I thought I’d spend a little bit of time updating you all on what’s been happening lately. Nothing too exciting – but enough to take up all my time nonetheless.
I started the week going to see Judie Tzuke in concert live at the Lowry at Manchester’s Salford Quays. She was the lady that I talked about here in more detail. She was joined by her two daughters as backing singers and they entertained us for the night with her back catalogue of should-have-been hits.
The week got busier and more hectic with work commitments and my MA placement; involving lots of issues that both physically and emotionally challenged and drained me – and still is somewhat. My Dad has been unwell too – and on Friday morning was rushed into hospital to the emergency medical unit with suspected heart failure. His potassium and sodium levels within his blood are also inbalanced along with many other medically unstable things. I drove 100 miles south and spent the weekend with my Mum, taking her food shopping and visiting my Dad during the allocated times. He appears in high spirits and is doing great considering – so fingers crossed all will be well.
Of course, this also meant that I spent some additional time with Ben – and thankfully this visit he was more than happy to pose for the obligatory photographs. Wanna see? He followed me around constantly – and feel asleep on my knee at every opportunity – he really is so lovable and adorable. Cuddling up with Ben also made me feel so much better emotionally and spiritually.
I’ve also purchased a few lovely items from the local second hand market – including some pictures, some spats and some trinkets. A few of these items are for myself and others will eventually find their way into my Houdini House shop. I’ll share some photographs of these on another post soon.
I’ve also been to the final rehearsal for the ‘The Last Cuckoo’; – the song is, mostly, sounding good. The set is in position and the technical and dress rehearsals are now taking place – all before the opening night this Thursday! Exciting but scary stuff! So, that’s been my week in a small nutshell. I’ll drop by soon – as well as promising to try catch up on all your blogs. But for now, I’m off to bed as I’m knackered! ;-)
Sue at Rue-Mouffetard said:
Hi Al….I hope this finds your Dad on the mend and hopefully soon to be home from the hospital. I always enjoy seeing pictures of Ben….especially during this sad time for me as we lost our beloved Boo the Pyrenees on Sept. 30th. and then to make matters worse I missed my own surprise birthday party today….I sure hope the rest of the year goes a bit better……Sue.
houdini said:
Hi Sue
Thanks for stopping by. Have just been to your blog and seen the post about Boo – so sorry to read that.
How on earth did you miss your own birthday party???
Al xxx
Reggie said:
Hello Al,
oh dear, I send hugs from afar to you and your Dad, with lots and lots of ‘get well soon’ wishes to him, and loads of encouraging ‘hang in there’ wishes to you. You’re a really good son, I love how you’re always ready and willing to help your folks.
I can imagine how comforting it was to cuddle with Ben (he looks like suuuch a lively character, bright-eyed and intelligent). When I’m down, or sick, or simply stressed out, I get so much comfort, companionship and compassion from snuggling with my cat, brushing her, playing with her, or just being around her. Animals are simply awesome like that. Much love and gentleness to you.
houdini said:
They certainly are. Am sitting with my cat at the moment next to me. She’s just been for a little love and is now tryng to fall asleep. Great to hear from you Reggie. Am off to make a cuppa then sit down and read what you’ve been up to lately ;-) Sending hugs back from over the ocean xx
Steven Harris said:
Hope your Dad recuperates well. Are you back to studies too? Sounds like a very busy time. x
houdini said:
Sadly the studies never stopped ;-( but the MA finishes in February – so I am almost counting the days!!! Thanks for the best wishes – love to all in the Mutterer household – Al x
amberlife said:
Sending hugs from the sunny but chilly Isle. xxx
houdini said:
Thanks Amber – absolutelly freezing here too. It’s official – my new window makes the bedroom no warmer! x
Madeleine said:
I love Ben. If he was mine I’d never get any work done. I’m so glad your mum has him now whilst your pa is in hospital – I hope he’s doing very well by now and will be well enough to go home soon. Nothing beats quality snuggle time with one’s pet, stressed or not! Otis cat snuggles next to my head and ear on my pillow and the purring echoes through my skull, if I could sell this as a therapy…….
Anya said:
Ben is such a sweet poochie – what soulful eyes. I especially like the one in the hallway – looking down on him – very artistic. Best wishes – Anya
Trishia Jacobs said:
Surely you have cards for sell in your shop featuring Master Ben:)! I love the shadow and light play in the one taken of him from afar.
wanderingseniors said:
You’re way too busy! Reading this made me tired. Hope your dad is getting better and that your mom is fine, too. Ben is just so adorable! Keep those photos coming. :)
Jane said:
Busy doesn’t even begin to describe! Hoping for a speedy recovery for your dad. And those pictures of Ben? Every time you post pictures of him my heart melts. What a cutie!