Photos, photos, photos
Spent most of the morning doing lawn photos. Then a stock take, then ammending PandIS forms for new address - thought might as well as had to change re-order form as discovered by accident that we now take Amex.
Seems we weren't the only ones who weren't happy about problems with the stream of the staff meeting as they released a video of the meeting (with marginally better sound).
Went for a curry after work in the Regal and then popped into the Pickerel on the way home.
Thursday, 30 April 2015
Wednesday 29/04/15
A day of stupid!
Spent the morning faffing about with silly jobs. In the afternoon the team meeting for the new deputy directors was ruined by technical & stupidity problems.
1st bloke (ex Microsoft) forgot about using the mike and did what looked like a good presentation that we couldn't hear.
2nd bloke (Scouser) was talking about his experiences in the DWP (he was responsible for Universal Credit fiasco) and the stream cut off.
3rd bloke was finishing up when the stream came back online.
At least we got some free wine out of it.
Also spoke to Richard about problems with leave calendar - and then had a problem with RObin claiming his model was right & I was wrong about how much leave I had!
Went to the Carpenter's fro a change and were stuck when a vicious hailstorm hit the city. Made it to the Isaac later between showers to find that Chelsea were being beaten by Leicester! Heather REALLY not chuffed about laughter but brightened up as Chelsea ran out easy winners. She was also very happy that she will get to see them win the title against Palace at the weekend (rather than on TV).
Spent the morning faffing about with silly jobs. In the afternoon the team meeting for the new deputy directors was ruined by technical & stupidity problems.
1st bloke (ex Microsoft) forgot about using the mike and did what looked like a good presentation that we couldn't hear.
2nd bloke (Scouser) was talking about his experiences in the DWP (he was responsible for Universal Credit fiasco) and the stream cut off.
3rd bloke was finishing up when the stream came back online.
At least we got some free wine out of it.
Also spoke to Richard about problems with leave calendar - and then had a problem with RObin claiming his model was right & I was wrong about how much leave I had!
Went to the Carpenter's fro a change and were stuck when a vicious hailstorm hit the city. Made it to the Isaac later between showers to find that Chelsea were being beaten by Leicester! Heather REALLY not chuffed about laughter but brightened up as Chelsea ran out easy winners. She was also very happy that she will get to see them win the title against Palace at the weekend (rather than on TV).
Tuesday, 28 April 2015
Tuesday 28/04/15
Went in a bit early and had a nice hot shower then asked James if he could look at the macbook.
As I suspected he couldn't get it to work either & he thought that the had disc was failing/had failed (it is quite old). He said the only thing we could do to access the data is for Girish to remove it & put it in some form of enclosure and try and mount it as an external drive.
Had an email from John Lewis saying that tablet was ready & waiting for collection. Something I read on said tablet.
A load of printing (and hole punching) for MSM then a meeting with other members of User Services & Richard to go through bits & bobs, including the new online holiday thing.
After work over to the Mitre for 20% off Tuesday but ... but ... NO Doom Bar!
To be fair, this was because they were running a mini beer festival. Had a nice pale ale beer from Alchemy called 'Starlaw". After a few pints & a trip to Sainsbury's popped into the Pickeral and then Lou went home. I went onto the Isaac for a last pint & chatted with John & Barbara. B was saying she has offers from Glasgow & Aberdeen but doesn't know which to go for. I suggested taking a week & visiting both to look around at city & universities (which John thought was a very good idea).
As I suspected he couldn't get it to work either & he thought that the had disc was failing/had failed (it is quite old). He said the only thing we could do to access the data is for Girish to remove it & put it in some form of enclosure and try and mount it as an external drive.
Had an email from John Lewis saying that tablet was ready & waiting for collection. Something I read on said tablet.
A load of printing (and hole punching) for MSM then a meeting with other members of User Services & Richard to go through bits & bobs, including the new online holiday thing.
After work over to the Mitre for 20% off Tuesday but ... but ... NO Doom Bar!
To be fair, this was because they were running a mini beer festival. Had a nice pale ale beer from Alchemy called 'Starlaw". After a few pints & a trip to Sainsbury's popped into the Pickeral and then Lou went home. I went onto the Isaac for a last pint & chatted with John & Barbara. B was saying she has offers from Glasgow & Aberdeen but doesn't know which to go for. I suggested taking a week & visiting both to look around at city & universities (which John thought was a very good idea).
Moday 27/04/15
A late start as taking down the sales stand.
Went to the Regal for breakfast and after chatting for a while realised that the yoghurt hadn't come. Asked & was told that the bananas were manky so someone had gone to get new ones. It turned up a few minute later with profuse apologies & then, to my surprise, a refund to say sorry for the wait!
Got to the Senate House 09.15- 0920 and we were finished by 10.30 (there were a lot fewer frames to pack for starters). Over to RNB by 11.00.
Day had been warm & bright but by running away time it was cold, overcast & windy.
Met Lou in the Architect & were told that the table was reserved from 18.45 (they were doing a special burger night with other chefs doing it). Group turned up 10 minutes early so we left (all the other tables appeared to be reserved too).
Went home and made a big pasta bake while trying to get macbook to boot up without success.
Went to the Regal for breakfast and after chatting for a while realised that the yoghurt hadn't come. Asked & was told that the bananas were manky so someone had gone to get new ones. It turned up a few minute later with profuse apologies & then, to my surprise, a refund to say sorry for the wait!
Got to the Senate House 09.15- 0920 and we were finished by 10.30 (there were a lot fewer frames to pack for starters). Over to RNB by 11.00.
Day had been warm & bright but by running away time it was cold, overcast & windy.
Met Lou in the Architect & were told that the table was reserved from 18.45 (they were doing a special burger night with other chefs doing it). Group turned up 10 minutes early so we left (all the other tables appeared to be reserved too).
Went home and made a big pasta bake while trying to get macbook to boot up without success.
Monday, 27 April 2015
Weekend 25/04 & 26/04/15
Saturday 25/04/15
Fuck me, what a day!
Got up early & decided on a fried breakfast & was glad I did as didn't get chance to eat until gone 14.00.
Rushed around like a blue arsed fly getting things set up as Phil had his 1st go as Praelector for UIS.
