Baz posted:

Just popped in from the BB forum to wish Emotybox a very happy birthday ....hope you’ve had a good day 

Thanks Baz.
I had not a bad day at all really.

Evening Both.

Belated Happy Birthday Emptybox, you kept that quiet.

Only 12c here today, sunny spells with light rain, winds around 12.

Didn't do much really, didn't have brekkie, well i lie had a round of my toast later as o/h wanted to eat at about 12.30 and i was making it, roast pork with baked spuds and spaghetti.

For tea decided on a bekkie with not having it at the weekend because of making Lunch for us both, so i had smoked back bacon, black pudding and sliced fried chorizo.

My Chapati flour came, 1.5kg, that will make a lot, it comes with a recipe as well, and online there are ways of keeping left over dough/uncooked chapati's.

My stew was a success, had 2 portions and had 3 over which i froze so pleased with that.

Mollie, Yes, will take the gift with me, i ordered it gift wrapped with a note as well so thats fine.

Glad your exercises are paying off, bad news about your daughters ear though, she should never have waited to go to the docs, a bad idea.

If, as you say there is more and more stuff at the auctions and more people going then the price will be going up because more like the same stuff you do.

Emptybox, Yes, belated HAPPY BIRTHDAY.

There is a train and bus that go to Liverpool, the train station is a few miles away, there is a train tunnel and a road one, the road one costs £1.70 each way to go through, but i can't really walk round Liverpool going shopping, it's a big place.

Think there is a ferry but it's a long way from me to get it.

Hi Hicky.
I think the birthdays appear in the bar on the right. Must admit, I don't usually look.
It wasn't a significant one anyway, so didn't pay it too much attention, but had my day off.

Quite a nice sunny morning here, but heavy rain from late afternoon.
Has gone colder again.
Didn't do much today apart from installing a new OS on one of my computers.

Seems you did your meals a bit topsy turvy today, with brekkie in the evening?
That was good that your flour came, and your stew was a success.
I'll need to start making stews again soon.

Pity it's difficult for you to get to the shops in Liverpool, but I guess there's always the internet.

Evening Emptybox.

I don't really look in the birthday listing on the page as i know so few people.

Similar weather today as yesterday, 12c sunny intervals and light rain early on, wind is 12.

Yes, with making meals for o/h and myself it means i don't need my normal brekkie so just make a round of toast, this stops me using the open packs of bacon and black pudding so to have a meal at night keeps things moving.

The Roast leg of lamb dinner was very nice, did carrots, cauliflower and sliced long beans with mash and lovely dark rich gravy, and some of my home made mint sauce, o/h likes it now better than a jar she bought, which she didn't like.

Trimmed a bit off the grape vine side shoots, will trim to right length after the frosts in case any damage is done so the damage is kept away from the cordons.

both xxx

Emptybox

glad you enjoyed your burger and chips, even though you forgot to get anything else in.

Hope you are enjoying tonight's episode of Dr Who. I wonder will it be another one to view 3 times?

Hicky

that is one of the good things about being retired, you can eat what meals you want when you want, and of course as you have found out, you also get the time to experiment with your cooking methods.

I am not surprised your OH didn't like the shop mint sauce compared to your home made one. Home made....., always the best.

Aaww I am sure your gift will look lovely all gift wrapped too. What date is your special day? (real soon I think?).

And what date was your OH's op for her knee?

Good idea to protect your grapevine shoots from frosts this time of year.

We went to Ikea today, got 2 linen baskets for £2.50 each, so a bargain, but i hate that store at weekends, it was packed, queues everywhere. Glad to get home.

My knees not too bad today despite all the walking round Ikea. But my exercises are getting harder as I have to increase them each night. As long as they are doing me good it is worth the effort.

A lovely sunny afternoon today, after lots of rain this morning.

Looking forward to X factor results. Scarlett is my fave, but I hated the song choice last night, did not do her justice at all.

Goodnight both xxx

Evening.
Not bad day today, but started raining this evening.
Luckily it was after I'd been to Lidl, so didn't matter

Hicky. That's a good result, if your OH is impressed by your home made mint sauce.

Mollie. It must have been crowded in Ikea today, but well done on getting a bargain.
Yes, the exercises will be worth it if your legs improve.

I agree, I didn't like Scarlett's song. In fact I don't think any of the song choices were good really.

Enjoyed Doctor Who again. Maybe not as much as last week, but the cinematography was great, and gorgeous scenery in what was supposed to be India, but was actually filmed in Spain.

BTW Don't know if either of you watches 'First Dates'? I don't usually. But Aisleyne is on tomorrow.

Evening Both.

Not a bad day really, 12c sunny intervals winds are 13 to 16.

Had bacon black pud and fried Chorizo for brekkie with a round of my toast.

Pruned a few Fig trees, got the big one to do next.

For tea decided on butter chicken so got a portion from the freezer, set about making chapati's, i got the dough pretty good, the amount i made was good for about 11 chapati's, the problem i have is getting them thin enough and rolling them round, thinking of changing my rolling pin as it's like a section of a tree, massive.

Making a chicken dinner tomorrow for o/h for when she comes in.

Ordered 2 months prescription but they have only send 1 lot to the pharmacy, will ring tomorrow to see why.

Mollie, I watched the Dr Who, very interesting.

Anniversary is the 17th, o/h's op is the 20th.

That was good if your knees held up to walking around a store, and Ikea's are pretty big, well, the one i went to was.

I saw the rerun of all the X-Factor songs but they all sound good to me.

Emptybox, The o/h has such a strong sense of taste and smell that she's like one of those sniffer dogs that can pick out a particular smell so it's hard to make something she likes, everything has to be just perfect, and i'm far from it.

It's funny, i was watching an advert for a dating program and it was showing Aisleyne and i was going to post the date but when i searched on the box for Monday C4 10pm it showed who was on and it wasn't Aisleyne so i was stumped and couldn't post it, now when i look she is on, will record it anyway.

both xxx

Emptybox

that is handy the rain didn't start until after Lidl. Did you buy anything different this visit?

That is interesting Dr Who was in India, but a Spanish version. A lot cheaper to move all the equipment and staff to Spain I guess though. Shame you didn't enjoy this episode so much. Does this mean you are not going to watch it for a 2nd time? (or 3rd?)... 

I agree, not good song choices all round on x factor this week but as Hicky said they all sounded good singers, but I just wish I recognised some of the songs.

