On Friday I fell off the wagon. It was just a stupid, petty thing that set me off, but I always knew it wouldn't take much.
Strange thing is, after a couple of beers I wasn't down anymore. I felt awake and alive. After several more I was back to being at a real low, but now it was because I was ashamed at myself for giving in and letting myself get upset too easily.
It did give me a moment to think about the novel. I had tried writing the first chapter, but found myself rewriting it several times because it just didn't feel right. After a few drinks, I knew what the problem was. I was writing it in the third person, and I'm much better at writing in the first person. When I came into work on the Saturday with a bit of a headache, I deleted what I had already created and started again. It flowed so much more easily and I can move the story along at a much steadier pace. The main character is loosely based on me, so it makes sense to write it from his perspective.
That's it really. Nothing else to report. Off to Ireland tomorrow for two nights...
...can't wait.
September 28, 2008
September 24, 2008
SAS Survival Guide Part II
Scanning back through my blog I noticed that almost all my entries have 'part...' at the end of the title. Feels like I've got three or four ongoing stories that I need to keep revisiting. Well here's another of them. My food rationing exploits.
You may remember that I was trying to survive on £10 for ten days. Most of that went at the farmers market on Friday. A lovely large nutty loaf, a big bag of HUGE navel oranges, several locally produced flavoured cheeses and some cheap margarine. I also got a big bottle of very cheap diet lemonade from the Co-op.
Sadly, by Monday most of this had gone. There was still some cheese left, and lots of margarine, but the oranges had all been eaten, and so had the loaf. I needed to stock up as best I could, but funds had disappeared. I resorted to the only avenue left open to me. I raided the piggy bank.
..Well it's a giant plastic Coke bottle really that I put my coppers in, but I managed to scrape together £3 that I could change at the bank. Clutching my coins in my hand I headed back to the Co-op and straight to the 'reduced to clear' shelf. For £3 I managed to get:
1 packet of mixed leaf salad (including loads of rocket which I adore)
1 tub of coleslaw
1 packet of wafer thin chicken slices
1 loaf of white sliced bread
1 punnet of green grapes
1 jar of tikka cooking sauce.
How is that for a £3 shopping list!
...Hence the picture attached. That is a mixed salad I created. Took me less than 5 minutes. I chopped the two crusts of the loaf into rough cubes and dry fried them. While they were cooking I took a generous handful of salad leaves and added a few cubes of chilli flavoured cheese. I broke up about three slices of wafer thin chicken, added that, then drizzled over a raspberry and mint dressing (that came free with the salad). Tossed it lightly then added the homemade croutons. Ate it immediately with a small dollop of coleslaw on the side and it was delicious. (Even if I do say so myself)...
...Tonight it's pasta in a tikka sauce.
September 23, 2008
These Boots are Made for Walking Part II
4 days off in 5 days, and on all 4 I went for a one hour walk... Impressed?
Sunday was a gorgeous day. It's been wonderful weather for a while now actually, but Sunday was especially nice. I went off on my daily trek through the park, but when I reached the end I decided to turn left. I found myself entering another, smaller grassy area and next to it was a large, white building. On closer inspection it turned out to be Southampton's Art Gallery. On further inspecton it appeared to be open. On even closer inspection is had free entry!
I ventured inside and found 8 seperate gallaries of paintings. The subject matter, age, quality etc was very varied. Old masters hanging next to contempory art. Oil on canvas alongside watercolours. Some of them were breath-taking. Others I could have knocked up myself in a shed.
I didn't stay long. Not because it wasn't fascinating, but because I was the only one in there and the curator was stalking me through the different halls. I made a hasty exit, but I will be returning on a different day to fully appreciate the works on display. I was supposed to leave a £2 deposit in the box by the stairs....
...I only had 40 pence on me, and I wasn't giving up my bottle of lemonade!
Sunday was a gorgeous day. It's been wonderful weather for a while now actually, but Sunday was especially nice. I went off on my daily trek through the park, but when I reached the end I decided to turn left. I found myself entering another, smaller grassy area and next to it was a large, white building. On closer inspection it turned out to be Southampton's Art Gallery. On further inspecton it appeared to be open. On even closer inspection is had free entry!
I ventured inside and found 8 seperate gallaries of paintings. The subject matter, age, quality etc was very varied. Old masters hanging next to contempory art. Oil on canvas alongside watercolours. Some of them were breath-taking. Others I could have knocked up myself in a shed.
I didn't stay long. Not because it wasn't fascinating, but because I was the only one in there and the curator was stalking me through the different halls. I made a hasty exit, but I will be returning on a different day to fully appreciate the works on display. I was supposed to leave a £2 deposit in the box by the stairs....
...I only had 40 pence on me, and I wasn't giving up my bottle of lemonade!
Definition of an Eejit Part VI
I've damaged my wonderful hand-held vacuum cleaner. I'm such an eejet.
It was Sunday night. I'd settled down to watch the new episode of Poirot on ITV. Last weeks had been a bit of a disappointment, but I had high hopes for this one. It was dark outside, and I had cooked myself a sort of pasta and tinned tomato mix thing.
