18/12/2016

We've both been worked hard right to the end of term. Alfie had the pleasure of the 'traditional' cross-country course at school. How I miss them (NOT). At least his times were all very consistent, showing that he was either trying all the time, or not - mmmmm. We both got to do some last week cooking - Alfie made this really impressive cookie Christmas tree, which did look too good to eat (but of course we did). I made some profiteroles (which I'd not done before), and I'll definitely be doing them again - they were very tasty, especially with all the chocolate sauce I'd made to pour over them.

I just hope we stay fit & healthy - and don't get Dad's Man-Flu. He's been hacking & coughing really badly for a couple of days. He sounds like he's been a life-long fag smoker - gross! Just our luck that we'll start to feel grim on Christmas Eve or something, so better start taking the multi vitamins now.

Usual old Norwich, OK for one match then completely hopeless the next - both on TV for us to see for ourselves. They really are in a bad way - something, or someone, needs to change. But who's fault is it? the manager or the players?.

So, only a week to go. Hope you've done your shopping & haven't left it all to the last minute. If you have, those shops are gonna be busy. Just so you know - I've done all mine.

11/12/2016

I do need to be a bit better at managing my money as it was all gone in the 1st 3 days, so I've got another 10 day until I get paid again (as luckily we get paid every two weeks). Now, who should I turn to for a bit of financial advice? Mum or Dad...... not really that tricky actually.

We also went to Makro, for the 1st time in ages, and got some giant tubs of sweets for our friends. Seems like Dad can now go there again with his work, so there should be some regular trips to stock up - yum.

Dad had one of his mad cycling days, and ended up doing 80 miles - starting from Thetford, so he could see somewhere different - totally mental.

No game for the Ladies (again) as Kirkley & Pakefield couldn't get a team together. Alfie's team did play though, and made it two wins in the last two games, with a 5-2 victory. Is their season really taking off - maybe. Fingers crossed for a hatrick of wins next week.

04/12/2016

Alfie had 'deflated' by Wednesday, just in time for his latest school football match. Lucky that he had, as they needed all his defensive skills as they played him at centre back - normally a position played by the tallest people (which Alf clearly isn't - yet). Nevertheless, he helped his team win, and Mum said he played brilliantly - so, well done bro.

I've got a busy weekend. Lots of schoolwork (as usual), but on top of this I'm working on Friday & Saturday evenings, till 11pm - then on Sunday I've got the latest Bop Dance Show, from 4pm. Sadly, this means that I won't be able to play football. So, best of luck Girls - hope you keep up our unbeaten start to the season going.

Talking of getting going, Norwich really had to get things sorted out, after losing game after game recently. They finally found out how to play - thanks to playing some different players, apparently  Alex Pritchard was awesome (even better than Wes). Let's hope they don't get carried away, as it's just one win, they need another 5 in a row to get back up the league table.

27/11/2016

The hardest thing is being on your feet for all that time - at the end my back was killing me. We weren't too busy, which was good, so I got to do all the things I was asked to, at a sensible pace - I'm sure that won't always be the case!

It was good that I knew a couple of other people who were working there, including Catherine, who used to live 2 doors down from us, and has the same birthday as Alfie. She is a shift supervisor, so might be my sort of boss, which should be kinda cool.

I'm working again on Sunday - same shift, which means I'm going to be dead on Monday morning (what a great way to start the week). But, that'll mean I've earned £50, so I won't be moaning about it (too much!). I get paid every 2 weeks, so £200 every month - not bad eh!

20/11/2016

Our volunteering part has been more tricky. Luckily I've got mine sorted out - I'm helping coach one of the school football teams, which is proving a lot of fun, and really rewarding. Alfie hasn't got himself sorted out yet, but he's started - he went to offer his services to Brundall library. If that doesn't work out, then he, and his friend Ali will look into conservation projects, which could be really interesting.

Even though we don't get to go on our expeditions til mid next year, we've already had our first meetings about it, and there are loads of things that we'll have to consider & be ready for - let the challenge begin.

No football for me this weekend, as the other team said they couldn't get enough players. That was a big shame as it was Harleston, a team we'd never played before. As it was a cup game, I assume that we get the win, rather than having to replay - which isn't how I'd want it. Alfie's team put up a much better fight than in recent games, and only lost 2-1, after extra time, in their cup game. Me & Mum didn't go and watch (as we had shopping to do), and didn't want to hear Dad shouting throughout the whole game - which he apparently did again.

It might be just a month til Christmas, but now we've got something to look forward to in 2017, a skiing holiday in the Easter hols. We'll be going somewhere different (Alpe d'Huez, still in France), and it'll be just the four of us, so it'll be a bit strange, but as long as there is still some snow, it'll be fab.

Lastly, this week I'll start my job a Mcdonalds, just got to collect my uniform & then it'll straight into my first shift - 4.30pm till 11.00pm - wow.

13/11/2016

Just to show how completely obsessive, or mad, Dad has gone, when I went for my McDonalds welcome meeting, he went on a 10km run, around the streets of Norwich - completely bonkers! Just cos he's gone running & exercise crazy, he now keeps moaning about how unfit the rest of us are - which might be true, but we're stubborn & he should know that by now. We'll get round to it, in our own time, at our own  pace. The sad thing is, we know he's right as we are both not as fast around the Football pitch as we used to be.

I have mentioned (continually) about gym membership and I might ask Mum & Dad to get me this for Christmas - so I'd have to be sure I'd use it.

Continued mixed fortunes on the football pitch. Alfie's team fought well for half his latest match, and were drawing 2-2, with both goals from a new player. Sadly, they couldn't keep it up & lost 4-2. Alfie is still playing totally out of position, in defence, and not able to really get forward, which is starting to get him down(again).

On the other hand, our ladies team keeps playing well and getting the right results. This time, a win away at Kings Lynn, in the League cup. After all the rain, we knew the pitch wouldn't be the greatest - and it wasn't. We still won 5-1, with some great team goals. I didn't get to play too much as I felt really sick, which it turns out is a side-effect of some tablets I'd been given to stop me feeling so tired - so I'll be stopping them - thanks Doc.

05/11/2016

Before we come on to our latest on-pitch antics, we at least had a little end of week treat, a trip into town to see some fireworks, set off from the Castle, which made a really spectacular. It was one of the first cold evenings we'd had - the first of many, if the weather forecasters are right. It was really loud, and I did think about our poor Cats hiding at home somewhere (probably under a bed, or in a wardrobe). Maybe we should try what this Italian village did, and have 'silent' fireworks - which I'd never heard of, how considerate.

You know us Girls - every day is a shopping opportunity, and that was no different. Primark just happened to be over the road from where we were standing, so I just had to go and buy these 'Jungle Book' PJ's that I'd had my eye on for weeks. They are so unbelievably fluffy & warm - lovely.

Alfie's team actually beat another team (and not just anyone, the St Andrews 'A' Team), shame it was just a friendly in their training session. Sadly, they couldn't repeat this in their Sunday game, and lost 3-0. Alfie is getting more & more annoyed with some of his team, who seem to continually 'let the team down'. Is it just that they aren't good enough, or has Alfie got high expectations?

We were playing at the same time, at the same place - so Mum stood in between the two games to try & watch both. Can you believe it, we were playing the same team again from last week, so we thought they might be out for revenge. There were a few 'strong' tackles, but nothing too bad - everyone walked off this time. We made really hard work of it - and the pitch didn't help (getting a bit muddy in the middle by the end - thanks to the rain). We won 2-0, with Viv scoring a great goal. I played for 60 mins & did ok, making some tackles & playing some passes. My fitness is improving as I don't feel like I'm going to die after 10 mins anymore. Us 'newbies' are starting to feel part of the squad now, and getting used to the physical side of the game. Tough game next week, away at Kings Lynn in the League Cup. 

Before that I've decided to go for an interview at McDonalds up the road. If I get the job it'll be handy, and I'm getting jealous of Hannah always having money to spend. I just need to practice - 'would you like large fries with that'.

30/10/2016

We had a couple of lovely relaxing days, not doing very much at all - fantastic.

Then I was pressed into slave labour, making Sticky Toffee Pudding for 10 people. This was us, Grandma & Grumps, as well as Monty, Connie, Ben & Catherine. We'd not seen them since skiing in April, which seems like forever - how time flies by eh. Grumps had created a whole set of Highland Games, which Monty & Connie played - Grumps at his crazy, creative best - Hunt the Beast and Cabers made of Conkers - bonkers mad!.

