27/12/2013 Merry Christmas

It's been 12 long months since the last one, so we were proper ready for another load of Christmas fun, and we weren't disappointed - well worth the wait..... how lucky we are (but don't always show it!).

Monday was a totally lazy PJ's day - bliss. We just slobbed around all day doing absolutely nothing - apart from Alfie playing on his Xbox, and me on my Ipad - bootiful.

Tuesday was Christmas Eve, so we had to do a bit more & get the house tidied up - boring. At least Dad came home from work early, so he was able to help out - lucky him eh!

The evening was different from other years, as we didn't have to pretend about all that Father Christmas stuff, as Alfie (and of course me), knew that it was Mum & Dad that got the presents....ooops, I hope we haven't spoilt things for any of our readers (young or old!). So, no messing around with mince pies & wine, or worrying about having to get to sleep, which I'm sure Mum & Dad were happy about. In the end we all went to bed about 11 o'clock, and agreed to get up at about half 7, or 8 o'clock on Christmas morning - which we did (on the dot, thanks to our alarm clocks!!!!!).

Me &Alfie did start off saying that we'd open 3 presents an hour, to spread them out (but that didn't last long - maybe a couple of hours at the most - they were just too tempting, sitting there all pretty & shiny, just waiting to be opened). Luckily, Mum & Dad had been listening, and we got exactly what we wanted. I got my lovely Iphone (and its fab - Mum wants one now!). Alfie got the video camera he wanted so he make his own Minecraft video's with his friends (weird, if you ask me). We got loads of other lovely things, a great Logo boardgame, Nativity 2 (Danger in a manger) which is soooo funny. One Direction perfume which smelly georgeous, xBox stuff, and lots lots more - amazing. Thanks to everyone for our presents, we love them.

We had a yummy Christmas Turkey lunch and then vegged out and did nothing - which is just what you are supposed to do isn't it!

Boxing Day had a surprise in store, Alfie & Dad got some spare tickets to go and see Norwich play against Fulham (which meant the me & Mum could go shopping!). When we met up with Dad & Alfie afterwards we could tell it wasn't good news (they lost 2-1, and were completely rubbish). The only good thing - that shows how 'good' the game was, was that they took a picture of everyone in the ground, and put it online, and you had to find yourself, and here they are (Dad'd tagged himself on Facebook if you were wondering why he had a Blue thing on his face!). 

Another lazy day on Friday as Dad went back to work, and we just didn't feel like doing anything - saving our energy (you never know when you'll need it).

And on Saturday we did need it.... OMG! Us Football Girls (and Alfie) got together with the under 13's to do some football training, and it was HARD WORK! First we had to run for 5 minutes without stopping.... then we did more fitness stuff and then ball skills - we were nearly DEAD. Lauren & Chloe have Asthma, and had to go off twice for their inhalers - punishing. Then we got into teams and played 5-a-side matches. I was in the best team (which was a bit unfair), as we had Vivian & Dad in goal. We got through to the final and won 1-0, and I scored the winning goal, with a lucky long-shot.

We got back and collapsed in a heap & didn't move again for the rest of the day. Dad must be a nutter as he went off out on his bike. Norwich were at home again, this time to Man Utd, so we were expecting them to get thrashed, after how rubbish they were, but they only lost 1-0, and were unlucky as the Man U goal was pretty fluky - they MUST win against Crystal Palace or they'll be in the bottom 3, and the manager might get sacked - Happy New Year eh!.

The fun continued on Sunday with a trip to see Grandma & Grumps, and a chance to get a tour of their new on-suite bathroom (Dad laughed as it took nearly a year to do - although there were lots of pipes and stuff to move!). Also Grumps wanted to show us all the hedge cutting he'd been doing, and WOW, it looks different, one SERIOUS haircut. How he got all the branches down to the end of the garden & over the fence at the bottom we'll never know, it must have taken ages - looks good though. One thing springs to mind - in the Summer, they are going to lose a whole load of Footballs / Tennis Balls if they are not careful!

A monster feast of food from Grandma (as usual), so we left about double the weight we arrived - deelicious.

No rest, as tomorrow we are spending the day with Annalise & Harvey, and then we are seeing Robert & Rowan, and going to see the Seals (again for me), then its January all over again, so we both hope you had a fab Christmas & Happy New Year everyone.

22/12/2013

Oh yea, School's finished, and its nearly Christmas - happy days!!!!!!

As usual the last week at school was nice- no homework, and everyone (including the teachers) just takin' it easy - bootiful.

I got to finish my Gingerbread house & I think it's pretty cool, and almost too good to eat - but I'm sure we will.

Some month's ago, Alfie's class raised some money, so they could go on a trip to the ski club - great idea, and they finally got to go, and get the morning off school. Even Mum got involved and helped out, doing a bit of teaching (although I doubt Alfie listened), as he was too busy doing his 'massive' jumps in the fun-park, with his teacher, Mr Dooley. The last time Mum & Mr Dooley were on the ski slope together was about a year ago, and what happened? - Yup, you're right, Mum broke her ankle. Luckily, no repeat this time & everyone was able to walk off un-injured....phew.

The football Girlies had one last get-together before Christmas - an evening of roller skating, which was really good fun. Nearly everyone was there (except Rebecca who is in New Zealand, so a bit far to come back!). Me & Lucy were the fastest skaters, but there was some fancy footwork from Kate & Lauren... impressive stuff. We've still got to get better at going backwards, as it was all a bit pathetic - still, a chance to skate to some 1D songs, drink Slush drinks & eat chips - does it get better than that?

So, that was that.... lot's of 'Merry Christmas', and 'see you next year', now just the last few days to get through. No football on Saturday, so I went to stay over at Hannah a Rachel's. Alfie spent his time on his Xbox (surprise, surprise), but for once I was very impressed by what he'd done. He made a Christmas Card in Minecraft (which is an online game), so it's out there for everyone to see. The card is actually HUGE (in the Minecraft world, with every little block the size of a person, so to see it all, its like looking down from space - very cool, thanks Alf.

On Sunday, we went off to see the Seals (hoping there were still some left after the high tides the other week that sadly washed lots of the Pups away, who were too young to swim).... and there were, loads & loads of them, which was fab.

Only thing left to say.... 3 sleeps til Christmas, so we hope you've been good, and Santa is kind - MERRY CHRISTMAS!                 

15/12/2013

Owwww, my poor old legs..... first the HORRIBLE Cross Country run at School, and it was BAD. First thing in the morning, so it was freezing, and it was on the same day as our School Football match - genius!!!! So (just like I said) we were still tired in the afternoon, so didn't play our best, but somehow managed to still be drawing 2-2 at the end of normal time. I wasn't playing by then as I'd had my foot stood on, right on my big toe, and I could barely walk. Obviously, I stayed & cheered the girls on, but we just couldn't get another goal, and as we got more & more tired (COS OF THE STUPID CROSS COUNTRY!), they scored, and won 3-2. We were gutted, but quite proud as we'd got through to the last 64 teams in the whole of the country, so not a bad effort.

Anyway, at least Alfie did his best to cheer me up by practicing his school play part, which included some jokes (which were nearly funny the first time), but not after the 5th or 6th go! Apparently, his practice was worth it, as the play was pretty good - according to Mum & Nanna, who both went to see it. I'm still not sure exactly what his part was, or where jokes come into the Christmas story - I guess you just had to be there!

Carrying on the Christmas vibe, we now don't even need a calendar to know that its nearly Christmas, as Tony over the road has put his house lights up - lookin' good!

I was still hobbling about on Thursday so I agreed to be goalie at football training, and wished I hadn't as Dad was really getting onto me over everything (cos I couldn't kick the ball properly, as my foot still hurt) - which made me really sad. It was alright in the end as he said sorry, and I made some good saves - all good. Something else really good (hopefully), my friend Briony is thinking about joining our team, and she is a fab player - just like Chloe. OMG, I really hope she does come, it would be amazing - fingers crossed.

An early start on Saturday as we were playing away to Scole (Diss really), and had to go all round everywhere picking people up as well. Briony came along to watch, so did we play well & impress her? Well, it wasn't going to be easy... they beat us 9-1 at home earlier in the season, we didn't have Vivian, and I was in goal!!!!!!!  The first 10 minutes I didn't have too much to do and we had a couple of shots, so so far, so good (for me & my foot - that was still bruised & sore). Then.... we tried to be fancy & play the ball out of defence (and lost it), leaving them with an easy goal.... DAMN.

Just like last week against Bungay though, we are not going to let that beat us, and we started to really attack. Chloe's throw-in's were incredible, and on the 3rd one, it touched one of their players & went in..... GOAL. So, 1-1 at half time, and we were feelin' good. Then it got even better, another long throw from Chloe (Dad reckons she can throw it as far as he can!), and Kate got a head to it.... 2-1 to us.

I had a busy 2nd half, and made a good save, as well as making some long kicks (which totally killed my foot!). We had just started to think that we could actually win this game.....when we tried to do the same crazy stuff in our own penalty area again, and once again gifted them with a goal..AAAARRRRRRGGGGGHHHHHH...... 2-2, which is how it finished. So, as that was out last game until the New Year, we were un-beaten in December - UNBELIEVABLE, little old Thorpe United, even with a goalie with a crippled foot!. 

On Sunday, Me & Mum went over to Lowestoft to see the Christmas Spectacular with Nanna, leaving Alfie to his football. Dad said that he played really well, and made some really strong tackles, again on someone much bigger than him (although most of them probably are now!). He didn't score himself, but he had one shot that only just went over, and set up 2 of the Blofield goals. They ended up winning 4-2, so they finish off the year in winning style.

The Christmas Spectacular was (quite) spectacular, lots of Christmas songs, and everyone getting in the Christmas mood. A fun day was finished off by a lovely tea with Nanna & Grandad, so I'm not jealous that Dad & Alfie had Pizza.

Next week is the last week at School before Christmas (YES), and I've got a Gingerbread house to finish off & decorate, so gotta dash.                  

08/12/2013

Mmmmm, maybe not this week - did you see what happened? Unbelievable, I know they were saying that there was going to be high tides, and the Sea might do some damage, but OMG, what a mess. We've obviously been on some of those beaches in the Summertime, and now they are going to look quite a bit different. Couldn't believe how crazy the Sea was at Cromer pier (which we've walked on), and how much the Sea flooded up to the front door of the Macdonalds in Lowestoft (which of course we've been into!).

What was really sad (more than the houses sliding down the cliffs), were the baby seals that they thought had all been washed away & drowned. We were a bit confused as we though Seals could swim, but then we realised that they are only babies & the waves were massive - that would definitely give you tired flippers!

We know from our Geography stuff that this crazy messed up weather is all our fault - it's those Greenhouse gasses, and stuff. What can we do though?, isn't it all the people in China & places like that who are polluting everything - come-on, sort it out! 

Anyway, even though it was windy on Thursday night, we were still expecting to go Football training, but it was cancelled (not by Dad, but some other scaredy-Cat). Shame, as I was looking forward to it, and Dad had a few cool things for us to practice - which we now know would have been well handy in our match.

So, a busy Saturday got started with an early up & out to pick some of the Girls up (and learn that Rebecca - our goalie, is off to New Zealand for Christmas, so this would be her last match of the year) - obviously not at all jealous of her spending Christmas Day on the beach in the Sun!!!!! We were playing Bungay at home, and in our other matches this season we'd lost 3-2, and 4-2 (in the Cup game, after extra time), so we knew it would be tough. We started really well and had a couple of chances, before we let in a soft goal from a free-kick. The difference this time was that this just made us more determined, and we kept on attacking, and at last we scored (and I got a goal - well excited). So, it was 1-1 at half time, which was about fair. Mum came along to watch the 2nd half, and saw us play some great football, and create loads of chances, but we just couldn't score. Just near the end Rebecca did a great save, from Bungay's only attack, and it finished 1-1. Hannah was gutted that she'd not scored her chances, but no-one blamed her. Dad, and Ian (the ref) said we'd played really well & deserved to win. So now we'll try extra hard next week, in our last game of the year, away at Scole.

Alfie had a good day out as well, at Joe's party. They went bowling and Alfie got the high score of 99 - well done bro. He then spent the afternoon & evening watching DVD's & playing xBox. He said that Forrest Gump was good. I'm sure I've seen it, but can't really remember much about it - perhaps I'll watch it again. As he was sleeping over at Joe's, Mum, Dad & Me had a lovely Indian takeaway from Acle - bootiful, even the Popadoms for Sunday breakfast!. 

We left Mum to sleep & went to watch alfie's team against Attleborough (who are one of the best teams in the league), and it showed. It seemed like all the Blofied team were half asleep, and before we knew it, they were losing 3-0, and playing very badly. Even Harvey's Dad Kerry couldn't take it, and had to walk around the park to calm down!!!!! They ended up losing 7-0, and were very disappointed (I know how it feels believe me).

At least we had a visit from Grandma & Grumps to cheer us up - and they were already there when we got back. As it had been his birthday on Saturday Dad got him some beer, as well as the Partridges that we'd won at the Bingo, and he was well impressed. Of course Alfie had to go and get them from the shed (I wasn't about to touch them), although they still looked the same as a week ago, which I didn't expect - still dead stuff though - YUK!

Next week is Cross-country at school (Nightmare), our football game in the National cup, and Alfie's school Xmas play, so plenty goin' on.                  

01/12/2013

Can you believe it, it's already December, which obviously means that Christmas (and my new phone, I hope), are now only a few weeks away - & I can't wait!. My phone has been sooooo rubbish recently that I've stopped using it, and have been taking Alfie's to School - not that he's noticed. It's hardly the coolest handset around, but when I've got my iPhone, then I'll be cool again.

Alfie had an interesting day out of school (and I'm actually jealous), he went to the Sainsbury Centre (which is a giant art gallery), and saw some really cool stuff. I went online & the place is amazing - sort of reminded me of an airport that we've been to - Stanstead I think, but without the planes....obviously. And he's got his skiing trip in a couple of weeks, so he's getting out of school nearly as much as with me & my football.

Talking of football, we had training on Thursday, and our new player Chloe came along and we all had a really good time - she made us work harder than usual (not cos she asked us to, we were just motivated by her being there, and her effort).... promising?

We finished the week with a Macdonalds teatime feast, and got ready for a big weekend of Football - both me & Alfie were playing, and Norwich had a must-win game against Crystal Palace (from London, I think) - so, what happened?.

Saturday - We were playing away at Long Stratton, who we beat in the first game of the season (4-2). We got to the place in plenty of time, and could see the pitch & their players, but none of the rest of our team, and the pitch was the other side of a fence - bizarre! We drove around everywhere until Dad found someone to ask, and he gave us directions - phew. Yet another muddy pitch, but we just seemed to play a bit better - getting our tackles in & actually making some passes. Their goalie then made a couple of great saves, and we thought it was going to be another one of 'those games'. Then we scored two quick goals (I set one of them up), before our goalie Rebecca made a couple of good saves, to keep us in the lead, 2-0 at half time.

Dad tried to make sure we didn't already think the game was won, and also brought on our new player Chloe in the 2nd half. OMG, we created soooo many chances, we've never played like that before. Me, Chloe, Hannah & Vivian were really great together - the best passing football we've ever done. In the end we won 7-0 (our best ever result), and I was so unlucky not to score (but set up another 3 gaols, which Dad said he was proud with). We all felt amazing afterwards, and I really hope this is how we play every week.

A lovely plate of fresh chips for lunch, and a bit of a lazy afternoon, as we were out again in the evening - playing Bingo, again with some of my football chums. Me. Alfie & Dad went along, but we hopeless & didn't win anything. Someone had brought along some Phesants & Partridges as prizes (not alive ones - dead!). Anyway,  Dad had been talking about these all night, saying how when he was younger he'd had Phesants, so when someone on our table won, they picked the Partridges for him - GROSS!!!! Alfie carried them, while Dad drove us home. He tried to get me to touch them - NO WAY.

Sunday - Not really a lie in, cos I was off again with my football team (we'll be sick of each other at this rate), to do some bag packing in Sainsbury's to raise some money for the club. Phew, standing around for 3 hours is pretty tough stuff, but I got to do quite a bit, and we got some money in our collection buckets, so all good.

Dad went with Alfie, who was playing away at Firside (somewhere near the airport he said). Alfie was expecting a hard game, and it was - lots of pushing & shoving, with Dad saying that one of their players nearly twice as tall as Alfie (although he's almost a Dwarf isn't he!). Blofield scored two goals early in the match, but got a bit lazy & at half time it was 2-1. Dad said Alfie played really well (one of the best performances he'd seen), as he was getting loads of tackles in, and winning the ball of even their big / tall players - go tough guy! Alfie carried on playing well in the 2nd half & set up Blofield's 3rd goal. Firside then really started to put pressure on, and got the score back to 3-2, before, a late goal from Blofield (which Alfie could have scored if one of his team hadn't got in front of him to kick it in), so they won 4-2. Again, just like Dad said, helping to set up chances & goals is just a important as being the one to score.

So, a rare weekend when both me & Alfie both won our football matches. Even more unusual, Norwich also won. They beat Crystal Palace 1-0, to stay out of the bottom 3. Next they play Liverpool (not so easy then), however, I've just watched Hull City beat them, so it can be done!

To finish off the week in a 'blaze' of glory, Dad had a bonfire. If you know my Dad, you'll know that he likes a fire, and not some wimpy little Bear Grills style flicker, no, its got to be a full-on flame fest, see what you think!

Before I forget, we must open our Advent calendar's - thanks Nanna. 24 days to go!                   

24/11/2013

OMG, you aren't going to believe this, but I've already read nearly 200 pages of the Hunger Games book, that I mentioned last week, and don't tell anyone, but I'm actually quite enjoying it. Trouble is a couple more of my friends have now been to see the film & they want to tell me all about it - but that would spoil it. I reckon another week & it'll be cinema her we come!

Last week was just like the weather (again) - dull. Even the England friendly game against Germany was... dull. Anyone that thinks they are going to do well in the World Cup next year is MAD! I don't even think they will win a match.

No Football training on Thursday as we all had to go back to School (no, not some mass detention!), this was all about our subject options, that we have to pick in January, and this was a chance for Mum & Dad to come along with me to get a better idea of what some of the different subjects would be all about. No surprises really... as you know, I want to be a PE teacher, so I went straight for PE, which you can take as a GCSE subject (honestly you can). A quick trip around the Science stuff (that you have to take anyway), and Geography. I'm still thinking of doing Cooking, as that should link into diet and healthy eating stuff.  

