I have become a fan again

Dull

So I woke up and got up at 8.30 s'morning. Nowt on s'morning but after lunch Sarah OT is coming here to take me to the shops to buy ingredients for a Christmas Cake that we are gonna make over the next few weeks

Paulineing

So Paul came in at 10 s'morning and did paperwork etc to start with. Soon after he took me off to meet Timmy who potentially is my new staff member. That went well then at 12 we said "See yah" to Timmy and went off to the gym. I did all the exercises that were expected off me but that and Paul said that I seemed knackered, un-lively.

Then I came back here and after lunch took myself to bed for half an hour, which again Paul commented on the difference in me

Then Freya came round and we took her out for dinner, at Pizza Place and it was delicious

Boogie Oogie Woogie

And we went to an excellent folk club at night time at Burry Port

Edding

So Ed came this morning at 10AM. Firstly we went off to Morrison's Supermarket where I spent loads more than usual, because we needed loadsa "stuff" that wasn't food. So we brought it back here and put it away then we went off to Frankie and Johnnie's where we had a delicious meal. Then after lunch we went off and actually found Mynydd Cerrig where I useda live this time

Sigh

So I was beginning to panic, I had been trying to phone Toby all afternoon, but it was out of service. Then a few minutes ago Julia (Toby's mum) phoned me and said "He is in Kidwelly with an uncharged phone and no money for the bus to yours, but he could remember my phone number and called me on a borrowed phone and asked me to phone you and tell you he is not on his way tonight"

Watching

And I started watching the MotoGP bike race on telly, I enjoyed it for about a lap and a half then I started thinking "I used to do that" and had to stop watching

One Touch

And this morning, making some food for later I had to use my One Touch Can Opener for the first time in anger. Very strange but wow it works well

More Quietness

Another quiet day here, the main excitement is cooking for me and that Toby chap for tonight, I think next week I had better start using some frozen bits but as I can't remember what's there I will cook for Toby and Freya again

Snack

And as a snack tonight I had some Bombay Mix (Organic) that I bought t'other week. Looking at the packet there are loadsa calories in a whole packet but almost none in the relatively small amount I will eat, perhaps 25 calories in total

Small Dinner

And I had a small dinner again today even tho I just had some salad for lunch. This slimming thing.....

Poohing

Yesterday I wasn't constipated but I did have to squeeze more than usual to get my pooh out. This morning it came out as easily as usual. So PHEW

Tra la lah

And dull waiting here today, there is almost no Ixion, I have already read The Guardian, what else is there to do?

She's Got Pink Hair

So Claire the Psychologist who is gonna be seeing Toby and Freya at the start of next month came to talk over some stuff. She will bring it up with the kids when she sees them, and hopefully improve our relationship

And she couldn't (or wouldn't) buy any hairdye today

Aargh, busy again

Well this morning Paul came round at 10, did some paperwork for an hour then at 11 Ed came round to assist us. Then about 12 o'clock we went off to the swimming pool, where all 3 of us played about and stretched my legs etc

Now my right knee is nearly crying so hopefully I have done it some good today

Then after that we went to Waverley stores for lunch where I had a potato cake, which I had no memory of ever eating one in the past (although it was delicious), and a cheese and veggie pasty and some salad.

As we were leaving we enquired wether they had there deliveries yet, they said yes so we were able to do my shopping then instead of coming back later.

Then we went off to Carmel where I didn't have to take any pics of new mess although 1 load was still there from last month

And I am flippin' exhausted now, I feel as if I haven't been to bed for a week. But Paul did suggest that I try going to bed half an hour earlier tonight, apparently you may sleep more fully. Wait and see

And I made a small dinner tonight 'cos lunch had been so big

Gym-ming

So today that Ed chap came round at 10 s'morning, hung about doing "stuff" 'til later, did paperwork while I had my lunch, then took me to the gym. Blinking flip, but I worked much harder today than I have in the past but as a quincy-quonce of my exercised I am now struggling to stay awake etc etc

And now, later I am still struggling

Well, it's a bit later now, I have had a delicious dinner etc and I feel slightly more alive

And I managed to stay up until a more "normal" bedtime, so I won't wake up about half past three in't morning. So PHEW

Dentist

So Paul came round today, did some paperwork then took me to the dentist

First of all I was at the hygienist who cleaned loadsa stuff off. Gosh my teeth look and feel so different now. I can now breathe between my teeth, I can't remember the last time I could do that.

