Dalyan – 10th & 11th November

Kate had invited me to join the pub crawl bunch on a trip to Göcek on Monday 10th November. As I had work to do, a planner to finish and little Norman to take care of, I had to decline. Göcek is a lovely town with a harbour, it can be a little more on the expensive side so, even if I had a day off, it isn’t really a place to visit if you’re on a tight budget.
I’d walked Norman and had a bit of an incident when he found some discarded fish and started eating it. I had to get my fingers in his mouth. He was crafty and hid it in his cheeks then, when I removed my hands, he snaffled it down. Norman proceeded to trot down the street as proud as punch that he’d got away with some fish that he’d found in the street!
When we got home Norman had to give himself a wash to get rid of the manky fish he’d had.
I did quite a lot of work for a Monday and didn’t have any time free to work on my planner, as I’d hoped. After another walk with Norman I made myself a Slimming World style pizza, forgetting I ate one yesterday.

Gratitude List
1. Saving money by not going on a jolly to Göcek
2. Norman, despite the fish eating incident
3. Slimming World style pizza.

I was up and out with Norman before 6.30am on Tuesday 11th November as I didn’t want him to disturb my neighbour again. Yesterday he had been barking at 7am when a cat got in the stairwell and was sick on the stairs. He managed to pick up a bit of oyster shel
Norman slept for most of the rest of the day but then we had an invite out in the evening. My parents had invited me over for a meal at their’s and this time Ma was cooking! I was really looking forward to it as Mom does a lovely Spag Bol and it was nice to be invited out, despite it being Fat Club tomorrow. Norman loves going over to my parents too and he was up the stairs in a flash. Rain had been forecast but it didn’t come while I was out and about.
It was nice to get together as Ma & Pa were off to Jiva Beach for Kate’s 5-day birthday break from Thursday. We had wine and lots of food which was really good. I took Norman’s treats with us so that my parents could give him some – he absolutely loved it.

Gratitude List
1. Early walks
2. Norman
3. Dinner at my parents.

Dalyan – 8th & 9th November

There was a craft fair in Dalyan on Saturday 8th November and I’d arranged to accompany Nanny Kay to it. I got up early to walk Norman and had a slight hangover but it soon went after my tea and toast. I spoke to Captain Caveman before he got up and he was looking forward to seeing me in exactly 2 weeks’ time. He did want me to check the beach bus timetable as he was planning a couple of Sunday walks and wanted to see if the beach was a viable route.
I’d misunderstood the timings of today and Nanny Kay didn’t arrive until lunch time so I could’ve gone back to bed after the dog walk. We had a browse round the stalls and Nanny Kay got a couple of nice Christmas ornaments. It probably won’t surprise you that I just bought food items. Here’s what I got with the prices in lira;

Stall 1
Sourdough 200 lira (£3.64)

Stall 2
1 potato pasty
1 spinach pasty
100 lira (£1.82)

Stall 3
2 mince pies 120 lira (£2.18)

Jiks pub
2 Fantas 200 lira (£3.64)

I had a lovely few hours out, in the sun for just 620 lira (£11.26). We’d had to have a sit down and a beverage at Jiks as it was just so hot.
Norman was asleep when I got home but when he woke up he was pleased to see me and we went out for a walk. It was 3.15pm when I had sourdough, olives and cheese for lunch. Norman reminded me that we still hadn’t been to buy any treats and that we should go today. I reassured him he could have some tomorrow and that he’d be ok as he’s put quite a lot of weight on recently.
I did a few more updates for my forthcoming planner and then had more sourdough as it was just so nice. Tomorrow, I was meant to be taking the day off but I really needed to be getting my book finished and delivered to Captain Caveman so that he could bring a proof copy out for me to check. I wanted to get it published and on sale before Christmas.
On the evening dog walk, we called in to see my parents and I gave them some pasties from the fair but didn’t go in as Dad was getting in the shower and they were off out later.

Gratitude List
1. Sourdough
2. Norman
3. Spending time with Nanny Kay.

I wasn’t planning on seeing anyone on Sunday 9th November as I’d decided to get on with the internal pages of my planner. My parents and their friends had gone on a Yellow boat day trip so I hadn’t arranged to meet them.
I took Norman on a dog walk in the morning, in the middle of the day and again in the evening. He only went a couple of blocks but at least it was not raining. He slept a lot and I got on with stuff, slower than I wanted to be doing!
When I finished for the evening, I fed Norman and he hinted that he wanted some treats so I decided to go to the shop.
As I went in Migros, Julie came running up behind me to say my parents were in Ozzy’s and I should come and say hello after their boat trip.
I quickly grabbed some dog treats and some human ones too for a total of 174.10 lira (£3.18) and then wandered over to join my parents, Julie & Gareth, Adam & Kath. I ended up having a couple of red wines and a chicken pizza in Ozzy’s and my parents shared a pizza too.
My dinner with drinks came to just 705 lira (£12.82) and was an unplanned and tasty surprise. Ozzy was giving residents a 10% discount during the winter which was a lovely gesture and his pizzas are excellent.