Then the frame orders started pouring in ... and even 4 people working flat out couldn't keep up. It was like a day at General Admission! By 14.30 we'd done just shy of 200 orders, many doubles, before Homerton even showed up :¬0
The protest-based break did give us a chance to get a breather, grab some grub and re-stock. Many went shopping or for a coffee but I went to John Lewis for the tablet.
When got back, the protesters were outside the Senate House so slipped in the back way. Homerton was busy as usual so reckon we must have done around 250 orders. Came home & when Lou asked how it went I just collapsed face first on the bed.
[Update: Phil counted 219 orders]
Got changed & went to the pub for G&T to revive me and watched cricket with Heather. England actually fucking won!
Sunday 26/04/15
Wasn't really in a fit state to do much so spent a lot of time in the morning trying to guess wifi password (it's on the laptop) without success. Took it over to the pub and used Dick's snail-paced wifi. Had nice nosh - Lou ordered fajitas just to piss Jo off.
The Everton v ManU game wasn't funny. Not remotely funny at all. Honest.
Le Arse v Chelski was pretty good (even if Arsenal only managed a single shot on target & Chelsea had 2) but as attested by both Heather & her Gooner mate they would have taken a draw before the game.
Fuck me, what a day!
Got up early & decided on a fried breakfast & was glad I did as didn't get chance to eat until gone 14.00.
Rushed around like a blue arsed fly getting things set up as Phil had his 1st go as Praelector for UIS.
Then the frame orders started pouring in ... and even 4 people working flat out couldn't keep up. It was like a day at General Admission! By 14.30 we'd done just shy of 200 orders, many doubles, before Homerton even showed up :¬0
The protest-based break did give us a chance to get a breather, grab some grub and re-stock. Many went shopping or for a coffee but I went to John Lewis for the tablet.
When got back, the protesters were outside the Senate House so slipped in the back way. Homerton was busy as usual so reckon we must have done around 250 orders. Came home & when Lou asked how it went I just collapsed face first on the bed.
[Update: Phil counted 219 orders]
Got changed & went to the pub for G&T to revive me and watched cricket with Heather. England actually fucking won!
Sunday 26/04/15
Wasn't really in a fit state to do much so spent a lot of time in the morning trying to guess wifi password (it's on the laptop) without success. Took it over to the pub and used Dick's snail-paced wifi. Had nice nosh - Lou ordered fajitas just to piss Jo off.
The Everton v ManU game wasn't funny. Not remotely funny at all. Honest.
Le Arse v Chelski was pretty good (even if Arsenal only managed a single shot on target & Chelsea had 2) but as attested by both Heather & her Gooner mate they would have taken a draw before the game.
Friday, 24 April 2015
Friday 24/14/15
Late-ish start to the day as going to senate in the morning.
Had breakfast with Lou before heading to PandIS to charge phone. Went over around 9.40 and were pretty much done by just after 11.00.
Walked over to RNB in lovely warm sunshine (predicably, it clouded over at lunchtime).
Ordered a Lenovo tablet from John Lewis to be collected tomorrow afternoon which should, hopefully tie-in nicely with the mid-congregation break.
A nice send off for Richard at lunchtime, delivered with real warmth by Steve K. Even spent some time, with Bruce, chatting to Martin B before chatting with Phil & Mick
Nice day so walked over to Isaac to meet Lou, only to find she was at home. Went back to watch the cricket, chat to Heather etc.
After a few pints went home, changed & went to the Junction to see Maff Brown & Christian O'Connell. Sat next to a woman who was so fat it looked like she had 2 knees on her left leg! (For some people leggings are NOT a good idea!)
The two comics were pretty funny and OC's tales of being a shabby Dad were brlliant.
Had breakfast with Lou before heading to PandIS to charge phone. Went over around 9.40 and were pretty much done by just after 11.00.
Walked over to RNB in lovely warm sunshine (predicably, it clouded over at lunchtime).
Ordered a Lenovo tablet from John Lewis to be collected tomorrow afternoon which should, hopefully tie-in nicely with the mid-congregation break.
A nice send off for Richard at lunchtime, delivered with real warmth by Steve K. Even spent some time, with Bruce, chatting to Martin B before chatting with Phil & Mick
Nice day so walked over to Isaac to meet Lou, only to find she was at home. Went back to watch the cricket, chat to Heather etc.
After a few pints went home, changed & went to the Junction to see Maff Brown & Christian O'Connell. Sat next to a woman who was so fat it looked like she had 2 knees on her left leg! (For some people leggings are NOT a good idea!)
The two comics were pretty funny and OC's tales of being a shabby Dad were brlliant.
Thursday, 23 April 2015
Thursday 23/04/15
Very tired!
Had a long hot shower to wash away all the sweat from last night then up to West's for a mug of tea & a croissant.
Took the CL notes over and got another urgent one (pillock obviously forgot about need to provide notes in return for a share of the £9k).
Found that Sue R is now our new 'Leader' in "Specialist Services" (Printroom along with PandIS).
Assorted work done and then a walk home in blazing hot sunshine to meet Lou @ the Isaac.
Cricket wasn't on so went outside anyway to enjoy the sunshine. Had a nice chat with Brigit. Heather rushed up just in time to miss Cook getting out.
Had a nice chat with Heather, watched cricket and had some nosh.
Had a long hot shower to wash away all the sweat from last night then up to West's for a mug of tea & a croissant.
Took the CL notes over and got another urgent one (pillock obviously forgot about need to provide notes in return for a share of the £9k).
Found that Sue R is now our new 'Leader' in "Specialist Services" (Printroom along with PandIS).
Assorted work done and then a walk home in blazing hot sunshine to meet Lou @ the Isaac.
Cricket wasn't on so went outside anyway to enjoy the sunshine. Had a nice chat with Brigit. Heather rushed up just in time to miss Cook getting out.
Had a nice chat with Heather, watched cricket and had some nosh.
Wednesday, 22 April 2015
Wednsday 22/04/15
ABNEY PARK DAY!
A terrible night's sleep and a very foggy morning.
Got up late and went to the Regal for fruit & coffee. Thence to PandIS to pack cages etc.
Took Laura her prints (loved them & took them to show to her mother). Also went to John Lewis to price up new cloth for framing area but they didn't have anything like what we have got (mostly too thin).
