Its not just a New Year starting tomorrow its a new Decade and I've been thinking what has changed during the Noughties.
Well I know exactly where was at midnight to see the new Millenium in, no I wasn't celebrating anywhere I was actually at work. A few of us were ordered to be there in case the Millenium Bug struck at midnight and all our automated systems started to go mad. Of course it didn't happen it was just the Government scaring everyone but what the hell I got paid some serious money for attending.
Well since that evening we've seen and learn't a lot about our politicians, lets remember it was the lies about weopens of mass destruction from Tony Blair & George Bush that took the country to war in Iraq.
In the last 10 years though the world has changed especially with the terrorist threat to such an extent that I wonder every time I get on a Plane if I'll be getting off at the other end. Since the tragic events of the Twin Towers, London Subway, Madrid railway, etc the world doesn't seem quite as safe as it should be. There seems too many people willing to kill and maim others in the name of their own fanatical beliefs.
Of course the threat of terrorism isn't the only thing that we now fear, there is of course Global Warming and changing climatic conditions. Personally I don't know enough about the real facts some are convinced but others question their theories. What I do know is that the last decade I've seen the pictures from Thailands Tsuamni, Hurricane Katrina & many earthquades floods a famines shown on my TV screen. Maybe it is Global warming, maybe it is just the way the earths cycle works, who knows ? The one thing I do know is that nature is the most powerfull thing on this planet.
For me I've spent the decade trying to lose weight winning some battles losing some, probably had to settle for a draw with a must do better this time. Seriously the new year is always a good starting point so here I go again.
My life has changed a lot for a start I was given the opportunity to retire at 50 years old through a decent redundancy package, reckon thats good and I'm quite prou I've been able to eran the chance. Its a good job I'm not working in some ways because my parents are getting elderly and need a lot more help (especially Mum whose disabled) so now I've time to do more.
Its a decade that I made a decision to travel more, always liked travelling but been single always made excuses not to do so much. Loved it though been to some great places, met some really nice people and plan to do more without doubt.
Talking of meeting people its been the decade of the internet and sites like this where of course I've met even more fantastic people. Some have come & gone but some have been friends a long time now, some I've been lucky enough to meet.
Of course it was the decade I found love then sadly lost the person I loved, its it me hard I know. They say "its better to have loved and lost than to have never loved at all", I'm still working that one out.
In fact its a decade I've seen quite a few people pass away, friends, ex work colleagues, relations, etc. Too many to mention but they are all in my thoughts.
As for ups & downs I can look no further than my football team who started the decade looking to conquer europe only to see 2 relegations, bankruptcy, selling all the assets (players, stadium, training facilities), points deductions, numerous owners & managers, play off misery, etc. In fact its mainly downs but at least the corner looks to have been turned now, this is the best season for a long time.
Anyway I'm sure everyone has their memories & thoughts about the last 10 years but we should all look forward to the next 10 in the hope the world becomes a better place. Whatever happens I'm sure we'll all have more good & bad times but lets hope its mainly good as lifes adventure moves forward.
So friends "Happy New Decade" to all of you.
Thursday 31 December 2009
Sunday 20 December 2009
Getting ready for Humbug
Well its that time of year that most people look forward to, yes it'll soon be Christmas. Before I go on I'd like to wish all that read this a very Merry Christmas.
Personally for the first time in my life I'm not looking forward to it, to be honest I'll be glad when its all over. Of course like everyone I'm expected to be seen to enjoying it but I just don't feel like celebrating, going to parties just wish I could hibernate while Jan 1st.
I've still got to do the traditional things, the tree is up, the cards are sent, the relatives will be entertained but I ain't gonna enjoy any of it.
The first half of 2009 was going great and my life was on the up, but since I lost Jane to that terrible illness I've felt lonely and Christmas is not the time to be lonely. I know it may seem strange as I've been single many times at this time of year in the past but it seems so different this time.
Of course Jane would be last person to want me feeling like this but I can't hide my emotions its how I feel, 2009 is a year that really broke my heart.
Anyway I need to look to the future and hopfully 2010 is going to be a good year, not sure what direction I will take or what life as in store for me but thats part of the adventure I suppose.
So take care my friends, again I hope you and your families have a fantastic holiday period and next year is great for all of us.
Personally for the first time in my life I'm not looking forward to it, to be honest I'll be glad when its all over. Of course like everyone I'm expected to be seen to enjoying it but I just don't feel like celebrating, going to parties just wish I could hibernate while Jan 1st.
I've still got to do the traditional things, the tree is up, the cards are sent, the relatives will be entertained but I ain't gonna enjoy any of it.
The first half of 2009 was going great and my life was on the up, but since I lost Jane to that terrible illness I've felt lonely and Christmas is not the time to be lonely. I know it may seem strange as I've been single many times at this time of year in the past but it seems so different this time.
Of course Jane would be last person to want me feeling like this but I can't hide my emotions its how I feel, 2009 is a year that really broke my heart.
Anyway I need to look to the future and hopfully 2010 is going to be a good year, not sure what direction I will take or what life as in store for me but thats part of the adventure I suppose.
So take care my friends, again I hope you and your families have a fantastic holiday period and next year is great for all of us.
Monday 14 December 2009
Physical wreck
Reckon I've pulled of torn a muscle in my leg, its inside my thigh and really hurts when I stretch. I did it playing TT last thursday right at the end of the match, we were playing the doubles and only 3 points from finishing when I stretched for a ball and felt it. It wasn't too bad, I actually thought it was a bit of cramp so was able to finish.
Anyway at the weekend I've been away playing for Yorkshire Veterans and it went again in my first match. Maybe I should have packed in but to be honest while I was warmed up it was manageble but I could feel a sharp pain evertime I stretched for a forhand shot.
I managed to play all the team matches and we did well in our division which was expected to be tough. We won one, lost one & drew two of our team matches. Individually I managed to win 5 out of 8 singles (two of my defeats in a tight 5 set games) and 3 out of 4 doubles.
By the end of the weekend my leg was really sore partly due to the injury but partly due to normal wear and tear of a hard weekends play.
This morning I'm walking ok but if I have to stretch its quite bad, it was really painfull putting on my socks.
I have two more TT matches this week then thats it while after Christmas, they are on Wednesday & Thursday this week. They are nowhere near as tough as the county matches and hopfully I should get through without extending myself too much.
On top of that I've got a cold coming on, not too bad at present so I hope it clears quickly.
Anyway at the weekend I've been away playing for Yorkshire Veterans and it went again in my first match. Maybe I should have packed in but to be honest while I was warmed up it was manageble but I could feel a sharp pain evertime I stretched for a forhand shot.
I managed to play all the team matches and we did well in our division which was expected to be tough. We won one, lost one & drew two of our team matches. Individually I managed to win 5 out of 8 singles (two of my defeats in a tight 5 set games) and 3 out of 4 doubles.
By the end of the weekend my leg was really sore partly due to the injury but partly due to normal wear and tear of a hard weekends play.
This morning I'm walking ok but if I have to stretch its quite bad, it was really painfull putting on my socks.
I have two more TT matches this week then thats it while after Christmas, they are on Wednesday & Thursday this week. They are nowhere near as tough as the county matches and hopfully I should get through without extending myself too much.
On top of that I've got a cold coming on, not too bad at present so I hope it clears quickly.
Wednesday 9 December 2009
Bring it On
Yes the big match is on, the mighty whites are off to play "The Scum" on Jan 3rd.
We eventually saw off Kettering 5-1 after extra time, totally dominated the match and could easily scored double figures but still went in 1-1 after 90 minutes. In fact as the teams entered the last 15 minute period it was still level and looked like going to the dreaded lottery of penalties. However our substitutes came up trumps with two goals from American Mike Grella and one from the man from Congo Tresor Kandol. Our top striker Jermaine Beckford sealed it with a 5th.
So now its the match of hate, Manchester United on their own turf, really can't wait. Sure they are two divisions above us and are clear favorites but miracles can happen and we live in hope. Even if it goes to the form book I'm sure we'll give them a good run for their money. Putting it into perspective their top earners are on more money than our entire squad but who cares this is going to be our day.
The fans hate each other with a passion, the atmosphere will be electric and I expect a sell out crowd of around 80,000. They are supposed to give us 15% of the capacity so should be around 12,000 Leeds fans making the trip across the hills plus a few that get tickets in the home section (done that before myself, gotta keep your gob shut though and sit on the hands, lol).
Although it would be great to beat them on their own turf it would be just as good to draw and bring them back to our place, even their manager reckons its one of the most hostile atmospheres he has been to.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leeds_United_A.F.C._and_Manchester_United_F.C._rivalry
The "Wars of the Roses" will never end.
We eventually saw off Kettering 5-1 after extra time, totally dominated the match and could easily scored double figures but still went in 1-1 after 90 minutes. In fact as the teams entered the last 15 minute period it was still level and looked like going to the dreaded lottery of penalties. However our substitutes came up trumps with two goals from American Mike Grella and one from the man from Congo Tresor Kandol. Our top striker Jermaine Beckford sealed it with a 5th.
So now its the match of hate, Manchester United on their own turf, really can't wait. Sure they are two divisions above us and are clear favorites but miracles can happen and we live in hope. Even if it goes to the form book I'm sure we'll give them a good run for their money. Putting it into perspective their top earners are on more money than our entire squad but who cares this is going to be our day.
The fans hate each other with a passion, the atmosphere will be electric and I expect a sell out crowd of around 80,000. They are supposed to give us 15% of the capacity so should be around 12,000 Leeds fans making the trip across the hills plus a few that get tickets in the home section (done that before myself, gotta keep your gob shut though and sit on the hands, lol).
Although it would be great to beat them on their own turf it would be just as good to draw and bring them back to our place, even their manager reckons its one of the most hostile atmospheres he has been to.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leeds_United_A.F.C._and_Manchester_United_F.C._rivalry
The "Wars of the Roses" will never end.
Friday 4 December 2009
England versus USA
Well my American friends I've just watched the World Cup draw and our countries will be playing each other in next years finals in South Africa, I'm talking Football (thats Soccer to you).
We were both placed in group "C" along with Algeria and Slovenia. Actually with two going through to the knock out stages I reckon we could both make it with England top of course.
The big match takes place on June 12th in Rustenburg (Wherever that is).
Other groups put some fancied teams together such as Brazil, Ivory Coast & Portugal in group G which is already been called the group of death.
And not forgetting my Aussie friends I see you are in group G with Germany, Serbia & Ghana. Reckon you have a shout in that one especially with possibly two Leeds players in your squad Patrick Kisnorbo & Neil Kilkenny. In fact if you are runners up and England win ours we would meet in the last 16.
We were both placed in group "C" along with Algeria and Slovenia. Actually with two going through to the knock out stages I reckon we could both make it with England top of course.
The big match takes place on June 12th in Rustenburg (Wherever that is).
Other groups put some fancied teams together such as Brazil, Ivory Coast & Portugal in group G which is already been called the group of death.
And not forgetting my Aussie friends I see you are in group G with Germany, Serbia & Ghana. Reckon you have a shout in that one especially with possibly two Leeds players in your squad Patrick Kisnorbo & Neil Kilkenny. In fact if you are runners up and England win ours we would meet in the last 16.
Sunday 29 November 2009
What an incentive
Well Leeds drew down at Kettering despite dominating the match and it'll now go to a replay at Elland Road.
What an incentive to win though, the winner is to play away to "The Scum" (Manchester United), we hate them almost as much as we love our own team (think the feeling is mutual).
Ok we are 2 leagues below them following our well publicised fall from grace but this is a great opportunity to show what our new players can do on the big stage. We would have nothing to lose, they would be clear favorites but this is the FA Cup and anything can happen.
What an incentive to win though, the winner is to play away to "The Scum" (Manchester United), we hate them almost as much as we love our own team (think the feeling is mutual).
Ok we are 2 leagues below them following our well publicised fall from grace but this is a great opportunity to show what our new players can do on the big stage. We would have nothing to lose, they would be clear favorites but this is the FA Cup and anything can happen.
Saturday 28 November 2009
It had to be tomorrow
My football team Leeds United are hardly ever on TV since their fall from grace through mismanagement and going bankrupt. Well you guessed it they are on tomorrow and I'm not about to watch it. I'll be in Hull playing TT in the Yorkshire league, maybe they'll have a TV at the venue.
I know their only on because most of the country want to see them have another disaster against a non league team in the FA Cup but I don't think that will happen so two fingers up to the rest.
In fact this season we've had plenty to cheer we are run away leaders of our division although still a long way to go.
On another note does any of you use Yahoo Messenger, I've just started using it today so if you do please add me.
I know their only on because most of the country want to see them have another disaster against a non league team in the FA Cup but I don't think that will happen so two fingers up to the rest.
In fact this season we've had plenty to cheer we are run away leaders of our division although still a long way to go.
On another note does any of you use Yahoo Messenger, I've just started using it today so if you do please add me.
Thursday 19 November 2009
Things really do happen in 3's
Well I hope its only 3's.
