Thursday, 24 March 2011
Green Fingers
I am going to admit something here.
I am getting into this gardening mallarkey. It's not quite Kew Gardens. I wouldn't say it's better than a nice stroll through Central Park.
Yesterday I swept up what must have been a decades worth of leaves (or so it seemed) and got rid of the majority of weeds on the patio area.
Next up is digging up the weeds in the back border (that could be a big job) and strimming the hedge which could probably be mistaken for the Great Wall of China from the International Space Station!
I will post a follow up pic of my progress...
I write this at 11.30am Thursday morning. It's been a rather productive one so far:
1. Roasted chicken & made stock (enchiladas for dinner and plan to make some chicken tortilla soup too).
2. Made tomato and chickpea soup (first attempt).
3. Switched gas & electricity provider and made a good saving.
Am now watching what could be one of the best games of the cricket world cup so far...India v Australia. Aussie captain Ponting is unbeaten on 56, what odds a ton? Rumours of his demise were a tad premature I'd say.
I am getting into this gardening mallarkey. It's not quite Kew Gardens. I wouldn't say it's better than a nice stroll through Central Park.
Yesterday I swept up what must have been a decades worth of leaves (or so it seemed) and got rid of the majority of weeds on the patio area.
Next up is digging up the weeds in the back border (that could be a big job) and strimming the hedge which could probably be mistaken for the Great Wall of China from the International Space Station!
I will post a follow up pic of my progress...
I write this at 11.30am Thursday morning. It's been a rather productive one so far:
1. Roasted chicken & made stock (enchiladas for dinner and plan to make some chicken tortilla soup too).
2. Made tomato and chickpea soup (first attempt).
3. Switched gas & electricity provider and made a good saving.
Am now watching what could be one of the best games of the cricket world cup so far...India v Australia. Aussie captain Ponting is unbeaten on 56, what odds a ton? Rumours of his demise were a tad premature I'd say.
Tuesday, 22 March 2011
Like A Virgin
It's been one of those days.
I got a new TV/broadband/phone package installed today...Virgin Media.
The day started off well. The (cable) guy (nothing like Jim Carrey) was due anytime between 8 and 1. I couldn't believe my luck when he arrived at 8 on the dot. The installation went reasonably well and he was out the door not long after 9.
So far so good.
What a hassle it was redirecting my emails through Windows Live Mail. It took a long time and I was getting frustrated. Add to that they forgot to add my sports package, so at least I have used the phone today - to call them!
It took me ages to change details on online bank, Amazon, travel websites, eBay etc. In hindsight I wish I'd done it as I'd gone along. Anyway all seems OK now. Fingers x'ed.
A pointless trip this morning to the postal depot to collect a parcel (new Blackberry charger - thanks eBay). It was small enough to fit through the damn letterbox!
Took advantage of the nice spring weather for a second consecutive walk in a long while. A good 2 mile stroll to Tynemouth and back via the coast.
Tuesday night is pub night and since I don't have to be up for work in the morning, I may as well make the most of it.
Ciao and I hope your having a good week.
I got a new TV/broadband/phone package installed today...Virgin Media.
The day started off well. The (cable) guy (nothing like Jim Carrey) was due anytime between 8 and 1. I couldn't believe my luck when he arrived at 8 on the dot. The installation went reasonably well and he was out the door not long after 9.
So far so good.
What a hassle it was redirecting my emails through Windows Live Mail. It took a long time and I was getting frustrated. Add to that they forgot to add my sports package, so at least I have used the phone today - to call them!
It took me ages to change details on online bank, Amazon, travel websites, eBay etc. In hindsight I wish I'd done it as I'd gone along. Anyway all seems OK now. Fingers x'ed.
A pointless trip this morning to the postal depot to collect a parcel (new Blackberry charger - thanks eBay). It was small enough to fit through the damn letterbox!
Took advantage of the nice spring weather for a second consecutive walk in a long while. A good 2 mile stroll to Tynemouth and back via the coast.
Tuesday night is pub night and since I don't have to be up for work in the morning, I may as well make the most of it.
Ciao and I hope your having a good week.
Monday, 21 March 2011
I Could Have Had a Quieter Day at Work
It's perfectly true. Day one of holiday (or vacation...I never forget my American followers!) was busy. Well the morning was.
Up with the larks, quick breakfast and a load of laundry in then a quick walk. It is officially the first day of Spring and it seemed it. Barely a cloud in the sky and the temperature well into double digits (centigrade) made for a nice walk to Tynemouth. The breeze was flapping a bit but it was far from cold.
