Today was our 3rd Wedding Anniversary.
As money is tight, we knew we couldnt afford to go out like we usually do, or buy anything for each other, but I had planned to make it special as best I could.
I had planned for a nice meal (ok so Spag Bol isnt adventurous but we like it!) once the girls were in bed, followed by a chocolate cheesecake I had picked up in Asda earlier and then snuggles on the sofa.
What did I get instead? The girls being complete nightmares to go to bed, a meal rushed down whilst trying to keep the girls calm, and 45 mins of trying to get Jessica to sleep.
Once the girls had finally settled, we had our cheesecake, and then promptly watched TV all night. Hardly a word said, and once we get to bed finally at 11.45pm, he rolls over and goes to sleep.
I feel a little let down by his effort today to be honest, I may well be PMT Bitch from Hell right now, but surely the effort should still have been there today of all days.
We agreed weeks ago that we wouldnt bother with cards, but while in town yesterday I bought one anyway (and one from the girls). He knew I had bought them, yet still couldnt be bothered to go to the local shop for one for me, I made the effort in going to Asda and buying nice things for a nice meal and cooking it. I have had absolutely no affection or recognition of the day, and to be honest, Im gutted.
I just wish I knew where the loving caring person I married has gone, I know things have been stressful for all of us over the past few months, but the lack of communication is really starting to wear thin.
As a result of all this, and his snoring, I am now wide awake at nearly 1am wondering why I bother!!
On the plus side, its nearly christmas. I am really looking forward to seeing the girls faces on christmas day and sharing the happiness with them. I know Rebecca is a little young to understand just yet, but Jessica seems to be really getting into the swing of things which is amazing. She really is a clever little girl!
I think I am going to have to go and buy Rebecca some "outdoor" shoes on Friday, when I took her to Asda earlier, she wanted to walk from the house to the car and the car to the house but I couldnt let her do that in her Daisy Roots - she would have ruined the shoes and got wet feet! Bang goes another £20 at the weekend then! Its scary to think that my "baby" will be getting measured for shoes.... she doesnt seem big enough!
Off to Dads tomorrow for Christmas, just need to wait in for a delivery and get packed up and off we go. Will post a bit over christmas, especially as dad has borrowed an internet hub from work so we can wire up the laptop and the PC from the one connection. Im a little wary as to what the girls will be like while we are there, their sleep seems to be all over the place at the moment and it is really starting to wear me down. I love them to bits I really do, but I honestly cant wait for the day they both sleep through the night and later that 5.30am!
Week 1 of Christmas Leave for Dave is nearly over, seems to have flown by, but on the other hand, we are a week closer to being able to get out of this mess! I am worried, naturally, about what will happen financially when he is kicked out. How am I supposed to be able to pay my bills month by month with little to no income? I know the benefits system is there to help in these situations, but things seem to take so long to get sorted! We are still awaiting any sort of news on the DLA claim we put in a few weeks back, but due to Christmas I cant see us hearing anything for a while yet.
I guess I should really wind this up now, I will probably read it back in the morning and regret some stuff I have written and delete it, but I feel better for having got it out!
Thanks for reading if you got this far!!!
Thursday, 21 December 2006
Monday, 18 December 2006
Well, what can I say to this?! How cute are these girls of mine! A rare moment of loveliness between them!
We had a good weekend at Grandads house and are home and relaxing ready for Christmas. Got the last few bits wrapped today so we are all set.
We put Grandads christmas tree up on saturday, the girls love the "twinkle lights" so they are easily pleased!!!
Will post more later x
Thursday, 14 December 2006
Apologies
Sorry for not updating this week. Things are a little topsy turvey in my world right now.
How can anyone not be talking about the Suffolk Murders. My heart is in Ipswich, it always has been, and the latest news is making me feel sick to the pit of my stomach.
Nothing could prepare me for finding that the 3rd girl found dead at Nacton, was an old school friend. Anneli (Annie as we knew her) Alderton was such a bright young girl, very pretty and did so well at school. What worries me is what went wrong. How can anyone try to understand, when the person in question has been strangled to death by a mad man.
A further shock to the system last night when Dad phoned. He had just had reporters from the News Of The World newspaper on his doorstep looking for me. They had managed to get hold of a class list from Copleston High School, and an old electoral register. Thankfully, my dad was well on the ball and had told them I hadnt lived there for 3 years, was married to a soldier and was now living in Germany!
The last thing I want or need is my name and picture splashed over some tabloid newspaper trivilising the death of a past friend and 4 others. What could I tell them anyway? I havent seen the girl for 8 years, a lot happens in that time. All I can say right now is that my heart goes out to her 5yr old son who is facing christmas and a life without his mummy.
I really hope the police catch this sad, sick, maniac. Why should EVERY woman in Ipswich and surrounding areas feel they need to watch their every step and stay home as much as possible. I just hope those who are going out over the festive period can stay safe and be aware.