At least I haven't got to choose right now, and have a few weeks to get it sorted in my head... decisions, decisions. Dad came along, but spent more time with Alfie showing him all sorts of stuff - at least that kept him away from me! He also saw my friend Chloe & her Mum, and remembering that she'd just quit her Football team, asked her if she wanted to join Thorpe Rovers. She is a really good player, and hopefully she'll come along, as she'll be fab, and who knows, we could start winning some games - so, please, please, please join!

No football for me on Saturday, as it was the cup, and as you might remember we lost in extra time to Bungay a few weeks back. Again, me & Dad went along to Alfie's training, and got involved again. Dad was in goal (again) and seemed to have fun throwing himself in the mud - even though some of his 'saves' were hopeless!!!!!

Hannah, of the Hannah & Rachel twins came over in the afternoon, as her Sister was going to the cinema (yup, you guessed it, to watch the Hunger Games). We had a great night as it was a One Direction special - 8 hours of those lovely Boys...... Bootiful. Alfie's friend Joe stayed over, but funnily enough they didn't hang with us & watch the 1D stuff, preferring the xBox. It ended up being quite a late night (2, or 3 o'clock I think), then up again at 9, as Alfie had a match.

We'd only just eaten our last Cornflake & we were shoved out the door, off to the other side of Norwich to play Taverham, who one of Alfie's team left to join last season - a chance for some revenge then!

As usual, they just didn't wake up at the start, and in the first 5 minutes they were 2-0 down!!!! The first half didn't get much better for the team (despite Alfie & Harvey trying their best to get stuck in against a very physical team), 4-0, with the whole of the 2nd half still to come. Michael must have said some strong Scottish words, as they were much better, winning tackles & Alfie putting some great crosses into the box, but none of the strikers were there to score - shame. The final score was 5-0, with their last goal a really soft (Robert Green, through the hands job - never mind Joe). Dad was really pleased with Alfie & although he wasn't Man of the Match, it must have been really close between him & Harvey.

A bit of a Sunday afternoon veg-out, a bit of homework (really tough stuff about genetics - animal breeding & all that - whoa) & another chapter of the Hunger Games, then BED......

17/11/2013

Mmmmm, you know that Hunger Games book I've got read before we can go and see the film (if you don't - read last week's diary!) - we'll I've started, and its pretty good actually, so who knows, maybe we'll get to see the film this year!!!

Last week was just like the weather - dull & dreary.... the only light(er) spot was our School Football team won again - this time away to Cromer in the County Cup. That's six wins out of six - why can't Thorpe be like that? At least we didn't get beaten this week. Now, before you get all excited.... we didn't play. Attleborough (who we played last week, so not sure why we are playing them again), wanted the game postponed as they had some players that couldn't make its - CHICKENS, more like.....to make it worse we found out during training on Thursday, so we didn't end up too enthusiastic. Dad got a bit annoyed (again) at people not taking things seriously enough, and we'll see what happens, and whether the people change, or leave, either way something's gotta be different.

Alfie got to go to School in his Onsie on Friday cos it was Pudsy Bear day (Children in Need) to us High School-ers, who didn't get to do anything different - how boring is that. Alfie's class raised a load more money for charity, on top of the £300 the raised so they can go skiing on the dry slope. Maybe I'll have to suggest something for our Form - Sno-Tubing perhaps!

So, no football match for me on Saturday, but Dad suggested we practice on the field while alfie trained, and guess what, we got pulled in. Dad was the goalie, while I joined in with the Boys, and I did pretty well - so we should definitely get a friendly game together - Thorpe v Blofield (Boys v Girls) awesome.

Saturday afternoon came & went - Alfie on his Xbox, me on the Ipad (which we've got to take in to be repaired as the microphone doesn't work). I just hope it won't take too long as I'm going to be totally lost without it. Then I went out to my friend Vivian's party. She's in my Football team, and she invited just a couple of us, so we felt sort of special. We had a great (if scary) time out in the woods near her house, playing games in the dark - which explains why we all had to bring our own torches - genius!

On Sunday Alfie had a Cup match against the top of the table team, and even though they were losing 1-0 at half time, they looked like they could come back & win. Sadly not, they lost 4-1 in the end, with their goal being the team's only shot on target - sounds familiar doesn't it - never mind, there's always next year!     

Although most of the mud had dried & fallen off by the afternoon, maybe Alfie should of had a shower, before he went swimming - oh well. We were in the pool for nearly an hour and a half (and I reckon 30mins of that we were under water, getting the sinkers back). Really crap ending to the swim though, we were in the kiddies pool - warming up & Dad was in the Sauna, one minute Alfie's goggles were on the side, the next, they were gone - STOLEN!.We think it was this really shifty looking family (of Gypo's we reckon), that got out at just the same time , and kept looking at us really strangely. If they are such a bunch of low-lifes, that all they do is nick other people's stuff, then I hope the goggles break the first time they put them on - that'll serve them right!!!  

10/11/2013

Yawn, yawn, yawn.... a mixture of tiredness & boredom. After our manic half term week, it was sort of nice to get back into a more normal school routine - wow, did we really just say that.

Our School football team is still unbeaten - this time we won 4-3, thanks to two goals from my friend Rachel, and one from Hannah, in our team. That's two goals she's scored in two games. Next week we've got to travel all the way to Cromer, for a cup game, that if we win, we'll be in the quarter finals - yikes!

We went back to Brundall school to watch the fireworks on Friday, and even though we got very wet, they were pretty spectacular (as usual). The explosion at the end was really good, cos everyone thought it had finished, and it made us all jump - quality! Talking of explosions, some of the fireworks seemed to blow up just off the ground - luckily we were all far enough away, but it made it just a bit more exciting.

Gosh, we had an early start for football on Saturday morning - getting to Attleburrah at quarter past 9 in the morning - harsh! Hannah's Mum got some strange directions from Google maps & ended up being over half an hour late, so the game didn't start til 10, so we could all have had a lie in!!!!! Sadly, it seemed that we all were still asleep and we were hopeless (even I admit it). We were sooo lucky that it was 0-0 at half time, they had two shots that both hit the post, one after the other! The second half was no better and despite some great saves from Rebecca, we ended up losing 3-0, to a team we are good enough to beat, and we all knew it.

The playing Football badly disease seemed to affect Alfie's team as well, and on Sunday they probably played the most rubbish ever. Just like us, they were playing a team that they should have beaten, but when Alfie came on for the 2nd half (he still doesn't know why he didn't play the whole match), they were losing 3-1. Then it got exciting, Blofield got a penalty & scored. Then Alfie had a superb shot from miles out, that smacked against the bar, and came back out. The weird thing was that their crossbars bend down in the middle, and if was straight, it would have gone in. Back to the action - Alfie then had some great runs down the edge of the pitch & put in some great crosses, but no one could tap the ball in, then....Blofield got too casual, and let another goal in... 4-2, then almost straight from the kick off Blofield scored.... 4-3. There was hardly any time left when Alfie played a bootiful pass through to Harvey (who must have been offside) - but no flag from the linesman (not Dad fortunately), and Harvey shot & scored.... 4-4, with just about the last kick of the game.

To be honest they didn't deserve even a point, but hey, that's Football. Oh yea, in between, we obviously watched Norwich on telly against West Ham (when we expected them to lose, and for Chris Hooton to be sacked..... but they won. Don't know how, as they were losing 1-0 at half time and were rubbish (sounds like a definite Norfolk disease, don't it). But the Manager must of really shouted at them, and they scored 3 gaols in the 2nd half, and won 3-1......not out of trouble yet, but hey its 3 more points.       

Have you seen that the next Hunger Games movie is out soon - gotta see it. Dad has said I've got to read the book before we can go (and its massive!) - that's child cruelty!

03/11/2013

What a manic week off School we've had, without really doing all that much (or that's how it seems). I wonder whether it will see like that to you guys when you read it - so, here goes.

Monday - We should of been going to Pleasurewood Hills, but we didn't. There was predicted to be a hurricane, with loads of wind & rain. so even if the place was open, none of the cool rides would be - so what's the point. Instead we went roller skating (where high winds are not really a danger - indoors). We went with Miss Blackman (who Mum used to work with) & her Daughter. Even though we'd not skated for nearly a year, it didn't take long for all the skills to come back - groovin'!

Tuesday - Ahhhhh, a lovely PJ day. Did absolutely nothing but mess about on my Ipad, while alfie played on his now fixed Xbox. Clever Dad put a new something in some bit of it & now its working again, and it didn't cost hardly anything - so everyone's happy!

Wednesday - Nanna & Grandad came over to see us, and Alfie got a sort of 2nd birthday, with another present - he certainly is a rich & lucky Boy now. Good to see tem so well, but sad to hear that they want to sell the caravan at Kessingland, so no more 2p machines there for us.....boo.

Thursday - Halloween, and for the first time I get to go out around the village with the Girls - Hannah, Rachel & Emily. Alfie & hi friends went out as well, but Mum went along with them (obviously to keep them safe - ahhh). There were loads of people out, but also loads of houses with Pumpkin's outside, and the village sweet shop was open & just giving stuff away - amazing! We all came back with our buckets brimming with sweets, which we couldn't wait to start eating. The Girls were sleeping over, but in the end we didn't go to sleep til nearly 6o'clock in the morning, when Dad was getting up for work.

Friday - Funnily enough we didn't do too much, cos we slept for most of the morning, then went down the Park with Alfie to get some fresh air, kick some football & have a go on Alfie's new scooter - which is way more tricky than I expected. Rachel had Football training. but Hannah & Emily slept over again, with Alfie's friend Ali also joining 'Hotel Wright'. We all got a bit more sleep (and we so needed it).

Saturday - Me & Hannah went to Beccles, cos Mum was getting her hair cut. She'd never been there before, so that's one more Suffolk town she can cross off her list! Alfie went to football training, and had a fab time sliding about on the wet, muddy grass - so had to go straight in the shower. Then, the cheeky beasts had a sneaky swim at Riverside without us - outrageous! What was even more shocking was Norwich's performance against Man City. Last season they won 3-2 (on the last day of the season), this time... they lost 7-0. Yup, that's right SEVEN goals to NIL. That's more than we lost to Sprwston, and only one less goal that we lost to Hellesdon - absolutely pathetic! Hotel Wright was finally empty of guests, for the first time in days, and guess what, we all had an early(ish) night.

Sunday - Up early (for some), and off to the Ski Club for the club championships. I hadn't skied for nearly 4 months, so wasn't expecting to do very well. In the end I came 4th in my category, just behind my friend Hannah (so I wasn't too disappointed). What was great - all my times were quicker than Mum's, so as far as I'm concerned that makes me a WINNER! Alfie went to the park again (and got soaked), while Dad went off in search of a few more Geocaches (yes.... he's still doing that - sado!)

What we both forgot, was to do our homework during the week (not that there was much time), so we're going to get stuck into it now, so bye for now. Hope you all had a good half term break, whatever you got up to. 

27/10/2013 Happy Birthday 11 years old

We carried on after last weekend's frantic activities, and were straight in, making my famous Brownies for Alfie's school (who has a cake bake to raise money so they can all go skiing - at the Norwich Ski Club, before you all get very jealous!) All my cakes sold out, and there were even some people who came back to buy some more, and they'd all gone - impressive or what eh! Overall they made quite a bit of money, and already have most of the money they need. Maybe I'll have to suggest something similar at my school.

After last week, we should both still be well happy, but we're not (for one reason or another).

Alfie is feeling a bit rubbish as his Xbox keeps doing funny stuff & won't let him play his death, stab, kill games - shame! At least he did put this 'free time' to good use, and he built this pretty amazing new place in Minecraft, which he based on the Hunger Games, with some clever traps & treasures - very clever stuff.

At least he's now got something else to entertain him - one of his birthday presents - a new trick scooter (a bright Green one!), which he's already using to get to School & back. Phew, that looks like hard work to me. Yup, that's right, Alfie is now a massive 11 years old (but still the height of a 9 year old - bless!). He didn't really want much fuss made on the day/ Ok, so Mum had to get up early, so he could open his cards & presents before we all went to work or School, but that was about it. No special tea, cos he didn't want one - just Pizza's, but Mum couldn't let him get away with no cake, so at least he got the chance to blow some candles out - Happy Birthday Bro!

Me, I had less than 4 days at School, but it still seemed to drag. I shouldn't say that too loudly, as Alfie might hear - especially since he's now been to the first of our open evenings. I've helped out at these in the past, but this time I chose to go to Football training instead - dedicated or what! All of us (including Dad) must have been 'in the zone' as we just kept on playing - until we were told by Kate & Lauren's Mum, that it was nearly quarter to Eight, and we normally finish at half-seven. Mum & Alfie had to go to School on Friday, but luckily I had a bowling party to go to and a quick shop in the City - bootiful. After some last minute arrangements, Hannah came back for a sleep over, and we did get some sleep for a change!

It was weird not having a football match on Saturday - the first time for 2 months, lucky really as me & Hannah were still asleep when I'd normally be warming up! The day still went quick though, and next thing Hannah was being picked up by her Dad 7 Sister (who'd been to watch Norwich play). They had nearly 30 shots, 10 on target, and still couldn't score!!!! The only thing, they didn't lose. One point against Cardiff isn't good enough - I reckon if they are still in the bottom 3 at Christmas, then they will get relegated.

Ahhh, Mum's favourite night of the year. No, not Christmas Eve, New Years Eve, or her Birthday Eve... the night the clocks go back, so she gets an extra hour asleep! Just means we all get our heads messed up with what the time is / what it was - WHY DON'T THEY JUST LEAVE THEM ALONE!!!!  

See, there I go again, another rant - for no obvious reason! I know that sometimes I can be really moody - I'M A TEENAGER DON'T YOU KNOW!!!!!!

All the talk on the TV was of the Hurricane that was coming to England on Sunday night, but during the day there wasn't any sign of it. A bit windy maybe, but nothing like we've seen in America, with houses & cars smashed - lets hope we are OK. Yikes, what about Monty & Connie in River House - they've got some huge trees near their house - if one of those falls over, like the one did in the Summer, then that will be messy!!!!  

Hopefully everything will be fine, and it really will be calm AFTER the storm - Ha,Ha..

20/10/2013

I'm going to have to mostly hand over to Alfie for this week's update, as for once he's been having all the fun (almost). More good school football news, my house team won the inter-house competition, and I scored the winning goal - against my friend Rachel's house team!

She got me back when we played against her team on Saturday though - but I don't think she scored against me when I was playing in goal, so that's something she can't boast about. Her team did beat us 9-1, but apart from the start of the 2nd half (when they scored 3 quick goals), we played pretty well. Hannah's goal was a great shot from the edge of the area. Lucy was amazing again - tackling everything & everyone, including their player, Hope who last year liked to push people around... she wasn't doing much of that on Saturday against Lucy though. Deservedly she was Player of the Match. I didn't have my best game in goal, and was pretty upset at half time that I'd let everyone down. Ivana was feeling the same, so we all had a good chat & a hug & everything was good again. Rebecca played in goal in the 2nd half, as her broken finger was better again, and she was great, diving all over the place. Dad was really pleased with how hard we'd tried. We didn't have time to sit & chat though, as our crazy Saturday had just begun.

Dad needed to get home, change & then drive to Thetford cos it was Alfie & Harvey's Birthday Paintballing Party. We raced around Norwich dropping people off, and we got home LATE. The others had all gone, so we literally changed in less than one minute & were out again - mental. We got there just in time as just about everyone else was there. It looked pretty cool as there was army stuff everywhere, in the middle of the forest, but me & Mum still didn't fancy it - so we went shopping.

When we got back 3 hours later we couldn't believe the state of them - filthy with mud & paint splats, and all they could talk about were how they'd shot people, or how & where they'd been shot. It seems that they'd played games trying to defend a church against Zombies, Attack a Castle, and try and recover a flag & invade an enemy base. They had 100 shots for each game (which sounds a lot to me) but Alfie ran out of ammo near the end of the first game - obviously very trigger happy. Him & Dad got sneaky after the 2nd game as they still had a few shots left. Rather than give them back, they stuffed them in their pockets, for 'emergencies' in the last game.

It sounds like it all went crazy in the final game, with Kerry grabbing the flag, and then nearly spearing himself with it as he fell over! Dad went AWOL for a couple of mins but managed to sneak up on a couple of people & make them surrender - cool move.

Everyone had an awesome time, and can't wait to do it again - it already seems like the 'must-do' party idea.

So, was that the end of it then.... no, not by half. We stopped off at McDonalds for tea, and while Alfie and his 'Warriers' settled down for a sleep-over, I got dressed up to go out to Curly Megs Birthday party in Norwich. What a fab time, over 100 of her (and my) friends all dancing & chatting away - awesome. Home about 10:30, and ready to drop, as I'd been on the go non-stop since 8:00 in the morning.

The Boys were clearly tired as well as I didn't hear them too much. Not much of a lie in though. Up at 8:00ish, and the Boys were ready to go home at 9:30, as Alfie & Joe had football. I went along (to see Annalise & Rebecca of course), but there was also someone else that I was hoping to see, but that's all I'm saying. I was watching enough of Alfie's game to see what a cracking match it was turning out to be. First it was 1-0 to Blofield (although Old Catton should have scored before), then they did make it 1-1, before their goalie Joe got injured (someone stood on his hand), and Rebecca's brother went in goal. The very strange ref added 7 minutes of injury time, and surprise, surprise, as soon as Old Catton scored a 2nd goal, it was half time..... booooooooo. Early in the 2nd half Old Catton went further ahead, 3-1, and it looked like the game was lost. But no, a great bit of play from Alfie & a pass to Harvey, 3-2 - game on. Old Catton were definitely worried, and after a mistake by their goalie, it was 3-3, amazing! Time was running out, but then incredibly, another assist from Alfie, and OMG, it was 4-3 to Blofield. There was just time (of course) for Rebecca's brother Ollie to make a fantastic diving save, and the game was over. All the Blofield boys were soooo happy, it was like they've won the cup final - everyone was player of the match & rightly so. It was a great game to watch, even if we did end up getting completely soaked. We left the house in Sunshine, and came back in Sunshine, just in the middle (when we were outdoors, it poured down). Mind you, not like it did later on - blimey, it seemed like the conservatory roof was going to explode, it was incredible.

So, as you can see a pretty full-on weekend, so time for us both to get some well earned rest.

13/10/2013

After the all-round disappointment of last weeks sporting 'efforts', it's great to report some good news on the Football front.

Our school team won our cup match against Sheringham, and I scored another goal - that's two, in two games. I don't know how many games we'd have to win, but if we do really well, I think we go to play the finals in London, but that's never gonna happen!