It was so dark in the flat, I had to turn on a light to avoid making a mess on the floor and on me. Rather than use the main light, and spoil the cinema atmosphere, I used the table lamp from my bedroom and propped it up in the corner of the lounge, near my DVD shelves. It's also where I store my sexy conical vacuum cleaner. The table lamp is one of those that can be angled to any position (an angle poised lamp? is that what they're called?) Sadly, the angle part of it is very floppy, so I have to rest the head of it on something solid if I want it to stay upright. I decided to rest it on the top of my cleaner.
After Poirot had finished it was time for bed. I went to turn off the lamp and could smell a faint 'melting plastic smell'. Lifting up the head, I found the hot bulb has melted the top of the vacuum cleaner, damaging the on/off switch and scorching the white plastic with a nasty brown colour. It still works, but now, to turn it off, I have to pull the switch up manually with a knife. I'm devestated.
So once again, despite being alcohol free for a full week, I am still a bone fide eejet.
It was Sunday night. I'd settled down to watch the new episode of Poirot on ITV. Last weeks had been a bit of a disappointment, but I had high hopes for this one. It was dark outside, and I had cooked myself a sort of pasta and tinned tomato mix thing.
It was so dark in the flat, I had to turn on a light to avoid making a mess on the floor and on me. Rather than use the main light, and spoil the cinema atmosphere, I used the table lamp from my bedroom and propped it up in the corner of the lounge, near my DVD shelves. It's also where I store my sexy conical vacuum cleaner. The table lamp is one of those that can be angled to any position (an angle poised lamp? is that what they're called?) Sadly, the angle part of it is very floppy, so I have to rest the head of it on something solid if I want it to stay upright. I decided to rest it on the top of my cleaner.
After Poirot had finished it was time for bed. I went to turn off the lamp and could smell a faint 'melting plastic smell'. Lifting up the head, I found the hot bulb has melted the top of the vacuum cleaner, damaging the on/off switch and scorching the white plastic with a nasty brown colour. It still works, but now, to turn it off, I have to pull the switch up manually with a knife. I'm devestated.
So once again, despite being alcohol free for a full week, I am still a bone fide eejet.
September 20, 2008
These Boots are Made for Walking
Two days off, no money, no new DVDs to watch. What should I do with my spare time? I know, lets take my new boots for a test drive...
...well, test walk really
The sun was out, there was nothing on daytime TV that didn't involve house make-overs or selling antiques so I decided to go and explore the local area and try and find places to eat and drink I hadn't seen before. I knew there was a big park behind the shops so that seemed as good a place to start as any. I had my music, I was wearing my new boots and I looked quite dapper (even if I do say so myself
It was a lovely day. I strolled, around the park for nearly an hour. There was the smell of freshly cut grass where ever I went. Blooming flower beds, the relaxing sound of water from the peace fountain, no traffic noise, just the general buzz of people going about their daily lives. By the time I got back home I'd been out for nearly two hours and hadn't stopped walking throughout.
My feet had held up ok. The little toe on my right foot was a little sore where it had rubbed against the inside of my shoe, but nothing a quick soak in a bowl of warm water couldn't put right. I planned to do it again the next day. Maybe not for as long (in case my toe was still rubbing), but at least I'd be out of the flat.
Next day. Same time. Same basic direction. Rather than retrace my steps I walked through the shopping area parallel to the park. When I got to the end I turned to the right and entered the park from the other end. Here was the Southampton I had come to know. Tramps sharing cans of Special Brew on a park bench, another pushing an empty Asda shopping cart in front of him. Teenagers sat around a bench shouting comments at women as they walked past. Kids on bikes almost running down an old lady. Over flowing litter bins, rubbish strewn everywhere. This was less than 100 yards form the area I had walked to yesterday. It was like a part of the city people forgot to care about.
I know every town has it's problems, and they can't be solved over night. It was just such a disappoinment after the lovely walk I'd had the day before, to find myself in the slums of the city. I didn't stay out for as long this time. Not in the mood.
On the plus side. I did find a few of the bars and pubs that offer live music on a regular basis. I see adverts for bands all the time, but have never been able to find the venues. Now I have, I can make the effort to see what the local music scene is like...
...Just need to wait til payday first.
...well, test walk really
The sun was out, there was nothing on daytime TV that didn't involve house make-overs or selling antiques so I decided to go and explore the local area and try and find places to eat and drink I hadn't seen before. I knew there was a big park behind the shops so that seemed as good a place to start as any. I had my music, I was wearing my new boots and I looked quite dapper (even if I do say so myself
It was a lovely day. I strolled, around the park for nearly an hour. There was the smell of freshly cut grass where ever I went. Blooming flower beds, the relaxing sound of water from the peace fountain, no traffic noise, just the general buzz of people going about their daily lives. By the time I got back home I'd been out for nearly two hours and hadn't stopped walking throughout.
My feet had held up ok. The little toe on my right foot was a little sore where it had rubbed against the inside of my shoe, but nothing a quick soak in a bowl of warm water couldn't put right. I planned to do it again the next day. Maybe not for as long (in case my toe was still rubbing), but at least I'd be out of the flat.
Next day. Same time. Same basic direction. Rather than retrace my steps I walked through the shopping area parallel to the park. When I got to the end I turned to the right and entered the park from the other end. Here was the Southampton I had come to know. Tramps sharing cans of Special Brew on a park bench, another pushing an empty Asda shopping cart in front of him. Teenagers sat around a bench shouting comments at women as they walked past. Kids on bikes almost running down an old lady. Over flowing litter bins, rubbish strewn everywhere. This was less than 100 yards form the area I had walked to yesterday. It was like a part of the city people forgot to care about.
