Catherine Creates....

Shop open!

2008-09-15T14:39:00.003+01:00

Hello! Another re-direction, come and see my new blog here. Merulapie (pronounced meh-roola-pie) is our new online shop - come and visit the shop here.

After lots of preparation the merulapie shop is open and ready for business, take a peek here to find lots of goodies. We stock contemporary homewares, gifts and art - all created by independent designers.

We’re delighted you popped by, so feel free to comment or get in touch at hello@merulapie.com. Please come back soon to the new blog for more creative goodness, we’ll be happy to see you! ♥

Moving blog!

2008-01-20T17:58:00.000Z

After continued problems with uploading photos, dodgy layouts and general annoyance, I have decided to move my blog to Wordpress. I will continue to blog in my usual style - but with wordpress I can even have different pages (whoops with excitement!). It can be found here. If you are wondering why the address is http://www.merulapie.wordpress.com/ - well, merulapie is my new online shop. It will be opening very soon.....The web address for merulapie is http://www.merulapie.com/. Check out my wordpress blog for updates on the shop progress. Remember to update your rss feeds. I hope to see you on wordpress!

What's in MY Bag?

2008-01-17T12:50:00.000Z

Well would you like to know? This was started by Alice and followed on by Marceline. I couldn't resist doing this too. I loved all the teen mags that did photoshoots of 'what's in your bag?'. I longed for Evian mist spray and a diary full of important events.....

Here's my bag.
Handbag - from H&M.
Book - won't fit in, but carrying it about. Doing a review on it asap.
Purse - handmade by my husband.
Card wallet - Hello Kitty in a candystyle theme. Carries all my loyalty cards.
4-colour pen - I love this pen. My favourite type of pen.
Halls Soothers - to soothe my sweet voice. (Ha!)
Parma Violet lip balm- comes in a lovely tin and is so yummy.
Dentist appointments - printed out and ready to get these wisdom teeth checked over.
Mobile phone - I heart my phone.
Showpony purse - delightful present from Tracey for my Christmas, a purse made by Emma of Showpony. Beautiful! This holds the following - mini hairbrush, red lipstick, extra chewing gum, hair band, hankies from Marceline's Japan trip.

There you have it - my handbag! Was there any surprises?

Boxing Day (or proof that Whiskers the Cat is truly evil.)

2008-01-16T16:40:00.000Z

After much cyber-bullying from my fellow bloggers I must apologise and post my Boxing Day blog. I am still considering switching to Wordpress as I find Blogger infuriating. I cannot get the photos to sit properly. I hope to make this transfer soon, but would love some advice on styling etc. Now, onto Boxing Day.....

Wake up early with Lady Pains. Moan and fall back asleep.
11am Force myself to get up and pack up some clothes for taking back to Fife.
Noon Take more painkillers and get on with the day. Shout at Lee to hurry up. Both of us organise all of the presents to take, Lee's fishing gear, guitar and clothes.
1pm Squash all of the above into the Mini.
1.30pm Obsessively switch off electrical items, put heating on timer and hide my laptop. Leave for Fife!
3pm Pick up Lee's little brother Greg from Lochgelly. He is clearly wearing his new Christmas aftershave. He smells good. Squeeze him into the car.
3.15pm Arrive at Lee's parent's house. Feel welcome and happy to get into the warmth. It's good to see everyone; in particular Lee's gran who makes me smile.
3.30pm Dive into present swapping. Get lots of lovely things!
4.30pm Get started on the buffet laid out by Lee's mum. She makes us feel like royalty when we visit and she treated us to lots of yummy food.
5pm. Proof that Whiskers the cat is truly evil. See above photo. I hate this cat so much. He barks miooooowwww and I swear he's going to try and kill me someday.
5pm-onwards....relax with Lee's family, have a couple of pear ciders, pose for photos, eat more food, drink a black Russian (mmmmmmm) and sing a couple of songs on the karaoke. This is ended by Ashley who gets out of bed to complain about our screeching. Boo. I did manage some Stevie Wonder, Elvis and Grease mega-mix before we got booted off.

11.30pm Get taxi back to my parent's house where I feel a bit tipsy but have no-one to talk to -as they are in bed. Boo again.
Overall a lovely day!

I'll be back soon with Saturday's blog......

Wednesday 7th November....A day in the life

2007-11-08T12:36:00.000Z

Hello. Once again I'm back on the blogging. I must apologise for the delay; I promise married life has not resulted in my being chained to the kitchen sink. Yes, the wedding was amazing and the day was perfect! I won't update you on the last six months just yet, as Claire has requested a 'day in the life' blog to kick-start us lame bloggers back into action. So expect an update on my life in a couple of days time. I promise it will be full of wedding gossip. Now onto the main event - Wednesday 7th November in all it's glory.......

9.10am Wake up to Lee kissing me goodbye. With his usual charm he tells me I am smelly and breezes out the door whistling. I am completely confused and don't know where I am. Still tired from the exciting events of yesterday I force myself to get up and make a cup of cherry tea. (still have 2 boxes of the limited edition nectar left!)

In case you are wondering what exciting events happened the day before, well, my sister gave birth to Josh Alexander in rather dramatic circumstances. Time for a flashback methinks, in the style of Lost.....

Monday 5th November

9.10pm Suzanne phones to tell me she's been feeling strange all day. She thinks her waters are starting to break slowly and feels like 'something is going to happen'. I decide to pack a bag and be ready for a call anytime onwards to go and babysit Eva.

9.30pm Mum phones rather excitedly to discuss said possibilities of childbirth through the night.

10pm I go to the kitchen and bake rather yummy ginger parkin. I am too nervous to watch tv, read or surf the internet. In a crisis - let's bake. How Martha Stewart.

11pm Speak to Lee who is in Brighton for Flash on the Beach conference. He's in bed ready to sleep.

12am Go to bed and start reading the second Harry Potter book.

12.30am Decide to put light out and start pondering potential baby names for Suzanne's baby.

12.50am Ian phones - 'Come quickly, things are happening fast.'

1.10am I arrive at my sister's house to find her at the top of the stairs, bent over and moaning. The contractions are very close. I find myself very distressed but hide it and rub her back. I keep reminding her to breathe.

1.25am Suzanne and Ian leave for hospital, but take 5 minutes to get into car. She has to stop three times going down stairs to have contractions. I can hear her cries echoing up the street. I pace the bedroom and put my jammies on. I go to bed and try to sleep.

2am The phone rings. I think - oh no, they are sending her home! It's Ian, happily telling me Suzanne gave birth to a baby boy at 1.50am. In the disabled toilet in the foyer of the maternity wing! She couldn't make it to triage. Luckily nurses and midwives make it along as just before she gives birth and have towels and blankets to hand. I cry down the phone and feel so relieved.

2.10am Phone Lee -he screams 'It's a boy! It's a boy!' And is confused but happy.

2.15am Phone parents - delighted, relieved and proud to have a wee grandson.

3am After trying to fall asleep, my niece Eva wanders into the room. 'I am lone. Where's my mummy?' She gets into bed and cuddles in tight behind me, promptly falling asleep and making snottery snores in my ear. Needless to say, I barely sleep at all.

Flashforward.....

Wednesday 9.30am Can't believe I am still tired from the other night. It always takes me a few days to catch up on sleep.

9.45am In bed, watching Notes on a Scandal on my laptop. Watch the first half and find it rather chilling and nasty. Judy Dench is just fantastic. Get up and have a shower.

12.15pm Rush into car and head down to the post office depot to collect a parcel. Am delighted it has arrived and decide to open it later on in the day. I like to savour parcels. Plus I have lots to do.

12.45pm Put on my Cyndi Lauper 'Night to Remember' CD and tidy the house. I aim to get the house ship-shape by the time the CD is finished. Nothing like a power-ballad album to get the chores done.

1pm Find myself singing along and air grabbing to a dramatic song. God, I love that album. No-one has heard of it. It's just fantastic.

1.30pm Make up egg mayonnaise and cress rolls. Eat as fast as I can. Check emails. Feel so tired and decide I need to rest. Otherwise I will be no use to man or beast. Watch the second half of Notes on a Scandal. It was very enjoyable, not half as good as the book. The book is one of the best I've ever read, fantastic character description and such critical observations from the narrator - it chills your heart.

3pm Open parcel. It's art prints I've ordered from USA - I am delighted with them. Update my stock lists. (will explain all this in future blogs)

4pm Find myself falling asleep on the sofa. Potter about the house for a while.....Fiona phones afer work and we discuss the merits of Notes on a Scandal, both the novel and the film.

5pm Go to lie down and sleep as I can't stay awake.

5.45pm Wake up to my alarm confused and don't know who I am or where I am. It takes me a minute to remember my name, or my location.

6pm Finally rouse myself and make dinner. A yummy mince and tomato with some curry powder for a wee kick.

6.15pm Lee arrives home and falls asleep on sofa.

6.45pm I wolf down dinner and watch Lee catch flies. Lucky for him it was yet another free curry day - so all the more food for my dinner.

7pm Rush out the door with a huffy face as Lee has moaned at my lack of speed. I am even more huffy at having to go into the Spar to buy him fags. Bah humbug.