Great to see everyone so well, including Grandma who says she is finally starting to feel a bit better. Lets hope we all get together sooner than since last time, or it'll be Easter next year, or somerthing crazy like that.

We had some tidying up & sorting out to do on Friday, so we let Dad go off and do his own thing - so what does he do? He gets on his bike and cycles to Fakenham & back, about 80 miles in total - completely mental. We did our bit - we went to the Gym & had a swim. We locked Dad out of the house, so he had to wait for us to come back - oops!

No game for Alfie this week, but we were away against Aylesham, and it turned into a very strange game. We were winning 1-0 at half time, but we'd let them have too many chances. Then one of their players got hit in the face from close-range and had to go off - and it seems has proper hurt her eye.

We then scored 2 quick goals, and everything was going ok, then one of their players went to turn, got her studs caught in the pitch, and there was a horrible crack-which we all heard, then the poor girl was screaming in agony - she'd broken her ankle. As she couldn't be moved, the referee decided to abandon the game.

When we'd all changed and got ready to go, she was still on the pitch waiting for the ambulance. The next day I learned that it took FIVE HOURS for the ambulance to arrive & take her to hospital - unbelievable. We all know that you can't move someone who has broken their leg, but wait 5 hours, in the middle of a football pitch - come on, that's just wrong. Let's hope that both the Girls make full recoveries & that we'll see them on the football pitch again before the end of the season. 

23/10/2016

As you'll of course have known, it was Alfie's birthday - as well as getting his TV he got a wad of cash, which no doubt he'll spend wisely. He also got a huge box of American sweets & some giant marshmallows that he was proper excited by - genius choices by me!

For a birthday treat he went to the trampoline park with a couple of friends, then we went to Frankie & Benny's for a lovely tea - well tasty.

Even though it was birthday time, that didn't mean he didn't still have to play football - although by the end of the match I bet he wished he hadn't. It was going well after 5 mins when they scored, then it all went to rat-shit, and they lost 4-1. Dad was not impressed, but as he was linesman, he couldn't say anything (during the match).

I was really disappointed that our game against Fakenham was called off on Sunday morning, due to a waterlogged pitch - did we really have that much rain (I don't remember it being that bad). That just means another long away trip in the middle of Winter - lovely.

16/10/2016

Alfie's looking forward to a revenge match against Blofield, in the cup, and we've got our first game against North Walsham, so let's see how good we really are.

09/10/2016

After Alfie's delicious cooking the other week, we were all looking forward to his latest creation - Raspberry & Chocolate pie. Mmmmm, sometimes you just know something that sounds odd is going to be odd, and so it was...... very strange indeed. Not, not nice, just odd. Maybe it was the chocolate tht was very chocolaty, or..... I dunno - odd. We all agreed, so he wasn't offended. He just won't be making that again.

We've started our Duke of Edinburgh schemes, Alfie at the Bronze stage, and me straight in at the Silver level. We had to list the things we'd need for our expedition (which isn't til next year), and the rucksacks are massive - almost as tall as Alfie I reckon. That's going to be one tough weekend.

In the meantime we've had to start thinking about our physical & volunteering activities, which we'll need to commit 10's of hours to. Alf is thinking about helping some of the younger Girls with their football, and I might do some more helping out at the ski club. It should be loads of of fun, as well as hard work. Dad has challenged Alfie's physical to be able to run 5k in less than 28 minutes, which is 2 mins better than his best. I'd better think of something quick before Dad challenges me to something equally crazy!

Still going well with the Ladies. We played against Long Stratton in a cup match & won quite comfortably in the end, although again we didn't play as well once we got in the lead - something we must work on, for when we play the really tricky teams - like North Walsham, which is coming up soon. It'll be weird to be on the other side to Beth, but not Rachel & Hope, as that's normal, from our matches against Hellesdon.

02/10/2016

At least I got one easy meal - Alfie's Lasagne, and it was delicious - he definitely needs to make it again. He's also started making Flapjacks after school, just cos he fancies it, so who knows, a mini masterchef in the making? Next week is Chicken Korma Curry, which I'm already looking forward to.

Alfie's game on Sunday didn't go too well, and it's one he didn't want to lose - against his old team Blofield, who are now in the same league. It certainly didn't help that their normal goalie didn't play, but that wasn't the only reason that they lost 5-0. Alfie said it was 'humiliating', and just showed that some of his team just don't try hard enough, or maybe just aren't good enough. He's now just waiting to see just how much stick they get at school. It's just a game though, and it should be fun.

We continued our winning start to the season & played well against Bungay, ending up with a 6-1 victory. I played nearly all the game (both in defence & midfield) & had some great battles with their speedy striker, who I stopped scoring on more than one occasion. There was one really funny moment. One of our players hit a great shot from outside the area, that was going into the top corner of the goal, when one of our players headed it over - it was the best defensive clearance you'll ever see! Luckily we were 5-0 up at that stage otherwise it would have been a nightmare.

Alfie has finally got Dad to start sorting out the spare bedroom, so that he can move in. He's got a new bed, just like mine with storage underneath, a desk & wardrobe - which all have to be put together. Before all of that, they had to take the old bed apart & chop up the mattress, with an angle grinder (obviously!), so they could get it to the dump. So the room is in that weird in-between state, which means there is loads of stuff everywhere - we must, must, must have a clear-out I reckon it's time for another car boot sale.

How's about this for scary - not only 3 months til Christmas, but some of my friends will be starting to have driving lessons in the next few weeks, as they will be 17 - yikes!

25/09/2016

I did get to cook some weird stuff at school this week -Gnoshi, which is sort of a potato pasta, in the shape of Muscles, which I cooked along with a Tomato & Basil sauce. They weren't my favourites, if I'm honest - not that they tasted gross or anything, just that they didn't taste of very much, even in the sauce.

No chance to repeat my football heroics of last week, as our game was postponed as the other team didn't have enough players - boooooooo.

Alfie did get to play, away to Scole near Diss. I remembered that cos we'd played there a few times, and won most times I seem to remember, so would it also be lucky for Alfie? The answer...... definitely yes. Mum & Dad both said that Scole were the better team & should have won by a mile - but they didn't. They had lots of chances but missed most of them. They scored two, but so did St Andrews, so incredibly, it finished up a 2-2 draw, that must have felt like a win.

Next week will be an interesting game - Alfie goes back to Blofield to play against his old team, who have got some good players, including some he'll know, so should be a good 'battle'.

The story of the week is mad Dad. Why, cos he decided to 'treat' himself to a 100 mile bike ride on his day off. He biked from our house to past Thetford & back - some place called Bury St Edmunds, and he was riding his bike for SIX AND A HALF HOURS!!!!!!

If that didn't prove he was mad, then he made sure by deciding to bike home from Alfie's match at Diss, another 35 miles, when there was a perfectly working car that would have got him home, with no effort required, or are we missing the point?

We got tired just thinking about it, and just how much agony you'd be in from being on a bike for that long - but he seems ok, perhaps he's just hiding it well - we'll keep an eye out.

Alfie is cooking Lasagne at school next week, so that'll be 'interesting', and I've got Chelsea Buns to do - sounds like the Great Thorpe Bake Off.

18/09/2016

Anyway, at least I've got a full wardrobe of clothes to wear - thanks to the rec.ent London shopping trip. As I thought, it just leaves me the daily decisions of 'oh what to wear' - to- ugh eh.

It was a football packed week for both of us. I started school football practice, as well as Thorpe ladies - which was really tough, but strangely enjoyable. At the end, I got the great news that I'd be playing in the game on Sunday - really pleased.

I thought I needed to work extra hard on my fitness, so went along with Dad to the Gym on Friday, and OMG. I knew my arm muscles were weak, but they were pathetic - even some of the lightest weights were killers. Even the running was such hard work - so gotta get back into things regularly.... or else.

Alf had a two & a half hour training session on Saturday, and came home moaning about how his feet hurt - ahhhhhhhhh. I had no sympathy as I'd been studying all morning & was wrecked by my training on Thursday. I had an artistic afternoon, re-creating a picture that Dad had seen in a catalogue - and pretty impressive it is too, if I say so. You never know, you might see it on the wall in our house sometime.

Sunday's football double-header wasn't watched by Dad as he was at work - yup on a Sunday, harsh eh! Alf kicked off his season with a home game, and the first half went well & they were 3-0 up. Thankfully they went on to win, but only 3-2 in the end - they just need to make sure they keep concentrating until the final whistle. Again, he was moaning & groaning about his feet, this time that his new football boots were causing blisters - should have broken them in - doh!

