Wednesday 31 August 2011

Hen night

Hen night for my daughter Natalie was at the weekend. I was looking forward to meeting all her friends but a little worried this old chubby lady would be able to keep up! We all got ready with the theme being brides and Natalie was the vicar!!! Everyone looked so funny in their outfits and we all got onto the bus to take us into town. The driver had given us all wine to drink and much laughs were heard all the way.
When we arrived we all took time to have our first picture taken, I think you will agree we look fab lol


We then set off for a really nice meal with some fun dare cards !!! I had to pinch a mans bottom and found a very nice waiter to use that on!
We then went for a walk after dinner to visit some local pubs, and attracted lots of attention. Mainly with people wanting pictures taken with Natalie which was fun.


In this picture wearing the rather attractive pink wig lol. This I must add did not last long as it was so hot I had to get rid of it! I think Natalie's friends made a great effort.

Natalie and myself


Me without the hot pink and hot to wear wig.

We then ended the night at a club and was joined by some more of Natalie's friends. I did feel old in the place but they were all very nice and made us more than welcome. I think everyone had a nice safe time, and it was lots of fun. Natalie has some great friends and it was so nice so many of them and family could join us.





 I hope the wedding day will be just as much fun and we are 17 days and counting !!


Thursday 25 August 2011

Why do I have to suffer Mr Manufacturer

Why do I have to suffer Mr manufacturer?  Ok I am plus size and short..... I do not need a label really I live with it every day of my life. Its hard when you are bigger to feel nice about yourself and everyday is a struggle to not look in the mirror and think "yuck" as least for me.
So when it comes to clothes shopping its not easy. Sure there are stores that make plus size clothes but forget dresses and skirts if your short, you look like your wearing a grown up tall persons clothes.

I am what is called petite in that I am under 5 feet 2 inches tall and also my neck to waist measurement is shorter than the average. This means that if it is meant to sit on the waist it will end up on the hips, or bust darts fall nearer the waist not the bust.
When I was slim it was not a problem as a few clothing chains carry petite clothes but once I was above a UK 18 forget it.
So most of the time I have to either have it much to big on top to fit the bottom or the other way. I am sick of this problem.
Someone recently explained all the whys and why nots of having plus size petite clothing including cost and in surveys no market for them. I do find this rather hard to believe as I just can't be the only lady out there with this problem.

I am not saying a line just for plus size and petite, just to extend the sizes up a little to not exclude people.
Why must we constantly fight for good service and goods, why do stores that carry plus size always put that department in the  back corner. Do they think if people can see a larger person buying clothes they will run off screaming.

When you are larger or for that matter tiny, you feel different and often unhappy . Then to be faced with the hunt for nice clothes that fit, and you  feel like a reject is even more unhappiness.

So please clothing manufacturers think of us and the money market you could gain from inviting us in.
We may be plus size, we may be short but we are people and we have the right to look good. So I leave you as I started with the question " Why do I have to suffer Mr. Manufacturer"

Monday 22 August 2011

Three have a lazy day

Three have a lazy day is the name I have given to my picture, for you all on this Monday.
I took it of my husband and 2 cats having a nap and it did make me laugh to see them all so relaxed. Its not normal for my cats to be that close, they don't fight but they are not really close buddies. It was not until I looked that I noticed my husband in the back round and I did think it so funny. So happy monday world and I hope its a nice fun day for you all, and hope you have a lazy day.



Friday 19 August 2011

My fifteen seconds of fame

My fifteen seconds of fame came last year. In the UK we have a day time show called "This morning".
I was watching one morning sitting being lazy with my cup of tea, when the call went out for people for a makeover.
I rushed to my computer to send off an e mail to them in hopes I would be lucky.
I thought that would be the end of it and to my shock the next day I got a phone call to say I had been picked.
The show is live and made in a London studio so it was all very exciting.
My daughter was coming with me and it was a very early start, catching the first train into London.
When we left the station we found a very posh limo waiting outside for us, we felt just like stars as he drove us to the studio.
We were taken to the Green room and given tea and cake and made to feel very special.
Then I was taken off to find clothes! They knew I was plus size so I was a little disappointed when they sent a young girl to buy the clothes. She made the classic mistake of buying big shapeless tents. I began to panic as I felt under pressure.
Then they found me a dress that used to be the type the host of the show used to wear. She had been plus size but had lost lots of weight.
Then they decided to give me some control underwear. They must be joking i thought as I opened the box, I am never getting my bottom in those! So after much puffing and pulling I got them on! Just then the wardrobe man came in and said they need pulling up. He proceeded to grab the back and yank them up! I was dying and they only thing that made it ok was that he was gay so it did not seem so bad a man was seeing me in my underpants.
They then gave me a huge pair of high heels and took my glasses away! Then marched me into the studio, I am amazed I made it in and did not end up in the bathroom.

