Philip (Phil) England

April 2026

2026-04-10T09:52:00.000+01:00

January and February dragged, March flew by, April...., slow down a little

1st: Slow start to it, don't rush me.

Feel like my heart and my mind and my body has been minced up the past months, think I'm starting to put myself back together. My heads been in the shed. Been a bad day for sure.

2nd; Im feeling like crap, very low, close to tears, sorry can't do today.

Update 1 - can't seem to get today started, just lack energy.

Update 2 - So managed to get my.tablets taken, managed to make a cuppa.

Went outside and sat with the cat from downstairs - it was an effort to get back up stairs again.

Had a really bad evening and night, thanks to Babs for helping me and also Neil, kove you both.

3rd: Slept for most of the day, there are days that you just yave to.

4th: Happy Birthday to my sister. Lets see how today goes shall we. Feeling a bit liw, achy too, will take it easy.

5th: Happy Easter! Went to my sisters today, dispite a lack of sleep, not sure where my mind went last night, but it kept waking me up.

6th: Not long out of bed, feel like going back though. A bit achy, but nothing too bad. My left knee is weak and my left hip hurts too.

Slept a bit better last night thank goodness.

7th: Slept a bit today, but must have been needed. Neck, top of back, shoulders, left hip and knee playing up today, pains not really subsided today as it went on. Got parcel coming tomorrow.

8th: I should get up, parcel coming, bit on the achy side, feeling sick with it, and things to do as well ... here goes then (not done this for anwhile, pain 7 out of 10).

Edit @ 11:50am - Waiting for parcel, been outside moved some tubs, having a rest and cuppa before going back out in the garden. Aching even more now (8 out of 10 - will never learn will I?).

Edit @ 8:30pm - I may have over done things some what today. Right arm and shoulder killing me, also back.

9th: I best get out of bed, need to do my injections, and take my tablets too. A bit achy but not as bad as yesterday (6 out if 10) left knee seems a bit weak too.

10th: Lower back in agony this morning, not too sure why, but things to do later - fed up with aches and pains.

March 2026

2026-03-31T07:47:00.000+01:00

Another month, here we go..., just want to start by saying...

Happy St. David's Day

Dydd Gŵyl Dewi Hapus

1st: I should get up, very achy this morning, I over did pottering about yesterday.

6pm - In agony this evening, pain at level that has stopped me in my tracks, need to get my recycling put out too.

2nd: Hips and lower back in agony this morning... Must get out of bed to get to my pain killers and cbd oil. None left by the side of my bed.

3rd: I should get out of bed, a bit achy, and going out today to somewhere, don't know where or on what roads either. Do want to go somewhere I've not been but that practically rules out lots of places within striking distance of a day out!

4th: But tired, and neck hurts. Managed to get out in to garden to potter about, but that was cut short when I got a thorn in a finger by the side of a finger nail, only little, but brought a stop to what I was doing. Bed early.

5th: Bit achy today, but must head out as I need to puck up my inhaler I forgot to get yesterday and am out of it. The inhaler is what they call a 'preventer', it is supposed to strengthen my lungs.

Feeling a bit chilly today, but need to get on to things.

Afternoon Update - Feeling a bit down this afternoon.... Not sure where this feeling came on from all of a sudden.

I miss not having Nero here every Thursday.

I miss not having Dad phone every day or so and talk randomly about things sometime repeating himself.

Feel like going back to bed eight now.

6th: Lower back, hips and neck in agony this morning.... Need to get up as got few things to do, slow motion start to the day it is then. Feeling a bit down.

11am - well I'm up, and doing some exercises to loosen up, seem to be working a bit.

5pm - Feeling a bit drained this afternoon, think a nap is on the cards.

7th: So snug under the duvet, but must think about getting out of bed, things to do - but it's so nice and warm under here!

A bit achy but nothing too serious this morning, I am feeling a little down though.

8th: Some pain, nothing too bad, feeling cold today, very misty and damp out.

9th: Monday morning, I suppose I should get out of bed in case my parcel turns up, which it should do.

Right hip in agony, not sure how as I sleep on the left side, also lower and mid back, my neck hurts (judging by my pillows, I can see why!).

10th: Feeling a little sick this morning, hope that passes, normal aches and pains, manageable level. Interrupted sleep in the night.

11th: very tired and fed up, with slight aches and pains.

12th: I'm awake, very achy and feeling sick with it. Left gip in agony, left knee weak went to get out of bed almost ended up on the floor, back in agony too.

13th: Friday 13th.... Oh dear!

Must get out of bed, having bloods done this morning, then back home to bed!

Very achy this morning, and cold, but then again it is a cold morning.

EDIT 8:40am - Coming out of Central Clinic on way back to the car, hail shower, its freezing cold out. Back home now and getting warm.

14th: Brrrrr its a cold one this morning.

A bit achy currently, shoulders and back especially.

Evening update: Feeling a bit drained this evening, also achy, think I may have overdone things somewhat. Managed to do food.... Ok, I cheated, microwave meal, only have them when I'm not up to cooking from scratch.

15th: I guess I should get up, got a wash load to get on this morning, as got a hour of free electric this morning.

Very achy following yesterday's productive day. Feeling a bit down again today, just want to move on but with Dad's house still not sold, it difficult, it's a hard one, plus Mother's Day today always brings back memories.

Happy Mother's Day to all Mothers in the UK reading this, unless you are in the USA, theirs is in May.

Afternoon Update - Feeling a bit sick this afternoon, not sure what's causing it, beed to venture out though, not easy when feeling sick and in pain.

I lit a candle for my Mum as it was Mother's Day - 16/03/2026

16th: Slept well, makes a difference sleeping with the phone in the living room. Up early as taking the car to garage to have a filter changed on the exhaust under a product recall.

A bit achy, left hip and shoulder playing up a bit as well as my left knee feeling weak.

9am EDIT - At the garage, looked at the Vitara, it is higher than my car, easier to get in and out of. That's going on my list of possible cars to decide between later this year.

Being productive while waiting - using the free wifi. Just emailed Penlan lesure centre to see if they have water exercises. Had a reply within 5 mins!. "We have steps leading into the pool, also a ramp. You're more than welcome to come to have a look at the access"

10:15am EDIT - Car done, and it had a health check, all is fine.... home now, waiting for BUNDL delivery, so keep an eye out on the recent BUNDL blog post.

17th: Bad nights sleep, not helped with someone banging on something (a door?) somewhere. Lower back in agony, neck is killing me too. Wish I could soak in the bath.

18th: A bit late doing this, but was a bit achy this morning, but needed to get up to help a friend. Bloomin' roadworks around Swansea.... Oh well, needs must!.

Need to get out in the garden this afternoon to do some bits, need to finish cat proofing things out there.

2pm UPDATE - Who would have thought a Morrisons shop would knacker me out.... Cuppa and then on to a few garden bits it is then.

19th: Owch, why did I lift that tub yesterday? my body is hitting back today. Every step I make hurts like hell, really feel like crap.

20th: I should get out of bed, things to do today. A bit achy but not too bad.

21st: Sun is out, I slept in.... Swansea are playing at home - kick of 5:15pm so chaos on the roads from about now!

Need to get outside in the garden, seem to have cat proofed things enough... I hope!

Tine will tell, but yes, sunshine needed.

22nd: Slept well last night, left arm and left hip hurting though as slept on that side, feels like a dead weight a bit right now, but slowly improving as the day goes on.

I need to put more compost on top of my potato outside.

It's rubbish day today as well, but only have food waste to put out today as not enough in my plastics to go out.

Just had to report the communal lighting in the block not functioning for the third time to Caredig.

23rd: Very achy this morning, neck and back, also left hip feels like I want to scoop the insides out of it... just hate that feeling. Got pins and needles in left arm and hand.

EDIT - Well managed to get outside, still achy, but managed to feed my outside plants and potted up my garlic plants, so a result, but my body will hit back for me pushing myself.

Washing machine is leaking now too.

24th: 1am - Woken up with a bad case of acid reflux.... and in great pain too - damn fibromyalgia flare up.

EDIT 8:40am - not a good morning, after not much sleep, I feel exhausted.

25th: Feeling nauseous this morning, back is killing, neck and shoulders too. I must get out of bed, need to get to the chemist this morning, also its art at the hub on the hill today.... if I can make it.

26th: Left arm feels like a dead weight, also feels tingly. I must plod on and try to sort myself out, as must pop to Dad's house. Need to take electric meter reading and figure out whats in the garage to save as that wasn't emptied.

Feeling very down, not surprisingly.

27th: When you are so snug in bed and you don't want to get up, but have things to do.

Back achy, and left hip and shoulder too.

Still need to pop back to Dad's house, feeling very down about that.

UPDATE 10am - I think I've overdone it again, my right arm is now killing me and my shoulder.

28th: 2am - Damn it, woke up in agony, skin tingling from head to toe, feels like I just want to peel it off and also scratch the inside of my bones out - damn fibromyalgia.

9:20am EDIT - Not that much difference, slight easing, had my tablets, changing dose of gabapentin today to 200mg, 200mg, 200mg and 300mg (can take 900mg a day, would normally take 300mg, 200mg, 300mg daily).

12pm EDIT - Finally feeling a bit better, have been feeling the sun rays which help.... I do need to get more sun.

29th: Bit achy this morning and sick, must get up as need to start washing machine off in half hour. Slept ok last night though.

30th: Been awake since 2:15am with a pain full left arm and leg, also back and neck too, feels like I want to pull out my bones, a fibro attack again, got lots to do on Monday too, so hope this subsides.

7:30am EDIT - not much sleep since getting woken up, it's going to be one of those days, still rather achy, but I must get up.

31st: 12:30am - Woken up with dead left arm, painful hip and acid reflux 😞

Edit at 7:30am - acid reflux sorted thanks to bicarb and water, lower back and hip hurts, need to get up as going to the house... probably the last time, as completion date is Thursday.

BUNDL & BLUESKY SOCIAL

2026-03-28T02:24:00.000+00:00

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USA ISRAEL IRAN WAR

2026-03-13T07:46:48.885+00:00

My thoughts on the USA, ISRAEL & IRAN WAR

It's not looking good is it? Price at the pumps going up, gas going up, heating oil going up.

Petrol and Diesel going up will affect every other price too from your milk to take aways and parcel deliveries.

Iran said that they would stop firing on Arab neighbours - this hasn't happened.

Trump says the war has been won, clearly an out and out lie as the #USA and #ISRAEL are still hitting out at #IRAN.

The environmental impact is emense, with fire burning and oil getting in to the sea.

What are your views? do leave a comment.

Keep checking out updates on www.itsmyblog.me.uk

February 2026

2026-02-28T09:17:00.000+00:00

1st: Made it through January, that dragged for sure. Slept in today, well it was Sunday. A little achy, nothing too bad.

Was in bed by 8pm, and watched some Rizzoli and Isles on Amazon Prime Video.

2nd: 4:40am - Woken up very itchy, feels awful, want to scrape out the inside of the bones in my arms and left hip ... damn fibro flare up.

7am - I try to get out of bed for a pee and my left knee plays up... damn it.

Was in bed early this evening.