Ashleign is doing well to get a gig on C4. I have never watched First Dates, but I expect you will be, and so will be able to tell us all about it.

Hicky

that is good the weather was good enough to trim your figs today.

Hope you can sort out a better rolling pin for your chapatis and also your prescription short fall.

That is well timed, that your OH's op is a few days after the special anniversary, so she doesn't miss out on the celebrations. (and special gift of course!).

at you comparing her to a sniffer dog.

Quite a nice day today weather wise, sunny and mild. I managed to get organised and go to aqua zumber. It was a different teacher today, and I got the last place as he is so popular, his class is always full. He was brilliant though, funny and extremely enthusiastic. He even did full splits. (but I didn't even try and copy that move!).  Turns out my son knows him, as he choregraphed 2 of his drama group's musicals in the past, so is a fab dancer. I feel done in now, but daughter reminds me I still have my physio exercises to do.

Me and the kids chose this advent calandar for OH, and when the box came, it was massive. It looks very good though.

https://www.aldi.co.uk/wine-advent-calendar

Watching the new series of A and E now.

Goodnight both xxx

Hi both.

Not bad day here, but quite cold.

Didn't do any work, but went out delivering some more invoices.

Hicky. That was good that you got some fig trees pruned.

Wonder why they only sent 1 month's subscription?

I suppose having an OH with a nose like a sniffer dog could come in handy?

Mollie. Just bought the usual provisions at Lidl I think?

I'll definitely watch Dr Who for a second time, but whether it'll get that all important 3rd watch remains to be seen.

That's good that you got the last place on that Aqua Zumba class.

Bit of a co-incidence that the teacher has choreographed stuff for your son.

That wine advent thing looks very interesting.

Watched First Dates. Aisleyne was quite funny, and it was quite touching when she mentioned her miscarriages.

It must have been filmed about a year ago though, as it said she was 38, and she'll be 40 next month. Unless she lied about her age?

Evening Both.

Quite nice today really but with me making a roast chicken dinner for 1.45 pm it didn't give me much spare time.

I spatchcocked the chicken for a change plus it cooks better and quicker, only takes 45 minutes, did steamed baby sprouts with mash, stuffing and gravy.

Love watching Police Force and Border Force Canada and Australia, so interesting.

Just had some scrambled egg with toast for brekkie.

Will have to make another loaf after, my last one was very good.

Mollie, About the rolling pin, i think i will see of i can get a small one just for the Chapati's as they are so easy to make and i have frozen about 7 wrapped in foil in a freezer zip bag, will try them one day before i make more.

Not sure if a strong sense of taste and smell is a good thing, it just means she can detect all the stuff she doesn't like very easy and stuff in a jar can be rejected without even a taste.

That advent calendar looks good, never seen one of those before.

Emptybox, I found out about the prescription problem, i rang the surgery, she said you can't do anything online like that, no med changes or alterations you can only order 1 set of meds, it seems you either have to write in or ring in for that, she said she will ask for another set of meds but doesn't know if they will be approved.

It might be ok having a nose like a sniffer dog but getting her into the kennel is killing me.

I forgot to watch the Ais recording, will do though.

It seems it's not easy to get your boiler serviced, i suppose they want you to sign up to a boiler contract, well, i don't believe that is necessary at all, it's a rip off, 2 boiler fellers now and neither has rung back after saying they would, i suppose there isn't any money in it for them.

Hi Hicky.
Nice day here. Not too cold either.
Got a big job done, some hedging and some tidying. They even wanted their grass cut again, even though I thought I'd finished grass cutting for the season.
Luckily the grass wasn't too wet.

Glad your roast dinner was a success.
That's a bit inflexible if you can't make any alterations to your prescription online? Do you have to login to the service?

Good luck with getting your boiler serviced.

Remember when I had my boiler serviced a few months ago, the 'plumber' left me with a load of problems when it had been working fine before. Water leaks and oil leaks.
I certainly won't be looking for another service for a long time.

I see these Brexit negotiations seem to be coming to a head?
Likely to be make or break time for Theresa May.
Watched a bit of that 'We are most Amused and Amazed' thing for Prince Charles' Birthday, then Celebrity Hunted.

Evening Emptybox.

Not a bad day really, 14c light cloud, wind 15.

Went to dentist, need a couple more appointments next Jan, front top 2 teeth a mess, keep chipping eating sausages on a fork, and he said gums need some treatment.

Then we went to the butchers, wow, nearly cleaned them out, cost £113, didn't realise we had got that much, of course a lot will be small packed in portions for the freezer, got 4 lovely steaks and 2 big Fillet steaks.

Didn't bother with the garden as spent an hour bagging the meat portions for the freezer.

For tea just had crab pate and tomato on crackers, also crumbly cheese, had one of the hot pork pies from the butchers, we sit in the car and eat it afterwards, they really are delish.

The loaf i made last night is very nice, took the dough out and removed the paddles, did more kneeding put back in machine, set it to bake for 5 minutes, turned it off for an hour to let it rise, then baked it for 1 hour 10 mins.

Surprised you got more grass cutting jobs, not sure why anyone would cut the grass now, it needs to stay long to protect the roots for winter.

Not sure what to do about the boiler service now, considering they don't seem interested what do i do, i'm not signing up to a contract just for that, don't have any other gas appliances.

The Brexit can never really work when half of whatever we do is rejected, so many people don't want freedom for the country, they want the easy way out and to let other countries control our life, i don't understand why noone is willing to give us a chance to decide our own destiny, we fought massive wars to get freedom and it was thrown away when we got involved with the EU, we are now controlled by Germany and 27 other countries, what a farce, and the EU isn't run to give us freedom, it has taken away every freedom we had, apart from that i am speechless, what a joke.

I see Prince Charles will be gagged when he takes over the throne, good.

Meant to mention, my second prescription has been sent to the pharmacy so i can get my second months supply now, good. 

Hi both xxx

Emptybox

that is good the weather was kind enough to get all that work, plus the extra grass cut done.

Yes you certainly did get endless problems after that boiler service, so bad you ended up investigating it, and practically servicing it and fixing it yourself!

Glad you at least enjoyed Dr Who enough to view twice.

Hicky

Pity you need more treatment at dentist. Do you mean you are damaging your front teeth on the sausage or on the fork you have the sausage on?

£113 at the butchers! You must be well stocked up for awhile now.  No wonder it took you an hour to bag up.

you would be in trouble if your OH read about you putting her in the kennel.