Then I went to the proper dentist. They took out 2 roots that were left behind when the rest of the tooth fell out and replaced the temporary filling in the bottom LHS for now, I have another (costly) appointment next week (the first of many)

B,ITE (5)

Then me and Freya went off to "Where" she said, "A secret" I replied so in the end we got to where CCD, where we took turns driving a horse and cart. It was excellent fun for both of us

B,ITE (4)

Then Sarah the OT was waiting on my doorstep when we came back, so even tho I didn't even have time to eat lunch we cooked a (rather delicious) veg in a white sauce with grated cheese and breadcrumbs on top. Which was lovely by itself but relearning how to make white sauce with pasta bits (macaroni cheese) or cauliflower cheese etc

B,ITE (3)

And then I went to gym. Which again wasn't much fun but was doing me good. After gym when I was s'posed to be in the shower I had to stay smelly and cone back home to see my next visitor

B,ITE (2)

Then we went off and bought Toby a dongle so his laptop can recognise the interweb. When we dropped it off he said "No works" but we said "Leave it for a couple of hours and the last we heard he had got it working but was on his way out

Busyness, in the extreme (1)

First of all today Paul phoned on my behalf the folk who keep sending me the bill for £3.00 for the address hippyweb.me.uk. Because it turns out they still had me living in England so even tho my card details were right it said "No, he doesn't live here". Good lord, what a performance, so he ended up on the phone to a woman with an american accent who was saying "My PC doesn't recognise the address, is it....." and Paul was saying "No, it's too new an address for your PC to recognise it" then she was saying "So it's...." "No"

In the end he persuaded her to just type in what he was telling her, and she couldn't recognise his accent etc etc

S'evening

Then this evening me and Little Paul went to Headway which had as a guest speaker tonight someone from Carmarthen Carriage Drivers, and basically I am going there tomorrow with Freya to try driving a horse and cart. I am not sure yet whether I will be able to make it in on foot or whether I will need a disabled driving cart but either way I hope we both have an excellent time

With Ed

So that Ed chap came in s'morning and after 3 or 4 "jobs" for him to do we went off to't supermarket where again I spent very little

Proud

And they went off earlier, taking that Toby chap to try and make it up with Hannah. The conversation we had before they left made me wriggle with pride and nearly cry. I am proud of that Toby chap, and so are they

More Wrinklies Parents

(Proud)

So this morning my Mum and Dad came round as soon as they checked out of their hotel. After a while we went to pick up that Toby chap and he charmed them greatly etc. As my Mum has 2 bank accounts that a dead uncle donated the contents for, 1 for each of my littluns (Sam got his when he turned 18), we were able to take this Toby chap and spend ½ of his funds on a new laptop PC thingie

(/P)

Wrinklies Parents

So my parents came here s'morning, took me out for lunch then we went for a drive around. Mum said it was much too up-y and down-y but me and father said it was nice. Now they have gone off for an hour and said "C U later, Neil"

And we went out and had a meal and a chat which made me want to cry as it was about when I was so f**ked

Busy again

So Paul came round s'morning, started the day with paperwork and left me on my PC for a while.

Later he took me out to my exercise for the day which was in the gym. It was as scary as she could make it but I managed to do the cycling machine for much longer today. Just generally I feel that it was a good session.

After that we went off and had a lunch in town which was as good as last time we tried it.

