Right, I was all ready to record some stuff tonight. I've been to the pub and had a couple of drinks to get me mellow and relax my voice. I'd been inspired by reading Q magazine and I thought I could produce some good stuff tonight. And then I got home, set the laptop up with the recording software on it, poured myself a glass of wine, got the mike stand out - and it's knackered. Cue trying to fix the mike stand, getting more angry and annoyed, and now I'm several steps past mellow with a headache and feeling really hacked off.
So no - no recording tonight. Instead I have an evening of shite tv and bubbling rage to contend with. FML.
Friday, 1 April 2011
Saturday, 26 March 2011
I don't want my soul stolen
So this is nothing like what I had planned to blog about but it's what I've been thinking about last night and this morning. My aversion to being photographed.
Now I know a lot of people feel similar to me in that they don't think they are very photogenic and would rather avoid appearing in a picture but I don't know anyone who has such a fear and loathing of it. Most people when push comes to shove will appear in a photo (not the "just pop your clothes on the chair" sort) even if they do complain a little. Whereas I will do anything to avoid it. One of the things that Jakes mum levelled at me during our break up was that she was disappointed she didn't have more pictures of us as a family to look back on and I must admit that I also wish I had more pictures of us together or of with me Jake - but this is not some conscious decision I made to think "I will not appear in pictures". It's just a fundamental part of my character that I cannot change.
I don't know where this started - I mean as a kid there are lots of pictures of me but in later life something changed in me and to this day I feel like a member of one of those Aboriginal tribes who think that every photograph taken takes a bit of your soul. Now obviously I know this isn't true but to try and make you understand, if someone wanted to do something to you that made you feel like it was stealing part of your soul wouldn't you want to avoid it? (Again, I KNOW photography doesn't steal part of your soul, so please don't focus on that part!)
I suppose all you amateur head doctors out there will point to a lack of self confidence, low self esteem, and a belief that I am not attractive and maybe that's part of it - however I know people who feel similar things but are still comfortable in front of a camera so that can't be the whole reason can it?
All I know is that I have taken some extreme measures to avoid being photographed in the past - every time a camera was pointed at me I would stick two fingers up in front of my face. People around me soon learned that if they didn't want a ruined picture they wouldn't include me.
I've timed group photos in such a way that I'm always either in the loo, in a different part of the house, or the one behind the camera.
Most recently someone was taking photos around the office before I left my last job and as soon as I saw the camera pointed towards out teams desks I hid under my desk! I shit you not.
Oh, but taking photos? No problems. I've helped strangers who wanted a group shot, things like that, and I actually compose quite good shots. But me in front of a camera? I want my (albeit tarnished) soul kept where it's supposed to be thank you.
Have a nice weekend all.
Now I know a lot of people feel similar to me in that they don't think they are very photogenic and would rather avoid appearing in a picture but I don't know anyone who has such a fear and loathing of it. Most people when push comes to shove will appear in a photo (not the "just pop your clothes on the chair" sort) even if they do complain a little. Whereas I will do anything to avoid it. One of the things that Jakes mum levelled at me during our break up was that she was disappointed she didn't have more pictures of us as a family to look back on and I must admit that I also wish I had more pictures of us together or of with me Jake - but this is not some conscious decision I made to think "I will not appear in pictures". It's just a fundamental part of my character that I cannot change.
I don't know where this started - I mean as a kid there are lots of pictures of me but in later life something changed in me and to this day I feel like a member of one of those Aboriginal tribes who think that every photograph taken takes a bit of your soul. Now obviously I know this isn't true but to try and make you understand, if someone wanted to do something to you that made you feel like it was stealing part of your soul wouldn't you want to avoid it? (Again, I KNOW photography doesn't steal part of your soul, so please don't focus on that part!)
I suppose all you amateur head doctors out there will point to a lack of self confidence, low self esteem, and a belief that I am not attractive and maybe that's part of it - however I know people who feel similar things but are still comfortable in front of a camera so that can't be the whole reason can it?
All I know is that I have taken some extreme measures to avoid being photographed in the past - every time a camera was pointed at me I would stick two fingers up in front of my face. People around me soon learned that if they didn't want a ruined picture they wouldn't include me.
I've timed group photos in such a way that I'm always either in the loo, in a different part of the house, or the one behind the camera.
Most recently someone was taking photos around the office before I left my last job and as soon as I saw the camera pointed towards out teams desks I hid under my desk! I shit you not.
Oh, but taking photos? No problems. I've helped strangers who wanted a group shot, things like that, and I actually compose quite good shots. But me in front of a camera? I want my (albeit tarnished) soul kept where it's supposed to be thank you.
Have a nice weekend all.
Wednesday, 16 March 2011
Mid-life crisis
I was thinking as I was drifting off last night and I have started to understand why men enter a mid-life crisis and now easy it would be to succumb to one.
My body is not how it used to be - it's done some hard miles in these 38 years and bits are growing that I don't want to grow, going missing when I want to keep them, and generally changing in a most unpleasant way.
I can understand now how men (and probably some women) approach a point in their lives when they think "enough is enough". They realise that they will never be as slim, as fit, as attractive & young looking as they used to be and they react against it.
With men it's usually different clothes, expensive toys or letching after younger women. With women it's too much makeup, tummy tucks & boob jobs, and lusting after toy boys. (I know, there are some MASSIVE generalisations there but you get the picture...).
I'm starting to accept these home truths about myself now and I'm fighting against them with every fibre of my being. Don't worry - I'm not gonna start growing a comb over or buying a motorbike or chasing 21 year old girls because a) I don't have enough hair for a comb over b) I can't afford a motorbike and c) I'm not attractive to younger women in the slightest.
But my body is obviously telling me things when my achilles are killing me after playing football, my stomach will not shrink no matter what I do or don't eat, my body takes longer each morning to get started... its almost as if it's saying "accept who you are - you're NOT 25 any more no matter what you might think".
There is still some pride left in me that I don't want to be seen as a chunky, balding, flabby embarrassment of a dad to Jake. I want to still play football next season and walk a round of golf without needing oxygen and mouth-to-mouth by the 15th green. But maybe it's time I stop being so hard on myself and start accepting the shape my body is drifting into. I will never be a fat bastard - I'd chop off my hands to stop me eating before I'd let that happen - but punishing my body unnecessarily seems like a waste of the years I have left on this rock.
So there. A little insight into what I was thinking last night. No real point to the post.
Three days left to go before I leave here and I can't wait. Have a nice Wednesday.
My body is not how it used to be - it's done some hard miles in these 38 years and bits are growing that I don't want to grow, going missing when I want to keep them, and generally changing in a most unpleasant way.
I can understand now how men (and probably some women) approach a point in their lives when they think "enough is enough". They realise that they will never be as slim, as fit, as attractive & young looking as they used to be and they react against it.
With men it's usually different clothes, expensive toys or letching after younger women. With women it's too much makeup, tummy tucks & boob jobs, and lusting after toy boys. (I know, there are some MASSIVE generalisations there but you get the picture...).
I'm starting to accept these home truths about myself now and I'm fighting against them with every fibre of my being. Don't worry - I'm not gonna start growing a comb over or buying a motorbike or chasing 21 year old girls because a) I don't have enough hair for a comb over b) I can't afford a motorbike and c) I'm not attractive to younger women in the slightest.
But my body is obviously telling me things when my achilles are killing me after playing football, my stomach will not shrink no matter what I do or don't eat, my body takes longer each morning to get started... its almost as if it's saying "accept who you are - you're NOT 25 any more no matter what you might think".
There is still some pride left in me that I don't want to be seen as a chunky, balding, flabby embarrassment of a dad to Jake. I want to still play football next season and walk a round of golf without needing oxygen and mouth-to-mouth by the 15th green. But maybe it's time I stop being so hard on myself and start accepting the shape my body is drifting into. I will never be a fat bastard - I'd chop off my hands to stop me eating before I'd let that happen - but punishing my body unnecessarily seems like a waste of the years I have left on this rock.
So there. A little insight into what I was thinking last night. No real point to the post.
Three days left to go before I leave here and I can't wait. Have a nice Wednesday.
Tuesday, 15 March 2011
Tuesday
So the countdown has begun - nearly half way through my fourth-to-last day here.
As it is with a lot of jobs I'm guessing, it's proving very hard to stay motivated. I really don't need to be here anymore, I've done all I can work-wise and I'm not being given anything of substance to get on with and pass the time (understandable of course).
Once I leave here I have a total of 16 working days off (woohoo!) before starting my new career - so it's even harder to keep on getting up and coming in here this week.
Tonight I have another golf lesson and then I'll be collecting Jake and having him tonight.
The rest of the week cannot pass quickly enough - and I'm trying to work out how early I can get away with leaving on Friday afternoon!
Finally, although I will be posting my latest blog post on Twitter & Facebook, I am still not taking part for the forseeable future. But I do need to get my blogs out there and Twitter & Facebook are good for that.
Have a good Tuesday.
As it is with a lot of jobs I'm guessing, it's proving very hard to stay motivated. I really don't need to be here anymore, I've done all I can work-wise and I'm not being given anything of substance to get on with and pass the time (understandable of course).
Once I leave here I have a total of 16 working days off (woohoo!) before starting my new career - so it's even harder to keep on getting up and coming in here this week.