After all the good weather, it was a bit of a shock to go out to training on Thursday evening in the wind & rain - still there were 9 of us, which was more than the ladies team who also train there, only 4 of them showed up - lightweights. The bonus was that we spent half the practice in a match, with them in our teams. It was really good to see how they played - very skilful, but always looking for the simple pass - so, watch & learn Girls! Talking of Girls, rumour has it that my old friend Megan Solomon is interested in coming to play football for us, and might be coming to try out at training next week - Curly Megs playing Football, this I gotta see, go Girlfriend!   

On Saturday, we had our cup game, away at Bungay, and what a game it turned out to be. We played some great passing football in the first half and created a number of chances, but just couldn't score. Then, form nothing they scored, and then scored again. OMG, 2-0 down - so unfair. Then we scored with a great shot from Kate, by far the hardest chance she'd had, so 2-1 at half time. I'd been in goal in the first half, as Rebecca's hand still isn't fixed (but there was nothing that I could do about the goals - honest). Again, we played some great football & had loads of shots & half-chances, and it looked like it was all over. We had a last minute corner & unbelievably the ball bounced off one of their players & into the net 2-2. Almost no time to kick off again, and the game was over. We thought that was it, and we'd have to play again, but no - it was decided to play extra time & then penalties - OMG, I thought I was going to die. Clearly, I wasn't the only one, as we all had tired legs. Sadly we let in two easy goals, and didn't get any lucky breaks this time, so lost 4-2, after extra time. Dad was really proud of us though, and although we were all sad that we'd lost, we knew that we'd played well & were definitely getting better week after week. Next week will be interesting, away to Hellesdon, the top team, and my friend Rachael - and we don't even have Dad there as he's going to Alfie's party in Thetford!

Sunday, and the third of the week's cup matches, saw Alfie's team against Windham again, only two weeks after they last played, and won, so what would happen this time? We'd been messing about at the start of the game & missed Blofield getting (and missing) a penalty - oops. To make things worse, Windham then scored. This seemed to wake Blofield up & Alfie set up Harvey for a goal, and then helped the team, with another great pass, into the lead at half time. The 2nd half was just as close, with Windham scoring again, and then nearly taking the lead, before two quick goals from Blofield & a great goal-save from Alfie, helped them win 4-2. to finish off Alfie's good football morning, he was named joint man of the match with Harvey - well done Boys.              

We got back to find that Grandma & Grumps had already arrived, and Grumps was already on his first glass of Wine (well, it was after 12 o'clock I suppose). We had a well tasty lunch of Toad in the Hole & a super-yummy Chocolate Chip Sponge Cake - totally bloated afterwards. Alfie clearly hadn't had enough Football, so went down the park with his friends (bad idea). He'd only been gone a little while when it started to rain, and didn't stop for over 4 hours! He came back after about an hour - totally soaked to the skin - SHAME!

He should of been sensible and stayed in and played Conkers with me & Grumps. He though he'd got an unbeatable one, smashing Dad's to bits, but I had the champion one, and blasted Grumps Conker to bits - WINNER.

06/10/2013

You know what I said about Dad regretting the Football coaching..... well I think we pushed him a bit closer to the edge, before bringing him back a bit! He said that he doesn't need to get his hair cut anymore, as it just falls out being involved with us lot - charming!

Anyway, before all that - spectacular result on the cooking front, some of the nicest Cheese & Onion tarts Mum had ever had - impressive (even if I say so myself). Otherwise a pretty quite early part to the week, except for the long walk home from the School Bus, as a water pipe had burst in the Street, so the bus couldn't go down there - shame!

Thursday was proper busy - straight after School we had a Football match against Dereham, and I played the last 20 mins & scored our 4th goal - we won 5-2 in the end....RESULT. Everyone else got to go home for their tea, but not me & Hannah, we walked over the road, and after just a few minutes were playing Football (again) - phew.

Maybe it was me & Hannah being tired, but everyone just seemed really lazy & not bothering, which I could tell was making Dad cross (although he did very well to hide it). What was great was that Rebecca came along to train, even though her fingers are still all strapped together - top Girl. Knowing that I would be doing some Goalkeeping on Saturday, I wanted some practice, but even the shooting practice was awful (I hardly had anything to save - Dad was more busy than me, trying to find the shots that missed!

Alfie had been working on a collection of poems for a School project (that could be any mixture of ones he wrote or found), see if you can guess which are which!

Saturday morning, and a last minute call from Keivy to say she can't play as she's not well - OMG, can it get any worse? We are playing against Sprowston (who came 2nd last year), and I'm in goal - GREAT! After nearly 15 mins we are only losing 1-0, and I'm quite enjoying it - especially doing the big drop-kicks. We let in a couple of silly goals near half-time (one my fault cos of a dodgy kick), but we aren't playing badly at all, and Dad is really pleased with how hard we are trying. I can't persuade anyone else to go in goal, so I play the whole match. We end up losing 6-0, but we hit the post & had a couple of really good chances. They scored a great free-kick & a header from a corner, so nothing I could have done with those ones. I did do some good saves, and they thought so too, as I was awarded the player of the match (and I'm not even a Goalie!).

The day got even better, as I've been feeding Ali's Cat (she's the lady that works with Dad), as she's been on holiday, and Dad finally passed on the money from Ali - £20 UNBELIEVABLE!!! that's half the money I need for my new School bag - one happy Edie!

On Sunday Alfie was playing Drayton who were 2nd in the league, and it started so well, Blofield scored..... then it all went horribly wrong, and they got totally thrashed 9-2. Yes, they played pretty rubbish and Alfie had one of his not so good games, not getting his tackels in, despite Michael saying again & again for him to 'get his body in... don't just wave your leg'. The sad thing was that the Drayton manager just kept moaning & moaning about the ref decisions, and clearly his team copy him as they did just the same. At one point the ref (Kerry) had to stop the game & have a private word with the mangers, as it was all getting out of hand - PATHETIC. Even worse at the end Alfie says that when they were shaking hands one of their players deliberately twisted his arm around and really hurt his wrist, what a load of saddo's.

Norwich got nothin' as well against Chelsea, although they battled until near the end and it was 1-1 with less than 10 minutes to go, then Chelsea scored two quick goals, and they lost (again). So, the best performance of the week goes to......ME, even though I let in six goals, I was the best - so there!

29/09/2013

Mmmm, I bet Dad is wondering why he decided to look after my football team, after another 'interesting' week.

After our defeat last week we all hoped that things would get better - but in the world of Thorpe United, nothing is ever that simple!

Firstly we learned that we would be without our goalie & our best player, Vivian on Saturday as they were away. Then, when we went to collect Rebecca's goalie shirt on Friday, she tells us that she broke her finger at our football training!!!! OMG, what a nightmare, as she was supposed to be at a Swimming gala, and she plays Hockey - none of which she's allowed to do for a few weeks. We feel awful, but she said it was just one of those things - so Dad's already said she can play as a normal outfield player whenever she is able to do so.

So on Saturday we travel to Bradwell, with no subs, and its hot (again). Keivy agrees to go in goal in the 1st half, but she's hurt her leg as well, so can't kick the ball very well. So..... you can guess the rest (or some of it) - they started to score goals, but we didn't get too upset, just HOT! I had a shot that hit the post & we came close with a few other attempts, but just couldn't get one over the line.At half time I was feeling really exhausted - thank God Dad had brought a bottle of water to tip over my head - lovely. As I was feeling really whacked, I volunteered to go in goal for some of the 2nd half, but ended up staying in for the rest of the match, and I actually didn't mind it too much at all. Yes, of course they scored a few more goals, but I made some good saves (couldn't stop their penalty though). I think I'll do it again as it's quite fun really. At the end we knew we'd tried our hardest (or at least most of us had - but no names will be mentioned!).

At least the bad luck didn't spread to Alfie, who played much better on Sunday & scored a good goal, to help his team to a 4-3 win at Windham. Our Goalie's brother, plays in goal for Alfie's team and made some great saves  - deserving his man-of-the-match award. Rebecca was also there and looks like a handy player, not just a goalie, and she's got a pretty tasty shot on her! Norwich City were obviously motivated by Alfie's win, and did very well to win away at Stoke. They really needed the points as its Chelsea next!!!! 

Alfie is happy now that he's got a wooden floor in his bedroom the same as mine - exactly the same actually, so lets see if he keeps it clean, like I obviously now do (sometimes!). He's also happy that Dad has booked his birthday Paintball game, so the weekend Rambo's have only 3 weeks left to train on the Xbox

22/09/2013

Yawn....both from the tiredness of yet another punishing 5 day school week (we're still not quite back into this routine yet!), and a bit of boredom, as things are no where near as exciting as they were over the holidays - so not really too much to say this week.

Alfie is writing some poems for school, and lets just say he's not going to win any prizes for creative writing - they all end up with pretty desperate attempts to rhyme all sorts of weird words! Of course, I'm expecting there will be one about me, and I'm sure it'll be all lovely (NOT!).

I had to do a poster for Facebook (nothing too hard there you might think), but in French.... not that's just mean! It took a while, but thanks to a couple of ideas from Dad (did I really say that!), it turned out - tres bon!

I'm doing cooking again this term & made Chilli con Carne, which was so lovely there really wasn't much to bring back - so I made some of my famous Chocolate Brownies later in the week, to make up for it. They lasted even less time, and we all scoffed them in about an hour!

After last week's poor football results, we were all hoping for something better - but no, it actually got worse. Despite Dad's training, helping us to keep the ball from other players (which was really fun), we just didn't play well on Saturday, and lost 8-1.It was really warm & I had to come off after 20 mins as I was roasting hot, and needed to cool down - bring on Winter!     

Norwich were (again) no better, and lost at home to Aston Villa, and missed a penalty as well - gotta get better soon, or Mr Houghton will be looking for another job with the manager of Sunderland, who sacked their manager this week (unbelievable), after just 5 games.

So, the last hope for a football revival was on Alfie's shoulders. Sadly, his team also got beaten (admittedly by last season's league champions), losing 5-0, although the 2nd half was 0-0, they let in 3 really soft goals - that looked more like our ones!    

Luckily, we don't take our football too seriously, and hopefully Dad will keep patience with us & not turn into some bully boy manager!!!!!

15/09/2013

Cor, that was hard..... 5 full days at school - exhausting stuff (still only 6 weeks till we have another week off!) The homework has proper started, something to do most evenings - booooooo. I did however read Macbeth by Shakespeare, which wasn't too bad. It was a kids version, so at least it didn't have crazy old English words which would have been well confusing!

Even more confusing will be all the writing in St Petersberg, where Grandma has gone, as they don't even have the same writing as us, for example, I Googled 'have a good holiday' and it came back with 'иметь хороший отпуск' - WHAT!!!!!

I am trying to keep my bedroom tidy (after Dad put the new wooden floor down), and its certainly better than it was before, and no where near as bad as behind the sofa - totally grim!. The next time we lost anything that will be the first place we'll look.

Now we are back at school, Alfie is squeezing in every spare minute of Xbox time (even getting up at 6.30 in the morning to make his packed lunch then go online to play Call of Duty with his friends from 7.00 - what a load of saddo's. Me & Dad tried to work out just how much time he might have spent on the Xbox in the last 6 months. At a guess, about 3 hours a day (at least), which makes a total of 22 days solid. Yes, that's right - 22 days, day & night - how bonkers is that. Just to show you how dedicated you have to be, Dad put Alfie's Green Norwich hat on him, while he was playing - making him look like a bit of a Elf!, and he couldn't even stop playing then.

Disappointing football weekend. Firstly we lost 3-2 to Bungay, but the ref was soooo biased. I scored our first goal, (YES, I SCORED), and then I had another shot that hit the post & the crossbar, and bounced down (definitely over the line) but he didn't give the goal - so in our heads it was a draw. The great thing was that Rebecca (the Sister of a player in Alfie's team) played in goal for us & she was BRILLIANT - totally deserving the Man of the Match award. That meant Kate (our old Goalkeeper) got to play in midfield & she scored our 2nd goal. We did all of this good stuff even though Vivian wasn't playing, as her Knee still isn't right, so when she's back it should be well good. Dad says he's going to work on toughening us up a bit, as some of the other players are getting right rough, that doesn't sound like too much fun!!!!

Norwich were no better & got beaten by Tottenham (I'm not sure they even had a shot on the Spurs goal, as Match of the Day didn't show one!). Then things got even worse on Sunday, with Alfie's team losing 4-2, and just like last week they weren't very good. Dad just doesn't know what's happened, it just seems they've forgotten how to pass! - sounds just like our team. Maybe we should play them & see what happens!!!! 

looks like Alfie & Harvey could be having a joint paint-balling party, which sounds like someone's going to get hurt, as I'm sure they'll all think they are proper soldiers from their Xbox - gonna be messy.

08/09/2013

Booooooo, the holidays are over for another Summer, but we had a fantastic time (I've even got a half-decent tan!). We were worried that the fun would just end - like someone switching off a light, but no - it's still going, cos we've found a new fab place - Beccles Lido.

We'd been there before with Robert & Rowan, but all we could remember was that it was really cold & we didn't stay in for long - not now, you couldn't keep us out - unless we were waiting to go on the diving board. Yup, you read it right, they've got a proper diving board, and you can pretty much do what you want off it - even BOMBING, fantastic!

Me, Alfie & Dad went along, cos Mum had to do a teacher training day (ha ha her holiday is over as well!). Although we'd seen Dad diving before (when he was teaching us at Bungay) - OMG, he was incredible on the proper diving board - front & back somersaults (just like the dude in the picture). Of course me & Alfie had to try & copy him, and we both got the front flip sorted (Alfie even put in an extra cartwheel on the board which was pretty cool, until the Lifeguard asked him to stop - boooo). Back flips, they were a bit more tricky, but I got it in the end, but Alfie tried just a bit too hard and landed on his back - OUCH!!!!!!!!     

Then it was back to reality with a BANG! getting up at 6:30am and going to School (harsh or what!). We all made it up & out on time - even Mum who can no longer lie in bed until 9o'clock!!! It was good to catch up with a few of my friends that I'd not seen too much of over the holidays, and talk again about the amazing Sundown festival. At least we only had two days to survive, so being honest it wasn't too tough.

What was tough was football on Saturday. We finally had some rain on Friday (never thought you'd hear me wanting rain, but the ground was so hard, my feet hurt at training), but the pitch was still rock-hard, and we were playing in the middle of the day - scorchio.

We started off pretty badly, and were losing 2-0 at half-time (even though we'd had lots of chances to score). This was Dad's first match as coach & I felt a bit bad, as I knew we could play much better. Clearly the half-time team talk (and the Oranges & Cookies helped) as we went crazy in the 2nd half and scored 4 goals (all of them by Vivian - who really hurt herself & came off before the end - hope she is ok).

So we won 4-2, so good start to our season. Alfie had a friendly on Sunday (and it was lucky it didn't count for anything as they got beaten 5-0.  They all played pretty rubbish (even Dad said so & he was one of the linesman). Alfie was a bit sad afterwards & wouldn't go swimming with me & dad, so we went off to Beccles again, and did some more crazy diving - brilliant. Sadly, they are now closed for the Winter, and don't open again until May 2014, but we'll definitely be there!

01/09/2013

Lordy, Lord, its going to be sooooo difficult to get our heads out of holiday mode, as it's just been such a great Summer of fun - and last week was more top-tastic entertainment.

We were staying in Nanna & Grandad's caravan at Kessingland, and every day we did something different, so no chance of getting bored.

After leaving Dad to get on with putting the wooden floor in my bedroom, we headed off & spent the afternoon settling in & getting our food & stuff for the week - so lots of goodies & ice-creams!

Sunday - A trip to the beach to soak up some Sun & test out the water, which was a bit chilly, but ok

Monday - It was a Bank Holiday, so Dad had the day off work & came to visit (so clearly he'd been busy on my room, to earn himself a day off!). We went to Walberswick to do some crabbing , as when Sophie & Naomi had stayed they set the record of the number of crabs caught in an hour (just over 100 - wow). We had two nets & just by chance ended up in the same spot as when we came with Robert & Rowan. We started off really well with 20 caught in the first 10 minutes - thanks to the un-smoked Bacon bait. After 45 minutes we'd got about 80, so it was going to be close...... We used all our Bacon up (and could have done with more), and with the last few scraps, we chucked Dad's latest Crab catching invention in.... an old bike wheel rim, with a net inside, and we hauled up another 10, making a grand total of 126 - unbelievable!

We then went onto the beach, with the tide coming in, and some really fun waves that were so strong they knocked us over - we must remember our surf board every time!

Tuesday - Nearly back to the same place as the day before, this time to Southwold, on the other side of the river. Alf got a bit bored in the shops, but I didn't.  Especially as I persuaded Mum to buy me a Jack Wills sweatshirt that was in the sale.... bargain. Alfie did cheer up when we got to the pier, and could play on the 2p machines, and win some more quality prizes!!!!! Another lovely day by the seaside - who needs to go abroad when the weather is like this?  

Wednesday - Alfie had a bit of a grump on when he heard we were going into Lowestoft, as all he could think of would be more boring shops, but he ended up enjoying himself in Poundland, and looking for DVD's in the charity shops - Dad would have been very proud!

Thursday - Our trip to Pleasurewood Hills, that I'd been looking forward to for ages. Alfie had a bit of a strop when he learned that two of my friends were coming, but once Dad explained that this was arranged months ago, he got over it & really enjoyed it. The only shame was that he couldn't go on all the rides, as he's STILL not quite 1.4 metres tall - what a dwarf! The only thing he really wanted to go on, but couldn't, was Lollards Pit, which me & Mum started to queue up for, but after 30mins we'd hardly moved, so we gave up - maybe next year! Wipe Out & the other rides were still good though, although not quite Thorpe Park!

Friday - Boooo, our last day, and most of it was spent making sure the caravan was all nice & tidy again. When we got back, I ran straight to my room to see the new floor, and I LOVE IT....it's sooo nice - lucky me.  

Saturday - OMG, me & Mum went to the Sundown festival, with some of my friends - AMAZING! the music was just incredible, and although sometimes I got a bit anoyed when everyone starting pushing around too much, it was still an INCREDIBLE night - Example was just AWESOME. We didn't get home til after midnight and I was soooo tired, I almost fell asleep in the clothes I was wearing! Dad & alfie were asleep when we got in, as they'd had a busy day playing golf, at a proper golf club. They went to near Lowestoft to play & had a great time. Dad says that Alfie played some great shots, the best one was when Alfie chipped the ball from off the green, into the hole in only his 2nd shot - FANTASTIC. They also went to Beccles, and got some new DVD's for us to watch, as well as a new hoover (didn't know there was anything wrong with the old one!). 