Gratitude List
1. Getting a little further with my planner
2. Norman
3. An impromptu meal and drinks with my parents & friends.

Dalyan – 7th November

I was awake at 5am on Friday 7th November and, by 6am, I was walking Norman before the forecast rain came. He wouldn’t go down the steps again but on the way back he tried to get up them and struggled so I had to push him on his bum to help. He was still faster than me at getting up the stairs and I had to put the torch on my phone as it was still dark and the automatic light didn’t stay on long enough to make it. After his breakfast, Norman had a nap on the sofa but he woke up at 10am and I decided to take him for another walk. This time we got quite wet in the rain and saw a dead snake. Norman was surprised to see Lukka bar was closed for the winter as he had a look to see if he could see any of his friends.
I got back and dried off quickly before a call with a friend in the UK, which was lovely. I decided to get weighed after having a shower and found that I was just under 70kg, for the first time in a while.
As I sat at my desk (kitchen table) on my new office chair, I saw the updates on a Dalyan Pub Crawl group that I’m on. Matt & Vanessa had organised a pub crawl from 3pm and I had said if they were still out after work tonight I might join them. They were starting in Ozzy’s with the intention of checking out several bars, perhaps in persuit of the cheapest beers and best pool tables.
My last appointment was another Zoom training session about expeditions to the Galapagos islands which looked so good. Once I’d finished that, I had a chat with Norman, who had presumed I was off out without him and was on a bit of a downer. He’d now started referring to my parents as Granny Annie and Grandpa Stupid, as he thought it was funny and we did a video to send to Little Daddy and Stepdaddy Drew.
I had to once again carry Norman down all of the stairs and he was so slow walking, as if he didn’t want to go out. The Pub Crawlers had only got as far as Ozzy’s then Jiks in 4 hours so I stopped there to have a drink with them. Plus, Norman was reluctant to go any further so it was a good pitstop on our evening walk. We were just going to have one drink and then go back – I’m sure you can guess how that turned out!?

I perched on the end seat next to Kate and opposite Vanessa – little Norman had a sniff about for any dropped food! My Dad ordered me a red wine and it was evident I needed to catch up massively. Everyone was ready to move to the next pub (well, it was a pub crawl) during my first drink. I knew Norman had struggled to make it this far so I said my goodbyes and was about to call it a night when Kate told the others that she was going to stay with me at Jiks for one more drink and then she would see everyone at Corner bar.
I ordered another red wine and told Norman to get comfy as Kate and I discussed her 7 cats, including the 2 new blind kittens.
When I went to pay for my 2 wines, it turned out my parents had paid for my first one and I’d not even had chance to speak to them for long. I paid my 150 lira (£2.73) and we left. Kate was going to join the others in Corner Bar, which had become the new place for some of the Dalyan Dwellers to frequent. As we got to the end of the road, where I would turn right to return home with Norman and Kate could go straight on, Norman got a second wind and continued on with Kate – we were off to Corner bar!
When we arrived there, everyone was eating takeaway chicken wraps with chips from nearby Bliss so I had a few of Vanessa’s chips and they were good. Kate and I jumped on the band wagon and ordered a chicken wrap with chips to share. The food was really good and only cost me 180 lira (£3.27) for my share.
Vanessa and Matt left quite soon after I arrived, about 10pm. Kate left not long after that. I’d just got my second glass of wine and had started talking to Dad when everyone but Mark decided to leave. I had 2 red wines at a total of 280 lira (£5.09) but that was my limit for a Friday night as it meant I’d had 4 in total and I was on a budget still. Norman was sleeping on the couch and Mark went over to chat to a fella and his son, so I had a photo with the waiter and then left. Norman and I were home by 11pm – Norman had thoroughly enjoyed his pub crawl, even though he only managed 2 of the 3 bars!

Gratitude List
1. Training on expedition cruises
2. Norman – he loved joining the pub crawl
3. A rare night out with friends and parents for 610 lira (£11.09)

