Spend, Spend, Spend

 Today has been a very "spendy" day.

It was a beautiful bright, sunny but very cold morning so we drove "over the mountain" , as they say here, to the busy metropolis of Douglas.

P dropped me off first as he wanted to visit his favoured small, locally owned sports shop to buy some compression sleeves for his leg, which has suffered from several muscle injuries. I walked down to M&S to collect my recent online order - cushions and a warm, chunky sofa throw for the new house.  These were courtesy of last Christmas' gift vouchers from my lovely sister. Thanks Sis x

We met up in the Sea Terminal for coffee and a chocolate biscuit then set off to spend some money.

First we visited the Crossroads Care warehouse shop which sells some lovely second hand, donated furniture and homeware. We came away with a large ceramic table lamp complete with shade for £20 - a bargain.

Next stop was the Hospice warehouse shop which was actually a little too busy for me. We only had a quick browse there but still found a couple of things for the new house. A seagrass lidded basket and a curiosity which will make an ideal umbrella stand for the hall.  I noticed the stand as we were walking towards the till to pay for the basket and tried to find a price ticket on it. We asked the young lady how much it was and she told us that it wasn't actually part of their stock - it had been used to transport some of the tall upright Christmas decorations that had just been delivered and had been put to one side whilst they were unpacking.  She was happy to sell it to us though and said how about £4?  Yes please!

Our last stop was our locally owned electrical retailer where we ordered and paid for a new washing machine - the house vendors are taking theirs with them.  I had seen the one I wanted and it was on special offer. They are happy to keep it until we move in and will deliver it then.  They may not be as cheap as Currys, but they are locally owned, very friendly and have amazing after sales service.

We drove back - over the mountain - enjoying the beautiful scenery with all of the island spread out below us in the sunshine as we passed Snaefell . We could clearly see the mountains of Scotland and Cumbria on the horizon, so close we could even make out some of the buildings on the coast.

After all that spending I needed a cup of tea and a lie down. 

I am soooo looking forward to moving in and playing house.