'supporting each other through really tough times'

savingqueen

Sorry to hear you've had a difficult time of it sevenup - and glad you are feeling more positive today. Have a lovely meal out. You deserve a nice time.

I was also trying to think of places you could go pops. I thought of a few and then remembered I am thinking of where I live where we are lucky to have lots of things to do locally for all ages despite it being a deprived area. I remember all my visits "oop north" as a child and we had to rely on public transport to get out and about - the bus services were ok but you were at the mercy of the timetables all right. That was a long time ago - 30-40 years ago but sounds like in some areas hasn't changed much. Have you considered using the net/local papers to try and set up an informal friendship group of some kind where you get together for a natter, play cards/bingo or whatever, do a bit of local fundraising, arrange the odd coach trip or similar?

I am getting a little frustrated with myself today - I still feel exhausted and not too well but I have lots to do - and its just not getting done and not really enjoying sitting about much either. DH has taken kids to town to return some very overdue library books (kids so no fine phew) and let them spend some Easter money but mainly for fresh air and exercise as they are going via shank's pony. I have been trying to get some housework done - if I do it with DH here he will deem me fit to cook dinner later so..... being crafty I can't show I am too well as he will let me do everything which I'm really not up to. Laundry needs doing etc and dinner needs cooking - he will do cooking as he receives the most direct benefit! :rotfl:

ok enough of me rambling...washing to hang out
laters gators
sq:)

mcculloch29

Pops, a suggestion for better weather. St Ozzies, the park opposite me, is absolutely beautiful, recently renovated yet again and lovely to sit in. It's only 5-10 minutes walk from the 8 & 21 bus stops. There's Sheila's Garden, which is a very peaceful spot away from the playgrounds.
I'm usually in, working from home, and would be happy to offer a coffee and chat as well if you wanted. My job is very flexible so can always be put on hold for half an hour.
It's a thought.

mcculloch29

SQ's posting reminded me of something. You were a carer for your Mum, Pops, and the Princess Royal's Trust for Carers, have a Men's Group. There is a transport service for this with voluntary drivers. Even though your Mum has passed away that doesn't mean that you can't access the support offered by the Trust - I know of three people who were bereaved but still very much used the services. You may well find like minds and shared experiences there, something difficult to find elsewhere. I expect you know, but here's the link to where they are.

Popperwell

Thank you for both suggestions and kind offer;)

Hey before we know it will be another club night too:)

nuttyp

mccolough, what a lovely gesture to meet popperwell and for sending the information of a support group. I too know of people who are very lonely and through my job ( working in a bookies) we make sure the men who are on their own always have someone to chat to everyday. Some just come in for an hour, have a cup of tea and someone to notice them. Maybe not what we are suppose to do but we do it anyway!!

Have had a lovely day, doing nothing really. It is quite cold here, but we don't have snow..... well not any that is staying put.

Happy easter everyone, x

Popperwell

Funny that you should mention your bookies NuttyP and what you said because a few days ago I made this in the comment area...

Does this sound judgemental? I hope not but when I visit the Supermarket I pass a bookies. The same people are there daily I now recognise them. Most are I would guess retired.

I suspect they don't spend that much but it gives them a purpose. A reason to get up, somewhere to go, there is some socialising and they pop outside for a smoke.

It may seem pointless to others but if it is filling a void for them I won't condem them.

Some will have gambling problems but for many it is more than placing a bet.

fuddle

Does your library run a family tree class? Maybe you can do it yourself at home. I have heard it is thrilling and really quite addictive. Maybe worth a thought, especially because it will no doubt help you reminisce.

What happens to fuddles on bank holidays? They get sick! Poorly, shivery , achet and headache I'm wallowing as I'm off my food - DH cooked up some SC brisket for hot beef sarnies tonight and I'm most aggrieved I don't want any.

Enjoyed the HV talk. I've met a few rather bolshy women in my years of being a new mum. It's bizarre how they have the confidence to be so blunt in a lady's own home, sometimes with DH's sat there and most often with a 4 year old who is well adjusted etc present too.

I'm working with the 3/4 year olds at the nursery now. I was snaffled from baby room as I'm apparently 'self motivated' huh? I work hard and know what I'm doing that's all. I enjoyed work before but by gum I've had a ball with the older ones this week... although I suspect it is those very children I have to thank for the poor lies right now!

Have a lovely Easter break everyone.

missrlr

Hi thanks all! So much relief here. Really looking forward to this weekend and just being able to go out for coffee and not stressing about mortgage payments or anything else money (well more than usual !)

monnagran

Well, I've just finished my magazine. YAY!

Fuddle get yourself wrapped up warm and cosy. You are probably exhausted, still getting used to your new life and a sitting duck for every bug that passes by. Eventually you'll get some sort of immunity to most germs. Promise.

At last! I can go to bed.

x

nuttyp

Morning everyone, the sun is shining already yay!!! OH started work at 4am, and is possibly going to be busy most of the day.

popperwell, it is true some of our customers at work just pop in maybe spent £2 Or £3 on bets but have most of the afternoon somewhere warm safe and they meet other people for a chat. Some don't even spend any money.

fuddle, it always sucks when your ill over a bank holiday. Take some time off, you deserve a rest. I hope alfie is liking having his mummy home with him.

monnogran well done with finishing the magazine. At least you get a bit of break for long deserved cuppa now.

Well im off to get dressed and motivated to do some cleaning. Have a good day everyone.