Archive for the Category » Baby Hughes «

Back blogging again!

Wednesday, June 16th, 2010 | Author: Julia

Well, I cant believe it’s two months since I last blogged. I guess it’s a combination of being ultra busy at home and ditto at Company X.  So, after such a long time away dear readers, I guess it’s time for a long catch-up post.

Life has been very kind to me the last couple of months. While the days have been long, I’ve been experiencing a new sense of contentment. Not that I was unhappy before – more that I’ve gained a better purchase on what is important in life. Now that all sounds rather spiritual and self-effacing I know but I’ve developed a new and intense curiosity in the world around me – almost like being a child again! The world, which before seemed like just some place where I lived and enjoyed life, now feels like something really special. By the way I’m excluding the chav who put a note on my car two weeks ago telling me to ‘ f**k off and park somewhere else’ likewise the woman in Sainsburys tonight who produced a sovereign-ringed paw full of 5p off vouchers and held up the queue for quarter of an hour – you two are excluded. No, the things I’m thinking of are the way the world is so ordered.

For example, at Company X to-day, I was lucky enough to be taken out at lunch by Mr.M to visit his apiary. Now that for you non-bee types is where a bee-type person keeps his bee hives. It was absolutely fascinating seeing the way in which these creatures order themselves and create a whole community with roles and responsibilities. Mr M showed me how you smoke ‘em out and get into the hive to look over the individual panels which sit in the house. The Queen bees are amazing – just one per hive and they seem to rule the roost. It was totally wierd standing in the bee keeper’s garb with little buzzers buzzing round your head and body. They are curious creatures and not as scary as I had at first thought. Thank you Mr M for a memorable lunch-time. In fact I am so interested I’m thinking of getting a hive in the garden prior to Mr.P’s arrival back home at the week end. He would be thrilled. He loves winged beasts.

So what else has been occurring? Well we’ve had some great times with the lovely Junior. He has brought so much love and happiness into our lives and continues to thrill with his wonderful smiles and chubbly legs. It’s clear he doesn’t suffer fools and knows his rights – I’ve never seen a babe so determined and happy to dish out dirty looks when you cough or sneeze. Well Junior – you are a tribute to your own Auntie’s intolerances!

In terms of reading, I’ve had my nose in books for most of the past two months. The most recent read was Hilary Mantel’s ‘Beyond Black’. A satirical look at the world of mediumship, this book could have been so good but after the first 100 pages I lost the will and continued to the end only because I have a policy in life never to give up on a book. I found it over-written, over-long and lacking a real plot I could get a handle on. By the time I got to the last fifty pages I was counting down the paragraphs to the end. Not a patch on Wolf Hall, one of the most amazing books I’ve ever read.

One of the real triumphs of the last few weeks has been getting out and doing some walking along the South Coast path. The weather has been perfect for hiking and the sea and cliffs looks wonderful in the sun. Sitting over-looking Lulworth Cove, eating a crab sandwich and listening to the gulls whooping and screaming, I felt totally peaceful. Except ten minutes later I found there was no bus service on Sundays back to Wool station and had to get ‘Jean’ in the gift shop to call me a cab.

So, dear readers, I apologise for my blogging absence and promise to do better in the future! It’s time now to check my e-bay bids, get grouted up and go out. So long for now  – and will be back blogging later. Promise.

Easter Sunday

Tuesday, April 06th, 2010 | Author: Julia

We were delighted to be joined by Junior for lunch on Easter Sunday. Following initial concern that due to a virus he may not be able to attend, this plucky lad showed that he was made of stronger stuff and arrived on time escorted by his minders, Mr and Mrs Q. It would clearly take more than a bug to keep this little tot away.

Wearing a Pooh Bear themed ensemble, Junior quickly entered into the spirit of the proceedings by heading up the lunch table in his co-ordinated teddy motif high chair. Chewing on a coaster and surveying his fellow diners, Junior watched as the table tucked into a roast turkey meal followed by Mrs Q’s crowning glory – a sticky banoffee pie. Washed down with a couple of bottles of Bucks Fizz, the lunch was a resounding success, re-confirmed when Junior was overheard to comment: ‘ The turkey looked succulent and well basted and I was particularly impressed by the golden colour of the roast potatoes. Cooking doesnt get better than this.’

