08/02/2015

Me, Beth, Hannah & Rachel all had a great time, no major trauma's or fall-outs, which is always a bonus, when you're stuck together for 3 days. There is no doubt about it, time out of school does go more quickly, as there was no way it would of been Friday so quick - not fair. We were back before we knew it, but at least we had the weekend to recover (even though we'd not been going to bed too late at Kingswood - honest).

I was really pleased that we didn't have a football match on Saturday, as I didn't wake up until 9 o'clock as Dad & Alfie were going out. Alfie had been invited to go training with Thorpe St Andrew FC, by a friend at school, just to see if he likes it - in case he decides to change teams at the end of the season, which he is saying he wants to do.

Does it really come as a surprise? Being in a team that he says doesn't really play as a team, and doesn't seem to be learning or improving is getting him down, and he's not enjoying it as much as he used to. So, how was Thorpe St Andrew? much more strict, and serious, which was a good thing - but he thought the coach could have been a bit more positive. Dad watched the last few minutes & said that Alfie looked very impressive, so should get into their team, no problem - if he wanted to.

Just to prove his point, on Sunday, Alfie's team lost 7-1, but really shouldn't have let in half the goals they did, it was just basic stuff (although I didn't see it, I was still in bed - again). Believe it or not, I didn't get dressed properly all weekend, what a slob eh! Sorry, I got distracted, Alfie played in midfield again, so better than before, although he spent lots of time defending, doing some really good battling. Dad said the best bit of the game, for Blofield was when Alfie dribbled past 3 of their players, and should of had a shot. Instead he passed it, and whoever it was messed it up!  

I can't remember if I mentioned before, that Dad & Alfie were going to the Chalet next week, well Mum's now decided that she wants to go, which means I'm going too. Shouldn't moan really, as we've now got 2 skiing holidays in 8 weeks! then I've got Sweden, then Florida, all in less than a year - lucky, lucky me!.

Gotta go, as we're at school next week, then we leave for France straight after school on Friday, so I'd better start packing.

01/02/2015

Otherwise a pretty boring week all round, although I have now started to cook tea on Monday night. This week's feast was a delicious Chicken & pasta salad - one of my favourites. Why am I being so kind? Well, it's good practice for when me & Annalise have to cook when we go skiing, and it's gotta get me in Mum & Dad's good books - hasn't it. No sign of Alfie wanting to get involved in the kitchen, so still not sure what to expect from him & Harvey, if they have to cook for us.

Football practice was freezing, but as it turned out this was good preparation for our match on Saturday. OMG, it was soooooo cold, about 3 degrees when we kicked off. We were playing against Bradwell (who beat Hellesdon), so we knew it would be tough. We were a bit slow at the start & were lucky not to let in an early goal. Then we thought we'd got a chance - a penalty. Bryony took it but their goalie made an incredible save. Then 5 mins later we got a free kick near to the penalty area & Chloe had a shot.... another incredible save. Half time 0-0. The second half was very even with not too many chances. I went up for a corner, and got the ball on the edge of the penalty area, hit a great shot that was going in until...... yup, the third amazing save. Then finally we did score, and we thought we were going to win, but no. With only 5 mins left, we let one of their good players get a bit too close, and they scored. Final score 1-1, which I reckon is pretty good.

I was feeling really good, so it was even better that I was going into town with my friends, for a bit of shopping, and some food at Wagamma's, which is lovely noodle stuff - DELICIOUS.

Alfie was desperate to play his game on Sunday, but we had lots of rain on Saturday night and the pitch was too wet to play on. As it was cancelled at the last minute, him & Dad still went & had a bit of a kick about, so he got some football, but not much.

We might be getting some snow any day now - perfect for my Geography trip to Kingswood. Can't wait, 2 nights away with my pals (and of course some schoolwork!).

25/01/2015

So, maybe that blood test (that I'm just blocking out of my mind at the moment) will be a good thing in the end, if it shows what's up. What do they say.... No pain, no gain! they'd better be bloody right if they want to go sticking needles in my arm.... yuk, yuk - move on.

I suppose it could be worse, my friend Hannah might be having some Acupuncture for her back. What the hell would I be like with that - Edie, the human pin cushion. I don't think I can think of anything more horrendous - that would be like in a horror film!

It was my last free Saturday for a while, as football starts again next week, so at least I got to forget about it all the needle yuk for a few hours, as me & Mum went to Beccles to get our hair cut. We met up with Nanna as well, as she got me a lovely smelly candle, perfect for my bedroom. I was trying to grow my hair, but the lady took a great big lump off the ends - shock! Hardly a skinhead, but noticeably shorter than before. Maybe I need to brush it a bit more often, if the ends were all messed up.

I went to see Alfie play on Sunday, and OMG, what a pitch - it was like a Cow field.... sooooo muddy. He played really well (actually in midfield for once), and it made a real difference. The team wasn't defending all the time, as he was making chances, but unfortunately Harvey couldn't score. They lost 2-0, but it was the best the team had played for quite a while - maybe, just maybe, if they play the same formation again they might be able to grab a win - even if it is just one all season!

So, it looks like the great start for the new Norwich manager is over - losing at home, oh dear. Just goes to show, even the professionals play rubbish sometimes! Let's hope that makes us extra determined to play well against Bradwell next Saturday, as they are the team to beat at the moment - but I believe we can........ GO THORPE.

Looking at the weather, seems like there is more snow to come in France (and maybe in the UK as well), Lets just home its not too cold for Football, or my trip to Kingswood in a couple of weeks, or it could be proper chilly by the coast.

18/01/2015

At least when you get to Mum's age you don't expect too much fuss (I hope), as she certainly didn't get it. Well, when it's a school / work day, and football training, there isn't much time left for wild celebrating, although we did have Fish & Chips for tea - how crazy are we!

I've now got my 4th holiday of the year sorted. Well, it's actually a school Geography trip, so of course it will be an important learning experience, not a crazy 3 days with my friends - honest! It's hardly exotic, we're going to near Cromer, so no need to get too jealous.

We had an 'interesting' friendly match against Bungay - not only was it freezing cold, and the pitch rock hard in places, it decided to snow while we were playing. Normally, we all love snow, but when you are trying to see a football with snow in your eyes, its not so great. It was good to play again, as it seemed ages. We did ok, but didn't play our best. Still, we managed to win 2-1, against a team that play in the U16 league, so not bad.

Alfie's team didn't have a game on Sunday, so I don't need to tell you about another defeat! Rather than waste the day, Mum decided that she wanted to go on a walk at Southwold, and managed to persuade Debbie, Kerry, Annalise & Harvey to come along. As you can see it was a lovely day (so we have to be honest, going out for walks isn't always a bad thing).

We had a really nice time. The walk wasn't too long (about 4 miles), we stopped and made a cup of tea on the beach with the Storm Kettle, and at the end we had some lovely food at a pub by the harbour.

Talking about snow reminded us to have a look at what it looks like in France, and phew.... some lovely fresh white stuff has been falling, in Allos & the 3 valleys. Only 10 weeks to go now til we go - can't wait.

Finally, as you can tell, cos I'm writing this - my heart is still beating, and the doctors didn't find anything wrong with it. It's not all good news though, they want to do a BLOOD TEST, which means sticking a needle in my arm - OMG, that's gonna be a nightmare - scared already!

11/01/2015

Anyone who knows me might have hear me say that my heart sometimes beats a bit funny - going really fast for no reason, then slowing down again. It's not always when I'm doing something, like Football, so it doesn't make sense. Anyway, I finally got to borrow this machine that monitors your heartbeat, which I had to wear for a whole day & night - not the best night's sleep I've ever had if I'm honest, with this box digging into my side. I did have football training that day, so it'll be interesting to see what the results are - which I should find out next week sometime. Dad reckons that they'll have to give me a massive electric shock to sort my heart out - but he would say something like that, wouldn't he!

By the end of the week me & Alfie were wasted - all we could do was play on the Xbox (which is now even more fun as my friends Hannah & Rachael have one), so we just spent our time running around shooting & killing each other - fantastic fun. I was pretty stupid though. I was winning by miles, but they persuaded me that I needed to stop, near the finish, so that we could get the most points. REALLY, they just drove straight past & won - THEY LIED! I'll never trust those sneaky girls again - shame on you!

OMG, it was so lucky that we didn't have a football match on Saturday, as the wind & rain were horrendous. I didn't get a totally lazy day though, as we were bag packing in Sainsburys, to raise money for our School Football team Sweden trip. Beth even came along, and it was her birthday - what dedication. Hope she enjoyed going to the cinema, even if she did watch Paddington (how old is she?).

Alfie had a game on Sunday - could it be a case of.... new year, new team? Sadly........ no. They lost again, 5-1, but it could have been so different if Harvey had scored the penalty early in the 1st half - never mind. There was one bright(er) moment - Alfie scored. Although he couldn't really miss, as he was so close - he had to be in the right place, at the right time, so good for him.

We are a right bunch of cripples at the moment, me with my heart, and my back - which I'm seeing someone about next week (finally). And Alfie now joins in with a pulled / torn muscle in his leg, that he made worse by playing the whole match in pain - silly Boy. So, he's now all strapped up and I'm waiting to see if I've got a heart and/or need a new spine!

Incredibly, Mum went to the Gym (yes, you read it correctly - the gym). Someone she knew invited her to go, and it was free, or cheap, so she went - and survived! Same again next week?

We weren't half as energetic, unless you count football on the Xbox! We did have our rooms to tidy though (big job), and homework to do, so really little time for anything else.

Mum's birthday next week - the grand old age of 46, so we'd better be kind & gentle, for at least one day.

04/01/2015 Happy New Year

We reckoned we'd earned a couple of vegging days, so that's what we had  - lovely.

That set us up nicely for New Years Eve. We'd had friends over during the day, but planned to have the evening at home to ourselves. It turned out to be a very quiet one - Dad went to bed at about half 10, Alfie nearly made it, but went to bed at half 11, leaving just me & Mum. I made a bit of a mistake & left Mum on her own downstairs (I was Skyping my friends in my room), so Mum was all on her own at New Year, which made her sad - sorry.

Another year, another walk. This time with Annalise & Harvey, and our friends Bethan, and the twins Jack & James. I was well windy out on the marshes, and very muddy. Alfie nearly went right into a puddle - proper funny. He did make a big fuss when Dad broke some ice over his head - wimp. Again, another pub feast at the end of the walk (we could definitely get used to this), specially when the food is this gorgeous - home made lasagne - bootiful.

Again, we'd earned a rest, so we sort of had one - me with my Girls (Hannah & Rachel), and Alfie with Joe & Ali (playing football with Dad)We've all started playing Xbox games online against each other, and its mental - especially the shooting games, when you quickly find out who your friends are, as they shoot you in the back!

Finally, how about this for a tough decision - do homework (that needs to be done), or go for a walk - impossible eh! You're not going to believe it, but we both chose homework - mainly cos it was the last day before we has to finish it (oops). That didn't stop Mum & Dad going out, and clearly having a lovely time - Playing with their new Storm Kettle, and train spotting (soooo jealous - not!).

So, that's it - gotta get our school stuff together & get ready for early mornings again - not good.

28/12/2014 Merry Christmas

Before the big day, as we were off school, we were 'put to work' around the house - tidying & cleaning. It wasn't all rubbish stuff - we did get to put the Christmas Tree up (finally) and decorate the Christmas cake.

Otherwise, not much goin' on really, just chillin' - just how Mum likes it. Talking about chill - it hasn't been in our ski resorts, and both Allos, and our village in the 3 valleys were still waiting for the snow to fall - still, Easter is 3 months away, not worried (yet).

Dad was working right up to Christmas Eve, so I had one last trip to Thorpe (to see the gang), and wish them all a lovely Christmas. Then the countdown began - 9 hours to go..... can you tell, WE WERE EXCITED!

To show you just how wild we are, our Christmas Eve was.... watch the James Bond film, then go to bed. Pretty poor eh! At least it meant we were fully refreshed at 7am, on Christmas day, so we were ready to start sending 'wake up' texts to Mum - see phones do all sorts of important things!

We were going to open one present, then wait for Nanna & Grandad, but it didn't quite turn out that way - and we opened 'a few'. Again, wow, how lucky we are - Alfie got the Xbox One that he wanted, and I got my One Direction ticket (OMG, I know, its not til September next year, but I cannot believe that I'm going to see them - live!)

Nanna, Grandad & crazy Masie came over for Christmas lunch, and a proper feat it was too - we were all totally stuffed after, and could hardly move! Thanks Mum & Dad for a yummy Turkey dinner. We finished opening our presents, and we got so many lovely things - huge thanks from me & Alfie.

On Boxing day we needed to get out - even Alfie said he wanted some fresh air, so we went to Winterton, not expecting to see many Seals, as they are normally further up the coast, but there were still plenty of them - looking as cute as usual.

