tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24860892831179813242012-01-14T19:11:12.615ZSurvival Tactics and Care for Care GiversPenny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.comBlogger1741100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-67128909081896944292011-08-23T10:11:00.000+01:002011-08-23T10:11:01.850+01:00

So what happened to Freedom of Speech  & Innocent until proven guilty? http://carerwatch.wordpress.com/2011/08/21/carerwatch-discussion-forum-taken-down/#comment-1456

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-1937261190411548842011-06-28T16:06:00.001+01:002011-06-28T16:07:36.470+01:00

A big welcome to the Earl of Bootyopia who's dipped a toe into the Blogosphere with this post which is well worth reading. Please pop over and say Hi!

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-88889741557952947502011-05-27T17:01:00.000+01:002011-05-27T17:01:00.760+01:00

After a rather dreary winter full of snow, woes and viruses I've returned to my Blog to fill you in with a short update. MyMan has been no better. Pain and depression as bad as ever. Occasional glimpses of the Man he used to be pop to the fore but rarely last long. On my birthday in February all my family were flying from all corners of the world to converge on Sri Lanka for a wedding. I was

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-33142978014594629342011-01-02T16:42:00.003Z2011-01-04T16:08:44.996Z

The Good the Bad and the Ugly - a year end review. The Good: Winning a long drawn out compensation battle with Equitable Life via the FOS Award of continuation of DLA & Mobility Allowance My one week break away to see family after my bowel investigation My trip by train to visit family for a short weekend break away My nephew's wedding and a lovely 3 nights at a Boutique hotel in Richmond, London

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-71931670896548366622010-12-30T18:12:00.000Z2010-12-30T18:12:04.155Z

I've been working this summer and autumn on coping strategies. My annual visit to the Dr for a BP check. I once again complained of my aches, pains and strains elicited the response that apart from my weight continuing to creep up I was healthy. When I said how hard I found it to cope at home with MyMan's moods I was told 'he's frustrated'. Well I know he is - so am I. But if I'm healthy then

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-307451574556243022010-12-27T22:23:00.001Z2010-12-27T22:24:29.907Z

I was looking back at the beginning of my Careless Carer blog tonight as I have just found another carer who has started to blog. I invited him over to mine to see if he'll get more out of blogging by networking with us Carers. If you stop by perhaps you'll pop over to meet Just Another Carer For me this was the beginning when I was trying to sort out how to cope. I think I have made some

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-46884284672282048802010-11-08T20:58:00.001Z2010-11-08T20:58:29.933Z

I've been up to visit London for my nephew's wedding. Once again I have safely negotiated Clapham Junction. Both ways. There and back. Tired but happy.

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-73127010732843724072010-11-02T16:47:00.001Z2010-11-02T16:47:10.702Z

Testing whether I can post via email from my mobile phone. Sent from my iPhone

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-73993314790610191532010-11-01T21:24:00.002Z2010-12-13T21:30:28.822Z

It may be an age thing but this year the long journey to Surrey was very tiring. It was a sunny hot day in May and being a Friday I had many traffic hold ups. I'd left home 2 hours later than planned.Marooned on the drive the bonnet latch locked while the hood was half opened I had to be rescued by the local mechanic who didn't arrive till 8.45 a.m. I wasn't feeling at my best which didn't help

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-77148992115168396712010-10-30T16:37:00.002+01:002010-10-30T16:39:41.562+01:00

I've always been a bit sniffy about Apple products. Apple for Idiots I always thought. But I have been won over by the simple charms of the iPhone. It looks gorgeous. Well the 3GS version does. I'm not so keen on the iPhone4. I had a very good friend who was playing with one and allowed me to handle it and play with it a while. I was hooked. I've bought myself a 3GS 32GB in white through

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-21776826592355895942010-09-28T18:26:00.004+01:002010-12-13T21:29:00.838Z

It's been a long eventful summer. Following on from my bowel investigations within 2 weeks I was on a long planned trip to Surrey/Sussex to visit family. I didn't feel too chipper. My innards were still a bit unsettled. I felt sad and scared. I knew by then that the polyps were of the type that could turn cancerous. And so would undergo a colonoscopy again next year. Oh well - at least I now know

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-26902477612265973102010-05-11T14:26:00.002+01:002010-05-11T21:16:04.119+01:00

I'm the Girl with the Colon Tattoo . . .It was rather a shock when I was told I had an abnormal result following my National Bowel Cancer Screening test.I've always had a fast transit time. No constipation. No changes in bowel habits. And apart from IBS symptoms that always manifest itself during times of high stress I'd no concerns re my working innards. That was why it was a shock.I'd had a

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-18259499928076557042010-04-02T04:51:00.011+01:002010-06-13T18:03:23.816+01:00

It's 4 a.m - .Good Friday morning. As usual when I've been over anxious I'm unable to sleep through the night. I've returned to roaming the house in the early hours. A mug of hot milk and a couple of oat baked biscuits along with a paracetamol usually help me to get another couple of hours before the start of a new day. But the sleep I have is not as deep and restful as a good 'proper 7 hours'.

