http://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/en-UKMokoFeed10http://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/http://data5.blog.de/design/preview/25/c6e6a6b26705b2d14b6741a073a4b6_160x200.jpghttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2009/05/23/hey-its-me-6164185/tag:suzsheff.blog.co.uk,2009-05-23:/2009/05/23/hey-its-me-6164185/Sat, 23 May 2009 17:32:09 +0200 <p>Hi all, its been a long time but finally over the past few months I've not felt the need to express myself in words and had seriously thought about deleting my blog but decided against it. Good decision to.</p> <p>So far I'm having a great year. The highlight so far was going to Cuba in March with my hubby for our silver wedding treat. It was fabulous. We stayed at a swanky hotel and were pampered to the max. The country is beautiful and it is difficult to explain how such a fabulous country can having such appalling living conditions for their people. We went to Havana which was fab but it was heartbreaking to see the conditions of a lot of their buildings and it was amazing to see people living in places which we would just pull down and start again.</p> <p>Work wise things are going well. I'm really enjoying my job and it hasn't been difficult at all for me to cope with the variety of work which I have to do which at times can be difficult and stressful. Our team is now fully recruited to and hopefully now we will move on and make headways in our work - it is so much better now than when I joined 18 months ago.</p> <p>Talking about work takes me to the reason why I felt the need to write my thoughts again. A lovely lady R who's American has been working in our office for the past two years. Last night her and her hubby had drinks with people who they've made friends with whilst living in Sheffield as they are moving down south next week. Me and my buddy N were invited to have a drink with them at a local pub along with our hubbies.</p> <p>We went last night and admittedly I had quite a lot to drink and was my usual self whilst drunk which is happy, a bit daft but never nasty in any shape or form. Anyway our group of 4 had been sat at a table and towards the end of the evening I felt the need to go to the ladies. After coming out I noticed R and her hubby with some of their friends and went across to have a chat. Admittedly I was probably being a bit daft and after a bit it became quite clear that R was embarrased by me in front of her "yuppy" chums who are their tennis chumb from a posh end of the city. My mate's hubby was on his way to the gents and came over to have a chat. I was totally astounded when R (who I've always been really nice to and got on well with) asked G to take me back to the table as I want talking rubbish.</p> <p>I was really upset by this and ended up having a bit of a cry on my mate's shoulder as I'd never been so disrespected before in my whole life (writing this is really helping me sorry if I'm boring you). Later R came to say bye to us and to be honest I could hardly be bothered to talk to her. She's facebooked me today condescendingly asking "how are you today" meaning you were totally embarassing last night. So far I've not responded albeit put a little posting on mine just to let her know that I've seen her comment but decided at this time not to answer. Question is now should I let her know my feelings or not? I probably won't see her again now (she and hubby are moving down South)but had planned to keep in touch via facebook. </p> <p>I don't like having a relationship finish on our sour note but to be honest in the past if she's felt someone's disrespected her in anyway she's not liked it at all. mmmmmmmmmmmm what should I do? </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2009/05/23/hey-its-me-6164185/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>lifehttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2009/05/23/hey-its-me-6164185/#commentshttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2009/01/13/social-weekend-5371272/tag:suzsheff.blog.co.uk,2009-01-13:/2009/01/13/social-weekend-5371272/Tue, 13 Jan 2009 16:09:27 +0100 <p>Almost time to go back to work. We've had a lovely weekend. We went to D&R's on Saturday and some other friends came as well. D&R made a lovely meal helped by their two kids who ate with us and it was a lovely family/friends time. I put a thank you card to them all in the post yesterday as we had such a great time with them.</p> <p>On Sunday I cooked a meal and R&R came round. M was also there and it was lovely, R was 22 yesterday so we celebrated her birthday with a roast beef dinner followed by R's request of treacle sponge and custard. Me and hubby picked up some Xmas crackers so it made quite a nice family time. Its lovely to hear the kids chatting away while me and hubby are in the kitchen.</p> <p>Yesterday ma was supposed to be coming out with me and R but couldn't cos of the dratted flu. Me and R did a little bit of shopping, went to a Chinese buffet and then onto the flicks to see War Brides which although a bit cheesy made for a nice girly time.</p> <p>Got home to find the paperwork for N&my trip to London which is on 7th Feb - not long now. Its great to have things to look forward to makes it worth going to work and any stress attained while at work is quickly depleted when you have other things going on in your life.</p> <p>See you soon.XX </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2009/01/13/social-weekend-5371272/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>workfriendslifeleisurefamilymovieshttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2009/01/13/social-weekend-5371272/#commentshttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2009/01/06/back-to-work-thank-goodness-5334161/tag:suzsheff.blog.co.uk,2009-01-06:/2009/01/06/back-to-work-thank-goodness-5334161/Tue, 06 Jan 2009 21:28:03 +0100 <p>Yes its back to work for me tomorrow and to be honest I'm looking forward to it. It will be the first day of my new job. I've now got the remanants of a cough which isn't too difficult to deal with and am feeling fighting fit and ready for the off.</p> <p>We went out with N&G on Saturday and had a good night. On the housework front my ironings up to date, the house is shipshape, I've made a lovely dinner tonight (my own receipe for a beef casserole)which was enhanced by a glass of the red stuff.</p> <p>Today I did get a bit bored this afternoon and am looking forward to seeing my workmates tomorrow and using my brain for a change. It'll be strange going back to working 3 days a week but am sure I'll get used to it.</p> <p>R&R came round last night. It was lovely to see them. R's trying to get some work. He's a self employed joiner and has been ok for work till Christmas but now he's back to trying to find some work. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2009/01/06/back-to-work-thank-goodness-5334161/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>friendsworkfoodleisurelifehttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2009/01/06/back-to-work-thank-goodness-5334161/#commentshttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2009/01/02/back-on-track-5312593/tag:suzsheff.blog.co.uk,2009-01-02:/2009/01/02/back-on-track-5312593/Fri, 02 Jan 2009 17:14:58 +0100 <p>At last the flu is abating. Today I've been to Meadowhall, the car park was absolutely jam packed and by the time I came away the overflow park had been opened. Bought a new bikini for my jollies - need to lose some weight though (about 3 stone!) and that's once again on my new year list same as last year.</p> <p>Spoke to R yesterday and we're going to their house next Saturday for a meal. Tomorrow fingers crossed we're out with N&G. Its N's 46th bday on Sunday so will be celebrating (comisserating) with a few drinks and then a ruby murray.</p> <p>Going to the supermarket in the morning and then it'll be ironing, in fact, I might do some after I've been on here.