tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-199047052012-02-16T22:15:00.968ZLife, the Universe and bipolar disorderJo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.comBlogger1631100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-72277053290262576902010-05-26T01:18:00.004+01:002010-05-26T01:18:59.756+01:00

I have had a busy month and no time to venture on to the blog- or at least venture away from Facebook long enough to post. I went back to the UK for the first time in nearly three years, to visit my mom and dad. He is 90 with Alzheimers and she is caring for him, at home, though now with the help of carers who come in four times a day. It was a relief to see mom looking so well, and to see

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-81294399481952204352010-01-20T21:34:00.002Z2010-01-20T21:49:34.926Z

somewhat artistic musings from THREADSTAR: THE WONDER THAT IS WOMAN... Normally I would try to link to another blog by reposting the post here. Probably because I have been on holiday for a month I have forgotten how to do that! Anyway... this post needs to be read by everyone. In fact this blog needs to be read by everyone, so... go on, click on the link and just go and rejoice!

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-20187071047840206812010-01-20T21:34:00.000Z2010-01-20T21:34:53.590Z

somewhat artistic musings from THREADSTAR: THE WONDER THAT IS WOMAN...

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-25210044425488018902009-12-17T20:06:00.000Z2009-12-17T20:06:36.948Z

Firstly here are the photos from Reuben's successful night. Here he is winning second place in the Basic Facts championship- behind Felix, the big kid! And here is Reuben getting runner up in the Best Allrounder in the universe ever award! Next year we are thinking of ringlets and a waistcoat! So, then, yesterday, Reuben was off doing an TVC= television commeracial for NZ RU ) rugby

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-38803383058466082942009-12-15T23:19:00.003Z2009-12-15T23:19:35.604Z

Laingholm school has said good bye to Paul Heff in an emotional week. 16 years as a head teacher is a LONNNGGGGG time. He is so inspirational. His parting words to Reuben were "You had better be top boy next year!" We were a stunned family at Prize giving the night before. Roo had been nominated but we had no idea what for. He collected his distinctions in the Australasian exams in Maths

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-91930666553998650182009-11-27T09:44:00.004Z2009-11-27T09:48:16.423Z

12 months ago Caitlin competed for the title of Laingholm School Idol 2008.   This year she returned as reigning champion.  This is the latest performance.   There were one or two sound issues but her professionalism shone through. And well done to Jess ( this year's winner) and Chloe for stunning performances! I am such a proud mom!

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-72981376661943565732009-11-12T09:12:00.000Z2009-11-12T09:12:23.154Z

Eventful and some! The Laingholm Goddesses ( as we are now calling ourselves- or rather I am!) held a lunchtime gathering for Sian, our friend with the Big C. It was the most joyous occasion. A group of women brought together by their love for one person, many of whom knew each other a little through shared classes or through school but who laughed and cried together easily. Many of us hadn't

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-2726469062133450872009-11-05T09:49:00.002Z2009-11-05T09:49:47.294Z

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-37035620087001443502009-11-05T09:08:00.000Z2009-11-05T09:08:18.819Z

I received a lovely compliment today. Really made my day in fact. Graham and a student teacher took time out of their busy 'Green Gold" celebration day to discuss the fact I was wearing a skirt and shoes, rather than the clumpy boots I usually wear! So later that day I heard a few 'Great legs' comments. Yay for thin ankles I say! Anyway made my day and I worried Graham greatly when I hugged him

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-22536822317675147482009-11-01T11:05:00.000Z2009-11-01T11:05:22.133Z

Just heard startlingly differing news from two fronts First, one of my best mates in the UK is pregnant, only 7 weeks from term in fact. She hadn't posted anything on facebook, photos of scans etc because she wanted to tell me 'in person' before I found out any other way. Bless her. I think I suspected when she sent the odd message saying we should skype, but I am not a big skype person, so sort

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-43591017954982302702009-10-26T18:36:00.001Z2009-10-26T18:36:15.691Z

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-70626187618528644652009-10-23T19:56:00.002+01:002009-10-23T19:56:34.379+01:00

I promised a photo of Caitlin's poster of "The Travelling Pants'. Unfortunately she had finished it and wrapped it in glad wrap to protect it from the weather when she took it to school, so this is the best I can do. It has notes in four pockets- two of them stuck on with glue around the knees, a felt patch and a cutout, both of which lift to reveal the writing beneath. She is so proud of it.

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-67410921616206126102009-10-21T09:53:00.000+01:002009-10-21T09:53:39.312+01:00

So I continue my week of blogging successfully... Usually I only blog when I am in a certain mood... and this week seems no different. Since lunchtime I have felt flushed and I have been eating continuously- not good with weigh in tomorrow. I was headed for a free Weightwatchers meeting Ah well! Played tennis with hubby this a.m., in spite of the fact I desperately wanted to craft.  Had my arm

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-73340534718312732862009-10-20T23:30:00.001+01:002009-10-20T23:32:42.901+01:00

Just received the 'Book of Pages' in the post, having had it recommended.  Looking at my 'inspired' first ever self designed embroidery... Adding the song beneath to my Damian Rice, Jeff Buckley, Kate Walsh play list, Like I said, gotta love some people!