Tonight I have another golf lesson and then I'll be collecting Jake and having him tonight.
The rest of the week cannot pass quickly enough - and I'm trying to work out how early I can get away with leaving on Friday afternoon!
Finally, although I will be posting my latest blog post on Twitter & Facebook, I am still not taking part for the forseeable future. But I do need to get my blogs out there and Twitter & Facebook are good for that.
Have a good Tuesday.
Friday, 11 March 2011
Friday
I would so like to be in what is generally known as a 'Friday mood' today but alas I'm really not in that frame of mind.
I have a very big appointment later this afternoon - when I say big I mean it could be literally life changing. So my mind is full of "what if's", my stomach is churning and my ring is going from 5p to 50p and back again quicker than a humming birds wings.
I have been visited by the insomnia fairy again (I picture her as a great big fat lass with bad breath and steel toed boots that kicks me in the head in the dead of night and then bounces around on my bed so I can't get back to sleep). This week I think I've totalled about 15 hours sleep with a few hours light dozing. As you can imagine my mind is a little fuzzy round the edges (well more so than usual) which isn't great preparation for later today. So - leaving the office at around 12.30 today and then by tea time tonight I may have some news. Stay tuned.
Later...
So they must have seen enough because they offered me the job. I've tentatively accepted - not going to sign anything until I've had a proper think about it - but I'm pretty sure my new career will start in about 4 weeks.
I would be more happy and excited but I'm really not with it at the moment. Lack of sleep is a bitch. And I've had an extremely shitty week.
Jake here for the weekend (yay) and all we really have planned is hair cuts tomorrow and then he has Stagecoach on Sunday.
Have a nice weekend everyone.
I have a very big appointment later this afternoon - when I say big I mean it could be literally life changing. So my mind is full of "what if's", my stomach is churning and my ring is going from 5p to 50p and back again quicker than a humming birds wings.
I have been visited by the insomnia fairy again (I picture her as a great big fat lass with bad breath and steel toed boots that kicks me in the head in the dead of night and then bounces around on my bed so I can't get back to sleep). This week I think I've totalled about 15 hours sleep with a few hours light dozing. As you can imagine my mind is a little fuzzy round the edges (well more so than usual) which isn't great preparation for later today. So - leaving the office at around 12.30 today and then by tea time tonight I may have some news. Stay tuned.
Later...
So they must have seen enough because they offered me the job. I've tentatively accepted - not going to sign anything until I've had a proper think about it - but I'm pretty sure my new career will start in about 4 weeks.
I would be more happy and excited but I'm really not with it at the moment. Lack of sleep is a bitch. And I've had an extremely shitty week.
Jake here for the weekend (yay) and all we really have planned is hair cuts tomorrow and then he has Stagecoach on Sunday.
Have a nice weekend everyone.
Thursday, 10 March 2011
An explanation
Last night I sent my last tweet & facebook status update.
Although at the time I had every intention of them being my last (full stop. The end. No more.) I will add a caveat that they are my last "for now".
Without wanting to go into a massive explanation ("but what about the title of the post?") I have had my fingers burned twice now because of social networking applications. I feel that for the forseeable future my sanity, emotional well being and stress levels will be best served by avoiding the whole mess of it.
I'd like to thank the people on Twitter for following me, #FF'ing me, and making me laugh and think alot. And I'd like to thank the people on Facebook for the same (apart from the #FF bit obviously).
I wish you all the very best for whatever your future holds. I will continue to blog (hopefully) so if you feel so inclined please feel free to drop by and catch up.
Thanks.
Although at the time I had every intention of them being my last (full stop. The end. No more.) I will add a caveat that they are my last "for now".
Without wanting to go into a massive explanation ("but what about the title of the post?") I have had my fingers burned twice now because of social networking applications. I feel that for the forseeable future my sanity, emotional well being and stress levels will be best served by avoiding the whole mess of it.
I'd like to thank the people on Twitter for following me, #FF'ing me, and making me laugh and think alot. And I'd like to thank the people on Facebook for the same (apart from the #FF bit obviously).
I wish you all the very best for whatever your future holds. I will continue to blog (hopefully) so if you feel so inclined please feel free to drop by and catch up.
Thanks.
Tuesday, 8 March 2011
Rant!
I know I've already posted today and I know I have posted about this before in the past (I think) but I had to have another blast about the parking outside my house. People can only park on one side of the street (my side) and that's fair enough but what pisses me off more than grit in my undercrackers is when people don't park in a way to allow room for other cars. Some people (like those stuck up shit boxes opposite me) purposely park just so they can be right opposite their front door without any consideration for anyone else. If it's a nice evening and I have had an ok day at work then I don't mind so much parking a little way away and walking but when I've had a shite day and a shite journey home and I have stuff to carry I want to park outside my own bloody house. And when I can't I want to break things. Preferably those inconsiderate bastards who have taken up two spaces.
And...... Relax. Rant over :-)
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
And...... Relax. Rant over :-)
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
Tuesday
Hello.
A quick catch up - I've been tasked with creating a new application (a small one) to show my potential new employer that I am up to the job. The actual application is quite straight forward but I'm stuggling with certain parts of it. It's REALLY frustrating because what I am trying to achieve I could do in my current technologies reasonably quickly, but the fact I am trying to learn this new language as I go is proving a bit of a pig. It doesn't help that I can only do it after work which means I am getting home at around 6.30, dealing with Jake and making dinner (if he's with me) spending time with him and THEN starting the work... by which time I've done a full days work and an evenings parenting which means I'm shattered. If I didn't want this job so much I wouldn't be so stressed about it but I really want this job!
I have three more evenings to try and make some more progress and then this Friday is D-Day *bom bom baaaaah*.
I think I am going to get as much done as I can, and if it's not complete to the standard I would want it to be I will just try and talk my way through it and see what the owners think. I just know that as Friday approaches my stress level will slowly rise...
I've not been on twitter or facebook much over the weekend... I tend to pay more attention to it during the week. There are a lot of funny people on twitter that I would recommend you follow.
If you're already on twitter you can follow me here - if you're NOT on twitter yet get yourself to the Homepage and create an account. It's easy.
Have a good day today and keep coming back here - more posts every day. And if you like my blog, please pass it onto others and leave lots of lovely comments!
A quick catch up - I've been tasked with creating a new application (a small one) to show my potential new employer that I am up to the job. The actual application is quite straight forward but I'm stuggling with certain parts of it. It's REALLY frustrating because what I am trying to achieve I could do in my current technologies reasonably quickly, but the fact I am trying to learn this new language as I go is proving a bit of a pig. It doesn't help that I can only do it after work which means I am getting home at around 6.30, dealing with Jake and making dinner (if he's with me) spending time with him and THEN starting the work... by which time I've done a full days work and an evenings parenting which means I'm shattered. If I didn't want this job so much I wouldn't be so stressed about it but I really want this job!
I have three more evenings to try and make some more progress and then this Friday is D-Day *bom bom baaaaah*.
I think I am going to get as much done as I can, and if it's not complete to the standard I would want it to be I will just try and talk my way through it and see what the owners think. I just know that as Friday approaches my stress level will slowly rise...
I've not been on twitter or facebook much over the weekend... I tend to pay more attention to it during the week. There are a lot of funny people on twitter that I would recommend you follow.
If you're already on twitter you can follow me here - if you're NOT on twitter yet get yourself to the Homepage and create an account. It's easy.
Have a good day today and keep coming back here - more posts every day. And if you like my blog, please pass it onto others and leave lots of lovely comments!
Friday, 4 March 2011
Friday
First of all, sorry I've missed a couple of days. Things went a bit quiet so there wasn't much worth blogging about. However, I do have something to talk about today.
I've been feeling rather unattractive and frumpy lately. (OK I just read that back and it makes me sound like a middle aged housewife, but bear with me). Now I'm no Max Branning but we all go through life, especially if we're involved with someone, have a small amount of confidence in our looks - "if x fancies / wants me then I can't be too hideous". But recently I've lost that little bit of confidence. I think there are a couple of reasons for this... I've put on a little weight, I've lost even more confidence in myself than usual... (I can now hear you all going "aawwww" - but please there's no need). Something happened on the way home last night that perked me up a little though.
There was a lot of traffic on the M60 coming home, so we were all crawling along going nowhere fast. I was singing along and sit-down-dancing to Absolute Radio 90's (an awesome station - check it out here) and I looked to my left and there was this young studenty looking girl. Couldn't have been any more than 24. And she was smiling at me. "Shit" thinks I, "she just saw me singing & dancing - what a tool". So blushing, I kind of gave a half smile and told myself to stop acting like a mental patient when stuck in traffic.
We inched forward a little more and I heard a horn go... looked over to my left again and this girl was still smiling and now she waved. "OK, you're obviously mental to be smiling at me" thinks our hero. So I kind of gave a small wave and a smile back to be polite and then... she blew a kiss at me! I shit you not. Now the list of things that went through my head were:
"She's mental"
"She's taking the piss"
"She's blind" (a clever trick if seeing as she's driving)
"She's winning a bet"
"She thinks I'm famous" (I refer you to the Max Branning picture above)
"She's drunk"
"She's having a laugh at my expense"
But then I did myself a favour and thought... maybe she's genuinely attracted to me. Maybe I'm just her type and she's spotted me and I do strange things to her lady garden.