</p> <p>Not back at work till next Wednesday so I'm going to try and get some jobs done around the house - trouble is though I do get bored with it but never mind. Also, I've promised myself to start doing some exercise and intend to go swimming on Tuesday.</p> <p>Have a good weekend /xx </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2009/01/02/back-on-track-5312593/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>lifeleisurehttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2009/01/02/back-on-track-5312593/#commentshttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/12/31/flaming-flu-5303723/tag:suzsheff.blog.co.uk,2008-12-31:/2008/12/31/flaming-flu-5303723/Wed, 31 Dec 2008 15:01:08 +0100 <p>Came home from my sis's on Saturday not feeling too great and by Sunday flu had taken hold. Have been in bed most of this week and today am just managing to start to do things. Am a bit brassed off cos I was supposed to be working yesterday and today but had to ring in sick. Firstly, am brassed off cos its been 2 1/2 years since I was last off sick and am not too happy about having to break that and secondly I was hoping to get loads of stuff done in the office with it been a quiet time. Still life is what it is.</p> <p>Now what I really am brassed off about is that we were supposed to be going out with N&G tonight and we've had to cancel on them, something which I don't like doing and I was really looking forward to going out with them. We've got another night out planned for Saturday so fingers crossed for that one!</p> <p>Looking back on 2008 for me its been a good year. Holiday wise I've done some great things, our friendship with N&G has really come on leaps and bounds. Work wise our team has really turned a corner and I'm really pleased about being part of that. Of course, R moved in with R in June and although I've missed her and still do its been great to see her so happy.</p> <p>Where our M is concerned its certainly been a turbulent year but since he's been going out with H he seems to have settled down and I'm hoping his next step will be to sort himself with a career. He's still working in the pub which has been great for him and I'm not knocking it but long term its not going to be a great way of providing him and any family he may have with a fantastic future but I'm certain that he'll come up trumps in the end.</p> <p>Looking forward to 2009. Well me and hubby are going to Cuba in March which will be an adventure. Of course me and N will be off to London in February. My personal goal is to keep happy, do well in my new job and to carry on having a great social life. </p> <p>Here's to 2009 I think it may be a bit of a difficult year with the economy in the state its currently in but as long as we can keep happy, healthy and have a roof over our heads that in my opinion is all that you can wish for.</p> <p>Bye xx </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/12/31/flaming-flu-5303723/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>new-yearworkfriendsleisureholidayslifehttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/12/31/flaming-flu-5303723/#commentshttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/12/28/well-hello-5288452/tag:suzsheff.blog.co.uk,2008-12-28:/2008/12/28/well-hello-5288452/Sun, 28 Dec 2008 14:15:05 +0100 <p>Hope you all had a great Xmas and all the best for 2009 to you all.</p> <p>Thought I'd spend a few minutes updating my blog on the past few weeks. Well I got P's job and will be starting w/c 5th Jan. My working days will be Wed-Fri and there's a possibility that the job may be stretched to 4 days but will wait and see on that one.</p> <p>Am very happy to have been offered the job. The past 2 1/2 years since handing in my notice at my last employer until now has been very challenging. I didn't think after giving up a job due to mental health problems that anyone would want to employ me again but that was totally wrong. What I realise now was at the time I was strong enough to make a decision to change my life in what at first might seem a negative way but in fact it was my way of taking control of my life again and listening to my inner self on what I needed to do to get things on the right track again.</p> <p>Getting over a breakdown is never easy but what I've learnt is that the only way to make sure it doesn't happen again is take time to think about what you need to do to change things. The first thing for me was facing the fact that I needed counselling to help me understand what was happening to me and finding a way of understanding that sometimes things happen to you that aren't your fault but nevertheless leave you feeling angry towards the world.</p> <p>The second step was accepting that I am merely a human being and like anyone else have my emotional needs and insecurities. A major thing for me was realising that it's ok to ask for help - something that I once did and thought I hadn't been listened to but now I realise I was so wrong about that.</p> <p>Anyway my plan on returning to work has always been one step at a time and I set myself small goals. The first was to find a job that wasn't mentally demanding and which also gave me a reason for getting out of bed in the morning. It was important to me in my return to get to the point where on an application form I didn't have to complete the bit about what illnesses have you had over the past two years (obviously minor ailments not included in this). I managed to do this about six months ago.</p> <p>I've now taken the next step forward which has taken me to a job which was the same grade as I used to be on - for me this is a major achievement but to be honest that doesn't really matter. The reason I wanted the job was that I was getting bored doing the same thing all day which to me was a sign that I was ready for the next step and so in January will be doing a job which is more varied and enables me to get chance to chat with people which I love doing.</p> <p>Sorry didn't mean this to be such a long blog.</p> <p>We've had a lovely Xmas. It was our first without having R with us for Xmas lunch as they went to R's mas for that and came down later. We had my extended family with us plus M of course and it was great but next year I think we'll be going back to having a small family Xmas.</p> <p>We went to the panto yesterday (Aladdin). This is a great panto and we all enjoyed it. Today I've succummbed to a winter cold and am not feeling too great. I'm supposed to be back at work on Tuesday and on NYE we're out wth N&G so I've got to get better for that. Mind you think hubby might come down with it too so will see what happens</p> <p>That's all for now. Love to all xxxx</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/12/28/well-hello-5288452/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>friendsxmasfamilylifehealthworkhttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/12/28/well-hello-5288452/#commentshttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/11/29/long-time-no-see-5132627/tag:suzsheff.blog.co.uk,2008-11-29:/2008/11/29/long-time-no-see-5132627/Sat, 29 Nov 2008 16:31:06 +0100 <p>Hi to you all. I've not written on here for quite a while but I've got 10 minutes to here goes.</p> <p>I've got an interview for P's job on 8th December. None of the other applicants have got experience of our department's work plus I've been doing the job now for about six weeks since P left and no problems so far, in fact think we're doing pretty good. We've sorted out the backlog of work and for the first time am quite up to date with our work.</p> <p>Me and N have booked London. Are going on Feb 7th on a coach trip staying in an hotel overnight and will be seeing Dirty Dancing on Sat afternoon. We also going to Lincoln this Monday which should be good.