Update from Faloola

Thanks Ann! The blue badge will make such a difference in town, even just going for coffee and cake. And I will be able to get to the park myself when the weather is a little warmer. These little wins are so important.

I think we are all guilty of cleaning before the cleaner. I try to keep on top of things generally but she comes in like a whirlwind with her hoover and Fabulosa spray. The very first time she came she was looking round and said she would deal with my cobweb issue and keep on top of it-I was mortified! She sings as she goes-usually Madonna-and it really cheers me up. It’s made a big difference getting her, and she’s a lovely lass. 

Hope you’re doing ok today Ann.

Sarah xx

I love that. What a joyful character she sounds 
Cobwebs! Boy I bet she’d love mine. My house is in need of a deep clean 

The badge is life changing. My main hospital is in the centre where there’s no parking. The blue badge means Joe can be with me. It’s one less stress and makes the day so much easier 

Do you drive Sarah? 
 
Im doing well thanks Sarah I’m holding up well. How about you? Xx

No-I don’t drive, never wanted to learn when I was younger so now I’m chauffeured everywhere.

But we can use the badge whenever I’m the passenger so I’ll be able to get to Asda again and get parked by the door. 

I’m feeling fine today thanks-had no motivation yesterday to do anything so felt very lazy but I’m spurred into action today and got a wash on, cleaned the kitchen and heading upstairs to have a quick whizz round there. My cleaner will concentrate on the upstairs bathroom when she comes so I can avoid that-can’t bend to clean the bath or the shower. 

Sarah xx

I wish I could be brave enough to plan a break/ holiday away this year, as I haven't since my diagnosis in May '19. Covid didn't help of course; however, I think I lost a lot of confidence in the idea of venturing far from home. My little house has virtually become my little nest - a place where I feel safe & secure.

Most of my friends happen to be couples, so, it would probably mean travelling alone again - which I was comfortable to do prior to diagnosis. My last holiday alone was to Lucca, Italy - a beautiful walled medieval town, where I spent a week in an Airbnb. I was happy to wander around everyday, just taking photos & relaxing in outdoor cafes, drinking wine, & people watching in the sunshine.

However, there was a bit of a language barrier there, as most didn't speak English, & I was at a loss for Italian. I remember asking a couple of people for directions to the gate through the wall to the historic centre - & just thought that if I stuck an 'o' onto the word 'gate' might help - but I received many quizzical looks. It was only when I looked up the word 'gato,' that I realized I had been asking people 'Where is the cat please.'

Marianne xx

Hi Sarah,

That's great you’re doing fab. Lol to funny doing your housework’s before your cleaner comes love it. You are so right it puts everything into prospective. That’s fab you’re getting out and about now makes all the difference. well one more day to go then home. Hips been playing up just popped some tramadol lol it’s helped. 

Take care Sarah ️xx

Have you thought of a cruise?

My brother went he travelled alone ate good food and saw lots of interesting places 

May be worth checking out 

I have vaguely, but I don't think they would suit me. The idea of being with hundreds of others unnerves me, just like I don't like large cities anymore.

I sailed a bit in The Caribbean & Greek Islands on yachts in the past, but there were only 5 of us at most, which suited me well.

I'll get around to travelling sometime soon. TBH, I would love to get a Euro Train Pass, but that takes a lot of planning. & having smart connections on a mobile phone...& my IPhone 6 is now getting somewhat old to cope with that!

Best

Marianne

Update your phone and plan yourself a treat. You deserve it. 
My brother upgraded he had state suite and paid for an upgraded private deck for the few. 
He was concerned too. But actually really enjoyed his time. 
He ate on a table for one and was served. His choice. He took his books for some him time 

Cheers - Things to consider. But when you live on a basic pension, there are other more important considerations to deal with. House maintenance for one. But yes, will consider updating the old phone my daughter gave to me many years ago.

But fortunately, I sold three Paintings over the Xmas period, so yes, I should treat myself.

Best of

Marianne

Hi Cath

I have a lot of trouble with my hip but unfortunately my Tramadol prescription is out of date so I’m more a hot water bottle and paracetamol type of gal now! 

Enjoy your last day and then look forward to your next trip which won’t be long away now. ️

Sarah xx