Sounds like you have the bread making well sussed now.

That is good your prescription is sorted now.

Yes this brexit is a right farce. I think most of the public whether they be remain or leave EU will be cheesed off with this so called deal. I see trouble brewing with a discontent publice and rightly so. This governenment  is useless. They are just doing what they can to hold onto power, not what is best for the country.

Went to aqua fit again today, at a differnt pool to try another session. I enjoyed it. The Monday guy is still my fave one though. Am trying a few places and teachers to give me more choice of days/times because it really does help my aches. The group today invited me to their Christmas lunch they are organising at a pub, so that was nice.

Watching The Apprentice now, watched the GP show before it.

Goodnight both xxx

Hi both.
Wet and windy this morning. Dried up later but stayed windy and dull all day, so I didn't go out to work, but went into town to get some stuff from the natural pharmacy.

Hicky. That was quite a haul from the Butchers. Your freezers will be full to the brim.
Pity you need dental work, but always best to avoid biting metal forks.

This job hadn't had their grass cut since the 9th of October so it had grown a bit since then. I didn't leave it too short anyway.

You know what I feel about Brexit. I think we'd be better staying in the EU and having a say in how it is run.
The kind of freedom the brexiteers want is all very well, but if it means disaster for the economy, jobs being lost, prices going higher and everybody being poorer then I don't see it being worth it?
(not to mention reigniting the 'troubles' in Ireland)
Whether it's politicians in Westminster or politicians in Brussels making the decisions; they're still politicians.
Mind you, the proposed deal seems to keep us tied to the EU, but having zero say in how it's run, so I don't know what's for the best?

Mollie. That was nice you got an invite to the Aqua fit group's Xmas do.
Now all you need to do is secure invites from all the other groups you are trying out, and you'll have a lot of Xmas meals. Just as long as they are on different days.....

I'm not sure if anybody could have negotiated a better Brexit deal Mollie?
The EU is a powerful block, and they have no incentive to give concessions to a country that's not going to be part of that block any more.
That was always going to be the way of it sadly.

Watched GPs then Apprentice.

Evening Both.

Not bad today here, 14c sunny intervals with winds of 12.

Had bacon black pud and tomato for brekkie with toast.

Just watched TV today, put the bacon ribs on at 3.30 to have at 4.30 for tea, they are super ribs, not salty at all.

Had to watch the knee replacement op that was on last night on demand 5 as i forgot to record it, o/h watched it, didn't think she would really as it's a horrific op.

The live op tonight is removing a stomach tumor live on C5 10pm.

Mollie, You are funny, can't believe you considered i could have broke my tooth on a sausage, not sure what sausages you buy. Lol, no, when i bit through the sausage i him the tangs of the fork which chipped the top front tooth, this has happened a few times, for years the dentist would repair the tooth but it always came off as the repair is only glued on, so they stopped filling it, but of course after that i kept chipping the tooth anyway, it's a bit of a mess now.

Yes, didn't realise we had got that much mean but i needed some to stock up my freezer as i had been using it for a few months, i am back up to normal level now so i can make whatever means i want.

I did get a coupl of rather big Fillet steaks and 4 rather large Ribeye steaks, the butcher cut them off a side of beef, i got a Chorizo sausage and he didn't know the price so he just gave it to me as we had spent so much, we made quite a dent in the food display cabinets.

Yes, Brexit was always going to be a problem, noone ever agrees with anyone else, it's similar to 2 football teams in a town or city, it splits the people, but thats just life, it's the same with food, some like it some don't, even judges at a boxing match can't agree.

I want us to be free from the EU, we pay a fortune to them to run our country, we didn't fight 2 world wars to surrender our country now when we have the opportunity to get out, we can't change it while we are in because the other 27 countries have a veto so we have no chance, they just want our money, they don;t want us.

Thats good that you enjoy the pool and exercise, it all helps you.

Just watched GP's now Supervet.

Emptybox, I know you would prefer to stay in the EU, but to think we have a say in how it's run is a joke, for anything to pass the other 27 countries have to agree, and that would never happen, The UK has 73 MEP's and the total in the EU Meetings making the rules is 766, so the chance of having any influence is about nil.

I would like us to control our fishing borders, who comes in the country, make our own rules and make our own trade agreements with countries outside the EU, it's a big world out there and the EU is stopping us selling to the mass market, we are stiffled, they are choking us because they want to control us and have our money to pay all the MEP's from 27 countries, and their pensions for life, the bill of which is £59 Billion, the total budget liability is 23 Billion Euro & non of them even have to pay into a pension, it's free for life. 

Hi Hicky.

Nice day here. Mostly sunny and up to 12c.

Got the rest of the work done for my new customer.

While I was there the other gardener came back to his house, but we just smiled and said "Hi", so there doesn't seem to be a problem there.

Both times when it's come time to pay me, she's come to the door with cash in hand, but less cash than required. Today I did 1 and a half hours, but she offered me an hour's worth, so I had to ask for the extra. She didn't grumble, but it tells me she hoped to get away with paying less, which is probably why the other gardener isn't working for her.

That's good that you got a free Chorizo sausage from the Butcher, mind you it's worth his while if you keep giving him such big orders.

You'll just have to try learning an eating technique for sausages that doesn't involve biting the fork.

What you have to think about is, who would be negotiating these free trade deals with the US or Australia or whoever?

It'll be the same numpties who are trying to negotiate with the EU now.

They don't stand a cat in Hell's chance. Certainly not with the US.

Forgot to watch that operation prog yesterday. I'll have a look at the one tonight.

Evening Emptybox.

It was 14c today, light cloud and wind of 8.

The new Raspberry canes came, bit of a surprise as they said end of the month, but it said in the growing paperwork that they shouldn't be planted were other Raspberry canes had been grown, this could be quite a problem, but it could be done, could plant them in another raised bed, will give this some thought, have put the roots in water for now.

Didn't make brekkie this morning, o/h brought a cooked hot chicken in and said i could have half, so i did.

For tea decided to have one of the big fillet steaks, with fried onions and oven fries, sliced the steak to make it into 3 as it was very thick and then it just needs 1 minute each side, had some green sliced Jalapeño chilies with it.

We are out for the Anniversary meal tomorrow lunch time, so not sure if i will get time to plant the Raspberry canes.