</p> <p>Getting ready for Xmas now, been shopping today. </p> <p>Our M's just come home, not seen him for ages so going to have a chat with him. Bye xx </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/11/29/long-time-no-see-5132627/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>lifechristmasworkhttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/11/29/long-time-no-see-5132627/#commentshttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/11/13/work-is-great-at-the-moment-5031912/tag:suzsheff.blog.co.uk,2008-11-13:/2008/11/13/work-is-great-at-the-moment-5031912/Thu, 13 Nov 2008 22:22:11 +0100 <p>Just felt like saying our office is great at the moment. Since P's left there's no more sadness, moaning and being negative. C who is 21 and works in our team is simply ace. She's the same age as my daughter and she's absolutely lovely. Works extremely hard and is a real credit to our team. Not got an interview date yet for P's job but hope to get one tomorrow. Am really enjoying stepping up to the mark and doing her role so please, please keep them crossed for me!</p> <p>ps. nearly forgot to say me and N have decided to have a break in London in the new year, just in the process of setting it up and can't wait!!!!!!!!! </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/11/13/work-is-great-at-the-moment-5031912/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>workfriendslondonhttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/11/13/work-is-great-at-the-moment-5031912/#commentshttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/11/09/fighting-friends-5009176/tag:suzsheff.blog.co.uk,2008-11-09:/2008/11/09/fighting-friends-5009176/Sun, 09 Nov 2008 19:41:39 +0100 <p>Hi all, I've not been on here very much lately as currently I'm working four days a week and so have less free time available. Quick update on the job front. Currently I'm standing in for P who left about three weeks ago and boy what a relief it's been. I hadn't realised how draining she'd been to the team, never wanting to change anything and wanting to control everything that went on to the detriment of the department (in my opinion). It's awful but workwise we haven't missed her at all, in fact, its made things a lot easier. I've applied for her job which is the same hours but on the next band up. The closing date was last Thursday and so its wait and see time. Cross your fingers for me but to be honest if I don't get this one I'll definitely be moving on elsewhere after all the effort I've put in this year.</p> <p>Anyway a quick round up of this weekend. Yesterday me and hubby went to N&G''s for a meal which was lovely. We had a great night until the end when N&G starting arguing (well really it was N telling G how she felt) about wanting to move house. We had at this point ordered a taxi which was taking ages to show up so me and hubby decided to take our leave and flag a taxi down. N was crying when we left and I feel so sorry for her cos G just won't see her point of view.</p> <p>Today me and hubby went to Meadowhell and he bought a new suit for work. We had a look round the shops and I got some ideas of pressies I'd like for Xmas so have started my little list. Tomorrow going to Crystal Peaks to get a bit of shopping then its cleaning and cooking ala fish pie for tomorrow and meat and tatie pie for Tuesday.</p> <p>Have a great night and see you soon. XX </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/11/09/fighting-friends-5009176/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>friendsfoodshoppingworkhttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/11/09/fighting-friends-5009176/#commentshttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/10/25/saturday-night-stay-in-4930913/tag:suzsheff.blog.co.uk,2008-10-25:/2008/10/25/saturday-night-stay-in-4930913/Sat, 25 Oct 2008 19:40:44 +0200 <p>Well hope you've had a good day. I started off this morning taking my car into have my windscreen sorted. It had a chip and luckily they managed to fix it so no insurance excess to pay, phew. Then went to Debenhams, I bought a Fiorelli bag recently and to be honest it was falling apart so I managed to get another back with enough money left over to put towards a gorgeous top which will be great to wear over the Xmas period.</p> <p>I then came home and made sausage and egg sarnies for lunch after which hubby went off to watch Sheff Utd whilst I went to Morrisons to do the food shopping. After which I came home and rang my sis up for a chat. We sorted out Xmas and my sis and her family and my ma are coming to us in the afternoon. M will be working so we won't be having Xmas dinner until about 4.30 so we'll have all day to get it prepared whilst my sis can spend a few hours with my 10 year old nieces and their pressies.</p> <p>For tea tonight I cooked from Jamie Oliver's new book and made Marrocan lamb, superb and very filling.</p> <p>Now I've got Strictly on and am just waiting for the X Factor to start. Tomorrow going to have another leisurely day and then in the afternoon I'm taking ma to see R's house and then we're all having Sunday dinner at our house for which I'm cooking a turkey joint, pots, veg, yorkies and stuffing and finishing off with apple crumble and custard. Should be great. See you soon. XX </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/10/25/saturday-night-stay-in-4930913/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>leisurefoodfamilyhttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/10/25/saturday-night-stay-in-4930913/#commentshttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/10/25/great-week-atwork-4929684/tag:suzsheff.blog.co.uk,2008-10-25:/2008/10/25/great-week-atwork-4929684/Sat, 25 Oct 2008 13:58:50 +0200 <p>Phew, P's left our team and it feels that the sun has come out. She was so negative about everything (even her home life) that it was difficult to stay focussed on creating a better way of working which in our team which need to do.</p> <p>Me and C(who's a lovely 21 year old) have agreed to do extra hours until they get a replacement for P. P's job has been advertised and I did speak to my manager beforehand about this. It would be a natural progression especially as I've been looking for another job for ages to go for this job but because P has always been so negative about it, its kind of made me wary of applying for it. However, stepping into P's shoes this week has been a real eye opener. Me and C have worked as a team and we've gone great guns at getting things onto a more even keel. Our manager had a chat with us about how things have gone yesterday and she was really impressed at what we've done. It feels like such a relief. I've started my application now, P's job is exactly the same hours as mine but on a higher band and I just hope that I get it. If not I will be really brassed off after all the effort I've put in over this past year and will have to find something elsewhere but crossing fingers I just hope it doesn't come to that. </p> <p>Wish me luck! </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/10/25/great-week-atwork-4929684/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>workhttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/10/25/great-week-atwork-4929684/#commentshttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/10/17/week-of-decisions-4885533/tag:suzsheff.blog.co.uk,2008-10-17:/2008/10/17/week-of-decisions-4885533/Fri, 17 Oct 2008 11:52:17 +0200<p>Hi, well what a week.  Had a great night out with N&G last Saturday and boy did we have some laughs, just what I needed before a taxing week workwise.</p> <p>On Monday I went for the interview.  Before going I had some hesitations about it as it means having contact with kids who may be neglected, be victims of abuse and those who have been raped.  After going into the Unit for the interview I realised that I would not be abe to cope with seeing the kids which was pretty good as I wasn't offered it anyway.  The job was within the same trust where I currently work and it would have meant a step up the ladder whilst still working part time. </p> <p>Anyhow after being told I'd not got the job by my current boss we then had a team meeting in the dept where I currently work.  