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Catch Up

 We’ve had snow…

It was a minor inconvenience for a couple of days and the wisteria came away from the back wall under the weight of the snow. I think the installation of some sort of wisteria props are called for but I shall wait until it has finished dropping leaves so I can untangle the web of vines in order to see how best to prop it up. Meanwhile, we now have rain courtesy of Storm Bert. We’ve had worse. 

I’ve pin pointed the trigger of my bout of Achilles tendonitis to wearing Skechers trainers for dog walking. They are terrible trainers. Online research has shown that professional podiatrists advise against them because they lack support for heel and arches, and they also exacerbate any current foot problems. I have binned mine and bought a pair of Moshulu ankle boots in their stead. After six Skecher-free weeks, the tissue damage - stiffness, aches and pain - is noticeably improved. The Moshulu boots are a lovely shade of deep red so no danger of my Mum borrowing them! I did think the tendonitis was triggered by me moving a very heavy gravestone (don’t ask) and although it may have been a contributory factor, I think the Skechers are the most to blame. 

I have finished my Christmas shopping. I am especially pleased with something I’ve bought my daughter and son-in-law. I showed Andy a photo of it and he said, ‘Oh my god!’ and laughed. I think this bodes well.

I’ve just given Nell the Poo a haircut. She is currently sleeping off the trauma. I am wondering if I can become a dog groomer - ‘Experienced cockapoo wrangler will trim your ‘poos fur by giving them something to chew whilst simultaneously rolling around on a rug with them, wielding a pair of scissors and just going for it.’ Well, it works for me and Nell. 

I’ve spent more time paring down the contents of various cupboards and drawers, including my craft cupboard. I am finding it very satisfying to open newly organised storage spaces and being able to see what’s in there and knowing that everything has a genuine use and purpose. I have also realised that the way forward into 2025 is to concentrate on less and do it better. I am done with being a Jill of All Trades. I have quality and simplicity of life in mind for the future.

The Much Malarkey Manor Christmas Story 2024 has taken an unexpected plot turn. These things happen often when I am writing. I think, how the chuff am I supposed to write a saleable novel when my creative brain works on such a random level? Even when I try to catch myself out by making a detailed plot plan, my brain scuppers me. Anyhoo, I’m just over half-way through the writing process and my aim next week is to complete it because I have just realised it’ll all be kicking off NEXT SUNDAY!!! 😱😱😱 

I’ve passed two more assignments for my diploma and I am scheduled to have everything submitted for Term 1 well ahead of the deadline. My tutor is pleased about this. I said it is because I used to be teacher and know what is it like to have many students of the procrastinating persuasion submitting work right up against the deadline, and then the irony of them wondering why they can’t have it back, fully marked, the next day. Anyway, it’s all going very well. I am learning lots and am glad I decided to take this course of learning. I feel there is a door opening.

And that’s what I’ve been up to. Busy, busy, busy. Except today, because it’s raining bucketloads. So I thought I’d write a blog. 







Comments

Anonymous said…
Good idea regarding the foot wear choice. Our feet don’t often get the attention they need.
KJ
23 November 2024 at 17:01
Denise said…
I shall never go near another pair of Skechers again in my life, KJ.
24 November 2024 at 18:28
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