I know every town has it's problems, and they can't be solved over night. It was just such a disappoinment after the lovely walk I'd had the day before, to find myself in the slums of the city. I didn't stay out for as long this time. Not in the mood.
On the plus side. I did find a few of the bars and pubs that offer live music on a regular basis. I see adverts for bands all the time, but have never been able to find the venues. Now I have, I can make the effort to see what the local music scene is like...
...Just need to wait til payday first.
September 17, 2008
My Magnificent Octopus Part II
Ok, it's progressing, but I've hit a brick wall very early on. I've no idea what to call my detective.
It should be a distinctive surname, but at the same time it shouldn't be obscure. It should be easily remembered, but not because it's wierd. I'm also going to need a name for his second in command, but I haven't got that far yet!
Any suggestions greatfully received. If you need some background, he's an older man, over-weight and a heavy drinker. Trying to get to retirement with as little fuss as possible. (Well they say you should write about what you know!) I'm just about in a position to crack on with the opening chapter, but I can't do it without a name! Everytime I think of something that might work, it sounds too similar to an already established crime fighter.
I've tried going through a phone directory, my list of friends on Facebook, even reading the credits after TV shows. Nothing has leapt out at me. I need a flash of inspiration. If you can give me the perfect name....
....I'll dedicate the book to you :o)
It should be a distinctive surname, but at the same time it shouldn't be obscure. It should be easily remembered, but not because it's wierd. I'm also going to need a name for his second in command, but I haven't got that far yet!
Any suggestions greatfully received. If you need some background, he's an older man, over-weight and a heavy drinker. Trying to get to retirement with as little fuss as possible. (Well they say you should write about what you know!) I'm just about in a position to crack on with the opening chapter, but I can't do it without a name! Everytime I think of something that might work, it sounds too similar to an already established crime fighter.
I've tried going through a phone directory, my list of friends on Facebook, even reading the credits after TV shows. Nothing has leapt out at me. I need a flash of inspiration. If you can give me the perfect name....
....I'll dedicate the book to you :o)
SAS Survival Guide
I'll need to become a canny shopper. I've got to make £10 last 10 days.
Ok, a bit of background. Normally I begin each month with a Tesco delivery. Fill up the cupboards and freezer, providing me with enough sustinance to last the rest of the month if I should run out of cash. This time however I started the month in Norfolk, and by the time I returned I didn't have enough spare funds to justify the supermarket paying me a visit.
As of yesterday there are 10 days to go til pay-day and I have exactly £10 to my name. In the cupboard I have the following:
2 packets of Chicken Super Noodles
2 tins of baked beans
1 tin of mandarin orange segments in a light syrup
Quite a bit of Tesco value pasta
Salt and Pepper
In the fridge I have:
2 litres of sparkling spring water
half a bottle of Robinson's orange cordial
a tiny bit of margerine
a tiny bit of mayonnaise (although it has probably gone off by now)
2 eggs (but they've been there a while)
1 bottle of Bombay Sapphire Gin
1 bottle of slimline tonic water with lime.
The freezer:
Some oven chips (about enough for one serving)
Frozen peas (almost a full packet)
1 ready meal beef curry and rice
half a bottle of vodka
The bread bin:
2 crumpets
tiny bit of malt loaf
So there you go. On top of that I have £10 to spend. Last time I went to the Co-op the Super Noodles were on offer at 25p a packet. They can be a meal in themselves (even if they are a bit boring). I can also make a mix of pasta and peas. I'll need to see if I can get some cheap tins of meatballs in tomato sauce to go with it. It's not going to be easy, but I've coped with worse.
I should point out that I only listed the alcoholic items for completeness. They've been there a while and I have no intention of drinking any of them during this current fortnight. I am sticking to my alcohol free rule. Besides.....
....booze gives me the munchies, and I can't afford a take-away :o)
Ok, a bit of background. Normally I begin each month with a Tesco delivery. Fill up the cupboards and freezer, providing me with enough sustinance to last the rest of the month if I should run out of cash. This time however I started the month in Norfolk, and by the time I returned I didn't have enough spare funds to justify the supermarket paying me a visit.
As of yesterday there are 10 days to go til pay-day and I have exactly £10 to my name. In the cupboard I have the following:
2 packets of Chicken Super Noodles
2 tins of baked beans
1 tin of mandarin orange segments in a light syrup
Quite a bit of Tesco value pasta
Salt and Pepper
In the fridge I have:
2 litres of sparkling spring water
half a bottle of Robinson's orange cordial
a tiny bit of margerine
a tiny bit of mayonnaise (although it has probably gone off by now)
2 eggs (but they've been there a while)
1 bottle of Bombay Sapphire Gin
1 bottle of slimline tonic water with lime.
The freezer:
Some oven chips (about enough for one serving)
Frozen peas (almost a full packet)
1 ready meal beef curry and rice
half a bottle of vodka
The bread bin:
2 crumpets
tiny bit of malt loaf
So there you go. On top of that I have £10 to spend. Last time I went to the Co-op the Super Noodles were on offer at 25p a packet. They can be a meal in themselves (even if they are a bit boring). I can also make a mix of pasta and peas. I'll need to see if I can get some cheap tins of meatballs in tomato sauce to go with it. It's not going to be easy, but I've coped with worse.