Anyway the traffic eased and we moved off and I sped on home. But I arrived with a new sense of feeling a bit better about myself - so thank you mysterious (possibly mental) girl on the M60.
Have a nice weekend all - and stay tuned. More posts tomorrow and Sunday.
I've been feeling rather unattractive and frumpy lately. (OK I just read that back and it makes me sound like a middle aged housewife, but bear with me). Now I'm no Max Branning but we all go through life, especially if we're involved with someone, have a small amount of confidence in our looks - "if x fancies / wants me then I can't be too hideous". But recently I've lost that little bit of confidence. I think there are a couple of reasons for this... I've put on a little weight, I've lost even more confidence in myself than usual... (I can now hear you all going "aawwww" - but please there's no need). Something happened on the way home last night that perked me up a little though.
There was a lot of traffic on the M60 coming home, so we were all crawling along going nowhere fast. I was singing along and sit-down-dancing to Absolute Radio 90's (an awesome station - check it out here) and I looked to my left and there was this young studenty looking girl. Couldn't have been any more than 24. And she was smiling at me. "Shit" thinks I, "she just saw me singing & dancing - what a tool". So blushing, I kind of gave a half smile and told myself to stop acting like a mental patient when stuck in traffic.
We inched forward a little more and I heard a horn go... looked over to my left again and this girl was still smiling and now she waved. "OK, you're obviously mental to be smiling at me" thinks our hero. So I kind of gave a small wave and a smile back to be polite and then... she blew a kiss at me! I shit you not. Now the list of things that went through my head were:
"She's mental"
"She's taking the piss"
"She's blind" (a clever trick if seeing as she's driving)
"She's winning a bet"
"She thinks I'm famous" (I refer you to the Max Branning picture above)
"She's drunk"
"She's having a laugh at my expense"
But then I did myself a favour and thought... maybe she's genuinely attracted to me. Maybe I'm just her type and she's spotted me and I do strange things to her lady garden.
Anyway the traffic eased and we moved off and I sped on home. But I arrived with a new sense of feeling a bit better about myself - so thank you mysterious (possibly mental) girl on the M60.
Have a nice weekend all - and stay tuned. More posts tomorrow and Sunday.
Wednesday, 2 March 2011
Tuesday (but on Wednesday)
I had a golf lesson last night. I've booked a block of three and plus an hour assesment of my game using video cameras. Last night was the hour video assesment. I've not been in front of a camera since that night with those nice young ladies from Vietnam... but I digress.
The purpose of the lessons is to get more consistency in my game. I can hit through the bag (which means I'm OK with every club) but I can't do it every time which is where I need to improve.
Last night the pro who was teaching me (the last time I said that "pro" it was short for "prostitute" and she was teaching me... well, that's another story). Anyway, his name was Adrian and he was a really nice guy and obviously knows his stuff. He has made two quite fundemental changes to my setup and swing which I know I'm going to stuggle with but I do understand why he has made these changes and I know that they will benefit my game. I just found it quite frustrating last night because I knew what he wanted me to do but getting my body to do it was hard. It was only near the end of the lesson that I started to bully my body into behaving. The important part now is to practice between lessons which I aim to start doing on Saturday morning.
The rest of this week is made up of having Jake tonight and tomorrow night which of course is awesome. Oh, and I have things to do with regards to my potential new job... more on that at a later date.
The purpose of the lessons is to get more consistency in my game. I can hit through the bag (which means I'm OK with every club) but I can't do it every time which is where I need to improve.
Last night the pro who was teaching me (the last time I said that "pro" it was short for "prostitute" and she was teaching me... well, that's another story). Anyway, his name was Adrian and he was a really nice guy and obviously knows his stuff. He has made two quite fundemental changes to my setup and swing which I know I'm going to stuggle with but I do understand why he has made these changes and I know that they will benefit my game. I just found it quite frustrating last night because I knew what he wanted me to do but getting my body to do it was hard. It was only near the end of the lesson that I started to bully my body into behaving. The important part now is to practice between lessons which I aim to start doing on Saturday morning.
The rest of this week is made up of having Jake tonight and tomorrow night which of course is awesome. Oh, and I have things to do with regards to my potential new job... more on that at a later date.
Monday, 28 February 2011
Monday (evening)
Hello my spitters and swallowers.
So I've worked from home today. Jakes mum wasn't around so I had to be here to send him off to school and for when he came home. Although it's still work it is nice not having to commute.
Which brings me onto some news. I have successfully passed the first stage interview for my new job. This means that if I pass the second stage - a technical test - I will hopefully get an offer.
The technical test is to create a small application in the new language I will be using to show I can pick things up and cross train. I've looked at the spec. and although I don't want to tempt fate I think it'll be quite straightforward so I've allowed myself to get a little excited.
I even bought a new laptop (my current one is about 4 years old now) so I have a proper work one for whe... if I get the job. And I've been looking at office chairs in Ikea. The problem is I want to work on this technical test all the time rather than my current job but that would be completely unprofessional and as I've said before I may be a lot of things but unprofessional isn't one of them. I'm just going to restrict myself to after-hours coding on this and see how I get on. But I do want to finish it asap so I can get cracking on my new career. I'll let you all know how I get on.
In other news, I downloaded Beady Eye's new album today - first listen seemed quite good but I'll be more into it at work tomorrow. No other plans this week...
That's all for tonight. Have a nice evening and a good day tomorrow.
Peace.
So I've worked from home today. Jakes mum wasn't around so I had to be here to send him off to school and for when he came home. Although it's still work it is nice not having to commute.
Which brings me onto some news. I have successfully passed the first stage interview for my new job. This means that if I pass the second stage - a technical test - I will hopefully get an offer.
The technical test is to create a small application in the new language I will be using to show I can pick things up and cross train. I've looked at the spec. and although I don't want to tempt fate I think it'll be quite straightforward so I've allowed myself to get a little excited.
I even bought a new laptop (my current one is about 4 years old now) so I have a proper work one for whe... if I get the job. And I've been looking at office chairs in Ikea. The problem is I want to work on this technical test all the time rather than my current job but that would be completely unprofessional and as I've said before I may be a lot of things but unprofessional isn't one of them. I'm just going to restrict myself to after-hours coding on this and see how I get on. But I do want to finish it asap so I can get cracking on my new career. I'll let you all know how I get on.
In other news, I downloaded Beady Eye's new album today - first listen seemed quite good but I'll be more into it at work tomorrow. No other plans this week...
That's all for tonight. Have a nice evening and a good day tomorrow.
Peace.
Friday, 25 February 2011
Friday
So, what was so secret today that I didn't want to share it with you, dear listeners?
I had a job interview today. Not too special on it's own granted, but this job is a bit different. It's still in I.T and still a development role but it's using different technologies to Java, which means cross training. Which I love. It's for a small up and coming company which means I have a massive impact on the business, which I value as important. But the big thing for me is it is home based. Yes, working from home every day.
I didn't want to spill the beans until after the actual event - I'm not suspicious as a rule but jinx's DO exist and I didn't want to risk anything. I really want this job and throughout my life when I really want something, there is usually an event or person that f*cks things up for me and I lose out. Jinx's can also do this, so hence my reluctance to spill the beans too soon.
How did it go? Well I haven't heard anything today (too soon for feedback) and I'm normally not a cocky or over-confident person but I think it went well. Getting this job would change my life so much for the better... It's not the money it's my quality of life that I value.
So I'll be keeping my fingers crossed over the weekend and we'll see what next week bring.
Have an awesome weekend all. I'll be tweeting over the weekend so if you don't follow me yet I can be found at @SimonMolloy.
Peace.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
I had a job interview today. Not too special on it's own granted, but this job is a bit different. It's still in I.T and still a development role but it's using different technologies to Java, which means cross training. Which I love. It's for a small up and coming company which means I have a massive impact on the business, which I value as important. But the big thing for me is it is home based. Yes, working from home every day.
I didn't want to spill the beans until after the actual event - I'm not suspicious as a rule but jinx's DO exist and I didn't want to risk anything. I really want this job and throughout my life when I really want something, there is usually an event or person that f*cks things up for me and I lose out. Jinx's can also do this, so hence my reluctance to spill the beans too soon.
How did it go? Well I haven't heard anything today (too soon for feedback) and I'm normally not a cocky or over-confident person but I think it went well. Getting this job would change my life so much for the better... It's not the money it's my quality of life that I value.
So I'll be keeping my fingers crossed over the weekend and we'll see what next week bring.
Have an awesome weekend all. I'll be tweeting over the weekend so if you don't follow me yet I can be found at @SimonMolloy.
Peace.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
Thursday, 24 February 2011
Thursday
So my mum arrived safe & sound today. She doesn't drive so she gets the train everywhere which she doesn't mind but it's a son's worry that she gets here ok.
Managed to convince the office I needed to leave at lunchtime to collect her from the station which was good. She's quite capable of making her own way here but you know, a son's duty etc.
She'll be looking after Jake tomorrow as he's on half term while I'm at work.
I have... something... on tomorrow afternoon so will be leaving at lunchtime again. I don't want to say what yet. (I have my reasons). But I will fill you all in soon, promise.
