Last Trip Before The Chop...

Entrance, Knitting and Stitching Show, Alexandra Palace, London
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Saturday 13th October

Graham deposited Lucy and I at the station and he went off to work. We had a leisurely ride on the train and an equally uneventful trip on the underground.

The usual Aladin's cave of things to buy greeted us as we entered the huge halls. Lucy stood by as I emptied my purse and was happy to carry everything for me. I came home with a mis-mash of new yarns to make into bags, gold flakes to add to home-made paper (a future project) and a selection of special offer (very heavy) magazines.

We gave out lots of business cards for my bags and the website, but am still waiting for the promises of contact to materialise...

Escapism...

View From Alexandra Palace, London
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Attending the Knitting and Stitching Show was a goal I felt I needed to achieve.

Sitting outside in the Autumn sun chatting to other visitors was an uplifting experiece and with this view to look at, made everything worthwhile...

Photographic Competition...

Hoar Frost and Sun
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Tuesday 2nd October

I did hope that one of my photos would make the 'last twenty' in The Derby Evening Photographic Competition, but was surprised to see this one in print. It was the first one I ever had published.
There are some really interesting entries, one from a 17 year old who has used one of her compositions from her Photography GCSE portfolio. She does have the advantage on me...a Canon EOS 30D!

The winner gets a day out with one of the paper's photographers. If you'd like to vote for my picture or any of the competition, please press here.

Twin Pearls...

The Twins Sport Their New Bracelet
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Thursday 4th October

I knew one of my students had twins (her other children are aged 21 and 22) but we hadn't met them until this Thursday. As you an see they are absolutely gorgeous, very individual and never stand still for more then one second at a time! Mum's friend who comes with her to jewellery class had whizzed through the Daisy Bracelet task I had set them and was busy making a second bracelet for the twins when I captured this moment.

I'm quite pleased with this photo - not only is it in focus (for the most part), but thanks to Photoshop the waste paper bin and part of a chair in the background have now disappeared.

IN BRIEF

Monday 1st October

Decided it was time for a team building chat with the support workers in my class, so we can all be batting on the same side and provide mutual support. Explained about Hermione, hoping not for sympathy, but offers of help in any carrying. The conversation went well until one of them, responded with an ace card: she in fact has a brain tumour - I wasn't sure what emotion to show. I think I have now learned never to share my ailments with others, - I am always usurped...

Tuesday 2nd October

This was a very long and lonely day. When Graham finally came home, I begged him to take me out for a change of scenery...to the nearest Lloyd's Pharmacy where they have a special offer on TENS machines. For those of you who don't know what they do, press here.

Wednesday 3rd October

Eventually managed to get hold of my consultant's secretary and enquire how long before I get a date for my operation. Although she did say that they might know by Friday, her manner didn't fill me with confidence.

Thursday 4th October

Lovely sunny day, mostly spent indoors. (see above for highlights)
Had a go with my new TENS machine, think I can best describe it as an electronic tickle...

Friday 5th October

Only three students at Craft Class, reasons for non attendance ranged from driving lesson to new phobia...In the middle of all this received a phone call from 'Amy at the DRI'... how was I fixed for having my operation on Thursday 18th October...I didn't intend to refuse any date. The fact that Graham will be in America and Robert and Lucy away at university, well at this rate I feel I could perform a DIY job on it...

There's A Hole In My Header Tank...

Dam at Chatsworth
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Tuesday 25th September

Woke to the sound of water dripping on to the dining room table. Like all good DIY- ers, poked a hole in the plaster board ceiling to let the volume of water through. Next I awoke Robert with the words: "Please get up, there's water coming through the ceiling". He more logically looked in the main bedroom to find water not only pouring through the ceiling, but on to my computer. Time now to move computer and place buckets under the leaks. I got dressed and went next door and asked my neighbour to come and help, which he did in an instant. He managed to turn the stop cock (is it legal to use that word?) off, but it made no difference to the leak. Robert, by this time was firmly ensconced in the roof (it was a tight fit) and had located the leak coming from a seal in the side of the Header tank. By running the hot water taps, the level of the water reduced and prevented any further leak. Decided I'd not tell Graham until he get's back from the US.

This was not the end of today's adventures...A still very homesick Lucy had requested my presence, so leaving the leak, fingers crossed it wouldn't return, we (Robert as chauffeur) set off for the station. Having free rail travel is a perk we never seem to use to it's full, but it does take the edge off it a bit when the car park at the station is £9.00 per day (or part off). The weather was pretty wet as well and although we had a walk round town (Hermione not really being up to it) and tea back at Lucy's room, we didn't seem to have made much of a difference to Lucy's state of mind by the time we left. I proffered a shoulder to cry and words of support, Robert took on the role of father figure and gave the "you will survive talk".

Eventually back at home at 9.00pm.

The Chronicles Of Hernia...

Barbara Hepworth Sculpture
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Wednesday 26th September

Difficult to settle to anything this morning. Set off for appointment with consultant at Nuffield Hospital in plenty of time for 2.30pm appointment. Felt fully equipped go in 'blazing' and come out with smoke billowing from my barrels. However, after half an hour's wait, my resolve had dissipated and all I could think of was going home. I knew something was up when the consultant called me in, but failed to catch my eye as he led the way into his room. I thought I was in for yet another "it's in your head lecture", but I couldn't have been more wrong. I had an inkling of this as he ushered me in by gently placing a guiding hand in the small of my back. As he sat down I was met with the words: "You are one precise lady" and then sentence after sentence of "I am so sorry" and "I was wrong" - all I could do was shrug... We agreed unanimously that no one was to blame and I just hoped he was going to let me in on what was the next step. He also said: "I can't keep taking money off you" , (when the final invoices arrive the figure will be nearer £3500), I held my breath, did this mean I was in sight of a second operation? He explained, that he'd send all my details to his secretary who would arrange a date or let me know of any cancellations. I did feel elated as I passed the self opening doors for what I hope is the last time, but will no actual date set I couldn't help wondering, how long...just how long...?