Couldn't do much else as there was exam on (so no use of lift etc) so pushed off back to RNB and packed some photos.
Left around 13.00 and went to the Issac for a couple of pre-gig snifters. Whilst sat there this went round Castle Court.
Caught the bus/train to London then tube to Highbury. The club was right across from the station so popped into the bar for a pint to wait (a couple already there and more wandered in). Joined queue around 18.30 and stood for ages as more & more steampunks turned up. Some (Germans by sound of accents) had tickets while we had to wait to get to box office. As a result we couldn't get right to the front so went to bar for beer and merchandising booth for a tour T-Shirt.
Got a pretty good view close to stage (3rd 'row' back) and the 1st act - "The Memepunks" - were very good. I've never heard "The Final Countdown" as a tango and "The Girl From Ipenema/Pretty Fly" was funny. They even did "The Safety Dance".
The 2nd band = "Cauda Pavonis" - were OK but I couldn't really hear what the big lady was singing.
As some people moved we ended up being pretty close to the stage (2nd 'row') and Lou had a good view.
The Abney Park came on and were brilliant (as always).
It was incredibly hot and I was dripping with sweat by the end. We thought about staying for a beer with the band but bar looked crowded and Lou was nervous about missing the train so we shoved off back to Kings Cross. Went to Waitrose to get some beer for the train but was told it was past their licencing hours (why didn't the cordon it off?) so left beer, and sandwich, for them to put back.
Spotted that there was an earlier train going to Cambridge but couldn't figure out where it was going from. Who knew that there was a "Platform 0"?
Got a taxi home and peeled boots & socks off damaged feet. A small G&T, some reading and sleep.
A terrible night's sleep and a very foggy morning.
Got up late and went to the Regal for fruit & coffee. Thence to PandIS to pack cages etc.
Took Laura her prints (loved them & took them to show to her mother). Also went to John Lewis to price up new cloth for framing area but they didn't have anything like what we have got (mostly too thin).
Couldn't do much else as there was exam on (so no use of lift etc) so pushed off back to RNB and packed some photos.
Left around 13.00 and went to the Issac for a couple of pre-gig snifters. Whilst sat there this went round Castle Court.
Caught the bus/train to London then tube to Highbury. The club was right across from the station so popped into the bar for a pint to wait (a couple already there and more wandered in). Joined queue around 18.30 and stood for ages as more & more steampunks turned up. Some (Germans by sound of accents) had tickets while we had to wait to get to box office. As a result we couldn't get right to the front so went to bar for beer and merchandising booth for a tour T-Shirt.
Got a pretty good view close to stage (3rd 'row' back) and the 1st act - "The Memepunks" - were very good. I've never heard "The Final Countdown" as a tango and "The Girl From Ipenema/Pretty Fly" was funny. They even did "The Safety Dance".
The 2nd band = "Cauda Pavonis" - were OK but I couldn't really hear what the big lady was singing.
As some people moved we ended up being pretty close to the stage (2nd 'row') and Lou had a good view.
The Abney Park came on and were brilliant (as always).
It was incredibly hot and I was dripping with sweat by the end. We thought about staying for a beer with the band but bar looked crowded and Lou was nervous about missing the train so we shoved off back to Kings Cross. Went to Waitrose to get some beer for the train but was told it was past their licencing hours (why didn't the cordon it off?) so left beer, and sandwich, for them to put back.
Spotted that there was an earlier train going to Cambridge but couldn't figure out where it was going from. Who knew that there was a "Platform 0"?
Got a taxi home and peeled boots & socks off damaged feet. A small G&T, some reading and sleep.
Tuesday, 21 April 2015
Tuesday 21/04/15
Turns out my worries about the car park barriers were well founded: Clark Maxwell Road was totally full of cars/vans. As some had parked by the exit of the path it was actually a bit dangerous to cross the road as I couldn't see if anything was coming.
Set an email querying this and got a 'sorry we can't do anything' respnse.
Went to West's Cafe for breakfast. Sitting in the sun with a mug of tea and a croissant is a nice way to start the day.
{Grrr - No feel free to disbelieve me and fuck about for 40 minutes before accepting you'll have to book an engineer to get to the jammed bit of paper anyway}
Due to broken machine, couldn't do much work. Did big A3's for Laura.
Met Lou on the quayside again for sunshine drinkypoos. A chilly breze got up so we went to the Castle and then home for Quorn "Turkey" steaks & mash.
Set an email querying this and got a 'sorry we can't do anything' respnse.
Went to West's Cafe for breakfast. Sitting in the sun with a mug of tea and a croissant is a nice way to start the day.
{Grrr - No feel free to disbelieve me and fuck about for 40 minutes before accepting you'll have to book an engineer to get to the jammed bit of paper anyway}
Due to broken machine, couldn't do much work. Did big A3's for Laura.
Met Lou on the quayside again for sunshine drinkypoos. A chilly breze got up so we went to the Castle and then home for Quorn "Turkey" steaks & mash.
Monday, 20 April 2015
Monday 20/04/15
A foggy start then a lovely spring day - shame to be stuck inside.
Lot of new proofs for Megan @ the CL. Lots of temptation to kick the fucking shitty colour printer out of the window.
Again.
Saw a bloke putting up a sign by the park & cycle entrance saying that the barriers are going to be activated later this week. That's going to fuck up the builders who wont have university cards! I guess that means they'll have to park on Clark Maxwell Road, which is already crowded (and if they do, where will the rest go?).
After work met Lou at the quayside to drink beer in the evening sunshine. Absolutely lovely.
Popped into the Pickeral for a couple, meeting Stuart & Nathan, before going on to the Isaac. Wished Jo a happy birthday and, as it was quiet she sat down for a chat. Turns out she'd been back to Poland as her mother is pretty ill :¬(
Lot of new proofs for Megan @ the CL. Lots of temptation to kick the fucking shitty colour printer out of the window.
Again.
Saw a bloke putting up a sign by the park & cycle entrance saying that the barriers are going to be activated later this week. That's going to fuck up the builders who wont have university cards! I guess that means they'll have to park on Clark Maxwell Road, which is already crowded (and if they do, where will the rest go?).
After work met Lou at the quayside to drink beer in the evening sunshine. Absolutely lovely.