The hard work was about to begin. I decided to tackle the jungle that is my backyard. I'm not green fingered. Gardening frankly doesn't interest me but I figured it was time I tidied it up. So I took a few trips to the municipal tip with, well a load of crap really. Pulled some weeds out and put killer on the rest (takes a few days apparently).
It looks a lot better but is definitely work in progress. It won't win any awards but so long as it gets tidy and I keep it that way then it's a winner.
After lunch (scrambled eggs) I watched The Departed. Great cast, great movie. 8.5/10. I thought it was the best film I've seen Dicaprio in and Jack Nicholson was as good as ever. Great twist towards then end as the plot unfolded.
Dinner was king prawn (jumbo shrimp) burritos. The best I've done them yet. Delicious. Early evening spent watching No Country For Old Men, what a great film. Again I'm giving it 8.5/10. It's an Oscar winner and rightly so.
Plans for the rest of the week? Some more yard work almost certainly. I'm getting Virgin Media installed tomorrow (new broadband/TV/phone package) and from Thursday its the cricket world cup quarter finals. The pick of the games is India v Australia. Too close to call, home advantage for India may sway it. England play Sri Lanka in Colombo and, after being the most entertaining team on show so far, I fear England will be heading home.
So, next time I blog I will have a new ISP. Not that it should make any difference of course.
Up with the larks, quick breakfast and a load of laundry in then a quick walk. It is officially the first day of Spring and it seemed it. Barely a cloud in the sky and the temperature well into double digits (centigrade) made for a nice walk to Tynemouth. The breeze was flapping a bit but it was far from cold.
The hard work was about to begin. I decided to tackle the jungle that is my backyard. I'm not green fingered. Gardening frankly doesn't interest me but I figured it was time I tidied it up. So I took a few trips to the municipal tip with, well a load of crap really. Pulled some weeds out and put killer on the rest (takes a few days apparently).
It looks a lot better but is definitely work in progress. It won't win any awards but so long as it gets tidy and I keep it that way then it's a winner.
After lunch (scrambled eggs) I watched The Departed. Great cast, great movie. 8.5/10. I thought it was the best film I've seen Dicaprio in and Jack Nicholson was as good as ever. Great twist towards then end as the plot unfolded.
Dinner was king prawn (jumbo shrimp) burritos. The best I've done them yet. Delicious. Early evening spent watching No Country For Old Men, what a great film. Again I'm giving it 8.5/10. It's an Oscar winner and rightly so.
Plans for the rest of the week? Some more yard work almost certainly. I'm getting Virgin Media installed tomorrow (new broadband/TV/phone package) and from Thursday its the cricket world cup quarter finals. The pick of the games is India v Australia. Too close to call, home advantage for India may sway it. England play Sri Lanka in Colombo and, after being the most entertaining team on show so far, I fear England will be heading home.
So, next time I blog I will have a new ISP. Not that it should make any difference of course.
Tuesday, 15 March 2011
Japan
Major world events in my lifetime include the fall of the Berlin Wall, Nelson Mandela released from prison, September 11th and the 2004 Asian tsunami.
The horrific scenes on our TV screens, websites and front pages of the printed media will live long in the memory of the tsunami and the near quarter of a million who perished.
Now, when I hear of an earthquake, especially in the Pacific I feel pensive. I awoke on Friday as the BBC were reporting the earthquake as breaking news. The magnitude of the quake indicated there could be severe damage.
By the time I got home the true horror of the tsunami was being played out on 24 hour news channels and the people of Japan have been on my mind since then. The pictures that have made their way on to our screens the last few days show the immense power of water and how it sweeps all before it. Cars tossed around like they are made of balsa wood. Houses like dolls houses. Even aircraft and ships.
Of course there is the ongoing drama surrounding the nuclear power plant. We can only hope meltdown doesn't occur.
There are countless thousand stories of human loss and misery. Each tale so tragic. Every one moving me to tears.
But, there is something about this tragedy that is different. A measured response by the authorities. Orderly queues in line for bread, water and fuel (taken for granted only a matter of days ago).
The people of Japan have such dignity and purpose. They are a credit to themselves. They are a credit to the human race and can teach us all, and I include me in that, a big lesson in dignity, humility and decency.
Japan is going to take years to get over this. The mental scars will never heal. The clean up operation is almost unimaginable. The economy is going to take a hit.
The land of the rising sun may be a leading developed nation, but it still needs - and deserves our help. The people deserve it.
They are an inspiration. They are in my thoughts.
The horrific scenes on our TV screens, websites and front pages of the printed media will live long in the memory of the tsunami and the near quarter of a million who perished.
Now, when I hear of an earthquake, especially in the Pacific I feel pensive. I awoke on Friday as the BBC were reporting the earthquake as breaking news. The magnitude of the quake indicated there could be severe damage.