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-56878983325267557292009-10-19T01:24:00.000+01:002009-10-19T01:24:47.556+01:00

What a few weeks we have had. I don't know where to start but then since this is MY BLOG, not the family or the craft blog I can start and say what I want. I AM EXHAUSTED! At first I thought it was because of the last five days. Having got a table at crafternoon tea, and realising I had nothing to sell, three very late nights ensued, creating 35 flowers! Then there was the actual euphoric event

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-41169701848878923842009-10-14T22:22:00.002+01:002009-10-14T23:01:15.143+01:00

In case you were wondering what I'm up to, I have a new blog, a new brand and a new enterprise. This is the latest posting but if you click on the title of this post it will take you to the new blog. I am one lucky lady. I have an amazing husband, fabulous and talented kids, supportive friends ( both old and new) and look at this for a 'glamourous mum in law' Caitlin and I are off

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-67433980225271533342009-09-04T11:31:00.002+01:002009-09-04T11:35:58.007+01:00

WARNING> This post appears on the family blog. I have not gone mad ( yet) though Spring is proving very very difficult. I know some people read both blogs- sorry. I know some people only read this one. In which case, please do read between the lines, yes I have been feeling awful and no it hasn't stopped yet. Still feeling very negative but totally aware of feeling this way which makes it worse.

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-7139598298474842072009-08-20T07:25:00.000+01:002009-08-20T07:26:30.407+01:00

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-76130760148488641912009-06-23T02:37:00.006+01:002009-06-23T03:11:06.240+01:00

Caitlin has begun her quest for world domination! She is trying to earn some money towards a possible trip to Korea next year. We have said if she can earn some of the cost ( and that doesn't mean going begging to grandparents) we will help her out.(JUST NEED TO QUALIFY THAT LAST POINT BEFORE C HITS ME- SHE MAY WELL BE ASKING GRANDPARENTS ETC TO SEND HER MONEY IN LIEU OF XMAS PRESSIES IN ORDER TO

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-15328521302944995252009-06-06T00:06:00.004+01:002009-06-06T00:32:36.974+01:00

Anton has bought a time capsule for his mac as he thought he had lost his computer and all its work a few weeks ago. As a result of trying to install it, he has f&*ked up the settings on my mac so I can't get on the Internet at home. So I am sitting on the floor outside room 17 at Laingholm, with the kids walking the dog round the field, surfing using the school internet. Subsequently I am not

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-31433046057687912572009-05-11T20:52:00.000+01:002009-05-11T20:56:43.333+01:00

One year in 40 seconds from Eirik Solheim on Vimeo.

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-65555083998277938962009-04-29T20:46:00.000+01:002009-04-29T20:47:58.141+01:00

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-91594951844485513442009-04-02T05:00:00.001+01:002009-04-02T05:05:42.518+01:00

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-65261202331619726432009-03-29T09:33:00.002+01:002009-03-29T09:40:20.068+01:00

We are all lying somewhere chilling or sleeping. It has been a long day! The kids and I were up at 6.30 so I could get to my Run Auckland 10k in Remuera. It was a very small event with a lot of people. I guess I am used to events like the Garburn which are like carnivals of running. This was a start line and a few tables! There were over 1000 entrants and most seemed to be doing the 10K. It was a

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-51095534155737173732009-03-27T19:21:00.004Z2009-03-27T19:46:50.389Z

Hey peeps,Been very down for the last three weeks. It all began with a glass of wine and a comment. It wasn't a particularly upsetting comment. I pointed out that the only thing I expect my OH to do is empty the bins once a week and how annoying it is to have to remind him EVERY WEEK! A discussion ensued about expectations and sure enough, it got a bit heated. Luckily we were at a friend's house

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-44588094355968137052009-03-23T22:40:00.000Z2009-03-23T22:41:10.877Z

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-25315578921306989642009-03-19T07:39:00.004Z2009-03-19T07:43:56.684Z

This is my most recently completed piece. I can definitely say it has kept me stable over the last week, giving me a focus. I am pleased with the resulting picture. The photo does not give quite the right perspective. I shall try experimenting to get the photography right.From sewing 2009From sewing 2009

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-43941646168574444222009-03-18T23:01:00.001Z2009-03-18T23:03:26.068Z

Think less. Do more. A recent idea for a project was going to require some problem-solving.Things in my life this week feel extraordinarily complicated. Craziness is firing on all cylinders, and much of my free time has been drowned away in worry and doubt.Resolving the project was going to push me beyond my current skill set. It was going to lead me out of my comfort zone and force me to take a

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-15846225086561164682009-03-13T18:42:00.001Z2009-03-13T18:42:57.106Z