It seems that the new customer thinks that she should pay for a standard service and the period of time is just part of the job, maybe you need to speak to her and ask what she wants, if she just wants an hour then fine you would have to leave out anything that would take more time than an hour.

Yes, the sausage problem will have to be looked out, it's just that i don't like cutting the sausages up when i have them with a dish of tinned tomato, i used to have some mustard at the side and dip the whole sausage in the mustard while on the fork, maybe i need a wooden fork.

Don't know what will happen over Brexit, not sure who it is dealing with the EU because they don't want to deal with us and i can't believe you could ever get the other 27 countries to agree with us, unless of course we said you can have as much money as you like for the breakup deal, then they would all vote yes.

I watched the 3rd operation recording just now, wow, the operation was massive, how on earth they did that, it was just amazing work, removal of a Tumor from his bowel. 

Hi Hicky.
Another nice day here. Not as much sunshine as yesterday, but if anything a bit warmer, up to 13c.
But it's supposed to get colder from tomorrow. Won't mind that as long as the wind and rain keep away.

Did a big tidy up job today. Got more to do there though, including cutting a big Holly hedge.
I've done the jobs the new customer wanted doing, so it would be up to her to ring me if she wants more done.
I think I was quite clear that she was to pay depending on how long it took. She was probably just hoping for a bargain? 

That's good that your new raspberry canes came. I'm sure you'll find a good home for them.
Fillet steak with Jalapeno chillies sounds delicious.
Hope you both enjoy the Anniversary meal tomorrow, and OH likes her card and pressie.

Theresa May seems to have survived until Tea-time today anyway?
I suspect she'll try to hang on and get the Brexit bill through Parliament in a few weeks. Can't see how she's going to pull that off though? Everybody seems to be against it. 
Interesting times.

Watched the op yesterday. Very painstaking work.
There doesn't appear to be one on tonight, so I suppose it'll be mostly Children in Need tonight?

both xxx

Emptybox

glad you still got good weather there, so managed to get the holly hedge done and also your new customer;s work. Sounds like she was planning on getting the job done on the cheap, unless she misunderstood? But as you say, if this happens again,  it would explain why the other gardner did not continue with her.

Hicky

That is good your raspberries arrived in good time.

Sounds like you need to use fingers to eat your sausages now as the fork gives you so much problem. If you overcooked your sausages as much I overcooked my veggie ones the other night, it could of been the sausages that caused it. They were like rocks either end, so I could only eat the middles.

I missed that op programme, hope seeing the knee one hasn't scared your OH now.

I hope you have a lovely day tomorrow and you enjoy your meal out, and hope your OH likes her special gift from you. Is it just you 2 going or anyone else going with you?

I got all flustered yesterday as my neighbour, her mum and daughter came over for afternoon tea, and I dont usually have that many visitors. They wanted to give me gifts for offerring to look after their doggie when they go back to India. They are very polite and their house immaculate, so OH helped me tidy away some of the clutter in our messy kitchen and I used my new China tea set from the auction that I paid £8 for. 
Thankfully the tea set performed well, and they enjoyed the rock cakes daughter  made them. 
They bought me choccies and wine, and the elderly mum (who is going back to India) gave me a lovely white Indian silk table cover and pretty paper mashe candle holder. Now I just have to hope I can look after their little doggie problem free for them for a few weeks. He is quite used to me though now.

Today I called in docs about my leg x ray results. Doc had told me when I saw her before x raym  it would be either come back all clear, so receptionist would say I don't need to make an appointment to see doc again, or there would be a note to tell me  I would need to see her, if they found anything on the xray. Anyway, receptionist said I needed to see her for routine appointment. Oh dear, now I am wondering what the damn x ray had picked up????  She wouldn' t even make me an appointment there and them, said I had to try at 8am on Monday when phone lines opened up for appointments. What a damn system it is! 

Meanwhile I am just carrying on with the exercises, they are helping my knees, but the ankle does feel painfull when I do one of them. I am due to see physio again next Friday so I will see what she says too.

Not a bad day here today, bit misty, but mild.

Went round auction, seemed to have lots more stuff in yet again. One worker told me that yes, it is growing like mad with all the shop closures.

Went to costco after for tea (jacket potato with beans and cheese), and went to toy shop to choose little niece a birthday pressie. We got her a Disney princess lego.

Watching Gogglebox you should watch it again Emptybox. It is just so good.

Goodnight both xxx

Hi Mollie.
Pity you need to see the doc about your X-ray. Hopefully it'll be something minor. 
Seems very silly that you couldn't make an appointment with the receptionist, but have to phone in? Just sounds a daft sytem.

That was very nice of your neighbour to give you those lovely gifts for looking after their dog. As you say, hopefully it'll go without incident.
at you getting flustered and using your best china.
I'm sure your neice will love that Disney thing you've bought her.

Evening Both.

Not too bad a day here, 11c sunny intervals as well, winds just 11.

Gave o/h her card, she gave me one, then i gave her the gift, she liked it and wore it to go for the meal, i had squid etc and cod cheeks in batter for starter with game pudding/pie with mash and some veg, i liked everything on the menu, thats the problem, what to have.

Have worked out where to put the raspberry canes, using 3/4 of another raised bed, but some special manure down, will plant the canes tomorrow as it looks very sunny and i'll have more time.

My new Indian chapati board and rolling pin came, the board is a 10" and the pin is 2cm diameter, will have to try it.

Mollie, I don't overcook the sausage as i give them 20 minutes in the oven, i use a timer or a temperature probe for all cooking and the sausages are the thin very long ones so they cook quick.

Just the 2 of us for the meal, the game oie had venison, grouse, rabbit and another game, can't remember what, they all look the same in gravy inside a pudding.

Good luck with looking after your neighbours dogs, no chance here of that going on, it would be a shock those turning up with gifts though.

Routine appointment doesn't sound bad, does it, routine is a good word to hear.

at mo last doctors they wouldn't make appointments like that, you had to ring in at 8am on the day, problem was you could never get through, so one day the o/h took me to the surgery for 8am and i sat there until they gave me an appointment, but the earliest time was about 11am so we went for brekkie.

Always worth a trip to Costco for a meal, don't blame you.

Emptybox, Yes, i suppose as long as they know they pay by the hour plus any time over that, or i suppose they could ask for a price to do a certain job, like get a quote.

I know fillet steak is expensive nut it's the best, the most tender ever of all steak and £40 a kg.