7.20pm Arrive at the hospital for my second visit, and Lee's first, to see baby Josh. He's feeding away quite happily. My sister is glowing and rather happy. We chat, fuss over Josh - at 10lbs he's a big'un, and have a cuddle with him. He's warm and super soft. I love his chubby cheeks and arms. I adore that serious look that newborn babies have. So cute.

8.30pm Leave to go to the pub and watch the second half of the Ranger's game. Go to two pubs before we find one showing it. It is rough and there is only one other woman there. She looks like a diehard football fan. I am unimpressed. I sit and catch up on texts. Feel the urge to shout 'c'mon the Celtic' as we leave the pub, but know that would result in hospitilisation. Must have experienced a mild Tourette's syndrome moment.

9.30pm Go home. Try not to fall asleep on sofa. Watch crap tv, finish knitting a glove and surf the internet. Lee shows me an amazing photographer and tries to explain theories he learnt at Flash on the Beach. Frankly, I am more into watching the latenight repeat of Ugly Betty, but try and remain in his design world. Feel guilty for having done very little work. Remind myself I am tired and I will work tomorrow. Go to bed.

Day ends.

Production

2007-05-14T11:20:00.000+01:00

It feels like a very productive time here at Nivlack towers. We are busily preparing ourselves for the Big Day and I think we have nearly finished all the preparation. I am now very excited. For some reason flicking through bridal magazines makes me feel exhilarated and smug as I compare my dress and accessories to the Perfect Brides in print. My sister-in-law to be Audrey likes to give me regular time updates - 12 weeks, 8 weeks and today - 11 days! Oh my, no longer a Niven, no longer a Nivlack (my newest nickname, thank you Claire!) but a Mrs Black. I cannot wait!

So after a day of errands Lee helped me to prepare my latest goodies. Two prints from one of my favourite artists, The Black Apple put into new frames. I decorated the frames with buttons I received from Alice in the Matchbox Swap organised by Marceline. I am now hanging my favourite jewellery from the buttons. I think they look fab on my Disco wallpaper. (I cannot tell you how much I love my bedroom wallpaper.) Here's the lovely little box that arrived in the post. How cute! It was the BEST post day ever. I took ages just opening each letter/parcel. I had the little matchbox, a parcel from The Black Apple and my allergy test results. I am now cutting out wheat, rye, dairy (including eggs), barley and almonds. And cola nut. Not that I drink cola anyway. It's hard going but my stomach problems have improved dramatically, so long may it last! I am off to begin my latest creative project and will update very soon......

My hero

2007-04-30T12:55:00.000+01:00

I had a visitor last week- my dog Cari was over to stay for the week again. She lives with my parents (and loves their garden to lounge around in) and comes here for her holidays. I think she finds it rather irritating that she can't lie out in my garden. It's not safe enough for her; she has a tendency to roam or run off if a garden is not enclosed. If she wants to enjoy the sunshine she has to be tied to the clothes pole. Not much fun when she gets tangled up in a circle!

Lee and I went to see Gruff Rhys at the Tramway. It's a fantastic venue with beautiful outdoor area - The Hidden Gardens. Here's Lee trying to escape the camera.
We had a wander round outside before the gig started. Of course, I bought some merchandise. My Candylion mug and t-shirt are too nice to wear/drink from. It often takes me days before I wear new clothes; as if I'm in awe of their nice-ness. I don't like to spoil their perfection and yummy new smell. I spent ages trying to decide what t-shirt to buy, thankfully the girl at the stall (I think it was Lisa from 9Bach) was very patient. They even had little Candylion baby-gros! I nearly bought everything in sight.

After the first band Boom Bip played, I really needed a seat. Lo and behold, we turned around to notice a balcony area behind - with comfy seats! So up we headed for some rest and a great view of the other bands. I enjoy being in the throng of the crowd, but I must be practical. I get so tired standing for long periods that it makes sense to perch somewhere. In the end, Gruff was fantastic and he remains my favourite artist of all time. (blushes) A great set and good banter ensured a memorable gig.

How does your garden grow?

2007-04-26T12:34:00.000+01:00

Here's some photos of my parents garden. On Tuesday, before we returned to Glasgow, I happily pottered about waiting for my hair to dry, snapping photos with my mobile phone. Bees were on a mission to get to the pollen and the birds couldn't wait for me to move away from the bird table where all the best food lay. I love the gated area that separates my Dad's vegetable patch from the rest of the garden. I look forward to summer when there are fresh peas and broad beans to munch on as I wander round the garden with my mum.

It's a shame you cannot smell the garden via this blog, for the blossom was very sweet. The red quince looked stunning crawling up the fence. I've always liked quince. I think I'm biased as my favourite poem is The Owl and the Pussycat and the mention of quince has always sounded so exotic to me....I would love it if my parents tried to make jam from the quince fruit in the summer. Last years plum jam (from their little plum tree) was very tasty and I'm still enjoying that on toast.

Passing by....

2007-04-25T12:30:00.000+01:00

It's been a week of highs and lows. Sadly, Lee's grandad George passed away following a short illness. It's a cliche to say it, but he was a good age - 80 and had lived a happy, healthy life. He was a content man, easily pleased and at his happiest with a cigar, some whiskey and his family around him. He was very fit up until the last few months of his life. As an ex-coalminer he was not unused to hard work and loved spending time growing vegetables in his garden. He took great pride in his garden. On meeting his granddaughter's new partner, the first thing he asked him was 'And do you cut your own grass?'.

On Saturday, I went with a large group of friends to a day spa at the Radisson Hotel in Glasgow city centre. It was great fun - we were treated like queens! After the sad news of George's passing, it was lovely to relax and be pampered. I now have a taste for the high life and hope to go back again for my birthday....

I have never been to a funeral before and could not face going to George's funeral. I felt it would bring up all those sad feelings about my Papa - and at this moment in time I'm not ready to face them. I am getting married in 4 weeks and it still makes me tearful to think my Papa will not be there. He'd have a rare old time and I know that he'd get on so well with Lee.

Instead of going to the funeral, I went back for the buffet and drinks at the social club. It's been a while since I've been to Bowhill Social Club and it's not changed very much. For readers outside UK, a brief description of a social club can be found here. Most social clubs are well known for their old fashioned decor and cheap drink. George (or Dod as he was known, Scots slang for George) would have enjoyed the after funeral toast. He loved going to Bowhill Club for a half. There was plenty of reminiscing and family gossip to catch up on. Dod's half brother Alec was rather funny, telling the story of the first time they'd met in years. They were in their 20s, working at the coal mine when Alec gave Dod a hand with some work, 'Cheers neebor,' said Dod, 'Who are you?' Dod asked. 'I'm your fucking half brother!' Alec replied. And that was that. Dod went back to work.

Here's some photos of Bowhill Club.

What have I been up to?

2007-04-02T10:40:00.000+01:00

Well folks, sorry for the very very long delay in posting. I had a couple of weeks with stomach problems again, but I'm slowly picking up. I love writing lists, so here's a list of some things I have done since I last posted......

1. Went to a fashion show at Che Camille. As usual, Camille did a fantastic job of organising a professional show and it was great fun. Highlights included Rab and Onnie's clothes and the wonderful 3D photography exhibition by Denis.
2. Had the second part of my story published in Che Camille's 3D edition of the online mag. See it here.
3. Attended Claire's retro style birthday party. Played pass the parcel, the fab MarsBar game and enjoyed sugary drinks and pinks sweets. Oh and I knocked the horse's head off the pinata.
4. Nearly ate a monkey shaped eraser (after the aforementioned party) Lee fed me the "cute monkey shaped sweetie" from the goodie bag as I drove home. It was made of rubber. My teeth marks still remain in the monkey's head.
5. Having great fun organising our wedding! I've spent the last month focusing on the wedding. It's taken up most of my time. In fact, that is why this list is so short. There is lots still to be done but I'm getting very excited. I'll post a picture of our invites once I get a chance. I'm slowly getting RSVPs back and that is always an unexpected surprise. I was reading a book that commented 'the only letters worth reading are those with the address handwritten.' So true.
6. I feel a lot happier and have more motivation now that the clocks have changed. What a difference that one hour makes. And Glasgow was been sunny (though chilly) for a week. Wow!
7. I'm trying to compile a list of '26 things to do before I'm 27'. I'm 27 in August and I've been inspired by Marceline's list to get cracking with my own. Not long to go.....
8. Re-arranged our living room. I now have a better place for my crafting locker. (I'll post photos of that soon) Oh what a relief to pull out all the tv/video/dvd/playstation leads and sort out the spagetti junction that lurked behind the video. Dust balls were floating all over.
9. Found the joy that is Guitar Hero. For once I can rock on with very little effort. Fave Guitar Hero position? Leg up on the pouffe, guitar tilted upwards. No duck-walking allowed.

I'll be back with more lists and more crafts very soon. I promise. xx

Shiver me timbers....

