365 days abroad

Day 339

2010-08-20T23:28:00.001-07:00

To all of my faithful readers...I'm going to be working 240 hours over the next 17 days. I don't know that I will get the time to write my blog when I get home from work each night. Therefore, I think what I will do, is at the end of this stint, I'll write a lengthy entry about how the days went. I realize that will give you a lull, and for that I'm sorry. But I think this is the best way, rather than suffering from sleep deprivation. I hope you understand, and I look forward to sharing my stories with you at the end. Stay Tuned. Thanks! xx

Day 338

2010-08-20T02:44:00.000-07:00

I was so grateful for the guy in front of me in traffic today. I had spent the morning feeling ill, and was not in the best of moods to be going to a job I had been looking forward to all week. But, I pulled myself out of the house, and into my car around 3:30 to head to set.

First, I stopped for gas. Worrying that the lady was taking too long when I was ready to pay, and she started pumping someone else's gas...my nerves started to set in. I somehow managed to calm them down in the end, and began my journey.

Now on a regular day, at an off peak time, this drive would have taken MAYBE 45 minutes. But at 3:45 on a Thursday afternoon when the tunnel's down to one lane...It's a different story.

An hour later, sitting in this line up, trying to get into the tunnel...people, as usual, are trying to come up the inside lane and get in front of everyone who's just waited forever. These people make me angry. The people that make matters worse? The ones who let these morons in!!!!!! Anyway, I'm sitting in line, getting angry at all these people, when the guy in front of me decides to take initiative. He turns his wheels, and positions himself so that he's in the middle of two lanes. AWESOME! People were still trying to get by him, so I followed suit. I pulled up, right to his bumper, and so that my wheels were on either side of the line. No one could get by us, and it was great. Unfortunately once we started moving again, two more people zoomed up and got in. But I still give the guy a thumbs up for doing what he did. I was so grateful that he was in front of me.

I ended up getting to crew park an hour and a bit early, but I got in the shuttle right away, and with the impression that the driver was high or drunk...was very happy when I arrived on location. I got out of the van to see a familiar back. "Patrick?" I called out. He turned around, and gave me a hug. Patrick is a family friend. He plays soccer with my Dad, I've babysat his kids, and he does lighting on different sets. We chatted for a bit, and he walked me to where I had to be. I told him I'd see him in a bit, and went to sit down in holding.

I waited an hour, talking to a girl I know, and then signed in. Once I had done that, the night began with make up. As usual, I can't tell you anything that happened on set, but I'll tell you, I most likely won't be seen, but had fun nonetheless. Every now and then Patrick came on set and we'd talk, and when I signed out hours later, I had a conversation with him until it was time for me to hurry to the last shuttle. I jumped in, and the doors closed. The driver dropped us at Crew Park, and I headed home. I decided to stop at the Starbucks drive thru, but unfortunately, I was 12 minutes late!! They closed at Midnight. I was not happy.

I drove home, decided not to make a coffee or anything because Callan was so comfy on me, was giving the best cuddles and I was too lazy to move. Eventually the tiredness took over, and I decided to come to bed. Good Night xx

Day 337

2010-08-17T23:09:00.000-07:00

Today was crazy. It was supposed to be a nice relaxing day off with my brother, before I start a 20 day stretch of work. What it turned out to be however, was crazy.

I got up and was trying to get ready, when Dapple - one of my puppies - wouldn't stop barking at me. It was getting on my nerves, to the point where I kept telling her to be quiet. Well, not long after...she had an accident. I apologized to her (as if she can understand me) and brought her outside. Within the next 2 hours, she went at LEAST 10 times.

I got some stuff together, and in a panic - no time for make up - got Stephen to take us to the Vet. We get there, the vet's nurse gets me to bring Dapple outside (after hitting me in the face with a ladle and not apologizing), and proceeds to catch Dapple's pee in this ladle. - I sure hope it was washed from the previous animal, before she hit me in the face!

We went back inside, and minutes later, the vet came out. We went into one of the little rooms, and she checked Dapple out. She ran the tests on the wee, and told us what was up. She's got an infection, and had to have an injection. The Vet asked if Dapple was allergic to anything, and when I said yes, she asked what. I went on to explain that every time she has an injection, she has a reaction. The vet stated that that was a reaction to vaccinations, and carried on giving her a shot of Penicillin. We left the office, and on the ride home, she was continuously shaking her head. Itchy ears I assumed. By the time we got home, and Stephen dropped us off, her reaction was getting worse. Her eyes were getting red, she was chewing her foot off as she scratched her side, and her nose was swelling up. Luckily I'd seen this happen to her before, so it wasn't a true panic right away. I just knew she needed Benadryl. Well, after looking around and not being able to find it, that's when I began to panic. I called Stephen and asked him to bring some home ASAP. A little while later, with no sign of him, I called the vet. I described everything to her, and she told me to come back in with Dapple.

We had to wait for Stephen to get back to the house, and as I was getting antsy, I walked up to the four way stop, Dapple in my arms, to meet up with him so he wouldn't have to turn around. He drove us back to the vet, where Dapple had to have 2 more injections to fight off the first one. UGH! She has to go back in 2 weeks, and has to be on a different medication I'm allergic to, for the time in between. We drove back to the house, and her and I finally had some time to relax. She laid down beside me on the couch, and would only leave my side when she heard the door open. She'd go see who it was, and return to me. If I got up, she was up with me. Poor little thing.

My Dad, Mom, and Stephen all got home, and we ate dinner together while watching "Glee" - re runs - in the background. Now I'm sitting here watching "The Hulk" with everyone but Stephen who's gone out. I'm waiting for tomorrow's call time, and then I'll be asleep, faster than ever. After I pack of course. Good Night xx

Day 336

2010-08-16T23:31:00.001-07:00

What a hottttttt day! My Goodness! I could barely move. I was up earlyish, and still didn't manage to get a lot done because sitting at home, was like sitting in a sauna. I got ready, and took care of the dogs...but basically them and I, sat around trying to survive as the beads of sweat roll off us. When Stephen got home from work, he changed quickly, and the two of us headed out to do some running around.

Our first stop was Walmart. We were on a hunt for Winnie the Pooh stuffed animals. Once we had a Piglet, Tigger, Eeyore, and Pooh in hand, we headed to the cash. As we placed the stuffys' on the counter, we realized Eeyore's little music box inside, didn't work. We ran back to see if there was another one, and when there wasn't, decided it wouldn't matter. The other 3 sang, and it was the same song in each, so if Eeyore didn't, it would be alright. We paid for the animals, and made a stop at the bank and Liquor Store before coming home.

When we got back, we had minutes to wrap a few gifts, then we were out the door and at the pub. Stephen jumped out to fill a cooler with ice, and then we drove to a friend's for a baby shower. Hours later, my Mom showed up, I came home with her, and now I'm sitting here, falling asleep as I type this, and watch TV. I'll be in bed very shortly. Good Night xx

Day 335

2010-08-15T23:13:00.001-07:00

35 Degrees today, and ... people are dancing? We're watching the news right now, and people were dancing in the street. I could hardly move! Anyway, I'm not complaining, cuz I certainly don't want the rain to come.

My Mom and I had some things to get done today, so we were running from store to store getting groceries, gifts, etc. When we got back, my Mom made dinner, and after eating, her, my Dad and I went down to a company picnic. We mingled with some people, and then headed up the beach for a gelato. We were originally sitting near the water to eat it, but I began shivering, gave up, and went to Jimmy Flynn's to finish eating it in the warmth.

Soon enough, my Mom, and Dad came to get me, and we drove back to the house. I took the dogs out, and then my Dad and I drove up to Rogers to rent a movie. Now the two of us are watching TV until Stephen and Carly get off work. They'll come here and we'll watch "Planet 51". I'll be asleep VERY soon after. xx

Day 334

2010-08-15T23:00:00.001-07:00

I was awake pretty early considering what time I went to bed last night. I got up, got ready, and my Mom, Dad and I went to one of my Dad's stores' anniversaries. We hung around there for a bit, then went to Starbucks, and drove to our storage place. We grabbed a fan - as the temperature is still crazy hot here - and then drove home.

I had just enough time to check some e-mails before changing for work, and Carly arriving. When she got here, the two of us drove to her house to take care of her dog, then went up to Pita Pit. We were SO excited!! I haven't had Pita Pit in like...years!

We had picked some up for Stephen, and the chef at the pub, so we went down there to drop the pitas off, grabbed a gelato, polished that off, and then enjoyed our pitas. They were delicious!!!!! Because of the heat, the pub was pretty dead. For the next probably 4 hours...I sat there speaking with my boss while he ate dinner, playing Angry Birds, and talking to some customers. My Mom dropped us some dessert, then found a parking spot, and came in to sit with me. After a lot of water and a cup of coffee, we headed back to the house.

Carly and Stephen came back here after work, and the 3 of us tried to watch "Elf" but we were so tired we didn't get through the whole thing. Carly left, and we all went to sleep. xx

Day 333

2010-08-15T22:51:00.001-07:00

Friday the 13th, and had I of noticed earlier...I probably could have had some luck.

My Mom and I were doing some running around today, and the radio station was giving away tickets to Michael Buble (his Vancouver concert is this Friday), all you had to do was call in, and answer questions about Souffle. Well, I had my phone in my hand and was ready to dial...but when I heard Souffle, I thought yeah right, I won't win these tickets...and I closed my phone. It wasn't until after a girl from White Rock had answered all these EASY questions, that I thought...CRAP! It's Friday the 13th! Those tickets would have been mine! What a muppet!

Anyway, all that aside...my day began with a tiny work out, and by tiny...I mean about 2 minutes, on the wii fit. I was trying to do jack knife sit-ups, when Callan decided to lie under my head. Then, when my bath was ready, I jumped in and got ready to go out. My Mom came home from golf, and the two of us walked down to the pub to meet up with some of my Mom's friends for lunch. We ate there, and proceeded to the Gelato place for dessert. It was delicious as usual.

We ate the gelato on the beach, said our good byes, and then my Mom and I walked to the other end of the beach, up the hill and home in 31 degree heat. When we got back, we had a few things we had to do at different stores. We got that done, I got changed, and I went to work.

Work was great. Busy at the pub, but great nonetheless. It's an awesome atmosphere. When we finished at the pub, Stephen, Carly and I went to Charlie's, and then the OB. We were standing at the OB when we glanced at this Dane Cook look a like we had seen walk by earlier. He was soooo good looking that Carly and I couldn't stop staring. We later found out that he is an NHL player. We had some good laughs as per usual, and then Carly and I walked home. It was around 3:30am when I fell asleep. xx

Day 332

2010-08-13T02:26:00.000-07:00

After getting up and talking to Toni today, I got ready to go out with my Mom. The two of us did some running around. First to Costco, then Walmart, Starbucks and London Drugs. When we finished all of that, we came home, and I watched some TV with my Dad until it was time for dinner.

I took care of a few e-mails I had to send, and Carly came over. After what seemed like forever, her and I headed down to Jimmy Flynn's. We sat around until the pub closed. We watched two super drunk girls try to come in, and then saw them track down a cab. Not long later, there was another cab at the door, waiting for the same two. When the pub was all closed up, Stephen, Katrina, Carly and I headed to Charlie Don't Surf, but stopped in at Uli's to say hi to some people. After sitting at Charlie's for a bit, Katrina left, and we headed over to the OB for live band night.

The band that apparently doesn't have a name, but Stephen calls Unicorn on the cob, is awesome. They do a lot of covers, but played an original song tonight as well. We sat around enjoying the music, and laughing at how not one person on the dance floor had any rhythm...At ALL! There was one lady with a hairstyle from the 80's who was playing the air guitar, doing the ever so famous head bob, and singing every word but the right ones to "Don't Stop Believin". I had a guy sit on my lap...and then when he apologized and I said it was ok, he tried to look me in the eye and say I made a nice cushion. Not sure what that meant, but I'm guessing by his odd gaze, that he was trying to compliment me. Pretty much right after that happened, we moved closer to the band. The funny thing is, that was just coincidence. Stephen hadn't even seen the guy sit on me. Carly and I stepped out a few times to see if we could catch the meteor shower, but came back in filled with disappointment each time.

When the band finished playing, Carly, Stephen and I headed up the steep hill. - It's getting easier to climb! - Carly said good bye and went home, Stephen and I say good night, and now I'm in bed, ready for a good sleep. Good Night xx

Day 331

2010-08-12T13:51:00.001-07:00

Today was AWESOME!!! I LOVE working on set! I woke up - after about a 4 and a half hour sleep - at 5:15, and I got ready for work. I put my skirt and suit jacket on, did my make up, ate, did everything else that had to be done, and went out the door.

On my way to set, I was pretty early, and wanted to make sure I was going in the right direction. I pulled into Starbucks, got a Vanilla latte, asked if the next street was the one I wanted, and when they said yes, I got back into my car and was in crew park within minutes...maybe even seconds. I walked to holding, signed in, and although wardrobe really liked my suit...it was too light for the specific set, and they asked me to change. I came back in my second outfit, and they were informed there was to be no capris on set. They asked me to change into a 3rd, and this one, was a success. I went to see make up - the lady wasn't the nicest and almost had me in tears...but that's the way it goes sometimes. I went to hair, and she said mine was perfect. Sitting at a table with some people a little while later, hair came over and asked if I'd mind her putting some up, as lots of people were wearing theirs down. I didn't mind. Who doesn't love getting pampered? I wasn't a huge fan of the look...but that's probably because of my make up more than anything.

The next 11 and a half hours were spent on and off set, speaking to some amazing people, and watching a very good looking actor for part of that. I had so much fun! When we were wrapped, I drove to the soccer field my Dad was playing on. I watched the last of the 2nd half with my Mom, then her and I drove to the house to drop a car off, stopped at Starbucks, and met my Dad down at Jimmy Flynn's - the pub.

After a big meal - too much food - a few games of Angry Birds - a very addictive game on the iPhone, and some very loud singing to "Sweet Caroline"...the 3 of us came home. Shortly after watching some TV...it's time for bed. Good Night xx

Day 330

2010-08-10T22:45:00.000-07:00

I'm sitting here watching ET Canada, and they've just gone through a list of fashion faux pas that I guess are coming back into fashion. Let me tell you right now...I won't be following the trend if this is the case. So here's what they're saying (and feel free to let me know your thoughts).

Fanny Packs - Ok, these were never cool, and I'm pretty sure that means you can't make a come back.
Socks and high heels - ???? They're saying you can only do this if your socks are the same colour as the heels. NO! You should NEVER do this.
Shoulder pads - This HAS to be a joke! They don't look nice. What woman wants broad shoulders? Don't they have plastic surgery nowadays to avoid this type of thing??

Ok, now that that rant is over...let's move onto something else that's bothering me. Funnily enough, it too, is related to come backs. Britney Spears. Yes, you read right. Apparently she's going to be on "Glee" for an episode. Now don't get me wrong, I've always been a fan of her music. I can't help but tap my foot, and dance to every one of her songs...BUT after her psycho stint...I don't exactly support her, and definitely don't think she deserves to be showcased on "Glee". If they were just singing her songs, that would be kind of cool. But to let her promote herself...well, I think it'll be a tough episode to watch. I just have a feeling that her acting is not going to do the show justice. Anyway...there's my 2nd rant.

Haven't gotten up to too much today. Woke up, watched some TV, got ready, and cleaned my room. When I finished that, I went to Starbucks and the bank with Stephen, and the two of us stopped at the pub on the way home. When I got back, I spoke to some people online, and watched some TV. I know...the excitement is insane isn't it? Oooh Wheel of Fortune! You can't go wrong with a little knowledge in your TV experience. Anyway, just laying low tonight because I'm on set tomorrow, and I have a feeling it will be an early call time. So for now, I'll say Good Night xx

Day 329

2010-08-10T12:14:00.000-07:00

Once again, I had a late night so this morning didn't start out too early. My whole system is back to night owl mode. When I decided to get ready, I only sat around so it didn't really make a difference. Around 5:30, Carly came over. We watched some TV until it was time to go to the movies. We went to see "The Other Guys". It was funny.

When the movie was over, the 3 of us drove back home. I wasn't feeling great, but my Dad and I went to meet up with my Mom at Starbucks. They didn't have any soy milk, and I was upset. We sat there while my Mom and Dad drank theirs, and then my Mom and I went to 2 others to see if I could get a coffee. They weren't open. When we were on our way back, we drove down to the pub where I was going to jump out and meet up with Stephen and Carly. I was falling asleep on the way down though, and still wasn't feeling well, so we turned around and came home. I sat on the couch for a bit, but shortly after, I was in bed. xx

Day 328

2010-08-09T00:53:00.001-07:00

I didn't get out of bed until 1 today, and it was lovely. Even when I did get up, I was tired. I definitely could have fallen back to sleep...but I decided against it. I got up, and watched the Man U vs Chelsea game with my Dad and brother. Then I got my act together, and got ready to go out.

Stephen had gone to work, and so had my Mom. My Dad and I drove down to the front, and went for a walk. We walked all the way up East beach to the pier, and down that to check out the star fish etc. We were enjoying the peacefulness when some stupid woman walked over, and started chucking chunks of bread at the birds. That ruined that. We moved across the pier, and as soon as she was done ruining everyone's time, she left. We walked back up the pier, and I got a phone call from Stephen. The regulars were at the pub, so we stopped in to say hi.

When we were finished there, we drove to the grocery store, picked up some things for dinner, and then went to Starbucks. The first one didn't have enough soy milk to make my drink, so we sat down with the teeny drink they gave me for free, and then went to the next store Hahaha. Dad brought his coffee, and the 2 of us sat down in this second Starbucks, and enjoyed the tastiness. When our drinks were done, we decided we'd better go home and eat dinner. It was just after 7.

We made some delicious wraps, and had salads with chicken gyozas. We watched an episode of Friends, and then turned on a movie I'd worked on. I'd have to watch it in slow motion to see if you can spot me running down the street, but I did see someone I know, and my car! Haha. I now own the movie, but it's not one I'd watch again. It was a little bit too creepy. My Mom got home by the time it was done, and we watched some show on storms while having some tea. Now my parents are in bed, I'm watching TV and sorting through Italy pictures, and then I'll be fast asleep. Good Night xx

Day 327

2010-08-08T02:32:00.001-07:00

So Dapple woke me up at 11:30 this morning...and when you didn't go to bed until 6:30am...that's kind of early. I let her in my room, and Callan followed. Luckily, after about 10-15 minutes, the two of them settled down, and let me go back to sleep until my Mom came in to wake us up at 2. I was ready by about 4, and my Mom and I went to Walmart, and then made a quick stop at Starbucks.

We came home, and shortly after, the doorbell rang. Tonight, we were going out with an old family friend. Someone I hadn't seen since I was probably about...9? Anyway, he and his girlfriend were going for dinner with us tonight, so there was a quick hello at the door, a tour of the house, and then the 5 of us drove down to the pub. We had a nice meal there - that I was falling asleep during...and when we'd finished, we drove back to the house. I ran out to Walmart for what I thought would be a brief moment. I was wrong.

I was on a mission to get Stephen some Cheeseburger doritos, pepcid ac, and the movie "Kick - Ass" for him, Carly and I to watch. Looking for the doritos...couldn't find them. I had to get Ketchup chips for him instead. Next, the Pepcid AC. Well...there were a ton of boxes in the aisle, as it was close to 11pm, and I therefore had to walk all the way around and down, instead of straight across. Once I found those, I went on a hunt for the movie I had in my hand not 12 hours ago at this very store. Seconds passed...then minutes. I couldn't find it. I asked for help, and the lady who didn't even know it was a movie searched the same places I had looked. She then sent me to the front of the store to check a rack...and still...nothing. I couldn't believe it. She told me they'd get a new shipment in tonight so I could get it tomorrow. Um HI! Do you not think I can see the boxes all over the place? Number one, if you are out, why don't you take a look in the box...number two...I don't think you are out, seeing as it's a new release and I WAS HOLDING ONE EARLIER! Anyway, long story short...I never found the movie. Stephen had since spoken to me, and asked me to pick him up some chocolate milk. So I did. We figured out the movie was on Pay-Per-View, and I drove home.

When I arrived, I complained to everyone - family friend, and his girl friend included. And then I gave Stephen his chocolate milk. He opened it, took a swig, and then asked me to smell it. I've never smelled anything like it before. It was like inhaling straight chemicals of some sorts. Neither of us could believe it. He didn't drink it, and I got even more mad at Walmart. It's a good thing I came out of there with a copy of a movie I may be in...or all hell may have broken loose.

The family friend left, and we ordered the movie. Now it's over, Carly's gone home, and I REALLY need some sleep. Speak to you soon. Good Night xx

Day 326

2010-08-07T19:07:00.001-07:00

Today was AWESOME!
I tried to sleep in as late as I could, and when I woke up, I spent the afternoon packing, and getting ready for set. When my Mom and I left, it took us longer than we expected to get there...but when we found the location, we paid for parking, and went to Extras holding. Now the next bit, I'm gonna have to run through with very little detail. You see, you're not allowed to know everything that happens on set. What I will say is that it was AWESOME! There was a group of us hanging out together in each scene that were having a great time, there was a lot of dancing, and a very good looking dancer. Also, the show is called "Hellcats" and it premiers on September 8th. I believe we were working on the 3rd episode, but am not positive. The show looks great, and I suggest tuning in from the beginning. I think it'll be a fun one to watch.

We wrapped at 5:30am, and were home, crawling into our beds by 6:30. xx

Day 325

2010-08-06T03:23:00.000-07:00

Today's been one of those days. You know, the days where nothing goes right. You can't hang onto a thing whether it's your cell phone or a french fry. Your attitude needs an adjustment, and you just hate yourself. That's what today was for me. It had it's ups...but there were also some tears. It's now 3:11am, and I probably should be asleep - as I think exhaustion has something to do with my mood...but instead, I'm going to write my blog. You see, I'm working on set tomorrow, and my call time is probably going to be around 8 or 9pm as it's a night shoot, so the later I stay up now...is probably the better.

This morning I woke up to my Mom's music. It was 11 o'clock. I eventually got myself ready, and after following my Mom to the garage in my Mazda, I hopped in the Jag, and did my make up. The two of us went to Starbucks, and also to Walmart. Then we went to pick Hagan - my 4 year old cousin - at Day care. When we got there, he was so excited to see us. "Judy!" He called out. The ladies who work there told us that they'd been hearing all day, about us picking him up and bringing him to Starbucks. He was so excited.

We drove to Starbucks, where Hagan asked me to sit in the big comfy chair right next to him. When we finished our drinks and cookies, we walked around a couple of the shops until Caldo arrived to collect Hagan. They went home, and my Mom and I stopped at the grocery store. My Mom was just picking a few things up, so I stayed in the car. She dropped me at the pub on the way home, and I went in to wait for her and my Dad to come back in for dinner. I had a conversation with the chef, and once we'd eaten, my Mom, Dad and I walked up the hill and home.

I changed my outfit, and did my nails. Then I checked some e-mails before my Mom drove me back down. I had a bit of a breakdown in the car - to do with me hating myself right now - and then I went into the pub to meet up with Stephen and Carly, and some other people. Once the bar was closed down, we skipped Charlie Don't Surf, and headed straight for the OB. It was band night there, and let me tell you...the band was awesome. They play at Jimmy Flynn's every now and then too, but this was the first time I'd heard them. We had a really good time, and I became addicted to a game on the Iphone called "Angry Birds". At one point, I was offered money to drive a drunk couple home. I did it, and Carly came with me so I wouldn't have to walk back on my own. Thank God she did, as it was at least a 15 minute walk. We jumped in her car after trudging up hill in heels, and I drove it back down towards the OB. We parked out back, went in for about 15 minutes, and then drove home.

Now I'm lying in bed, and my eyes are burning...so, although I'm doing a night shoot tomorrow...I'm going to sleep now. Good Night xx

Day 324

2010-08-05T02:04:00.000-07:00

Not too much to report on today.
When my alarm went off at 10, I wondered why, and debated going back to sleep. It was then that I realized I was getting up to go see the new Adam Sandler movie, so I dragged myself out of bed, did my Wii fit, and then started getting ready. It turned out my Mom and I had to wait around for the Jag to charge, so instead of the 12:05 movie, we were now going to see the 3:05. Do you know how much longer I could have slept?? Dammit!

I spent more time getting ready, and decided to curl some strands of my hair. After looking up directions for the movie theatre, my Mom and I were on our way. 40 minutes later, we weren't there yet, and I was beginning to panic. You see, this movie came out in Canada while I was in England, and had yet to come out there. That means it's almost out of theatres here, and is now only playing at a selected few. Normally, with Adam Sandler movies, I see them the day they open...so you could imagine my stress when it was 3:15 and we were only just pulling up to the theatre. My Mom ran in, and soon sent me a text telling me to go inside. We had 4 minutes to get into our seats. We ran in, got our seats, caught a preview or 2, and my Mom got us some popcorn. I enjoyed the movie. It wasn't a laugh all the way through movie, but it was definitely good.

When it finished, my Mom and I went to Costco, then to Starbucks, and then to Safeway. When we got back to the house, my Mom was doing some work while I played some band hero, and took pictures of the helicopter flying over the ocean for a tv show. It was around 8 o'clock when my Mom and I attempted to move a giant monitor from the office to the car. I couldn't do it because of my rib, and my Zach muscle. We laid it down, and waited for Caldo and Hagan to show up. Caldo brang chocolates, and Hagan was bouncing all over the place. My Mom and Caldo loaded the monitor into my car, and we all drove to Caldo's house. When we arrived, the two of them moved the monitor in, while I took care of Hagan. He showed me his room, and asked me to push play on Coraline - a movie I HATE! It would actually give me nightmares. It's meant for children, and he loves it, but I have no idea how. When they were done setting up the monitor, my Mom and I went down to the pub for a coffee and sprite while we waited for my Dad to meet us. He came straight from soccer, had a pint, and then we drove home.

I played a couple of songs on Band Hero, watched 2 episodes of Friends with my parents, and once my Dad went to bed, my Mom and I watched an episode of Big Brother in an attempt to catch up. Now it's 2:15, we've only just finished the 2nd episode, but we NEED sleep...so here I go. Good Night xx

Day 323

2010-08-04T01:59:00.001-07:00

This morning came to quickly. 10 to 12, and my eyes were burning when I was woken up. I got ready, had a quick chat with Chad and Carly, and then went with my Mom to the eye doctors. I dropped her, came back for Stephen, and the two of us went back to pick her up. We waited in the waiting room, and when she came out, we went to Best Buy. When we were done there, the 3 of us met up with Carly at Starbucks.

After our drinks, we came back to our house to play Band Hero. It was a wicked time. Quite a few songs later, my Dad was home, and the 5 of us were going for Sushi. After that, we went to see "Charlie St. Cloud", and although it was a good movie...when I came out, I needed to do something happy and fun. Carly came back to our place, and the two of us played "Raving Rabbids" on the Wii, and then did some Chicken Flying on the Wii Fit Plus. It was so much fun, but now that I'm extremely exhausted, hot, and caught up on my blogs...I'm going to go to sleep. Funny that 2am is now an early night for me. Good Night xx

Day 322

2010-08-04T01:55:00.000-07:00

Holiday Monday, and a day full of fun. Carly and I had decided we'd have a movie day. I got up early to go out with my Mom. We got to Costco and saw it was closed, and then we went to the grocery store, and Starbucks before heading home to meet up with Carly. At 2:15. her Stephen and I were in the theatre watching "Dinner for Schmucks". It was pretty funny. Not like "Step Brothers" hilarious...but definitely some great parts.

By the time we got back, we didn't have time to relax before my cousins showed up. Hagan and Caldo came in, we said hi, and then the 7 of us walked down to the beach for a gelato before dinner. We made a few stops - at the pub and such - on the way, and once we had our cups and cones in our hands, we made it to the benches along the front. We sat and talked, and I had a cuddle with Hagan. When we had all finished, we walked back up to the house, and ate dinner.

At about 7:15, Carly, Stephen and I headed out again to see "Inception". My friend Brad was coming straight from work, so after getting the seats, I went outside to get his ticket and wait for him. He got there, and we walked in to watch the movie. Stephen and I already knew how amazing it was because we'd seen it. But for Brad and Carly, it was a whole new experience. When it finished, Brad had to leave right away because he was so tired and needed sleep before work. Carly and I dropped Stephen at home, and went to pick up an old friend of mine at a pub on the front. - The place is a bit of a dive. We got Chad, and headed back to my house to collect Stephen. Carly came in for cake first, and then we were off to Jimmy Flynn's. People were clearly worn out from the long weekend, because it was pretty much just us and others from the industry hanging out tonight. We closed Jimmy Flynn's as usual, and then headed to Charlie Don't Surf. After everyone's drinks, we headed to the OB where the music was actually good (without the DJ being there), and the dance floor..no, the building...was almost empty. There was probably only 7 other people there, and I think they too, were a part of the industry.

When the bar closed, Stephen, Carly and I headed back with Chad, to his hotel room. We hung out there for a bit and I watched them play cards, but not before being picked up by the SAME cab driver who almost ran Carly over the other night, and going to McDonalds for a great laugh - Stephen put on a fake voice to order his food - and then we stopped at Shell to get some candy. It was 3:30 when we decided to head home, and although I was tired, I went downstairs to Stephen's room so that we could watch Blades of Glory with Carly. Not far into it, I was falling asleep, so I came up to bed. xx

Day 321

2010-08-04T01:36:00.000-07:00

Up early enough today, to go down and watch the Waiter races. It's a competition between all of the restaurant waiters on the front, and from a pub just up the road. Jimmy Flynn's had a team, and had it not have included a certain person, they definitely would have won the whole thing. They didn't...but it was fun to watch anyway. Stephen had to run backwards through pylons wearing huge sunglasses and a pirate hat, while carrying a tray of water glasses. He then had to pass the props off to Anna who had to skateboard with everything to Lorraine. She was wearing flippers and had to make her way back to Carly who then had to roll a hula hoop to the finish line. It was awesome. When all that finished, my Mom, Dad and I went to Jimmy Flynn's, and I had lunch. When I finished, we walked back up to the house.

My Mom and Dad went to a Barbecue, and I cleaned my room up. I realized my obsession for Bench, and smiled as I hung everything in my closet. I got a phone call from my Dad saying they were on their way to pick me up, so I got ready, and when they arrived, I got in the car, and fell asleep. It wasn't until we were almost where we were going, that I woke up. We were at one of my Dad's stores picnics. We watched a watermelon eating contest - which was gross...got our pictures taken, and met some people. When that was over, the 3 of us went for a Starbucks. We didn't stay there long, because we wanted to make sure we were back at the house in time for fireworks. We were.

It turns out, our new house's deck, is front row seating for the fireworks. They looked absolutely amazing! Dapple hated the noise, and shook like crazy, while Callan just sat calmly in my arms without realizing anything was going on. I took some pictures, and we looked at them quickly before Carly arrived. When she came, the two of us walked down to the pub where we hung out for a bit. Once Stephen closed the place, we ended up going to his friend Mick's place. I drove, and we didn't stay there too long, as I think we were all pretty shattered. But the time we did spend there, was so much fun.

When we came home, it was still early morning - as usual, and I hit the pillow pretty quickly. xx

Day 320

2010-08-04T01:35:00.000-07:00

The owner of the pub I worked at last night was getting married today. Because of the hills and such, my Mom didn't really want to walk down there in heels...so I drove her and my Dad down. I needed to make myself look decent first though. And after about 5 hours of sleep...it wasn't an easy task.

Once I dropped them off, I took myself to Starbucks. When I walked in, I saw the top of this guy's head and for a split second, I forgot where I was and got extremely excited. I thought it was the Braintree Starbucks guy. When I realized I was in Canada...you probably could have seen the disappointment on my face as the next realization - the fact that there was no way it was him - set in. I drove home with my frappuccino, drove my brother down to work, and came back to catch up on blogs and get ready for work. I went down about half an hour before I was supposed to start, and got to see the bride and groom at a different restaurant on the front, and said hi to some family friends. I went into work, and Stephen and Carly wanted wedding cake, so we went back to the restaurant, they ate cake while we spoke to more people, and then we went back to the pub, and I started work.