When you realise you've made a mistake, take immediate steps to correct it.Spend some time alone every day.Live a good, honourable life. Then when you get older and think back, you'll be able to enjoy it a second time.Share your knowledge. It is a way to achieve immortality.Learn the rules, so you know how to break them properly.Approach love and cooking with reckless abandon.Be gentle with the

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-2465091819614970642009-03-07T18:18:00.002Z2009-03-07T18:49:55.333Z

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-42095680329399708052009-03-06T19:41:00.005Z2009-03-06T20:00:22.184Z

OK I know I said I wasn't going to watch it, but on advisement I decided to give it a chance ( Thanks Andy)I was very pleasantly surprised. I still think that Grenouille should be more grotesque but the lead actor was still incredibly disturbing. You could almost sense his detachment from the world.The film was beautifully lit. The light shining in Grenouille's eyes was wonderful and a superb

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-41315152922811624352009-03-04T06:14:00.003Z2009-03-04T06:21:51.191Z

Anton has finally finished reading "Kafka on the Shore' and found it as gripping and surreal as I did. Neither of us could put it down. It is one of the few books that we can discuss easily as it works on so many levels, and generally is very strange but compelling.I've just finished 'Perfume'. I had wanted to see the film for a while but I am not sure I will bother now. Don't get me wrong I

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-11661843817740113852009-02-03T02:38:00.000Z2009-02-03T02:39:12.631Z

Having said that the Twilight series was a good introduction for young teenage girls to the challenge of romance, the fourth book has changed my mind somewhat. From chaste cuddles and stolen, breath taking kisses, the plot has developed into marriage, honeymoon and pregnancy ( with devil foetus) with some haste. Now the consummation is handled in a very vague fashion. Just like the old Mills and

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-54228797516930094892009-02-02T04:08:00.005Z2009-02-02T04:27:25.601Z

Caitlin forced me to take a quiz on the film 'Twilight' this afternoon, out of her teenager magazine. I would have done anything to cheer her up as she was less than happy about her latest haircut. Turns out I know quite a lot about the Cullens and Quileute. Probably helps that I am in the middle of the fourth book. I got A+ and would have got full marks if only I knew about the music in the film

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-45460214263261792182009-01-31T20:38:00.000Z2009-01-31T20:39:10.701Z

Your result for Are You a Jackie or a Marilyn? Or Someone Else? Mad Men-era Female Icon Quiz...You Are a Marilyn! You are a Marilyn -- "I am affectionate and skeptical." Marilyns are responsible, trustworthy, and value loyalty to family, friends, groups, and causes. Their personalities range broadly from reserved and timid to outspoken and confrontative. How to Get Along with Me * Be

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-2108646983129606062009-01-24T22:02:00.003Z2009-01-24T22:16:11.092Z

Anton seems to be improving. He is happier and more relaxed in himself, is talking again about business ideas and is hardly talking to me apart from to complain that I buy too many coffees- inspite of the fact I went out for coffee once this week, with Marion from WW and spent a whole $6.50. We went to the Sea food festival in Auckland yesterday because the kids were with Donna and we had to take

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-21834566794679251482009-01-19T19:44:00.001Z2009-01-19T19:44:57.770Z

Cold

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-69525852057678599972009-01-16T21:55:00.002Z2009-01-16T22:02:36.694Z

And so another morning dawns, bright, sunny, hot.I got up, emptied the dishwasher, fetched the paper, put the washing on and out, watered the plants with a little help from one of my little friends ( begins with R and ends in euben), had a shower, did a poo run ( in the garden picking up a couple of days worth) and then asked the immortal question 'How are you?" to two members of the family. One

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-37131575122707120712009-01-16T07:47:00.006Z2009-01-16T08:49:49.754Z

I have just returned from a seven a side football match, a successful one, played in glorious sunshine at seven o'clock in the evening. If there was a place to ride out the economic storm then surely it must be here. I am not saying life is easy, far from it, but the opportunities, the friendship, the support and the generosity of others make this a most beautiful country.I don't really make

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-44779405686875724942009-01-12T08:47:00.003Z2009-01-12T08:59:53.250Z

You Find Some Parts of Your Family FrighteningYou feel a bit overwhelmed by and resentful of your family right now. This is a good moment for you to take some time away from them.You feel like some members of your family are too unhappy. These family members tend to create unhappiness for everyone else.You believe that one of your relatives is truly evil. You wish to be protected from this person

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-5997970253204965752009-01-10T04:23:00.000Z2009-01-10T04:24:12.756Z

Your Word is "Think"You see life as an amazing mix of possibilities, ideas, and fascinations.And sometimes you feel like you don't have enough time to take it all in.You love learning. Whether you're in school or not, you're probably immersed in several subjects right now.When you're not learning, you're busy reflecting. You think a lot about the people you know and the things you've

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-80916895042181708472009-01-09T19:58:00.005Z2009-01-09T20:13:14.530Z

I absolutely love this posting from one of my favourite blogs- the Age of Uncertainty. Made me smile.The ladybird book of the recession

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-37447195646430863012008-11-20T01:15:00.002Z2008-11-20T01:20:10.911Z

Just discovered the website WWW.WORDLE.NET which takes a piece of text and displays it according to the number of times you use different words in it. I have just tried my last but one posting, about how being 40 sucks. Lots of middling words seemed to come out strongly- maybe, possibly- is this a good thing?