2007-02-27T18:27:00.000Z

Here's an update on my last blog. My mum emailed me more information about Captain Thompson.....You could have emphasised that Thompson turned pirate, rather than he turned bad!!. He was well respected in Peru, and some our family was based there. The treasure had to be gotten out because of the slave uprising, think 1832? or thereabouts. There was one child who was sent back to Dundee at this time and he was an old man when Matt (my great-aunt) was wee. He used to tell tales about what he remembered to his relatives and that is how Matt made the connection!

The Americans thought the treasure was buried on the shoreline, I think and were organising equipment to dig down- would need to have built sides as the sand would have just fallen back in. Never heard anything from them so I suppose that they failed too. By the way one was a dentist! - put his money into finding the treasure!- rich dentists in America!

Thanks Mum for the extra details. I hope the dentist never lost too much money. Chasing treasure is rather like chasing a rainbow. Fun but impossible.

Scissors, feet and pirates.

2007-02-27T11:50:00.000Z

I've been tagged by Marceline to blog some things you don't know about me. Strange, because just the other night I was trying to think of three things people didn't know about me. I managed to come up with two. Mainly because I am a chatterbox and divulge everything about my life to my friends. So apologies for those who already know these facts.

1. I am an exceptionally good whistler. I used to whistle all the time as a child. It took one morning of sitting on the stairs, determined to whistle - to crack it. After that, I whistled like an old man - in the car, in the post office, at William Lows - wherever we went.

My friend round the corner had an irritating little sister. She entered a competition on the Big Breakfast to play an instrument live on air. She entered herself as a whistler and got on! I was so jealous because I knew I was a better whistler! Bitter? Moi?......I'm also surprisingly good on the harmonica. How? I have no idea.

2. I still have my favourite pair of scissors from childhood. Why? Well, being left handed it was always hard to cut out shapes. At school arts and crafts lessons my work was always wonky and ragged because the right handed scissors hurt my hands. In primary three, my kind art teacher gave me a pair of red scissors that could be used by left or right handed people. It was a revelation. I was soon cutting away like there was no tomorrow and my confidence in doing craft work rocketed. I keep them to remind me of an obstacle I overcame. And to be honest; they do cut rather well.

3. I am a qualified reflexologist. I love doing reflexology, it's so satisfying to see someone relaxed and enjoying their treatment. If I've not practiced for a while my arms ache, but that soon disappears. I used to hate feet but now find them quite fascinating. They can tell you so much about a person. Most people baulk at the thought of touching someone else's feet, but if you follow certain hygiene practices, then it's fine. Believe me, I've seen a lot of feet and they are never as bad as you'd imagine.

4. I have one pupil bigger than the other.

5. I love to dance in my kitchen. I have no idea why, but after a couple of glasses of wine, my kitchen floor calls me to lay my feet down for a boogie.....

6. My late great-aunt claimed to have written Moonriver. She said she wrote it and sent it to a publishing company and they stole it. My sister insists that the song was Fly me to the Moon, but my mum and I remember it was Moonriver. If only, I certainly wouldn't writing this blog now. I'd be in the South of France. Sipping pink champagne.

7. I love old photographs. I love nothing more than searching through very old photos, whether I know the people in them or not. It doesn't bother me. I need to make the effort and share some of my family photos. I am lucky to have ones from the 1930s onwards.

8. I swear everyone I know has heard this. So sorry. But anyhoo......One of the best days of my life happened at the age of 17. At the time I was doing an HNC in Radio Broadcasting. My mates Yasmin and Lisa arranged for us to meet the Super Furry Animals for an interview. They were playing at the Rothes Halls in Glenrothes. We met them for an interview and they were rather lovely. We took them a haggis as a gift. I think that impressed them. Out of all the people who interviewed them, only the three of us got given backstage passes for that evening. We all enjoyed the gig and had a great laugh at the aftershow party. It certainly was not showbiz glamour, but a good giggle. They remain my favourite band in the world. A couple of years ago Lee and I went all the way to Ullapool to see them. A fantastic weekend and another wonderful gig.

9. I love birdwatching. I think it started in childhood when my dad would tell me the names of different birds. I find them relaxing to watch. I suppose I don't class myself as a birdwatcher - I've never been on specialist trips or gone to a club. I just like sitting in my living room watching them hop from the tree onto the bird feeder. I don't have a favourite bird, but my top three have got to be.....Robins, Sparrowhawks and Blackbirds. In no particular order.

And finally, here's a tale to read with a hot cup of cocoa......
10. This is my proudest family story. My great, great, great, great (not sure how many great) grandfather was Captain Thompson. My great-aunt found the connection during her family tree research. He was a respected Dundonian who turned bad....According to some, Robert Louis Stevenson based aspects of Treasure Island on the story of Thompson.

If the treasure was found today, a 10% fee would be given to the finders. If you read on, you'll find that there is a lot of treasure. Six foot solid gold Virgin Mary statue is the key phrase. Bling! In the 1980s we had some Americans visit to ask for more information about Thompson. I don't think my parents could tell them much. I believe the Americans were going to do an expedition, but I cannot remember the details. To give you an accurate account of Thompson, I've taken the story from this online site http://www.e-adventure.net/land/treasure/treasureisland.html. Read on and enjoy.......

A Captain Thompson who was well known by the Peruvians as a fair man, was approached as his ship the Mary Dier lay at anchor in the bay. They asked if he would take on the treasure, some priests and some guards and sail out into the open sea and wait until the coast was clear. He agreed to do the job for a handsome price. Once out to sea the crew and the Captain having loaded this immense treasure could not resist the temptation to own it for themselves. They proceeded to club the Peruvian guards and slashed the throats of the priests then tossed them all overboard. The Mary Deir then headed for Cocos Island where it took eleven trips in the ship's longboat to get the treasure from the ship to shore. They buried the treasure with all intentions of returning in a year or so after all the fuss had quieted down. The treasure was valued at roughly 12 million in an1820's market. Today it would be worth over $100,000,000. Another prize buried at that time was a solid gold, gem encrusted, life-sized statue of the Virgin Mary. They say it weighed a ton. After unloading the ship this group turned pirate, headed round the Horn towards England but before they reached the Horn a Spanish warship captured them and sent them all to Panama to be put on trial for murder and piracy. They were all convicted and sentenced to be hung, which they all promptly were with the exception of the Capt. and his mate, who they hoped would bargain their lives for the where abouts of the treasure. Once the two men and their guards reached the shore of Cocos Island, the Captain and his mate took off and hid in the dense foliage of the island. The Spaniards finally gave up looking for them after searching fruitlessly for days and returned to Panama. Captain Thompson and the mate stayed marooned on the island for many long months surviving on bird’s eggs, fruit, coconuts, and small game. Eventually they were rescued by whalers and ended up in Newfoundland. Thompson died and the mate a man named Keating produced a map of the treasure and from that point on people tried to finance expeditions to the island.
Since then real and fake maps have fallen from out of the pages of books, from between the linings of steamer trunks and virtually every nook and cranny to lead adventurers to the island. Distant relatives of pirates and seamen claim to have the exclusive charts to the islands treasure.
The sources of treasure on the island are as numerous as the expeditions to find them and many are constantly being rebutted by scholars, historians, and treasure hunters alike. Like Americas Lost Dutchman’s mine, and Nova Scotia’s Oak Island, people believe that there must be some truth to the stories, enough truth to spend millions trying to find lost treasure.

Play it again

2007-02-15T16:33:00.000Z

I had a good old jaunt to Byres Road yesterday. I paid my deposit for the wedding florist who is going to create a cracking display - I can just tell. (I'm getting very excited!) Right next door to the flower shop is the fantastic Oxfam record shop. Full of bargain vinyl; I cannot resist. I found Glen Campbell's greatest hits and the fabulous Frankie by Sister Sledge. For some reason Frankie reminds me of listening to Radio 2 on a grey winters morning, eating Ready Brek before going to school. Having grown up listening to Radio 2, mainly whilst eating breakfast or baking with my mother; I am rather fond of the station's older shows. I was listening to Desmond Carrington on Radio 2 the other night (he has an amazing voice!) and found him playing some rather wonderful French music. Tout Le Jour, Toute LA Nuit by Patrick Bruel (great album cover) and the easy listening classic - Chanson D'Amour by Manhattan Transfer (sing along - 'ratatata') Perfect as I drove to my friend's house. I was singing away quite happily.

But to get back to my vinyl. I am obsessed with Glen Campbell's song Wichita Lineman. I am now playing that song over and over again. Something about the tone of his voice and the longing in the lyrics makes me race over and replace the needle onto the same song again and again. I thought it would have made the perfect love song for Brokeback Mountain. But anyway, for the moment, I am going to run back to the living room and replay it one more time.

Exposing my weak spot.

2007-02-14T10:58:00.000Z

I'm rather lucky to have supportive family and friends who treat me very well. Me, having ME can be hard for them because they only see me ill if they spend a lot of time with me. I avoid contact if I'm too ill. So I appreciate that they accept me for who I am. But so they should - ME does not define my personality, even though it's a big part of my life. I found this article exploring psychosomatic symptoms/illnesses and it reminded me of the complex mind issues that surround any illness. I have recently found counselling a really helpful tool in my quest for better health, but I am well aware that it will not cure me. Instead, it's helped me accept who I am and learn not to be ashamed of my illness.