Sunday - I was still half asleep when I met my friends in Norwich @ 11 o'clock for a very, very important occasion - THE ONE DIRECTION MOVIE - OMG, it was amazing, nearly 2 hours of our Boys on screen..... heaven - can't wait for the DVD. Alfie didn't have any Football training, so he had a marathon Xbox session, about 5 hours in total, before Dad kicked him out of the house - just to get some fresh air!

Talking of football - good to see that Norwich got their first win of the season against Southampton, and lets hope at least one of us can same the same this time next week, as we start our Football season next weekend, so we'll all be busy, busy. Oh, yea, and there is the other thing..... back to School (but at least its only for two days!).    

25/08/2013

Things show no sign of slowing down - what a mental Summer holidays this is turning out to be (just the way we like it!).

This week our house has been turned into a hotel, as we've had all sorts of people staying over - all our friends - obviously.

My friend Hannah came to stay on Tuesday, as her Sister was doing a Football training camp & she didn't want to be at home bored - so she came to mine - ahhhhhhh! I persuaded her to come to my Football training, just to see what she thought - she's not as good as her Sister (she though her Head was going to bust, just by practicing headers!). She hasn't said anything about coming again, but you never know. We had a sensible bedtime for once (maybe all that fresh air & exercise had tired us out!).  

Alfie had only been at Joe's house on Tuesday night, and the next thing... Joe had all his stuff here, for a Wednesday-night sleep over at our place. Hannah was still here as well & we had such a laugh watching Little Britain - we were crying it was sooooo funny. Maybe it was that, or the energy drinks & sweets the Boys had finished, but when me & Hannah went to sleep at 4am, they were still awake. Dad said that Alfie was still awake (sort of) when he got up for work, but sent him off to bed - and we didn't see him, or Joe until lunchtime!!!!

After everyone was awake, we went off to choose the new wooden floor for my bedroom, which I hope Dad will sort out while we are way in the caravan next week - pleeeeeese! It didn't take too long as for once, me & Mum knew what we were looking for. That was the easy bit - now Dad just needs to pay for it!!!

Hannah was only staying for 2 nights, but as Alfie had already invited Ali over for another sleep-over (our third different person in 3 days), I wanted Hannah to stay as well. She didn't need much persuading - 1 quick phone call & job-done. Lucky she did stay really as otherwise she'd of missed our pizza feast - bootiful.

Sadly, on Friday both Ali & Hannah had to go home, and leave us alone to.... get on each others nerves! Probably cos we were both sooo tired after so many late nights. We only just had the energy to watch some of the celebrity Big Brother, before we actually took ourselves off to bed.

Great news - Dad got the wood floor, so that's his weekend sorted out! Lucky him. We will leave him to it, as we are going off to the caravan in Kessingland for a few days - which should be good fun (if we at least some nice weather).

So, next time.... hopefully we'll have some tales to tell from Kessingland, and I'll have a fab lookin' bedroom.

18/08/2013

He hoped last week that the entertainment would continue, and it certainly did.... fun, fun, fun.

It seemed that we were either going somewhere, doing something, sleeping-over or having people sleep-over.... just the way we like it.

Carrying on from seeing Cousin's Monty & Connie last week, this week we saw all the rest of them - bizarre, we hadn't seen them for ages & ages & then all at once - CRAZY!

First, we saw Robert & Rowan at the Yarmouth fairground (as they are both now love Rollercoaster's & scary rides - thanks to us!). We spent most of the day going on the Big Dipper, SkyDrop, Dodgems, as well as loads of other rides..... fantastic.

Then we met them again, along with Sophie & Naomi at Gorlestone beach, which was really good. Playing Cricket or Football, and just basically messing around.... just what the Summer holidays are all about.

The third thing was a cool bike ride (yup, you heard it right, the words bike ride & cool in the same sentence), cos we went to Thetford & got to blast around the Forest on our favourite trail, which we'd forgotten was 12 miles long - but fantastic fun (Mum just needs to go a bit faster, or get out of the way!). Just to finish off a great day - I won our family Rummycub competition to decide who's bedroom was going to get a new wooden floor first - cool or what!

To finish off the triple theme, Alfie had a friendly Football match and not only was he team Captain, his team won 5-2 and Alfie scored a hatrick (3 goals, in the first 20 minutes) - very impressive, even I have to admit. Dad still says he scuffed his first shot - but they all count. 

So, as you can see we had a real blast - fab to see our Cousin's again, and even though we've only got a couple more weeks off School, if they are as full-on as last week, we'll be going back to School for a rest!!!!!

11/08/2013

Hi everyone - we're back (as if you'd even noticed that we'd been away!). We've just been to River House in Hampshire to see our Cousin's Monty & Connie, and we camped in their garden (yup, it's THAT big). We had a fantastic time, the weather was really nice - not too roasting hot, but just warm, Sunny & lovely.

Thinking that we we originally driving all the way to France again (the 4 hour trip wasn't too bad at all), especially as we had a KFC stop in the middle! Mum had soon chosen our camping spot, so we left them to it while we 'said hello' to our Cousin's - the only polite thing to do obviously. Catherine had kindly made us some tea, so it was a brief stop to feed our faces, then more fun til the sun went down. The rest of the week was just as full on:

Day 1 - We'd brought our bikes along, so of course we had to use them straight away for a ride to Winchester, which was about 10 miles each way. We soon found that Hampshire is much more hilly than Norfolk, and even though Dad said he'd taken us the 'easy' way, it was tough - but very pretty through the little villages, filled with thatched roofs & posh people! Why do I say that, well, who else would ask my Dad to stand up while he was fixing a puncture by the side of the road cos her Horse got spooked if it couldn't see what everyone was doing!!!!!.

Day 2 - Monty & Connie were clearly jealous of us going out on our bikes, so they wanted to have a go (or Monty did anyway). He did really well going over 2 miles, and helping us find our first Hampshire Geocache along the way (which Dad was particularly pleased about). We had a picnic, which lasted all of 5 minutes, as the Boys saw some trees that were perfect for climbing, so off we went. They went off home, while we cycled into the nearest village - Arlesford (just a couple of miles away this time). We got a few bits & pieces and headed off for the 'short' ride home. Yup, it might not have been the furthest distance ever, but it was all up hill, and some of the hills were total 'killers' - Mum refused to even tackle the steepest one and walked all the way up - not a happy Bunny!!!!

 Day 3 - We though it would be great to hear that we weren't going on a bike ride, then we found out we were going on a walk instead - great! One thing, it was flatter, as it followed a river down to a pretty village called Hamble (which had a cool Pink ferry that we had to go on to get across to carry on our walk). Near the end we went past this boat yard (like the ones in Brundall) except their most expensive boat was over £2 MILLION pounds - incredible. At least we got to finish off our walk with a well deserved drink at the Jolly Sailors pub. That turned out not to be the last treat of the day. You remember me saying about posh people, well its clear that you almost have to have a swimming pool at your house, or you are a nobody! Although Monty & Connie don't have one (commoners), their nearest neighbour does, and they can use it when they want. We were expecting some pretty grim, cold pond.... oh, no, this was a lovely HEATED outdoor pool - FANTASTIC. With no boring lifeguard to tell you off, we splashed, bombed & dived all over the place - totally fab!!!!!  

Day 4 - The bikes came in handy again, this time to get us around Basingstoke (which had a massive a pretty cool shopping centre, so obviously I took full advantage of the retail opportunities). Dad was very disappointed by the quality of the charity shops, and couldn't believe it when he saw someone stealing clothes from one of the charity shops - a sad first! Luckily we got back at the hottest part of the day, so there was only one place to go - the pool, for more dives and craziness, which we started to make into a music video. We also made a new friend - one of the Sheep from the field next to River House who likes Apples, and started following us back from swimming, so now she bleats whenever she want us to throw some more fallen Apples into the field - bless.

Day 5 - I think Dad only wanted to visit Aylesbury cos it was on his map & Ben had never been, as there wasn't much there - not even thieves in charity shops, although there were a lot of them! Luckily we didn't stay long but instead went to an amazing swimming pool in Basingstoke, very like the one in Colchester - as it had slides, rapids (sort of) & the brilliant Space Bowl where you came shooting out of this tube into a bowl with a hole in the bottom that you fell through - brilliant! Can you believe it, when we got back, we went across the field & went swimming again (although this was mainly messing about). At least we didn't have tea to worry about as Dad took everyone out for a meal at a local pub - very tasty burger, chips & chocolate brownie (not all together though obviously.  

Day 6 - Although we were sadly going home later, we still had time to have a walk around Arlesford, which had a lovely river where they grow Watercress (I'll have to check next time Mum gets some - see if it comes from there). Monty & Connie came to & helped us find another couple of Geocaches. Sadly after a delicious Pot Noodle lunch it was time to pack everything up & get ready to go home. Spookily, Ben was also packing Monty & Connie's things as they were off to see Grandma & Grumps for a few days - so we'll only be 30 miles away, even when we get home. There was still time for one last bit of drama - we hadn't gone very far when we started to hear a scraping noise from the bottom of the car, then a loud bang. When we stopped Dad found that part of the exhaust had fallen off!!!!!! Luckily he was able to crawl underneath and tie it up, and we made it all the way home - phew!. 

So, we had a fab, fab time - have a look at an early selection of a few pics. Shame about the tidy up day on Sunday.... boring. 

At least there is still more than 3 weeks left, and we should be seeing our other Cousins next week, so let the fun continue.

21/07/2013

OH YEA, NO MORE SCHOOL FOR 6 WEEKS - AWESOME!!!!!! Finally, after what seemed like forever, the Summer holidays are finally here, and the Sun is still shining - just. It was great to have a chance to go back to Brundall school on the last afternoon of term & 'help out' in class - brought back some memories, all those little kids! Mum was just a bit sad as it was the last day she worked at Brundall school, as she will be going to Acle High School with Annabel in September, but she's really looking forward to going there as well. It all looked pretty grim on the 1st day of the holiday as it was all cloudy - but we still went to the beach & had a good time with my friends Hannah & Rachel, who came back to stay over. Check this out... we stayed just messing about making video's on out IPads & couldn't believe it when Dad came downstairs to go to work - and we'd not even been to sleep (how mental is that!). We did then grab a few hours, but we were awake again about 10 o'clock when Mum got up!

Me & Mum went skiing on Friday night, as they had my favourite - Skier-cross. Even though it was hot, I was really fast, but didn't crash, unlike a couple of people that ended up going to hospital with hand or wrist injuries - ouch!

The weekend was totally full-on, for both of us. I went to stay over with my school friend Lexie, at her Dad's house which had an indoor swimming pool - how completely amazing is that. We had an amazing time messing about... doing huge bombs to splash out as much water as we could. I also got to go in the Sauna (very hot, but really , really nice & relaxing).

So, with me 'out of the way' Alfie got to choose what he wanted to do, and he certainly made the most of it - going to play 10-pin bowling (which Dad only luckily won in the last few throws as he got a couple of strikes). Then they went swimming (what copy-Cats), but I bet they were much better behaved than me & Lexie.

On Sunday, I was still at my friends, so I couldn't go and play in a football tournament with the Girls, but 'Coach Dad' was obviously there. Although they didn't win any of their matches, they drew one, and only lost to the really good teams 2-0, and each time one of the goals was really unlucky. It seems like they had a good time, with everyone being the goalie for at least some of the match - which most people actually enjoyed - even Emmi made a couple of really good saves.

Now I don't get jealous often (honest), but hearing that Mum, Dad & Alfie went to Yarmouth with Annalise & Harvey to eat chips & play on the 2p machines is one thing that does get me going - outrageous! All this after going to the pub - rub it in why don't you!!! So, go on Alfie, tell them all about you stuffing your face with chips, lollies & fresh donuts, and then playing on the mini 10-pin bowling game where Kerry nearly made a ball fly out of the machine - trying to throw a bit too hard maybe?

So that means that we'll have to go back there later in the Summer holidays so I can have my turn - fairs, fair. So, guys, hope you have a fab Summer holidays & I'm sure we'll be seeing most of you soon enough - bye.

21/07/2013

Wow, HOT, HOT, HOT...... no, not the Boys from 1D (for a change!).... the weather - 2nd week in a row its been proper roasting (until the weekend that is.... booo!). Me & Alfie got completely cooked in our School classrooms - even with all the windows open it was just toooo hot to work. Lucky it was close to the end of term & we weren't having to work too hard!

Alfie got his end of year report. Mum & Dad were really pleased as it seems like he is a different person at School - words like nice, pleasant, and hard-working.... doesn't sound like the Alfie I know. Truth is, I'm probably quite different as well. Got some good, sensible friends around me - makes all the difference.

Even the heat didn't stop Dad getting us running all about the playing field at football training. He had some new things for us to try & although none of us wanted to do the heading practice, in the end we all did pretty in the end, and we're just about convinced that it isn't going to hurt (too much). Most people were a bit better behaved this week (just a couple of people still need to take it more seriously). We really could do with a couple more players, as we've only got 9 or 10 when we are all there (I'll have to ask Alfie to grow his hair again!)

It was much too hot to go skiing on Friday (and anyway my friend Hannah wasn't going to be there), so we just chilled in the garden.... as the clouds came out of no-where (as it turned out, a sign of things to come). We got up on Saturday, and it was just like when we went camping in May, the temperature had dropped by about 10 degrees, it was cloudy, and we even had a few spots of rain - incredible after the 5 days beforehand.

I didn't mind as I went to watch Monsters University at the Cinema, but Dad & Alfie went and played Pitch & Putt. Alfie said they did get rained on, but it was so warm that it really didn't matter. The film was really funny, and Alfie would really like it. Even better, my friend Hannah came back to mine afterwards for a sleep-over (yup, another of those non-sleep nights).

We got a few hours sleep (I think we finally crashed about 3 in the morning), and we were still asleep at nearly 10 in the morning (when Dad had been awake for 3 hours & working on his laptop - sado!).   

For me, another day, another film - this time Despicable Me II, with another of my friends Caitlin. OMG it was brilliant, we laughed & laughed.... so much. Dad dropped me off and went for a quick swim while Alfie went down the park to play football with his friend Joe, cos guess what, it was cloudy again. However, guess what they are saying about the weather on Monday (when we are back at School / work - 30 degrees! - great, back to getting cooked again!) 

It was sad to hear that Grandma & Grumps 22 year old Cat Pushka had died, but that is well over 100 years old, so she had a long and very relaxing life - we'll miss hearing her super-loud purr when we go round there next time - RIP.

14/07/2013

Phew, hope you are enjoying the weather - Summer at last!

No rest for us though, we've now got Dad taking us for Football practice on a Tuesday evening. He got his first experience of how some of them spend about as much time messing about as practicing - which we wasn't happy about. I feel some punishment coming on next week, as he said this week was just a 'look-and-see' - Yikes, could be horrible!

I had my end of year sports presentation evening and did pretty well, received certificates, for Rounders & Football - what do you reckon, a future PE teacher? (seriously, something I have been thinking about).

After another roasting day on Friday, I decided that I'd go Skiing with Mum (mainly so I could meet up with my friend Hannah), and whatta you know - Mum left my skies and poles at home, so I couldn't go (again!) - how rubbish is that. At least I got to see Hannah, and go shopping - bonus.

Saturday was another boiling hot day - luckily I was going to Emily's house, to have a giant water-fight. Ahhhhhh, it was lovely - she had a blow up pool, and a hose that everyone just wanted to get soaked with - bootiful. While I was keeping cool, what was Alfie doing? - playing Football at Brundall park with Joe. Dad said when they came back they were dripping wet with sweat - LOVELY.

Alfie had Joe stay over on Saturday night, and we had a fun time playing on the trampoline. For once they didn't keep me up (I must have been proper tired) - it turns out it was a pretty poor 1.30 in the morning when they went to sleep - still early on my sleep-overs!!!

I needed another Sunny day on Sunday cos we were going to the Beach (again) with Hannah, Rachel, Emily & Annie. So, did the weather behave itself? - no of course not. While Dad went off on his bike, we played on the beach, but not in the Sun - there were clouds everywhere - boooo. Dad came back & said it was lovely just a few miles away, but cloudy at the coast - bloody typical! Never mind, we had a great time, in the Sea and especially jumping off the sand dunes - with Alfie doing the best moves (with an impressive 360 degree spin, off the highest point!). Emily had an epic fail, and fell in a weird way - hurting her back, bless.

I've now set up Skype on my Ipad, so I spend hours talking to my friends, its just a shame that Dad is soooo EMBARRASSING sometimes - wierdo!    

07/07/2013

Gosh, did I really just type those two words together - perhaps I've got heat stroke or something! No, for once even I have to admit its true, so read on.

Firstly, the week started lovely for both of us - I had two days of Alfie-free time, and he had two days off school on his trip to Hobbis. The weather was warm & Sunny, and he had a fantastic couple of days with his friends, doing all sorts of outdoor Boys stuff. He was a bit disappointed that they didn't go abseiling, but hey you can't always have everything.

He'd only been back 5 mins when he had to come out with me to my Football training, as Dad is going to be taking over from our old coach Neil, who has another team to look after. While Neil was showing Dad where the things were we did a bit of our own thing, then had a match at the end, with Girls against Boys - big mistake! Not only did they have Dad as a mean defender / goalie, but these other Boys who are going to help out, and Alfie. Mmmmm, I've obviously seen him play, but not been against him in a 'proper' game. I think he dribbled past half our team before he scored his first goal - pretty impressive! We lost, but at least i did score past Dad - GET IN!!!!

I had more sporty action on Thursday with the School Games at the UEA, and a whole day away from lessons, and most of it sitting in the Sun, waiting for our relay event - tough life eh. We didn't win, but we did ok considering we were racing against some Girls that run for Norfolk, and are super-fast! Fun day out with my pals.

On Friday evening we went to Blofield football club for their end of season presentations. It was so lovely we biked there, although we arrived a fair bit before Mum who struggled up the hill into Blofield! There was a lot of waiting around, but it didn't matter as our friends were there, and there was the whole field to play on, while Mum & Dad chatted & drank Beer!      

Finally it was time to announce the awards for Alfie's team, and what'ya know, Alfie was named the 'Player of the Season' - he was so proud (and to be honest, so were we). He definitely deserved to win something, but we thought it would be for the most improved player, but to get the 'Big One' - AWESOME BRO, well done.