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-77910911526934072962008-11-17T17:39:00.003Z2008-11-17T17:48:58.713Z

My challenge this week has been to add photos to the family blog and this one. Whilst I don't have the headers quite right yet, I am pleased with the results. The photo of the roller coaster is so cool I had to use it.It has been a hard week since Anton's hospitalistion. I am still very worried about him, and the fact there is no diagnosis yet. The homeopath has given us injections of some remedy

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-9650533359662284332008-11-14T08:02:00.002Z2008-11-14T08:11:19.026Z

I haven't officially had a 40th birthday. I had a lovely 1920's cocktail party with 5 course meal all prepared by Anton...except for the cheese board of course.Next morning, my actual birthday , Ant collapses with a suspected heart attack/angina/ who knows. Two days in hospital do not a celebration make. Lyme disease is most likely and he is currently undergoing any treatment he can find.

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-45929503896929037882008-10-26T23:08:00.002Z2008-10-26T23:47:11.361Z

So here are the remaining books from the 1000 that I haven't read, just to remind myself of the classics I have missed. I have managed to cross two off the list withoutrealising it- Birdsong and Crash.There will be a new list on the left of the next five I want to read. Then of course, there are questions... Why do many by Don Delilo? Why so few by Agatha Christie? Where is Kevin, given we should

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-29330395309364886422008-10-26T22:34:00.002Z2008-10-26T22:52:40.769Z

It seems a long time since I blogged. In fact it is a long time since I blogged. I have been feeling as though I was on a very slow roller coaster, going up and down though not as rapidly as normal. I have felt aimless, probably due to the lack of a job, or a purpose, or a routine. It has been difficult coping with other members of the family and their crises. OH can't make up his mind about jobs

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-81704534694439765922008-08-20T10:17:00.007+01:002008-08-20T11:08:24.880+01:00

Now that I can't drink because of my Alpha 1 antitrypsin deficiency..can't be bothered to explain it- google it, I am spending my drinking time ( yeah right) reading about personalities and temperaments. Elaine started me off by talking about learning styles and then about the 4 personality types. Having done some tests online and read a few books, it looks like I am Melancholy/phlegmatic.Your

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-33208200519847672382008-08-01T07:50:00.002+01:002008-08-01T08:20:21.532+01:00

It is August the first and we are in the middle of Winter. I suppose I figure it could be the equivalent of New Year’s Day. Trouble is with winter comes the deep dark moods, made all the worse by the almost constant rain and a certain despondency about our situation. I have had to increase my medication to try and ward off the worst of the shadows, shadows which saw me sitting at the lower

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-8514922166192265872008-06-03T02:25:00.006+01:002008-06-03T03:04:15.557+01:00

Anton used an interesting word last night 'Choice'. He was doing some extras work for Background talent and had been out from 7 am. It was now 6pm and he was ringing me to say that there was no end in sight to the days filming. 'I'm sorry he said but I have no choice really!'.It turned out that the fact that he was earning money meant he had no choice but to take the job, on a national holiday,

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-49384171432144315392008-04-30T06:15:00.002+01:002008-04-30T06:19:23.678+01:00

This is a short note which will be fleshed out laterI have to go and see a specialist about my haematuria. The ultrasound was clear, no gallstones or kidney stones but the doctor is still concerned. As the ultrasound showed nothing I am now a little worried by what it might be.Had a nice day at Julia's, supposed to be just for morning tea but stayed for lunch.Donna came to pick up Ruby from a

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-91367331716236912092008-03-29T20:16:00.004Z2008-03-29T20:25:11.859Z

We are trying to keep everything together today. Had a bit of a meltdown, over camping equipment, bit embarrassing really. I think Ant realised how difficult we were all finding things lately, him not talking to us, moaning about money then spending thousands, not joining in with the family, never reading the bedtime story. We all had a good cry, in the middle of a camping shop, which confused

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-60816140494479586982008-03-27T18:16:00.002Z2008-03-27T18:29:10.532Z

This week is proving difficult. I am feeling a bit lost and down. I think the problem is that I can see how many jobs there are around here that need doing and I just get overwhelmed. It's a head thing. There seem to be too many obstacles too..Ant bought a 'cheap' step ladder which won't reach to the top of C's wall so I got already to achieve something and then couldn't. The cleaning just seems

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-25808660638134221282008-03-21T20:10:00.001Z2008-03-21T20:10:56.638Z