The reason was to discuss P leaving and how we were to cover her work.  To be honest I did lose my top as me and C who are on the grade below P are expected to cover her role till its been recruited to which seems a bit harsh but unfortunately our job descriptions have a well used paragraph to cover these kind of events.</p> <p>I went home and thought about whether I might want to take on P's job permanently but am a bit anxious about it cos the team have had problems but to be honest its difficult to know if its the work that's the problem of the fact that P can't just get on with things.  Time will tell but I'm a bit anxious about giving up my current role for this one and then have nothing to go back to.  Anyway I asked to have a mtg with Manager and discussed my thoughts and asked if they might consider a secondment to this role to cover me in the event of me wanting to return to my current one.  Not sure what's going to happen but you can only put your point forward and if the bosses don't want to take it on board then so be it.</p> <p>Anyhow for the time being C (who didn't get the job she went for) and I are going to be working extra days to cover P's job until something is sorted.</p> <p>Last night was P's leaving do and after having drinks in Wetherspoons we moved onto Platillos for excellent tapas and cocktails.  I've had tapas in Spain before and Platillos really came up to the mark with the standard of food and service.</p> <p>Today am going to do some cleaning and chill out as I'm a bit tired out.  Going to the hairdressers in the morning then we're out with D&R and another couple for a meal tomorrow night.</p> <p>Sunday I'm going to lunch with my ma and then on Monday I'm going out to tea with Sarah - definitely a socialising weekend.  Only problem is I'm a bit skint but never mind will cope.</p> <p>See you soon and have yourself a great weekend.<img src="http://www.blog.co.uk/image/smileys/smiley-laughing.gif" alt=""></p><p> <small> <a href="http://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/10/17/week-of-decisions-4885533/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>-friends-foodwork-lifehttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/10/17/week-of-decisions-4885533/#commentshttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/10/11/weekend-update-4855230/tag:suzsheff.blog.co.uk,2008-10-11:/2008/10/11/weekend-update-4855230/Sat, 11 Oct 2008 15:59:56 +0200 <p>Hi all, well after my last blog when I had my rant I felt a lot better after and it definitely got things out of my system.</p> <p>Workwise: things are ok, P finishes next Friday and I found out on Thursday that C, who's a lovely 21 year old, is also looking for another job as she realises working in our team is just too much. Interview is on Monday and I've been doing a bit of research so fingers crossed for me.</p> <p>Tonight we're off out with N&G. Going for a drink and then onto the curry house for a ruby murray. Tomorrow we're having Sunday dinner with all the family which will be lovely. For starters we're having homegrown corn on the cob, then roast chicken with yorkies, veggies and potatoes. To finish I'm in the process of making a banoffee pie which always goes down well with the kids.</p> <p>Just been making some more strawberry jam which is delicious.</p> <p>I've been reviewing whether to carry on with my blog. Been writing on it for just over a year now and sometimes I wonder whether its worth carrying on with it but as I said last time when I do need to vent its a great way of dealing with things so perhaps I'll continue with it. Any thoughts, let me know! Bye. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/10/11/weekend-update-4855230/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>leisureworkfriendslifehttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/10/11/weekend-update-4855230/#commentshttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/10/04/just-need-a-rant-4820223/tag:suzsheff.blog.co.uk,2008-10-04:/2008/10/04/just-need-a-rant-4820223/Sat, 04 Oct 2008 15:24:20 +0200 <p>Hi all, got back from holiday on Tuesday morning when hubby came down with a dreadful cold which stopped him going back to work until Thursday and which he has now very kindly passed onto me. We were supposed to be going out with N&G tonight but have had to put it back a week.</p> <p>Now my rant. The reason for my starting this blog was to get negatives out of my system and after going through counselling I came to find it a valuable tool to rid myself of negative feelings.</p> <p>Anyway I just feel so angry about work at the moment. Went back on Wednesday and our Office Manager has made changes in the office layout to accommodate extra staff which has made it a bit of a rubbish place to sit in 7 1/2 hours a day. Did we get a say in the changes - NO. Our Trust has to achieve targets and keeping people happy isn't in the frame of things is just a matter of getting the work done.</p> <p>Getting the work done is another reason for my rant. Our team has been going through staff changes since I started wth the team namely cos management want fast results and they think getting temps in will solve the problem. Of course, this isn't the case and we just end up picking up the pieces all the time. When I got back to work I found we'd yet again got agency staff in to support our team which we wouldn't have needed if the bosses hadn't recruited a clerk who is absolutely pants, has no office experience at all and to be honest doesn't seem to have a light in her head. Instead of supporting us she's bringing the team down, she's on a contract till next March and apparently we've just got to get on with things till then.</p> <p>P has got two more weeks in our team and then she's off to pastures new. The only saving grace is I've got an interview in the same trust on the 13th and fingers crossed it'll be my way out of sheer madness. To be honest I love the work in our team and most of the people in it but it gets very tiring battling against the tide especially as other teams based in our office have got the temerity to tell their support staff just to sit and say nothing when they've got no work to do.</p> <p>Ahhhh feel better for that now. Sorry about that. Back to happier times soon! </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/10/04/just-need-a-rant-4820223/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>workhttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/10/04/just-need-a-rant-4820223/#commentshttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/09/16/lanzarote-here-we-come-4736975/tag:suzsheff.blog.co.uk,2008-09-16:/2008/09/16/lanzarote-here-we-come-4736975/Tue, 16 Sep 2008 19:46:23 +0200 <p>36 hours I should be sat in the airport waiting to get on the plane. Me and hubby can't wait. It'll be out 24th wedding anniversary on Sunday and it'll be great to be on holiday for it.</p> <p>Not much more to say except for see you in a couple of weeks! </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/09/16/lanzarote-here-we-come-4736975/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>holidayhttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/09/16/lanzarote-here-we-come-4736975/#commentshttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/09/14/racey-weekend-4726646/tag:suzsheff.blog.co.uk,2008-09-14:/2008/09/14/racey-weekend-4726646/Sun, 14 Sep 2008 16:55:45 +0200 <p>Well weather wise its been a great weekend and what a fab time I've had. Firstly a bit of an update.</p> <p>P got the job but I didn't get the one which I went for. Never mind though cos I've been shortlisted for the other job and interviews will be on 13th October. Will be interesting to see what plan our bosses have for our team now, I've got some ideas but not sure whether to raise them with my boss or not - I'm going to have a chat with hubby about it to see what he thinks.