While me & Alfie have a break from football, Norwich didn't - but they won 6-1 (that's 11 goals they've scored in the last two home games), and Grandma hasn't been there to see them - maybe the players just can't take the added pressure of her being there!

We were very brave on Saturday & went into the city to do some shopping - it was busy, busy, busy - queues everywhere, so we didn't stay too long. Just enough time for Alfie to get another Xbox game, and me to order some Dr Martin boots (which I'm going to have to look after, as they are well expensive).

Finally, in this fun packed week, Dad got me, Alfie & Joe to do some shooting practice (and Alfie will probably keep on telling everyone about the goal he scored until he's old - but it was pretty good, I have to admit). Then we went to see our old friends Dee, Steve & Megan - who obviously goes to Thorpe school, and knows Anya. It was good to see their new house, that had loads of space (bit jealous of Meg's big bedroom), and we had a delicious Mexican tea - definitely want to cook them, instead of the Fajita's. We had a few games of FIFA football on their Playstation, and it was so funny watching Dad just pushing buttons at random to get his players to do stuff.

21/12/2014

Honestly, it was a nice, easy week - no homework...... no work at all really. Oh, except for Alfie who had Cross Country - Merry Christmas, love Thorpe!!!!

Last time he had Cross Country he ran with some of his friends, at their pace, rather than as fast as he could go, and he wasn't pleased with him time - 14 minutes something. This time he ran at his pace, with a little help & encouragement from my friends, and whatya know, he was over a minute quicker, just over 13 minutes - awesome effort bro.

Being the 'hero' that he is, he was straight out again to football training. Maybe not the cleverest thing as he came home with a bit of a limp - but did the Boy thing of - 'no problem'. Well, it was a problem as we'd hardly started our training the next night & he stopped, clutching his leg, and couldn't walk properly. Had to sit out - right next to the box of chocolates, how convenient!

Then it was half-day Friday, and FREEDOM.... two weeks of doing nothing - bliss. It started right away with Hannah & Rachel coming over with Joe & Ali for a mass-sleep over. As we didn't have a match on Saturday, I was looking forward to a late night - but wimped out & fell asleep at half past 12 - PATHETIC. Alfie's friend Ali was proper hyper - don't know if it was Christmas excitement, or us ladies! I think Mum & Dad wanted to lock him in the shed!

At least Dad got his own back - taking them all to Blofield for some football training, so he got proper worn out.

Sadly, the extra training didn't end up helping the team on Sunday, they lost 4-0 to Dereham, but the game was closer that the score suggests. I could lie and said I know this cos I was there, but that'd only be part true - I was there, but in the warmth of the car, with Annalise & Bethan. That means that poor old Blofield will start 2015 without winning a game yet this season. I feel for him, I really do, cos we've been there. At least he now get's a break, and who knows, next year could be different.

We didn't have time to be miserable, as we were off to see Grandma & Grumps. It was the first time we'd seen Grandma since she had her knee operation, and although she could stand ok, she was slower than normal getting about. She showed us where they'd cut her leg, and you could just see some of the staples - yuk.

14/12/2014

All those who picked...... the lovely 'look-like-an-Elf' one, you are a winner! Yes, unbelievably, that's the one he got, and has been wearing in public - unbelievable. Even more worrying, Mum now wants to borrow it, for her School Christmas lunch - where will it end?

Talking about ending..... our bad luck on the Football pitch would be a good one - OMG, we seem to be cursed.

First, we travelled all the way to St Ives (2hrs away from Norwich) for our National Cup game. There were only 32 teams left in the competition, so we really wanted to win. We got off to a great start and were 2-0 up at half time, against a really nasty team - who hacked, pulled & swore at us (and the ref did nothing!). They got a lucky goal, then the unbelievable happened. One of their Girls kicked Beth in the jaw (as she went for a header), she was obviously left on the floor - the ref (again) did nothing, and they scored - we were in shock. We just couldn't get our heads around how unfair it was, and just couldn't concentrate, and they scored again. We lost 3-2, and had the whole of the 2hr journey back to think about it, again & again & again, and we still don't get it - just plain wrong & cheating.

We only had a couple of days to clear our heads, then it was time to do battle on the Football pitch again - this time against Sprowston. They were 2nd in the league, but only beat us 3-1 in the first game of the season, so we knew we had a chance. It was an unbelievably early 9:30am kick off, but we were brilliant in the first half and created chance after chance, and finally managed to score. We were so pleased at half time, and knew all we had to do was another 40 minutes of the same, and we'd get a famous win. In reality, it didn't quite happen. Just like in the school game, a bit of luck went against us, and a complete fluke long shot went in. Again, our confidence went down & we weren't concentrating at a corner, and they scored again. We lost 2-1, and were gutted. Even their manager said that we deserved to win (that's both Hellesdon & Sprowston that have said it, so next time we play them - we WILL win!)

At least I got to go shopping for Christmas presents afterwards. Not for me though, for everyone else. Fun spending Dad's money though, as I left my bag & purse in the car - how clumsy of me, ha ha.

Sadly, things on the Football field didn't get any better on Sunday, and Alfie's team lost 9-0. Admittedly, they were also playing the team who were 2nd in the league, and were missing 3 of their better players. Alfie & his mate Harvey are getting really fed up now, as they've not won a league game all season, and only have 1 point. Hang in there bro, I know how it feels, as it was just like that for us a couple of seasons ago. Maybe it's your time to be a leader, speak up & tell everyone how it is, cos it sounds like there are people that just aren't trying hard enough, or maybe just aren't good enough.

So, it was pretty miserable for both of us. I, like a true professional, had to put my best smily face on & go bag packing in M&S in Norwich, to raise money for our Sweden trip. OMG, the money that people were spending £150 - £200, on just a few items of clothing. We'd just do a bit to help them with their stuff and the £1 coins, and notes, came rolling in - a great effort from all the Girls.

Glad to hear that Grandma's knee operation went ok, and she came out of hospital when she was meant to. Unbelievably, it seems she was awake during the operation, but obviously couldn't feel anything - but heard lots of banging during the op, and had staples in her leg to hold the skin together - GRUESOME!

Only 2 weeks til Christmas now, and one more week at School - awesome..

07/12/2014

Talking about being cold - we were out playing football at 10 o'clock on Saturday morning, and according to Dad's car it was about 5 degrees (and we still had frost on half the pitch!). Luckily, I was playing from the start, and with an underlayer & leggings, it wasn't too bad. I did feel really bad though, I accidentally kicked the ball straight into this Girl's face - really hard! She was incredibly brave, and although she had to go off the pitch cos it had caused her braces to cut her lip, she came back on later - huge respect, and our automatic Player of the Match. We had our best win ever, 12-0, and we're up to 3rd in the table (although other teams haven't played as many games).

Looks like its been warm in France as well. Allos is not going to be open for skiing when they planned to. Not surprising, you can still see the grass on the slope! Let's hope it's not the same when we go at Easter. We are going back to the same village as last time - although not to the same chalet, so no Boris the Cat, ah! Annalise & Harvey are coming with us again, so it should be a right laugh.

Talking of funny things, you won't believe it - Dad has got himself a Christmas jumper! Now, you might be thinking, what's so odd about that, a nice tasteful traditional knit jumper, to keep warm in the festive season.......no, its nothing like that, its ridiculous - but can you guess which one it is?

While I was freezing on the football pitch, Alfie was warm & dry bowling - although he didn't play very well & didn't even make 100 points. He didn't really mind as he then had KFC & a sleep over at Joe's, Once again, not the best preparation for an early morning football match - although Dad said that he played one of his best matches for a while. He was lucky, no frost, and a near-tropical 8 degrees. His team lost 4-0, but it was only 2-0 until very near the end, against one of the better teams in their league. Could this be a tiny sign of a New Year improvement? - let's hope so.

I had my dance group Christmas performance on Sunday evening, so me & Hannah spent the day rehearsing our routines - practice makes perfect. The show went pretty well, no big mistakes, no falling over, no bashing into anyone - spectacular! Mum and Dad said they enjoyed it, Alfie - it seems he spent as much time playing games on his phone, as watching the show - typical!

For Alfie it was a case of 'another night, another KFC'. He didn't complain though and munched his way through the chicken, just as we all did - yummy.

Just time to cram in the last bits of homework that we'd not done & we were ready for another week.

One last thing - Grandma goes into hospital to get her new knee next week, so we hope everything goes ok, and you are up & about like a bionic lady very soon.

30/11/2014

If I'm honest, I was gutted. On Wednesday, after it had rained & rained & rained, I was hoping that our match would be called off cos the pitch would be under water. Then, we didn't have another drop of rain, and what do you know..... the game was still on - booooooooo.

Alfie & his friends had a fantastic time on the GoKart track, racing against each other - as you can see. Clearly,blasting around in a noisy Kart makes you very hungry, as they headed straight to KFC for a big feast - lucky twice over.

I didn't miss out all together as me & Dad spent our time building my new wardrobe - from hundreds & hundreds of bits. It was proper hard work, trying to put it up in such as small space, but we got there in the end (although it took over 2 hours). I've been very good and kept my room nice & tidy - how long will it last?

A quick mention of how our football games went. We played against Scole, and won 5-0. I played through the pain barrier, as my back was really killing me. I wasn't even able to train on Thursday as I'd done School Football beforehand & finished that like a cripple. I'm still waiting for an appointment with a back person - maybe they are hoping that it fixes itself by the time they get to me! So, that's one of the 3 games that Dad has challenged us to be unbeaten on, just Long Stratton & Sprowston to go - no pressure!

Clearly Alfie's sleepover, after his GoKarting wasn't great football prepartion as he & Joe seemed half asleep when they went on the pitch - and it showed. Joe got crippled after about 5 mins, and had to go off, and it was downhill from there - to a 5-1 loss. They are looking like a right sad bunch of Boys at the moment, as they are getting beaten every week. I think they just need one win, to get a bit of confidence back. Or, they could play against us, we might just win - that would really finish them off - or is that just being cruel!

OMG, it's nearly December, and that means CHRISTMAS - trouble is we're finding it really hard thinking of things that we really want. Does that mean we are soooo lucky we've got everything, or we're sooooo stupit, that we just can't think proper like?

23/11/2014

The teachers have obviously decided that cos its dark, we've got nothing better to do than lots & lots of homework - thanks. If only everything was a fun as cooking - I got to make some lovely BBQ chicken pizza, and THE MOST DELICIOUS Sticky Toffee Pudding, with bootiful sauce. You never know what other people are going to think when 
you've cooked, but everything got eaten up very quickly, it couldn't have been too horrible!

We had the next round of the National School Football competition, and had to travel all the way to Ipswich (at least that meant the afternoon off school). It was tough - a full size, muddy pitch, and windy. We got lucky in the 1st half & they scored an own goal. In the 2nd half we had chances, but couldn't score - then they had one chance, and scored. Extra time, then what..... penalties! No, need, in the 2nd half of extra time in went forward, and was in the right place at the right time..... 2-1, and I scored the winning goal!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We didn't have a game on Saturday, so went went to IKEA (as you do). We did have a reason - I needed a new desk & wardrobe, and Alfie wanted some stuff, so at the crack of dawn we were in the car, and off to the edge of London.

Wow, what a place - MASSIVE. Stuff everywhere (in a good way), all set up so you can imagine how it might look in your house. Then, when we thought we'd seen it all..... that was only half of it! As you can imagine, we were like two kids in a furniture sweet shop.... one of these, two of those....., the trolley(s) were soon getting full of stuff. Box, after box was piled up & finally paid for...... nearly £500 - OMG, that's a lot of money, but lots of stuff for it.

That's not all though, when you get all your shopping home, you then have to put it all together yourself - weird, but fun, making chairs & desks, which fortunately turned out looking like they should from the picture - always a bonus!

We just managed to squeeze my new desk into my room, so now I've got a proper place to do my homework - looking very smart. Now I just need to talk Dad into helping me do my wardrobe now.

I left the house nearly buried under a pile of cardboard, to go and watch the latest Hunger Games film with Hannah & Rachel. If you haven't seen it yet you should, it's really good, with some proper 'jumpy' bits in it. Alfie was right jealous as he wants to see it. Perhaps he could go with some of his friends.

It was a horrible, rainy day on Sunday, and I didn't go outside once. Poor Alfie still had to play football, and of course both he & Dad got completely soaked through & cold - lovely. If they'd won, it might not have been so bad, but they lost 5-2, so they are out of the cup now, never mind.

We spent the rest of the day tidying up & listening to the rain - DULL, DULL, DULL.

16/11/2014

09/11/2014

There wasn't much time for anything else, just school, homework, sleep - repeat, what sort of a life is that eh!
So much so that we all couldn't even be bothered to go to the fireworks at Brundall school, although Alfie had a last minute change of mind, and ended up going with his friend Ali. It doesn't sound like we missed too much, as the ending seemed to fizzle out, rather than a proper big bang (as usual).......booooooooo.