IN BRIEF

Monday 24th September

Very hectic time at Jewellery Class, everybody seems to need extra help and there's only one of me!
Rang NHS Direct to enquire what the waiting times are for a recurrent hernia. I'm writing this a week later and still no one has rung back.

Tuesday 25th September

Two types of water leaks to fix today. One was in the water tank in the roof and the other in a little room at De Montfort University. (see above)

Wednesday 26th September

Went to see consultant to discuss what to do now my recurrent hernia has been confirmed. (see above)

Thursday 27th September

This was a near normal day as possible. Jewellery Class on a Thursday is quite a relaxed affair with no Line Manager breathing down my neck. We didn't seem to get that much done, but had lively discussions about many related topics which somehow managed to include news of my impending operation.

Friday 28th September

My Craft Class seems doomed this term with some of the Learning Partners dropping out for various reasons.
Came home to a cooked dinner a la Robert which was very sweet of him, especially as we'd had a bit of a falling out yesterday. Robert needs to get back to university to regain his independence away from me. We seem to have become very close over the last few weeks and are in danger of acting like an old married couple. It's been fun though - we've found lots of thing to laugh about...

Saturday 29th

It somehow took Robert all day to get his things packed and we didn't leave for Loughborough until 5.00pm. By the time everything was in the house and we'd shopped in Tescos, it was dark. I drove back feeling very lonely and hoping that Hermione would allow me the luxury of this extra journey without too much complaining. Lucy was deposited from Ben's by 9.30pm and brought with her the company I was craving.

Sunday 30th

No lie-in today, Graham was back by 8.30am, bright and breezy from America having hardly slept on the 8 hour flight home. After the statutory read through the Sunday Telegraph magazines, Lucy and I got Sunday dinner, while Graham had a nap. By 3.00pm we were at Dunelm pummelling pillows and choosing bed sheets (Robert had forgotten that his 'new' bed was a double). By 4.00pm we were at Leicester and at 5.30pm, after yet another tearful 'good bye' we were exchanging sheets on Robert's bed. This new up and down the M1 routine is going to take some getting used to.

British Museum, London

Panorama Of British Museum, London
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Tuesday 18th September

At last... Hermione allowed me a day out in London!

The weather was cold, but the sky clear and ideal for taking photos. We had hoped to be in time for one of the 500 tickets released daily to see the Terracotta Army Exhibition, but it was not to be.

Any Excuse...

Panorama Of Inside British Museum, London
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Even without seeing the exhibition, a trip to the British Museum is always worth the effort.

Big Windy Cold Tent... Otherwise Known As The O2 Dome.

The O2 Dome, Greenwich, London
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

After the obligatory trip along Tottenham Court Road, we decided to go and see the O2 Dome.

A Fruity Conclusion...

New iPod Nanos, Apple Store, Regent Street, London
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Earlier in the day Steve Jobs had visited the Apple Store in Regent Street to announce when the Apple iPhone would be on sale in the UK. The evening papers were filled with speculation and even a photo of Steve at the store. While the announcement was made the shop was shut to the general public, so our last visit of the day had to be to go and see if there were any iPhones on view. (there weren't!) I did have a play on the new iPod Nano, which is great for viewing photos and videos on its large screen, but soon lost interest. So while Robert queued up to handle the new iPod Touch, I took some photos which have all had over 1000 hits on my Flickr site...

IN BRIEF

Monday 17th September

Why are Monday mornings so manic, even when you think you are organised?
Enjoyed Jewellery Class, we made a Twisted Stranded Bracelet, although didn't quite have time to finish off. I have two support workers for the lady in the wheel chair, so one is free to help another lady who has learning difficulties. I bought a tube of black and silver beads for the chap who attends on Thursdays, thinking that no one would chose that colour combinations - of course there were none of those left at the end of the lesson!
Two piano lessons and a reasonably gentle evening catching up on the website.

Tuesday 18th September
Managed to swap round this evening's piano lessons so that Robert and I could spend a day out in London. (see above)

Wednesday 19th September
Catch up day
Sent Robert on his first solo drive to buy another tube of beads for tomorrow's Jewellery class. Unfortunately, the last one had been sold that morning...

Thursday 20th September

Busy morning with piano lesson, then dash to Allenton for class. After all that, chap didn't turn up, so extra tube of beads not needed!
Evening entertainment provided courtesy of Morrisons.

Friday 21st September

At last, the day arrived for my second Herniogram. (see below)
Robert made second solo journey to collect Lucy from Ben's

Saturday 22nd September

Robert drove the car to Leicester to take Lucy to De Montfort University.(see below)

Sunday 23rd

Missed out on our Sunday dinner as Robert had suggested we go to Kedleston Hall to watch the kite flying. For one reason or another it was all a bit of a damp squib, hardly any kites, cold and windy and we couldn't even seek refuge in the house as it was shut due to filming (starting the following day).

Hermione's Presence Is Confirmed...

Sunflower With Bees
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Friday 21st September

If you've ever experienced one herniogram, you would never willing go for a second, unless the rest of your life depended on it...

So it was I found myself sitting on the same padded bench in the same corridor reading the same notices on the wall of 'X-ray 2' at the Derbyshire Royal Infirmary as I had on March 15. The only thing that had changed were the people (I didn't recognise anyone) and my eyesight (I didn't seem to be able to decipher the words as easily!) I was soon invited to part with my clothes in exchange for a nightie and dressing grown of dubious quality and sit and wait in the allotted alcove.