I should point out that I only listed the alcoholic items for completeness. They've been there a while and I have no intention of drinking any of them during this current fortnight. I am sticking to my alcohol free rule. Besides.....
....booze gives me the munchies, and I can't afford a take-away :o)
September 15, 2008
Shine on You Crazy Diamond.
All my dreams of a full Pink Floyd reunion tour have come to an end.
After their successful reunion for the Live 8 concert, I held out a slim chance that the 4 original members of Pink Floyd would make a full reunion, and perform a full gig together. Led Zeppelin had done it (albeit with a replacement drummer), but now my dream has come to an end. Richard Wright, Floyd's keyboard player has passed away.
I first became interested in Pink Floyd ages about 14 or 15. A few years later, as I entered sixth form, I became a real fan. My physics teacher even lending me several of their albums on vinyl. Since them I have remained a huge follower, and remain so, even after they decided to disband.
Possibly viewed as 'the quiet one', Wright was there from the start. His keyboard playing is second to none, and helped define the 'sound' of Floyd through all their different incarnations.
R.I.P. Richard. You are a great loss to the music world.
...Shine On.
September 13, 2008
20,160 minutes of hell.
From Monday 15th September I will commence a two week period of zero alcohol.
Now I know what you're thinking. "If he's going to detox for a fortnight, why not just start it now. Why wait til Monday?". That's perfectly true, I should begin straight away but I'm off work on Sunday, and I've been looking forward to a few quiet beers, a Jonathan Creek marathon, and maybe a trip to the pub to watch Southampton play QPR on telly.
So Monday it is. But I know what you are thinking now. "Why a fortnight? Why not a month?". Simple. In two weeks I go to Ireland to see Tara and it wouldn't be the same without a drink or two. I'm really looking forward to this trip.
I know this two week dry spell should be accompanied by healthy eating and vigorous exercise but lets take one thing at a time! Healthy eating is probably out of the question as I'm almost out of money for the month, but I'll make sure I take in plenty of water and try not to snack on junk. Exercise? not really me, but I am walking a lot more than I did. I always take the longer route home now and a few days ago I even went on a one hour trek out of town. It was a nice day, I had my music, was wearing my comfy shoes so I thought 'why not?'.
On a completely seperate note, I have had to laugh today. I saw on Facebook that two men are fighting over Sarah's affections. Caoimhe's real Dad, and the guy she started dating when she split from me. Two grown men acting like 5 year olds. I suppose I should be upset. It sort of makes even more of a mockery of the 'relationship' I thought I had had with her, but I'm not. It's hilarious.
On another completely seperate (and final) note, the clothes I bought online that had arrived when I returned from Norfolk are all fantastic. The polo shirts are a really flattering fit, and superb material. The Ben Sherman shirt is casual enough for day to day wear, but still has a 'smart' feel to it. The jeans have a designer look, and fit well all the way down and the boots are so comfortable. I could walk for miles in them I'm wearing all new things today. One of the polo shirts, the jeans and the boots. Sort of gives you a confidence boost when you feel well dressed. Being the size I am I have to resign myself to buying the bulk of my wardrobe online. High street stores don't usually stock things in my measurements. It can be a depressing experience knowing that...
..but I'll get over it.
Now I know what you're thinking. "If he's going to detox for a fortnight, why not just start it now. Why wait til Monday?". That's perfectly true, I should begin straight away but I'm off work on Sunday, and I've been looking forward to a few quiet beers, a Jonathan Creek marathon, and maybe a trip to the pub to watch Southampton play QPR on telly.
So Monday it is. But I know what you are thinking now. "Why a fortnight? Why not a month?". Simple. In two weeks I go to Ireland to see Tara and it wouldn't be the same without a drink or two. I'm really looking forward to this trip.
I know this two week dry spell should be accompanied by healthy eating and vigorous exercise but lets take one thing at a time! Healthy eating is probably out of the question as I'm almost out of money for the month, but I'll make sure I take in plenty of water and try not to snack on junk. Exercise? not really me, but I am walking a lot more than I did. I always take the longer route home now and a few days ago I even went on a one hour trek out of town. It was a nice day, I had my music, was wearing my comfy shoes so I thought 'why not?'.
On a completely seperate note, I have had to laugh today. I saw on Facebook that two men are fighting over Sarah's affections. Caoimhe's real Dad, and the guy she started dating when she split from me. Two grown men acting like 5 year olds. I suppose I should be upset. It sort of makes even more of a mockery of the 'relationship' I thought I had had with her, but I'm not. It's hilarious.
On another completely seperate (and final) note, the clothes I bought online that had arrived when I returned from Norfolk are all fantastic. The polo shirts are a really flattering fit, and superb material. The Ben Sherman shirt is casual enough for day to day wear, but still has a 'smart' feel to it. The jeans have a designer look, and fit well all the way down and the boots are so comfortable. I could walk for miles in them I'm wearing all new things today. One of the polo shirts, the jeans and the boots. Sort of gives you a confidence boost when you feel well dressed. Being the size I am I have to resign myself to buying the bulk of my wardrobe online. High street stores don't usually stock things in my measurements. It can be a depressing experience knowing that...
..but I'll get over it.
September 12, 2008
My Magnificent Octopus Part I
Well I said I'd started my novel, and I have.
