Diary Post that was in my notes–nothing much to add…

1. Diary over Xmas and NY - 2017!!
   1. Hosting neighbours
   2. Xmas Day hosting
   3. Boxing Day hosting
   4. NYE at Cardiff

Xmas celebrating in earnest

Great day yesterday. Got a few things sorted in the morning and then I took Jack to a trial for what we thought was Carterton but was actually the GPS JPL side. He impressed, I was really pleased with, and for, him. He did shine out and was noticed by their main coach so they’re keen to get him on board with is really pleasing for all of us. He did look off the pace though because he’s not been training with any sort of intensity but he will soon get match sharp again. Hopefully today at Woodstock he’ll get a full run out – we shall see.

It completely over-ran so we got home as quick as we could and then me, Jack, Tash and Nathan went down to Eastleigh to meet with Wendy and all the families. I drove a bit fast and we experienced a bit of road-rage from a chap in front of us who thought I was going to undercut him – all very sill and dangerous, I wasn’t, he was being a first class prick! Anyway, got to the Beefeater in the end and it was a lovely meal. Graham was working so wasn’t there but he made a surprise 10 mins visit that was lovely, but there was Mark, Danni and Herbie and then also Mark, Svetlina and the kids, there was also Simon from Tasha’s work who was there. We all got on well and it was really lovely just to sit and catch up. Was there a couple of hours and then made a move home – they’re all staying at Wendy’s so that will be great for her – she’ll love that!

Drove home – without incident this time, sat at home for a few minutes and then me, Mum and Lewis went round to the White Hart where they had carols and that was a great evening. Some good singing, not by me of course and it was so busy. We stayed round by the fire and were with Nicky and Matt Henderson and we had a good laugh. Drank far more than we should have done but it was hard no to! Not too sure what time we left, it was quite late, I then had a couple more beers at home but fell asleep on the sofa, as did Lewis. We tried to watch Peaky Blinders but I can’t remember any of it so will need to start again!

So, a really good day…first of many this Xmas I hope!

Another Xmas, another Xmas cake!

Charlotte and Mum work together to decorate the Xmas cake every year and this year was no different. They did a really good effort and were rightly pleased with their effort. Although I was looking at it from the wrong angle so thought it was balloons! Only when it was turned around did I realise it was baubles!

Top class!

Quarry Rovers on Tour–1982?

Love this photo so much

Panto fun

The annual trip to the panto took place this evening and it was the usual and expected event. There was over 20 of us this year I think and it was good fun. Andy Collins was the person involved and it didn’t let down. The only shame about it was that we were right at the very back of the stalls so we weren’t as involved as normal – we need to get the tickets sooner and be at the front!!

Anyway had a meal in spoons before we went in and that was nice

Same again next year!

Dark Xmas Party & YouTube Night

We hosted friends and neighbours this evening and it was a real success. So it was mostly friends that we made via the kids going to school and then also people from the village. Loads turned up and it wasn’t a quiet night, people let their hair down and the drinks were flowing, Wayne, Kerry and Sharon Millar (and the kids) all came as well.

Really enjoyed it and late in the evening Pete and Katherine Casey also arrived, Katherine was steaming drunk so that was amusing

Everyone left around midnight but I’d not finished my evening so I decided on a YouTube night and carried on drinking and partying on my own with my headphones on…sad maybe but I loved it. Then Lewis came in from clubbing at about 4.00am so we carried on and videoed it etc – I think we gave up about 6.00am! Hungover Sunday but worth it!!

I also posted an update on Twitter – loads on there!

Quarry Rovers Boys – Cup Winners 1981

Not 100% certain of the year but we were all young! This appeared on Facebook the other day and it brought back such fond memories. Very lucky to have played at a good level, really fortunate

Back Row - L/R - Raheem Hayat, Ellis Spearpoint, Richard Mellis, me, Andrew Gardiner, Maurice East, John (Speedy) Icot
Front Row - L/R - Glen Anthony, Matthew Elbro, David McGrath, Martin Harris, Anthony Penge & Wayne Holden

English Cricket disappointment in Australia

“It’s the hope that kills you!”

Never a truer sentence uttered! I’ve been keeping up with the Ashes Series in Australia and it was the second series today and – Day 5 and England had the faintest glimmer of hope so I set the alarm for 3.30am to watch the match because this time it’s on BT Sport and not Sky so I’ve been able to watch loads of it so far. Quite quickly I wished I’d not set the alarm…that familiar batting collapse happened and by 5.00am it was all over so I went back to bed and had a couple more hours sleep.