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-25043972338717846022008-03-21T18:17:00.004Z2008-03-21T18:56:25.886Z

So I have Molly lying on my lap having been in her crate from 11pm til 6.30 am. Not coz she slept through the night you understand but because I LOCKED HER IN HER CRATE WITH A DUVET OVER IT IN THE ROOM FURTHEST AWAY FROM ME !!! I was exhausted last night and desperately in need of sleep! She is the most adorable puppy I think I have ever met, which is odd considering I had discounted her when we

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-19890641711697644302008-02-05T19:57:00.000Z2008-02-05T20:08:02.816Z

Emotionally Weird by Kate Atkinson:A mother and daughter sit in a house on a Scottish Island recounting interesting times. Nora, the mother ( or is she) explains about Effie's ancestors whilst Effie describes her time at Dundee University on an English course. It is interspersed with snippets of the creative writing produced by the students, asides from Nora and a gamut of interesting characters-

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-55517921005410808782008-01-28T05:02:00.000Z2008-01-28T05:11:08.415Z

First new book from the 1001.Figured I'd pick a short one so I could get the score up to 74. I am aiming for 100 before I reconsider this as a bad idea. Next comes DeLillo and Auster.Casino Royale was an interesting read, very much of its time. Bond is a misogynist dinosaur ( as quoth M to Pierce Brosnan) of the 1940's. Vesper comes across as she did in the film and the torture scene was

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-24962431864536410102008-01-25T03:28:00.000Z2008-01-25T03:40:52.345Z

I have another blog, entitled the Library of my Life, which was intended as a review of books I had read, as when I am in a hyper or dark mood, I tend to struggle to read or forget what I've written. A sort of aide memoire I guess. I haven't been very good at keeping it up. If two blogs are hard to do, three are impossible. So I think I shall amalgamate it into this blog, since it is integral to

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-16297657792633356032008-01-16T11:00:00.000Z2008-01-16T11:24:04.606Z

It's difficult to keep up two blogs. I have a moral obligation to write the family one- antandjo.blogspot.com- as all the family read it and are desperate for information and pictures of the kids. I have tried getting the rest of the family to do it but it requires motivation, not something an eight year old has for anything that does not involve a trampoline or a computer game.Trouble is I can't

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-82976926720195644922007-12-16T10:50:00.001Z2007-12-16T10:59:41.009Z

23Looking for payday loan?So very nearly a class full then!!What Kind of Reader Are You? Your Result: Dedicated Reader You are always trying to find the time to get back to your book. You are convinced that the world would be a much better place if only everyone read more.Literate Good Citizen Obsessive-Compulsive Bookworm Book Snob Fad Reader Non-Reader What Kind of Reader Are You?Create Your

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-1768167770652777892007-12-16T06:03:00.001Z2007-12-16T08:30:53.155Z

We have been in NZ now for exactly three months. We touched down in Auckland at 6am September 16th and it is now 7pm December 16th.Such a lot has happened: in short. Two weeks spent living in a tiny apartment in Torbay, dealing with jetlag, ants and house hunting. We thought we had found the perfect place ( a beautiful villa in Deidre Place in Laingholm) but the building report put us off. The

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-11503091471131778882007-11-17T08:05:00.000Z2007-11-17T08:06:25.614Z

At last i find almost real broadband in New Zealand, but am too tired to write, Ho hum

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-4521760804261429472007-09-14T14:27:00.000+01:002007-09-14T14:29:56.997+01:00

It seems like an eternity since I last blogged. So much has happened but then so little that I need or choose to write about. OUr home is in a crate somewhere on a boat. The rest of my life is in 8 suitcases and four pieces of hand luggage somewhere in Heathrow airport. We have one and three quarter hours till we fly out to our new life. The kids have gone in search of food and I am becoming

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-26827443056508969422007-09-03T16:58:00.000+01:002007-09-03T17:03:30.297+01:00

I am very impressed with packers.Two men ( well a man and a Man U supporter) arrived at 11.30 left at 4.30 and had packed nearly our entire lives into boxes. We still have one bed ( going to the tip) a table and chairs, kettle and toaster, cutlery and our mess! Phew!We are all feeling a little shell shocked! Roo is very clingy, Caitlin is being a little adult and I have had a little weep whilst

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-91195424261814703982007-09-02T22:10:00.001+01:002007-09-02T22:12:00.370+01:00

Since 9.00 this morning we hve been packing, tidying, dismantling, tipping, dumping, dusting, cleaning and more. I am exhausted but there is still so much to do. I'm off to pack my hand luggage just so it is all in one place.Tra la la

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-89035892698753070392007-09-01T23:09:00.000+01:002007-09-01T23:19:17.630+01:00

We have been out to the Mintfest Art festival tonight, a rather random melange of strret theatre, performance hair dressing and naked frenchmen syphoning red wine through their...We weren't supposed to be going, still lots to do, but Ant had arranged to see Enda ( who has bought our car). Turns out they weren't in so we wandered aimlessly through Kendal on the off chance. I found the whole thing