After lunch, the party retired to take coffee and listen to that wonderfully spiritual ensemble ‘Pick ‘n’ Strum.’ Strum had come prepared with some new ideas and Pick was only too happy to join in and fill the Easter air with a cordial harmony of melodic sounds. Junior meanwhile was seen to accept gifts marking his first Easter which, despite feeling under the weather, did not deter his enthusiasm and excitement. Can nothing get this little lad down? We cannot but be impressed by his positive and cheery attitude, especially as Mrs Q then commenced to rummage through a bin bag of unwanted clothes donated by the writer. What was particularly special was her willingness to model a host of potential outfits, showing her creativity, vivid imagination and detachment from reality.

After trifle and another of Mrs Q’s triumphs – an enormous chocolate and raspberry cake - Junior announced his intention to depart. ‘I’ve had a wonderful day,’ he was heard to say,’ and thank my family for their kind gifts. The trifle and cake would have been a firework to the palateso why do I get given pink yogurt? I’ll be taking that up with my personal nutritionist.’

Having waved off the merry party, Mrs E is understood to have commented to Mr E: ‘£2o for an Easter Egg ? What a wicked waste! And she’s not wiped those skirting boards yet I’ll bet – I couldn’t live like that.’


Lads wot lunch

Wednesday, March 31st, 2010 | Author: Julia

We were thrilled today to be joned by Junior for lunch. This little lad, clearly accustomed to dining out, was spotting smiling for photographers as they snapped away at him. But dealing with the paparazzi is all in a day’s work for this young socialite. Dressed in a smart casual combo of cowboy motif dungarees with feature turn-ups and matching navy corduroy soft bootees, Junior continues to raise the bar and set the  scene for fashionistas in the PO postcode area.

Dining on a 100% organic meal, Junior demonstrated his committment to healthy living and a zero tolerance to harmful additives and colourings.  His official minder, Mrs Q, finished the look and feel of sophisticated dining with a stunning soil and bark coloured outfit, teemed with leggings and hoof boots. Standing with hands on hips, with her overly toned calves, she looked rather like Henry the Eighth as she was seen shovelling scampi and chips into her mouth. Normally a lover of suckling pig and a dancing bear, Mrs Q was still able to relax into casual dining mode.

Rounding off the lunch, Junior ( aka Sammy Sparkle ) joined that infamous Vegas gambler Kitty Glitter for a go on the slotties. This young man really sets the social scene alight with his ready smiles, erudite sense of humour and ability to charm. Clearly no stranger to such hostleries, Junior exited to enjoy an afternoon of soft play before heading home for a light supper. We thank Junior for his time and look forward to seeing him again soon!

Junior’s surprise visit

Saturday, March 20th, 2010 | Author: Julia

We were thrilled to host a surprise visit from Junior who arrived at short notice this afternoon. Sporting a smart pastel blue-infused all-in-one jumpsuit with co-ordinating beige sockettes and navy slippers, his footwear combo showed that this boy really has a sense of style. Although last season’s must-haves, his winter wardrobe still packed a fashionable punch this wet, Southampton afternoon. Accompanied by Mrs Q Junior immediately relaxed into his new surroundings insisting on taking time out to stare at the sparkly lights in the grate.

It should be noted that Junior’s afternoon schedule was only released by his private office at short notice but this made no different to what turned into a lovely afternoon.  Armed with a selection of entertainment accessories, Junior started the afternoon by dining off a gourmet meal of fish and vegetables, the green colour of which contrasted well with the blue of his afternoon atire.

After an afternoon of play and chat, Junior announced his decision to depart and return home but not before he agreed to model his latest Jasper Conran number; a new yellow souwester.

We wish Junior well and express our gratitude at his decision to take time out of hs busy schedule to pay a visit to Janson Road.

‘Pick ‘n’ Strum’ make musical magic!

Wednesday, March 17th, 2010 | Author: Julia

Spent a lovely Mothering Sunday at Mum and Dad’s accompanied by Mr. P and joined by Mr and Mrs Q and Junior. After the customary roast lunch we adjourned to spend the entire afternoon doting on the lovely Junior. Seven months old and blooming – a little like Mrs Q who looked radiant in a moth-coloured spring ensemble. But the afternoon wouldn’t have been the same without the impromptu jamming session from the Mr’s who, feeling the creative urge, decided to make beautiful music together. And what a treat it was too with musical history made on the fly. But what is so special about these two talented musicians? Well, they offer something a little bit special, a bit unique, a bit unheard of. Pushing the barriers of traditional musical theory, these two impressarios threw caution to the wind and played from the soul. Set after set of inspiring sounds – even Junior was transfixed in wonder once he’d got bored of playing with the top of the chocolate box.  And the music became interactive as Mrs Q and Mrs P felt the call to rhythm and danced a spirital dance of lightness and light – a perfect compliment to what had now become an artistic performance. We wait to hear what next for the Mr.’s or as they are now called -  ‘Pick ‘n’ Strum’. No doubt a signing is on the way.