The shows host at that time were Fern Brittan and Philip Scofield. They were very kind and nice and let us take pictures and chat. The rest of the show raced past and because I was not wearing my glasses all in a blur lol

At the end they gave me all the clothes and shoes and flowers and we were taken back to the train station in the same lovely car. As we left the media was outside waiting for stars to leave, and my daughter and I waved to them just for fun!

We got home worn out but had a fun day, my fifteen seconds of fame was over.


Fern and myself 


Tuesday 16 August 2011

School uniform

School uniform is not something I have to worry about these days, as my children are grown-up.
However, I do remember the stress of getting all the new things, and in my day the cost. Often you had to get the school uniform from the school itself which was expensive.

These days if you do not have to buy direct from the school there are low cost options and from what I see the supermarkets are great. I often see things and think how cheap they are, and wish the had been around when I needed them.
I remember when my son was small and I paid a fortune for a pair of trousers, and by the end of day one he had fell and ripped the knees out !

I would think a good idea (why did I not think of it then) to have a kind of swap shop or jumble even if its just between a group of friends. Kids grow out of things so fast and often they are still in perfect condition. I don't think there is any need for pride because we all find it hard these days to make ends meet. This could be true for the more high price items such as blazer's or coats.
I miss those first days back at school when they look so clean and cute in their new things..........
until they roll in the mud or get gum stuck lol So best of luck with your school uniform.
Happy new term.

Sunday 14 August 2011

Empty nest

Empty nest is a felling that parents all over the world experience. This time of year many are thinking of their child or children going off into the world.
It could be starting school... I so remember my children's first day at school and how cute they looked in their clean fresh uniform. I thought I would love having time to myself, but after a couple of hours I was thinking "What now" and looking at the clock.

When my oldest started school I had just had his sister, so the time went fast as I had a new baby. When she started I was left with an empty house which I did find hard.
As they grew up there was the stress of starting junior school and then onto senior school. All of which had its own worries. Thinking about "will they make friends/get bullied" and a host of other things flash threw your mind.

When my oldest went to university I didn't have to face empty nest as he lived at home. His university was close and it was more cost effective to live at home. When later he got his own home, I did miss him a great deal, and many years later I still do. I often see him and think "gosh I do miss him "
and I am sure that is something many parents feel.

Like many young people these days the cost of housing is high, so many stay at home because they just can't afford to buy or rent. This is the case we our youngest and she is lucky her father is very talented and has made her a place alongside the house. So I as yet have not had empty nest with her!
I do found that if she is away I miss her a lot as I am so used to her being around, and she is company.

So if you are worrying about your own empty nest, we can all take comfort that we are not alone. Its a fact of life and we can get over it. I wish everyone who's baby is starting school or going off to college, a stress free time. I would love to hear all your stories so please share!

Saturday 13 August 2011

I'm a featured Blogger + blog hop

I'm a featured blogger today and I am so pleased. I like to take part in blog hops because they are fun. You get to meet some nice people and read blogs you may never have found. So check out this hop and many thanks Kristina!
Happy Hopping





First off, smile with me :) You made it through another week and deserve a big smile. You've got the whole weekend ahead of you so make it a good one!

This week's featured Smiley Hopper is Jill from Jolly Jillys!!
Follow Jolly Jilly

I asked Jill a few questions about herself and her blog so you could get to know a little bit about her.
1) When did you first start blogging? Why?

I started blogging in about feb. It was because of my niece Emma. She's been blogging for years and told me I should try. At first I thought "why" but then I thought maybe I should give it a go!

2) What's your favorite part about blog hopping?

My favourite part of blog hopping is making new friends. I love to visit other blogs and I love it when someone enjoys my blog.

3) What's your favorite hobby

My favourite hobby is sewing but I also love computers.

4) Who's your role model?