Mum had to be a soccer mom, and take me to Aylsham for my game. We had quite a changed team from the first game, and I was playing as an attacking winger, which meant lots & lots of running. Somehow I got through it, running up the pitch, then back again - time & time again - I've never been so exhausted. I played the whole game, a full 90 minutes & we won 5-1, which was a great result against the team that the Ladies only just beat in the cup final. Two wins out of two, can't do better than that. 

11/09/2016

So, with £100 in my pocket (on my bank card actually), me & Mum hit the Westfield Shopping Centre in Stratford, near London. Even though I've been there before, I still get well excited, as the shops are amazing, and there are loads & loads of them - heaven.

We went in all my favs, and ones that I hardly ever get to, and updated my wardrobe. I've got some lovely jeans (they should be, they were £42!) & even some things for School, as we don't have to wear a uniform in 6th Form. The only problem, I now have to think about what I'm going to wear every day, when I didn't before - mmmmm, decisions, decisions.

You'll be shocked to know that Alfie & Dad didn't want to join us. Instead, Alf & his friend Ali went to Jump Giants, trampoline park (which they said was totally packed), then on to play some foot golf. He said it was quite like Mousehold, with some really tricky holes. Dad got his own back, from last week, and won by two shots. Alfie was 2nd, another two shots ahead of Ali. 

So we shopped or bounced til we dropped, and were thoroughly exhausted by the time we got home. The first half of the drive back was a Pokémon feast, and Mum get proper excited at some of the new ones she collected - behave, remember you are 47!

In some ways it was good that I'd not made the squad for our 1st Ladies match of the season as it was expected to be a toughie against Kings Lynn. Me & Dad went along to watch, and it was cooking hot, and the pitch rock-hard. Thorpe had all the early pressure, but found themselves a goal down, after Kings Lynn's first attack. This woke the Ladies up, and they'd soon scored twice, then two more before half-time (4-1). The second half they really showed how to play, and we ended up winning 9-2. Vivian even managed to score with her first touch after coming on as a sub - go Girl. Bryony also played for much of the match, so it looks like a blend of youth & experience is the way to go - lets hope I get a game next week.

04/09/2016

We didn't do loads, but did have a go at something totally new, and a whole lot of fun - Foot Golf, yup you guessed it right, Golf played with a Football, which you kick, rather than try and whack with a club! We played at the Mousehold Pitch & Putt course that we'd been to before, but not like this. As you'd expect, the holes are bigger, and the 'Greens' not so smooth, but you have to kick the ball nearly as far. Not all the holes are long, so some call for a delicate touch. Me, Dad & Alf played - while Mum worked (for once!). Alfie could stop going on after, as he won by a single shot (kick), from Dad - even I was only a couple of kicks further back.

On Saturday we had a lovely day messing about on the River, in the luxury of Annalise & Harvey's boat. We sailed (if that's the right term for a boat with an engine!) from Upton to How Hill, where we had fun playing cricket and enjoying a tasty picnic. Me & Annalise had a rest below desk on the way back while the rest of them talked about their Florida trip, cycling (yawn) & Pokemon.

Annalise had to go off to work (at their local pub), so we left, to pick up Hannah & Rachel, as they were staying over, ready for SunDown. We got up (slowly) on Sunday & took it nice and easy. Alf & Dad on the other hand went cycling in Thetford & Dad managed to 'persuade' Alfie to do 25 miles in total - he was exhausted, and not too happy when he found out just how far he'd been.

So, SunDown - amazing (again). Years & Years & Jason Derulo - awesome! We danced, we sang, we got pushed & shoved, laughed & complained - all in 10hrs of madness at the Norwich Showground. We're looking forward to next year already.

Dad told us that Grandma is out of hospital & back home, being looked after by Grumps - remember no more Rabbit Stew! Hope you get well soon & we'll come over & see you when you feel up to visitors - I'll even cook something if you like.

Gees, I've just seen the time - I'd better wrap this up as I've got to be up even earlier tomorrow as I've got to get a normal bus & they won't wait (even for me)!

28/08/2016

Well done to everyone, everywhere tht got the results they wanted (needed), and for anyone that didn't, don't worry - it'll all work out, it's not the end of the world - honest.

In other news, Grandma hasn't been very well & is in hospital, as she's not been able to eat anything without being sick for some weeks - my ultimate nightmare! We went over to visit her, as they kept her in longer than she first thought, to do some more tests - makes you sound like a lab rat. She was pleased to see us. I'd forgotten that you are in a room with other people, who I assume you just hope are more unwell than you are. There were some really old people there, and one person who actually looked dead! They weren't though, as we could hear them snoring. Me and Alf both said after that we don't fancy being ill any time soon, so we're going to keep ourselves healthy.

Talking about the Bro', he was out and about for his friend Spencer's birthday, and kept going on about how lovely this BBQ pizza was from a place called Frankie & Benny's. Luckily, there was one just up the road from the hospital, so we popped in for our tea, and it was lovely - my pasta was well spicy, but very nice. Fortunately, we still had room for a waffle dessert which was gorgeous.  

Earlier in the week we ticked off another of the Summer holiday must-do's & went canoeing on the Broads. Man it's hard work on the arms after a while, and when we looked on the map after nearly 3 hours on the water, we'd hardly been anywhere. Then I suppose you don't at only 3 miles an hour, and the river was so twisty. Alf kept moaning that he was bored, and my back hurt, so personally won't be rushing to do that again - something for Mum & Dad to enjoy on their own!

Unbelievably, we're down to the last week of the Summer holiday (already), so better have our last few morning lie in's, before it's back to getting up at the crack of dawn.

28/08/2016

Well done to everyone, everywhere tht got the results they wanted (needed), and for anyone that didn't, don't worry - it'll all work out, it's not the end of the world - honest.

In other news, Grandma hasn't been very well & is in hospital, as she's not been able to eat anything without being sick for some weeks - my ultimate nightmare! We went over to visit her, as they kept her in longer than she first thought, to do some more tests - makes you sound like a lab rat. She was pleased to see us. I'd forgotten that you are in a room with other people, who I assume you just hope are more unwell than you are. There were some really old people there, and one person who actually looked dead! They weren't though, as we could hear them snoring. Me and Alf both said after that we don't fancy being ill any time soon, so we're going to keep ourselves healthy.

Talking about the Bro', he was out and about for his friend Spencer's birthday, and kept going on about how lovely this BBQ pizza was from a place called Frankie & Benny's. Luckily, there was one just up the road from the hospital, so we popped in for our tea, and it was lovely - my pasta was well spicy, but very nice. Fortunately, we still had room for a waffle dessert which was gorgeous.  

Earlier in the week we ticked off another of the Summer holiday must-do's & went canoeing on the Broads. Man it's hard work on the arms after a while, and when we looked on the map after nearly 3 hours on the water, we'd hardly been anywhere. Then I suppose you don't at only 3 miles an hour, and the river was so twisty. Alf kept moaning that he was bored, and my back hurt, so personally won't be rushing to do that again - something for Mum & Dad to enjoy on their own!

Unbelievably, we're down to the last week of the Summer holiday (already), so better have our last few morning lie in's, before it's back to getting up at the crack of dawn.

21/08/2016

Dad got us out on our bikes & the first half of the ride wasn't too bad - some up's but more downhill. We then went along an old railway track with the old tunnels re-opened which was really fun, as the longest one was about 600m long - luckily there were lights (not like the one in France - that I'll never forget). We got to Bakewell and tried both a Bakewell tart & a Bakewell Pudding, and we all preferred the pudding, which is very different from what you normally expect Bakewell's to be like. The ride bak was really hard, as there we just seemed to go up & up. We then made a bad choice of the best way back, and ended up going up the steepest road I've ever seen, it was mental! I looked it up - it's over a mile long & goes up 200m, that's more like a ski-slope!!!!!!!!

We ended up pushing our bikes as much as riding them (apart from Dad who just kept going & going - nutter). Mum moaned & groaned all the way to the top, as she pushed he bike along. It took ages & we were totally wrecked when we got back to where we were staying. It was a strange place we were in, a Youth Hostel, although there were more old people staying there than youth's, so not sure what that was all about. Anyway, we slept in bunk beds, which were ok. We didn't have our own bathroom, but there were plenty in the building, which looked like an old castle.