I seriously think this could be a 5-0 whitewash this time, we don’t have the penetration from the bowlers and in two matches none of our batsmen has yet made a century. It won’t stop me from continuing to push my body to early morning watching or even midnight slots (when it’s not a day/night match).

Anyway, we will see…

Night out with the Caseys

Went out this evening and caught up with Katharine and Pete Casey and had a really nice evening. Had a couple of beers whilst waiting for the taxi and then collected them and went to the new Westgate centre to the Alchemist restaurant and bar and was really impressed. Big queue but we had a reservation so straight into the bar and they made these great cocktails. The signature thing being that they used dry ice which meant steaming/smoking or bubbling concoctions – it was very good!

Had a really good meal and loads to catch with them about, and then more cocktails afterwards, sat in the bar bit at the end I saw Jermaine Ferreira and said Hi and then we made our way home and got a taxi back

It was a really nice evening – both Tash and I were a bit tipsy it must be admitted!!

A Close Shave!!

I have probably mentioned this before but before my 49th birthday Tash and I sat and made a list of 50 things to do before I am 50 years old – although I’ve only managed to get to 40 so far so still 10 more to add to the list!

Today I was able to tick one of the #50Things off which was a proper cut throat shave at a barbers

I was really looking forward to the experience, it’s something that Lewis had paid for my birthday and I took my time booking the right place which was Youngmans down the High Street. I didn’t shave for a week before today and even dressed up quite smart. I dropped the car off at Tash’s work and then made my way down there and Craig was the person dealing with me. I was having the Youngmans luxury experience so I got my hair cut, washed, face scrubbed and creamed and then the shave with the cut throat razor. I didn’t take a photo as it would have been odd but I really enjoyed it all – except for having to talk all the way through!! No nicks or cuts etc and then that was it done – I was there for 1hr and 45mins.

I went back to Tash’s work and sat there for a bit and it was then that I realised the shave wasn’t as close as I would have expected or indeed as close as I could manage with my own blades, I have to admit to being a little underwhelmed by that side of it. I don’t want to let on and I almost want to try another barber to see if this is normal, but it’s now 5.00pm and I feel as though I need to have another shave to tidy things up, bit sad really!

Anyway, I’ve ticked off the event on my list so that’s good – one down!!

Before:                                                                                   After:

                                      

Jack Football – Old Woodstock Town FC

Sat in the car typing this out waiting for Jack’s football to get going – he’s stepped into a vacant position for Woodstock today having texted the manager last night saying he was available. I don’t think he will even get a game but he’s at least involved so will wait and see what happens. I’ve been watching the warm-up, he looks tiny compared to the lads he’s playing with!! I feel real pressure about his football situation, the whole thing has been such a shame as it sounds like the rest of the u17’s at City are going to splinter and go elsewhere. Very sad.

Anyway I had a quick snooze and updated a few other entries in the diary and will now wrap up warm and cheer the team on…or more likely watch and get very frustrated by it all!!

We shall see.

So that went well – Jack wasn’t brought on until later in the game but got at least 25 minutes and he did well. As predicted the football wasn’t the best but I kept my comments to myself although I did shout a few suggestions for better movement etc. The opposing team (Shrivenham I think) were on a run and Woodstock are not so I think the opposition were expecting an easy ride, this didn’t happen and Woodstock rose to the occasion and did well – eventually somehow winning 5-0. A very surprising result.

I was pleased watching Jack, he’s quick and very skilful – I hope he doesn’t lose that ability.

We stayed afterwards and I had a couple of pints in the bar.

An enjoyable afternoon in the end. Still think I could do a job if fit…!