Last week a group of my friends were talking about our weak spots. To give you an example, one friend hates it when people slag off Buffy, it gets her riled up. Mine, on a similarly shallow level, is probably litter (I don't know why?). But realistically, my weak spot is when strangers or new acquaintances try and suggest cures for ME. It gets me down when people say that I should try cognitive behavioural therapy or some other talking therapy, just because it cured their friend. I understand that they are trying to be helpful, but deep down I feel like screaming - "I've been ill for a long time, have I not tried so many 'cures' already? Would you suggest counselling as a cure for a person with MS or cancer? No, you'd be punched, because that is plain insensitive". But I smile and nod and thank them for their wisdom. Ultimately, they are trying to be helpful, trying to connect with a stranger by sharing knowledge, but they don't know that I have a large chip on my shoulder, weighing me down. I'd rather they got my ME confused with MS, that is always far more amusing.......

Vintage inspiration

2007-02-13T14:52:00.000Z

I've been given some lovely vintage gifts this week. My friend Rae gave me the Be-Ro Home Recipes book - a book still available in 'new' format from Be-Ro today. She was given it by one of her clients who sadly passed away. She thought I'd make good use of it and enjoy baking the recipes. I'm delighted as I've not got a basic recipe book with traditional staple baking in it.

I also received this fab hat from Lee - it's so cute. Rae pointed out that it resembles something Miss Marple would wear (never a bad thing) but sadly it doesn't fit my big heid. I am disappointed and wonder who on earth ever squeezed their noggin into it!

My final find of the week is an apron belonging to my mother. She must have left it here sometime ago, it was hiding in my towel drawer. It is a cute vintage shape and I must copy to the pattern to make my own. Recently my Mum was complaining that these types of aprons are so hard to find and she like half-aprons like this. I saw ones in a vintage shop but at £8 a go I gave it a miss.

I'm rather pleased with the way these photos have turned out, it's the first time I've used my new mobile phone to take pictures. Fiona and I had a rare time on Sunday night playing with Bluetooth - first time either of us had tried it (technophobes!). We sat in a restaurant in Xscape eating away and trying to send each other old photos. Fiona narrowly escaped sending a photo of me dressed as Velma from Scooby-Doo to some random person. We never realised that Bluetooth allows you to connect to complete strangers. We were rather spooked to find that someone in the crowded restaurant had named their phone Negro Hunter. It was so creepy and at this point we decided to switch our phones off and order dessert. After that we needed a sweet taste in our mouths.

Pass me my cape, for I am the Ratcatcher!

2007-02-12T16:07:00.000Z

Don't worry, this is not a personal photo - I got it from Google images. I returned from physio today to a rather scared Fiona. She stayed over last night and was about to have her morning cup of cherry tea when she spied a tiny field mouse attempting to chew the sewing machine lead. She claims he eyeballed her in a rather cheeky fashion, so she began to chase him around with the wastepaper bin. Sadly he was far too fast.

We went to B&Q and bought two humane mouse traps and set them up. This afternoon, I was chatting away on MSN when I felt something tickle my foot - I looked down to see Jeemy (we named him after the mouse in Oor Wullie) sitting looking rather gallous. So, I chased him around for ten minutes, at the same time on the phone to Fiona (who had gone home) to give me some courage until I trapped him under a plastic bin. I slid him towards the door and used the door mat as a cover. Thankfully, I managed to get him out the house and into the garden. He promptly ran for cover, but hung around near the front door. I looked outside a few minutes later to find him chewing on a dead worm and decided - you are on my patch son, time to move on. So, out I went, scooped him up into the bin -bear in mind these are fast fast creatures, I don't know how I did it - and walked round the corner a few hundred yards to the church garden and let him off. I pray he finds peace and does not come back!

After my hassle with the weevils (all gone now!) I am really not happy with my vermin problems. The neighbours must have thought I'd lost it when I was shaking bits of paper out - to get rid of weevils - so now they see me wandering around with a bucket at arms length.....

I need to go for a lie down now. Far too much excitement for one day. What superhero suits me better - Ratcatcher or Dangermouse?

Catherine's Concierge Service

2007-02-11T16:37:00.000Z

After a hectic week, I am slowing right down today. Yesterday was the legendary Misofunky market where my other half Lee has a stall. This time it was held in The Venue at Oranmor (or Oranmoor as I call it in my Fife accent!) and as usual, the Misofunky girls organised a great day. I hijacked part of Lee's stall for some knitted mittens and tiny handmade gift bags (see above). It was very busy and Lee was delighted to sell three of his paintings. We are sad to see them go as they looked fantastic in our living room, but they went to good homes. I like having space for more of Lee's creations.

I am glad to have a day off today to relax. All week I've been running around organising things for Lee. I usually live a 'part-time' lifestyle so when I do a 'full-time' of week of activities, I really feel it. My body cries out for rest when I overdo things. I plod along, keeping reasonably well, but weeks like this remind me - 'oh I'm ill!'. I slept until lunchtime today, so I already feel refreshed. It has been wonderful doing nothing of consequence this afternoon!

Lee's currently very busy with work so his personal time is virtually non-existent. Therefore, it falls on me to help! I always joke that I'm Lee's personal secretary, but Claire has suggested that this week I've been more of a specialised concierge service. True. But I want to know - in the word concierge, why does the rule 'i before e, except after c' not come into play? It is typical of the English language to have exceptions just when you least expect it. I will leave you to ponder that one, and feel free to enlighten/correct me about the finer details of this language rule....

Labour of gloves

2007-02-05T13:24:00.000Z

I'd like to say I've been knitting like mad for Lee's stall at the next Misofunky market.....but I've not. I've managed three pairs of pretty mittens and stopped short of finishing a forth pair. Sometimes I like to wait until the week of the market and go craft crazy. Stressful, but I am a procrastinator by nature. In fact, I'm blogging instead of getting on with the crafting process. I am rather proud of these mitts because I designed them myself. I am no knitting genius though, the largest item I've attempted is a scarf. Do you like the confrontational pose here? Don't mess with me in my mittens!

Memories

2007-01-31T13:20:00.000Z

Writing my last post about wedding underwear strangely brought back lots of memories for me. I remember visiting my friends house when I was 7 or 8. In the kitchen there was a Playboy calender and the models wore the lacy gear I previously described. I remember finding it distasteful, tacky and really quite naff. My Mum had lots of feminist books in the house so perhaps some of her ideas rubbed off onto me. I was similarly intrigued at my Dad's work where there were calenders of nude women in the main office. It seems crazy that this went on in a professional area, one where business meetings went on; times have certainly changed. I'm surprised Page 3 has survived Britain's (much fought for) society of equal rights. Perhaps the current affairs 'voice' they give the models (what does Leilani think of asylum seekers? what does Chelsi think about the rate of inflation, etc, etc) justifies the nudity. After all, if they are just meat why bother asking for an opinion?

I remember this friend also had a globe, a drinks cabinet and her parents had a water bed. All of which fascinated me. In hindsight, it was all so 1980s. I wonder if today they still have nude women on their kitchen walls? Or maybe it will be a buff fireman's calender. Equality opened up the door for all horrors to escape......

Pants

2007-01-30T15:31:00.000Z

I went searching for my wedding underwear today. I found the whole experience exhausting. Driving into town, finding my way into and around St Enoch's car park, then negotiating the shops. I always find shopping hard on my own. Since I first became ill, I find myself sensitive to the bright lights, noisy music and the crowds; it makes shopping very tiring. I had a bra fitting last week at Frasers and was shocked at my size - any woman reading this - get yourself measured -Marks and Spencers were way off with my fitting last year. So I traipsed the department stores and eventually settled for a bra I tried on last week. Typical. But at least I'd had a look around and I was seriously unimpressed. I love my underwear but it took a while to find as the choice available is awful. If you are a bride the chances of you looking like a reject from a 1980s Whitesnake video are high. Bridal lingerie is all high-waisted thongs, suspender belts and lace everywhere. See Madonna photo for an example of the frills available. Perhaps lingerie designers are inspired by Madonna's Like a Virgin look, how apt for a bride.....

I was glad to get in the car and drive home. The car park at St Enochs is like the entry to the bowels of hell - bad lighting and dark corners, and you drive round and round in the flickering neon until you find a space. I find this really hard because my car has no power steering and my arms ache. So driving out was tiring and creepy. I am grateful that I can get out to the shops, but I long for the day when I can leave them satisfied and with an aching purse, not an aching body.

Lucky

2007-01-23T15:35:00.000Z

Yes, you've guessed it, the photo is of a bull in a china shop. What have I done now you ask? I was browsing in Au Naturale - home store extraordinaire, and picked up a cake stand as their quaint scalloped edges always attract me. Though I clearly don't need one. It was caught on the others and I managed to smash two. Next to me, two older women stared open mouthed in sympathy and called over a sales assistant. I apologised and he completely blanked me. Being the youngest in my family I cannot stand being ignored, so I wandered off without the slightest bit of guilt. I am not beating myself up over an accident.