1. Sunday the flourescent light failed in the kitchen so that was my first repair of the week.
2. My Computor crashed, couldn't get in at all so had to revert back to factory settings. Lost everthing on there but luckily I had a lot backed up on a hard drive. Still downloading some software as I go.
To be honest its about on its last legs so reckon I'm gonna treat myself to a lap top for christmass.
3. Got up this morning and the central heating boiler was locking out, had a play around and eventually got it going without blowing the house up. Not sure how long it will last if it happens again I'll have to call the engineer out.
Ok thats enough about disasters on the good news front I've been looking at holidays for next year. I know my first trip will be back to Chicago, my two TT team mates want to go so the 3 of us are off at easter for a long weekend. We actually booked this week, got a really good hotel/flight deal for 6 nights.
Normally I've sorted my own travel plans out but I'm seriously thinking about going on a singles holiday, I've been checking out a few sites. Before my Aussie friends chelp up I'll admit I'm looking at coming to that part of the world either this year or early next year. I've actually looked at a organised trip 22 days, its expensive at around £4,000 but it includes a lot of extras and visits Perth (yes San you may regret the TT challenge, lol), Alice Springs, Ayers Rock, Cairns, Sydney, Canberra & Melbourne. Seriously thinking about this, need to save though. - http://www.justyou.co.uk/australasia/australia/australia.aspx
1. Sunday the flourescent light failed in the kitchen so that was my first repair of the week.
2. My Computor crashed, couldn't get in at all so had to revert back to factory settings. Lost everthing on there but luckily I had a lot backed up on a hard drive. Still downloading some software as I go.
To be honest its about on its last legs so reckon I'm gonna treat myself to a lap top for christmass.
3. Got up this morning and the central heating boiler was locking out, had a play around and eventually got it going without blowing the house up. Not sure how long it will last if it happens again I'll have to call the engineer out.
Ok thats enough about disasters on the good news front I've been looking at holidays for next year. I know my first trip will be back to Chicago, my two TT team mates want to go so the 3 of us are off at easter for a long weekend. We actually booked this week, got a really good hotel/flight deal for 6 nights.
Normally I've sorted my own travel plans out but I'm seriously thinking about going on a singles holiday, I've been checking out a few sites. Before my Aussie friends chelp up I'll admit I'm looking at coming to that part of the world either this year or early next year. I've actually looked at a organised trip 22 days, its expensive at around £4,000 but it includes a lot of extras and visits Perth (yes San you may regret the TT challenge, lol), Alice Springs, Ayers Rock, Cairns, Sydney, Canberra & Melbourne. Seriously thinking about this, need to save though. - http://www.justyou.co.uk/australasia/australia/australia.aspx
Sunday 15 November 2009
Recharging Batteries
By this weekend I was exhausted, I'd had such a busy and hectic week,. So I've been taking it easy to recharge my batteries.
Last Friday I went to Blackpool, stayed over a couple of nights it was really busy as it was the last weekend of the illuminations. That wasn't the reason I was there, I was playing TT in the Veterans National league, we had 5 team matches winning two but losing three. I suppose it wasn't too bad as we got promoted last season and we look like avoiding relegation which was always the priority.
In fact its ben a big week of TT, tuesday we played in the York League and got a good 9-1 victory, its still early days but we are sat proudly top of the league. - http://sites.google.com/site/yorktabletennis/home/s09to10/div1
Another match on Wednesday this time against a team from Doncaster in the Yorkshire Clubs Championship and again a good 9-1 victory. Wasn't two hard to be honest but we know we have two much harder matches coming up against teams from Dewsbury and Hull, last seasons finalists.
And yet another match Thursday, this time in the Selby league, I was tired for this because I'd spent all day at hospital with my Dad who was having some tests. He was fine which was good but it was so long winded I got to the match late but still won all my singles in a 8-2 victory.
It wasn't all TT Monday I went to a wedding, it was one of my cousins who decided to tie the knot after living together for over 20 years. Then again it was a quick change and out to my Pool match, it was our last league game of the season which we won 5-4, got my singles but went down in the doubles.
Yep reckon I've earned a easy weekend.
Last Friday I went to Blackpool, stayed over a couple of nights it was really busy as it was the last weekend of the illuminations. That wasn't the reason I was there, I was playing TT in the Veterans National league, we had 5 team matches winning two but losing three. I suppose it wasn't too bad as we got promoted last season and we look like avoiding relegation which was always the priority.
In fact its ben a big week of TT, tuesday we played in the York League and got a good 9-1 victory, its still early days but we are sat proudly top of the league. - http://sites.google.com/site/yorktabletennis/home/s09to10/div1
Another match on Wednesday this time against a team from Doncaster in the Yorkshire Clubs Championship and again a good 9-1 victory. Wasn't two hard to be honest but we know we have two much harder matches coming up against teams from Dewsbury and Hull, last seasons finalists.
And yet another match Thursday, this time in the Selby league, I was tired for this because I'd spent all day at hospital with my Dad who was having some tests. He was fine which was good but it was so long winded I got to the match late but still won all my singles in a 8-2 victory.
It wasn't all TT Monday I went to a wedding, it was one of my cousins who decided to tie the knot after living together for over 20 years. Then again it was a quick change and out to my Pool match, it was our last league game of the season which we won 5-4, got my singles but went down in the doubles.
Yep reckon I've earned a easy weekend.
Tuesday 3 November 2009
Getting Wet
Since my last post I haven't had chance to do my Speed Walk/Jog so this morning I had a couple of hours to kill so decided to do a 6 mile walk.
It was breezy but quite sunny with a few light clouds so I just put a little jacket on. Well you've probably guessed about half way round it came really dark and the heavens opened. Of course I was at the part of the walk with virtually no shelter so I just carried on and got drenched. Eventually got into town where I sheltered until it cleared before walking home very wet.
It was breezy but quite sunny with a few light clouds so I just put a little jacket on. Well you've probably guessed about half way round it came really dark and the heavens opened. Of course I was at the part of the walk with virtually no shelter so I just carried on and got drenched. Eventually got into town where I sheltered until it cleared before walking home very wet.
Wednesday 28 October 2009
Improving fitness
A couple of weeks ago I mentioned actually timing my short power walk/jog to make me work harder on getting fitter. To be honest I'm concentrating on fitness rather than weight loss, reckon eventually one will take care of the other.
Anyway when I first did this walk my time was 22 minutes 10 secs, I've improved each time and now its down to 20 minutes 40 secs. Ok I'm a long way from running the route but well on my way to breaking the 20 minute barrier (eventually I'll be running it in under 15 minutes I hope). I don't think I've run for runnings sake since I left school, ok chasing, kicking and hitting balls is different, I just need to make things competitive.
These are my results so far :-
12/10 - 22min 10sec
15/10 - 21min 54sec
20/10 - 21min 32sec
24/10 - 21min 25sec
28/10 - 20min 40sec
On another note I've noticed my rested pulse rate is slower recently, can't really think why. Its always been slightly over the normal 70bpm, between 72 & 76. Well for the last month the highest I've recorded it is 70bpm but I've took it as low as 62bpm but in general found it between 65 & 68bpm.
Played TT last night in the York league, doing good so far this season my team is unbeaten and I've won 16 out of 18 sets played. I have another match tomoz but in Selby League its our first league game.
Anyway when I first did this walk my time was 22 minutes 10 secs, I've improved each time and now its down to 20 minutes 40 secs. Ok I'm a long way from running the route but well on my way to breaking the 20 minute barrier (eventually I'll be running it in under 15 minutes I hope). I don't think I've run for runnings sake since I left school, ok chasing, kicking and hitting balls is different, I just need to make things competitive.
These are my results so far :-
12/10 - 22min 10sec
15/10 - 21min 54sec
20/10 - 21min 32sec
24/10 - 21min 25sec
28/10 - 20min 40sec
On another note I've noticed my rested pulse rate is slower recently, can't really think why. Its always been slightly over the normal 70bpm, between 72 & 76. Well for the last month the highest I've recorded it is 70bpm but I've took it as low as 62bpm but in general found it between 65 & 68bpm.
Played TT last night in the York league, doing good so far this season my team is unbeaten and I've won 16 out of 18 sets played. I have another match tomoz but in Selby League its our first league game.
Sunday 25 October 2009
Walking the Walls
Last thursday I had to take my Dad through to York hospital for an appointment and some tests. Anyway I had a few hours to kill so decided to walk the "City Walls".
Despite only living 12 miles from York I've never actually walked the full route around the City so I took my camera along to get some snaps of the route. The weather wasn't ideal because it was a wet and dull day but the photos are ok.
Despite only living 12 miles from York I've never actually walked the full route around the City so I took my camera along to get some snaps of the route. The weather wasn't ideal because it was a wet and dull day but the photos are ok.
I reckon its somewhere between 2 & 3 miles in distance but I was in no rush so I'm not sure.
For those not up on our local history, York is a very ancient City and some of the walls date back to Roman times. The walls don't totally circle the City but cover a lot of it, one part now along the River Fosse was marshland so defences weren't required. Around the walls are a number of gateways caled "Bars", the main four been Micklegate Bar, Bootham Bar, Monk Bar & Walmgate Bar two of which house small museums. 
If anyone is interested in history Wikipedia can tell you more than me :-
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/York_city_walls
I took 60 photos in total you can check them out as a slideshow on my Flickr site :-
http://www.flickr.com/photos/8308363@N02/sets/72157622645479252/detail/
If anyone is interested in history Wikipedia can tell you more than me :-http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/York_city_walls
I took 60 photos in total you can check them out as a slideshow on my Flickr site :-
http://www.flickr.com/photos/8308363@N02/sets/72157622645479252/detail/
Wednesday 21 October 2009
Strange Pains
On Monday night I played a TT match in York league, not a tough match it was against one of the weaker teams. Anyway afterwards I went for a drink with the other players as normal and I was ok.
However when I got up to go to my car I had a pain which felt very much like a torn muscle in my thigh, it was quite bad and it was very painful driving home.
Anyway I went to bed, slept on it and got up the following morning expecting to be in a lot of pain. However the pain had totally gone so I can't understand what it was, I'm confused.
Saying that I'm sat here now and I've got a stiff neck and headache, these both came on this afternoon for no apparent reason although I was working in the garden this morning so suspect I must have tweaked my neck. Hope it does the same as Mondays pain and dissapears overnight.
However when I got up to go to my car I had a pain which felt very much like a torn muscle in my thigh, it was quite bad and it was very painful driving home.
Anyway I went to bed, slept on it and got up the following morning expecting to be in a lot of pain. However the pain had totally gone so I can't understand what it was, I'm confused.
Saying that I'm sat here now and I've got a stiff neck and headache, these both came on this afternoon for no apparent reason although I was working in the garden this morning so suspect I must have tweaked my neck. Hope it does the same as Mondays pain and dissapears overnight.
Friday 16 October 2009
Up the wooden hills to Bedfordshire
Yes thats where I'm just about to set off, I'm on my way to the land of concrete Cows, that lovely place Milton Keynes. Its one of Britains "new towns" built in the late seventies to move people out of Londons slums.
This is a place thats described as "been like the bermuda triangle".you can get in but not many get out, lol.
So why am I going, because I'm playing TT there tomorrow. I'm actually playing for Yorkshire in the county championships Veterans (over 40's). I'm playing for the 3rd team although I've upgraded cos I'm ranked in the 4ths. The competition is over two days (Sat & Sun) but I'm only playing in Saturdays matches or I'd have to upgrade a not be eligible for my own team later in the season. someone else is playing Sunday.
I'm staying over in Northampton tonight (anything is better than Milton Keynes), so will have a 30 minute drive in the morning.
Monday 12 October 2009
F*****g Students
Tonight we were supposed to be playing the University in the York Table Tennis league, just checked my emails and they have cried off. Apparently they can't get a team but I'm really p****d off about the late notice cos I'd cancelled my Pool match to be available.
Talking Table Tennis I've been down at Grantham all weekend playing British league, our team did ok winning one match 5-3, losing one by the same score and drawing the other two. This is the 2nd weekend and we already have 8 points which is what we got in the whole of last season, we only just stayed up so are comfortably mid-table this year. Personally I won five out of my 8 games which is ok for me at this level, so quite pleased. The games were quite physical so will have done me good.
Talking of getting fitter, those of you that read my plan in the last post will see I've put mornings to one side for my daily chores. Anyway after washing, ironing, shopping and visiting my Mum (not really a chore) I had about 30 minutes to spare before lunch. So I decided to do a short walking route, its a loop where I set of in one direction and it brings me back to my home.
I reckon its around 1.5 miles but for a change I thought I'd push it along and time myself. Today's time was 22 mins 10 secs so my plan is to do this when I have time on my hands but try improve the time (keep records), maybe starting jogging some sections (did I really say that, lol) until I'm up to running it all. Ok its walk at the moment but now I've a time to beat and I'm sure my competitive nature will help inspire me to pushing it. Initially reckon I should be trying to get under 20 minutes as a reasonable target.