It was a really fun/really busy night. About half an hour after I started, the entire wedding party/attendees/parade and festival goers showed up. I didn't get a 2 second break for the next 5 hours, but I was fine with that. I was having such a good time, and made some decent money. After everyone cleared out, we spent another night at the OB. It was early morning again, before I got to sleep xx

Day 319

2010-08-03T04:14:00.001-07:00

I'm soooo tired right now. My brother and I had another late night. I worked at the pub - I've made some good money in my 2 days of work there, and have had some good times, so I'm pretty happy. Once we closed the pub, him, a friend Carly, and I, went to the OB (which is the bar on the front that I was never a fan of, but now I just go and laugh at people)...And MAN did we laugh! Some of the stories involve profanity, so I'll edit them a little bit...but just so you get the idea...here goes:

There was this one girl on the dance floor just givin' er. She was all smiles, and dancing nonstop all on her own. She was brushing her shoulders, waving her arms in the air. I couldn't stop laughing. Then there was a guy who was probably 5 foot 2...and 300 pounds. He was wearing suspenders and to me, looked like someone you'd call Mr. Bojangles. We watched a really drunk girl go upstairs with some guy - she's gonna regret that. Her friend tried to stop her, but it didn't work. Then, Stephen went to the washroom, so it was just Carly and I sitting there...all of a sudden this guy runs up to us, puts one hand on my shoulder, the other on Carly's and starts jumping around. So I look up, and I'm like Hi! And Carly does the same. And this guys face just went serious..and he was like OH S***! He goes "I don't know you guys!" So I was like nope...no you don't. Hahaha and he was like "ohhh this is awkward, I thought I knew you girls...and I don't...this is awkward" So I was like, no it's ok...it happens. Then he said some pretty inappropriate comments that I couldn't stop laughing at. But I didn't want to laugh in his face, so I was like ok, and I sort of put my hand on his chest to turn him away. And he leans in again, says some more things that I didn't even know how to respond to. Then he's like, "Yeah...I don't even know what to say now...I thought I knew you...this is so awkward". So he finally walks away, and I try to tell Carly what he said, and I can't even get it out without breaking into laughter. I was crying I was laughing so hard. When I finally told her, she couldn't stop laughing. Then Stephen got back and we told him, and he was like WOW! I want to meet this guy. About 10 mintues later, we're sitting there, and I can see a reflection in the cooler. He's coming back to talk to me! I started freaking, and then I dunno what happened, but he turned around and walked the other way. I was just like oh, thank God!

So then, we're sitting there, the bar's closed now, but because Stephen knows everybody, we hang out with the owners and staff after hours. So we're sitting there, and one of the owners is like "Hey, do you guys want some freezies? I got them at Zellers!" So we're sitting at the bar eating freezies lol. It was awesome.

So as if all this isn't enough...we go outside to walk home, and we see a cab. So Stephen's like, oh let's take a taxi to the top of the hill, and he tries to flag it down. Well, the guy goes zooming past, but as we see him go by, there's one coming the other way, so Stephen flags him down. We get in the one cab, and the other one comes back. So the cab we're in...the driver's like oh it's ok, get in the other one, he was just turning around for you guys. And we were like no it's ok, we're already in this one. And he was like no no, go in that one it's ok. So we said fine and thanked him, get out of his, and go to get in the other one. Stephen gets in the front. I go around to the other door, and Carly can't get in cuz the door's locked on her side. So I reach over and unlock it. She gets one foot in, and the driver guns it! He steps on the gas pedal! I have no idea how she jumped up to hang on, but half of her is out of the door but hanging on for dear life, and Stephen and I are yelling at the driver. He stops, and no apology or anything...turns around and is like Well how long does it take you to get into the car?? "Your effin door was locked!" She said. So then without any kind of acknowledgement from him, Stephen's like, K we just want to go to the top of this hill. The driver said "Ok, you'll give me 5 dollars??" Stephen didn't understand. "5 dollars?!?! You've gotta be joking!" The driver', shocked, says "No?" Stephen goes 5? To go to the top of the hill? No way man, I'm not paying that. So the driver kicked us out of the cab lol. Then Stephen and him are fighting in hindu! I didn't even know Stephen knew any hindu. It was hilarious! After a heated argument between the two, we eventually made it up the hill on foot, and we get in my car to go get chips at 711. We get there, and they don't have the right kind. We go to a gas station, and EVENTUALLY get what we want, then to mcdonalds, then back to my house. Carly left, and Stephen and I watched Happy Gilmore til I started falling asleep. What a night! Lol. xx

Day 318

2010-08-02T04:13:00.000-07:00

Wow! Now that was a good night! Rolling in at 5:30 this morning, barely sleepy, and can't stop smiling. I love my family, and I love BC. It's so nice to be back.

The beginning of the day began pretty early as usual, but that doesn't mean I did anything productive before about 12. I dragged myself out of bed at around 9 to take the dogs out, and came back in to get ready. I lazed around longer than I should have, and eventually got ready to go do some much needed running around before work. I was supposed to start at 7 at Jimmy Flynn's - a pub on the front where my brother is the bar manager, and I didn't have anything to wear.

My Mom and I headed out, and found ourselves at Walmart. 2 complete outfits later, and some chocolate...we were ready to go. I had received a call asking if I could come in at 6 instead, so we had half an hour to go for a Starbucks before me running home to change. My Mom and I met up with a friend of hers, and had a quick chat while we drank our frappuccinos.

I being as silly as I am, was having nerve issues. I was so afraid I'd make a bad impression, or the bosses wouldn't like me. You see, they all know me already, so after hearing from Stephen and my parents, that they already like me, I was so afraid to screw up, and to change their judgement. Once I was at work though, everything was fine. I was having a great time. My Mom had driven me down, and I was shown what I was to be doing for the night. It involved quite a few laughs, and it was awesome to be working along side my big brother.

When we finished, and were closing up, I was talking to one of my brother's friends - Max - about a movie his brother's working on. We had been talking for like 45 minutes, when Stephen called out to let me know an old friend had shown up. I turned around to see a guy I knew in elementary school. It was awesome! We talked for a bit, until we were interrupted by Max, and then when he backed off, we talked some more.

From Jimmy Flynn's, a bunch of us went to Charlie Don't Surf, and then to the OB. After hanging out there for a while with a load of laughs, we headed to Max's to play poker. It was a night filled with experiences. First, we were pulled over. - I hadn't realized Carly had gone to get her car, and she had had a little to drink. Normally I would have offered to drive, but when she came around the corner in her car to pick us up, I didn't even think. She has her "N" which means she's a new driver, and has restrictions. The reason the cop pulled her over, was she had 3 other people in the car with her. That's not allowed. He asked if there was anyone over 25 in the car, and Stephen said yes. Then he asked if she'd been drinking. Another rule on your "N" is that you are not allowed to have any alcohol in your system. She had to do a breathalizer, and blew a 0.035 or something like that (I'm not sure how it works)...anyway, under normal circumstances, she would have been fine...but because she's got her "N", she wasn't. He told her she had a 12 hour driving suspension, and asked her to come back to the car and wait. When he came over, he said "I assume there's no one sober in this car?" I spoke up and said I was, and that's when, with a shocked look on his face, he said "WHY Aren't you driving?" None of us could really answer. I explained that I hadn't realized she was getting her car, and that I'd been in England for 10 months, and don't know the area...and he told me instead of leaving her car on the street, if I wanted to drive it that would be fine. He joked around about how I'd been driving on the wrong side of the road, and was now going to drive here. He talked about how he'd lived in England for a year, and then about how stupid we had been, but we learned our lesson. He let us continue on our way without a ticket, and without suspension.

We were completely shocked, thankful, and laughing by the time we got to Max's place. We sat down to play poker (I watched, and played with the puppies - Chili and Frodo). I went on a walk with a guy named George who is openly gay, and drove his mercedes back to Max's for him. We stayed there a while, and watched Max draw all over another guy with a Sharpie, as he was first to pass out. When the night ended, Carly, Stephen and I came back to the house, and I fell asleep almost instantly as my head hit the pillow. xx

Day 317

2010-07-31T16:31:00.000-07:00

Up earlier than I wanted to be...but it was still a lie in. Maybe I should start going to bed earlier...that may help things. But here I sit at 1:10am...You know what? Scratch that. I'm going to sleep now, and will write the rest tomorrow.

So I was up and getting ready to go out with my Mom. Once we left the house, we went straight to the hair dressers. There was a mix up there, and for some reason they'd booked me in so that I had an hour between my eyebrows being waxed, and my hair being cut. Apparently they think I'm growing a caterpillar across my forehead or something. Anyways, as usual, it only took about 5 minutes to do my eyebrows, so when they finished, they weren't really sure what to do with my Mom and I as it was only like 2:45 and our appointments weren't until 3:30. The two of us decided to go do some quick running around, and aimed to be back for 3:15. We ran to the gas station, and then to get a frappuccino, and made it back to the salon in plenty of time. My Mom's hairdresser took her in right away, while I sat and had a conversation with an older gentleman that really wanted to talk. He was in his late 70's I think he said, or early 80's, and you could tell he just wanted someone to talk to. He also sang to me. About 15 minutes later, my hairdresser came over to "save" me. She told the elderly man that she had to steal his friend, he went on his way, and I put on the robe.

Sitting in the chair about an hour later, my Mom had already left for work, and I wasn't too sure about my hair. Danielle was cutting away, and it was getting shorter and shorter. I was trying not to show too much worry in my face...but to this moment, I'm still really not sure I like it :( I loved my hair before...now it's too short, and blah. Anyway, I paid for everything, and left.

I went for a walk along the beach, and took some pictures, then ended up at the pub to speak to Stephen briefly, and walked back up to the house. I was only in long enough to take the dogs out. My Dad arrived, changed, and we left for his soccer game.

It was so nice to be back in the groove of things. We pulled into the parking lot, and as we were walking across the field, all the players that matter, were saying hi and giving me hugs. It was really nice to feel so welcome. The game wasn't so good...they lost 4-2, and it was the semi-final. :( I was a little disappointed to hear that, because it means I won't see them again for another 2 hundred and some days. Anyway, more hugs, and my Dad and I were on our way. We drove to the pub, had some dinner, and then the two of us came home.

I stayed up pretty late again, trying to stay awake until my Mom got home, but at about 2:30, I caved. I took the dogs into my room, and was out like a light. At 3:30ish, I woke up, put the dogs away, and realized my Mom wasn't home yet. Turns out it's a good thing I didn't wait up for her. She didn't get home until 7am. xx

Day 316

2010-07-29T00:26:00.000-07:00

Woke up this morning, not wanting to get up at all. My eyes were burning, and I was exhausted. But as I sat there, I thought...I really should be getting ready. So, I got up, got changed, and after breakfast, my Mom and I went for a walk. We did a loop, down to the front, and back up to the house. When we got back, I had a quick shower and got changed to do some running around.

We went to the bank, and then the two of us went for a Starbucks. We sat outside in the sun, and enjoyed a frappuccino. When it was time to go, we ran into the grocery store to get some olives -EWWWWW- for tonight's salad, and then we drove back to the house. I did some stuff I had to do for work, and then put Dapple on a leash, grabbed my camera, and went for a walk.

We got past our street, and down the stairs when I went to take the first picture. I wanted one of Dapple and I. She was already in my arms cuz of the steps, so I held out the camera and...nothing. No click. I tried again. Still nothing. I turned the camera around to look at it...I had the wrong memory card in. This one was full. Dammit! I walked down the hill, put Dapple on the ground and the two of us continued on our walk. She got a number of compliments as usual, and after walking past all the restaurants on the front, I ended up carrying her up hills and steps. At one point, when I had put her down...she actually gave up on me. Just sat down. That was it. She wasn't moving.

I picked her up, and got her home as fast as I could. I brought her in the door, and had to leave her for my Mom to take the leash off, so I could drive Stephen to work. After getting home from there, I lazed around for a bit. My Dad got home, and the two of us went for a walk. Once we hit the end of the East beach path, I walked back past some creepy seagulls towards the pub, and my Dad went to the hair dresser's.

I sat at the pub talking to Stephen and his coworkers, listening to the live band, until my Dad showed up. We sat a bit longer, and after my coffee, the two of us walked back up to the house for dinner. My Mom had it ready for us when we got in the door, so the three of us sat down to watch TV and eat. A couple of hours later, I'm still watching TV, and Callan's passed out on my lap. I'll be asleep in no time. Good Night xx

Day 315

2010-07-28T00:16:00.001-07:00

Got up around 11 today, had my breakfast, spoke to a friend, and got ready to go out with my Mom. We had a couple of different things we had to get done. First we stopped at the bank, and then I had to run into the car insurance company to get a driver's abstract for work. Turns out I wasn't able to get it there, and have to go elsewhere another day.

We drove to Costco, did some shopping there, and then came back towards home. We stopped at Starbucks, had a frappuccino together, and then went into another bank and Safeway before coming to the house. When we arrived here, I went online for a bit until my Dad got home from work. Shortly after he arrived, him, my Mom, my brother and I left for the movies. We drove to the first movie theatre that was packed, and decided to go to the other theatre to watch the same movie but half an hour later. We were going to see "Inception".

About 2 and a half hours later, we were coming out of the theatre, and my brother and I couldn't believe what we had just seen. It was quite honestly one of the BEST, most creative, most thought out, most amazing and crazy/make you think movie I've ever seen.

When we got home, Stephen turned on "Dumb and Dumber", I spoke to a couple of friends, and now, falling asleep in the chair...I'm debating whether or not I should force myself to stay awake and start another movie. The longer I sit here though, the heavier my eyes get...so I think I'll go shut them in a few minutes. Night xx

Day 314

2010-07-27T03:56:00.002-07:00

I haven't done a lot today. Seems to be the trend most mornings. Laze around in the beginning, then eventually work my way up to being productive and getting myself out of the house. I had a dentist appointment at 2:30, so once my hair was washed, and I had my make up on...I headed out. A complete check up later with a dentist who was disappointed I didn't come back with cavities, and I was across the street meeting up with my Mom.

The two of us went to meet up with my brother at Best Buy, and we hung out there until he finished work. When he was done, we drove over to Starbucks to meet a family friend. We had a frappuccino with her, and then dropped Stephen at his truck so he could drive home, and my Mom and I could run some errands.

First we went to Kin's Market to get some produce, and then the two of us decided to go have a coffee, like old times...just us. It was around 6 o'clock when we headed home. I went online for a little bit, and when my Dad got home, we all had some left over delicious Chinese food. I sat their watching "Wheel of Fortune" cuz it's my favourite!!! And then we watched a couple of sitcoms until it was time to go to the movies.

Carly met us at our house (she's a friend of Stephen's, and then we met Julie at the theatre. The 6 of us were going to see "Salt". It was a good but predictable and unrealistic movie. I still managed to enjoy it, but think I'm looking forward to tomorrow's movie even more.

When we came out of the theatre, my Mom and Dad drove home, and the rest of us hopped in Julie's car. We drove down to the beach, stopped in at the pub to see some people, then to Charlie's, and then to the OB. When we were done talking there, and finished making fun of people...we went to a friend's house. It was 3:30 when we got in this time. I wrote a couple of overdue blogs, and now that I'm completely caught up...I'm going to get some sleep. Good Night xx

Day 313

2010-07-27T03:56:00.001-07:00

I did soooo much cleaning today it was unreal. I didn't get ready to go anywhere until about 5...yet I still didn't manage to unpack anything, or get my room organized. How is that?!?! I did have a great conversation with an old friend though. That was nice, and long overdue. We spoke for like 2 hours, and that kept me smiling as I folded and unfolded laundry. - Yes, I'm still doing laundry...only this time...it's mine.

Once realizing the day was almost done, I got myself together, and went for a walk to the beach with my Mom and my Dad. We walked along the front, and ended up getting a gelato on our way back to the house. When we arrived there, not too much went on.

I spent some time talking to an old friend, and Stephen ordered us some Chinese Food. While we ate, we watched a movie called "Mary and Max" I think? It was really well done. When that was over, we had a quick look at some of the Italy pictures, and then I went to sleep. I was exhausted. xx

Day 312

2010-07-27T03:49:00.000-07:00

I named my blog 365 days abroad...and technically, I'm still abroad...as I was living in England, and now I've come abroad to Canada...so I'm gonna keep this going.

Instead of a little Zach waking me up with a knock at my door...today was a wimper from a puppy. It was different, but it was nice. I went out to give Dapple a cuddle and to say good morning to my Dad. Then I came back inside, and I wrote one of my blogs.

I lazed around for a good portion of the day, but it was productive all at the same time. When I did get ready, my Mom, Dad and I ran to Walmart and Starbucks. When we finished there, we had just enough time to come home, take a quick break, and then head out again. This time though, it was just my Mom and I, and we were going to a wedding shower. That was interesting. There were a few games played. One in which you had to match celebrities to their couples, and another one that's sort of self explicable...it was called "pin the junk on the hunk". Classy and awesome. There were some good laughs. After the bride to be opened her presents, my Mom and I left. We met up with my Dad at the pub, then went to get a gelato together. My Mom went up to the house, and as I was walking back to the pub, some random guy started talking to me. "Beautiful day isn't it?"...Yup I said. "So you want to come out with us?" Nope, was my answer. And off I went. I sat at the bar and talked to Stephen until my Mom came back to pick my Dad and I up for dinner. We drove a friend of Dad's back to his place, and then came home, ate and watched "Bounty Hunter". When the movie finished, my Mom drove me back down to the pub, and I hung out with my brother until he closed it up, and him, some friends of his, and I went to Charlie Don't Surf - a restaurant. After that, we went to a bar and hung out, and when that closed, we went to a friend's house. We were there until about 3:30, and I don't remember the last time I laughed as hard as that. By the time I got in the door and in bed at 10 past 4, my cheeks were soooo sore from smiling. It was an awesome night xx

Day 311

2010-07-26T00:05:00.000-07:00

Day three hundred and eleven. So many movies I can't even count, 7 trips, a best friend, a crush, some bad days - now that I look back, outweighed by the good moments, and a ton of memories. I can't believe it's done.

My Mom and I were picked up by the taxi driver at 4am, and were taken to the airport. I fell asleep on the way. When we arrived, we were SO early. We dragged ourselves sleepily around the airport, and after a coffee, fell asleep waiting for our gate to show up on the screen. When it finally did, a milkshake and chocolate later, we went on our 15 minute hike to the proper gate, and waited to board the plane.

Once we were on, I fell asleep pretty quickly. I woke up in time to watch half of "Blind Side" and watched a little of "Princess and the Frog" before falling asleep again. This continued for much of the flight, with a little bit of Sudoku just before landing. Coming through customs was easy, our luggage was first off, and we were through the doors and in my Dad's arms in no time.

We went upstairs to order a Starbucks Frappuccino - which was good - but the service just wasn't the same. From there, we drove to the house. I gave my brother a huge hug, met his friend Carly - who's awesome - and then, after slumping around for a bit...got changed and went down to the pub Stephen works at, for dinner. I didn't last too long, but longer than expected. It was around 10 o'clock when my Mom and I walked back up the hill. I went straight to sleep, and my Mom drove back down to the pub to pick my Dad up. It was a good night back, and reminded me why I had missed home so much...but there are still parts of England that I will definitely miss. xx

Day 310

2010-07-24T10:26:00.000-07:00

I had just woken up and was checking e-mails when a little Zach showed up at my door this morning. It was already open, but he stood there and knocked. The next half hour - when I should have been getting ready - was spent getting cuddles from him. He had asked why I was still in bed, and why I wasn't downstairs doing jobs, getting them ready for school. I later found out Tim wasn't home, so he must have thought I was taking them. Awww. I told him Heloise was though, and that I'd see him after school. He came over, and just sat on my bed, and hugged me while we talked, and then he stood on my stomach, holding my hands and pretending to be Superman haha. It was awesome! When he had to leave for school, I got up and got ready to go out.

When Heloise got back, her, my Mom and I headed out to Stansted area. Bishop Stortford to be exact. We met up with a friend of Heloise's, and the friend's little boy. We walked over to a park, sat near a paddling pool, and while they chatted, my Mom and I went off to find some coffee. Luckily and by fluke...we found a Starbucks. We returned about an hour later, and they were ready to go to the next spot. We gathered all of our things, and walked to a playground. I spent the next hour running around - in heels - while Noah - the little boy - went down slides and up netting ladders. We had a great time, and he became my new little buddy. He had to go to the washroom, so I sat down for a second, and when he returned he took my hand and tugged on it to go play. It was too cute.

I got a phone call from my cousin Tom, and he and my Aunt were in the parking lot waiting for us. The 4 of us walked over to meet up with them, and then went to lunch. Of course it wasn't as easy as I make it sound. If it was...well I wouldn't have been in England, with my family. A number of suggestions, and waiter upsets later...we ended up down the street and at a little bistro type place. We ordered our food, had a nice conversation, and rushed through our meal as we had to be back in time for Heloise to collect the boys. Heloise's friend, and Noah - who was falling asleep in his lunch - left, and the rest of us walked together, back to the parking lot. We said goodbye, and I somehow managed to curb my tears. They almost broke through the barriers a couple of times on the way home, but my Mom always managed to change the subject and keep me smiling.

When we got back to the house, Heloise left to get the boys, I wrote a quick thank you card, and my Mom and I headed to Starbucks. When we arrived, we got our drinks, and I said my goodbyes to people there who have made a difference in my life. The people that no matter how homesick I was, managed to put a smile on my face. We sat outside to drink our drinks, and then as one shift finished, I had to say goodbye all over again.

As we were leaving to go back to Heloise's, I thought I saw Raffi on the pirate ship ride. Thinking I was going crazy, I ignored it. 2 seconds later he ran off, and that's when I knew for sure it was him. I turned the corner, and there was Michelle, Xavier, and Emilio. I said hi, gave Michelle a huge hug...managed to stand there and talk for a bit while keeping composed, and then, as we hugged goodbye...I was a mess. Then, because Michelle was crying, my Mom was crying too! Oh dear! We said goodbye again, and tears strolling down my face, I walked to the bank machine. Raffi ran over to give me a hug, so I tried to hide the tears...but it didn't work haha. They disappeared around the corner, my Mom and I finished at the bank, and then walked back to the car, me still crying.

I drove back to Heloise's and there were a ton of children and Mom's there for dinner. I talked to them for a bit, and played in the backyard with Zach until dinner time. They all ate, and when they left for Judo, my Mom and I went upstairs to pack some more. The rest of the night was much of the same, with popcorn and ice cream for dinner.

When the boys got back from Judo, they all came into my room to sit while we packed. Heloise joined them. Josh sat there saying "Are you gonna cry? Cry! Cry! Cry!" until Tim had joined the room, and told him to stop. Tim and Heloise left to get the boys milk ready for bed, and I said goodbye, and goodnight to Zach and Josh. Zach gave me lots of hugs, until he had to pee. I let him go and said that was fine haha. Josh was being silly, but after leaving the room, he came back again to thank me for taking care of him, and he gave me another hug. That's when it hit me that he really was going to miss me, and was just trying to hide his emotions. I went into Nathaniel's room, and said goodbye to him. By the time I got back to my room...I was a blubbering mess. Again. Only this time 10 times worse than before.

My Mom and I continued to pack, eventually Heloise and Tim came up to say goodbye, and give me a hug. Heloise said she was leaving the room before she started to cry.

I didn't go to sleep, because we had to be ready to leave for the airport at 4am. xx

Day 309

2010-07-23T17:30:00.000-07:00

Up around 8 today, with the hopes of sleeping in crushed by texts and screams. A good day to look forward to though, so I got ready, and eventually, Toni came to pick my Mom and I up.

She came in for a bit, as I wasn't completely ready, and we looked at some pictures of my trip. Then, before driving off, the two of us went to suss out Zach's new tree house. My Mom took some pictures for us, and then we drove to Braintree. We parked near the theatre, grabbed a schedule, and walked to Starbucks. While there, we checked out movie times and decided we'd have our coffee's, go for lunch, and then to a movie. We had a good conversation at Starbucks, ended up going to buy Bench socks so we wouldn't freeze in the theatre - we were in dresses cuz it was so hot out, and the A/C would be dreadful. We got a box of 3 pair, and split them up between us. We walked over to Pizza Express, enjoyed our meals, and were full when we left. Of course, that didn't mean we'd go without popcorn at the theatre. We went in to watch Toy Story, and all except for one REALLY disturbing part that I had to shut my eyes for, I absolutely loved it. The 3 of us sat in our socks, mine and Toni's mismatched, and at the end of the film, we had just enough time to snap a quick picture, and run to the washroom after drinking too much Sprite.

Toni drove us home, and thinking her and I were going to another movie later, we didn't say bye. We went into the house, and sat around with everyone for a bit. I later got a text from Toni. She had been to the vet with one of her dogs, and was uneasy about leaving her sick/old cat at home for the night, but told me I was welcome to go over there. After a bit of discussion, the two of us - with help from my Mom - decided it probably wasn't such a good idea for us to meet up again. We decided me driving home in tears wouldn't be safe, and as we'd already broken down once, we probably shouldn't do it again. I stayed in with my Mom and packed most of the night. I fell asleep around 1:30-2 o'clock. xx

Day 308

2010-07-23T16:40:00.001-07:00

Today is our last day in Italy. We may be trying to cram too many things into the day...but hey, when it's a once in a lifetime thing...You want to get as many things done as possible right? So, that being said...we woke up, got ready, and went up to breakfast. We asked the lady of the house to call and book horseback riding for us. The ride on the beach, is only a Saturday/Sunday thing, so that sucked a little bit, but instead, she's booked us a ride through the park. That will be nice, I'm excited.

We went downstairs, packed our things up, cleared out the room, and dropped our bags off in the house. The owners of the house said they'd watch them for us until after we went riding. We walked down the hill and to the bus stop. There was one that would come 15 minutes from that time, but with nothing to do until 3:30 anyway, we decided we didn't need to hurry, and we'd sit in the cafe and have a gelato. We bought our tickets, then did that, and my Mom had a cappuccino. When we came out, we decided to check times for when we had to return to get our bags. There weren't any that would have us to Calci and back after horseback riding, in time for the bus we needed to get to the train and airport on time. We decided to drag ourselves back up the hill...miss that bus, and pick up our bags.

Backs breaking from such heavy bags, we were headed out the gates when the owners of the Bed and Breakfast stopped us. "Senora Preddy" they said. We carefully turned around, and they told us where we could find a bus stop CLOSER to the B and B!!! We couldn't believe it. It was a hundred metre walk to the stop! When we arrived, we couldn't believe how close it really was. We sat on a bench, and I wrote some of this blog while we waited for the bus to arrive. When it did, we jumped on, and rode into Pisa. When we arrived, we were very disappointed to find out we couldn't go horseback riding. We had it booked and everything, but it turned out the park wasn't within walking distance, and no trains or buses went there. I was not a happy camper. We got on a train, and headed to Lucca. I was in a mood.

As we pulled up to the Lucca station, our very heavy bags still on our backs, and me with a foul look on my face...we walked to the washrooms. This didn't help my mood at all. We opened the door of the stall, to see what can only be explained as a hole in the ground, with a place to rest each foot on the side. No way was I going in there. We headed out of the station, and my first impression of Lucca was not great. I hadn't thought about the fact that no train station is really nice...so I let it put a damper on things. We walked towards the information booth, and it was closed. I was sure this day was going to be a disaster. We walked across the street, and things started looking much prettier. We walked past a very small ravine, and into a cave. This is where my mood completely changed. Soon enough we were walking through these tunnel like caves and into dungeons etc looking at comics on the walls. At the end, you took a marker and wrote what you wanted into the comic strip. It was pretty awesome. We climbed the stairs out of that tunnel, and at the top, were taken back by the amazing view of this little place called Lucca. I can definitely say the first impression was wrong, and I would love to go back and stay there next time I travel to Italy. Everything was so beautiful! We stopped for lunch at a little pizzeria type place, and got a real gelato as we walked back from checking out the event happening down the street. They had a huge stage set up, and it was Summerfest. Upset that we didn't have more time to explore, we hurried back to the train station, and took it to the airport.

It turned out the airport was only about 3 stops, so we got there crazy early, and weren't' allowed to go through security yet. We sat down and had a couple of drinks (cappuccinos and such), and then we went on our way. We headed back to the line up, and got stuck behind 2 of the most annoying Americans I've ever come across. It was like I was in an episode of Amazing Race. The boyfriend kept speaking so loud so that everyone could hear him, and the girlfriend was going on and on about how she hoped her luggage didn't weigh too much. Well all she had was a backpack, and it was much MUCH smaller than my Mom's and mine. She walked up to the counter and willingly put it on a scale. When it was .2 over, she made a face, took it off, did something with some shoes and weighed it again. When it was under, she turned around and gave my Mom thumbs up...as if she cared. They drove us nuts!!!

When our gate was finally up on the board, we walked to it...but guess who got there first. That's right, the annoying Americans. THEN...we're sitting there, and the 5 girls who delayed our flight out showed up. (One of their friends wasn't on the plane yet, and they were freaking out and asking everyone to cause a scene and get off so she'd have enough time to come on board. It was all ridiculous). Anyway, they show up and stand right in front of the counter, so of course, who gets on first? Ugh. So my Mom and I finally get on the plane that showed up late, and who do we end up sitting behind? The annoying Americans of course! Well...the next few hours of my life were terrible! It was one of the worst flights ever!

I had these two Americans in front of me, making me want to vomit as one bit a chip, and had the other take the other half from their mouth, and then...this man gets on the plane, and asks if he can sit beside my Mom. She says ok, and he sits down. The airline steward has just explained all the safety precautions to us as we're sitting in the Emergency Exit row, so she turns to him to explain, and he doesn't answer. In fact, he's looking at the floor, and not listening to a word she says. She had to bend over, look him in the eye, and ask if he understood before he'd answer. Ridiculous! As if that's not bad enough, he takes his shoes off, puts his feet up on the arm rests of the person in front of him, and has half of his body in my Mom's chair. THEN...he's on his phone sending text messages, and won't stop stamping his feet. I'm not going to lie to you, I was absolutely terrified. I was POSITIVE I was about to blow up. Every now and then, he'd take his foot off the chair in front, and stamp it on the ground. The crew asked him 3 times to turn off his cell phone, and it wasn't until we had actually lifted off the ground that he did it. I was sure he was sending someone a message to detonate the bomb. Then, we're in the air and he's constantly asking how much longer the flight is. Now...as if all this isn't bad enough...Are you ready to be disgusted? This guy, reaches in his mouth...takes his gum between his two fingers, and sticks it on the side of the seat! WHO DOES THAT???? I was soooo disgusted and had to tell my Mom what I had just seen. She couldn't believe it, and when he got up to the washroom, she asked one of the stewardesses if she could just keep an eye out, and if she saw him in my Mom's chair, although it looked like he was with us, he wasn't - so could she ask him to move. She told my Mom to give him a really hard elbow. We laughed, and for the rest of the flight, every time the stewardess' looked at him, she couldn't stop laughing. The 3 of us broke out into laughter. People must have thought we were insane. By the end of the flight, she must have told her co-workers cuz they'd walk by, wink at us and start laughing at him. Luckily we ended up getting back to England without blowing up, and came to the conclusion that perhaps this guy was just a very nervous flyer, and therefore had to make EVERYONE around him uncomfortable.

I breezed through customs as I'm a British Citizen, but it took my Mom a good hour to get through. Crazy! I sat on a bench waiting for her, and once she was through, we met up with my Uncle and he drove us back to Heloise's. By this time, it was 1:30, so we went to sleep almost instantly. xx

Day 307

2010-07-19T15:11:00.001-07:00

Well between bugs and bats, i don't think I've ever walked so fast in my life. My Mom and I just came home from dinner, and we booked it up the hill. Obviously though, that's not where my day began, that's where it ended.

I ate far too much for breakfast - but that was kind of a given. Afterward, my Mom and I went to the info center in Calci to see about horse back riding on the beach. Apparently they don't do that Mondays. I was not happy.

We walked over to the corner store, bought some bus tickets, and went to the usual cafe to sit down for a pastry and drink. When it was time, we dragged ourselves over to the bus stop, and waited for it to arrive. - I didn't feel well at all -

We got on the bus, and rode into Pisa. I fell asleep on the way. When we arrived, we went into the travel center there, then walked to the most hated bus station I've ever been to, and caught a bus to the beach.

As we got closer, we passed a beach that was all rock. Not knowing which stop we needed, we asked a young guy in front of us to let us know when we were there. He did. My Mom and I got off the bus, and walked onto the sandy beach. Not knowing what part was private, and what part was free...we took a stroll. Eventually...getting nervous that we shouldn't be walking where we were, we stopped to ask a lifeguard. He didn't speak much England. He told us where we should go to ask though...and so we did. The next guy said we had to speak to his boss. Back to the top of the beach we went, and we spoke to a very good looking older Italian man. He told us we could rent two chairs and an umbrella. So we did.

Well...we stepped onto the sand, and our feet were on FIRE! I laid my lawn chair down after plenty of frustration and swear words, and eventually got comfy. My Mom went into the Ocean. After seeing how many people left their things unattended while she was gone, I didn't see any reason why the two of us couldn't go into the Ocean together. So we did. We had a nice time taking pictures and such, and eventually came back to the piping hot sand and chairs. I laid on my back for a little while, then tried my stomach, and after some more frustration with METAL chairs in 40 degree heat, I pulled mine into the shade, and sat there. By this time, we were about ready to leave. A few minutes passed, and we packed up our things. We stopped to get an ice cream, and then walked up to the first bus stop we could find. The bus got there just minutes later. Score! On we got, and we went back to the Pisa Centrale bus station to catch the next bus to Calci.

When we arrived in Calci, - both of us half asleep, but with an eye open so we didn't go past our stop - we went into a Co-op and bought some grapes, juice, and water. We had some on the walk back to the Bed and Breakfast. Knowing restaurants don't open until 7 for dinner, we walked all the way up the hill to shower before eating. We took our time, but eventually my craving for an excellent dinner at my favourite restaurant got too strong, and we had to leave. As we were walking down to the restaurant, my Mom noticed all the umbrellas were down, and the patio chairs were up. "No, they can't be closed" we thought. But, they were. A little bit of panic set in as we realized we'd have to go to the place where we got pasta last.