Then he brought took me to Waverley Stores where again I did my weeks shopping

When we were home putting my shopping away my phone rang with a txt. It was from my parents they were in town and came up to see me. We went out and had dinner after they had spoken to Paul for half an hour. Then we went out, with my father driving my car. When we were out they both said how much better I seem/look etc. We went out and had another very nice dinner in Carmarthen, it was just generally good stuff. Then we came back here, they both complained about exhaustian and took an early night

Wrinklies

And tomorrow after I go to the gym, have a shower there, then after lunch nip out to Waverley Stores then I will go down and meet my parents who are coming to Wales to visit

CAVing

Then after lunch he took me to CAVS where I had a couple of hours introduction into what I will be doing in a fortnight when my weekly session starts properly. I watched, listened then I was able to with not much hassle do this for them. I think I learned fast enough that I should be familiar with it in a couple of weeks. So hopefully they will have a load of ads to put on-line next time

Psychologist

This morning, half an hour after Ed arrived, Claire The Psychobabbler came and for about an hour we discussed how and what she is gonna tell Freya (and Toby) to make them more on my side. It was a bit intimidating/scary talking about that issue of my past and telling her about times I have forgotten but reasonably positive now it's done

Rain

And I had to go outside to put my bin out down the bottom and it was raining so heavily that I had to change my top

And a couple of hours later I was out the front and it had stopped raining

Triple Good Lord

Gosh, well I wasn't looking forward to going to the swimming pool today, dunno why I just wasn't. But when we were doing stuff in the pool I actually enjoyed myself, and I was actually able to swim 2 breadths on my back, the first time I have been able to swim a breadth in 8½ years.

Then we went and had lunch in a café and had a bit of a look around before coming back

Then I answered a txt from Toby, he said "Can I come round and use your phone to phone a freephone number", I said "We will pick you up", picked him up, he was here for an hour then we took him home again

Up

And I was actually still asleep this morning when my alarm clock went off

Aargh

So Paul came round today. As ever the day started with paper work then he took me to Carmarthen Leisure Centre where I had ages with Becky. She got me to stand up from an armless chair which I was a lot more confident at the end etc. Then she had me standing facing the wall and doing press ups against it etc. And loads more, but again I wasn't too exhausted half an hour later, even tho I was when we finished.

After lunch Sarah the OT came round and helped me cook a delicious dinner, Sheperdless Pie.

Then Freya came round, we took her off to Orange Shop where I bought her a new phone (as I gave my old one to Toby) and hers had broken, she dropped it in the bath. Me and Paul both said "Never had one in the bath", the female shop assistant said "Gosh yes, I do" and another passing male member of staff when asked "Do you have your phone in the bath?" said "No, never" Then we came back, ate our Sheperdsless Pie in a hurry then took Freya to guides because her lift couldn't make it today

Grrr

Up before 7 again, didn't go to bed 'til midnight but.....

Fun

Sex, drugs and Folk Clubs.

OK, just a Folk Club but it was excellent. And I managed to walk back from the bar while carrying my drink, as it was small (Whiskey Mac)

CAVS

And we sent a flurry of emails backwards and forward to CAVS. Basically it will be sorted by Thursday, and I am going in this Thursday at 2pm to see what can be done etc. I also filled in the form as a volunteer and will post that later today

Busy

So that Ed chap came round, did some paperwork then took me to Morrisons where I bought the rest of my food. He came back here and sat outside while I ate my lunch. Later he took me to CAVS where I was interviewed about voluntary work

...And At 'Em

Up before the sun was up, this morning

Bored

And nowt happening today. That Toby chap is coming in for dinner l8r but nowt 'til then.

Gosh, a phone call a while ago made arrangements and him and his girlfriend came round for food.