Talking about disappointing, I've been waiting for Hannah & Rachel's birthday presents to come from somewhere over the other side of the world, and surprise, surprise, its taking ages. By the time I get them, It'll be Christmas.

We're not going to talk about football, as it's been a shocker all round. Norwich losing twice in a week, Alfie's team getting proper beat by a team from Thorpe St Andrew that had half his school mates in - oops, he'll be getting some stick on Monday. And us, well we lost 2-0 away to Bradwell (the first time we'd not scored a goal this season). We both had to stand in silence for a minute before our games, to remember the people that had died in the Wars. OMG, was it really only a minute, it seemed so much longer when it was quiet - made you think. By the way, have you seen the pictures of the Poppies in London - amazing. Grandad is going to get one, as one of his relatives died in WWI.

On to happier things. I'm getting back into skiing again, after going to the club champs the other week, and got up early to go with Mum on Sunday. I don't know whether it cos Winter is coming, or what, but hey, it's a good excuse to get some new boots, as my ones kill my feet...... Dad.

It was nice to get a break from homework on Sunday, and see Nanna & Grandad, who came over for lunch, but left Tilly at home, so they couldn't stay too long - thanks for the Advent calendar's, now we really know that Christmas is not too far away now......exciting eh!

Not sure it counts as exciting, but we heard that Grandma will be going into hospital soon to get a new knee, as hers has worn out. Does this mean that she'll be able to kick a football miles, as it'll be like bionic? Perhaps they can give Alfie some new Eyes, and me a new spine - how do we make an appointment?

02/11/2014

We got to see Robert & Rowan (and their mental Dog Masie, who is still as mad as ever - she's never gonna change. We had a lovely day in Wells - one of our favourite places in the Summer, but still nice even though it most definitely wasn't going in the sea weather! Lucky that, cos the tide was out, and we'd have to walk miles to get to it. Still plenty to do in the dunes & the Pinewoods - enjoying a gourmet dinner of Pot Noodle, on the beach.....classy eh!

Alfie was a lucky boy..... my friend Hannah came to stay with us for a couple of days, as her Sister Rachel had a Football tournament in London somewhere, and she didn't want to be dragged along. It clearly all got too much as he arranged a sleep over at his friend Ned's house..... just to escape?

On Halloween, both Hannah & Rachel were staying over, so we all went out together (probably for the last time, as it's a kiddie's thing really), and we let Alfie & his friends tag along as well - aren't we kind! There were quite a few people out, but not as many houses had Pumpkin's outside, so it didn't take us long to 'do them all'. We still got plenty though, so we can't grumble. Alfie looked good - his face was all white with fake blood all over the place. Hannah was a wicked Princess (or something), and I was a Cat, like as a Witches Cat. Clearly Alfie scared himself with his outfit, as at the first house he tripped up the step and smacked his leg - leaving a nasty cut (which Mum thought needed stitches, but Alfie was having none of that!

No football game on Saturday, but Alfie (despite his leg injury, which obviously couldn't have been too bad), did some football training with Dad, which was good to build up an appetite, as we finally went out for Alfie's birthday tea. He chose Fatso's, cos he loves the rack of ribs in BBQ sauce. It's just like they cut the head & the tail off the Pig, then cut it in half & put it on your plate - massive. But with just a little help from Mum, it was all gone. I had a delicious burger, with loads of BBQ sauce, which was sooooo tasty. Mum & Dad had burgers as well - cos they really are that good. We obviosly left a bit of room for dessert, and shared this mountain of ice-cream - heaven!

No Football for Alfie either, so while they had a lazy day, I went with Hannah & Rachel to watch caravan stock car racing at Yarmouth stadium. It's totally mental, they just race around smashing into each other, until they breakdown, or there is nothing left of the caravan, or the car sometimes - great fun, Alfie would love it. The perfect finish, a McDonalds Big Mac, and it was time to get ready for school - woop, woop.

26/10/2014 Happy Birthday 12 years old

On top of that, of course it was Alfie's birthday - a massive 12 years old. He has been warned, that when he has his birthday next year, he will change overnight, into a moody, grunting teenager, just like Kevin the teenager (if you haven't seen the character on TV, its awesome, so funny), so we (Mum & Dad especially), should enjoy this last year.

Even though we were off school on Thursday, Mum still had to go in for some teacher training - but we couldn't have Alfie all on his own on his birthday, so Dad kindly took the day off work. As we were all up before 9.00, Alfie couldn't wait til later & opened his presents. He got a lovely new Norwich away kit, which is Maroon colour, and very smart - I could see me wearing that! He also got some smellies & a battery charger (very handy for his Xbox, now he won't even have to come downstairs), and a whole load of money - which he promises to spend wisely. Big thanks to Nanna, Grandad, Shelly, Tom, Helen & Jason.

We couldn't spend all day indoors, so we sent out to play some football (in his new kit - obviously), then a healthy McDonalds lunch!, and an afternoon swim - all before football training (followed by donuts & birthday cake) - phew!

On Friday me & my friend (and fellow school & Thorpe United football buddy) Beth went for a run around the village, as part of our get-fit-for-Sweden effort. We reckon if we start now, in 9 months time, we might just be in some sort of shape - that's the plan anyway. 

On Saturday we met up with Sophie & Naomi in Beccles for a mess about in the park and a walk around the shops. Alfie clearly thought he still had birthday privileges, and wasn't happy with my trip into NewLook - stroppy git! Nice to see our cousin's as it had been months & months since we saw them last - they are growing up fast, just like us.

On Sunday, Alfie's team had their game against the under 11's, and Alfie's team did (occasionally) play some good football - but still (just like us) spent too much time kicking it about. The practice on his birthday paid off, as he put in some great crosses & corners, that they scored a couple of goals from - he must be leading on goal assists for the team this season. He didn't score, only because a screaming shot hit his own player on the back about 2 yards from goal (knocking them to the ground)!

Straight home & in the car, off to Lowestoft, to see not only Grandma & Grumps, but Monty, Connie, Ben & Catherine. Connie was there to meet us, but The Professor (Monty) was in the garden playing at being a mountaineer, with ropes everywhere between the trees - bonkers fun! We had a right fun afternoon playing with the ropes, climbing trees, playing football tennis, and eating lots of Grandma's tasty food! Alfie got some more birthday presents - some more smellies & a collection of his favourite books - the Nicholas series, which he was really pleased with - thanks everyone.

Just time to say bye - before X Factor, and just to say that next week is looking busy. Off to see Robert & Rown - so, that'll be all the Cousin's done in 4 days!, then plenty of things over the rest of the day, before we all go out on Halloween night for a bit of Trick-or-Treat fun.

19/10/2014

Mum is still being very protective of her car. I'm surprised that she doesn't sleep in it, just to make sure no one gets too close! You'll never guess what though...... Mum actually cleaned her car. something she'd never actually done with her last one (in all the years that she had it) - how long will it last? a month... two, or maybe until Christmas - tops!

Talking about cars, Dad's car is making even more noise, and smelling really bad of Diesel. Luckily, we've seen one that we both like (its another one like he's already got, but newer, and smarter), so it looks like we'll have to watch where we put our muddy feet (for a few weeks at least!).

So, it'll be two new cars in two weeks - check us out eh! We suppose we'll be poor for years now, and only get a Tangerine, or a piece of coal for Christmas! Talking of being poor, I must check to see when Dad has got to pay the next instalment for my Sweden soccer trip - that'll make him feel even better!

Back to the football chatter I'm afraid, but starting with something a bit different - I did some refereeing in a 5-a-side tournament at school, that was raising money for our trip. It was pretty nerve wracking to be honest, even though I knew the people that were playing (but year 9 Boys, are still Year 9 Boys). Luckily, I didn't have to make any really difficult decisions, and if I'm honest being the linesman was just as tricky, as you can't let your concentration wander, even for a minute.

Alfie & his friends were in a team, and they were doing pretty well, until the semi-finals, when they played really rubbish (or words to that effect!), and lost 3-1. I didn't end up being ref for any of his matches, so he can't blame me!

So, to the weekend football feast, and what a rare event, both me & Alfie both won our games. We beat Long Stratton 5-1, and I scored (with my Left foot!). I also headed the ball direct from a corner, and nearly knocked myself out, as it hit me on the top of the head - ouch!We were a much better team, and actually played with, and for each other (not like last week), so everyone was happy.

Alfie's team were actually playing in the cup this week, not last week like we told you about before, so we got it wrong - DOH. Anyway, they were playing against Wymondham, and won 11-2, and Alfie scored (with his Left foot as well), and he set up about 6 of the other goals. That must be one of their biggest wins ever - even if the team was in a lower league. You've still got to go out and win - just ask Norwich, who lost to Luton Town in the FA cup last year, and they weren't even in the Football League when they played.

Gotta go and do a load more homework, and Alfie is already doing his. Luckily, there isn't much time for us to get much more, as it's only a 3-day school week, then its party time as its Alfie's birthday, on a football training night as well.

12/10/2014

The week begun normally enough, then on Tuesday something Red & shiny appeared outside our house, and no, it wasn't a new post box! It was Mum's new car, and when we say new, we mean brand new - how flashy eh. It was weird to see such a clean & tidy car, without any dents in it! Trouble is we've already been told - no eating or drinking allowed inside. That means, no long trips in it for us then, or loads of Mcdonalds stops. It's smaller than the other car, but nice & funky, and all 4 of us still fit in - just like Dr Who's Tardis.

Mum's still in that... I don't want it to get wet, dirty, or anyone to play football within 1/2 a miles of it.... just in case - chill.

While were talking about cars, it looks like Dad will have to get a new car as well, as his has started to make all sorts of funny noises, and it smells really horrible when it finally starts - in a cloud of smoke..... definitely not how it should be. Before we get all excited about some flashy new car, he's already said that cos he has all the Football stuff, and muddy players in it, he isn't going to spend a load of money, so who knows what he comes back with!

All we'll say about football is that we are both out of our cup competitions. Alfie's team were cheated in their game as the home team ref gave a penalty right at the end, then gave them a 2nd chance to take it, when they missed it first time - boooooooo. We lost 4-1, and spent as much time arguing and blaming each other as we did trying to play the other team. Dad was not happy and gave us a long talking to afterwards, so we'd better not do that again - enough said.

On to much, much better things. We went to Go Ape in Thetford forest. This is where you get a safety harness, and go up in the trees on loads of different obstacles - knowing that you aren't going to fall off & hurt yourself. Me & Alfie had been wanting to do it for ages, and Hannah & Rachel needed some adults to take them, as their Mum & Dad couldn't, or wouldn't! It was brilliant fun - up in the trees, swinging about, balancing on thin planks of wood with nothing else beneath, and strangely not scary, just loads & loads of fun! The zip wires were really awesome, as you came down really fast, and most of the time went splat into the woodchips at the end. There was one bit where you had to jump off into mid air, and swing into a net, that you then had to pull yourself up on - mental.

It took over 2hrs to do it all, and when we'd finished, it was tea time, and luckily there is a Mcdonalds just around the corner, so that was that sorted - the end to a brilliant day. If you haven't done it - definitely recommended.

Some really sad news to end on - Robert & Rowans Grandad died. Uncle Tom's Dad, who I can just about remember meeting (and thinking he looked like Captain Birds Eye, cos of his big beard), had not been very well for some time. RIP Roger. 

05/10/2014

Alfie went Football training at School, as he waits to see if he's made the 'B' team, which is mental, as he should be in the 'A' one, but what do I know? Good for him though, the best way to make them change their mind - go bro!

Our training was a bit weird - Keivy, one of our players from last season turned up unexpectedly, and brought another possible player with her, so word is definitely getting around. Even stranger, Lucy turned up (late), then disappeared again after half an hour - couldn't have been something we said, as she didn't say much.

So started 4 days of Football in our house. On Friday we got to leave early as we had a match away in Lowestoft against Benjamin Brittain school. It wasn't the school that Dad went to, but it wasn't far away. He kept warning us of how rough it was going to be, and how our minibus would probably have all its windows smashed on the way in, and all its wheels nicked - nice place!

Well, it was nothing like that. The school needed a bit of a tidy up (but so does ours), and the minibus was fine. We even had a small crowd of home supporters. Dad had the afternoon off work so came along, so did Grandma & Grumps, as it wasn't too far from where they lived. I started the match as a striker, which was weird after my weeks in defence. It took us a while to get going, but after we'd scored a couple of quick goals, we had the match won - before half time. Everyone else was scoring (partly cos I was setting them up), but every time I got in a good position my shots went wide, or straight at the goalie - very frustrating! That wasn't the best bit though.... just before half time, I was trying my hardest (probably too hard), and I managed to do the best defensive header ever - almost cleared it off the goal line - shame was, it was the goal I should have been scoring in - DOH!

It mattered to me (as I didn't score), but not to the result, as we won 13-0, and it was a National cup game, so on to the next round - wherever that'll be.