On a brighter note, we have finally found out some information regarding Dave's discharge.
The paperwork originally signed in September was returned by Glasgow office as it had been put on the wrong forms. Correct forms filled in, again it was sent back - the CO hadnt signed it.
It has finally gone back now, but because of christmas leave, it is looking like we wont hear anything until the end of January, but then I think at least it is a few more weeks we are safe.
Fingers crossed for some better news x
How can anyone not be talking about the Suffolk Murders. My heart is in Ipswich, it always has been, and the latest news is making me feel sick to the pit of my stomach.
Nothing could prepare me for finding that the 3rd girl found dead at Nacton, was an old school friend. Anneli (Annie as we knew her) Alderton was such a bright young girl, very pretty and did so well at school. What worries me is what went wrong. How can anyone try to understand, when the person in question has been strangled to death by a mad man.
A further shock to the system last night when Dad phoned. He had just had reporters from the News Of The World newspaper on his doorstep looking for me. They had managed to get hold of a class list from Copleston High School, and an old electoral register. Thankfully, my dad was well on the ball and had told them I hadnt lived there for 3 years, was married to a soldier and was now living in Germany!
The last thing I want or need is my name and picture splashed over some tabloid newspaper trivilising the death of a past friend and 4 others. What could I tell them anyway? I havent seen the girl for 8 years, a lot happens in that time. All I can say right now is that my heart goes out to her 5yr old son who is facing christmas and a life without his mummy.
I really hope the police catch this sad, sick, maniac. Why should EVERY woman in Ipswich and surrounding areas feel they need to watch their every step and stay home as much as possible. I just hope those who are going out over the festive period can stay safe and be aware.
On a brighter note, we have finally found out some information regarding Dave's discharge.
The paperwork originally signed in September was returned by Glasgow office as it had been put on the wrong forms. Correct forms filled in, again it was sent back - the CO hadnt signed it.
It has finally gone back now, but because of christmas leave, it is looking like we wont hear anything until the end of January, but then I think at least it is a few more weeks we are safe.
Fingers crossed for some better news x
Monday, 11 December 2006
Monday Monday Monday
Its that day again! The one I really hate!
Rebecca is not well, teething badly, temperature and was sick twice in the night meaning a complete change of bedding and clothes! All was not well! She seems a little brighter this morning so am keeping an eye on her today to see if I need to get her to doctors or not.
Jessica went to bed like a dream last night - was so shocked! She did fall out of bed at about 8pm though bless her, we tried not to laugh too much! She ended up in our bed at about 5am but went straight back to sleep until 6.30am so we cant complain too much!
Was planning to do so much today, but now Rebecca is poorly, Im a little reluctant, would rather keep her in the warm as the weather is not too good - gales and rain are not the best for little ones!
Will update on how the day goes later - right now Im struggling to stay awake!
Rebecca is not well, teething badly, temperature and was sick twice in the night meaning a complete change of bedding and clothes! All was not well! She seems a little brighter this morning so am keeping an eye on her today to see if I need to get her to doctors or not.
Jessica went to bed like a dream last night - was so shocked! She did fall out of bed at about 8pm though bless her, we tried not to laugh too much! She ended up in our bed at about 5am but went straight back to sleep until 6.30am so we cant complain too much!
Was planning to do so much today, but now Rebecca is poorly, Im a little reluctant, would rather keep her in the warm as the weather is not too good - gales and rain are not the best for little ones!
Will update on how the day goes later - right now Im struggling to stay awake!
Sunday, 10 December 2006
Sunday Sort Out!
What a night!
Rebecca haas a cold and a temperature so was up to her at 4am, she settled after an hour or so and then Jessica was up at 7am.
We have decided that Rebecca needs to go back into her own room, as Jessica's sleep issues are getting too big to manage now.
She is refusing to sleep in her bed, wants to sleep in the travel cot, and it is taking hours to get her to sleep at night - mainly involving one of us sitting with her singing twinkle twinkle little bloomin star over and over!
So, this morning we have been sorting out upstairs, getting Rebecca back into her own room, which of course meant clearing it of all the boxes and junk that has seemed to accumilate!
Jessica's room is now arranged differently, so hoping she may get excited about it again, and sleep better. We have decided to do the controlled crying with a difference route! We will put her to bed, let her cry for 2 mins, go in settle her, tell her its time to sleep etc and leave, go in after 4 mins and repeat until she finally drops off. We know it will take a few days for it to sink in, but we also need her to sleep properly so she is less ratty the following day!
So all in all it seems to be housework, housework and more housework today.... but at least it will be done and we can then enjoy the week ahead without getting stressed out over the state of the house!
Roast Chicken for tea tonight - am looking forward to it already!!!
Rebecca haas a cold and a temperature so was up to her at 4am, she settled after an hour or so and then Jessica was up at 7am.