Eventually I was called in and met with the same doctor as last time. Such is the trickiness of this procedure, there is only one person capable of performing it. After having everything explained to me that can go wrong - for a second time - (puncturing bladder, bowel, risk of peritonitis etc etc) I duly signed the consent form and wished myself in the future by about a day when it would all be over.

It's surprising how much the brain choses to forget of a traumatic experience- lucky really, but second time around it all comes flooding back. All the scary bits, when you wonder if the person sticking needles into you really does do this procedure every week or is a member of some sadistic fraternity...I digress. Of course he knew exactly what he was doing! Last time I lost the sense of left and right, this time I tried so hard to follow directions I nearly fell off the table!

However, there was no doubt as to the result, there was hermione on the screen, I tensed and she waved...

Lucy Makes The Break...

Newarke Point, De Montfort University, Leicester
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Saturday 22nd September

This was the first day of Lucy's new life at De Montfort University in Leicester. It was a warm day for the time of year and the sun came out just long enough to capture the grotty car park at the back of the Halls of Residence in a favourable pose.

At first sight everything looked so well organised; we were waved into the last parking space at the front of the Hall and handed a piece of paper stating our time of arrival and alloted time to unload (half an hour). After an hour and 10 minutes Lucy finally reached the head of the queue and was handed her keys (an electronic eye, which was impossible to work without detailed instruction) and we began our transfer of belongings from car to room. I'd forgotten how small student rooms are - but very tardis-like with many nookes and crannies for storage (inside bed cavity and on top of wardrobe etc) Amazingly the room has an ensuite complete with shower. With the time now 1.30pm, we trekked into the centre of Leicester in search of some lunch. Eventually our meals arrived (I think I may have eaten anything by then) and my salmon and asparagus salad was delicious.

Back at Lucy's room, we tried to settle her in before leaving. But as the time came to go neared, tears overflowed. We left hoping that the sudden attack of homesickness would be short lived...

The Long And Winding Path...

Cresswell Crags, Derbyshire
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Sunday 16th September

With Graham on his way to America, Robert and I decided on an outing to Cresswell Crags. He got his maiden voyage on a motorway and I got a flat area to walk on.

Having taken on the important role of co-driver (while Hermione dictates what I can and can't do), it is with great sadness that we learnt today of the death Colin McCrae and his five year old son in a helicopter crash.

Over The Hill And Far Away

Footpath Cresswell Crags, Derbyshire
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Sunday 16th September

The path around the lake at Cresswell Crags wasn't the most exciting we'd encountered. Suggested we follow a footpath which looked inviting. Trouble was, although interesting it went on for miles and miles without a hint of going in the direction we wanted. We did come across some pheasants which were unusually black in colour and some very tasty blackberries. Eventually we made it back to the car six minutes before they locked the barrier, phew...!

IN BRIEF

Monday 10th September

Today was my 'big day' at Sure Start. Would the 24 students all turn up to my jewellery class and could any of them be persuaded to come on Thursday instead? I think we had 15, luckily some are happy to come on Thursday. We even a chap from Matlock who arrived over an hour late as he'd read the train times wrong.
Bit hectic, but everyone left happy

Tuesday 11th September

Felt decidedly depressed today. It would have been first Tap Class of the term, but thought I should wait until after I've had my herniogram next Friday before joining in.

Wednesday 12th September

Robert and I drove up to Alfreton tp collect Lucy's previously poorly, now well computer. Took Robert over to South Wingfield afterwards, plenty of narrow roads and steep inclines to get your teeth into. Thought it would be good experience...

Thursday 13th September

Robert caught a train back to Cambridge at 11.00am, ready for his car test tomorrow.
Second session at Sure Start today. Had 7 students, so comparatively quiet compared with Monday. Friendship bracelets all completed by end of lesson.

Friday 14th September

Set off for Rycote Centre plenty early to secure a car parking space. Have arranged cover for my class next Friday when I'm at the hospital. We made name tags from shrink plastic today, which went really well. Person who will take my class hadn't used it before, so came and joined in - the more the merrier...
Lucy made own way to Ben's to stay over the weekend
Robert eventually rang at 2.30pm... to say he had in fact passed even though he managed the maximum amount of 'minor' mistakes.

Saturday 15th September

Graham busy in the allotment and getting things ready for his flight tomorrow. Lunch out and trip to shops in the afternoon to coincide with Robert arriving back from Cambridge. Celebrated by encouraging him to buy a new pair of shoes!

Sparkle...

Swan On Lake, Cresswell Crags, Derbyshire
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Think how good this could have been if I'd used the Olympus 300 and a star filter.
On my Christmas list perhaps...

IN BRIEF

Monday 3rd September

Hectic morning trying to update the website and remember to go to Sure Start for an enrolment session in the afternoon. Was surprised to find that my jewellery class is well over subcribed and may warrent putting on an extra class. The only down side of the day was that my Course File seems to have disappeared.
Phoned Direct Line and paid for Robert to be put as a named driver on my insurance. It has cost £50, which seems quite cheap if it means I can cope over the next few weeks and help Robert pass his driving test.

Tuesday 4th September

Robert and I went and did the food shopping, then I drove to Halfords to purchase magnetic 'L' plates. Robert had a small run round the car park in the car and then drove home. They say it's not easy teaching a member of your family to drive - and they're not wrong! Since then we have had several minor 'falls outs' and then hugs and 'make ups'. So far I haven't made a lunge for the steering wheel and things are improving...especially for Hermione...