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-74651566478410741242007-08-31T22:52:00.000+01:002007-08-31T23:02:43.618+01:00

So Brian won BB! Richly deserved!I am really not sure how I am going to cope with the next few weks. There are so many goodbyes to say. I have said so long to some school colleagues/friends and that was hard. What will it be like with my family?We are getting to the end of the road packing wise but I still can't believe how much stuff there is in our house.Feeling weepyp.s. Moji is back off his

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-75330651209755437062007-08-29T00:30:00.000+01:002007-08-29T00:36:33.442+01:00

V tired tonight. 2 hours of ironing with the US Open. Spent p.m trying to sort out the playroom. Have shredded everything fom the filing cabinet and have cancelled loads of direct debits, storecards and the TV licence.Successful ebay campaign this week, raised over £50 and still a day to run!When Oh when will we be ready for this move? We fly out on the 14th, complete on the house on the 7th and

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-73381494988042406292007-08-26T21:39:00.000+01:002007-08-26T21:51:02.484+01:00

I think my moji is having a nervous breakdown. He has disappeared for the last few days.Fraught is a good word; so are stressed, panicky, procrastinating, ill, worried, nervous, anxious, pissed off, responsible, etc etcI am not sure if I am ill or if I am having an allergic reaction to dust or hayfever; either way I feel awful.One lesson I have learned is about consumption. We are getting rid of

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-89270947804713818442007-08-25T17:40:00.000+01:002007-08-25T17:42:06.172+01:00

We fly out of Heathrow on Friday 14th September 2007, via LAX, landing in Auckland on Sunday morning.The panic attacks and sleepless nights have started already. I am just glad the World athletics championships are on overnight. Makes it all bearable.

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-63495124669040777522007-08-24T20:28:00.000+01:002007-08-24T21:05:59.029+01:00

There are holes appearing all over our house! There is a computer sized hole, a freezer shaped hole, a wedding dress size hole ( someone got a bargain £1.20!!!!!!!) and now a rat sized hole.Anton was rather sad to see the dress go! There was a wistful look in his eyes when I took it down to post. Ahhhhh!I was rather more upset about the rat. No he hasn't died. Yoda has gone to a new home. I

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-52178682407723367912007-08-24T20:06:00.000+01:002007-08-24T20:27:41.795+01:00

It has been a very strange and eventful few days.Following my little mood swing, I felt awful. I woke up on Wednesday with distinctly flu like symptoms, so I stayed in bed till lunchtime. Ant took the kids to my mums (to deliver a computer and a freezer) and to play badminton and all I knew was when Roo came to see me and told me he had had lots of biscuits at mums.Mum appeared about 1.30 to

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-32671573968553675422007-08-21T21:34:00.000+01:002007-08-21T21:35:01.127+01:00

So four days after a drinking session, I have this mood swing, so today was the day. My mood hasn't been too outlandish, although I did snap at C when she was desperate for me to play 'Phoenix Wright' at 9 o'clock this morning. I have noticed myself getting very snappy with the kids over those games, as though I feel pressured into doing the problem solving stuff when I am not thinking

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-87648194938162466192007-08-19T20:57:00.000+01:002007-08-19T21:07:41.011+01:00

Made a fatal decision to drink last night. Justine, Tony and the kids came over for a Caitlin organised party. It's just as well she arranged it as we'd never get around to socialising. Everyone seems to be going on holiday this week so we can have time to clear up a bit more. I have filled few more boxes. My sister and god daughters finally came over yesterday and raided the book shelves and

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-59406375815910584632007-08-16T19:26:00.000+01:002007-08-16T20:02:10.580+01:00

Perhaps the death of Grievous set the tone for the day but I have a tremendous sense of a lack of achievement so hopefully writing this will focus my mind.The kids went to Enda's today with Ant asking me what I planned to do with my day. I had no idea but there was a vague suggestion of organising something. After breakfast I spent time blog hopping but eventually aimed for the playroom, to

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-37272370651678829262007-08-16T09:52:00.000+01:002007-08-16T09:59:47.740+01:00

Sadly the news early today is of the death of Grievous the Rat. Following about a fortnight of laboured breathing, or possibly overfeeding, he was found lying in the bottom of the cage. At least he wasn't curled up in quite the same way as Lily. That means I can't rib Roo in the same way that I do Caitlin!The funeral will be held this afternoon, followed by a brief wake ( of Toad in the Hole). I

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-85456617252244749632007-08-15T20:43:00.000+01:002007-08-15T20:54:27.867+01:00

Still feeling very tired. Can't put my finger on it though. I am yawning constantly, aching all over and yet my heart is racing. Stress maybe? Can't think what I can be stressed about????Today was a momentous occasion. The children finally went swimming on their own. OK I had to sit at the side but I did get to sew and I didn't have to get wet. What bliss.Had a great family game of 'Pass the Pigs