We have decided that Rebecca needs to go back into her own room, as Jessica's sleep issues are getting too big to manage now.
She is refusing to sleep in her bed, wants to sleep in the travel cot, and it is taking hours to get her to sleep at night - mainly involving one of us sitting with her singing twinkle twinkle little bloomin star over and over!
So, this morning we have been sorting out upstairs, getting Rebecca back into her own room, which of course meant clearing it of all the boxes and junk that has seemed to accumilate!
Jessica's room is now arranged differently, so hoping she may get excited about it again, and sleep better. We have decided to do the controlled crying with a difference route! We will put her to bed, let her cry for 2 mins, go in settle her, tell her its time to sleep etc and leave, go in after 4 mins and repeat until she finally drops off. We know it will take a few days for it to sink in, but we also need her to sleep properly so she is less ratty the following day!
So all in all it seems to be housework, housework and more housework today.... but at least it will be done and we can then enjoy the week ahead without getting stressed out over the state of the house!
Roast Chicken for tea tonight - am looking forward to it already!!!
Saturday, 9 December 2006
Santa Saturday
Well, we did it!
We took the girls to see Santa - and guess who forgot her camera!! I was gutted, but have said I will take them again next week so I definately get the pictures I want!
Jessica was very proud to answer Santa when he asked her name with "me Jess Helen Caffery" I cant believe my little baby is so grown up! She asked Santa for a dolly house and a tweenies dvd - good job we have those covered! Jessica even gave Santa a hug! Rebecca wasnt so sure about Santa - sort of stood there looking at him as if to say "who ARE you!" but at least she didnt cry!
Went off to see my friend Nadine this morning, for what should have been an hour and a cuppa - 3.5hrs later I actually manage to leave! She is a fab friend and someone I can talk for hours to!
Came home from Dads to just try and chill out a bit tonight before tackling the dreaded housework tomorrow - the house has turned into a nightmare over these past few weeks.
So thats it for today really.... roll on monday when i can get my JASON DONOVAN tickets!!!
Love you all xxx
We took the girls to see Santa - and guess who forgot her camera!! I was gutted, but have said I will take them again next week so I definately get the pictures I want!
Jessica was very proud to answer Santa when he asked her name with "me Jess Helen Caffery" I cant believe my little baby is so grown up! She asked Santa for a dolly house and a tweenies dvd - good job we have those covered! Jessica even gave Santa a hug! Rebecca wasnt so sure about Santa - sort of stood there looking at him as if to say "who ARE you!" but at least she didnt cry!
Went off to see my friend Nadine this morning, for what should have been an hour and a cuppa - 3.5hrs later I actually manage to leave! She is a fab friend and someone I can talk for hours to!
Came home from Dads to just try and chill out a bit tonight before tackling the dreaded housework tomorrow - the house has turned into a nightmare over these past few weeks.
So thats it for today really.... roll on monday when i can get my JASON DONOVAN tickets!!!
Love you all xxx
Friday, 8 December 2006
Its Firday.... Thank Heavens!
Afternoon all!
Well its not been a good morning here at home - the girls seem to be in really bad moods and nothing mummy does or says is good enough!
Im fed up of tidying up for it to be a pig sty again within minutes - im starting to wonder why I bother!
Dave wound me up this morning by telling me he would be home by 12, to then tell me Andy had said lunchtime..... his idea of lunchtime may be 12 but the Army is different!
He has got a little bit of work to do but was hoping he would be done by 1.30pm - ill believe that when he walks through the door!
Daves christmas presents arrived this morning, all bar one - so have sat and wrapped them all (including his stocking!) so we can take them all over to Dads this afternoon.
Am going to take the girls to see Santa in town tomorrow morning, and am then off for a bit of "me time". Am going to visit my friend Nadine who I havent seen for months! She is a great friend, always there when I need her, and it doesnt matter if we dont see each other regularly!
Anyways, best get off and try and tidy up some more - one day the girls will learn to only get one toy out at a time!
xxxxx
Well its not been a good morning here at home - the girls seem to be in really bad moods and nothing mummy does or says is good enough!
Im fed up of tidying up for it to be a pig sty again within minutes - im starting to wonder why I bother!
Dave wound me up this morning by telling me he would be home by 12, to then tell me Andy had said lunchtime..... his idea of lunchtime may be 12 but the Army is different!
He has got a little bit of work to do but was hoping he would be done by 1.30pm - ill believe that when he walks through the door!
Daves christmas presents arrived this morning, all bar one - so have sat and wrapped them all (including his stocking!) so we can take them all over to Dads this afternoon.
Am going to take the girls to see Santa in town tomorrow morning, and am then off for a bit of "me time". Am going to visit my friend Nadine who I havent seen for months! She is a great friend, always there when I need her, and it doesnt matter if we dont see each other regularly!
Anyways, best get off and try and tidy up some more - one day the girls will learn to only get one toy out at a time!
xxxxx
Thursday, 7 December 2006
Rain Rain Go AWAY!!!