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-25752649008962416022010-03-23T17:11:00.010Z2010-03-24T06:43:16.640Z

MyMan's first medication for Diabetes was Metformin gradually increasing the dosage until he reached 2x twice a day. But his blood glucose levels were not coming down fast enough to please the nurse. So he was started on Insulin. Using a pen device he injects a mixture of medium and long acting insulin each night. Slowly increasing the units injected.For the last couple of days his reading has

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-75313459650447668012010-03-05T17:43:00.007Z2010-03-14T16:02:43.685Z

So my birthday hadn't quite turned out as I'd hoped. Maybe everything would look better in a few days. But it didn't. There wasn't much sign of improvement pain wise for MyMan. In fact he appeared very ill and weak. Then he developed a sore throat, a croaky voice and an insatiable thirst. With the local virus he felt unable to exercise to test out if he had any signs of pain relief.Then

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-91900533134698894272010-02-27T15:21:00.005Z2010-03-05T17:43:01.918Z

With no chance of a lie in and then lunch out I decided to console myself with a little retail therapy while MyMan was in hospital having steroid injections in his sacroiliac joints.I had to take him to the hospital for 8 a.m and be ready to receive a call to go and collect him at 'lunchtime'. Plenty enough time for a spot of 'cheer myself up' shopping. We left the house at 7 a.m with no more

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-2682346426556086302010-02-21T17:21:00.008Z2010-02-27T15:19:20.099Z

It has been a gruelling few weeks (months) since MyMan started on his course of physiotherapy. The 'Back to Fitness' course left him far worse than when he started. Each week he'd go over to Exeter hospital - an hour long journey for a one and a half hour session of relatively easy exercises. With the hour drive home again it meant he'd leave here at 8 a.m and reach home by 11.30. I loved having

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-75814207812386527742010-01-22T15:32:00.004Z2010-01-22T15:50:58.632Z

I would like to draw your attention to this new initiative funded by the NHS. It is a free knowledge and skills based learning programme. Some areas have group meetings. It appears to have limited groups in the South West region - Somerset. No wonder parts of Devon & Cornwall are still referred to as 'the withered arm'. (There was not so much money to be spent on the west which had to soldier on

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-48079253953898041892010-01-21T16:51:00.014Z2010-01-22T14:52:51.363Z

Besides the physiotherapy sessions MyMan has also been entered in a Back to Fitness programme. Over a 6 week period he along with a class of 5 others is undergoing an hour long exercise and muscle toning programme run at Wonford hospital.Last week he boasted that he had used dumbbells weighing 66 lbs. I said incredulously - "surely not. Don't you mean 6 lbs?" But he insisted it was 66lbs. "But

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-22002307018380363812010-01-17T16:12:00.008Z2010-01-22T15:23:27.163Z

It is a little late in the New Year to think of New Beginnings but"What at first may appear to be an ending, is often a new beginning . . ". After a long drawn out investigation MyMan has accepted the Financial Ombudsman's Final Decision on his complaint against Equitable Life. It has been another battle against a large instituition. Energy sapping and a time consuming procedure at the best of

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-58324718164272300062009-12-17T16:35:00.005Z2009-12-17T17:00:17.088Z

Just when you think it can't get any worse than last year . . . it does.MyMan is, understandably, very disappointed that the injections of local anaesthetic in his spine provided no pain relief. Therefore the idea of the procedure to 'burn off the nerve endings' is a non-starter. He is being put on the waiting list for an injection of local anaesthetic and steroid injections into the sacroiliac

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-3270917243717605312009-11-26T16:42:00.004Z2009-11-26T17:10:21.226Z

MyMan often accuses me of 'making it up' when I tell him that he shouldn't use the kitchen sink when his hands are filthy. Butto only use the kitchen sink to wash his hands if he has 'clean hands' and is about to prepare food. He only gets himself cereal or a hot drink so its not as if he regularly works in the ktichen. But it seems the kitchen sink has a real attraction for him.I tell him it is

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-15270581772153544612009-11-17T16:47:00.007Z2010-02-27T15:18:24.670Z

I am still trying to get MyMan to read this author's book on "How Your Mind Can Heal Your Body". I'm finding trying to motivate him a bit of an uphill struggle. He says he feels 'too ill' to read it. I'm not 100% myself as I feel a bit tired and run down. But I'm hoping he'll start to read it before his next appointment with the physiotherapist. There doesn't appear to be any lessening of pain

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-79034615783892221272009-11-13T16:25:00.005Z2009-11-13T16:41:36.521Z

MyMan attended physio yesterday. He really dislikes having to go to the hospital 2 days running. He has another appointment with the physio in 2 weeks when she will assess his muscle strength and tone. He is being booked in for a Coping with Pain Programme which will start in the New Year. He'll be shown ways in which in can get up from the floor in and out of chairs/bed etc. Also exercises to

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-15172858229825638352009-11-09T23:12:00.001Z2009-11-10T06:29:40.028Z

He feels so ill MyMan. His symptoms are so wide ranging and varied. A few of them are: fatigue, breathlessness, palpitations, sore throat, swallowing difficulties, extreme tiredness, indigestion, constipation, dire rear, back pain, neck pain, trembling, weak leg muscles, headaches, deafness, loss of balance, blurred vision, voracious hunger or loss of appetite. Moods swings and memory problems

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-55086729444033223392009-10-23T16:09:00.001+01:002009-10-24T22:36:57.132+01:00

My favourite osteopath is Tony Nevin. He was the first person I tried for manipulative therapy back in the early 1990s. I can remember how different I felt after my first treatment: balanced and several inches taller. I also felt incredibly relaxed and spaced out. It was how I imagined I would feel if I had smoked some funny baccy or chewed on a magic mushroom. Wonderful, relaxed, happy with