3rd: I should get out of bed, but am so snug under the duvet... Feeling a bit achy, hips and shoulders mostly.

4th: Bit of a meh day, feeling a little achy and totally meh.

5th: 6:30am - Feeling down today, just feel like a bed day, but need to get up for my tablets. I aching from head to toe, and feel very itchy, plus irritable.

8:50am - Guess I should try to get the day moving. Need to try this magnesium spray that is supposed to help woth aching joints.

6th: Very achy, things I must get done today, here's hoping a shower will sort it.

A shower did help a little bit, which is a good thing.

Was sick in the evening, not to sure why.

7th: Feeling under the weather, but still going to Hannah's today. Hope I can shake this feeling, if not I may book a Travelodge.

Right arm and shoulder and neck hurting.

In the night woke up with terrible wind that needed to get out.

8th: Awake, slept like a log. It's very quiet up here. It is best when driving somewhere over a long distance to leave early. I left Swansea at 6am yesterday and got to Swadlingcote about 11am (after Google Maps sent me over little country lanes!). So Tuesday when going back will depart about the same time!.

Not too achy, but do feel a bit sick this morning again.

9th: Woke up feeling drained, eyes feel like I've been crying, nose feels a bit blocked. Neck and right shoulder killing me. Feeling like crud. Would have been Dad's birthday today... the whole idea of being elsewhere hasn't worked has it...?

My left hip has been really killing me today and my left knee has been really weak to the point of deciding if I should use my crutch or not.

Really fed up of popping the pain killers, but had no choice as left my cbd oil at home.

10th: Woke up at 2:30am with dodgy windy stomach, to the toilet I go, a lot of wind and the runs, and back to bed with a concerned Nero looking at me... will be up again at 4:45am!

Early start, should be home by about 11am.... I hope. Seems I packed my magnesium spray, will apply to knees and hips and hope it helps.

Damn, a slight punch with a lorry and my car is going in for repair, and I think I need some mental repair.

11th: Awake at 3 in the morning, I'm in agony, very achy and itchy, probably the ying/yang thing, car felt pain now human feels pain.

12th: Had a lazy day today, feeling drained. Courtesy car came, a Toyota Aygo, horrid little thing. Bit achy today.

13th: Feeling cold, could be ice later. Think back under the duvet I go. Need a little more sleep.

A bit achy, but not overly so, about normal level for me, just about manageable.

14th: Feeling achy this morning, but with back to the window, the heat from the sun is soothing my aches and pains.... Far better than taking meds.

15th: Sunday...... Crumbs, how did that happen? I'm as snug as a bug in a rug. Must pop to the shop.

A bit achy though, neck and shoulders and left hip too.

16th: Nice and warm in bed, aching all over, skin tingling, fibromyalgia flare up.

Tried to take my mind off it by checking progress of car repair.... which didn't help.

17th: A bit on the achy side today, couldn't lift my left arm high enough to reach my head so had to use the right, shoulder really hurts as does neck. Will do gentle exercises to ease it as the day goes on.

I've said this before I tend to push myself many times in the week, and my body hits back with pain. The doctor prescribes Gabapentin, and rather than mix other medication such as over the counter pain killers, I go for CBD oil which helps a touch, but not much more than that. A friend has put me on to magnesium spray, which seems to do nothing at all. I am not expecting much to change.

I am on a waiting list to be rehomed in to a bungalow, ground floor flat or adapted house. Currently I do have days when I am trapped in my flat, can't get down stairs and out of the block I am in. On days like this I am missing out on seeing friends or just getting out in to nature.

I would like my own dog or cat, but currently this isn't possible.

Update at 3:45pm - despite having taken double dose of cbd oil and my daily dose of Gabapentin and using my heat pad, I am still in agony, I was supposed to be heading out today, which is not going to happen. Will I ever learn not to push myself?

18th: Feeling not too bad this morning, slight fuzzy headache, but other than that aches and pains at manageable level. Just because I feel not too bad, don't mean I can push myself.

PIP REVIEW INFO: When you are on PIP, every now and then you have a review. On one Facebook group read that someone was told you loose points if you use any aids.

This is FALSE, you can infact gain points.

I use a walking aid, as well as a reaching aid to get my seatbelt in the car, also to reach things around the flat, and an aid to get in and out of the bath (I really need a walk in the shower. Hope your PIP review goes well, not heard when I'm due one, but last time was told it would be 'light touch review' what ever that meant!

19th: Guess I should get out of bed, very achy and sick with it, but slept well. New duvet was nice. Really feeling the cold today, right through to my core. I know I've lost more weight since my Dad passed away.

Waiting on blood form to arrive from the doctors, still not come.

20th: 4:40am - Damn, woke up very itchy skin and bones and feeling sick with it, fibro at it again.

Late Update - Took nearly all day to shake that feeling.

21st: I need to get out of bed, but am extremely achy from head to toe, will be a very slow start to the day.

Two hours later - Took a while, but am just about up and moving, all be it slowly... very slowly.

22nd: I should get out of bed, feeling very under the weather, can't put my finger on the problem though, achy in places but can't figure out the source of them, like to know the source so I can work on trying to ease somehow.

24th: Had a day off the socials yesterday, it is allowed once in a while, a tech free day clears the mind.

Just waking up, trying to decide if I should have a lay in?

On getting out of bed my left knee is weak and my left hip hurts like hell, feels like I want to crack it open and scratch inside with a fork.

25th: Sort of awake, very achy this morning, heat pad helping but nodding back off. Will need to pop to the chemist this morning to pick up my prescription as out of some meds.

26th: Neck in agony, as well as shoulders and top of back, and skin very tender too.... Damn fibromyalgia.

As the day has gone on feeling more and more down and achy, I blame the weather.

27th: 2:35am - Woken up with tremendous lower and middle back pain, right hip killing too. I hate waking up in pain.

Update 7:30am - never got back off to sleep, going to get out of bed in s bit, could take a while this.

28th: I guess I should get out of bed. I think I slept arkward. My neck, top of back and shoulders killing, left arm not too good either.

Enjoy last day of February.... and any sunshine, more rain due.

January 2026

2026-02-02T04:54:00.000+00:00

1st: Well here we go, new year, same aches and pains, new stick and new attitude. Lets do this.

Abwalk to start the year off, up to the top of Kilvey Hill, coughed up green gunk which felt good.

Went to bed early as was feeling down.

2nd: Woke up in the early hours in floods of tears, think I was thinking about my Dad and the scattering of his ashes, seem to also remember thinking of Mum at some point in the night.

Been feeling down and achy most of today, don't think it will be too long before I return to my pillow and duvet.

I need to pop to the shop but right now I can't be bothered..... NOT a good start to 2026 is it?

3rd: Woke up to a dusting of snow.... it sure is cold but pretty. Very achy this morning, and feeling down.

4th: Things to chase up this week with the solicitor and estate agent, also with the hospital about my Ankylosyn Spondylitis (by now should have been on new injections), and need to speak to the doctor. Also got eye appointment.

Lets get through Sunday first, feeling achy and a bit sick.

Need to deal with Dad's ashes too.... getting dragged down with them being here.

5th: Was so snug in my ved this morning I had a lay in, more snow fell in the night, but just a sprinkle, and that froze. Back and neck hurting and left knee is weak.

I cant have any form of operation as my knees are not bad enough 😔 and as for my back they seem reluctant to do anything to it - it really gets me at times.

6th: Fed up of the freeze, aching all over and a building headache to boot. Bed early for me.

7th: Not too good this morning, feeling sick and sore from head to toe, back and neck in agony. At least it's not freezing!

8th: Woken up by something but not sure what exactly, but seem to hear sort of pain signals in my head but can't feel any, maybe I should have a gabapentin and see if I can get more sleep? after all it's 4am.

Bit achy and groggy today, but have an eye appointment at the hospital today and then can't drive for a while after it.

Well had my eye appointment, don't have to go back for a year.

9th: 4:10am - Woke up feeling sick, and with my whole body feeling like crap. 5am- Was just sick, now I feel cold and shaky, back under the duvet I go.

I've been struggling getting in to the bath for a shower lately, almost slipping or falling.

10th: Why has my body decided to wake me up? I'm feeling exhausted, my bed looks like a tornado has landed on it, need to make the bed and get back in it! too early to get up. My neck is killing, shoulders too.

11th: Up early to go up to Mid Wales to pick Hannah and Nero up. Neck achy and feeling an achy left side.

Got stuck getting up to where Hannah was, had a nice gentleman dig me out of compacted snow ice - im stressed but am turned around and on better road surface.

In dire need of a strong tea with three sugars!

Snow is nice to look at awful to get stuck in!

Sure was nice to be with Nero again, I've missed this dog.

12th: Good night's sleep at the Travelodge in central Burton Upon Trent, thinking I may need a new mattress, my mattress is about eight years old, maybe I will wait until I've moved? Nero been to the vets today, so decided to stop extra night up here to make sure he is ok and Hannah too.

13th: Long drive back, another good night's sleep, really loving Travelodge's beds, also their shower gel. Stopped in a few places on way back, got back home had decent cup of tea.

14th: Fell asleep on sofa, so very neck and back achy. Catching up on TV today, think an early night. I must get my mind round to scattering my Dad's ashes.

15th: Was in bed by 11pm, been a restless night, slept for a bit, but mostly awake moving from side to side, had a plan to scatter Dad's ashes today, but lack of sleep may have made that a non starter, feel shattered.

16th: Think I am caught up on sleep, maybe I could do with a little bit more. Apparently it's going to be a wet weekend. A bit achy but am ok-ish. Not much on tv, so may just watch some old stuff on Amazon, Disney+ or STV Player.

17th: Feeling cold this morning, not too sure why, also a bit achy too. Heating pad is on.

Well Dad's ashes are scattered, feeling down, so early to bed.

18th: It's a bad day today, very achy, feeling sick, just want to hibernate. Feeling very down.

19th: Been feeling down today, very sleepy, ved early today.

20th: Very blowy outside, in agony today, trying to move through it, not sure I am winning but am trying! Feeling a little down, but improving.

21st: Another day, neck, shoulders and back playing up, some how my pillows ended up down bottom of the bed in the night. Must get up, need pain killers.

It's art today at hub on the hill... if my body allows.

22nd: Got a nasty cough back this morning, a little achy and in pain but that is normal.

23rd: Didn't sleep too good, shoulder really killing, and #fibromyalgia is playing up again, my back and left hip killing, thank goodness I have gabapentin by the bed.

24th: It's very windy out there, it woke me up a few times in the night. Very achy this morning, hope it eases. Thumping headache too.

Afternoon update: Shoulder feels like crap, neck too, that's what I get for just tidying up a bit.

25th: Woken at 4am in great pain, fibro flare up - whole body aching and skin tingling, feeling a bit sick with it, but no energy to get out of bed... Feel like crap.

26th: Monday morning,.in pain but pushing on through, things to do before the heavy rain and wind return later.... sometimes you just have to.

Took the plastic urn back to the funeral directors in Burry Port, then had a very wind swept walk by Burry Port Harbour, was almost blown off my feet!