Finally just a quick plug for a new blog. It's done by someone I follow on twitter, it's his first blog and if his funny tweets are anything to go by it'll be a good read.
Check it out at RichNanks Ramblings. Peace out.
Managed to convince the office I needed to leave at lunchtime to collect her from the station which was good. She's quite capable of making her own way here but you know, a son's duty etc.
She'll be looking after Jake tomorrow as he's on half term while I'm at work.
I have... something... on tomorrow afternoon so will be leaving at lunchtime again. I don't want to say what yet. (I have my reasons). But I will fill you all in soon, promise.
Finally just a quick plug for a new blog. It's done by someone I follow on twitter, it's his first blog and if his funny tweets are anything to go by it'll be a good read.
Check it out at RichNanks Ramblings. Peace out.
Wednesday, 23 February 2011
Wednesday
There are things afoot with regards to my working career. I want to tell you all but it's not quite the right time yet.
This week, my mum is coming up to stay for a few days. I haven't seen Jake since last Thursday and he's coming back to me tomorrow evening and I can't wait to see him.
What with one thing and another, I'm only working tomorrow until lunchtime, and then Friday until lunchtime, and then I am working from home on Monday. Awesome.
I must do something about my weight. You know you're overweight when you're sitting at your desk and your stomach feels uncomfortably tight... and not in a good, slim, six-pack way. Curse my injuries and the lack of ability to exerise at the moment. Suggestions of diet food please, but NOT salads as I honestly can't eat them.
This week, my mum is coming up to stay for a few days. I haven't seen Jake since last Thursday and he's coming back to me tomorrow evening and I can't wait to see him.
What with one thing and another, I'm only working tomorrow until lunchtime, and then Friday until lunchtime, and then I am working from home on Monday. Awesome.
I must do something about my weight. You know you're overweight when you're sitting at your desk and your stomach feels uncomfortably tight... and not in a good, slim, six-pack way. Curse my injuries and the lack of ability to exerise at the moment. Suggestions of diet food please, but NOT salads as I honestly can't eat them.
Monday, 21 February 2011
Monday
A quiet weekend - Sunday I played football again for the first time in a couple of weeks. My fitness held up OK but my achilles tendons... by Thor's Hammer they were sore. We came from 1 - 0 down to win 2 - 1 so that's obviously a good thing but by the end of it and later that evening I could barely walk. Unfortunately there is nothing I can do about it unless I rest properly - which would mean not playing football for the rest of the season. I honestly don't know if I can do that or not.
This week I am hoping to hear back on a really exciting career opportunity. I don't wanna say anything just yet (the ol' jinx again) but I am quite excited about it.
This week I am hoping to hear back on a really exciting career opportunity. I don't wanna say anything just yet (the ol' jinx again) but I am quite excited about it.
Thursday, 17 February 2011
Thursday
A good journey to work this morning - Thursdays always seem to be quieter on the roads in the morning than the rest of the week, although I have no idea why this should be the case.
After dropping Jake of with his mum until next Thursday :-( I put the radio no (Radio 2 - Chris Evans) and the first thing I heard was Prince's "Kiss" - which instantly put me in a bopping dancing mood. A good start to the journey.
There is a problem thought - I have that 'up' feeling again this morning so I'm waiting to see what hits the fan and splatters me with excrement.
I have an idea for a story / short story. Well, it's a title really, but it's been rattling around in my head for ages and I can't work out what to do with it.
The title is "The Man Who Forgot How To Walk Down Stairs".
I have a very rough idea of what the story will be about but nothing concrete. The sort of stories I like are those where something happens to someone out of their control and it turns into some sort of nasty, scary situation. The quickest example I can give is that film "127 Hours" (or is it 172? Whatever...). For those who don't know what it's about *SPOILER ALERT* it's about a man who falls and gets trapped by rocks on his arm and has to cut his own arm off. It's not the self-mutilation I find interesting (I ain't a freak!) but its the fact that a simple fall whilst out walking can turn into something that hiddeous. So this story idea I have wants to be something like that.... but where do I go with it?
(Later) Every Friday we have 'Friday Chill' here in the office. Basically everyone turns up in the big meeting room, there's food, and if any announcements need announcing then it happens there. The problem is that each 'team' within the company (i.e each dept.) is expected to take it in turns to buy the food (using company cash of course) for everyone. And I just remembered tomorrow is our turn. And as the last time this dept. did it I managed to avoid getting involved it is actually MY turn to go to the shops and buy the stuff. Shit. Really don't wanna do it. *sigh*
After dropping Jake of with his mum until next Thursday :-( I put the radio no (Radio 2 - Chris Evans) and the first thing I heard was Prince's "Kiss" - which instantly put me in a bopping dancing mood. A good start to the journey.
There is a problem thought - I have that 'up' feeling again this morning so I'm waiting to see what hits the fan and splatters me with excrement.
I have an idea for a story / short story. Well, it's a title really, but it's been rattling around in my head for ages and I can't work out what to do with it.
The title is "The Man Who Forgot How To Walk Down Stairs".
I have a very rough idea of what the story will be about but nothing concrete. The sort of stories I like are those where something happens to someone out of their control and it turns into some sort of nasty, scary situation. The quickest example I can give is that film "127 Hours" (or is it 172? Whatever...). For those who don't know what it's about *SPOILER ALERT* it's about a man who falls and gets trapped by rocks on his arm and has to cut his own arm off. It's not the self-mutilation I find interesting (I ain't a freak!) but its the fact that a simple fall whilst out walking can turn into something that hiddeous. So this story idea I have wants to be something like that.... but where do I go with it?
(Later) Every Friday we have 'Friday Chill' here in the office. Basically everyone turns up in the big meeting room, there's food, and if any announcements need announcing then it happens there. The problem is that each 'team' within the company (i.e each dept.) is expected to take it in turns to buy the food (using company cash of course) for everyone. And I just remembered tomorrow is our turn. And as the last time this dept. did it I managed to avoid getting involved it is actually MY turn to go to the shops and buy the stuff. Shit. Really don't wanna do it. *sigh*
Wednesday, 16 February 2011
Wednesday
It seems I'm being inundated with job opportunities. Now this in itself is no bad thing as I do want to move on from my current role but the annoying thing is, why couldn't I get these calls a few months ago?!
I was out of work for about five months and was desperate for this kind of attention. I just hope something positive comes from them.
Jake is performing at the Palace theatre tonight and I have to go collect him at 10 o'clock tonight. Obviously pleased that Jake is doing something he loves but going out at that time of night is something young people do(!)
Speaking of Jake, tonight / tomorrow morning is the last time I'll see him until next Thursday. What with half term etc. he's going to be spending the time with his mum. I'm gonna miss him.
I want a new pair of boots. Like doc martins but not as 'brutal'. Suggestions?
Have a nice rest of Wednesday / Thursday listeners.
I was out of work for about five months and was desperate for this kind of attention. I just hope something positive comes from them.
Jake is performing at the Palace theatre tonight and I have to go collect him at 10 o'clock tonight. Obviously pleased that Jake is doing something he loves but going out at that time of night is something young people do(!)
Speaking of Jake, tonight / tomorrow morning is the last time I'll see him until next Thursday. What with half term etc. he's going to be spending the time with his mum. I'm gonna miss him.
I want a new pair of boots. Like doc martins but not as 'brutal'. Suggestions?
Have a nice rest of Wednesday / Thursday listeners.
Tuesday, 15 February 2011
Daily journal type post
Lying awake at about 5:00 this morning (curses) I got to thinking about a How To guide for myself... as in, How To Be Simon Molloy. Wired Magazine do a monthly segment on a few How To... guides varying from "How To Win At Guitar Hero" to "How To Market Yourself Successfully".
I then realized that to do it for myself would be a massive article so boycotted the idea.
Drove to work in a really positive frame of mind this morning which is usually a bad sign... something will cock up today but I can't predict what yet.
iTunes really does rock, doesn't it? Today I downloaded three new albums... Bright Eyes new one, PJ Harvey's new one and a classic - John Lennon & The Plastic Ono Band. It's things like this that make me wish I was Jake's age again - imagine just becoming a teenager and having all this technology & everything available to you. Brilliant.
(Later) I didn't get the job I went for. Great big dangly bollocks. Told you something would cock up as I was in a positive mood, didn't I?
(Even Later) I don't learn do I - but I have to tell you that I've just been told about another possibility job wise that sounds awesome... fingers crossed.
I then realized that to do it for myself would be a massive article so boycotted the idea.
Drove to work in a really positive frame of mind this morning which is usually a bad sign... something will cock up today but I can't predict what yet.
iTunes really does rock, doesn't it? Today I downloaded three new albums... Bright Eyes new one, PJ Harvey's new one and a classic - John Lennon & The Plastic Ono Band. It's things like this that make me wish I was Jake's age again - imagine just becoming a teenager and having all this technology & everything available to you. Brilliant.
(Later) I didn't get the job I went for. Great big dangly bollocks. Told you something would cock up as I was in a positive mood, didn't I?
(Even Later) I don't learn do I - but I have to tell you that I've just been told about another possibility job wise that sounds awesome... fingers crossed.
Monday, 14 February 2011
Can I do daily posts?