Though I'm clumsy I make a point of not telling myself I'm unlucky or 'bad things happen to me'. There is no such thing as lucky or unlucky - life happens, and sometimes it is not good. Ok, today's experience is petty, but over the last year I've had to deal with some awful situations. It is how you deal with them that determines the outcome. My mother brought me up with the notion that 'something good comes out of something bad'. And if you think back on every bad experience in your life, it may take time, but eventually you will be able to find something positive that arose from the situation. Otherwise, what's the point?

Invasion of the Weevils

2007-01-18T15:39:00.000Z

Warning: don't read this whilst eating.

So yesterday I went into my hall cupboard and found we have been invaded by thousands of flour weevils. It was rather strange to see what I thought were bits of dirt slowly moving. They had grown from bird seed I had stored in the cupboard and they rather rapidly spread through the area. I spent around four hours yesterday clearing out the cupboard. This involved emptying boxes, shaking out paper work, hoovering, spraying bleach (die weevils die was my mantra) and spraying insect repellent. The neighbours must of thought I'd gone crazy as I stood on the porch shaking cheque books, letters and passport photos (so much stuff in that cupboard). My cupboard is now streamlined - that basically means I binned anything of no use, and is now very clean.

I was horrified this morning to find some more on one shelf, but I have commenced attack and they are now gone. Environmental health at the council wants nothing to do with weevils. Are mice more fun? But a local pest control company will spray the area for £40. Not bad if they haven't completely gone by the weekend. Afterall, I have started a war and I am determined to win. Seeing as I'm clumsy I'd better watch out for the pest control equivalent of friendly fire - eg spraying myself in the face with RAID pest spray. I'm rather like George Bush but with more accurate sources of intelligence. And I'm better looking.

It's a cracker.

2007-01-16T13:21:00.000Z

I have now earned the nickname of Frank Spencer for my continuing calamities. It is well known that I am clumsy but things have gone too far! During Christmas Lee and I went to his sister's for a lovely meal. She put out crackers for everyone and not being one to miss out on a party hat and a plastic toy I was keen to tear into one. Lee and I shared a cracker but it didn't snap. So Lee decided to snap the exposed cracker - and it went in my eyes. Doh. At the time I made a fuss - it stung - but nobody really bothered, thinking I was just being awkward. Afterall, the gravy was being passed round and nobody wants to miss that at a family meal.

Late that night my eye was streaming, and didn't stop the next day, so the next evening I ended up in A&E, embarrassed and sore. I thought the young doctor would find it hilarious that I'd been hurt by a cracker but he was non-plussed. Apparently party poppers are worse for causing injury. I had strange orange drops put into my eye to allow the doctor to inspect it further. He asked if I had any other health problems. I told him I have ME. He asked how it effected me. I gave a brief description, assuming he was just interested in my particular case. Shockingly, he told me that doctors aren't taught about ME at medical school. That is why he wanted more information. Apparently, it is briefly mentioned in passing as an illness that is diagnosed when all other illnesses are discounted. It is an umbrella term for other conditions. He was not being rude - just sharing his limited knowledge of ME. I was (perhaps naively) surprised at the lack of information given to junior doctors about an illness that effects thousands of people in the UK.

It turns out I had a small scratch on my cornea and was given antibiotic eye cream. (Which I could taste within five minutes of applying -obviously going down the back of my throat from my eye! Yeuch!) So readers beware of flying debris from crackers and party poppers.

Incidentally, the joke and the gift inside the cracker were both shite. The party hat was, however, rather dapper.

Catherine needs.....

2007-01-12T10:26:00.000Z

Ok, so now I'm copying Jo, Claire and Elaine who have posted this idea in their blogs. It is some harmless fun. Go to google and type in 'your name needs' and see what comes up. A good start to a New Year methinks......
1. Catherine needs another Slushpile Condo!
2. Catherine needs to put her everyday chair in the car when she drives, she still prefers a rigid chair to a folding chair.
3. Catherine needs katieplayer bookmarking information.
4. An Editor’s Report is what Catherine needs.
5. Catherine needs to take her efforts in the gym back to 75% of her max so that she will be more in control and won't be using it as a mechanism to be hard on.

And, as my counsellor says, only do what you want or need to do, and stay away from the shoulds. Perhaps number four is the best option?

The bitch is back.

2007-01-11T15:56:00.000Z

I hope you all enjoyed the festive season. I had a great time. Very relaxing and indulgent. I have taken domesticity to my highest level yet. Look, see my photo of oranges dotted with cloves, cinnamon and bay leaves. These sat in the hallway looking pretty until we returned from two days in Fife to green dusty oranges. Mmm.

It has been a stressful week; Lee's grandad has been diagnosed with terminal stomach cancer. It is hard to see him ill and a shadow of who he once was. I love the fact he still manages a cheeky joke and a wink. Long may that last. How unfair life is when a man has to lose his dignity like this. At the weekend I finally declared myself an atheist. But that's a discussion for another blog. Times like this always make you reflect on your own life. I have dramatically changed my New Year's resolutions from 'losing weight and getting fit' (so stupid when you have ME) to realistic goals.

So what are your New Year's resolutions? I'd love to hear them - and be honest.

Here are mine, they may seem harsh, but I'm feeling freer for following them already -

1. To be selfish. In a good way. Put myself first and stop people pleasing. Compromise is a two-way process.
2. To surround myself with people who actually care. Life is too short to be undermined by disapprovers.
3. Enjoy who I am. Stop feeling guilty and worrying about what others think.
4. The bitch is back. No shoulder pads are needed for my assertiveness.

And the winner of the best Christmas card goes to.........

2006-12-22T13:24:00.000Z

....... Claire! Yes, here is the scariest Christmas card ever - I am terrified of this monkey Santa monkey but something draws me to him. If I have nightmares I'll blame it on his toothy grin.

Last night was spent with Jo and Dominic and some friends for a Christmas drink. Much fun! I am in love with Dominic's cat Merlon, he has converted me to cats (usually I think they are freaky) and was sporting a rather jaunty kerchief. I have no idea why, but his kerchief makes me think of him as a feline equivalent of a young Oliver Reed (pre-alcohol days). Do not ask me why!Sadly, I am allergic to him and was rather itchy, so no cats for me.

Back to festive talk. Here are the runners up in my Christmas card competition.

A card from Rae - she is a big Noel fan. And I love her for giving me her favourite card!

The gingerbread man card is made by Jo and is very cute.

The hand-drawn card is my other friend Jo and Dominic. Thanks to Dominic for his lovely Santa sleigh drawing - I love it!

And here is the monkey, keeping an eye on my reindeer. What a bully!

Finally, here is my Christmas log. A rather camp creation that has been in the family for years. I think my Gran made it. I don't attempt to light it - tinsel and flame = burning log + melted house. For now, have a Merry Christmas and I'm sure I'll be back soon.......

Happy Christmas and a happy Catherine!

2006-12-20T14:41:00.000Z

I am officially the happiest I've been all year. I had almost forgotten how it felt to be truly happy. Those of you who know me well realise it's been a hard year for me, with my health and some horrible personal problems. I consider this the hardest year I've ever had to face. It's taken me several months to feel 'normal' and slowly I'm coming back again. Thanks to all the support from family and friends this year - it's been appreciated! The great news is that I got a distinction for my university course this year! And.....I got a 2.1 for my Literature Degree! I'm over moon! I have been grinning ever since. It was hard work but worth it. After Saturday's Miso market, we flopped on the couch with a takeaway and watched the X Factor final. Just as the results were being announced I remembered - doh - my uni results might have been online since Friday. So I raced though and shouted at Lee to follow - and there they were! I ended up crying so hard - whooping noises, snotty nose, tears - the lot - I think my neighbours thought I was crying at the X Factor results. But who cares - it's all over and I'm proud of myself.

This really is a week for celebrating - yes I'm blowing my own trumpet - I deserve some niceness this year! After ten years with Lee and around eight years engaged I finally got my engagement/wedding ring. My brother-in-law works at an auction house and after a failed bid on an antique ring (I was heartbroken but now I'm glad I didn't get it) I got a diamond solitaire ring from the auction house Bonhams. It is so pretty and I am obsessed with it in a Golum from Lord of the Rings type way. It is my precious and I am shallow in my material love.....

I am now officially feeling very Christmassy. Last week was spent making fudge, gingerbread men and coconut ice for the Misofunky Christmas market at Hillhead Library. I also made little embroidered Christmas decorations. My favourite one is the peace heart.

The market was great fun and we had our best sales ever. The atmosphere was good and I enjoyed some of the Christmas pop music played by Jo. The Miso girls put great effort into making goodie bags for everyone (thanks!) and as usual, making the market run smoothly. The raffle/charity wrapping stall raised a lot of money for AYME (Associaton of Young People with ME www.ayme.org.uk ) thanks to the girls for choosing a worthwhile cause to support.

I'm glad I took part in the Secret Santa - it was fun to give and even better to receive...My Secret Santa or sultana as he wrote on my gift tag (I prefer the idea of a secret sultan....) gave me a lovely handmade clutch bag, a vintage pin box and a pair of pretty jammie bottoms. I am so delighted with my gifts and have been living in my new jammies ever since.