7pm -.Not feeling 100%, a bit on the achy side.... under electric over blanket. Early night is on the cards.

27th: Damn it.... skin itchy, extremely achy all over, feeling like I want to scoop the inside of my bones out.... It's another #fibromyalgia flare up. Feeling weak as a kitten too.

Early to bed for me.

28th: I suppose I should get out of bed. Not too bad today, a bit achy but at least it at a more manageable level. Must go to the chemist this morning.

Update - Been to the chemist, had a bit of a slip going up the stairs when I got back, jarred my back a bit, pain killer time - have to see how the pain is as the day goes on, and see how it goes.

Went to bed about 9pm, and feel full of wind.

29th: I should get out of bed but really don't think I want to, even though I must. Got a phone appointment and need to take my tablets and do two injections. Not feeling right.

UPDATE - Chased a few things, done injections. Now using heat pad to ease aches.... it really helps!

2nd UPDATE - Had the runs yesterday evening and into today, but that seems to have stopped thank goodness.

30th: Been sick this morning, back under the duvet as feeling cold, neck and shoulders in agony so could be caused by pain... it's happened before.

31st: A so so kind of day, feeling a bit short of energy.

December 2025

2026-01-01T10:26:00.000+00:00

Here we go, the last month of 2025, and what a year it's been. Going on holiday for my birthday followed by meeting someone special and Dad's health taking him from us. Sure has been a rollercoaster if emotions. I hope December can turn rhe year around.

1st: Started the month off with a lay in bed, weather atrocious anyway. Finally up at just after 11am, with my right arm feeling like a dead weight, strange as I sleep on my left side, lower back hurts and eight hip too.

Managed to put the tree and other decs up too.

2nd: One of those mornings when all you wanted to do was have another half hour sleep, and it turns into two, must get up and out of bed, need to get my prescription and do a few things. Very achy, but I need to get on, so must push through.

2pm - Pushed through, kind of wish I didn't, my left shoulder giving me great pain, along with my left knee, going up stairs I almost fell backwards, thought I may have cracked the eggs in the bag when I dropped it but I didn't. As Gloria Gaynor sang, "I Will Survive".

9th: Had a blog break, not really had much to put in it. Weather has been guess I should get up. Very achy this morning.... think it's the damp weather, it's not helping.

Mid-afternoon - My back is hurting a fair bit this afternoon, despite having done some exercises, seems to have made things worse.

10th: Coughing up some gunk, very achy too, I've got this.... I think.

Even now, I am still not sleeping with out aid of warm milk or some other help, and to he honest, am fed up of it.

11th: 1:30am - Feeling shivery, woke up sneezing, coughing and feeling very achy and poorly.

6:00am - Throat is raw with coughing, thumping headache, hot and cold flushes too... crap just is not a strong enough word to say how I feel. I will need to do a shop as need milk, lemon squash and honey - not enough to do a GoPuff or other order, but have Nero today.

12th: 1:00am - Nose is bunged up, difficulty breathing when laying down, yet sitting up I am fine.

7:40am - Feeling like crap, did get back off to sleep, but now feel like my head is full of it, plus am very achy.

11:40am - Damn it, now I have tooth ache on top of this cold.

13th: 3:30am - Coughing up gunk and runny nose.... it's clearing, it is keeping me awake when I want to sleep. Neck hurts after a powerful sneeze yesterday.

8am - I should think about getting out of bed, feeling a bit better, but not 100%

4pm - post was late today, just opened it, and its from the solicitor, paperwork to fill in and send back.

14th: The post yesterday with forms from the solicitor, filled in and put in the post, but they affected me greatly, really did. Neil came over to keep me company. Still got rhis cold, coughing so my body is trying to get rid of it.

15th: 2:30am - well, woken up coughing, damn it, whole body aching.

2:45pm - Went over to see Nero for the last time today, he was so pleased to see me, dispite me having this cold still

16th: Had a.most.of the day bed day today, well needs must, still full of cold.

17th: Sneezing like a right one, and still coughing too, need to go and get more milk, and a few other bits, also need to pop to drop a birthday gift and card off to Neil .... Happy Birthday ol' thing. A bit achy, and feeling very under the weather.

18th: Woke up in agony, back and neck killing. On a plus note my cough seems to have subsided some what.

No more Nero on a Thursday now, how will I get through today with no doggy company I ask myself? feeling a bit down.

19th: Feeling a bit down, think it's the time of year and missing Dad. I will get through this, and I have recording to do too. Still coughing and very achy from head to toe.

As the day went on my mood didn't lift one bit.

20th: I guess I should get out of bed, very achy and very croaky too. Feeling cold and fed up.

Seems the cough has returned, but could be the change from laying down to standing up and moving about, that always happens.

21st: Hectic day today, so guess I better get out of bed. Feeling a bit under the weather, but guess I had better get the day under way.

Thumping headache, neck killing and shoulders too. Will be having some help from a friend for part of it.

22nd: Been awake half the night, feeling down and mind doing it's own thing, going for wander without me. Just hate it when I can't switch off. Feel so drained right now, just want to stay in bed and sleep, but know I will be better around people right now.

23rd: 1:50am - Damn, woken with fibromyalgia flare up pain but only on the left side and all of back. Bad case of pins and needles in hand and left leg, hope it clears, busy day ahead.

Picked Dad up today, first time he not moaned or complained about other drivers or things on the radio, of course when I say picked Dad up, I mean his ashes. I've been talking to him and made him a cuppa.

24th Christmas Eve: feeling a little down, but must go to see Carl, Ami and the dogs. Feeling like crap, but must do this.

Aches and pains at the normal level of lately which is about a 6 on the pain scale most of the time. I enjoyed seeing Cosmo and Harley, those two dogs are so special.

25th Christmas Day: Slow start to the day, but got up and sorted, picked Neil up and back to mine. Opened my presents at about 1pm, apparently the later you open them the more middle class you are (according to Michael McIntyre on 'The Wheel' Christmas episode 2025). I had a bit of a breakdown, watching Morecambe and Wise on BBC TWO, Des O'Connor sang a song that made me cry.

26th Boxing Day: Feeling a bit under the weather. Aches and pains at their normal level. Managed a morning walk, fresh air, a bit frosty. Run Neil home late afternoon.

Watched 'All There Is with Anderson Cooper' on CNN, and sent him an email about my fathers passing and trying to deal with it, also did a video.

27th: A bit on the achy side, but snug as a bug.... I have to record a show, last one of the year... Just need to set my mind to it, also need to think about scattering Dad's ashes.

28th: Why is my right arm hurting when I slept on the left?, neck and shoulders also in agony this morning. There are times I just need to be held.

29th: Went to get prescription today, somehow forgot to put my injection on it 🤔 A bit achy but am ok

30th: So New Years Eve Eve today, tomorrow watching CNN for most of the day to see the world ring in the new year - lots of fireworks and light shows. Was so snug in bed, nice and warm but I had to get up for my medication...., a bit achy but am ok.

31st: Well, was expecting to be on my own this new year, but Neil came up, unexpected, had a bit of a cry when watching the NYE special on CNN when Anderson mentioned those we lost in 2025...

2025 - 2026

2025-12-30T14:33:24.480+00:00

So 2025 almost done.

This year has been a rollercoaster of emotions for me. Celebrating my 50th birthday with my best friend and helper / supporter, Neil.

Flying off to France and staying in the city of Metz, birthday day trip to the city of Luxembourg and then a drive to Strasbourg, when driving through the French countryside villages saw nests on various poles with storks in them, an amazing sight to see.

There was a glorious few days of warm weather, which really helped with my aches and pains.

While I enjoyed my birthday getaway, at the back of my mind was my Dad.

Back home and I had to help more with my father, driving him to shops or getting his shopping in and trying to keep the kitchen clean.

I had to help him get his driving licence back, I got him a blowy thing that he used and it helped him for a bit and he seemed to get his life back, getting out driving about without my help, he was on top of it until he gets a cold.

August I met a guy online, met up, decided to spend a weekend with him.

I got in touch with Dad's doctor to do a check up, the doctor said he didn't think Dad had long but should be ok for a few months.

I went off to Milton Keynes, met my man, and the Saturday morning woke up, Saturday afternoon looked at the phone and had missed messages.

Messages from the doctor and the hospital, Dad was admitted.

I got back in my car and drove back home.

Next day I went to the hospital, he didn't look good, frail and kept talking about seeing a cat.

Start of September and it was Friday, a call from the hospital saying "you may want to get in", so I got in the car picked Neil up, got caught up in traffic.

When I got to the hospital my brother in law, Carl, met me half way down the corridor and I knew it. Dad had passed away.

That was a stressful time, Carl has been wonderful supporting Gill and me on the day of Dad's passing, and Neil has been wonderful too.

Funeral in October, that was stressful, but got through it.

Cleared the house, it's on the market, on its way to being sold.

December 23rd: Picked Dad up today, first time he not moaned or complained about other drivers or things on the radio, of course when I say picked Dad up, I mean his ashes.

I've been talking to him and made him a cuppa.

As I look forward, I have Dad's ashes to scatter, not been able to do it yet, but I will, probably in the new year.

November 2025

2025-12-01T15:28:00.000+00:00

1st: Here we go, 11th month, how did we get here so fast?

Finally up, shoulders both in agony this morning and arms are aching terrible, neck and upper back too, and my left knee.

8:55pm - Feeling cold and very achy this evening, time to head for bed and watch something until I nod off

2nd: Woken up at 3:40am with shooting pain up my back, and a painful hip, plus a bit of acid reflux.

7:50am - Just a bit longer in bed, feeling like crap this morning.

10:10am - It's one of those days, cut myself shaving, and dropped a saucer on the floor which broke 😔 Only been out of bed since 9:30 🙄

7:50pm - Had to rally to put my recycling out, fireworks going off this evening, some making me jump out of my skin. Feeling a chill, heating pad for a bit then bed.

3rd: Not sure why, but I can't keep warm, feeling cold despite heating pad and electric over blanket. Also feeling very achy, don't know what's wrong.

5pm - Was getting something out of the kitchen cupboard so I could do food and did my back in, it's killing me now 😩 may result to take away delivery - so much for being independent.

9:45pm - OWCH 😩 I had a slight mishap after going to the loo, went to get in to bed and fell out when getting back in, that hurt, seemed to have pulled half the bedding with me.

4th: Blast it, can hardly move without great pain. I must get up as I need my tablets, need to pop to the chemist, post a letter and get milk. I hate relying on others for simple things. Every move I try making, zaps my energy too.

5th: Woken up in agony, skin itchy, brain noisey - nasty fibromyalgia flare up 😩.

11:45am - That feeling when you want to go and be creative but your body says don't over do it and part of your mind says heating pad and electric blanket. I'm trying to do more and get more out of life but unable to do what I want when I want, makes me feel sick and fed up.

8:15pm - Just finished off a bottle of cbd oil, back still hurting too much, more heat I hope helps, so bed for me.

6th: Feeling a bit less achy than yesterday, more or less back to my normal level of aches and pains, hope I can get some things done today, as last few days not managed much at all.

I need to compose and send a letter to my Dad's relation in South Africa, not going to be easy to write, but needs must.