Cooked breakfast every morning & lovely pub grub for tea, we certainly ate well. We needed to, to get our energy back. We couldn't face another bike ride, so we went for a nice walk, that wasn't too hilly, and we found a lovely spot to heat up the water for our Pot Noodle lunch, which is becoming a bit of a tradition. We even had enough energy for a game of football on the village Astro, so maybe our fitness was improving.

We've always got energy for theme parks, and another trip to Alton Towers was no exception. No new rides for us, but plenty for Mum. We did all the good ones - even Smiler, which was going again after the crash last year, and is still awesome. We all loved Rita, the one that goes from 0-60mph in 2.5 seconds, and Oblivion that drops you straight down. The only thing, Mum wasn't exactly smiling after riding Smiler, it had messed her head up & she didn't feel too good. Luckily that was near the end of the day, so it didn't make us miss anything.

I played my 2nd game of Ladies football on another hot day, and did nearly the full 90 minutes. I was much more confident, and Dad said I played really, especially in the 2nd half. We won 4-1, so I well pleased. we played a team in our league, so more of the standard I might be up against, and there was a big difference between them & the ladies we played the week before.

Now it's just a waiting game for my GCSE results - keep everything crossed for me.

14/08/2016

It was a long, hard day - but I was rewarded (selling most of my cakes, and getting a new pair of trainers, which I part paid for - nice eh!). I did actually need them, and it was nothing to do with the fact that Alfie had got a new pair only a few days before - honest.

He's getting proper sneaky, going into Norwich with Mum, supposedly Pokemon hunting, and always coming home with something new! To be fair, he has now got a whole load of Pokemon, but I've lost interest if I'm honest.

The other bonus from our fund raising, we got tickets to watch Norwich's first home match of the season - although it was hardly a great game - a pretty boring 0-0 draw. Neither team really dominated, so a draw was fair, it just could have been more interesting! Especially as it was on TV, I could have stayed home and seen it - never mind eh.

Dad spent the day sorting our bikes out as we're off to Derbyshire for a few days next week, which at least includes a day at Alton Towers, so at least one day will be fun - the others, we'll see. We're staying in some old Plague village, which sounds lovely!

At least the weather is meant to to be good, which is good for outdoors stuff like biking, but less great for playing football, as I found out. I played my first game for Thorpe Ladies, in a friendly against Lowestoft Town, who are one of the best Ladies teams in East Anglia. It was roasting hot, and the pitch was like concrete..... great! We were 1-0 down after about 10 mins due to a soft penalty, and that's how it stayed until the 2nd half. Then I played a part in our equalising goal, with the 1st pass of the move, well pleased.

It got way tougher after that. Their fitness, and strength really showed and I blame myself for a couple of their goals, as their player was faster & stronger than me, and I had to come off for a break, as I was struggling to breathe.

I went back on towards the end and although we lost & I was very hard on myself, I can at least say I've survived my 1st game of Ladies football. I just hope they aren't all that tough. Gotta work on my fitness, there is no doubt about it - bring on the hills of Derbyshire.

07/08/2016

It was a scorchio day so there was only one place to go - to the beach. Dad brought his new 'cheats' stove (its gas powered), but that at least meant that our Pot Noodles were ready in double-quick time.

Dad & Alfie went swimming in the Sea, but us Girlies deliberately didn't bring our stuff, so we had an excuse (and it was proper chilly). We had a great time playing Rounders and chillaxing. All that exercise deserved one thing - chips. We stopped in Wroxham & had some bootiful fries by the river - lovely.

Sunday was another hottie, and I had an early start - I was helping out at the Run Norwich event. This is a 10km race, and I was on one of the water stations, after about 4km. OMG, I couldn't believe how fast some of the racers were, the winning time was something bonkers like 33mins. Dad's best time is 52 mins, so he's clearly got some way to go! It was really good fun, and I'd definitely do it again - I'm really getting into this volunteering gig, what a nice person eh.

Me & Dad then went to watch Thorpe ladies play Windham in a friendly, and some of my mates were playing - Vivian & Cecilia, with Jess making a guest appearance in the 2nd half. It was absolutely boiling hot and I was glad to be just watching. I need to get my fitness sorted as it's non-stop, but I reckon it'll be good preparation for the other Thorpe ladies team that Dad wants to run next year.

Where was Alfie all this time? Feeding his new addiction..... Pokemon Go. You must have heard about it, its basically Geocaching, with virtual caches being Pokemon characters that you have to collect. He goes off into the City for hours hunting for rare creatures - mmmmmmm, what can I say.

We finished off the weekend with a return trip to the beach and I did go swimming this time, and OMG it was COLD getting in - but when you were numb, it was ok. We were even joined by a couple of Seals that Dad thought he could talk to, like Dr Doolittle - sad or what!

31/07/2016

It was pretty tiring for everyone, so someone had a great idea - a meal at Nando's to re-fuel us, genius & soooooo tasty.

Alfie's geeting 'on-board', he went into the City with his 'squad' (his friends) to watch another film & have some food @ PizzaHut. Dad just keep moaning that its costing him a fortune. I bet he can't wait for us to be back at school.

We had a full-on day on Saturday, a trip over to see our Cousin's Sophie & Naomi in Flitick (a couple of hours away). It was a lovely day. The weather was great, so we spent all the time outdoors, or in their brilliant garden cabin - amazing. Just think of a massive, very posh shed - but with a sofa, telly and beer fridge - awesome (Dad, you really should get one - with a hot tub!). We had some bootiful BBQ food & a lovely walk through the local woodland, right on their doorstep.

We were completely stuffed when we left, but we just managed to have enough strength for a quick detour to IKEA in Milton Keynes, to have a look at some bedroom furniture for Alfie. Even though he didn't actually choose anything we still ended up spending £200 - ouch! That'll give Dad even more to moan about.

24/07/2016

While they were winding down, I was fully pumped-up (in a good way) on the 1st week of my NCS, in Essex. We had the most fab weather - roasting hot, perfect for the outdoors stuff we were doing - much of it on, or in, the water - lovely! Not only that, I got to drive a real jeep off-road, it was amazing - through loads of mud & puddles. The instructor said I was one of the best in the group, so hopefully I can pass my driving test 1st time next year. How scary is it to say that - me behind the wheel of a car (Mum's car) in the next 12 months - whoa.

We were with a great group and we've all made some new friends, which will be great for next week & our project. I must of talked it up with the sleeping arrangements - we were in tents, but big & comfy ones (and you know with how hot it was, that was the best place to be - indoors would have been hell)

Saturday was another scorcher, so we all went to Waxham beach, and had a swim in the Sea (aren't we brave). It wasn't too bad, and the water was very clear - sadly that meant hardly any waves - never mind. Me & Mum went to Sea Palling to play on the 2p machines, and didn't realise until later when we got home that someone had drowned in the sea, pretty much while we were there, how horrible. It turns out that the we know the person that went into the sea to try & save the person, from the Ski Club - small world eh.

Didn't do too much on Sunday as I had to get my stuff together for week two of NCS, and only had time to squeeze in a quick shopping trip with my friend. We get the train in now, rather than get a lift - aren't we cool & independent!.

17/07/2016

10/07/2016

03/07/2016

It wasn't all rest, Dad got me working on the drive - clearing the weeds out of the gaps in the paving. God it was tedious stuff, took me hours & hours. At least in the end I got to have some fun with the pressure washer, cleaning everything up - look at how messy I got, unbelievable!

The rest of that Saturday was an evening to remember (at least I could), which isn't the same as my Boyfriend Harvey.

Oh, my head......... oh, my stomach..... I never want another drink EVER again! Yup, hang my head in shame - I am a complete lightweight, a few drinks (I can't remember quite how many), and one minute I felt fine(ish), the next - completely sick (luckily in a bowl). I blame my friends as they were just the same as me (except they weren't sick). I had to ring Dad to come & get me early as I couldn't even sit up properly. Amazingly Beth was in the same state only a few minutes before, then magically seemed to be ok again - how did she do it!

I wanted to go to sleep on the bathroom floor (in case I was sick again), but managed to crawl into bed, and amazingly woke up feeling a whole lot better.

I've got to go back to school for a couple of days next week as part of 6th form induction, so it'll be interesting to see if I know any of the new people.

Next Friday is the School Prom, so I'm going to on my best behaviour - soft drinks only, as I'll never get a sick stain out of my dress! So my friends, take it from me, drink responsibly, being sick in your friends house (even in a bucket) isn't big or clever!