Finally, have a look at www.checamille.com - the online magazine it is a veritable feast of clothes, design and writing. I have my first published short story inside - the second half will be featured next issue.

I'm off to make some final crafty presents for my family. I hope you like my Christmas tree angel - he's an original 1950s decoration and is my retro hero. I love putting him on the tree.

Winter comforts

2006-12-05T13:31:00.000Z

For the last month it seems as though Glasgow has been under siege from the rain and wind. I miss crisp winter days with frosty grass, red noses and crunchy leaves. Soggy jeans and windswept hair have taken hold instead. At the weekend I baked a cranberry pie in the hope that I'd feel wintery and warmed by the smell and taste of homebaking. It worked and none remains.

Patiently patent.....

2006-12-05T13:18:00.000Z

I love my new shoes. They are shiny patent from Primark. I have always been drawn to patent shoes because I was never allowed them as a child (sob, sob). I know in the past some schoolgirls were banned from wearing patent leather shoes because their shine reflected their underwear - I'm not sure if that's a myth. The reason I was not allowed patent was for practical reasons- they were easily scratched and hard to clean - my mother scoffed at patent leather shoes. So for £4 my new shoes are cheap and ready to scuff.

Candylion

2006-12-05T13:09:00.000Z

I'm a huge fan of Gruff Rhys from the Super Furry Animals, so I was delighted to receive my Candylion record in the post yesterday morning. Last night Lee and I dragged out our vinyl and listened to some old classics alongside the charming Candylion. My homemade Candylion sadly turned out a little limp and without an arm, but he's cute all the same.

Butterfinger

2006-11-16T13:00:00.000Z

Last night I was so involved in my sewing that I forgot I had a tray of beads on my lap. Oops. One move later and hundreds
of beads were scattered over the floor. It looked like Shirley Bassey had suffered a terrible accident with one of her sequined dresses. Trying to be witty, I shouted my Shirley comment through to Lee and he replied 'Has she? What did she do?'. Obviously assuming Shirley Bassey had keeled over onstage and it was being reported on the 6 O'Clock News.
This is the result of having conversations in different rooms. It ends up becoming an argument over a subject you never actually mentioned in the first place. I should have learned years ago from my parents that this doesn't work.
MOTHER: 'Archie, have you fed the dog? '
FATHER: 'Margaret, I'm in the loft, I'll walk her later!' etc, etc.

Anyway, I don't know what was more stressful - trying to pick them up between the floorboard gaps or the fact that they were not organised in their indiviual compartments. I spent a long, long time picking them up. Note the above photograph, I was resting my head. What fun, especially considering I've so much to do for Saturday's MisoFunky craft market! I guess I don't have the Mida's Touch a la Goldfinger, but more of a Butterfinger touch like a shaking alcoholic. Nice.

The Wo-Man from UNCLE

2006-11-14T13:07:00.000Z

I am the proud Auntie of another little boy - baby Ruben was born on the third of November - the same day as his older brother Ruairidh. So Ruben is the third boy in the family - Reece is the oldest and I can't help but declare (everytime I see him) how tall he is getting! I've known Reece since he was just two months old. He's now ten and that's the number of years Lee and I have been together. I can't really believe it. This week is our anniversary. We are spending this weekend at the MisoFunky craft fair at Hillhead Library (please note -10am-4pm!) so Saturday night won't exactly be a romantic night of passion. Usually after the craft fair I can barely speak or move - so much smiling is involved throughout the day that by the evening my face is rather grumpy looking.

Lee and I went back to Fife at the weekend to see Ruben and enjoyed cooing and aaaahing over him. He is a delightful wee baby, very quiet and sleepy. Newborn babies smell so nice; of talc powder and baby lotion. I always forget how small they are. His older brothers are rather proud and protective of him.

Interesting revelation - I just found out that Ruairidh has always called me Uncle Cat. How strange - I did shave before I went home (joke) and I don't have overly large hands (a dead giveaway) or an Adam's Apple. Apparently it's just a habit - I know that Reece used to call Lee and I Leecat, because he always saw us together and merged us into one person. Scary imagery. Once when his dad took him out for a walk he saw a cat (of the feline variety) and said, 'Look, there's a cat!' to which Reece replied - 'Where's Lee?'. Ah, the things kids say!

The previous weekend, I went to London with my parents to visit my brother Paul and his family. He has a three month old girl called Sophie. She is just delightful and, like Ruben, is very cute and smells just gorgeous! She's laughing at lots of things now - cue silly noises, faces and dances to make her giggle. I had a fabulous time, pottered around Greenwich/Blackheath and just relaxed in my brother's house. We also had an afternoon trip to Hobbycraft. It was like crafter's heaven. I didn't know where to start! I wish there was a branch up here in Scotland, the nearest is down in Newcastle. Paul kindly treated me to a selection of crafty things. (see photo). My sister laughed when she heard I visited Hobbycraft - 'Where you not overwhelmed?' Yes, I was, but the shopper in me came alive and I went forth and rummaged in the bargain bins.

Mini adventure

2006-11-08T12:06:00.000Z

As promised, here's three photos of my parents with their Mini estate. The first photo is my Dad in the Karoo, South Africa on his way to Zambia. Remember - he had no air conditioning, no mobile phone and garages were hundreds of miles apart. Two things I love about this photo - my Dad is wearing a jumper, (I guess it was a bit chilly?) and the AA sticker on the back of the car! I'm sure roadside assistance in South Africa was very limited back in 1968! The second photo is my Mum in Beira, Mozambique, 1968/9. I love her dress and handbag! The last photo is my Mum in the Lake District, May 1968.

I still find it hard to imagine how adventurous my parents must have felt going to Africa in the 1960s. My Dad took the Mini estate out on a ship, my Mum joined him later on. The only way they could communicate with friends and family back in Scotland was via letter.

I'm rather proud of these photos, I hope you enjoy!

Insert witty remark here -

2006-11-02T15:47:00.000Z

Saw quite a funny car sticker today. 'Ex-husband in boot'. Made me smile. 'Baby on board' ones are plain irritating, but they are needed for safety.

The ones I love to hate are the 'Playboy Bunny on board'. Excuse me, but usually the women driving those cars are less Playmate of the Babes and more Planet of the Apes. Hugh Hefner would be proud.

I like driving in my car!

2006-10-26T17:38:00.000+01:00

Finally we got our dream car. A new Mini! Not the retro oldie but the newer model. Lee and I had a 'life is too short' moment and thought 'fuck it'. Hey, what's a little debt for so much pleasure. Lee is the main driver and I get a shot now and again. The truth is - I'm too scared to drive it. I've never used power steering before and find it so strange. It will take some getting used to. The last time I drove it my squeals included - 'It's moving!' and 'I only touched the wheel!'. Oh dear.

We decided to keep hold of the Micra for me and it's fantastic - so great to get out more during the day. It also helps when I'm feeling quite ill and need to save energy. I love the Micra; bashed on one side, (thanks to the pillar that jumped into Lee's path in the Safeway, Byres Road carpark) scrapped on the other side (thanks to a bus or van on Great Western Road) and the window handle on the passenger side that always falls off, not to mention the cassette/radio that doesn't work. It looks like a giant has picked it up and dropped it down again thanks to the squashes on each side. My sound system is an old personal stereo hooked up to little plug-in speakers, rock'n'roll people. Don't get me wrong, this is a wonderful car. It's hardly needed much repairs over the years and has never broken down. I just pray it passes the MOT in December with little costs.

So why do I love the Mini? Well, Mini cars have been in my family since the 1960s. My parents had lots of different models over the years. My favourite (seen only in photos) is the maroon Mini estate my parents took to Africa in the late 1960s. My dad took a ship to Cape Town and drove the Mini estate all the way up to Zambia. With no air conditioning. And passing wild animals. I'll try and get a copy of a photo to show you. We also had Minis when I was growing up, my favourite being the brown one. My parents sold it to my Papa and I never forgave them, convinced that they had ripped him off! Not that they had, but in my childish imagination I was sure that my Papa was driving a death trap. He drove it quite happily until he died in his 80's.

Part of the reason I wanted to write this blog was to remember my Papa. A friend's grandfather died just recently and she kindly shared some happy memories of him in her blog. The Mini and my Papa stay connected in my memories. My Uncle Ian often tells the story of my Papa, out driving the Mini, waiting at junctions looking left and right, and though the road was clear, he'd wait until a car came along and he'd pull out in front of it, screeching away. He learned to drive before there was a driving test. I imagine that it must have been very hard driving in those days, apparently you had to 'double de-clutch'. Not sure what that means but it sounds complicated.

I'm sure my Papa would love the new Mini. I also wish he'd got to meet Lee, they'd have gotten on wonderfully, I just know it. My favourite photograph of Papa is in black and white, and he's sitting on his motorbike. Must have been the 1950s. From the 1980s we have a photograph of Papa at Christmas time. It's after the dinner and he's wearing my sister's leather biker jacket, his fist clenched in the air and I remember him shouting - "We are the people!".