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-66497982744716082322009-10-19T15:08:00.004+01:002009-10-19T15:27:07.968+01:00

I'm trying to find a treatment that would not be too painful or intrusive. I used to have osteopathy or chiropractic treatment during my 50s but have not had any manipulation for over 10 years now. I always found it extremely painful. Not to mention the fact it took a good 2 or 3 days to recover afterwards.I was considering Rolfing - I am looking for a 'gentle' treatment. I also like the idea of

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-58244228984419364632009-10-19T12:54:00.006+01:002009-10-19T15:57:30.037+01:00

I'm having palpitations. A symptom of stress. I'm stressed as MyMan is once again exhibiting signs of memory problems and an aggressive attitude. I still think it seems very much like a dementia problem. He also seems distressed at times and 'feels there is something wrong'. We may have to go back to see the psychologist for another session.All being well I'll still be able to go to the training

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-45821204784340527062009-10-13T16:11:00.006+01:002009-10-13T16:50:49.490+01:00

It has really surprised me just how long it has taken me to catch up on my '3 weeks sick leave'.We are still busy with hospital appointments. MyMan is about to attend physiotherapy. He now has a date set to attend day surgery at the RD&E hospital. He is having injections into his spine to see if it will help with his chronic back and neck pains.I have 2 'training sessions' set for next week. [a]

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-16542236565496356812009-09-29T17:27:00.006+01:002009-10-13T16:54:52.940+01:00

I'm still struggling to play catch up with all my chores. Bad timing - meant that the decorator came in to refresh the hallway with some basic painting. It looks clean and fresh now. It hadn't been painted since the day we moved in 1999 and it needed doing then! It was a struggle to clear all the bookcases in readiness and of course it all had to be put back afterwards. Just at a time when I

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-250334233667199592009-09-16T15:08:00.000+01:002009-09-16T15:12:29.905+01:00

It has been a very eventful week. Following on from the flood. I ended up in bed with a dose of gastric flu. I only left my bed to visit the bathroom, many times. In three days I didn't eat. I did nothing much beyond sleep or listen to Radio 4 or the World Service, which played continuously in the background.My Man fed himself on canned soups, baked beans or spaghetti on toast. On the few

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-78437048420927223052009-09-09T15:18:00.020+01:002009-09-09T16:36:40.949+01:00

Waste not Want not but it's time for a new beginning. In a new house. Where all the plumbing works properly. This week I've had the plumber out 3 times. The recently fitted replacement waste disposal system clogged up. It refused to evacuate the workings of its innards into the drain. Instead it had tried perversely to rid itself of its contents by violently vomiting. Me, the kitchen sink,

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-69095960107068601162009-08-26T15:56:00.004+01:002009-08-26T16:32:54.994+01:00

My Man has thrown in the towel. He consulted a solicitor with a view to taking action against the law firm that dealt with his compensation claim. Four years ago the settlement was 'bungled'. He wasn't well. He was slow witted and daft. We asked if it could be postponed until he felt better but we were persuaded to settle out of court as soon as possible.For a 'no fault claim' and with legal

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-27560454661766809862009-08-25T11:36:00.008+01:002009-10-24T23:11:35.881+01:00

He's as stubborn as a mule MyMan. He will not listen: he will not accept advice: everyone (including me) is an "interfering" idiot who has no idea of his suffering.Today he had to go into town to pick up files and papers from his solicitor. The load was likely to be heavy. I hauled a trolley case out of a cupboard for his use. I tried to park right outside the office but no spaces. He refused to

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-88677488119492642092009-08-23T16:46:00.005+01:002009-08-23T16:59:23.233+01:00

I have at last managed to buy a digital thermometer. So now I will be able able to tell the difference between having a raging fever and/or a hot flush. My very old mercury thermometer broke a couple of years ago. It doesn't feel the same taking a temperature without having to shake down the mercury before and after. Sigh - for the good old days.Some practical suggestions for keeping healthy, and

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-92207638233123987402009-08-21T15:01:00.004+01:002009-08-21T17:57:03.638+01:00

I was taken to task the other day for buying 'tempting treats'. Like most things in life the more time MyMan and I spend together the more I am amazed that we have been married for 38 years.When we first married I would buy a bar of chocolate. Have a couple small squares and not think about chocolate for weeks. Then when I again craved some chocoalate I'd return to the sweet dish and . . NOTHING

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-26672749099972671962009-08-09T17:21:00.008+01:002009-08-15T20:48:42.867+01:00

I need an energy boost. Besides ferrying MyMan to and from his hospital appts I'm thinking and using my memory bank for the 2 of us. Trying to keep an eye on his drug management (he's taken back control of his medibox again but needs a discrete eye kept on it); motivating him to attend appointments, motivating him to do a few basic tasks, reminding him once more what the Drs have said, reminding

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-53861380892819780942009-08-09T16:37:00.003+01:002009-08-09T16:50:02.440+01:00

This weeks trip to the NHS Acupuncture clinic led to MyMan have needles inserted into his neck muscles and then connected to an electricity supply. The Dr warned him that he is likely to feel 'off' for a few days. He still thinks it is 'mumbo jumbo'. Everything he reads on the subject highlights the fact that 50% patients treated do not feel any benefit. I raise the other side of the coin that

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-46677025287977997212009-08-04T16:31:00.000+01:002009-08-07T15:40:38.039+01:00

I was very low yesterday. I wanted to live near my sister. I was desperate for a pop in visit to chat, share worries, have a good healthy giggle over a cup of tea. This morning I still felt low and thought how much I missed the chance of spontaneity in my life. I couldn't remember the last time we did anything spontaneous. With nothing planned for the day I had breakfast and went in for a shower.