Popped into the Pickeral for a couple, meeting Stuart & Nathan, before going on to the Isaac. Wished Jo a happy birthday and, as it was quiet she sat down for a chat. Turns out she'd been back to Poland as her mother is pretty ill :¬(
Weekend 18/04 & 19/04/15
Saturday 18/04/15
Spent morning lazing about and then over to the Isaac for beer & F1. Got there at around 1pm, despite telling Lou that quali wasn't until 16.00. Three times.
Got Dick to put FP3 on though. Poor JB - crap car with comedy engine from Honda broke yet again so he couldn't even set a time so was plumb last on the grid.
Sunday 19/04/15
Went into town to 3 shop to see what they could do for us. The answer was effectively nothing as prices were exactly the same as if just walked in off the street for the 1st time. Think we'll be going elsewhere...
After trip to see if cheese in Lou's fridge was OK (it wasn't) we went to Sainsbury's. Dropped shopping home & met Lou & Heather in the Isaac.
Had to move as Dick had worked it that F1 was on top screen and Semi-final on bottom one. For a change I had a vege fajita which was scrummy - will deffo have that again.
Poor old JB - his crap Honda joke engine meant he couldn't even start the race. All in all a weekend to forget for him and deeply embarrassing for the team as some of their sponsors were there. Hamilton cruised to victory but there was good racing all the way down the field. The Renault engine is also a joke with Ricciardo trundling to a standstill after yet another power unit went up in smoke.
While all this was going on we were watching an insipid Liverpool blunder about aimlessly against Villa. Gerrard looked like he was picked for sentimental reasons and played like it. Sterling was completely anonymous & certainly not playing like someone deserving of a pay rise of £65k and definitely not like someone deserving of a pay rise of £150k.
We should have been playing with energy, hunger & belief. Instead it was Villa who displayed these qualities. Liverpool were listless and devoid of any of the standards their reputations deserved, not helped by Roger's tactical tinkering.
It says something when Balotelli was the best player after Coutinho (and he had a legitimate goal dubiously ruled offside)!
As you can imagine Jamie, Will et al were ecstatic with our defeat.
Fair play to Villa though: they were as good as we were poor and fully deserved their place in the final.
Rogers has now become the first Liverpool manager since the 1950s to not have won a trophy in his first 3 seasons in charge.
That, combined with poor recruitment and a disastrous campaign might make for an unhappy review of the season for Rogers as I doubt the owners will be very impressed at going backwards.
Spent morning lazing about and then over to the Isaac for beer & F1. Got there at around 1pm, despite telling Lou that quali wasn't until 16.00. Three times.
Got Dick to put FP3 on though. Poor JB - crap car with comedy engine from Honda broke yet again so he couldn't even set a time so was plumb last on the grid.
Sunday 19/04/15
Went into town to 3 shop to see what they could do for us. The answer was effectively nothing as prices were exactly the same as if just walked in off the street for the 1st time. Think we'll be going elsewhere...
After trip to see if cheese in Lou's fridge was OK (it wasn't) we went to Sainsbury's. Dropped shopping home & met Lou & Heather in the Isaac.
Had to move as Dick had worked it that F1 was on top screen and Semi-final on bottom one. For a change I had a vege fajita which was scrummy - will deffo have that again.
Poor old JB - his crap Honda joke engine meant he couldn't even start the race. All in all a weekend to forget for him and deeply embarrassing for the team as some of their sponsors were there. Hamilton cruised to victory but there was good racing all the way down the field. The Renault engine is also a joke with Ricciardo trundling to a standstill after yet another power unit went up in smoke.
While all this was going on we were watching an insipid Liverpool blunder about aimlessly against Villa. Gerrard looked like he was picked for sentimental reasons and played like it. Sterling was completely anonymous & certainly not playing like someone deserving of a pay rise of £65k and definitely not like someone deserving of a pay rise of £150k.
We should have been playing with energy, hunger & belief. Instead it was Villa who displayed these qualities. Liverpool were listless and devoid of any of the standards their reputations deserved, not helped by Roger's tactical tinkering.
It says something when Balotelli was the best player after Coutinho (and he had a legitimate goal dubiously ruled offside)!
As you can imagine Jamie, Will et al were ecstatic with our defeat.
Fair play to Villa though: they were as good as we were poor and fully deserved their place in the final.
Rogers has now become the first Liverpool manager since the 1950s to not have won a trophy in his first 3 seasons in charge.
That, combined with poor recruitment and a disastrous campaign might make for an unhappy review of the season for Rogers as I doubt the owners will be very impressed at going backwards.
Friday, 17 April 2015
Friday 17/04/15
A LOT colder this morning. Where the frack did the warm weather bugger off too?
Some work to do today but not too much. Bruce was in late as went to hospital for blood tests. They still don't know what is wrong with his eye (worked out what it's not eg detached retina). Looks like he'll have to go in again for more tests once blood work is done.
Met Lou by LCC an went to the Architect. Had barely sat down when Will & Nigel came in & joined us. Had a nice chat and a few beers. Moved on to the Isaac and was pus=zzled by everybody in suits/dressed smartly. Turned out that it was Zep's ex-wife's funeral. A recovering alcoholic, she was getting her life back on track when she had an aneurism.
To cheer Joe up (and without Zep's knowledge) Andy Ralph etc had put a load of money together and bought him & his dad tickets to Wembley for the semi-final!* There were lots of jokes that the seats were in the Villa end & that they could only get tickets for Liverpool even though they'd tried to get MU ones.
Either way, it's a wonderful thing to do for Joe.
* Update - found out on Sunday that there's more money left and they are planning to add some more so that Joe & Zep can have a holiday in Spain or similar.
Some work to do today but not too much. Bruce was in late as went to hospital for blood tests. They still don't know what is wrong with his eye (worked out what it's not eg detached retina). Looks like he'll have to go in again for more tests once blood work is done.
Met Lou by LCC an went to the Architect. Had barely sat down when Will & Nigel came in & joined us. Had a nice chat and a few beers. Moved on to the Isaac and was pus=zzled by everybody in suits/dressed smartly. Turned out that it was Zep's ex-wife's funeral. A recovering alcoholic, she was getting her life back on track when she had an aneurism.
To cheer Joe up (and without Zep's knowledge) Andy Ralph etc had put a load of money together and bought him & his dad tickets to Wembley for the semi-final!* There were lots of jokes that the seats were in the Villa end & that they could only get tickets for Liverpool even though they'd tried to get MU ones.