</p> <p>Me and N went out for tea after work on Thursday. I'd expected to be coming home about 8ish but oh no we partied. After a couple of drinks we went for a ruby murray accompanied by a bottle of Pinot Grigo. We then went and had a last one and hubby picked us up. Friday I wasn't much good for anything and was blown out of my bed at 7.00 in the morning to the news that XL had gone bust. We were due to fly with them on Thursday so I quickly got the laptop out and booked us alternative flights.</p> <p>Onto the weekend. It's my ma's 66th on Wednesday and me and my sis arranged to take her to Doncaster racers along with our hubby's and my nieces. We'd booked a mini bus which was great and got to Doncaster for 12.30. Ma won £56 on the St Ledger which was cool. We had a great afternoon, the sun shined and our blokes had a few beers. The bus driver picked us up at 5.45 and we went to a local pub for a meal. R&R came down and joined us and R brought ma some beautiful flowers. We then went back to ma's for one last drink.</p> <p>I'd expected to have a sore head today but managed to avoid it. So its wagons roll for Lanzarote now. I've done some packing this afternoon and sorted a few things out which I need to take: make up, jewellery. Now its time to make dinner and we're having lamb steaks which should be nice.</p> <p>Tomorrow morning its ironing and then me and R are going out to the flicks in the afternoon.</p> <p>Have a great night. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/09/14/racey-weekend-4726646/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>workleisurefamilyholidayshttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/09/14/racey-weekend-4726646/#commentshttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/09/07/the-plot-gets-thicker-and-thicker-4693588/tag:suzsheff.blog.co.uk,2008-09-07:/2008/09/07/the-plot-gets-thicker-and-thicker-4693588/Sun, 07 Sep 2008 13:58:17 +0200 <p>Hi all, finally we've got some sunshine today. Eleven days now till Lanzarote and I've already spoken to hubby about booking for next year!</p> <p>Well at work its very interesting at the moment. P told work a few weeks ago that she wanted to hand her notice it, work managed to talk her out of doing that and encouraged her to apply for a lower grade job and less hours which she did. P has an interview on Thursday.</p> <p>I finally became permanent in my current post after having to apply for it last week. Problem is that its getting a bit boring now and I've applied for a couple of jobs with the same employer, still part-time but on the next grade up. Work know about this and have been trying to talk me out of moving on. Obviously if P goes it'll leave the team with one person down for a bit and the bosses would be quite happy for me to move into her shoes. However, I'm not going to do that under the same terms as I think the jobs too much for one person and needs separating out but bosses won't do that.</p> <p>Anyway I've got an interview for one of the jobs on Wednesday (day before P) so by the end of the week the team could be 2 people down. Tough!</p> <p>Bosses want it all on their own terms and I'm not going to go down their road cos I know that it'd end up making me ill and I'm not going to do that again.</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/09/07/the-plot-gets-thicker-and-thicker-4693588/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>workhttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/09/07/the-plot-gets-thicker-and-thicker-4693588/#commentshttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/09/01/lovely-birthday-weekend-4665724/tag:suzsheff.blog.co.uk,2008-09-01:/2008/09/01/lovely-birthday-weekend-4665724/Mon, 01 Sep 2008 10:32:14 +0200 <p>Well I hit 45 yesterday and now when I complete a questionnaire I'll have to tick the next box which finishes in the 50's age group. How do I feel, extremely happy. Its over the past 18 months that I've finally settled down into my life, kids are now self sufficient especially as R has left home and me and hubby are more loved up than ever! </p> <p>I've had a great weekend. On Friday me and hubby drove to Warwick and went into the castle which was great. It was very interesting and well worth the money especially as we had a Walkers crisp offer which enabled us both to get in for £18.00. After looking round the castle we then had a wander round Warwick town centre which is truely lovely.</p> <p>We'd booked to stay two nights at a B&B in Stratford Upon Avon. It was about 15 minutes walk into the centre and we had a lovely welcome from the owners. The room was beautiful and the breakfast was fab.</p> <p>So Saturday after brekky we walked into Stratford and did Shakespeare's birthplace which is a wonderful piece of English history. We did a couple more of the houses and then went to the church where Shakespeare is buried. After lunch we went on a river cruise and then after a look round the shops we walked back to the B&B. </p> <p>Yesterday we went round Anne Hathaways house before the journey back. We got home about 1.30 and half an hour later D&R came round with a card and some beautiful flowers. Last night we had a takeaway with the family. I slept like a log after all the walking round we'd done over the weekend.</p> <p>Today I'm off out with R and my ma who's back from holiday for a girly lunch. Back to work tomorrow but my flight tickets have now arrived so its count down for Lanzarote in just over two weeks.</p> <p>See you soon. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/09/01/lovely-birthday-weekend-4665724/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>familyageleisurefriendslifehttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/09/01/lovely-birthday-weekend-4665724/#commentshttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/08/25/brilliant-bank-holiday-and-stratford-here-we-come-4635329/tag:suzsheff.blog.co.uk,2008-08-25:/2008/08/25/brilliant-bank-holiday-and-stratford-here-we-come-4635329/Mon, 25 Aug 2008 16:56:51 +0200 <p>Hi bloggers, hope your bank holiday's been good, mine has been ace. The weather in south yorkshire has been good all weekend - cloudy at times but warm with lovely sunny spells. </p> <p>Hubby finished work on Thursday lunch and to start the weekend off we went to a local for the pub quiz on Thursday night which we really enjoyed. Woke up on Friday with a bit of a thick head but got our packing up ready and we headed into Derbyshire for a lovely walk starting at the Grouse Inn (which if you've never been is a lovely country pub). Can't remember Friday night but on Saturday my lads went off to Blackpool and we won 3-1. Its the first time the blades have won an away match when our M's attended so the lads were pretty happy and it was also great cos it was M's birthday on Sunday and the match was part of his pressie from us.</p> <p>Meanwhile I met up with R. We did a bit of shopping then got a DVD of PS I love You and came back with some Ben and Jerrys and had a girly afternoon watching the film.</p> <p>Yesterday R&R came round and M's girlfriend Hayley also came and we had a Chinese take away to celebrate M's 20th. It was great to get the kids together. By the time 12.15 came I was pooped and went to bed leaving the family to continue the celebrations. </p> <p>Today me and hubby went to Debenhams and I treated myself to £56 of lingerie, hubby got some new jeans and we also got a lovely quilt cover for our bed. This afternoon I've been to the allotment collecting runner beans while hubby's been finishing off the patio which looks absolutely superb. I've blanched some beans which I'm about to freeze. Hubby's just gone to the hospital as yet again his ma is an in mate - same problem water infection. This time when she's allowed home they're going to keep her on a low dose antibiotic which hopefully may help to keep the infections at bay.