Yes, o/h was sure surprised when i gave her the gift, she hadn't realised that 45 years was Sapphire, Blue, and the center Blue stone, swiveled and glittered in the light, she took off the one she had on and put it on, it looked good.

If Theresa May can get us out of the EU and sever all ties i will be happy Germany and France think we need them to survive, but they only want us to think that because it's them that needs us really, they are so clever, we pay the £360m a week and they give us a discount, keep the rest give us a few bob to make it look good then tell us what to do with our own money, really, are we idiots or what.

Just seen an operation where they removed a tumor from a very week woman and the tumor weighed 19.5 kg.

both xxx

HAPPY 45TH ANNIVERSARY TO HICKY  

I am so glad to hear you had such a lovely meal out, and that your OH was so pleased with your special gift. She must of been so surprised by you not only  giving her a gift, but realsing a sapphire is what commemorates 45 years.

Can you remember your wedding day? eg church, registry? what she wore? how many guests and what they had to eat?

at you liking all on the menu, makes it hard to decide what to order when you are like that. I am so fussy there is usually only a couple of things on a menu I like. What did your OH choose as I recall you said (like me), she doesn't really like spicy food.

Hope it does stay nice and sunny tomorrow for you to sort out your raspberry canes.

Yes it is also difficult to get through to my docs at 8am for an appointment, and when you do, they usually say all appointments are gone! So I asked receptionist if I could just turn up as soon as the surgery opened, and she said I couldn't do that, and even if I did, all the appointments would of already gone from people who rang first. Ridiculous. As you say, at least they said it was just classed as a routine appointment, I would of preffered the x ray to of shown nothing and so to of been told no appointment necessary, but I guess I am lucky in that I was not told it was an emergency appointment.

Emptybox

day off work today?

Has it cooled down there? It certainly has here, the wind was really cool today but at least it was dry. Just had a little drizzle first thing.

Hope you enjoyed your sphab bol and beer tonight.

Went to shopping centre to get a few Christmas things. We went when the rugby match was on because we knew it would be far too busy on a Saturday afternoon otherwise.

Watching some of the dancing, then looking forward to big band night on x factor after. Think I will record Michael Mcintyre as he is quite good.

Have a good evening both xxx

Hi both.
Not bad day today. A little cooler than the last few days, but not too bad.
Because all the leaves are now off the trees I raked up all the remaining leaves off my lawns, front and back.

Hicky. Glad OH liked her prezzie, and you enjoyed your Anniversary meal.
Hope you get the good weather tomorrow to plant the rasps.
Bet you can't wait to get stuck into Chapati making?

At my surgery you have to phone at 8am as well, but you can usually get an appointment within a couple of days.
Also there's always one doctor seeing emergency patients, so if you think it's serious you can just go in and wait, and you'll be seen when a slot is available.
Sometimes you have to wait a while mind you, as the emergency doctor also gets called out for emergency home visits.

Mollie. Good plan to go to the shopping centre when you knew it would be quiet.

Quite enjoyed X-Factor. Liked Shan best followed by Scarlett.
Don't really like these theme nights though. Don't see the point in them doing Big Band stuff or Movie songs. They should do the best songs for them every week regardless.
I guess it shows that they are flexible, but means we have to listen to 'boring' Big Band stuff.

Evening Both. :

11c here sun all day, wind of only 10.

Managed to plant the 6 new Raspberry canes this morning, quite a job because they have sprawling roots so unlike most plants you can just make a hole you have to remove the whole area of soil in order to let the roots lie down free and the plants have to be at least 18" apart, i cleared the area, put stakes were i had marked the plants to go then stand the plant against the cane and spread the roots, of course i also put the special stuff for the roots over them before i covered with soil and watered.

Then i made the Sunday Roast, a lamb leg with cauliflower and cabbage with mash and gravy, o/h off work today now for a couple of months and she's been spring cleaning all day and doing washing, was going to do mine but will do it in the week now.

The knife sharpening stone came today, only ordered it yesterday, have one outside but wanted one for the kitchen as i like sharp knives.

Mollie, Thank you for the Anniversary picture, very nice.

I can't remember a lot about the wedding, i know i had blue suede on, it was a registry, in Birkenhead i think, 1973, it was a nice day, thats all i can remember.

 O/H even asked if they had another menu, she is so fussy she couldn't see what to order, in the end we had the same starter, the cod cheeks and the crispy squid, then she had steak and chips and finished with a light pudding.

Thats a shame if you can't go to the surgery to get an appointment, using the phone is crazy.

Emptybox, Yes, one of the biggest problem with the Chapati making was the rolling out, trying to keep it round, my old rolling pin is just a parallel wooden bar, long as well, so it was hard to control for small rolled items like Chapati.

In an emergency of sorts we usually got the walk in center, more serious we can go to A&E.

Going to get my hair cut tomorrow after SIL comes, we are having sausage on a roll, o/h can't though as she can't have fat before the op Tuesday.

both xxx

Emptybox

sounds like leaf collecting kept you busy yesterday.

Day indoors today? Or shopping?

X factor....I too like Scarlett and my other favourite is Darlton. Yes these themed nights are damn stupid and annoying. Last night was supposed to be big band, but it was a blooming waste of a big band being in attendance, as  there were only a couple of songs that could of even been referred to as being Big Band numbers.

Dr Who night again, hope you enjoy. Did you stick to just the 2 viewings of last weeks episode?

Hicky

Glad you got sun today, we did too, but the wind was real cold especially first thing. But I did manage a quick sit outside to read my book in a little corner sheltered from the wind. You did well planting all your raspberry canes, then making the roast dinner after.

I expect your OH is busy spring cleaning because of her op coming up soon? 

I wonder if it was blue suede shoes you wore for the wedding? It was lucky you had good weather though this time of year.

Gosh that sounds real restrictive for your OH if she can't have fat at all before Tuesday. Does that include fat in stuff like butter/milk/cheese as well as meat? What time does she have to be there Tuesday? do you know how long she is likely to be kept in? It will be hard for you with no car, but at least you have the online deliveries and your gardening and plenty of tv recordings to keep you busy.

Went to asda today, got a plain white shirt and black trousers for daughter as she has a work placement all next week with a clinical psychologist, so didn't have enough smart clothes for 5 days. She is nervous as doesn't know what to expect.