3pm - Ffs, can't even make my bed without starting my back off. Feel fed up.

7th: Pushing through the pain, just like every other day, left knee playing up big time today.

8th: Been sleeping most of the day today, one of those days, when aching all over, being in bed is the best place to be where an electric blanket turned on makes it the best place to be.

9th: It seems dark outside..... Im warm and snug under duvet, its Sunday, have to sort recycling out today AND must record a show but voice seems croaky so I can't really do that 😔

10th: Very achy this morning, and sick with it too. Shoulders, neck and back, along with left hip, feels like I want to scratch inside it again.

7:30pm - In agony this evening, so early to bed with my electric blanket.

11th: 5am - Woke up in agony, skin feels itchy, bones feel like I want to crack them open and scratch inside, thumping headache and feel sick. This is my life, don't know why my body deals me this on an almost regular basis to some degree... It sucks.

12th: Woke up after not much sleep in pain again, right arm is killing, also got the runs and headache too... Feeling lousy.... and cold.

I should be having my covid jab today.

9:15pm - feeling a little sick and arm hurts a bit, need my bed.

13th: Was sick in the night, feeling weak now, also achy and shivery, my arm is killing me after yesterday's Covid jab. Must think about getting up, but right now just want to stay in bed.

6pm - Feeling a bit under the weather, may need to head under my duvet early.

14th: Been awake since 5am, seem to be a bit stiff this morning, can't really move. There's something I have to do today, but can't remember what? Damn brain fog.

Sounds very wet out there this morning.

15th: Wasn't online much, sometimes it has to happen, remove yourself from technology for the sake of ones mind. Wasn't too good but had managed to sort myself out and go to a friends civil partnership celebration.

17th: Sort of been avoiding online since yesterday's walk, sometimes you have to. Been a bit achy since waking up but threw myself into nature and the fresh air.... It was needed so I had to do it. Now more achy but it was worth it. By the way photos I took yesterday can be viewed on my Facebook page.

18th: Feels like a cold one, been sick this morning, and very achy, too cold out of bed.... staying under duvet a little longer.

4:30pm - Earlier, went to get out of the car and my knee went weak, almost sending me falling to the ground, It's been doing that more recently, making getting up stairs interesting. I really need a ground floor flat or bungalow.

19th: 1:25am - Woke up in agony, knee weak still and body is itchy, back and hips also killing....

7:30am - Feeling like crap. Need to pee, not sure I can get out of bed, lets see shall we?

That was iffy, my knee is weak, my left hip hurts like hell, and the lower back too.

20th: Bit achy, but not too bad, sleep to ve disrupted, cricket starts in the early hours.

21st: Woke up at 1:15am for the cricket in Australia to watch it live, went to sleep after it for hour or so, had tablets and back to sleep for few more hours. Off out later then back home for more sleep ahead if cricket at 2am.

Come on England in the Ashes! They are doing good so far!

I'm a bit achy but because of not much sleep managed to keep moving.

22nd: Time to watch Saturday Kitchen..... was Live (recorded from earlier as went to bed after the Cricket), a tad in the achy side, but will be ok after some heat I gope!

23rd: I should get out of bed, back and hips in agony. Need to record a show, have my tablets AND go to get some milk.... plus sort out my recycling to put out 🫣

1pm - Well I've recorded my show and got some milk, I'm even more achy now than I was.... damn it. Still got my recycling to sort out, also my bedroom ahead if tomorrow, got Caredig coming to look at the damp problem by the window.

24th: Woke up at 5am in agony again, damn fibro flare up. Must get up, got Caredig coming later.

25th: I should get out of bed, sorting out to do today, also need to talk to solicitor and print things off from estate agents. Only problem is my right hip is playing up, and lower back too.

One of my teeth has gone very sensitive and is hurting. Feel like crap, pain killers taken, cbd oil taken too, won't be long until bed I feel that bad. Have emailed the dentist.

26th: Another achy start along with toothache - feel like crap. Must get up and do a few things. Also got a dodgy stomach.

27th: 2:45am - Woken up in agony, thumping headache, neck and back killing, skin feeling itchy all over, feel itchy through to the core of every bone. Damn #fibromyalgia.

7:50 - Still not right, fibro flare up, subsided a little. My gum is still sore after yesterday's tooth extraction. I must get out of bed, need my medication and got a hectic day ahead..... Could do with more time in bed.

28th: Didn't do much today, bit of a non starter kind of day.

29th: Owch, my left knee is killing, feel like crap, back too. Going to be one of those days, and I've got Nero today for a few hours... I must try to get out of bed.

30th: Started the day aching, didn't really improve. By the evening it had turned wet and I had to put recycling out.

So that's November done with, what will December bring? fingers crossed Dad's house sells!

Racism on social media

2025-11-02T14:35:11.034+00:00

There are some racist people about, what the hell is wrong with people?

I replied to a comment, and my reply was removed - unbelievable!

I reply in a positive way on someone's negative post to try to turn their comment around, and 'vanish' goes my response!

In our multicultural world, our multicultural community, we all need to respect one another and get along. Seems not everyone can see the good.

Yes there may have been issues with a few, but it don't make them all the same.

Some people CAN'T handle facts, one person was saying Halal goods fund terrorism, I found something that casts doubt on that and my comment was removed.... MULTIPLE times, so here it is....

From The Guardian: In an opinion article titled 'Terror in the Tucker Box', Nationals MP George Christensen questions whether shoppers who buy goods with the halal logo are funding a push for Sharia law – or even backing terrorists. Christensen says "there's no way to know where the funds from halal-certified goods end up".

I HATE racism - it MUST be stamped out, along with those spouting racist views - it IS NOT needed anywhere on social media. It just fuels hatred.

October 2025

2025-10-30T12:37:00.001+00:00

1st: 1:45am - My stomach feels like its on a spin cycle, my head is running a marathon and I can't seem to sleep 😩

Later - managed to get to Dad's house, its getting harder to go there, need to go back to do last few bits, but a break is needed.

2nd: Feel like I've been running after my mind all night, exhausted, and woke up crying.

My back and neck killing me. I feel like shit this morning. 😭

Edit - I need to get out of bed for my meds, and just discovered my right hip hurts too 😩

Finally.out of bed at around 11am, achy and my mind elsewhere.

Been asked to decide on insurance cover for my father's house for the period going forward, how on earth can I even think about that in my mind state? I feel like going back to bed 😥 feel like 🤯

3rd: Day of Dad's funeral - Not too sure how I will get through today. Got a thumping headache and I feel sick again, neck and shoulders in agony and left hip too.
My sister worked wonders for after the funeral, and I want to tgank her and my brother in law, as well as the kids and everyone that came to the funeral and the after part too.

My internet went off ... thanks to storm Amy.

4th: Managed to sleep. Not feeling too good, bit worse than I was after waking up though for reasons I won't put up.

5th: Hello fibro, where have you been this past month?, hells bells, nice to feel you fibro pain volume at maximum, but can you turn down to about say 7 or 8 from the current full on 10?

6th: Well I'm up, could have done with mire time in bed, bit busy this week, bit achy too.

Flu jab booked for next week. Now to phone solicitor 🙈.

EDIT: The phone appointment was good, seems emotional pain and physical pain happens in the same section of the brain, interesting to know. They are happy I'm managing my gabapentin ok, seems I can up the morning and night dose if it if I miss the daytime one, which I seem to do so .

They will leave the appointment open for me.

7th: Achy today but things to do, chemist to go to and the house too. Had a bit of a breathing issue earlier - think I'm ok now, back killing me though.

8th: Feeling sick again this morning, very achy again too. Last day in the house today. After today that is it, unless I need to go down to let anyone in. A little more time in bed first before I get up and sorted.

Another boot load to take in, but more or less done, can't keep going back there, its doing my head in, and kessing with my emotions big time.

Edit: Just aggravated my back getting stuff in from the car 😭, I will never learn will I?

9th: My back is in agony following yesterday's problem, when I aggravated it - need to get out of bed, as I've got Nero today, but not sure how 😥

Edit: Well managed it, and I'm out of bed, moving in slow motion, and realised I have not been given enough 300mg gabapentin to last a month 😩

Edit: I couldn't get down the stairs of my block today, did try, and now I feel fibro twinges 😩

10th: In total agony, fibro flare up, pain all over, can even hear it in my head. Shoulders and back feel itchy and tender too. Not a good start to the day at all.

Edit: attempting to get out of bed, not going too well, need to pop to the shop somehow, need some fresh things which I like to choose for myself. It's one of the joys of had having a grocer as a father. In the past he owned a fruit & veg shop and also a general store.

11th: Been on a morning walk, discovered a path I never knew was there, but was hoping was. Met some horses in a few spots, made new horse friends, my mood feels elevated. Bit achy but it was worth the efford.

12th: Been achy this morning, not seen horses yet, hope to later though, need to pop to Dad's house and get back for parcel, and put my recycling out too. Hope my aches improve.

13th: Didn't sleep too good last night, feel more exhausted now than when I went to bed. At some point today need to have some time with animals (horses, dogs, cats or what ever) I feel animals boost me mentally.

A bit achy, neck killing and left hip playing up.

14th: Very achy, but flu jab to head out for, then back home and more snooze time.

Edit: Had flu jab, think she was a javelin player.... Sharp scratch.... Owch 😩

Edit: arm killing as I head to bed at 9:20pm.

15th: Very achy today, had a letter and info on memorials from Llanelli crematorium, just as I was starting to come to terms with Dad's passing. Was in bed by 9pm.

16th: Didn't sleep too good last night, tossing and turning all night, feel exhausted, hips playing up, and back too.

Got Nero today, may end up sleeping later.

Was in bed by 8:30pm.

17th: Bloods this morning at 8:10, left arm already aching in anticipation it seems. It's a fasting blood test so the earlier the better!

Neck is killing this morning along with top of back and shoulders too.

Edit: right arm really killing now 😩 managed to get some things done this morning, feeling drained now though.

18th: Damn Fibromyalgia 😩 Achy and sick, skin is very tingly, and brightness is giving me headache (phone brightness turned right down). Been on the sofa most of the day with heating pad on.

19th: Didn't sleep too good, right hip and lower back hurting, and neck too. Feeling a bit sick again too. Need to pop to Dad's house today and also a shop. Not going to be an easy day.

Edit: Well went to the house, rescued a few things.

Saw this picture on line:

20th: I should get up and sorted, things to do today. Feel achy to my core, think I slept a few hours. Well managed to get up, took a while though.

21st: Damn it, need to get up, but my right hip and lower back are hurting so much, I'm getting shooting pains 😩.

What gives? the period between Dad goung in to hospital and funeral it was like my physical pain went.... it sure is back with gusto.

Edit: It took a while this morning, about 3 hours, even then it's not been a good day, heating pad on.

Been a bad day, in bed most of it, feeling really low.

22nd: It's just after 12:30am - I can't turn my mind off again, feeling low again too 😩

Nothing for it, I may need to turn to grief counselling, but am wondering it may be too soon, I tried about a month after Mum's funeral, but that didn't help.

I also know I have Dad's ashes to pick up yet too. Not looking forward to doing that.