</p> <p>So back to work tomorrow but its my birthday next Sunday and me and hubby are going to Stratford on Avon for the weekend on Friday. Can't wait. We've booked into a B&B in Stratford which from comments posted on a booking website looks pretty good.</p> <p>So bring on the next weekend and its only 3 weeks on Thursday till we go to Lanzarote. Brilliant, Life really is a Gas! </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/08/25/brilliant-bank-holiday-and-stratford-here-we-come-4635329/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>lifefootballholidaysfamilyleisurefoodhttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/08/25/brilliant-bank-holiday-and-stratford-here-we-come-4635329/#commentshttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/08/21/fun-and-games-atwork-4619565/tag:suzsheff.blog.co.uk,2008-08-21:/2008/08/21/fun-and-games-atwork-4619565/Thu, 21 Aug 2008 20:04:51 +0200 <p>Hi all. Well I'm done at work now till next Tuesday and what a week I've had. For the past two years I've been doing a job well below what I'm capable of but as I was nursing myself back to good mental health it was the best thing for me. Now the time has come, as I knew it would, that I'm getting bored and need a new challenge. Anyway a couple of part time jobs have come up in the NHS trust which I work in which are both on the next grade and would give me more responsibility and a more varied job.</p> <p>I spoke to one of the people who I currently work for yesterday and asked if she'd be happy to provide me with a reference. I could tell it was a bolt out of the blue for her but I explained why I was looking for something else and she agreed to supply a ref.</p> <p>Got called into a mtg with my manager this morning to find out that its sent my boss into a spin and she wants management to see if they can do anything to keep me with my present team. I explained to manager my position and told them that the only way I would stay would be if they could put me on a higher grade, which at the moment they can't. Anyway during the coversation we talked about one of the jobs I've applied which would have the same manager as I've got now. We discussed the fact that I'm going on hol soon and I asked that that be taken into consideration when the interview date is set, manager told me she wasn't sure she could accommodate my request. Hence I told her that if that happened I would be most unhappy and although I didn't say it basically I would put going elsewhere. Game on see what happens.</p> <p>On a different note my mate S who's expecting twins has found out she's expecting a girl and a boy - how amazing is thta I'm so pleased for her.</p> <p>N&G are away on hols to Florida on Sunday although they're a bit worried after hearing about the current hurricane scare - will cross my fingers for them.</p> <p>Now for the weekend. Hubby's off now so we're planning on going walking in Derbyshire tomorrow. On Sat the lads are off to Blackpool for the footie match. Me and R are meeting for lunch. On Sunday its Mat's birthday so we're having a chinese in the evening, R&R will be coming and Mat's girlfriend which will be good.</p> <p>Its my birthday next weekend and me and hubby have just booked a B&B in Stratford for a couple of nights which will be lovely. Also on the holiday front, this time four weeks today I should be having a nice drink in Lanzarote. Me and hubby are going for 11 days and we're really looking forward to it.</p> <p>Well that's it for now. Have a good weekend. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/08/21/fun-and-games-atwork-4619565/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>workholidaysfriendsfamilyhttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/08/21/fun-and-games-atwork-4619565/#commentshttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/08/17/pottering-sunday-4600662/tag:suzsheff.blog.co.uk,2008-08-17:/2008/08/17/pottering-sunday-4600662/Sun, 17 Aug 2008 18:12:57 +0200 <p>Hope you've had a good Sunday, mine's been ace. First though an update on last night. We went out with N&G and to be honest I was a bit brassed off with them. Firstly, they'd not been talking all week and I'd said to N would they be ok for last night and she said yes, going out last night had been their idea in the first place. So we met in the pub and there was obviously tension between them. It turned out G had a bit of an hangover as he'd had a few pints before the match and by the time they met us he'd got a bit of a headache. I think N was a bit brassed of with him and whilst hubby and G were chatting I was talking to N but to be honest it was a bit of a one sided conversation and I felt that she didn't really want to be there.</p> <p>We went onto the Italian and the food was lovely, I had garlic mushrooms with king prawns followed by lasagne. It was delicious. However, by the time G got to his main course he was already quite full, it turned out that he'd had some chicken before coming out hence his lack of appetite. We went back to theirs after for a couple of drinks which was a nice end but I had felt a bit brassed off with them.</p> <p>Anyway onto today. Me and hubby had a bit of a love fest this morning, then went to Wilkinsons to get some bulbs for the garden. We came home and did some gardening, I washed the car and now the lambs in the oven roasting away. R&R are coming for dinner and hubby'll be picking M up after work and it'll be ace to have a family tea. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/08/17/pottering-sunday-4600662/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>friendscookinggardeningleisurehttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/08/17/pottering-sunday-4600662/#commentshttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/08/16/productive-saturday-4596943/tag:suzsheff.blog.co.uk,2008-08-16:/2008/08/16/productive-saturday-4596943/Sat, 16 Aug 2008 17:13:12 +0200 <p>Found the secret to getting the most out of my weekend - don't have any wine the night before. Went to bed last night and turned the light out about 10.15. Didn't have a drink as I wanted to save myself for tonight when we go to town with N&G.</p> <p>Got up this morning about 9.30 after having brekie in bed courtesy of my hubbie. Popped to the shops, then after a coffee and a read of the paper I put some washing up, cleaned the kitchen and popped down to the allotment. Managed to get some kidney beans, beetroot and courgettes. I decided to make some soup for lunch ingredients were courgettes, green pepper, yellow pepper, veg stock and some fresh basil. It was lovely so me and hubby had soup for lunch with a sandwich.</p> <p>This afternoon I've cleaned the bathrooms, hoovered upstairs and downstairs, made a strawberry flan for tea tomorrow and I've also made some strawberry jam.</p> <p>Then it was time for me time so I put on a face pack, went in the shower, defuzzed and made myself gorgeous for my night out. </p> <p>My tummy's already rumbling and our tables booked for 9.00 so me thinks I'll have a bit of toast and fresh strawberry jam.</p> <p>Have a great night and see you soon.</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/08/16/productive-saturday-4596943/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>leisurefriendscookinghttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/08/16/productive-saturday-4596943/#commentshttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/08/14/bloody-kids-4589579/tag:suzsheff.blog.co.uk,2008-08-14:/2008/08/14/bloody-kids-4589579/Thu, 14 Aug 2008 21:02:01 +0200 <p>Its been a difficult week on the family front. N&G haven't been talking all week basically cos their 15 year old daughter is playing up, just as our R did at the same age, and consequently N&G have fallen out about it. </p> <p>In our house we've had a difficult week with M. Came home last night to be told basically that he'd packed his job in. After talking to him we're hoping that he can straighten things out with work till he gets something else sorting out. Me and hubby then went to pub and came back to find M pulling on his T shirt and his girlfriend in his bed!!!! Yes ooops. We were not impressed and severe words were had but to be honest you have to be very careful how you say stuff.