At last we've seen some proper Sunshine, and it was lovely over the weekend. On Saturday we messed about at home, having water-fights in the close which was a right laugh. Dad had to work on Sunday morning, but we went to our favourite beach at Waxham in the afternoon, and had a brilliant time. We went swimming (and it really wasn't too cold), had a bootiful BBQ on the beach (with Chocolate Banana's), and a really fun game of baseball (where you had to blast the ball into the Sea). By the time we left we were nearly the last people on the beach, and it was so lovely. Its only then that you realise how lucky we are to have this only 30mins from our house. Norfolk might be flat but its mighty pretty.   

Just got to finish off some Science homework about electromagnets - lucky me!  Only a couple more weeks to go until the holidays, so not too much more homework - hopefully.

30/06/2013

Phew, this teenager stuff is proper full-on, if my first week is anything to go by! Sadly, my new status didn't mean success on the Rounders pitch, and we didn't do very well in a tournament we played in. No surprise really as we hadn't played properly for ages, as things just kept getting cancelled - never mind (I got to miss a few of my least favourite lessons, so not all bad!!!!).

Talking of not all bad, how can we (I) forget about our extra day off, thanks to the Norfolk Show, as it was the beginning of a whole new friendship - me & my Ipad - AWESOME! Me, Hannah & Rachel went into Norwich to do some shopping, and I did spend some time in the Apple store, but it got a bit geeky & boring, so we went for a wander. I couldn't wait to get home and play.... and have pretty much been attached to my new best (gadget) friend ever since. Its soooo fab - especially now it got a groovy stripy case. I know it is also partly Mum's, but I don't know if she's actually been on it yet - whoops!

We were too tired to go Skiing on Friday night (plus it was too warm - wow, did I just say warm, anyone would think it was Summer or something). Saturday was a busy, busy day. Me & Mum went to get some food for a picnic tea, as we were all going to the outdoor Music thing at Alfie's school - Rock the Boat. As we were walking down a Police car & Ambulance came past. When we got near the School we saw why... a motorbike had hit the side of a car, and smacked a big dent in it. The motorbike rider was lying down & being looked after - no blood, so that was good!

Rock the Boat was really good. The music wouldn't win any prizes, and Simon Cowell would almost certainly of voted them off, but it was fun, and were spent all evening messing about, while Mum & Dad sat around chatting & drinking. Even more of a bonus (for me) was that Hannah & Rachel were staying over at our afterwards - so it was going to be a long night!!!!!!  And it was, we got to sleep at about 4.30 in the morning, and didn't get up until just before 11am, when their Mum came to collect them.

By that time Mum had already driven about 100 miles and was Skiing at Hemel, with Ed Drake the GB Olympic Skier - check her out!. And, Alfie had just about finished his Football practice - yes, yes.....we know its a bit lazy.

No time to sit about though as we were off to see Grandma & Grumps (as it was Grandma's birthday the day before mine- so we had to give her a present, of some very sharp looking garden cutters). Ipad (I haven't thought of a name for it yet) had to come (of course), and was surprised to meet another new tablet cousin - Grandma had bought herself a Samsung Galaxy tablet - very smart. Alfie was especially jealous, as that is what he'd want, if he got a tablet. After a delicious lunch of Turkey, we went to the Beach to try and fish for some more food - this time some Crabs or Lobsters. Sadly, no Lobsters, but a Starfish, two Prawns & an Eel. OMG, the Eel, it was sooooo wriggly, when it came out of the water I jumped back as it was going MENTAL. Grumps wanted to kill it for bait, but me & Dad wanted to let it go, so we agreed if it found its way back into the water, it would live..... and it did - phew!     

Luckily I didn't have any homework to do as I was sooooo tired by the time we got home. On the other hand, Alfie had to get straight into packing his bag ready for his School trip that includes and overnight sleep, with his friends - no sleep for him then! He's gone to Hobbis (I know it spelt all weird, and I don't know the right way), near Wroxham(ish). Lets hope he gets some good weather, as its outdoor stuff most of the time.

I'm off for a lie down (after I've chatted to my friends just a bit more, on my Ipad!).  

So, if you see me acting all weird now, there isn't anything wrong with me (as such), its just a 7 year phase I'm going through!!!!!!

24/06/2013 Happy Birthday 13 years old

So, it's official - I am now a teenager! That means I'm supposed to be moody, lazy & argue with everyone (about everything)! - what'ya mean I'm like that already - cheeky!

All my friends really loved the party, and we haven't stopped talking about it all week - plenty of likes on Facebook as well, so we'll see if anyone else has one - maybe not neon though as that would just be too copy-cat.

Leading up to my birthday, I was supposed to have a feast of Rounders - with 3 matches in 3 days, but guess what.... yup all the games got cancelled! It was either.... to wet, there was no-one to referee, or some other lame excuse that I can't even remember - very, very poor!!!

At least I got to go skiing on Friday night, and see my friend Hannah, who seemed even more hyper than ever to see me - the Girl is totally BONKERS! It was good to see that I can still get times like Mum, even though I'm not really trying (or that's my story anyway!).

Saturday morning was the usual house tidy, but at least me & Dad got to get out & about in the afternoon - even if going Swimming did also involve some Geocaching. I have to say though, there were a couple of the hides that were really smart - especially the seemingly impossible wooden 'T' - really clever.

I got some Swimming practice in, as I've got an inter-house competition next week, so I needed to work on my starts - which now look pretty good. I'm in the front-crawl race, which is my best stroke, so fingers crossed I can get some points for my house.  

 Saturday night was a bit of a TV fest, and I have to admit I was starting to get excited about my birthday (already).

On Sunday I was even worse - definitely border-line hyper. It was Alfie's turn to go out, while I stayed at home (doing schoolwork - boo), he went to the driving range with Dad (for the first time in ages), and Alfie says he was pretty rubbish - but then he always says that.

Nanna & Grandad came over for lunch & brought some more cards & presents (to add to the mountain) - wow. Mean old Dad wouldn't let me open any of them early - Child cruelty that is.

I didn't think I'd sleep at all, but I did (but was wide awake at 6am, and didn't even need my alarm - that's a first!). Dad was up as well (of course), but we also got Mum up - temped by the smell of the coffee I'd made!, so I could open my presents.

OMG (again), more fab things - a lovely Purple SuperDry hoodie, my Vans trainers (that I sneakily wore for my party!), SuperDry & Hollister t-shirts from Alfie, Mum & Dad - awesome. Mum also got this atrists set for us to share with more paints & drawing stuff than I'd ever seen. Also some money from Nanna & Grandad & a Chapelfield voucher from Grandma & Grumps - thanks ever so.

Me & Mum have decided that we are going to use our money together & buy an IPad, and we are going to get in on Thursday - well excited.  

So, if you see me acting all weird now, there isn't anything wrong with me (as such), its just a 7 year phase I'm going through!!!!!!

16/06/2013

Whoa.... what a crazy weekend we've just had - totally awesome. Me & Annalise's joint Birthday party - it was epic!

Can't really remember too much about the days before, as I was totally focussed on the party - I was at School in body, but my mind was definitely somewhere else - what a Lime-Jelly head!

I couldn't even be bothered to go skiing on Friday night (anyway it was too warm - that's my excuse anyway). Talking about the weather (again), OMG, it was completely mental on Saturday morning. Mum & Dad were outside in the Garden drinking Coffee, when this big dark cloud came over and we had the maddest Hail storm ever - they were the size of Peas & it was going crazy (it sounded like someone was machine-gunning our conservatory). Then, after about 5 mins it stopped & the Sun came out, leaving us with a Winter scene in the middle of June - unbelievable!

Luckily, we weren't out anywhere & just spent the day bouncing the Hail off the trampoline, and some very boring tidying up - definitely the calm before the storm (of the party). By the time we had to get ready, I'd already tried on my neon outfit a few times, done my nails & was ready for some full-on-fun, with nearly 100 other people!

We got to Upton Village Hall nice & early & got things together, then just had to wait for the Disco, and people to arrive. It was a huge relief when people started to turn up.... first 1 or 2, then more & more & more. Thankfully, just the people we'd invited, not like some Facebook House-Wreck parties that I've heard about, where loads of random people turn up & destroy your house.

OMG, what a party .... great place (a bit out of the way so we could make all the noise we wanted, and go outside onto the field & play area), great music (some One Direction-of course) & other fab tunes, and loads & loads of presents from my lovely friends - wow. Dad worked behind the Bar (only Coke & Lemonade though), and kept the drinks flowing, and kept his promise not to embarrass me - thanks Dad. Mum on the other hand, she was dancing around (if you can call it that!) - OMG, how totally embarrassing.

Everyone (almost) had a great time - a bit of Boyfriend trouble was about the worst it got (not for me or Annalise though. Alfie & his friend Joe came along and certainly had a few admirers (he was wrestled to the ground at one point - looking very scared!). We couldn't believe it when 10 o'clock arrived, and the DJ played the last song - it seemed like we'd only been there a few minutes. So, sadly everyone had to leave, and we had to tidy up all the mess - drink spills and crisps everywhere - messy, messy Teenagers.

We all got home at 11 o'clock and I just had to open some of my presents. I know it isn't my Birthday yet (but I needed to be able to thank people at School on Monday - quality reason or what!). So, I opened a few (Dad & Alfie went to bed - lightweights). Wow, how lucky I am, what amazing friends I have - Love you all! Beautiful jewellery, chocolate & money - perfect.

No day of rest on Sunday - I played in a Football tournament at Bungay, Dad worked (although did it from home - clever technology), and Alfie had Football training & spent some of the time with Joe. We did ok in the tournament - drew 3, lost 3, and I scored a goal (a good Right-foot shot into the corner!)

I opened the rest of the Birthday cards & in total I've got over £100 - UNBELIEVABLE, I don't know what to say, or what to spend it on - but I promise not to waste it. Now there is just one more week to my official Birthday (gosh I sound just like the Queen!)

09/06/2013

Finally, some warm & sunny weather... could this finally be the start of Summer? Shame we were at School for most of it, but at least we got some nice evenings to spend in the garden (or more accurately, on the trampoline).

Dad got a day off work this week (sort of), he spent a day doing some gardening with some of the people he works with, for a place in Norwich where some people with special needs live. They spent all day repairing, weeding & painting, but he said it was a really great thing to do, and already wants to do another one. His contribution was to build a new trellis, so that some climbing plants can grow up and look pretty - bootiful! That means Mum will be nagging him to do some DIY round the house now!!

It wasn't just Dad getting out & about, and having day's off. No, I got a day off school to go and study at the beach (easy eh!). We went to Cromer, West Runton & Weyborne, and had to study the Geography, plants & wildlife, which was really interesting - and the Sun shone all day, fantastic.

To end a crazy, hot day, what else but....skiing. Yup, to show my true commitment, I went and had a right good time at practice - what a shame I couldn't do the National Race on Saturday (as I was too busy). No, honestly those people are just way too good - my friend Hannah was going to race though - so go Girl!

Saturday was a fab day. Why, well obviously firstly no School, then I got to go shopping in the City for my Birthday presents - AWESOME. We went with Dad, and OMG, he's a speedy shopper - Alfie was almost running to keep up! We all got everything we wanted in less than an hour & a half - incredible.

The fun didn't stop there as both me & Alfie had friends sleeping over. Alfie's friend Ali came over (again), and my friend Emily visited us for the first time. We had a great tea, first we got to make our own Pizza's (which Dad made the dough for), then we got to have a Chocolate Fondue (using a set that Dad had bought at a 2nd hand shop earlier). It was Chocolate chaos, but lovely!

After settling down for Britain's Got Talent (did you see the winners - weren't they amazing!), we went our separate ways - the Boys to the Xbox, us Girls to the sanctuary of my room, and Emily's Ipad (I sooooo want one, they are awesome!).

Alfie had to be up early(ish) for Football, so the Boys were sensible & went to bed at about Midnight. I don't think we got to sleep until about 3 o'clock, so to be honest we were tired when we got up at about half Eight. At least Dad had made a nice plate of Pancakes for us, so a quick Sugar load-up & we were ready to go again.

We vegged out while Alfie played football (a friendly game against Windham, with the bigger 9-a-side teams, bigger pitch, bigger goals & offside). Dad went and said that Alfie was awesome! He scored the first goal, set up at least 3 others, and made so many chances for his team that is was amazing that they only won 6-1. Alfie was also Captain for some of the match, and is now officially the team vice-Captain, with his friend Harvey as Captain - the Dream Team! So it looks like what Dad said was right, that the bigger pitch would give them more room to play Football. I bet Alf can't wait for the new season (already).

We didn't do much in the afternoon & couldn't even be bothered to go out with Dad around the village, which was having lots of Garage Sales (sort of a car boot, from your garage, I think). Maybe we should of gone as Dad came back with a load of stuff (at least something for everyone). That made us wonder if Grumps went to the Car Boot on Sunday, and whether he got anything.          

So, all in all a good week really, just a shame that when Dad tidied the house up he chucked out a little box, thinking it was junk.... it was actually Alfie's homework, so Dad is going to have to send a 'sorry letter' to School - naughty Boy! 

02/06/2013

Mmmm, maybe we should both become weather forecasters (not), after our ranting last week, the weather Gods clearly took no notice of our request for warm & Sunny weather - thanks a lot!

However, that's not strictly true, they just saved the best weather for the days we WEREN'T camping - DOH!!!!

It all looked so good after nice days on Saturday & Sunday, so were all packed & ready to roll across the border, into wildest Suffolk on the Monday (which was another lovely day). Thanks to our clever car satnav (why didn't we get a proper one before?) we got straight to the campsite, and got the tent up really quickly. We even had time to pop up the road to Sainsbury's to get the food & go out for a quick bike ride, as the evening was soooo lovely. I did get a bit freaked by a field of Cows & had to leave my bike with Dad to get over the stile - total wimp, I know! So we were all set for 5 days of lovely Sun

Day 1 - We woke up..... and the Sun had gone. First we just had cloud.... then Wind as well.... then RAIN, what a nightmare. We managed to waste a couple of hours in Sudbury, but luckily found that they had a swimming pool, so we spent some of the afternoon in there (at least we were warm & wet!). It was quite good, they had a wave machine, an inflatable that was a pretty big jump to reach from the side (Alfie didn't make it first time & bounced off - LOL), and a water slide (but this was soooooo slow). 

Day 2 - After a very cold night (we all wore our gloves & hats to sleep in), and Mum was still cold, it was still raining. Only one thing for it - we went shopping. Dad had found this place near Braintree that had loads of great looking shops (like Hollister) all in one place. The Boys & Girls went their separate ways (after they got bored in the first shop we went to - Hollister), at least I've got a funky bright top for my Neon party with Annalise in a couple of weeks. Mum seemed to get bored & we didn't spend long in any shops, and when we got back for once the Boys had more stuff - Alfie had some new trainers, and Dad a new waterproof jacket from Barbour (but as you'd expect it was in the sale).

Day 3 - Another very cold night (felt like it was below freezing, but it probably wasn't), but at least it wasn't raining anymore. Dad nipped out for an early morning Geocaching bike ride & we vegged out, and fed the local Ducks from the front of the tent - the most we counted was 18. Then we all went out on our bikes and we discovered something very quickly - Suffolk has got more hills than Norfolk, or if not they were all just around our campsite - phew! We biked to this old village called Lavenham which has got loads of old buildings in it (although we were more bothered by the cakes in the bakery!). Then to another village called Long Melford (which is very long, but not much there really), then back along an old railway track, to Sudbury & then to our campsite - just over 20 miles.

Day 4 - Not quite so cold, or were we just getting used to it by now, and some more Sun - amazing. We had a lot to pack in so we were off early, and after a short drive (and a stop before we'd started to fix punctures - don't ask!) we biked through some lovely places - Dedham & Flatford, on to Manningtree, for some more goodies from the bakery, which we ate by the edge of this huge wide river, that Dad said went down to the Sea and one of the biggest ports in Europe, which didn't seem possible from where we were. A quick drive and we were in Colchester (supposedly the oldest town in Britain - but how do they know that?). We weren't interested in history, we wanted to swim (again). This pool was even better, two hot spa's (bubbly water), water jets & soakers, two slides (but again they were sooo slow. The best thing though were the outdoor rapids. You waited indoors, then they let about 20 people outside (which was freezing), and into this fast flowing river (which was lovely & warm). It went down steep bits and round corners, and you got tumbled everywhere, it was fab - me & Alfie lost count of how many times we went on & even Dad said it was really good fun.

Day  5 - Incredibly, Saturday already & time to pack up & go. Luckily it was dry & warm so everything went OK (except Dad wasn't feeling too well, so Mum drove home), but again thanks to the SatNav, no problem. A quick McDonald's stop & we were home.          

No rest on Sunday, Mum & Dad sorted all the stuff out of the Car, put is all away (although hopefully not for a whole year), and started on the piles & piles of washing (although some of it was bits of the tent - so it looked MASSIVE). I had a lazy day, a late lie in, a bit of English homework & plenty of social networking! Alfie, on the other hand, was out of the house before 9 o'clock in the morning, as he had a Football tournament to play in. Kindly Joe's Mum & Dad offered to take him, and although they didn't win (they came 4th or 5th), Alfie scored a goal & set up most of their others, so he was pretty happy.

So we hope you had a good time, whatever you were doing - now just 7 weeks to the Summer hols. Even more exciting now only two weeks til my joint Birthday party with Annalise - can't wait!

26/05/2013

Well, that's another half a term done, just 7 more weeks to go, then its the Summer hols. What makes that totally mental is the weather, not exaclty what May should be like. I've been freezing walking to the Bus for 8 o'clock, and no wonder, the other morning it was only 5 degrees - that a Winter temperature, and we are meant to be going camping - we'll freeze to death!

So, how can this be? haven't all these 'clever' scientists been telling us all about Global Warming, and how the world is heating up & its going to get hotter & hotter.......mmmmmmm, we don't think so!!!!

Ah, I know what they'll say, its just your little bit of the world, Edie & Alfie - yes, it might be colder in Brundall, but its hotter everywhere else...... RUBBISH!  Just last week in Allos they still had almost enough snow to still ski on (even after some Rain had done its best to wreck it), and what about this, they had to cancel part of a cycle race in Italy, as there was too much SNOW - don't believe us, here is the proof! So Mr Global Warming Man, what'ya say to that then!

Anyway, enough of the ranting, we just want it to be a bit nicer for camping. We've already changed our plans (again). First, there was a change from Shropshire (as Robert & Rowan couldn't come). So we were going to Derbyshire (and I was hoping to go to Alton Towers), but now another change, as the weather forecast said rain, rain & more rain - which we had last year & that was definitely no fun. So now we are going over the border, into bandit country - no not back to Wales, we're going into Suffolk, near some place called Lavenham. No hills though, but as we are taking our bikes that's maybe a good thing.