Dalyan – 6th November

I was a bit emotional and stressed on Thursday 6th November – mainly caused by menopause symptoms and tiredness. I’d not slept too well, Norman wouldn’t go down the stairs for his morning walk and I struggled to carry him. I was no longer relying on a crutch but I still struggled on the stairs, myself. At the bottom of the stairs Norman slipped a little getting down the final ones but he was fine. We were back from our walk before 7.30am and Norman was keen to eat his breakfast then get back to bed.
I got on with work including finding some flights for a friend who was taking a long haul business class trip to visit family next year.
My friend Debbie, from Fat Club, and her husband Alan, came round with a new office chair for me. Being a little less mobile had meant I’d not been able to collect it so they had very kindly wheeled it round and Alan had carried it up the stairs. It was amazing and super comfy – just what I needed when I had been sat on a wooden folding chair for the last year!
Since hurting my foot I’d had to resort to having my office in the kitchen so I now had a big red super comfy office chair at the kitchen table and I loved it! Even Norman approved and got out of bed to give it a good sniff and get some attention off Alan. They didn’t even stay for a cup of tea and I was so touched by their kindness.
Later on, I was having trouble with my planner and the layout of my internal pages, despite listening to the training a few times over. Luckily, our Resort Experts team meeting got cancelled which gave me more time. I had a chat with Dagne (Majorca Resort Expert) and Helen (Italy Resort Expert) who were so supportive and encouraging about my planner and we discussed ideas. They were colleagues who had become good friends despite us never meeting in person, only on Teams and Zoom.
At 3pm I decided to take Norman out because he’d not indicated he needed to pee and it had been a while! He stood at the top of the steps and refused to budge. Jamie tells me he just plays up for me, and walks down stairs with him fine!
I still carried him down and perched him at the entrance, where the 2 big steps still caused him to be hesitant and stressed. I had to carry him again just because time was ticking on now and I’d not eaten anything but toast with my tea for breakfast.
Norman got his dinner and another walk before dark and after I had spent far too long doing what can only be described as faffing about with bloody margins! It was an absolute ball ache which nearly tipped me over the edge!
I warmed up left over Thai chicken curry for dinner at gone 9pm, by which time Norman had decided it was bedtime and took himself off to his bed. I decided a glass of wine would be a good idea and drank it, still sat in my new office chair.

Gratitude List
1. An amazing office chair from lovely friends
2. Norman
3. Having Dagne and Helen to keep me sane and on track to get my planner published.

Dalyan – 5th November

It wasn’t surprising that I had put weight on, on Wednesday 5th November, when I got on the home scales! A whole 0.3kg (0.7lb), my bust had stayed the same, I’d lost 1cm from my waist and put 1cm on my hips!
I popped the slow cooker on with a Thai chicken curry in and cancelled my evening plans so that I could help Jamie out. He and Drew were leaving for a holiday tomorrow and I was looking after Norman however, because they wanted to leave early in the morning, I’d been asked to take Norman this evening and, of course, I’d said yes.
First, I went to Fat Club to find I had stayed the same weight as last week on Carol’s scales, so I was pleased about that. I had a water for 50 lira (91p) and we all had a chat and a laugh. On my way home, I called at the shop and here’s what I bought, prices in lira (still no tinned tomatoes);

Migros Supermarket

Milk 27.50
Tomato pasta sauce 33.95
Bitter chocolate 57.50
BBQ sauce 125.21
Frozen berries 229.95
Total spent 474.11 lira (£8.62)

Jamie and Drew popped round with Norman and brought all of his stuff except for his treat tin, so Norman was not amused! We had a glass of wine to toast the start of their holidays and I promised Norman I would get him treats from the shop.
Later, Vanessa popped over for a cup of tea and a chat, we took little Norman out but he was not happy to go out or with the stairs. I had to practically drag him out!
I shared some curry and steamed rice with Vanessa and portioned some up for her to take back for Matt. By 10pm, Norman had been out again, reluctantly, and was in his bed.
I set my alarm for before it got light as I didn’t want Norman to pee in the house.

Gratitude List
1. Not putting weight on, with Carol’s scales
2. Norman
3. Swapping a night out to see a band, for a curry night with Vanessa and Norman.

Dalyan – 29th & 30th October

It was weigh day again on Wednesday 29th October and I was not optimistic, given last night’s over indulgences. It was also the end of my dog sitting for Norman as Jamie would arrive back after 10pm tonight.
It was a busy day, starting with me having to wake little Norman up at 7.35am.
I took my measurements; I had lost 1cm from my bust and waist and 2cm from my hips – that was surprising, but we would see what Carol’s scales said later.
I worked and got ready for the dog and house handover, at lunch time I went to the shops on the way to Fat Club. Here’s what I bought with prices in lira:

Migros Supermarket
1 toastie loaf 70.00
1 pack Rivita crackers 79.00
375g Chestnuts 104.98
3 Quark 137.85
Total spent 391.83 lira (£7.19)

At Fat Club I was pleased to find I had not put weight on, in fact I was 0.15kg (0.3lb) lighter! I picked up a Slimming World book for more inspiration for this week and was determined to do better. I joined an entrepreneur Facebook group, The Impact Project, run by Strategist Lisa Johnson which was free and looked interesting.
For lunch I had rivitas with cheese, olives and grapes (as a treat), and I had interest in my cheese.
In the evening I just had 7 chestnuts for dinner as I wasn’t hungry and I had been too busy.

Gratitude List
1. Losing weight
2. Norman
3. Chestnuts.