I am persisting with my exercises, but couldn't manage them all last night, so had to finish them this morning. Think it was the rice pudding I had after my tea made me struggle. They are hard work, take me about half hour to do, daughter helps me as I have to hold one lunge 20 seconds and do it 10 times,  as well as other stuff!

Looking forward to x factor, then I'm a Celeb, it will be really different being Holly this year. Hope the contestants are interesting.

Goodnight both xxx

Hi both.

Freezing fog here most of the day. Only 1c when I went for the paper, and 3c when I went to Sainsburys this afternoon. Brrrr!
There was a bit of sun in town, but the low lying fog was still there at home afterwards.

Hicky. Was that blue suede shoes for your wedding, or did you go for a blue suede suit? Were you channelling Elvis?

Sounds like you made a good job of those rasps. Yes they can have straggling roots.
Well done to your OH for spring cleaning. I really need to get down to a bit of that before Xmas.
I suppose that's her off work for her op? Good luck to her for Tuesday.

Mollie. Enjoyed Doctor Who. Was a fun episode.
I watched last week's one twice. Will probably watch this one again as well, but maybe not 3 times.
Really sad that Shan went on X-Factor. I thought she was the best singer.

Well done persevering with your exercises, even if you don't do them all the same day.
That's good of your daughter for helping you. Hope she does well on her work placement.

Thought Holly slotted in well on IAC.
Not sure she'll put up with Dec's silly jokes though?
Liking Rita Simon and Nick Knowles so far.

Evening Both.

9c today Monday, light cloud some sun, winds of 8 to 11.

SIL came at 9am-ish, we had sausage on muffin rolls, we had a walk around the garden as usual as she likes to see how the fruit trees are, told her i will pruit the hard fruit trees in February.

I have planned out and drawn my raised bed layout with next years plants.

O/H didn't have the sausage brekkie then when she read the hospital info to be this afternoon, it didn't say no fat on the day before, it said on the night before, oh dear, more sausages for me now.

She took me to find a barbers to trim the head, found one easy enough, some close Monday and others Tuesday, but it was handy, 2 of us walked in and it was empty but they had 2 staff waiting so that was good, it saves o/h waiting outside too long.

O/H put the big tarp covers over the outside benches and the big chair swing before i even knew she was outside, we then put the bungee cord round which keeps the covers in place, i then covered the 2 outside water taps with fleece.

For tea i had the left over lamb as o/h couldn't have it, fried some mash and got some gravy, oh, and midday had a big muffin, toasted outside layered with mayo and a packet of brown shrimps in the middle, that was tasty.

Mollie, I enjoyed Dr Who again, i only used to watch a couple in the past but this series seems so different.

O/H needs to be at the hospital for 3pm, she will hopefully only be in a couple of days, i will book her a taxi in the morning.

Yes, spring cleaning the whole place, mind you she is a good cleaner, very thorougher,

Well done with the exercises, you will be getting used to them which makes it easier.

Loving IAC all ready, and as i like Holly i would swap out Ant anytime, give me Holly instead, it's going to be a scary series as for some reason they have to make things more horrific every time.

Emptybox, It's certainly colder where you are, nothing like that here.

Blue suede shoes was the thing then, doubt if i had any others.

Yes, i made a better job of planting the raspberry canes than the last time, no hurry so i thought i might as well do it right and i had bought the root stuff mycorrhizal fungi, you need it for bare root planting.

Yes, not sure when she can go back to work, maybe 2 months, i think it takes 3 months for things to heal anyway.

both xxx

Emptybox

gosh that fog sounds not too good. Still cold there I guess today?  So fleece and wooly hat time for you now.  It was certainly a very cold wind here today, but dry.

Glad to hear you enjoyed this weeks episode of Dr Who. I agree about Shan going, ridiculous some of the rubbish singers we have left and someone as good as her gets chucked out. No wonder Simon said he wanted her on the tour.

Hicky

Glad to hear your SIL enjoyed her sausage brekkie with you and a look at your garden. Shame your OH wrongly read the "no fat" message from the hospital.

It was a good idea to go to the barbers on a quiet Monday, but as you say, lucky it was open as not many do on Mondays.

You are really organsied now covering your garden furniture ready for winter. We  must do ours now too.

I hope all goes ok for your OH tomorrow. Does she know what time they will do the op, or will they just wait and see how their list goes?  Will you go and visit her in the evening, or is it too difficult for you without transport? I hope she does only have to stay in a couple of days. It will be strange for you home alone whilst she is in hospital.

Went to aqua fit today with my fave instructor, he is just so enthused. He did a back flip and a handstand today, such a great dancer. I spoke with him and he remembered my son, so sent his best wishes to him. He says he has committed to going back to performing professionally on stage soon as he misses it. But he did a few years on the cruise ships. He said the trouble is you age quickly in his business, his back is already starting to play up. The aqua fit and exercise is doing my aches and pains good though.

Met son in his Uni lunch break, he had a toasty, I didn't bother having anything as trying to cut down, but did a bit of shopping, got some selection boxes for Christmas as they are half price in tesco now.

Forecast for a very cold week this week.

I too am enjoying IAC.

Goodnight both xxx

Hi both.
Dull and drizzly today and about 5c.
Was windy this morning, but calmed down this afternoon, so I spent a couple of hours raking leaves at a place.
By the time I finished that the drizzle had started again, so I came home.

Hicky. Sounds like your OH's op has meant more fatty food for you?
Good luck to her for tomorrow.
That's nice that SiL enjoys strolling round your garden.
Handy that you didn't need to wait at the Barbers, when you went for your trim.
Good idea to cover the garden furniture and taps up for the Winter.
Don't remember having blue suede shoes in the 70's? I think I had Doc Martin boots?

I agree about Doctor Who. I think it's like a new fresh show, and very enjoyable.
I know a lot of the die hard fans aren't happy about the changes, but the ratings are higher than the last few seasons, so I think it's a success.

Mollie. Yes heavy fleece and woolly hat time now. Although you get a bit warm after a couple of hours of raking leaves.
That's good that your Aqua Fit instructor is so enthusiastic, although I'm not sure doing a handstand under water is a good idea?
That's nice that he remembered your son though.
Good that your aches and pains are being helped by the exercises.
Yes, you'll probably find a few bargains in the shops this week as Friday is 'Black Friday'.

Enjoyed IAC. I see Holly is getting some flak, basically for not being Ant, which I think is very unfair. I think she's doing great.

Evening Both.

Not done a lot today, walked the garden as i always do, Cool today as max was 7c rain showers, winds 9 to 11.