Talking of bikes, Alfie clearly has still some skills to learn as he had a spill on his way back from School in the week, and was walking really strange for a couple of days. Mum even took him to the Doctors, but it was just a muscle thing - even I could tell that from the chain ring marks on his lower Leg - ouch.

So, hopefully we'll have some Sun & warm weather on our camping adventure (a whole 50 miles from home), at least we haven't got hours & hours of driving to suffer, which is a bonus. Have fun whatever you are up to & we'll tell you all about our time under canvas next week.

19/05/2013

Hi everyone, so that's the footy season finished for another year, and guess what..... we were right - last week we said that Norwich could go to Man City and win, and incredibly they did, 3-2. so, in just 2 weeks they went from being in real danger of being relegated, to finishing in 11th place, which was one higher than last season - unbelievable!

So, while all the Norwich players go on holiday (to somewhere hot and expensive no doubt), we go camping (in the rain probably)..... mmmmm what an easy life eh!

Never mind, cos what did most of them win..... right, nothing. Whereas, I won the prize for Manager's Player of the Year - check me out!  I won for being happy to play wherever the manager asked, always with a smile on my face (unless I'm totally out of breath), and for always trying my best. I got a trophy & everything - how cool is that! I'll take a picture of it, so everyone can see. In the meantime, her is me & my football team, which we hope will still be going next year (I'm trying to get Dad to help out, but he says he hasn't got the time - boooo).  

It was a good sporty week all round, as we won our 2nd Rounders match of the season, beating Norwich High School, who were really good last year, but we won by nearly 10 points this time, and I hit 2 Rounders which was fab.

Alfie had a less fun week, with some tests at School most days (but he wasn't even sure what they were for), lets hope if they were important he still tried his best, and didn't get distracted by his friends.

We all finished the week with a trip to the Ski Club, after a tasty early McDonalds tea. Alfie skied well, but I didn't last too long as I smacked my leg on one of the poles & fell, which really hurt my shoulder. I think Mum was glad as she only stayed on for a bit longer & then we both came home - pretty lame!

Saturday's daytime highlight was watching Dad take the old Washing Machine to pieces, as the old one had become sooooo NOISY, as something inside had broken. At least we've now got two fire pits, as Dad saved the bits to build another one. Shame it was quite low to the ground and burnt the Grass - oops!

Alfie had his friend Joe over to stay, as it was his Mum Hannah's 40th birthday (and obviously she couldn't cope with reaching middle- age with her kids about, so they found other places for them!) - only kidding. No surprise, they were still on the Xbox at midnight (along with 6 of their School friends), or so they told me in the morning - I went to bed.    

Great to see Grandma & Grumps on Sunday, and to be out in the garden, as the Sun actually came out to play - wow. We spent half the time trying to keep Ralph away from this baby Bird that couldn't fly, but was behind the garden shed, so we couldn't reach it. Sadly, although Ralph didn't get it, we saw on Sunday night that it had died (either too cold, or too scared - sad!). Soon there will be no Blackbirds left in Brundall, if Ralph the Murderer gets any more.

12/05/2013

Mmmmm, we could definitely get used to those lovely short weeks, 4 days is plenty enough to learn everything we need to know at School - maybe we could have every Monday as a holiday!

I still managed to cram plenty in: Football training, Rounders practice, 1500m run at School & Ski Race Training. In contrast, Alfie, decided at the last minute he didn't want to do Cricket practice, and then the same again for Ski training on Friday - Man up Boy!

On Saturday we messed about outside while Dad fixed bikes & the wheelie bin store, which now looks really smart, as well as cleaning the conservatory roof (he got almost as wet as it did though!).

On Sunday, Dad was working in the morning (more system stuff - yawn!), and me & Mum were ski racing at Norwich, so we had to drag Alfie along with us, although he was planning to plug himself into the laptop and play stuff. Bit of a disaster though, the Ski Club's WIFI wasn't working so he got very bored, very quickly, and was soooo glad when Dad came to get him (although that was 4 hours later!).

Me & Mum skied ok, and I think for the first time ever my total times were faster than Mum's - Do I rock or what! I came 4th in my category which isn't too bad as I haven't do that much training, so maybe I'll get back into it again. Alf should give it a go as he'd definitely be good enough, he's just got to believe it.

As I had loads of time between races, I was talking to my friend Hannah about my German trip & showed her a few photo's. I won't bore you with the stupid ones we took on the coach, cos we got sooooo bored, so here are the sensible ones.

Just to prove, you can't predict anything (for sure), especially when football is concerned. We know that all too well from our games, and it seems its the same even for the Premier League teams. Why, are we so sure - well, did anyone say at School last week that Wigan would beat Man City & win the FA Cup?..... No, we thought not. How about..... Norwich to beat West Brom 4-0 and guarantee that they cannot be relegated.... No to that as well - though so. As we know, both of those things actually happened (and not just in our dreams), so like we said, how on earth can you be sure of anything - maybe the Sun won't even bother to come up tomorrow, what do you think?

To celebrate Norwich's 'survival', we feasted on a lovely Chinese takeaway - bootiful! Hope Grandma enjoyed the game. At least we can go to Man City next Sunday without having to worry about what anyone else is doing - so who knows, another 3 points?

Incredibly, its only another two weeks til half-term, and out camping trip to Derbyshire (somewhere). Still hoping that the weather warms up a bit by  then, as when the Sun is out its ok, but early mornings & nights its still proper chilly!

05/05/2013

Wow, what a week - 5 whole days with my School chums, and no Alfie to annoy me - perfect! However, as I've come to learn, with the good, there is always the not-so-good, and that was definitely getting up at 4 o'clock in the morning, and being at school before 5am! What was even worse, we had to wait around cos someone was late!!!!!

What a laugh we had on the coach trip, it didn't seem like any time at all & we were in Germany - even the ferry trip only seemed to last a few minutes. The place we were staying was alright, hardly a palace, but not a dump either. At least I was in a room with my friends Hannah & Rachel, so it was like having German sleep-overs.

Our first day was cool, we got to go shopping in Bonn. They had lots of shops that I recognised, like TK Maxx, so it wasn't all weird stuff. We also had to practice our German on random strangers, as we had to complete a questionnaire. Luckily, lots of the people spoke pretty good English, so when we started to struggle, they helped us out - good fun though.

Day 2 was completely wicked - a trip to Fantasialand (which is a theme park, like Aton Towers). The rides were awesome, and I reckon as good as Thorpe Park, that I went to last year. Even better, there weren't too many people, so we didn't have to wait too long, and on one ride we stayed on 3 times in a row.

Day 3, and after shopping a funfairs, it was time for a bit of education & learning - booooooo. So, we went to some museums & art galleries, which were actually quite interesting, especially the modern art one, cos there was this really strict lady who worked there and she was getting very cross with everyone, for no reason - how rude!.

Then, it was back on the coach, and the long trip back to England. I got to spend the last of my money on the ferry, and brought Mum, Dad & Alfie back some chocolate (aren't I kind!).

We got back early, as just like on the skiing holiday we got an earlier ferry, so Mum came to collect me at 11 o'clock, rather than midnight, which was better (for everyone).

I didn't have all the fun as Alfie had his friend Ali to stay for a sleep-over, but of course they were still awake when me & Mum got home (only Dad was fast asleep - bless!)      

Alfie had his last football match of the season, and they did really well, beating the team that won the league & the cup 1-0, on their own pitch - well done lads. I was still in Germany so missed our last Football match of the season, and I later learned that we'd lost 4-0, so they clearly missed my defensive skills! We've both got a bit more training & possibly some tournaments over the Summer, so we should stay pretty fit!

A final word on Football, yikes - its all getting a bit tense for Norwich after they lost to Aston Villa. They really must win against West Brom next week, or they could get relegated. It was a double-nightmare weekend as Lowestoft Town lost their playoff final (for the 3rd season running), so didn't get promoted. Granma & Grumps went to watch and were gutted - nevermind, remember, its just a game.

At least we all had an extra day off on Monday, and after a well deserved lie in, we went over to see Annalise & Harvey, to help make a clay Pizza oven (as you do!). It was really good fun, as we got to squidge the clay, straw, sand & water mix with our feet!!!! It looked really good when it was finished, and we can't wait to taste the first pizza's out of it (although its got to dry out first - obviously). While we were doing that, their Ducks & Cats were having a great time playing in the garden. Yup, that's right, their Cats play with their Ducks, and don't try and eat them - amazing. At one point one of the Cats jumped off the wall over the Duck's heads, and nearly got his tail nipped in the Ducks beak - very funny.

We had a lovely BBQ to finish the day off, and we were totally whacked when we got home, and crashed straight asleep.

28/04/2013 Happy Birthday 44 years old

Whoo, whoo, another week, another birthday - this time its Dad, who has once again caught Mum up and is now a totally ancient 44 years old! As it happened it was also the day for the Lad's (Alfie's Football team) to play against the Dad's. Alfie had been looking forward to it all week, and kept going on about how they were going to win soooooo easily & how Dad was 'going down' - so, just what happened?

Before I tell you, you are going to hear about my team. We won 4-0 against Long Stratton who had a similar game to us last week (they were the better team for the first 20 mins), then we got a couple of lucky goals, and they lost their confidence - sounds familiar doesn't it! I think that could be my last game of the season, so it means we'll either finish 7th or 8th - so not bottom, which is a bonus.  

Shame, cos playing football meant that me & Dad missed a flying visit from Ben, who came to collect the stuff that Kerry had brought back from France for him. He'd only driven up from River House on Friday evening & was then going straight back from ours on Saturday morning - phew! Maybe he was just getting some kid-free time as neither Monty or Connie were with him - sneaky!

So, back to the Lads v Dads (which ended up with me being on the Dad's team, along with more Mum's than Dad's - poor show!). I wasn't expecting to play, so skinny jeans and canvas shoes wasn't the best kit ever. The Lad's took an early 2-0 (including an own goal from Dad, which Alfie was soooooo happy with). I don't know how many players we had, but there always seemed to be at least two of them everywhere, but at half-time we were only losing 4-1.

In the 2nd half it was clear that a few on-pitch battles were taking place - Joe & his Dad were having a right tussle, and surprise, surprise, Dad & Alfie were definitely treating it as a contact sport. The goals kept going in and it was now 6-5 to the Lads. At one point both Alfie & Joe both 'fell over Dad's leg', and were screaming for a penalty - no chance, I've seen Premier League players dive more convincingly!

Then with scores at 6-6, Dad did 'take-out' one of the Lads (he did get the ball, but got a bit of his Ankle as well) - poor old Boy was crying (no, not Dad, he just stood around looking a bit awkward). Then there was a dramatic finish, with the Dad's 'winning' goal ruled offside (which we weren't even playing)..... the Lad's scored.

Afterwards, Alfie & Joe were still going on about the penalty that never was, two of the Dad's were hobbling about with injuries, but incredibly not Dad who was a bit out of puff, but still walking (in his own funny way!).

Dad opened his birthday cards & presents, including some very practical 'grow your own vegetables' from us. He got some beer from Lowestoft from Grandma & Grumps, and some wine and a very fancy bottle opener from Monty & Connie. We spent the rest of the day outside, as it was nice, and got the trampoline up for the Summer, while Mum planted some wild flowers (isn't that a bit weird, deciding where some 'wild' things go!!!!!. Anyway, we've lost none of our old skills, and Alfie was quickly back into his tricks and somersaults!!!!   

I'd love to talk some more, but I've got packing to do, as its my School trip to Germany next week, and I need to get all my stuff together, cos I have to be at School at 4.45 in the morning on Wednesday - lucky me, and lucky 'old' Dad!

21/04/2013

Gees, that was sooooo hard getting out of bed to go to School the first couple of days last week - it was like torture! At least me & Alfie have got stuff  to look forward to - my trip to Germany is only a couple of weeks away, and Alfie has his school trip in June (he thinks), but not somewhere quite as continental - Hobbis, near Coleshall, bless!

Talking about getting up early, I had a meeting about our trip, and I now know I've got to be at School at 4.30 IN THE MORNING - hardly worth going to sleep! - maybe I should just arrange a sleep-over that night, to be sure. That means Dad has got to get up to take me, and while I can go to sleep on the coach, he'll be going to work later - lucky Boy!!!!

Speaking about lucky, Norwich managed to win against Reading, which means they have got nearly enough points to stay in the Premier League for another year. They do like to make it difficult though, as we were listening on the radio, and Reading certainly had chances - Grandma must of been really worried Reading were going to score near the end - just like Arsenal did. At least no one got bitten! Did you see Louis Swarez of Liverpool bite the Chelsea guy on the arm - how totally bonkers is that.

Even we didn't go that crazy, and attack people, in our game on Saturday, where we lost (heavily). We blame the ref who gave some really strange decisions - including a penalty against me for handball, when the ball was just kicked at my arm, which I didn't even move!!!!

Looks like we will be changing our Goalie as Kate doesn't want to do it anymore. She gave up in the 2nd half and scored at least two own goals for them, which was well annoying. Hopefully we'll get Keevie in goal & Kate can play outfield (and who knows might score some goals in the right end!).

It was a really warm over the weekend, so we were 'encouraged' to get outside, and help tidy up the garden. As you can see, even the Cats tried to help!

Another lovely day on Sunday, and again Alfie didn't have a game - so he spent the time wisely (not) on the Xbox. In the afternoon we had a visit from the Birthday Boy himself - Grandad, who was....... 76 years old. You'd never guess would you - doesn't look a day over 75, does he! Yummy birthday cake, and my special Pancakes for afters (with loads of Golden Syrup - of course) - deeeelicious!

14/04/2013

Well, that's another Easter holiday over - but at least there will be loads to tell our friends about at School (not that they haven't heard most of it already - on Facebook, text, or BBM).

Getting up for School is going to be really tough as we've been sleeping in late (clearly the time difference between England & France has messed us up!), and for the first couple of days back we didn't have the energy to do anything - even changing out of our PJ's (or Onesie in my case) was too much effort one day!  

Things got more interesting again on Wednesday, as I had a shopping day & sleep over with Bethan & Annalise, and Alfie was staying round Joe's (which could only mean one thing - midnight Xbox!). Shopping was getting even more grown up for me now, as I've got my very own Bank Account, and cash card - check me out. Dad kindly put the last of my money in, but I mustn't spend it all cos its also got to be my spending money for my German trip - must be good, must be good!!!!!

We all had fun, and did get some sleep, which is as you know unusual, on our 'sleep-overs'. Still, me & Annalsie had time to bore Bethan with our Ski stories & photos! She did say that they might be moving house, as their Dad wants a bigger garden & her brothers might be going to School in Windham, which is miles away, cos I've played Football there. That'll be sad if she does, but we'll just have to try extra hard to stay in touch & see each other.

Talking of Football, I learned that my team won again over Easter (2-1), but then lost 5-2. However, two wins in 3 games is our best set of results this season. Alfie's team only had one match, and they lost 6-3. I can't ever remember seeing them let that many goals in before, so clearly they need Alfie & Harvey in the team. They can't blame Joe, as he only played in gaol for the 1st half, although he did let in 3 goals, so it wasn't all the other person's fault either. No surprise that Norwich lost against Arsenal, but they were winning with only 6 minutes left to go, and then let 3 goals in - hopeless! They have got a massive game next Saturday, at home to Reading. If they don't win, I think they are going to get relegated - how can Grandma stand going to watch, it must be torture!   

Friday was an unexpected treat, a trip to Yarmouth to see Nanna, and tell her all about our holiday. Its always weird to see Yarmouth when its not Summertime, as it looks a bit sad, as if it has been sleeping all Winter & is waiting for some nice weather, so it can come to life. Anyway it felt a bit less cold, and they say it could even be as warm as 20 degrees on Sunday, so maybe Spring is finally almost here.

No Football for Alfie at the weekend. I played, and we came back from 2-0 down, to draw 2-2. However, it was against Scole, who we beat 3-0 in the last match before my holiday, so we should of done a bit better.

Anyway, as promised last week, we've been going through our photos and picked out a few of our favs for you. We've not yet seen the ones that Debbie & Kerry took, so there could be some more to add (and there are the video's of the big airbag jump as well) - enjoy.

09/04/2013

Bonjour everyone, we hope you had a great Easter & stuffed yourself with lovely chocolate - we certainly did, nearly 1000 miles from home!

That's right, you hadn't forgotten had you..... we went skiing in France over Easter. Yes, yes, we know, its much later than we normally go, and it feels much too late in the year for skiing, but it was fantastic (most of it anyway).

So, lets get the not so great stuff out of the way first..... yup, you guessed it, it was the travelling - BORING, BORING, BORING!!!! At first it was quite exciting, coming home from School, having to quickly get ready to go out again, and driving into the night. It stayed exciting on the ferry over to France that was bigger than any we'd been on before & had shops & everything - shame that all the colour drained from Alfie's face, even before we'd left Dover harbour, so the plate of chips he'd asked for suddenly didn't look too tasty!!! It was weird in France as our hotel only had a 3 beds, and there were..... 4 of us!, so me, Alf & Mum shared the big bed & Dad had the single bunk thing. We were all so tired, and it was nearly 1 o'clock in the morning, that we just crashed out.

No rest the next day. We were up and out by 7 o'clock & started what turned out to be the drive of all drives. Hour after hour of roads, roads, roads, with nothing really interesting to look at - we could of been anywhere to be honest. At least we stopped every 4 hours for a leg stretch, a change of drivers, and sometimes something to eat - otherwise we think we'd never of walked again! After a longish stop at a supermarket to do a big shop, we finally arrived at the chalet nearly 14 hours after setting off from Calais - OMG!, at least our holiday could now really begin.

Day 1 - Connie were soooo pleased to see us - totally hyper! Wow, nearly Easter & its snowing (sort of). A bit like rain at the Chalet, but by the top of the chairlift it was snow. Took it easy today, as no point in getting too silly, too quickly. Thankfully, no repeat of Kerry's first day disaster last time, and everyone is stil in one piece - even Mum did some skiing & said that her ankle didn't hurt too much - looks like its going to be a good time. 

Day 2 - Catherine & Monty had travelled back from England & Ben had picked them up late last night - Once Monty had woken up & seen that we were there, he went hyper as well - lovely.  A bit more proper snow over night, and still falling, so we were cutting fresh tracks everywhere as there was hardly anyone else there. It was fantastic skiing  - some of the best ever. 