New Year – new start

Friday, January 22nd, 2010 | Author: Julia

Well, I have been back at work at Company X for three weeks now and I have to say it’s amazing how quickly you settle back into the work routine.  Sometimes it feels like I have never been away and others it feels like an entirely new experience. Either way I feel energised and excited at the year that lies ahead.

As for most of the UK, the snow came to Shirley but Southampton seemed to have missed the brunt of it which caused me much disappointment. I know that is a childish approach to the ‘evil white stuff’ but I have to say I love it. Everywhere looks so different – even downtown Shirley took on an alpine feel with snow gently coating the roof of Pound Land, ice crystals shimmering on the shattered glass of the bus stop and the fag smoke from the chavs hanging around outside the One Stop floating up through the chill late afternoon air. It could almost have been Aspen.

So what has the new year brought?

I have to confess that Iv’e not done any writing – in fact I’m enjoying a month off. Editing on the first draft of the book will probably start in February as I’m keen to be able to present my first three finished chapters to agents at this year’s Winchester Writers’ Conference. That way I can always answer the question ‘ Have you finished the book yet? with a confident ‘yes.’

Baby Hughes continues to progress nicely. I’ve just seen the latest pictures and he is certainly a beaut! Mrs Q is hosting a family soiree on Sunday so we look forward to seeing said babe then. He is certainly a healthy baby and is putting on weight continuously.

Ian has also taken up a new hobby which I shan’t reveal here apart from saying that he keeps pricking his finger on that embroidery needle.

Ive not embarked on any new interests but as always continue to be gripped by my dear friends, My Books. In fact I have just finished Sarah Waters’ ‘The Little Stranger.’ This was one of the short-listed Booker Prize entries from 2009 and tells the tale of a Doctor called out to an old, rather decrepid  Georgian mansion to examine one of the servant girls who is sick. The story proceeds to open the house up to the reader as we learn of spooky goings on, a touch of romance and an interesting comment on life just after the War when rationing reigned and the country was gripped by austerity. Personally I needed more spookiness asnd less description as the book slowed in the middle to a rather pedestrian pace. However, I couldn’t fault the writing which was a joy to read: evocative, atmospheric and at times melancholic without being gloomy. Overall a pleasure to read if suffering from a rather inconclusive ending.

So what does the week end bring? Hopefully a log fire, packet of choclate hobnobs and the start of my new book: A S Byatt’s ‘The Children’s Story.’ Can’t wait!

The last couple of weeks…

Friday, September 25th, 2009 | Author: Julia

I realised this morning that I hadn’t blogged for nearly two weeks which is quite unheard of in Blog Land so now feel the need to get writing to my cyber readers. Please therefore forgive this rather long and random post!

Well I see that my last post concerned reading so I shall continue in the same vein having just finished Dan Brown’s latest epic ‘The Lost Symbol.’ As ever, this was a heady mix of short, tightly written chapters packed with cliff hangers, unanswered questions and his trademark twists and turns. I thoroughly enjoyed it despite the bad grammar, spelling mistakes and obviously rushed proof reading. However, without giving too much away, I felt he could have ended the book sooner, ditching the last fifty pages which became far-fetched and pedestrian. Having said that – well worth the read and no doubt we will be seeing another appalling adaptation at the cinema in the near future.

Last week end saw us visiting Laura and her family in Twickenham and in the words of Mr P – ‘ that was one of the best week-ends I’ve had this year!’ On the Saturday Laura, Julia and I drove into Kensington to have coffee and cake and visit Linley Sanbourne House which was wonderful. A beautifully preserved late-Victorian town house which reminded me of an old fashioned doll’s house in life size scale. While we walked around this intriguing time capsule, the boys played golf re-joining us for Laura’s roast pork! On the Sunday I watched Julia having a horse riding lesson in Richmond Park with the afternoon set aside for a walk along the river and a trip to York House in Richmond which had been opened to the public as part of the annual London ‘Open House Week-End.’ This week-end in September allows the public to access buildings in London which are usually closed to the public. A couple of years ago I dragged Ian up to Woolwich to visit Crossness Pumping Station which had been opened as part of said event. Absolutely amazing. I still long to visit one of the disused Tube Stations for which there is an inordinate waiting list!

Wednesday saw me joining a Company Y team event which I won’t write about as my policy is never to write about work on this blog. However I will say it was a good day and I was able to catch up with all the news in readiness for my return in the New Year.