My role model was my mother. She did so much with her life. I loved her with all my heart. She passed away 20yrs ago but I miss her still everyday.
How it Works

* Follow Me and the Smiley Hopper of the week! (Spots 1 & 2) Leave us a comment with your blog/twitter/facebook url so that we can follow you back

* Grab the Smile With Me Saturday button then post on your blog to give your new followers a place to comment

* Add your blog/twitter/facebook to the list- (NOT YOUR BLOG HOP or GIVEAWAYS PLEASE) These entries will be deleted.

* Follow as many people on blog/twitter/facebook as you would like, Make sure you leave them a comment so they know you stopped by. Then Follow Back everyone that follows you & comments.
You can link your blog every Saturday at 12am EST. Have fun!!

















Friday 12 August 2011

Bridesmaid dresses

Bridesmaid dresses have been heavy on my mind for the last 8 months! Those that read this blog on a regular basis ( and I thank you) will know my daughter Natalie is getting married on the 17th Sep. I am making all the bridesmaid dresses which are 7 in total!!!
It has been a labour of love as dressmaking is not my passion. Sewing is a passion but more patchwork and quilting which I love. If you also enjoy this subject then come back after the wedding as I hope to maybe post a tutorial for beginners.

I often to make the dresses as the cost for 7 dresses was high. In some ways it has been good as i have improved my sewing skills a great deal. I feel more confident now in my abilities so that has got to be good.
However, there have been times when stress levels are high and panic has set in. I have no one who I could ask to help as I did not have anyone who sews enough to help.

So its been a one woman show for the last 8 months! I also helped make all the invitations (300) the ring pillow , place cards, confetti cones, table plan, and pew end bows  ....phew!
So its been part of my life for nearly and year , but it has been more special as its for such a lovely event.
I will feel a bit lost when its over but then on the up side I can get back to my crafts which I love to do.

So yesterday was a mile stone! I finished the last bridesmaid dress which is for my niece Emma ! There is still finishing to do and pressing but the bulk of the work has been done. Seeing them all hanging up makes me very proud and I do feel a sense of having achieved  something. I think I will not totally relax until they are sitting having the wedding breakfasts and all the pictures have been taken.

So come back after the 17th to see how I got on and what they look like when they are all lined up!
Oh hen night on 27th Aug ...... oh dear help me now lol


Tuesday 9 August 2011

London Riots

London Riots are big in the news today in the UK. I am just a normal everyday person but it breaks my heart to have the world look at our shame.

I am a Londoner through and through and was born in a place called Hackney which has been the one of the areas that have been hit . I know there are lots of lovely kind people in these areas that are having their lives totally ruined, by mindless people. These individuals are using events  to make trouble.
Innocent people have been victims of crime which should never have happened.
My  husband is with the London fire service and he was on night duty last night and tonight. He is not alone with other workers like the police, who are trying to help and make London safe, I sit at home and worry.

People are constantly moaning about fire/police service, getting too much money and so on. Come on!!! these people need twice what they earn to do the job they do. Were would be all be if we did not have them. And this apply's all over the world.

So were ever you are in the world please remember this is not the  UK person, and these London riots are something that does not happen . Most are decent normal people who are trying to make sense of all of this trouble.
Please think to thank all the public service workers all over the world as they do a fantastic job.

Stay safe wherever you are.

Sunday 7 August 2011

Femergy Review

Femergy is a product I was asked to review and I was pleased to do so. Anything at 50+ age that can help make life easier sounds good to me!