</p> <p>Anyhow back to N&G and we've booked a table at an Italian restaurant for Sat night. N says they'll be ok by then and if not they'll just have to pretend cos its my birthday night out and I want to party, party, party!!! </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/08/14/bloody-kids-4589579/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>friendsfamilyleisurehttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/08/14/bloody-kids-4589579/#commentshttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/08/10/reviving-sunday-4568055/tag:suzsheff.blog.co.uk,2008-08-10:/2008/08/10/reviving-sunday-4568055/Sun, 10 Aug 2008 19:32:25 +0200 <p>Well I did good. No hangover at all today although I feel tired and had to go to bed for a nap this afternoon. Two nights out on the trot is getting hard to cope with at the ripe old age of almost 45.</p> <p>We went to N&G's last night and had a lovely meal. The duck in plum sauce was gorgeous and we finished off with baked peaches with ice cream, yum yum. N&G's having probs with their 15 year old daughter at the moment. True to form she's an arsy teenager and I think she's creating tension with N&G. Dad's always seem to favour their daughter's who in their eyes can't seem to do wrong. However, when mum's spent all day trying to ignore their daughter's acid comments or throw away put downs it gets hard to cope with which the dads don't see. </p> <p>On another note though I'm missing R tonight. Rang her a short time ago for a little chat and it made me miss her even more. God its hard being a parent, you want your kids to be independent, be happy and confident to lead their own lives but when they do you want to take them by the hand and bring them back to the fold. No-one said I'd feel like this when she was first passed to me as a 6lb8oz baby but now she's gone and my nest feels empty. Its strange that you realise your dreams of bringing up children but still end up feeling empty when they've gone. That's life and I expect it'll get easier as time marches on, I think the next big hurdle will be Christmas but I'll just sit back and see what they want to do.</p> <p>Sorry for rambling tonight. Tomorrow I'm out with my ma who's going to Ibiza next weekend with my sis and her family for a fortnight. </p> <p>Next Saturday we're out on the town with N&G in honour of my birthday as they'll be away when I hit the big 45 so we'll party, party, party! </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/08/10/reviving-sunday-4568055/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>kidslifefriendshttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/08/10/reviving-sunday-4568055/#commentshttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/08/09/life-is-so-strange-4564025/tag:suzsheff.blog.co.uk,2008-08-09:/2008/08/09/life-is-so-strange-4564025/Sat, 09 Aug 2008 16:44:48 +0200 <p>I wasn't going to write today but have been to see ma in law in hospital and I'm feeling quite sad and so hopefully writing will get the sadness out of my system. MIL's not too good, she was sat in her chair but she's in a world of her own. She can't see, is stone deaf, is increasingly getting senile and today she looked so frail and old. We only went to see her a week ago in the old folks home and in one week she's deteriorated so much. It brought back feelings of when my stepdad was ill five years ago. He had a brain tumour and from being diagnosed he had about six weeks to live. The decline was rapid and so upsetting but at least it was over in a few weeks and we didn't have too long to see him like that. </p> <p>Whereas MIL's decline is very slow and draining for her and for her loved ones. Yet one of my hubby's workmates lost her 28 year old son about two weeks ago when he went into a diabetic coma - how can it be that a 28 year old can have a quick and sudden end whereas an 86 year old can just steadily decline.</p> <p>Right, well true to form that's out of my system now. Moving onto more cheerful things. I went out with R for lunch yesterday and then looked round Meadowhall before she went to work. Now she's left home it really is quality time that we spend together, I do miss her being here but its nice to see that she's happy with R.</p> <p>Last night me and hubby went to our local. Tonight we're off to N&G's who are cooking a meal for us. Duck is on the menu so we're looking forward to that. It's really nice to be invited into someone's home when they're taking time to cook for you. </p> <p>Not sure what we're doing tomorrow yet, just hoping the hangover won't be too bad! </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/08/09/life-is-so-strange-4564025/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>friendshealthlifehttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/08/09/life-is-so-strange-4564025/#commentshttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/08/02/august-already-4534230/tag:suzsheff.blog.co.uk,2008-08-02:/2008/08/02/august-already-4534230/Sat, 02 Aug 2008 19:16:07 +0200 <p>Can't believe its 2nd August, where has the year gone to? Its true that time really does seem to go faster the older you get and I'll be a year older at the end of this month.</p> <p>A quick update: I went back to work on Tuesday to find thta P's not put her notice in as management have asked her to consider some alternatives. She's on holiday till a week on Wednesday so she's got time to think but to be honest she needs to get out of our dept for her own sanity (and mine if I'm honest). Anyway with P on holiday this week we managed ok.</p> <p>Yesterday I went to Meadowhall for a couple of things and then went to Aldi. If you've never been then you ought to give it a try, its a load cheaper than the big supermarkets but the quality is great and you always have a bit of cash left when you've paid the bill.</p> <p>Last night we went out with D&R. D picked us up and we went to their local for a meal and a glass of wine, then back to their house for more drinks. We didn't get home till about 2.00 this morning so have I've felt a bit jaded and definitely needed my power nap.</p> <p>Other news this week is that ma in law is back in hospital with another water infection, poor thing. Hubby saw her yesterday and she wasn't too good and we're waiting to hear from his sister to see what she's like today.</p> <p>Tomorrow I've got to get my bro's birthday present and hubby's carrying on with the patio. Monday I might be going to the seaside with R, ma, sister and her kids we're just waiting to see what the weather's going to be like.</p> <p>Just watching the programme about Mamma Mia, if you've not been to see the film yet then get yourself off its fab. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/08/02/august-already-4534230/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>healthabbaleisurefriendshttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/08/02/august-already-4534230/#commentshttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/07/27/fabulous-weekend-with-a-fantastic-sunday-4507598/tag:suzsheff.blog.co.uk,2008-07-27:/2008/07/27/fabulous-weekend-with-a-fantastic-sunday-4507598/Sun, 27 Jul 2008 20:08:21 +0200 <p>Haven't we been spoilt by the weather this weekend, its truly been fab and how lucky are those folk currently on holiday in good old blighty, to be honest you can't been our country when the sun shines but its totally impossible to predict holiday wise which is the only downside.</p> <p>Well today we went to see ma in law in the old folks home and to be honest although she'd had a bad stomach all night and was tired she was quite alert really. The visit was helped along by my sis in law and niece also visiting which helps dilute the situation. After me and hubby did a bit of retail therapy in Meadowhall where we had lunch in M&S.