Two A4 pages of notes so far. Of course I've not actually written the first line of text yet, but the plot is coming together. Characters might not have names yet, but they already have background stories. I have a few ideas for red herrings, just got to decide when to introduce them.
I've already encountered a few problems. When I get an idea I immediately write it down in my note file. If I read something back later and no longer like it, I get rid of it. What I am finding, when I read things back, is I can see where I got the inspiration from. I initially think I'm having original thoughts, but when I come back with fresh eyes I can see Agatha Christie influences, Midsomer Murder plot twists, Jonathan Creek misdirection devices and so on. Although it isn't a direct rip-off of one central author or story, all I am creating so far is a melting pot of previous detective books.
But is that a bad thing? I'm sure many crime novels could be broken down into seperate elements and attributed to other works. It's how they are brought together that is important. I hope I can inject enough originality to make it a good read.
I'm sure I'll add several blog entries about it as I progress, but I don't intend on letting any of the plot slip. What would be the point in that? IF I ever finish it, I'll try to get it published, but I don't hold out any expectations. If it doesn't end up in print, I'll make it available as a free e-book for you all :)
....and I think I will add a love scene too :)
Explanation of the blog title.
Some of you may have understood the 'magnificent octopus' reference. To the uninitiated, it refers to an episode of Blackadder III, when Blackadder himself has written a great novel "Edmund - A Butler's Tale". He describes it as his Magnus Opus. Baldrick, has also written a novel about a sausage, which he describes as his Magnificent Octopus. Thought it was appropriate to use the phrase too. It might not be my Magnus Opus, but it'll try to be :o)
Two A4 pages of notes so far. Of course I've not actually written the first line of text yet, but the plot is coming together. Characters might not have names yet, but they already have background stories. I have a few ideas for red herrings, just got to decide when to introduce them.
I've already encountered a few problems. When I get an idea I immediately write it down in my note file. If I read something back later and no longer like it, I get rid of it. What I am finding, when I read things back, is I can see where I got the inspiration from. I initially think I'm having original thoughts, but when I come back with fresh eyes I can see Agatha Christie influences, Midsomer Murder plot twists, Jonathan Creek misdirection devices and so on. Although it isn't a direct rip-off of one central author or story, all I am creating so far is a melting pot of previous detective books.
But is that a bad thing? I'm sure many crime novels could be broken down into seperate elements and attributed to other works. It's how they are brought together that is important. I hope I can inject enough originality to make it a good read.
I'm sure I'll add several blog entries about it as I progress, but I don't intend on letting any of the plot slip. What would be the point in that? IF I ever finish it, I'll try to get it published, but I don't hold out any expectations. If it doesn't end up in print, I'll make it available as a free e-book for you all :)
....and I think I will add a love scene too :)
Explanation of the blog title.
Some of you may have understood the 'magnificent octopus' reference. To the uninitiated, it refers to an episode of Blackadder III, when Blackadder himself has written a great novel "Edmund - A Butler's Tale". He describes it as his Magnus Opus. Baldrick, has also written a novel about a sausage, which he describes as his Magnificent Octopus. Thought it was appropriate to use the phrase too. It might not be my Magnus Opus, but it'll try to be :o)
September 11, 2008
His Engine's Bright and Clean...
...Fireman Sam!
What a night I had last night. I stayed in the office late. Partially to chat to a friend, partially to watch movies, partially to do some extra work and partially to watch the England game (we now subscribe to Setanta at work. Lucky me!). At about 10pm the fire alarm came on.
Bearing in mind the late hour, and taking into account I was supposed to be the only person in the building it was a bit of a surprise. Actually, that's putting it mildly I was petrified. Was there someone else in the building? Was I trapped on the top floor of a towering inferno? After I'd calmed down a bit, I went downstairs, and out of the front door. I felt a bit of a lemon standing there on my own, people walking past looking at me but I didn't know what else to do. I had no idea if the fire brigade were on their way, no idea who to contact to turn the alarm off, no idea which part of the system had been triggered. I knew the correct procedure for a fire drill is to move to the cinema car park behind the building, but what was the point? I was on my own.
After a few minutes I ventured back inside. There was a strong smell of burnt toast on the ground floor, but it wasn't coming from the kitchen area. As I began to walk back upstairs the cavalry arrived. 4 burly fireman burst in, torches flashing around. Within seconds they had read the alarm panel and were off to investigate. I stayed on the ground floor with the chief. I kept apologising to him for the fact I was still inside the building, but he didn't seem too concerned.
It wasn't long before they found the sensor that had been triggered. Typically it was the one right outside my office, but the chief seemed to think it had gone off because it was too close to the ceiling light. I completed the paperwork with him and he was on his way..... leaving me in the office with the alarm still ringing.
I didn't have the number for the caretaker of the building, so I went back to my office. I tried working with the alarm bell in the background, but it was too much. I logged off, locked up and went home. I came back to work this morning at 7am and the alarm had been turned off, so I assume someone was called out in the middle of the night
...hope it doesn't become a regular event. Too stressful!
September 10, 2008
Two in One
Two things to pass on to you all. Despite the fact they are completely unrelated I'll stick them both in one entry.
Firstly, I received a very strange apology today. Recently I've had quite a few apologies. People apologising for hurting me, messing me around, letting me down and so on. In all cases I've just moved on. Life is too short to dwell on things. I didn't used to think like that, I was always one for bearing a grudge for years, but what's the point?