On Thursday 30th October I had a chat booked in with a publisher about doing my next book cover for me. I’d been so busy and stressed with Canva that I really needed some expertise for ‘The Handy Travel Planner’. It would also mean that I could get it completed to be able to have it out by Christmas, hopefully. I’d done a few designs myself but they lacked oomph so I spoke to Nicole who works for Claire Clarke, a publisher of planners, workbooks and journals. We got on well and I was pleased she got me and wasn’t offended when I ranted on just how much I hated Pinterest and found it an utter waste of time.
In the afternoon, I had a Resort Experts team meeting to attend where we had a training session with Major Travel. They had some really great deals on for Dubai as well as covering the US and the Maldives.
After 6pm I ventured out of the house to draw out some cash for the weekend and to get more shopping in, here’s what I bought with prices in lira:

Migros Supermarket

Rice crackers 24.00
1 Dido chocolate bar 24.95
Pasta sauce (tomato) 33.95
Bin liners 44.95
Sliced wholemeal bread 59.90
Wholemeal wraps 93.50
Total spent 281.25 lira (£5.16)

It was a sign that November was approaching as there were no tinned tomatoes on the shelves, and not for the first time. I tried another shop but to no avail;

Şok Supermarket
500g pasta 14.00
Jellies 19.50
Chicken pieces 55.00
Total spent 88.50 lira (£1.62)

I arranged a night out for tomorrow with Jamie, Nanny Kay, my parents and their friends. It was bound to get messy as we were meeting at 6.30pm. I had less than £100 this month and I didn’t really have the money to be going out, however, I felt I needed a ‘Friday after work’ drink to round off a hard going month. Captain Caveman said he would give me some money and I said I would put it to one side for when he came next month.
I made a quick chicken pasta for dinner and then had an early night.

Gratitude List
1. Working with Claire and Nicole at IamClaireClarke on my next book
2. Being able to afford shopping
3. Captain Caveman offering to give me money so that I could go out at the weekend.

Dalyan – 27th & 28th October

Monday 27th October was a busy admin day and I didn’t really stop for a minute. I spoke to Captain Caveman at lunch time who was also busy but he helped me out with something related to a hotel booking.
Norman was well behaved but sleepy and didn’t want to walk far on his walk.
I had more leftover bolognese for dinner and then arranged a night out for tomorrow. Lukka bar had been asked if they would have one last Music Bingo night and they had agreed if there were enough takers.
My parents hadn’t been to it this year and their friends had never been, so I booked us all in for tomorrow. I was looking forward to it, even though it was on a school night.

Gratitude List
1. Being busier at Resort Experts
2. Norman
3. A video call with Captain Caveman.

I was awake early on Tuesday 28th October and had a busy day. The sky was cloudy and the rain was forecast. For lunch I made a Slimming World style vegetarian pizza. A friend who had booked a holiday with me was on their family holiday and she sent me a message and a photo to say they were really enjoying it, which was great to hear.

When I finished work, I went to join my parents and their friends, Julie & Gareth, in Retro bar for a quick drink before our night out. It was good to see Nusret, the owner, who had been working hard this year on making the bar even better than it was before. I had a red wine which I paid 150 lira (£2.75) for, including a tip. We had to be at Lukka bar by 7.30pm for our meal and had decided to push the boat out on their final Music Bingo night, which I absolutely love.
All 5 of us ordered food and drinks and the night was really good fun. I really enjoyed my beef dish, which I had the last time I came. There was singing, chair dancing and Julie even won a bottle of wine on the music bingo. As midnight approached, it did get a bit chilly sat outside with just a denim jacket on. When we came to pay the bill it was probably the most I’d spent on just me on a night out, in quite a while, but it had been such a good laugh. Here’s what I had, with the prices in lira:

Beef Çökertme 950
Baklava with ice-cream 375
5 red wines 1250
200 tip
Total spent 2775 lira (£50.92)

Gratitude List
1. Update from a friend in Fuerteventura
2. Norman
3. A night out at Lukka music bingo.

Photo/video credit – Apo & Julie

Dalyan – 25th & 26th October

It was still a bit wet out on the morning of Saturday 25th October so I had decided not to bother with the market. As the ground was wet with puddles and I was still wearing sandals, I thought I’d rather not get wet feet.
By the time it got to lunch time the sun was back out so I changed my mind and ventured out. I took a proper bag to the market and I’d already got cash so there was no faffing about today. Here’s what I bought with prices in lira;

Stall 1
3 potatoes 20 lira (37p)

Stall 2
Tulum cheese
White cheese
Olives
600 lira (£11)

Stall 3
Tomatoes
Carrots
Mushrooms
Pumpkin
Grapes
Strawberries
550 lira (£10.09)

Stall 4
Spinach Gözleme (pancake) 100 lira (£1.83)

Total spent 1,270 lira (£23.29) which was probably the most I’d spent in the market in a long time – it was also the most I’d carried since breaking my foot and I managed. I’d gone a bit mad on the cheese as the stall holder had the nice strong Tulum which looks like a regular cheddar but tastes more like a blue cheese without the blue in it – it’s very strong and lasts ages. I always get to taste the cheese and the olives too, even though I usually buy the same ones.
When I got back, Norman hadn’t even noticed I’d been gone and was still fast asleep. I ate my very tasty gözleme for lunch and then did some work in the afternoon/evening. Ma & Pa popped round, I gave them some eggs and they brought Norman’s towel & bowl back – they didn’t stay as they were off for a walk but I suggested we might catch up tomorrow.
For dinner I had a pasta dish and put a sprinkling of the tulum cheese on top. I didn’t have any alcohol as I was trying to be good tonight.