No pics tho

Skinhead O'Connor

And looking through my old albums that Julia sent me there is a Sinead album, Am I Not Your Girl which was ours/mine before my accident, but I have no memory of hearing it before tonight

But at the end of track 3 "Don't Cry For Me Argentina" (noisy) there is a spoken bit which I do remember. All the rest I have forgotten but that one piece

And I did an exercise

So today I practised writing with my right hand. It was still slow and difficult but the written words were actually very legible, readable

P*ss

And over the last few days I have noticed that my bladder seems to be back to normal now, p*ssing much more rarely than 6 months ago

Small Paul's Boss

And I realised yesterday that Small Paul, my MOS, has resigned from his other position so I am currently his only boss

Back On My Feet

And today I am back on my feet, after wheelchairing around town most of the day yesterday

And it has gone well so far, still sitting in a proper chair and it is after half-four now

Shopping

After our trip to Leisure Centre we hung about in town. Had lunch in Morrisons Stores then went in and bought some Innocent Smoothies which is high on Neils new shopping list, I hope they are as good as they look. Then, after we came home and dropped off the smoothies, we went back out to Waverley Stores and did most of my weeks shopping

BB,CC,BB,WW

That Paul chap came in this morning, did paper work for a bit then took me to Carmarthen Leisure Centre where "someone" is paying for me to have 1 on 1 tuition. Today I tried the pedal a bike thing and the walking frame. I wasn't too exhausted leaving so I thing next weeks I will haveta work longer and harder

Iechyd Da

And we went to Club Iechyd Da (noisy link) tonight and it was excellent and Julia did come in to take Freya home, generally just good

More Scary Stuff

So that tall chap Ed came to see me s'morning, we hung about, did paperwork for an hour then we went off to the place that sells Bioness splints in Cardiff where they assessed me for various splints. They can't do me a Bioness, as my ankle doesn't bend back far enough but he did suggest rigid splint with a new pair of boots. Now I am waiting for "people" to agree to pay for it.

But I am no longer wearing my splint on my right foot, he said there is no point

And he seemed to think that my new boots will be same heel, not 1 upper like now, just normal boots

Just Wow

Today we spent all day travelling about an hour and a bit away because once we were there they had to assess me, work on the bike so it would work for me, then eventually I cycled, by myself, just short of 1km. Next time I go they will have prepared the bike already and I will be able to try much further etc. Just WOW

And pissing, today I was driven all the way to Cardiff before I needed a pee, and even that wasn't urgent. In the past even going to Swansea (perhaps ⅓ of the distance) would require stops

Gettin' Out

And yesterday I was able, for the first time in 8½ years since my accident to get out of a car "normally"

My car pulled up, I opened the door then just moved both feet out normally, I didn't need to lift my right foot up by pulling on my knee like I have needed to for 8½ years

More Walkies

And I walked everywhere today except into my kitchen to prepare food all day again today until me and Freya went out with that Paul for dinner

Wow

And today, while Paul was here to help me, I tried standing up from a "normal dining room" chair that had no arm support. I was worried and scared but it actually was dead easy

Phew, what a day

So nowt on this morning but Denyse had to come and see me after the team meeting. Basically she said "Keep on getting better, well done".

Then later Paul came round, did some paperwork etc, then when Freya arrived he took us all out for tea. I had some conversations to have with Freya, one of which was "I have told Toby he can't get in our way as it used to be our night out to Iechyd Da and then he got in the way of that when he came back from Julies" so I hope she now knows that I do love her

Out

And later I went out to play with Paul to a Folk Club miles away and it was excellent but I am exhausted now so g'night

Shopping

And after Morrison's we went to Halfords where I bought a Pink Steering Wheel Cover for the car

Walking

So I got up, used my wheelchair to have breakfast and clear it away, since then I have been walking everywhere

When "he" comes and knocks on the door at 10AM I will walk to let him in

Still all the way, we went out in the car for a bit so I sat in my wheelchair for Morrisons then we went for a drive about Cwrt Henri but I am still on my "proper" chair now

Well I got in my wheelchair about half past 5, enough is enough for today. "See you in't morning" he shouted to his proper chair

& At 'Em

So after being so exhausted yesterday I went to bed early for me, about 11.30. Slept like a dead thing 'til 7 AM. Then I woke up for the day

Firstborn

Toby came up for a bit tonight. He is well and seems fine although he still can't get up in't morning.