By the time I got home the true horror of the tsunami was being played out on 24 hour news channels and the people of Japan have been on my mind since then. The pictures that have made their way on to our screens the last few days show the immense power of water and how it sweeps all before it. Cars tossed around like they are made of balsa wood. Houses like dolls houses. Even aircraft and ships.
Of course there is the ongoing drama surrounding the nuclear power plant. We can only hope meltdown doesn't occur.
There are countless thousand stories of human loss and misery. Each tale so tragic. Every one moving me to tears.
But, there is something about this tragedy that is different. A measured response by the authorities. Orderly queues in line for bread, water and fuel (taken for granted only a matter of days ago).
The people of Japan have such dignity and purpose. They are a credit to themselves. They are a credit to the human race and can teach us all, and I include me in that, a big lesson in dignity, humility and decency.
Japan is going to take years to get over this. The mental scars will never heal. The clean up operation is almost unimaginable. The economy is going to take a hit.
The land of the rising sun may be a leading developed nation, but it still needs - and deserves our help. The people deserve it.
They are an inspiration. They are in my thoughts.
Wednesday, 9 March 2011
If I Was the Zimbabwe Cricket Captain...
...I'd like to be called Elton Chigumbura!
Yep, that's his name. Don't know why, I just like it. One of the great cricket names. Not as good as
*deep breath*
Srinivasraghavan Venkatravaghan!
OK back to reality. Or as close as I get. Another sunny day today but cold. I thought Spring had arrived last week but winter always seems to have a twist before you can be confident in these parts!
A long day at work. I organised some industry customer service training today (devised by the Canadians for the Winter Olympics in Vancouver last year). We are the first to roll the training out in the north of England so, for once, we are blazing a trail. Yeehah!
And some bad news...
I was too tired for badminton. So, no exercise, in turn led to no cooking (yes the only dexterity required for dinner tonight was dialing the phone). A delicious Indian it was -
- poppadoms and pickles
- tandoori chicken
- chicken rogan josh
- mushroom pilau rice
- garlic naan bread
And of course, why not go the whole hog! No exercise...check....take away...check...
...bottle of chianti open!
Ooops!
I promise a healthier day awaits tomorrow. Until then my good friends. I bid you good day.
Yep, that's his name. Don't know why, I just like it. One of the great cricket names. Not as good as
*deep breath*
Srinivasraghavan Venkatravaghan!
OK back to reality. Or as close as I get. Another sunny day today but cold. I thought Spring had arrived last week but winter always seems to have a twist before you can be confident in these parts!
A long day at work. I organised some industry customer service training today (devised by the Canadians for the Winter Olympics in Vancouver last year). We are the first to roll the training out in the north of England so, for once, we are blazing a trail. Yeehah!
And some bad news...
I was too tired for badminton. So, no exercise, in turn led to no cooking (yes the only dexterity required for dinner tonight was dialing the phone). A delicious Indian it was -
- poppadoms and pickles
- tandoori chicken
- chicken rogan josh
- mushroom pilau rice
- garlic naan bread
And of course, why not go the whole hog! No exercise...check....take away...check...
...bottle of chianti open!
Ooops!
I promise a healthier day awaits tomorrow. Until then my good friends. I bid you good day.
Tuesday, 8 March 2011
Pancakes....yummy!
Pancakes are so tasty aren't they? I guess I used to only have them once a year as a kid. Pancake Tuesday. Well, Shrove Tuesday to give it it's proper name. Why once a year I don't know. They are...well...I was right...yummy!
I remember the first time I saw them on a diner menu in the USA (NYC most likely)..."pancakes with bacon AND syrup"? No. No.Yes. Yes. The flavours just go so well together. I guess you can work out what dinner was tonight.
I finally got my lazy ass out for a walk. It has been way too long. I have no excuse. I can look for some and perhaps invent many:
- It's raining.
- It looks like rain.
- It is forecast to rain later.
- It is the most sunny and glorious day in living memory...but you never know....it might rain later.
I remember the first time I saw them on a diner menu in the USA (NYC most likely)..."pancakes with bacon AND syrup"? No. No.Yes. Yes. The flavours just go so well together. I guess you can work out what dinner was tonight.
I finally got my lazy ass out for a walk. It has been way too long. I have no excuse. I can look for some and perhaps invent many:
- It's raining.
- It looks like rain.
- It is forecast to rain later.
- It is the most sunny and glorious day in living memory...but you never know....it might rain later.
For those who don't know where I live, a 2 mile 30 minute walk can take in a Georgian street, a priory and castle (the burial place of saints and kings) and 2 blue flag award winning golden sandy beaches with amazing sea views. Yes. NO excuse at all I know. This is Tynemouth Longsands below...