I feel sick now - damn it 😭.

7:40am: Feeling decidedly drained, thumping headache, also back killing me. Must get up, got things I must get done... not sure how.

23rd: A bit achy, didn't sleep much, but not too bad a day

24th: Achy this morning, nothing too bad, sun is out but it is a bit chilly, extra layer on, no need for heating on, maybe heating blanket later. If you don't have one, get an electric over blanket, some energy providers offer these free if you meet certain conditions, OVO does and I got one, so worth checking.

25th: Not done much today, lazy day under electric blanket, then in bed early. Bit achy.

26th: Very achy this morning, bed looks like a tornado blew through. I was tidying up my bed earlier and tripped and did my back a mischief.... in agony now, I'll never learn will I?

Need to get my recycling put out, which won't be easy.

27th: Knee popping, right hip hurts and back too... just another regular day for me then. My body is nothing but consistent.

Not feeling too good this evening, feeling sick, a bit shivery and very achy.

Pain been through the roof this evening, just been sick with it.

28th: 2:40am - I felt twinges earlier in the night, now pain is at full volume..... damn fibromyalgia flare up 😩.

8:45am - well after two gabapentin and two paracetamol still in pain, but what can you do when you just have to get up and try to get on with the day?

6:40pm - been fighting pain all day, glad to get home, was good to catch up with Simon and Annmarie. Sometimes you.just have to push through.

29th: Neck is killing, shoulders aching and tender to the touch, hips hurt as well, feeling sick too and as yet can't get out of bed. Just another day in my life.

If I did find a job, how would I get in to start it? that's the government plan. Talking to a friend yesterday, he's not better off, he's worse off, his work doesn't pay, far from it.

30th: Woke up feeling sick, and in agony, and it's only 2:30 😩 also feeling cold, yet electric blanket is on.

9am - Not feeling good this morning, staying in bed for as long as I can. Feel weak, cold and generally achy.

10:45am: Well I'm out of bed, on the sofa, heating pad and electric over blanket on - nice and cozy, watching tv. Don't think I will get anything done today, hope to make the bed, it's a mess, need to work up to it.

31st: General aches and pains today, nothing too bad, feel tured though

John England

2025-10-04T17:53:00.000+01:00

John England was father to Philip and Gill,
and grandfather to Luke, Cody and Crystal.

He was born in February 1943 in Uxbridge,

but sadly passed away in September 2025 in Llanelli.

In his life he was a delivery driver who delivered beverages to the Queen Mother, was a green grocer and also a wood machinist, and went door to door selling Kleeneze products too.

He will be missed by all those in his life.

My sister worked wonders for after the funeral, and I want to tgank her and my brother in law, as well as the kids and everyone that came to the funeral and the after part too.

You can make a donation to one of the following causes:

https://donate.cancerresearchuk.org/donate

https://hywelddahealthcharities.nhs.wales/campaigns/pph-gardens-appeal/ways-to-support-our-appeal/

You can hear the music that will be played at John's funeral at www.philengland.com/dadsongs

September

2025-09-30T12:02:00.000+01:00

New month, sane old problems, September... what will you bring?

1st: Health, bit achy, thumping headache. Issues going on (cant metion them) but....

Waiting on calls 😩

Not knowing whats happening 😩

Not knowing how to proceed 😩

Just need contact thats all, just a reply to an email, a quick text.

2nd: My back is killing me this morning but I have got things to do. Not too sure how I will manage but lets see shall we.

Been a long and stressful day, with wmotions pulled from one way to the other.

Put my head on the pillow tried to close my eyes, couldn't. Gonna be a long night. Cone on tablets make me drowsy... please

5th: Not been update to my blog last few days due to my Dad being in hospital, sadly he passed away this morning. I wasnt there when he passed, I wanted to be, I am sort of beating myself up for it, but it was out of my control. I think he went when he did so I didn't see it, he knew what I was like when Mum passed. I will miss my Dad. I feel hollow at the moment, not sure where my mind is, but I do have some good friends who are there for me such as Neil, Hannah, Juliet, Simon and others. Also my sister and my brother in law, wouldnt get through this without them, love you both.

Dad is with the family now, at peace and peobably having arguments with one or two of them!

The next few weeks will be stressful too, sorting things out.

My physical health seems to be not affectihg me too badly, just a few twinges and aches, its almost as if my physical issues are giving my mind space to concentrate and process.

12th: Sorry for lack of updates, with one thing an another. Right hip playing up.

Wednesday: Owch, after xray, being put into different positions to have various ones taken.... Owch.

Need to get milk, then get to doctors to pick up one item of prescription.

Edit: went to SA1 to pick it up, only to discover it had been sent to the chemist in Winch Wen 🙄

Yesterday: my doctor phoned at 9:30pm to see how I was doing. Wasn't expecting a call from her at that time of day!

Today: need to pop to chemist and to Llanelli Town Hall

13th: A bit achy, in rhe evening felt very low, not good at all. I myst try to be strong, not easy thing for me to do. Feel lije staying in bed.

14th: Stayed in bed until around noon, just didnt feel like getting up. Feel empty and down. Right hip plating up and neck too.

15th: Feeling strange, cant seem to sleep right, annoyed about it. Right hip also not helping and lower back kills, weather making me feel depressed too... I need some sun.

After the solicitor phoned today I headed for a snooze for half hour, over 5 hours later woke up again 🙄 there went the day

16th: I should get out if bed - I've got asthma clinic at 9:40am.... but am nice and warm in bed 🙄

Got to asthma clinic, nurse is happy, calls to make some other things to sort.

17th: Another night when I couldn't sleep 😩, feeling cold but must take car for it's service, so must go out, feeling very achy too

18th: Just a little longer in bed.... didnt sleep too good, but am comfortable, you watch will nod off now.... right hip a bit achy and lower back too

Not being able to sleep properly is pi$$ing me off, I can lay there for hours, and then nod off just when I think of just having half hour, then that turns into three to five. Feel so fed up. Since loosing my father on 5th september, had anyone got any tips to help? I've tried keeping all electronics in the living room and out of the bedroom, with window open and closed, with aur cleaner turned on and off, drinking warm milk before bed too.

19th: I think I slept, need more, got gas check this morning so must get up. Neck, shoulders top of back and right hip hurting, and my mind feels like its been wandering again.

20th: Been a day of sleep on and off, very achy with it, its also been a soggy day too.

21st: Right hip hurting along with shoulders, neck and back. Went to the house today with Neil, a few hours shreading and sorting bits.

Tomorrow got to go to the funeral directors in Burry Port, as the day has gone on feeling more and more down, I guess that's normal?

Next week also need to sort out seeing the solicitor... joy of joys.

22nd: 00.42- Every time I close my eyes I see what's still to be gone through at Dad's house and it's a daunting thought, also going to see the funeral directors, the solicitor and the funeral.... guess more sleepless nights are on the cards. I don't want to take anything to help me sleep as I guess I need to feel these things.

I just don't know..., all I do know is I have some good friends who are there for me, and my sister and her family in some respect too.

06:35 - Didn't sleep much, feel sick this morning, and my back hurts. Feel drained. Must get myself together, not going to be an easy day.

23rd: Not long up, a bit achy, but things to do at my fathers house.... It is draining me doing this but it has to be done.

Yesterday I mived things around in my flat to make room for a nest of tables.... which totally knackered me! I must stop pushing myself too much.

24th: Neck and shoulders killing and feeling sick too. Need to go back to the house again today, seeing solicitor and also Delta Wellbeing collecting lifeline thingy.

Still feeling a bit down after dropping the urn that Mum's ashes were in (it was empty, they were scattered years ago) , was going to have Dads ashes put in it.

EDIT: My fibro seema to be getting worse... is that normal?

25th: Hardly slept last night, got Nero today, having lazy one, Nero don't seem to mind one bit. Back to the house tomorrow. Must sleep later!

26th: Feeling decidedly off centre as the days go by, next week is Dad's funeral, trying to stay focused is becoming more and more difficult. Back, neck and left hip in agony today, but must push on. I need to go up to the house and do some more there so I will be able to close the door on that chapter next week.

28th: Didnt post a blog update yesterday, was having a down day.

Feeling a bit off today, and achy in parts, but must push on.

Been to Dad's house with Nero and Hannah, hadnto put recycling out, got mine to put out later.

Is it right to feel overwhelmed and swamped by peoples love and best wishes? thats how I feel. I have to get through the week ahead somehow, and be strong. I feel like shutting myself away, but I won't - need to get through it Thank you everyone for being there 💖💕

29th: Guess I better get out of bed, lots to do today. A bit achy, and I've been sick in the night.

30th: Off to Dad's house again this morning, last day going there tomorrow (I hope) ahead of the funeral. Few people popping by to pick things up.

Not feeling too good though, sick and achy, empty with it, not a nice feeling at all.

Trying to keep busy.... kind of not working that good 😥

August 2025

2025-08-31T07:27:00.001+01:00

1st: Another new month. I nodded off about 5pm yesterday, woke at 11:30pm, nodded back off at just after midnight, just woke again. Bit achy this morning, but need to get sorted as have to do tip run with friend at about 10:30am for 11am booking, need to get there for 10am I guess.

When you hit a pot hole and do yourself a mischief - back, neck and shoulder pain made worse, you think exercise will help it but no, so a rest will have to be tried instead.

Not feeling the best this evening so off for an early night. In sheer agony and feeling sick with it. Nighty night everyone 😔

2nd: Not feeling too good, upset stomach and very achy, that better improve. Things to do later, so must push through.

Only I can sneeze and put my back out 😩 had things to do outside this afternoon too.

Well I managed to move my tubs outside ahead of the wind that is due from tomorrow until early hours of Tuesday, though my back is now even more achy.

3rd: Not too good but better than yesterday, hope I improve.

5th: One of those days, very achy, feel sick but have to pop to Tircoed later, will see if I am up to it later.

EDIT 1:45PM: Left hip is really painful, gabapentin and paracetamol not doing much, CBD oil not doing much either. Feeling fed up.

6th: Feeling a bit lethargic and out of wack, a bit achy, somehow when doing a little shopping this morning done my back a woopsie when getting a bag of things in to the back of the car, and when walking around forgot what I had gone in there for 😞

Also feeling like I need a change in my life, not sure how or what.... 🤔

7th: Morning all, have a terrific Thursday. A bit achy this morning. Off to central clinic for diabetic blood test in a bit then sitting Nero after that.

UPDATE AFTER BLOODS: And home. Lots of cones about in Swansea, according to the woman in central clinic they are filming a Japanese mobster film, and I saw a dark blue left had drive van and also a cadalac type car too! along with a film crew van... Exciting.

Nero arrived, seems scared of the wind gusts.

8th: A bit achy this morning but must get up and sorted, things to do. Have a fab Friday one and all.

9th: Not long up - back, neck, shoulders and left hip killing this morning - despite feeding some plants outside - pain 7 out of 10

10th: Slept awkward, back killing 😩 must get up I guess, need to start a washing and off - pain about same as yesterday morning. Feeling fed up, obviously gabapentin increase not up to much, it's been making me feel sick in the nights since putting it up to 300mg at night.