Gratitude List
1. Managing a full market shop and walking back with it all
2. Norman
3. Nice, simple food.

On Sunday 26th October I didn’t wake up until 7.50am and when I went downstairs, Norman had had an accident – runny poo on the tiled floor and he’d slipped in it. Poor Norman had to be cleaned as well as the floor and he had a sorry look in his eyes. I told him everything was going to be ok and stayed with him all morning, I even made him some eggs for breakfast.
I decided to make a pumpkin soup in the slow cooker and did a bit of work, despite it being a Sunday. For lunch I had leftover pasta with the rest of the salad from Friday’s takeaway and Norman, although sleepy, seemed to be doing much better.
I left him for an hour when my parents called to go for a walk to the Kefal tea gardens. They both ordered a mackerel sandwich and drinks but I just had a plate of chips. I decided to ask my parents over for a Sunday dinner and we walked back past the Şevikoğlu shop to buy provisions. Unfortunately, they had no whole chickens left, nor any decent wine so we had to make do with chicken breasts and I would order the booze in.

Here’s what I bought, with prices in lira;

Şevikoğlu Supermarket
1 plastic bag 0.50
Red cabbage 21.39
Wet wipes 39.90
3 Dido nut chocolate bars 89.70
1.6kg chicken breasts 295.04
Total spent 446.53 lira (£8.19)

When we got back, Norman was pleased to see us and had been fine. I messaged the off licence for them to bring us wine – my parents were surprised you could do this but it saved us walking and carrying it.

Yaman Büfe
Wine
Soda water
Total spent 1,040 lira (£19.08)

We sat on the terrace with our wine and Norman potted about, he was having trouble with the steps so we tried to fashion a ramp out of a big tile. Norman seemed interested but it wasn’t really safe.
I served up the pumpkin soup, a first try of it for my parents who said they liked it (they didn’t have seconds though). We had sliced chicken breast with roast potatoes, carrots and red cabbage for main, I didn’t have any stuffing to put with it. I saved Norman some chicken as he’s quite partial to a roast dinner and he wolfed it down. Our dessert was just a Dido chocolate bar each and we didn’t have a late one as I had to be up early tomorrow. It was nice to have Sunday dinner with my parents and have the afternoon off.

Gratitude List
1. Good food
2. Norman
3. Spending time with my parents.

Dalyan – 24th October

I was woken up just after 2am on Friday 24th October, with the sound of the heavy rain. It took me a while to get back to sleep but then I was up to let Norman out at 7am. He was quite snoozy but he had a wander round the garden, had breakfast then was snoring away by the time I got my laptop going. I had tea and toast for breakfast and it’s the law that Norman has to have a corner, which he woke up for.
At lunch time, while there was no rain, we had a quick walk. I attended an online webinar training session about cruises in French Polynesia at 5pm, which was very informative. If ever I came in to some spare cash or won the lottery, it would definitely be a place I’d love to visit – the Marquesas Islands looked amazing!
My parents had invited me, and Norman, round to their place for dinner tonight. They had been here almost 7 weeks and this was the first time I’d been in their apartment so I was looking forward to it.
Norman was also a bit giddy as he likes a soirée and hoped there may be snacks available. I took his towel to lay on and a plastic bowl for water and he seemed genuinely excited to be going to Granny Annie’s & Grandpa Stupot’s. Mom had decided not to cook and had suggested we order a delivery from somewhere, but first Dad was on drink pouring duty. I’d taken over the Moldovan wine (from the Anex Fam trip) to try and it was lovely. Norman didn’t settle straight away on account of wanting some fuss and knowing that there were crisps on the quite low coffee table. I’d been waiting to see my parents’ new bed and some furniture plus they had changed things round a bit. It looked really good and a lot more comfortable.
Ma & Pa didn’t have any takeaway menus at home so I contacted someone we know to get the number for the owner of Pamukkale, Fatih. We’ve only ever eaten in the restaurant but a lot of the other restaurants use Pamukkale for their pizzas and pides.
We ordered 3 pides and 2 lahmacun for a total of 1,000 lira (£18.35), including tip, and it came with a massive side salad too. We didn’t eat all of it and I ended up taking some of my pide home plus most of the salad. As we were leaving, little Norman decided he didn’t want to go home! He wanted to stay with Ma & Pa even though they hadn’t given him any titbits and it was getting late. It had started raining and I wanted to get him back home before we both got soaked.
Norman refused to walk down the stairs, I was still using a crutch and the hand rail so I couldn’t carry him down. My Mom carried him and, when we left, Norman was most reluctant to walk.
We got home soaked to the skin and both of us needed towelling off! Norman went to bed feeling a bit sorry for himself that night.