Fabulous Fashion

2006-10-09T13:16:00.000+01:00

It's been a busy week for me. Last Thursday I handed in my final portfolio for my Open University course. As long as I pass (fingers crossed) then I've got an English Degree! What a relief. Five years of hard work finally over. The end of an era.....And the start of a new one.

So a fashion show was the perfect place to celebrate. On Saturday, Che Camille had a fabulous event. Going against the grain of typical plastic-fantastic fashion shows, this was a unique night. No catwalk/runway, no amazonian models (well, a few) and certainly no London Fashion Week. There were several sets where models posed and danced for the crowd. I was happily dancing in a harem/tent and Lee was a star fighting off the paprazzi. Yes I'm a model. For one night only. But it was mighty good fun. I got to wear a beautiful dress from designer Onnie and Lee wore a red military coat made by Rabbi. I won't list all the fantastic designers, for fear of forgetting to mention someone, so you must go and have a look at Camille's website - www.checamille.com for more about future events and the clothes available. The website also features the new e-mag, launched today. Lee has worked so hard this last month alongside Camille and other contributors (photographers, designers etc) to create this wonderful e-magazine. Available for your viewing pleasure at www.checamille.com.

As usual I'm absolutely shattered, but hey it was worth it. What more can a gal ask for in one week- a degree, modeling for a fashion show and wearing a short, stunning dress. A great Saturday night.

Insy winsy spider

2006-09-27T15:02:00.000+01:00

Insy winsy spider is not climbing up the drainpipe. No, he is currently undertaking an army invasion on my house. It must be the September weather - cold and damp - making the HUGE spiders decide to come inside and warm themselves by my Freeview box. I don't know why, but these spiders seem to love lurking around the Freeview box. BBC Four is a fantastic cultural channel, perhaps it attracts the beasties... Anyway, I am sick chasing them with my baseball boots around the house. Last night Lee could not believe how much my heart was racing - not at or with Lee - but on the assassination of the said spider. Yes children, an animal was harmed in the writing of this blog. Ever watched the film Leon? I am the hitman of the spider world. Splat.

I decided not to place a scary picture of a large hairy spider, so instead here's a romper suit I embroidered for my lovely niece Sophie. Afterall, poodles may bite, but spiders always scuttle.

I'd have gotten away with it if it wasn't for you pesky kids!

2006-09-17T19:40:00.000+01:00

Yes here's me dressed up for Jo's annual fancy dress party! I'm Velma from Scooby Doo and Lee's a scary dude from Clockwork Orange. As if you needed telling! I'm typing this rather slowly, as I'm so sleepy today but it was well worth it. I won a jar of peanut butter and a mood necklace in the crap tombola draw (crap being Jo's word, not mine - I'm delighted with my prizes...). We had a great laugh, I solved some mysteries, Lee didn't attack strangers with a giant penis (see the film, it's a tour de force) chatted inanely to folk and giggled at some funny outfits.
My alltime favourite fancy dress costume has got to be a little girl that turned up at my nephew's birthday/Halloween party. She was wearing a fairy princess costume and had fake blood spattered about. We asked who she was, "Princess Diana, after the car crash." she whispered sweetly. Ah the walking wounded are so witty!

But back to the peanut butter; winning my prize reminded me of a strange phobia that I'd read about last week - arachibutyrophobia - fear of peanut butter sticking to the roof of your mouth. And I'm not laughing, it's kind of icky when peanut butter clogs up your speech ability. Or is that just me worried about not being able to talk for even one second?

Lack of witty blog title.

2006-09-06T13:40:00.000+01:00

Today I'm suffering from lack of witty blog title. So I've done without.
It's been a hard week for me, my health has been bad again. I had that minor operation (or procedure as it's often called, though for some reason I find that a rather creepy word..) and though it went well my M.E has flared up again. For those that don't know me, I've been ill with M.E (also known as CFS) since I was thirteen. My health fluctuates from being reasonable and managing nice walks and shopping, to being stuck in the house, unable to do little more than read or watch television. I guess this is my ill health 'coming out' blog. But I don't like to go on about it; ill people are such a bore, and I'm sure that in the future I'll post more about my health and the hilarious adventures of living with M.E.....
So my mum came over this week for a few days to keep me company and give me some of that magical mummy tlc - it was fab! We enjoyed a cheesy movie starring Sarah Jessica Parker, cups of tea and a jaunt into town that left me exhausted but the proud owner of a new pair of trainers. My mum likened them to sandshoes and disputes their usefulness in the rain, but actively encouraged the purchase...or at least that's my excuse.
Last week my parents brought through two marrows - both huge. I asked for the small one and managed to make two batches of soup from it. Nice and nourishing for when I'm low. My sister's taken the larger one, I reckon it's more like a caveman club than a marrow. The photo shows my marrow next to keys to give you an idea of size. I'd hoped to find a poignant link between being ill and marrows, soup or visits from family members, but I don't want to push a naff metaphor on my readers. Basically, there is no marrow to this tale. See, I've left you with a rotten pun instead. Get it? Marrow/moral...c'mon people!

Catherine's got her hat on..

2006-08-20T14:41:00.000+01:00

...hip hip hip hooray! It was my birthday yesterday and I'm in love with my new hat. It was a quiet day as I am quite sore and tired this week after a minor operation. So I'm resting and enjoying the comfort of tracksuits, sofas and crap television. I enjoyed a visit from my sister and niece Eva, who visited the hospital yesterday after breaking her collarbone. I asked Eva if it was sore, she said, 'No, I saw the doctor.' Her pain threshold must be good. She helped me blow out the candles on my birthday cake (though she often breathes in instead of out, with severe concentration on her face!) and loved the wind-up penguin I found in my bedroom. I was refused a birthday kiss though, I guess my moustache must be getting pricklier as I get older. I'm going to lounge around in my new hat. It's my favourite birthday present and I wore it while enjoying breakfast in bed yesterday. I also received lots of flowers, so with my hat and abundance of flowers, I'm off to feel glamorous in my tracksuit.

Baby Bib Mine

2006-07-21T16:28:00.000+01:00

I think bibs are very practical and wish they were fashionable (I didn't intend that phrase to rhyme, but hey, I'm a poet...) because I'm always spilling food and drink over my nice clothes. Thankfully, I don't dribble, (as of yet) though I have to eat with a large napkin covering my torso to prevent food spraying my body. If bibs were in use, then eating in restaurants would be less traumatic and I'd have no need for those useless paper napkins that shred and ooze grease after approximately one minute.

I bought a set of plain bibs from Mothercare yesterday and started embroidering straight away. I've chosen a Sublime Stitching pattern and add my niece's name Sophie, in the middle of the banner. I'm ready to start the next baby bib project asap! I've also bought a few plain baby bodysuits too, so less writing, more sewing in the week ahead.

Sew Happy!

2006-07-19T12:55:00.000+01:00

Great news - I am an auntie again! My sister-in-law gave birth to a 6lb 10oz baby girl, Sophie Christina on Monday. Both are well and the whole family is delighted! I now have an excuse to make more crafty baby things. It's a shame I won't be knitting for a while, but I'm sure I can find a lovely project to get started on. Thankfully my stash is full of pink material at the moment! It is amazing how new life can be so inspiring. Thanks to the beauty of digital cameras, I'll hopefully see photos of Sophie within the next day or so. The pictures I've had sent via mobile phone are just adorable, in the words of my dad - 'she's a wee smasher'.

I've currently given up on my knitted camisole top due to sore wrists. I find knitting very addictive and when I start I cannot stop. I have managed to pull myself away from the camisole and give myself a break for just now. I think just a few rows at a time would be better than a frenzied pace of forty a night. So I turned to embroidery for some light relief. It is such a relaxing craft, and gives faster results than knitting. I finished this pin-up girl this morning and need to find a project to use the patch in. Perhaps a small purse? I used some of the spotted material from my stash and embroidery thread that belonged to my grandmother. As a crafter that made lots of projects as a child, then gave up for years, I still find myself in awe of my completed projects. I am glad that in the last year I've started creating again. For just now, I can't stop looking at my pretty pin-up girl.

Buzz words

2006-07-13T11:50:00.000+01:00

Recently I've become so inspired by gardens. The variety of patterns and shapes found in flowers and leaves is amazing. I can now understand why Glasgow artist Charles Rennie Macintosh http://www.crmsociety.com/ used flower motifs in the majority of his designs. With plants the possibilities are endless. I need to start using these patterns and shapes in my craft work. I find myself wandering around my front garden enchanted by the strange flowers that are currently blossoming. How could I have seen these flowers but never properly noticed them before?

At the moment I love the foxglove; tall and bright, wobbling in the wind. In my back garden, next to the door, is a bench. A foxglove has seeded itself below the bench and has worked its way up through the slats, using the wood for support. (see above photo, though it does not do the flower justice. Not the best photograph.) Sitting next to the foxglove, bees come flying towards you and bypass human life for some yummy nectar. They sit in the bell shaped flowers for a minute or so, moving to the next flower, up or down the foxglove ladder. Their buzzing reverberates making a beautiful noise louder than normal - the foxglove becomes a kind of amplifier for insects. When the bees are finished, they leave the flower and zig-zag away, narrowly missing my back door. I like to think they are slightly drunk on the nectar and sleepily satisfied.