Had bacon black pud and Chirozo for brekkie.

Ordered a taxi for o/h for 2.20pm, carried her bag to the taxi like a porter.

She has been texting me by the minute on WhatsApp since she landed, she is currently waiting for a theatre, i said i hope theres a good show on.

Had hock soup for tea with beef stew from the freezer stock, now having some Genoa cake, have got oranges and banana's for afters.

My lad in oz sent me a link to a site in Cairns, it was Alamanda Palm Grove, rather nice, he's checking places out, he can't wait for us to go over, he is always sending pics of them with the little girl, she is so cute.

Enjoying the jungle show, and to think it's just up the coast from were i was.

Mollie, O/H is waiting for the theatre to become empty, she was down as next from 5pm but still waiting at 6pm.

I don't think i will go to the hospital unless she wants me too, i am a bit of a joker and my wit could upset some of them, mind you she has a room of her own, but she spends all her time on her tablet playing games, shes very clever with those.

I would be too nosey and ask too many questions, i am so nosy so doubt if she will want me there.

Yes, it looks like a cold week, not much we can do about it.

Emptybox, I can see the weather at this time of the year is even less stable than earlier in the year.

We put all we can away for the winter, some in the garage, more in the gazebo, it already has 2 big benches in it for the summer but can get tables and seats in, also the space heater.

I might have got it wrong with the blue suede, i had them on when i went to the Military Police training barracks in London and they wouldn't let me out because of my shoes, they said you can't wear those outside the camp, i had to borrow some shoes to get past the guards, so i could be mistaken the wedding shoes.

I am enjoying Dr Who, never watched all the old series as it was too ski fi for me.

Enjoying IAC, i prefer Holly to Ant any day, why wouldn't i.

both xxx

Emptybox

Good job you got a couple of hours work in before the drizzle stopped you.

Yes that is the thing in your job, you start out noticing the cold, but soon warm up when moving.

Hicky

hope your OH's op got done problem free and she wasn't left waiting much longer. No wonder she was whatsapping you, it is so boring in hospital, and it must of been made worse for her as she was waiting for an op. She has been very lucky to get a room of her own. Was it with the nhs? Or did you have to pay or use health insurance?

I bet the weather is a bit warmer in Alamanda Palm Grove up in Cairns. Sounds lovely. Let's hope your OH recovers quickly, so you can go over there.

at you being a nosey joker so will probably be best avoiding visiting hospital.

That is funny about you not being allowed out in your blue suede shoes. I bet they looked good though.

Very cold here today, but at least it was dry.

Went to docs and she said the x ray showed athritus, which I guessed. She reckoned the fall had triggered it off in the ankle. The x ray people want me to go back for a foot x ray now. Oddly I have noticed some discomfort in the bones in my feet.

I too am enjoying IAC, I thought Holly a bit wooden with Dec at first, but she is definately getting better.

Goodnight both xxx

Hi both.
Raining here most of the day. Some of it very heavy.
Didn't get any work done unsurprisingly.

Didn't do much. Watched Aisleyne on the Victoria Derbyshire show on BBC2 this morning.
She was debating Brexit with Professor Robert Winston (he of the curly hair and thick moustache).
Aisleyne was pro Brexit and Prof Winstion was Remain.
Sounds like a bad dream, but I assure you it actually happened.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-46222586
She came over well, even though my views are more aligned with Prof Winston's
Aisleyene was also on GMB on ITV this morning talking about a different topic, so she's getting quite a lot of telly at the mo.

Hicky. Hope your OH has had her op by now, and is in recovery.
That's good that she's got her own room anyway.
I'm sure you wouldn't upset anybody if you went to visit. Not unless you started trying to 'improve' the medical equipment or something.
That's nice that your lad sends lots of pics of your latest grandchild.

Mollie. That's a pity you have been diagnosed with arthritis. Hope you haven't got it in your feet as well.
Hopefully they can give you meds to relieve it?
Not sure how that affects your exercise regime, but I guess exercises in water won't do any harm.
This suggests that gentle exercise is a vital part of the treatment.
I think Holly is doing great. She only has to do the one series anyway, till Ant is fully functional again.

Evening Both.

Coldish today at 6c cloud rain and 11 wind.

O/H was back from op and rang me at 10pm, but her battery ran down and no socket by the bed, she has her own room and bathroom, she had low BP but it's better now, has had reflux etc, very tired, is hoping she might be able to get home tomorrow, op went fine, she has been messaging me today.

Made an omelet for brekkie, made Spag Bol for tea, just watched TV today, as it was a bit cold outside.

Mollie, O/H only had the nurses to chat to, but if she needed anything they were there, but unlike main wards you don't have people in other beds that you can chat to.

The Op went fine she said, and it is a private hospital but she went under the NHS which is free of course.

Yes, that accommodation in Cairns looks fantastic, we would probably get an apartment for us all.

Never realised damage to bones could trigger Arthritis, very strange.

enjoying IAC don't think Anne will last the course somehow.

Emptybox, If i was at the hospital i would be sitting with the nurses or patients in the other rooms, i can't sit still and chat in one place, it will be good if she can get home tomorrow, one of her brothers has offered to bring her home, or her Sister.

Aisleyne gets some unusual jobs etc doesn't she, very good though.

That heavy rain is the last thing you want.

I was reading about using the fallen ;eaves for putting on the raised beds, problem is, it says Oak leaves take years to break down and most of mine are Oak, i should have mashed them up in the wheelie bin, if i get some nice weather i will, but i have rather a lot.

both xxx

Emptybox

pity the rain stopped you working. Hope it has been a bit better today. It was certainly very cold here today.

I saw that Ais show with the Prof advertised, gosh I couldn't believe she was debating with him. She has certainly done well promoting herself,.... what with the out for dinner show and now that, especially bearing in mind she was dumped from BBOT. I didn't have chance to watch it, but thanks for the link, I will catch up with it when I get chance. Interesting how her views are opposed to yours.

Thank you so much for the exercise link.  That is very interesting how helpfull exercise is to arthritus. Looks like until all the x ray results are in, I will need to take care if a particular exercise is panfull. I am glad it says about water exercise cushions the joints, so is ok. There are quite a few people at aqua fit with mobility problems, so I guess their physios have suggested it to them too.

Do you reckon Ant wil return and only be off for this one series? Wonder if Holly has taken her 3 kiddies over there with her?