Technology

I was watching a bike race on telly t'other day and every now and again it cut to the in bike camera to show some exciting bits. Good lord, telly cameras used to be big heavy things, since my accident technology has gone crazy

Not Like My Life

So I have set my video recorder to record some comedies, I like Never Mind The Bollocks and Qi etc. But it occurs to me, these chaps and chapettes who tell funny tales, there life is is alien to my life now.....

No Wheelchairing

So I sat in my wheelchair to go into the kitchen and make my breakfast, and carry it back, since then it has been sat on the other side of the room, I am in a proper chair today.

From then until I cooked for me and Toby at about 6 I walked everywhere. Afterwards I stayed in my wheelchair, flippin exhausting this walking. Tomorrow try again

Blooming

Blooming... (noisy not WS)

Pirates

And there was a comedian on BBC1 tonight talking about how pirates are disabled, one leg or eye patches etc.
To which I say "Pieces of eight"

Pan (redone now)

And as I am bored and alone this morning I was able to make a pan of food which I shall start tonight then finish with Toby tomorrow. As well as my usual veg I was able to add the veg that had been left here to make Potato and Leek Soup which I didn't fancy

Tired

And after having such a hectic day yesterday I hardly slept a wink last night

Daughter

And I phoned Freya tonight and told her that I would take her out for dinner next Tuesday, I know she is p*ss*d off with me and I need to tell her that I do love her loads etc

More Hectic

And next week I am a bit busy too

Hectic

So first of all (Small) Paul came in and we caught up on paperwork etc.

Then for 12.00 we had to go to Carmarthen Leisure Centre where we met up with Sara who was assessing me again* for using the gym and met some of the staff who will be on my side. We were there for 2 hours then went and had coffee and a bun there with Sara to finish our conversation

Then we went back home and met up with Sarah who couldn't make it last week. We again talked about stuff and she made another appointment to come back in 2 weeks when we are gonna make Shepherds Pie, Without The Shepherd which I had in town t'other day and really enjoyed

Then we went to Waverley Stores and bought loadsa organic food for next week

* Because after the last assessment they got confused as my name has changed etc

Busy

And tomorrow is beginning to look a bit too busy, well first of all I have gotta meet Sara at Carmarthen Leisure Centre where we are gonna try to work out a series of exercises that I can do, then at 2pm Sarah OT is coming to see me and talk about my garden etc, then we have to go to Waverley Stores to buy my weeks shopping

Well

So I had an enormous chap looking after my needs today. We started slowly, him catching up on paperwork, then he explained how to set my telly to record programs. Talk about easier than 10 years ago, I needed no time/clock typing, I just got to a program, pressed record once to just record this weeks or press it twice to record the rest of the series. We went and looked at my recorded programs and I had recorded 140 episodes of one, whoops, by accident, but it must be huge this memory drive thingy.

Then in the afternoon we went out round town again, even tho I was exhausting him by insisting that I need to go uphill

Watches

And I found in a drawer another watch, a Casio F-91W, which I decided does everythin' I need that I would swap to that. I looked online to try to find out how to switch off the alarm and every website I found was saying how fashionable this watch is, how popular!! In the end I had to press buttons randomly until I figured out how to do it, there were no manuals in the 30 or so sites I looked at

Busy

So at 10 AM s'morning that Paul chap came round. For the first hour we were doing paper work etc. Then at 4 minutes to 10 (she was showing off by being early) the door knocked and it was Linda Smith the chiropidist to cut my toenails. It was fine, she advised me to get some Johnson's Baby Lotion to put on my feet as they looked a bit dry but healthy apart from that. Then we went out and took pictures of the entrances to Carmel park and on the way back stopped off at McD's for a milk shake and ice cream combination

B,B,C,C,B,B,W,W

So this evening that Freya came round to visit me. It was a bit strange, she wasn't at all unpleasant but somehow I feel that we missed each other.

But then after a couple of hours our old friend Moishe came to pick her up. She said she has just started work for CAVS and they need a volunteer who is hot on IT. So I said yes, pass on my details and we will see what comes of it

And Freya complained that her phone was broken but said she was gonna get a S/H one off Moishe