Wednesday 5th September

Took Lucy to Ben's in the morning and in the afternoon, Robert and I took Lucy's 'all singing all dancing' reconditioned ibook to Gordon Harwood's at Alfreton to be mended. Graham was in London all day, so we went out to Shipley park in the evening and Hermione managed a walk round.

Thursday 6th September

My Course File still hasn't turned up. Have resolved not to get upset until after I have visited the place I left it and checked myself. Robert and I went to town to put cheque in bank and look for presents for Lucy's birthday tomorrow. Hermione quite happy to walk round.

Friday 7th September

Lucy's Birthday - and amazingly she was up around half past 6! Unfortunately, we had to leave Lucy on her own while Robert drove me to Rycote for another enrolment session. Very little to do as only two people turned up. This was two more than the other tutors had... Surprise, surprise, my Course File was sitting exactly where I'd left it. Apparently, they'd been looking for something with 'Crafts' written on it and I'd told them that it ws purple and it was in fact green...least said soonest mended as they say...
We went shopping in the afternoon and out to dinner in the evening. Lucy's chocolate ice cream sundae was delicious...

Charles and Sebastian, Where Are You Now...?

Panorama Of Castle Howard, Yorkshire
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Saturday 1st September morning

We awoke to a glorious day, warm and sunny with just a hint of a breeze. I'm sure Castle Howard would have looked good whatever the weather, but to be able to photograph it with a clear blue sky was a real bonus.
From the moment we stepped from the car , we knew we were in for a special treat. There was even a glass workshop selling my favourite dichoric glass at the entrance.
If you've never visited, put it on your list now - even the £10 entance fee seemed cheap!

Fountain, Castle Howard

Fountain, Castle Howard, Yorkshire
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Saturday 1st September am

Castle Howard was sheer delight to visit - from the laid back peacocks to the contents of the house. I even recognised my hero's (William Morris) hand in the furnishings - he had designed the stained glass windows in the chapel and countless wallpapers in the rooms we explored. Hermione coped reasonably well, keeping to the flat terrain and was rejuvenated by the best pork chops she had ever eaten.

Scarborough Beach

Panorama Of Scarborough Beach, Yorkshire
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Saturday 1st September pm

Our trip would not have been complete without an afternoon at the seaside. Scarborough welcomed us with open arms (we last visited in 1983 - our first trip out in our first car), the sun shone, people were swimming in the sea and fishing off the pier.
Even Hermione enjoyed herself...

Whitby Abbey At Sunset...

Whitby Abbey At Sunset, Yorkshire
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Saturday 1st September Evening.

We arrived at Whitby just as the sun was dropping down behind the moors - a photographic opportunity not to be missed...

The Taste Of The Seaside...

Whitby Reflections At Night, Yorkshire
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Saturday 1st September Evening

Even though we'd had such a wonderful meal at Castle Howard, I had been looking forward to 'proper' fish and chips from the seaside.
We were not disappointed...

Tea At Fountains Abbey

Panorama Of Fountains' Abbey, Yorkshire
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Friday 31st August pm.

From Harrogate we made our way to Fountain's Abbey. I'd heard so much about the Abbey and waited so long to visit, that it was almost a disappointment. The ruins are magnificent and you can see the sandstone used was hewn from the valley sides. We walked up to the water gardens, but straight back. Hermione had trouble with the incline, which was a shame when there was so much walking and so many other features that could have been visited. We made it back to the Visitor's Centre just in time for a cup (or three) of tea and a suitably sticky cake.

Lunch In Harrogate

Harrogate, Yorkshire
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Friday 31st August

As soon as Graham decided we needed to cancel our trip to America, he booked up a week-end in York. Hermione was not in the mood to go away, but with a bit of a struggle, we managed it.
On the way up we stopped off at Harrogate and at last found all the interesting shops - they're at the highest point (for future reference), just past this interesting looking building.

Why Isn't Anglesey Abbey In Anglesey?

Lode Mill, Anglesey Abbey, Cambridge
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Monday 27th August

Graham and I went to Cambridge to spend the day with Robert and bring the majority of his things home as he will be finishing work on Friday 31st. First we visited Angelsey Abbey and had some lunch there. The house was a bit crowded, but it's a lovely place and the gardens are extensive and easy to lose yourselves in.

The Dreamy Spires of Cambridge...

King's College, Cambridge
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Robert walked us miles around Cambridge seeing the sights. It's as though we've just had our eyes opened to the beauty of the place and now we won't really have an excuse to visit...

IN BRIEF

Tuesday 28th August

Have last two bags to make and Lucy at home to help me finish them off. Took ages attaching tags, writing delivery slips etc, etc and packing them up. Was pleased that it all looked surprisingly professional when the boxes were eventually packed and sealed and waiting at the door.

Wednesday 29th August

Felt almost well today and wondering how I felt so incapacitated this time last week. Rang to see when I might be going to have Herniogram, but Consultant's secretary very off-hand and non-committal. So good to be cback on the receiving end of the NHS! Decided to cut my losses and go to town for some retail therapy to cheer myself up.
Limped home, Hermione had struck again...

Thursday 30th August

Have received my first ever feedback on Etsy from the person who bought one of my bags in Oklahoma - she was thrilled!!
Divided day up between getting ready for first enrolment day next Monday (will I be fit enough to go?) and packing to go on holiday tomorrow (ditto) Graham had afternoon meeting in London. Not home until 8.00pm.

Busy As A Bee...

Bee On Artichoke, Calke Abbey, Derbyshire
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Monday 20th August

Today I received an email back from someone I've met through the website, who is quite famous in the 'knitting world'. She, it seems, had managed to delete her whole blog and strangely I felt an affinity for someone else whose world had collapsed in a nano second. It has taken her a month to be able to face an admission of her actions - she even lost her idiosyncratic blogname.