I am getting more and more angry with the British Government. The whole economic situation in this country was caused by the 1980s greed culture of Thatcherism and privatisation as well as irresponsible lending by banks.
Today it was announced that the Royal Bank of Scotland head is to get a £7.5 million bonus. The bank has made a loss of over a £1 billion this year and is over 80% owned by the tax payer. The news also reports that 12-28,000 police jobs are to go. There is only one word. Corruption. Cameron and his cronies are not much better than Gaddaffi and co they are keen to see deposed. It angers me beyond belief that it is ordinary people like myself, teachers, health workers etc who are paying, literally, the price. It was not our fault.
OK...that said it's almost Guinness time. I hope you enjoy(ed) your pancakes.
I know I did!
Wednesday, 2 March 2011
Ballad of a Thin Man
OK so I played badminton today but I'm not getting carried away in thinking that I now have an Olympian physique (unless you are talking about a 1980s East German shot-putter - female at that!).
It just happened that as I type this I'm listening to Bob Dylan's Highway 61 Revisited. I almost forgot what a classic album it was. Or is.
So my second week of badminton and I'm enjoying it. I used to play a bit and am pleased I dusted down the racket. It is on a drop in basis at the sports centre. I don't know anyone else but they seem friendly enough and no one is either hopeless or a potential gold medal winner so it's a good mix.
2 months ago the England cricket team were victorious in Australia 3-1. Retaining the Ashes in memorable style. Today (albeit in a different form of the game) they lost in the world cup to Ireland. To put that into perspective to my American readers thats like getting a few guys from your town, going to Yankee Stadium and beating the Yanks!
Fair play to Ireland...a fully deserved win. As a Guinness drinker I almost feel like an honorary Irishman anyway.
Bob Dylan in the background, the shiraz tasting delicious and a smattering of stilton to compliment it. Not a bad midweek evening at all.
It just happened that as I type this I'm listening to Bob Dylan's Highway 61 Revisited. I almost forgot what a classic album it was. Or is.
So my second week of badminton and I'm enjoying it. I used to play a bit and am pleased I dusted down the racket. It is on a drop in basis at the sports centre. I don't know anyone else but they seem friendly enough and no one is either hopeless or a potential gold medal winner so it's a good mix.
2 months ago the England cricket team were victorious in Australia 3-1. Retaining the Ashes in memorable style. Today (albeit in a different form of the game) they lost in the world cup to Ireland. To put that into perspective to my American readers thats like getting a few guys from your town, going to Yankee Stadium and beating the Yanks!
Fair play to Ireland...a fully deserved win. As a Guinness drinker I almost feel like an honorary Irishman anyway.
Bob Dylan in the background, the shiraz tasting delicious and a smattering of stilton to compliment it. Not a bad midweek evening at all.
Tuesday, 1 March 2011
35/1 9/2
No. It can't be. Surely?
Yes. It is. For sure.
1st March. 2011 is like an express train. Like a stellar object hurtling through space. A bullet speeding through the air, hurtling it's way to it's target. At this rate it won't be long until I'm drawing my pension.
You guessed it. It's fair to say that this year is speeding by.
Have you worked out the blog title yet? Yes...well done...top of the class. No...OK...I will explain.
35 blogs in January, 9 blogs in February. I need to better 9 in March. 1 day 1 blog = a good start.
So I have entered my last full month in my thirties. From a thirtysomething to a middle aged guy awaits in April. Scary? Maybe. But they do say life begins.
So the news. It's harder to decide who wins nutcase of the week this week. Gadaffi or Sheen. One a delusional despot with no grip on reality. The other a Hollywood star determined to isolate himself and see his acting career end.
I guess there is a moral there somewhere about power and fame. Maybe being me isn't such a bad thing. A small cog in a big wheel but in many respects and to many people an important cog. I may not be powerful or rich but I reckon I'm a decent guy and well liked. If I can put a smile on a face I can go to bed happy knowing I have accomplished something worthwhile.
There's probably a morale there too. I will let you decide.
Yes. It is. For sure.
1st March. 2011 is like an express train. Like a stellar object hurtling through space. A bullet speeding through the air, hurtling it's way to it's target. At this rate it won't be long until I'm drawing my pension.
You guessed it. It's fair to say that this year is speeding by.
Have you worked out the blog title yet? Yes...well done...top of the class. No...OK...I will explain.
35 blogs in January, 9 blogs in February. I need to better 9 in March. 1 day 1 blog = a good start.
So I have entered my last full month in my thirties. From a thirtysomething to a middle aged guy awaits in April. Scary? Maybe. But they do say life begins.