Well it is throwing it down outside today - which means another day stuck in the house.
I am annoyed this morning, I have a sore throat and headache and just want to go back to bed, but of course, in the world of me, it just isnt possible.
The christmas fair yesterday wasnt a huge success, a bit of a flop from all accounts, but I did manage to sell £16.50's worth of cards and tags so cant complain too much. It was a silly time to hold a fair!
Came home last night to find that the courier had tried to collect and drop off a parcel - some people have no sense! I now have to go to a post office that I only know by looking it up on route map to collect, and hope the courier arrives today to collect. Ebay lot will be avoided from now on me thinks!
I can say that I have FINISHED my christmas shopping, obviously with HUGE thanks to the guys on Mumsnet, they deserve a medal, all of them. Just need to wrap the last few bits, and await Dave's presents to drop through the letterbox!
I wish I could put a tree up this year, but ours is just too big this year. Rebecca is only just walking, and I dont want her pulling it over on herself, or pulling all the decorations off! One bonus though, am going to talk dad into getting his out of the loft on saturday and put that up! I LOVE decorating the tree!
The girls are being a little "trying" this morning, I put it down to lack of sleep, they had a late night last night, and an early morning today so fingers crossed they BOTH sleep today.
Suppose I best get off and tidy up a little, the house looks like a bomb has gone off, and I dont like it! I used to be so good when following FLYLADY but with a few things going on, Im back to square 1!
Have a good day all!
I am annoyed this morning, I have a sore throat and headache and just want to go back to bed, but of course, in the world of me, it just isnt possible.
The christmas fair yesterday wasnt a huge success, a bit of a flop from all accounts, but I did manage to sell £16.50's worth of cards and tags so cant complain too much. It was a silly time to hold a fair!
Came home last night to find that the courier had tried to collect and drop off a parcel - some people have no sense! I now have to go to a post office that I only know by looking it up on route map to collect, and hope the courier arrives today to collect. Ebay lot will be avoided from now on me thinks!
I can say that I have FINISHED my christmas shopping, obviously with HUGE thanks to the guys on Mumsnet, they deserve a medal, all of them. Just need to wrap the last few bits, and await Dave's presents to drop through the letterbox!
I wish I could put a tree up this year, but ours is just too big this year. Rebecca is only just walking, and I dont want her pulling it over on herself, or pulling all the decorations off! One bonus though, am going to talk dad into getting his out of the loft on saturday and put that up! I LOVE decorating the tree!
The girls are being a little "trying" this morning, I put it down to lack of sleep, they had a late night last night, and an early morning today so fingers crossed they BOTH sleep today.
Suppose I best get off and tidy up a little, the house looks like a bomb has gone off, and I dont like it! I used to be so good when following FLYLADY but with a few things going on, Im back to square 1!
Have a good day all!
Wednesday, 6 December 2006
The Girls Favourite People!
Here are Aunty Helen and Uncle Iain.The 2 people that the girls love more than us - or so it seems! Between them and Grandad, mummy and daddy don't get a look in!
My brother and I never got on as kids, even as teenagers things were hit and miss, but since adulthood, we are what I would now class as friends! It means a lot to me, especially since Mum passed away, that we can chat and have fun together.
Helen has been going out with my brother for years! She used to babysit for me and she always looked out for me. Since they got married, things seem to have gone well. I was so pleased when they finally tied the knot and started living together. Since the girls came along, they are both smitten with the girls and like to spend as much time as possible with them.
We love you Aunty Helen and Uncle Iain!
My Dad, My Hero!
Here is my Dad. The one person who is there for me no matter what. He is an absolute angel, fantastic with the kids, and a real support to me and Dave. We have all had a tough few years following mum's death, but we are getting there day by day. We all have our wobbles, some more than most, but we are there for each other to make things ok.Dad, just for you, I want to say THANK YOU and I LOVE YOU. I appreciate everything you do for us, and we dont deserve you.
xxxxxx
My Girls!
These are the little treasures (or horrors, depending on their mood!) that are keeping me on my toes. Jessica is 2yrs old and Rebecca is 1yr old. Its getting harder and harder to accept that my babies are now running around, causing havoc!Maybe number 3 will be a boy to even it out slightly!!! (when I feel ready that is - no announcement to be made!)
Wednesday Worries!
Morning everyone!
Woke this morning feeling a little more positive, but then soon sank back down to the pits!
Im waiting in all morning for the courier to arrive with a parcel for me, the one that should have turned up yesterday to collect the parcel didnt, and is resheduled for tomorrow.
Got the christmas fair this afternoon, and thankfully Dave is allowed home at 2pm today so he can watch the girls while I hopefully sell some cards and gift tags! Quite nervous really, because I dont feel its the best place to sell - it will be mainly kids after all.