11th: Headachy today and also achy back, neck and shoulders too.

12th: Well that thunder didn't make it to Swansea, they had it in West Wales. Headache again this morning, and my fibro is acting up, feel like crap big time, but things to get up to do.

Feeling itchy inside and out, and in great pain too. Stay cool & hydrated everyone, keep windows and curtains closed.

13th: Didn't sleep too good in the night due to the heat, now have a stinking headache, and feel very scratchy and my neck and shoulders are in agony.

Today I try again to increase my dosage of gabapentin to 200mg 200mg 300mg, my first attempt didn't work out so good so dropped back down to 200mg 200mg 200mg as when I increased the night time one to 300mg was sick, so fingers crossed.

15th: Slept in this morning, still tired, need milk from shop and few other bits so best get up. Had a missed all from a private number (hate those, won't answer them). In agony with neck and shoulders and top of back too, left hip also has hurting some what.

16th: A bit achy this morning, neck and shoulders mostly, but I must get my head round to recording today, got a few bits to get done so I must get my mind focused on getting down to it.

17th: A bit groggy and achy, nothing too bad, hope its an improving picture. Been sneezing a lot in the night, not sure why. A little blowy out there this morning. Have a super Sunday.

18th: Slept awkward, neck and back in agony, also right hip. Was sick in the night too. Monday - and things to do, so I guess I should think of getting up. Gonna be a slow start going by the pain.

Not feeling too good this evening. I had a bit of a woops moment earlier, was going up stairs, lost my footing and fell backwards down two stairs jarring my back 😩 still in agony.

19th: A bit achy, mostly my right hip and left shoulder, think the hip may have been following yesterday's mishap. I also feel very windy this morning too.

20th: I should get out of bed, another increase in my Gabapentin today...

Morning 300mg (new dose)

Middle of day 200mg

Night 300mg

...and I should be going out

21st: I need to think about getting out of bed, but in great pain 😩 left hip and lower back mostly, and that damn shooting pain is back again. Got Nero today.

22nd' Awake at strange hour, 4:24am, feeling better about myself, yesterday met a wonderful guy, lives a bit of a distance away, but like my health issues, distance won't stop me. I intend to make this work! Right, back to sleep.

Well I had a good sleep, going to bed happy is a real game changer, and waking up positive about an aspect of life.

Yes I still have my aches and pains, and fibro is still acting up, but having positivity in life takes the edge off.

Right up and at the world!

23rd: I over did it yesterday 😩 my body is telling me off today big time, I should never have attempted to move a few tubs in the garden. I did nod off on the sofa a few times yesterday evening.

24th: Felt lethargic this morning, really drained and achy.

2 loads of washing done in my free electric hour..... Just 2 more free hours to go, one tomorrow and final one next Sunday.

Going to wash the heavy throws tomorrow (another two loads!)

EDIT: Duvet cover changed and pillow cases, bread pudding made, sorted out some of the long grass around my tubs, can see where they are now!

Totally knackered is me, as the evening goes on my backs gets worse.

25th: Owch, both hips playing up as well as lower and mid back, probably over did it too much yesterday again 😩 pain at about 8 out of 10.

Was just outside putting the vacuum over the inside of my car when shooting pain decided to hit my right hip - in agony now 😩 Why is it, I try to do something productive and I get stopped in my tracks?

26th: Thumping headache this morning, right hip still in pain, but elsewhere not too bad. We had rain overnight with more on the way... YES!

27th: Can't believe I woke up for a pee earlier, went to get out of bed not thinking and fell on the floor, damn left knee was weak, wasn't expecting that! Right hip still hurting. Done some exercises laying down and rubbed some deep heat into both. Another hour or so in bed then must get up.

Getting excited for Friday as going to see someone I met last week... not saying anything right now.

28th: Right hip playing up again this morning, can't put weight on it without shooting pain.... and I need to get to the doctor's this morning.

Won't let pain win, if I do that I will end up doing nothing.

Had call when I got home which has upset me a bit, can't go in to it

29th: Didn't sleep too good, which isn't surprising, still going just not as early as planned, heading off at about 10:30 / 11. Only now waking up, a bit achy and hips hurting but got ibuprofen gel from the doctor to try to see if it helps.

30th: Got to Milton Keynes, satnav took me down B roads and through quaint villages. Neck, shoulders and back killing, but pleased I drove down. I really love this guy!

31st: Had to come home just a day after going, unforeseen issue (wasnt back til Monday), cant post it on social media (have shared it with some close friends). I didnt sleep too good, my mind is all over the place, and I was sick in the night too. Still I must get up and sorted, few things to do and sort out. Just need to get my mind on to it .

Shoulders, neck, back and hips all feel like crap.

Hospital involved, but thats as far as I will say.

Fibromyalgia Awareness

2025-08-20T09:08:00.001+01:00

#Fibromyalgia is not nice to live with, it ramps up pain and has so many other aspects including #brainfog #fatigue and the inability to regulate body #temperature, if you know someone who suffers with it, don't knock them until you do your research

Thank You

#fibro #disability #pain #chronicpain #restless #interruptedsleep #life

July 2025

2025-07-31T08:09:00.001+01:00

A new month, July, half way through the year, nothing really changes much

1st: Hot and humid day, feeling like crap.

Read all about humidity and fibro at http://www.itsmyblog.me.uk/2025/06/high-humidity-fibromyalgia.html

2nd: Fresher today thank goodness but feeling drained, more sleep needed.

3rd: Been awake since 3am, damn Fibro 😩 must push on with the day, Nero day today, must get my tablets done, and next week must order them before going away the following week dog & cat sitting.

4th: Neck and shoulders achy today and lower part off back. Looked out of the window of the bedroom and noticed my marigold plants had fallen over.

5th: Feeling tired today, hardly.no energy, but achy too, nothing too bad.

6th: Lower back and left hip sending shooting pains up my back again - damn it, really hurts and gets me when least expected.

Going to get hot and humid later in the week again.

7th: Damn this shooting pain. Thursday can't come soon enough, pain meds review with persistent pain service.

EDIT 9:30pm - Trying to get through the pain today, really flooring me, need to make it to Thursday.

8th: Another morning with agony, must get sorted and get out. Things to do... Gonna be a difficult one for sure.

9th: More shooting pain, but need to go out this morning, so have to put up with it. Going to get hot today, and as the week goes on hotter and humid with it.

Earlier was in Lidl in Llanelli at the Trostre end of Station Road, and a man helped me with my basket - shows that people do help others - thank you kind sir. Normally I hate being offered help unless I ask for it and normally hate asking for it!.

10th: Woke up at 4am sweaty and feeling groggy, couldn't get back off to sleep, back in agony, along with neck and shoulders and left hip.

Gonna be one of those days, and I've got persistent pain service appointment today.

Shooting pain is back again.

Getting ready for next week, am away for two weeks dog and cat sitting. My flat will be looked after.

11th: Didn't sleep too good, felt very stuffy last night. Not too bad pain wise this morning, after seeing the persistent pain service yesterday and had the meds review, discovering my gabapentin dose was not high enough, doubled my night time dose last night. What's happening is increasing from 300mg a day to 900mg a day in steps. Let's see where it goes.

12th: Pushed myself today, managed two walks, was rewarded by seeing two beautiful flowers on one walk, and dancing butterflies putting on a display on another.

13th: Well I'm up, and just watered my outside plants, went to take a pic of a bee on a beautiful flower but phone had died. Pain wise nothing too bad, not gone but lower level, seems an increase in night time dose of my gabapentin is helping a touch. Next increase in about a week, but initial signs positive.

14th: Fresher today, need to go pick my prescription up in a while. Bit more achy, forgot my gabapentin last night. Could have had an eye appointment tomorrow - but it's impossible, no way of getting there and back, taking car to garage, couldn't drive after it for about 9 hours, had to tell them no until August.

15th: A bit achy this morning, lower back and left hip, lots to do today, but will start with a shower to see if it will ease things... let's hope so.

*** few days without updates as I go away to dog sit ***

20th: Been taking an update break due to being away.

Had an ok-ish few days, but this morning terrific shooting pain up my back, hip killing, knee hurts too and lower back, neck and shoulders. At least here I'm all on one level with no stairs or I wouldn't get be able to outside, which only shows even once I do move to a ground floor flat or bungalow I will still get problems, but moving will be a benefit. Been doing lots of walks, pushing through pain.

Gabapentin dose for this week is 200mg, 100mg, 200mg. Last week was 100mg, 100mg, 200mg.

21st: Didn't feel too good last night, had the runs and had pain in my side - that's eased a little, going to be another one of those days today, thumping headache and lower back ache.

Got to wait in for thevplumber today.

22nd: Not too bad, despite not having my gabapentin last night as I nodded off early. Little achy, half way through a nice warm shower it turned cold.... Brrrrrrr

23rd: Didn't sleep too much, kept waking up, my head is all over the place due to issues I won't put here, a few close friends know why. I'm in the wrong place to do much about it anyway until around the 28th, so best.not worry too much over something I have no control over, I need to get on with what I am doing and not over think things.

Achy from head to toe, pain at about a 4 (remember the pain scale?), feeling a bit sick and also got a bit of a thumping headache. Fibro wise, it seems to have decided to make me feel itchy inside my left arm, just want to use something sharp inside it to scratch.

24th: Bit achy but the shower really helped.... magical thing, must get that new shower head. Off to Liphook and cat sitting today.

25th: Showered, dressed, tablets had, cats fed, washing on line with another in the machine, plants watered.... Now to summon up the energy to have my breakfast .... My back is in agony 😥 can I go back to sleep? was very comfortable last night, and had company of a cat! Going to be a nice day, up to 25c.... 25c on the 25th!

26th: Cloudy today but should brighten later. Aches and pains not too bad, hip playing up a little and my left knee, neck is ok but that won't last (never does!). I've been on BBC Radio Solent today talking cat sitting with Lucy (presenter on the station).

27th: Yesterday when I was driving back from Guildford to Liphook, a bird flew out of the undergrowth at the side of the A3 and I hit it, I didn't have time to react, had cars too close to my rear and could have caused an accident if I had stopped or tried to avoid it if I had seen it in time. Didn't sleep too good, woke up twice shortly of breath and in tears, kept thinking about that bird. Feel drained and been sick.

Feeling very achy, my neck feels very sore and my upper back and shoulders.

28th: How the morning started

5:15AM: heard a strange noise outside

5:20AM: Elton the cat jumped up on me for cuddles

5:30AM: decided it's time to stay awake as if I go back to sleep now will probably sleep for a few hours and want to get sorted out, and leave here by 9, so up and at it

Had a bit of an interrupted nights sleep due to acid reflux, but bicarb in water soon sorted that out. Back achy (about 5!out of 10) left hip hurts (about 6 out of 10)

31st: Sorry not post last two days, been sleeping a lot.

Just got out of bed, it's Nero day today so need to get sorted out asap! Thumping headache, back killing me, not feeling too bright.