26/06/2016

19/06/2016

One thing is for sure, I've got a massive pile of notebooks that are going on the bonfire, as I will NOT be needing them again - Au Revoir, you won't be missed!

The last 3 exams weren't as bad as I thought, even though they were some of my least favourite subjects - Physics & Chemistry. They were rather cruel however as I had two exams on the last day - lovely eh.

It was strange that for a few of my friends it was their last day at Thorpe School, so it was a bit sad - but things go on. We'll still see each other no doubt, and I wont let my friendships stop, just cos we don't see each other every day.

If you've been watching the Euro's, then you'll have seen the usual England rubbish. When they get to play anyone half-decent they are going to get totally thrashed. Even Wales & Ireland played better, how hopeless. Not all the Football related stuff was a lost-cause, at Alfie's Football presentation evening, he was named 'Manager's Player of the Year', which is a real achievement - well done Bro!

So, I'm going to just totally chill for a while, then I'll worry about getting a Summer job (even though I might not have that much time to myself, as I've got my 4 weeks of volunteering stuff). We've still not decided what we're doing for a Summer holiday, but I hope we can sort something out.

You'll notice that until now I've not made one mention of my birthday - as you can tell I've had other things on my mind. Now I'm free of all that other 'clutter', I can turn my full attention to my 16th birthday at the end of next week.

12/06/2016

While I was slaving away with my head in my books, Alfie was out enjoying himself - a TWO hour bounce at his new fav trampoline park - Gravity in Norwich. Him & his mates looked totally wasted when they came out & Dad picked them up. He'd clearly pushed himself a bit too far, as his knees were agony for the rest of the night..... bless.

Over the week, all I heard about was Gravity this, Gravity that.... so I had to see it for myself - so me, Hannah & Rachel went & had a go, and he's right, it is very good. All us Girlies will have to go, when everyone has got some money (so that could be a while!).

We didn't really do much else. Dad was working all day Sunday, and the weather was rubbish, so I don't think me & Alfie even went outside the whole day - sad, but true.

Wish me luck in my last 3 exams - Physics, Chemistry and Health & Social - thanks friends.

05/06/2016

Couldn't let Dad have all the fun, so we went off to Yarmouth, mainly cos Alfie wanted to go to a new trampoline park. It was pretty good, not too busy, and very similar to High Altitude in Norwich.

Bank holiday should have been a fun get together with some of my friends, which turned into a nightmare - thanks to some complete dicks from my school, who think they are sooooo cool, when they're not. They decided to attack one of our friends on our way back from the local shop, so we called the Police, and we've all decided that we'll give formal statements as it's gotta stop.

Then it was days of revision. Study, study, study - it had better be bloody worth it!

Clearly one trampoline park in a week just isn't enough for some. Alfie heard that another new one had opened in Norwich, down on Riverside, and he just had to go. He was in such an excited state! He's glad he went as he said it was awesome - even better than the one in London - wow, it must be good. What he said was best was, it had all the good bits of the others, lots of space, and disco lights & fog effects. I'll have to get my Girls down there, for a good bit of apres-exam bouncing.

After being frozen for days (so much for it being the start of Summer), the Sun came out & I went a bit mad, and got proper burnt on my shoulders - ouch! Didn't stop me going out on a 2hr (23 mile) bike ride with Dad, so finally some exercise.

The others went out into the wilds of the marshes between Acle & Yarmouth, in search of the Berney Arms pub (which was shut!). Luckily, Dad had the storm kettle so was able to make some coffee's & Bacon rolls, so it wasn't a complete failure!

Ok, gotta go - 4 exams next week. At least I can say that this time next week the end will be in sight, as I'll only then have 3 more exams to do, and that'll be it!

29/05/2016

22/05/2016

Again, that's all I've got time for - got English & Geography revision. I'm just praying for some questions on coasts in Geography, as I'm pretty ok with that. Wish me luck, and good luck to all my friends who I know are going thru the same torture.

15/05/2016

Right, that's quite enough - got some last minute revision to do as OMG exams start on Tuesday.

08/05/2016

01/05/2016

Still the revision goes on, at school, after school & at weekends. At least I know in 6 weeks it'll all be over - thank God, its horrendous!

I've at least got something extra to look forward to over the Summer, I've enrolled on a National Citizen Service 4 week course with some of my friends that will involve 2 weeks away somewhere, then another 2 weeks doing a project locally - it sounds really interesting & rewarding, and only cost £50, instead of over £1000 - bargain. That does leave a bit of a problem of us going away on holiday together - not with me though, I'll just stay at home - no drama.

Alfie finally got his glasses fixed, so doesn't look (quite as much) like a weirdo, with the tape keeping his glasses together. He also had a haircut, and I have to say it really suits him - even Grumps wants his the same (which could be interesting) - Alfie will have to send Grumps a picture so he can tell the barber that 'he wants to look like this'.

We went over to see Grandma & Grumps who had a good time on their coach trip to Cornwall, and of course Grumps had some funny stories to tell - poor Grandma. Its just like Dad though, sometimes I just have to try & pretend that I don't know him - maybe that's just Dad's! I was a nice afternoon in Lowestoft so Mum decided she'd boil some water for a Coffee in the garden using the Storm Kettle - well, luckily it wasn't survival time as we made a right hash of it - nearly used a box of matches, then nearly spilt all the near boiling water. Bear Grills would not have been impressed!

Saw Beth & Rachel play for their Ladies team, and win 4-0 in the final of the Plate competition, so they were super happy. It was also lovely to see Sarah who came over to Sweden with us last year, as she has played for that team in the past. Bryony also came along to watch (and I think check out what the team was like). The teams were both good & the game is fast, but there is a difference between them & Thorpe Ladies (who are in a higher league).

Now May is here lets hope for some proper Spring weather (like the past couple of days), and no more Hail & Snow until at least October.

Finally, talking about snow - Alfie finally found his ski tracker on his phone which shows his top speed of over 60mph! That means me & Dad were doing 65mph+ YIKES!

24/04/2016

A quiet week on the school front - no exams, but next week we've got moderation for our chosen sports for PE, so I'm hoping fro some nice weather. We did have a school football match, the County cup semi-final against Sprowston, which we won 12-0. We were expecting a tough game, as some of their players are in the Sprowston team that Thorpe play, but it was easy. It's a shame, in some respects, as we'll be playing against North Walsham in the final and they have an England U16 player in their team - still, she's just one player, and we can just get Beth to kick her!

So, our school team gets to play at least one more match, which might be more than our current Thorpe Utd team. We played what turned out to be our last league game, and won 6-3, we made it harder than it should have been, and it was 3-3 at half time, which woke us up & we started to play. As there were only TWO under 18 teams playing this season, Dad isn't sure whether it is best to have an other U16 team, with our 5 younger players, and us oldies will have to find another club, for at least a year, or train / play with the Cup winning Thorpe ladies team, although being honest they are probably a bit too good. Dad said he'd be happy to run a ladies team, when we are all over 16, which would be fun - but who know's who'd come back from whatever team's they'd joined.

We've got our presentation night in a couple of weeks, and I know we'll keep in touch whatever happens, and we're all good mates, so hopefully its au revoir, rather than goodbye.

Alfie's team also had their last league game, and should have won about 10-0. As it was they managed to scrape a 2-2 draw, after being 2-0 down. The other team had two chances all game & score from both of them. Alfie's team must of had about 20 shots, and only 2 on target, which they scored from. So, just as Dad says - you've got to get your shots on target!

Watching football was more painful than playing this week. I got hailed on two days in a row! First, watching Rachel (and Hellesdon) beat Sprowston to win the league - never before have we cheered Sprowston goals, but that's another story. Then watching Alfie play, it started off lovely and sunny, then suddenly out of Blue sky, hail - and it turned proper cold & now they are forecasting sleet & maybe snow - mental.

We must catch up with Grandma & Grumps, and hear all about their coach trip to Cornwall, and we can tell them all about skiing - hopefully now Football is nearly finished, we'll have some time.

17/04/2016

Me & Alf got back into school routine ok. We reckon it was we weren't allowed to lie in on holiday - with the hour time difference, we were up before 7 in the morning most days, so maybe there is some strange benefit of a routine.

Thursday at school - really tough to concentrate. Me, Hannah, Rachael & Abbie all sooooo excited about going to the concert. No messing about, as soon as the final bell went, we were off, out the front gates & straight into Dad's car, for a quick get-away! He'd even managed to get our food orders for tea, so after we'd chattered about drivel for an hour or so, while singing along to 5SoS on the CD, we stuffed our faces. Then the tricky job of changing into our concert stuff, in a moving car. Not easy at 80mph, while trying to make sure you are not flashing your body off to the nearest driver!