I thought it might help me regain some control to admit to my own downfall and start thinking positively again...

IN BRIEF

Tuesday 21st August

Emailed a shop in London about stocking my bags last week. Initial reaction was good and order received today for my 'minimum order' of eight. Collected Lucy from boyfriends and we went to Ikea for bits and pieces. Was encouraged to buy a 'Dime Cake', but would recommend it to anyone!

Wednesday 22nd

Strange to have some company today. Had email back from college friend who agreed it would be good to meet up. If only it was that easy... Was hoping to go shopping and buy birthday presents for my mum's birthday on Sunday when we plan to visit.
At third attempt (started on Monday) managed to contact person at Nuffield Hospital about 'next step'. Upshot was that I went to see consultant again at 4.15pm. We made a joint decision about me needing another herniogram as he is refusing to believe that his mesh could have failed and that Hermione is back.
Despair is setting in...

Thusday 23rd August

Awoke to sunny day feeling optomistic. Ended day wondering how I would survive through to Friday.
Lucy had been asked to organise meal for her Maths class mates. Fine- but the teacher, who had asked her didn't get in touch and didn't show.

Friday 24th August

Made a start on the bags which have been ordered by a shop in London. If I just take it steady, perhaps I can make them without help.

Sunday 26th August

Today was my mum's 79th Birthday, and for the first time in years we had planned to spend the day with her. It wasn't me that prevented us, but we didn't get there and I was so disappointed...


IN BRIEF

Monday 13th

One of my plans this summer was to get some things on Etsy to sell. Spent all day uploading my Swarovski rings I have made to sell.

Tuesday 14th

Have discovered that although my bags on Etsy have expired, it's one simple click (and 20 cents) to reinstate them.

Thursday 16th

First contact from someone wanting to buying one of my bags - but he's had a problem paying through Paypal. Although I email him straight back, he hasn't got back in touch. I resolve to make some more bags in anticipation of a deluge of orders.

Friday 17th

Open up my emails this morning to find I really have sold my very first bag through Etsy, Hooray!! - reducing the postage has paid off. I plan to spend the day making more bags, but am thwarted at the first hurdle as I am on my own today and can't even lift the laminating machine out of the box. Luckily I go and find a neighbour who is more than willing to come over (once he's finished his lunch) In the meantime, Robert phones to say he is on his way to Derby having visited the hospital in Leicester only to be told that his implant (teeth) is not what is causing him pain - it has to be the tooth next to it, which his own dentist can fix...

After tea Robert suggests that we go to the cinema to see the Bourne Ultimatum with Matt Damon. Good idea, but Hermione is complaining that I have done too much today already. We ring to tell Lucy our plans (she's at boyfriends) and she tells us in no uncertain terms that she is upset that we are going without her even though she has no interest in seeing that film. When we arrive at the kiosk, the only tickets left are two rows from the front - if the music is too loud then this will make Hermione worse, so we make a quick decision to wait for the next showing and upgrade to 'posh seats'. Having made our purchase, I suggest we buy one for Lucy as we now have time to collect her. Outcome? We do something as a family for the first time since April and everyone enjoys the film, including Lucy!

Saturday 18th August

Graham spent all day at work getting an order ready. First time he's had to work at the week-end in a long time. Felt well enough to drive to Burton for a spot of Retail Therapy (it was tipping with rain, so there wasn't much choice) Robert does really well, a shirt and a pair of trousers - I can't decide...

Sunday 19th

Graham at work until noon. Have promised Robert a trip to The Yorkshire Sculpture Park for a spot of lunch and a walk round. We leave at 12.30pm and trickle down the slip road at Junction 29 of the MI to find the traffic stationary. Eventually we arrive and queue at the restaurent to watch the last Meat and Potatoe pie be awarded to the people in front... Our Lamb and Mint Pie is reasonable...
Hermione is chomping at the bit for a long walk, but three quarters of the way round decides that she's had enough and is no longer capable, I get very depressed: "I should be better by now" I say through a shower of tears - everyone is very understanding...

The rain stayed away for the afternoon and having recharged our batteries with a cup of tea we headed to Doncaster to deposit Robert at the train station and returned home.

The Orangery, Calke Abbey, Derbyshire

The Orangery, Calke Abbey, Derbyshire
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Saturday 11th August - One of our few days of summer this year...

Duffield Meadow

Late Evening Sun Illuminates Cattle Grazing On Flood Plain
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

This photo appeared in the Derby Evening Telegraph on Monday 6th August

IN BRIEF

Thursday 2nd August

Graham flew back to America. Got up early to wave goodbye and then went back to bed.

Friday 3rd August

Went back to Nuffield to see the consultant. He agreed that: "I had done something", but is was too early to do anything other than "wait and see" if the inflammation goes down and it settles. Advised strongly to consider cancelling our big trip to America on 17th August if no improvement.

Monday 6th August

Had nineth photo printed in Derby Evening Telegraph - slightly cheered up.

Tuesday 7th August

Went to see local doctor in the hope that he would refer me back to hospital on NHS, so at least I could have more than one option. Examined me and assured me that he couldn't feel anything (yes, that's why I waited four long years for a diagnosis!!)made things ten times worse - felt so depressed, if only I hadn't gone...

Wednesday 8th August

Robert's 21st Birthday. Upset that this is the first time that we've not seen him on his birthday, but pleased that he arranged to meet up with some mates in London and go and see Spamalot. He rang at quarter to twelve on his way home on the train and we had a chat.

Thursday 9th August

Had phone call from chap who'd see my photo in the paper. Could he have a copy as it reminded him of when his dad used to take him fishing in the same place. Fine, I'll email him - but he doesn't have email. OK, so I put a new colour cartridge and print off a copy (have to print two when I realise that I have copped the image I sent to the paper).