Day 3 - Easter, and before any skiing, we just had to feast on our chocolate eggs that had come all the way from England. Monty & Connie had these cool chocolate chickens, that had chocolate baskets full of chocolate eggs - very impressive. First time we all went out skiing together & what a fun time we had. Monty wanted to show us all of his 'special ways' but many of them just had too much snow, so we just stuck to going fast & crazy, which was just as much fun. We don't know how we'll top that Easter day - although next year we could be in Florida, so who knows!

Day 4 - Amazingly, with still loads of snow everywhere, this was the last day of the ski season for Seignus. Not such a nice weather day today, with lots of low cloud. This really freaked me out when we got to the top of the mountain & couldn't see more than 10 feet in front of our face!!! - I thought we would take a wrong turn and fall over the edge, or something - proper scary stuff. We got down (to my relief), and I never went up in the clouds again! We had a fantastic finish to the day. Outside the chalet they built a huge jump & had an airbag for you to land on (which meant you could try some crazy tricks that you wouldn't otherwise dare to). It was brilliant fun, and we had loads & loads of goes. Top prize goes to Dad who managed to do a complete backwards somersault - respect!     

Day 5 - Only half way through our skiing, and a change of venue - we'd be skiing in La Foux for the next 4 days. As it turned out - no bad thing - more jumps for us to practice our new skills out on! And they had a Boardercross course, which had big banked turns, waves & more jumps - awesome! 

Day 6 - Another day in the FunPark & on the Boardercross track, this time with Monty & Connie, who had a brilliant time. We helped out with the team in the evening. a delicious Fondue (what else) - see we can be helpful (when we see something in it for us!). This would normally of been our last skiing day, but what a bonus, this time we had two more days - fab.

Day 7 - Catherine had to go back to England as her Mum wasn't very well (hope she's ok), but as she was getting the train back, Monty & Connie were still able to come skiing with us, and you guessed it, more jumps and freestyle fun - finished off with a spot of shopping (which is always good - unless you are Alfie or Dad!).

Day 8 - Gosh, even our extra long ski has gone so quickly. Just enough time to go as far towards Pra Loup as we could (we couldn't get all the way as one of the lifts was broken for the last 3 weeks of the season - boooooo). There were some fantastic runs, and lovely snow, and we were totally jealous of this guy that had skis on but also a parachute, that meant he could half-ski, half-glide down the slopes, which looked amazing!!!! Glad to report that everyone survived with no significant injuries - Mum grazed her Nose after planting her head in the snow, with an impressive tumble. I did an impressive backwards slide (which did scare me a bit, as I was out of control), but we all walked off the last slope of the last day. Crazily, just like with Seignus, La Foux was closing in only two more days, and they had even more snow - probably 2-3 metres at the top, when it melts there is going to be such a massive flood.   

Ahhhhhh, the dreaded day had come at last - the drive from hell (part II). A quick goodbye to Ben & Monty - Connie didn't want to see us (too upsetting), and we were off. Just as before - BORING!!!!, made maybe even worse as we knew just how long it was going to take. Sure enough, after almost the same time (nearly 14 hours), we arrived back at the same hotel as we'd started out from 10 days ago. At least this time we'd booked an extra room so me & Annalise could share, and everyone else had a proper bed to sleep in - much better (and only an extra £30 or so - bargain!).

We didn't leave until 8 o'clock which felt like a lie in, and luckily were able to get an earlier ferry (which was even better than the other one - bigger shop & more places to eat & drink). It was a lovely day & we got to see the White cliffs of Dover, and knew we were nearly home. In no time we were off the ferry & on our way. A welcome stop at Mcdonald's later for a very late brunch and we we were home by mid afternoon - just in time for the ASDA shopping to be delivered (that Mum had ordered in France - isn't technology wonderful!).

So glad we've got another week off School as that is going to take some serious sleep & vegging out to get over - no such luck for Dad, he's back to work in the morning. We've got so many photo's to sort through. Everyone had a phone or a camera, so we'll go through them & pick out our favourites, just for you - very soon.

24/03/2013

Brrrr, how cold is it? Feels like the Arctic, rather than Brundall - definitely not Spring weather. At least it will get us used to the temperatures in France, when we go skiing, so that's something I suppose.

Luckily, my Football training was cancelled on Tuesday, so I didn't spend half the evening freezing half-to-death, which was a bonus. And, as we didn't have a match on Sunday, we weren't missing out on anything too important.

Not much to say about out time at School, except for Alfie doing an assembly about different cultures, with some funky dance moves - shake that booty Alf!

Friday night was tops! Hannah & Rachael came over to stay, and so Alfie invited Joe - what a house full. We were all pretty well behaved (in our opinion), but maybe eating all the sweets we had, wasn't such a great idea, as we then weren't the least bit tired, until about 5 o'clock in the morning!, when we finally decided to call it a night, and get just under 4 hours sleep.....mmmmmm, another non-sleep, sleep over!

Alfie & Joe were far more sensible and went to sleep just after midnight, so were wide awake when we were still feeling like Zombies! However, its amazing what a slice of toast, and the thought of some shopping can do - instant recovery!!!!! So, us Girlies went off to Norwich, leaving the Boys to go & play Football, out in the Snow (as it was now both cold & snowy). To be honest, the snow that we had was a bit disappointing, cos we'd been seeing pictures on TV of snowdrifts higher than Cars, but definitely not in Norfolk, unless you've got a very small Car!

Our late, and very, very late night's did finally catch up with us on Saturday night, and we crashed out pretty early. I didn't wake up until nearly half past 9 on Sunday morning (which is Mum-like time), just in time to be amazed that Alfie's football match was still on - despite there still being a few flakes of snow on the ground, and the temperature around freezing - yikes!!!!!!!

Dad went to watch, and it doesn't seem like me & Mum missed anything (apart from getting cold, which is fine by me). Dad had three thick layers on & was still a bit chilly. Alfie was totally frozen, in shorts & a couple of thin tops - gives me Goose-bumps just thinking about it!!! Supposedly Dad kept on shouting at him to run around & get warm, but Alfie says he could hardly feel his Hand or Feet, and just wanted to go home & warm up. Not surprisingly then, Blofield lost 2-0, although the other team are 2nd in the league, and Blofield ended up  one player short and the twins Jack & James both got the ball whacked at them & didn't want to carry on!

Alfie came home & went straight into the bath, and stayed in there for ages to warm up - that'll be the cleanest he's ever been! Then we started getting our stuff together for our skiing holiday, which is now less than a week away, and they've had even more snow - its unbelievable. Dad spoke to Ben and he had been out skiing in fresh snow that was nearly knee deep!!!!!!!!! We've done most of our packing, with Mum even fussing over what 'outfits' Alfie should take, so that he looks all smart! OMG - Its skiing, not a fashion parade!!!!!!

So, next time you hear from us, we should have loads of great tales to tell from Chalet Vallons, of some fab skiing with our crazy Cousins & the wild Durrants - just got to survive the hours & hours of driving in the Car first - BORING!!!!!!, so au revoir chums - have a Great Easter & fill your bellies with yummy Chocolate.

17/03/2013

Boooo, no more snow (here), and what we had soon melted away - so no chance of any time off school. However, you've got to check out the webcam at the chalet in France, cos they've had some snow..... proper snow (Uncle Ben reckons nearly 50cm in less than 2 days - that's about half a Monty!), so it's lookin' fab for our skiing holiday in less than two weeks time - can't wait. The ferry is all booked, so its all coming together nicely!

Talking of good news, Dad was a winner, as he'd got a bonus at work, and being the lovely Dad that he is, gave us each £100 to spend!!!

Alfie went straight on-line and spent £25 on another Xbox game (which is pretty good - loads more shooting & killing, if you hadn't guessed!). I'm still thinking about what to spend mine on, but I'm sure it won't last long.

At least we didn't have too much more rain during the week, so both me & Alfie were expecting our Football matches to go ahead - which they did. On Saturday, me & Dad had to be up extra early cos we were playing away against Scole (in Diss). We got there OK, and although it wasn't raining (like the last time we were there), it was really, really windy. Not only that, we only had 8 players, rather than 9, so we were in for a long, tough match - and it was definitely that! We were playing against the wind in the 1st half, and we spent most of the time trying to get the ball out of our own half! Incredibly, at half-time (thanks to some lucky saves by Kate, and some rubbish shooting), it was still 0-0. We were completely shattered though, and had to change our Goalie, as Keevie was nearly being sick as she'd run about so much. With the wind behind us it was much easier, and although Scole had a couple of chances, amazingly Vivian scored, and we were winning 1-0. We were still in shock, when Charlie took a swing at the ball, and it rolled into the corner of the goal, 2-0. This was all too much for Scole, who (just like we do) gave up, and we scored again, and ended up winning 3-0 (our best result EVER!) It felt amazing, so much better than getting beat 13-0!!!!!

Me & Dad celebrated with some chips in Diss (don't we know how to live, eh!). We then had to rush back as my friend Rachael was coming over (after she'd played her game - she's the one that plays for the best team in the league), but they only won 3-2, after being 2-0 down at half-time. We decided that we just had to go shopping (see, told you the bonus money wouldn't last too long). So we did, and bought a few smelly things (and lots of different things to eat) - not £100 worth though!

We had a yummy Chinese for tea & watched a great film called 12 rounds - some many twists & turns, and now I can watch films on my Wii, I hardly ever need to leave my bedroom! Me & Rachael had a good long Girly evening (but finally gave in to sleep at about 2am).

Dad was working on Sunday (from home this time on his laptop), so Mum had to take Alfie to Football. As Rachael's boyfriend was also going to be playing at the same place, we all decided to go, and I wish I'd taken warmer clothes, as I was freezing - it took nearly an hour  in the Car with the heating on full blast to thaw out! Alfie was made captain of his football team (bow down oh great one!), and he is clearly an inspirational leader, as Blofield won 2-0. Alfie didn't score any of the goals, but as he was playing more in defence than attack, that's probably not surprising, however a win is a win, and with our shock victory the day before, is this a first double-win weekend?

Straight off to Grandma & Grumps, and the chance to sit in front of a lovely real fire & watch Norwich play against Sunderland. What a crazy game. Norwich score and lead 1-0 (all lookin' good), then the Norwich goalie gets sent off for handball outside his area (which was harsh), then Sunderland get a penalty for another handball (this time off the Norwich player's chest), score 1-1 at half-time.

In the 2nd half Norwich played really well with 10 men & should of had a penalty for handball (again) but the ref said it was outside the area, which it wasn't. Final score 1-1, which must of felt like a win for them.

We then helped Grumps with some painting and some brass rubbing, to earn some money, and played a bit of football in the garden, before off home & straight to bed.

10/03/2013

Hoorah! Mum has finally had the plaster cast taken off her Leg, but she's hardly made any difference, as she's not exactly sprinting about!

Maybe we were expecting a bit too much, and for us to come home on Tuesday to find her walking about as if nothing had happened - but that isn't what happened. Yes, she can walk about now, but with a strange limp-along style (sort of like Dad really) - what a couple of cripples!!!! At least she can do a bit more for herself now, so we are not quite the slaves we were, but it's definitely not been payback time ......yet!  She has tried to get her foot into a Ski boot, and surprise, surprise... no chance (they are tough enough when you haven't just busted your ankle), so what did she expect?

Talking of skiing, only 3 weeks to go now, and its starting to get a bit real as Annalise & Harvey came over to try on some of our ski boots and skis. Looks like we will start our mammoth trip straight after School on the Wednesday before Easter, and stay over-night in France, once we've gone across the Channel on the ferry, which should be really exciting (as long as the Sea isn't rough!). Monty, Connie, Ben & Catherine should all be there, as Monty is coming back for the Easter hols, just like us..... wicked!!!!

What a topsy-turvy week..... for the weather. On Tuesday it was lovely (almost t-shirt time), and the warmest day of the year - then what? Rain, Wind, Hail & SNOW..... all in the next 5 days - totally bonkers!!!!

We had our weekend all planned out - starting on Friday night with a sleep-over at my friend Lauren's, which was great Onsie-fun, and we even did our very own version of the Harlem Shake (if you don't know what this is, have a look on my Facebook page - it was hilarious). I was even sensible for once, going to sleep before anyone, as I thought I had a Football match on Saturday morning - but after a night of heavy Rain, it was called off, just as Dad came to pick me up. Alfie still got to go and practice & came back, with his friend Joe,  completely soaked & covered in mud from Head to Toe - yuk! Me & Dad went into Norwich to get Mum a Mother's Day present & card, while Alfie played Xbox - surprise, surprise!

Then the Snow started to fall, and although we went to the Ski club as it was a Night Slalom race, I just didn't have the energy to do it, so just hung around with my friend Hannah, while Mum talked to about a million people about her Leg (yawn).

With Snow on the ground, there was no chance of Alfie's game going ahead, so it ended up a weekend without Football, which meant we could spend time with Mum on Mother's Day - lovely. She really liked her Cath Kidston knitting needles (that she asked for), and the cards that we got. After a lazy morning, we went off to see Nanna & Grandad (and of course Tilly the mad-Dog). The weather was too rubbish to out for a walk so we spent the time indoors having our Feet nibbled by Tilly, which made it quite difficult to do my French homework - so if it's rubbish, I'm blaming the Dog!  

So, lets hope Mum's Leg gets better very soon (so she can start running around after us), and if it is going to Snow some more, lets hope there is loads, so the School gets closed (again!).

03/03/2013

Mmmm, definitely back to after-holiday reality with a bump, or even a bang! Was it really only just over a week ago that we were on holiday - seems like it was months ago already. At least its only a few weeks until our next holiday at Easter, and our latest, and possibly last, trip to the chalet in France - still, we've had some great holidays there & hopefully this one will be just as good (and now only 4 weeks away - cool!).

The teachers had clearly been spending their half-term holiday dreaming up lots of new, and really tricky, homework for us to do, the moment we were back at school. How else do you explain Chemistry homework where you had to balance equations explaining the chemical reactions between compounds - that's just CRUEL! Luckily, I put on my super-dumb face (yes, it is very different to my normal one!), and got Dad to help me out. He said that he didn't like Chemistry much at school, but fortunately he'd remembered some stuff that came in well handy, so I passed - phew!

Alfie had a much easier time, all he had to do was practice for a rap show that his class was performing, as well as learning a couple of songs for a play about World cultures - even I know, that's not real work - easy life!

After our football training on Tuesday, were were looking forward to our game on Saturday, as we had one of our best performances last week, but when Saturday came around, it just didn't happen - and it was another disaster! We were losing 4-0 at half-time (it should really of only been 1-0, or 2-0, but once again our Goalkeeper let us down. She just doesn't seem to care, and once the first goal went in (after less than one minute), she gives up. Me, Lucy & some of the others were really annoyed at half-time as we were already really whacked from doing loads of running about, but we just don't have enough players that take it seriously enough. The second half was a joke, and we lost count of how many times our goalie messed it up & let them score. For the last 10 minutes another one of our players went in goal & did some really good saves - maybe, just maybe, we've found our self a new goalie!

On Sunday, me & Mum went to the Ski Club & I had a good ski & mess about with my friend Hannah, while Mum bored everyone with the story of her accident (again). I didn't think there was anyone left in Norfolk that she hadn't already told! Alfie was playing against the team who were top of their league, so he wasn't expecting that they'd do very well. He shouldn't be so gloomy - even though they lost, it was only 1-0, and that was an own-goal, that went in off Harvey's leg! Dad said that Alfie played well, especially in the 2nd half and made some great tackles, two of them to save certain goals. His friend Joe (their goalie) did some great saves & was man-of-the-match, so he was well pleased.

Mum has still got her leg in plaster (but only for another few days), so she couldn't come swimming with us, in Bungay. Lucky for us they had the inflatable, and we took a blow-up ball & had a great time messing about for nearly an hour & a half. Alfie is definitely getting a better swimmer (not as fast as me obviously), but he has got more style & speed now, and doesn't look like he's always in danger of drowning!          

So, the countdown to Mum having her plaster cast removed is well underway, and we are soooooo looking forward to our time as house slaves being over - we are so going to get our own back....... Mum, bring me a drink will you (we can hear it now - bootiful!).

24/02/2013

Gosh, our week off has been & gone already - but at least we had fun, hope you did too.

Monday - Our old friends Saffron & Sammy should of been coming over, but their Mum wasn't very well so they couldn't make it - so we just slobbed about, mostly playing Xbox games (the Death, Stab, Kill sort mainly).

Tuesday - Mum had a day of peace & quiet as Grandma & Grumps came over & took us out. We had a really fun time. First we went roller-skating at Funky Monkeys. It seemed that half of Norwich had the same idea, as it was much busier than normal, which meant we had to keep our speed down a bit, otherwise we'd be crashing into people everywhere! All that skating had made us proper hungry, so how super-lucky for us that we went for some food at our very favourite place - Zaks. Alfie had his usual rack of ribs (which Grumps was amazed he ate), and I had a bootiful burget. Still just enough space for some dreamy afters - what a perfect day.

Wednesday - First time in ages that we'd seen Robert & Rowan, who were staying with Nanna & Grandad for a few days. Robert & Alfie disappeared off to his room to play on the Xbox, and weren't seen again for hours. That was fine with Rowan & me, as it gave us the chance to do some Girly crafty stuff, so we customised some bags - so luckily something to entertain everyone.

Thursday - Dad's turn to do some entertaining, and get things ready for the sleep-over. We went shopping & got lots of yummy eats for midnight snacks, and stuff to make our own pizza's - Dad even made the dough himself (from MY recipe). Hannah, Rachel, Joe & Spence all arrived at about 3 o'clock, and the fun began. Boys on the XBox, while we had a good chat & did some nail stuff. The pizza's were delicious, and we got to put exactly what we wanted on them, so no-one could say they didn't like it - any everyone ate it all up. All washed down with gorgeous Neapolitan ice-cream & raspberry sauce - ahhhhhhhhh.  More Xbox, Monopoly (where got Alfie's friend Spencer to pay £9m for a station - he was proper robbed) - cruel , but funny! We watched some TV, and when Mum & Dad went to bed at 11 o'clock we still weren't tired (all that sugar probably!). We all slept downstairs, and the Boys bailed out first at about 2am - wimps. We were still chatting at nearly 4 in the morning, but decided it probably was time for a bit of sleep.

Friday - Dad was up early (as usual), but Mum was clearly affected by our (lack of) sleep-over, and was only just up when Dad took us Girls into Norwich for a bit of shopping, Not that we wanted an embarrassing 40 something hanging around with us, so sent him off to go swimming! As you'd expect, we managed to spend our money (wisely of course), and had plenty of good things to show for it. Not surprisingly, we all went to bed early on Friday night.   