No rest for us, as it was up early on Saturday morning for a trip to Diss to play Scole (yes I know they are separate places, I don't understand it either). It was really windy, which we thought would help us, but it seemed to have the reverse effect - we were rubbish in the first half, loads of passes going anywhere, and all very scrappy - until I ran through and scored, just before half time. We all knew we were much better, and tried extra hard in the 2nd half (up hill, against the wind). Strangely, we played much better, and scored another 3 goals (including a rare strike from Kate), and a monster shot from one of our new players Anya (from inside the centre circle!), that's two of them we've got now. So, our first win of the season. Played 4, won won, drawn 1, and lost 2 (against the two top teams - not too bad). 

Just enough time to get home & changed before Hannah & Rachel came over, as we were off to our friend Freddie's house party. While I was still sleeping, Alfie was playing against Dereham (who they lost 9-0 to last season). It was very different this time - much more even. Alfie was still sort of in defence, but Dad said he was able (allowed) to get forward more, and was again showing how good he was - winning the ball, running, then playing clever passes through the Dereham defence (which is what Blofield desperately need). The Dereham goalie was making save after save, and it looked like they'd never score. Then, another Alfie pass & Harvey ran on to score..... 1-0 to Blofield. It looked like Alfie's team would also get their first win of the season, until they threw it away (Alfie's own words!). Instead of booting the ball up the pitch, a Blofield player tried to be too clever near his own area, and lost the ball...... you can guess the rest - they scored, and the whistle blew for the end of the game! Alfie was soooooo mad, he couldn't speak. He know's it's a team game, but in his words 'what were those idiots doing?'       

So, we didn't get a hatrick of victories, but 2 out of 3 aint bad. We've got a cup game away in Gorleston next Saturday, then we might be doing Go Ape in Thetford, so gonna be fun packed (as always), and Alfie's birthday is less than 3 weeks away now - exciting (for him!)

28/09/2014

Before I go on.... I know, its been Football, Football, Football..... and we'll try to put something different in next week, but that's all there is. Does that mean our lives are dull & boring, and we should be looking for some other hobbies, or are we just obsessed!

So, next week will be different - promise, until then, you'll just have to put up with just a bit more Football talk. First, my game. As I said last week, we played Hellesdon, who won the league & cup last year, and won all their games. We gave them a hell of a game, and although we lost 3-1, we took the lead, and if there goalie hadn't made a couple of great saves, once again we could have got at least a draw! OMG, we were buzzing, we usually lost 8-0, or more, and we finished being disappointed not to draw - WOW. I played against my friend Rachel, and did everything Dad said.... and I'll have to be honest - I ROCKED!!!!, she kept switching sides cos I made her lose the ball, and I'd never seen her put so many corners straight behind the goal. Normally she'd score loads of goals, but she didn't get any, and was taken off in the 2nd half - so I must have been doing something right. We couldn't keep their other good player - Hope quiet, although she kicked our keeper in the head, and knocked Vivian onto her back, so the ref had to calm her down. Next time we'll get Lucy to kick her! So, we've lost 3-1 each time to the top two sides, now we need to go for our first win at Scole next week. Not easy, but definitely do-able.

Ah, some (almost) non Football related stuff, we went to my Football club's Bingo night, and even brought Alfie's friend along for some good luck, but he must have been a curse. At least we did win something edible, unlike last Christmas when all we got were two Partridge's! Alfie won some sweets for a full line, and Ali won the very last raffle prize - a Pink water bottle (just what he'd always wanted!

Alfie's Sunday game was against Taverham, who finished 2nd in the league last season, and the difference between the good teams & the not so good ones showed again I'm afraid. Alfie was stuff in Left defence (again), and although he tackled and ran about, there were too many of his team mates who just weren't trying hard enough - and I know cos I was there. The score was only 4-2 early in the 2nd half, then their goalie let in some really soft shots, and most of the team gave up. At least Alfie was still determined & nearly scored when he hit a great volley that just went wide. THAT'S WHERE THEY NEED TO PLAY HIM, UP THE PITCH, NOT IN DEFENCE, but what do I know, I'm just a Girl! I lost count in the end.... 8, or 9-2 I think. Alfie was sooooo mad afterwards. He's going to have to say something as this can't carry on... he's just enjoying it like he used to, and I think there are one, or two others. Who say's it's just a game! it messes up your weekend if it's really rubbish, and there is nothing you could do about it.       

I went back to School on Sunday afternoon (no, not for some detention, or extra lessons), we go on the astro-turf Football pitches and play.... more Football (I told you it's taken over). Just to prove it, after dad had practiced plastering the ceiling in the hallway downstairs, him and Alfie went to the rec, to play Table Tennis, and .......Football.

Then, it was just a quick couple of hours homework, a bit of X Factor & bed....... So, it's Happy Monday (again).

21/09/2014

14/09/2014

We've just got to remember.... it's just a game & it should be fun (but winning does feel sooooo much better).

07/09/2014

So, we'll definitely be going next year, maybe we'll be able to persuade Dad & Alf to come (although I'm not sure we'd want to see them in there!

Anyway, moving on. Well, well….. little Alfie gets all grown up & goes to the big school – and he’s on my bus!

He went in a day early, so he could find his way around, before we all dropped in the next day. He’s really enjoying it (apart from getting homework in nearly every subject – welcome to reality bro!). Also, what a lucky Boy he is – wearing his new uniform (with a shirt & tie). We’re supposed to be wearing this next year, but we really don’t want to – just for one year, waste of time & money (and I don’t like the style or colours!)

While Alf was getting lost in the maze of Thorpe school, I was at the Football academy on a Junior Football Leader Training course. It was really good, like our sports leader stuff at school. We had to plan & run a football training session, which was fun, but a bit scary (as there were about 20 other people there). I’ve now got to do 4 hours of volunteering for the football club, so Dad’s gonna have me doing all sorts of crazy stuff, no doubt! I wouldn’t mind being a ref, for an under 10 game, as that shouldn’t be too tricky.

Can’t laugh at Alf getting homework, as we’ve been getting it as well – some with only 2 days to do it in – harsh!

We’d both forgotten how tired school made us, and we’ve been falling asleep at 10ish, which we’d never do normally – gotta be working us too hard!

On Saturday we had a ‘friendly’ game against Horsford, who were a year older than us, and according to our ‘sources’ had some really good players – so I was expecting to get thrashed.
But we didn’t… we played really well, and although we lost 4-3, we had chances to get a draw, which would have been a fair result.
Everyone tried really hard, and both our Goalies made some fab saves (which was great for Rebecca’s confidence, after last week). Chloe & Anya really got ‘stuck in’ and at one point it looked like they were going to ‘lose-it’, so Dad had to calm them down – phew, we didn’t want to get banned before the season even started!
Our season starts next week with a game against Sprowston, who finished 2nd last season. If we play like we did on Saturday, it should be quite a game.

Alfie should have been playing a friendly game on Sunday, but the silly Boy managed to hurt his foot, and couldn’t play. Clearly he was trying to copy Dad & his holiday foot injury (but it wasn’t anything like it – just a bit of bruising). His team definitely needed him as they lost 4-2 and they were lucky it wasn’t by more. Still, just a friendly, and the chance to practice stuff before the real games start – next week, just like us.

So, everything is back to normal – Summer is over, School is here, never mind, it’ll soon be Christmas!

31/08/2014

And the weather too, we'd forgotten how nice it was to get up, knowing that it was going to be warm & sunny. A bit different here - the Bank Holiday was horrible, it started to rain at about 9 o'clock in the morning, and didn't stop until after we'd gone to bed (at about midnight!). Unluckily for us, Dad had already decided that we'd go for a bike ride over the weekend, and chose the Sunday, when it was actually quite nice. When we say nice, we mean nice for a gentle, short(ish) ride. What we got was 20 miles through Thetford forest on both the Red routes! At least we got to ride 'the Beast' which is a really twisty, rocky track, where both me & Alf nearly fell off (at speed!). Luckily everyone came home in one piece, just totally whacked!

We just vegged around for the last few days of the week, saving ourselves for the weekend, as we had the return of the 'Battle of the Sexes' football match between Thorpe United Ladies & Blofied United. We got well beaten last time, so were really looking to improve - but it didn't all go to plan! First, we didn't have all our team, so had to 'borrow' a couple of players (who were good by the way), then our goalie (poor old Rebecca), didn't have her best game, and every shot seemed to bounce out of her hands, and they got most of their goals with a little help from us. We did score a few ourselves, and with the final score being 6-3, it was an improvement, but we need to get better, and quickly, as our season starts in 2 weeks.          

Even though Alfie's team won, he wasn't happy, as he was played in defence again, which he doesn't really enjoy - he needs to speak to his manager, and tell him, or just start playing where he wants to & see what happens!

You might remember me mentioning that I'd done the ice bucket challenge, with Hannah, well, both Mum & Dad got nominated, so me & Alf got to soak them in ice cold water - which I can tell you is pretty shocking (especially when you pour it slowly), which I did. At least Dad has nominated Alfie, so he'll get his 'moment'.

Getting very excited, as it's nearly time for Sundown, the music festival, and the chance to see Ellie Golding, Wilkinson & John Newman - should be awesome! Tell you all about it next week, when we'll also be able to let you know about Alfie's first few days at Thorpe High school - worrying thing is he's on my bus (but all my friends know him anyway, so he can't be any more embarrassing - can he?). 

24/08/2014

We all did pretty much nothing for the next couple of days – except sort all our holiday stuff out, and moan about how cold we were! We loved our hot summer holiday, as you can see. Trouble is that means we MUST have two expensive holidays every year - skiing & sunbathing (although not at the same time - even if this is possible, like it was at Easter!)
Talking about cold – you must have heard about the ice bucket challenge. Well, if not, it’s where you have a bucket of ice cold water tipped over your head, then you get to nominate 3 other people who have to do it, within 24 hours, and guess what – I’d been nominated. Me & Hannah got ‘dunked’ at the same time, and it sure does take your breath away – brrrrrrr!

10/08/2014

The weather got nice again at the end of the week, so we went to the beach (again), including a trip to Lowestoft with Dad on Saturday. We went near Nanna & Grandad's house, and Nanna came along, and played some beach Cricket - even getting her feet wet saving the ball from the Sea - nice work! Crazy Tilly also made a guest appearance, but we wouldn't have any balls left in 5 mins, if we let her loose on them! More good sunbathing practice for Greece, and we even got some sea swimming in (but hope the water is both warmer, and more Blue where we're going!). As a bit of a warning, Alfie got a bit of sunburn on his back, so he's gonna need to be proper careful in Rhodes.

It's getting really exciting now as the suitcases are down from the loft, and the first of the holiday clothes are going in..... lets just hope I get a bit of space after Mum has taken her entire wardrobe!

Sunday was looking like being a washout. Tropical storm Bertha (who makes these names up - honestly!) was supposed to bring wind & rain, and by 2pm (just when I was supposed to be going out, it rained & rained & rained). Then, Dad had a crazy, but we have to admin brilliant idea - lets go swimming at the Beccles Lido - outdoors in the rain! What fun we had - Hannah & Rachel came along with me & Alfie, and as you'd guess there weren't many other people there, which meant more fun on the diving board for us. Dad did his usual tricks, and we just messed about, for nearly two hours!!!!  

Now, just got to make sure everything is washed, ironed & packed neatly, then we'll be off to the Sun - catch you later.

03/08/2014

With the holiday booked, me & Mum obviously had to go shopping for a few 'essentials' (yup, you guessed it, clothes), while Dad did the same & came back with two 'new' t-shirts from a charity shop (which were actually very nice). He got these in Bungay, in the middle of a bike ride that him & Alfie went on. Alfie thought he'd only be going for about 19 miles, but it ended up being over 30, and it was a hot day. Luckily, they'd already planned to go swimming afterwards - I bet the water steamed when they got in!

It was hot again on Saturday, so we all went for a game of pitch & putt golf at Eaton Park. We were all pretty bad (as we'd not played for ages), and spent quite a bit of time hunting for our balls - I lost 4 altogether (oops). It was good fun though, and I might suggest that me, Hannah & Rachel have a go sometime.

Football training was pretty hot & sweaty for both of us, but we're definitely getting better (we drew against the ladies in our end-of-training game). Dad will have to mention to Alfie's coach about a game against our two teams, before the season starts.

As the weather has been so nice, we either been outside at home or down the beach - getting in training for our week in Greece - fun in the Sun, can't wait!

27/07/2014

20/07/2014

Just like last week, you are getting a break from hearing about me, me, me & instead Alfie's antics make far more interesting reading (or at least we hope so).

Well, almost... me & Hannah talked & talked about the dance show, and are already thinking about the Christmas spectacular, which no doubt we'll start practicing in September - no rest for the talented! Talking of talent..... we had our school sports presentation morning and me, Hannah & Rachel might as well have stayed up at the front, as we each picked up a whole handful of certificates for the teams we'd played in.