We walked in, and ended up having to sit outside. We both chose a pizza - but turns out we should have just split one - and we pigged out. I was sooooo full half way through mine, but you can't take left overs home here...and my Mom and I couldn't understand wasting something so good...so instead, we forced it all down. My Mom cheated and still had a little bit left. My plate was clean, and I was on the verge of going into a food coma. We ordered cappuccino's, but as we waited for them, little flying ants kept landing on us and the table. Freaking out, I drank my cappuccino - still hot - as fast as humanly possible, ran inside to pay, and then danced around at the bank machine outside, until we had done everything that needed to be done.

As we walked back up the hill, I realized that what I had thought were bats a few nights ago, definitely were. It was like pitch black, and every now and then you'd see these things fly by lamp posts etc. Again...I freaked. The noises they made did not make anything any more relaxing, so my Mom and I practically raced up the hill. We made it to the Bed and Breakfast in record timing I'm sure. As we had already showered earlier, we spent a bit of time on the computer, then tried to watch Big Brother but couldn't get it. Now my Mom's asleep, and I will be shortly. Good Night xx

Day 306

2010-07-19T09:03:00.001-07:00

Well...staying in the country is lovely, and I honestly rather that than staying in a city..but on a Sunday in July...it's not easy to travel into the city without a car.

My Mom and I woke up, and the internet still wasn't working so we couldn't plan our day that way. We got ready and went up for another delicious breakfast, and shortly after coming back down, it was up and running again. It didn't help us at all though, so we decided to walk into the little town, and thought we'd just buy bus tickets there - as usual - and go into Pisa Centrale to get a train to Lucca. And we would have...if things were easy.

We walked down, and the tourist information office was closed. We walked up to where we get the tickets, and it was closed as well. We went into the cafe we've sat in a few times now, and we got an ice cream. Once we finished that, we went back to the information spot, and it was open. We spoke to a guy there who basically told us we could leave town today but it wouldn't be easy. It was early early afternoon, and the bus didn't come til 10 to 3, and the last one coming back was at 8:40. That didn't leave us enough time for Lucca. After much discussion, my Mom and I took the man's advice, and walked up the street for 10 very hot minutes to a museum. It was closed. We took a number if pictures, and sweltering...walked back. We stopped back in at the same cafe, got two GIANT bottles of water, and drank them as we dragged ourselves back up the hill.

When we got inside, we were so tired and hot that we collapsed on the beds. We've been here for probably a good hour. My Mom's taking a nap, and I'm taking the opportunity to post some pictures. In a few minutes, I'll work up the energy to go out to the garden with my Mom to take some more pictures. I was so close to a hummingbird earlier that it was insane...but was my camera ready? Of course not.

Out we went to the garden, where I instantly started getting bitten. Why do mosquitoes like me so much??? I lasted a little while, taking pictures, and eventually, I came back into the room cuz I was just too itchy. My Mom made some coffee for the two of us, and we went to sit on the patio to look at some pictures and watch some videos. After a little while, we decided we'd walk down the hill to dinner. We went into the same restaurant as the night before last, but this time...we ordered with our heads instead of our stomachs. We had one pizza between the two of us, and a salad. Of course, that came with bread...and well...it wouldn't be right to just leave that. Especially when it had oil and vinegar on the side. When we finished all that, we had a cappuccino each, and ordered some Gelati. - Yes we sound like absolute pigs. But to be fair, we don't eat lunch...and we're not eating much that we shouldn't be eating...as I sit here eating a cookie. ANYWAY...when the waiter took our dessert order, he rambled off the flavours of gelati. I chose white chocolate, and my Mom - thinking coffee - chose coco. This was not coffee! When he returned to the table, he handed me my delicious scoop of chocolatey heaven...and handed my Mom, half a coconut with...that's right, Coconut flavoured gelato! :| I have to hand it to her...I don't know how, but she sat there and ate the entire thing, with little complaint. For some reason, although I know I hate coconut, I had forgotten what it tasted like, so I said I'd try a little bit. Well, I took the TINIEST scoop onto my spoon...and instantly remembered every little thing I hate about it. EW! One of the worst things ever! I really don't know how she ate as much as she did, without throwing it back up. - There's a mental picture for you - Anyway...changing the subject. Our cappuccino's came, and just as we expected, they were delicious. We paid, and walked back up the hill.

When we arrived, we came straight into the room, and went online to check e-mails. We finally had a connection! I spoke to my Dad on Skype a little bit, but we kept getting disconnected. It was reconnecting for me within minutes each time, but when I went to get in the bath, the connection completely went, so my Mom wasn't able to do what she needed. Now, we sit here, unable to watch Big Brother AGAIN! Eating cookies, drinking green tea...and waiting, hoping it'll come back on. Tomorrow's going to be an early start though, so I'm not sure how long I'll wait. That being said...I'm closing this part down. Good Night xx

Day 305

2010-07-18T02:04:00.001-07:00

I'm so hot right now, the internet's not working and I am COVERED in mosquito bites...but hey! I'm in Italy!

After breakfast this morning, my Mom and I went to catch a bus to Pisa Centrale. We were an hour early, so we sat in a cafe, had something to drink and a couple of cookies. We finished just in time to go to the bus stop. I wasn't feeling good on the way in, so I went to sleep. My Mom woke me up at the appropriate stop.

I began walking up the street with her, with great difficulty. You'd think I was wearing new feet! First I scratched myself with my sun umbrella (which really hurts by the way, and you'd think after doing it once, you'd learn!), and then, trying to pay attention to the scrape, I tripped off the curb. I didn't fall...but it was just the beginning of many feet mishaps to come.

We found our way to the leaning tower of Pisa, and leading up to it, we came across this stall of jewellery. The next thing I knew, I was walking away with a new bracelet! Wait til you see it! Let me just say, without ruining anything...I'll never be short on silverware at a picnic. Anyway, we walked towards the Tower and began taking numerous pictures. Not just for ourselves, but for others as well. We also saw some steal our ideas for what to do with the tower...but we didn't mind. It was one of those Party of 13 things. *Some of you know what that means*

After spending a couple of hours there, and popping into a store to buy an adapter converter, and a charm for my zoppini bracelet, we had thought up what I wanted engraved on my new bracelet, but needed an internet cafe to make sure I was right about something. The guy who makes the jewellery was on a hunt for us. He was asking people if they had internet on their phones, but nobody did. Eventually someone told us where we could go online, so we walked up to this photocopy place, and paid a euro for about 5 minutes of internet. Once I had what I needed, my Mom and I hoofed it back to the jeweller's table. When we arrived, he asked me to write exactly what I wanted on a piece of paper, and then began the inscription. "Day 305, Mom & Me". On the other side of it, he had already put "Pisa, Italy 17/07/10" for me, as he knew I wanted that as well. We thanked him, bought two cups of fruit, and began walking back to catch a train to Lucca.

When we arrived at the train station, we bought our tickets, but then decided, with train and bus schedules, we wouldn't have as long in Lucca as we'd want. We decided to save the ticket for tomorrow, and we hopped on the bus to come back to the Bed and Breakfast. We had it all planned out. Because we had such a crappy/late night last night, due to no alarm clock and worrying about waking up on time...we'd come back to the area for dinner, watch Big Brother, and get an early night. Well, we were told where we had to go for dinner, so we stopped at the restaurant and were told they didn't open til' 7. Fair enough. We continued up the hill to the Bed and Breakfast, and got washed up for dinner. Ok, so I flopped down on the bed for a few minutes first...but after that walk, in that heat...I think you may have as well.

We walked back down for dinner, enjoyed too much bread and pasta, but I decided to have a Lemon Sorbetto anyway for dessert, and the two of us got a Cappuccino. We walked back up to the house, into our rooms, got ready for bed, checked our e-mails etc, were just about ready to watch Big Brother...and the internet disconnected. Dammit! I'm still sitting here waiting for it to kick back in, but I think that's wishful thinking. :( As for the mosquito bites...I had 11 on my right leg alone, when I left this morning, and before dinner, I had 14 on that one leg...after coming back from dinner, I had a whole new slew, and couldn't stop dancing around because I was so itchy. What a horrible feeling! I haven't been bitten by mosquitoes since I lived in Winnipeg! Anyway, now that I've had my bath and everything, they're not nearly as itchy as they were, but I'm getting super hot, and am afraid they'll start itching all over again real soon...so I'm going to try to sleep now. Good Night xx

Day 304

2010-07-16T14:46:00.001-07:00

I'm roasting right now, as I sit on a train to Tuscany...but hey...I'm on a train to Tuscany! Ok that's a bit of a lie. The first stop we'll get off at in a little over an hour, will be to Pisa. After that, we'll be going to our Bed and Breakfast in Tuscany.

We started our day off as usual, with breakfast on the rooftop terrace, and then took our time in the air conditioned room to pack up all of our things. Once we geared ourselves up, we hoisted our bags onto our shoulders, and with a great deal of pain...left the building.

We walked down the street as if the bags on our backs were as light as feathers...but our insides were burning, and the 2 injured women that we are, were suffering...silently. *The swear words weren't so silent...but they were quiet, and in English, so I'm sure they weren't understood*.

We made our way to the train station, and jumped on the metro. Two stops later, we were where we needed to be, and I was in a Foot Locker buying new flip flops. Mine had had it. From there, we checked train times, and were doing great. There was a train at 12:15 and we had a good amount of time to spare. That was of course, until one ticket machine didn't work, another wouldn't show the destination we needed, and we got redirected by people about 5 times - No exaggeration. By the time we finally found a place that would sell us the tickets we needed, the 12:15 bus had left, and the next one was at 2:10. Perfect!

We decided after all that, that we needed a pedicure. Now...I've NEVER had one, and my Mom has only ever had maybe one in her lifetime, because we're just not that type of girl. As you know us, we like to try and look our best, but we are quite capable of doing our own nails, hair, etc. Anyway, by this point, we decided because we'd seen a spa in the station, that we would treat ourselves. We walked in...and looked at prices...eventually, a man began to talk to us. Turns out they don't do pedicures today. We're not sure if that means on a Friday...or if they were fully booked. But we thanked them anyways, and walked out. We decided to go for a coffee instead. Not quite the same, but a treat is a treat.

We lugged our heavy bags - yes we were still struggling with them - up and down several flights of stairs and escalators, and eventually, we got to a cafe. We sat down, decided what we wanted, and I went up to pay. I thought I was getting a cold coffee, so I got a muffin to split with my Mom, she got a latte, and also a bowl of fruit. Turns out my "cold coffee", was actually ice cream. Delicious, but unnecessary. When we finished there, we thought we'd see if there was a FREE washroom to use. So far in Italy, we've yet to find that. It was then however, that I glanced at the receipt from our food order, and noticed it said *in Italian* that if you kept your receipt, you could go to the washroom upstairs for free. You just had to show proof of purchase. Crazy! We went into a small, but not as small as the Bed and Breakfast's elevator, and we took it up to the next floor. When we were done, we still had quite a while until our train. We found out where it was, and got on anyway.

Not too long after finding our seats, a Mom and her twin daughters, probably just a bit younger than me, got on and sat in the seats across the aisle from us. They were from California, and we had a really nice conversation with them for most of the way. In the midst of our conversation though, the air conditioned train...went to non-airconditioned. We were boiling! They got off before us, and I fell asleep for about half an hour. My Mom and I moved into the shade once we were both awake, and the train was pretty empty. We pulled into the Pisa Centrale station, and thought it would be easy enough to find a bus or train to where our bed and breakfast was. It wasn't. We found our way, easy enough, to the bus station - after stopping for a lemonade/orange slushy...but it was there that everything went awry. We spoke to the ladies working there, figured out what bus we wanted, and decided we had an hour to do whatever. We didn't really like the area we were in, and felt a bit unsafe, so we decided to stay in the station. My Mom went up to ask a question, and as she was standing there, she noticed the screen said Platform 5 for the bus we were told we needed, but the paper the lady wrote on said Platform 3. I went up and double checked where we needed to be. The lady told me that for today only, the bus we needed was indeed departing from Platform 3. We waited...
and waited...
and 40 minutes after the hour we had already waited inside...we waited outside.
We saw a bus go by with the name of the destination we thought we wanted, but it didn't stop at Platform 3. It disappeared around the corner, and soon after, we saw it across the street. We were debating running over, but thought, "No...we asked...we should stay put". As that bus pulled away, we saw the sign it was sitting in front of across the street, said Platform 5. DAMMIT!

We went inside to speak to these same 2 ladies. We knew from before that they spoke English, but as we stood there, they pretended like they didn't know what was going on. They clearly did know what was going on though, and you saw it register. They looked at each other, tried to unsuccessfully hide their emotions, almost broke into laughter, and shrugged. They told us to go speak to the drivers in their office. ARGH! We walked outside to find the office, and spoke to a very nice man who did everything he could to communicate with us. He told us they were wrong, and that the bus today stopped stopping at Platform 3, and went back to Platform 5, after 3 o'clock. He then told us which bus we could take as an alternative. We had about 15 minutes to wait for that one, so we thanked him, and went back to the ladies to tell them what he said. We thought they might like to know so they don't send others in the wrong direction, plus we wanted an apology, and also needed to know if we'd have to change our tickets. Well, we didn't have to get a different ticket...but we also didn't get an apology. She just looked at us and went..."Ok". COW! - We used words a little more harsh than that in the conversations to follow.

We waited for this other bus, and luckily there were numerous others that began lining up as well. This time we were sure one was coming. When it arrived, our backpacks being so big, there wasn't much room for me to sit. I stood, until the 2 girls on the back of the bus who had been laughing at us for part of the journey, got up and left. I sat down beside an Italian boy, and asked him if he knew where our stop was. He told us - in Italian - that he'd let us know. For the next several minutes, a man kept looking at us...to the point where he was beginning to freak us out. We came to realize later that he was looking because he'd recognized the stop name, as that's where he was getting off as well. When the bus pulled into the stop, he motioned that we had to get off, and the young guy had words with him. It seemed the young one was a little pissed off - and rightly so - at the fact that this old "creepy" guy, didn't seem to trust him to tell us where to go. We thanked the young one, and smiled at the old one as we got off the bus, and hurried into the first store we saw. We didn't want the creepy man following us. A really nice guy in this shop, told us how to walk to the Bed and Breakfast. Sweating like crazy and oh so lady like...*Pffft*...we lugged our bags on our backs, down the street and up a hill. We stopped at a little Pizzeria and asked how far we had to go, and how late they were open til. When they told us 11, we assured them we'd be back for dinner, and continued on our way until we arrived at a BEAUTIFUL house, complete with an Olive Grove in the backyard. The lady of the house came to greet us, and showed us to our rooms. As I was standing there admiring the view, I saw a hummingbird. She had just finished saying we could go into the garden at any time, so camera in hand, I was out the door faster than I came in. I didn't find the hummingbird - I'm hoping he comes back over the next 3 days - but what I did find, was tons of plants, trees and flowers to take pictures of. I may spend an entire day just in the garden. It is absolutely amazing!

As I walked out, a dog began barking at me. An older Italian gentleman began speaking to him, and came over to introduce the dog to me. The dog's name is Jack. I'm not sure what that man's name is. He doesn't speak any English, but we somehow managed to have a full conversation. It truly inspired me. If only people realized that if you just listen, no matter what the language barrier is, you really can understand each other. It was great. Once he went inside, I took some more pictures, and then my Mom and I walked back to the restaurant. We had a wonderful dinner, and have decided we will most likely return there most nights. I tried to learn some Italian as we sat there, and at the end of the meal I asked if the service fee was included in the total. The man was clearly impressed with my attempt, not to say it was pronounced properly haha, but it made us both smile. We walked back up to the house, and now we're having a cup of tea, and are going to watch Big Brother. Can't wait to see what tomorrow brings us! But for now, Good Night xx

Day 303

2010-07-16T14:45:00.000-07:00

My Mom and I had an amazing day today. My hair was driving me nuts so I thought it would be "one of those days", but it was so much better than that!

To begin with...the way men look at you here, is a compliment all on it's own. But then, when they open their mouths and actually use words to compliment you...well, that starts your day off just right. And it's most men here.

Anyway, my Mom and I enjoyed our breakfast on the rooftop with a cappuccino, and then, after gathering all of our stuff, we went downstairs in the teeny tiny elevator, and out the door to walk up to the Colosseum bus stop. We waited there for a tour bus, and when it arrived, we jumped into what may have been the 2 last seats up top. We rode it to the Vatican, taking numerous pictures along the way...and once we arrived, the pictures didn't stop. It was absolutely amazing! We walked around for hours admiring every little thing. I was pointing out - and this is where some people will shudder - all the parts of New Moon that took place there. Then, we made sure we got into a shaded area, and we pulled out some candy we had picked up on a previous day's journey. We strategically placed what were vampire teeth gummies, and we took a picture. It can be found in my Profile pictures on Facebook. We had some older women laughing at us...but we didn't really care. Just as long we didn't get yelled at by police, and didn't offend anyone, we were perfectly fine.

Mission accomplished, the two of us walked around a bit more, went into a gift shop, and then walked around even more. Eventually, we went back to catch the hop on, hop off bus. This, was probably the BEST part of my day. When we walked up to the bus stop, there was a bench with 2 guys on it. One very good looking, and a friend. I wasn't sitting down, because it was so hot out, I was afraid of burning my ass. The good looking guy didn't know this, and scooched over so that there was room for me to sit down. He kept looking up, and then said I could sit there. I told him what the issue was, but I sat down anyways. 2 seconds later, ass burnt, I was standing up again. My Mom remained sitting, and I said I was ok to stand. The next thing I knew, he was reaching into his shopping bag, and pulling out what he had bought. I wasn't sure what he was doing, until he said "Here", and put the empty plastic bag, flat down on the bench for me to sit on! What a gentleman! I couldn't believe it! I sat on it, and my ass was still burning, but no way was I getting up now. I was enduring the pain, cuz his act of kindness had me in awe. We sat and talked for a bit. Turns out he's Australian and is traveling for 5 weeks. When the bus arrived, he and his friend - although they were waiting longer - let my Mom and I get on the bus first. We went upstairs, but unfortunately they didn't follow. The good looking one said bye, and unfortunately, that was it. I didn't get his name, contact info, nothing. We had spoken about the Fontana di Verdi, and he asked if I'd made a wish there...and I didn't even ask his name. STUPID!

So there we were, without any contact information, sitting on this bus, admiring the sites. Every now and then, I'd see his friend's reflection in the window, and they were sitting right under us. At one point, my Mom and I , not thinking, decided to change seats for a better view of the sites. Between then, and moving to the back of the bus on the same side we started on, the guys had gotten off. Damn.

We got off near the Colosseum, and as my battery had died close to the end of the tour - I was not happy - we walked back to the Bed and Breakfast to charge it. When we got there, we had our afternoon planned out. We were going to watch Big Brother and check all of our e-mails. Well...those plans soon changed when we were on my laptop, and it died. We only have one plug adapter, so it was either charge the camera battery, or charge the computer. Well...when in Rome, the last thing you're going to do, is sit in a hotel room for no reason. So, we plugged the laptop in just long enough to get a little bit of juice, then switched to charge the camera. We finished what had to be done on the laptop, and then we wrote some postcards until we decided the camera had enough battery for us to document the rest of our night.

We left the room, and began to walk to the bus/train station. For some reason, we decided to walk a different way, and I'm glad we did because this, was where our personalities really came out. We walked up some stairs and into a park, where we started taking crazy/stupid/fun pictures. - Looking at them later, we were laughing so hard we were crying.

Anyways, once we finished at the park, we walked up to the Colosseum to catch a a bus, and then found our way - on various buses and trams, to the river. When we got there, we took some pictures, walked down some steps, and were under a bridge, walking along an amazing riverbank. There were restaurants and stalls set up all along it that were just opening as we passed. Eventually we picked one where we could sit right by the water, and we ordered our food. It was a little difficult ordering as the waiter didn't speak any English, but we got it done...and we got exactly what we ordered. The only thing was...mine wasn't what we expected. The pizza wasn't very good, and the sauce, instead of being pizza sauce, was...let me see...the best way to describe it?...You know what Zoodles sauce from the can? THAT is exactly what it tasted like. And there was no cheese on it, and the seafood was not baked onto the pizza. It definitely was not one of the best meals...in fact, it was one of the worst. Mom's was good though, and being as nice as she is, she gave some. We walked back along the riverbank, and up the stairs to catch a bus back to the Colosseum. We stood at one stop for quite a while, watching buses go in the opposite direction, until finally someone came by to tell the family beside us, that the buses weren't stopping there. We walked up over the bridge, and to the next stop with the lady who informed us all, and we found the right bus back to where we wanted to be, to hop on a bus to go back to the area we knew best. From there, we walked to the B + B, looked at the pictures, and eventually, went to sleep...or into a candy coma. Either way, I passed out. xx

Day 302

2010-07-14T14:12:00.001-07:00

So, my Mom and I got to sleep in today. Even longer than we thought we'd be able to actually. You see, breakfast is served from 8 to 9:30...so we were up at quarter to 8 to be ready by 9. But what you have to remember, is that Breakfast is served during those times in the Italian time zone...not England's. As I was finishing getting ready, and heard dishes clanking around, I thought OOPS! Sure enough, when my Mom went out to see what time it was, breakfast was finished. My Mom apologized to the lady. She explained what happened with our alarm clock (as we're using my cell phone), and the lady, completely understanding asked if we'd want a cappuccino. My Mom said yes, and we went out to the rooftop patio. As we sat down, she came out with croissants, yogurts and more. It was very nice of her, and of course it was all delicious.

When we finished, we got ready, and we went for a walk. We ended up past the Colosseum, and were taking pictures in an amazing building - the Foro Traiano - chronologically the last of the Imperial fora of Rome, that had army men guarding the top of the stairs. I of course, had my picture taken with them. Once we had completely scoped that building out, and gone up and down stairs, the battery in my camera was dying. We jumped on a bus and came back to the Bed and Breakfast to let it charge for about 2 hours. While it did that, we checked e-mails, and watch the Premiere to Big Brother 12. I was SO excited!!! - Yes, I know how odd that sounds when I'm sitting here in Italy.

So, Big Brother was practically finished, and the camera was pretty much charged, when we decided to leave again. This time, we walked out past the colosseum to the train station. For some reason, I was in a mood, and because I didn't know why I felt like crying, I was getting even angrier - with myself - which made me want to cry even more...what an evil cycle! Anyway, good thing I was with my Mom because after a short while, I was back to normal. She had done what she knows how to do best, made me smile, and took my mind off of how stupid I was being. During this time, we had caught a bus and taken a very short ride up the road. When we got off we began walking to what we were hoping was the river. After seeing signs for other places we knew we wanted to see, we diverted, and went to the Fontana di Trevi. After that, we found our way to the Spanish Steps, and once we finished there, we walked all the way back to the Foro Traiano. We did quite a bit of walking, and were very proud of our navigation skills. We jumped on a bus to the Colosseum, and then got amazing pizza right across the street. The view was amazing, and the people watching was great! Man there are some weird people around. For instance...the guy in SHORT red shorts, that bent over right in my Mom's view to take a drink of water at a fountain, and the 2 gay guys that had a fight in their car, to the point of one of them getting out and storming away. Yes, we had a wonderful time today, and after polishing off most of our food, we came back to the Bed and Breakfast where we'll now watch another episode of Big Brother, and go to sleep. Good Night xx

Day 301

2010-07-14T12:34:00.001-07:00

So hot right now...but HEY! I'M IN ITALY!!!!!!! And what a day it's been! Right now I'm watching a show on TV that has Corbin Bleu in it...but everyone's speaking Italian. Haha. Awesome. Before this, I had Jungle Run with the Rock and Seann William Scott speaking Italian.

We were up uber early this morning. For me it was 3:20, for my Mom it was even earlier. We were ready and in the lobby by 4 to hop on the shuttle to the airport. When we arrived, we waited in line for my Mom to get a stamp on her boarding card, and then we went through security. Some rude man pushed his way in front of us, but we eventually got through, and were on our way. We had plenty of time, so we sat to have a Starbucks while waiting for our gate number to come up. Once it did, it was a bit of a mad race up and down stairs to get there. When we did, we had to stand our ground in line. Eventually they let us board the plane. No assigned seats had my Mom getting on the back of the plane, and me getting on the front, in an attempt to get the emergency exit row. SUCCESS! Although some jerk got in front of me, my Mom had them saved. We sat down, and a nice looking guy sat beside me. He was nice. He'd been living in London for the past 2 years and was very happy to be coming home to Italy. I slept most of the way, but we talked a bit as the plane landed.

I got through right away as I have a European passport, but the man wouldn't let my Mom come through with me. He checked a Canadian passport after me, but apparently Mom's wasn't good enough. Eventually she came through, and we made our way to the platforms for the trains. A few questions to a few different people, and we were soon sorted and on our way. We had to take a 4 hour train from Pisa to Rome, and I tried my hardest to stay awake to see all the scenery, but after MAYBE 30 minutes, I was done. I couldn't do it. I slept as much as I could. When we arrived at our stop, we went to catch the subway. From there we came out to the street to catch the bus. I was admiring a really nice old building to my right, when my Mom asked if I'd seen what was to my left. I turned around to see I was right in front of the Colosseum. It is absolutely amazing. Beautiful. Too pretty to describe. Needless to say, I took a number of pictures.

We crossed the street, hopped on the appropriate bus, asked someone where we needed to hop off, and then asked someone else for some directions. Shortly after all that, we were in the Bed and Breakfast speaking to Jordano - who is quite good looking, and we'll be speaking to his brother Riccardo tomorrow. We checked out our room, the view, and then back to our room to send some e-mails.

When we finished everything we needed to do, we headed out for the evening. First, we got a gelato right outside our B and B. You should have seen the amount the lady gave us! It was like 5 scoops! We ate that as we picked out some postcards and then walked towards the Colosseum. We spent the next little while walking around there, taking in all the different views and architecture, and then we attempted to walk towards the river to have dinner at a pub down there. We didn't know how far away it was though, and didn't want to be two ladies walking back to the B and B on our own late at night, and in the dark. Instead, we decided to walk a roundabout way back to where we're staying. As we walked, we noticed a huge display of screens and things. There were shops, restaurants, etc. It was like an Italian Night Market. We bought some candy - You should see the size of my marshmallow!! And then I bought a dress that I won't wear :( I wasn't allowed to try it on, and when I got back to the room and tried it...I didn't like it. Anyway, that aside, we had a really nice time together, and a really nice meal outside. When we finished eating, we made our way back to the B and B, turned on the TV and got ready for bed. Just after my shower (luckily), the power went out. We are sitting here in the dark with literally just the laptop light guiding our way, and the battery's almost dead. I'm not sure how I'm going to charge this, or my camera. Crap! I hope it's back on by morning. Anyway, for now, I'm going to sort through Ireland pictures until it dies. Speak to you tomorrow. Good Night xx

Day 300

2010-07-12T13:32:00.001-07:00

As if I wasn't an emotional wreck already...the teachers are now making me cry. Ok maybe not literally, but if I sat here thinking about it, I would most definitely be in tears. I dropped the boys off at school today, and as we were walking up, they were asking when my last day with them was etc. Then, I take Zach to his class, and because it's pouring down, I walk him right up to the door. His teacher Mrs. Fitzgerald says "This could be the last time we see you couldn't it? You're going traveling. You've been brilliant, hasn't she Zach?" Zach says yes. Then she goes "So off to Ireland now?" So I explained we'd just been to Ireland and Italy was next, but Zach interrupted to say "and Nanny's". What a cutie. The teacher told him as it was my last day, that he could bring me in and show me all his little jobs he does in the morning. Ahhh. It was nice to see, and to be able to do, and I got a few extra hugs from him. Nothing like pulling at your heartstrings though. She shook my hand, I said goodbye, and I walked back to the car, and fitting in nicely with my mood...got soaked by the rain.

My Mom and I got ready and did laundry when I arrived back at the house, then gathered anything we needed, and headed to Braintree. We stopped at the Post Office on the way, and when we parked, we had just enough time for a quick coffee at Starbucks. We went in, ordered our drinks, and when we picked them up at the end...mine had a happy crab drawn on it. Now that's Starbucks love. Haha. I took a picture so that you could see what I mean. Every now and then, one of the girls draws me a picture, I guess to change things up. It puts a smile on your face.

We finished our drinks, and walked up to Pizza Express to meet Tina and Michelle. Tina gave me a gift. A beautiful Pearl bracelet with a really nice card that almost sent me into tears. - Yes, again. I'm a little more emotional than usual -

We had a really nice lunch, and when we said bye, there was no tears cuz I knew I'd see the two of them at the school. My Mom and I had a few stops to make on the way back to the house, so we did that, then I dropped her, picked a few things up, and went to search for candy that had to be taken in to Zach's class. Had that in hand, and a gift for Zoe when I got to the school. I found a parking spot, and by this time it had stopped raining, and warmed up. I was way too hot in my jacket. I spoke to one of the Mom's who said how nice it was to meet me, then to Steve. I ran the chocolates into the class, and shortly after coming back out, Tina came up. I told her she couldn't let Zoe leave without me giving her the gift, and she said ok.

Zoe was one of the first out, so I handed her the bag. She asked what it was, and just as she was opening it, one of the Mom's stopped to ask me if it was the last time she'd see me. I looked up to answer her, and missed the look on Zoe's face when she opened the bag and saw the necklace :( I got 2 giant hugs though, so I'm guessing that means she liked it. It was a little bear on a chain, holding a purse. One of Fifth Avenue Collection's very cute pieces.

The boys came out, Tina told me she wasn't good at goodbyes, and gave me a hug. The two of us began to well up, so she left as quickly as possible. It was much better that way. I waited around to tell Michelle I'd definitely see her on the 21st, and I got a couple of hugs from Rafi. What a cutie pie. His cast has footballs on it! I can't remember if I put that in one of my other blogs or not. I said bye to Steve, and the boys and I made our way to the car. We were some of the last people to leave the playground today.

When we got back to the house, I quickly packed while the boys changed into different clothes. I had told them I wanted to take them for a treat before dinner. It was so cute, Josh came into my room wearing dress pants, a dress shirt, and a tie! Afraid of being told off by his Mom, he left the tie at home, and changed into a pair of shorts, but he still looked great.

My Mom and I took the 3 of them to Starbucks, and I treated everyone to a frappuccino or hot chocolate depending on preference. Zach was the only one who thanked me...but of course didn't like his. That's not true, my Mom thanked me as well.

We finished our drinks, and walked to the restaurant we were meeting Heloise, my Uncle and my Aunt at. Oddly enough, they had chosen to celebrate Zach's birthday tonight, and at which restaurant? The same one we had lunch at! When we arrived, the good looking waiter said "Back again?" I shot him a bit of a glance and ignored him, but later - when no one was around - explained what had happened and we didn't want anyone knowing we'd been there for lunch cuz we didn't want to ruin anything. He understood and promised to keep his mouth shut :p

After dinner, I gave the boys a hug, and my Uncle and Aunt drove my Mom and I to our hotel. We checked in, got ready for bed, and I caught up on my blogs. It's now 9:30pm, and I have to be up at 2:45am to catch a flight to ITALY!!!!!!!!!! So I guess I better go. Good Night xx

Day 299

2010-07-12T13:17:00.001-07:00

Woke up around 9 today, making sure I got as close to an 8 hour sleep as I could. It was still less than that, but what can you do? My Mom and I got ready, and we headed off to Peterborough.

We made a stop at Starbucks, and then drove straight to my Nan's. We walked in and said hi, sat down, and waited for my cousin Tom to come by. The 4 of us sat and talked for a bit, then Tom went home to get spruced up - it was crazy hot out and everyone just felt dirty - so my Mom and I headed to Charlie and Anna's.

We spent about an hour at their place, and left with me in tears. In fact, as I was driving away, my Mom made me pull over, and run back in for one last hug from the two of them. Still crying, but comforted from a great cousin, and his fiancee, I strolled slowly back to the car. We went back to Nan's, and waited for Tom to come 'round again. Once he arrived, we packed into the Volvo, and I drove us all to a Chinese Restaurant. We had a really nice time together, and Nan stayed out far later than usual with us. It was great. When we got back to their neighbourhood, we grabbed everything from Nan's, and drove to Tom's. We then watched the World Cup with his roommate Sam, and friend Laura. The 6 of us were sitting there pretty bored however, and after regulation time, my Mom and I decided we'd better be on our way. There weren't any tears this time, as I've been promised Tom's going to try to come out on the 22nd, and bring Nan with him, so I held them back. On our way out of town though, we stopped at my Aunt's grave, and of course, tears shed.