</p> <p>After getting home about 1.30 we had a bit of a rest before going down to the allotment. Hubby dug up his shallots and I planted some beetroot and carrots. We also brought up some beetroot, potatoes and rhubarb. We were going to go out for dinner but having such lovely produce inspired me to cook and what a meal we have had.</p> <p>For main we had Jamie Oliver's chicken in a bag, potates with rosemary, beetroot and cabbage. For dessert I'd been watching Something for the Weekend where they did a recipe with rhubarb. Well I kind of did that but substituted the apricot jam for homemade rhubarb and ginger, honestly it was unbelievable. We had the rhubarb with vanilla ice cream (courtesy of Walls) and it was absolutely divine, the best summer pud ever. We had a lovely bottle of wine wine and finished off with a small glass of Amaretto - bliss!</p> <p>I really enjoy cooking and am now getting to the stage where fresh ingredients excite me and I can't wait to experiment with them, sometimes the end results aren't so good but when you strike gold the feeling is absolutely fantastic.</p> <p>So what's for tomorrow, well it'll be ironing in the morning followed by cleaning the bathrooms and then a trip to Next to take some sale stuff back. Work on Tuesday but hey never mind its seven weeks on Thursday till we go to Lanzagrotty! Life really is a gas! </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/07/27/fabulous-weekend-with-a-fantastic-sunday-4507598/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>familyleisureholidaysworkcookinghttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/07/27/fabulous-weekend-with-a-fantastic-sunday-4507598/#commentshttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/07/26/is-summer-finally-here-4503017/tag:suzsheff.blog.co.uk,2008-07-26:/2008/07/26/is-summer-finally-here-4503017/Sat, 26 Jul 2008 20:01:23 +0200 <p>What a glorious day it has been today. Me and hubby had a lovely lay in bed this morning with a bit of love in!!!! We finally got up about 9.30, had breakfast, and then got our packed lunch ready to go into Derbyshire for a walk. </p> <p>We've had a great day, after driving to Bakewell we parked up and walked to Chatsworth and it was glorious. Even though I put sun lotion on I've still managed to get caught a bit by the sun. To be honest we prefer to walk in Derbyshire on a Saturday rather than Sunday cos there's not as many hikers. </p> <p>After four hours we got back to Bakewell, changed our shoes and went into Bakewell for a welcome pint and a stroll round the shops where we managed to pick up a couple of books from the charity shops.</p> <p>For tea tonight we've had burgers (courtesy of Aldi) and chips washed down with a glass of the white stuff, bliss!</p> <p>We're getting used to R not living with us now though it's still strange and I miss our little morning chats when she came downstairs still clad in her dressing gown and we caught up wth what'd been happening. Most days since they've come back home from holiday I've spoken to her on the phone, she did hint at having Sunday dinner here tomorrow but me and hubby might be going out for tea.</p> <p>Well I didn't get the job but to be honest it was a bit of a relief. I didn't really gel with the person I'd be working for and I think I'd rather move to a different job in the place that I'm currently at. P was supposed to be handing in her notice at work yesterday, I will miss her but it'll be good not having to work with someone who's a control freak and totally negative about everything. There's a 3 day a week job coming up soon in another dept which is more money and I'm quite interested in that so watch this space.</p> <p>As for what we're doing tomorrow,well to be honest I've no idea yet but I'm intending it to be a bit more restful than today, see you soon. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/07/26/is-summer-finally-here-4503017/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>lifewalkingfamily-workderbyshirefoodleisurehttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/07/26/is-summer-finally-here-4503017/#commentshttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/07/22/taking-the-next-step-along-the-way-4484930/tag:suzsheff.blog.co.uk,2008-07-22:/2008/07/22/taking-the-next-step-along-the-way-4484930/Tue, 22 Jul 2008 19:58:03 +0200 <p>Interview day tomorrow (3.30 pm). Its been a hard couple of years after my breakdowns and I've been lucky enough to find a job that's not too taxing (although medical terminology takes a lot of getting used to) and I'm lucky enough to work in a place where we get on with one another.</p> <p>I've talked myself out of and into attending the interview a thousand times since reading the letter last Wednesday. The job's on the same grade as I was on a couple of years ago before I resigned after deciding I couldn't face going back and putting myself through it. </p> <p>Now I find that I'm bored doing my current role and I want to do something more challenging but to be honest I'm scared of the old demons coming back and losing control. </p> <p>My life is totally different now, how? Well finally we'e got friends and a social life, our kids are now at an age where they're no longer dependent especially R as she's flown the nest and is living with R. I had six month's counselling which helped me to realise some of my own problems which previously I'd never realised. So all in all its a different picture than two years ago.</p> <p>Question is what's worse staying in a mundane job cos I'm frightened of stretching myself (lack of confidence me thinks), or getting on with it and ok if it goes wrong so be it but at least I'll know I tried and perhaps I need to think of a change in career.</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/07/22/taking-the-next-step-along-the-way-4484930/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>worklifehttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/07/22/taking-the-next-step-along-the-way-4484930/#commentshttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/07/16/fantastic-kylie-well-worth-the-ticket-pr-4457503/tag:suzsheff.blog.co.uk,2008-07-16:/2008/07/16/fantastic-kylie-well-worth-the-ticket-pr-4457503/Wed, 16 Jul 2008 20:36:13 +0200 <p>Wow me and hubby went to see Kylie on Monday night and she was absolutely fab. It was the best show ever and I'm now envious of anyone who has tickets to see her in Newcastle or London - rest assured you will enjoy it.</p> <p>We went out with D&R last Friday. At times it can be difficult as D currently isn't working but is looking for work, however, its difficult bringing up things to talk about. Firstly its difficult talking about work when D's not in that situation and secondly its difficult to talk about things we're doing leisure wise cos they obviously haven't got as much money to do stuff and they've still got kids which they financially responsible for which increases the money pressure. However, it was a nice night and it was lovely to see them.</p> <p>Just to update you on the job I applied for. I've got an interview for next Weds at 3.30 so fingers crossed. </p> <p>Just got tomorrow to do then its the weekend again for me. R&R will be coming back from holiday tomorrow night so it'll be lovely to see them. On Sunday we're going with N&G to see the Abba movie and then on for some tea afterwards. Will have to go shopping for something to wear at the interview, I think I'm just going to get some new trousers as I have a jacket and top that I can wear.</p> <p>That's it for now so see you soon. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/07/16/fantastic-kylie-well-worth-the-ticket-pr-4457503/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>friendsworkleisurekyliehttp://suzsheff.blog.co.uk/2008/07/16/fantastic-kylie-well-worth-the-ticket-pr-4457503/#comments