Friday 10th August

I ring the chap up and ask if he'd like to collect the photo - but he doesn't have any transport or any family that can do it for him. I would have offered to take it round, but wasn't up to driving because of my hernia - consider mentioning this, but he usurps me by saying: "I'm nearly 70, you know"... Offer to post it to him (through gritted teeth) even though this means I will have to go out in the car. Mission accomplished by late afternoon...

Graham phones as he waits at Newark Airport. Suggests that we cancel holiday - I feel sick in my stomach as I know how much he has been looking forward to this trip, not to mention all the careful planning during the last six months. Says "not to worry as he's got so much work following this trip that he's hasn't really time to go." Not sure whether this is true/he's knows how bad I am/trying to promt a miraculous cure... Have to admit I feel relieved...

Saturday 11th

Graham home in time to take Lucy to work.

We go to Calke Abbey for a spot of (expensive) lunch and a walk round. Lovely afternoon as there's a big concert in the evening and the orchestra are having a run through. Feeling extremely fragile by the time we arrive home. 'Miraculous cure' has failed to materialise...

The Return Of Hermione...

Poppy From Different Angle
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Everything was going really well.

Fantastic holiday in Italy - made up for all the things I couldn't do last year. I had a week back at home doing 'normal' things like picking peas, weeding, a bit of 'gentle' digging, I'd even made a start on cleaning the house properly - the joy of being able to scrub the kitchen floor and hoover without needing to pace myself. Then in a split second, my world has dissolved, my future plans are again 'on hold', my crime? I turned a mattress and in a few short hours I knew that my hernia had returned.

I am devastated.

IN BRIEF

Sunday 22nd July

Sunny warm day spent doing post holiday washing and gardening. Cleared pea plants from allotment and weeded the beans, gratefully aided by my ipod, music helping with the task in hand.

Monday 23rd July

Whole day spent catching up with work on website. Graham at work, Lucy our till 4.00pm with Steven. Rang up Argos and asked to speak to supervisor, about Nanna's freezer we ordered at the beginning of June. None of the options were very good as we paid for most expensive freezer! Need to wait until Friday to choose from new catalogue.

Tuesday 24th July

Lucy at Ben's all day. Still lots to do on website. Had last bill from Nuffield which again I needed to query, but good result after phonecall. Cleaned out utility to remove all traces of our 'pet' mice!

Wednesday 25th July.

Lucy out with Steven most of the day. Tried to focus mind on teaching I have to do next Tuesday. Materials to buy and paperwork to complete. Graham and I had ride out to Belper after tea. Camera shop there all but empty.

Thursday 26th July.

Graham has ordered Lucy's Birthday present - a reconditioned Apple Book. (Still loads of money) Bit more structure to today. Mary came for piano lesson. Pianist magazine came. Rang up to cancel order at Argos as mother had been out and seen suitable freezer in Moreton. Melanie promised to send them £75.00 as gesture of good will- so good result! Went shopping in the afternoon, but got soaked in the process! Graham not back until 9.00pm as went out for a meal with group from work as someone changing jobs. Rang Kate in the evening, she is busy helping at the Scout Jamboree in Essex for the next fortnight.

Friday 27th July

Still trying to sort teaching related work. Things that should or shouldn't be on their website, but aren't. Rang two managers to see if they could sort things out. Waited in for Lucy's laptop delivery and eventually rang to see what had happened. UPS are useless and unable to read people's addresses on the front of parcels, especially on Fridays!! Arranged to collect from Alfreton with two forms of identification. Chap there also collecting parcel - when asked for identification replied: " I wouldn't have come if it wasn't me!!"
Lucy ecstatic about Apple laptop, but didn't stir her into doing anything extra for her poor parents...

Giorno Dieci venerdi 20th luglio

Church, Barga, Tuscany, Italy
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Our trip to Barga was to be our last this holiday. The heat and travelling had taken its tole on Graham, who had to be left in the car to have a nap before attempting the climb to the church!

Will I miss Italy? Yes, undoubtedly; the scenery, the sights, the kiss of the summer sun, the taste of the fresh fruit, most of the food. What I won't miss were the five scorpions which kept us company in the house and the accompanying eyelashes...

Just making a booking for next year...

Giorno Nove giovedi 19th luglio

Sunflowers, Tuscany, Italy
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

The Gold Of Tuscany...

Sunflower, Tuscany, Italy
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Thursday was our ‘big day’. Not only had we planned the furthest trip, but it was also our 27th Wedding Anniversary! Another leisurely start to the hottest day so far and progress was slow. Not that it mattered as we needed to take in the change in scenery as the verdant wooded hillsides merged into the picture postcard rolling hills of central Tuscany, complete with its field’s of sunflowers and strange small pointy fir trees. Our first stop was next to the brightest, most yellow, most golden field of sunflowers. Even on a dull day, you would have needed your sunglasses on! What an uplifting sight, even if we hadn’t reached our destination, this would have made our day.

Free Range Watermelons!

Watermelons, Tuscany, Italy
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Next to the sunflowers, a farmer was selling home grown water melons from the back of his trailer and even though we only had a few days lefts in Italy we could resist joining the steady trickle of weightlifters. I say weightlifters as you can’t imagine how big and heavy the watermelons were. To see an old lady struggle to her car carrying one of these monsters was a strange sight – I thought she must have bought three, until I got up close! We asked for a ‘piccolo’ sized one and I couldn’t carry it (even if I hadn’t just had a hernia operation!)

View Towards San Gimignano...