I'm (re)reading "Microserfs" by Douglas Coupland at the moment. For the uninitiated its a fictional journal by someone who starts out working for Microsoft circa 1992 and then leaves with some of his work colleagues to form their own company. I can understand those of you that are now thinking "how boring" but the way it's written (Douglas Coupland is a very good writer) and the subject matter make this a really good read. Anyway, that fact that it's written as a journal has inspired me to really put more effort into blogging daily.
Some of the 'posts' in this book are quite small or inconsequential and some are big and important with something major happening... so why don't I try doing that with this blog?
So first of all a catch up of what's happened over the past few days:
Had an interview for a new job on Friday - more details will follow but not before the 'jinxing' window has passed!
Sunday was spent doing 'me' stuff until bedtime. So from tomorrow (or maybe tonight when I get home) there WILL be a daily post of either events, thoughts, ideas or opinions. Promise.
Oh, Happy Valentines day too everyone x
Some of the 'posts' in this book are quite small or inconsequential and some are big and important with something major happening... so why don't I try doing that with this blog?
So first of all a catch up of what's happened over the past few days:
Had an interview for a new job on Friday - more details will follow but not before the 'jinxing' window has passed!
Sunday was spent doing 'me' stuff until bedtime. So from tomorrow (or maybe tonight when I get home) there WILL be a daily post of either events, thoughts, ideas or opinions. Promise.
Oh, Happy Valentines day too everyone x
Tuesday, 8 February 2011
Something needs to happen
See, this is why I haven't posted for ages - there's bog all going on in my life that's actually worth posting about. Yes number one son continues to be a source of strength, inspiration and frustration(!) but that's about it.
There are one or two things going on with my working life at the moment that I can't really comment on yet for fear of shooting myself in the foot or pissing off the wrong people (if they read this) but that really is as far as it goes - getting by day to day.
This week for example I have no plans apart from having Jake tonight and Thursday night. That's it. I'm not training at the moment until my achilles tendonitis clears up and there is no match at the weekend.
The only long(ish) term plan I have is to start looking around to see what properties are available to move in to. This isn't a reflection on my neighbours (!) or anything else other than the house I am in is too old and I want somewhere a bit more modern. Unfortunately, I can't afford to buy just yet (and my financial / employment status is still in a state of minor flux) so I will be looking to rent again but it will be another 2 bed house in the same local area, so Jake can still see his friends etc. Nothing definite yet, just putting out feelers and seeing whats out there.
If there is anyone still out there reading this and they have any ideas about what they'd like me to write about then please let me know - your idea could be my inspiration!
Peace.
There are one or two things going on with my working life at the moment that I can't really comment on yet for fear of shooting myself in the foot or pissing off the wrong people (if they read this) but that really is as far as it goes - getting by day to day.
This week for example I have no plans apart from having Jake tonight and Thursday night. That's it. I'm not training at the moment until my achilles tendonitis clears up and there is no match at the weekend.
The only long(ish) term plan I have is to start looking around to see what properties are available to move in to. This isn't a reflection on my neighbours (!) or anything else other than the house I am in is too old and I want somewhere a bit more modern. Unfortunately, I can't afford to buy just yet (and my financial / employment status is still in a state of minor flux) so I will be looking to rent again but it will be another 2 bed house in the same local area, so Jake can still see his friends etc. Nothing definite yet, just putting out feelers and seeing whats out there.
If there is anyone still out there reading this and they have any ideas about what they'd like me to write about then please let me know - your idea could be my inspiration!
Peace.
Saturday, 29 January 2011
Weekend update
Hello children.
So it's been a good weekend so far. On Friday I actually got that 'Friday feeling' that people talk about - I was in a really good mood and really looking forward to the weekend. I've spent today shopping where I splurged and treated myself to a new iPod. The reason being my old iPhone is being donated to no. 1 son but I still want to have a portable music source for when I walk anywhere and when I'm at work. But rather than spend hundreds of pounds on a iPod Touch I bought 160GB iPod Classic. And it's awesome.
This evening I'll be chilling with said no. 1 son and relaxing. Tomorrow I'm playing football and then taking it easy before work on Monday... maybe uploading some more CDs up to iTunes for loading to the new iPod.
So that's about it so far. I hope you've all had a good one so far.
Peace.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
So it's been a good weekend so far. On Friday I actually got that 'Friday feeling' that people talk about - I was in a really good mood and really looking forward to the weekend. I've spent today shopping where I splurged and treated myself to a new iPod. The reason being my old iPhone is being donated to no. 1 son but I still want to have a portable music source for when I walk anywhere and when I'm at work. But rather than spend hundreds of pounds on a iPod Touch I bought 160GB iPod Classic. And it's awesome.
This evening I'll be chilling with said no. 1 son and relaxing. Tomorrow I'm playing football and then taking it easy before work on Monday... maybe uploading some more CDs up to iTunes for loading to the new iPod.
So that's about it so far. I hope you've all had a good one so far.
Peace.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
Thursday, 27 January 2011
Lamenting my aging body
OK, so I'm not a coffin dodger or a decrepit bag of skin and bones. However this pasty, booze soaked, stressed, knackered carcass has been on the 3rd rock from the sun for nearly 40 years now, and like a well oiled machine left without the life giving oil it is starting to wear and break down.
I have decided to catalogue all my body's current ailments from toes up...should be fun.
Feet. For some reason they have started to smell a LOT more than they used to. I know, not a pretty thought to read but honesty in all things etc. I haven't changed the sorts of shoes or socks I wear and I haven't changed any habits - for some reason they have just started to hum quite a bit more than they used to. Like aging cheese I suppose...
Achilles Tendons. I currently have what has been diagnosed as achilles tenonditis and it just won't shift. They hurt alot in the mornings, ease off during the day unless I try doing anything silly like running, and then start hurting again in the evenings after all the walking done during the day.
Knees. I used to be quite agile and limber and I have always had good legs (quite well muscled and toned) but now my knees really ache when I squat down and try and stand up too quickly. This does not bode well for my football career.
Belly. No matter what I try and do I can't shift this extra weight. I've stopped drinking during the week... (well, cut down to almost none during the week...) I don't drink tea during the day any more, I eat fairly healthily and drink at least 2 litres of water every day. Alright, because of injury I haven't been as active on the football pitch as I have been in the past but still it's depressing to think my body has now "found it's shape" and I will stay looking like this 'til I fill a pine box.
Chest. Moobs. Small but there. Enough said.
Hands. Persistent skin problem that manifests as eczma and will. Not. Bloody. Shift.
Head Hair receding and going grey / white, brain seemingly more and more frazzled and confused each day.
So there you have it. Not looking good is it?? I honestly can't remember the last time I felt completely comfortable and well and healthy in my skin. If I'm like this now what am I going to be like at nearly 50?? *sigh*.
I have decided to catalogue all my body's current ailments from toes up...should be fun.
Feet. For some reason they have started to smell a LOT more than they used to. I know, not a pretty thought to read but honesty in all things etc. I haven't changed the sorts of shoes or socks I wear and I haven't changed any habits - for some reason they have just started to hum quite a bit more than they used to. Like aging cheese I suppose...
Achilles Tendons. I currently have what has been diagnosed as achilles tenonditis and it just won't shift. They hurt alot in the mornings, ease off during the day unless I try doing anything silly like running, and then start hurting again in the evenings after all the walking done during the day.
Knees. I used to be quite agile and limber and I have always had good legs (quite well muscled and toned) but now my knees really ache when I squat down and try and stand up too quickly. This does not bode well for my football career.
Belly. No matter what I try and do I can't shift this extra weight. I've stopped drinking during the week... (well, cut down to almost none during the week...) I don't drink tea during the day any more, I eat fairly healthily and drink at least 2 litres of water every day. Alright, because of injury I haven't been as active on the football pitch as I have been in the past but still it's depressing to think my body has now "found it's shape" and I will stay looking like this 'til I fill a pine box.
Chest. Moobs. Small but there. Enough said.
Hands. Persistent skin problem that manifests as eczma and will. Not. Bloody. Shift.
Head Hair receding and going grey / white, brain seemingly more and more frazzled and confused each day.
So there you have it. Not looking good is it?? I honestly can't remember the last time I felt completely comfortable and well and healthy in my skin. If I'm like this now what am I going to be like at nearly 50?? *sigh*.
Monday, 24 January 2011
In the words of Elton John
Hello campers.
I had to work from home today. What with the car being off the road I couldn't get to work. And I can't lie, it's been blissful. I didn't even bother getting dressed I just spent all day in PJs sat at my laptop coding.
I had the chance to cook something properly for the first time in ages so I made a fresh tomato and garlic sauce to have with some spaghetti for lunch and it was awesome.
Elton John was once asked what the weirdest thing he had ever put in his mouth was, and he responded "a clitoris". Now what I had today was probably one of the weirdest things I've put in my mouth but not with the same comic effect as Mr. Eltons experience. Yesterday I watched one of Jamie Olivers "30 minute meals" programs (I have the book - it's brilliant). In this episode he was making tapas and one of the dishes was a meat and cheese board as a starter. During the show he was preparing the cheese and said "right, if you've not tried this you have to do it THIS MINUTE. This is an unbelievable taste". He cut a small piece of cheese (manchego I think) and then poured a little honey on it and then sprinkled a little bit of instant coffee granules on top... I know, right?? Wtf?!
