Good evening everyone. I hope you have all had a lovely restful weekend after all of the excesses of the last few weeks. I am in a mild panic about starting work properly tomorrow, so I thought I'd blog to take my mind off it! I shadowed the reception class TA on Friday and she is very organised and in control, but I think I will have to put my own (badly organised and not at all in control) stamp on the job for the next few weeks. I have been volunteering in the class for 1 day a week for the last 3 years so it isn't a total learning curve, but it will be a shock to the system. The most important thing is that I have established where the sick bags are and the nearest path to the sink just in case any of the little darlings come down with this terrible D&V bug that is shutting down the country.
I have actually had quite a productive weekend for once. Andy and Bodie went to help out with our friend Greg's night orienteering competition in the Forest of Dean, and was away all day, and the girls spent hours playing upstairs with their new toys - only popping down occasionally for refreshments, which meant that I could take down the Christmas tree and have a good clean through. I love putting the decorations up, but as soon as New Year is over I can't wait to get them down again. The house looked so tidy, and once the girls were in bed I sat in front of the fire just looking at how calm and relaxing it was. Just as well really. They've all been at home today so it is trashed again now, but it was nice while it lasted.
Sophie and I went to a car boot sale this morning, and it was Sophie's first ever visit to one. I think she will be back, although we have very different tastes and she was fairly tickled by some of my purchases...particularly this one.
I have been after a rug for our sitting room for ages, but they all seem too heavy, or the wrong colour, or too oriental in style. This one however was perfect. The duck egg blue matches the sofa and the red and green match the chair and curtains. The fact that it was £4 also helped me make up my mind! The fact that it is a little grubby and threadbare only adds to the charm in my opinion. Andy let out a huge sigh when I came home, but knows better than to get involved! As you can see, at least Bodie has taken to it. I also got a powder blue enamel saucepan (which I forgot to take a photo of) and a huge cream enamel bin with 'Dog' on the front which is perfect for Bodie's dog food (once it has been cleaned!).
A very kind lady gave me this magazine as she didn't have any change and I only had a £5 note. I love the picture on the front, and I am looking forward to reading it later.
I also topped up my growing collection of vintage treasures for my website. Andy spent a happy afternoon playing with the pop up light tent, and took some great photos for me, and I have just created a new Vintage category on my website and uploaded some of the bits and bobs. There are some tins, and some glass and china items. I have heaps more to do, and this is just a start, but please tell me what you think (and feel free to order too!). I just wanted to get a few new things on there as I am going to struggle to do much else new for the next few weeks. My website link is in the sidebar on the left. Alternatively, click here. Don't forget that all UK orders get free P&P.
Damn, I have just realised I have missed Sense and Sensibility. I can always catch it on replay, but I like the thought of snuggling up on a Sunday night with a period drama and a cuppa under the blanket. I did enjoy it last week, but I have a real soft spot for the Emma Thompson film version (despite having her in it) - not least because my Aunt sang the soundtrack. Did any of you watch Oliver Twist? I was so disappointed that it was on every night - there was no chance I could catch every episode over Christmas. Sunday night is the rightful place for period drama!
Well, I'd better go and get clothes ready for tomorrow and plan the week's meals. Wish me luck for tomorrow (well actually, wish it for my 2 poor, soon to be neglected children, and the 29 children in Reception!). Thank you all for your Happy New Year messages and words of encouragement - you are a lovely bunch!
Cathy XX