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-20293412672076753922009-08-02T16:22:00.002+01:002009-08-02T16:30:17.780+01:00

I thought that perhaps the acupuncturist had found his irritability button and turned it to high but on reading 'possible side effects' of his new lyrical drug I see that irritability is one. Along with confusion. Just what I need. Thanks a lot Doc . .

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-28666375502405260802009-07-21T16:22:00.003+01:002009-07-21T16:44:27.912+01:00

I've been crawling around the last few days with a stance and gait a bit like Quasimodo. I've been hauling the lounge furniture around chasing the dust and cobwebs away. Once too often obviously.I got out of bed stiffly last Thursday and pulled my back muscles as I tried to catch a urine speciment in an itsy bitsy pot for the nurse. The joys of being a woman.My pelvis tilted - ouch and F**k . It

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-53916471471200350132009-07-14T16:35:00.015+01:002009-07-14T18:03:21.523+01:00

What a pain in the neck it is having to attend hospital appointments. Up early to leave to get to Exeter. Rushing along with the rush hour traffic we make it to Heavitree hospital by 8.50. MyMan is exhausted. Exhausted by depression. Exhausted with the effort of rising early enough to leave the house by 8 a.m. Exhausted by the nervous energy wasted on the journey.Exhausted as he sat checking on

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-47314201459885618442009-07-08T16:18:00.007+01:002009-07-09T18:54:05.147+01:00

I hear that there is to be a National Debate on the future of 'Care and Support'. The DHSocial Care want us to " encourage other people to talk about care & support".Talk is easy enough. It's actions that speak louder than words. And of course any actions planned will need financing. But maybe this is a step in the right direction.As far as I'm concerned 'Care in the Community' was all very well

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-9781026661804588272009-07-03T23:44:00.006+01:002009-08-23T16:56:21.598+01:00

Symptoms of Swine Flu? I wonder what they are. Obviously a sore throat and fever.I went into the surgery this morning to book an appointment with the nurse for a routine blood test in a couple of weeks. The first thing I was asked was did I have a sore throat - "yes, I often have one during summer". It's caused by a post nasal drip due to hay fever.Did I have a fever? "How would I know with all

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-21584760928997149832009-06-15T17:03:00.014+01:002009-06-23T21:23:21.463+01:00

It's been a very busy month. Appointments [mine] Carer Support worker and health MOT; [MyMan's] Consultant psychologist, ENT Consultant, CT scan and the West of England Eye Unit. Trying to source a new Toyota Verso. A friend flying in to stay at a local hotel; to be entertained between breakfast and bed time.In between times I've been trying to enjoy myself - bridge class, playing bridge, and

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-37997538411307234342009-06-15T16:34:00.008+01:002009-06-15T17:01:37.872+01:00

I think my body may be telling me I've had all I can take. I've had such a long list of symptoms. IBS, tension headaches, muscles pains and weakness, breathlessness and palpitations. And I'm TATTI. That is I'm Tired All The Time.I finally went to the doctor. After an alarming 2 hour session of a a racing heart and feeling twitchy I thought I'd better go along for a check up. By the time the

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-28602574584933176302009-05-22T18:00:00.010+01:002009-06-15T16:11:55.382+01:00

Well at long last a decision has been made. I now know which car we are going to buy. Well, not exactly which car as we now have to negotiate the next decision. A 'new' new car, or a demonstrator 'new', or a 2nd hand.My much loved Jazz which was perfect for whizzing around the local lanes and small villages and towns has not been suitable as our main car. MyMan finds it difficult to get in and

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-3735098455969612332009-05-01T07:15:00.005+01:002009-05-01T07:47:31.101+01:00

On Wednesday evening I went out. I left home at 7 p.m and like a teenager going out on the razzle for the evening I felt an eager sense of anticipation. In a small hotel betwixt and between Honiton and Exeter I met up with 11 other carers to enjoy a drink and share stories. It felt a bit like an Al-anon meeting. I almost stood up to say "My name's Penelope and I care for a disabled and mentally

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-13789659099303590332009-04-25T17:10:00.009+01:002009-04-25T17:51:37.954+01:00

Well - if nothing else meeting with a Carers' Support Worker from MIND on Monday gave me the chance to talk, talk and talk. I assumed I'd have an hour. But the first thing Margaret said was that I had 2 hours to talk about anything, everything or nothing. She explained that there isn't much they can do in a practical or financial way. I hadn't expected a magic wand. Just to have the opportunity

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-25095218913534566812009-04-19T17:11:00.005+01:002009-04-19T17:52:26.845+01:00

MyMan encourages me to get out and enjoy myself "as much as possible". Then when I do he says how dead the place seems without me. I try to save a day a week when we can go out together. And I'm always home Saturdays and Sundays holding myself in readiness for a jaunt out somewhere together.We agreed we would go out on Sunday this weekend. Once again I waited for MyMan to surface from his

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-56687756660654395182009-04-16T17:04:00.006+01:002009-04-16T17:35:19.347+01:00