One bonus is, I get a few hours away from the girls today. I intend to treasure it as only him above knows when the next time may be.
Need to pop to post office either at 2pm when I pick Dave up or earlier this morning if courier arrives early. Need to post a parcel and get stamps for all my christmas cards.... its going to be expensive!
Have just read something on Mumsnet.com that has annoyed me a little. A woman on there is living miles away from her "partner" and has got pregnant by him. One catch, he too is in the Army. She is refusing to move to be with him, and he is (rightly in my opinion) refusing to give up his job and pension to be closer to her.
I can see her point of view that her children from a previous relationship are happy where they are, but you cant have a relationship with a squaddie without becoming the mistress!!!
Lets hope she can see some sense and sort it out!
Well, thats about it for today. Things are going well for Dave at the CPU, I think he quite enjoys it really, and considering he was never a paperwork kind of guy, he is really impressing the bosses. Things look good for him being offered a job there when he gets booted!
Will update tonight on the success (or lack of) at the christmas fair.
Loves you all xxx
Woke this morning feeling a little more positive, but then soon sank back down to the pits!
Im waiting in all morning for the courier to arrive with a parcel for me, the one that should have turned up yesterday to collect the parcel didnt, and is resheduled for tomorrow.
Got the christmas fair this afternoon, and thankfully Dave is allowed home at 2pm today so he can watch the girls while I hopefully sell some cards and gift tags! Quite nervous really, because I dont feel its the best place to sell - it will be mainly kids after all.
One bonus is, I get a few hours away from the girls today. I intend to treasure it as only him above knows when the next time may be.
Need to pop to post office either at 2pm when I pick Dave up or earlier this morning if courier arrives early. Need to post a parcel and get stamps for all my christmas cards.... its going to be expensive!
Have just read something on Mumsnet.com that has annoyed me a little. A woman on there is living miles away from her "partner" and has got pregnant by him. One catch, he too is in the Army. She is refusing to move to be with him, and he is (rightly in my opinion) refusing to give up his job and pension to be closer to her.
I can see her point of view that her children from a previous relationship are happy where they are, but you cant have a relationship with a squaddie without becoming the mistress!!!
Lets hope she can see some sense and sort it out!
Well, thats about it for today. Things are going well for Dave at the CPU, I think he quite enjoys it really, and considering he was never a paperwork kind of guy, he is really impressing the bosses. Things look good for him being offered a job there when he gets booted!
Will update tonight on the success (or lack of) at the christmas fair.
Loves you all xxx
Tuesday, 5 December 2006
Tuesday Tantrums!
Well, yet again no news to report but I guess I just need to let off a little steam!
Jessica has been having Terrible Two Tantrums all day today, not helped by the fact I am having to wait in all day for a courier to collect a parcel! It's days like this that I wish I could just afford to go back to work and have some time out from them. I love both the girls to end of the earth, but after nearly 3 years at home, I'm starting to feel like I need a little bit of a life for me, time to myself to rediscover who I am.
I am a mum and a wife, but what about the "me" that I was before kids - where has she gone?
I get very little to no time on my own. Even when the girls are in bed, Dave is about. I just crave a few hours on my own every now and again..... but its almost impossible to find the time!
Dave dropped a little bit of a bombshell on me last night. There is a job for him at the CPU (the office where he is working at the moment) as a civvy once he is out. We dont know whether it will be any good for us as a family long-term, but maybe in the short term until we are a little more sure of what is going to happen.
Still nervous over the christmas fair I am doing tomorrow afternoon - times are now confirmed at 3.30pm-6pm. Thats great, but what can I do with the girls - they will want their tea by 5pm! Dave is asking his boss if he can leave at 2pm tomorrow, so fingers crossed that happens, if not, Im not sure I will be able to do it or not. Dad has said he can help out if he isnt too busy, but based on the way things have been going for him this week, I cant see it happening!
Received a parcel from an online friend today containing some GORGEOUS scrapbook goodies for making the Soapbox Scrapbook after christmas, she is such a little angel that I cant even begin to know how to thank her, words just dont seem enough somehow.
I have received a lot of online support, both emotional and practical from a lot of people lately, and I really want to thank them all, but again, I dont feel words are enough.
Well, thats pretty much it for today..... I'll sign off now before I end up boring you all even more!!
Love you all xxx
Jessica has been having Terrible Two Tantrums all day today, not helped by the fact I am having to wait in all day for a courier to collect a parcel! It's days like this that I wish I could just afford to go back to work and have some time out from them. I love both the girls to end of the earth, but after nearly 3 years at home, I'm starting to feel like I need a little bit of a life for me, time to myself to rediscover who I am.
I am a mum and a wife, but what about the "me" that I was before kids - where has she gone?
I get very little to no time on my own. Even when the girls are in bed, Dave is about. I just crave a few hours on my own every now and again..... but its almost impossible to find the time!