So, after Alfie's trip away last week, you might have thought he'd be having a quiet week, or two - not likely. First it was the Thorpe High School welcome disco, with an indoor inflatable (jealous). Alfie said it was alright, but not all of his friends were there, and some of the Boys from other schools were really being stupid... that won't last, believe me!

Next night was Alfie's Brundall School leavers disco which he really enjoyed. It all nearly went horribly wrong at the end, as Dad went to the school, thinking it was there, and had to come all the way back to ask Mum where he should be going - next time, take your phone & don't assume (anything!).

The fun didn't stop there..... no. His friend Ali was spending the weekend at the Latitude festival near Southwold, and Alfie got invited to go along with Mum, who could get in for free (instead of £80).... bonus. Mum was dead excited, and wouldn't stop going on about it , even though I'd never heard of anyone who was there...... no, sorry.... Clean Bandit were the only ones - so hardly Sundown!

Anyway, Mum & Alfie left on Sunday morning (to have fun), while me & Dad cut the garden hedge - don't I get all the fun! THREE HOURS LATER, we'd finished & I was shattered (but £5 richer), which made it feel quite a bit better. I went off to see my friends, while Dad went for a bike ride & swim (which the weather almost gave him for free) - did anyone else get caught out in the most crazy rain EVER? We were soooo lucky, we just made it to a friends house, before the road became a river - unbelievable.

Even more unbelievable, Alfie & Mum had just a few spots of rain, but nothing really - very, very lucky. Mum & Alfie had a fantastic time at Latitude, not only listening to Clean Bandit, but some poetry as well, and a Go-Ape assault course & cool zip-wire, into a cargo net in the woods - pretty awesome stuff. Now, he wants to know who's on at Sundown - party animal!

Final 3 days, then a bit of a rest, before we go on holiday somewhere (hopefully). I did say Spain, so finger crossed. Not Turkey though, its 40 degrees out there at the moment - that's too hot to move.     

13/07/2014

Alfie had his school trip to Kingswood, and had a fab time (even though he forgot to take his walking boots - DOH!) - so lucky it stayed dry, otherwise he would have come home with webbed feet. It sounds like they did similar things to when Mum went with Annabel earlier in the year, and when I went to Lincolnshire a couple of years back. Plenty of outdoor climbing, scrambling & messing about stuff - Alfie's idea of heaven! Sounds like he nearly climbed up there, up some obstacle called Jacobs Ladder, which he & one of his friends got to the top of - which had hardly ever been done before - go Alfie!!!! 

The crazy Boy even like the underground bits (which I hated), the tight squeeze in the pitch black - yuk, makes me feel ill just thinking about it again! I know the person in the picture isn't Alfie (they've not go any of their trip yet), and yes, I know its not dark, but that's just for the picture - it's scary, trust me!!!

I had my last dance practice (before our show), then Cricket, followed straight after by Football practice - and it was warm (but luckily dry - when all around was getting flooded....weird). Dad didn't go too crazy on us in training - thanks, and we had two new players who wanted to join - Anya, from our school team, and her friend Abi, who are both well good players.

On Saturday Alfie & Dad helped at our Football team open-morning, in the boiling heat, and another School team player, Beth came along, as she also wants to join. OMG, that's 3 new amazing players. What with Briony & Chloe as well, we could be a really good team next season (but I don't want to say anything, cos I don't want to get my expectations going). I couldn't make it as I was doing Hannah's hair, cos we were going into Norwich for the day, and she had to look good (you never know who you'll meet!). We had a right fun time going bowling (I did ok, getting over 100 - although I did have the bumpers down the side.... I know, baby cheat!). After all that exercise, we needed to eat, so Pizza Hut for lunch, then a bit of shopping.

Alfie had his first Football training on Sunday, with his new coaches, and really enjoyed it. It was another hot & humid morning and he was nearly melting at the end! Just like Dad who went on a bike ride, and came back looking like he'd had a bath - yuk!

In the evening Nanna & Grandad came along to see my dance show (at the Hollywood cinema of all places). It wasn't like the ones I was in years ago. This was all loud music & quick dancing. Grandad even liked the SELFIE tune, go-Grandad! Our dance went pretty well. I made a couple of little mistakes, but I don't think anyone noticed. At one point we lift my friend Hannah off the ground, and let her fall back onto the arms of other people. This time she went extra high, and looked proper impressive, before falling safely down - phew. Everyone enjoyed it, and it was only an hour long, so you didn't really get time to get too bored - hopefully.

I can't believe that some people have finished at school already. We've got another 10 days to go! Not that we're counting!        

06/07/2014

It felt like I had half a week at school, as we had a day as Sports Leaders at Whitlingham Lake, helping some school children with their sailing lessons. Of course we weren't teaching them, that would have been a disaster! As there weren't many of us, and not too many kids, we mostly sat about getting a tan - lovely!

I also had the Norfolk & Suffolk Athletics day at the UEA, doing the 100m & the relay. OMG, it was a hot day, and there were some seriously quick runners there. So, while I didn't win, I tried my best, and didn't come last, so I see that as an achievement! My friend Rachel was in the javelin, and again there were some scary good people, and sadly she did come last - but hey, again we had a day out in the Sun, and just a bit of running about, so not all bad.

But all of that was just getting in the way of the main event..... our day trip to Thorpe Park, and it was AWESOME! Forget the hideous early morning (at school before 6am!), and you'll never guess what, Mum took me - yup you read right, Mum up at 5am on a Saturday. Now, you might be thinking that she'd gone mad, but no, it was all part of her cunning plan... so Dad had to come and pick me up at 10pm, while Mum drank wine - crafty eh!

Thorpe Park was amazing - some of the rides were definitely as good as Alton Towers, so we'll have to come again with Dad & Alf, they'll love it! It's hard to choose a favourite..... Collosaus, Nemesis, Saw......... look for yourself, what's yours?

Alfie had an interesting day himself, some football with Dad & Alf's friend Ali, then some swimming (not Bungay as they hoped, as something had happened and the pool was shut - but they didn't know that until they got there - oops). So they came all the way back into Norwich & went to Riverside, and had a great time - until Dad's car refused to start, and Mum had to come and rescue Alf & Ali, while Dad waited for the repair man (who temporarily fixed it by hitting a bit of the engine with a hammer - bizarre!).

Sunday was good day as well (after we'd all woken up). We went off to see Annalise & Harvey, and their boat - yup, we've now got friends that have their own boat - check us out! It didn't look good for ages though, as guess what, it was raining (again), and we didn't fancy getting wet yet again. However, it finally dried up & we got out and went for a drive (if that's what you call it) up the river - which looks very different when you are on it. You have to remember to go on the other side (opposite to the roads, which is confusing). I got to have a little drive (and luckily had a straight bit, so not too tricky).

We had a right laugh when we got back, using the mooring rope to do some double-dutch skipping, although no where near as good as the experts, we did get to the point of being able to get in & out, and do some twist jumps, which wasn't bad for a first attempt. We even had some other walkers stop & watch - not sure if they were just totally confused, or impressed!

Alfie has got his school trip to Kingswood this week, so I'm Alf free for a couple of days - bliss! Another bonus, we're starting football training on Thursday, so it'll be interesting to see what Dad gets us to do, now he's been on his coaching course - could be hell!           

28/06/2014 Happy Birthday 14 years old

As you might have been aware, IT WAS MY BIRTHDAY....a whole big & grown up 14 years old. As it was on Tuesday, most of my 'special' day was spent at school.....boooo. At least I got a McDonalds for tea (and then went to dance, to giggle that Big Mac all about - lovely!). A massive thanks to everyone for all my presents, I have been spoiled once again - I'm really going to enjoy spending my money.

On Thursday we all got the day off school (cos it was the Norfolk Show), but of course we didn't go - neither Alf or me need a tractor, Cow, or Sheep, so what would be the point! So, instead we went off to the beach, with my friends Hannah, Rachel & Emily, while Alfie went to his friend Joe's. It wasn't the warmest of days - well, what do you expect on almost the longest day of the year!, but we still had a good time, eating chips & messing about.

Then on Friday the rain (and hail) began. OMG, it was unbelievable - just before the storm it got as dark as night, then rained & rained & rained. You don't believe it, here are the photo's to prove it.

On Saturday, Dad was doing more Football coaching stuff, so we went to Brundall school's Rock the Boat day, mainly cos Alfie was playing the Sax (no too badly actually), and he made the local paper. Yup, you guessed it....it rained (again) and we got very wet. Just our luck, by the time it finished at 9 o'clock, it had just stopped raining - typical.

On Sunday, we all went our separate ways - Dad went off to finish his football coaching, Alfie went to Harvey's as he had a football tournament, and me & Mum went to Bungay, as we had a tournament of our own - Football, football, football. Can you guess what happened?....... yup, you're right.... it rained (not just any old rain - torrential rain, that just poured & poured & poured. We were soaked before our first match, drenched before our second, and nearly drowned in our own clothes before the 3rd one.... miserable! At lunchtime it was so bad that they had to abandon the tournament (which no one had ever known to happen before). So, such a shame for us, Bungay FC, and Grandma & Grumps that came to watch.

At least me & Mum weren't the only ones to get wet. Alfie got the same soaking at this tournament, which did actually go until the end (obviously they didn't have the same amount of rain as we did!). Blofield did ok. They won their first 4 games, then drew & lost, meaning they got through to the knockout stages. By this time they were all a bit tired, and couldn't find another winning game, and were out. Their new coaches were there & according to Kerry they were quite impressed with what they saw.

Dad didn't miss out either, and got thoroughly soaked to the skin at his football coaching course - just like the bloke in the Halifax advert (if you've seen it). Just like Saturday, the weather got loads better by teatime, and by 8 o'clock was lovely - how cruel on all the things that would have been wrecked by the rain.       

So, incredibly that half the year gone - yikes. Now it's closer to next Christmas, that it was the last one - scary thought eh.

21/06/2014

As I know you haven't.... even if you said you had, I know you'll just be teasin', we'll move on.

The main thing to say is that Alfie came & spent a whole day at Thorpe High School.... and survived. Not only did he return home alive, but he also got a certificate for some creative writing he'd done! That's right.... Alfie and writing...I had to pinch myself & look at the handwriting to see if he'd awarded it to himself - but it looks genuine enough. Obviously, I'll say well done (as he's my Brother), but between you and me.... I wonder if he's a hidden genius just waiting to escape from the bottle, or were all the other people he was with really thick? - tricky one eh!

Seriously, he had a really good day, and is looking forward to starting in September. He was soooo thrilled to bump into my friend Hannah (who of course ran up & gave him a big hug - ahhhh!). I reckon he's going to realise just how many people he'll already know, cos they are the Brother or Sister of so & so. Knowing him, he'll end up knowing everyone & anyone who plays Football pretty quick anyway.

Talking of Football, well maybe we shouldn't.... honestly what can you say. We had a full-house to watch England play against Uruguay (Hannah, Emily & Stephen - which made it a bit awkward as Hannah & Stephen have a bit of 'history'). So, as you all know, all England had to do was not lose, and they'd still have a chance. What did they do.... lose, and not only that, they let Liverpool's arm-biting Suarez score 2 goals, even though half the England team play for Liverpool, and should therefore know all about him - hopeless.     

Enough of that. Back to better stuff - Mum & Alfie's abseil the other week. Nanna sent over a couple more pictures (of them right at the top), which shows you just how far up they were - very brave indeed. Maybe they'll try it next time with a parachute - BASE jumping, I think it's called - mental!  

The weekend was lovely, especially on Saturday, so me & the Girls did a bit of sunbathing, while Alfie went to the Park, and Dad went on a Football coach training course, which he said was very hot, very tiring, but interesting. Can't wait to see what lovely things he's got for us when we get back to Football training in the next few weeks. Even before that we've got a couple of 5-a-side tournaments, so there is always something goin' on.        

This time next week I'll be 14, and so Mum & Dad say - able to get a job (although I can't say it's top of my list at the moment!) - sounds like slave labour to me!

14/06/2014

Friday was different, rather than better... as a sports leader I got to help out at a cricket tournament in Postwick, and guess what.... Alfie's school was in it - bootiful. Anyway, we had a good day - saw each other a few times, and although Alfie's team didn't win, his bowling was very impressive. He bowled 4 people out, and had another 3 people caught off his bowling, so a pretty good effort. His Blofield friends were also there, and they did better and got to their final, but lost - never mind.

So, that was the 'highlight' of the school week! At least it livened up on Friday, as I had some of my Girls over to stay - Emily, Jess & Lauren. Before that though it was Alfie's Football presentation night (which we nearly forgot all about) - terrible eh!