The two of us drove away from Peterborough for what will be the last time for a year :( It was very sad. We were making great time and expected to be back to speak to Heloise before she headed to bed. 15 minutes from the house...everything came to a stand still. An ambulance drove by us, and every car in front of us went into park. We did the same. The next half hour had me feeling as though I was in a Dane Cook skit. People were getting out of their cars, walking up to the accident...peering out their windows, using their cell phones, pacing back and forth. All I could think was "I was cleaning a dish!...Tell him what you told me...That's not what he told me" - I thought of you Tara. Eventually everything was cleared up, and knowing my Nan would be in a panic... - I ALWAYS call her when I get back to Essex, and my phone had died - I drove back to the house as quickly as possible. It had gotten so dark however, that it wasn't easy. I had to go slower than usual as it was really hard to see the road. When we did get back, everyone was in bed. My Mom and I went upstairs, and I was asleep not long after...knowing I'd have to be up in the morning to take the boys. xx

Day 298

2010-07-12T13:05:00.000-07:00

Got to lie in a little bit longer today. Once we did get up, at about 8...we got ready and went downstairs for breakfast. After eating entirely too much, we went upstairs to watch the rest of a "Friends" episode in our room, and my Mom fell asleep. Not too long after, a knock came at our door. It was Jane. She was telling us she was going into Lisburn, and she wanted to know if we wanted a ride.

We got ready, and went downstairs. Robert drove us to the bus station. We said bye to Jane, and hopped on a bus to Belfast. When we arrived there, we went into the internet cafe/information center, in search of a specific ring I'd seen there. They didn't have my size, so we checked a couple of other shops, but there was no such luck. Once we finished there, we went to Starbucks for a quick coffee, and had a quick chat/picture with the good looking guy that got us to take the tour to the Giant's Causeway. He was gorgeous! He remembered us from previous days, to the point where he knew what our plans were after England, and after the picture was taken, I fell into his eyes...again. We said bye, and off we went to catch the bus back to Lisburn.

Robert and his two granddaughters picked us up at the station, and drove us back to the B and B so we could pack. Once we got all of our things together, we went downstairs expecting to leave right away...only to find Robert had made us a huge lunch buffet. We sat down and over indulged in that, and then it was off to Lisburn once again, but this time, it was the train station. We crossed the bridge to get to the platform we needed, and moments later, we were sitting on the train, trying to re organize our bags so that we could fit every little thing in there. We got that done just in time, and were at the airport. From the stop though, we had to walk up and down some stairs, and catch a shuttle to the terminal.

Once in the terminal, we got through security (in a rush because the guy was a bit of a tool). In fact, my Mom was hopping on one foot as the guy took her other shoe away and told her to take off her belt. Apparently he didn't want her second shoe. Through security, and reading the board that normally tells you which gate...it told us to relax and shop. So we did. Nothing big, but a couple of essentials which of course included dark chocolate, and something small to add to Zach's birthday gift. (It's his birthday today). My Mom washed her hands in a rude sink, and I had to go in after to see what she was talking about. It was, indeed, very rude looking. I couldn't stop laughing.

Eventually it was time - or so we thought - to board the plane. We were sitting at a table in the cafe, and had been keeping an eye on the board. It still said relax and shop, so we were just finishing off a plate of chips, when all of a sudden it changed to tell us which gate, and simultaneously, a lady came over the speakers to say it was the final boarding call. WHAT??? We raced down the stairs in a bit of a panic, as the seats are unreserved - you're guaranteed to be on the plane, but if you want the exit rows, you better be waiting to board early - only to wait in line. We panicked a little more when the employee at the front of the line began weighing luggage. Oh Crap! Well...we must be really strong, because we made 2 bags that were killing our backs, necks and shoulders, look so light that we didn't have to put them on the scale.

A little while later, after watching ladies unpack some of their things and stuff them into their bras etc, so that they wouldn't have to pay extra...we were walking out into the pouring rain, and onto the plane. We got the seats we wanted, and we fell asleep. 55 Minutes later, we were in England. We got off the plane, and because we didn't have to wait for luggage, we were through right away. We met up with my Uncle outside, and he drove us back to what is still my current place of residency.

My Mom and I stayed downstairs for a bit, my Uncle left pretty much right away as he was with a friend, and after showing Heloise some pictures, my Mom and I came upstairs to speak to my Dad and Brother on Skype. That started messing up and aggravating me, which resulted in us speaking on the phone instead. Now I'm going to sort some pictures, and I will be asleep VERY shortly. What a GREAT trip! I definitely recommend going to NORTHERN IRELAND and staying at the Hillview Farm Bed and Breakfast. Amazing!

Good Night xx

Day 297

2010-07-12T13:04:00.002-07:00

I'm gonna go irish on you for a second...

Got to sleep in for a wee bit this marnin'. We were still havin breakfast by 8 terty, but t'was later than the last few days.

When we finished, one of the sons - Richard - from the B and B, drove my Mom and I to the Lisburn train station. We checked prices and times there, and then walked up, in the rain, to the bus station. Today was the first crappy day weather wise. When we arrived at the bus station, the one we wanted was already sitting in a stall waiting to leave. We found that out from the guy behind the counter, ran over, outside, and hopped on. The bus driver didn't make us pay, and he drove us to the next stop about a mile down the road. We got off there, thanked him, and went for a quick look around the Marks and Spencers, as we knew the next bus we needed wouldn't be there for a while.

When it arrived, we hopped on it, and went into Dublin. I must admit, I felt a little guilty for falling asleep on the 2 and a half hour journey. Who falls asleep on a bus journey they've never been on before? Oh well. I knew we'd be driving back the same way we came, and I was sleepy...so my eyes shut, and didn't open again until we were pretty close to the city centre.

Well...Dublin wasn't what I expected at all. To be honest...I was pretty disappointed. Had I of been staying there, I would have been extremely upset. It's a big city that, aside from the accents, you wouldn't even know was in Ireland. A lot of the people were rude and weren't helpful at all. When my Mom and I finally found what we needed - a bank, an internet cafe, a hair dressers, and a bag of candy...we hopped on a tour bus, and drove through the city. We sat on the top of a double decker bus, but passed by everything entirely too quickly. The recorded commentator would be telling you what you were passing, and before the sentence was even finished, you'd be past it. There wasn't any time to take pictures, and the ones you could take, were through rain drops on the bus window. I wasn't happy :( By the time we came to the end of the tour, it was time to go back to the Dublin bus station, and get on the bus back to Lisburn. Well, we sat on the top of that bus as well, and by the time we got back to Sprucefield, buses to Lisburn had stopped running. We were told how to get to Lisburn on foot, and we began walking. It was peeing down with rain, so after a few minutes, we approached a hotel. We just wanted to run in to let Robert know where we were and what we were doing, but as we walked up to the doors, a cab pulled in. We jumped in, and he drove us to the Lisburn bus station. Another phone call, and a quick walk up to Bachelor's Walk. Robert was picking Jane up across from a Thai restaurant on the street, so we would meet him there as well. Waiting across from there for a couple of minutes at 10pm, when you had yet to have dinner...was a little dangerous. We ended up going in for some take out.

We met up with Jane, and Robert turned up soon after. The 4 of us drove to Tesco's where Jane ran in for a couple of essentials, and then we drove back to the B and B to eat our dinner, and have a conversation. Another late night as I sit here watching what seems like a good movie - had we of seen it from the beginning - looking at pictures, and writing post cards. I'm going to be sooo sleepy tomorrow morning. Better get some things done so I can sleep. Good Night xx

Day 296

2010-07-12T13:04:00.001-07:00

Another early day, but it was SO worth it! My Mom and I had our breakfast, and were then driven into Lisburn where we jumped on a bus to Belfast. Once in the city, we had time to go for a Starbucks before our coach arrived. We went there, got our drinks, then went to the info center to check our e-mails. Once that was done, we went back to the tour center where we'd booked our coach, spoke to the good looking guy you'll see a picture of (on my Facebook), and then we were told the coach had arrived.

We walked out to catch it, spoke to the good looking guy again, who made my knees buckle with a handshake and a wink, and then got on the bus. It was practically full, but we managed to get a great seat with a huge window. It didn't matter how tired I was, there was no way I was letting myself fall asleep.

As we drove along, the bus driver - who was very funny and knew his route/information - took us a different way to most other tour bus drivers so that we could see more. When we'd approach signs saying no coaches...he ignored them, and drove that way anyways. He's a motorcyclist, and because he knows the area, he knows which roads are safe for what. We went to a couple of different castles, saw some amazing scenery, and then came to a few of what I would say are my favourite spots. There was the rope bridge. - Normally, not something I'd cross...but because I was in Ireland, it had to be done. Crossing it the first time was ok. I was admiring the view and it was beautiful...until I accidently looked to the side. Woooooahh! That's creepy. We got to the other side, took pictures of more breathtaking scenery, and then crossed over again to walk back to the coach. From there we drove to a castle, and then it was off to the main attraction. Giant's Causeway.

When we arrived, it wasn't what we'd expected. My Mom and I were actually a bit worried/disappointed. We didn't see anything that had looked like what we'd seen in the pamphlets. We began walking and exploring, and about 10 minutes later...we were in heaven. You should have seen this place! I mean, you'll see pictures...but WOW!

We spent a good hour and a half there, climbing on volcanic rock and taking loads of pictures...then it was a walk back towards the bus to get an ice cream, a chat with the driver, and then we were off. As we drove back, there was time to sleep. My Mom and I caught a quick nap, and when we arrived back in Belfast, and caught a bus. It wasn't one that went right into Lisburn though. In fact, it's last stop was Sprucefield. The bus driver got off though, and explained to us that IF we were walkers (Knowing some people wouldn't walk as far as the parking lot), we were only about a mile away from where we wanted to be. We began walking, and when we approached a hotel on our left, we decided we'd go in to call Robert, and let him know what was going on. As we walked up to the hotel, a taxi pulled in. We decided to take it to the Ballymac hotel, where we sat and oggled/spoke to the good looking bartender/waiter. There's something about Irish men...a hidden secret. They're GORGEOUS! And their accents are amazing! Anyway, after eating dinner, my Mom and I sat there to wait for Robert. He showed up, bought us cappuccinos, and the 3 of us stayed entirely too late. Not only that, but when we returned to the house, we talked a little bit more before heading to bed. By the time we went to sleep...it was definitely needed. xx

Day 295

2010-07-10T16:31:00.001-07:00

Well there won't be any sleeping in this holiday. That would be ok...if we weren't staying up uber late each night. This morning we got up, and we had a HUGE breakfast. Then the man - Robert - that owns the Bed and Breakfast drove us into Lisburn, - Bachelor's Walk to be exact - where we hopped on a bus to Belfast.

What happened next was very unusual for my Mom and I. After checking out City Hall, and taking a number of pictures...the two of us spent the rest of the day...SHOPPING!

We had a really nice time together, sat down for a coffee a couple of times, and walked around a lot. By the time we caught a bus back to Lisburn, (after waiting for 2 that never showed) found a pay phone, and went to Bachelor's Walk, Robert was there to collect us. He drove us back to the house where we watched the 2nd half of the football match in our room, and then went downstairs to meet up with Robert again.

He then took us out to see his horses! It was a bit of a drive, but when we got to the field, he actually took us beyond the gates, and right up to these massive, beautiful creatures. They were lovely, and my Mom and I were petting them as I took loads of pictures. All of a sudden, this one horse, sort of took a liking to me. He kept nudging me, and then I thought he was going to take a chunk out of my jacket. I moved away from him as he was sort of creeping me out, but I think all he really wanted was cuddles. He was a cutie pie. Once we finished there, we came back to the house for a coffee. We met two of Robert's sons, and after talking to him for a bit, and watching the football highlights, my Mom and I came up to our room, and went right to sleep. We were exhausted. xx

Day 294

2010-07-10T16:30:00.001-07:00

Today was an early start. Up at 5, and ready by 5:45 to leave for the airport. Our bags were packed, and we were in the car on the way to Stansted. Tim dropped us off, and we went to check in. That was an easy process. Through security, again, no problems, and then onto the plane. My Mom and I fell asleep for most of the flight, waking up just in time to see Ireland from above. What a beautiful place!

We got off the plane, walked into the airport, then checked some things out, and hopped on a train to Belfast. We then walked around a little bit, got a coffee, and took a taxi to the bed and breakfast. We tried to figure out what we wanted to get done over these next few days, while watching some soap operas, and then, after my camera battery was charged a little, we went for a walk.

We took pictures of cows, and explored the farm a bit (where we're staying). Then we walked up the road to see if we could find a pub. Apparently we had walked in the opposite direction. We ended up at a gas station, and asked the cashiers if there was one near by - thinking, there must be as this is Ireland and they're meant to drink more than the Brits - They told us it was a wee jaunt up a busy road, and they wouldn't suggest doing it. We walked to the back of the store and were trying to pick out some sandwiches for dinner instead, when a really nice lady came up to us, told us she lived super close to the hotel/pub, and said she'd drop us there on her way to her place. She went back out to the car, we finished paying for what we were buying, and then walked out thinking "I hope this is an ok idea". When we saw that she had 4 children in the car, we decided we'd be ok. We got in, and a few minutes later, pulled up to this beautiful hotel. We walked in, and unable to choose our meals quickly, asked the barman to return to take our order 2 different times. Eventually we decided on a couple of different dishes, and wrote it down for him. We ate everything, and were soooo full once we'd finished, but we had already decided we'd walk back, so we figured it was ok that we were stuffed.

A walk that could have taken 10 to 20 minutes, ended up taking about half an hour I guess, as we were continuously moving out of the way of oncoming vehicles. When we came up to the B and B drive, horses began approaching us. They came right up to the fence and were letting my Mom pet them. I was taking pictures, but was far too scared to get too close to them. I dunno what it was, I was just afraid of them biting. I was getting my pic taken with one of them, when he nudged my arm. It was too cute but scared the crap out of me. Eventually, after admiring everything around us, we came up to the room. We've just been watching some TV, and the owner of the Bed and Breakfast just came up to see us. He's helping us make plans for the next few days, and we had a really nice conversation with him. Now that he's gone, I'm sitting here waiting for kick-off in the Uruguay vs Holland game, and my Mom is in the shower. I hope Holland win. Uruguay so don't deserve it. Anyways, this very full lady should upload her pictures to the computer, and sit back and enjoy the game. I may have an internet connection a little later, but I'll have to wait and see, so for now...Good Night xx

Day 293

2010-07-10T16:29:00.000-07:00

This morning, after the breakfast ritual, I had 25 minutes to have Josh read 20 minutes out loud, Nathaniel finish his book, and read Zach's book with him. That didn't happen. Nathaniel ended up reading in his head and not finishing his book - He said he had one page left as we were leaving - and I didn't have any time for Zach to read to me. Because the boys also had to get their shoes on, Josh only got to read to me for about 15 minutes. Anyway, not caring too much as it wasn't my fault that they hadn't finished on the Sunday, I got them ready, and we walked out the door.

We walked up to the school, and as I dropped Zach at his class, I told him I'd see him around 1:30 for Sports Day. I walked back to the house to get my Mom, and the two of us went into Chelmsford in search of a certain dress. After getting everything we needed aside from the dress, we headed to Braintree. We got a Starbucks, washed the car, and drove to the boys school.

When we arrived, we saw where Nathaniel was sitting, ready for relays, and saw my Aunt and Uncle. We figured out that Zach was in the same group, and the rest of the afternoon was spent watching the two of them run, skip, dribble, and carry an egg on a spoon. Once their relays were done, and I'd taken loads of pictures...Nathaniel ran up to me to ask if I'd run in the "Moms" race. I told him I would, and Mr. Taylor explained where the parents and children had to go while the course for the grown ups was being set up. Everything was in order, Nathaniel had told me I had to win, the Dads had raced, and the Moms were next. I ran over to the starting line, and spoke to the lady beside me about how nervous the two of us were. We felt sick as there was a lot of pressure being put on us, but when the "Ready, Set, Go" was said, I was off. Running to the first hula hoop, I pulled it up over my head, ran to the skipping rope, skipped to the next hula hoop, put that over my head, and ran to the spoon with the egg. Without cheating - like other people in the race - I got to the finish line. I didn't come in first, but at least I did it honestly. We finished Sports Day, and my Mom and I ran to the "bank" in Colchester. We were also going in search for this same dress. I found the dress, and tried it on, but it was just a little bit too tight. I was not happy. It's one of the prettiest dresses I've ever tried on, and it's on sale! I had to undress the manequin as it was the very last one, so I'm going to try to find it online in the next size. My fingers are crossed in hopes that I will be able to, but considering I'm sitting in Ireland right now without an internet connection, I'm not sure it will be that easy. We shall see.

We came back to the house, and walked up to the pub for dinner with Heloise, the boys, my Uncle and my Aunt. We sat in the garden there, and I ran around playing tag with the boys. We had a delicious meal and dessert, and then walked back to the house. When we arrived, the boys went up to bed, and my Mom and I sat downstairs with the adults as they looked at a load of my pictures they had never seen. It was really nice. It really felt like I had done something right, as they sat their complimenting them all. Eventually, as I was falling asleep, I went upstairs and showered, then curled my hair, and went to bed for a 5 hour - maybe less - sleep. xx

Day 292

2010-07-04T15:25:00.002-07:00

This morning, I was up, and thinking I had more time than I did...I took my time to get ready. Of course, because I did that, nothing went right. My makeup was wrong, and when I started eating a pear...well...I can't even explain the type of pain that was going on in my mouth. Anyway, running late, I jumped in the car, and I met Toni for a coffee. We had discussed last night how it couldn't be the last time we'd see each other, so there we were at Starbucks. We talked, and then she told me it was time for my gift. She didn't want me to have to be there when she bought it, but as she didn't know my ring size, she said it was a must. Well, you should see the ring she bought me. It's purple, and it's beautiful! After we walked around a bit more, and took a look in Bench, the two of us said see you later (As we knew we were going for a coffee in the afternoon), and we went our separate ways.

When I got back to the house, my Mom and I walked around the garden until it was time to go to the school for "Inflatables Day". We spent a few hours there while the boys went on the bouncy castles, and I got pretty burnt. My Mom and I left, walked back to the house, and got in the car to drive to Braintree.

When we arrived, I was parking the car, and the tire went completely flat. Great! We walked in, and met Toni for a frappuccino. After a bit, we walked around until the stores closed. When they did, we went around the centre taking pictures on all the kiddie rides. It was awesome, and difficult (as our bums are a but big for things like that) all at the same time. We walked back to the parking lot, and pumped the tire up with a foot pump. Once the job was done, we dropped Toni at her car. We said goodbye, and as I was pulling away...I broke into tears. It was not easy at all.

We drove back to the house where I went straight to my room. Soon enough Zach was knocking on my door to give me a huge hug. After talking to me for a little bit, he asked if it was ok that he go and watch the rest of "Scooby-Doo". I said yes, and thanked him, and off he went. He came up again later, and asked me to flat iron his hair...so I did. He also wanted me to cut it, but I told him if I did, I'd be kicked out of the house.

We went down for dinner, and after eating i washed my hair. Then my Mom, Heloise and I took a look at the amazing tree house Tim's building for Zach's birthday - the boys don't know about it yet - and then we popped some popcorn and put in "Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus". Now as I sit here watching and catching up on my blogs, I'm falling asleep. I may have to go up before it's over. Sorry for the delay in blogs. I'll try to keep up to date from now on. Thanks for reading. Good Night xx

Day 291

2010-07-04T15:25:00.001-07:00

Earlier morning than I had hoped, but I was up, ready, and on my way to a car boot sale. Once we were finished there - I wasn't a huge fan - we went to Charlie's. We hung out there for a little while, but I had received a text saying the car was needed, and they wanted to know what time I'd be back in Essex.

My Mom and I left Peterborough fairly early, but we stopped at the store, and then Braintree on the way back. After our coffee, we stopped at Michelle's to drop off Emilio's bear, and then headed back to the house. My Uncle and Aunt came over with the boys, and Nathaniel asked me to take shots on him in net. I was wearing a sun dress, but that didn't stop me. I threw on some running shoes (Good look!) and went out to play with the 3 of them. They stopped for dinner, and I went upstairs to write a card for Toni. That was hard, and when I came back down, I was feeling pretty emotional, thinking the last time I would see her would be at the movies.

We said goodbye to the rest of the family once Heloise's friends arrived, and 5 of us went up to the theatre. Toni had saved us seats, and there we were, enjoying "Eclipse". She loved her bracelet I'd bought her, and we loved the movie. When it was done, Heloise's friends brought us back to the house, and my Mom and I went up to bed. xx

Day 290

2010-07-04T15:23:00.000-07:00

Took the boys to school as per usual, and when we got there, Zach and I sat down to talk. He was sitting on my lap at the door, and asked if we could by some sweets after I picked him up. We had a conversation, and he asked if we could have a sweet picnic after school, in my room. I told him that would be fine, and when his class was let in, I went on my way. I met up with Tina, the two of us came back to the house to collect the car, and we went shopping.

First we stopped for coffee, then there was a lot of trying on clothes. I built a bear for Emilio (Michelle's soon to be one year old), complete with warming red heart and a kiss, and we were back in Kelvedon by 1. I dropped Tina off, and as I was so exhausted, I had a 45 minute nap. When I woke up, I was still super sleepy, but had to go get Zach. I walked outside, and into a wall of heat. That's when I decided to bring the car. I picked Tina up when I saw her walking down the street, and after getting Zach, the two of us drove back to the house. I put a collection of sweets into different dishes, and then asked Zach if I should get a towel, as if it was a real picnic. He said yes. We set everything up, and had a great time. Just as we finished eating all our candies, Heloise got home. I went downstairs with Zach, and the two of us read his "Zach Hood" book, until Heloise had showered, and said she'd go get the other 2 from Football. Her and Zach left, and I jumped in the car to drive to Peterborough.

I stopped for gas, then got to Starbucks and jumped out to get my drink and have a conversation. Back in the car and on my way. When I arrived, I went in to speak to my Nan. Then I met up with my Mom, Uncle and Aunt. We drove down to Charlie's and had fish and chips. Then Tom came by and asked me to go out with him and some friends. We went to play pool, and I had a really nice time, as usual. A few hours later, I was back at my Aunt's, and it wasn't too long before I fell asleep. xx

Day 289

2010-07-01T14:43:00.001-07:00

Woke up sooooo tired today. Didn't even jump in the shower. The make up from the day before was still in tact, so I got dressed, did my teeth, and went directly downstairs. I did what needed to be done with the boys, and was hanging laundry when Cath dropped her 3 children off. When she did, she told me how beautiful her daughter thought I was. What a nice way to start a day! I got Zach to read me his book - with Will's help, while the boys played football outside. I had finished hanging the laundry while speaking to Madelaine, and had gotten everything ready and at the door before it was time to go.

After calling everyone in, I covered the boys in sunscreen, and we left the house. Madelaine and I spoke most of the way. Will and Zach ran ahead, and Josh, Nathaniel and Oliver were in a conversation of their own. Unfortunately Will and Zach ran across the road without an adult, and after recovering from a near heart attack, I had a talk with them. I didn't do any yelling though, and didn't want to ruin the good morning we had had, so I took care of the situation calmly, and walked everyone into the school grounds. In they went, and exhausted...I somehow made it back to the house.

When I arrived I slumped up the stairs, swung my door open and shut again, then dropped onto my mattress. I was asleep within minutes, perhaps even seconds. I was awoken when Toni called me to see what time we should meet for coffee, but was able to fall asleep fairly quickly afterwards. I didn't even hear my alarm go off at 10:45, and woke myself up 10 minutes later, realizing I had better get a move on.

Well, I didn't move quickly, but I still managed to meet Toni on time. We went into the theatre to buy our tickets for tonight's showing of Shrek, and then we walked over to Freeport for a Starbucks. It took us ages to decide whether we wanted cold or hot drinks, but in the end, we decided on cold. In a few minutes though, we're going for hot. Not sure yet if Toni will be having one, but we're going anyway.

We sat outside, and then did some shopping. At 2:30, I decided I had to drive back towards the house so I'd be home in time to collect the boys. I was back with 10 minutes to spare. I did a few things around the house, and then, energyless, walked up to the school. I got them, and Zach wasn't too impressed that I was there without the car, but wasn't mad at me.

When we got back to the house, I put all the laundry on the carpet, and made us all a hot chocolate. After drinking it...I was wishing I hadn't. I was soooo hot, and at one point, I had to sit myself down as everything began to go blurry like when I've passed out before.

All was ok, I went to folding laundry, and did Josh's spellings with him, while Nathaniel read to Heloise who had just arrived and was making dinner. When I finished the laundry, I came upstairs to wrap Zach's birthday present. I brought it downstairs and into the playroom where all 3 boys stood. I handed it to him, explained that I'd give him his card on the actual day, but that I wanted him to open his gift now. He got really excited, and moved it into the family room. Heloise asked why he was opening it now, and I told her I'd explain after he opened it. Well...you should have seen the look on his face when he realized HE was the main character. "Zach Hood?" "I'm the actor?" It was too cute!

We sat down to read some, and then ended up moving to the playroom so that Heloise could concentrate on what she was doing. It was then that I almost broke into tears. I had explained to Zach that I gave him his gift early because I wanted to be able to read some of the book to him myself...

In the playroom, I was reading it, and he stopped me. "Where are you going when you're done this?" he asked. I looked at him and asked if he meant tonight, or if he meant when I was finished reading the whole book to him. He said the whole book. I looked at him and said, "I'm going back to Canada sweetie". He asked why, and I said I had to go back there to live. The look on his face...well...I don't think I'll ever get it out of my mind. His eyes filled with tears, and he was silent. Heloise called the boys for dinner, and he just sat there. I turned to him and told him how much I'd miss him. I said I'd be back for a visit, and he asked when. When I said next summer, he remained still. I gave him a hug, and he put his head on my shoulder and didn't move. It was the longest cuddle ever. It was nice, but took everything in me not to cry my eyes out. When we stopped hugging, he got up, and went into the kitchen. I went to the table. I heard Heloise say "Well you knew she was leaving". Poor little guy :( I told him I wasn't leaving yet, and I explained the next few days to him. He still didn't seem too happy. The boys ate, and Nathaniel and Josh went to Judo and Cricket. After dinner, Zach and I sat to read a little more of his book. Eventually, pineapple juiced hands wiped on my leg...he had to go to the store with Heloise. I got ready, and began catching up on my blogs, then left to meet up with Toni. Picking up a paper on the way. My Mom and I weren't in it.

Toni and I went to see "Shrek Forever After". It was great. What had me laughing half way home though, was what happened in the parking lot afterwards. Toni and I were standing there talking, when a car pulled into a spot. Two guys got out and asked us if we wanted to go bowling. "Pardon?" I said. One of the guys repeated the question...and here's where I have to give him credit. I said "No, time for bed"...as I'm soooo exhausted it's all I can think about...and his answer was "Woah, we just met!" I did a fake laugh, Toni and I said bye, and got in our separate cars. The two of us looked at each other from the drivers seats and broke out laughing. I was still laughing 10 minutes down the road, and apparently so was Toni. Now I'm back at the house, I NEED to sleep. Good Night xx

PS - Do the Roar!

Day 288

2010-07-01T11:00:00.001-07:00

Up a little later than normal as I didn't have to get the boys ready for school today, and at 8:30, Toni arrived and her, my Mom and I headed to Pinewood Studios. We had a great time there, learned some things we didn't know, and saw some amazing sets etc. It was a really good morning. After the tour, we ate lunch on site, and then drove into Peterborough.

On the way, I was falling asleep. That's when we saw a sign on the side of the highway, for Starbucks. I pulled over, we each got one, and then we continued to Peterborough without a problem.

As usual we had a great time there and had some good conversations. Toni had been nervous to meet all these people, but she came away with - I think - a great impression of just how amazing my family is. It was really nice. The two of us talked the whole drive home, and when I got in...I began to write my blogs...then gave up as my eyes hurt too much to continue. I went to sleep. xx

Day 287

2010-07-01T10:59:00.001-07:00

As I was about to leave the house and walk the boys to school, Zach looked out the window and realized it had just begun to pour! I ran upstairs to get my rain coat, and down again to load them into the car. We were on our way.

When we arrived at the school, we were extremely early, but the children were going right into their classes anyway, so I was back at the house by 9 o'clock. I did some laundry, and my Mom and I made some chili. Then we raced out to Colchester, as there was a store I wanted her to see before we left England. Once we had browsed there, and I was peeled away from all the things I could/wanted to buy...we went to Braintree. We picked up something for my Aunt, and went to Starbucks.

We only had about an hour or so there before we had to leave to get the boys. We picked them up, did the usual racing around before swimming, and headed out again. I decided not to make Josh do his homework at swimming, and instead, the two of us played DS together. My Mom sat upstairs to watch Zach. On the way back to the house, we stopped at the grocery store to get some bread, and came home for dinner.

After we ate, my Mom and I watched a little bit of TV - saw we weren't on the news, and came upstairs. xx

Day 286

2010-06-30T15:01:00.001-07:00

Did the morning duties as per usual in the morning...but one thing was different...the most important thing actually. My Mom was here :D

We ended up running out of time - after applying suntan lotion, and doing missed homework - so we had to drive the boys to school. Once we had done that, we drove straight to Braintree. We got our drinks, and sat outside. We weren't there long before Michelle and Emilio met up with us. We had a nice conversation with them, then when they left, we spent a while in Bench and a couple of other stores, and then went back to enjoy a cold drink outside at Starbucks, just the two of us, before going back to the house.

When we did go back, we went for a walk around the field looking for my memory card, couldn't find it, walked back to the house, and then drove to get the boys. After picking them up, Nathaniel was going to a friend's for dinner, so Josh, Zach, My Mom and I went by my Aunt's to see if she was ok. Once we did the boys homework, and had a cup of tea, we headed back to the house for dinner. The boys ate, and my Mom and I went to see "Get Him to the Greek". It was hilarious. Once we got back to the house, we went right to bed. xx

Day 285

2010-06-27T14:58:00.001-07:00

What an awesome day :D Aside from one major downfall...but even SOME good came out of that. Oh the things that change with just a little happiness mixed with a visit from my Mom :)

My alarm went off at 5:30, and the first thing that entered my mind was "Nooooo". A short second later, my eyelids shot open, I jumped up and thought "YES!!!!!!!!!!!" Jelly heard me get up, and wouldn't shut up. When I went down to get my breakfast, I was tip toeing around trying not to make too much noise, when minutes later I thought...wait a second...I should be making all kinds of noise! My sleeping never stops them! I didn't though. I went into the utility room, and saw cat pills scattered across the floor. Maybe all Jelly's meowing was an attempt to tell me he'd overdosed. Nah...probably not. I got ready, and an hour later, I was out the door and on my way to the airport. Man are there a ton of things to see at the airport.

My Mom's flight got in early, but waiting for it to say "Baggage in Hall" is what took ages. The plane from Orlando that landed after hers was unloading luggage before Vancouver's. Ridiculous. One thing it did do, other than make me anxious...was give me time to...enjoy? the sights. My Lord! There were some poorly dressed, fashionless people there today, and at one point...I felt like I was on Candid Camera. This lady with badly dyed purple hair on top of her blonde hair, came through the doors. She was completely dressed in white and pink clothes that looked like pyjamas, and was carrying a pink pillow. You'd have to see her to get the full effect...but believe me when I say it was bad!

Finally through the doors, came my Mom. I ran right over to her and gave her a huge hug. She didn't think I was supposed to be where I had come to...but I didn't care. We went upstairs to Starbucks, only to find it had disappeared. WHAT THE? Sometime between when I was there to get Kurt, and today, it had been taken away :( We got to the car park, and headed for Braintree.

We picked Toni up, and my Mom met her cat, Cedric. Then we went to Starbucks, and sat in the sunshine while we talked and drank. A quick look around the Bench store, and a few others, and we were back at Toni's dropping her at home. We came to the house, and weren't acknowledged by anyone. We came right up to my room, and a little while later, there was a knock at my door. I opened it to see a little Zach standing there with a smile. "Where's Judy?" he asked. I moved out of the way so he could see her, and told him he could come in. I closed the door behind him, and he gave her a hug :D Then I got a hug as well. We talked for a bit, and then he asked if we wanted to see his Batman Bouncy Castle. He wasn't kidding...he's got his own bouncy castle! And it's AWESOME! We watched him bounce around on that, and finally people began to say hi to my Mom. Then she got changed quickly, and we headed to the Park to watch the game, just her and I.

The line up to get into the parking lot was lengthy, but we got in pretty quick. Then it was a line to get our tickets, and then a line at the ice cream truck, but luckily we were sitting down in time for kick off. What happened next wasn't what any England fan would hope for, but was perhaps what most England fans have come to expect. Disturbed, and a little upset after the final blow of the whistle, we gathered our things, and walked towards the exit. As we walked, we passed a camera man doing an interview with someone. They immediately stopped asking their current interviewee questions, and came towards us. It was ITV News, and they wanted to hear what we had to say. Once we finished that interview, a man from the local paper came over. He took a couple of pictures of us, then our information, talked to us a bit more, and we were on our way. In the parking lot we were speaking to someone who mistook us for Americans. After we corrected him, he apologized...much like the man at the airport who called us "typical Americans". A little closer to the car, the guy from the Newspaper was getting into his. He called out to us, and got a card out. He gave it to me, and said it was nice meeting us. Off we went.