Dave dropped a little bit of a bombshell on me last night. There is a job for him at the CPU (the office where he is working at the moment) as a civvy once he is out. We dont know whether it will be any good for us as a family long-term, but maybe in the short term until we are a little more sure of what is going to happen.
Still nervous over the christmas fair I am doing tomorrow afternoon - times are now confirmed at 3.30pm-6pm. Thats great, but what can I do with the girls - they will want their tea by 5pm! Dave is asking his boss if he can leave at 2pm tomorrow, so fingers crossed that happens, if not, Im not sure I will be able to do it or not. Dad has said he can help out if he isnt too busy, but based on the way things have been going for him this week, I cant see it happening!
Received a parcel from an online friend today containing some GORGEOUS scrapbook goodies for making the Soapbox Scrapbook after christmas, she is such a little angel that I cant even begin to know how to thank her, words just dont seem enough somehow.
I have received a lot of online support, both emotional and practical from a lot of people lately, and I really want to thank them all, but again, I dont feel words are enough.
Well, thats pretty much it for today..... I'll sign off now before I end up boring you all even more!!
Love you all xxx
Monday, 4 December 2006
That Monday Morning Feeling....
Why does my heart sink every time a Monday happens?
The thought of another week with no news, another week at home with the girls (as much as I love them, I want to go back to work!) and another week of Dave working long hours and me staying at home doing the day in - day out boring stuff!
I am waiting in for the postie today - should be a delivery that I dont want to miss, and then I need to go to the post office to post some parcels. Its all a bit too much some days. I pray for Dave to phone and tell me he has heard something, I crave adult conversation.
I am doing a christmas fair on wednesday afternoon at my Dad's school, but Im just not organised enough! Dave has been trying to ask his boss for the afternoon off for weeks, and has yet still not managed to confirm it. My dad hasnt given me proper instructions as to the timings. Im starting to wonder why I bother.
There is so much that needs doing in the house, but my mental state wants me to sit and do nothing. The girls want to have fun, and I have no idea how to entertain them - at 2 and 1 they are quite a handful, especially now Rebecca is walking and wanting to be in at everything.
I have so much craft stuff to do that I dont know where to start - I have 5 calandars to make as christmas presents, but havent had the chance to sit and do them, because, by 7pm when the girls are in bed, I just want to collapse on the sofa and veg infront of the TV.
There really is something about Monday's I detest...... and its only thanks to the guys on Mumsnet.com I get through it!
Will update later if we hear anything - ha bloomin ha!
The thought of another week with no news, another week at home with the girls (as much as I love them, I want to go back to work!) and another week of Dave working long hours and me staying at home doing the day in - day out boring stuff!
I am waiting in for the postie today - should be a delivery that I dont want to miss, and then I need to go to the post office to post some parcels. Its all a bit too much some days. I pray for Dave to phone and tell me he has heard something, I crave adult conversation.
I am doing a christmas fair on wednesday afternoon at my Dad's school, but Im just not organised enough! Dave has been trying to ask his boss for the afternoon off for weeks, and has yet still not managed to confirm it. My dad hasnt given me proper instructions as to the timings. Im starting to wonder why I bother.
There is so much that needs doing in the house, but my mental state wants me to sit and do nothing. The girls want to have fun, and I have no idea how to entertain them - at 2 and 1 they are quite a handful, especially now Rebecca is walking and wanting to be in at everything.
I have so much craft stuff to do that I dont know where to start - I have 5 calandars to make as christmas presents, but havent had the chance to sit and do them, because, by 7pm when the girls are in bed, I just want to collapse on the sofa and veg infront of the TV.
There really is something about Monday's I detest...... and its only thanks to the guys on Mumsnet.com I get through it!
Will update later if we hear anything - ha bloomin ha!
Sunday, 3 December 2006
The Housing Situation
A lot of people have also been asking about our housing situation.... well here goes!
We are currently living in Married Quaters, paying minimal rent, which is taken out of Dave's wages before we get them each month.
When Dave is finally discharged from the Army, we of course will have to leave what we have called home.
The Army kindly give us 28 days in the house from the date of discharge, which would be great - if we has somewhere to go!
We have approached both Ipswich Borough Council, and Colchester Borough Council, to be told the same things. We are on the list, not in priority need as yet, and we will have to wait until we have a final discharge date before they will help us any further.... oh and IBC went one step further in saying that they dont have housing available, so we would be housed in a hostel until accomodation is found..... 6 months minimum!
However bad things get, Im not sure I can put my children into a hostel - what sort of place is that for little ones!
We are looking into private renting, but at the moment we just cannot afford the "one month rent in advance, and one months rent as deposit" all in one go - we are looking at about £1100 - not the sort of money we ever having lying around, we are rich if we have a spare tenner!
So there it is people, thats the situation. We will of course be obtaining advice from people such as SSAFA and The British Legion to see what help and support they can provide, but until we have a date we cant!!!