Gratitude List
1. Getting invited to Ma & Pa’s for dinner
2. Norman
3. Having a night out (well, in) with Ma & Pa.

Dalyan – 22nd & 23rd October

To say I was hanging out of my arse on the morning of Wednesday 22nd October was an understatement! Going out drinking with my parents last night had ruined me – far more than any night of the all inclusive 5 Star trip with Anex.
When Jamie arrived at 8.30am for dog sitting Norman, I was barely ready. Norman was pleased as it meant he could get away with anything today. After barely acknowledging Nanny Kay and saying farewell to Jamie, I still had to function as I had work to do. I worked on some Anex quotes for friends who had shown an interest in a trip to Antalya next year.
At 1pm Norman and I were sat out on the terrace and I’d put him in charge. I still felt ill and couldn’t eat breakfast or lunch. At 2.30pm I had a call with a potential client who said I sounded chirpy – I didn’t feel it! At 3pm I was on a training webinar outside on my laptop, when I realised my phone was almost flat and I couldn’t find my charger. By 5.30pm I had finished work, walked Norman and gone to get my charger to apologise to Carol and the ladies at Fat Club for not turning up to Fat Club and not messaging them when asked where I was. I only had some salty chips for dinner as I still felt like death and had a bad stomach – I’m sure the white wine here does something to my guts. By 7.30pm both Norman and I were lolling on the sofa, me still hungover and feeling shit as I had pretty much wasted a day, being less than 100% productive.

Gratitude List
1. Managing to get up in time for Jamie & Norman
2. Norman the dog
3. Getting through the day (just about).

I was still feeling delicate on Thursday 23rd October and was up with a bad stomach at 6.50am. By 7.30am Norman and been out for ablutions and scoffed down his breakfast. Rain was forecast so we did a little walk before work and then I was super on it, not even stopping for a lunch break. We had a team meeting at 1pm and at 5.30pm I downed tools for Norman’s benefit. We had a walk, he got fed and I warmed up a chicken dinner for me, which was lovely. I was in bed by 11.15pm and the rain had started.

Gratitude List
1. Having a more productive day
2. Norman
3. A chicken dinner – finally I could eat again.

Dalyan – 8th October

It was my last day of doggy day care with Norman on Wednesday 8th October – Jamie & Drew were due back later today. It was still rainy and Norman was a bit cheesed off. After his breakfast, Norman helped me eat my toast which I had with a tea. It was also weigh day and Carol had offered to pick me up later for Fat Club. I did get weighed at home to find I had put on 0.85kg (1.9lb). My measurements weren’t that good either as I had put 1cm on both hips and bust but lost 1cm from my waist.
I worked all morning as well as making some progress on my side project. I was designing a handy travel planner to help people plan for their holidays. I was doing a course with Claire Clarke and needed to have put some ideas on Pinterest on an online board. I felt that that was a waste of time and I really didn’t get on with Pinterest at all. It reminded me of a virtual scrap book for people with far too much time on their hands. However, as I was trying to persevere with the Optimistic October, I did it. I had soup for lunch then got ready for saying bye to Norman.
Jamie & Drew arrived back after a lovely holiday in Kos and then Carol arrived to pick me up to face her dreaded scales. Surprisingly, I had only put on 0.55kg (1.2lb) on Carol’s scales but it was still too much and I needed to get back to losing the weight. I now had 5.3kg (almost 12lb) to lose again to be back at my target weight.
Carol dropped me back home after Fat Club for a Zoom Q & A call with Claire Clarke and the Create Publish Grow group, which went well. I put my Resort Experts out of office on and packed for my trip to Antalya tomorrow. The Anex Fam trip was finally here and I was really looking forward to it. My temporary injury concerned me a little as I hoped I would be able to keep up with everyone and not be a burden slowy at the back! I forgot to have dinner so I just ate some cheese and walnuts before bed.

Gratitude List
1. My last day with Norman, the dog
2. Homemade soup
3. Getting ready for a trip to Antalya tomorrow.

Dalyan – 6th & 7th October

Monday 6th October was back to the grindstone for me, while Norman snored through most of the day. He woke up for a drink and a wee but was having a lazy Monday. I dealt with a tricky change to a client’s booking which resulted in a further booking which was good.
It was definitely getting colder as I found out at dinner time; my meal from the freezer was not defrosted yet. After walking Norman I decided to order a takeaway delivery and had half of my favourite 2 dishes from Simple. The beef noodles and the crispy chicken with chips are really good and I really enjoyed them.
I spoke to Captain Caveman who seemed out of sorts and was preoccupied with work stuff because he was so busy.