Saturday - I was playing away at Attleborough, and had to be there at 9.30! Again, we were up & out of the house before Mum was up. As Thorpe under 12's didn't have a match, three of their players came along (with their manager), and it made a real difference. The final score was 2-1 to Attleborough, but we also missed a penalty, so it could of been a draw. So much better than last week, maybe we might win another game before the end of the season! Looked like Norwich were heading for another defeat , against Everton, when in the last 6 minutes they scored two goals. The first one was a huge header from their new player over from America, who looks good - two, or three more wins & they should be safe OTBC!

Sunday - Alfie was also playing away, at Mulbarton, so I decided to tag along (mainly to see Bethan & Annalise - although she was ill (too much fresh / cold air in the Lake District!). The grass on the pitch was well long, and bumpy - not what Alfie wanted (although it meant he was able to get some good sliding tackles in). The final score was 2-2, which was probably fair.

Sad news, Chalet Vallons, our French home-from-home, is up for sale as Ben, Catherine, Monty & Connie are moving back to the UK. Lets hope someone doesn't buy it before Easter, as we've still got some skiing to do! Anyone got a spare £380,000?

17/02/2013

It's half-term holiday time - although with Mum still with her leg in plaster, it's hardly going to be a 'normal' holiday - booooooo.

Not only that, but after she went to the hospital last week, she has got to keep her cast on for another THREE weeks, instead of the two that we were ALL hoping for. That means that our life of slavery goes on even longer - GREAT!

At least the last week at school wasn't too bad. Hardly any homework for either of us (proper good news), and some dry weather so we got to go outside for PE & football training, but it was very chilly - my legs were Orange!   

Friday was a good day all round:

• Last day of school before the holiday (of course!).

• Alfie & Joe went to their school disco & had a great time (I bet Alf showed off his best moves, to all the LADIES!!!!!), although of course he said not, and tried to play it really cool!

• My friend Hannah came over after school and we were having such a good time that we decided that she should sleep over. So after some yummy Fish & Chips we had a girly night to ourselves & finally got to sleep at about half past two in the morning.

Maybe not the brightest idea when I've got to get up to play Football the next morning, but hey you don't always think of these things at the time. Well, we managed to get up, make some lovely pancakes for breakfast, get all changed for football, and still had time to wait for Mum!!!!

We were playing against Helsdon who are one of the best teams in the league, so we knew it was going to be a toughie - especially as Hannah (who stayed over) has a twin Sister who plays for them & she's really good.

We played quite well in the first half, and were only losing 4-0 or 5-0. The 2nd half was a worse, much worse, some of our players seemed to give up, and we ended up losing 13-0, complete embarrassment! We only had two shots on goal the whole match - just to rub it in, Helsdon put their goalkeeper up front as a striker for the last 20 minutes, and she came closer to scoring than we did!

Luckily, I didn't get too upset - especially when their manager gave me a certificate for being person (man) of the match, for our team - cool eh! Spookily, my friend Rachel, was the man-of-the-match for their team. So, what did I learn?... that one person cannot win a match all by themselves, even if they play their best.... the whole team has got to want to play, and not give up when things go wrong - its just that too many people do!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We had a dull  tedious stop at a wool shop for Mum, on the way home (but at least it gave us the chance to get some Pot Noodles for lunch - lovely!). That was pretty much it really, as Dad had to go to work on Sunday morning, and didn't get back until the afternoon, then got a call at tea time & then spent the whole evening on his computer - BORING!!!!!

Hopefully things will be a lot more exciting next week, seeing Grandma & Grumps, Robert & Rowan, and a giant sleep-over on Thursday night with me & Alfie both having two friends over... it'll either be the most fun, or a living hell..... you'll hear all about it next week. Have a great half-term everyone.

10/02/2013

It's a shame we are not doing a School project on children in Victorian Britain cos they could of just came and seen us slaving away!!! Do this, do that...... tidy this, tidy that.... it seems to never stop - perhaps we now know how much stuff Mum & Dad really do....mmmmm, something for us to think about.

Cooking was a bit mixed this week (do you like the joke, I made it up myself). First the good - we had some lovely pancakes, that me & Alfie made (smothered in Golden Syrup). Then we tried to make them again at School & they kept sticking. I blame the saucepan, cos it was really old and probably not even non-stick. We got to eat our 'bits of pancake', but a bit poor really.

I'll have to have a look at the field where we have football practice, as its obviously a lake or something, as no practice or match again - that's now 5 weeks, how completely rubbish. Maybe it wasn't so bad, as Dad biked home on Tuesday night (when it was snowing, and he looked like a Snowman when he got home).

Not only are we Mum's slave at home, but School is working me really hard - homework every day (what sort of a childhood is this - 3rd World, that's what! At least it was quite interesting, about the changing attitudes to the Police in the last 100 years. It looks like in Victorian times the Police didn't do anything like they do now - all they had were whistles & bikes, which is hardly going to stop a robber is it! It seems they weren't much liked, and most people were very suspicious of them, not like our local Policeman, who's name is Wally, and everyone says hello to him when they see him at the Brundall Park.    

Nanna came over on Friday to help Mum around the house, and I felt a bit better about my cooking disaster earlier in the week, when she accidentally poured loads of salt into the tea, and we had to have stew without dumplings as they were just too horrible to eat (although Dad had a couple - mad Boy!).

With no match on Saturday, and Alfie's practice also cancelled, Dad & Alfie went to the park to give Alfie some shooting practice, as Dad has challenged him to take at least 3 shots in each of his games, or he owes him £1.I didn't have time cos I had some homework to do - art this time, so not too bad.

On Sunday, I decided not to go skiing & went to see Annalise at Aflie's football game (Mum also came & got ready quicker than when she's got two working Legs - go figure that! It was cold & a bit rainy, but luckily they had a coffee lady there, and my hot chocolate was delicious. Alfie played well (again), and had two good shots, so Dad let him off the £1. After 5 minutes it was going really well, they were leading 1-0 & creating chances...... then disaster. Joe made a good save, but rather than clear the ball, one of the Blofield players kicked it into his own goal - bizarre! In the 2nd half Blofield had some really good attacks, but just couldn't score. Then the other team got one chance, and scored, and that was that - another defeat!

Just time for a quick change & Alfie was back out - this time to a laser-quest party for his friend Ali. Me & Dad went swimming, rather than wait about and had a good time (especially near the end when we got a giant float).

Looks like we've had our snow for now, but that France is going to get another load, so lets hope it stays cold for the next 6 weeks & we'll have a wicked time. Must go.....the master has called... obviously wants her Wine glass topped up, or something else equally important doing!

03/02/2013

Bye, bye January. Incredible, that one month gone already - soon be Easter (which is good as we're hopefully going skiing - and hopefully Mum can too). No one would believe we had snow on the ground last week as there isn't any left. Good job really as it was getting all slushy & horrible

Mum's broken Leg / Ankle seems to be healing up ok, as the Hospital only want to see her again in a couple of weeks, so she should be out of her cast at the end of this month. It's going to be funny to see how thin her leg is - will it be like a little twig?.

Mum is getting better & better on her crutches & went back to work, as kind Jen across the road has agreed to pick her up & bring her home - that's got to worth a couple of bottles of Wine (at least)! Although that made her a bit more tired, she was happy to be doing something more than just being at home.

I cooked some more of my yummy Pizza's - both at School & home, as me & Alfie didn't want the Lamb thing that Mum was cooking for tea. Dad liked it so much, I had to write the recipe down for him - maybe we'll have to have a bake off one day soon.

We had some fun filming a travel video for my homework. Mum, Dad & Alfie were happy customers of a Ski holiday company, and had to read the script I'd written. It was all going quite well until Alfie farted while Mum was reading her part & everyone cracked up laughing. Mum couldn't get it together for ages after & we had about 5 more goes until we got it right! Annoyingly, we ran out of time in the lesson the next day & didn't get to show it - boo.    

After football training on Tuesday, I was all ready for the game on Saturday, but it was cancelled (AGAIN). Nothing to do with the weather this time, the other team couldn't get enough players for their team - how rubbish is that!

At least I got to go skiing on Sunday, as Dad dropped me & Mum at the Ski club, on the way to Alfie's game. Dad said that Alfie played pretty well, but that the pitch was really rubbish, so Alfie didn't have too many chances to show off his skills, and they unfortunately lost 5-3. At least Norwich didn't lose (although they were playing QPR who are bottom of the league). They could of lost though as QPR got a penalty, but the Norwich goalie did a great save, and it finished 0-0.

I seemed to have loads of homework all of a sudden, and some of it needs to be handed in tomorrow, so I'd better go.

27/01/2013

Blame Dad for this week's headline - obviously we'd never say something so unkind about Mum!

Week 1 in the child slave labour camp, and what a difficult week its been. Running here, there & everywhere.....fetching this, fetching that, while Mum just sits there with her feet up - maybe I'll break my Ankle (just for the rest!).

She has now got a solid Black cast on her leg (why didn't she go for orange or Yellow?) - boring. She is getting better with her crutches, but still comes down the stairs on her Bum - wimp! 

While there was still snow about, we didn't have any more, so no more school closures.... boooo. At least we didn't do outdoor PE, as the field was still covered in icy, not very White anymore.....stuff.

Otherwise, not much to say. A few good lessons, and I paid my deposit for a trip to Germany later in the year - cool or what. Alfie has paid his deposit as well. Not quite so far for him. He's going to the outdoor centre near Colteshall (where we were the other week), and I'm sure he'll have fun with all that climbing & messing about - poor old teachers! 

On Friday Nanna came over to help Mum out with some house stuff, and they got through loads of washing & stuff - its amazing just how many things we've got (when they are all in one place). Maybe its time for another trip to the charity shop!

On Saturday we met up with Annalise & Harvey to go & see Norwich play Luton in the FA cup. As Luton are not even in League 2, everyone (including us) thought they were going to win - but as you've seen, that isn't what happened..... they lost!.

It was a total embarrassment - non-league Luton Town, against Premier League Norwich, and they couldn't even score a goal, and they lost 1-0. While they didn't start the game with all their best players, Grant Holt came on at half time, for some hopeless old Canary called Harry Kane (whoever he is). Still nothing changed & they were completely rubbish from the start to the end, even when they brought on two more of their 'star' players. At the end the Luton fans went mental, and we were in shock.....

Dad reckons it was the worst he'd seen Norwich play in over 30 years of watching them. He says that watching Alfie's team is more entertaining (what does that mean for my team then?)

Obviously no games for us, but with rain expected, hopefully we'll get to play, or train, next week. I've got some new Silver boots to try out, which have more grip (which I think I'm going to need, cos I think it'll be muddy!) 

Lets hope that Mum can help herself a bit more next week, or we'll collapse with exhaustion! Also we'll have our fingers crossed that her Leg is healing up properly when she goes back to hospital on Thursday, otherwise I can't see there being any more skiing on Snow for her this Winter. 

20/01/2013 Happy Birthday 44 years old

What an eventful week we've just had - in so many ways.

I can't believe that it was Mum's birthday less than a week ago, it already seems ages - perhaps time really is speeding up! The big day itself was pretty normal (the last one that was actually). We all went to School / work & had Fish & Chips for tea, cos that's what Mum asked for. She got some new clothes (yes, more), and some vouchers for even more clothes, and a groovy head massager that makes you feel all weird when you rub your head with it.

Things started out quite normally on Tuesday, then it started to snow, and snow & snow - it was just like being in France. We could hardly pay attention in class as we were too busy looking outside as everything turned white. We got to go home early, as they were worried that the busses might get stuck, so I was home before 3 o'clock - fab.

Luckily Dad was working just down the road, so he didn't take too long to get home. He told us later that some of the other people took 4 hours to get home. It took Jen 3 hours to get Daniel & Adam home from their school in Norwich as their bus had stopped running - nightmare.

Things got even better on Wednesday as both our schools were closed, so we got to go skiing at the club, which was amazing - skiing on plastic just does not compare. Dad was gutted that he couldn't get away from work & come too - shame!

Another School-free day for me on Thursday, but Mum & Aflie had to go in - haha. I had a totally lazy day & didn't do very much at all - heaven. The Cats seem to be loving the Snow, and we've now got monster icicles - how cool.

More snow on Thursday, meant that both our schools were closed again on Friday, so we decided that we'd go skiing again, and wait for Dad to come along - now we wish we HADN'T. Now, I know that sound totally mad, not wishing you'd gone skiing, on snow, but when you hear that Mum fell over (as Mum does), and BROKE A BONE IN HER LEG, then I'm sure you'll understand.

How much more embarresing can you get..... a ski instructor, falling over & hurting themselves, on their own slope, while there with their family & someone they work with, while trying out a trick in the FunPark - now maybe she'll remember that she is 44, not 24!!!!!

At first we thought she'd be alright after hobbling off the slope (with some help), and resting for a bit. Next day her ankle has swollen right up & she needed to go to hospital. They were back in less than 3 hours, with Mum with a plaster on her leg. O.M.G, she's going to be a complete cripple for about 4 weeks, but she's already asked when she can go skiing again (about 6 weeks from now), which means she should still be OK for our Easter ski trip (which we're still going on without her!)

So, all our plans on Saturday were trashed (including my boyfriend Frank coming over for the afternoon - which I was not happy about).

Things got a bit better on Sunday, Mum was still finding her feet (on her crutches) & yes she still has two feet, its just a saying. We are all trying to do as much as we can, but its going to be sooo tough being a child slave for a whole month - wish us luck!

13/01/2013

We were only talking last week about skiing, which obviously means snow - and now we see from the weather forecast that we should be getting some any day now - with any luck the School will be closed & we can go proper skiing at the club - wicked!!!!

It was back to the reality of School with a bang - loads of homework that we had to do in the first week - MAJOR UNFAIR! At least it was interesting stuff. Alfie is doing work on his family tree (whether he has got any relatives who live abroad - easy, Monty & Connie), but he also found out from Grandma that Dad has got 2 of his Cousins that live in France & one in Switzerland. Also he needed to find out about where our family name comes from, and now we know..... we were workers, first in Wood, then other things like Ships, and Wheels - which might explain why Dad is a bit of a DIY person!

My homework was even more interesting - I had to ask everyone at home if they knew of any miracles - told you it was a good one. So, what would your answer be?..... if I remember, I'll ask you then next time we see you - here were ours:

Dad - The safe rescue of all the Chilean miners, who were trapped underground for nearly two months, but who all came out alive & unhurt.

Mum - Learning that Nanna was going to be OK (after she went into hospital a few years ago & they first thought she might be seriously poorly), which I can just about remember.

Alfie - The Big Bang, and the creation of the Universe, from what - nothing.

Me - The survival of the Football player Fabrice Muwamba, who had a heart attack while playing, and was 'dead' for over an hour. Cos he was so fit, his heart started again, and although he doesn't play football for Bolton Wanderers anymore, he can still run around, and is probably still healthier than any of us.  

So, we need to remember there is some good stuff that happens every day, even if the news always seems to be bad, bad, bad, like people shooting each other & messing up the Planet with pollution & stuff.   

Unbelievably, my football match was cancelled again - something about a frozen pitch. Hopeless, it didn't stop Alfie going training at Blofield, so I can't imagine it was loads colder in Thorpe! Alfie's game went ahead on Sunday, although it felt just as cold as the day before. maybe he wishes it was cancelled, as they lost 4-0, although both him & his friend Harvey played really well (but being totally honest, not all their team did - and that was that). Me & Annalise were so cold (even after a hot-fog & soup, that we watched the last bit of the match from inside the car - wimps of what!

Big day for Mum tomorrow - her Birthday, a whole 44 years old - almost ancient!!!!

06/01/2013 Happy New Year

OMG, I can now say that THIS year, I'm going to be a teenager. Clearly that means I can be grumpy & moody from now on, cos I'm supposed to be!!!!

Dad went to work on New Year's Eve, and obviously shouldn't of. He was still suffering from the lurg, and came in the middle of the afternoon & almost went straight to bed. We thought he was just resting & would get up again to come out with us to Annalise & Harvey's, but he didn't. We stayed up til after midnight (watching the fireworks in London - that looked amazing), and got to bed at nearly 1:30 in the morning! When we got up (after a deserved lay in) we learned that Dad had gone to sleep before 9 o'clock (maybe earlier than Grumps!).

We didn't have time to lie about doing nothing, and were soon in the car, off to have our 3rd Christmas with Nanna & Grandad. Tilly was very pleased to see us, and we only just avoided a total face-lick!

It was a lovely day so we took Tilly for a walk on the beach (and it seemed that everyone else in Lowestoft with a Dog was there!). It was definitely too cold for us to go in the Sea, but Tilly had other ideas & was straight in - mad Dog.

Again, we were so lucky with some more lovely presents. I got a FANTASTIC One Direction quilt cover & pillow case, and Alfie got the other football that he really wanted, so he's now got both - one happy Bro.

We then had a couple of dull days. Dad was back at work, and my friend who was supposed to come over was ill, so I had a whole day with 3 Boys - Alf, his friend Joe & Stephen, at least I'm pretty good on Xbox now.

Saturday was much better. Even though we lost at football, it was only 6-0, Dad said I had one of my best games, and my Boyfriend Frank came to watch - but that's all I'll say about that - moving on. We then met up with Annalise & Harvey & did the murder mystery walk in Coltishall that Ben & Catherine got Dad for Christmas. It was really good fun, walking about working out the clues, and crossing off the people that didn't commit the murder. We worked it out in the end, but we're not going to tell you - who knows you might do it sometime.

Everyone came back to ours for tea, and even better, we decided that Annalise would sleep over, and Alfie would stay at Harvey's, and go straight to football. We had our own dinner party in the kitchen, while the Mum's & Dad's stayed in the Dining Room. We all got to pick our 3 favourite songs, and had them playing on the Sonos, which Harvey's Dad now wants - Boys & their toys.

Me & Annalise went to sleep at about 1 o'clock which is quite good for us, and decided to sleep downstairs - just for a change. We just about got our stuff together & got to watch Alfie play his football match. He played quite well, and scored the first goal. Unfortunately, in the 2nd half he twisted his ankle and had to come off. Blofield managed to hang-on, and won 3-2, so a good start to the New Year for them. I spoke to one of my friends who is interest in coming along to Thorpe Rovers training, and would be interested in being a goalie - which would be great - fingers crossed.

So, that's about the last of the Christmas holiday. Looks like we'll be going skiing at Easter (which seem ages away), but at least that gives us something to look forward to & it seems like we'll be going with Annalise & Harvey which should be a awesome fun (again).