Come on you crappy officers - get your fingers out and SORT THIS OUT!
Good night all xxx
We are currently living in Married Quaters, paying minimal rent, which is taken out of Dave's wages before we get them each month.
When Dave is finally discharged from the Army, we of course will have to leave what we have called home.
The Army kindly give us 28 days in the house from the date of discharge, which would be great - if we has somewhere to go!
We have approached both Ipswich Borough Council, and Colchester Borough Council, to be told the same things. We are on the list, not in priority need as yet, and we will have to wait until we have a final discharge date before they will help us any further.... oh and IBC went one step further in saying that they dont have housing available, so we would be housed in a hostel until accomodation is found..... 6 months minimum!
However bad things get, Im not sure I can put my children into a hostel - what sort of place is that for little ones!
We are looking into private renting, but at the moment we just cannot afford the "one month rent in advance, and one months rent as deposit" all in one go - we are looking at about £1100 - not the sort of money we ever having lying around, we are rich if we have a spare tenner!
So there it is people, thats the situation. We will of course be obtaining advice from people such as SSAFA and The British Legion to see what help and support they can provide, but until we have a date we cant!!!
Come on you crappy officers - get your fingers out and SORT THIS OUT!
Good night all xxx
The Story So Far...
Well, I may as well start this with the story so far.... what has happened, what is supposed to be happening, and what we, as a family, want for the future.
Here goes....
I married Dave in December 2003, knowing full well he was in the British Army and would possibly mean moving about.
I moved from Ipswich in Suffolk to deepest darkest Warminster in Wiltshire, to start our new life together.
Jessica was born in July 2004, and was an absolute treasure, especially as suddenly and unexpectedly at 2 weeks old, her Grandma, my mother, died at home aged 48.
Life was a rollercoaster while Jessica was little, but I fell pregnant again in January 2005 with Rebecca.
We were posted to Colchester in Essex in March 2005 on compassionate grounds in order I was closer to my family.
During this time, Dave had been undergoing tests and scans, that revealed not only problems with the discs in his lower back, but also problems with his left knee.
The Army has concluded there is nothing medically possible they can do for his back and it will be an on-going issue for the rest of his life.
With regards to the problems with his left knee, he under-went surgery in November 2005 to remove some of the cartlidge to eliminate the pain and according to doctors at the time, should be back on his feet after 2 weeks.
Unfortunately, things didn't go to plan. Dave experienced increased pain and a lot of swelling and fluid retention on his knee post-surgery. He was having fortnightly visists to his surgeon to monitor his condition.
Eventually in March 2006, Dave was able to return to work, but was advised to take things as easy as possible (he is a chef, so not really an easy job!) and take it steady.
Within weeks of being back at work, on his feet for 10 hours a day with little or no breaks, his knee was swelling and causing increased pain. Further tests by the medical team and his surgeon found that he had torn what was left of the cartlidge quite severely, something the surgeon put down to returning to work too soon.
A further operation took place in July 2006 and he now has very little cartlidge left in his right knee, meaning he is at a much higher risk of Arthritis in years to come.
We were hoping this operation would be the end of it, and we would be "back to normal" within a matter of weeks, but it wasn't to be. Yet again, the knee was swollen and fluid was retained, meaning more visits to his surgeon.
The decision was taken that Dave would return to work on light duties (paperwork based!) in September 2006 as he was still on crutches, and because of Health and Safety, crutches are not permitted in the working kitchen.
Since September, Dave has had increased pain now in his right knee, with the conclusion it is probably the same issue as with his left knee. Unfortunately, in September, the Army took the decision that Dave was no longer fit to carry out his usual job within the Army, and rather than medically discharge him - which would mean a payout - they took the decision to issue an Admin Discharge under medical grounds...... and you hear me cry - WHATS THE DIFFERENCE??? The Army are obviously trying to save money to pay for the posh swanky new camp they have just built here, or more crap kit to send the lads away for months on end to war-torn countries that should never have happened!!
So, at the end of September, and paperwork is filed for this so-called Admin Discharge, and we are given a time-frame of 2 weeks for getting a discharge date. I immediately go into panic mode, trying to work out where we will live, whether I can get a job so Dave can stay at home (his wishes and mine tbh!) and how we will cope financially as we are still paying off old debts from before we got married.
2 weeks go by and we are still none the wiser.... nothing has been heard by anyone. Another 2 weeks, and still nothing. This is beginning to really annoy me!
Fast forward to December 3rd - today - we STILL don't know what's happening. Upon speaking with his boss on Tuesday 28th November, Dave is told there is apparently a medical meeting being held to discuss the situation. My immediate concerns are.... why hasnt Dave been made aware, why isnt he present at the meeting or possibly, is there a glimmer of hope that the Army have messed up and are actually considering a Medical Discharge - I know, I know, Im dreaming!