Either way, it's a wonderful thing to do for Joe.
* Update - found out on Sunday that there's more money left and they are planning to add some more so that Joe & Zep can have a holiday in Spain or similar.
Thursday, 16 April 2015
Thursday 16/04/15
A lot cooler in the morning (back to wearing multiple layers).
Printed & delivered a load of notes for the CL before Bruce got in. Other odds & ends came in through the day while Bruce did the big ones for Bob (each 1 of his python notes is around 1/2 a ream of paper!).
Bruce left early afternoon to go to hospital to see an opthamologist about the sudden blurring in his vision. Had Ben come in for some business cards. Spent most if the afternoon writing a story for Lou (which she didn't read).
Went to the Isaac and wondered why everyone was smartly dressed - turns out that Zep's ex-wife had died and they'd been to the funeral. Ralphy, Jarad et al then told Joe (who was understandably a bit down) that he was going to Wembley on Sunday to see the LFC v Villa semi-final (tyhey'd had a whip round and organised tickets for him & his dad).
Home to make a massive haggis/bean/veg/creme fraiche bake with a cheesy mash topping. Yummy :¬)
Let food go down for an hour before commenced on a very enjoyable activity ;¬)
Printed & delivered a load of notes for the CL before Bruce got in. Other odds & ends came in through the day while Bruce did the big ones for Bob (each 1 of his python notes is around 1/2 a ream of paper!).
Bruce left early afternoon to go to hospital to see an opthamologist about the sudden blurring in his vision. Had Ben come in for some business cards. Spent most if the afternoon writing a story for Lou (which she didn't read).
Went to the Isaac and wondered why everyone was smartly dressed - turns out that Zep's ex-wife had died and they'd been to the funeral. Ralphy, Jarad et al then told Joe (who was understandably a bit down) that he was going to Wembley on Sunday to see the LFC v Villa semi-final (tyhey'd had a whip round and organised tickets for him & his dad).
Home to make a massive haggis/bean/veg/creme fraiche bake with a cheesy mash topping. Yummy :¬)
Let food go down for an hour before commenced on a very enjoyable activity ;¬)
Wednesday, 15 April 2015
Wednesday 15/04/15
Wearing Red in memory of the fans who never came home.
A pretty hot day too (just like 1989). Quite a bit of work in, mainly for the Computer Lab.
On the way back from dropping a proof off I heard a plane & looked up to see a Spitfire pootling along :¬)
Went for a nice long walk at lunchtime over the road to Madingley Rise & Greenwich House.
After work met Lou & went to the Granta for beers in the sunshine. Was unsurprisingly very busy, something that wasn't helped by 1/3 of the beer garden being cordoned off for a BBQ later.
Thence to the Isaac and watched the cricket & the PSG - Barcelona game (Suarez scoring twice).
A pretty hot day too (just like 1989). Quite a bit of work in, mainly for the Computer Lab.
On the way back from dropping a proof off I heard a plane & looked up to see a Spitfire pootling along :¬)
Went for a nice long walk at lunchtime over the road to Madingley Rise & Greenwich House.
After work met Lou & went to the Granta for beers in the sunshine. Was unsurprisingly very busy, something that wasn't helped by 1/3 of the beer garden being cordoned off for a BBQ later.
Thence to the Isaac and watched the cricket & the PSG - Barcelona game (Suarez scoring twice).
Justice For The 96
On this day in 1989 Chief Superintendant David Duckenfield killed 96 fans when he ordered the gate at the Leppings Lane end to be opened.
Then he lied about it for more than 25 years, finally admitting he wasn't a competent individual to take chrarge of the match. He also admitted lying to numerous inquiries etc about his culapability.
I hope he's charged with perjury, at the very least.
His actions and the subsequent cover-up and smear campaign by the Police is a national disgrace.
How the families, who always knew the truth, have lived with this pain with such dignity is astonishing.
Justice for the 96.
Never Forget, Never Forgive.
Then he lied about it for more than 25 years, finally admitting he wasn't a competent individual to take chrarge of the match. He also admitted lying to numerous inquiries etc about his culapability.
I hope he's charged with perjury, at the very least.
His actions and the subsequent cover-up and smear campaign by the Police is a national disgrace.
How the families, who always knew the truth, have lived with this pain with such dignity is astonishing.
Justice for the 96.
Never Forget, Never Forgive.
Tuesday, 14 April 2015
Tuesday 14/04/15
Up late as going for audio test. Went to the Regal for nosh (fruit & yoghurt for me & sausages for Lou). Went to Lou's office to wait until it was time to go next door.
Test took about 15 minutes and the machine actually worked and I 'passed'. Looks like might not have to come back for another 3 years as all as good as it was in 2012.
Over to PandIS to look at the undercroft with Phil. Quite a but smaller but doors are large enough to wheel stuff in and out without having to remove table-tops and no mucking about with the lift. Looks like the move will be the 1st week in June (when I'm off).
Ambled back to RNB with signs of Spring everywhere
Quite a bit of work, including one bitch of a job from Mick that some clown had screwed up. Spent an hour sorting it out!
After work went to the Castle for drinks in the sunshine (while it lasted). Very pleasant!
Ambled up the hill to the Isaac and watched the Madrid derby/CL semi-final.
Test took about 15 minutes and the machine actually worked and I 'passed'. Looks like might not have to come back for another 3 years as all as good as it was in 2012.
Over to PandIS to look at the undercroft with Phil. Quite a but smaller but doors are large enough to wheel stuff in and out without having to remove table-tops and no mucking about with the lift. Looks like the move will be the 1st week in June (when I'm off).
Ambled back to RNB with signs of Spring everywhere
Quite a bit of work, including one bitch of a job from Mick that some clown had screwed up. Spent an hour sorting it out!
After work went to the Castle for drinks in the sunshine (while it lasted). Very pleasant!
Ambled up the hill to the Isaac and watched the Madrid derby/CL semi-final.
Monday 13/04/15
A lovely spring morning - chilly with the hint of warmth to come.
Plenty of work again (for CL, Lynn, Laura etc) plus loads of photos to pack.