It's in the stars or is it 'just' a co-incidence? Waiting for an appointment yesterday I read my stars for the day. Jonathan Cainer said that I put up with a lot, I take on more than I need to, I help out more than I am obliged to and that "you give but don't always get much back" . . . . He says I don't mind (?!) "You hardly stop to think whether there should be rewards for carrying so many

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-7548266381104196232009-04-11T15:41:00.011+01:002009-04-11T16:14:47.896+01:00

After such a stressful time on Moanday Thursday I expected Good Friday and the Easter weekend to continue in the same vein. But within a few minutes of surfacing from his slumbers yesterday morning MyMan surprised me by his cheerful demeanour. It continued unabated during most of the day. Even when he was experiencing a spasm of muscular and/or spine pain he was philosophically resigned but not

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-70965026851755755932009-04-09T18:07:00.011+01:002009-04-10T08:17:49.731+01:00

Muddle muddle toil and trouble in our small world.MyMan still likes to make the decisions on financial matters. But it is becoming more onerous task for him. I take care of the day to day movements of cash from savings accounts in and out of the current account to meet bills. I keep a list of various accounts on a the spreadsheet. A list that MyMan uses to complete the annual tax assessment forms

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-18571503705159439492009-04-07T20:09:00.003+01:002009-04-07T20:25:09.818+01:00

MyMan surprised me this morning. He suddenly said he would like to try and make contact with an old friend, John M. He used ot go to school with him and they were cycling companions. In fact John was with MyMan when he had his first road traffic accident. Age 16 he'd been hit by a motorcylist emerging from a side road. This in the 1960s when cyclists did not wear protective clothing.Having an

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-78396655588019221022009-04-07T19:44:00.008+01:002009-04-07T20:03:51.126+01:00

Well we are soon to take more trips over towards the west. MyMan has an appointment to see the ENT specialist to try and find out if anything can be done to help with his sinus problem. Hopefully without re-starting the dreadful nose bleeds. He'll start getting anxious soon about making the trip to the hospital. Not the hospital that worries him but the travelling. He is still very uncomfortable

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-83454087795555376482009-03-21T17:57:00.009Z2009-04-07T19:43:07.905+01:00

A fine warm sunny spring day and MyMan wanted for the two of us to take a trip out 'somewhere'. He also wanted to watch the rugby this afternoon. So a trip out in the morning then. When he voiced this thought I was still in my dressing gown. At 9.30 - with no commitments I was taking a leisurely start to the day. "Fine" I said "Lovely, where shall we go?". He didn't know and wanted me to suggest

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-3656318613001268442009-03-17T11:09:00.006Z2009-03-17T11:27:35.862Z

MyMan went to see the doctor this morning. He has bad sinus problems and doesn't know how to deal with it after his recent nasal haemorrhage. He had a bad day yesterday and couldn't connect his thinking or speech at all well. I thought he would want my assistance. But he insisted on seeing the doctor alone this morning.I was surprised and kind of relieved to hear that MyMan also told him some of

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-14460611464917920232009-03-11T21:33:00.005Z2009-03-11T22:00:58.671Z

We are still having a bad time of it. I am tired and full of aches and pains. MyMan is tired, distracted and confused. He is bothered that he can't remember some conversations we have had in the last 3 hours. I am still not sure whether he has a short term memory problem or is just doing that 'man thing' of not concentrating or listening properly. Talk about 'Men are from Mars . . .'.I tried to

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-25673925719798348732009-03-07T18:17:00.006Z2009-03-09T17:17:51.955Z

MyMan decided to have new bedroom furniture when we swapped bedrooms. We placed an order with a local firm who are very helpful in removing old furniture to their Auction Rooms and also in moving other heavy items around in order to accommodate the new furniture.We have one doorway which is rather narrow and awkward. MyMan insisted on removing the door from it's hinges before the delivery. I said

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-77524947636915090892009-03-07T17:24:00.006Z2009-03-07T18:13:59.461Z

It's been a rather tiresome time over the last 3 weeks or so. My 60th birthday passed in a blur. I remember the cards, gifts and the tea party. Unfortunately I also remember the stress and anxiety. It has taken us about 2 weeks to regain our equilibrium again. MyMan suffered from socialising fall out syndrome.Most of my friends at the party have also been unwell. When I do venture out to

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-38488066079907626162009-02-22T21:28:00.006Z2009-03-07T17:23:11.615Z

I have been inudated with flowers, cards, chocolates and a watercolour of 3 fancy goldfish for my 60th birthday. The DWP also sent me a letter to tell me that my pension would be paid into my bank account on the following Monday. The DWP Carers Section sent me a letter to tell me that my Carer's Allowance will cease. But that I will contine to have an 'underlying entitlement' to Carer's

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-61925740078536245992009-02-13T19:40:00.004Z2009-02-13T20:01:53.575Z

I'm pleased to report that we have been a bleeding free zone for several weeks now. MyMan has been very quiet. He has been 'lazy'. He has not strained or lifted a muscle. He watched TV, listened to the radio, read the daily papers and books. But he did not bleed. We haven't seen an ambulance outside our house since early January. Slowly life is returning to normal. Well, our version of 'normal'.