Hicky

so pleased all went well during your OH's op. Pity she doesn't have a socket by the bed, but good news her BP is ok now. She is bound to feel tired though, as it was such a long day waiting for the op yesterday, and then of course the stress to her body would tire her out too. Did they have to put her to sleep or just local anaethsetic? Fingers crossed she is back home tomorrow. Will she need to get a taxi home? That is the only down thing about a private room, you have no other patients to chat to.

That is interesting what you say about oak leaves. I never realised that.

Very cold here today, I met mums ex carer and her friend for coffee and a shop in asda today. Then we went to hospital as the friend had an appointment too. I had the x ray done but have a weeks wait for it it be read now.

Looking forward to IAC now.

Goodnight both xxx

Evening.
Raining again today. There were a few sunny spells, but not long enough to make it worthwhile going out to work.
Went into town to get some natural meds and to post a Birthday card to one of my Nephews. It was about 4c.

Hicky. That's great that your OH came through her op OK, and is expected out as soon as tomorrow.
I suppose she's bound to have a few problems to begin with, but hopefully she'll make a swift recovery.

Ah yes, I remember that leaf wheelie bin device from last year.
Didn't realise Oak leaves took so long to break down. They'd probably make a good long term mulch then?

Mollie. Hope the X-ray you had today doesn't show anything else wrong.
That was nice meeting your friends for coffee before the hospital visit.

Yes Ash seems to be doing not too bad at the moment. There's quite a few telly things coming up. Of course being Aisleyne she could always put her foot in it again, like she did on BBOTS. It's always a bit of a lottery as to whether you get sensible Ash or not.

I should think Ant will come back. Don't think he's finished yet.
I see we are getting Noel Edmunds tomorrow.
Watched Apprentice then IAC on +1. Not sure I would have bought any of that art?

Evening Both.

Colder today, frosty this morning, 6c during the day, sunny intervals and low wind at 6.

Had bacon, black oud and tomato for brekkie with toast.

O/H came home this afternoon, she had been keeping me informed what was going on, one of her Brothers picked her up, have been making her tea and getting her food, moved the phone to the other side of the bed, took a small table and the small arm chair as it would be too hard getting in and out of bed.

Will make a loaf tonight so we have more bread.

Just had Mac & Cheese on toast for tea as it was quick.

Mollie, They changed their mind about the epidural and gave her the normal anesthetic stuff.

Yes, very isolated in private room but with it being a private hospital i suppose it's standard.

Will have to think about the leaves again, i think they will all need to be broken to bits with my strimmer, normally you use a lawn mower to go over them, but, no lawn.

At least you have your X-Ray done, pity you have to wait though.

Emptybox, Rained off again i see, i wonder if you will get any dry days now.

I think one of her problems is pain, i'm keeping the gel pack cold in the fridge so she can have them when she wants them, the pain meds don't stop the pain though.

I can look after her now as don't think she'll want to go to the kitchen it's a bit of a walk.

Hi Hicky.

That's great the way you are looking after your OH.

Probably better to have a full anesthetic for an op like that anyway.

Pity the pain meds aren't really doing their job. Hope the cold gel pads help her. 

Drizzling here all day. No point in going out. Very cold as well.

I thought all the leaves were down, but some more have appeared from somewhere, so I'll have to get the rake out again on a dry day.

Noel is making the most of his role as Emperor on IAC.

HI both xx

Emptybox

pity it was too cold and damp to get out today. It was cold here too, but fortunately nice and sunny.

Yes Ais is doing well right now, but does need to show continuous control to carry on, after her BBOT episode.

Hicky

so pleased your OH is home now. Hard work for you now helping look after her and seeing how much post op pain she is in. It is good you can sort the gel packs out for her too. I hope the pain eases soon. I am not surprised she had a general anaesthetic in the end, it would of been quite hard staying awake for an op like that. Did the docs give her any strong pain killers? eg co codemol? Does a nurse come to your house to do her dressing or does she have to go to the surgery?

Son's day off Uni today, so we went to Cardiff Christmas shopping. It was really busy so many dong their Christmas shopping. I was glad to shop with him as he carried all the bags (I only have one hand free now due to my stick) and he knew what his brother and sister would like.

Enjoyed IAC.

time to do my boring exercises. Have to make sure I do them as I have physio at hospital tomorrow.

Goodnight both xxx

Evening Both. :

7c today, cloudy with winds of 8.

We had brekkie in the dining room, it took quite a while for o/h to get to the table as the pain is terrific, i can get all her drinks and meals ok, have to support her leg getting out of bed, just so painful, looking on the web it says the bruising can last 12 months the pain for about 6 months, she's even got a lot of pain where the tourniquet was, she can get to the loo as she has an on-suite which is handy, my lad installed it before we moved in.

F1 on this weekend so thats good, and have IAC, and Strictly, a good weekend.

She just had an orange, apple and cheese before, i had crackers, cheese tomato and chutney to save cooking.

Mollie, She only had a general because that was the surgeons choice as you can move your leg sooner after the op.

she just has the normal pain killers but they don't seem to do much, she has to go back to the hospital for physio on the 27th, she has to go back for the dressing, and she will have stitches as well, they will need to come out after a while.

Yes, handy doing your shopping with your lad, 1 free hand os no good.

Yes, like you, loving IAC.

Emptybox, O/H is not very demanding, she is more worried about getting me to do too much, i told her it's no problem to me, it's not as if i have so much to do.

Certain trees drop the leaves late, i still have apple trees with leaves on.

Noel will be quite funny, he won't take things serious, a good show, loved that staging.

Hi both

Hicky

your poor OH being in such pain. Gosh it does take long time to heal after too, doesn't it? What a relief you have the ensuite for her though. Is it disturbing her sleep? Maybe she could ask the doc for some stronger painkillers as the usual ones don't do much good now? Makes sense why they gave her a general anaesthitic then, if it means she can move her leg quicker. Hope she gets on ok at hospital next week and at the physio,

Emptybox

are you up to date work wise now? I am guessing the weather was not too good today to get anything done was it?

Went to hospital today and physio checked the new x ray I had on Wednesday, and said it showed there was a sign of arthritus in the feet. So she has upped the exercise, and told me to go to aqua fit more than once a week.

Yes Hicky plenty of good tv right now. Watching IAC now.

I won't be around this weekend as we are going to visit mum's sisters and the German Christmas markets.

Goodnight both xxx