We came to the house first to push record for the news, and Heloise was in. We waited for her, and then the 3 of us headed to my Uncle's for dinner. Nathaniel asked me to take shots on him, so I did that, and my Mom and I acted as a stretcher for Zach when he was "hurt" in a game of bocce. Dinner was ready, and once we ate, the dessert and coffee followed. Another quick game of stretcher, some conversations/promises - in whisper - about marshmallows and Jack with Zach, and then it was time to leave.

My Mom and I drove back together, and when we arrived...everyone else was on the step. They had forgotten their house key HAHAHA. We let them in, and came upstairs to watch some of the Argentina vs Mexico game and shower. We spoke to my Dad on Skype, and then my Mom went to bed. I'm going to upload a couple of pictures from my camera...panic a bit about where one of my memory cards went to, and then go to sleep. Good Night xx

Day 284

2010-06-26T13:02:00.001-07:00

Today has been AWESOME! I haven't been able to stop smiling. I can't wait for tomorrow!!!! Even though I hadn't fallen asleep until about 1:30 this morning, I still got up at 8. I was too excited to go back to sleep. I got ready and had breakfast, then spoke to my Mom and my Brother on Skype.

When they went to bed, I finished getting ready, painted my nails, and went up to meet Tom at the movies. The two of us were going to see "Tooth Fairy". It was AWESOME! The two of us couldn't stop laughing, and I got to see my Mom and Dad on the big screen :) I was happy. We said good bye, and I went to Starbucks, got a tea, and drove back to the house. When I arrived, I put things in my room, and then told Tim I was going for a walk. The boys weren't home.

I took my camera, and went exploring. It was a beautiful day, and I was enjoying every minute of it. I went down by the church, and crossed the railroad tracks to find a path around a field. It was a really nice walk. I ended up coming out by the co-op, so I stopped for an ice lolly. I then walked back to the house, made some popcorn, mixed Peach squash with 7UP (Brilliant idea by the way...it tasted amazing!) and I sat back, on my bed, to watch "My Best Friend's Wedding". Now I'm writing my blogs and will post them before showering and going to sleep as I have to be up early tomorrow to get MY MOM!!!!!!!!! YAY!!!!!! Good Night xx

Day 283

2010-06-26T13:00:00.000-07:00

Right, let's get this Blog started. It's now 12:07 and I should be asleep...but for some reason, as usual...I'm fighting it.

This morning was a bit of a nightmare. It started off well, and Zach was all decked out in his mouse outfit, complete with face paint, and loving it....I was talking to my parents on Skype and getting Nathaniel's Hedgehog costume ready. <--- That was the good part of the morning. The bad part? When I saw Heloise and Tim had made Josh an entirely different costume. He was a gnome, and I was pissed. Kind of fitting if you think about it. I have a fear of Gnomes and they've creeped me out since Brampton days...so him being that while I'm angry with him...there's a connection there.

As we were leaving Nathaniel said he wouldn't wear his nose. I told him that no one would know what he was supposed to be if he didn't, he'd just look like a guy with a rug on his back. Well...he refused, and on the way to school someone asked what he was supposed to be. By the time we got to the school...he decided he didn't want to wear the rest of the costume either. Brilliant.

Whatever, I left him at his class, and walked with my cute little mouse Zach to his. He gave me a hug, and went into class. I then walked 'round to the gym, got a seat, and waited for his sharing assembly to start. When they all walked in, I couldn't stop smiling. He looked so cute. Then the assembly started. They began telling the audience what and how they learn in their class, and although Zach was too shy to say his line, when it came to the singing, reading and counting he was right in there, and my eyes welled up. I'm going to really miss him. I had to keep thinking of other things, or I would have broke down.

The assembly ended, and emotions high, I began walking back to the house. I was walking out with Michelle, and got just past the school gates when she asked what I was up to. I told her nothing - even though I was meant to be going back to the house to wait for a delivery, I was close to tears and didn't really want to be on my own...and to me, going back to the house was doing nothing. She asked me if I wanted to go to the grocery store with her. She knew it wasn't exciting but thought it may be a change of pace for me, and said we'd grab a coffee as well. I was excited. I jumped in the car, and off we went as I attempted to unravel a slinky.

As we were walking in, we put Emilio on the ground, and each held a hand. HE WAS WALKING! He's getting so big! i couldn't stop smiling. Too cute! We went around the grocery store, and I held Emilio for her. In the middle, as he was getting fussy, I took him out to get his push chair, and then went back in to meet her. Once we had our coffee, and she bought me a carton of chocolate soy milk :p, we headed back to the car, and she dropped me at the house. The delivery men had been, but luckily they'd left the stuff in the driveway. I also think they came while I was at the assembly, not when I was out.

I folded laundry and checked some e-mails, and then decided to go up to Starbucks. On my way, I passed Heloise. I sent her a text asking if she'd want me to bring her a frappuccino, but never heard back. As usual I was made to smile when I walked in there, and my day began looking up.

When I got back to the house, Heloise and I talked, and then I read until it was time to go get Zach. I walked up to the school, and out came this little mouse. The teacher made a comment about how he had whiskers all over his arms etc. So?

He came up to me, and I got a hug. I asked if he wanted to walk up to the post office and get a treat. Friday's are sweet days, so he was pretty excited. He held my hand most of the way and we talked about all different kinds of things. We decided to look at the candy selection in Co-op, and walked out with some murray mints for me, and some soccer gummies for him. We then went into the deli on a search for marshmallows he had his heart set on. We couldn't find any. Our last stop was the post office. They had run out of marshmallows as well, so he chose jelly beans instead. As we stepped outside the door, we ripped into the football gummies, and had one each. They're huge, and although Zach thought they were delicious...I didn't agree. I also almost choked on mine haha. We crossed the street, and went back to the house. When we arrived Heloise had a conversation with Zach, and I poured Jelly Beans into a dish for him, then hid the rest in my room so the other boys don't find and eat them.

Heloise had told Zach he could go to the neighbour's house, and after a very short time, it was time to walk back to the school to get the other two. I stood and talked to parents while waiting for the gate to be unlocked, and then went in to collect them. That's when I saw one of their coaches. One I hadn't seen before, and let me tell you...I wish I had seen him before! He asked me if I was alright, and I said yes. I waited for Nathaniel to come out, and then Josh. I wasn't especially happy with Nathaniel because of the costume situation, but I was still much angrier with Josh. On the way home, he called Nathaniel an idiot, and that didn't help his situation at all. I got mad at him, and continued to ignore him. When we got inside, Heloise was getting Zach stuff to go swimming at a different friend's. Nathaniel and Josh wanted to go as well, so off they went.

I sat on the couch with my computer, and watched some game shows and then put Shrek on. Heloise made the two of us a really nice chicken curry, and made a plate up for Tim. The two of us talked, and before I was finished, she had to leave to get the boys. Josh had to go to Cubs. I sat on the couch once I had finished, and watched the rest of Shrek. The boys had come home and gone to bed, and I spent the rest of the night watching football and other TV shows. I came up to bed around 10:30 probably, but didn't go to sleep until much later. xx

Day 282

2010-06-24T11:29:00.001-07:00

Up and getting breakfast for the boys, then doing flash cards with Zach (Apparently he should be doing them twice a day) then, we started reading one of his books. Josh was supposed to do homework, and began the day by giving me attitude. He ended up on the step. I got suntan lotion on the other two, and ignored Josh whenever he asked questions. I mentioned something to Zach and Nathaniel about how Josh had said me being here for 2 more weeks was a long time, and that's when I think the two of them came to the realization that it's not far now at all. Zach gave me a huge hug. He said "One for Good Luck", and cuz you're leaving soon. Or something like that. It was really nice. I almost started to cry.

We left the house, and walked up to Tina's. She wasn't feeling well, so I was taking her 3 to school. Zoe walked holding my hand. Such a cutie. I said bye to the older boys, Josh actually walked away, and then made a point of coming back to make sure he said bye. I wasn't really surprised. He needs assurance that everything's ok, even when it's not. It drives me.

I took Zach and Zoe to their class, and talked to them for a bit. I got 4 huge hugs at that point. 2 from each. That made me smile. I walked a longer way back to the house as I wanted some exercise, and by the time I got close, I was so energyless from the heat. I came inside to search for costume ideas, but when you type hedgehog into yahoo...all that comes up is Sonic and his friends. Not exactly what I was looking for.

I drove up to Braintree, did some shopping for the costumes, and then grabbed a venti raspberry blackcurrant blended juice to do the rest. Each of the shops I went into, I was helped by women. The props I was looking for seemed really random, so when I mentioned what I was doing, I was told what a good idea each costume was. In the store where I bought the sleeping bag liner for Josh's slug outfit, the lady told me what a great idea it was, and she couldn't get over how creative it was. She said she hoped my cousins appreciated what I was doing for them, and I told her the 9 yr old wouldn't. Little did I know, his appreciation would be even less than I expected.

I went to a garden centre on the way back to the house to get the rest of Nathaniel's costume, and when I got to the house, I started putting things together. I also watched a really good show on Michael Jackson. It was his behind the scenes, and he was showing home movies and things. It was great. Did you know he didn't celebrate Christmas until 1993??? Poor guy! And it was Elizabeth Taylor who brought it into his life. By the time that finished, I didn't have long before going to get the boys.

I was in such a good mood, and felt great about what I had done, costume wise, so far. I got to the school, and was talking to one of the Moms. She asked what each boy was going as tomorrow, and when I told her, she too mentioned how creative it was. Zach ended up going to his friend Will's for tea, so I just had Josh and Nathaniel.

Nathaniel began asking questions about his costume, and I told him he'd see it when we got back. Josh said something about him being a slug, and I said I knew. Well, as usual, he didn't listen. He instantly flipped on me saying he wanted to be a slug. I turned to him. "I just said I know, that's what I've been working on this afternoon!" "Oh", he said. "I thought you said No". I told him to stop answering me with such attitude, and had a conversation with him about how sick I was of him not respecting me. He didn't seem to care. He tried to tell me about his soccer game, and I told him I didn't think I should show my interest.

I told them we were going the High Street way, and he asked if we had to stop anywhere. I didn't answer him. I later told Nathaniel we had to go into Boots to get something for Josh's costume, although I didn't know why I'd spend money on it, cuz I was sure, like everything else I do for him, it would be wrong. They didn't have what I was looking for, and we walked home.

Well...did I ever hit the nail on the head. You should have seen him when he saw his costume. I could have sworn at him. I was so ANGRY! Nathaniel asked if he had to wear the nose, and I explained if he didn't he wouldn't look like a hedgehog. He said ok. Josh still moped around. ARGH! I told Nathaniel as far as I was concerned, Josh could go in his jeans and answer to the people who knew he was going as a slug. ARGHHHH!

I got more attitude from Josh as the night progressed. Nathaniel did his homework right away, and the two of us went out to play soccer. He has asked me to take some shots on him. He told me I was the pro, and could teach him the secret to being a goalie. Hehe. Heloise got back, and i was running in to check the water I'd put on the stove. I took the sheets off the line as I passed, and warned her that Josh would be in a mood. As we both walked into the house, he broke into tears. Who knows what he said to her next.

She ended up making dinner, Nathaniel read to me, and then I made my own. He and I sat and talked while he ate his ice cream, and then the 3 of them went off to Judo. I, almost in tears, tried to get a hold of my Mom but then realized it was too early. I cut some arm holes into the slug outfit, and came upstairs with the other 2 costumes. I didn't want anyone else touching those. They can do what they'd like with the slug one. I jumped in the shower, and now I'm going to watch a bit of the football, and do my nails before falling asleep. Good Night xx

Day 281

2010-06-24T11:28:00.000-07:00

It was soooo hot out today! After dropping the boys at school, and walking back to the house, I decided to vacuum my room. Not the best idea in 24 degree weather. Then, because I told a certain little 4 year old that I would flat iron my hair for him...I did that. Then vacuumed again. By the time I was finished, I was about ready to pass out. It was during this time however, that I discovered what a bitch Maggie May really is. Seriously! Have you ever REALLY listened to the words to that song? She deserved a swift kick in the...rear!

I went up to Starbucks. I sat and had a Venti, Blended Soy, Iced Caramel Macchiato, with Extra Sugar Free Vanilla while I played DS and people watched, soaking in the sun. Eventually I decided I was too uncomfortable trying to sit properly in my skirt, and I really wanted to tan. I walked back to the car, drove to the house, and went outside to tan and read.

When it was time to start getting ready to pick the boys up, I made a laundry switch, and began folding. The game was just about to start, and not wanting to begin watching it, then pause, then rewind...I decided I'd start recording it, and just before kick off, I paused it. I then jumped in the car, and because of the circumstances, got to the school entirely too early. The girl in the car in front of me had the game on the radio loud as possible, and her windows were rolled down. SON OF A !!! I turned my music up, then gave up on that, jumped out of the car, and went to wait far away from her, at the gates to the school.

I got Zach right off the bus as he arrived from a school trip, and we ran in to get Nathaniel. The second he came out, the 3 of us took off to the car, running as fast as Zach's little legs would move. We hopped in, and gunned it down the high street. Luckily, because we were so quick, no one was holding us up.

We got in, I pushed play and fast forwarded right to when they kicked off. The next 45 minutes was intense. Zach wasn't too interested, but Nathaniel and I were definitely in a trance. I was folding laundry at first, and then thought - forget this! Sat back on the couch, and watched the game. At half time we fast forwarded through the talking and got as close to live game action as we could. Happy with the result, Nathaniel jumped into my arms and gave me a hug. It was too cute.

I folded the rest of the laundry, and put it away. Then I made dinner, and did Zach's homework with him. - Nathaniel had done his quickly during the game - I then painted a St. George's cross onto Zach's entire face like he asked. It was pretty cool. I took our picture, and served them dinner.

While they were eating desert, I ran up and started the bath. Zach had gone to get in when Heloise and Josh came back from swimming. I ran up, and Nathaniel soon followed. We got their hair washed, and they were getting into their pyjamas when Heloise came up. I said good night, and goodbye, and went to Toni's.

When I got there, I got cuddles from Cedric, her too cute old cat. She then told me about Monkey - the field mouse in her bathroom. He's just a baby - 10 days old. He had just opened his eyes the day before, and as her roommate is a vet, they are taking care of it. I can't remember how it ended up with them, but it's so tiny and cute. Hannah was feeding it milk from a syringe. I want one.

Toni and I headed to the movies. I got some much looked forward to popcorn, and we sat back to watch "Killers". We enjoyed it. Toni drove back to her place, where I then got in the Volvo, and drove to the house. I saw a fox on the way home. I spoke to Heloise for a bit downstairs, about what the boys would be dressing up as on Friday, and then I came up to bed, too tired to even shower. xx

Day 280

2010-06-22T13:13:00.001-07:00

Well, I'm missing Peterborough as usual. Who knew an hour and a half could make such a difference. Ok, so it's not the distance, it's the people...but still.

Today wasn't too eventful, so this will be short. It was the normal routine thins morning complete with Josh's attitude. I folded some laundry before leaving the house, and they put on a show for me. After dropping the boys, I spent a few hours cleaning, and folding more laundry. When I finished dusting, I decided I'd go to Starbucks before heading back to the school.

I did that, and of course by the time I sat outside, the sun had hid behind clouds. It was still very warm though, so I sat outside and played DS while drinking my tea. I then headed straight to the school to collect Nathaniel and Zach.

When they came out, we raced home for their snack. My Aunt was here. I tried to hurry them along, but now they had a distraction. I knew we had to go a different way to swimming as the A12 was apparently at a stand still, so I finally got them into the car, and we were on our way.

After swimming we came back to the house. My Uncle and Josh were back from Josh's football game, and Heloise was back from school. My Uncle took Zach with him to pick up fish and chips - my last English Fish and Chips for another year! And I did homework with Josh and Nathaniel, until of course, it came to Josh's reading/procrastinating. He ended up going into the playroom to read to my Aunt instead. It's a good thing too, cuz he was driving me nuts.

We all sat down to dinner, and when we finished eating, I cleared up, and then removed the 5 day old splinter from Zach's finger. I then said good night to him, he gave me a picture he drew, and I went downstairs to watch the first half of the Greece VS Argentina game with my Uncle. I came up to shower at half time, and that was a mistake.

I went back down to see if I could watch the 2nd half in my room...and Tim was on the couch. He's watching cricket. I'm sitting in bed watching the TV, hoping he'll switch back...and he does...for 2 seconds every...5 minutes maybe? Awesome...cricket instead of the world cup. AND I just missed an effing goal!!! He just flicked back in time for me to see a replay. ARGH! Anyway, bed time for me...sort of. Maybe I'll read. Good Night xx

Day 279

2010-06-21T13:06:00.000-07:00

Tuesday Fish and Chips, Wednesday movies, Saturday perhaps another movie, Sunday - Mom comes. This is my new countdown list. I've just been supremely pissed off, and have reverted to counting the days away. Pathetic I know, as I will certainly miss them...but when people don't respect you, it's better to countdown, and look towards the good than to lash out is it not?

So, without going into too much detail on why I'm so upset...let's talk about the rest of my day. I tried on about 4 different outfits this morning, and then got to speak to my parents this morning on Skype which was awesome. Then I went downstairs to get Zach his breakfast. The other 2 were finished. I stood to eat mine, and did the homework they had yet to do, with them. Once they finished, and Zach had his hair and teeth brushed, I sent him and Nathaniel outside. I then sat with Josh in the hall and spoke to him about the lack of respect I get, and why he's gone back to the way he was in the beginning. The short of it is...he doesn't know. Great.

The 3 of them played outside until it was time to go, and then we walked up to the school. As we were leaving, we saw a letter at the door...I HAD MAIL! I was so happy! I put it on the counter, and left, knowing I had something to look forward to when I got back. Because I had chosen to wear my sweat pant capris and a t-shirt...it was, of course, HOT! Too hot for what I was wearing. Not something I'd complain about, but I knew I had to change when I got back to the house. I settled on one of my dresses, shaved, and went to Braintree. I wore a pair of black heel sandals that I LOVE the look of. But every time I wear them, I feel so self conscious. They are THE loudest things EVER! Anyway, I had my tea, and wrote while sitting in the sunshine. I probably should have been drinking something cold...but oh well.

After that, I came back to the house and wrote the 2 blogs I had to catch up on. I watched the ridiculous Portugal game, and folded a HEAP of laundry. I could not believe how much there was. By the time I had put my mind to it, then actually did it while watching "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire"...it was time to pick the boys up.

I walked up to the school, and Nathaniel was walking up to Zach's class at the same time as me! He NEVER gets out right at the bell. I was shocked. I asked if he'd want to go to the park, and he said yes. Josh met up with us, and instantly ticked me off. He always makes me feel like such a melon! He started asking why I had changed. Why was I in different clothes. Then when I gave him the answer it was "Well, T-Shirts are for hot weather". Why does he live to aggravate me? Zach came out at the same time as Will, and Will asked if Zach could go to his place. I told him we were going to the park, and Will was welcome to come along. He did.

After about 45 minutes to an hour at the park, the boys had met up with quite a few of their friends, and had a good run around. I'd also told on a 7 and a half year old. Yup, you read that right. His grandparents or whoever was watching him had told him they had to leave, and he said that they could start walking, he'd catch up. They began to walk away, and I watched as he walked up to a little girl he must know, called her name, and said he had something to show her before he left. That's when he whipped himself out. Luckily, I did not actually see anything, but I knew what he was doing, and the action was confirmed when he did it a 2nd time. I called out to his guardians, and told them that I knew it was only children, but if it was mine, I would want to know. The grandma or whoever, thanked me, called him over and told him he was going with them to the shops, and they were going to have a chat. My goodness!

Tina came by with her kids and we talked for a bit, then the 4 boys and I walked back to the house to get the car, and drove Will home. When we got back to the house, I had to make dinner quite quickly as Josh had cricket tonight. I threw some pizzas in the Aga, peeled/cut some carrots, and dumped some salad on each of their plates. I made myself a salad, and began running the laundry upstairs before eating. Heloise had gotten home, and was rushing around vacuuming and tidying before the new cleaner came over. - Yeah...I don't understand that either.

I ate, and when the cleaner arrived, Josh had gone with Tim to cricket, Nathaniel was on Wii, and Zach and I had just finished his homework. I tried to keep Zach out of Heloise's way as they toured the house, and that resulted in a bit of a meltdown from Zach. In the end, I put him on the step, where he cried for probably 10 minutes. Heloise asked what happened to him, and then said "Or is he being naughty?" I told her he was being naughty, which probably wasn't completely fair, as it was her who had really upset me...and I was taking the worst out on him cuz he was adding to the aggravation. Anyway, I dealt with him, and after the cleaner left, I came up to my room. I cleaned it up a bit, had a shower, tried to fix my msn - it didn't work. Now I'm listening to music, and am debating doing my hair before I sleep. Perhaps I'll do it between the school run and Starbucks instead. Yes I think I'll just try to calm myself down now before I sleep. Good Night xx

Day 278

2010-06-21T05:49:00.001-07:00

Sunday morning I got up early, got my hair washed, and went down for breakfast. When I finished, my Aunt and I walked to the store to pick up the paper, and then back to my Nan's. When we got to her house, she was on her way to my Aunt's. She put her paper inside, and the 3 of us walked to my Aunt's for a cup of coffee.

Charlie arrived to pick up a lawn mower, and left again. When we finished our drinks, we drove up to his place. He and I took the girls to the sweet shop, and then I spent the next couple of hours reading countless books to them. I've finally read "The Gruffalo" and know what all the hype is about. It's a cute book. Auntie Linda, and Nan helped Charlie with some gardening, and Uncle John sat and watched "Garfield" and "Tom and Jerry" while I read. All of a sudden, as Nan does...she came in and told us it was time to go. She interrupted the story, and kept calling my name. Apparently she wasn't waiting. It didn't matter that I was the driver, she was ready to go. Charlie offered to take them so that I could stay, but that wasn't going over well so I decided it would be just as easy for me to go back with them.

We had lunch at Auntie Linda's, - My 3rd mistake. I was only going to have raisins, as I normally do...but she told me to have some pain de chocolat. Well...so much for my diet. It was out the window this weekend, and it didn't stop there. After lunch we went back to Charlie's where Anna gave me a delicious fairy cake (cupcake), I read some more books, and watched some TV. Tom came over, and I realized I was the only adult inside, so I got the girls to follow me, and we went to sit with everyone else on the patio. Tom had brought Trivial Pursuit with him, so we spent the next little while playing that. - Oh family times! I love them! - I got 2 or 3 questions right, but no one would listen to me, so we ended up getting them wrong. I believe the girls were still in the lead however, when the game ended.

Tom and Charlie had gone to the store, and Layla brought up Polly Pocket. I started talking about how little Polly used to be, and the next thing I knew...I was playing with vintage Polly Pockets!!!!!!!! I was in 7th heaven! It was so cool!!!!! So many memories came flooding back as I looked at the little houses and remembered having some of the same figurines. It was awesome. From Polly Pocket, we moved on to Sylvanian Family. WICKED! Once the guys were back, I was sitting at the table with Tom, reading the news paper, when suddenly I realized, the guys had all gone inside. Damn. Auntie Linda went to the grass to have a tea party with some stuffed animals, and I went inside to see what was happening. My Uncle John, Charlie and Tom were watching "Mr. Bean". WHAT A WEEKEND!!! It really felt like family :D - As it normally does down there - It was my favourite episode, one that reminds me of Tara and Stephen, and the 4 of us were having a good laugh. Eventually the curry came, and we all ate. It was really nice.

After our meal we sat inside for a few minutes, and shortly after the girls went up for their bath, we decided I should begin my journey back. We said our goodbyes, and Auntie Linda drove us back to her place where I gathered my things, and then went to say bye to my Nan.

About half an hour later, I was on the road. I got stuck in traffic, but still made it back in pretty good time. I didn't spend much time downstairs at all. I had seen my Uncle and Aunt in the driveway as they were leaving, then said hi to Heloise while I made a cup of tea...ran upstairs to plug my phone in, and then came back down to gulp my tea, have another quick conversation with Heloise, and then headed to bed. I spent about an hour trying to fix my msn, but my eyes were in so much pain I gave up on that, and in to falling asleep. xx

Day 277

2010-06-21T05:48:00.001-07:00

I woke up early Saturday to get to Peterborough as soon as I could. I had stayed up late the night before though, so there was no way I was getting up before 7:30. I headed out around 8:30, and arrived at my Nan's at 10.

I went in to speak to her, and shortly after - went to my Aunt's where everyone was waiting for me. Charlie, Anna, the girls, my Aunt and I were all going out for lunch. When I arrived, Charlie called Tom, and he decided he'd come as well. We waited for him, and I then drove the 7 of us to Bourne. Our first stop was "Let's Play" for the girls. They went into the jungle gym type area, and Charlie bought us all a hot chocolate/coffee etc. We caught up a bit and had some laughs, then Charlie went off to play with the girls. He came out with a nose bleed after turning around to find a bar at nose level. I went to play basketball with the girls in the mini court, and after a while, everyone was ready to leave.

We piled into the car, and drove to a fish and chip shop. The first mistake of my visit. I thought about saying no, but ignored my instincts and got lunch anyways. Idiot. We then drove to the town centre, and walked around a few shops. They had to all get out so that I could park, and it was a bit of a process. It reminded us of the commercials you see that are trying to explain just how much space a car has. We agreed people would be looking at us trying to figure out how many people were crammed in the back. When we finished at the shops, we drove back to Auntie Linda's. We sat down to watch some TV, and Layla and I looked at her "Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs" book, and then I read "Bambi Growing Up" to her. I was disappointed to see they'd changed the story. This was the happy version, and therefore was not Bambi at all.

Auntie Linda made us all entirely too much food. Tom had left, and we sat down to eat. It was a buffet of burgers, chicken, ham, mini sausages, salad, and coleslaw. After our main course, she brought out the ice cream and fruit. - This was where I made my 2nd mistake of the trip. Charlie was talking about how good this ice cream was, so I decided I had to try it. Crap! After he and the girls left, Uncle John, Auntie Linda and I sat down to watch some TV. Auntie Linda gave me chocolate. Dammit! Chocolate and coffee she said, it's like nothing else. And she was right. Mmm it was so good.

Around 8:30, the 3 of us headed over to my Nan's to see her, my Uncle Clifford and my Aunt Jill (who had taken her out for dinner). We sat there talking and reminiscing - which was nice - for about an hour...and all of a sudden my Nan looked at us and said "ALRIGHT, SCRAM!" We couldn't stop laughing. She clearly wanted us out of her house. We talked a little bit more, and then said goodbye. My Uncle Clifford and Aunt Jill drove back to Essex, and we went back to Auntie Linda's. Uncle John turned "Pirates of the Caribbean 3" on, and although I was extremely tired and struggling to stay up as long as everyone else...I ended up being last up because I couldn't go to bed until the movie was done. They went up before. Luckily it was only another 15 minutes or so, and I ended up asleep by 10:30 I'm sure. xx

Day 276

2010-06-18T15:56:00.001-07:00

Probably won't be able to post my Blog tomorrow night, so I thought I should do tonight's quickly. It was a pretty good day today.

Woke up, and got ready as usual, but the boys had the day off school so it wasn't such a hectic environment. I put Josh and Nathaniel on separate staircases after telling them off for playing football in the house, and eventually we left the house to meet up with another family. A bunch of us were going to the beach today. Because of a fall that occurred this morning, I was taking 2 extra children. Their brother - who fell - and Mom were at the hospital and would be meeting us later on.

I guess there were about 12 kids in total at the beach - all friends - maybe 8 adults - Mom's, Grandma's and I...and a dog. We pretty much had the beach to ourselves. It was great. The boys had a good time, of course Josh threw a number of tantrums, and by the end of the day I had had enough. Him and Nathaniel made me angry and I'm sure they made me look like a bit of a monster. I had planned to treat the 3 of them to a frappuccino, but after this occurrence, there was no chance of that. I had mentioned it though, and Zach said he wanted one. I wasn't about to punish him for what the other two had done, so I took the 3 of them to Starbucks on the way home, and got a drink for Zach and I - both hot drinks as the weather wasn't great, and we needed something warm - It kind of worked to my advantage as I could prove to them that I do not reward bad behaviour.

After Starbucks, we pulled in the driveway and came into the house. I had to call my Uncle to see what his plans were for tonight, and just before I did, Zach said he wanted to come to the Football with me, and he gave me a huge hug. I was happy! I got him into some warmer clothes, he scarfed down some dinner, and my Uncle arrived around 6 to go with us. He drove, and we enjoyed the atmosphere, as we sat in a beautiful park (Same one I took Zach and Xavier to last week), and watched a very frustrating game on a huge screen. I really enjoyed everything but the game haha. It was just soooo frustrating. There's really no other way to describe it. It was terrible. Rooney should have been taken off. Heskey got the raw deal AGAIN, Gerrard didn't do much at all, Lampard kind of forgot to show up...although he did more than Rooney. Really the only person that had a good game was James! He made a save I think 7 out of 10 keepers would have ended up messing up. He caught the ball and fell over someone, but kept the ball in his grasp. I think most would have fumbled it...but seriously, other than that...we were rubbish.

When the game ended, we walked back to the car. Zach fell asleep almost instantly - after asking me a question about Spiderman, and smiling about the answer. When we got in, my Uncle carried Zach to bed, all of the grown-ups had a conversation downstairs, and when my Aunt and Uncle left, I came up to bed. I'm exhausted. There's a huge ass spider waiting for me in the hall...and my Uncle attempted to get him for me but he ran off. Same thing happened when I came up to bed. Let me tell you though, if he's around in the morning, he's a dead man...so he better find somewhere else to go. Right now, the only place I'm going, is to sleep. Good Night xx

Day 275

2010-06-17T13:23:00.000-07:00

Sitting here wishing the cat would go elsewhere. He couldn't get any closer to me unless he was on top of me - which he tried...and I can't breathe! I don't know if that's his fault, or this cold I have. Ugh.

Played Ludo with Josh and Nathaniel this morning, which of course had Josh whining and almost in tears before we left the house. We walked up to the school, and after I dropped them off, I came back to the house to do my usual e-mail check etc, and then drove up to Starbucks. I was enjoying the sunshine but decided not to stay there too long, as I knew I had things to do, and I didn't want to miss the game.

I drove back to the house. and as I put my key in the door, I heard a screeching "MEEEEOW" on the inside. It sounded as though Jelly was being murdered. I got in as quick as I could, but had already heard the cat flap, and was clearly too late. I peered out the window, and saw Jelly going off around the corner. I went out the front to see what he was after, and found him stalking another cat in the yard. Hmm...Intruder?

By the way, I had to move upstairs. I couldn't take the not being able to breathe anymore, and I'm just praying no one changes the channel. Although, I think I just heard Tim pull up. Dammit. So much for watching the game in my room - this TV is connected to the downstairs one, therefore people downstairs take control over mine -

Anyway, while I was in the front yard, I turned to walk into the house...and believe I was shat on. Well, just in case I didn't hate birds enough before...

Ugh. I walked in the house, washed it off my leg, and then when I saw trails of it elsewhere, thought what the heck? I looked at the bottom of my flip flop, and as though it wasn't enough that it was down my leg...I had also stepped in. WTF? Did he explode? Yuck!

I finished cleaning that up, and walked up to the post office where I mailed some letters, and bought a bingo ticket. We shall soon see if what they say about bird shit and luck, is really true.

When I got back, I had my mocha and raisins, and turned on the game. I was so tired again, that I curled up in bed, and went to sleep. I somehow woke up every time there was a goal or a card though, so I didn't miss anything! When I officially had to be up again, it was 2 o'clock. I made sure I looked decent, and I walked up to the school.

Nathaniel's class was doing some sort of Treasure Island performance, so I watched that, and then spoke to Tina and Michelle while waiting for the classes to be let out. We walked back to the house, I did laundry and made a salad while Nathaniel read to me, and I also tried to get a sliver out of Zach's finger. It didn't work so well, and I didn't have a safety pin to get the piece that broke off. Hopefully Heloise will see to that.

We all ate dinner together, and Nathaniel and Josh went to Judo. Zach read with Heloise, and then came to play pirates with me. We had a good laugh, and once he was hyper and unable to control the volume of his voice...Heloise had to take him to bed. Hehehehe :p

I turned the game on, and started watching it...sort of. I wasn't paying as much attention cuz I didn't want to keep looking up, but nothing had really happened anyway. Now I'll finish watching it in my bed, have a shower, and then fall asleep hoping some miracle happens over night and I'll be all better tomorrow. Goodnight xx

Day 274

2010-06-16T12:10:00.000-07:00

Nathaniel began with the attitude again this morning. In fact, his first sentence to me was a lie. Luckily, I know him very well now and was able to catch him in it. I reverted from yelling, as I'm trying something different for the last month that I'm here. I made him sit down and do his math homework, and when he finished, I made him sit on the stairs. He asked why, and I told him that he had already been told I wouldn't be putting up with his attitude and the way he treats me. I later explained that if he didn't decide to start treating me better, he'd spend many mornings on that step.