Could also start something similar (keeping times) on the long walking route (About 6 mile) I do occasionally. If I can turn walks into speed walks/jogs I reckon its got to help fitness and weight loss. Maybe I can also come up with a few other ideas where I can compete against myself, I'm sure its the way forward for me.
On another not I did a bit on the cycle machine I've loaned last night after I got back from TT, only gentle exercise and I reckon it did me good because my joints are not as sore as they usually are after a tough competition.
Talking Table Tennis I've been down at Grantham all weekend playing British league, our team did ok winning one match 5-3, losing one by the same score and drawing the other two. This is the 2nd weekend and we already have 8 points which is what we got in the whole of last season, we only just stayed up so are comfortably mid-table this year. Personally I won five out of my 8 games which is ok for me at this level, so quite pleased. The games were quite physical so will have done me good.
Talking of getting fitter, those of you that read my plan in the last post will see I've put mornings to one side for my daily chores. Anyway after washing, ironing, shopping and visiting my Mum (not really a chore) I had about 30 minutes to spare before lunch. So I decided to do a short walking route, its a loop where I set of in one direction and it brings me back to my home.
I reckon its around 1.5 miles but for a change I thought I'd push it along and time myself. Today's time was 22 mins 10 secs so my plan is to do this when I have time on my hands but try improve the time (keep records), maybe starting jogging some sections (did I really say that, lol) until I'm up to running it all. Ok its walk at the moment but now I've a time to beat and I'm sure my competitive nature will help inspire me to pushing it. Initially reckon I should be trying to get under 20 minutes as a reasonable target.
Could also start something similar (keeping times) on the long walking route (About 6 mile) I do occasionally. If I can turn walks into speed walks/jogs I reckon its got to help fitness and weight loss. Maybe I can also come up with a few other ideas where I can compete against myself, I'm sure its the way forward for me.
On another not I did a bit on the cycle machine I've loaned last night after I got back from TT, only gentle exercise and I reckon it did me good because my joints are not as sore as they usually are after a tough competition.
Friday 9 October 2009
Need to hit the weight loss & fitness routine again
Its been a bad summer for me losing weight, its just been so hard to motivate myself and so easy to be lazy.
Yes I've been sort of depressed with what happend one pleasing thing is that I didn't turn to food or drink for comfort. I maybe haven't exercised as much as I should but on a positive note I don't think I've put much if any weight on.
Anyway I've made a few rules for myself to follow -
1. Don't sleep in - May be a silly but when you arn't working its so easy to lie in bed, I set the alarm for 7.30am each morning.
2. Mornings are for working - After breakfast mornings are about getting jobs done whether in the garden or around the house or something as simple a shopping. Basically I don't sit down until lunchtime.
3. Afternoons are me time - Seriously its the time to relax between Lunch and preparing the evening meal, maybe read the paper, come on the computor or watch TV.
4. Exercise in the evenings - Yes I'm determined to do some sort of exercise after my evening meal, its easy the nights I've got TT but other nights I've done a few miles walk (and did I mention the cycling machine I've loaned).
5. Restrict Computor time - 2 hours per day max allowed.
6. No food other than fruit after 7pm - just sensible eating
7. Cut out sweets or Chocolate - more sensible eating
8. No sugar in hot drinks - I occasionally have a coffee and have liminated sugar.
9. Eat sensible amounts plus plenty of fruit or veg per day - normal diet
Breakfast - Weetabix, blueberries or strawberries & Fruit Juice (orange)
Lunch - Soup or weight watchers ready meal
Afternoon - Coffee (maybe with a biscuit as a treat)
Evening Meal - Meat dish with at least 3 veg or salad.
Night - Fruit Juice (Pineapple) plus a Apple.
Obviously its always open to adjustments, this weekend I'm away playing TT in the National League, it'll be physically hard and I'll be eating sandwiches & fruit as and when I need to keep energy levels up.
Yes I've been sort of depressed with what happend one pleasing thing is that I didn't turn to food or drink for comfort. I maybe haven't exercised as much as I should but on a positive note I don't think I've put much if any weight on.
Anyway I've made a few rules for myself to follow -
1. Don't sleep in - May be a silly but when you arn't working its so easy to lie in bed, I set the alarm for 7.30am each morning.
2. Mornings are for working - After breakfast mornings are about getting jobs done whether in the garden or around the house or something as simple a shopping. Basically I don't sit down until lunchtime.
3. Afternoons are me time - Seriously its the time to relax between Lunch and preparing the evening meal, maybe read the paper, come on the computor or watch TV.
4. Exercise in the evenings - Yes I'm determined to do some sort of exercise after my evening meal, its easy the nights I've got TT but other nights I've done a few miles walk (and did I mention the cycling machine I've loaned).
5. Restrict Computor time - 2 hours per day max allowed.
6. No food other than fruit after 7pm - just sensible eating
7. Cut out sweets or Chocolate - more sensible eating
8. No sugar in hot drinks - I occasionally have a coffee and have liminated sugar.
9. Eat sensible amounts plus plenty of fruit or veg per day - normal diet
Breakfast - Weetabix, blueberries or strawberries & Fruit Juice (orange)
Lunch - Soup or weight watchers ready meal
Afternoon - Coffee (maybe with a biscuit as a treat)
Evening Meal - Meat dish with at least 3 veg or salad.
Night - Fruit Juice (Pineapple) plus a Apple.
Obviously its always open to adjustments, this weekend I'm away playing TT in the National League, it'll be physically hard and I'll be eating sandwiches & fruit as and when I need to keep energy levels up.
Tuesday 6 October 2009
Good & Bad
Bad - My TV went on the blink last week.
Good - I got a new Plasma TV.
Bad - I'm now skint
Good - Leeds Utd are the only team unbeaten in league matches this season.
Bad - I ain't lost any weight.
Good - We won 8-1 at Pool last night
Bad - We got stuffed 7-2 last week.
Good - I won one of the two frames
Bad - Got pissed off with one of our opponents at TT last week
Good - Told him he was a prat and a bad sport, then stuffed him.
Bad - Nearly got beaten up on a night out in York on Saturday when a group of blokes decided me & my mate Mark was a easy target (8 versus 2 wasn't good odds).
Good - Another group of blokes saw what was happening and took our side, the muppets backed off.
Bad - My car got recalled for safety reasons
Good - It didn't cost me anything
Bad - There is a local Ford dealer so I had to take it to Goole.
Thats about it folks.
Good - I got a new Plasma TV.
Bad - I'm now skint
Good - Leeds Utd are the only team unbeaten in league matches this season.
Bad - I ain't lost any weight.
Good - We won 8-1 at Pool last night
Bad - We got stuffed 7-2 last week.
Good - I won one of the two frames
Bad - Got pissed off with one of our opponents at TT last week
Good - Told him he was a prat and a bad sport, then stuffed him.
Bad - Nearly got beaten up on a night out in York on Saturday when a group of blokes decided me & my mate Mark was a easy target (8 versus 2 wasn't good odds).
Good - Another group of blokes saw what was happening and took our side, the muppets backed off.
Bad - My car got recalled for safety reasons
Good - It didn't cost me anything
Bad - There is a local Ford dealer so I had to take it to Goole.
Thats about it folks.
Friday 25 September 2009
Tribute Bands or the real thing
Got a copy of the local newspaper the other day and was really pleased when I opened it up to find one of my favorite 60's groups "The Animals" is playing at the local town hall in October.
In fact "The House of the Rising Sun" is one of my favorite songs of all time.
I'm a big fan of some of the great British 60's bands and these are one of my favorites so I read on. Actually it turns out the group is actually called "The Animals & friends". Ok I realise it wont be all the origional line up (Chas Chandler died in 1996) but surely 2 or 3 of them will be there.
Read on and the article tells me actually two of the origionals are there John Steel the drummer and keyboard player Mick Gallagher. Hang on I thought wasn't the keyboard player Alan Price so I checked and of course I'm correct, Gallagher actually replaced Price for 3 months only in 1965 before been replaced himself. He later became known as part of Ian Drury's Blockheads but thats another story.
So actually only one of the origional line up is there and thats the bloody drummer. I mean can you imagine the Animals without Eric Burdon on vocals or Hilton Valentine on lead guitar I can't. Its like The Stones without Jagger & Richards, The Kinks without the Davies brothers, The Who without Daltry & Townsend.
I reckon its actually a tribute band and at £17.50 a ticket I think I'll go to the local Karaoke instead.
And just to remember the proper line up :-
In fact "The House of the Rising Sun" is one of my favorite songs of all time.
I'm a big fan of some of the great British 60's bands and these are one of my favorites so I read on. Actually it turns out the group is actually called "The Animals & friends". Ok I realise it wont be all the origional line up (Chas Chandler died in 1996) but surely 2 or 3 of them will be there.
Read on and the article tells me actually two of the origionals are there John Steel the drummer and keyboard player Mick Gallagher. Hang on I thought wasn't the keyboard player Alan Price so I checked and of course I'm correct, Gallagher actually replaced Price for 3 months only in 1965 before been replaced himself. He later became known as part of Ian Drury's Blockheads but thats another story.
So actually only one of the origional line up is there and thats the bloody drummer. I mean can you imagine the Animals without Eric Burdon on vocals or Hilton Valentine on lead guitar I can't. Its like The Stones without Jagger & Richards, The Kinks without the Davies brothers, The Who without Daltry & Townsend.
I reckon its actually a tribute band and at £17.50 a ticket I think I'll go to the local Karaoke instead.
And just to remember the proper line up :-
Friday 18 September 2009
Good Neighbours & Friends
Just wanted to mention the good people in my life, lately friends have been so important to me. Since Jane's short illness and sad death which I've been quite devastated about I've had fantastic support from a number of people. So many have contacted me offering their help in any way they can. This ranges from words of support, friends offering to take me out to, to chat if needed. I've even had great support through my blog, MySpace & emails from many of you I've never met. A couple even gave me their phone numbers offering to talk.
This week I'm having it busy, my Dad is in hospital for a knee replacement and my Mum is in a care home while he recovers. I visit my Mum each morning and then its a quick Lunch before going to see my Dad in the afternoon. At the same time I've been trying to clear a couple areas of my garden that are overgrown. This is where the good neighbours come in, the elderley chap next door dug over one area and cleared a lot of weeds, on and off it took 3 days, I didn't ask but he decided to help. He's the type of person that loves gardening but he did do a good job. Ok I think it was part payment because I repaired his lawn mower at the weekend and have previously done a odd job to help him.
My other neighbours are good also another one helped me clear a lot of debri from some big bushes I chopped down. I reckon I'm lucky to live in the area I do people all help each other.
I am a bit down today it would have been Jane's 46th birthday and I reckon we should have been together.
As for getting over Jane , whats happend as changed me. Before I met her I reckon I'd settled for the single life but now I'm single again I'm not sure think I'd like to find someone else. Not just yet though that wouldn't be fair to someone else or respectful to Jane, anyway I'm not yet ready. I think by what she said in the hospital she wants me to find someone else one day, we spoke a lot after she knew the inevitable about things like that. We were so right for each other.
This week I'm having it busy, my Dad is in hospital for a knee replacement and my Mum is in a care home while he recovers. I visit my Mum each morning and then its a quick Lunch before going to see my Dad in the afternoon. At the same time I've been trying to clear a couple areas of my garden that are overgrown. This is where the good neighbours come in, the elderley chap next door dug over one area and cleared a lot of weeds, on and off it took 3 days, I didn't ask but he decided to help. He's the type of person that loves gardening but he did do a good job. Ok I think it was part payment because I repaired his lawn mower at the weekend and have previously done a odd job to help him.
My other neighbours are good also another one helped me clear a lot of debri from some big bushes I chopped down. I reckon I'm lucky to live in the area I do people all help each other.
I am a bit down today it would have been Jane's 46th birthday and I reckon we should have been together.
As for getting over Jane , whats happend as changed me. Before I met her I reckon I'd settled for the single life but now I'm single again I'm not sure think I'd like to find someone else. Not just yet though that wouldn't be fair to someone else or respectful to Jane, anyway I'm not yet ready. I think by what she said in the hospital she wants me to find someone else one day, we spoke a lot after she knew the inevitable about things like that. We were so right for each other.
Wednesday 9 September 2009
Getting Back on Track
I reckon its now time to get my life back on track following the death of Jane its no good sat around feeling sorry for myself. Its hit me hard because I really did love Jane but I know she would want me to keep going forward in my life. I'll never forget her, I have some lovely photos and fantastic memories, she was so special for me.
I need to keep busy
So where do I go now -
1. Luckily its the start of the TT season and I played at the weekend for my British League Club, we did ok beating Woodfield (Birmingham), drawing with Uxbridge (Burton) & Chesterfield and losin narrowly 5-3 to Drumchapel Glasgow. We were pleased with them results because on paper its a tough division for us. Personaly I won 4 and lost 4 of my games which was ok because I haven't put in the pre-season training for obvious reasons.
2. I need to get going with the weight loss, my holiday, lack of exercise and living out of hotels while visiting Jane have taken their toll. Too many full english breakfasts, Pub meals & Beer do tend to have that effect.
