Stationary Style

Hamish went back to school after half term. I hoped to catch up with household chores and paperwork which have been neglected since GP's fall. Visiting her in hospital and 'Amber duty' have taken their toll. I am completely run down and can feel the start of a cold and sore throat, likely to have been picked up on my many jaunts to Ninewells.

I have a particularly busy week ahead, as well as Hamish's 15th birthday tomorrow (Shrove Tuesday) which I have vowed to make special. Work is about to start in our house and there are important and costly decisions to be made. Also, I was due to be in Cape Town in a couple of weeks time which now seems impossible given that I have an extra cat and invalid to care for.

When I arrived at the ward this afternoon, GP was wearing a puzzling expression and announced that it was 'time to leave'. Once I had established that she meant 'this hospital' rather than, 'this earth' which she frequently threatens, my heart sank. I'm just not ready!

It soon became apparent that GP was discharging herself. She had been advised that she was being moved to a rehabilitation centre until measures could be put in place for her to return home in the next few days, with assistance. It was made clear that if she refused to comply, she would be leaving the system and no longer eligible for the care on offer. After huge objection and tears (mine) I took her home to Amber - it turns out that I am the assistance.

I tore into town with Lucie at 5.20 pm on a mission to buy cards, wrapping paper and what every boy wants for his 15th birthday(?). Our first stop was Paperchase. Lucie commented on how she loves stationary shops as they are a sanctuary of organisation. Oh yes, it was lovely. Bright, colourful and perfect. I noticed a girl who walked past me at the till. She looked different from other shoppers and reflected my impression of the store, so I blipped her.

We arrived home at the same time as Hamish, having performed 'Supermarket Sweep' at the Overgate. I decided to let him have his presents this evening rather than rushing in the morning. We sat down to a delicious meal which included pancakes for pudding - we should really be doing all of this tomorrow but the evening has been ENORMOUS fun after a frustrating day!