We got ready, Josh got everyone's drink cups, and we went out the door. When we walked up to the school, there was no one around. Just one child, standing on the corner waiting to speak to Josh. When we got to the playground, we were the first ones there. It was so nice to be early. Josh went off with his friend, Nathaniel went to his bench, and I walked with Michelle to Zach's class. On my way, I noticed Nathaniel eating plants again. Something I tell him not to do EVERY DAY! I called him over, and he told me he wasn't. HE DOESN'T GET IT! Why would you lie to me after sitting on the stairs? My goodness! I told him it wasn't good for him, and if you were meant to eat plants, I'd serve it to him for dinner. He laughed and I told him I didn't want anything happening to him so he had to stop. He said ok, and as I was talking to him Zach ran over. He took his bag from me, then his drink cup, gave me a huge hug, and ran off. It was too cute.

After they'd all gone in, I had to go to the office to see if Josh had guitar or not. I left none the wiser....but Tina took his guitar from me just in case. I walked back to the house, played a couple of Fast Money rounds in Family Feud, and put some laundry on. I burnt a new CD, and then drove up to Starbucks.

When I arrived, I ordered my tea, and sat down to write. I had a couple of good conversations, finished what I had hoped to get done, and left. I stopped at one other store in search for a glue stick, but had no luck. Back to the car I walked, and I was back at the house minutes later.

By the time I pulled up, I was absolutely energyless. I couldn't even bring myself to switch the laundry over. I grabbed some raisins and made my mocha, watched "Friends" until the Football started, and played some more rounds of Family Feud. The game came on, and I somehow worked up some sort of energy...just enough to fold the laundry and make the switch. When I walked up to get the boys, Zach was asked to a friend's house, so I was just getting Nathaniel and Josh.

The 3 of us walked to Boots so that I could get some deep heat rub for my neck, then to the post office to pick up a parcel for Heloise, and home. When we arrived at the house, Nathaniel - who was in a much better mood attitude wise, finished all of his homework. Josh was being rude and moping around. Even as we watched the rest of the next football match, he was commenting on anything and everything Nathaniel said. It was getting on my nerves, but I still managed to keep my voice down.

Heloise got in and made dinner, Josh got in trouble. We ate, and they went off to swimming. Nathaniel was playing on the computer, and after I cleaned up and put another load of laundry in, I sat down to watch Friends.

When Zach got in, I ran their bath and got the two of them ready for bed. Heloise and Josh got back and I made the boys some hot chocolate, plus cut up an apple for Josh and some cheese for the other 2. I then planted myself on the couch, and awaited the start of the next match. It was then that I came to the conclusion I have a World Cup injury. I think my neck hurts from watching this damn TV!!!! It only just occurred to me that I never normally watch it, and you are constantly looking up to see it. DAMMIT! I'm gonna have to watch the early 2 games in my room, and the late one on this TV from now on. I hurt :( After this game I'll be showering and then sleeping. Good Night xx

Day 273

2010-06-15T12:34:00.001-07:00

I'm sitting here watching the first 30 mins of the Portugal game I had to tape while I took the boys to swimming - until the Brazil game starts. So many games, so little time. I may actually fast forward for the highlights...yes that's what I'll do, or I'll never get to bed! Alright so, after repeating my reasonings for watching the game in fast forward, to Nathaniel, then Josh...Josh then had a bit of a temper tantrum. Stormed upstairs, tried to explain to Heloise and she basically told him she didn't care. He moped around, and came down soon enough to continue watching it. Sometimes the things he does drive me insane!

The rest of my day however, has been pretty good. Tim left early so I was downstairs and doing breakfast - before I'd done my makeup! - at 7. Once everyone was finished and ready for school, they played Hide and Go Seek, and I went upstairs to finish getting ready. When I was done, I was going down to thank them for behaving...when I heard Zach go "MAIJA'S COMING!" I told him he'd have to be a little quieter next time they were doing something they weren't supposed to be doing. Anyway, turns out they had made a complete mess of one of the drawers, and after my asking them to clean it up, Nathaniel started giving me attitude. Not a great way to begin the school journey, but I had a conversation with him, and out we went.

We walked to school today, and on the way, I picked up 4 extra children. Tina's couch was being delivered, they called just before she was about to leave and told her they'd only wait 10 minutes then they'd be leaving with her couch. I told her that was ridiculous, and not to worry. So, I picked her 3 up, plus 1 she was looking after, and off we went. Zoe held my hand the whole way. I dropped the boys off, and then got a huge hug from Zoe, and a nice little cuddle from Zach before the bell rang and they went in.

I walked back to the house, did my hair, and then went to the Post Office for Heloise. What seemed like forever later, I was on my way to her school to drop off a parcel she needed. Once I did that, I went to Starbucks and enjoyed my tea. I did however, burn the roof of my mouth. It was close to 12, and I decided to get a move on, fill the car up, and get back to the house in time for the first match of the day. I was about 7 minutes late, but I still caught the majority, and it wasn't a bad one to watch at all.

The laundry was done and the 2nd game had just started when it was time to go get the boys. I drove up, and we hurried back for their snacks, a quick homework session, and off to swimming.

After swimming, we did a little more homework before dinner, and after eating, I planted myself on the couch. That's where the blog started. I'll be in bed soon after the game. Good Night xx

Day 272

2010-06-14T13:29:00.000-07:00

Didn't get up to much today at all. I got the boys ready, and it was a pretty decent morning. Josh hadn't gotten home until late last night so he was having a bit of a lie in. The other 2 were ready, and Zach had finished his homework by the time I had to wake Josh.

Once we were all ready, we hopped in the car and drove up to the school. I dropped the 3 of them off, bought Nathaniel a new drink cup, and drove to Starbucks to meet Michelle. She had to drop Raffi off at school before coming there, so I sat on my computer and updated some things. When she arrived I showed her some pics I'd taken from when Xavier was out with Zach and I, and the two of us had a nice talk. After she left, I sorted some pictures, and then headed back to the house.

I finished the 1st season of Gavin and Stacey, caught the last 20 minutes of the Netherlands game, and am now watching Japan vs Cameroon with a bowl of popcorn at my side. Not too shabby.

Well, I still haven't gotten up to much, but I have finished the layout of a book so that's a huge accomplishment. Oh and I forgot to tell you further up that I rescued a spider today. It was on Josh's bag that was on the kitchen table, and he was sort of freaking out on the inside...so I told him to either kill it or get rid of it. He asked for a glass and he got a piece of paper, but you could see he was hesitant. In the end, I took the glass and the paper, and released him outdoors. So yes...I've done more than I've led on.

Anyway, I've been sitting here multi tasking all afternoon, and now I'm getting annoyed at all the diving in this Italy match. It really is pathetic. I find myself getting angry at the TV...that's probably not healthy, but I'm sure I'm not the only person noticing.

Once this game's finished, we'll switch over to the Season Finale of "Glee", and then I have to hop in the shower and sleep. I'm in so much pain right now. If Monday nights hadn't become a sort of tradition with Heloise and I, I'd be in bed already. That being said...I need to stop typing this or the rest will be ramble as my mind's not really here. Good Night xx

Day 271

2010-06-13T12:51:00.001-07:00

Today's not a long one at all. I woke up, spoke to my Mom, cried about last night, and got ready to go out. My Aunt and Uncle picked me up, and we drove to my Aunt's sister's house.

It was the Open Garden. A charity event they've taken part in every year for the past 11 to 12. They have acres of land and the garden she has put together is AMAZING! I took pictures when I first got there, and then went straight to work. We got ready for the visitors, and from about 11 to 5:30 I was taking orders and waitressing. Up and down steps to get tea and coffee, and talking to a ton of people. It was great. I didn't sit down for lunch, and was still running around in between bites. Others couldn't believe it, which made me want to work even harder. It was so much fun.

By the time we got in the car to come home, I felt a bit defeated. My heels had got the best of me - not that I'd tell anyone else that - and my eyes were having troubles staying open. I made myself a green tea, came up and answered an e-mail or two while I drank it, and then hopped in the shower to wash my hair. I rotated my pictures from today, wrote yesterday's blog, and spoke to my Mom. After posting the pics on Facebook, I'm fairly sure I'll be asleep in no time at all. So Good Night xx

Day 270

2010-06-13T12:40:00.000-07:00

I was awoken today at 10 to 6, and therefore had a coughing fit, then again around 8, and also at 9:15 ish. Under normal circumstances, I would be infuriated...but what's different about today?

IT'S THE FIRST ENGLAND MATCH OF THE WORLD CUP AND I AM STOKED!!!!!!!!!!! I'm so excited it was too hard to go back to sleep after being woken up the 3rd time. I was itching to get my new jersey on, and to get face painted up.

I had a had a dream the previous night though, that had me in a happy, but aggravated mood, and so I decided to write a poem. - It's posted on Facebook - Once I finished writing that, I got myself ready, and around 3pm, I headed to Starbucks. Once I had my tea, I drove into Chelmsford to meet Tom and Rebecca.

I parked the car in the first lot I came across, and I walked through a very creepy alleyway I knew I wouldn't be walking through alone after the game. The good thing was, without even knowing, I was just a short - literally like 2 minutes - walk from the pub we were going to. I waited outside in the pub's parking lot we didn't know existed, and they met up with me. The 3 of us walked in to see how busy it was, and a decision was made - not sure why - to eat else where. In a way I'm glad we did though, because we ate on the patio of this beautifully done little italian restaurant, that you wouldn't even know had a bar in the basement! Like a proper club! The journey to the bathrooms alone was amazing. There were mirrors that guided your way through the purple walls. I loved it so much, I took a picture :p I enjoyed a Calamari salad, and had a few nice chats with who I assume was the owner. A little Italian man who lived in Calgary for 12 years. He had a strong Italian accent, and was such a happy guy. After dinner, I painted Tom's face for him, the 3 of us went on a search for a flag, and then back to the pub for the game.

We started off sitting indoors near a crap TV, then decided to move outdoors. We were at one picnic table, sharing with 2 other ladies whose face/arms I ended up painting, and one other lady came over to get her face done as well. Then, as it got closer to game time, and people began filtering in and out, we snuck over to a table right beside the TV. PERFECT! We were so close we could hear the commentary!

The first goal had the place roaring with sound. It was great! Everyone clapping, jumping, cheering and swearing. At half time, we decided to go indoors as it got pretty chilly outside. We stood near one of the better screens, and we were ready for more celebration. Unfortunately Green's mistake, had a completely different reaction from fans. They were still swearing, but this time it wasn't in good taste. They were not happy at all! Neither was I, but I felt bad for Green as they showed the goal over and over and OVER and OVER again. I know he gets paid a lot, but also knowing what it feels like to let a goal in like that...I knew he was beating himself up for it, and would feel bad enough without having the crowd yelling at him and the commentators and media blowing it out of proportion for the next month. Anyway, unhappy about the tie, but happy we didn't lose, we all managed to have a great time. The guy beside me with the horn was getting a bit much, and the chick screaming behind Rebecca was doing our heads in. But I was still exceptionally happy to be experiencing the true atmosphere of the World Cup.

When the game finished, we decided to walk up to a bar. Well...this was an experience. We showed our ID's at the door, and walked into what was quite easily the weirdest place I have ever been. Tom felt the same. For instance...Batman was there. We also saw two girls that we still don't know who they were supposed to be. The DJ...well...he was 4 times the size of me and making really corny, terrible jokes. I think the bartender may have been drunk, a girl with purple hair had her boobs on what looked to be a shelf in her dress. They were just right out there. Tom didn't know how it was possible. The bouncer kicked and broke a pair of sunglasses in the street, there was a guy selling alcohol at the end of the bar, trying to be cool and flipping cups and ice cubes etc, but he kept failing and dropping them...Need I go on? It was insanely weird. One of the girls that walked in was wearing a dress so short, her ass was hanging out the back, and her front bum was quite near. Not long after being there, we decided it was time to leave.

Rebecca and Tom walked me back through the alley, and it's a good thing! At one point, this guy came running towards us, and although he wasn't dangerous or doing any harm, I know that had I of been on my own...I would have been out of my skin. Anyway, we got in the Beast, and I then drove them to where they had parked so that they wouldn't have to relive the creepiness. After dropping them, I continued my journey back to the house.

What happened next is the reason my blog is being posted a day late. It had me angry, upset, hurt, and VERY close to tears. In fact, it started my day today with tears. I pulled up to the house, and there were no outside lights on, and just one inside. Both cars were in the driveway, but they were when I left as well. Stupid me took the lights off, as an indication that they still weren't home from a friend's BBQ. I tried - in the dark, hands full - to unlock the door, and it wasn't working. It was just minutes after 11, and I was making a ton of noise fumbling around with my keys. I tried again and again and am sure I was out there from anywhere between 15 minutes to half an hour. I couldn't get in. I made a few phone calls, but no one was answering their cell phones. I rang the doorbell. Nothing. I called my Uncle's house and spoke to my Aunt. She told me to try calling the house. How silly, I thought. But I did. And sure enough...Tim answered. "Are you not in?" he asked. This is what sent me over the top. DID YOU THINK SOMEONE STOLE THE VOLVO????? I couldn't believe he had locked me out for a second time! And this time, with a key in the door on the inside, which means mine wouldn't go in! ARGH! He finally came down, opened the door, and walked away. Livid, I came upstairs and tried to calm myself down. It clearly didn't happen. I showered, crawled into bed, and eventually fell asleep with it still hurting to know that he really didn't care about me. That, was the end to my nice night out. xx

Day 269

2010-06-11T16:55:00.000-07:00

Sitting here waiting for the first kick off of the World Cup, and I thought I'd write about my morning. It didn't start off so well, but once the boys were at school, I'd filled out my football pool, and I was on my way to Starbucks...things had turned around. I was smiling knowing that tomorrow's going to be a good day, and I had my England music pumping.

I drove to Braintree, had a nice time drinking my tea, and I wrote a letter. When I got back, I watched some Gavin and Stacey, discussed plans for tomorrow's game, and folded some laundry. I then ran up to the bank...ok walked as I was in heels...then to get some face paint, and back to the house in time to hang the next load of laundry, and sit down to wait for kick-off. National Anthems begin...and HERE WE GO!!! South Africa vs Mexico...I'm excited!!! Unfortunately though, I have to run out to get Zach in minutes. Damn. I hope they let him out quickly.

I drove to get Zach so we wouldn't miss as much of the game, and when we got back, he grabbed a snack, and the two of us sat down on the floor. I watched while playing Playmobil with him, folding laundry, and updating Tara on the game.

Heloise got in, and luckily she went to get the other 2 from football so that I wouldn't miss anymore of the game. When they got back, Zach and I were still playing, so she made dinner. Tim somehow made it home in time to eat with us - which never happens - so we all had dinner together. When we'd finished, I helped clear up, and then turned the next game on. I occupied the couch for the next 93 minutes, watching the game and speaking to people online. Shortly after the whistle, and a slight allergic reaction (I think) to Jelly, I came upstairs. I should have been asleep hours ago, but instead I was enjoying my Mom's company through Skype while playing around on the computer. Now...it's time to sleep. Good Night xx

Day 268

2010-06-10T11:16:00.001-07:00

After a wrestless "sleep", I swear I didn't get much at all...I woke up with what was still a very sore throat. When I tried to tell Jelly to get out of my way as I was coming downstairs, I realized I was also lacking a voice. It's not completely gone, but it certainly is raspy.

I got the boys ready and did some homework with Zach while Nathaniel played Lego, and Josh laid on the couch. (He's still not feeling well). When it was time, we all got into the car, and I dropped them at school. Josh and I then went to the doctors to see if I could get an appointment, and I was asked to return at 10:20. We went across the street to the bank, only to find out they didn't open until 9:30. We came back to the house and hung out for an hour.

We went back to the doctors and waited til my name was called. The appointment was quick, and after deciphering which medications I was allowed, and which ones I couldn't have, I was given a prescription. I only have to pick it up if my throat's not better by the weekend though, so fingers crossed this goes away tonight.

We went into the bank, got what I thought I needed, but it actually turned out to be useless. Came back to the house, and Josh and I did our separate things. He's now on the computer as it's turned 12 o'clock and that means he's allowed technology. I'm gonna watch "Finding Nemo" and fold laundry. So...couldn't find Nemo...ended up watching "Toy Story" - which was fine. I love that movie too. When that finished, I watched Mr. Bean, and then Josh and I headed out.

We got to the post office at about 10 to 3, and weren't done until 3:06. The two of us couldn't stop commenting on how ridiculous it is in there. We picked the boys up from school, and when we got back to the house, I did Zach's homework with him. He was goofing around when it came to reading, but the fact that we eventually got it done, was good enough for me.

Heloise got in and started making dinner, so I got Nathaniel to start reading to me. That was a bit of a production. He didn't want to read the whole book like he normally does, and kept winging, so eventually I gave up. He's got until Monday to finish 3 books so I'm not too bothered. I got him to do his spellings, and not without complaint - his math. Then he told me he was freezing, and I took his temperature. It was 39. We're hoping the thermometer's broken, but he didn't eat much dinner at all, and laid on the couch until bed so I may have another little boy home from school tomorrow.

As soon as we finished dinner, I didn't even wait for the boys to leave the table. I got up, put my stuff away and boiled the kettle. I came up to get my tea bag, and didn't have the energy to go back down. So I jumped in the shower, then got my tea, and now I'm in bed. I'll be asleep in minutes, and it's only 7:15. It's about time I get a good night's rest. Good Night xx

Day 267

2010-06-09T14:08:00.001-07:00

Didn't get up to too much today.
Got the boys ready for school, and there was a bit of a panic at one point. You see Josh yells at Zach when Zach's not getting ready quickly...so when I was using the washroom and heard Josh screaming, I figured that's what it was about. When I heard the panic in his voice however, I ran out of the washroom to hear him saying Zach was suffocating. OH MY GOD! I thought. I looked at Zach and he was trying to get his sweater on. I was so worried, but luckily, when I looked closer, I realized it was more panic than anything. You see, Zach was crying so his mouth was open, and he therefore couldn't get the sweater on properly. The top of the neck was on the top of his head, and the bottom of the collar, just under his chin. He wasn't suffocating, as his face was free, he just couldn't get the collar where he wanted it. Poor thing. I got him to close his mouth for a second, and after a few seconds of struggling, freed him of the captivating neck.

Finally we were on our way to the school. I was sure we were going to be late. Josh wasn't feeling well today so he wasn't going to school, and nothing we did was happening quickly. Somehow, luck was on my side. We got to the school and managed to get Nathaniel and Zach to their classes on time. Granted Zach was one of the last one's in...ok, possibly the last, but he was right behind the person who had just gone in.

After leaving those 2, Josh and I walked into the office to let them know he wasn't going to be in class, then back to the car. We came to the house and he went straight up to his room where he then slept for about 2 and a half hours. I did laundry and watched the season finale of "Glee". When he came down, I got his lunch, he ate and then the two of us watched "Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs". We've just watched how it was made, and are watching the previews now. We'll leave to pick the boys up in a minute.

Got the boys, drove back to the house and after the boys got their snack and Nathaniel did his spellings, I got Josh his medicine, and started Zach's homework. That took a while, but I think we had fun doing it anyway. Then the 3 of us sat down to watch Scooby Doo :| And I folded laundry. When Heloise got back, she began dinner, and I walked up to get Nathaniel. It was a beautiful day out and I had yet to do any walking so it was really nice. My phone became possessed on the way, and wouldn't stop ringing at one point. It was my text msg ring but it went on for seriously like 2 minutes! Anyway, I got Nathaniel, and it was so nice to just be the two of us walking back. We had a nice conversation. When we returned to the house, I came up to change as I figured I'd freeze at the movie theatre. When I put my jeans on though, I decided I didn't want to change. I switched back into my shorts, grabbed a jacket and went downstairs.

I said bye to everyone, and gave each of the boys a kiss. Nathaniel, who yesterday, thought I was leaving in 6 months, asked me if I was going back to Canada when I kissed him. I said no, and Josh said "I think if she was she'd be crying". I told him that was very true. Then Nathaniel said something about not being able to cry if I was shot...and I think as I was laughing and heading out the door, Heloise said something about there's no way around it, she's leaving, you won't be able to keep her here...or something like that (I Think). Anyway, I left smiling, and drove to meet Toni at the movies.

We bought our tickets, got our seats, and then I came out to buy the popcorn etc. It was then that I missed the trailer for "Eclipse". AND apparently it was a new one. DAMMIT! It was all the 2nd cashier's fault! I had ordered, and the guy was ringing me in, and when he went to get my popcorn, the 2nd cashier started ringing someone else in cuz her debit machine wasn't working. The guy clearly felt bad and was trying to hurry them along, but it didn't work :( Sigh. I hope I get to see it sometime soon!

The movie "Letters to Juliet" was brilliant. I have another favourite. It was quite honestly one of the best love stories I've seen in a long time. It was great. I can't wait to watch it again! There were a few parts where I got goosebumps, I almost began to blubber at another part, and at one point...Toni and I turned to look at each other and in unison with quite a few other girls in the theatre we went "awwwww". Yes, it was great. I really loved it.

Now I'm back and have had my shower...I think I've got strepped throat, so I'm going to speak to my Mom briefly, and then try to get a good night's sleep. Good Night xx

Day 266

2010-06-08T13:41:00.000-07:00

Today...was different. After making sure each of the boys had their breakfast, and having some fun with them while Josh and Nathaniel made paper airplanes I'm supposed to judge later, I went upstairs to wake Kurt up. After doing so, I came back down and made him bacon, eggs, and toast. He didn't come down until around 8:25, and that's pretty close to when we leave the house. I had told him his breakfast was on the stove, but he wasn't paying attention. I moved it to the table, but he was too busy trying to stop the boys from getting ready. Eventually I told him he'd have to take it in the car, and we went on our way.

We dropped the boys at school, then went to the train station, and then to Starbucks. After our drinks, we looked around a couple of stores and I picked up some white chocolate powder for my mochas. I then drove Kurt to the train station where we hung out for 40 minutes waiting for the right one. I said bye to him, watched the train pull away, and walked back to my car.

I came back to the house to do laundry, and Heloise came in not long after. I think I was folding the 2nd load. Turned out she was let out of school early. We talked, and then she worked while I wrote some overdue letters. Soon enough, it was time to get the boys.

I did that, then because Zach's sick, he didn't want to go swimming, so Nathaniel and I were on our way out the door when Zach told Heloise he wanted to come with me!!!!! He said he'd do his homework with me while Nathaniel was swimming, he didn't mind, he just wanted to come. So off the 3 of us went.

Zach and I had a nice time together, and after Nathaniel's lesson, we all came back for dinner. While Heloise was making it, Zach asked if we could watch Spiderman 3 together. So we watched a bit of it. Heloise ran out to pick something up at the store, and I popped the potatoes in the oven.

After we all ate, I hung out with the boys for a bit. Josh and Nathaniel had gone up to bath, and Zach and I were at the table alone. We were having so much fun together, the two of us couldn't stop laughing. After he had his bath, they all came back down, and I made them some hot chocolates. Heloise, the boys and I were sitting at the table and were having a good laugh. It was really nice. I didn't come upstairs until at least 8.

Heloise also told me today how glad she was that I'm here, and how much she appreciates me staying. She's sure I've really missed home and she's really happy that I've stuck it out. It was nice to hear. Now though...I must sleep. Good Night xx

Day 265

2010-06-08T13:40:00.000-07:00

Guess what happened today. I thought I'd put the flags back on the car. All was great. I wasn't even thinking about the highway - as after a 2 hour journey to the beach, coming home was a bit of a blur - and what whipped off? ONE OF THE FLAGS! EFF!!! It's only because they told me that would happen. Son of a !!!!!

Anyway, the day began with trading 3 boys for one. I dropped Josh, Nathaniel and Zach off at school, and picked up Emilio. I was babysitting him for a couple of hours. Kurt and I brought him back to the house and while Kurt ate, I took care of Emilio and gave him lots of cuddles. Once Kurt had finished his meal, we drove to Braintree for a coffee. We stayed there - while being judged I'm sure. Two 24 year olds with a baby...I just imagined the comments - until Michelle turned up. Once I let her have Emilio back (I wasn't going to), Kurt and I came back to the house to grab some directions. These directions...I probably would have been better off without them. They took me the wrong way, and after trying to correct it, I ended up asking for directions at a gas station. What was supposed to be a 40 minute drive, turned into about 2 hours. I was having a good time, but I'm not sure Kurt was.

We arrived in Frinton at the sea side, and it was beautiful. We were two of the only people there, it was so peaceful and was windy but warm. We took pictures, and we walked further than I've walked in a long time. It was awesome. Part of the pier was a bit like a horror movie complete with rickety rides and carnival music, but I enjoyed myself nonetheless. A few hours had passed and we decided to get some dinner. That was another adventure in itself. Everywhere we went told us they didn't serve food on a Monday. We ended up at the Fish and Chip takeaway I had suggested what may have been hours before. When we finished there we drove to Braintree where we got lost (sort of) in search of Toni's house. We decided to meet her at the movie theatre. We then followed her back to her place to find out where I had gone wrong, and to meet Cedric, her new cat who's ADORABLE! He's soooo old, he's only got 4 teeth, and is a little bit blind. He doesn't stop purring though, and he's so tiny, and loves cuddles. I want him.

After that, we came back to the house to watch "Glee". A change of plans had Kurt playing soccer with Tim's team, Toni and I on the couch watching "Glee" eating popcorn and drinking Mochas, while Heloise did some work at the table and listened. It was a nice night with the girls. Toni and I talked for a bit after, and when we were both too tired to move, she decided she should leave. I jumped in the shower, and then did my hair. Kurt came in to talk to me around 12, and I was then up until about 1:40 for what would be my 2nd night in a row with less than 6 hours of sleep. I'm sooo tired. xx

Day 264

2010-06-08T13:19:00.000-07:00

So yesterday began early, and ended late. Or early...depending on how you look at it. I didn't get to sleep until 1.

I had woken up around 7:30 to leave to get my friend Kurt from the airport. The original plan, after seeing his flight was delayed 2 hours, was to leave around 8:30. When I rolled over to check the flight schedule however, it was another hour delayed. Still, because I didn't know where I was going, I decided to leave shortly after 8:30.

I found the airport without a problem and in great time. I parked, and had an hour to spare, so I went to the Starbucks, got a drink, sat and people watched. Closer to the time, I stood up to throw my garbage out and look at the screen. That's when I heard a woman say to a friend "Is it really hot enough for shorts today?" in a snobby kind of way, and she was looking my way making it quite clear that she was referring to me. To this moment, I regret not turning around and saying "Actually no, but I woke up this morning and thought...I really feel like freezing my ass off today". Or perhaps what I should have said was "Hey Lady, you're at an airport, you don't know me, and therefore have no idea where I'm going, or where I've come from. For all you know, I just arrived from somewhere like Florida, or that's my next destination. Cow!" Kurt and I decided today that I could have also said, "I'm Canadian, deal with it". Anyway, as I normally do...I kept my mouth shut, and continued on my way.

I went downstairs to wait for him. I watched the screen until it said his plane had landed. Then waited, staring at it, until it said Arrived. I then waited some more, with the lady next to me who thought the system was as ridiculous as I did, for the screen to say Baggage in Hall. What was a nice conversation, and about half an hour later...Kurt came walking out. We hugged, discussed the airport, and walked to the pay station. I paid for the ticket, we went to the car, and headed to the house.

When we got here, he had a quick shower, and then we left to meet Toni at Starbucks. After our coffees, I had talked Toni into skipping her line dancing, and coming to the movies with us instead. We went to see "Prince of Persia". It was a pretty good movie. I really enjoyed it. When that finished, we came back to Kelvedon to go for a walk up to the pub. When we got there, they weren't serving food, so we walked to the next one which is a good 10 minutes away. Same thing there. Although their sign said serving til 9, they stopped at 8.

We decided to walk back to the house, check the internet to see if a restaurant in Braintree was still serving food, and after calling to make sure, we drove there. We had a really nice dinner, and the people were so nice they even offered us dessert. As we walked in half an hour before they closed though, we told them we wouldn't do that to them. We came back to the house, had some tea, and watched Gavin and Stacey. Eventually we gave into tiredness. Toni went home, and Kurt and I went to our separate bedrooms and passed out. xx

Day 263

2010-06-05T15:23:00.001-07:00

That was the best sleep I've had since I've lived here! I was woken up once by voices downstairs, but was so tired that it didn't matter. I fell right back to sleep. Some more voices entered my head later on, but I ignored them, and finally at 1, I woke up and thought, hmmm I feel refreshed but I bet you it's only like 9. I rolled over, looked at my cell phone and thought...FINALLY!

It was around 2 when I finally decided I should start getting ready. I did just that, and headed downstairs to tell Zach we were leaving for the movie at 3:30. When I was making my cup of tea, Heloise told me he wasn't feeling well. I went into see him, and the poor little guy was curled up on the couch, and almost asleep. We had a little conversation and a cuddle, and he was devastated that he couldn't go to the movie. He asked me if I had it on DVD, and when I said "No, but I'll go with you another day", the look of sadness was too much. He didn't think it would be on another day, but I promised him it would be. I then got my things together, and went shopping.

A couple of items later, I got in the car and drove back to the house. I sat in the family room on my computer, then spoke to my Mom on Skype until dinner. After eating, the boys went up to bed and Heloise and I booked my flight home! Surprisingly enough, I think it's going to be very difficult to leave.

I watched some of "Public Enemies", wrote down directions to the airport, and came up to wash my hair. Now it's time to sleep. Good Night xx

Day 262

2010-06-05T05:50:00.000-07:00

WOOOOOOO MY FLIGHTS ARE BOOKED FOR ITALY AND IRELAND!!!!

Yesterday was nice. It began with chaos, but I stayed upstairs for that. Then I got the boys ready for football, Xavier was dropped off, Raffi came in, so Michelle and I were talking, and when she left...we had to race out the door.

I dropped Nathaniel and Josh at football, and then Xavier, Zach and I went to Braintree. I got them an ice cream, and myself a Starbucks. We sat in the sun while they finished theirs, and then went back to the car to drive to the park.

The park we were going to was in Great Notley. It was pretty awesome, and very picturesque. I could have laid there all day. It was so nice. They ran around playing on the different structures, and we ran up and down some big hills. I got them to roll down one, but they didn't quite have the knack hehe.

When we left, we came back to the house, I made their lunch while they played, and after eating, they went outside until I had to ask them to get in the car to pick the other two up. First we drove to Xavier's, dropped him, and then back to Coggeshall. Zach fell asleep on the way, so we sat in the car until the boys were done and had walked back to the hut. Then, I woke him up and the two of us walked towards the hut. The boys came out, and the 4 of us headed back to Kelvedon. I dropped Josh at a friend's for a sleep over birthday party, and then made a stop at the bank before coming back to the house.

When we arrived, we started looking at some of the pictures from the Zoo, then Heloise took the boys up for a bath, and when they came back down, Zach and I made fairy cakes. The 3 of them sat down for dinner while I finished the cupcakes, and when I went up to change, they all went to some football awards night. I got changed and went out to dinner with some friends, and then to a movie. I didn't get back til 12:30 and was shattered, but for some reason stayed up until 2 anyways. xx

Day 261

2010-06-03T15:45:00.001-07:00

Didn't get up to too much today. Cleaned the kitchen up first thing, folded some laundry, and made the boys sandwiches for their packed lunch. My Uncle picked Zach up around 9, and at 9:15, I drove the other two to their football. They were there from 10 til 3, so I went into Chelmsford. Sort of.

I drove to Braintree first to get a Starbucks, as the boys football was only about 5-10 minutes away from there. Then I tried to get to Chelmsford from there. Well...I ended up in a lovely little place called Wriddle, and a few others I didn't check the name of. Eventually though, I got to where I wanted to be.

I parked where I normally do, and went to check a couple of different things, as well as pick up some vouchers Heloise had asked me to get. In between the stops, I debated picking up another copy of the book I'm reading. Something in me told me to wait one more day, and thank goodness I did! When I got home, my cousin messaged me to tell me he'd found mine behind his couch. PHEW! Good thing his router fell down there!

I sent a few e-mails, and then it was time to pick the boys up. I stopped at the co-op to get some snacks for the week, and then sat in the parking lot watching them train. As it got closer to the end of their session, I stood outside on the grass to watch. I commented on how I didn't trust the wind anymore, as I held my dress down, and the lady beside me said that's why she wears shorts. - No Comment - She then said "And you're wearing heels on a pitch!" To which I thought, oh shut up, at least I look nice, and I'm not digging them into the ground. This was the same lady that looked my age, asked me how many children I had, and then told me she had 2 girls and a stepson. My judgement of her may not have been fair, but she judged me first. Lol.

I got Josh and Nathaniel, drove back to the house, and Josh and I later walked up to the Co-op to pick some things up for Heloise. When we got back, Heloise's cousin and her children were here. I helped make dinner and set the table for the kids. The 5 of them ate first, and then the adults ate - my Uncle and Aunt included. When we finished eating, Kiera and her children left, and my Mom called. I came up to my room to speak with her, had my shower, and plan on getting an early night. - It probably won't happen though -

Good Night xx

Day 260

2010-06-02T14:19:00.001-07:00

I'm so tired, so I'm going to make this really short. Point form almost. Got up and did the usual thing with the boys. They had to do homework, and Zach and I watched some of Robin Hood and the Prince of Thieves until the hairdresser arrived. While she cut their hair, I curled mine.