So now I'm watching what I eat and trying to exercise as much as possible, been also working in the garden which will help.
I'll report more about my plans for weight loss and fitness soon.
3. Next Saturday I'm out for a meal with a few old workmates, apparently 3 of them are celebrating Birthdays, it'll be good to catch up with the crowd.
4. Gotta just point out the Footie season is up and running and the Mighty Whites are on their way back, 8 wins from 8 matches, MOT.
5. Finally for awhile now I've been thinking about doing something, you know having a direction or a challenge in life. Anyway I'm planning to do so fund raising for charity, maybe organise a number of events. Thinking of doing it for Cancer Research in respect for Jane and maybe help others not have to go through whjat we have in years to come. I actually discussed this with Jane before she passed away and she thought it was a great idea.
Not yet decided on what I'll be doing yet but I'm mulling over a few ideas, first I need to contact "Cancer Research" apparently they provide a advisory pack to help you get started.
Not sure when I'll get started on this project but I will just need some solid ideas if anyone has any suggestions, lets face it everyone knows someone who as suffered with cancer.
Thats all for now but I'll try update on all these things.
I need to keep busy
So where do I go now -
1. Luckily its the start of the TT season and I played at the weekend for my British League Club, we did ok beating Woodfield (Birmingham), drawing with Uxbridge (Burton) & Chesterfield and losin narrowly 5-3 to Drumchapel Glasgow. We were pleased with them results because on paper its a tough division for us. Personaly I won 4 and lost 4 of my games which was ok because I haven't put in the pre-season training for obvious reasons.
2. I need to get going with the weight loss, my holiday, lack of exercise and living out of hotels while visiting Jane have taken their toll. Too many full english breakfasts, Pub meals & Beer do tend to have that effect.
So now I'm watching what I eat and trying to exercise as much as possible, been also working in the garden which will help.
I'll report more about my plans for weight loss and fitness soon.
3. Next Saturday I'm out for a meal with a few old workmates, apparently 3 of them are celebrating Birthdays, it'll be good to catch up with the crowd.
4. Gotta just point out the Footie season is up and running and the Mighty Whites are on their way back, 8 wins from 8 matches, MOT.
5. Finally for awhile now I've been thinking about doing something, you know having a direction or a challenge in life. Anyway I'm planning to do so fund raising for charity, maybe organise a number of events. Thinking of doing it for Cancer Research in respect for Jane and maybe help others not have to go through whjat we have in years to come. I actually discussed this with Jane before she passed away and she thought it was a great idea.
Not yet decided on what I'll be doing yet but I'm mulling over a few ideas, first I need to contact "Cancer Research" apparently they provide a advisory pack to help you get started.
Not sure when I'll get started on this project but I will just need some solid ideas if anyone has any suggestions, lets face it everyone knows someone who as suffered with cancer.
Thats all for now but I'll try update on all these things.
Monday 31 August 2009
Goodbye Jane - RIP
Goodbye my darling thanks for making the last 15 months so special I'll never forget you xxxSunday 30 August 2009
Still Can't believe it
I'm still finding it hard to come to terms with Jane's death it feels like a nightmare and I want to wake up from it. I'll not see her sweet smile again, its so difficult to understand why this has happend.
Everytime my phone bleeps I think it should be a text from Jane, when I check my emails I'm still expecting one from her, its so strange.
I'm not looking forward to the funeral on Wednesday, I know its going to be a final goodbye. I'm going down Tuesday and staying over with Janes parents they are really nice people, I feel so sorry for them, it must be hard for parents to bury their Child.
I've asked if I can say a few words at the funeral, it'll be hard and emotional but I feel I need to do it.
Saturday 29 August 2009
My Inspiration
Jane was a very unselfish person, she always put others first.At one stage earlier in the year I suggested to Jane that I cut back on some of my other commitments so I could spend more time with her, I told her I would cut back on some of my weekend Table Tennis competititions.
She would not let me and her solution was to come along and support me, remember her coming along to watch me play at Swindon for my Veterans National League team. She was quite nervous the night before and really worried she would put me off. Actually as it turned out I think she inspired me and I won all 10 of my matches that weekend helping my team to promotion. She never saw me lose.
Thursday 27 August 2009
Feeling Low
Today I've been feeling down can't get Jane's lovely sweet smile out of my mind things just don't seem real. This morning I ordered my flowers for her funeral and when it came to writing the message I had a bit of an emotional moment.I'm really missing her which may seem strange because the distance between our homes meant we only met up once a month. However every morning when I turned on my phone would they be a nice message or when I checked emails there would be some joke, we talked on the phone or IM, we just communicated all the time.
To be honest at present I'm so non motivated to do anything, I'm eating too much and just feeling sorry for myself. What dissapoints me is Jane wouldn't want me like this she wanted me to stay strong but its not easy. I really loved her, maybe I can start to move on after the funeral next Wednesday but I'll never forget her.
Wednesday 26 August 2009
An Angel
Jane was a fantastic person to know, she was so easy to get on with and always put others first. She also loved animals and one day she really loved was a visit to the Zoo on our last holiday.When we first found out the devastating news about how ill she was, her first reaction was to think of me, she said she would understand if I walked away from our relationship, she didn't want me to go through a hard time.
No way was I gonna do that and deep down I'm sure she was pleased with the time I spent at her hospital bedside, I really loved her and still do, I will never forget her.
Tuesday 25 August 2009
Jane's Music
One thing that Jane & myself had in common was a love of music although our tastes did vary, not saying we disliked each others stuff we both respected each others tastes. Jane was more into voice and loved Elvis, The Drifters, Billy Ocean, Billy Joel, to mention a few. Personally I'm more into instruments especially guitar love classic rock & Blues.Anyway my todays song is one that Jane wanted playing at her funeral, I now cry when I hear it :-
Monday 24 August 2009
Goodbye my little Cheesecake
Although I'm obviously still heartbroken over what has happend, I'm trying to think of all the good times I had with Jane over the last 15 months. I remember once telling Jane I give everyone I like a nickname, of course straight away she asked what hers was, I told her "Cheesecake" not just a plain one but "Stawberry Cheesecake".She asked why on earth I called her that, the answer was easy just told her I found her irresistable just like I do Strawberry Cheesecake. She liked then liked the name and it stuck.
She always had a fun sense of humour and when I visited her in hospital while she was very ill she joked she'd now have to be my "Lemon Cheesecake" due to the colour her skin had gone from the poison in her system.
Here is my todays song for Jane RIP my darling
Sunday 23 August 2009
WHY ?
First I'd like to thank all the many friends that knew about what has happend for their emails of sympathy and their support following the tragic death of my my girlfriend, it was really appreciated.
I am still devastated and can't believe how quick it all happend and the only question I can come up with is "Why ?".
I know none of you knew Jane but she was a lovely person would do anything for anyone, she loved people and animals, she always put others first. I really thought I'd hit the jackpot finding her and nothing can take away the memory of these last 15 months since we first met.
I can't believe only a few weeks ago we were having a great time on holiday in Chicago and not a clue she was ill.
Still don't know when the funeral is should maybe find out tomorrow, I feel it will be my last chance to say goodbye.
Don't think my life will ever be the same, she changed me for the better.
Loved her to bits.
Gonna post a song per day for Jane until the funeral :-
I am still devastated and can't believe how quick it all happend and the only question I can come up with is "Why ?".
I know none of you knew Jane but she was a lovely person would do anything for anyone, she loved people and animals, she always put others first. I really thought I'd hit the jackpot finding her and nothing can take away the memory of these last 15 months since we first met.
I can't believe only a few weeks ago we were having a great time on holiday in Chicago and not a clue she was ill.
Still don't know when the funeral is should maybe find out tomorrow, I feel it will be my last chance to say goodbye.
Don't think my life will ever be the same, she changed me for the better.Loved her to bits.
Gonna post a song per day for Jane until the funeral :-
Monday 10 August 2009
Sorry
Sorry I haven't been around anyones blogs, things are not good with a friend seriously ill and I'm spending much of time away from home visiting and offering my support.
Sunday 19 July 2009
Cadillac Records - At Last
One film currently out I'd like to see is "Cadillac records" which is about Chess records in Chicago.
I see Beyonce plays the part of Etta James and its causing some argument between music fans to who does the best version of the classic love song "At Last". Must admit I would go for Etta as this song belongs to her but at the same time I'm impressed with Beyonces version.
Thing is searching the internet this song has been performed by some superb female singers so I ask you the question of which version you prefer :-
Etta James :-
Beyonce :-
Cyndi Lauper :-
Christina Anguilera :-
Eva Cassidy :-
Celine Dion :-
For the record I'm going for :-
1. Etta
2. Celine
3. Eva
4. Beyonce
5. Christina
6. Cyndi
Its very difficult and you could put them in any order.
I see Beyonce plays the part of Etta James and its causing some argument between music fans to who does the best version of the classic love song "At Last". Must admit I would go for Etta as this song belongs to her but at the same time I'm impressed with Beyonces version.
Thing is searching the internet this song has been performed by some superb female singers so I ask you the question of which version you prefer :-
Etta James :-
Beyonce :-
Cyndi Lauper :-
Christina Anguilera :-
Eva Cassidy :-
Celine Dion :-
For the record I'm going for :-
1. Etta
2. Celine
3. Eva
4. Beyonce
5. Christina
6. Cyndi
Its very difficult and you could put them in any order.
Thursday 16 July 2009
Holiday Photo's
As promised in the previous post about my Chicago trip with Jane I've sorted my holiday pics for anyone to look at.
Use this Link :-
http://www.flickr.com/photos/8308363@N02/sets/72157621334897716/detail/
Hope you enjoy.
Use this Link :-
http://www.flickr.com/photos/8308363@N02/sets/72157621334897716/detail/
Hope you enjoy.
Saturday 11 July 2009
Fun, Food & Fights
Well I'm now back from my Chicago trip and have plenty to report. As you know I've been a few times in the past but for Jane it was her first visit to the windy City (her first to the US actually). Of course before we set off I had warned Jane about how hot it would be at this time of year and she definately wouldn't need our waterproof clothes. However in practice this wasn't the case tempretures in general were 15 degrees lower than normal and we had some quite drizzly days (usually each time we went to the festival), so much for global warming.
Not going to report things in any particular order but thought I'd better start with one of the lowlights (which was supposed to be an highlight). On the evening of July 3rd we made our way to Grant Park to watch the the Independance Firework display. When we arrived the crowds were massive (estimates between one & two million), we tried to get near Buckingham Fountain but it was too packed so we settled for a spot set back.
Shortly before there was a loud bang and a rumour spread it was a gun shot (actually a fire cracker I think) anyway a section of the crowd panicked and stampeded. I grapped Jane and we just stood still as it calmed down. Now we noticed a lot of gangs of youths milling around all dressed in gang like uniforms and the atmosphere started to feel a little tense. Something kicked off creating a bigger stampede in the crowd, Jane turned to run but I grabbed her reckoning it was safer to stand as people were falling and getting trampled (felt a bit like a redcoat at Rorkes Drift though).
Again things calmed for awhile then the Fireworks started, however again trouble started, appeared to be local gang rivalries to me and again we stood our ground. One chap in his fifties fell into us and we helped him (his wife later thanked us). Gangs were all over the place and one large group started to gather right in front of us, two old ladies sat in front of us packed up and suggested it would be a good idea to move, we took the advice and moved back to Michegan Ave to watch the end of the fireworks.
I saw kids crying, elderly people scared and many people leaving before the end, its a shame young thugs spoil what should have been a great occasion, hope a few got arrested.
Following on from that we found the rest of the people we came across really nice & friendly but what else did we do :-
We visited the "Taste of Chicago" festival a few times but always seemed to hit the worst of the weather. Although it was fun I thought the standard of the music wasn't as great as on my previous visits although we enjoyed "Broadway in Chicago" on the main stage. Others we liked included "Uncle Bob & the Bluzers" on the Best Buy stage & "Rob Stone & the C notes" on the Taste stage. We were looking forward to the Tribute Band day as acts playing CSNY, Luthor Vandross, Eagles, Rolling Stones & U2 were playing but I'm afraid the rain beat us.
We also went up Sears Tower after queing for a long time, they have some new features which includes a Glass Floor you can walk out on and look straight down from the 103rd floor. Also visited Union Station and got a photo of the stairs from the pram scene in "The Untouchables".
We visited a couple of museums "The Chicago History Museum" which I haven't been before was interesting but not really value for money, it was quite small and not enough things to look at. The museum of Science and Industry is just the opposite you need a full day, I've been before but there was quite a bit of new stuf, its a fun day out with plenty for us big kids to play on. Ok I'll admit it Jane beat me on a computorised game but I think it was faulty, lol.
We also did the Architecture River boat trip after a walk down the shops of Michegan Ave (Magnificent Mile) on our first day.
Another first for me was a visit to Garfield Conservetory which was nice and Cactus will be pleased to know they had a lovely section dedicated to her favorite plants. Yes and I did take some photos of them.
We spent another day at Lincoln Park Zoo which is really good (and free), saw numerous animals and got some good pics reckon the highlights was the monkey house, could watch them for hours.