We got to Blofield just as it was starting, and luckily it was a lovely evening so everyone was outside, playing Football - surprise, surprise!They did the oldest teams first, so we had to wait a while until Alfie's team - but it was worth the wait, as Alfie was nominated by his team mates as the Players Player of the Year - just like I was. His face... when his name was announced - right proud (as were Mum & Dad). So last season we were both the Manager's Player of the Year, and this season, Players Player - spooky eh!    

After, we had a great game of footy, with the Boys (and Beth - who Dad begged to come & play for us), so hopefully she does, cos she's really good. Then back to mine for a late one with the Girls, and not too much sleep. Hardly time for Bacon sandwiches & pancakes, before Jess & Lauren went off & me & Emily went into Norwich, as I had to get Dad something for Father's Day the next day - sooooo last minute I know.

Dad & Alfie went and practiced some more football (totally obsessed them two), before we all got back together at tea time. I decided I was going to stay up and watch England play Italy (even though they didn't kick off until 11 o'clock in the evening UK time. In the end, I'm glad Hannah & Rachel also stayed up so we could chat, as the game was pretty pants, as England lost 2-1. Now they must beat Uruguay (with Liverpool's Lois Suarez) in their next game, or they are OUT!!!!

At least I got a lie in bed on Sunday, until nearly 10 o'clock (which I soooo needed). Alfie wasn't half as tired as he was asleep just after kick-off. After a quick tidy up, Nanna & Grandad arrived for a spot of lunch, and cos it was Grandad's Father's Day as well. Looks like I did well with my choice of gifts for Dad, as he'd already eaten some of the chocolate before lunch! - greedy. Speaking of food, not only did Nanna & Grandad bring us some some yummy sweets, but I made the afters..... a baked Alaska, which everyone thought was very tasty. If you've never had one, you should - it's got ice-cream in it, but you cook it in the oven.... honestly.

Right, so that's that.... just time to say, if you'd forgotten, its my birthday in just over a week, so don't forget. Before & after that it's busy, busy, with more Rounders, Cricket, and School trips for both of us - so keep thinking those Sunny thoughts, we need them.      

07/06/2014

Alfie was straight back into Cricket practice, and even though he only got to bowl 6 balls (called an over for some strange reason - weird eh), he got two of the batters out, just missed the wickets by millimetres (how accurate his measuring is, is anyone's guess), another 2 times, with someone only managing to hit one of his bowls - pretty impressive I have to admit. Not surprisingly he's in the School team that has a match next week, so lets hope for some warm, dry weather.   

So, enough of that, on to the brave stuff. Me first (of course).... I went to the dentist and now have some lovely blue braces on my teeth, that I'll have to wear for the next two years! It didn't hurt too much (but then I am tough as you know). The worst thing is that they started to come apart after only a few hours, and now they did into my mouth, which is really sore. I'm going to get it sorted next week, but in the meantime, I've got to eat just soft stuff - just like a baby!!!!!

Alright, so maybe that wasn't the most brave thing you've ever heard.... but check this - Mum, Grandad & Alfie, all Abseiling 60ft down the side of the Church near Nanna & Grandad. We'd forgotten that Mum was doing it, until we were woken early on Saturday morning & were in Lowestoft earlier than Mum's normally out of bed! While Grandad & Mum were talking to the climbing people, somehow Alfie was then asked if he wanted a go..... and he said yes. I'm soooo relieved they didn't ask me - phew. They all had to climb to the top of the church tower (up ladders that went straight up), and somehow around the bell (which luckily no-one rang, as that would have been noisy).

Grandad was first over the wall at the top, and soon walking down the wall, which looks a really odd thing to be able to do, but very stylishly done. He got a big clap from everyone at the bottom, so did Alfie & Mum who followed him down. They all said it was pretty scary at the top, getting over the ledge, but once you'd worked out you weren't going to fall, it was OK, and they'd do it again - mad fools.

Talking of mad fools, Dad decided he was going to bike home (yup, from Lowestoft to Brundall), so we let him go off, while we went shopping - for some new trainers. I know we didn't leave straight away, and we didn't exactly rush in the sports shop, and got Chinese for tea, we were all surprised to see that he got home before us - 2 hours it took him.

Sunday was a bootiful day - Sun, Sun, Sun. We had a quick bit of football practice in the morning (so I could check out my new footwear), then everyone else went around Brundall, as it was the annual garage sale. Of course Dad came back with a bag full of 'bargains'. Being honest, the leather cushions are nice, and an actual bargain (for once).

We we roasting, and had to do something to cool down, then genius.... the Beccles Lido outdoor pool. We checked the website & it was open - fantastic. A quick call later & my friend Hannah was coming. What a brilliant time (again)... even Mum came along this time. She was proper brave, going off the diving board (for the first time in 30 years!) - go Girl! Dad did his fancy dives, and me & Alf finally managed a front flip, after plenty of wimpy attempts. I can see us being regular visitors over the coming months, as long as the weather stays nice, which it had better do, as we had another Rounders match cancelled last week and we've got a tournament next week, so please everyone, think sunny thoughts. .        

31/05/2014

We've been away camping (as we usually do in May), and it was great to be back with our Cousin's Robert & Rowan (who couldn't come last year). We went somewhere different this time - Derbyshire. Dad had to show us where it was on the map as we no no clue! What a bonus - not the 6+ hours of driving to Shropshire or Wales - just an easy 3-4 hours!!

Sunday - Nice and Sunny at home, so lets hope we take the weather with us. We nearly manage to - it was still dry in Derby (when we stopped for a lovely KFC lunch), but by the time we'd gone down more tiny country lanes than we could count, it was cloudy and it was clear from the squelchy grass on the campsite, that there had been lots & lots of rain - OMG. At least we got the tent up in the dry, and had time to play some football with some of the other kids on the site. We were shocked though - Robert & Rowan were staying in a CARAVAN, not a tent - unbelievable, what a bunch of softies!

Monday - After a chilly night (now we see why they've got a caravan!), we went out for a walk. Phew, we'd forgotten how long these guys walk for - 5 miles, and it's not all flat, oh no. Strangely, we still had energy for more campsite football (although the grumpy owner asked us to move our goal, as he didn't want us messing up his grass! It's a campsite, not Wembley stadium - chill out Man!    

Tuesday - We learned our lesson (and slept in almost all out clothes!), so nice & warm. Another day, another 5+ mile walk, but this one was really cool. We went in a fantastic cave, called Thor's cave, and we'd all brought torches, so we went exploring right to the back - brilliant. What was really bizarre was that someone had left some bottles of beer & a full bottle of Wine (so Tom 'saved' them). Then, and maybe even better (according to Alfie), was an old mine, which he went in (but I just couldn't face it - too small). It went on and on. Dad reckons they went about 60-70 meters into the tunnel, before it had too much water in it.     

Wednesday - Our luck with the weather ran out, and the rain came. Just in time if you ask me, as our legs ached so bad. We wanted to go swimming, and Tom wanted to look after their Dog Masey, so they went for a walk in the rain - we got wet indoors. The first place we went to had the longest queue for a swimming pool we'd ever seen, so we found somewhere else that still had a slide, and rapids, but wasn't half as busy. So we had a great time messing about in the water, rather than standing in a queue. An added bonus was a quick shop in Leek, which had a lovely Yankee Candle shop, and a New Look - so I just had to spend a few quid. It would have been rude not to. We went out for tea (at the pub across the road), and who should come & join us - our other cousin's Sophie & Naomi, who were also camping in Derbyshire (small world eh).

Thursday - What a day! it was a totally awesome trip to Alton Towers. We'd been waiting years for this (for Alfie to grow to 140cm), and it was worth the wait. OMG, the roller coasters were amazing.... where to start (oh, yea - Robert, Rowan & Tom came along with us). We did all the rides (at least once), and were twisted & turned upside down more times that ever before - BRILLIANT. We flew like Birds on Air, Got thrown about on Nemesis, got very confused by Hex, blown away by Rita (0-60mph in 2 seconds), dropped in it by Oblivion (straight down a hole in the ground), amazed by Thirteen (very clever), but the best, and maddest of them all was the newest ride in the park - Smiler. We waited nearly an hour for our go, but it was incredible - 14 loops (the most in the world) & a climb straight up. We couldn't stop talking about it - we all loved it. Sadly, Tom & Rowan had gone back to look after Masey, so they didn't go on it (so they must do next time).

Friday - Mum & Shelly had gone back to our house, as it was Grandad's Brother's funeral, so we had to get all the stuff packed away without Mum's help (but we managed it, with everyone doing their bit). Rather than just travel back we decided to go on a 'short' walk with Tom, Robert & Rowan. SHORT, not according to my Legs! Great start on some fab climbing rocks - with some scary drops! Maybe we shouldn't have been so energetic at the beginning, as it was really hard going in the end - thank God for the ice-cream van where we'd parked the car - lovely! Then we had the joy of the 4 hour drive home, and a delicious Pot Noodle tea - so healthy us!               

Saturday - Lots & lots of sorting out & putting away.... boring, boring, boring.

So, we had a good time, and are suitably shattered. Now, back to School for a rest!        

24/05/2014

It was good that the weather stayed dry, so we had both Rounders practice, and a match, in the same week - blimey. We carried on from last year, and has a comfortable 18-8 win (obviously helped by my super-accurate bowling!).

As usual, the last week of term was a real wind-down, so not the toughest time ever. In fact I think me & Alfie worked harder on Saturday helping to get things ready for our camping trip next week - not that we're saying that was easy (it was actually pretty tiring), but not mentally challenging!

Saturday night was our Girls football team awards thing, and this time Dad had no excuse not to come, as he was presenting our team's trophy's. Our team ended up being the last (as the oldest) of the Girls teams to have their presentation, so as you can guess we were a little bit fidgety by this time, and just wanted to get outside and play some football. Luckily Dad was also feeling that things had gone on a bit, so he kept things nice & quick (unlike some of the other coaches, that went on & on......).

Anyway, you'll never guess what - my team voted me as the Players Player of the Year, and I've got another trophy to add to my collection. I was totally surprised, but really proud to get the award. Dad's player of the season was Chloe, which I don't think anyone could argue with, and he gave the most improved player award to Rebecca, who is becoming a right proper goalie - we just need to sort out her kicks.

We played football until it got dark, and then went off home as nearly half the team were off on hols over the half term - have fun footballing friends everywhere.     

17/05/2014

Alfie is pleased that his SAT's are over. At least he thinks he did ok, so he should be in some decent sets next year at High school. Talking of school, he's going to have a whole new uniform to wear, which is loads posher than ours, and I think includes a tie - lucky, lucky Alfie (not!). We've already been talking amongst ourselves, and if they think that we're wearing them, they're gonna have to think again!

Anyway, that's for another day. Back to the now - I'm going to Thorpe Park again in June, so will be making sure I get to go on the big rides that I missed last time. Hopefully, as a warm-up, we'll be going to Alton Towers when we go camping in Derbyshire in a week, or so

Talking about going places, our friend Annalise is going to Kenya in July, but I saw on tv that they've started to bring people on holiday back, cos there were bombs and it wasn't safe - yikes, hope it all gets sorted as she's worked so hard to raise the money for it.  

As the football season ends, the Rounders season begins, and we won our first match, against Sprowston - so some revenge for our Football clashes. We've got a mach every week for the next 6 weeks, so lets hope for some more Sunny weather, otherwise they'll all get cancelled, just like last season!

The last Football training was a bit of a laugh, with a 15-a-side game against the ladies, and we nearly won, but they disallowed Alfie's goal (as only Girls could score!). Then Rebecca made a great save (with her face!), but the ball dropped at the feet of their striker, who couldn't miss... boooooo. Shame I'll miss the 5-a-side tournament as we'll be  camping, as we might have a chance, as some of Hellesdon's best players aren't going to be there - like my friend Rachel, who's going to New York - proper jealous!

Our weekend fun started on Friday night with a trip to Blofield to talk to the new manager of Alfie's Football team, who we already knew from Soccer Stars. Sounds like they'll actually get regular training & that the guys know what they're doing, as their under 16's are now a top team. Of course, we didn't sit and listen to all this yap, yap, yap - no... Alfie was playing Football with his friends & me and the Girls were gossiping - quality time.

Saturday, and not a cloud in the sky - roasting hot!, and even better.... 3 friends coming for a sleep over. Alfie, Stephen & Adam, from over the road were playing Football, but after getting bored of sunbathing we decided that it was time for a water fight - and what an epic battle it turned out to be..... everyone was totally soaked (including Mum - who Hannah bravely sprayed with a hose, and Dad, who was ambushed by all 4 Girls, and had to surrender his library book, before being splatted. He totally deserved it, for dropping a huge bucket of water on us from the upstairs window - gotcha!

After a massive clean up & a feast a Mcdonalds, we settled in for a movie night of Frozen, which was great (after Alfie had finished watching Kung Foo Football - eh!). As you can imagine, with all that fast-food, popcorn and sweets inside us, there wasn't much chance of sleep - but we did get about 3 hours each, and were up again at 8 o'clock - pretty impressive.