View Towards San Gimignano, Tuscany, Italy
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Off again, we encountered acres of silver birch trees all planted in rows with leaves shimmering in the sunlight. For once all signs led to our town, having been a place of pilgrimage for many hundreds of years…San Gimignano – originally with 700 towers, it now boasts 40 remaining. We stopped for a picnic with the towers in view on the horizon and again we were in anticipation of the delights to come.

Main Piazza. San Gimignano

San Gimignano, Tuscany, Italy
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Unfortunately, San Gimignano didn’t live up to my expectations. I had imagined we would walk round the narrow streets in a hushed atmosphere, picturing the people who used to live there. Instead, everyone seemed to be there that day, it was noisy, there were too many people, cranes from construction and miniature dustbin lorries were having to come and sweep up litter because of all the tourists. We waited in a queue to gain possession of a street map and then headed upwards away from the crowds in the hope of finding a shady quiet spot. Instead, we came across a wine museum which did offer respite for the heat for a short time, but was too small to take proper shelter. Next to this were the town’s walls from we had a wonderful vista of the surrounding valley. A panorama or two later we were heading back to the centre on the trail of the statutory gelateria.

Panorama From San Gimignano Town Walls

Panorama, From San Gimignano, Tuscany, Italy
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Retail Therapy...

San Gimignano, Tuscany, Italy
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

A bit further down from the centre was a main shopping street invitingly devoid of sunlight and having been rejuvenated by the Italian equivalent of a Knickerbocker Glory, we went in search of mementoes with renewed enthusiasm. Two handbags, one pair of earrings, and a Swiss Army knife later, we realised that we now had the place to ourselves and were free to wander and enjoy the towns splendours without having to negotiate small children and old grannies. It is a truly wonderful place, but you need to go early or stay late. On the way back we were overtaken by cyclists (male and female!) – were they in training for next year’s Tour de France, or ones from this year, who had got lost in the Pyrenees? We made it back to Bagni de Lucca just before 10.00pm, so decided to end our perfect day with a candlelit meal. We chose the most populated restaurant on the premise that a full establishment sold the best food – and at that time they were no longer busy. We started with homemade Tuscan soup followed by local trout and Graham ordered a proper Italian pizza (which he could only just finish). At the table next to us was a large group of people from Scotland celebrating a couple’s 40th Wedding Anniversary, which was very jolly. We had a lovely meal there and as we got up to go and pay, the proprietor poured us both a glass of grappa – a grape liquor (guaranteed to strip the paint from any surface). We explained that we too were celebrating our wedding anniversary, and he pointed to the chap next to us who said that he was celebrating 28 years!

View Towards San Gimignano, Tuscany, Italy

Panorama, Towards San Gimignano, Tuscany, Italy
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Giorno Otto mercoledi 18th luglio

Yellow Hibiscus, Italy
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Another hot day and relatively late start. As usual we called in at the local supermarket for picnic provisions on the way. Once more we headed for Lucca, past Ponte della Magdalena, the choice of whether to cross over at the bridge (there are two roads both with good and bad points) dependant on the driver in front – it became a bit of a joke throughout the week as Graham would look in his mirror and make the comment: “I have my entourage back” we always seemed to be at the head of any queue. Was that because our bubble car lacked power, or are the Italians just faster drivers? Anyway, by-passing Lucca, we travelled past the antique shop which proudly boasted ‘Aporto’ at all times of the day and night and on towards the direction of Pescia. Stomachs rumbling, we stopped at Buggiano (strangely onomatopoeic) for lunch.

Hannah Gordon, Where Are You Now?

Terme Tettuccio, Monticatini, Italy
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Several years ago, (while we were still at ‘the old house’) I was watching the television on in the afternoon (this was rare) and saw a programme called ‘Watercolour Challenge’ hosted by Hannah Gordon. It had been filmed at Montecatini in the glorious surroundings of what looked like Roman Baths. So when we first visited Italy and I found it was just ‘up the road’, I made a mental note to add it to the list of sights to visit. Last year we went in search of it, but only found the very picturesque village of Monticatini Alto, with no baths in sight. I knew it had to be there as I’d seen a picture of it in the guide book. We parked in the shadiest spot we could find and armed with a bottle of drink, headed for the nearest information centre. I was so desperate to find ‘my baths’ that I even summoned up my courage and asked the first couple we encountered and ask whether they spoke English (everyone does) and did they know where the Spa was. They looked incredulous at the question and waved in the general direction we were going – thinking me silly for asking! (Monticatini has at least seven spas!!) Luckily we soon found the information centre and a leaflet with a picture of the baths I was looking for. Strangely all the spas are situated in a wooded park area in the centre of the town. Some are ornamental (like the one I was looking for) while others just look like ordinary swimming baths and you can go and swim in them (I think it just costs more than an ordinary swimming pool). Within Five minutes we had located the spa in question, paid our 5 euros and were standing in wonder at the beauty of our surroundings…We spent a very happy and peaceful two hours there drinking in the atmosphere (not the water as it would have been difficult to drink salty water on such a hot day) with hardly anyone else there. We left at 5.00pm as the parking meter needed feeding, just as someone had begun to play on the grand piano…

Terme Tettuccio, Monticatini

Panorama Terme Tettuccio, Monticatini, Italy
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Ride On A Funicular Train...

Funicular Train, Monticatini, Italy
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

This however, was not the end of the excitement for the day, as we had seen a Funicular Train on our visit to Monticatini Alto last year and had resolved to treat ourselves to a ride on it. We spent a further hour going round the shops - it was even too hot to decide what flavour ice cream to have. Then moved the car to the nearest parking area. At seven o’clock sharp we jolted our way up the steep incline to our destination through dense undergrowth, past people’s back gardens and over precariously situated bridges. As we went up, we could see that another train was coming down, ‘strange’ we thought as there was only one track. At the centre point the track divided into two and the little trains passed each other and all the occupants waved. Once at the top, the air was fresher and we had the opportunity to explore all the old cobbled streets.