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-71237013964027227742009-01-10T18:01:00.014Z2009-02-01T13:36:02.622Z

As I said in my last post it feels as if there is another elephant in the room. At the moment we no longer worry about dementia or memory problems. Now our worries are centred around whether or not he is about to start another nose bleed. He is not an easy patient. By no means a patient patient. He is frustrated at being kept quiet. Only reading or watching TV. I remind him that if they had a

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-9129350348662341332009-01-09T21:19:00.012Z2009-01-10T17:49:03.401Z

Once the hospital were able to find a bed for MyMan he was confined to complete bed rest for 24 hours with his nostril plugged. Once the plug was removed he was told to gently walk about for a while. Then the ENT specialist examined his nasal passages. He could not see anything that would explain where all the blood was coming from. So like the local DynoRod expert he employed a camera to

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-41744538389003575562009-01-09T20:39:00.019Z2009-01-10T17:43:11.760Z

The last occasion that My Man was an in-patient,5 years ago, visiting times were 'any reasonable hour.' He would ask me to go over to see him as early as possible. Although semi comatose on a wave of morphine he would lie there, cling to my hand and ask me to stay as long as possible.Now there has been a change for the better, visiting hours are restricted from 2.30 to 8 p.m. Much more civilised

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-16942966789989680282009-01-07T21:43:00.006Z2009-03-17T11:24:58.648Z

A quiet Christmas, an even quieter New year yet still that bloody nose would suddenly erupt. I practically forced bed rest on him. Anything that might give us a few days clear of the bleeding nuisance. I went out earlier this week for hair appointment. Five minutes after I had left he had a gusher.He called for an ambulance and was carted off once again to RD&E hospital. When I came home and

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-77548451306130215292008-12-31T16:15:00.004Z2008-12-31T16:35:45.991Z

Frankincense and Myrrh - seasonal aromas and offerings . It was interesting that Chickpea recently referred to them in her comment on an earlier post. Interesting as I had the both frankincense and myrrh incense sticks here in readiness for burning on New Year's Day.Thanks to all of you that take the time to pause here and read. And for those that leave comments, thoughts and suggestions. I

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-21551985341615728022008-12-29T13:52:00.010Z2008-12-30T17:31:28.952Z

Yes - another nosebleed. A rather ominous large free flowing bleed from both nostrils. Difficult to stop. MyMan became anxious. His blood pressure started to rise. As it rose the blood flowed evermore freely.This morning my car was due to go in for plastic surgery in the body shop. To repair damage caused by my meeting with White Van Man. At the last minute I had to cancel the arrangement. As I

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-28848360522606897952008-12-28T17:21:00.017Z2008-12-29T13:45:16.614Z

Out with the Old and in with the New. Year that is. Christmas is over. We survived. We are still here. Still married. And neither of us murdered the other.I did the right thing this year. I didn't put up decorations. I didn't party or arrange to hold a party. I didn't do anything seasonal at all. Other than buy a turkey for us to have a traditional lunch with all the trimmings. That was my only

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-66661969732742682852008-12-22T16:50:00.000Z2008-12-22T23:18:37.475Z

Although I am disappointed that we haven't made much progress over this year I do have much for which to be grateful. And on reflection I feel some improvement in my general attitude compared to when I started to blog.I am pleased that MyMan and I exchanged bedrooms. He is happier in the smaller quieter room. I have still to release my PC desk from 'captivity' in his bedroom. But hope that we'll

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-81780802431272825822008-12-18T17:50:00.002Z2008-12-18T18:15:11.996Z

We went to Wonford Hospital Exeter again on Tuesday. This time it was as an outpatient to the ENT department to see what could be done about his frequent nose bleeds. He was told that steroid allergy sprays are not suitable for him and to refuse any further prescriptions. They cauterised blood vessels while he was there. He may need a further treatment in 6 weeks. I'm hoping that he remains

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-77351864160151531602008-12-17T20:11:00.023Z2008-12-22T23:16:48.745Z

It's reached that time of year again. When we are inclined to reflect on the last year. What we hoped to achieve. The changes we'd hoped to make. The changes we did or didn't make. The lost opportunities. And the chance to look forward to new opportunities; new beginnings, new dreams, hopes, aspirations.I remember writing last year that Christmas was going to be a very low key affair with no

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-83189979016646449722008-12-09T21:35:00.003Z2008-12-09T21:47:20.057Z

I was listening to the local radio phone in yesterday on the why's and wherefore's of legalising assisted suicide. I was in a cross crabby mood. 'Cobby' my grandmother would have called my mood. I've never heard the expression since she died in 1970. I assume it was an old Victorian Suffolk expression?Anyway, I found myself thinking that it's a slippery slope to legalise assisted suicide. It

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-48562283676277508792008-12-07T16:45:00.006Z2008-12-07T18:17:40.517Z

It's now almost 2 months since MyMan and I swapped bedrooms. When his new adjustable bed arrived. A softer bed with more give in the mattress. I'm pleased to say I was right. He finds it much more comfortable. It eases his back pain when he needs to rest in the afternoon. He is sleeping a bit better.He has had many night mares and peculiar dreams. All connected with loss of control, accidents and

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-54686368194121208202008-11-30T18:09:00.001Z2008-11-30T18:12:18.656Z

I thought that I was updating you all on this blog but not until I posted it did I realise I've inadvertently lost my place. So please just nip next door for a minute to catch up . . . on moving tales . . .