We visited Navy Pier and took a Cruise on Lake Michegan on the "Odessey", thought we were going on the "Spirit of Chicago" but they cocked up our booking, didn't complain cos I reckon we ended up with a better deal than we paid for. They welcomed us on with Champagne then we had a lovely meal while cruising for two hours and taking in some fantastic city views.
The hotel we stayed at was "The Ambassador East" which as a lot of history many of the stars of the big screen stayed there and used its bar the Pump Room. Photos of stars sat in the bar were all ove the place, recognised a few but a lot were before my time. Couldn't understand why the didn't want our picture, lol.
We visited a number of bars & Clubs on a night and saw some really good music, saw Shirley Johnson in Blue Chicago and I got her new album which she signed, its currently top of the US Blues charts.
Also visited "The Green Mill" cocktail lounge which takes you back to the Prohibition era, apparently Al Capone was a regular. When we was there Alan Gresiks Swing orchaestra was performing, they were really good and the place was packed to the rafters.
One night we visited Kingston Mines the famous blues Club, the had two acts on Charlie Love & Linsey Alexander, both were good but different. Charlie is an out & out entertainer playing a range of music styles while Linsey is very guitar orientated, started his set with a version of Hendrix "Little Wing".
We also visited a couple of Piano Bars "Jilly's" on Rush street & the "Redhead" were we spent the night supping cocktails.
On our last night we ate at Andy's Jazz Club, we got the tail end of a Jazz Orchaestra and they were really good but the main act was "Yoko Noge's Jazz me Blues Band" they were awesome entertainment.
As for food everwhere we ate was fantastic but the portions were enough to feed a family of four, at least it kept me away from puddings I was always too full. Can't remember all the places but two spring to mind "Weber Grill & Tavern on Rush". We also ate one night in a place in the Lincoln Park district near the Biograph Theatre and they have just recently filmed the new gangster movie "Public Enemies" about Dillinger (who was shot at he Biograph). Johnny Depp is playing the lead role and he had been eating in the same place we went, they had a big photo on the wall of Depp and the other actors sat in the bar in their gangster clothing.
I'll post my photos soon as I've sorted them for those interested.
Not going to report things in any particular order but thought I'd better start with one of the lowlights (which was supposed to be an highlight). On the evening of July 3rd we made our way to Grant Park to watch the the Independance Firework display. When we arrived the crowds were massive (estimates between one & two million), we tried to get near Buckingham Fountain but it was too packed so we settled for a spot set back.
Shortly before there was a loud bang and a rumour spread it was a gun shot (actually a fire cracker I think) anyway a section of the crowd panicked and stampeded. I grapped Jane and we just stood still as it calmed down. Now we noticed a lot of gangs of youths milling around all dressed in gang like uniforms and the atmosphere started to feel a little tense. Something kicked off creating a bigger stampede in the crowd, Jane turned to run but I grabbed her reckoning it was safer to stand as people were falling and getting trampled (felt a bit like a redcoat at Rorkes Drift though).
Again things calmed for awhile then the Fireworks started, however again trouble started, appeared to be local gang rivalries to me and again we stood our ground. One chap in his fifties fell into us and we helped him (his wife later thanked us). Gangs were all over the place and one large group started to gather right in front of us, two old ladies sat in front of us packed up and suggested it would be a good idea to move, we took the advice and moved back to Michegan Ave to watch the end of the fireworks.
I saw kids crying, elderly people scared and many people leaving before the end, its a shame young thugs spoil what should have been a great occasion, hope a few got arrested.
Following on from that we found the rest of the people we came across really nice & friendly but what else did we do :-
We visited the "Taste of Chicago" festival a few times but always seemed to hit the worst of the weather. Although it was fun I thought the standard of the music wasn't as great as on my previous visits although we enjoyed "Broadway in Chicago" on the main stage. Others we liked included "Uncle Bob & the Bluzers" on the Best Buy stage & "Rob Stone & the C notes" on the Taste stage. We were looking forward to the Tribute Band day as acts playing CSNY, Luthor Vandross, Eagles, Rolling Stones & U2 were playing but I'm afraid the rain beat us.
We also went up Sears Tower after queing for a long time, they have some new features which includes a Glass Floor you can walk out on and look straight down from the 103rd floor. Also visited Union Station and got a photo of the stairs from the pram scene in "The Untouchables".
We visited a couple of museums "The Chicago History Museum" which I haven't been before was interesting but not really value for money, it was quite small and not enough things to look at. The museum of Science and Industry is just the opposite you need a full day, I've been before but there was quite a bit of new stuf, its a fun day out with plenty for us big kids to play on. Ok I'll admit it Jane beat me on a computorised game but I think it was faulty, lol.
We also did the Architecture River boat trip after a walk down the shops of Michegan Ave (Magnificent Mile) on our first day.
Another first for me was a visit to Garfield Conservetory which was nice and Cactus will be pleased to know they had a lovely section dedicated to her favorite plants. Yes and I did take some photos of them.
We spent another day at Lincoln Park Zoo which is really good (and free), saw numerous animals and got some good pics reckon the highlights was the monkey house, could watch them for hours.
We visited Navy Pier and took a Cruise on Lake Michegan on the "Odessey", thought we were going on the "Spirit of Chicago" but they cocked up our booking, didn't complain cos I reckon we ended up with a better deal than we paid for. They welcomed us on with Champagne then we had a lovely meal while cruising for two hours and taking in some fantastic city views.
The hotel we stayed at was "The Ambassador East" which as a lot of history many of the stars of the big screen stayed there and used its bar the Pump Room. Photos of stars sat in the bar were all ove the place, recognised a few but a lot were before my time. Couldn't understand why the didn't want our picture, lol.
We visited a number of bars & Clubs on a night and saw some really good music, saw Shirley Johnson in Blue Chicago and I got her new album which she signed, its currently top of the US Blues charts.
Also visited "The Green Mill" cocktail lounge which takes you back to the Prohibition era, apparently Al Capone was a regular. When we was there Alan Gresiks Swing orchaestra was performing, they were really good and the place was packed to the rafters.
One night we visited Kingston Mines the famous blues Club, the had two acts on Charlie Love & Linsey Alexander, both were good but different. Charlie is an out & out entertainer playing a range of music styles while Linsey is very guitar orientated, started his set with a version of Hendrix "Little Wing".
We also visited a couple of Piano Bars "Jilly's" on Rush street & the "Redhead" were we spent the night supping cocktails.
On our last night we ate at Andy's Jazz Club, we got the tail end of a Jazz Orchaestra and they were really good but the main act was "Yoko Noge's Jazz me Blues Band" they were awesome entertainment.
As for food everwhere we ate was fantastic but the portions were enough to feed a family of four, at least it kept me away from puddings I was always too full. Can't remember all the places but two spring to mind "Weber Grill & Tavern on Rush". We also ate one night in a place in the Lincoln Park district near the Biograph Theatre and they have just recently filmed the new gangster movie "Public Enemies" about Dillinger (who was shot at he Biograph). Johnny Depp is playing the lead role and he had been eating in the same place we went, they had a big photo on the wall of Depp and the other actors sat in the bar in their gangster clothing.
I'll post my photos soon as I've sorted them for those interested.
Friday 26 June 2009
Must have kept my youthfull looks
The other day I was in the supermarket checkout queue and there was a little old lady behind me. I didn't recognise her but when I turned around she "You are Michael arn't you". Surprised I said yes thinking she must know my parents.
She realised I wasn't sure who she was when she explained she was "Diane ----- mother". I was gobsmacked because the Diane she was talking about was someone who was at scholl with me, not at Secondary school but in the Junior school, yes the under 11's, in other words she recognised someone who was at school with her daughter 40 years ago.
So I can't have altered as much as I thought.
Just to confirm my youthfull looks I played my first over 50's Table Tennis competition in Scarborough and much to my delight a couple of the other competitors querried if I was old enough.
Think they were dissapointed I was there cos they fancied their chances and I was ranked above them. For the record I managed to win the age group beating a bloke from Hull in the final. Did ok in the other (younger events), got to the Semi of the Over 40's & the last 8 in the Open age singles plus semi of the doubles.
Anyway thought I better write a post today cos thats it for a fortnight cos I'm away on holiday (with Jane of course). I wish you all well and will catch up on my return to the UK.
She realised I wasn't sure who she was when she explained she was "Diane ----- mother". I was gobsmacked because the Diane she was talking about was someone who was at scholl with me, not at Secondary school but in the Junior school, yes the under 11's, in other words she recognised someone who was at school with her daughter 40 years ago.
So I can't have altered as much as I thought.
Just to confirm my youthfull looks I played my first over 50's Table Tennis competition in Scarborough and much to my delight a couple of the other competitors querried if I was old enough.
Think they were dissapointed I was there cos they fancied their chances and I was ranked above them. For the record I managed to win the age group beating a bloke from Hull in the final. Did ok in the other (younger events), got to the Semi of the Over 40's & the last 8 in the Open age singles plus semi of the doubles.
Anyway thought I better write a post today cos thats it for a fortnight cos I'm away on holiday (with Jane of course). I wish you all well and will catch up on my return to the UK.
Monday 15 June 2009
Happy Birthday Noddy
Well my first taste of music was in the Glam Rock years of the early 70's and there was only one group and one lead singer that summed up the era.
So Happy 63rd Birthday today to Noddy Holder
So Happy 63rd Birthday today to Noddy Holder
Sunday 14 June 2009
Ok I like to Win
Its the time of year I attend the various Presentation evenings of the local Table Tennis Leagues that I play in. Once again I've a few trophys to pick up, the above one's are from the Selby league I also got a few at the York league event.It led me to think about my personality type and I've come to the conclusion its not just the table tennis but whatever I do I like to win. Reckon if I played a 5 year old at tiddly winks I'd want to win. I've always had a competitive nature and am at my best when someone tells me I can't do something, I love the adrenalin I get from a challenge.
Anyway I'm looking forward to the North/East Yorkshire Championships next weekend, its for players from a number of local leagues (York, Hull, Scarborough, Selby, Rydale, Bridlington, Northallerton & Scarborough). There is a over 50's event and its the first time I've entered something in that age group so I'm really up from the challenge, there are a few good players to beat though.
Wednesday 10 June 2009
Taking Responsibility
.jpg)
Question - When does Obama start taking responsibility for what happens on his watch ?
Friday 5 June 2009
Bloody French
Once again the idoiots from over the water have shown their hate for the British by insulting our Queen and not inviting her to the D Day tribute. I'm not surprised its a nation that still can't get over that fact the Duke of Wellington kicked Napoleons backside for him.
Lets not forget this is the nation of Brit hating snail eating numptys, yes our European partners are the ones that provided arms to Argentina during the Falklands war, burnt our sheep, vetoed us joing the origional EU and never vote for us in the Eurovision song contest.
Back to D Day they seemed to invite everyone thats anyone but not inviting our Queen seems just so delibrate. Why should she be invited, well that is obvious, it was our troops that helped liberate their country and the rest of europe. We would certainly be living in a different Europe today if we hadn't.
What part did we play in the D Day landings, well among the allies we were the ones that provided most troops (despite Hollywood pictures giving a different impression) a fact that France seems to have wrote out of their history books taught in schools.
Anyway it is irrelevant many brave men gave their lives to help save Europe so with tomorrow been June 6th I reckon we should remember them all Brits, Americans, Canadians, Aussies, Poles, Dutch & any more I've forgotten.
Lets not forget this is the nation of Brit hating snail eating numptys, yes our European partners are the ones that provided arms to Argentina during the Falklands war, burnt our sheep, vetoed us joing the origional EU and never vote for us in the Eurovision song contest.
Back to D Day they seemed to invite everyone thats anyone but not inviting our Queen seems just so delibrate. Why should she be invited, well that is obvious, it was our troops that helped liberate their country and the rest of europe. We would certainly be living in a different Europe today if we hadn't.
What part did we play in the D Day landings, well among the allies we were the ones that provided most troops (despite Hollywood pictures giving a different impression) a fact that France seems to have wrote out of their history books taught in schools.
Anyway it is irrelevant many brave men gave their lives to help save Europe so with tomorrow been June 6th I reckon we should remember them all Brits, Americans, Canadians, Aussies, Poles, Dutch & any more I've forgotten.
Thursday 28 May 2009
Another Cosy Weekend
Just had a nice (cosy) weekend away with my friend Jane, we had 4 days (and nights) together and again it went well.
Friday we travelled down and met in the town we were staying Banbury which is in the cotswolds. Our hotel was a medium sized one (23 rooms) the staff were very nice, it was a very old building with plenty of charactor (& creaking floorboards, lol).
Friday night we ate at an Italian restaurant called Fabios, it was excellent, I had Chicken and Jane had Lasagne we both followed this up with Cheesecake. Which reminds me "Cheesecake" is Janes new nickname but I wont go into why.
Saturday we spent our day wandering around Banbury, it was market day so plenty to look at. On the night we ate at our hotels restaurant, we both had Steak Pie in Ale Gravy, I must say it was excellent. After the meal we toured few Pubs most were old world type places it was nice.