Anyway, I was chatting online to my boss about work stuff when he suddenly said ''I'm sorry''. At first I had no idea what he was talking about, but then he explained. Last night when he was leaving the office and mentioned Malta I told him about me being single again. He said something along the lines of "Oh, Ok, so there won't be a problem with you going to Malta then?".
I didn't think anything of it, but apparently he told his wife what he'd said when he got home to Germany and she let rip! She told him he'd been uncaring and insensitive towards me and she forced him to apologise! He had no right to expect me to go to Malta just because I had split up, and he was supposed to show more care towards his staff. I really hadn't read anything into what he'd said to me, but now at least I know I have his wife on my side :o) Ok, the apology was forced out of him, and it was only by online text, but it was certainly a surprise.
Ok, second thing. I've made a start on the novel! Only plot ideas, characters, locations etc. but it's the first baby step towards writing the initial chapter. This will probably take me years to complete, but I have no pre-conceptions about ever getting it into print. It'd just be nice to get to the end of it with a story I'm happy with. Big question though....
...Do I put a gratuitious sex scene in it? :o)
Firstly, I received a very strange apology today. Recently I've had quite a few apologies. People apologising for hurting me, messing me around, letting me down and so on. In all cases I've just moved on. Life is too short to dwell on things. I didn't used to think like that, I was always one for bearing a grudge for years, but what's the point?
Anyway, I was chatting online to my boss about work stuff when he suddenly said ''I'm sorry''. At first I had no idea what he was talking about, but then he explained. Last night when he was leaving the office and mentioned Malta I told him about me being single again. He said something along the lines of "Oh, Ok, so there won't be a problem with you going to Malta then?".
I didn't think anything of it, but apparently he told his wife what he'd said when he got home to Germany and she let rip! She told him he'd been uncaring and insensitive towards me and she forced him to apologise! He had no right to expect me to go to Malta just because I had split up, and he was supposed to show more care towards his staff. I really hadn't read anything into what he'd said to me, but now at least I know I have his wife on my side :o) Ok, the apology was forced out of him, and it was only by online text, but it was certainly a surprise.
Ok, second thing. I've made a start on the novel! Only plot ideas, characters, locations etc. but it's the first baby step towards writing the initial chapter. This will probably take me years to complete, but I have no pre-conceptions about ever getting it into print. It'd just be nice to get to the end of it with a story I'm happy with. Big question though....
...Do I put a gratuitious sex scene in it? :o)
September 09, 2008
Back to Work
Back in the old days I seem to remember the first day back at work whizzing past at the speed of light. By the time you've checked and deleted a weeks worth of e-mails, told everyone in ear-shot your holiday stories, reset all your passwords because you can't remember any of them and taken an extended lunch it's time to go home...
..not today though. Today has really dragged. I've been on a 'full' day (that's 7am til 8pm) but the clock seems to be running backwards. Feels like I've been sat on this chair for 13 days, not 13 hours. If it wasn't for Sky TV I swear I would have been bouncing off the walls with boredom.
I did have a bit of good news though. My boss made a brief appearance before returning to Germany. Looks like he wants to keep up the flat we share (despite the fact he's never in it) so it means I don't have to worry about moving house. He also hinted that the training in Malta is back on, and he wants me to go, probably in November. Living in a hotel for 3 weeks, avoiding the UK weather could be fun, especially now I have no ties to keep me here. I've been knocked back in the past though, so I'm refusing to get my hopes up.
I've spent a lot of today planning the staff rota. It is SO hard trying to keep all 4 of us happy. It does look like I'll be spending a lot less time in the office from now on though. Working 4 days a week instead of 5 and a lot less 13 hour shifts. That'll give me a lot more free time....
....time to start writing that novel :o)
..not today though. Today has really dragged. I've been on a 'full' day (that's 7am til 8pm) but the clock seems to be running backwards. Feels like I've been sat on this chair for 13 days, not 13 hours. If it wasn't for Sky TV I swear I would have been bouncing off the walls with boredom.
I did have a bit of good news though. My boss made a brief appearance before returning to Germany. Looks like he wants to keep up the flat we share (despite the fact he's never in it) so it means I don't have to worry about moving house. He also hinted that the training in Malta is back on, and he wants me to go, probably in November. Living in a hotel for 3 weeks, avoiding the UK weather could be fun, especially now I have no ties to keep me here. I've been knocked back in the past though, so I'm refusing to get my hopes up.
I've spent a lot of today planning the staff rota. It is SO hard trying to keep all 4 of us happy. It does look like I'll be spending a lot less time in the office from now on though. Working 4 days a week instead of 5 and a lot less 13 hour shifts. That'll give me a lot more free time....
....time to start writing that novel :o)
The Lost Treasure of the Golden Fish Part III
"The other stuff"
I suppose I should explain the title of these blogs. It's a long and silly story, and only really makes sense to Sarah and me, but I'll give it a go.
On the first night we arrived I went to get a menu from the local Chinese take-away. Despite it's small size Wroxham does have a chinese, an indian, a kebab place, a traditional chippy, a tea-room and a pizza restaurant. The Chinese was called The Golden Fish...