Oxford City ex-Players Day

Well this did NOT disappoint. I’ve been looking forward to this day for a long time, in fact as soon as it was announced I was like a kid again excited about catching up with loads of old faces and having a day and night on the beer and having a crack!! Got down to the ground with a bit of a hangover from the previous night having been to Emily’s 18th birthday pub crawl celebration around Bicester and took it easy to start with. In fact even started with a coke – okay because the options were Stella!! Everyone was worried by that…
So gradually more and more players and managers turned up and it was really enjoyable seeing old faces and catching up. We stayed in the classroom side and when the matched started (Wealdstone) some of us went out and watched a bit but after 20 minutes I’d seen enough so went back to the bar and just stayed and chatted. We went out onto the pitch at half-time to have a photo – below – and then back in the bar!!
After the matched we were all the last ones there as you’d expect and then organised lifts into town. Alan Foster drove a group of us down there so that was good of him, I got a round in to say thanks, and we met up in the old Living Room. That was quality because there were all the lads from the Marston racing day down at Cheltenham so loads and loads of ex-footballers on show – it was mad! Everyone is drunk about now so it was such a great atmosphere, I loved every minute of it. At some point, and I don’t know why, there was a decision to leave the Living Room (Slug and Lettuce?) and go to All Bar One – so went there and half were there and the other half were at the old Brewhouse pub – never know what they’re called these days do I? All Bar One was fun and we took some other photos and then some of us (you know I have to be last man standing!) went to the new bar which is what Maxwells used to be. Can’t remember who made it – I think it was me, Paul Creed, Shaun Bradbury, Tim Bowley and Specky. I was flagging a bit in there and just wandered round or were dancing – bumped into other familiar faces, Chris Jones and a few others. By the end I was on lemonade and lime and water – left about 3.00am when it closed and Tash is texting me throughout! Got Shaun Brads to a taxi, he was falling asleep on me at the end of the night and then got a kebab and bus to the cemetery and Tash came and picked me up from there, sat on the sofa watching MOTD eating the kebab and went to bed. I think she was very surprised that I wasn’t completely and utterly bollocksed..in fact I think I was surprised!
So then, a really, really good day and night – loved it!

Some faces/people I was really pleased to see included:

• Eddie Inness (he’s not too well)
• Andy Lyne (down here from up north)
• John Sheppard (he looked really old – he’s 84 I think he said in the bar afterwards)
• Keith Knight
• Lewis Craker (haven’t seen him in years – moved to Radley about a year ago – hasn’t changed a bit!)

Iceland Family Holiday – Day Four – Last Day

Walked to town

Whale watching cancelled because of the weather Bus tour Sleep

No hurry with getting up today so no alarms or anything but we were up and out by 10.00am. We planned to be out all day so walked towards town and made our way along the waterfront. Quite bracing is how you’d probably describe the weather. Sun was out and it was beautifully clear and fresh but there was a cold wind coming through.

Saw a couple of the sights and then had breakfast at the deli we did yesterday and went down to the Old Harbour area to go to the Whale Watching area but not before popping into a flea market

Sadly, all out good luck had been used up and when we got to the kiosk there was a sign on the window announcing that our tour had been cancelled due to the weather. This was such a surprise and obviously a disappointment to all. Nothing we could do about it so tried to sort a refund and then made other plans

Walked further along the harbour to the Viking Centre they had set up called the Saga Museum. We decided to go in and it was fine. We had an audio tour through their history of Vikings settling in Iceland and then had costumes at the end for a photo opp! All a bit of fun

Left there and jumped on the Hop On/Hop Off bus tour that we had tickets for. Did the full one hour tour but we all slept through HJ it!! Everyone was shattered. We did a full circle and got off right next to the brewery and went in for a drink

That was nice and the others had hot chocolate and that. We then walked through the old harbour once more stopping at another bar for a local beer before making our way into the main shopping street where we went to the Chuck Norris Grill. Only two options in the menu, burger or double burger!! Along with beer and chips. Lovely!!

That was us done then, got a cab back to hotel and packed and crashed out. Everyone so tired. Also, because of lack of food the beer went straight to your head, I felt a bit pissed!! Anyway, as disappointing as it was to miss out on the whales we turned it into a successful day.

We’ve had a great time here. Very interesting country and very unique. Would definitely recommend other people to come and visits that’s for certain

Iceland Family Holiday – Day Three

Pouring with rain when we woke up, didn’t have anything organised until 1.30pm but were determined not to ease time so we stuck on the waterproofs and planned to walk to town centre but once outside we realised how much it was raining so we got a taxi from the hotel back to the bus terminal that we knew

That was quick into town and we walked round in a bit of a tour to the church and then the lake and back through the main area. Really nice walk although it was pouring and windy!

Stopped at a nice deli for brunch and then walked down the main road the same as last night and made our way home. Saw a really nice watch that I liked but I doubt we will get it. The walk back took about 40 mins which we expected and we crashed out for 40 Mins before being picked up for the Blue Lagoon trip. I’m on the transfer minibus now typing this and we’re not sure what to expect as it’s cold, raining and windy and we’re basically going to an outdoor swimming pool!!