And what of Baby Hughes you ask ? Well, had a good day with Mrs Q and Baby Hughes on Hayling Island. Both are doing well and it was nice to see that Mrs Q had shed some baby pounds and also some of those elasticated waist monstrosities. A lovely lunch – her speciality – two slices of dry bread with some ham and cheese slapped in the middle. No relish. No chutney. No taste. But let’s get real – Mrs Q’s priorities are understandably in a much more important place these days. Like texting me pictures of c-list celebs on reality shows with the caption ‘ Fat Slag.’ Well done Mrs Q – you are a credit to yourself as always.

The voluntary work continues and I still get a great deal of satisfaction out of this – I’m really hoping I can continue in some form after I return to work.

So what of the week end? Well, Mr P left this morning for a long week end in Leeds with his friends. And what a wife I was. Brought him breakfast in bed – ironed him a number of outfits to take with him – helped him pack – and then drove him and his friend to the station with a promise to pick them up on Sunday evening. Why was this you ask? Am I just a model wife ? Why no ! I intend to use this as ammunition in a future argument to demonstrate just how wonderful I am and how terrible Mr P is. Why else would I go to such lengths ? We women plan ahead…

Post Baby – Pre-Op

Wednesday, August 26th, 2009 | Author: Julia

Well – a two pronged blog post to-day in Kath Day Knight style. First off – the latest on Baby Hughes who now has a name! He is to be Samuel Reuben – a fantastic name which suits him already. Yesterday saw us visiting again to check up on Samuel and co. He is an absolute stonker of a baby! Perfect skin, healthy and bonny. We love him to bits! Mrs Q was looking irritatingly tanned and blond haired but at least the Britney skirt had gone – hopefully confined to a skip somewhere off Mengham High Street. Samuel has had his first bath and his hair is now starting to grow some more. The mid-wife’s prediction is that he will be a platinum blond baby boy which will be lovely. Jason was very blond as a child so this is where the hair colour will have come from. Mrs Q on the other hand was ’strawberry blond’ aka beige.

Well from babies to ‘blimey that’s come around quickly.’ Yes dear reader tomorrow I go in for my day-patient ‘Minor Lower Ground Floor Ladies Operation.’ It’s been described as very routine and boring which I find rather insulting. Still it may be routine and boring for them – but for me it carries unknown terrors. My policy has always been to get out of hospitals as soon as possible so tomorrow I will be pleading for my post-op tea and toast the minute I wake up in an effort to be released asap – if necessary still in hospital gown and dragging a catheter ( not necessarily mine – I’m not fussy ). I’m a human being – get me out of here!

Baby Watch

Saturday, August 22nd, 2009 | Author: Julia

It’s not Nature Watch – it’s Baby Watch as we all watch with interest, the progress made by Baby Hughes. We understand that he is feeding and sleeping well and will be getting his first piercing on Monday and possibly a Pompey crest tattoo at the week end. However we understand that Mrs Q is still wearing that Britney skirt. All in all Baby Hughes is a winner – a stunner – a perfect baby. Names are still being discussed – I have suggested Crustacea and Enema but somehow I think a more traditional name will be selected. At only five days old I am already wondering what sort of life Baby Hughes will have, what he will look like, what career he will choose. I imagine sending him postcards from round the world when we travel, meeting his friends, talking to his girlfriends and generally being a doting but hopefully still slightly batty Aunty. We love you Baby Hughes and can’t wait to see you again!

So what of the non-Baby Hughes news?

Had lunch with Mr. R in a nice Turkish restaurant in Southsea yesterday to discuss some commercial opportunities. A very pleasant lunch and a fascinating discussion. Walking back to the station down Albert Road I remembered why I love that area of Southsea so much. It still holds an air of 1960s hippy Southsea with its ethnic shops, coffee bars and smell of sandalwood incense wafting down the road in the heat of the late afternoon.  Mum would call it seedy – I call it Bohemian.

Got another 3000 words of the book down on Monday and with just four months to go I’m really feeling the pressure to complete the first draft by the end of the year. My plan is to try and use the library to write in as much as possible as I have no access to the internet there which has proved to be a bit of a distraction at times!  I’m also having a re-think about some elements of the story which is fine but rather disconcerting so I will continue to get everything down and then edit and re-construct next year.

This week-end we will be enjoying the World Championships Mens’ and Womens’ marathons in Berlin. No Paula on Sunday but it will be still be a great race to watch and as always will push me to get my running shoes back on! Which is timely as it reminds me of a committment Mrs Q repeatedly made before she had Baby Hughes: ‘I’ll be running six weeks after the baby is born to shift my baby pork.’ We watch with interest Mrs Q…