Another scorching day on Sunday, so more water fighting, with water balloons this time - totally crazy fun. Sadly Katie & Lauren had to go at 1 o'clock, which gave us just enough tome to change, and go to watch Hannah's sister Rachel play in her Boy's team final. It was great, more of our friends were there, and we just sat and chilled out by the side of the pitch. We knew most of the Thorpe team, so were cheering like mad for them to win. It was 1-1 after extra time so they had to take penalties. Sadly, they lost 6-5 in sudden death, but they all played really well (but were proper upset - so, big Boys do cry.... ahhhhhhhh).

Right, we gotta go, But, before we do, take a look at this. My friend Lauren left her favourite toy at my house, a minion from the film Despicable Me, and Alfie has taken it hostage. What should he demand as a ransom?         

10/05/2014

I'm back into my dancing, and went to my first class with Hannah on Tuesday. Have to admit I'm a bit rusty, but there is still a hint of rhythm in those Legs (if only I could remember the damn moves - soooooo complicated).

I was putting away a few bits & pieces and found the ski map, so I tried to mark on it all the different bits we did. It isn't too easy to see, but all the ones I tried to mark with the highlighter pen, are ones we skied (at least once), some we did quite a few times - pretty impressive eh, but still lots to do (if we ever went back), which I hope we do some day.

All a bit disappointing in our Football world. We had another game cancelled, as Long Stratton couldn't get a team together (or were they scared?), and Norwich got relegated from the Premier League, so will be playing against Ipswich again next season, so maybe they'll win a few more games! It's not all doom & gloom though, Lowestoft Town won 3-0 in their playoff final (that Dad went to watch), and now are only two leagues away from the proper football league, so only 4 leagues below Norwich!

We did go with Dad for a bit of Football practice @ Blofield and had a right laugh with him in goal - throwing himself around like he was some kid - careful old-man you'll hurt yourself!

Otherwise we haven't been doing too much. A bit of cooking (some lovely choc chip cookies if I say so myself), and lots of Xbox playing. 

Dad finally sorted out a new laptop, as the old one died ages ago, and its really smart. It's got a touch screen, and a proper keyboard, but the screen comes off, so it's just like a Windows tablet - but I still love my Ipad!

Although it's been a bit warmer, it's been raining a lot too, so hopefully all the rain has been used up, so it'll be lovely & dry for our camping in Derbyshire in a couple of weeks. Hopefully before that we'll be having a friendly match against Blofield boys on Saturday, and we definitely want revenge!!!!!!              

03/05/2014

We were all feeling great on Monday, after our game against Bungay, and all ready for our School team's game in the County Cup final against Windham, in the afternoon. It was supposed to be extra special cos it was Dad's birthday - he's now as old a s Mum again, at the grand old age of 45!!!!! He sneaked off to work early (as usual) so the first time we saw him, I was on the football pitch, just about to kick off.

The final was played at the 'field of dreams', which I think they got from Man Utd, who's stadium is called the Theatre of Dreams, which is pretty silly really as its not a theatre, its a football ground - DOH! Anyway, this is a proper big pitch, with proper size goals, and a stand for people to watch from - proper posh eh! Supposedly lots of real footballers have played on it, so I've walked on some famous grass!, and we had a program thing, with our names in - look.

Although before the start we didn't think we'd win, we started well, and incredibly by half time we were winning 2-0. Even after they scored a lucky goal, we still thought we'd hand on - but disaster struck, and our goalie let in a really soft shot, and it was 2-2, which meant we had to play extra time. We were already soooo tired after all that running around, and on top of that we felt gutted at letting in a late goal. Even worse, in extra time we let in another really soft goal, and so we lost 3-2...... devastated does not even come close to describing it - there were loads of tears (not from me though), and some people got really angry, which I could understand, but sometimes these things happen. We still got a medal (to add to my collection), and cos it was Dad's birthday, tea at KFC, and a whole load of lovely Chicken & chips - bootiful.

Dad opened his cards & presents when he got home (some smart socks & shower gel from us), and Amazon vouchers from both Nanna & Grandad & Grandma & Grumps.

Everyone was still really miserable at School on Tuesday & Wednesday, but at least we had the chance to get it out of our system on Thursday at football training - and we did. We had some good fun & a game against the ladies. Alfie was on our team & they couldn't believe how tricky & skilful he was. He did a brilliant volley from Briony's cross, that nearly caught their goalie by surprise, and after that at tleast one of the ladies stayed pretty close to him. We only lost to a late goal - we're definitely getting better & better - can't wait for next season already.

Poor old Alfie started the practice for his SAT tests this week - I feel for you Bro! At least the first ones were Maths, so for him they'll be ok - strange Boy.

Talking of strange, its another Bank holiday (only a couple of weeks after Easter!) - shouldn't complaint though, another day off School. Luckily we've already had loads of things to do. Alfie had a party at 9 o'clock on Saturday morning at Quazar (luckily I was still in bed) then another one at 2 in the afternoon, all the way through til 11 o'clock on Sunday, at his friend Ned's house. I wasn't going to be left 'home alone' all the time, so I went into the City with my friends, to get some 'essential supplies', which included a birthday present for Annalise, who was 14 - happy birthday 'Sister'. We also went to the cinema to watch 'The Other Woman', which was ok - not the best, or funniest film I'd ever seen, but not the worst either - wait for the DVD!.

On Sunday, me & Mum seemed to be competing for the prize of who could stay in bed the longest, and I think I won, as she finally gave in & went downstairs at about 10 o'clock (although I was awake, as Nellie had scratched on my door earlier & I let her in). Alfie came back (looking like he hadn't slept - even though he says he did). We're doing the diary now as tonight its my turn for a slepp-over. I'm going to Emily's, with Hannah (no Rachel for once, as she had a football game). I'm a bit jealous as Mum, Dad & Alfie are going to the cinema themselves, but not to watch what we did - Dad & Alf would absolutely hate it. Instead they are watching Divergance, which looks a bit like the Hunger Games, so it could be good - but we'll all have to wait & see. Hope you all have a lovely Bank Holiday - who knows, if we all think Sunny thoughts, maybe it'll be nice!              

27/04/2014

We had a bit of a 'home alone' day on Tuesday as Mum & Dad had to go to work, while our teachers got even more training. It must be doing some good though as Thorpe School was rated outstanding in their inspection just before Easter, which is the highest rating you can get. It must have been down to my extra-good behaviour in the lesson that they came to observe!!!

Alfie had Cricket at School, and even though he stopped going to practice last year, his teacher only needed to see him bowl a couple of balls, and he was straight in the School team - so he's gotta play now - such a toughie being good at things eh!

Phew, football training was a shock to the system, and the feet. We'd not had to run about for a few weeks (being used to lifts taking us on the tough uphill bit), so we were both right shattered at the end, but ready for our game against Bungay.

On Saturday, due to some last minute drop-outs, we only had 8 players against Bungay's 9, and our goalie wasn't there, as she was doing a walk / camp for her Duke of Edinburgh award - which sounds really cool. Anyway, we were determined to do well, as we'd won all 3 of our mini-league matches so far, and didn't want to lose our unbeaten record. The first 10 minutes was pretty close, and then we got a corner, which got cleared out to me at the edge of the area, and I smashed it into the top corner of the net.... my best goal ever I reckon. We then scored again right at half-time, so 2-0. I agreed to go in goal for some of the 2nd half, so Briony could play, and although I let in one goal, and so did Kate, who finished off in goal, we also scored another 5 goals, to win 7-2!!!! We all felt incredible, our first win against Bungay in 5 attempts, and with only 8 players - we felt like we could beat anyone....... even Norwich, who lost to Man Utd, 4-0, and look like they are going to get religated from the Premier League, so maybe sacking Chris Houghton right at the end of the season wasn't the most sensible thing to do, as it hasn't made any difference. Only Chelsea & Arsenal to play now - it's all over!           

20/04/2014

Just to show ho bonkers warm it was, we had our first BBQ of 2014 outside our ski chalet, and we've got the evidence to prove it, so now who can deny climate change – man. Hope you like the other pics, which are just a small selection of the 'mountain' that were taken. There was also some awesome video on Kerry's new GoPro camera which he either had on his helmet, or on a pole, so you could film yourself. They were obviously the thing to have, as there were plenty of people with them. we got to watch the movies back every night, and they were wicked, and we even had some special under water action - but we'll explain that another time. 

The other thing that helped us keep our mind off no-WiFi was this lovely Grey & White Cat that came to see us in the chalet on the 1st day, and came back every day. He didn't have a collar, but was obviously well fed & looked after (probably by people like us who stayed in the chalet!). So, as we didn't know his real name, we decided to call him Boris, cos he was a bit boss-eyed, and thought boss-eyed Boris sounded good. He loved having a real fuss made of him, and would wait around the table for scraps of food, then go to sleep on one of the chairs, until one of the mean old adults shut him out for the night - brrrrrrrr.

As always happens, the first few days go slowly, then just as you're getting nice and relaxed (as you'll see in the photo's), it's time to come home again! The drive back wasn't too bad and we stayed overnight on a campsite (no, we didn't have to make up a tent, it was a caravan, sort of similar to Nanna & Grandad used to have. Rather than cook our tea we went out to a local French restaurant, and we all had some very interesting (and tasty) food. I had Duck cooked in this lovely rich sauce, and some of the most yummy mango ice-cream I've ever tasted - deelicious.

So, back in England, back to the rain & colder temperatures than in our ski village. At least we returned to some Easter eggs, and Wifi - civilisation, at last - so gotta go, I've got soooo much social chit chat to catch up on, and Alfie has got hours of YouTube video's to watch.

06/04/2014

This one was a good one. I thought the whole picture was a joke, but it really happened - a bus did fall down a hole in the road, in Norwich - but the other bit, well, what do you think?

Skiing seems even more mental than ever after another lovely warm week. Dad cutting the grass & burning his wood scraps in a bonfire, all the signs of Spring! I had a sneaky look at the webcam & it looks like its been warm there as well, and most of the snow in the village where we are staying has gone, although there is still plenty on the slopes higher up the mountain. We are staying at 1450m above sea level (so a mile straight up from at home!). That is about the same an in Ben's chalet. However, the top lifts are over 3000m above sea level, so another mile straight up - OMG, that's nearly in the atmosphere!

We should have been playing against Long Strotton but they called the game off, cos their manager's wife was having a baby - fair enough. It was too late for Dad to arrange another game, so we had another weekend off, so we started our packing - just like Chris Houghton the Norwich manager. As you've probably seen, after they lost at home against West Brom, he was sacked from his job, and who have they got instead? Jose, or someone famous, naa of course not, someone who used to play for them & looked after their junior team - genius!!!!!!So, they've still got to play.... Fulham (never beat them before), Man Utd, Liverpool, Chelsea & Arsenal - so what do you think, going down or what - disaster!!!!!!!!!!!!      
It's just a game, so we've got to get over it - focus on the holiday..... focus on the holiday, there, that's better.

The last week at school was pretty much as we expected, not much going on, everyone already in holiday mood, which suited us. Better go, still got some things to pack, which is proving tricky, as in the village it's +10 degrees, at the top of the mountain -5, mmmmm, is it better too be a bit cold, or a bit hot - decisions, decisions.

Unbelievably, there isn't any WiFi at the chalet, so we'll be 'off the grid' for a week, unless we can find a cafe or something. Have a great Easter holiday...... byeeeeeeeeeeeee.

30/03/2014

23/03/2014

16/03/2014

Check this out - in our Football friendly league, its now, Thorpe United Girls, played 2, won 2. Goal scored 16 (or 17, we're not sure), goals let in... 2. Yup, we won again, this time 8 (or 9) - 2, against Long Stratton. We played on the big pitch (that we'll be using next season), and again we played well, and I scored another 2 goals. One of their goals was a fantastic free kick, that went scorching in - even Dad clapped that one!!

Mum wasn't feeling too great (and not cos of too much wine for a change), just a Cold though - nothin' serious, so we didn't do much else.

So, no skiing on Sunday. Instead I went to Alf's game (to be honest me, Bethan & Annalise didn't see much of the match as we were either at the shop, or listening to music in the car). For once, maybe we should have stayed and watched as it was a really good game (so everyone said).

Although Blofied lost 3-1, it was against one of the best teams in the league, and they only got their last goal right at the end. Even better for Alfie (who was very nearly Man of the Match.... again), some football scout from the Norwich Academy was there and told the Blofield manager afterwards that he'd picked him out as a player he'd want to keep an eye on - OMG. As you can imagine, when Alfie found out later on, he couldn't believe it..... he was so pleased (and so he should be - go Bro!). So, every game now we'll be on the lookout for someone unusual, who could be watching.......

09/03/2014

Clearly word had got around that these Thorpe Girls were getting good (4 of the School team are in Thorpe Utd Girls), as were learned at training on Thursday that Bungay had called off their match against us on Saturday! Getting real again, I'm sure it was just coincidence, by a real shame as we were playing so well & just wanted to carry on. Dad tried to get a different friendly set up, but there wasn't the time.