Sunday we checked out of our hotel & had a drive around the cotswolds visiting some small town including "Shipston on stour" & "Moreton in Marsh". Eventually we made our way to our next hotel which was in Northamptonshire. It was a 4 star leisure hotel with its own Spa & golf course.
Part of our deal was for dinner on the first night so we ate in the hotel restaurant, it was really nice we both went a Pate starter followed by Belly Pork with crackling. Ok I'll put my hands up and admit we also had a small sweet (cheesecake again).
Monday we went for a hike around the hotel grounds which included woods, 12 lakes and a golf course. It was really nice apart from some parts were a little overgrown so at times it was like a jungle.
In the afternoon I had a go on a golf simulator (and will point out birded the 3rd at Pebble Beach). Afterwards we had a game of tenpin bowling, I think Jane had been practising weeks but she still couldn't match my natural talent, lol.
Monday night we had a drive out to a country Pub and had a traditional Pub meal, we both went for Fillet steak it was very nice, must admit I like country Pubs they have a real relaxed atmosphere.
After booking out of the hotel tuesday we had a drive into Daventry, a quick walk around town followed by a coffee before eventually saying our goodbyes.
Well just over 4 weeks to our next trip when we are going to Chicago, Im really looking forward to it.
Here are a few photos from our trip :-
Banbury -
Friday we travelled down and met in the town we were staying Banbury which is in the cotswolds. Our hotel was a medium sized one (23 rooms) the staff were very nice, it was a very old building with plenty of charactor (& creaking floorboards, lol).
Friday night we ate at an Italian restaurant called Fabios, it was excellent, I had Chicken and Jane had Lasagne we both followed this up with Cheesecake. Which reminds me "Cheesecake" is Janes new nickname but I wont go into why.
Saturday we spent our day wandering around Banbury, it was market day so plenty to look at. On the night we ate at our hotels restaurant, we both had Steak Pie in Ale Gravy, I must say it was excellent. After the meal we toured few Pubs most were old world type places it was nice.
Sunday we checked out of our hotel & had a drive around the cotswolds visiting some small town including "Shipston on stour" & "Moreton in Marsh". Eventually we made our way to our next hotel which was in Northamptonshire. It was a 4 star leisure hotel with its own Spa & golf course.
Part of our deal was for dinner on the first night so we ate in the hotel restaurant, it was really nice we both went a Pate starter followed by Belly Pork with crackling. Ok I'll put my hands up and admit we also had a small sweet (cheesecake again).
Monday we went for a hike around the hotel grounds which included woods, 12 lakes and a golf course. It was really nice apart from some parts were a little overgrown so at times it was like a jungle.
In the afternoon I had a go on a golf simulator (and will point out birded the 3rd at Pebble Beach). Afterwards we had a game of tenpin bowling, I think Jane had been practising weeks but she still couldn't match my natural talent, lol.
Monday night we had a drive out to a country Pub and had a traditional Pub meal, we both went for Fillet steak it was very nice, must admit I like country Pubs they have a real relaxed atmosphere.
After booking out of the hotel tuesday we had a drive into Daventry, a quick walk around town followed by a coffee before eventually saying our goodbyes.
Well just over 4 weeks to our next trip when we are going to Chicago, Im really looking forward to it.
Here are a few photos from our trip :-
Banbury -
Banbury Canal -
Banbury Cross -
Fine Lady on a cock horse & in front of it(Banbury famous statue) - 
Banbury Market -
Shipston on Stour -
Moreton in Marsh -
Hellidon Lakes -
Hellidon Lakes Hotel -
Tuesday 26 May 2009
Has anyone else noticed this ?
Don't know if this is just a sick coincidence but....
2007 - Chinese year of the Chicken - Bird Flu Pandemic devastates parts of Asia
2008 - Chinese year of the Horse - Equine Influenza decimates Australian horse racing
2009 - Chinese year of the Pig - Swine Flu Pandemic kills hundreds of pigs around the globe.
Has anyone else noticed this???!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Could it get worse????
2010 - Chinese year of the Cock - what could possibly go wrong? !!
2007 - Chinese year of the Chicken - Bird Flu Pandemic devastates parts of Asia
2008 - Chinese year of the Horse - Equine Influenza decimates Australian horse racing
2009 - Chinese year of the Pig - Swine Flu Pandemic kills hundreds of pigs around the globe.
Has anyone else noticed this???!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Could it get worse????
2010 - Chinese year of the Cock - what could possibly go wrong? !!
Monday 18 May 2009
How Blue can you get ?
Well today I reckon I've got the blues
Today is the day that the governments scheme to get people buying new cars and help the car industry comes into operation. The scheme involves giving anyone with a car over 10 years old £2,000 off the price of a new one if they scrap the old banger.
Sure some people will think great but not me because it doesn't help me and thousands like me, in fact I'd goes as far as saying the majority of the population will be worse off.
Well my car is 4 years old, I usually part exchange it when it gets to about 5years old, of course this great government innitiative as today devalued all 2nd hand cars of that sort of age. Its normally the people that have old bangers that buy cars 5 or 6 years old like mine, of course today they are all buying new, nobody will want mine.
So I'm left with the choice of taking a financial hit or keeping my car and running it into the ground.
Now I think the government should do this sort of deal for household appliances, you may have guessed I'm a bit pissed off. Today I put some washing on and half way through my washing machine decided it wanted to die, didn't go quietly though a real crash and bang.
Not really looked at it much yet but it looks like the motor (not sure what caused it), reckon a repair will cost between £100 & £120 where I can get a new washer for about twice as much. I'm deciding which is the best option, I know a repair is cheaper but its an oldish machine and I'm thinking it'll only be a matter of time before something else goes wrong. Maybe new one is the best option but I'll strip it first in case its a easier repair than I expect.
Then of course there are other matters like Leeds United losing in the play offs (& scumchester won the league), my foot is hurting (gout) and before anyone asks I haven't lost weight this week.
Anyway I'm gonna finish with a suitable song "How Blue Can you get" its by BB King and a classic (maybe it'll cheer me up)
Ok life isn't totally bad, I'm going away this coming weekend with my friend Jane, we are away 4 days and I'm really looking forward to it.
Today is the day that the governments scheme to get people buying new cars and help the car industry comes into operation. The scheme involves giving anyone with a car over 10 years old £2,000 off the price of a new one if they scrap the old banger.
Sure some people will think great but not me because it doesn't help me and thousands like me, in fact I'd goes as far as saying the majority of the population will be worse off.
Well my car is 4 years old, I usually part exchange it when it gets to about 5years old, of course this great government innitiative as today devalued all 2nd hand cars of that sort of age. Its normally the people that have old bangers that buy cars 5 or 6 years old like mine, of course today they are all buying new, nobody will want mine.
So I'm left with the choice of taking a financial hit or keeping my car and running it into the ground.
Now I think the government should do this sort of deal for household appliances, you may have guessed I'm a bit pissed off. Today I put some washing on and half way through my washing machine decided it wanted to die, didn't go quietly though a real crash and bang.
Not really looked at it much yet but it looks like the motor (not sure what caused it), reckon a repair will cost between £100 & £120 where I can get a new washer for about twice as much. I'm deciding which is the best option, I know a repair is cheaper but its an oldish machine and I'm thinking it'll only be a matter of time before something else goes wrong. Maybe new one is the best option but I'll strip it first in case its a easier repair than I expect.
Then of course there are other matters like Leeds United losing in the play offs (& scumchester won the league), my foot is hurting (gout) and before anyone asks I haven't lost weight this week.
Anyway I'm gonna finish with a suitable song "How Blue Can you get" its by BB King and a classic (maybe it'll cheer me up)
Ok life isn't totally bad, I'm going away this coming weekend with my friend Jane, we are away 4 days and I'm really looking forward to it.
Wednesday 13 May 2009
Wednesday 6 May 2009
Hello
It seems quite awhile since I wrote a blog article so thought I'd update everyone with whats happening in my life.
First on the weight loss front I'm sort of holding my own (so nothing changed there), Meals are going to plan but I've still got the age old problem of doing well all day but surredering to the hunger in the evening, not every day though. Think I need another push, maybe I should write on here exactly what I eat & drink at least that way I'm accountable & you lot can criticise when I fail.
Did a idiot thing last week, put the washing on & my MP3 player was in my shirt pocket. So now I've got the cleanest MP3 player in town and luckily after 2 days on the radiator its still working.
My love life is going well with Jane, we have really hit it off, I've got strong feelings for her & it seems she feels a similar way. Although its difficult us living at opposite ends of the country things seem to be moving forward at a fair rate of knotts. Our next get together is in 2 weeks time, I'm really looking forward to it.
Playing TT tonight, its the local league (York) knockout semi final, we've already sealed the league championship so are on course for the double. If we win the final is Friday night. There is a Presentation evening the following Friday, I'll be going to collect my trophies.
Last Friday I went out in Leeds for a meal with a few ex workmates, it was a good night. Went to a restaurant/Bar called "Tiger Tiger". I had a Mixed Grill which was nice (ok not good for the diet but it was a special occasion. Later we went to a Club but to be honest it wasn't my scene, think the music they play in Clubs nowadays is crap (showing my age).
Finally got to say good luck to Leeds United, my team again have reached the play offs and hopfully this year we will go all the way. Our form going into these matches is good so confidence will be high.
We've got them nice friendly people from South/East London "Millwall" in the two legged semi final. First leg is down at their place next Saturday then the return in Leeds on Thursday. The fans of these Clubs don't like each other so given the history between them the Police are only allowing the away teams 1,000 tickets.
If we win we'll play either MK Dons or Scunthorpe in the final.
First on the weight loss front I'm sort of holding my own (so nothing changed there), Meals are going to plan but I've still got the age old problem of doing well all day but surredering to the hunger in the evening, not every day though. Think I need another push, maybe I should write on here exactly what I eat & drink at least that way I'm accountable & you lot can criticise when I fail.
Did a idiot thing last week, put the washing on & my MP3 player was in my shirt pocket. So now I've got the cleanest MP3 player in town and luckily after 2 days on the radiator its still working.
My love life is going well with Jane, we have really hit it off, I've got strong feelings for her & it seems she feels a similar way. Although its difficult us living at opposite ends of the country things seem to be moving forward at a fair rate of knotts. Our next get together is in 2 weeks time, I'm really looking forward to it.
Playing TT tonight, its the local league (York) knockout semi final, we've already sealed the league championship so are on course for the double. If we win the final is Friday night. There is a Presentation evening the following Friday, I'll be going to collect my trophies.
Last Friday I went out in Leeds for a meal with a few ex workmates, it was a good night. Went to a restaurant/Bar called "Tiger Tiger". I had a Mixed Grill which was nice (ok not good for the diet but it was a special occasion. Later we went to a Club but to be honest it wasn't my scene, think the music they play in Clubs nowadays is crap (showing my age).
Finally got to say good luck to Leeds United, my team again have reached the play offs and hopfully this year we will go all the way. Our form going into these matches is good so confidence will be high.
We've got them nice friendly people from South/East London "Millwall" in the two legged semi final. First leg is down at their place next Saturday then the return in Leeds on Thursday. The fans of these Clubs don't like each other so given the history between them the Police are only allowing the away teams 1,000 tickets.
If we win we'll play either MK Dons or Scunthorpe in the final.
Saturday 25 April 2009
Thursday 23 April 2009
Friday 17 April 2009
An interesting weekend plus Knights in shining armour
As I mentioned in my last post I was going away for Easter and I'm sure you all guessed it was one of them cosy trips with my friend Jane.
We booked an hotel near Oxford (The Oxford Belfry) and met up there at about 2pm on Good Friday, we were really impressed with our hotel room. First night part of the deal included diner in the hotel restaurant and certainly can't complain it was really nice. I had Chicken wrapped in bacon while Jane had Pork. We both had sweets (calories don't count on vacation) as we had not bothered with starters although we could have on the deal.
My mate Lofty was staying at the same hotel so after the meal we met up with him and his wife Janine for a few drinks.
Saturday Jane & myself visited Oxford which is a big university town and full of history, we did the open top bus tour despite rain been in the air. We also had a good walk around the city centre, first time I've been to this city.
Saturday night we got a taxi to a small Oxfordshire market town called Thame to have a meal in a Chinese restaurant called "The Drunken Chef", we had read about it on an internet site and it had excellent revues. We weren't dissapointed and the meal was excellent.
Sunday we booked out of the hotel & drove to Blenheim Palace the birth place of Winston Churchill. Again it was a full day looking around the palace and walking around the gardens.
Late afternoon we moved on to our next hotel "Chesford Grange" which was between Kenilworth & Leamington Spa. Again we had dinner on the first night in with the deal and again it was excellent. We both went for Steak for the main course followed by a sweet. We had a few drinks in the hotel before retiring.
Easter Monday we visited Kenilworth Castle and it was a real fun day they had a big show on showing how life was like in Medieval England. This included Knights fighting, Dacing & singing, archery demos & story telling. 