Anyway, I thought "I'm gonna try that".
So today, I did. I used some good quality cheddar, some honey and some coffee granules. I cut a little piece of cheese, poured on the honey and then sprinkled the coffee.
"I can't believe I'm doing this" thinks I. 1, 2, 3...
Well I won't lie to you all. It was... Weird. But the taste, although not 'unbelievable' as per Mr. Oliver, was really very good. Unusual but in a really really good way. I will be having it again. And I recommend it.
Cut a chunk of cheese about 1" by 0.5" square, pour on enough honey to cover the top (not too much but not too little either) and then sprinkle on some coffee. Again, just a little not too much. Then put it all in your mouth, chew, savour and swallow. Trust me.
Night folks.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
I had to work from home today. What with the car being off the road I couldn't get to work. And I can't lie, it's been blissful. I didn't even bother getting dressed I just spent all day in PJs sat at my laptop coding.
I had the chance to cook something properly for the first time in ages so I made a fresh tomato and garlic sauce to have with some spaghetti for lunch and it was awesome.
Elton John was once asked what the weirdest thing he had ever put in his mouth was, and he responded "a clitoris". Now what I had today was probably one of the weirdest things I've put in my mouth but not with the same comic effect as Mr. Eltons experience. Yesterday I watched one of Jamie Olivers "30 minute meals" programs (I have the book - it's brilliant). In this episode he was making tapas and one of the dishes was a meat and cheese board as a starter. During the show he was preparing the cheese and said "right, if you've not tried this you have to do it THIS MINUTE. This is an unbelievable taste". He cut a small piece of cheese (manchego I think) and then poured a little honey on it and then sprinkled a little bit of instant coffee granules on top... I know, right?? Wtf?!
Anyway, I thought "I'm gonna try that".
So today, I did. I used some good quality cheddar, some honey and some coffee granules. I cut a little piece of cheese, poured on the honey and then sprinkled the coffee.
"I can't believe I'm doing this" thinks I. 1, 2, 3...
Well I won't lie to you all. It was... Weird. But the taste, although not 'unbelievable' as per Mr. Oliver, was really very good. Unusual but in a really really good way. I will be having it again. And I recommend it.
Cut a chunk of cheese about 1" by 0.5" square, pour on enough honey to cover the top (not too much but not too little either) and then sprinkle on some coffee. Again, just a little not too much. Then put it all in your mouth, chew, savour and swallow. Trust me.
Night folks.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
Saturday, 22 January 2011
Friday. What a day.
So it was supposed to be a team meeting off site, combined with clay pigeon shooting & possible quad biking and lunch and drinks and everything.
It was taking place at a farm owned by the family of one of the members of staff (they have a converted barn used for meetings etc.)
The farm (by it's nature) is out in the rural countryside and so after Jake left for school off I trundled for the 45 minutes or so journey.
All was fine up until literally 2 miles from the farm. Driving down a narrow, twisty, icy road at no more then 20 mph I went round a sharp bend when something ran out across the road in front of me. I think it was a hare or rabbit or cat or something. All I know is it caused me to hit the brakes and slide gracefully toward the side of the road and a big ditch. Luckily my front left wheel took the brunt of the impact into a curb and this caused me to slow down enough to get some grip on the mud on the side of the road and turn away from the ditch. But my front left wheel was f*cked. I managed to nurse the car to the farm where I had to call for a recovery lorry. All I was worried about was getting home because Jake was coming back to me straight from school and if I wasn't there... Well it didn't bare thinking about.
So I arrived at the farm at about 9.30 and was in the recovery lorry back toward Manchester at about 10.30. The car was taken straight to a garage for assessment and this meant a cab ride home to finally get back here at about 14.00. I am now without a car until some point early next week PLUS I can look forward to a hike in my insurance premiums. Awesome.
So that was my Friday. Not a good start to the weekend. Hopefully the rest of it will be peaceful and without incident(!).
Have a nice one all...
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
It was taking place at a farm owned by the family of one of the members of staff (they have a converted barn used for meetings etc.)
The farm (by it's nature) is out in the rural countryside and so after Jake left for school off I trundled for the 45 minutes or so journey.
All was fine up until literally 2 miles from the farm. Driving down a narrow, twisty, icy road at no more then 20 mph I went round a sharp bend when something ran out across the road in front of me. I think it was a hare or rabbit or cat or something. All I know is it caused me to hit the brakes and slide gracefully toward the side of the road and a big ditch. Luckily my front left wheel took the brunt of the impact into a curb and this caused me to slow down enough to get some grip on the mud on the side of the road and turn away from the ditch. But my front left wheel was f*cked. I managed to nurse the car to the farm where I had to call for a recovery lorry. All I was worried about was getting home because Jake was coming back to me straight from school and if I wasn't there... Well it didn't bare thinking about.
So I arrived at the farm at about 9.30 and was in the recovery lorry back toward Manchester at about 10.30. The car was taken straight to a garage for assessment and this meant a cab ride home to finally get back here at about 14.00. I am now without a car until some point early next week PLUS I can look forward to a hike in my insurance premiums. Awesome.
So that was my Friday. Not a good start to the weekend. Hopefully the rest of it will be peaceful and without incident(!).
Have a nice one all...
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
Wednesday, 19 January 2011
Slack in posting again
Goodness I'm sorry - I've been intending to update you all daily but what with one thing and another (tiredness, bad moods, lack of anything remotely interesting) it's been hard finding things to post about. So this post is a little bit of this and a little bit of that just to tide you over.
First of all, I know it's SO dull when people talk about their dreams but I had to tell you briefly about the one I had last night. It was set in an underground theatre of some sort and I was taking part in what can only be described as a "visual representation, using mime, of the Vagina monologues". I know!! How insane does that sound? And then after the performance I was critically acclaimed by Peter Ustinov(!) I shit you not! He said my performance was "comedy genius" even though it wasn't a comedy. I have no idea what I ate / drank / inhaled last night but that was a weird one.
In other news, I haven't had Jake this week so far as he is with his mum - I'm having him tomorrow night and then all the rest of the week until Sunday evening. On Friday I have an offsite team meeting which will involve shot guns. I'll fill you in about that tomorrow. And Saturday I have a doctors appointment. That's about it so far.
So another short and sweet post, I'll do more tomorrow. Over 'n' out.
First of all, I know it's SO dull when people talk about their dreams but I had to tell you briefly about the one I had last night. It was set in an underground theatre of some sort and I was taking part in what can only be described as a "visual representation, using mime, of the Vagina monologues". I know!! How insane does that sound? And then after the performance I was critically acclaimed by Peter Ustinov(!) I shit you not! He said my performance was "comedy genius" even though it wasn't a comedy. I have no idea what I ate / drank / inhaled last night but that was a weird one.
In other news, I haven't had Jake this week so far as he is with his mum - I'm having him tomorrow night and then all the rest of the week until Sunday evening. On Friday I have an offsite team meeting which will involve shot guns. I'll fill you in about that tomorrow. And Saturday I have a doctors appointment. That's about it so far.
So another short and sweet post, I'll do more tomorrow. Over 'n' out.
Friday, 14 January 2011
And relax...
Yes, you can relax now, it's the weekend.
Unfortunately due to some 'indiscretions' from number one son I won't be doing much tomorrow as he's on punishment. I won't go into details but he's grounded and he's not allowed to do anything fun. Which is a bit of a pisser for me because we had planned to go to the City game on Saturday but now that's gone for a burton!
I do need to shop and do various mundane stuff so he'll be accompanying me doing that and no doubt being bored but that can't be helped.
He has got Stagecoach on Sunday and although I would quite happily keep him away from there it's too much money to waste on missing a week.
Seems like its been a long slog of a week this week - so looking forward to not having to do much. I hope you all have a nice weekend. Stay tuned.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
Unfortunately due to some 'indiscretions' from number one son I won't be doing much tomorrow as he's on punishment. I won't go into details but he's grounded and he's not allowed to do anything fun. Which is a bit of a pisser for me because we had planned to go to the City game on Saturday but now that's gone for a burton!
I do need to shop and do various mundane stuff so he'll be accompanying me doing that and no doubt being bored but that can't be helped.
He has got Stagecoach on Sunday and although I would quite happily keep him away from there it's too much money to waste on missing a week.
Seems like its been a long slog of a week this week - so looking forward to not having to do much. I hope you all have a nice weekend. Stay tuned.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
Wednesday, 12 January 2011
It's here and it's awesome
So I've gone from the iPhone to...
The HTC Desire.
Let me explain why first. I still love Apple products and I am still in love with my iPad. Of the reasons for swapping to the Desire, having enough of Apple isn't one of them. The main reason I suppose is boredom. I'm the same with cars, and music, and books - I get bored easily. The chance to upgrade with relative ease and limited financial penalty was too good to miss and after discussing with my trusted technical guru (Mr. P Snr) the Desire was the phone for me. After some initial worry with getting contacts across everything now is up and running (there is a minor niggle that my facebook news feed isn't updating but that's minor and sortable I'm sure).
So far - I'm very impressed. Smooth, quick, easily customisable and lovely to use. I will really enjoy getting to grips with it over the next few days.