Obviously, with Christmas just a matter of weeks away, and money being tighter than tight, we are praying that no final decision comes before the New Year. Im praying for a new start in 2007 and a chance to really start again. My girls have had a rollercoaster start to their lives and we really want what is best for them, living near people that really care about them.
So, now you know the nightmare that has been the last 3 years (bar the births of my girls obviously) lets see if we can finally get things moving!
I will post again with regular updates, and also give you an insight into what I need to get sorted before it does happen!
Here goes....
I married Dave in December 2003, knowing full well he was in the British Army and would possibly mean moving about.
I moved from Ipswich in Suffolk to deepest darkest Warminster in Wiltshire, to start our new life together.
Jessica was born in July 2004, and was an absolute treasure, especially as suddenly and unexpectedly at 2 weeks old, her Grandma, my mother, died at home aged 48.
Life was a rollercoaster while Jessica was little, but I fell pregnant again in January 2005 with Rebecca.
We were posted to Colchester in Essex in March 2005 on compassionate grounds in order I was closer to my family.
During this time, Dave had been undergoing tests and scans, that revealed not only problems with the discs in his lower back, but also problems with his left knee.
The Army has concluded there is nothing medically possible they can do for his back and it will be an on-going issue for the rest of his life.
With regards to the problems with his left knee, he under-went surgery in November 2005 to remove some of the cartlidge to eliminate the pain and according to doctors at the time, should be back on his feet after 2 weeks.
Unfortunately, things didn't go to plan. Dave experienced increased pain and a lot of swelling and fluid retention on his knee post-surgery. He was having fortnightly visists to his surgeon to monitor his condition.
Eventually in March 2006, Dave was able to return to work, but was advised to take things as easy as possible (he is a chef, so not really an easy job!) and take it steady.
Within weeks of being back at work, on his feet for 10 hours a day with little or no breaks, his knee was swelling and causing increased pain. Further tests by the medical team and his surgeon found that he had torn what was left of the cartlidge quite severely, something the surgeon put down to returning to work too soon.
A further operation took place in July 2006 and he now has very little cartlidge left in his right knee, meaning he is at a much higher risk of Arthritis in years to come.
We were hoping this operation would be the end of it, and we would be "back to normal" within a matter of weeks, but it wasn't to be. Yet again, the knee was swollen and fluid was retained, meaning more visits to his surgeon.
The decision was taken that Dave would return to work on light duties (paperwork based!) in September 2006 as he was still on crutches, and because of Health and Safety, crutches are not permitted in the working kitchen.
Since September, Dave has had increased pain now in his right knee, with the conclusion it is probably the same issue as with his left knee. Unfortunately, in September, the Army took the decision that Dave was no longer fit to carry out his usual job within the Army, and rather than medically discharge him - which would mean a payout - they took the decision to issue an Admin Discharge under medical grounds...... and you hear me cry - WHATS THE DIFFERENCE??? The Army are obviously trying to save money to pay for the posh swanky new camp they have just built here, or more crap kit to send the lads away for months on end to war-torn countries that should never have happened!!
So, at the end of September, and paperwork is filed for this so-called Admin Discharge, and we are given a time-frame of 2 weeks for getting a discharge date. I immediately go into panic mode, trying to work out where we will live, whether I can get a job so Dave can stay at home (his wishes and mine tbh!) and how we will cope financially as we are still paying off old debts from before we got married.
2 weeks go by and we are still none the wiser.... nothing has been heard by anyone. Another 2 weeks, and still nothing. This is beginning to really annoy me!
Fast forward to December 3rd - today - we STILL don't know what's happening. Upon speaking with his boss on Tuesday 28th November, Dave is told there is apparently a medical meeting being held to discuss the situation. My immediate concerns are.... why hasnt Dave been made aware, why isnt he present at the meeting or possibly, is there a glimmer of hope that the Army have messed up and are actually considering a Medical Discharge - I know, I know, Im dreaming!
Obviously, with Christmas just a matter of weeks away, and money being tighter than tight, we are praying that no final decision comes before the New Year. Im praying for a new start in 2007 and a chance to really start again. My girls have had a rollercoaster start to their lives and we really want what is best for them, living near people that really care about them.
So, now you know the nightmare that has been the last 3 years (bar the births of my girls obviously) lets see if we can finally get things moving!
I will post again with regular updates, and also give you an insight into what I need to get sorted before it does happen!
Welcome!
Hi all!
Welcome to my Blog.
I thought it was about time to start one, so I don't have to keep repeating myself all the time when people ask "how are things going"
I will probably forget to post on here, but hey, I can only try - and with any luck RL may not get in the way too much.
Loves you all
Jarmy xxx
Welcome to my Blog.
I thought it was about time to start one, so I don't have to keep repeating myself all the time when people ask "how are things going"
I will probably forget to post on here, but hey, I can only try - and with any luck RL may not get in the way too much.
Loves you all
Jarmy xxx
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