Femergy
This formulation uses only naturally sourced, wholefood ingredients, potent yet gentle on your stomach, designed to harmonise with your body’s natural cycle with an effect that builds over time. To be taken daily and whenever tiredness strikes. Naturally caffeine and sugar-free.
Today’s fast-paced world puts us all under more and more pressure. We would all like a little more energy to get through the day and maintain abalanced state of mind and mood. Femergy is potent yet gentle on your stomach, providing natural adaptogens to help maintain short-term energy, mental clarity and promote general well-being.
Energy and Vitality Femergy combines natural and highly absorbable ingredients proven toenhance the body’s metabolism, reduce temporary feelings of tiredness and enhance sexual alertness, as well as increasing overall energy and vitality.This combination is suitable for use by those working long hours, looking to increase athletic performance, or who just require an extranatural energy boost throughout the day.
Mood
Gentle at first, the effects of Femergy build over time to help maintain a body naturally able to cope with times of low energy.This all adds up to being better able to cope physically and mentally with what life throws at you. 
Concentration and mental clarityResearch has shown the combination of Brazillian Ginseng and Ginkgo Biloba to help increase mental performance and concentration.
Totally caffeine and sugar-free and from only wholefood sources. 60 vegetarian capsules suitable for those on a vegetarian, vegan, diabetic and coeliac diet. BetterYou is against animal testing
I have found them easy to take with no nasty taste or side effects. I found that in the main I was not so worn out or stressed. Now with my daughters wedding next month thats great, as stress levels are high!
I also had a couple of times when I felt sure I was coming down with a cold, but then it seemed to disappear! Not sure if it was down to this product or not but it was great not to get sick.
My energy levels seems up and also I do not seem to be forgetting so much which at my age is wonderful.
I would like to continue with this product and I must say the web site for the company who sells them is great. They are very helpful and products arrive fast . If like me you feel you need a boost then give them a try!
www.betteryou.uk,com

Please note I did not receive any payment for this review only a sample of the product.

Friday 5 August 2011

weddings

Weddings is a word that bring up good and bad memories for people. I've been very happy to attend lots of wedding and in the main have been really happy. My older brother got married to my darling sister in law Pat when I was 10. Even now at the age of 53 I can still remember every part of the day! My mother made all the dresses including the brides and mine was a fab pale lemon. We had tiny flowers in our hair and I felt like a little princess.

 
Me in 1969 (centre)

I was lucky to be bridemaid at that time to my cousin's Pat and Brian and can remember those in detail as well.
When it was mine turn in 1979 I was very excited as I was madly in love with my man Kevin. We had a lovely wedding and lucky for me we are still together even after 32 yrs.  It take hard work to maintain a relationship and even we have had ups and downs, but we are together which is great.

Kevin and I on our wedding day

There have been wedding in between but as a parent it really does you heart good to  see your child get married. Last year in April my son Matthew married Karen. They had a beautiful wedding in a castle ! It was early April but we were so lucky with the weather and not a drop of rain.

Matthew and Karens wedding

Then recently we had my son's friend Darren's wedding which we went to in the evening part. Everyone looked great and I am told Matthew did a fab job as best man. My daughter also made all the bridal flowers and they really looked great.


Darren and Gina's wedding

So last on this list is my daughter Natalie who is marrying the lovely Robin next month on the 17th. Those who kindly read this blog know how much work I have put into this wedding. There have been times when I have cried with the pressure of making 7 dresses but I would not have changed a thing. I have found that after 2 weddings in 2 years I could start a wedding business. I have made invitations, place cards, confetti cones, favour boxes, and helped with the cake. Part of me wants to get back to my craft but part of me will miss the wedding merry go round. 


Natalie and Robin

So come back after the 17th of September for lots of pictures of Natalie and Robs wedding, and pray for dry weather !

Tuesday 2 August 2011

30 day challenge... day 2

30 day challenge time and its day 2.
Today its a picture of the person you have been with or known the longest.

On our wedding day in 1979


This was taken at our sons wedding last year..... need i say more

This is my husband Kevin. We got married when we were very young and this year was our 32nd wedding anniversary. Its not always easy living with someone day in day out, and there are many times that I could have killed him lol. However, we make it work and I am proud of the fact we stayed together. He is a very hard working fire officer and always puts his family and home first.
I hope we have many more years to come and after next year when he retires some cash to have some fun

30 day Challenge

30 day challenge is something I have come across in the last day or two. I have not tried this sort of thing before and I thought it would be fun to have things to focus on. Each day a different prompt is given to you and then you can use that in your blog.
So this is my start at the 30 day challenge.
Day one: A picture of yourself with 15 facts.

Me on the right in green and my daughter Natalie

Gosh now for 15 facts........

1. I am fairly new to blogging
2. I wish I had been a singer
3. I would still love to meet Donny Osmond
4. I got my husband through the post
5. I been on T.V a few times
6. I wish I was much much slimmer
7. I wish I had more confidence
8. I love to sew and do patchwork
9. I love to craft
10. I wish I had more friends
11. I love America
12. I would have loved to be a ballet dancer
13. I love my family
14. I wish I had more money to do more with my life
15. I hope people enjoy reading my blog!
.So that's day one of the 30 day challenge and I hope you will stick with me and maybe join in!