We stayed until the end (about 5.30pm) before making our way back to the hotel. We had planned to go out in Leamington Spa but were both tired so decided to get a bar meal in the hotel. To be honest we got a bit p****d off with some of the other people in the bar, it was a large group of teenagers who were drunk & loud, basically a group of show offs. I was thinking about saying something about their language but Jane didn't want me to, they weren't bothering people directly but just made the place feel uncomfortable, we noticed a few people walk out. It was the sort of behaviour you don't expect in a 4 star hotel.
Tuesday morning we had a ride into Leamington, had a quick look around the shops before going for a coffee. Eventually we said our goodbyes and made our seperate way home. Its 5 weeks before we get together again and I can't wait.
Thursday 9 April 2009
Have a great Easter
The time of Chocolate Eggs is here, so I'll wish you all a great Easter.
I'm off away in the morning and will not be home until Tuesday so wont be around any blogs.
Wednesday 1 April 2009
G20 Summit protests
Is it just me or do a lot of the protestors at todays G20 summit piss everybody off. I'm not talking about genuine people that just want to protest peacefully about issues they strongly believe in, agree or not agree everyone has that right.
However I am talking about the anarchists who just want to destroy society, I am talking about people who have just turned up to cause trouble and live for a riot, I am talking about people who want to change our capitalist society yet never come up with alternatives.
Sure all our governments have made mistakes but would anyone reading this want those protestors running the country, certainly not me.
Just seen one get interviewed on TV, he was typical, 25 year old, unemployed, never had a job, never intends to have a job, then critisises the country that feeds him, how stupid is he.
Of course the usual protestors will be there, they attend every protest whatever its about, all I can say to these people is "get a life", normal tax paying citizens are sick of keeping you. If the western world is so bad move somewhere else.
Someone spray painted on a wall "Money is for losers", no actually its the benefits of working hard (or should be), all you can expect and resonably comlain about is lack of opportunity. Nobody should expect to live on handouts.
I've just seen some protestors attack police who are just doing a job protecting people & property, the same people then complain of brutality when the police hit back with battons, what do they really expect.
So does these protests damage big buisness - NO - It effects all the small buisnesses in the area that have to close, get vandalised, lose trade, etc.
However I am talking about the anarchists who just want to destroy society, I am talking about people who have just turned up to cause trouble and live for a riot, I am talking about people who want to change our capitalist society yet never come up with alternatives.
Sure all our governments have made mistakes but would anyone reading this want those protestors running the country, certainly not me.
Just seen one get interviewed on TV, he was typical, 25 year old, unemployed, never had a job, never intends to have a job, then critisises the country that feeds him, how stupid is he.
Of course the usual protestors will be there, they attend every protest whatever its about, all I can say to these people is "get a life", normal tax paying citizens are sick of keeping you. If the western world is so bad move somewhere else.
Someone spray painted on a wall "Money is for losers", no actually its the benefits of working hard (or should be), all you can expect and resonably comlain about is lack of opportunity. Nobody should expect to live on handouts.I've just seen some protestors attack police who are just doing a job protecting people & property, the same people then complain of brutality when the police hit back with battons, what do they really expect.
So does these protests damage big buisness - NO - It effects all the small buisnesses in the area that have to close, get vandalised, lose trade, etc.
Monday 30 March 2009
Petition for Justice
The local Europe MP for Yorkshire is putting together a online petition to present to the European Football Association in an attempt to overturn the result of the 1973 European Cup Winners Cup Final.
This was the match where my team Leeds United lost 1-0 to AC Milan in Salonika Greece but left a sour taste in the mouth due to some very dodgy referee decisions. Afterwards the Greek fans applauded Leeds lap of honour but stopped the winning Italians from doing one.
Later it was found the Ref had been bribed by the Italians and he was banned from the sport, however the result was never overturned.
Even if you are not a Leeds fan or Footie Fan but believe in fair play in sport please sign the petition, you can find more information here & a link to the petition.
http://www.leedsunited.com/page/LatestNewsDetail/0,,10273~1606780,00.html
Just to remind everyone of that night :-
This was the match where my team Leeds United lost 1-0 to AC Milan in Salonika Greece but left a sour taste in the mouth due to some very dodgy referee decisions. Afterwards the Greek fans applauded Leeds lap of honour but stopped the winning Italians from doing one.
Later it was found the Ref had been bribed by the Italians and he was banned from the sport, however the result was never overturned.
Even if you are not a Leeds fan or Footie Fan but believe in fair play in sport please sign the petition, you can find more information here & a link to the petition.
http://www.leedsunited.com/page/LatestNewsDetail/0,,10273~1606780,00.html
Just to remind everyone of that night :-
Thursday 26 March 2009
A Beer cures all the worlds problems.
Last night my mate Lofty was playing Pool in the local competition and asked me to go along to support, I had nothing on so went along.
After he had been beaten we went on to another Pub and as we was quiet we started talking Politics, in fact we discussed everything from Local, National & International politics. Funny how you do it after a few beers but we really put the world to right, we cured everything from the Credit Crunch to Global warming.
We reckoned it would be good to go into politics and start using that thing that the people invilved don't use "common sense". Don't laugh but we discussed starting our own political party (called "The common sense party") so we can push our ideas, obviously we would start by getting involved locally by getting elected onto the council, it may take us a a few years before we are running the country, lol.
Ok most of it was the Beer talking (must have been good stuff) but I've been thinking, I've a bit of time on my hands and could maybe do with a new challenge in life, maybe a poitical career is not as stupid as it sounds. Seriously I'm giving it some thought, initially thinking of starting a political blog to promote my ideas.
Anyone else ever considered this ?
On another note I was driving my car yesterday and thought the engine was making funny noises when I accelerated. I took it to the garage and the mechanic had a listen, he suspects I've got a leaking after-cooler hose as it only makes the noise when the turbo kicks in. I've booked it in for repair on Monday so its gonna be a bill I could have done without, not sure yet how much, suppose it depends what they find.
Today is my parents diamond wedding anniversary and they have recieved there telegram from the queen, the party is tomorrow night so I'm looking forward to seeing a few relations I haven't seen for ages.
Finally I see that Small minded person known as Moby Dick (formally Spider) has been at it again, he seems to get his pleasure trying to insult me on various blogs, don't know what his problem is but its very sad leaving comments on blogs (particuraly ones he doensn't normally read). It seems to bother him I don't comment on his blog perhaps he is a touch insecure and needs everyone to be his friend. It is really amusing how pathetic he is, its so easy to insult people you don't know online hiding behind a computor, a true keyboard warrior.
After he had been beaten we went on to another Pub and as we was quiet we started talking Politics, in fact we discussed everything from Local, National & International politics. Funny how you do it after a few beers but we really put the world to right, we cured everything from the Credit Crunch to Global warming.
We reckoned it would be good to go into politics and start using that thing that the people invilved don't use "common sense". Don't laugh but we discussed starting our own political party (called "The common sense party") so we can push our ideas, obviously we would start by getting involved locally by getting elected onto the council, it may take us a a few years before we are running the country, lol.
Ok most of it was the Beer talking (must have been good stuff) but I've been thinking, I've a bit of time on my hands and could maybe do with a new challenge in life, maybe a poitical career is not as stupid as it sounds. Seriously I'm giving it some thought, initially thinking of starting a political blog to promote my ideas.
Anyone else ever considered this ?
On another note I was driving my car yesterday and thought the engine was making funny noises when I accelerated. I took it to the garage and the mechanic had a listen, he suspects I've got a leaking after-cooler hose as it only makes the noise when the turbo kicks in. I've booked it in for repair on Monday so its gonna be a bill I could have done without, not sure yet how much, suppose it depends what they find.
Today is my parents diamond wedding anniversary and they have recieved there telegram from the queen, the party is tomorrow night so I'm looking forward to seeing a few relations I haven't seen for ages.
Finally I see that Small minded person known as Moby Dick (formally Spider) has been at it again, he seems to get his pleasure trying to insult me on various blogs, don't know what his problem is but its very sad leaving comments on blogs (particuraly ones he doensn't normally read). It seems to bother him I don't comment on his blog perhaps he is a touch insecure and needs everyone to be his friend. It is really amusing how pathetic he is, its so easy to insult people you don't know online hiding behind a computor, a true keyboard warrior.
Monday 23 March 2009
Dangerous Walking route
I'm wondering if I should change my walking route after seeing the local news. I normally walk out into the country then pick up the canal and follow it back into the town centre of the town I live then home (about 6 miles).
Anyway on the news this weekend they have found a body in the canal right where I pick it up, apparently its a bloke with his head battered in. They reckon he's been in the water about 2 weeks, I must have walked past the spot a few times.
They haven't named in so I don't know if its local or the body has just been dumped, it is next to the main road.
Since my last post I forgot to mention I've had one of those horrible things called birthdays, so I'm officially one year older than last week.
Anyway on the news this weekend they have found a body in the canal right where I pick it up, apparently its a bloke with his head battered in. They reckon he's been in the water about 2 weeks, I must have walked past the spot a few times.
They haven't named in so I don't know if its local or the body has just been dumped, it is next to the main road.
Since my last post I forgot to mention I've had one of those horrible things called birthdays, so I'm officially one year older than last week.
Sunday 15 March 2009
My shoe failed and it hurt
Today I'm resting my aches & pains because of an exploding shoe.
Yesterday I was playing in our Clubs Table Tennis competition and was having a particurly tough match against one of my team mates. He is a player ranked above me and usually gets the better, I was playing well and had the game tied at 2 sets apiece and 6-6 in the decider.
I'm a defensive player where he is an attacker, he was hitting me deep and trying to catch me out with drop shots. This involved me retrieving from the back of the court and then getting in close the table to deal with his drop. Well we were in the middle of the rally when I came charging in at full pace to deal with a such shot when I plonked my right foot down my shoe totally disentegrated (looked like it exploded), it tore from one end to the other sending me crashing down into the table while twisting both my knee & ankle.
I also suffered a slight cut to the knee but after a short break was able to continue (in a different pair of TT shoes that I had in the boot of the car), luckily I don't think I've done any serious damage, its a bit sore today but it could have been much worse.
Before anyone asked I lost the match in question 11-9 but did well in my games after the incident.
Yesterday I was playing in our Clubs Table Tennis competition and was having a particurly tough match against one of my team mates. He is a player ranked above me and usually gets the better, I was playing well and had the game tied at 2 sets apiece and 6-6 in the decider.
I'm a defensive player where he is an attacker, he was hitting me deep and trying to catch me out with drop shots. This involved me retrieving from the back of the court and then getting in close the table to deal with his drop. Well we were in the middle of the rally when I came charging in at full pace to deal with a such shot when I plonked my right foot down my shoe totally disentegrated (looked like it exploded), it tore from one end to the other sending me crashing down into the table while twisting both my knee & ankle.
I also suffered a slight cut to the knee but after a short break was able to continue (in a different pair of TT shoes that I had in the boot of the car), luckily I don't think I've done any serious damage, its a bit sore today but it could have been much worse.
Before anyone asked I lost the match in question 11-9 but did well in my games after the incident.
Tuesday 10 March 2009
Life is good
Well despite the credit crunch, all the worlds problems I reckon my life is going well at present, in fact I'm starting to wonder when something will go wrong.
Just got back from another weekend away with my friend Jane, once again we got on fantastic, I'm finding her too good to be true at times. She seems happy to go along with my suggestions where to go, what do, where to eat, etc. In fact she is always trying to find ways to please me, even went to the effort to buy herself a Leeds shirt, what more can a man ask.
Just got back from another weekend away with my friend Jane, once again we got on fantastic, I'm finding her too good to be true at times. She seems happy to go along with my suggestions where to go, what do, where to eat, etc. In fact she is always trying to find ways to please me, even went to the effort to buy herself a Leeds shirt, what more can a man ask.
We spent our weekend in Shakespears country Stratford upon Avon, our hotel was nice & we had a lovely romantic meal on the first night. Saturday we took a boat trip up the river which was nice, here is a pic of Jane waiting for the boat.
We spent the rest of the time visiting a few of the old town houses from Shakespears day, it was certainly an education. On the evenings we dined out then just visited a few old world style pubs.
I must admit I'm really looking forward to a few longer breaks with Jane, its difficult only meeting every 5 weeks because of the distance we live apart but maybe thats why I enjoy here company so much. Saying that I'm hopeful even optimistic that our relationship will blossom more and more.
I'm after suggestions from some of my lady friends who read this of good places or things to do that you reckon Jane may enjoy because as I said earlier she just goes along with what I like all the time and I would like to find something for her.
Other than that other things are going well especially in my sports escapades, in the local league Table Tennis I'm having my best season for many years. My average as declined from been a 90% player about 10 years ago to just over 70% last season. I suppose I'm not getting younger is the biggest reason however I've had a great run this time and am back up in the high eighties a marked improvement.
I'm also going well at Pool I'm in the last eight of the area singles although I'm not expecting to go much further as I don't play enough and there are a lot of good players in it. I'll give it my best shot though and "who knows ?", my 1/4 final is on Wednesday night.