I said I would phone up and order then go across the bridge to collect it. Sarah agreed and asked me to pass her the menu... well actually she said:
"Can you pass me the map please"
A simple slip of the tongue, but from that moment on, everything we did for the whole week involved quests to find lost booty, treasure maps, adventures on the high seas, golden fish, (which later became golden monkeys) - you name it, we somehow related it back to pirates. The crazy golf course was pirate themed, the Sea-Life Centre had a Pirates Cove, a boat that cut us up on the water was flying a jolly-rodger flag and so on. It made us both laugh constantly all week, although I'm sure it's one of those moments where you had to be there.
We played a lot of Scrabble. I forgot how fun that game can be, and frustrating too. I watched a lot of late night telly. Not much else to do when you're on a camp bed in the lounge and you're too scared to sleep in case it collapses.
I have to admit there were stressful moments. Caoimhe having a cold put a strain on both of us, and I didn't help out as much as I could of. Not out of selfishness, I just didn't want to get close to her. It was hard seeing her for so long every day, knowing it would be my last ever week with her. One morning I did take her across the bridge to feed the ducks, geese and swans. (hence the picture) Not sure she was completely interested though - she slept through the whole experience!
I suppose I should explain the title of these blogs. It's a long and silly story, and only really makes sense to Sarah and me, but I'll give it a go.
On the first night we arrived I went to get a menu from the local Chinese take-away. Despite it's small size Wroxham does have a chinese, an indian, a kebab place, a traditional chippy, a tea-room and a pizza restaurant. The Chinese was called The Golden Fish...
I said I would phone up and order then go across the bridge to collect it. Sarah agreed and asked me to pass her the menu... well actually she said:
"Can you pass me the map please"
A simple slip of the tongue, but from that moment on, everything we did for the whole week involved quests to find lost booty, treasure maps, adventures on the high seas, golden fish, (which later became golden monkeys) - you name it, we somehow related it back to pirates. The crazy golf course was pirate themed, the Sea-Life Centre had a Pirates Cove, a boat that cut us up on the water was flying a jolly-rodger flag and so on. It made us both laugh constantly all week, although I'm sure it's one of those moments where you had to be there.
We played a lot of Scrabble. I forgot how fun that game can be, and frustrating too. I watched a lot of late night telly. Not much else to do when you're on a camp bed in the lounge and you're too scared to sleep in case it collapses.
I have to admit there were stressful moments. Caoimhe having a cold put a strain on both of us, and I didn't help out as much as I could of. Not out of selfishness, I just didn't want to get close to her. It was hard seeing her for so long every day, knowing it would be my last ever week with her. One morning I did take her across the bridge to feed the ducks, geese and swans. (hence the picture) Not sure she was completely interested though - she slept through the whole experience!
The whole situation was difficult for us both, and it wasn't helped by us both becoming ill too. We got through it though, and I will look back with fond memories, not sad ones. I'll be back there soon......
....Still got the lost treasure of the Golden Fish to track down :o)
....Still got the lost treasure of the Golden Fish to track down :o)
The Lost Treasure of the Golden Fish Part II
The Days Out.
When we arrived in Wroxham, Caoihme and Sarah were suffering badly with a cold they had picked up from Sarah's brother. He had just returned from Afghanistan and brought a strange flu like virus with him. By the third day, I had it too, although now it has mutated into full blown Afghan Man Flu. That's probably not relevant, but thought I'd keep you completely upto date.
On the first full day of the holiday we took out a day boat. We cruised the waterways from Wroxham to Horning at a leasurely 4mph. At one point Sarah almost caused a bit of river rage by shouting 'Get out of the way fatty' at the top of her voice to another boat, but he didn't seem to hear her. We moored up outside the New Inn in Horning and had a few drinks, before setting off back to base. Sarah had a go at steering, but I wasn't filled with much confidence when her first words were 'Oh God, we're going to crash'. She did brilliantly though.
On the Monday we went to Great Yarmouth for the first of two trips. It was nice seeing it with someone else, as all the times I have been before I have never ventured near to the beach. I saw a whole different side to Yarmouth and it was lovely. An ice-cream on the sea-front, a visit to a delightful model village, picnic by the Pleasure Beach, it was all very relaxing and a wonderful day out. There is a large crazy gold course there, and a Sea-Life Centre we both wanted to visit, but as it was getting late we promised ourselves we would return later in the week.
On Wednesday we visited Norwich. The town centre was busy (and the car-park I chose to leave the car in was far too small for vehicles any larger than a Micra). We walked around the outside of the castle, rescued a sad looking tiger from a toy shop, and generally just wandered around.
Back to Great Yarmouth, but this time the weather was against us. We started out with a round of crazy golf at the Pirates Cove. A fantastic course, similar to the kind you see in America. Sarah proved that rugby is more her game as every shot she played involved the ball leaving the ground and sailing at altitude towards the hole (and the group of players in front of us!). We both really enjoyed it though, and managed to finish just as the heavens opened. A good excuse to visit the Sea-Life Centre. I haven't been to one before, but it was just as I imagined. Lots of big tanks, exotic fish and a tube you can walk through with the fish swimming overhead. Really nice place to visit though, if a little bit small. On the way back to the car we walked along the pier and I won a teddy out of one of those grabber machines. Probably a fluke, but I really impressed myself!
We called in at Horning again on the way back to the flat. Sat outside the Swan Inn watching the boats go by. It started to rain again, but sheltering under one of those big garden umbrellas we managed to stay dry. It was really peaceful and - dare I say - romantic....