Driving Rant

2025-07-30T04:23:00.001+01:00

WARNING RANT ALERT

(may contain some bad language, those offended by such words please move along)

OK, now the snowflakes have left

Was driving back from my pet sitting adventures when on the M4 a plonker in a Volvo decided to play leap frog going from one lane to the next and back again, this didn't really get home anywhere. The traffic was busy near the M5 turn off on the M4 and people were trying to get in the heavily congested lane to turn off. Any waY back to the Volvo, and I was some lorries up ahead and a clear outside lane behind me with a van just in front, I pulled in to it, then the stupid Volvo driver decided to pull in behind me. Knowing the outside lane was clear, I was about to overtake the lorries I decided to go just a little faster than the lorries holding the dweeb in the Volvo up, anyway I could tell he must have been getting fed up as he had gotten so close to my car I could no longer see his number platenor much of his bonnet. I continued at the speed I was going, I had no way to get out of his way until I had gone past the lorries so he just had to cool it.

Anyway after finally getting past the lorries I pulled back into the other lane after allowing a gap between me and the said lorries.

As soon as I got out of the Volvo drivers way he stuck his foot down and took off like a rocket.

Finally in this rant the roadworks section on the M4 around Porthcawl, where they are doing bridge repairs, that section clearly says 50, there is also a clear sign saying 'Warning, Police Speed Check Area', in the section parts are like a slalem course, a lot of traffic decided to over take me going way more than 50, some must have been doing 70, one or two more.

DRIVERS a 50 limit is there for a reason, to protect the workforce and yourself. Think of others and remember 50 is a limit, not a target and not to go over.

I just hope everyone that went past me going way faster than 50mph will get fines and penalties in the post really soon! you dull bunch of numpties.

If you don't like the language used, it your fault, you were warned, just like if a fine letter from the South Wales Police or DVLA Swansea lands on your doormat - you were warned they were checking speeds!

It's not just driving, its parking too, just look how this car with no blue badge parked in a disabled bay.....

The UK gets loads of idiot parkers, take a look and join Parking Like A Tw4t at https://www.facebook.com/share/192zjzKqtZ/

June 2025

2025-06-30T08:26:00.001+01:00

1st: A new month, same issues. Feeling very achy and full of wind today, pain about a 5.

Let me put this here as a reference to the levels of pain.

2nd: I should get out of bed, but hip killing and feeling strange again, neck also in agony.

I'm going to try to push through the pain, had a gabapentin and two paracetamol about half hour ago (keep some at side of bed). Pain at a distracting 5.

3rd: Slight pain, normal aches, a bit of an ok kind of day, pain at a 3. Got lots done today.

4th: 4:30am - Hell, fibro flare up, in great pain currently, hate being woken up by it. Pain is at a 8. I need the toilet but can hardly move. Gabapentin and paracetamol (lucky I keep then by the side of the bed) as soon as I can move a little and can reach the socket on the wall will turn the electric blanket on as heat helps.

It's always the same after a day of relative normality, and a day of getting things done, wallop, my body hits back, why don't I ever see this on the horizon?

5th: When your back is in agony and you are looking after a dog, you are struggling to move, and the dog looks at you, you know you must move, so you push yourself, the dog can see you are trying and seems to be encouraging you, standing close by you as you push yourself to tackle the stairs to the point you are in tears, the dog seems to be standing close, supporting you through pain and severe discomfort, every step hurting like hell.

Let Nero out for his pee, then had to get back up the stairs, being dragged by the dog, each stair excruciating, at the top the dog licks your hand as if to say thank you, once back in the flat acts like a support standing by and following you.

He's been a supportive dog helping and encouraging me, maybe I could use a support dog?

Now back in bed, electric blanket on, still in tears with a sleeping dog, there's a sleeping Neil in the other room, no use at all, Nero did try to raise him, but with no degree of success.

This is another reason why I need a ground floor or adapted accommodation... 🤔

#supportdog #fibromyalgia #persistantpain

6th: Neck is in great pain, every time I move it, it hurts, nothing is helping it. Back and left hip and knee also hurting. Pain at a 6. Still I have to push on.

7th: Not too good this morning, in agony on my left side as well as my back and neck, yesterday didn't help in Tesco. Bed day probably. Pain at about a 7 touching on 8.

8th: Lower back and left hip in pain this morning - at about a 6. Didn't sleep too good last night.

9th: Achy Monday morning, can hardly move... Heat from electric blanket not easing it either - pain at about a 5.

Got a pain in my left side and at the bottom of my stomach.... Not feeling good at all.

Have things to do today ahead of tomorrow.

10th & 11th: Wasn't too good on Tuesday but had things to do, Wednesday felt ok so when out in the fresh air and warmth, which helped.

12th: guess I should get up. Need to pop to the shop later too. But right now need pain killers. Back and left hip in agony - pain at about a 7.

13th: Left hip hurts and lower back, found some freeze spray so gave that a try, not using those pain killing patches any more as we're making me itch. Going to keep up with the gabapentin and CBD oil too. Must chase my persistent pain service appointment up.

Oh.... just realised it's Friday 13th.... ahhhhhh crap 😩

14th: Feeling like I'm stuck under a gloomy cloud, can't pinpoint the reason. Achy but nothing too bad today, pain at about a 3.

I had a zoom job interview today, went well, should know next week if I am successful, if I am a move is on the cards, if not, I will throw myself in to being a pet & house sitter and give up radio.

15th: Every now and again I get an email that makes me question my situation, normally in relation to government plans. Today was one such day.

I currently suffer with multiple problems, and need all the support I get to try to work through them. I'm trying to help myself, at the same time as trying to attempt to find a way off being reliant on benefits, it's not easy. At the same time as doing this, I'm juggling another issue. The government needs to rethink the proposed benefit cuts. Support those in need such as myself. I want to be independent. I am also trying to share with the world my struggles with Ankylosyn Spondylitis and Fibromyalgia, to raise awareness and hopefully help others along the way.

16th: 1:30am - Damn it, the runs again, and only just got out of bed to the toilet.... Fibro ramped up, pain around and 8.

7:10am - Didn't sleep too good after waking up in the early hours. Going to be one of those days. Need to pick up my prescription somehow. Very achy, and feeling sick with it. Pain still around an 8, maybe starting to dip to a 7.

Managed to get to chemist, left knee was playing up and went very weak going down the steps outside, almost ended up on the floor. Home now, gabapentin had.

Drat, what I did yesterday evening I did again with same outcome. Was pottering about in the garden, when I did my back in again.... will I ever learn? My back is in agony.

17th: My lower back and left hip kills again, must have aggravated more than I thought #fedup. Got things to get done today, which will be a struggle.

18th: Been up half the night with back pain 🙈 it's not been a good night. But need to get up. Must plod on. I can't let pain win.

19th: Gonna be a hot one, can't find my other pair of black out curtains. My back and hip are in agony. Every time I move a shooting pain with every step and movement, very unpleasant.

In the evening: Got a pain in my chest, hurts a bit to breathe, my back is very achy and a little itchy, my lower back and left hip are killing

In short, I feel like crap, think a cool shower and bed (if I can get in the shower, and if I can get off the sofa!)

Feels like a fibro daytime attack, often get fibro in early hours, hardly ever in the evening.

20th: Thumping headache, all bunged up, aching and itchy from head to toe, along with my lower back and hip .... can we please have a big thunderstorm to get the humidity down?

Did have things to do today but don't think they will occur as not up to driving.

Been awake since 1am when it seemed like someone turned the humidity control up to full blast 😓

Drat it, trying to do things when your back and hip working together sending shooting pains up your back..... I'm sick of this, even CBD oil don't work on it.

21st: Didn't sleep too good, sweating all night, felt like scratching where the pain killing patch was, that didn't help the excruciating shooting pain when I had to go to the toilet or get another glass of water. Should cool down a bit by tomorrow... thank goodness The humidity don't help me at all - https://www.itsmyblog.me.uk/2025/06/high-humidity-fibromyalgia.html

At one point I did nod off, woke up with a slight mess.

22nd: Slept better last night, just wish this shooting pain would go when I stand up, sit down or move around, and as for the stairs..... excruciating.

23rd: Good night sleep, but when I start moving shooting pain starts. New week same old issues. Aiming to sort out massage for trapped nerve today, can't go on like this. Other aches and pains of my life still there, but while waiting for doc to sort out going private.

24th: Woken by the rain, lovely sound, made.me want a wee wee. Lower back in agony though today, took me half hour to get moving, not too bad I suppose, but dare not pay back down again. Must get out early, things to do, and something to get back for!. Pain at about a 6.

25th: Didn't do a blog post today

26th: I need to get out of bed, but don't feel like budging, got niggly aches and pains, nothing too bad - on the pain scale a 5 I guess. Had Nero today, he always knows how I feel.

27th:Very achy this morning, full of wind too, seagulls are awake... and are making a racket! thumping headache too.

Going to be getting more humid as weekend goes on, see the blog post I did on HUMIDITY & FIBROMYALGIA.

Gonna try to go back to sleep for a little bit longer.

28th: I slept awkward, right arm feels a bit numb and my right hip hurts too, hope that clears up. Back hurts as normal, as does my neck, but am used to that. Thumping headache too. Wonder if I can get out of the block today? Hope I get a ground floor accommodation soon.

29th: Humidity getting to me, feel like crap,non agony.

30th: Damn it, humidity is playing havoc.

Trouble breathing, head feels awful, when I move it feels painful... when is it getting fresher?

High Humidity & Fibromyalgia

2025-06-21T06:06:00.000+01:00

High humidity can exacerbate fibromyalgia symptoms for some individuals. Increased humidity can make it harder for the body to regulate temperature, potentially leading to overheating and increased pain, fatigue, and discomfort. Additionally, some people with fibromyalgia experience worsened symptoms in response to fluctuating barometric pressure, which often accompanies changes in humidity.

Here's a more detailed explanation:

Temperature Regulation: High humidity can hinder the body's ability to cool itself through sweat evaporation, potentially causing overheating and discomfort.

Pain and Discomfort: Some individuals with fibromyalgia report increased pain, stiffness, and headaches during periods of high humidity.

Barometric Pressure: Changes in barometric pressure, often associated with weather fluctuations and high humidity, can also trigger or worsen fibromyalgia symptoms.

Individual Differences: It's important to note that not everyone with fibromyalgia experiences the same weather-related sensitivities. Some individuals may find high humidity to be more problematic than others.

Managing Humidity: If high humidity is a trigger, consider using air conditioning, dehumidifiers, or taking cool showers to help regulate body temperature and reduce discomfort.

In summary
, while not all individuals with fibromyalgia are affected by humidity, it can be a significant factor for some, potentially leading to increased pain, stiffness, and fatigue.

So if someone you know is complaining, give them understanding and compassion and try to help them keep cool.

Cinnamon Challenge - would you?

2025-06-18T07:15:00.000+01:00

Do I want to do one of these challenges?.... probably not - but would you?

Being diabetic..... While some studies suggest cinnamon may help with blood sugar control in people with diabetes, it's not a replacement for conventional diabetes management. Cinnamon may lower fasting blood sugar and potentially reduce HbA1c levels, but more research is needed to confirm these effects and establish safe and effective dosages. It's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before using cinnamon supplements, especially if you are taking diabetes medication, as it could interact with medications.