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-4143080553096491282007-08-14T18:43:00.000+01:002007-08-14T19:32:24.142+01:00

The moji has had a nervous breakdown; happy, nervous, anxious, angry all from one blog entry!Having spent a sun filled few days in a field in Oxfordshire, not to mention a slightly alcohol fuelled one, I am slightly exhausted ( is that possible?) and snappy, which is probably why today is the first I've chosen to blog. We have spent the afternoon on the sofa because Caitlin has been having

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-85895728268289234692007-08-08T01:11:00.000+01:002007-08-08T01:24:17.230+01:00

I will enjoy seeing what the moji does with this.I have spent much of the day angry, frustrated, pissed off, murderous, stressed. I have slagged off my hubby in front of the kids (which I try not to do), felt guilty about being a bad mother, tried to be a good daughter to both of my parents and I just feel I am failing everybody. Caitlin is very upset about her weight, mum is upset about dad, Roo

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-3321956183166337472007-08-06T12:49:00.001+01:002007-08-06T12:51:13.894+01:00

You Are a Chihuahua PuppySmall, high strung, and loyal.You do best in the city with a adults - young kids could crush you!What Breed of Puppy Are You?

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-61471340466014289292007-08-06T00:50:00.001+01:002007-08-06T00:50:41.077+01:00

Who Should Paint You: Gustav KlimtSensual and gorgeous, you would inspire an enchanting portrait..With just enough classic appeal to be hung in any museum!What Artist Should Paint Your Portrait?

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-50631803917258855972007-08-05T21:54:00.000+01:002007-08-05T22:42:07.414+01:00

A very boring title but I am in a boring mood. We have just got back from a weekend in Oxford and Hemel with granny and the godparents (competition for the Zimmers perhaps). As usual I found the whole thing a bit stressful. Granny fussed, although I did manage to take the kids to the park on my own, which was lovely. Ivan and Veronica were lovely inspite of his cold. They have offered to come and

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-64204200004656008032007-07-31T21:28:00.000+01:002007-07-31T21:47:08.486+01:00

Since we lost Vron, it has become more important to 'seize the day'. Everytime I see Mark he says 'make sure you do it, whatever it is because you might not get the chance'. We seem to be doing that a lot lately.Today we tried paragliding, or rather we tried and I failed. I have to say I much prefer skydiving. There is no time to think when you are charging down a hill, covered in rabbit holes,

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-11148259379620199322007-07-30T19:55:00.000+01:002007-07-30T20:09:05.458+01:00

So spent the night in the basement after watching 'In her Shoes', a good ole girly movie, sewing sky and eventually reading a bit more of 'the Memory Keeper's daughter". I wasn't hyper or spaced I just wanted some space to spread out. I think I wrote that already.It has generally been a successful day. Met Suze for coffee and a brief shop, took the kids to the library which they accepted without

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-3514536627281207682007-07-29T20:59:00.000+01:002007-07-29T21:22:40.872+01:00

We went to PotFest at Hutton in the Forest today. It's a big event about pottery ( what else?) with lots of potters exhibiting and selling stuff, from vases to tiles, from mugs to garden sculptures. I took the kids last year to the cattle market in Penrith but this was a much better venue, a huge house and gardens and weather to match.We bought some green stoneware mugs and bowls from my

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-29594804444215977982007-07-28T22:11:00.000+01:002007-07-28T22:35:21.265+01:00

Not having a great time lately. Ant is back on the antibiotics and is soo irritating. He spends every spare minute on the top floor playing the tin whistle and the bodhrum. Caitlin is overtired from a sleepover, Reuben's glued to his DS and the mother in law is up. Delightful though she is, I find it very stressful having her around. She questions everything, why are we leaving stuff behind when

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-75628131348695115322007-07-26T13:20:00.001+01:002007-08-06T12:55:25.381+01:00

We won a runner's up prize for our HP costumes. Can't wait to see what we've won!P.S. We won a copy of 'A guide to Wizards of the World ' by Merlin ( who else?)

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-91725087493730824642007-07-25T09:36:00.000+01:002007-07-25T09:45:32.006+01:00

Everything seems to be going too well. We have a sale on the house, the visas are due any minute, the last carboot sale got rid of a decent amount of stuff, ebay is going well and yet...I feel awful. I did think Ihad my 'stress stomach' ache but the usual pain killers are useless and my back is killing me. It must be anxiety but this time there is little I can do about it. Wea re just playing a

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-12854963828367614822007-07-21T18:32:00.000+01:002007-07-21T18:40:37.945+01:00

Then, with a bright white flash and a crack, a crystal ball fell on top of his head and he crumpled to the floor and did not move."I have more!" shrieked Professor Trelawny from over the banisters, "more for any who want them! Here-"And with a movement like a tennis serve, she heaved another enormous crystal sphere from her bag, waved her wand through the air, and caused the ball to speed across

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-32721116152978548002007-07-21T12:39:00.000+01:002007-07-21T12:45:09.427+01:00

Started queuing at 22.40Bought two books at 00.18.Started reading at 00.45.Slept 03.00 till 07.00Finished book at 12.18.Cried 3 times,Cheered twice...good ole Neville!A good editor would have cut most of the middle 200 pages but I wouldn't have missed the annual thrill!