Oh, and the saga of actually getting it delivered? They still delivered it to the wrong address. I had a card from the courier through my letter box when I got home tonight and after swearing, kicking the wall and cursing all things courier related I read the card... "your item has been left with your neighbour". A woo hoo!! So as I now have my phone I have no reason to phone O2 again and shout at them. I'll do a more in depth review when I've used it some more.
The HTC Desire.
Let me explain why first. I still love Apple products and I am still in love with my iPad. Of the reasons for swapping to the Desire, having enough of Apple isn't one of them. The main reason I suppose is boredom. I'm the same with cars, and music, and books - I get bored easily. The chance to upgrade with relative ease and limited financial penalty was too good to miss and after discussing with my trusted technical guru (Mr. P Snr) the Desire was the phone for me. After some initial worry with getting contacts across everything now is up and running (there is a minor niggle that my facebook news feed isn't updating but that's minor and sortable I'm sure).
So far - I'm very impressed. Smooth, quick, easily customisable and lovely to use. I will really enjoy getting to grips with it over the next few days.
Oh, and the saga of actually getting it delivered? They still delivered it to the wrong address. I had a card from the courier through my letter box when I got home tonight and after swearing, kicking the wall and cursing all things courier related I read the card... "your item has been left with your neighbour". A woo hoo!! So as I now have my phone I have no reason to phone O2 again and shout at them. I'll do a more in depth review when I've used it some more.
Tuesday, 11 January 2011
Cocking arse biscuits
I knew, KNEW, I shouldn't have got excited about my new phone today. Something will always come up that screws things up and more often than not it's someone elses incompetence.
I was supposed to have my new shiny sexy handset delivered today to my work address so I could sign for it and be happy. But no. The handset has actually been delivered to my old address down in London. And because I'm not there (obviously) it was actually delivered to my old next door neighbour.
When I ordered the phone on Friday I found out that the address on my account was still my old London address - OK, my fault for not updating it. However, the person I spoke to on the phone said this would not be a problem, they would update my account address with my new address and this would all be sorted. "Hold on", says I, "I won't be at my home address I will be at work, can you deliver it there?". "Yes of course" says idiot number one "I can arrange that with no problem - it will be delivered on Tuesday. Enjoy your new phone".
So a weekend of anticipation passes and I arrive in the office this morning bouncing around with excitment (I'm a sucker for new technology) and sit waiting patiently for the courier to turn up.
Come around 9.30 I thought I'd check on the courier website and see where my parcel was in the system and what do I see? "Delivered 10/01/2011"... to my old next door neighbour. So all the "Don't worry I'll sort it" bollocks was just that. Bollocks. Hairy dangly ones.
So as you can imagine I was on the phone pretty sharpish and tried to remedy the situation. And the kicker? After 15 minutes of a call I was told "I'll just sort this out please hold" and then I was met with the cutoff signal. I was cut off. F*CKING ARSE HATS.
So now, at the time of writing, I am expecting a very apologetic call back - but as yet after waiting 20 minutes (I was told it would be more or less straight away) still no call back. So guess who's getting back on the phone again now... stay tuned.
UPDATE: After talking to a smashing bloke called Steven, my phone should now be delivered on Thursday (f*ckin' Thursday... a patient man I am not!). However I am not taking that word as gospel until the handset is in my grubby little mitts as this is what the last person said would happen and where did it end up? F*ckin' London. Sake. So we'll see what happens now.
I'm going away now to perform some voodoo .....
Wednesday Morning Update: I just checked on the courier website - it says my new handset is "out for delivery" - I am making a prediction now, they will attempt to deliver it to my home address rather than my work address as I asked. Anyone want to disagree with me?
I was supposed to have my new shiny sexy handset delivered today to my work address so I could sign for it and be happy. But no. The handset has actually been delivered to my old address down in London. And because I'm not there (obviously) it was actually delivered to my old next door neighbour.
When I ordered the phone on Friday I found out that the address on my account was still my old London address - OK, my fault for not updating it. However, the person I spoke to on the phone said this would not be a problem, they would update my account address with my new address and this would all be sorted. "Hold on", says I, "I won't be at my home address I will be at work, can you deliver it there?". "Yes of course" says idiot number one "I can arrange that with no problem - it will be delivered on Tuesday. Enjoy your new phone".
So a weekend of anticipation passes and I arrive in the office this morning bouncing around with excitment (I'm a sucker for new technology) and sit waiting patiently for the courier to turn up.
Come around 9.30 I thought I'd check on the courier website and see where my parcel was in the system and what do I see? "Delivered 10/01/2011"... to my old next door neighbour. So all the "Don't worry I'll sort it" bollocks was just that. Bollocks. Hairy dangly ones.
So as you can imagine I was on the phone pretty sharpish and tried to remedy the situation. And the kicker? After 15 minutes of a call I was told "I'll just sort this out please hold" and then I was met with the cutoff signal. I was cut off. F*CKING ARSE HATS.
So now, at the time of writing, I am expecting a very apologetic call back - but as yet after waiting 20 minutes (I was told it would be more or less straight away) still no call back. So guess who's getting back on the phone again now... stay tuned.
UPDATE: After talking to a smashing bloke called Steven, my phone should now be delivered on Thursday (f*ckin' Thursday... a patient man I am not!). However I am not taking that word as gospel until the handset is in my grubby little mitts as this is what the last person said would happen and where did it end up? F*ckin' London. Sake. So we'll see what happens now.
I'm going away now to perform some voodoo .....
Wednesday Morning Update: I just checked on the courier website - it says my new handset is "out for delivery" - I am making a prediction now, they will attempt to deliver it to my home address rather than my work address as I asked. Anyone want to disagree with me?
Monday, 10 January 2011
Something nice in the post
It's been a while since I received anything in the post that's made me go "Yes! Awesome! Excellent! Fantastic!" etc. and so I aimed to remedy that situation by ordering a shit load of stuff of various websites. Consequently, this week I can look forward to receiving:
The Xbox Kinnect fitness game is so help me get in shape. I've read lots of reviews on it etc. and it seems like it really does work. I'm not a 'gym' person, and although I play football as often as I can it's still not doing enough to slim me down. So this new game, if I stick to the regime, will hopefully aid the reduction in my silhouette.
This weekend was nice - it wasn't my weekend with Jake so the weekend was spent chilling out and mincing around the house.
So that's about it for now... more updates tomorrow. Happy Monday.
- 3 new Bluetones albums
- A new Xbox Kinnect fitness game
- Some gel heel inserts for my football boots
- 3 new books recommended by someone I follow on Twitter
- And the thing I'm most excited about... a new mobile phone handset.
The Xbox Kinnect fitness game is so help me get in shape. I've read lots of reviews on it etc. and it seems like it really does work. I'm not a 'gym' person, and although I play football as often as I can it's still not doing enough to slim me down. So this new game, if I stick to the regime, will hopefully aid the reduction in my silhouette.
This weekend was nice - it wasn't my weekend with Jake so the weekend was spent chilling out and mincing around the house.
So that's about it for now... more updates tomorrow. Happy Monday.
Thursday, 6 January 2011
Rant!
So I've had a delivery of some sort. Well, an attempted delivery. I have no idea what it is - either the CDs I've ordered or the Filipino bride from that catalogue - but either way it needs a signature. The card left says "simply visit our website and arrange to have you parcel delivered at a time to suit YOU!" So tappity tap went my keyboard and up pops the site. Reference number and post code entered and there's my delivery.
"I can only really have it delivered Saturday" thinks our hero so I click on the drop down list of available dates and... Monday to Friday only. Shit it.
I'm at work all day Monday to Friday so that's no good.
Then I noticed a phone number..."maybe I can arrange to have it delivered to work instead" thinks I.
So beep beep goes my phone keypad and the recorded lady says "these calls are charged at 10p per minute from a BT land line..." and some such nonsense. 10p per minute?! And what do I then hear? "Press 1 for blah blah press 2 for blah blah..." so before I even get to speak to anyone it's cost me 20p. And then? "We are experiencing high call volumes..." seriously? At 7 O'clock at night? "...please hold or call back later". So I didn't get to speak to anyone and it's cost me about 50p. ARSE!
So guess which company is gonna get shouted at tomorrow?? Ggrrrr.
07/01/2011 Update - I managed to speak to a voice this morning. Here's a rough transcript of that awesome conversation...
"I work Monday to Friday is there any chance you can deliver it on Saturday..."
"Nope." Right. Thanks.
"Can you maybe deliver it to my work address so I can sign for it?"
"Let me see, what's your work post code?"
"PR5 8AR"
"..... No, sorry, we can't do that as it's in the wrong depot." Shit. Arse. Wank.
"So what can I do?"
"You can either go and collect it yourself..." from fcukin' Warrington?!? Piss off "...or can you maybe have a neighbour sign for it?"
Luckily my neighbour is at home during the day so I said to deliver it to her house as long as it was after 15.00.
"Oh they probably won't deliver until after 16.00 anyway..." she says
"Perfect" says I.
So who wants to bet my neighbour will get a card through her door saying they attempted to deliver etc.? I get the feelings I may never get this delivery!
"I can only really have it delivered Saturday" thinks our hero so I click on the drop down list of available dates and... Monday to Friday only. Shit it.
I'm at work all day Monday to Friday so that's no good.