In less than 3hrs we were there, and set free outside the NEC arena, with thousands of other 5SoS fans - wow. What a concert, the support act was ok, but it was 5SoS that killed it, they played all our favourite songs, which of course we all sang along to (as loudly as we could). My voice killed by the end of the night, I could hardly speak.

I wasn't in quite the same state as Hannah though, one song from the end of the encore, she suddenly felt all faint, and slumped to the floor. I had to fight my way through the crowd to get a steward, and help from the first aiders. They took her down to the medical room (and being such good friends, we went with her - missing the final 5SoS song - what a sacrifice!). Luckily, after about 15mins, she got her colour back, and the paramedics were happy that she could leave. We'd contacted Dad by this time, so he'd come to see that everything was ok.

We had a very quiet drive home. Not sure anyone slept (I know I didn't), but just going over the concert in my head..... over & over.

Then after 4 very short hours sleep, my alarm went & I dragged myself out of bed - soooo tough!

10/04/2016

We were skiing in a new area - Tignes / Val d'Isere, although we saw the signs to Val Thorens, so we couldn't have been far away. The chalet was really nice a spacious, but had no WIFI. Dad had tried to fix this will a mobile thing that he'd hired, but we only got signal for the first 3 days, then nothing. The really annoying thing was, I could get a great signal high up on the slopes at 3,000 metres, but not a mile below - annoying!

Another thing that really annoyed.... the weather. It was rubbish. We only saw the Sun properly for one day, when we had a fantastic day's skiing. The other days were really cloudy, and even snowing sometimes, which made it tricky to see that far ahead - which doesn't make skiing half as fun. We made the most of it though, often racing to get the last lift that allowed us to get back down to our village. The closest was with just 2 mins to spare - yikes!

We skied with Monty, Connie, Ben & Catherine on our first day. Sadly, despite trying to meet up again, we ended up missing each other - even seeing them twice from lifts / gondola's. Ben said that might have been lucky as if Monty had tried to keep up with Alfie he'd have needed to go over 60mph, as Alfie had an app on his phone that told him his max speed - impressive stuff. As me & Edie were catching him up on this piste, we might have been doing nearly 65, or more. That's as fast as a car on a motorway!

Annalise & Harvey had a good time with us, and we all skied well. Alfie & Harvey have certainly got some big air and progressed onto the medium jumps, which I can tell you are pretty massive. Dad's got some great GoPro film of Alfie over the jumps to prove it.

We went out for tea one night, and the restaurant had WIFI, thank God. Even better was the banter that Alfie got into with the waitress. She said something, that Alfie made a comment about (which she heard - but wasn't meant to), she was really great as she pretended to clip his ear and kept calling him a 'bad boy' - making him wait til last to order from the menu - Alfie was well embarrassed - so funny.

It's amazing how quickly 6 days of skiing can go by, and even though we got to break up the journey with some shopping at mine & Annalise's fav makeup shop, its still a long, long way.

But were back, and school starts all over again tomorrow (whoop, whoop). At least I've got the 5SOS concert to look forward to on Thursday, although that means another 3hr car journey, each way, and a school day, after getting home at 2am - ouch!

27/03/2016

A nice short week at school,but still packed with 'learn this, remember that', my brain just can't take any more - it's going to burst out of my head! Then we were FREE, for two whole weeks, and now only a week until we go skiing & we're all even more excited than usual, so let's hope it is as good as we hope.

No football as it was Easter, but we still got to the gym to get / keep in shape, and to help get rid of some of the chocolate we'd been scoffing.

We were supposed to be seeing Nanna & Grandad on Monday, but sadly Nanna wasn't very well & didn't want us to catch anything before our holiday (very thoughtful), but then Mum went to see her the next day anyway, so we'll have to put her in quarantine!

We've starting getting all our ski stuff together, and me & Mum seem to have loads, whereas the Boys hardly anything. Dad is putting all his stuff in one of the Blue Ikea bags - for a whole week (that's hand-luggage for me!).

Dad says the snow is still looking good. Much better than Allos, which is nearly Green at the bottom already. Ben & Catherine will have to tell us all about it when we see them in Tignes next week. Monty will have to tell us all about what happened when their car broke down on the way to France & had to be towed to a garage - nightmare!

We've just got to get mentally ready for the monster car journey - boooooring!, although I've got a ton of revision to do & me & Annalise can test each other, so hopefully that'll make the time go quicker.

This time next week, we'll be having fun in the snow - bring it on!

20/03/2016

Everyone was then looking forward to our cup semi final, when disaster struck. Abi Clark (our top goal scorer) sprained her ankle playing NETBALL, yup Netball, which is supposed to be a non-contact sport! Then from really bad, to worse... we lost another player to illness, then another who was unable to play - GREAT! Dad was able to at least get 9 players for the game, which we knew would be tough, against Sprowston, who had got 12 players in their squad.

I just can't explain what happened, we just didn't wake up for the first 10mins, and found ourselves losing 2-0, and looking like getting killed. But not Thorpe, we've got a great team spirit, and fought back to score, so 2-1 at half time.

The 2nd half was how we know we can play, attack after attack, and finally an equalising goal, and we felt brilliant. We kept on attacking and hit the bar & the post, then disaster..... I made 2 tackles, the ball broke free & the luckiest shot ever went over Jess's head & into the net. That's how it finished....and we were out of the cup - totally gutted, so unfair, and not in any way a fair result - this is exactly what I felt like doing!

I only had a few hours to wallow in my self pity, as I'd talked Mum into doing the night slalom race at the ski club. Neither of us had raced for ages, so we weren't expecting to do great.... and we didn't - but it was good to be back (and I was faster than Mum). The 'cheer-up' campaign continued with Hannah & Rachel coming over to stay - which definitely helped.

Dad was working all day Sunday, so Mum was on football duty with Alf. She clearly isn't a total jinx, as Alfie's team won 5-1, and he scored a goal - good work. I didn't have the chance to watch as we had to be at rehearsals for our Bop Dance show. They went really well, and so did the main performance (which Mum, Dad & Alfie came along to watch). I'm not sure you ever get totally relaxed performing in front over a hundred people, but it is easier now we've done it a few times. The added pressure is that we are now considered the 'advanced' class - mainly due to our age I think!

We had the now traditional after show KFC feast, went home & collapsed - exhausted.

Only 4 more days to go.... then it's holiday time & skiing.

13/03/2016

The thing is, I can’t just stop & do nothing, as we are still learning new stuff in lessons, as well as trying to keep on remembering the stuff that I’ve already learnt.

So, if the rest of the family think I’ve been moody lately, even I can’t imagine what I’m going to be like when I do the real ones in May / June.

I’m soooo relieved that I can finally start to think about our skiing holiday, which is only a few weeks away now – time to get excited. Alfie is also getting in the mood – he’s got some funky new ski trousers & poles, which look proper smart.
The snow still looks really good, all the way down into the village, so we should be in for a totally fun week in Tignes.

Not only that, I’ve finally had the time & energy to do some dance practice – which is pretty lucky as we’ve got both a School performance & Dance Company one in the next week or so.

So, what about Alfie, well he’s proper loved-up with his Girlfriend Evie, who he spends ages messaging, texting or chatting to. If he isn’t doing this, he’s on his Xbox (even more than usual), especially now he’s got a new game. Incredibly, it’s got no guns in it, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t violent, it’s just it’s set 10,000 years ago, so you have to kill things with axes!!!!! What is the attraction? I just don't get it.

06/03/2016

28/02/2016

21/02/2016

Whoa, where did that week off go? Someone definitely speeds up the clocks when us kids are on holiday - no doubt about it.

At least we crammed in a few things, which made a nice break from the revision (which felt pretty relentless at times). How did kids do it before, without a phone full of music to listen to, it must have been torture.

We all went to the gym and tried to play Badminton, for the 1st time in ages, and guess what - we were pretty rubbish. Of course we were trying to whack the shuttle too hard, and either missed it altogether, or it hit in completely the wrong direction - fun though. Of course we treated ourselves afterwards, with a nice swim, steam & sauna - lovely.