Ok I said life was good not perfect I'm afraid to admit I aint been doing great of the weight loss, not been eating perfect and giving away to temptation too much. Must get myself back on track though would like to drop at least a belt size before my main holiday in just over 15 weeks.
Tuesday 3 March 2009
The Damned United
Thats the name given to the film released in UK Cinemas later this month about my football Club Leeds United.
Its actually a follow up to the Book by the same name about the 44 days back in 1974 Brian Clough was manager of my great Club before the directors came to their senses and sacked him.
Although I don't despute "old big head" was a good manager and achieved a lot in the game I will always argue that he should never have got the job. He hated Leeds & the players and his only intention was to break up & destroy the team that was the reigning English Champions and had been one of Europes finest for 10 seasons.
Don't know if I'll go see the film maybe I will but am worried the anti-Leeds brigrade will use it to degrade my club. I just hope its shows the truth of what actually happend because Clough had no respect for players that were my schoolboy heroes and its a crime I can never forgive.
Anyway here is the film trailor :-
Its actually a follow up to the Book by the same name about the 44 days back in 1974 Brian Clough was manager of my great Club before the directors came to their senses and sacked him.
Although I don't despute "old big head" was a good manager and achieved a lot in the game I will always argue that he should never have got the job. He hated Leeds & the players and his only intention was to break up & destroy the team that was the reigning English Champions and had been one of Europes finest for 10 seasons.
Don't know if I'll go see the film maybe I will but am worried the anti-Leeds brigrade will use it to degrade my club. I just hope its shows the truth of what actually happend because Clough had no respect for players that were my schoolboy heroes and its a crime I can never forgive.
Anyway here is the film trailor :-
Tuesday 24 February 2009
Planning Cozy Weekends & more
Well I've been busy planning some more cozy weekends (and longer) with my friend Jane. We are actually getting together for a weekend at Stratford upon avon a week on Friday but we've been planning further ahead.
We've actually booked four days away at easter, we were actually considering going abroad & looked at flying to Budapest or going by Eurorail to Brussels. However we reckoned Easter isn't the best time to travel, usually crazy delays so opted to stay in this country. Howevere we've put the European destinations on ice for possible future trips.
We've found some good hotel deals its with a group that specialises in luxory hotels and they are offering a great two night deal Bed, Breakfast & Dinner on the first night at a very reasonable price. We've booked a couple of nights (Friday & Saturday) near Oxford & a couple at Kenilworth (Sunday & Monday).
But that isn't the biggest news I'm going back to my favorite American City Chicago in the summer during the taste of chicago festival for 9 nights and Jane is coming with me.
We will be staying at the Ambassador East hotel which is in the Gold Coast area, its quite a old & famous hotel with loads of history built in 1928, many of the old hollywood greats used the hotel and it featured in the film "North by Northwest" with Cary Grant.
I'm looking forward to showing Jane around the City in particular I've a massive love of the Chicago Blues Clubs so I'll finish with a Youtube performance of one of Chicagos great Blues artists John Primer playing at a local club on Halstead called B.L.U.E.S. Maybe we'll get chance to see John while in town.
Well just some May get togethers to organise now.
We've actually booked four days away at easter, we were actually considering going abroad & looked at flying to Budapest or going by Eurorail to Brussels. However we reckoned Easter isn't the best time to travel, usually crazy delays so opted to stay in this country. Howevere we've put the European destinations on ice for possible future trips.
We've found some good hotel deals its with a group that specialises in luxory hotels and they are offering a great two night deal Bed, Breakfast & Dinner on the first night at a very reasonable price. We've booked a couple of nights (Friday & Saturday) near Oxford & a couple at Kenilworth (Sunday & Monday).
But that isn't the biggest news I'm going back to my favorite American City Chicago in the summer during the taste of chicago festival for 9 nights and Jane is coming with me.
We will be staying at the Ambassador East hotel which is in the Gold Coast area, its quite a old & famous hotel with loads of history built in 1928, many of the old hollywood greats used the hotel and it featured in the film "North by Northwest" with Cary Grant.
I'm looking forward to showing Jane around the City in particular I've a massive love of the Chicago Blues Clubs so I'll finish with a Youtube performance of one of Chicagos great Blues artists John Primer playing at a local club on Halstead called B.L.U.E.S. Maybe we'll get chance to see John while in town.
Well just some May get togethers to organise now.
Wednesday 18 February 2009
6th of the 6th (A big Cock)
I've been tagged by Cactus so here goes.
Here are the rules of the challenge:
Go to your photo folder in your computer.
Go to the 6th folder of the photos.
Go to the sixth picture.[no cheating!]
Put the picture on your blog with a description. Invite six friends to join the challenge.Link them in your blog and let them know they have been challenged.
Here is my 6th picture from the sixth folder :o)
Here are the rules of the challenge:
Go to your photo folder in your computer.
Go to the 6th folder of the photos.
Go to the sixth picture.[no cheating!]
Put the picture on your blog with a description. Invite six friends to join the challenge.Link them in your blog and let them know they have been challenged.
Here is my 6th picture from the sixth folder :o)
Well my 6th folder was my holidays 2008 folder, the 6th set in there was Kansas City & the 6th photo was this one. I took it on my first morning as I walked around close to my hotel, just thought it strange that there would be a big shuttle cock on the lawn outside this big house. I later found out it was the contemporary art museum, its amazing what crap they do in these places.
Tuesday 17 February 2009
A Long Time Together
I've been busy over the last few days organising a party for my parents as next month they will be celebrating their Diamond Wedding Anniversary. Yes 60 years together & I reckon thats a long time.
Well I've booked a local Club where my Dad is a member for the do & arranged a local catering company to do a buffet. I've had invitation Cards printed which actually has a photo of their wedding on the front.
I've been on the Buckingham Palace website to print off a form to apply for a telegram from the Queen. Apparently you are entitled to one but have to let them know, I've to fill in a form and send it within 3 weeks of the day (March 26th) with a photo copy of the wedding certificate.
Just the invites to send out now and I think we are inviting around 80 family & friends.
My Mum is really looking forward to it but I don't think my Dad is bothered and just going along with it.
Well I've booked a local Club where my Dad is a member for the do & arranged a local catering company to do a buffet. I've had invitation Cards printed which actually has a photo of their wedding on the front.
I've been on the Buckingham Palace website to print off a form to apply for a telegram from the Queen. Apparently you are entitled to one but have to let them know, I've to fill in a form and send it within 3 weeks of the day (March 26th) with a photo copy of the wedding certificate.
Just the invites to send out now and I think we are inviting around 80 family & friends.
My Mum is really looking forward to it but I don't think my Dad is bothered and just going along with it.
Monday 9 February 2009
Politics versus Common sense
Is it just me or do others think everyone involved in Politics whether it be Local, National or International have a complete lack of common sense. Some of the riddiculous decisions made (or not made) just defy logic.
1. Lets start with the "Credit Crunch" Ok its been allowed to happen which is wrong & it is a world problem & governments have to deal with it. Ours like a few others have decided to bail out the banks with astronomical amounts of cash which they have borrowed. Maybe this is or is not the right way but surely if we are bailing out banks with tax payers money certain regulations should be put in place. When I hear on the news that banks like RBS who have taken a "£20 billion payout" are now planning to use "£1 billion" to give their top brass a bonus,surely these bonuses should have gone to the wall as part of the bailout rules. These people should think themselves lucky they have still got jobs & homes to live in unlike many other less fortunate people.
Then totally to rub salt in the wound I understand they are still sponsoring the 6 Nations Rugby, yes with tax payers money.
2. Staying with the banks bail outs & the debt the loans are causing the country creates the question how can it be paid back. I've only heard two solutions, higher taxes or lower public spending. Ok these are probably the only options available but why does it need to be one or the other. The problem is ours today not that of future generations, it is morally unfair to laden people of the future with the debt created today. The quicker we can clear National debt the better then we can all hopfully prosper. I believe the government are not always doing whats right but are just making decisions based on getting votes.
3. To change the subject recently we have had a number of Wild cat strikes with British workers complaining about foreign tradesman been brought in. The arguments for foreign labour in certain trades is that the British labour wasn't avaiable which in some cases is true.
However for this I blame Government lack of common sense for this, not just today but over the last 20 years.
Why ? Well there has been a massive lack in apprentiships with the silly push to get everyone to university. Yes we need good Electricians, Joiners, Plumbers, Welders, Fitters, etc if the country is going to prosper, lets start encouraging it. And despite government policies you can't learn these trades in a 12 week wonder course.
4. University is great & I don't deny anyone an education but surely sending the majority of the population is pointless as there are only so many suitable jobs to go around at the end of it. In fact I'd go as far as saying its a big government ploy to keep the unemployment figures down.
I would like to see a scheme where people going to Uni are sponsored by companies who in turn guarantee jobs if exams are passed. I understand over 50% of youngsters obtaining a degree do not use it to get a job & end up having to take low paid jobs that are available.
5. Local Government are no better when it comes to common sense take the recent bad weather, a few days of snow and many local councils run out of salt to clear the roads (f**k me it is winter), what a shambles, now remind me what do I pay council tax for ?
And of course the side roads & pavements have not been touched many of them just sheet ice causing many accidents.
Surely it would be worthwhile giving people out of work & claiming Job seekers allowance a minimum wage for a couple of weeks to keep our streets clear. In fact it should be compulsary for them, they are getting paid to be looking for work. I'm sure the cost would be covered by the lower work load our hospitals get with less broken limbs from people falling on the ice.
6. And of course International Politicians show no more signs of common sense, lets just look at the new American President, I've just read where he as had to apologise because a number of his team are convicted Tax dodgers, no doesn't that fill you with confidence.
7. And while on the subject of Obama, I laugh everytime he suggests closing Guatanamo Bay, yes he wants other countries to take the inmates. Hell yes just what we need a few international fanatical terrorists, think we should take a few, lol. Actually thinking about our government we probably will.
I could go on but I'll end my rant for today.
1. Lets start with the "Credit Crunch" Ok its been allowed to happen which is wrong & it is a world problem & governments have to deal with it. Ours like a few others have decided to bail out the banks with astronomical amounts of cash which they have borrowed. Maybe this is or is not the right way but surely if we are bailing out banks with tax payers money certain regulations should be put in place. When I hear on the news that banks like RBS who have taken a "£20 billion payout" are now planning to use "£1 billion" to give their top brass a bonus,surely these bonuses should have gone to the wall as part of the bailout rules. These people should think themselves lucky they have still got jobs & homes to live in unlike many other less fortunate people.
Then totally to rub salt in the wound I understand they are still sponsoring the 6 Nations Rugby, yes with tax payers money.
2. Staying with the banks bail outs & the debt the loans are causing the country creates the question how can it be paid back. I've only heard two solutions, higher taxes or lower public spending. Ok these are probably the only options available but why does it need to be one or the other. The problem is ours today not that of future generations, it is morally unfair to laden people of the future with the debt created today. The quicker we can clear National debt the better then we can all hopfully prosper. I believe the government are not always doing whats right but are just making decisions based on getting votes.
3. To change the subject recently we have had a number of Wild cat strikes with British workers complaining about foreign tradesman been brought in. The arguments for foreign labour in certain trades is that the British labour wasn't avaiable which in some cases is true.
However for this I blame Government lack of common sense for this, not just today but over the last 20 years.
Why ? Well there has been a massive lack in apprentiships with the silly push to get everyone to university. Yes we need good Electricians, Joiners, Plumbers, Welders, Fitters, etc if the country is going to prosper, lets start encouraging it. And despite government policies you can't learn these trades in a 12 week wonder course.
4. University is great & I don't deny anyone an education but surely sending the majority of the population is pointless as there are only so many suitable jobs to go around at the end of it. In fact I'd go as far as saying its a big government ploy to keep the unemployment figures down.
I would like to see a scheme where people going to Uni are sponsored by companies who in turn guarantee jobs if exams are passed. I understand over 50% of youngsters obtaining a degree do not use it to get a job & end up having to take low paid jobs that are available.
5. Local Government are no better when it comes to common sense take the recent bad weather, a few days of snow and many local councils run out of salt to clear the roads (f**k me it is winter), what a shambles, now remind me what do I pay council tax for ?
And of course the side roads & pavements have not been touched many of them just sheet ice causing many accidents.
Surely it would be worthwhile giving people out of work & claiming Job seekers allowance a minimum wage for a couple of weeks to keep our streets clear. In fact it should be compulsary for them, they are getting paid to be looking for work. I'm sure the cost would be covered by the lower work load our hospitals get with less broken limbs from people falling on the ice.
6. And of course International Politicians show no more signs of common sense, lets just look at the new American President, I've just read where he as had to apologise because a number of his team are convicted Tax dodgers, no doesn't that fill you with confidence.
7. And while on the subject of Obama, I laugh everytime he suggests closing Guatanamo Bay, yes he wants other countries to take the inmates. Hell yes just what we need a few international fanatical terrorists, think we should take a few, lol. Actually thinking about our government we probably will.
I could go on but I'll end my rant for today.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)