So the news. It's harder to decide who wins nutcase of the week this week. Gadaffi or Sheen. One a delusional despot with no grip on reality. The other a Hollywood star determined to isolate himself and see his acting career end.
I guess there is a moral there somewhere about power and fame. Maybe being me isn't such a bad thing. A small cog in a big wheel but in many respects and to many people an important cog. I may not be powerful or rich but I reckon I'm a decent guy and well liked. If I can put a smile on a face I can go to bed happy knowing I have accomplished something worthwhile.
There's probably a morale there too. I will let you decide.
Saturday, 26 February 2011
It's Been a While...
Yes it has almost been a week. The longest time that has passed without me blogging since I began. No excuses really although time does seem to be marching quickly in 2011.
News updates? Not much. Another week at work. I have booked annual leave for the week of 21st March. I may go somewhere or may not...depends on flight prices! If not I will plan ahead and see if I can get a cheap deal for May. At least in May most of Europe has a good chance of being warm and dry.
I have a few things to do that week too. My bedroom needs wallpapering (Mum!) and I want to get a new TV/phone/broadband package installed.
So...another week another North African dictator loses his grip. Did you see that broadcast Gaddaffi did from a van with an umbrella? Whacky to say the least! I hope the revolution ends soon with as few casualties as possible.
My thoughts also this week to the people of New Zealand after the earthquake in Christchurch. Haven't the folks down under suffered enough recently?
The cricket world cup continues...I'm watching Sri Lanka v Pakistan as I type. A narrow win for England midweek against Holland (yes Holland!). The big game tomorrow v the hosts India.
I managed to play badminton this week. An hours work out....won 3 lost 1...not a bad start.
Last night I watched one of the best films I have ever seen. der Tunnel (the tunnel) is a German film about the true story of escapees under the Berlin Wall. I can't recommend it enough. Truly amazing and inspirational.
TTFN
Jono
News updates? Not much. Another week at work. I have booked annual leave for the week of 21st March. I may go somewhere or may not...depends on flight prices! If not I will plan ahead and see if I can get a cheap deal for May. At least in May most of Europe has a good chance of being warm and dry.
I have a few things to do that week too. My bedroom needs wallpapering (Mum!) and I want to get a new TV/phone/broadband package installed.
So...another week another North African dictator loses his grip. Did you see that broadcast Gaddaffi did from a van with an umbrella? Whacky to say the least! I hope the revolution ends soon with as few casualties as possible.
My thoughts also this week to the people of New Zealand after the earthquake in Christchurch. Haven't the folks down under suffered enough recently?
The cricket world cup continues...I'm watching Sri Lanka v Pakistan as I type. A narrow win for England midweek against Holland (yes Holland!). The big game tomorrow v the hosts India.
I managed to play badminton this week. An hours work out....won 3 lost 1...not a bad start.
Last night I watched one of the best films I have ever seen. der Tunnel (the tunnel) is a German film about the true story of escapees under the Berlin Wall. I can't recommend it enough. Truly amazing and inspirational.
TTFN
Jono
Sunday, 20 February 2011
I Took Month Long Vacations in the Stratosphere
OK. I couldn't think of a blog title so decided upon the next words I heard on my iPod...so Springsteen's "Growin' Up" it was...
Since my last blog there's little to report. Watched the opening game of the cricket world cup. I listen with the sound down on the TV. I prefer the radio commentary and I even had a tweet read out!
Watched a movie with a bottle of red last night. Ironic that it was red...so was the movie (yes red NOT blue!)...red in that it was a Russia language film about the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan - 9th Company. It was a good flick.
Two movies today...both Oscar nominated...True Grit and Kings Speech. Both great films. I think Jeff Bridges may have just sneaked best male lead for me but its a close call.
I made some pea soup at lunch. The recipe was kind of made up. Gee it was delicious. Yummy. A definite winner with the taste buds.
I think another bottle of the claret beckons tonight (Chilean Merlot) along with the last Top Gear in the series...due to start in 5 mins.
So Jezza, the Hamster and May...it's over to you.
Since my last blog there's little to report. Watched the opening game of the cricket world cup. I listen with the sound down on the TV. I prefer the radio commentary and I even had a tweet read out!
Watched a movie with a bottle of red last night. Ironic that it was red...so was the movie (yes red NOT blue!)...red in that it was a Russia language film about the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan - 9th Company. It was a good flick.
Two movies today...both Oscar nominated...True Grit and Kings Speech. Both great films. I think Jeff Bridges may have just sneaked best male lead for me but its a close call.
I made some pea soup at lunch. The recipe was kind of made up. Gee it was delicious. Yummy. A definite winner with the taste buds.