...well it would have been if we had been a couple.
The Lost Treasure of the Golden Fish
I have returned. A week away in Norfolk with Sarah and Caoimhe has come and gone. Back to work, back to the old routine and back to being broke again. Like the last time I was away, I'll break these blog entries up into easily digestable chunks for you all.... and so to Part One...
Travel.
Why is it there are delays and problems when you are going on holiday, but when it's time to leave, and return to work, everything goes smoothly? I was supposed to travel from Southampton to Manchester on the Thursday evening. direct train, reserved seat, a few beers and a sandwich. What more could I ask for. I arrived at the station in plenty of time and checked the departure board:
17:15 to Manchester - Cancelled.
Ok, don't panic. Plenty of trains go to Manchester. A quick visit to the ticket office to find out what the best solution is.
"Next train to Manchester is in one hour, but you'll have to change at Birmingham. gets in at 23:30"
So, now I don't have a reserved seat, I'm stuck at Southampton station for an hour and I have to change trains halfway along (juggling two heavy hold-all bags). To top it all I was now going to arrive nearly two hours later than expected.
Thankfully I did get a seat on both legs of the journey, and there were no further delays. I also found out the reason for the original cancellation....not enough staff at Bournemouth where the train was due to start from.
The next big chunk of travel was driving myself, Sarah and baby to Norfolk. With stops it took about 6 hours. It was my first time using a 'Tom Tom' and all in all it did it's job. I did swear at it a few times trying to get through Stoke, and close to Wroxham it did take us on a very strange route, but other than that it was a useful gadget to have with us. Driving my Dad's car wasn't that easy though. With a buggy in the boot, the view in my mirror was very restricted, and his car is the size of a panza tank. I did clip one kerb, missed a roundabout exit and got stuck in a car-park in Norwich, but considering the mileage we covered, I think I did OK.
The drive back from Norfolk to Manchester was just me. Sarah and Caoimhe had travelled home the day before with Caoimhe's dad to see if they could sort out Sarah's University course. I kept myself amused by singing along to my ipod at an incredibly high volume. At lunchtime I decided I needed something to eat, so I took the first exit I could find off the motorway in the hope of finding a cafe or pub. Little did I know I had come off the motorway in the middle of Saddleworth Moor, a million miles away from any form of civilization. I did get some spectular views though as I drove through the wilderness.
The last leg of travel was my train home. Completely straight forward with no delays at all. I had a table seat reserved, and opposite me were two, young Japanese girls. I was definately regretting not shaving that morning. I settled down to watch Casino Royale, ate a few sandwiches and watched the world whizz by....
...if only all journeys could be that tranquil.
Travel.
Why is it there are delays and problems when you are going on holiday, but when it's time to leave, and return to work, everything goes smoothly? I was supposed to travel from Southampton to Manchester on the Thursday evening. direct train, reserved seat, a few beers and a sandwich. What more could I ask for. I arrived at the station in plenty of time and checked the departure board:
17:15 to Manchester - Cancelled.
Ok, don't panic. Plenty of trains go to Manchester. A quick visit to the ticket office to find out what the best solution is.
"Next train to Manchester is in one hour, but you'll have to change at Birmingham. gets in at 23:30"
So, now I don't have a reserved seat, I'm stuck at Southampton station for an hour and I have to change trains halfway along (juggling two heavy hold-all bags). To top it all I was now going to arrive nearly two hours later than expected.
Thankfully I did get a seat on both legs of the journey, and there were no further delays. I also found out the reason for the original cancellation....not enough staff at Bournemouth where the train was due to start from.
The next big chunk of travel was driving myself, Sarah and baby to Norfolk. With stops it took about 6 hours. It was my first time using a 'Tom Tom' and all in all it did it's job. I did swear at it a few times trying to get through Stoke, and close to Wroxham it did take us on a very strange route, but other than that it was a useful gadget to have with us. Driving my Dad's car wasn't that easy though. With a buggy in the boot, the view in my mirror was very restricted, and his car is the size of a panza tank. I did clip one kerb, missed a roundabout exit and got stuck in a car-park in Norwich, but considering the mileage we covered, I think I did OK.
The drive back from Norfolk to Manchester was just me. Sarah and Caoimhe had travelled home the day before with Caoimhe's dad to see if they could sort out Sarah's University course. I kept myself amused by singing along to my ipod at an incredibly high volume. At lunchtime I decided I needed something to eat, so I took the first exit I could find off the motorway in the hope of finding a cafe or pub. Little did I know I had come off the motorway in the middle of Saddleworth Moor, a million miles away from any form of civilization. I did get some spectular views though as I drove through the wilderness.
The last leg of travel was my train home. Completely straight forward with no delays at all. I had a table seat reserved, and opposite me were two, young Japanese girls. I was definately regretting not shaving that morning. I settled down to watch Casino Royale, ate a few sandwiches and watched the world whizz by....
...if only all journeys could be that tranquil.
September 08, 2008
Not a real post...
Not a real post, just an interim entry to let you all know I'm back from Norfolk, and about to head down to Southampton later this morning. I'm back in work tomorrow, so there should be time for me to write a real entry, and update the masses on the highs and lows of my trip...
...speak to you all soon.
...speak to you all soon.
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