When we were all ready - hair wise - I took the boys to the zoo. We had a nice day together, and were there from about 12 til 4. We saw lots of animals, and took a number of pictures. I'm not a fan of the zoo, but I enjoyed my day with them nonetheless.

When we got back, I told them all to come into the playroom so that Heloise could continue to work in silence. Zach wanted to watch some more Spiderman, but found something else that occupied his mind first, and by the time he was ready, I was in the middle of something else. My Uncle came to take them for a walk, I sat on my computer sorting pictures, and half an hour later we were eating dinner.

Heloise took Josh to the doctors - he has a voice box infection - I got the other 2 their fruit and dessert, then ran the bath, and they hopped in just after Heloise got back. I took care of them, and read to all 3 while she brought up their water, and milk.

As soon as I finished reading, I said good night, and came into my room to speak to my Mom. Somehow, hours later, I'm still awake and now have a bit of a tension headache. Crap. Better sleep. Good Night xx

Day 259

2010-06-01T13:47:00.000-07:00

Today was ok. I didn't get up until 7 cuz I knew I wouldn't have to get completely ready right away, so I got dressed and went downstairs. I got some of the boys breakfast, and my own, and then came up to do my eye shadow, wandered back down to do Zach's flash cards with him, fold laundry and say bye to Heloise, and then came upstairs to finish my make up before Josh did his homework.

When I went back down, I made sure the other 2 were in the playroom staying quiet so I could for once, listen to just Josh while he read. It was nice. In the middle of it, Nathaniel walked in, sat at the table, and did his math without me even asking him! So all the homework done, Nathaniel and Josh went back to play on the wii, and Zach and I were going to paint. After realizing we didn't have any paint brushes, we decided we'd just use crayons and pencil crayons. Eventually, Zach got bored and went to watch the rest of the Garfield movie that was on TV. I began drawing my own picture. The two of us sat on the couch, him giving me cuddles, while we watched Aristocats and I coloured my picutre in.

Eventually it was time to go to my Uncle's place for lunch. I got the boys ready and out the door after what seemed like forever, and we were on our way. Before going in the house, we talked about best behaviour and no tantrums before swimming lessons. Apparently the talk didn't work. All that aside though, I got some wonderful baby cuddles from my little cousin Emily. She fell asleep on me and until the boys woke her up 3 times, and she gave up trying to go back to sleep, it was really nice. She still let me hold her after the fact, but I was not happy with the boys.

I took Nathaniel and Zach to their swimming lesson, and from there, we hurried back to my Uncle's for dinner. The pizza was great, and there wasn't much time afterwards, so I quickly cleaned up while all of the cousins were being bathed, we all said goodbye, and came back to the house. Nathaniel and Zach rode in my vehicle, and Josh went with Heloise. When we got back, they went straight up, I talked to Heloise for a bit about tomorrow's plans, and then spoke to my Mom :D

Now I'm watching Gavin and Stacey. Good Night xx

Day 258

2010-05-31T14:04:00.001-07:00

Today was another uneventful, but good, morning. Then it got depressing, but got better later on. Instead of telling you like that though, how about I tell you what happened?

The morning was spent at my Aunt and Uncle's. When Tom and I arrived, Claudia, Andy and the boys were there obviously...as well as Charlie, Anna and the girls, and my Nan. It was awesome. We had a little disco in the conservatory, and when we finished that, Charlie's group had to leave, and I went with Aunty Linda, Uncle John and Claudia's group to Tescos. Tom went home.

We had lunch at the mall, I had to say bye to them :( and then I drove back to the house with my Aunt and Uncle. I said goodbye to them, then headed to my Nan's. I had a brief chat with her, and then went to Tom's to gather my things. He could tell I was almost in tears - as I HATE leaving Peterborough, and he asked me to stay until later tonight, but I decided I had better get going. Plus I wouldn't have been the best company, cuz all afternoon, I'd be thinking about how I had to leave eventually.

I got in the car, and made it back to Essex in very good time. I stopped at Starbucks, bought some dark chocolate, got gas, and then came to the house where I spoke to Heloise, then let her get on with her work and went upstairs to watch Gavin and Stacey.

When I heard the boys come in, I came down to talk to them, got my cuddles, and we all ate. Then, they went to bed, I watched "I Love You Man", and now we're waiting for "Glee" to start. Then, I'll try to get a decently early night. It probably won't happen though. xx

Day 257

2010-05-30T16:31:00.000-07:00

Today was great. Not too much happened, but it was just awesome to hang out with my family. In the morning, once I was ready, I headed to my Aunt and Uncle's.

When I got there, I sat in the conservatory and spoke with my Aunt until Claudia came down. Shortly after...Charlie, Anna and the girls got there. The children played in the garden, until lunch, and then again for the rest of the day. Tom had come over, had lunch, and left. Andy, Charlie and I sat down to watch the game. Anna watched a bit as well.

When that finished, I went to get Role Models from Charlie's house. We watched a bit of that until the kids came in, and then had a huge meal that my Uncle and Aunt prepared. It was a BBQ and it was all so good. Tom was back for that, and left again. I stayed around there til about 10 just having a nice chat with everyone. Charlie, Anna and the girls left around 6.

When I came back to Tom's, I washed my hair, and the two of us sat here watching parts of different movies while I spoke to my parents online. Now I'm shattered, and about to sleep, so Good Night xx

Day 256

2010-05-29T17:42:00.001-07:00

Up early today. Well...8...but still, when you don't go to sleep til 1, 8 comes early. I had to sleep really carefully last night, as just before going to bed...I realized I had forgotten to slip my make up in my bag! WHO DOES THAT? And ME...of all people! CRAP! So, I slept carefully so that it didn't smudge, and managed to wash up this morning without ruining it. Then, without waking anyone, I was out the door, and heading to my Aunt's house.

- Just had to get Tara to explain to me what my Aunt and Mom were going on about with their words comments. I was so confused. -

On my way, I stopped in to speak to my Nan. When I finished there, I went and had some fruit and said hello to everyone round my Aunt's. I hung out with them until everyone was ready, and then we got in two separate cars, and went to my cousin Charlie's. We had a quick cup of tea there, and then went into town. We spent a good 3 hours there. We went in a few shops, I had a Starbucks, and we all went for "lunch"/drinks before leaving. We drove back to the house, only to realize we'd forgotten to make a stop to get eggs. Both cars turned around, and off we went.

We got what we needed, and came back to my Aunt's. My cousin Claudia and I hung out upstairs for a bit, while she showed me some new clothes she'd received since being here, and then we went to join everyone else downstairs.

Charlie had brought the girls over, and after sitting around for a bit while they ate lunch, I decided I should go see my Nan. Lilly wanted to come with me, so I got her shoes on, and out we went. It wasn't long before she wanted to leave, but I wasn't going anywhere, and she had just gotten a biscuit from my Nan, so she could wait. A little while later, Charlie, Anna, and Leila, came to pick her up. Then my Aunt came 'round, and the two of us headed back to her place so that I could pick up my things, and her makeup, and begin my preparation for tonight.

I walked back to Tom's, got the key out from where he'd left it for me, jumped in the shower, and got ready. Now I'm sitting here, and only have 40 minutes to figure out what I'm going to write in Charlie and Anna's card...so I better go do that. I'll write a little more after the party. OH YES, before I go...and before I forget. Ashton, is the PERFECT little boy. Honestly, it's like he's been created from a mold.

Ok, here I go.

Well, I'm home now, and I am exhausted. What a night. I was wide awake after dropping Claudia and Andy at my Aunt's, but after my shower...I'm ready to crash. Tom and Sam aren't home, so I'm not sure if I should sleep before they arrive or not. It's probably better if I do, seeing as I just took my makeup off. NOBODY needs to see that!

Anyway, I had a great time with my cousins tonight and we shared a ton of laughs. At one point, I had to bring one cousin to a friends place. As we were about to leave though, Journey came on. To which I said "I can't leave ANYWHERE when Journey's playing!" Andy laughed at me, and was like awesome! Let's do this. So the two of us went out to the Marquee and joined Charlie and his friends in a bit of a sing-a-long. It was great.

So, now that's done, I'm going to sleep. Good Night xx

Day 255

2010-05-28T16:20:00.001-07:00

So how did my day start today? With Heloise telling me I had to take the flags off the car, and Tim telling me how the boys "usually" have their kiwi. Like I don't know that after 9 months of being here.

Luckily I had a laugh at the school with Michelle and Steve as we talked about birds, and how each of us are creeped out by them. Steve doesn't like when they flap their wings, and I talked about my not trusting their shifty eyes. It was a good conversation for a smile. Who knew the 3 of us had the same fear?

I walked home and am doing a complete clean up of my room. I'm going to pack away things I won't need before going back to Canada, and then I'm going to pack for Peterborough :D YAY!

Alright so while packing up my big suitcase I watched "Big Bang Theory", then watched the finale of American Idol. Mom, in case you haven't watched yet, all I will say is I don't think I'm going to watch it without Simon. I almost cried a few different times throughout the episode and during his good byes. Now I'm waiting for my nails to dry so that I can get my clothes out of the washing machine, then into the dryer, and put things into the Peterborough case. Man sitting around doing nails etc gets you tired. I have to walk up to the school in a bit to take Nathaniel his football kit he forgot here this morning, then up to the bank. It says it's supposed to be 17 out today, but it sure didn't feel like it in my shorts and tube top when I dropped the boys off. I've since changed, and hope I'll be warm enough in the new outfit.

So I took the flags off the car. I wasn't happy about it, and you can guarantee that when no one else is home, I'll be putting them back on, but anyway...it's done for now. I went to pick Nathaniel and Josh up. We were half way through the first path, my arms filled with both boys' football kits, when Nathaniel realized he'd forgotten his homework. I tell ya, between Zach wearing the wrong shoes, Nathaniel forgetting his football stuff this morning, and now this...that school is going to think I'm SO unorganized. Anyway, we walked back, got it, and finally made it to the 2nd path, when I told the boys I couldn't carry their bags anymore. I said it was no different than carrying Zach. Nathaniel was walking uber slow, and complaining about his arms hurting, so trying to get compliments (I think), Josh took everything. We got back to the house, Heloise was in, and I went upstairs to grab my stuff for Peterborough. That's when I heard Josh complaining about his shoulders hurting so that Heloise would then ask him why, and he could tell her that he carried everything home. I still wasn't talking to him.

I wrapped my cousin's gift, and went downstairs to see if I could leave. I could. Josh tried to say bye to me, but I made it known to him that I was saying bye to the others. - He still hasn't apologized, and I will speak to him about it on Tuesday.

The drive down was fine. I made a quick stop at Starbucks, and only got stuck in a little traffic around 6:30. I still made it to Peterborough around 7 though, so it was fine. I came straight to Tom's, waited for him to finish what he was doing, and called my Uncle. The two of us then went to my Nan's to say hi, and then to my Aunt and Uncle's where they heated me up some dinner, and we hung out for the next couple of hours.

My cousin, her husband and their children showed up. I cannot believe how big the boys have gotten. Stanley is so tall, and Ashton is the cutest boyish child ever. He says he'll give me a hug tomorrow, today he was still to unsure about me. Hehe. I hung out with them for a bit, and when Tom called after his shower, I went to leave. Before walking out of the living room...Andy showed me his turtle. LMAO. He's the best. I walked back to Tom's where a friend of his, and his roommate were waiting, and the 4 of us got into the Beast and drove to someone else's house to discuss plans.

Then we headed bowling. We had an awesome night. Complete with singing "Vindaloo" as loudly as possible in the car. I could not stop laughing. Sam - the roommate - challenged me in our game of bowling, and by some miracle...I won. I had SO much fun! I love coming to Peterborough. More singing as we drove 2 of the girls home, torturing poor Sam with "Vindaloo" once again, and then the 3 of us came back to theirs.

Sam and I were watching Sex and the City, but Tom didn't approve, so he's changed it. Sam's gone to bed, so my cuz and I are now watching Quantum of Solace, and soon enough, I will pass out on this couch. Good Night xx

Day 254

2010-05-27T15:27:00.000-07:00

Sitting here 7 minutes early for the Hedley ticket presale, and I'm dying with nervousness. I REALLY don't want to miss seeing them again. I will cry! I need to occupy my mind for the next few minutes, or I may go insane.

So! Another day not speaking to Josh. He's not really taking any notice. Keeps trying to speak to me, but isn't too bothered when I don't answer. Instead, this morning, he'd ask Nathaniel to ask me the question he wanted the answer to. In the end, I told Nathaniel I wasn't answering anything Josh wanted to know, no matter who was asking.

I dropped them off in the car, because I was then driving Tina and I to Chelmsford. When we arrived there, we parked at Tesco's for the free two hours, and went in to do a little bit of shopping, and grab a coffee. Around 11:30, we headed back to the house, and I arrived here around 12. Brigitta was cleaning, and I began making dinner, and folding laundry while watching TV. I popped myself some popcorn, and had a coffee while watching Russel Brand on Jay Leno. - I'm kind of in love with Russel...but am glad that if he's going to marry a celebrity, he's chosen the right one, Katy Perry -

Anyway, finished preparing the Spaghetti sauce and shoved in the aga after watching the "Big Bang Theory" and finally finding out what happened to the elevator!!! Then, I got my things, and walked up to get the boys. Zach's friend Xavier was coming over for dinner tonight, so the 5 of us walked back to the house together, Nathaniel and Josh in their own conversation, and Zach, Xavier and I, in ours.

YAYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY I JUST GOT TICKETS!!!! YA WOO YA! I CAN'T WAIT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

So...I came in, finished making dinner while Nathaniel read to me and Josh threw a bit of a tantrum. I dealt with that, put dinner on the table, and folded laundry while they ate. When they finished dessert and everything, I was still doing laundry, and they began to play. Heloise got home soon after, and then Michelle came to pick Xavier up, Trudy came to get Josh and Nathaniel for Judo, and I came upstairs to get my tickets :D Now that that's done, I'm getting ready - with a huge smile on my face - to go to the movies :D

Went to the movies, ate far too much pick 'n mix. Now feel like I'm going to be sick. Going to say a quick hello to my Mom, then sleep. Oh yeah...saw a deer on the drive home. xx

Day 253

2010-05-26T14:33:00.000-07:00

What an odd day! It started off with me in a bad mood, because of the whole Josh thing - plus it was grey skies -...but eventually did a complete turn around. After dropping the boys off, and having Josh slump down in his seat as we pulled up to the school, I was not happy at all. I had thought about going for a walk, but discarded the idea when I felt the wind, and looked at the sky. I drove back to the house, and I am glad I did.

When I arrived, I had some stuff to check online. That's when I realized my Mom was on, so I spoke to her. I cried a bit, and eventually let her go to sleep. I thought I'd raise my spirits a bit and watch the new episode of "Glee", so I did that, but still felt as though the tears weren't finished. I sucked it up, and went to Starbucks.

The rain hadn't come yet, so after ordering my drink - and getting another free one to take home! - I sat outside and did some writing. It turned out to be a pretty nice day. Once I finished, I decided I should head out as I had some things to do before picking the boys up. I was on my way to the parking lot when I thought "Damn! I have to do 2 different things on the way back to the house, and have to go to the washroom..." I contemplated turning around and going back in, but in the end decided I could wait. And MAN am I glad I did!

Filling the car up with gas when I did, was the best thing I could have done today. I pulled up, and each pump looked occupied. I turned the car around, drove back the same way, and saw one that was free, so I filled up, and went inside. When I approached the counter, there was a guy standing there in a tracksuit - I almost bumped into him - I looked up, and he apologized. Thinking hmmm this guy has to be a somebody, I looked at his hat, but trying not to be too obvious, I didn't have a chance to read what it said. I asked if he was in line, and when he said no, he told me to go ahead. That's when I looked over and realized there were 2 more guys dressed the same, standing at the cash, joking around with the cashier. When they finished, I walked up to her, and began paying for the gas. The other guy went to the cashier next to me. I heard her ask if she could be cheeky and ask for an autograph, and thought "I KNEW IT!" Then my cashier told her she should get them to sign the South Africa book that was sitting at the till. I paid for my gas, looked over and asked if I'd be able to get their autographs as well, and when they said yes...I paid my 25 p for a South Africa book. DEFINITELY WORTH MY 25 P! Then, after they signed, I asked if I could get my picture taken with them. One of them said yes, and called the others back. I was standing there with 2 of them, and the cashier I dealt with was taking the picture, when the 3rd one came running over. "WAIT! It's not a picture without me!" "It sure isn't" I said, as he squeezed in between myself and the other guy. We took another two, and I thanked them a number of times, telling them they had just made my day. Off I went, and into the DEFINITELY CHEERING FOR ENGLAND vehicle I got. Haha. I drove away singing and couldn't stop myself smiling the whole way to Coggeshall.

I emptied the recycling into each separate compartment, and dumped the clothes and shoes into their bins, and still smiling...headed back to the house. When I arrived, the laundry had yet to dry, so I made myself a mocha, and sat down to quickly download the pictures from the gas station. When those finished, it was time to get the boys.

I drove up, and still not talking to Josh, went to buy his new drink cup (cuz he'd lost his last one). I then waited for them to come meet up with me. Josh came running up and said HI! I turned around to see who it was, kept my straight face, and continued talking to Zach. Nathaniel came over, and the 4 of us walked to the car. I knew how badly Josh would want to hear about my day, but I wasn't willing to tell him, so when his friend came up to talk to him, I asked Nathaniel if he wanted to hear something cool, and told him. He was so excited and couldn't believe it. I'll wait for him to tell Josh.

We drove back to the house, did some quick homework with Zach, and then the 4 of us walked up to Beavers. That was after Zach threw a tantrum which I think had a lot to do with Josh not minding his own business. After I gave Zach a talking to, he still held my hand most of the way! I handled the situation, AND he picked me a flower! Actually, it was a flower for both of us. He would later ask if I wanted it for both of us, or for when I get married - to which Josh said, "I think it'll be dead by the time Maija gets married" *Yes...that's the kind of comment that's going to make me want to talk to you LOL I know he didn't mean it that way, but still*.

When we got back to the house, Heloise was there. She made dinner, Josh ate, and I read to Zach. The two of us played word bingo after Heloise took Josh to swimming, and then Zach rode his scooter to pick up Nathaniel. We came the long way back, and the 3 of us ate dinner together. By the time Nathaniel finished, Zach and I had had time to read to the toy dog he was asked to bring home from school, and Heloise had arrived.

After dessert, I put Spiderman 3 on my computer, and watched it with Nathaniel and Zach until they had to get in the bath. Josh had said good night and gone upstairs. Now I'm talking to my Mom on skype, and will be asleep shortly. Good Night xx

Day 252

2010-05-25T12:32:00.001-07:00

Took the boys up to school today, and then went with Michelle to Starbucks. Raphael and Emilio were with us, and Raffi was all over the place, so it wasn't relaxing or anything, but it was still nice.

When we finished our drinks, we went to a few different shops that Michelle had to look in. After a while, Emilio, the little guy - was getting sleepy and a little fussy, so I got to walk around with him in my arms. He's so cute. By the time we got back to the car, we put him in his seat and he was asleep in seconds. Michelle drove me back to the house where I then decorated the car. It was a little tough to do the banner on my own, but I figured it out, and in the end...I'm pretty happy with the way it turned out. The bumper stickers didn't work so well, and they don't have an antenna to put the ball on...but it still looks decent I think. I hope the boys like it. Now I'm just burning a song to a CD for Tina, and listening to music. I'll fold some laundry soon, then it's off to get the boys.

So I folded laundry while watching the "Big Bang Theory", and then went to get the boys. Well...this next part had me completely dumbfounded. It lead to my yelling, and promising that there would be no more surprises for Josh. He is SO ungrateful and spoiled sometimes!

I was in a great mood when I picked them up, and they were all asking if they'd get their surprise today so I said yes. As we approached the car, I watched their faces. Josh noticed first, and said, "Is that our car?" Yes, I said, smiling. Nathaniel and Zach both went Woah, look at the flags! Who bought us those? I told them it was me, and they were talking about how cool everything was, and a friend walked by and commented on it as well. We got in the car and Zach said he loved it, he couldn't wait to see the rest of it (as sitting in his car seat, he was unable to see everything). Nathaniel said Josh told him he hated it. I turned around and he was in tears! I told him it was too bad, and the other boys liked it so he'd have to put up with it anyway. He said he didn't like it and he didn't want to ride in the car. He was being pathetic, and I was furious! He kept saying he didn't want to ride in the car, and Zach was saying how it was an even better car than grandpas car! I turned to Josh after listening to him moan, and I yelled at him. I told him that was the last time he'd get any surprises from me, and the other two wanted to know if that meant them as well. I said it didn't. He was being so rude! It was then that I turned back around to see that I was just CENTIMETRES away from rear-ending Michelle's vehicle. Ugh! He made me so angry! With him still crying, we came to the house. Zach wanted to stay in the car and admire all the decorations, while we ran in to get the swimming bag and the snacks. I brought Nathaniel up to my room to see if he wanted to try any of the World Cup crisps. He didn't. Zach came in a few minutes later, and I had a bag of the German Bratwurst Sausage ones in my hand. After taking a bite, I knew he'd love them, because of his love for sausages. I got him to try them, and he definitely wanted a bag. We got them, and left for swimming.

I had told Josh I wasn't talking to him, and when we got to swimming, I wasn't exactly polite with him when we did have to speak. When the boys were done, I got them changed as quickly as possible, we met Josh outside the change rooms, and raced back to the house so that he could get ready for Cricket. As we got out of the car and Zach started admiring the stickers, Heloise pulled up. She raced in to make dinner, and I did Nathaniel's homework with him. ARGH I CAN HEAR JOSH DOWNSTAIRS RIGHT NOW HE'S STILL MOANING ABOUT THE CAR!!! I think Heloise and Tim are actually sticking up for me. Anyway, Tim picked him up for cricket, the rest of us ate, Tim came back for Nathaniel and Zach so they could go watch, I talked to Heloise for a bit, and then came up to bed. That was my day. xx

Day 251

2010-05-24T15:38:00.001-07:00

I just walked by what may have, quite possibly been, the best looking guy that has ever lived! As I passed him, and a smile intruded each of our faces, I aimed for the car. But the thoughts that ran through my mind were haunting. They'll probably bug me for quite some time. "Excuse me, I'm not hitting on you, as I'm only in the country for 12 more weeks, but I feel as though everyone deserves a compliment, and therefore thought you should be told, that you are the best looking guy I have ever seen". That...is what I should have said to this dress pants and dress shirt wearing God. Even though there was someone close behind him, he deserved to know. Even with his sunglasses on, you could tell that if he took them off, 2 beautiful eyes would look directly at you, the colours would pop out of this magnificent face. As I got in the car and pulled away, half of me prayed I'd see him again, walking out of Freeport, while the other half prayed I wouldn't because right at that moment, I knew I wouldn't be able to stop myself from saying it. It wouldn't have come out properly, and would have made my face turn bright red...but in the end, I think looking at it from either perspective - mine, or his - it would have been a nice gesture, and would have given us both, a nice feeling.

Anywho...that clearly wasn't the start to my day...but it had to be said because it was too exciting to leave til the end. The beginning of my day was pretty good though. After dropping the boys at school, I walked up to the co-op and Boots to get some essentials, and then back to the house where I made my mocha, grabbed some raisins, and settled down on my bed to watch the finale of "Lost". Well...I got the episode up and running, and the audio and video were out of sync. CRAP! It was something I'd make myself watch, if there was no other way to see it, but I figured I'd check downstairs first. I ran down and saw that it was recorded on the main TV. SCORE! The next 2 hours were spent admiring the writers, sitting in shock, amazement, tears and happiness, folding laundry, and when I could look away (during commercials) doing a clear coat of polish on my nails. I won't spoil the episodes for anyone who was unable to watch it, because that would just be cruel. But what I will say is that it was brilliant! Very well done, and I can't think of how else they could have done it. It was perfect. While there are others out there who don't seem to agree, I know there are also some who side with me. Anyway, when that finished, I hung some laundry and headed to Starbucks.

When I arrived, they were completely out of their fruit juice mixes and anything frappuccino related so I got the iced caramel macchiato. Luckily though, I've been told if it's blended it's more like a frappuccino, so that's how I've been having it recently. Anyway, I ordered my drink, and sat outside in the beautiful 27 degree weather until I began to sweat. That's when I got up, headed for the exit, and walked by the attractive man you read about at the beginning.

When I arrived back at the house, after a great drive - windows open, music blaring, arm out the window, beautiful scenery - I grabbed my book, towel and camera with my NEW MEMORY CARD! and walked outside. I sat in the field and read/took pictures until it was time to get ready to pick the boys up.

Nathaniel came out early, and Zach soon followed. The 3 of us drove to my Uncle and Aunt's where we played tennis, blew bubbles, and took pictures until dinner. My Uncle and Josh joined us in time to eat, and while we were clearing up afterwards, the boys played, and then we headed back to the house. The boys had to go right up to bed, I sat down and watched TV, green tea in hand. The England game was on and I was happy. I watched the first half while talking to my Mom, and then had to switch it :| for "Glee" at half time. I then received updates, and a bit of a play by play until the end of the game. I watched the highlights after Glee, then came up to shower. I almost stepped on a huge spider, but luckily noticed it and rinsed it down the drain faster than you could say spider. Now I'm trying to make myself sleepy so that I'll fall asleep. Maybe I'll read some of my awesome book :D Good Night xx

Day 250

2010-05-23T11:55:00.001-07:00

Today was a nice, and happily relaxing day. I had my breakfast, and got ready to go out. I said good morning to Heloise, and headed, in the sunshine, to Freeport. I got my Starbucks and walked around the shops in the hot beautiful weather. So beautiful in fact, that I wanted to sit on the patio at Starbucks, but couldn't because it was packed.

Once I had got everything I needed from the stores, I walked past Starbucks and noticed there was an empty table. SCORE! I went and sat down, finished my drink, and wrote a bit. When I was sweating because it was sooooo nice out, I decided to get up, grab another drink (I have a new summer favourite by the way!), and head back to the car. On my way, I passed 2 ladies that were collecting change for Breast Cancer Research. I gave them the first 3 pound I could find, talked to them about something, and happy with myself, walked back to the car.

I drove to the house, and when I arrived, I washed the outside of the car. I had a little helper named Zach about a quarter of the way through. Unfortunately due to that, and the pathetic hose...the outside of the car is streaky and doesn't really look as though it's been washed...but I felt pretty good about it anyway.

I came inside, had a shower, and used my new shampoo to wash my hair. It smells SOOOOOOOOOOO good! When I finished that, Zach knocked on my door. He asked me what the smell was because he liked it, and he came in to talk. There are some surprises in here I don't want him to see, so I was trying to keep him occupied. He had drawn me a picture of popcorn yesterday, and today he asked me to cut it out...so I did. Then he was being too nosy, and I told him I'd have to kick him out of my room. That's when Heloise called him.

I put my mascara on, and went to lay outside by the river and read my book until my little spot of sun, turned into a little spot of shade. I came in the house, and sat with the boys until dinner. We ate, I made a mocha, and I retired to my bedroom. Now I'm watching American Idol, but it keeps freezing...and I'm going to make some green tea, and wait for my parents to come on. Good Night xx

Day 249

2010-05-23T11:44:00.000-07:00

So yesterday was a pretty good day. It didn't start off so well as I almost got bailed on AGAIN for the movies, but a little persuasion, and Zach and I were on our way.

When we got to the theatre - because of the conversation beforehand - we were in a rush. Zach had to use the washroom so we ran in there, then into line to get our tickets, raced around the pick n mix candy thing, paid, and then hurried over to the popcorn counter where we got his favourite toffee popcorn and a drink. We raced into the theatre where the previews had already started, and got the perfect seats, as there were only 4 other people in there.

The first 15-20 minutes passed, and Zach told me he wanted to leave. He was too scared. I told him to sit on my lap, he was ok for another few minutes, but then said again that he wanted to leave. I said ok, and asked if he was sure and he said maybe he'd try again. We sat there, Robert Downey Jr. turned into Iron Man, and that was that. He was hooked. He remained on my lap however for the rest of the movie, including the bit after the credits.

We went over to Starbucks where I offered to buy him a frappuccino, and lunch. I told him he could have lunch there or McDonald's, his choice. He decided all he wanted was bread and butter, and couldn't understand why Starbucks wouldn't sell that. I told him I'd make it for him when we got back to the house. Well, on our way back to the car, he decided he didn't like the frappuccino, and would save it for his dad. As we turned the car around, I asked if he was holding onto it. He said yes. We did the first roundabout, and on the 2nd, we were just about to turn off and I heard "SPLAT!" followed by "Ew, Ew, Ew, Ew, Ew". I explained to him that there was nothing I could do until I was able to pull over, but he continued to repeat himself. "EW! ew! Ew!". I told him again, pulled into the garden center, and turned around to see the chocolate frappuccino completely out of the cup, and taking over the back mat and his shoe. I tried to clean it up with some plastic bags - as that was all I had - but it didn't really work. I told him he'd have to wait til we got home, and he apologized. I told him it was ok, and we pulled away.

When we arrived at the house, he had fallen asleep. I opened the door, and went to lift him out. First I took off his shoe, then, as I got him out of his car seat, the bag had hooked onto his other foot, and I now had chocolate frappuccino dripping all over my only worn once nice white Bench shoes. CRAP! I shook the bag off his foot, it fell to the ground, and I took him inside. I laid him on the couch and began taking his sock off. He woke up and asked why I was taking it off. I told him it was cuz it had chocolate from the frappuccino on it. He got the cutest little smile and said "oh...sorry about that!" I laughed and told him it was ok, and that I enjoyed spending the day with him. I gave him a kiss, and went outside to clean the inside of the car. It was something I'd been wanting to do forever, and we finally had the weather.

3 hours later, vacuumed out, and wiped down, I was finished! I can't even tell you how dirty it was, only that it took a while to get the dirt off my fingers. Josh had come out and said "It's clean for the first time ever!" Which made me smile. I went inside for dinner - we were having fish and chips - and then the boys and I sat down to watch some TV for a minute. Nathaniel decided he wanted to be read to instead of watching TV, so I took him and Zach up to bed, read to them for 10 minutes, and then it was time for Josh to come up. Zach asked me to lie with him, so I did, and just moments later, Nathaniel was afraid he had a splinter in his foot. I took him downstairs, and we examined it. After poking around with the tweezers, I was unable to figure out what the little white speck was. He told me he could wait til tomorrow, and I took him back upstairs. - Heloise and Tim had gone to a friend's for dinner before all this. I was babysitting - I laid back down with Zach, as Nathaniel asked me to stay in there, and when Zach fell asleep about 2 minutes after, I got up to leave. Nathaniel asked me to stay, but I told him I had to go talk to my parents.

I got my computer and went downstairs. I got to talk to my Mom on Skype, and attempted to watch a movie, but some unfortunate events happened - to do with a spider - that I would rather not relive, and I ended up in my room. I finally fell asleep around 1:30. xx

Day 248

2010-05-22T16:46:00.001-07:00

Yesterday...what happened yesterday? Oh yes...I dropped the boys and it was gorgeous out! (I'll try to make this one short). When I got back, I had to wait for the Gas man to arrive before I could do anything else. So I put Grey's Anatomy on, blubbered like crazy at certain parts, folded laundry, and watched Lost. When he finally showed up at around 1, I eagerly waited for him to figure the problem out so that I could go enjoy the sunshine.

About half an hour later, I was on my way to Starbucks. I got my drink, but only had half an hour. I sat down and began to write, and was then accompanied by the lady I always talk to. She had spoken to me briefly in line (it was her day off), and she was on her way to volunteer at a hospital, but sat to talk to me for a minute first. Shortly after she left, I had to head off.

I left the car at the house, and walked up to get Zach and his friend Will. We went to the park until 4:15 when the 3 of us headed back to the school to get Nathaniel from Football. We spent a good...5 to 10 minutes looking for his drink cup, then a teacher pointed out he'd forgotten his sweater as well...and eventually we were on our way, down the street and to the post office. We got stopped just outside the office where the construction workers (2 young, not bad looking guys) were working. Zach and Will began asking them questions, and they started teasing the boys. It was cute. Zach was asking how they'd get down off the roof, and the guy told him they jump off. Zach was beginning to believe him, and I didn't want the 20 questions later, so I pointed out the ladder across from us. The guy mentioned that I was giving away his secrets, and feeling a bit bad...we walked away haha.

We went to the post office, and when we got back to the house, I made the boys some pizza and got their fruit. Heloise got home, and took Will home while I put away some laundry, and when she got back, I went to meet Toni and her friend Tom at the movies. We were going to see Robin Hood. The first half, I thought was a little slow, but the 2nd half was pretty awesome. I drove home, spoke to my Mom online, and then went to sleep xx

Day 247

2010-05-20T12:45:00.000-07:00

I had a couple of guys staring at me while I drank my Starbucks today, and got flowers!!! You'll have to read on to find out what I'm talking about.