I think another bottle of the claret beckons tonight (Chilean Merlot) along with the last Top Gear in the series...due to start in 5 mins.
So Jezza, the Hamster and May...it's over to you.
Saturday, 19 February 2011
Cold, wet and miserable
Just to point out that the blog title is representative of the weather outside and not the blogger!
Now that that is clarified...
The cricket world cup starts today. I am not hugely excited about it. Should I be? I'm not sure. It's not the Ashes. Nothing is bigger than the Ashes and given it is only a matter of weeks since England's victory down under maybe this explains my lack of enthusiasm.
Maybe it is the format. It goes on 6-7 weeks which is way too long. Still the first game is very enjoyable. India and their co-hosts Bangladesh are slogging it out as a I type. A massive 370-4 from India with a sensational 175 from Sehwag. Bangladesh have made a good start so far but surely 371 is too much to chase?
OK so here are my predictions. England - semi-final at best. I would be very surprised if they win. They seem to lack one-day "box office" players, Pietersen aside. So, I'm going to tip Sri Lanka. I really think they will win. I know India are favourites but for me it's Sri Lanka. You heard it here first...
So, yes, its wet and miserable and freezing outside. No much incentive to walk. Went out this morning for a coffee (OK - and a muffin!) and some groceries.
No plans the rest of the day. Tacos for dinner and tonight will most likely be a DVD and a bottle of wine.
OK..back to the cricket.
Now that that is clarified...
The cricket world cup starts today. I am not hugely excited about it. Should I be? I'm not sure. It's not the Ashes. Nothing is bigger than the Ashes and given it is only a matter of weeks since England's victory down under maybe this explains my lack of enthusiasm.
Maybe it is the format. It goes on 6-7 weeks which is way too long. Still the first game is very enjoyable. India and their co-hosts Bangladesh are slogging it out as a I type. A massive 370-4 from India with a sensational 175 from Sehwag. Bangladesh have made a good start so far but surely 371 is too much to chase?
OK so here are my predictions. England - semi-final at best. I would be very surprised if they win. They seem to lack one-day "box office" players, Pietersen aside. So, I'm going to tip Sri Lanka. I really think they will win. I know India are favourites but for me it's Sri Lanka. You heard it here first...
So, yes, its wet and miserable and freezing outside. No much incentive to walk. Went out this morning for a coffee (OK - and a muffin!) and some groceries.
No plans the rest of the day. Tacos for dinner and tonight will most likely be a DVD and a bottle of wine.
OK..back to the cricket.
Tuesday, 15 February 2011
I Need to Get Creative
I think the blog is looking dull. I know it is only 46 days old (or young) but I think a makeover is needed.
No. Not makeover. The word makeover is only used on trashy TV shows. OK. It needs a new look. Yep, a new look.
Over the next few days I will see what I can do to make it more, well, I'm not really sure. More pleasing on the eye?
The cough has almost cleared up. Being (mildly) asthmatic, I think these things take a bit longer than normal. I am supposed to be playing badminton tomorrow. We shall see.
The usual day today really. Work, shop, cook and eat. If this is the fast lane then I pity the rest!
I had a good movie weekend. Here we go with my ratings out of ten:
- The Hitcher (road movie with Rutger Hauer) 8/10
- Baader Meinhof Complex (German language film about 60s & 70s West German terror group) 8/10
- The Assassination of Richard Nixon (with the excellent Sean Penn) 7.5/10
- U571 (war film not really based on the truth) 6/10
I was thinking of a movie tonight but I'm not so sure.
I hope your Valentine's Day was good. This single guy was reading his book in bed not long after 7pm. This sure ain't no fast lane!
No. Not makeover. The word makeover is only used on trashy TV shows. OK. It needs a new look. Yep, a new look.
Over the next few days I will see what I can do to make it more, well, I'm not really sure. More pleasing on the eye?
The cough has almost cleared up. Being (mildly) asthmatic, I think these things take a bit longer than normal. I am supposed to be playing badminton tomorrow. We shall see.
The usual day today really. Work, shop, cook and eat. If this is the fast lane then I pity the rest!
I had a good movie weekend. Here we go with my ratings out of ten:
- The Hitcher (road movie with Rutger Hauer) 8/10
- Baader Meinhof Complex (German language film about 60s & 70s West German terror group) 8/10
- The Assassination of Richard Nixon (with the excellent Sean Penn) 7.5/10
- U571 (war film not really based on the truth) 6/10
I was thinking of a movie tonight but I'm not so sure.
I hope your Valentine's Day was good. This single guy was reading his book in bed not long after 7pm. This sure ain't no fast lane!