On Wednesday we went over to see Grandma & Grumps, and Monty, Connie & Ben were also there, staying for a few days. We had a lovely lunch, which we worked off playing football in the garden & with a walk into Lowestoft high street. Mmmmmm, interesting - ok, they had a New Look, but was about it, unless you count all the charity shops as good (like Dad did), visiting most of them, but buying nothing. Makes us feel lucky that we've got all the shops in Norwich, to spend all Dad's money in!

We went our separate ways on Friday, Alfie spending time with his friend Joe, and Hannah &Rachel coming to stay over. I did promise not too have a late night as we had a football match in the morning. It didn't quite go to plan, as even though I wasn't too late, I couldn't sleep as my back was hurting. I had to move upstairs, and at least got a few hours kip.

The whole team seemed to be off its game, and we struggled to get going - even though we were trying. At half time it was 0-0, but Dad was calm & just encouraged us, and it obviously worked as we played much, much better in the 2nd half, and went on to win 8-0. Even my defensive partner scored a goal, and Cecilia scored a hatrick, so we were all happy.

That just meant it was Alfie's team's turn to show what they could do. As they'd won the last two games that Alfie played in, and they were playing a team that they'd already drawn against twice, they had a great chance. Much like in our game, they didn't start too well (even though it was early afternoon), and even though they had most of the chances, it was 2-2 at half time. Again, just like us, they had a much better 2nd half and thanks to some tough tackles (from Alfie & his team mate Josh), as well as some better finishing, saw Alfie's team end up winning 6-2.

While Alfie might be toughening up on the football pitch, he's showing his softer side off it. I think I mentioned recently that Alfie has a Girlfriend, Evie, and not only did he get her a Valentine present, he got her a really nice Birthday present, a massive & very posh bar of chocolate, from Hotel Chocolate. It was torture for me even to look at it, as you know I've given up chocolate for Lent, and there is temptation everywhere - it's horrible, but I gotta stay strong!

So, we're supposedly rested & ready to go again for another half term. At least this one is shorter, and we've got our skiing holiday at the end of it, so we'll just have to tough it out.

Right, let's get some more revision done, which will leave me some time to do some way more interesting stuff - like sit in my bed watching Netflicks!

14/02/2016

Ahhhhh........ we made it - half term at last. The past 6 weeks has felt like 6 months - endless. Now it's here, at least we get a lie in & get up when it's light, rather than in the dark of 6.30am. Other than that, I'm not sure what we're doing. Not going skiing like like last year - I know that. Which in some ways is a shame, but at least we won't run the risk of a 30hr car journey like last time. OMG, I start to feel funny just thinking about it, I think it has mentally scarred me!

That doesn't mean I'm not looking forward to going skiing at Easter - we both are, especially as it's to somewhere different. Supposedly, it has lots of really tough slopes & off piste, which Dad is getting well excited about. He's a bit obsessed, as he looks at the webcams every day to see what the weather & snow looks like. Dunno why though as I'm sure (hope) it'll still be there in 6 weeks time when we go.

Unbelievably, another team has quit our league, meaning there are now only 4 left. No more Bradwell, who have been playing as long as we have, so sad to see them go. So, no game for me on Saturday, so it was a trip to the Gym instead - gotta do something to stay in shape. On top of this, I went on my bike for the 1st time in ages. I biked into Norwich with Dad, from my school. It was fine going there, it's downhill - but on the way back, it was HELL At least Dad didn't bring us back up one of the steepest hills, but it was still a killer. How did I manage over 20 miles last year with Beth?

At least the trip was worthwhile, as I got some Gyn leggings & a brilliant birthday present for my friend Bryony - a Bambi mug, which is her nickname from football - genius eh.

Alfie did have a game, against an Old Catton team that they narrowly lost to a few weeks ago, so they had a chance. I didn't go & watch (it was too cold, and I had revision to do). Dad said they had loads of chances to score, and should have been at least 4-0 up at half time. Instead it was 0-0. Then disaster, they let a really soft goal in, and Dad thought that they would give up, but no - they actually played better than ever & scored 1....2....3 quick goals, to be winning 3-1. Then, just like last time, the Old Catton players started to get angry. First, one of them got a Yellow card for calling the referee shit, Then, one of their players got a straight Red card for trying to kick Alfie in the face / head when he was on the ground, after fairly tackling him. Luckily, he didn't actually make contact - but totally the right decision. OMG, they are proper rough round those parts!

Sunday was Valentines Day, and how sweet - Mum & Dad still get each other stuff, after all this time - lovely! No such 'fuss' for me, thankfully. I haven't got time in my busy life for a significant other at the moment-  I've got football to play & exams to pass - how dedicated is that!

Not sure if I've mentioned before, Alfie has though - Evie. She went on the school skiing trip so wasn't about. He thought of this though & had a present all sorted for the last Friday of term - bootiful.

Right, let's get some more revision done, which will leave me some time to do some way more interesting stuff - like sit in my bed watching Netflicks!

07/02/2016

Whoo, only another week to go before we finally get some time off school. It feels like we've been slaving away forever, but in reality it's only been 6 weeks. Anyway, nearly there!

At least there's been some good stuff goin' on. I had a week off skiing cos Mum wasn't feeling too well, which meant I could go to dance, and a right good rehearsal it was too - especially as Hannah came back to mine after, as her Sister was at the football, watching Norwich get beat again! Even worse, they lost again on Saturday to Aston Villa (who were bottom of the table). Looks like Norwich are in real trouble - that's just typical, they go & spend a load of money on players, that then can't play as a team - hopeless! Uncle Ben will be happy as he supports Ipswich & they are doing alright in the Championship, so they could go up & Norwich down - horrible.

At least not all football was bad. We had our first game of the year, and drew 2-2 with Sprowston, which we're really pleased about. We just need to get a bit more sharp in attack & we'll win even more games, as we create the chances. Again, we took the lead, with Abi C scoring again, then we let them back in it, with two soft goals, and it looked like we'd blown it. Then a great move and cool finish from Bryony, and a well deserved point, and a great game to play in (except for the elbow in my Hip that really hurt. Lucky Dad had the miracle freeze spray).

No football for Alfie this week as he was off to Centre Parcs for his friend Ali's birthday, and he had a fantastic time, as we knew he would. He couldn't stop telling us all about the swimming pool, the rapids & the flumes, the archery, biking in the woods, badminton, lovely food, the cabin in the forest.............. you get the idea, he enjoyed himself, and I'm really jealous - I want to go now. He even went in the cold water plunge pool - the water is only 15 degrees & its outdoors - sounds like torture to me. Give me the sub tropical wave pool any day!

We didn't spend our time lazing about either - we all went to the Gym on Sunday (even Mum), and guess what, she enjoyed it so much she's going to join. That means I'm going to have to work extra hard on my fitness, as I can't have Mum beating me! No worries at the moment though, she's on almost the lightest weight of all the equipment! No matter, it'll be interesting the next time you see her, whether you'll notice the new fit Mum.

Right, we just need to focus - five days to go....... five days to go.

31/01/2016

Well maybe this Gym business has been doing me some good.... although I wouldn't have said that on my last visit. We'd done our normal first 30 mins or so, and all was good, then we tried these new stomach crunch things & OMG, I felt so ill afterwards. I tried to do my normal 15 mins on the running machine, but only managed 5, before I had to stop as I felt really funny. It was a bit embarrassing actually as Dad kept on running, while I walked (slowly) on the one next - before quitting altogether while he just kept on going.

So, why do I think it might actually have been helpful? Well, we had our school County Cup football match, and not only did I not feel totally ill while playing, I was definitely more up & down the pitch - which led to me scoring a goal, and us winning 5-0, so a good afternoon all-round.

Not so great for Alfie. Dad came to watch & our PE teacher, Mr Shearer, told him that Alfie had tried to cheat in PE earlier in the day, and not run the fill course - OMG, me & the other Girls were laughing sooooo much, as they obviously know him, and Dad said that as punishment he was going to make him run 5k with him that evening (which he did!). Alfie's side of the story is a bit different (as you'd expect). His feet were hurting, and he wasn't trying to hide, he was just 'resting'. Admittedly, Mr Shearer didn't say that he'd made him (and the other 'cheats') run another 600m, so Alfie did nearly 6.5k that day - that'll teach him.

Maybe that's what gave him the fitness boost, as in his game on Sunday he played really well (yup you heard right, I said he played well, and I was there to see it). He was captain, for the 2nd game in a row, and got proper stuck in - fighting for the ball, making some good tackles & playing some neat passes. To top it all he scored a goal with a massive shot from way outside the area that flew in - even he couldn't believe it. That made the score 2-0, and they went on to have one of their best wins of the season 7-0.