Met Lou and went to Staples on Mitchum's Corner only to find it was closed (and had been for a while by the looks of it). Went over to the Portland where had a number of texts from Benno who insisted 'it' was open. Turns out he meant the Boathouse, where he'd been since 14.00 getting trollied.
Weren't planning to stay for the footy due to hearing test Tuesday AM but, as it was quiet, we did. Good goal by the 20 year old pillock,Sterling. Then we must have slipped unnoticed into an alternative dimension as Joe Allen scored!
Few more beers then a strange walk home with Lou scrounging my coat as she'd left hers behind.
Plenty of work again (for CL, Lynn, Laura etc) plus loads of photos to pack.
Met Lou and went to Staples on Mitchum's Corner only to find it was closed (and had been for a while by the looks of it). Went over to the Portland where had a number of texts from Benno who insisted 'it' was open. Turns out he meant the Boathouse, where he'd been since 14.00 getting trollied.
Weren't planning to stay for the footy due to hearing test Tuesday AM but, as it was quiet, we did. Good goal by the 20 year old pillock,Sterling. Then we must have slipped unnoticed into an alternative dimension as Joe Allen scored!
Few more beers then a strange walk home with Lou scrounging my coat as she'd left hers behind.
Monday, 13 April 2015
Weekend 11/04 & 12/04/15
A "Game of Thrones" weekend.
Saturday 11/04/15
Went into town early and put bets on nags for National then over to Lou's office to see if could, with application of assorted new connectors, get Lou's PC to talk to the projector.
As it worked. we popped to M&S to get munchies & returned to watch season 3. Paused at 16.10 to try and get C4 working. Eventually got it going in time for the start. At one point on the 2nd circuit "The Druid's Nephew" was actually leading the race and looking really good.
Then the fucker faceplanted. x:¬(
Still at least Lou got some money back for "Alvaro".
Got some more nosh and then a marathon session of GoT until about 11.30 (got 4 episodes into season 4).
Home for sleeps.
Sunday12/04/15
Up at an ungodly hour to listen to the Chinese GP - BBC R5 bloke started to really annoy me as every time there was a message on team radio he just repeated it, no analysis or contribution (as the late, great Richie Benaud said, if you can't contribute, shut up).
Went into Lou's office, via Sainsbury's, to watch remaining 6 episodes.
When we'd finally caught up to date (prior to new season starting tomorrow) we went to the Architect and then the Isaac for a few more (Lou was getting annoyed by hand drier in lady's going off every 45 seconds). Weren't planning to stay for the quiz but ended doing so anyway. Didn't enter, just played along.
BTW GoT had lots of gory violence and lucious nudity and sexytime. Shame they killed "Ygritte" (Rose Leslie) :¬(
Saturday 11/04/15
Went into town early and put bets on nags for National then over to Lou's office to see if could, with application of assorted new connectors, get Lou's PC to talk to the projector.
As it worked. we popped to M&S to get munchies & returned to watch season 3. Paused at 16.10 to try and get C4 working. Eventually got it going in time for the start. At one point on the 2nd circuit "The Druid's Nephew" was actually leading the race and looking really good.
Then the fucker faceplanted. x:¬(
Still at least Lou got some money back for "Alvaro".
Got some more nosh and then a marathon session of GoT until about 11.30 (got 4 episodes into season 4).
Home for sleeps.
Sunday12/04/15
Up at an ungodly hour to listen to the Chinese GP - BBC R5 bloke started to really annoy me as every time there was a message on team radio he just repeated it, no analysis or contribution (as the late, great Richie Benaud said, if you can't contribute, shut up).
Went into Lou's office, via Sainsbury's, to watch remaining 6 episodes.
When we'd finally caught up to date (prior to new season starting tomorrow) we went to the Architect and then the Isaac for a few more (Lou was getting annoyed by hand drier in lady's going off every 45 seconds). Weren't planning to stay for the quiz but ended doing so anyway. Didn't enter, just played along.
BTW GoT had lots of gory violence and lucious nudity and sexytime. Shame they killed "Ygritte" (Rose Leslie) :¬(
Friday 10/04/15
A very quiet morning then everybody wanted everything and it was all fucking urgent!
Worst was wedding stuff for Michelle - all a stupid size & had to be chopped down by eye.
Any plan I had to sneak off early to Keith's wake was bollixed by this and work for Dave (sent the wrong files for signs) and Monica (forgot that she didn't have enough notes for course on Monday).
Finally got to wake around 16.25 and the pub was packed. According to Lou there was about 150 people at the crematorium. She got a lift with Brian and Madelaine, Brian nagging all the way there ("Watch out for that car!" "Slow down." etc). On the way back, she got in with Dick & Jared...
While was there was 'treated' to the whole of the "Remember, Remember" song and then fireworks (Keith was a member of several groups). Lots of load explosions had me saying that either the rozzers or the armed response unit would be turning up: sure enough 10 minutes later a copper turned up to see what was happening (no doubt in response to calls regarding shots and or bombs).
After that, people started to drift off and then Dick had to have a go at some stupid fat tart and her clueless mate (took food from bar and then looked appalled when told them it was from a wake).
A few more beers and then home.
Worst was wedding stuff for Michelle - all a stupid size & had to be chopped down by eye.
Any plan I had to sneak off early to Keith's wake was bollixed by this and work for Dave (sent the wrong files for signs) and Monica (forgot that she didn't have enough notes for course on Monday).
Finally got to wake around 16.25 and the pub was packed. According to Lou there was about 150 people at the crematorium. She got a lift with Brian and Madelaine, Brian nagging all the way there ("Watch out for that car!" "Slow down." etc). On the way back, she got in with Dick & Jared...
While was there was 'treated' to the whole of the "Remember, Remember" song and then fireworks (Keith was a member of several groups). Lots of load explosions had me saying that either the rozzers or the armed response unit would be turning up: sure enough 10 minutes later a copper turned up to see what was happening (no doubt in response to calls regarding shots and or bombs).
After that, people started to drift off and then Dick had to have a go at some stupid fat tart and her clueless mate (took food from bar and then looked appalled when told them it was from a wake).
A few more beers and then home.
Thursday, 9 April 2015
Thursday 09/04/15
Very foggy this morning. Indeed got mistier the further from town I got - couldn't see bits of Churchill from the road but did see two loonies playing tennis at 07.40!