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-78874151239007193662007-07-18T20:40:00.000+01:002007-07-18T20:47:52.756+01:00

God do I still feel shit! I spent the morning on the sofa with 'Life on Mars' though I only saw about one out of three episodes as I fell asleep. Ant was in a foul mood; we had a silent coffee this morning and he is showing no interest in the move, which is driving me up the wall!Went to see Shrek with the kids after school; not as good as the earlier ones but a nice way to spend a hour or so.So

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-60531547854910389802007-07-18T08:02:00.000+01:002007-07-18T08:07:18.827+01:00

I have felt shit for two days now, I reckon it's the end of term illness that has been delayed by a week! Everything aches and I feel like death ( not literally of course).As far as Ant is concerned it's just my head that's gone. As always! I am not allowed to be ill.C performed well at the talent show, although the sound was a little dodgy!

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-13917732122975637692007-07-16T22:54:00.000+01:002007-07-16T23:02:33.440+01:00

Deep within that hollow stare, of our presence they're unaware. A special life that's fading away, in spite of things we try to convey. Memories locked up in their mind, and there it's kept all confined. The good times spent long ago, with all their love they did bestow. For these moments will live forever, and our pride in them will endeavor. Seeing them lying there we know why, Alzheimer's is

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-30297767203478365152007-07-16T22:21:00.000+01:002007-07-16T22:46:23.514+01:00

Spent the day sewing in C's class, making hand and finger puppets and generally making a nuisance of myself. A.M. they had the lovely Mrs Klijn who was fab and enthusiastic; PM we had the usual teacher who certainly doesn't come across as enthusiastic. Hey ho! One TA and I shared our opinions on C's nemesis...and I thought it was just me who thought she was a cow!Mum has had a tough time lately.

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-76222293139580294092007-07-15T18:46:00.001+01:002007-07-15T18:48:40.102+01:00

A blade of grassby Brian PattenYou ask for a poem.I offer you a blade of grass.You say it is not good enough.You ask for a poem.I say this blade of grass will do.It has dressed itself in frost,It is more immediateThan any image of my making.You say it is not a poem,It is a blade of grass and grassIs not quite good enough.I offer you a blade of grass.You are indignant.You say it is too easy to

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-66380917676423849292007-07-13T20:31:00.000+01:002007-07-13T20:40:51.875+01:00

Only as good as you feel it is?What do you do when your children both come home with glowing reports? Praise them of course!But what do you do when your two children bring home said glowing reports and one of them has level 4 in Maths, Reading and Writing whilst the other has level 3b in writing, 4A in reading and 4b in Maths? Priase them on being well ahead of the average for the SATS but remind

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-61577367226692702022007-07-12T00:51:00.000+01:002007-07-12T01:14:14.433+01:00

Yet more ups and downs. Have to confess I have been less than consistent with my meds this week. It's an end of term thing. Back on the straight and narrow today...in other words I have got my new prescription, have felt shit, spaced, lonely, annoyed and incredibly tired, but it is now 12.50am the ironing is done and I am sorely tempted to go and clear out my wardrobe. This really is the usual

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-34838928443539077062007-07-10T20:40:00.000+01:002007-07-10T21:06:14.063+01:00

I know, I know, these are all over the internet right now but it had to be done. I wanted to be fatter and dumpier but C wouldn't let me!Sort of finished at school again today. That's to say went in, did my paperwork ( about 10 months earlier than I usually do), picked up some stuff, dropped off a big box of books for the library ( from my kids) and tried not to make too much mess (some hope).

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-16121441996652971822007-07-09T21:44:00.000+01:002007-07-09T22:01:57.852+01:00

Woke up snapping apparantly! I felt Ant was snapping too but as ever it was my fault. We went for a walk on the Scar, starting in brilliant sunshine and ending up drenched in ice cold rain. Managed to have a cuddle at the bandstand but by then I needed it. Ant had a go at me for snapping and I felt he was saying that I was responsible for all my actions and that he didn't need to help the

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19904705.post-64082026129177405412007-07-08T20:39:00.000+01:002007-07-08T21:04:06.024+01:00

Reuben's eighth birthday came and went. Caitlin brought him breakfast in bed, or should that read breakfast on bed, crumbs and spills everwhere! He opened pressies in ten seconds flat, almost totally technological- DS and games, tamagotchi, cubes. The only books he got were ones he's already got so a return to Amazon beckons.First car boot sale was an experience. The number of people haggling

Jo Ashcrofthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12498449344477320495noreply@blogger.com0