No game for me on Saturday, but that's the last free one for a while as we've got games for the next 10 weeks, so I gotta be fit.

Hurrah, we finally managed to meet up with Grandma & Grumps, and exchange our Christmas presents (unbelievably). I got a lovely bracelet from Grandma & Grumps as well as some books I wanted, so thanks as well to Monty, Connie, Ben & Catherine. Alfie got a lovely wallet & some money in it to spend, so he was double-happy, and sends his thanks. I'm sure he'll spend it wisely (maybe). Grandma said she was feeling a bit better, but still not right - can't be nice feeling ill for weeks on end. We all hope they find out what's goin' on soon, so you can be all healthy again. What we didn't realise was that we were related to a crime family! OMG, shocked - all sorts of crazy stories told over the dinner table. We knew that Grumps liked his gardening, so we're sure he could tell his weeds from his WEED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Well, better get back to the revision again (maths tonight - joy!). At least I've got a quiet weekend to look forward to as Alfie is going to Centre Parcs for a couple of days with his friend Ali, as its Ali's birthday - lucky swine. Two days in a tropical pool, riding bikes & playing badminton - Alfie will be in heaven, just hope they've got WIFI (for his sake!).

24/01/2016

Whatcha know,, a week just goes by and you really can’t remember anything…. Interesting that is. Of course there was the normal, get up in the dark, get home in the dark trudge, and supposedly the most depressing day of the year – last Monday I think it was. Can’t say it struck me as any worse than any other Monday, but anyway we both made it through – so every day from now on should clearly be better, yea right – what about all my mock & real exams coming up, like they’re going to be a bundle of laughs!

Went to gym again with Dad, and took my friends Hannah & Rachel along, I was pleased, I did a bit better on each exercise, so it’s definitely helping. Hannah was proper impressive on the running machine, over 20 mins. Her & Rachel were right competitive, wanting to out-do each other on everything. We were there for an hour and a half, and ached so much the next day – no pain, no gain.

Otherwise, not much to say. A trip into town for Hannah to spend some of her birthday money – she’s obviously more careful than I am, cos mine’s spent within a week of my birthday. Oh yea, I had my Sixth Form interview & it seemed to go ok. I don't think I made a complete fool of myself, so fingers crossed I get accepted.

Alfie’s team so nearly won on Sunday. They lost 2-1 but Dad said they created more chances and should have got at least a draw. Alfie came home absolutely caked in mud, and was voted Man of the Match, so he was pleased.
My next game is with the School next week in the County Cup. We really want to win, as it will be the last year our team plays together. Not sure who we’re playing, but we’ll try our best.

Great to hear that Grandma is feeling a bit better, so we’re hopefully going to see her next weekend, for a late, late Christmas get-together.

Dad showed us where we are going skiing, and the snow looks good – let’s hope it sticks around until we go at Easter – only 8 weeks away. Even better news, half term is only a couple of weeks away, so that’ll be a break, from School – but not revision!

17/01/2016

Whatcha know,, a week just goes by and you really can’t remember anything…. Interesting that is. Of course there was the normal, get up in the dark, get home in the dark trudge, and supposedly the most depressing day of the year – last Monday I think it was. Can’t say it struck me as any worse than any other Monday, but anyway we both made it through – so every day from now on should clearly be better, yea right – what about all my mock & real exams coming up, like they’re going to be a bundle of laughs!
Went to gym again with Dad, and took my friends Hannah & Rachel along, I was pleased, I did a bit better on each exercise, so it’s definitely helping. Hannah was proper impressive on the running machine, over 20 mins. Her & Rachel were right competitive, wanting to out-do each other on everything. We were there for an hour and a half, and ached so much the next day – no pain, no gain.
Otherwise, not much to say. A trip into town for Hannah to spend some of her birthday money – she’s obviously more careful than I am, cos mine’s spent within a week of my birthday.
Alfie’s team so nearly won on Sunday. They lost 2-1 but Dad said they created more chances and should have got at least a draw. Alfie came home absolutely caked in mud, and was voted Man of the Match, so he was pleased.
My next game is with the School next week in the County Cup. We really want to win, as it will be the last year our team plays together. Not sure who we’re playing, but we’ll try our best.
Great to hear that Grandma is feeling a bit better, so we’re hopefully going to see her next weekend, for a late, late Christmas get-together.
Dad showed us where we are going skiing, and the snow looks good – let’s hope it sticks around until we go at Easter – only 8 weeks away. Even better news, half term is only a couple of weeks away, so that’ll be a break, from School – but not revision!
 

Brrrrrr, the first taste of Winter - we weren't ready for that. Sub zero temperatures & some real snow (although it didn't last long). Just long enough though to mean that for the whole of our football training, we were having snow blown in our faces - hideous. At least me &  Alf had leggings / tracky bottoms on. Bryony came in shorts, and guess what - her legs were Orange by the end, and she was shivering with cold - how dedicated (stupid) we are. A little bit of snow / ice could only mean one thing - more cancelled football matches. We'll still be playing in June at this rate!

So, enough of this football talk, there was a far more important event this week - Mum's birthday. A whopping 47 years old, you'd never believe it would you! Her presents show that she's growing old gracefully - a Pandora gift voucher from me & Alfie, so she can buy herself something nice, and some new car mats for her Car! - that's what she wanted (honest). So she got the pressies she wanted, the Take Away tea that she wanted - happy middle-aged Mom!

I've been getting ready for my Sixth Form interview next week. Yup, that's right, I have to go through an interview to get into the Sixth Form of my own school. I've had to write a personal statement, which was really tough as it just seems like you are boasting, which was weird. Wish me luck.

After a lazy day on Saturday, me & Dad went to the Gym on Sunday morning to help me improve my fitness. I was able to push myself a bit further than before, but I've got lots still to do - especially on my weak arms, which are completely pathetic.

After getting back, we only had time to change, and we were off to see Nanna & Grandad (and Tilly of course). She was totally mental as usual, giving us plenty of face-licks! Couldn't stay too long. Long enough for a yummy roast dinner though, then it was back home, wait for the shopping to be delivered, pack it all away, then bed - what a wild life eh!

10/01/2016

Whoa…. What a shock to the system! A week at school & me & Alfie are wrecked. On Wednesday, I found that I’d drifted off to sleep & only woke up when Dad shouted up that tea was ready – what a lightweight.

Maybe it had something to do with the weather as well. I don’t think we’ve seen the Sun this year yet. It’s been Grey, raining & yuk every day. One morning it seemed like it was still dark when we waited for the bus to school. At least we haven’t been flooded like all those people – in Scotland this time, what a nightmare.

Talking about the rain, on Thursday it was crazy, it started before 8 in the morning (we know cos we got wet getting to the bus stop), and didn’t finish until the evening, and it poured & poured. The road that we usually go on to get to my friends Hannah & Rachel was flooded & closed. Luckily we were in the bus so we could bash our way through the puddles, which were massive – bet Dad loved ‘hunting puddles’ in his car.

Sadly, that did mean that our game against Shrublands was called off, as their pitch was nearly underwater. Amazingly, Alfie’s game did go ahead away to East Harling (miles away!). It was a nice Sunday afternoon, but once again they lost, but not too badly 6-1. Alfie played well & set up their goal & made some good tackles (even giving away some free kicks – hacker!)

He’s has been getting frantic, every day, over a parcel that he’s expecting – and the contents…… a pair of trainers that ‘he just had to have’. I have to say, he’s used some of his Christmas money to buy them, so at least that part is sensible. Every day it’s has the postman been…. has the postman been – followed by disappointment, shame – he’ll just have to wait (as they are coming from Germany for some reason).

Anyway, enough about him, what about me? Another week helping out at the ski club & I’m really enjoying it (more than I thought / expected). Who knows, maybe I’ll become a ski instructor, just like Mum. Dad is talking about entering a team into the people’s FA cup, with the chance of playing a Wembley – unlikely, but you’ve ‘got to be in it to win it’. Talking about that – we entered the Lottery on Saturday, hoping for a share of the £50 million jackpot, but we didn’t even get enough numbers for even £10!

Oh, of course – we hope Grandma gets better soon. She’s not been feeling too well & had to go into hospital for a couple of days – maybe just to have a rest from Grumps! She’s back home now, so hopefully we can get together soon, and have a very late Christmas (as we’ve still got their presents here for them).

Right, that’ll have to do. We’ve both got revision to do, and I can already feel my eyelids getting heavy. Until next time.