Friday, 11 February 2011
Missing In (In)Action
My friends I must apologise. It has been a few days. I do have a reasonable excuse though. I have been lousy all week - sore throat early in the week gave way to a sore throat and cold which, as I write is now a cold, congestion and tickly cough. Oh well, at least the sore throat has gone!
After work this week I have wanted nothing more than a bite to eat and then off to bed, read for a bit, radio for a bit and sleep.
So, the above really sums up my week. Nothing memorable! Looks like the weekend will be much the same in terms of coughing and spluttering! Am going to try some red wine tonight though. Purely medicinal you understand!
Half way through the Berlin Wall book now. A terrific read. The weekend will be a mix of reading, movies, sport and TV. The right balance for feeling under the weather.
Have a great Friday night.
After work this week I have wanted nothing more than a bite to eat and then off to bed, read for a bit, radio for a bit and sleep.
So, the above really sums up my week. Nothing memorable! Looks like the weekend will be much the same in terms of coughing and spluttering! Am going to try some red wine tonight though. Purely medicinal you understand!
Half way through the Berlin Wall book now. A terrific read. The weekend will be a mix of reading, movies, sport and TV. The right balance for feeling under the weather.
Have a great Friday night.
Monday, 7 February 2011
Whatever Happened to Low Cost Airlines?
Looking for a cheap flight from Newcastle to Anywheresville, Europe is like...well...like looking for a piece of hay in a massive stack full of needles!
All I want is a cheap short break. Barcelona, Rome...anywhere will do. Once upon a time you could fly to these places for less than a good meal out. Not now. Or so it would seem.
I won't give up. There's got to be something out there!
It's gone cold tonight. Forecast is for a frost in the morning. Totally different to this morning - I actually had some cool air blasting in the car on the way to work!
Lack of motivation for a walk tonight. Naughty. No desire for huge amounts of chocolate. Not so bad then!
Thoroughly enjoying this Berlin Wall book. Despite the fact the wall still hasn't yet been built and I'm on page 219. That's some background context! It gives an incredible insight into 20C Europe and the horror of conflict/ Communism etc.
I reckon by page 230 the wall might actually go up!
Had a great prawn fishcake for dinner. And incase you are reaching for a dictionary - prawns are what we Brits refer to as shrimp!
All I want is a cheap short break. Barcelona, Rome...anywhere will do. Once upon a time you could fly to these places for less than a good meal out. Not now. Or so it would seem.
I won't give up. There's got to be something out there!
It's gone cold tonight. Forecast is for a frost in the morning. Totally different to this morning - I actually had some cool air blasting in the car on the way to work!
Lack of motivation for a walk tonight. Naughty. No desire for huge amounts of chocolate. Not so bad then!
Thoroughly enjoying this Berlin Wall book. Despite the fact the wall still hasn't yet been built and I'm on page 219. That's some background context! It gives an incredible insight into 20C Europe and the horror of conflict/ Communism etc.
I reckon by page 230 the wall might actually go up!
Had a great prawn fishcake for dinner. And incase you are reaching for a dictionary - prawns are what we Brits refer to as shrimp!
Sunday, 6 February 2011
A Quick Weekend Round-Up...
I'm heading to bed soon, another weekend drawing to a close.
I have put this off all day. Hungover I'm afraid. I think it must have been that Swedish cider!
As you can probably guess I was out last night. Enjoyable evening in Tynemouth with Iggy.
Not much happened today. Had a long sleep this afternoon (combo of old age/late nights!) and cooked beef tacos for dinner. Had planned to watch a movie today but didn't feel in a movie mood.
Off to bed to continue reading an excellent book on the history of the Berlin Wall. Interestingly I am now 100+ pages in and the wall hasn't been built yet!
Since all my followers (and of course when I say ALL I mean BOTH!) are Stateside, I hope you enjoy Superbowl Sunday. I will listen to some coverage on BBC Radio 5 Live as I head into my slumber but will be ZzZzZzZzZz before the game ends.
Enjoy and good luck Packers & Steelers.
I have put this off all day. Hungover I'm afraid. I think it must have been that Swedish cider!
As you can probably guess I was out last night. Enjoyable evening in Tynemouth with Iggy.
Not much happened today. Had a long sleep this afternoon (combo of old age/late nights!) and cooked beef tacos for dinner. Had planned to watch a movie today but didn't feel in a movie mood.
Off to bed to continue reading an excellent book on the history of the Berlin Wall. Interestingly I am now 100+ pages in and the wall hasn't been built yet!
Since all my followers (and of course when I say ALL I mean BOTH!) are Stateside, I hope you enjoy Superbowl Sunday. I will listen to some coverage on BBC Radio 5 Live as I head into my slumber but will be ZzZzZzZzZz before the game ends.