So this was interesting!! Into a modern spa type facility, very nice set-up. Changed and then out to the lagoon. It seemed quite busy initially but once out there into the lagoon itself it was spacious and free.

So out we went into the cold and walking towards the water and in...bliss!! It was so very hot in there, it was amazing

Very salty water but so nice just to wade around the area. It didn’t disappoint at all. In fact the opposite, we were all so pleased and surprised with how good it was.

As part of the package we went up to one of the side bars there and applied silica compounds to our faces which was supposed to act like a face pack. It was quite amusing gliding round the pool with this white face pack on looking like Mrs Doubtfire and loads of other people exactly the same!! It caused a lot of mirth!!

The hard thing was washing it all off!

After that we then went to a bar that was located in the lagoon and we had beers and smoothies and that was relaxing.

The rain and wind didn’t affect the experience at all, what was cool was that often you couldn’t see anyone because of the steam coming off the water being so think. It really was a surreal experience.

After about 90 minutes of this relaxing we decided to make a move, there was no time limit at all and then got ready and caught the bus home

Quick change at the hotel and back into town!

We stopped at the Boston bar on the Main Street as it was just happy hour and in there we discussed other ideas for my 50 experiences which was amusing and we made some additions. Even with this pint because we’d not been eating all day I felt quite light headed. We then went down town and found a pizzeria and had a lovely dinner there. Huge great 16” pizzas that went down well

After that we found an Icelandic bar and had a couple of pints in there, I’d happily have stayed out but I think our new guy was done. We were all knackered.

Walked down the Main Street again and flagged a taxi again and got home

A great day and evening.

Iceland Family Holiday – Day One

Up at 5.45am and got everyone sorted and on the road towards Mums by 6.25am travel to Gatwick was no problem at all and we made really good time.

Through customs and a nice breakfast and then onto our Wow plane. Their service was fine even though we fell foul of the baggage size so had to pay for two items to go in the hold

Flight was about 2.5hrs and then we were here in Iceland. Had a coach organised that took us to the hotel which is basic but fine for us

We wandered around our area after a quick freshen up and found a lovely restaurant to eat. It was like a cinema club and was excellent. Really nice bloke in charge and Lewis and I had our first taste of Viking beer.

One thing about Iceland is the cost, it’s ridiculously expensive here. £8 a beer is cheap. Food is through the roof! Went back to the hotel after that and waited for pick up for our first excursion of the holiday.

We were taken out for the Northern Lights tour and we’d been told there was a good chance of witnessing them tonight...they were not wrong!!

Out we went away from Reykjavík into the wasteland and stopped a couple of times until we found a really good place to witness it happening. It was incredible to be honest.

It started in slow motion and expanded across the sky, it appears white to the naked eye but when captured on camera the blues and mostly the greens become apparent. I got pissed off with trying to take photos of it because I just could not get the right settings but I think I got two good photos out of god knows how many I took!!

We travelled round a bit more but the main place we stopped was the best one and soon the light show was no more. Since then the weather has been appalling and the trips have been cancelled so to have got the view and success we did on out very first day was incredibly lucky.

It was quite tiring in the bus travelling around and what with a long day anyway it was no surprise that we nodded off.

We were dropped back at the hotel around 11.00pm and everyone collapsed in bed in minutes.

A great start to our short break already!!

Melanie & Brendan over from Canada

So I tried downloading a new voice recognition app called text to speak and as good as it seemed I think this OneNote voice recognition might just be as good anyway it is a case of decent annunciation and speaking proper.

I found that when I was in the car the interference and noise meant that some of the text that was written was utter garbage.

What was disappointing with the text to speech application was that when you stopped talking and saved your work it would then over-write what you had written when you spoke again which was mad.

Charlotte has come home today and she is home all weekend and next week for my birthday and going to Iceland so that it is lovely to have her back here.

I am about to go and meet Mum and the family at the turnpike pub because Melanie is over here from Canada so we are meeting up with her however it is only me that is going because the kids and as it is Natasha meeting with a friend. Should be an interesting evening but that should be nice.

In fact it was really nice evening, everyone was there which was nice and Melanie brought along her son Brendan with her and he was very interesting. They were sat at the end of the table and only had Roger and Sue to speak with so after my dinner I picked up my chair and went and sat with them and it was appreciated and I was glad I made the effort

Brendan was something else, I suspect he's had/has drug issues if I was to guess by his manner - that's not a negative at all, he was very engaging and I said to Tasha afterwards I really liked him. Full of tattoos and gold jewellery and swearing loads - very amusing in my family's circle. Anyway the evening ended and I went back to Wolvercote and it was 10.30pm so I went down to the White Hart as Tash was still there and had a couple of pints with her, Nicky and then her partner Matt - that was a nice way to end the evening.