Whe sugar used in this challenge will cancel out what benefit the cinnamon has!

You can find the video on my Facebook, visible to all, at https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1GngM1Dr4C/

June 2025

BLOG EDITS & MOVE FORWARD

2025-05-29T20:43:00.004+01:00

I've had to edit some of my blogs, won't go in to the reason. Most posts remain, BUT HAVE BEEN EDITED. IF YOU HAVE A PROBLEM WITH A POST MESSAGE ME!

My life going forward will be very different. I'm going to concentrate on getting back in to employment, a move WILL have to happen as finding anything media related in the UK is near on impossible.

Staying where I am isn't going to cut it any more.

If the government are going to be stopping disability benefits, then I need to act before it happens.

Fibro still massive part of problems I face.

May 2025

2025-05-26T09:12:00.012+01:00

We are in May, the month of my 50th. The month started ok, not too achy or in too much pain, about a 4 on the scale of things.

2nd: Had runs in the middle of the night but didn't get out of bed quick enough again. Just as I thought things were looking better.... false sense of security on that one. Pain at about 5..

Over did it again today, the pain killers patches not working, as pain is at about a 7 right now, things to do but can't. Here's a reminder....

3rd: Woke up feeling sick, but not sick because of pain, pain level by the way at about 4, the sick feeling feels more like anxiety. Why is it setting in? well my mind is getting prepared for my birthday break. I need a few days to get myself in the right frame of mind. It's not easy and can't just be done.

I also had to change the sheet on my bed again, had another accident in bed and couldn't get out of bed fast enough. I'm fed up of this.

Over did it again today, pain in the evening was about a 6. Pain patch on and gabapentin had. Wish the persist pain service would hurry up with the meds review so I can try some of the other things they do to help me manage the pain and fibro.

4th: Woke up in early hours was fine, not much in the way of aches and pains, woke up just now and owch, feels like my back has seized up and my left hip and knee are killing (feel like cracking open my hip and scooping out what's in side, it's that kind of feeling, itchy with it)

All that within about 5 hours, so fed up.

I must look ahead to tomorrow, setting off from Swansea at about 9:30 / 10pm to head to Heathrow. Have allowed time for toilet and refreshment breaks, and will go at a steady speed of 50mph.

7th: After driving all day yesterday, last night pain was at a 7, this morning a 5. Had a good sleep, it was needed. May have overdone today somewhat, got in 20,000 steps, don't ask show or why, but pushing through pain barriers is NOT a good thing.... ever, no matter how many times you sit to admire the views. Feeling like an achy mess right now, every part of me hurts.

I did see an amazing water fountain view the video at https://vm.tiktok.com/ZNd692km7/

11th: After a great holiday, am home. Achy and sunburnt. Cuppa and bed after being on the go from 1am! On my holiday I discovered a great radio station, Nostaglgie - https://nostalgie-radio.de

12th: Achy and sore from sunburn, pain at a 5. Knee and left hip hurts but not too bad.

13th: Didn't sleep much, kept waking myself up thanks to sunburn pain on my neck. Pain at about a 5 maybe borderline 6. Took car to fill up with petrol and to get car washed.

Got home and tripped going upstairs. Feeling drained.

14th: Pain at about a 5 out of 10. Waiting for doctors to phone.

15th: Left hip and lower & mid back in pain this morning, about a 5 / 6. Bit drained as didn't sleep too well. Went to pick something up off the floor that I had dropped (another mug gone) and what pain in my left hip and back, about an 8.

16th: Just been sick, back in agony... pain at about a 6, let's try to get moving to see if it eases a little - time to push through (well to get to the pain killers first!).

Feeling wiped out totally, a bit stressed and fed up too. Need to chill, so a cold drink and lay down in my cool bedroom.

Staying off line for the rest of the day, text if you need me.

17th: Feeling drained, was woken up by someone's dog that was let outside at about 2am, it kept barking until about 5am, it also started another dog barking.

If your dog needs a pee in the night, get dressed and walk it, don't just let it out the back and wake the neighbourhood by barking for hours on end.

Also very achy and sick this morning, can't pinpoint where, and got a pain in the right side too. Pain at about a 6.

18th: Was sick in the early hours, had the runs too, not a good night's sleep. Back been in agony all day, pain about 7 to start the day, finally subsided to a 6.

19th: Waking up NOT feeling sick.... now that makes a change! am in pain though, about a 5 this morning. Need to get my prescription today as run out of some things yesterday, also need to pop to Dad's.

20th: Had to get up early, despite feeling sick with pain, slow start, pain at about a 6/7. Had to get to doctors for blood pressure.

I could really do with help some mornings.

21st: Still in bed, guess even I need a lay in... last few days been up early and pushing myself too much, not today - just a few extra hours.

EDIT: Woops, longer than expected, just under 3 hrs extra in bed, there goes the morning! Must get out of bed, bottom part of back in agony this morning. Pain at about a 7.

22nd: Been trying to get out of bed for 2 hours, need the toilet... If I don't get to it soon there will be a mess to clear up. In great pain and need to get the day going. Not a good day to feel like this at all. Pain at about an 8 at 4:30am, and same at 6:30am 😩

24th: Had a painful start, took ages to get out of bed, then had to get help to get downstairs. that took time. Hip and lower back played up most of the day. Pain ranged from about an 8 first thing to a 6 later in the day.

25th: Well I'm awake, had a crash moment last evening, was in bed just after 7. Must have needed the sleep! Tablet time! Pain today at about a 5 at this time.

Was just sorting my recycling out and aggravated my back, damn it, also seem to have a pain in my left side, I'm falling to bits. I'm really fed up, I try to keep active yet every time I seem to cause pain to myself, seems I can't win.

26th: Back is in agony again this morning, neck, left shoulder and hip too, think I slept awkward. Pain at a 7. How can I help my Dad out when I'm in so much pain? getting down the stairs is a huge issue for me, but then again so is getting out of bed. Between Fibromyalgia and Ankylosyn Spondylitis my life sucks.

11am: FINALLY out of bed, was a real struggle this morning.

27th: In agony again this morning, both hips in agony, lower parts of back too - fibromyalgia reared it's head again, damn it.

STILL waiting for Persistent Pain Clinic to schedule first appointment for meds review and progress on from there with other appointments.

I've reached out for the help and it's isn't forthcoming.

28th: Horrible itchy feet today, been a while since I had them. Back and left hip in agony too. Pain at about a 6 out of 10. Did my poo stick thing for bowel cancer screening, need to post that.

29th: I should get up, but don't want to, but need to. Nero day today and injections are coming. So achy and tired.

Having to go back and edit my blog posts.

I must say sorry to sister and family.

Need to take few pain killers and get some sleep, been feeling fibro twinges all afternoon.

30th: Damn it can hardly move, stuck in bed, arms very achy, neck stiff, back killing hips in agony. Fibro at full volume. I KNEW this was heading my way yesterday afternoon, but even gabapentin and CBD oil didn't do a thing to prevent it.

It's made my day a waste of time, hours of not being able to do a thing.

Been in pain all day, not liked today at all.

Arms are really achy and feel like they weigh a ton.

A certain someone said a few months ago it's all in my head, and it's not real, I say to them sod off!

31st: Feeling sick this morning, neck and back hurting, left hip feels like I want to crack it open and scoop it's insides out, what is causing that feeling? had it before and it's a horrible one.

My arms are peeling from sunburn, how to you scratch it when your arms are tender to the touch (one part of fibro)

You may have heard me mentioning I've applied for jobs and I want to work. How on earth am I going to be able to do that when I can't even get out of bed when I want to? How am I going to do the things in life I want to do? I do push myself, sometimes too much and then my body fights back.

Unless you live in my shoes you will never know the suffering. There are many around the world with fibromyalgia who do. Sending love to all my followers / readers. Would be nice to get some comments.

#fibro #fibromyalgia #chronicpain #pain #heathblogger #dailylife #dailystruggles #fibrowarrior

FRENCH ADVENTURE

2025-05-07T07:45:00.004+01:00

Well, fell asleep after arriving at accommodation. Didn't get anything to eat, no cuppa. Hey ho, must have been tired, was a long sleep from about 6:30pm to just now, very peaceful here. Need a shower before tackling the day and driving the Nissan.

Driving on the wrong side and using different arms to do that they normally do isn't easy. Love the motorways here, but they are toll roads, so need to pay to use them.

WEDS 7TH MAY Pains when I woke up about a 5. Last night after all the driving they were about a 9.

After a great holiday, and driving a car that I didn't like, its great to be home to my own pillow and bed. Also great to be home to a decent cup of tea!

Visited Luxembourg and also visited Strasbourg. On the way to Strasbourg discovered a great radio station, Nostaglgie - https://nostalgie-radio.de

Kind of missing France, the UK sucks 😞

FIBRO & BLOOD PRESSURE

2025-05-02T19:44:00.001+01:00

FIBRO & BLOOD PRESSURE

Every now and again my doctor asks me to keep a check on my blood pressure. I've woken up a number of nights in pain due to fibromyalgia ramping things up.

One night I decided, as my BP testing machine was by the side of my bed, decided to see what it was doing.

To be clear I didn't get out of bed, I gently sat up and reached for the BP machine and tested it.

22 APRIL 136 / 85

Does fibro raise the blood pressure, I will test again when it wakes me next.

23 APRIL 135 / 84

In agony again this morning after not looking stening to my body and pushing myself too far... again

24 APRIL 137 / 86

At rest following a day of being hectic, in agony and can't seem to push on with things

2 MAY 128 / 83

Decided to test again since struggling to get out of bed today

26 MAY 133 / 81

My 50th

2025-04-28T19:34:00.006+01:00

I'm 50 on 8th May, and what have I accomplished in life, not much, in fact things have slipped since my father got diagnosed with cancer.

When I say 'not much' I have done some exciting things in life. A months trial at Asian Sound Radio in Manchester, being at the change over from Radio Tircoed to SA Radio Live, getting my show on to Upload Radio on DAB in a few locations, launching my show on shortwave AND also being on Bro Radio. I've also been on the online spin off station Moorlands Gold, and currently exclusively on Islands FM.

Back to my Dad, I quit my live radio show because I wanted to be there for him. Once out of hospital, I've been popping to see him and help with a few things around the house and taking him out shopping and just out for a change of scenery.

I seem to be doing everything I possibly can do for him. My sister hasn't even been down to see him and that really gets to me, because it's all on me.

I feel guilty because I'm going away over my birthday for 6 days, knowing I'm leaving my Dad to struggle.

In my 50th year I want to travel more, and get back to doing live radio again, also hope to get out of my first floor flat into a ground floor one or a bungalow.

Getting in to ground floor is seriously needed for me. The council have sent me a form for my GP to fill in.

Back to the travel, I want to travel more, as said, maybe Eastern Europe, Lithuania is one such place I want to visit, as well as Poland again too. Also would love to go back to Germany, ich liebe Deutschland 😍

Want to buy me a belated birthday present? check out my Amazon wishlist at https://www.amazon.co.uk/hz/wishlist/ls/LE4VDI0CUHC?ref_=wl_share