Gratitude List
1. More business with Resort Experts
2. Norman
3. My favourite meals from Simple.

Tuesday 7th October was a wet day and Norman, the dog, was less than impressed. He looked like he was auditioning for a role as a shepherd in a nativity play for most of the morning. I didn’t even get my breakfast until gone 10am but I had both toast and fruit with quark.
I booked my parents their hotel to join Mark & Kate for Kate’s 64th Birthday at Jiva beach next month. They’d decided to join the all inclusive birthday bash in Fethiye with some of the other Dalyan Dwellers. Ali popped round for a cup of tea and a chat, despite the rain, and Norman was pleased to have another visitor. Her and her husband were also going to Jiva beach and they were looking forward to it too.
I had leftover takeaway for dinner and finished off with a glass of red wine and some cheese before bed.

Gratitude List
1. Norman and his nativity play look was just too cute
2. A catch up with Ali
3. Nice food and a glass of wine.

Dalyan – 5th October

I had set my alarm to check on Norman, the dog, at 7.30am on Sunday 5th October. I was a bit bleary-eyed and felt hungover, my stomach wasn’t great either. Norman was still snoring away and didn’t wake up until after the kettle had boiled.
I did a video to a friend who’s birthday it was and then Norman did a video to Jamie & Drew (aka Little Daddy & Step Daddy Drew) to let him know he was fine, despite last night’s partying. They think I’m crackers with the videos but Norman likes them and Edna used to love them, so I’ve continued them. We spent the rest of the morning drinking water and sage tea, laying on the sofa feeling a bit delicate. Norman got lots of snuggles and snored too much for me to have a nap. Nanny Kay popped over and we had a natter but no tea as she had already had 2 cups. She kindly gave me a lift when she left too to save me walking back home. I bought some treats at the shop for The Aussies to take with them on their journey tomorrow, including some vampire teeth with it being Halloween month.
We met in the street, all on our way to Ayaz. We all agreed it was one of our new favourites for Turkish food at a reasonable price. The food was excellent; I had the chicken shish, Amanda the chicken wings and Greg ordered lamb shish. They brought dips too, which were lovely. Amanda and I had the fresh pomegranate juice and Greg a Coke. We were the only ones in there so we got great service and large portions, I’d intended taking half home but I finished it all and was stuffed. The temptation to have the künefe was too much, as I’d not had one for at least a year. Greg and I shared it and I enjoyed it. For those who’ve not tried it, it’s like shredded wheat with melty cheese and honey. It was definitely not Slimming World friendly!
The Aussies treated me to the meal, which was very kind and I was sad to see them leave, especially when I knew they were returning to stressful jobs back in Australia. They walked me back and they even came to say bye to Norman, who really appreciated it and tried to do loving leg licks to show it.
By 9.30pm both Norman and I were no stranger to naps on the sofa after a lovely weekend. I had 3 more days left with Norman before the work trip with Jamie to Antalya – which I was really looking forward to.

Gratitude List
1. Seeing Nanny Kay
2. A fabulous farewell meal with Amanda and Greg at Ayaz
3. Norman.

Dalyan – 4th October

Saturday 4th October was not only market day in Dalyan but it was my first day without medication. It would turn out to be quite a frustrating morning but a rather lovely afternoon.
Debbie had already offered to get me some fruit and veg from the market. I’d declined her kind offer because my parents had said they were going and that we could go together. Ma agreed to give me cash in exchange for me doing a bank transfer which meant I only had to walk to the market and back. Unfortunately, I’d misunderstood about going to the market together as my parents prefer to walk to the market on a certain route and I didn’t want to walk to their’s and then through the side streets when it was easier and quicker for me to go down the main road. I thought I’d meet them there, get the money, share their shopping trolley for anything heavy and all walk back together. That didn’t happen. I got to the market fine, a bit in pain and frustrated at how slow I was. This meant my parents had almost finished their shopping and wanted to get off. I got the money from Mom and we bought some strawberries together before Dad needed to go to the loo. I’m so like my Dad in that regard as I also had wondered if I would make it there and back without a loo break. They weren’t walking back my way as they were going in to town to the supermarket so I couldn’t walk that distance yet.
I decided not to buy much else as I hadn’t even brought a suitable bag to carry the shopping back in. It was hard work walking back and the bag straps were cutting in to my shoulders. I managed to get over half way when Ali, came past on her mobility scooter and asked if I wanted a lift. I have never been so grateful for the offer of a lift.
She dropped me off just a few minutes later and she said she’d pop in next week for a cuppa and a chat. She also said to ask her to get me anything rather than struggling to get it myself. I was still pleased that I had managed it without the painkillers and I at least had something to offer my guests later. I had bought cheese, olives, butter, bananas, mushrooms and strawberries and I can’t recall how much I spent aside from the strawberries being 300 lira (£5.50). Luckily the off licence does free delivery so I could order that later.
After getting in, I was exhausted.
At midday Penny popped in for a cup of tea and brought some cakes, which were very good but a bit naughty, and some fresh bread. I took Norman out early so that he didn’t miss a walk once my next guests arrived. Captain Caveman called and we decided I would book my flights to see him at Christmas. I chose a return flight and added 15kg luggage. We also decided that, as we weren’t going to Vietnam for Christmas and New Year, we would look for a January holiday somewhere warm instead.
When The Aussies arrived I was out on the terrace waiting for them and I’d already ordered the following delivery from Yaman Büfe;
Gin
Tonic
Wine
Soda water
Ice
Crisps
Total spent 1,155.00 lira (£21.19)