Enjoy and good luck Packers & Steelers.
Friday, 4 February 2011
Blowing in the Wind
Two days have elapsed since my last blog so, apologies to all who hang on my every word (sad though that would be!).
Not much to report on to be honest. Egypt still faces an uncertain future. I find it odd that the west has propped up this regime for 30 years. Democracy (that we preach to other nations) doesn't seem to matter so long as the regime is pro-western. Suits both parties really. The west has a friend in the tinder box world that is the Middle East and Mubarak is able to do as he pleases. I really think the good people of Egypt deserve better.
This is an example of history we are living through. I have just started a book about the Berlin Wall. At over 650 pages it could take me longer to read than the 28 years it stood as the definitive symbol of the Cold War. The Iron Curtain that separated east from west. It looks like it will be a gripping read.
So a wind blows through Egypt as it did through Germany in 1989 when the wall fell. There is also a wind blowing out there. A gale to be precise. It has to be one of the strongest winds I can remember. Not a night for going out. Friends are heading to the pub to watch Wales v England (6 Nations Rugby tournament). Not me - wine & DVD.
I went to a school yesterday to do a lesson about tourism to some 15-16 year old students. It was weird as it was my old high school and the teacher who invited me was an old Maths teacher of mine. All very surreal but enjoyable. It is interesting to see how teaching and indeed education has changed over 24 (can it be that long?) years.
I hope you have a good weekend. If this wind dies down (I'm not sure of the weekend forecast) I will head out for a walk. If not, the exercise bike may make a rare appearance.
The answer, my friend is blowing in the wind. (With thanks to Bob Dylan).
Not much to report on to be honest. Egypt still faces an uncertain future. I find it odd that the west has propped up this regime for 30 years. Democracy (that we preach to other nations) doesn't seem to matter so long as the regime is pro-western. Suits both parties really. The west has a friend in the tinder box world that is the Middle East and Mubarak is able to do as he pleases. I really think the good people of Egypt deserve better.
This is an example of history we are living through. I have just started a book about the Berlin Wall. At over 650 pages it could take me longer to read than the 28 years it stood as the definitive symbol of the Cold War. The Iron Curtain that separated east from west. It looks like it will be a gripping read.
So a wind blows through Egypt as it did through Germany in 1989 when the wall fell. There is also a wind blowing out there. A gale to be precise. It has to be one of the strongest winds I can remember. Not a night for going out. Friends are heading to the pub to watch Wales v England (6 Nations Rugby tournament). Not me - wine & DVD.
I went to a school yesterday to do a lesson about tourism to some 15-16 year old students. It was weird as it was my old high school and the teacher who invited me was an old Maths teacher of mine. All very surreal but enjoyable. It is interesting to see how teaching and indeed education has changed over 24 (can it be that long?) years.
I hope you have a good weekend. If this wind dies down (I'm not sure of the weekend forecast) I will head out for a walk. If not, the exercise bike may make a rare appearance.
The answer, my friend is blowing in the wind. (With thanks to Bob Dylan).
Tuesday, 1 February 2011
Where Did January Go?
1st February already? Surely not. Where did the first month of 2011 go?At this rate we will all be eating turkey and singing Christmas carols again soon.
February is one of those nothing months. It's not a December with Christmas, nor a summer month. Not January, a new start or March when Spring arrives nor is it one of those summer months where the sun shines, the beer garden beckons and the sound of leather on willow can be heard.
No wonder it only has 28 days.
Not much to report on since the weekend. 2 days down, hump day tomorrow.
Off to the pub today but I think I need a snooze first.
More interesting things happening around the globe. Australia seems to be in the firing line from severe weather again. I sincerely hope it is not as bad as Queensland. And incredible political change seems to be sweeping Egypt. I hope there is no more bloodshed.
I will leave you with a joke I saw on Twitter today which made me chuckle...
The barman said I'm sorry we don't serve time travellers...a time traveller walks into a bar!
Genius!
February is one of those nothing months. It's not a December with Christmas, nor a summer month. Not January, a new start or March when Spring arrives nor is it one of those summer months where the sun shines, the beer garden beckons and the sound of leather on willow can be heard.
No wonder it only has 28 days.
Not much to report on since the weekend. 2 days down, hump day tomorrow.
Off to the pub today but I think I need a snooze first.
More interesting things happening around the globe. Australia seems to be in the firing line from severe weather again. I sincerely hope it is not as bad as Queensland. And incredible political change seems to be sweeping Egypt. I hope there is no more bloodshed.
I will leave you with a joke I saw on Twitter today which made me chuckle...
The barman said I'm sorry we don't serve time travellers...a time traveller walks into a bar!
Genius!
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