Here's Linda, in case you were wondering...

2006-07-12T17:10:00.000+01:00

....who she is. Lovely lass, famous thanks to Page 3. Phwoar as the Daily Star would say. If you are puzzled, then look at my last post.

Crush

2006-07-12T16:45:00.000+01:00

I hate to admit it, but I have a crush on Sawyer from Lost. It goes against my usual principles of attraction so I feel terribly guilty. I swore that I'd never fancy bad boys, and he's the baddest you can get. I had a dream last night that I was an actress and was taking off my stage make-up when in walked Sawyer. "Ma-am," he drawled, "I'm afraid I can't let you walk back to your trailer alone, it's too dangerous out there. Let me escort you." I melted. I mean, I'm an aspiring writer and I'm suffering from severe Mills and Boon love sickness. What a cliched dream! I blame it all on last week....

I was watching Lost with Lee, I had quite a good rhythm going with my knitting and all of a sudden I blurted out "Shut it Sawyer, just take your top off." My excuse is that I was so relaxed with my knitting that I could not control my mouth. I am in fear of my own actions. I thought I'd bypassed all that laddette behaviour that results in ASBOs or community service. What next - car theft following a Buckfast booze binge? Obviously, Lee was quite shocked and asked "Why are you not asking me to take my top off?". Rudely, I poked his belly button with my knitting needle. "That's why." "Ha," he responded, "who do you think you are? Linda fucking Lusardi?" And with that we burst into fits of laughter. That has got to be the best insult I've ever received. And after all, who other than a reader of the Sun newspaper during the 1980s would know who the hell Linda Lusardi was?

Carry on caravaning

2006-07-04T21:31:00.000+01:00

Last week Lee and I enjoyed a lovely break in the Lake District. We spent five days in a luxury caravan in Flookburgh. I am converted to caravans now. When I used to think of caravans I would instantly imagine a small tin with tiny windows on wheels, rocking in lashing rain. Inside the room is damp and drafty with a gas fire glowing through one flickering bar. At best, nights spent shivering under blankets and duvets with bed socks and jumpers, at worst, nights with the additional layers of bobble hat and gloves. How wrong I was, caravaning has changed and for the better. The caravan we rented was a static caravan, two bedrooms, a toilet, bathroom and large kitchen, dining area and living room. The fire was huge and central heating (oh central heating!) adorned every room. The design was ingenious; cupboards and storage throughout with modern fittings and a large shower, all fitted in a small but perfectly formed wee hoose.

It was a fun week and so hot that we even managed to have a barbeque. I liked the caravan park; the walks around it were pretty with stables near the touring caravans. A holiday is what you make but a nice 'home' for the week makes all the difference. Our 'Vendee 500' was certainly comfortable. And what a strange name. Traveling down to the Lake District, we shouted out the name of every touring caravan that passed. Rusty or luxury they never fail to make me giggle. The manufacturers have chosen adventurous names, often implying that they are breaking new ground, discovering unseen parts of the planet - Voyager, Marauder, Swift, Challenger, Prestige - I imagine they are little spaceships rolling along the roads. I am surprised there were no Starship Enterprise tourers. My least favourite names are the ones that sound so middle England, like small towns in rural counties - Chichester, Windsor and Worcester. How uninspiring. The caravan I liked best was an older model, swaying along the M74, clean and slow, like a lumbering can on wheels - the Wanderer. I believe that name captures the essence of caravaning don't you?

Crafty pursuits

2006-07-04T18:46:00.000+01:00

So seeing as I boast of being creative (clue is in the title) I may as well get back in crafty mode. I flit between craft projects and currently have three on the go. Sadly, I'm not working on any of them right now. I thought posting a blog with photos would entice me to start back again. And it's working - tonight I shall watch trash (on TV, not in my bin) and knit away. Last week on holiday I bought myself this basket for all my wool.

It was the rainbow colours that tempted me, I'm a softy for multi-coloured products. I believe that penchant was inherited from my older sister who has always loved Joseph and his coat of many colours. (Andrew Lloyd Webber style "go go Joseph...")

I also bought this lovely duvet cover set.

All ready for chopping up and making into things. I'm not sure what things as of yet. The other side of the cover is a cute polka dot print.

Let's add that in addition to loving rainbow stuff, I'm also a sucker for polka dots.

So my knitting project for tonight is a lovely camisole top. I started it a few weeks ago and stopped after a few inches. The pattern is from 'Katie Knits' blog.(see my links) and is an easy knit yet so pretty.
I'm off to get started before I get distracted by new projects that always seem to jump out at me, then loom in the background nagging me to finish them.

Something fishy going on?

2006-07-04T14:25:00.000+01:00

Lee took me to the fishing warehouse this morning for a jolly Saturday shopping trip. I reckoned he deserved it after years of putting up with waiting for me in Topshop, jangling small change in his pockets and trying to look interested in headscarves, bangles and culottes. I was surprised at this big warehouse, men standing outside waving fishing rods around testing out and showing off their new toys. Inside, men in groups stood happily discussing the perfect fishing spots or wandered around joyfully pondering lines and waders. It was like the male equivalent of Accessorize sparkly goods enticing and exciting the customers. Never before have I seen men so happy in a retail environment. On the downside, I felt like a fish out of water excuse the bad joke, but it's true, I was the only woman in there without a Barbour jacket or a bobbly fleece. Remember ladies, just because it's outdoor wear, doesn't mean that we have to sacrifice style now, do we?

My favourite aisle was the fly section. Hundreds of clear compartments filled with flies that are surprisingly beautiful miniature works of art. On closer inspection, I noticed that these fake insects are divided into different categories with very strange names. We have the 'boobies', the 'nymphs' and the 'muddlers'. These weird names become more complicated and are similar to those strange pedigree dogs at Crufts. (e.g., Champion Sir Bobby Bouffant of the Kidderminster Harriet's) There are 'hothead nymphs', 'bugger lures' and my personal favourite 'boobies with attitude'. Believe me, it's the place to be if you still laugh at Carry On films. In fact, it made me think of my best friend, a girl with a compulsion for double entendres in a kind of 'oooh matron' way. If she had been there we would have heard dirty jokes about rods, tackle and boobies. And I wish she had been with me, to share my immature amusement.

The fishing warehouse is full of men who are happy in their habitat, relaxed and at one with their inner man and ready for the outdoor world. This could be the ideal place for a single gal. Head down to your local fishing shop wearing your cute retro 'fishing champion' t-shirt, arm yourself with a few cheeky comments and go catch yourself a man. After all, what's so unappealing about being an auld fishwife?

I bet that you look good on the dance floor!

2006-07-04T14:17:00.000+01:00

On Friday I ventured out to National Pop League at the Woodside in Glasgow. I love the atmosphere at NPL. The music is great and it's the type of place where you can dance alone and no-one cares. So cue much silly dancing from me. I couldn't help but notice an amazing dancer, but by the end of the night he was swept away and hidden by countless others. Up until the dance floor became mobbed, I watched him in fascination. His moves were circa Joy Division and started with a shake in his hand, a twitch up his arm and a pulsing jump when the beat kicked in. Amazing. I tried dancing next to him, perhaps he'll give me eye contact and shimmy with me, I thought, but alas no, he was happy in his electric world. I found myself wondering where he learnt to dance like that. Is it a natural rhythm, an instinctive move he has, ready to burst out on cue to The Smiths? I would estimate his age and then I could place him in an era, a time that makes sense – ah, ok he's 25, so he was a Britpop teenager. Or something like that.
But I've given up guessing the age of strangers. Lee has said some crackers. Once a very tanned Glasgow girl asked him 'how old d'ya think I am?' He estimated 37. She was 24 and devastated. That's the curse of sunbeds. And honesty. Another time a bloke in the pub asked the same question. Lee paused, thought about this guy's enthusiasm for Dire Straits (he was, we gathered, a big fan) and guessed 36. He was 26. Ha, I thought, wearing white 80s trainers and a headband surely does age you.
So back to my man on the dancefloor, I looked for him when they played Madonna classic Borderline but couldn't see him. So instead, I attempted to pull off some of his moves. It was hard, but you see I'm a sucker for dance movies - Saturday Night Fever, Flashdance, Footloose, the scene in Napoleon Dynamite; I was even dancing to Calamity Jane yesterday. I just love it when the rotten dancer becomes queen of the dancefloor to a catchy, but naff song. I may have big feet and move like a dancing bear, but hey, I'm cutting some rug. Move outta my way!

Moving blogs...

2006-07-04T12:32:00.000+01:00

....is far easier than moving house. I've abandoned http://www.myspace.com/superflexee and moved here to the famous Blogger.com. A far more sophisticated affair methinks. I really just prefer the layout. I think I'll transfer a few of my old blogs from myspace to over here, so this new home is not so empty. I'll be decorating asap. I look forward to my house-warming party.