Then I noticed a phone number..."maybe I can arrange to have it delivered to work instead" thinks I.
So beep beep goes my phone keypad and the recorded lady says "these calls are charged at 10p per minute from a BT land line..." and some such nonsense. 10p per minute?! And what do I then hear? "Press 1 for blah blah press 2 for blah blah..." so before I even get to speak to anyone it's cost me 20p. And then? "We are experiencing high call volumes..." seriously? At 7 O'clock at night? "...please hold or call back later". So I didn't get to speak to anyone and it's cost me about 50p. ARSE!
So guess which company is gonna get shouted at tomorrow?? Ggrrrr.
07/01/2011 Update - I managed to speak to a voice this morning. Here's a rough transcript of that awesome conversation...
"I work Monday to Friday is there any chance you can deliver it on Saturday..."
"Nope." Right. Thanks.
"Can you maybe deliver it to my work address so I can sign for it?"
"Let me see, what's your work post code?"
"PR5 8AR"
"..... No, sorry, we can't do that as it's in the wrong depot." Shit. Arse. Wank.
"So what can I do?"
"You can either go and collect it yourself..." from fcukin' Warrington?!? Piss off "...or can you maybe have a neighbour sign for it?"
Luckily my neighbour is at home during the day so I said to deliver it to her house as long as it was after 15.00.
"Oh they probably won't deliver until after 16.00 anyway..." she says
"Perfect" says I.
So who wants to bet my neighbour will get a card through her door saying they attempted to deliver etc.? I get the feelings I may never get this delivery!
Wednesday, 5 January 2011
If...
If you could look through my eyes and see into my world, what would you see? Would you see the beauty and grace that my eyes have become used to, and so no longer see? Would you see the darkness and bleak surroundings that I have lived with so long that I am numb to?
Would you think I am blessed with everything I have? Would you think me strong for surviving the hardship that I have been through? Would you think me poor in spirit or in emotion? Would you not understand what has made me the person I am or would you see the circumstances and conditions that have shaped my life?
If you were me would you have done things differently or would you have enjoyed the same successes and failures?
Something to think about - and something to ask the people YOU know.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
Would you think I am blessed with everything I have? Would you think me strong for surviving the hardship that I have been through? Would you think me poor in spirit or in emotion? Would you not understand what has made me the person I am or would you see the circumstances and conditions that have shaped my life?
If you were me would you have done things differently or would you have enjoyed the same successes and failures?
Something to think about - and something to ask the people YOU know.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
Tuesday, 4 January 2011
A couple of recommendations
I know I've touted this band before but those of you who've not sampled them yet don't know what you're missing. The Bluetones.
To me, they are one of those bands that I can keep going back to and get immense pleasure from. Some people say their more recent albums aren't as strong as the earlier ones (some say they stopped being truly brilliant after Expecting To Fly) but I think all their albums have a lot of strong tracks (I will admit, however, that Expecting To Fly is their best). There is something about the lead singers voice that just hits the right note for me (to listen to and sing along to) and some of the lyrics are fantastic. There are even a couple of songs that can bring a tear to my eye which to me says that what the songs are saying touches me somewhere below my conscious mind.
Sorry. Embarrassing gush over.
The other recommendation? A travel mug. Yes, a travel mug.
Although one of my more simple minded friends chastised me and called me "middle aged as I now have a flask" that's not what it is. It's such a simple thing but I drove to work sipping a piping hot tea this morning. The whole journey was made pleasurable.
Someone commented on my facebook status update on this, saying "simple things please simple minds" and maybe there is some truth in that. It IS such a simple thing and we all know I have a simple(ish) mind so... Who am I to argue?
Anyway. Thats two little suggestions that could improve your lives in some small way. Enjoy.
To me, they are one of those bands that I can keep going back to and get immense pleasure from. Some people say their more recent albums aren't as strong as the earlier ones (some say they stopped being truly brilliant after Expecting To Fly) but I think all their albums have a lot of strong tracks (I will admit, however, that Expecting To Fly is their best). There is something about the lead singers voice that just hits the right note for me (to listen to and sing along to) and some of the lyrics are fantastic. There are even a couple of songs that can bring a tear to my eye which to me says that what the songs are saying touches me somewhere below my conscious mind.
Sorry. Embarrassing gush over.
The other recommendation? A travel mug. Yes, a travel mug.
Although one of my more simple minded friends chastised me and called me "middle aged as I now have a flask" that's not what it is. It's such a simple thing but I drove to work sipping a piping hot tea this morning. The whole journey was made pleasurable.
Someone commented on my facebook status update on this, saying "simple things please simple minds" and maybe there is some truth in that. It IS such a simple thing and we all know I have a simple(ish) mind so... Who am I to argue?
Anyway. Thats two little suggestions that could improve your lives in some small way. Enjoy.
Monday, 3 January 2011
Four days and still no booze
Yes ok it's ONLY been four days - but it's quite hard to not drink when you are, for example, sat in front of the darts with no child care responsibilities for a couple of days and nowhere that you have to drive to. A nice cold pint of Guinness or an ice cold bottle of Bud would be awesome right now. But thats the point isn't it? To be able to abstain from something you like for the greater good - the greater good in this case being the reduction of my waist line - makes us better people. Doesn't it?! Please say it does!
Anyway - back to work tomorrow which does something that I thought physically impossible. It both sucks and blows. I need some sort of tonic or potion I can take that when I wake up I'm full of motivation and desire to be the best darn developer I can be. As it is I will probably wake up, groan, swear, and grumble my way up the M61.
I hope you all have had a nice break and enjoyed any time off you've had. January is a horrible month but I will try and do my little part in keeping you entertained. Enjoy the rest of the bank holiday.
Anyway - back to work tomorrow which does something that I thought physically impossible. It both sucks and blows. I need some sort of tonic or potion I can take that when I wake up I'm full of motivation and desire to be the best darn developer I can be. As it is I will probably wake up, groan, swear, and grumble my way up the M61.
I hope you all have had a nice break and enjoyed any time off you've had. January is a horrible month but I will try and do my little part in keeping you entertained. Enjoy the rest of the bank holiday.
Sunday, 2 January 2011
My achilles tendons are on fire
I've had no luck with injuries recently. Considering I've been playing football in one form or another for about 30 years I've been extremely fortunate in that I've never had a serious injury. And now, as I approach the 'winter' of my playing career I've been hit first with a bad hamstring pull and now something evil that makes my achilles tendons really sore after a little bit of playing. I don't know what's causing it - maybe witchcraft - but I'm serious when I say it is agony. When I walk it feels like knives digging into the back of my legs and heels. "Old age" I hear you cry. "Shit off" I'll reply. It isn't age. Apart from this current problem I'm actually reasonably fit - I must be if the gaffer insists on playing me in centre midfield.
Ho hum. Luckily there's no game now until 16th January so I can have two weeks proper rest and see what happens.
And here's a depressing thought - 38 hours from now I'll be getting up to go to work. Awesome, eh?
Keep reading folks - I really will be trying for an update a day.
Ho hum. Luckily there's no game now until 16th January so I can have two weeks proper rest and see what happens.
And here's a depressing thought - 38 hours from now I'll be getting up to go to work. Awesome, eh?
Keep reading folks - I really will be trying for an update a day.
Saturday, 1 January 2011
New year, new post
As I've already mentioned on my Facebook & twitter status updates, 2010 kicked my arse. It changed my life beyond recognition, it changed me as a person, and it changed the way I think and feel about a load of things. It kinda sucked, you know?
As with every new years day, you never know what the year will bring. I mean this time last year I was (I thought) happily married and secure in my life. Roll on a few hours in my life's show reel and a massive bomb explodes (metaphorically) in my life and everything changes.
Anyway. New year, new start etc. I have made no new years resolutions - not because I think I'm perfect but let's be honest who actually sticks to them? And why should it take a new year to want to change something about yourself? I WILL be giving up alcohol for a month, for two reasons:
- to help lose weight
- because I've been drinking far too much recently and it's not been healthy
And I will be blogging more. At the time of writing this (cup of tea on the go and still in PJ's) I have no idea what I'll be blogging about but more effort will be made. I have been told by at least one person that I write well so why not keep doing it?
Ooh, and I just remembered - I need a new toaster and I'm actually excited about buying one. Awesome. Middle age here I come!
So there we go. Welcome to 2011. I hope it finds you well and continues peacefully for you.
As with every new years day, you never know what the year will bring. I mean this time last year I was (I thought) happily married and secure in my life. Roll on a few hours in my life's show reel and a massive bomb explodes (metaphorically) in my life and everything changes.
Anyway. New year, new start etc. I have made no new years resolutions - not because I think I'm perfect but let's be honest who actually sticks to them? And why should it take a new year to want to change something about yourself? I WILL be giving up alcohol for a month, for two reasons:
- to help lose weight
- because I've been drinking far too much recently and it's not been healthy
And I will be blogging more. At the time of writing this (cup of tea on the go and still in PJ's) I have no idea what I'll be blogging about but more effort will be made. I have been told by at least one person that I write well so why not keep doing it?
Ooh, and I just remembered - I need a new toaster and I'm actually excited about buying one. Awesome. Middle age here I come!
So there we go. Welcome to 2011. I hope it finds you well and continues peacefully for you.
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