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-39423341718270327222008-11-30T14:18:00.006Z2008-11-30T15:00:09.926Z

After a few weeks along with a few nights of a good deep sleep I now feel less venomous towards Kay and our time together. Normally I've been aware of her selfishness and impatience but have been able to absorb it with an inward smile. I know I've been far less tolerant than of old. So have been trying to re-assess the weekend with a more logical less tired brain. I refrained from posting a

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-87898439253457658472008-11-05T15:21:00.003Z2008-11-06T11:09:38.581Z

MyMan thought he'd dropped something on the floor. But as he looked he saw it was blood. A sudden nosebleed. After half and hour of sitting quietly trying to stem the flow he told me he was swallowing blood. I had some nasal plugs for emergencies such as this but we had gone through 4 of them in less than 30 minutes. I had no more left. The blood continued to drip off the end of the plug. I

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-49243933240035249722008-10-23T22:28:00.003+01:002008-10-23T22:54:24.130+01:00

Well, as my swollen face returns to normal and the itching lessens I feel a little more kindly towards Kaylee. Maybe kindly is still a bit too strong a word. But I do feel a little less poisonous in attitude. The letter remains unprinted and unposted. I wouldn't want to deliberately hurt her feelings. She either suspects that she has upset me or is completely oblivious of how I felt. Either way

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-45531241196397538572008-10-18T13:13:00.000+01:002008-10-23T23:06:24.542+01:00

The previous post of Death of a Friendship was written in the early hours during another sleep disturbed night at home. Unfortunately insomnia gives one too much time to dwell on worries, concerns and hurt feelings. I have been mentally composing a letter to my 'friend' to explain why I no longer wish to keep in contact. I've just written it this morning. I'm not sure whether it will get as far

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-14636192048918729762008-10-15T04:07:00.000+01:002008-10-23T23:05:41.522+01:00

We meet people at different times in our lives. If they are friends for a long time they see the best and the worst in us. We make allowances when a friend upsets us. We give it time to assume less importance and the friendship continues. But sometimes the upset and hurt feelings are so big that one wonders whether the friendship will survive. Whether it is worth the effort.A good friend remains

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-47259197461078485522008-10-09T20:40:00.004+01:002008-10-10T17:37:50.112+01:00

I have now been home 3+ weeks. It took me a good 7 days to re adjust. I set about being active and busy. Bridge classes re-started. I was wrong in that MyMan's new bed did not arrive while I was away. It was only delivered this last week.I was therefore able to continue with 'Plan A' - that we swap rooms. MyMan slowly became used to the idea of smaller bedroom with 'that awful pine furniture'Over

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-60403169844608897182008-09-18T17:22:00.003+01:002008-09-18T17:43:49.536+01:00

Well, I am 'safe home' once again. We are finding it hard, MyMan and I, to adjust to each others ways once again.While away visiting family I've been talking and laughing a great deal. I've been listening to music and dancing around. I've been mixing with crowds in Croydon. I've drunk wine. Sat up late into the early hours, talking and listening, listening and talking. Conversation. So many

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-86917942735618236802008-09-05T10:09:00.006+01:002008-09-10T17:57:47.381+01:00

I'm getting ready to abandon ship. I'm jumping overboard. I'm going up to see my sister. I'll also visit a nephew who has recently been told that at the end of his traineeship with one of the top law firm's in London that he has a job. I'm not surprised. I'm proud of him and biased I know. A second younger nephew is safely back from his travels experiencing 'extreme sports' down under in Malaysia

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-66499138600871401642008-08-30T17:58:00.000+01:002008-09-05T10:07:45.592+01:00

I know, as Roserio commented - it has been Awfully Quiet. I've found it rather difficult to find the time and energy to post regularly. I've managed to put something up once a week or so over on my more lighthearted blog . To let regular visitors know I am still alive and 'active' of sorts.I am trying not to reflect too often on how difficult I find being with MyMan nowadays. How I've been

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-1044686201633335622008-08-20T15:34:00.000+01:002008-08-28T17:08:31.817+01:00

I've had an emotional breakdown. A few days ago we started to discuss all our options on moving house. MyMan's chiropractor has again told him to walk only on level ground. Not to climb hills.I am still keen to return to Surrey/Sussex area to be closer to family. MyMan cannot imagine being back in the over crowded south east. Where there are stabbings, droughts and traffic jams on an hourly basis

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-5125431679033632982008-08-05T12:48:00.004+01:002008-08-05T16:29:32.194+01:00

I fear for MyMan's mind. I fear he is losing it. He wanted his lightweight dressing gown on a hot morning a few days ago. I told him it was on the back of his bedroom door. He said it wasn't there. I told him to look again as I knew it was. When he returned and said it wasn't there I went up to point it out to him. It was on the 'wrong hook'. And he didn't recognise the gown as his own...Another

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-19543927661928657402008-07-19T23:03:00.007+01:002008-07-19T23:23:50.794+01:00

It is very strange but 2 days later MyMan started talking as if it is settled that he is going to change rooms when his new bed arrives. He said 'it does make sense' for the single bed to go in the smaller room. He was more like my OldMan. The Man I love and married 37 years ago.. reasonable and open to discussion and negotiation. We didn't always agree but we could talk through our differences

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-935430295012851202008-07-15T15:26:00.012+01:002008-07-15T16:50:09.139+01:00

I'm inclined towards feeling upset this afternoon. It feels like the last straw. As the counsellor asked me last year "Who is Penny? and where is Penny in all this? and "what about Penny?.."Despite having the whole house - apart from my bedroom- made comfortable and convenient in accordance with the difficulties MyMan experiences I've just found out that when he acquires a new single adjustable