First, the flowers. I was up in my room and heard Zach calling me. It drives me when they do this, because number one I've normally JUST come upstairs so why did they wait? And Number two...they call you, but don't listen for your answer, so you hear your name 10 times, and say what 10 times, but nothing else comes of it. I yelled what, and he said something but I couldn't hear him. When I finally went back downstairs, he said, "I have something for you". He held out his hands and had picked me a mini bouquet of flowers. Oh my Goodness! What a sweet heart! I gave him a hug, thanked him and ran upstairs to take a picture. Then I put them in some water, and gave him another hug.

I walked the boys up to school today, and Josh was giving me a hard time, because rather than throw the ball (they'd kicked into the street) over the bushes back into the yard...I carried it to school. To him that wasn't good enough. NOBODY carried it. Not his Dad...not his Grandpa...Of course that meant EVERYBODY kicks it back over the fence. Finally fed up of hearing him go on and on about what EVERYBODY else does, I asked if it was ok that I wanted to play with it on the way home? Did he mind cuz it wasn't what EVERYONE else would do according to him. Ugh. Nothing I do is good enough for him! Driving, speaking, and now this. I'm so fed up with it. So I expressed my feelings.

I walked home tossing the ball, and remembering what it was like to be in net. Sigh. I miss soccer.

When I got back, I switched the laundry on, and I checked some e-mails, then went up to Braintree. Today I got an iced Soy extra Caramel Macchiato. It was good, especially when you got a sip of just caramel! But it was gone entirely too fast. Not like a frappuccino or a coffee/tea...like water. A few sips, and you were done. I probably won't get it again, unless I'm dying of heat.

As I sat there writing, there was a little boy standing on a chair, he may have been 2, if that, and he'd give me a huge smile, and then bury his head on the table. It was SO cute! Then they left, and this little boy...maybe a 3 month old, was staring at me and couldn't stop smiling. Either could I hehe. They made my day. Ok so my blog lead in was a little misleading...but it still counts right?

Anyway, I finished my drink, and came back to the house to do laundry, and try to find the Ellen from yesterday. It didn't happen. I found a clip, but not the whole episode :( I'll have to look again tomorrow. I have so much to catch up on now!

When it was time to go get the boys, I walked up. It was another warm day. Shorts and tank top weather, but it was grey out. Zach, Nathaniel and I walked home, and Josh went to Ben's for dinner. When we got in, I managed to get both of them to do their homework, and we were done everything by about 4:30! I couldn't believe it. I had the chicken in the oven, and was finishing up the vegetables when Zach did his flash cards. I cut myself with a potato peeler. That didn't feel too nice...but all in all, things were good. Heloise got home in time to eat, so the 4 of us sat down together, and right after dinner, I walked to the school. Josh was in a concert.

Tina saved me a seat, so when I got there, we were in the perfect spot. He didn't perform until the very last of the concert, but the group did "I Got A Feelin" and "Sweet Child O' Mine" on the guitar. They were awesome.

Tim met up with us there and drove us home. Now I'm jumping in the shower, hopefully talking to my Mom, and going to bed. Good Night xx

Day 246

2010-05-19T12:59:00.001-07:00

I had a GREAT day today. My emotions were still high when I got up and went downstairs, but it wasn't anything too bad.

After taking the boys to school, I walked back to the house - the old men that saw me yesterday, commented on today's outfit - and I checked some e-mails/grabbed some juice when I got in the door. I made a trip to the bank, came back and hung some laundry outside, and couldn't deprive myself of the beautiful weather...so despite earlier thoughts I'd had...I went to Starbucks. And I couldn't be happier that I did.

I got my drink, spoke to the regular people, and was told that I'm not the customer that comes in the most. In fact they said they didn't think I was crazy, and that they completely understand what I mean when I say it's a little piece of home. I talked about when I was coming home for good, and then went to sit outside in the SUNSHINE!

I was out there writing, when the lady that always talks to me came out. She had to sit further away to smoke, but came over and asked if she could join me when she was finished. We had a nice conversation, and then she went back in to work. A while later, I was writing again, and she asked if I'd mind her joining me with her lunch. I said no, put my things away, and we talked a while longer. I told her I really should get going cuz I should be doing laundry, but when it's sunny out...for once...it was just too hard to even think about spending the day inside. She told me to do it when it got dark, and we sat longer haha. A while passed, and an older couple came and sat down. They go in weekly, and began talking to her, joining me in the conversation. Turns out they're Olly Murs grandparents! I don't know if you remember, but I went to see Olly perform in Chelmsford a while back, and got my picture taken. Anyways, his grandparents are the nicest people, and even after the Starbucks lady went inside, they spoke to me. She came back out to talk to them, and then we all decided we should get back to what we were supposed to be doing. As we each got up to leave, I told them about the picture, and how nice/down to earth Olly seems, and the grandma started telling me about when he and his family members got hold of karaoke microphones. Hehe they were too sweet. They went on their way, and so did I.

When I got back to the house, I did the rest of the laundry, watched the end of Desperate Housewives, and all of Glee. I'd say it was a pretty productive day after all.

I drove up to get Josh and Nathaniel (Zach was going to a friend's), and when we got back, I got the two of them to do their homework while I finished folding the laundry. When they'd done, it was time to walk Nathaniel to Beavers. We dropped him, walked back to the house, and I made dinner for Josh and I. I stood to eat, and as soon as my dish went in the dishwasher, we left for swimming. Heloise had gotten home, but we had decided earlier this morning, that I'd take Josh today, as I had yet to see him swim, and she'd do the Beaver pick up.

We got to swimming, and I watched in silence for the first three quarters. The last bit, 2 women began talking to me, which was nice. Josh is a great swimmer, and I wouldn't be surprised if he goes somewhere with it. I know he's great at a lot...but when he's working at it 3-5 times a week...I think that shows his perseverance in the sport.

We got back to the house, Zach told me he ate a sticker, and asked when I came upstairs, he knocked to ask if I'd play a game with him. I told him I'd be down in a minute, and I shut my door...but that's when Heloise called him down, as he wasn't doing what he was supposed to be doing. I went down, made them all a hot chocolate, and then came up with my green tea. Talking to my Mom now, and bed time very shortly. Good Night xx

Day 245

2010-05-18T12:41:00.000-07:00

Uggggh some DAYS!

It started off ok. My fuse went again (lights, not temper), but I didn't really let it bother me. Still wasn't talking to Nathaniel, and gave Josh a talking to as I heard him ask if they could go outside, but I hadn't answered - cuz I was brushing my teeth - and they went out anyways. But the walk to school was fine, and although I wasn't giving Nathaniel the time of day, I was in an ok mood when I left them at the school.

I came back to the house, checked some e-mails and made some phone calls, and then drove up to get my eyebrows done. FINALLY! I felt so much better once they were cleaned up. I returned to the house to make sure I had everything I needed, and then headed to the bank. It's closed Tuesdays. DAMMIT! I knew that, and told myself that yesterday...but then I argued with myself, and said it was closed Mondays. I really should have listened to myself...the other self...not the one I did listen to...

On my way to Chelmsford, I stopped for gas. I parked at Tesco's, and then walked to Starbucks. I got myself a hot chocolate, and then went on my mission. I was to find a list of things for Heloise's class. Things such as file dividers, and once back at the grocery store, golden eggs, golden coins, and other odd things to do with Jack and the Bean Stalk. Well...in the same place I got her dividers, I got myself a book. It cost me 1 pound 99! It's Russel Brand's Booky Wooky! YAYYYY! Now I can finally finish the book I have, because I have something else to read! (I've been putting off reading the end since South Africa).

I got a little frustrated at the grocery store as I couldn't find packets of whole wheat flour, and cans of apple puree, and I wasn't sure if it was cuz I was Canadian and didn't know what packaging to look for...or cuz they actually didn't have the things I needed. I finally gave up after searching for what seemed like hours, and I asked someone. They didn't have it. I got in the car and drove to Braintree.

There, I went on the golden egg and coin search. SUCCESS! It took a couple of different stores, but I was pretty proud of myself in the end. It had gotten colder, and I was in a skirt and tube top, so I got a tea at that Starbucks, (Yes, I had 2 today...but nobody outside this blog is to know that, as I would NEVER hear the end of it), and I sat inside for a bit. A little antsy about getting home to watch the rest of Desperate Housewives...I left early. When I got back though, it was 2 o'clock. Ok...an hour. That meant I should have had time to watch half an hour of a show right? Wrong.

I began putting things away, then ran out to the car to get the rest of the parcels, where I was stopped by a delivery man. He asked me to take a package for the people across the way, so I signed for it, and came back in to put things away. I went upstairs, and this part may sound terrible...but I had a bit of a laugh. You see, I thought Brigitta was here, cuz the door wasn't locked...but I hadn't heard her, and there was a note from her on the counter, so I forgot about her and assumed she had just left without locking up. Well...I went to put Heloise's shampoo away, and I scared the CRAP out of her! After talking to her for a second, I left the room and giggled to myself. Finally, I got her back. - I know...it's terrible.

I just had enough time to dump the load of dry laundry on my bed, after hanging the wet, and change my shoes - my feet were killing me - before driving to get the boys. So much for Desperate Housewives...again.

I picked the boys up, still not talking to Nathaniel, and we got back to the house. I didn't help him carry his bags, and when he wasn't paying attention to what was going on around him, I left them all on the driveway. He was really getting on my nerves as lately he's only worried about himself, and no one else or their feelings. He came to the door, and as I was telling him to go get his things, he started eating leaves. I HATE when he does that. I told him off. The boys got a snack, and we headed to swimming.

Swimming was fine, Josh and I had a nice conversation, and we also talked to the neighbour who was there with her children. It was when the lesson ended, that things went wrong. I won't go into great detail, because it all really upset me and I don't like re living things like that, cuz then I just get angry again, and it doesn't help me de-stress at all. Instead I'll just say, because my emotions were so high with Nathaniel, Zach did something wrong, and I yelled at him. I got everyone in the car and was SO close to tears I am sure the boys could see them, and I apologized to Zach, and told Nathaniel what had happened, and how it wasn't fair to Zach. He apologized to me. Finally! I told him he probably didn't even remember why I had stopped talking to him, and I clearly upset him by pouring all of my feelings out, because he buried his face in his fleece. Josh tried making me laugh, he could see I was soooo close to tears, and I had turned off the music. That NEVER happens, but I didn't want to ruin my Happy CD, with my mood.

We drove to Tescos with Zach crying in the back of the car, and when we got there, he took my hand, but was still crying about the same thing I had yelled at him for...a stick. Anyway, I was glad he was holding my hand. Nathaniel apologized for being so rude. We went into the store, found out they didn't have what I needed, and came back out to the car.

We drove to the house, and Heloise dished up our dinners. All 3 of the boys acted up at dinner, but Nathaniel actually did me a favour (while Heloise was out of the room on the phone) and ate EVERYTHING! Even mushrooms which he HATES! It took a while, but eventually he said he'd do it. I was so pleased with him. Zach wouldn't eat his, and got me angry but I kept my cool. He went off to Heloise. ARGH! I got the other 2 their fruit, and then they got their own dessert, and Zach's - which I didn't agree with. When Heloise had come back in the room, I asked if it was ok that I come upstairs, and she said yes. I was seeing if my Mom was online when a knock came at my door. It was Zach. He asked if he could come in...but if you saw my room right now...you'd understand why I asked him why he wanted in. He said he wanted to play a game with me. YAY! He doesn't hate me even when I get mad at him now! He got upset when I said I wasn't going to play a game tonight, and said he really wanted to. I told him I was going to bed and he began to walk away. I asked if I could have a hug and he said yes. Heloise called him as he was supposed to be doing homework. Haha, little monkey. He told her he'd be down in a minute, but I wanted a cuddle lol. He rolled to me, I gave him a hug, and off he went. I got in the shower, and am now going to speak to my Mom and fold some laundry before getting a decent night's sleep. Good Night xx

Oh yeah, and I showed them the chart this morning. Josh asked me if I wanted to do it, and I told him that I knew they would want to cuz they ask me every day how much longer I'm here for. He looked upset...but I'm not sure that he was cuz he and Nathaniel just ran off to play and didn't say anything. Now they just want to know who behaved best so they can put the sticker on. Nice.

Day 244

2010-05-17T15:54:00.000-07:00

Why is it that you can try to look your best, really like your outfit, feel good about yourself, and think a guy is ACTUALLY looking at you...and then it all has to end? Keep reading to find out what I mean...

This morning was fine. The boys got ready, and then read while I did Zach's teeth and hair. The 3 of them went outside to play cricket, and I finished getting ready. I was in heels and a dress, so we took the car today and were able to leave a little later than usual. (Nathaniel was still being rude today, and was making me angry).

We got to the school, I dropped the 3 of them off, and then I came back to the house to make sure I had everything I needed, and headed to Braintree. When I got there, because it was so nice out, I got my Starbucks and sat outside while I wrote a card. As I sat down, it felt like something had fallen on my knee. When I looked at it, I had a little bit of a run. Crap! Oh well, it's not that big or noticeable - I thought - When I finished, I went into the Chocolate store, I got some cream eggs, and then went to tell the information centre that I had found my phone. Once they deleted the information from the computer, I went into Claire's. I was looking at pearl bracelets - gathered ones that Fifth Avenue doesn't sell - Well, I crouched down to look at some others, and that's where it all went wrong. The run got bigger, down my knee! CRAP! Now it was going to be noticeable :( I decided, as I wasn't sold on any of the pearls anyway, that I would leave. I got up, and walked out, attempting to hide the run with my shopping bag. This guy that I think was smiling at me, must think I'm a huge bitch. I completely avoided eye contact with him (and the other 2 guys that had been doing some type of construction the entire time I had my coffee), all because I was so self conscious. He was a good looking guy too. Dammit. I felt so bad, but I was SO aware of the run, there was nothing I could do. Unless I took them off in the bathroom, but then it would have been like the 4th time I walked past them in a matter of minutes...so I decided against it, and continued to the car.

I drove back to the house, and when I arrived, because it was os sunny out, I decided to have fun with my camera. It was awesome. I felt a couple of rain drops, and decided I'd better go in. I then did laundry (as usual), and watched Grey's Anatomy. Then, while watching Desperate Housewives, I made a "Countdown til Maija's gone" chart for the boys. That's when the phone rang. It was Josh's soccer coach. Josh was in a panic because he had a big soccer game with the kids a year older than him, and he had forgotten his shin pads. I told him I'd run them over right away, and that's what I did.

I found a parking spot further away than I'd hoped, as I was still in my dress and heels (no nylons), and as I drove to the school, it had started to drizzle. Well...I opened my door, got out...and the heavens opened. It began to pour down on me. Awesome, I thought. I couldn't walk any quicker because of the heels I was in, so I just put my head down, and endured the weather. The secretary seemed to think I was great. She's the one I always talk to when the boys forget something, and she kept saying "AWWW Bless you!"

I walked back to the car, and drove to the house. It was now probably 5 to 3, so I ran upstairs to change (Although I didn't want to), and I put the laundry away, all in a hurry so that I could get back to the school, and pick the other 2 up. Well wouldn't you know it, I looked out the window, and it was sunny again. I walked outside, ok...jogged...got into the car, and drove back to the school parking far away again as I was later than usual. I got out, and was so hot in the jacket I had thrown on. I was angry at the weather.

I got the boys, and Nathaniel ended up yelling at me on the way to the car. It was then that I decided I wasn't going to talk to him properly for the rest of the day. We drove to my Aunt and Uncle's, and when we got there, I talked to her for a bit, then the two of us sat and watched the boys play with bubbles. Soon enough, I couldn't resist the temptation. I too, joined in the bubble fun. - Still not being very nice to Nathaniel - My Uncle and Josh got in in time for dinner, we all sat and ate. They went to play outside for a bit, and I stayed in the kitchen helping to clean up.

When Josh and my Uncle left for swimming, I cleaned up all of the bubble things, and got the other 2 ready to leave. As we were leaving, and in the car, Nathaniel said something to me. I turned to him and said, "In case you haven't noticed, I'm not really talking to you right now, and until you learn how to treat me better, I'm not going to talk to you very nicely". He tried to get me to talk the rest of the way home, but I turned the music up, and only answered Zach's questions.

When we got in, I came up and washed my hair, the boys went to bed, and then I sat downstairs waiting for Glee to start. I spoke to some people online, and watched with Heloise. Then I came up to talk to my Mom on Skype, and write the rest of this. I really should be going to sleep soon though. Good Night xx

Day 243

2010-05-16T15:08:00.001-07:00

What a day. From good to bad, and bad to good, and back again, there were many ups and downs.

It began with a down. Screaming at who knows what time. UGH! I was awoken a number of times this way, and I eventually gave up trying to sleep. By the time I gave up, the boys were leaving the house, so of course, now that I was awake, the house was quiet. Whatever. I spent a bit of time on my computer and eventually started getting ready to take them to the movies. Nathaniel had agreed to seeing Iron Man 2 with the rest of us, last night. So ready, and skipping breakfast, I went downstairs when I heard them come in. I was thinking it was an hour later than it was, and asked if they were ready. Josh said they hadn't had lunch yet, and I began to panic. Then I looked at the time and realized we still had an hour. I said that was fine, and went upstairs.

When the hour had passed, I went downstairs, and outside to get them. I asked if they were ready, and Nathaniel said he didn't want to come. Zach couldn't wait and screamed - the same type of scream he got in trouble for this morning - so Heloise came out and told him he had to go to his room. Then after trying to persuade Nathaniel to come, I gave up. I told him it would be the last time I asked him to do anything with me - cuz he never wants to - and told Josh to come on. Well...then there was a huge melt down with Josh. He didn't want to go cuz he didn't think it was fair to Zach. Great. I was getting so angry. Then, Nathaniel decided he'd come cuz he didn't want me to stop asking him to do stuff, Josh didn't know if he wanted to or not, and Heloise and Tim were yelling at the two of them to make up their minds, telling Nathaniel it was 9 pound so if he didn't want to go, not to go. Then he was upset cuz he didn't want to go, but didn't want me to stop asking him to go to things. Josh still didn't know what he wanted to do, and he was getting in trouble. I made a comment on how he always bails on me as well, and for him to make up his mind because if we were going we had to leave or we'd miss it, and if he wasn't, to tell me so that I could know what I was doing. He took forever and in the end I said fine so I'm going by myself? I walked towards the door and Tim said "So no one's going now then?" I stood to wait for the answer, and so pissed off when they both said no, I told Tim and Heloise I'd see them later, and I left the house. Nathaniel came running to the door, opened it and said "Thanks for asking!" but I ignored him, and holding back loads of tears, I got into the car and drove away. As I pulled out, I saw him watching over the fence, and the look I gave him was not very nice. I hope he knows how upset I was. - Wow, writing about it is not a good idea...I was ok with it eventually, and now I'm getting upset again -

On the way to Braintree I decided I didn't care, I had told myself I was having popcorn today, and it was going to happen, cousins or no cousins. I thought of how my Aunt Jill (GAJ) would be laughing at me at that moment, and it made me smile. I stopped to get gas, and some St. George's Cross wrapped Mars Bars, and when I finished there, went to Freeport. I walked into the theatre, asked what was playing, and chose the one movie I hadn't seen yet "Nanny McPhee and the Big Bang". I got my drink and my popcorn, and I went to sit on my own. I didn't really care. Not nearly as much as I thought I would. It was actually quite nice. I didn't even have to chew my popcorn quietly in the not so loud parts of the movie. Plus the theatre was mostly kids, so it wasn't too intimidating. I almost broke down in tears a few times during the movie, but all in all, it was cute, and I enjoyed it.

Once I finished there, I walked out with a smile on my face, still thinking of my Aunt Jill, and feeling good about myself. I had stepped WAY out of my comfort zone, and it felt great. I walked over to Starbucks - and was liking my outfit, so I walked with confidence - I talked to the regular people there who kept me smiling, and I left. I walked back to the car, and drove to the house smiling the whole way.

When I got back, Heloise and Tim asked what I had seen, and Josh was acting way too interested, clearly trying to get me to forgive him. I'm sure he doesn't realize it still, but I'm so angry with him and Nathaniel. Heloise made him apologize to me, but I didn't pay much attention to it, they can be so rude, and SO selfish. Zach said he wanted to come with me next time. He then asked me to go outside with him, so I did. I was in my slippers, and told him I'd have to change into shoes. Nathaniel and Josh were trying to say sorry so I explained that I wouldn't have been bothered if they just didn't want to see the movie. (Even though I KNOW Josh wanted to). I said it was the fact that I was going to go to Peterborough this weekend, but then thought the boys might want to go see a movie...then when they agreed to Iron Man 2, I thought ok great! Then 5 MINUTES before leaving they changed their minds. I told them it was selfish and ruined my plans. Josh looked like he might understand, but within minutes...no, probably seconds, the 2 of them were off laughing and playing soccer and asking me to get their ball for them UGH! I should have gone up to my room, and ignored them, but I didn't.

Anyway, I played with Zach, and then the 4 of us were walking to the field to play a Spongebob game, when I asked if they'd want to do a bit of a treasure hunt. I asked if they'd help look for my phone. Everyone but the selfish Nathaniel said yes. Josh was trying to be really helpful and even Zach was pushing plant leaves aside. Nathaniel mentioned that it was boring and the worst type of treasure hunt ever. He was being so rude all day today I was getting angry.

We gave up and began walking to the field, when I remembered George and Alice. I explained to the boys why we should leave their area alone, and play in the back instead. We went back into the backyard, and the two older boys decided to go in and watch Cricket. My Aunt and Uncle had arrived by this time and began helping to get dinner ready. Zach and I began "exploring". I don't know how, but we ended up in the front again. We began talking and walking, and ended up over by the river. I have no idea how - you'll understand when you see the pic - but I saw my phone!!!!!!!!!! It was in a divot SO close to the river! I have no idea how I was so lucky for so many different reasons. It could have fallen in in the first place, with all the ducks and cats around, it could have been knocked in, plus it had rained a bit this morning, and my phone STILL works!!!!!!! I couldn't believe it! I was so happy! I told Zach I had to run in and call the phone company, so I did that, let some people know that I'd found it and thanked them for caring, and then went back out to play with Zach until dinner. There was also a couple of minutes where Josh had asked to see my pictures I had taken when I lost my phone. He didn't understand why I would want to take a picture of an Ant though, and then Nathaniel started being rude about it, and treating me like dirt, so I shut my computer down and started helping put the food on the table.

We sat and ate, and there was more tantrums, yelling, and the sending of one boy to his room for a brief moment. When we finished, I made them all hot chocolate. Josh was the only one that finished his which aggravated me. After dessert they all went to bed, and the grown ups sat around talking. I wasn't happy with the conversation, but bit my tongue, and put up with it. Eventually my Aunt and Uncle left, and I came up to do this, paint my nails and go to bed. I'm exhausted but feel like I'm going to break into tears at any moment, so I don't want to close my eyes and try to sleep cuz I don't want to think about missing home. I better though, or I won't be in a good mood tomorrow. Good Night xx

Day 242

2010-05-15T16:53:00.000-07:00

Right, let's get this blog started.

Screams woke me up early this morning. Once I finished getting angry about it, I fell back to sleep. Then came a knock at my door...and another knock...and when I didn't answer that one, another. Then, because I stayed silent, Zach opened my door. I said No, he closed it and left. I finally fell back to sleep, and soon enough, there was another knock on my door, followed by Zach calling my name. YOU'VE GOT TO BE KIDDING ME?!?!?! As I said what, Heloise yelled at him to leave me alone and come downstairs. I laid awake, and eventually gave up on going back to sleep. I rolled over, and opened my laptop. While the internet took it's sweet time to load, I closed my eyes, and began drifting off. I put an end to that though, checked my e-mails, and then got in the shower.

Once I was dressed, I went downstairs and had a conversation with Tim and Heloise. I figured out what each of the boys were doing today, and asked Josh if he wanted to go to Starbucks. He said sure, and asked if Nathaniel would be coming. I told him we could ask him, and when we did - just as I thought - Nathaniel said no. We were asked to bring back 3 frappuccinos though, and had to be back by 10 to 3. It was 2 by the time I finished my makeup. So, the 2 of us jumped in the car, and drove to Braintree. We listened to "Sweet Caroline", and Josh did the "BUM BUM BUM!" I was so happy. We had to go the longer way because there was a wedding, and the bride and groom's horses were holding up traffic. When we arrived, Josh and I checked in with Customer service about my phone, and also the sports shop. No such luck, so we went to Starbucks. When we got there, we ordered all of the drinks, 5 in total, *I'VE DONE IT!!! I'VE CONVERTED THEM!!!* And we went back to the car, and drove to the house. We didn't get there til 3, but caught Heloise and Zach in the driveway so we were still able to give them their drinks. Then Josh went with them to get his friend, and I went into the house.

I looked Iron Man up for Nathaniel, but he didn't want to watch it, so I sat on the couch and went on my laptop. He and Tim left for a birthday party, and Heloise came back with Josh and his friend. We were watching football, but then they went out to play, so I put a movie on. It was "Baby Mama", one I've wanted to see for a while, but haven't gotten around to it. I kept getting interrupted, and Josh wanted me to play with them, but then they couldn't decide what to do. I was getting frustrated, and had paused and un paused so many times it was crazy. When Heloise got Zach, he came in and wanted "his shows" on. Seeing as I couldn't hear the movie anyway, I gave in. He then decided not to watch it. I was so angry. I asked him if that meant I could put my movie back on, he said yes, but when I switched it over...the credits were rolling. ARGH!

The boys ate, and I made them hot chocolates. When they went outside, I made a duck mask for Heloise's class. Once the boys went to bed, Heloise, Tim and I had dinner, and then I worked on my scrapbook and talked to people online. My Dad called and I had a nice conversation with him and Stephen, did more work on my scrapbook, and then decided I should come up to bed so that I get to sleep before 2:30 tonight. Well...it's now 1am, so maybe I should get going. Good Night xx

Day 241

2010-05-14T17:11:00.001-07:00

I got a proposal today. I'll get to that in a bit though.

The morning was fine. A good one actually. Still no phone, but I kind of knew that getting out of bed. Anyway, I came downstairs, had my breakfast, read Zach's book with him, got the boys ready, and then began to teach them the electric slide. Josh didn't like the song :| He said he wanted to do the other one instead. The other 2 weren't really paying attention anyways, so I put "5,6,7,8" on and showed them the steps again. The other 2 weren't interested in the proper moves, they were just bouncing around, but Josh was really trying, so I kept teaching him, and eventually it was time to leave the house.

We walked up to the school, and again, went the long way. It was pretty warm out. I was in a short sleeved hoodie, and even thought about changing into a dress. I dropped the 3 of them, then walked to the front to meet up with my Aunt. The two of us signed in at the office, and then went to the gym to watch Josh's year do an assembly. They were telling us what they'd been learning this term, talked about South Africa, and we watched a music video of some "Percy Parker" cartoon character that sings about Math. At the end of it all, we said bye to Josh, my Aunt drove away, and I walked home. She had offered me a ride, but I wanted the exercise. On my way home, I decided I wouldn't be changing into a dress, it was far too chilly for that.

I got back, grabbed some cards, and drove up to Freeport on my hunt for my phone. I went to the same stores as yesterday, but didn't have any luck. I even tried customer service again...dammit, I think it's really gone. I went into Starbucks, got my tea, and spent a good hour or so there. It was nice. When I finished I came back to the house, wrapped some things up while watching "Glee" - Such a good episode! and "American Idol". When that finished, it was time to go get Nathaniel and Zach.

When i got to the school, I actually parallel parked the car! The Beast! I was so proud of myself! It didn't take much at all! I walked into the playground, got the boys, and we drove back to the house. When we arrived, my Uncle and Aunt were here. They said they came by in case Tim couldn't get back in time to take Nathaniel to soccer. I started cooking dinner for him, and once it was on the table and he ate it, I got his fruit and dessert. Because they were here anyways, I asked if they'd mind me running up to the Post Office. They said no, so off I went. Well! It must have been the shortest wait time on record for them! I walked in, and right up to the counter! The lady was actually nice to me, and I got everything I needed to, done! I came back to the house, and my Uncle had gone to soccer with Tim and Nathaniel, and Zach and my Aunt were playing in the playroom. Zach wanted to wait til Heloise got home to eat, so I made myself what I thought might be a healthy, but perhaps tasty meal. It was definitely healthy. A can of mixed beans, and a tin of tuna...but it definitely didn't taste good! The first half was fine, but by the 2nd half, I was done with the texture, and was dumping the rest in the garbage.

Heloise got home, and I began to make dinner for her and Zach. My Aunt left, and then Heloise went to drop something off for Josh. She was gone longer than she expected, so Zach had eaten, and by the time she walked in, we were watching "Alice in Wonderland". Nathaniel and Tim arrived shortly after, and while they were talking, Nathaniel watching with us, I got my proposal. Zach looked at me and asked me if he could marry me! I MUST BE DOING SOMETHING RIGHT! It was so cute, and so honest! I thought back to stories I heard about when my brother was younger, and it put a huge smile on my face. I paused, and then said "No...cousins can't marry each other...but thank you very much for the offer". He did a sad face, and put his head on my shoulder. Awwwww.

The two boys went up to bed, and I have been on the computer/watching TV with Heloise and Tim all night while they did her homework. Tim went to get Josh, he went to bed as soon as he got home, and after Heloise and Tim went up, I stayed downstairs to watch "Just Friends". It's odd, cuz I was ready to go to bed HOURS ago, but you can't say no to this movie. That, and I had to catch up on my blogs :p Now I'm pretty awake, but am freeezing!!!! And have a mouse killing cat lying on my arm. I think I'm going to watch the rest in bed. Good Night xx And thanks for reading :D

Day 240

2010-05-14T14:46:00.000-07:00

A little dance, mixed with a little music makes everything better...even if just for the moment.

Our day began with breakfast as usual, but then I decided to show the boys the dance to Steps - "5,6,7,8". They gave up pretty quickly, but were dancing around like fools anyway, and that's all I wanted. We didn't get through the whole song, as it was time to leave, but we were all happy, and were so early leaving, that we had time to walk the long way to school. When we got to school, we were STILL early!

I dropped them off, and came back to the house. What I did between then and heading to Freeport...I can't remember. I think I waited for the plumber to get here...and then left.

When I got to Freeport, I went straight to Starbucks, and had my tea while writing some cards. When I finished there, I knew I had a lot of TV I wanted to watch, some laundry to do, and not a lot of time. I headed towards the Freeport exit, but noticed a window decal to my right. It said "Come on England 2010" and it looked awesome. I went in to see if they sold it there, and if not, wanted to know where they got it. Well it turns out Head office sent it to them, and they checked, but didn't have any extras :( They named a few different places I could check, and I did end up getting some stuff, but will still be on the look out for one that looks like that. Now...this...I think...is where my day turned to a mad panic without me knowing. I checked my phone to see the time as I walked out of the sports store. It was 12:35. I got in the car, and drove back to the house. I almost got hit on the way, as I didn't see a van coming toward me until after I'd already pulled out of a drive I was turning around in. I panicked a little bit, but was ok, and continued on my way.

When I got back to the house, there was a cat in the driveway. One that was going to make for a really nice picture. I left all of my shopping on the front seat, grabbed my camera, and spent the next probably 20 minutes in the front garden. When I came inside, I had to go to the washroom so badly that I ran up the stairs, dropped my parcels in the hall, and ducked into the bathroom. When I came out, I went to check the time or something, and realized my phone was not in my pocket. Odd. I checked a few places I thought it might be, but had no luck locating it. I began to get frustrated, but really wanted to watch "Lost", so I forgot about it for a bit, folded some laundry, and watched it. When it finished, I looked a little more, but still couldn't find it. Now, beginning to panic, I was searching under the seats in the car, and everywhere else I could think of. It was time to get Nathaniel, so I walked up to the school, waited for him and his friend - who were out really quickly - and the 3 of us walked back to the house. Listening to their conversations was hilarious, but I was getting more and more worried about my phone, as I racked my brain, and couldn't for the life of me think of where else it would be.

I unlocked the door, sent the boys inside, and then checked the garden for my phone. Nothing. I came in, made the boys dinner, and searched my room. Still nothing. After the boys and I ate, Nathaniel got ready for Judo, and they went in to play Wii until Heloise got home. When she did, they got ready to leave, and I was alone! I wasn't really having fun though. No, I was still panicking about my phone. I searched the garden again, and called it a number of times, but had switched it to vibrate only - just before losing it - so there wasn't much chance of me hearing it. I went up to my room and spoke to my Mom on Skype while I changed my sheets, and searched my room some more. Still couldn't find it anywhere.

Heloise and the boys came back, and without me knowing, Heloise left again. I wish someone had of told me, as I was outside in my Pyjamas and Spongebob slippers ready to check the car again, before I realized it was gone. I went back up to talk to my Mom, and call a number of phone related places. When Heloise reappeared, I went out to check again, but still didn't have any luck. I had gone through the garden again as well, but it was pointless. I went to bed. xx