We didn't waste the time though, as while Alf was at his training, me, Dad & Rebecca did some goalie practice, which was really helpful - even though my shooting was proper poor! Afterwards it was everyone into the City. Me & dad went to get some new headphones (as me, or Alf had broken / lost all the others), and Alf & Joe went to spend money on..... sweets!

Finishing off a packed Saturday, me & Mum went skiing for the night slalom races. Move over Mum, your speedy Daughter is comin' past!!I got a Silver & Bronze medal, and had a faster time than Mum - come on slow coach! Really looking forward to our skiing holiday now - only 4 weeks to go. It's going to seem really strange (especially if this nice weather carries on), as we'll be so used to lovely warm sunshine, then the next minute we're deep in snow (hopefully).

Clearly the night skiing had worn Mum out, as she was still in bed when we went to Alfie's football match. Luckily the boys were a bit more awake, on a lovely warm Spring morning, and they won 2-0. They need to get the ball out wide to Alfie more often, as even I could hear him screaming for the ball, but some of him team just put their head down & run..... mostly into the other team's player - DOH! (at least it's not just us then.).

Alfie only just had time to get wet in the shower & we were off to Lowestoft to see Cousin's Monty & Connie (who we might not have seen since last August) - wow, how the time goes - scary. They were good fun, as ever, with Monty knowing stuff that we don't even know. He's definitely going to be a professor of something, or maybe a crazy inventor! They really liked their (late) Christmas presents. Monty got to build his own water pump, which we thought was fab, and Connie got a Build a Bear Teddy, in a Pink Ski outfit. We got..... nothing....boo. Maybe cos we know who Father Christmas really is, we don't get anything any more - sad.

02/03/2014

23/02/2014

16/02/2014

09/02/2014

02/02/2014

Alf didn’t have any time to sit about feeling sorry for himself (not that he was). He went off to Charge, the indoor skate park, with Harvey. He came back & couldn’t stop talking about how amazing it was, and how he wanted to go again. All he could go on about was ‘dropping in’ and other crazy stuff – looks good though (this isn't Alfie by the way - yet!).

26/01/2014

Following on from the Hunger Games, this week saw our own version of the battle, with mine & Alfie’s football teams having a game against each other – Boys against Girls, who would be the winners?

Before all of that, we had a rain soaked, wind swept week at school. I’m doing some interesting stuff about countries that speak German, and found out that in Switzerland they speak German, French & Italian, depending on which part they live in – how confusing!

I’ve chosen the subjects that I’m going to study, and I’ve decided to do French, rather than German, so it’ll be bonjour, rather than hallo.

Alfie did some more big maths, which he’s getting better & better at. The crazy boy even said that he likes fractions – weirdo!

Although we didn’t get too wet at School football training, we were lucky to have the astroturf pitch to play on, cos our Thorpe Girls practice was cancelled as the ground was too muddy.

We both had a lovely Friday night. Me on the Ipad (as usual) with Hannah & Rachel, while Alfie went to stay at Joe’s house. I didn’t realise that Alfie’s school was so exhausting, but obviously it is, as he was asleep before 11 o’clock – what a wimp.

Maybe he was been a cunning little so & so, and he was saving his energy for the BIG football match….. Thorpe United Ladies v Blofield Utd.

So, it was 10 o’clock on Saturday morning - it was like Snow White (that’s us, the lovely Girly Princesses!), and the Dwarves (that was Alfie & his midget mates). I think we were at bit too casual, and definitely weren’t taking it as seriously as the boys, and shockingly they scored two quick goals, before we’d woken up. That did give us a bit of a kick up bum that we needed, and we started to get our tackles in – I even gave a free kick away for one of my crazy tackles on Alfie (who was like a slippery little Eel).

At half time we were losing 4-0, and it was embarrassing! Dad was in a surprisingly good mood, maybe he was enjoying our pain! The 2nd half got a bit better, and we actually scored a goal – woop, woop!!! Sadly, that didn’t stop the little rug-rats, and they scored another 3 goals, so we lost 7-1….. gutted!

The Girls parents were laughing their heads off, being beaten by a bunch of 11 year olds – Facebook is gonna go viral with this, we’ll be the laughing stock of the world!

Alfie was totally pumped & ready for his match on Sunday, and he was gutted that it got called off cos the pitch was too muddy – ahhhh bless!

So, a day spent watching the rain & doing homework – what joy. The only highlight was a trip to Bungay swimming pool, and a fab new inflatable, which I couldn’t even get to the end off – pathetic or what. Great fun diving & messing around.

Right, must get my cooking ingredients together – meat balls tomorrow (wonder whether it will be cloudy?). Only 3 weeks til half term hols!

19/01/2014

Amazingly, although Mum is now closer to being 50 years old, than she being 40 years old, she hardly looks a day over 45!!!! Only kidding Mum, you're lovely. So, if hadn't guessed, it was Mum's 45th birthday on Tuesday, but as we all had school to go to, it was just like any other day really - Mum even went skiing in the evening (obviously birthday's aren't so special when you've had that many!). As you know Mum has been sooo jealous of my lovely iPhone 4s that she just had to get one for herself - so we've both now got exactly the same phone (except mine's got a nicer case!).

I finally finished the Hunger Games book, so we as promised we could now go and watch the film, but not until Sunday - booo.

Football training on Thursday was a bit rubbish as people didn't seem to be trying too hard, which was weird as we were playing the best team in the league on Saturday - would it show?  

I'm afraid it did, we just didn't play anything like we did last week against Sprowston. We had a couple of early chances that could have made the game soooo different. But then we made a couple of silly mistakes in defence & from then on half the team seemed to give up. The 2nd half wasn't any better, and even I have to admit we were made to look very poor..... in the end the final score was 9-0 to Hellesdon - even my friend Rachel scored which I wasn't happy about (joke). Dad was really annoyed, especially as not everyone seemed that bothered. He was in a bad mood the whole of the rest of the day. I think things will need to change - especially at training, where some people either need to take it more seriously, or not come at all.

So, that was the Messy, what about the Messi then? Well, that'll be Lionel Messi of Barcelona, which is who Alfie played like on Sunday morning when Blofield played as well as they've played (maybe ever), and won 8-2, with Alfie scoring 2 goals. His second goal was incredible, he skilled past 3 of their players and smashed the ball into the goal - even his team couldn't believe what a goal it was. What did Alfie do, he fell on the ground in disbelief as well!

He would definitely have been man of the match again, but as he was last week, they gave it to Jack, who also scored 2 goals, but he wasn't bothered, cos he was soooo pleased with himself anyway - right on Bro.

Just  time for a quick shower & off out to watch the Hunger Games film, and it was really great - quite like the book but not as detailed. The bits in the games themselves were awesome. Alfie now wants to read the 3rd book, even though Dad says its got about 500 pages - mad (I'll wait for the film!). A great day was made amazing with tea at Nando's & a georgeous Chicken burger - bootiful. If we don't go back before, I'll be there in June for my Birthday, it's just soooo tasty.

12/01/2014

Gosh, has it really only been 4 days back at school, seems like at least 2 weeks! Getting up at half 6 on Tuesday morning was a total killer!

We've had homework already, and constant questions about our options..... slow down everyone, I need to ease myself back into things gently. Talking about what subjects I'm taking, I'm still not completely sure.... definitely PE, and definitely NOT History, but otherwise, I really can't make my mind up - still thinking triple Science (maybe).

Otherwise, not too much to talk about really - so we'll talk about the weather (cos that's what we do in England, or so we've heard). While we've just had Rain, Rain & then some more Rain, over in America they've had Snow (lots of it), and its been very, very cold - have you seen how cold (-40c). We've been skiing in -15c, and that hurt, so we can't even imagine how cold -40 is. Cold enough to instantly turn hot water into snow & freeze a waterfall. You don't believe us do you - well, just you look.

Some great Football news, my friend Briony decided that she wants to join our team, and came training with us on Thursday. We had a right laugh (as well as playing & learning some new stuff), which she says didn't really happen at her old club. So we've now got another really good player. On Saturday we played against Sprowston (who are 2nd in the league), and last season beat us by more than 10 goals. This time we only lost 2-1, and we had chances to get a draw (I had one, but in trying to shoot I nearly tripped myself up & it went wide - I was so annoyed with myself). Dad was so impressed with all of us & said it was the best we'd been, which made us feel really good. Lets hope we keep playing well, as we're playing Hellesdon (my friend Hannah's team) next week, who are top of the league - but we're not scared of them!

No training for Alfie (again), so he got friendly with his Xbox (again). In the afternoon me, Alfie & Dad went for a quick swim (it was quick as Dad got the opening times wrong, so we only had half an hour - DOH), at least it got Alfie out of the house. We also got Mum her birthday present, but we obviously can't say what it is, as it's not her birthday yet, and she might read this.

Sunday morning was very cold, with lots of frost on the grass, so we weren't sure if Alfie's match would still be played - but after letting the Sun make it a bit softer, they did play, and I bet they hadn't. They lost 8-2, but at least Alfie got the man-of-the-match medal. Both him & Harvey played well & battled hard, but not all of them did. Them not training regularly is definitely starting to show & they are starting to blame each other when things don't go right.

At least he didn't have time to get sad, as straight after he'd showered the mud off, we were in the car & off to see Nanna & Grandad, and their totally bonkers Dog. We had a delicious roast dinner & while Mum, Dad & Alfie went for a walk on the beach with Tilly, I stayed with Grandad, as I had some of the nasty homework to do...... see I'm forced to work on a Sunday, at just 13 years old - slavery!.      

So, another milestone this week - Mum's 45th birthday - by the time we write our next diary she'll be closer to 50, than 40 - scary!!!!

05/01/2014 Happy New Year

It's Well, that's it - another year gone (and where did it go?). Now we can say that Alfie will be going to High school this year, and that next year I'll be 15!!!!

Of course, we weren't allowed to let 2013 just fizzle out, oh no, we were dragged out in the FRESH AIR!!! First a 4 mile walk, but at least we had Annalise & Harvey for company (and of course a steady supply of Geocaches), yup, sad old Dad is still doing it, and was really excited that we found our 500th one - woop, woop!!!!!! We were expecting to get totally soaked, but other than nearly getting blown away, it wasn't too bad.

Afterwards it was all back to our house for a lovely tea of roast Duck, which was soooo tasty, we must have it again. We then had some really good games of the Logo quiz that Alfie got for Christmas - some of the answers were mental.

No rest the next day either, and another expected soaking that we somehow managed to miss - lucky, lucky. This time we went off to Horsey to see the Seals. I went the other week with my friends Hannah & Rachel, so I knew there were some there (even after the recent storms). We weren't alone, Robert & Rowan came along (with Shelly & Tom, of course), as well as Nanna & Grandad. Luckily the Seals were still there, and some of them were right up in the sand dunes, near the path, so you could get up close(ish), as they were pretty fierce things and liked to make plenty of noise & show their teeth, when they weren't happy. Robert & Rowan brought their Dog Masie, who was well behaved & didn't get too close (unlike one Dog that one of the Seal watchers told us had been killed by a Seal, after it was let off its lead).

We were all starving after our walk and luckily found a lovely pub in Winterton, just in time (as it then really started to rain), and we had a lovely feast (and played some Darts - but not very well!).

So, that was just about that. We stayed up as long as we could, but didn't even make it to midnight - see, obviously Sea air is bad for you as it makes you tired!!!!

One quiet day, then the madness returned, with a sleep-over. Hannah & Rachel with me, and Joe with Alfie. I don't know how we still have soooo much to talk about, as we are on skype / text all the time, but somehow it was still 4 o'clock in the morning when we finally shut our eyes (a whole 4 hours after the Boys - lightweights!).

It was back to playing Football at the weekend, and we were against Bradwell, who beat us 9-0 earlier in the season, so how did we do this time? We only lost 3-2, and were unlucky not to score an equaliser near the end as we had a couple of good chances. We were much better and even made their best player seem ordinary. Dad was pleased how we played, but nearly lost his voice with all the shouting - encouragement & instructions, obviously!

Alfie's turn on Sunday, and a rare treat - Mum came along to watch (and to an away game as well!). Sadly, they lost 4-0, and really, really need a goal scorer, as when Alfie gets the ball he doesn't have anyone to pass to. He played really well in the 2nd half, and made some good runs with the ball, some strong tackles (his 1st half ones were really lame - says Dad), and a brilliant header to clear a corner.

So, neither of us won this time, nor did Norwich - they drew 1-1 against Fulham in the FA cup, and played better than on Boxing Day, although as you know if you read our diary, or were unfortunate to have been there, you'll know that wasn't difficult!

One last day of holiday to go, then its back on the slave bus, to the Workhouse, otherwise known as School. Only 6 weeks til half term though!