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-81890696175845119072008-07-13T16:48:00.004+01:002008-07-13T21:35:56.467+01:00

I was so looking forward to having coffee with our friends today at the Garden Centre. I'd not seen them for a week or more as they have all been on holiday. I was looking forward to a good chat with them. MyMan said he would come too... fine by me. Well it was fine with me until I realised he didn't feel at all well this morning. Even when he's having a 'better day' he says he hates the coffee

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-74438231783089032212008-07-04T16:08:00.003+01:002008-07-04T16:24:01.436+01:00

My Man is a perfectionist. He is a fault finder. The windows haven't been cleaned since we lost our window cleaner 9 months ago. MyMan wasn't impressed with the cost for a less than perfect result when our window cleaner went on to a non-ladder mode of washing them with ionised water. MyMan was going to do them himself. Every month he was going to do them soon. I became tired of peering through

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-19492650843821888552008-07-01T16:14:00.001+01:002008-07-01T22:44:13.818+01:00

A few weeks ago I wrote how MyMan wanted to have some patio roses in pots that he would' take care of'. He chose 3 which he potted up. He does look after them. But I have to remind him when they need watering, deadheading and turning so that they don't grow leaning towards the sun. Considering we have a largish garden I have increased the number of pots and container plants this year. I now have

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-22562192744384367682008-06-29T21:02:00.007+01:002008-06-30T16:05:38.660+01:00

Co - codamol as pain relief no longer appears to help MyMan. The last time he saw the pain management consultant he was offered Morphine which he declined. As he has spent the last few weeks in constant pain he has been saving Co-codamol for a rare treat. It was obviously a disappointment for him when it no longer had the much desired effect.I mooted the suggestion that he consider asking the

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-89330606529981223272008-06-26T21:57:00.005+01:002008-06-26T22:52:26.413+01:00

We have decided to take some time to try and make a few decisions. In no particular order we need to make decisions on:[1] a new car[2] whether we move or not [? adapt our present house][3] where we should live in our older age[4] choose an automatic bedFirst we are attempting to find a suitable car. We are now officially a one car household. But we need to change that one car, the reliable fun

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-2920424912623050262008-05-22T15:29:00.009+01:002008-05-22T17:10:12.751+01:00

The Chiropractor told MyMan that she thinks he should look at buying an orthopaedic bed. I thought she meant firm. His bed is already hard as a board. It gives me back ache when I just lie on it for 10 minutes to chat to him before I go off to my little nest. He said she did say it 'could be that it is too firm'. He wanted a firm bed as he finds it very difficult to sit up or turn over in bed. He

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-60041087094423735422008-05-21T15:40:00.004+01:002008-05-22T15:27:33.547+01:00

I've generally become used to a lower standard of living over the last 7 years. Financially, socially and domestically. Financially we had to curtail our spending once we realised that aMyMan's 'temporary period' of sick leave was stretching ahead with no end in sight. When self employed 'Sick Leave' isn't taken lightly. It can lead to an impression of unreliability. A self employed consultant is

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-15927725617858648652008-05-11T21:12:00.007+01:002008-05-11T22:15:37.243+01:00

April and May aren't running to the plans I had made. I see that a few posts ago I was promising myself the idea of a quiet relaxing break away at the Woolacombe Bay Hotel. The weeks are galloping by. I'm reminded of John Mortimore's being told by playwright Christopher Fry that the older you get 'breakfast seems to happen every 5 minutes'.MyMan has been poorly, irritable with life, events and

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-38666597897614886822008-05-10T17:42:00.004+01:002008-05-10T18:13:02.873+01:00

Crash bang wallop, what a foolish arse there I was, .... carrying two bags full of groceries stepping over another bag on the step, catching my toes in the handle it was all I could do to remain upright.After bridge lesson on Wednesday I'd called in to Waitrose on my way home. It's a bit of a hike to get all the groceries up to the house. Usually MyMan plays his part by opening the front door

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-49996807864866604042008-05-01T16:09:00.004+01:002008-05-01T16:40:36.145+01:00

We are still married, it has been a close call a few times over the last few weeks. But now I am taking more 'time out' for myself. It helps. The house gets dustier and more grimy - I can't do everything. There are only 24 hours in a day, something had to get placed on the back burner and cleaning has never been my favourite chore. But my mental well being needed a fillip. Or a Philip might be

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-54689549727783938882008-04-13T00:09:00.006+01:002008-05-01T16:28:12.038+01:00

I couldn't help smiling when I noticed a Google ad for 'Carer's Allowance' from Direct.gov. co. uk on my side bar.HUH - they make you jump through demeaning hoops; all ways front and back, top n tail, and do their damnedest not to pay it.... They hope that you'll give up the whole idea by wearing you down along with the threat that if you challenge their decision, the pittance you have been

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2486089283117981324.post-85468834342304550952008-04-11T14:46:00.004+01:002008-04-11T15:03:52.670+01:00

I start Bridge lessons next week. A very kind friend has offered to set up a game as she will find it 'very easy to lower' her standard to help me gain experience. The thought is very kind but the comment made me laugh - I told her that I'd soon be beating the pants off her - especially if we play for money. Do you do that in Bridge? It sounds so genteel and proper! I may be too loud and not

Penny Pincherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00993473608935875834noreply@blogger.com5