Al Fresco...

Square, Monticatini Alto, Italy
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Their main square was set up with the choice of at least half a dozen restaurants and we were very tempted to stop, but as tomorrow was to be our ‘big day’, we thought it best to head home while it was still light. Another wonderful day almost over…

You Can See For Miles...

View From Monticatini Alto, Italy
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

"Butterflies Are Self Propelled Flowers"

Swallowtail Butterfly, Tuscany , Italy
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Giorno Sette martedi 17th luglio

Today we planned to visit the Marble quarries of Cararra. We had intended to set off early, but having spotted a Swallow Tail butterfly in the garden, we stayed another half an hour trying to get ‘just one more’ elusive photograph.

William Of Orange?

Orange Tree, Maras, Near Carrara, Italy
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

The trip to Cararra was pretty uneventful, down to Lucca, autostrada up to Viareggio, supposedly autostrada to Carrara, but having left the autostrada at Viareggio (it just petered out) it required a detailed knowledge of all Italian towns, North and South (which we didn’t have) a compass, a map and perhaps Randolph Fiennes – anyway the entrance remained elusive and after what seemed ages we arrived at Carrara. In a way, it was fortuitous, had we located the autostrada we would have missed driving through Massa (the town before Carrara) and seeing orange trees lining the main street (amazing!)

You Can't Ski On Marble!

View Of Marble Mountains From Main Street, Carrara, Italy
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

The weather was scorching as we sat having our picnic in the car and were glad to only walk a short distance round the corner into The Marble Museum. The chap who ran the museum was really unhelpful and the only Italian we met who couldn’t speak English! The history contained in the museum was fascinating and the examples held there were varied, smooth and cool. We watched a video which told us everything we wanted to know, including details of the largest whole piece of marble ever quarried and showed film of how they transported it to the docks to be taken to Rome to be used as a monolith. (Luckily we had a choice of watching the video in English) Having left the museum we asked ‘grumpy boots’ where we could go and find a quarry and he directed us to the Information Centre across the road. There we met our only red headed Italian, who was extremely helpful and gave us several maps and clear instructions.

View Of Marble Quarries From The Car...

View Of Marble Mountains, Carrara, Italy
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

The sites we saw on the way to the quarries were breathtaking and if the photos look a little grainy, it’s because they were taken from inside the car as we went along. There just wasn’t the option of stopping at a good vantage point.

Quick Step or Tango?

Can You See Them dancing? Marble Mine, Carrara, Italy
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

Before long we were parked outside ‘The Largest Marble Mine In The World’ or so it said – which was strange as we expected them to be all quarries. There was a cardboard clock on the side of a small hut stating that the next tour would begin in about 20 minutes. We were told to come back nearer the time, collect a safety hat and board one of the Mini buses – but not to pay until we got back - which at the time seemed a little odd. Soon we were bumping along inside a huge mountain, hoping that the speck of light at the end of the tunnel would not disappear, but relishing the coolness of the constant 16 degrees centigrade (we even wore our coats!). We had a lovely guide who talked us through all the different processes used, her Italian accent using ‘the’ in front of every word and rolling lots of ‘r’s. We got to see and feel the helicoidal and diamond impregnated wire that the marble is now cut with. The size the blocks are huge and judging from the small amount of noise we made and how loud we seemed, to have men working machinery in there must be completely deafening. Apparently staying underground for eight hours at a time drives you potty and the miners see figures in the stone they have cut. We thought we could see two dancers and Madonna and Child in the cut face and we were only down there 20 minutes!! At the end of the tour everyone loaded back in the vans and trundled off. Unfortunately, where there had been three vans to bring us in, there were now only two and having been occupied by taking ‘just one more’ photo, we found ourselves without transport for our trip back to the outside world. “Don’t worry, we be back in 5 minutes to collect you” said our guide…after 10 we were beginning to worry…

Follow The White Dusty Road...

View Of Marble Quarry from Colonnata, Near Carrara, Italy
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

The scenery of the quarries was so amazing we decided to carry on a bit further to ogle at more of the same, but managed to miss a turning to Colonnata which we soon realised when the road abruptly developed ruts the size of small drainage channels and the incline changed to almost vertical. Hmm, time to turn back, the bubble car just couldn’t hack it! The joke of it was that a 4x4 had followed us up and whereas that’s exactly the sort of terrain meant for that sort of car, the occupants were clearly worried about getting dust on their paintwork!

Paved In Marble...

Village Square Marble Surface, Colonnata, Near Carrara, Italy
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis

After that we made our decent to the town of Carrara, had a nice walk round, an ice cream in the park and then on to Viareggio. There’s something about Viareggio as a seaside resort which just oozes class and makes you want to come back. Posh shops on the seafront and an endless supply of inviting restaurants allowing you to sit outside in comfort., what more could you want? We chose the one with the most people (it was obviously popular) and luckily we didn’t have to wait too long before we were seated between a table of old ladies and their sea food platters (was that really a small octopus I saw disappearing into the mouth of the lady with orange hair?) and another table of a young couple who had mussels followed by a florescent coloured pasta. We on the other hand had melone e prosciutto - Graham’s favourite, (I’d rather eat them separately) then I had grilled Seabream (disappointingly had too many bones and not enough flesh, but tasted very good and Graham had breaded veal. By this time it was now 10 o’clock and we realised that we hadn’t even seen the sea, so we found a place to cross the sand (most areas are cordoned off and you hire a sun bed for the day in an enclosure) and made our way down to the water where a new moon was attempting to balance on the end of a newly built pier…