Spent the morning packing photos and got them all done & ready for posting by 12pm. At which point Loren decided she wasn't well and left. As a consequence, there are a lot of envelopes sat waiting.
Quite a of of printing work in the afternoon too.
Met Lou in the Isaac for a quick pint before going to Aldi for bits & pieces. It was lovely & warm so for the 1st time this year we could sit outside in the sunshine.
On the way back I tripped over an uneven drain cover, ripping my favourite trousers and grazing my knee. I was kindly helped up by a young asian chap who was nearby.
Returned to the Isaac for medicinal beer and a long chat with a pretty pissed-up Nigel.
Spent the morning packing photos and got them all done & ready for posting by 12pm. At which point Loren decided she wasn't well and left. As a consequence, there are a lot of envelopes sat waiting.
Quite a of of printing work in the afternoon too.
Met Lou in the Isaac for a quick pint before going to Aldi for bits & pieces. It was lovely & warm so for the 1st time this year we could sit outside in the sunshine.
On the way back I tripped over an uneven drain cover, ripping my favourite trousers and grazing my knee. I was kindly helped up by a young asian chap who was nearby.
Returned to the Isaac for medicinal beer and a long chat with a pretty pissed-up Nigel.
Wednesday, 8 April 2015
Wednesday 08/04/15
Woke to find that can't hear very well. Put some drops in again but no difference.
Cold morning & slightly foggy.
Got another proof from MSM for Lianne so printed & took that over.
Got the go ahead to do all the ones Bruce had printed before Easter - two lots of 281 copies & one large one x 42. While printing those Lianne said one taken over was OK to go too. In total 6 boxes & 646 booklets printed & punched.
In evening went to the Castle for a change. Had to move tables due to screechy twats who have never heard the term 'keep it down'. Or indeed 'Shut the fuck up you witless cocksuckers'.
Moved onto the Isaac to find the cocksuckers had moved there as well & the cunts still hadn't learnt the meaning of volume control.
Moved to other end of the pub & watched us struggle against Blackburn who, as predicted, deployed the team bus, an tank & an aircraft carrier between us and the goal. And when we did find a small opening we came up against the excellent Eastwood. Williamson meanwhile, aided the the ever-dreadful Kevin Friend, should have seen at least yellow 5 times (including once when he smashed Moreno in the face & once when he kneed Coutinho in the back).
Still, thanks to "The Magician" we actually scored, Coutinho slotting the ball in on a tight angle.
We also lost Sakho to a hamstring though, given his propensity to leave his brains on the touchline, maybe that's not such a bad thing that the clown will be out for a while....
Still a trip to "Anfield South" to meet Villa.
[Still feels wrong to have the semi-final's at Wembley. Should be final only that's held there]
Cold morning & slightly foggy.
Got another proof from MSM for Lianne so printed & took that over.
Got the go ahead to do all the ones Bruce had printed before Easter - two lots of 281 copies & one large one x 42. While printing those Lianne said one taken over was OK to go too. In total 6 boxes & 646 booklets printed & punched.
In evening went to the Castle for a change. Had to move tables due to screechy twats who have never heard the term 'keep it down'. Or indeed 'Shut the fuck up you witless cocksuckers'.
Moved onto the Isaac to find the cocksuckers had moved there as well & the cunts still hadn't learnt the meaning of volume control.
Moved to other end of the pub & watched us struggle against Blackburn who, as predicted, deployed the team bus, an tank & an aircraft carrier between us and the goal. And when we did find a small opening we came up against the excellent Eastwood. Williamson meanwhile, aided the the ever-dreadful Kevin Friend, should have seen at least yellow 5 times (including once when he smashed Moreno in the face & once when he kneed Coutinho in the back).
Still, thanks to "The Magician" we actually scored, Coutinho slotting the ball in on a tight angle.
We also lost Sakho to a hamstring though, given his propensity to leave his brains on the touchline, maybe that's not such a bad thing that the clown will be out for a while....
Still a trip to "Anfield South" to meet Villa.
[Still feels wrong to have the semi-final's at Wembley. Should be final only that's held there]
Tuesday 07/04/15
Back to work on a sunny morning.
After a refreshing shower, sat down with coffee to find 75 emails :¬[
Once done with those (mostly crap) took some proofs over to MSM.
Lots of odds & ends but many people off on annual leave so stuff we couldn't do.
Ran an urgent job for Monica and then did a load of lawn photos from 28/03 that Mel had done. This included the worst lawn photo I've seen in 10 years...
..... I have no idea what this fucking cock was doing!
Little teapot arrived and is the perfect size to mount on a cane.
After work usual Tuesday trip to the Mitre for Doom Bar. After many pints ambled home & Lou put ear drops in. A weird, slightly unpleasant, sensation as the drops sank into the wax, tickling ear insides.
Rinsed drops out after a few minutes & then to sleep.
After a refreshing shower, sat down with coffee to find 75 emails :¬[
Once done with those (mostly crap) took some proofs over to MSM.
Lots of odds & ends but many people off on annual leave so stuff we couldn't do.
Ran an urgent job for Monica and then did a load of lawn photos from 28/03 that Mel had done. This included the worst lawn photo I've seen in 10 years...
..... I have no idea what this fucking cock was doing!
Little teapot arrived and is the perfect size to mount on a cane.
After work usual Tuesday trip to the Mitre for Doom Bar. After many pints ambled home & Lou put ear drops in. A weird, slightly unpleasant, sensation as the drops sank into the wax, tickling ear insides.
Rinsed drops out after a few minutes & then to sleep.
Tuesday, 7 April 2015
Easter Holibobs 31/03 - 06/04/15
This is a bit stream-of-conciousness as these things were a week or so ago.
Tuesday 31/03/15
Reading ('Waistcoats & Weaponry) until lunchtime & then over to meet Lou at the club for munchies. To the Library for more reading then to the Mitre. Thought I'd beat Lou for once but she sneaked out early to get there 1st.
Wednesday 01/04/15
Planned to go to London but decided to give it a miss as both tired (and I'd started on the new MOPO book). Lunch at the Portland then went over to Grafton Centre to look for frocks in the charity shops. Plan was to find one skirt that could go over the other. After looking in pretty every shop in Fitzroy St Lou announced that she wasn't sure how she planned to do this in any case (could have said that earlier!). Did get a new coat for me from Oxfam (only £12).