I got out a few nibbles and we sat outside all evening. I had some wine with lots of soda as it was my first alcoholic drink in a month and I didn’t want to feel hungover tomorrow. My guests were on the gin and also brought some treats. We had a good laugh and Norman was glad of the company. Amanda and Greg didn’t leave until 2am and I think we had covered discussions on most topics – I even discovered Greg can do an excellent donkey impression. This was meant to have been our last goodbye but we agreed to a late lunch tomorrow afternoon.

Gratitude List
1. Surviving the market shopping
2. Getting a lift from Ali
3. Having Penny and the Aussies come over to visit.

Dalyan – 2nd & 3rd October

I worked all day at the dining room table on Thursday 2nd October. There was a Resort Experts team meeting and I also received a delivery for Jamie. Captain Caveman got in touch to say we would no longer be going to Vietnam for Christmas as he had been offered work in the UK over the Christmas period. I didn’t mind so much as I couldn’t justify the cost of the flight and didn’t really want Captain Caveman to have to pay for me. It was also cold in December and January where we wanted to visit. He was going to go in March instead, but I was already booked for dog sitting until the 31st March. Captain Caveman suggested I could fly out to join him in Vietnam for Easter instead, so there was still a possibility that I would get back there. It was disappointing but made sense and it wasn’t really my decision to make. We don’t celebrate Christmas as such so it made no difference to me. Captain Caveman suggested that I might be able to come over to London to see him, rather than stay in Dalyan on my own. The flights from Dalaman to the UK in winter, only fly on Tuesdays and Saturdays so we said we would have a think about it. It meant that our 14 year anniversary would probably be spent apart too. Captain Caveman also said he would take a look at coming to Dalyan at the end of November if he could.
I made a leek and potato soup and it looked like a storm was due so I walked Norman early. I saw my parents at their gate – they had not gone to Göcek today, after all, and had just been at home chilling. They were off out with their friends so they had to rush off to get ready and I said I might see them at the weekend. I let Ma know the storm would start just after midnight and returned back to Jamie’s to feed Norman. Norman and I had a cosy night in, and I enjoyed my homemade soup with fresh bread that I had managed to fetch for myself. It got quite chilly and as the storm loomed. I knew I wouldn’t be able to move the sunbeds and mattresses because of my bad leg but I decided to move the cushions. I had to carry them one by one due to using the crutch and hobbling so it took me 25 mins. It felt like a massive achievement, though. I closed the windows, moved the loose stuff in the outdoor areas and got ready for the bad weather to come. I even had to put a duvet on as I was very cold when I went to bed.

Gratitude List
1. Planning to still see Captain Caveman before the end of the year
2. Homemade soup
3. Norman being so cute.

The storm started about 1am on Friday 3rd October but luckily Norman, the dog, slept through until 7.15am when I woke him up. Jamie had told me he won’t go out in the rain but off he trotted for a pee, getting absolutely soaked. After drying Norman off and feeding him, we got ready to stay indoors today. I moved the farewell drinks with the Aussies to tomorrow as it looked like nobody in Dalyan was going anywhere in this weather today.
I pre-recorded a message for a friend I was due to have a call with today as the power kept cutting out and I didn’t want to not be able to speak to her.
Norman got a dry, a brush, a few spritzes of doggy cologne and lots of attention in-between work stuff.
I had more homemade leek and potato soup for lunch then a chickpea curry with a wrap, for dinner. It was another evening on the sofa as the rain continued all day and in to the night – we couldn’t even go for a walk. It was now a month since I broke my 4th & 5th metatarsals and I was still on the painkillers which prohibited me from drinking alcohol. I took the last tablet this evening and wondered if the pain would be bearable tomorrow without them. Oddly, I’d not really missed the drinking alcohol and with the state of the uneven paths and roads in Dalyan had not wanted to be trying to walk a bit fiddly anyway. I got some excellent news before bedtime; Captain Caveman booked his flights and was coming to Dalyan in 7 weeks time. It will have meant we hadn’t seen each other for about 11 weeks!

Gratitude List
1. Spending time with Norman
2. Eating well
3. Captain Caveman coming to Dalyan at the end of November.