Thursday 02/04/15
Had a shave (only blunted 2 chisels) and then a hair cut (with cute mature redhead on Bridge St). As it was a nice day we walked to Granchester. Well, skipped around the mud & cowshit that was liberally distributed around the paths. A couple of pints in the Red Lion (for a change). Back home via the Red Bull. Usually this is the only place in city that does Directors but it fewking well ran out! Grrrrr!
Popped home for a bit then out to Revolution for works do. Were somewhat ignored and were going to go when Mac & David turned up. Had a nice chat with David and got free vodka shots (too sweet) and slices of pepperoni pizza for Lou.
Friday 03/04/15
Windy! Went over to the Hopbine to try some rums - had 3* then thought we'd best go homewards while we still could. Went to a very quiet Isaac and then were trapped by horrendous rain.
* "Menu"
The "English Spirit Spiced English Rum" was extraordinary - lots of flavours etc
More on our tasting notes when I find them.
Also stated putting olive oil into ears to soften wax prior to hearing test.
Saturday 04/04/15
Went over to the Beehive to look at store that heard did lots of unusual items. Saw some nice chests that we could put hats, steampunk gear etc in.
Rushed back to the Isaac for the game against Arsenal. Wish we hadn't bothered as seems Brendan's troops didn't turn up either. Fucking shambolic & a fucking embarrassment. Any hope of top 4 gone, even for the criminally deluded. Don;t mind getting beaten by better teams but in both games I'm not sure which was worse: the refereeing or our players. Actually, I do: referee in both games was abysmal but we were much worse.
More rum at the Hopbine, including one that came out of a glass replica flintock, to drown sorrows! Had a rather foul one from Thailand too.
Sunday 05/04/15 - Zombie Jesus Day.
Thought about going to the Plough at Coton but it clouded over & looked like rain so turned aside & went to the Free Press (bumping into Pat & Wendy on the way). Had mini-easter eggs in a jar, which Lou ate 99% pf, claiming she was trying to save me from "toxic chocolate shock syndrome."
Onto the Isaac and watched football.
Cooked the nut roast from Tesco's in the evening - alright but as much veg as nuts (included suace was nice though).
Monday 06/04/15
Decided, as it was nice & sunny, to walk to Fen Ditton & have a pint in the Plough. A nice walk but windy & then it clouded over. The pub was pretty busy so we only had the one pint (think might have been overcharged but die to background noise/loss of hearing couldn't tell). Then walked back to the Green Man (note for future - turn down path by Church rather than meadows) and met Carole behind the bar.
Went to Tesco's on the way back and got loads of stuff & a taxi back to house with it all.
Over the road for a couple of jars then home to make a chilli. Had to wake Lou up to eat it but was bloody nice (addition of some smoked paprika gave it a really good taste).
Tuesday 31/03/15
Reading ('Waistcoats & Weaponry) until lunchtime & then over to meet Lou at the club for munchies. To the Library for more reading then to the Mitre. Thought I'd beat Lou for once but she sneaked out early to get there 1st.
Wednesday 01/04/15
Planned to go to London but decided to give it a miss as both tired (and I'd started on the new MOPO book). Lunch at the Portland then went over to Grafton Centre to look for frocks in the charity shops. Plan was to find one skirt that could go over the other. After looking in pretty every shop in Fitzroy St Lou announced that she wasn't sure how she planned to do this in any case (could have said that earlier!). Did get a new coat for me from Oxfam (only £12).
Thursday 02/04/15
Had a shave (only blunted 2 chisels) and then a hair cut (with cute mature redhead on Bridge St). As it was a nice day we walked to Granchester. Well, skipped around the mud & cowshit that was liberally distributed around the paths. A couple of pints in the Red Lion (for a change). Back home via the Red Bull. Usually this is the only place in city that does Directors but it fewking well ran out! Grrrrr!
Popped home for a bit then out to Revolution for works do. Were somewhat ignored and were going to go when Mac & David turned up. Had a nice chat with David and got free vodka shots (too sweet) and slices of pepperoni pizza for Lou.
Friday 03/04/15
Windy! Went over to the Hopbine to try some rums - had 3* then thought we'd best go homewards while we still could. Went to a very quiet Isaac and then were trapped by horrendous rain.
* "Menu"
The "English Spirit Spiced English Rum" was extraordinary - lots of flavours etc
More on our tasting notes when I find them.
Also stated putting olive oil into ears to soften wax prior to hearing test.
Saturday 04/04/15
Went over to the Beehive to look at store that heard did lots of unusual items. Saw some nice chests that we could put hats, steampunk gear etc in.
Rushed back to the Isaac for the game against Arsenal. Wish we hadn't bothered as seems Brendan's troops didn't turn up either. Fucking shambolic & a fucking embarrassment. Any hope of top 4 gone, even for the criminally deluded. Don;t mind getting beaten by better teams but in both games I'm not sure which was worse: the refereeing or our players. Actually, I do: referee in both games was abysmal but we were much worse.
More rum at the Hopbine, including one that came out of a glass replica flintock, to drown sorrows! Had a rather foul one from Thailand too.
Sunday 05/04/15 - Zombie Jesus Day.
Thought about going to the Plough at Coton but it clouded over & looked like rain so turned aside & went to the Free Press (bumping into Pat & Wendy on the way). Had mini-easter eggs in a jar, which Lou ate 99% pf, claiming she was trying to save me from "toxic chocolate shock syndrome."
Onto the Isaac and watched football.
Cooked the nut roast from Tesco's in the evening - alright but as much veg as nuts (included suace was nice though).
Monday 06/04/15
Decided, as it was nice & sunny, to walk to Fen Ditton & have a pint in the Plough. A nice walk but windy & then it clouded over. The pub was pretty busy so we only had the one pint (think might have been overcharged but die to background noise/loss of hearing couldn't tell). Then walked back to the Green Man (note for future - turn down path by Church rather than meadows) and met Carole behind the bar.
Went to Tesco's on the way back and got loads of stuff & a taxi back to house with it all.
Over the road for a couple of jars then home to make a chilli. Had to wake Lou up to eat it but was bloody nice (addition of some smoked paprika gave it a really good taste).
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