Lewis in Germany on a training course

Lewis has been away for a fortnight so far and is in his last week over in Nuremburg in Germany as part of training for his new job. It’s been going really well and he’s made friends and enjoyed the course. What’s been nice is that he’s phoned and checked in with me a number of times and he’s done so again today to chat about how things are ticking along and so on. Very sweet of him but very much appreciated.

He’s going to find it tough going on Tuesday because he comes back to London about 10.00pm and then comes home and we’re off the next morning to Iceland!

Anyway, it was nice to get a call from him today and hopefully that will continue!

Alison, Grace and Olivia over for the weekend

We pottered around in the morning getting jobs done before setting out just after 11.00am to go and collect Alison, Grace and Olivia from Bill and Junes house. They were over here for a couple of days before flying out to Italy to meet up with Andrew who is working. It was surprising to see Grace grown up as she was only a year old when we saw her last year on holiday and she is lovely, very chatty, very friendly, very social - she and also Olivia were incredibly lovely girls.

Alison was so very relieved that Natasha and I were taking her out for the day because I think she was going a bit stir crazy around Bill and June who are of course very lovely but getting a little forgetful and I’ll say a little deaf, sadly, that’s what always happens with old age.

So we drove out to Millet's farm which they have been to before but it worked out perfectly when we were in the play ground and also with the animals, Grace was very active climbing trees, climbing the frames, running around - it was lovely to see and it reminded Natasha and I of what Jack was like. She is pretty fearless!

It felt strange walking around the playground looking after a one and two year old, when we obviously have 22-year-old children, I said to Natasha that I felt a bit like a granddad. We stayed at Millet's for about two hours which flew by and then we made our way home and took Alison and the girls out to Jacobs Inn for dinner.

The food was good and we had a nice time and Jack joined us for dinner which was amusing because he had worked at Jacobs Inn for over a year which meant he knew the staff and the menu. I managed to only have a gin and tonic again and we then took them back to Cowley to drop them off at Bill and June's, however, when we got there we went in for about an hour because Steve and Sue were there as well so we stopped for a chat and a catch up.

That was that, we said our goodbyes and Alison later texted to say how much she enjoyed coming out and we went home watch some TV and then had an early night because of school and work next week.

Shopping & Concert in Birmingham

We had training in the morning at Cutteslowe Park, there was only seven lads so I had to train which was fine and I work hard but it was a very enjoyable session. I made it a good laugh to try and encourage and find our team spirit again. We then rushed around doing various jobs around the house and the took Jack and two a friends to Birmingham for a J Cole concert that they had tickets for

We got to Birmingham just after 3:30 PM and wandered around the bull ring shopping centre and managed to find me some birthday presents which was nice.

Natasha and I then made our way towards the arena and found the Café Rouge restaurant that we had booked a reservation for and had a really good meal there. I went for steak and also we had gin and tonic‘s which were excellent.

At the minute Gin and Tonic is my go to drink as I feel I have gone off lager a bit - especially this month that I have managed to stay pretty sober and not drink much. It's Stoptober but I am not actively participating, just coincidence really

We were worried about the time the concert was going to finish because we asked to security guards and they said most likely 11:30 or midnight, so we were getting ready to find a pub to kill the last hour but thankfully Jack came out at 10:45 so it was normal time and we got home at 1 AM.

He was buzzing saying that the concert was absolutely brilliant so a good day overall.

Working in York

Worked in York today having come up on the train last night. The session went okay but I’ve done better. It was hard work and if not prepared very well so I need to learn from this experience and ensure I’m better prepared in future. I do leave things to last minute and then panic about the data set up etc.

Came up the train and that was really good. 3 and a half hours working etc and it was productive and I did the same coming home. Typing this now on The was from Banbury station so will be home shortly. Long day though

Charlotte has been doing data entry work for me and it’s been really hard work. We’re both spending hours on it when we shouldn’t be. I need to get more or explain the situation with how much EdCo would charge.

It took an age to do some earlier and it’s not worth my time to do it!!

I’ll make sure Charlotte gets paid properly though

Right, home for some food. I’m trying not to drink this October and it was so tempering at the train station as I had an hour to kill and knew I’d not be driving when Home…I resisted though so I’m pleased with myself…also resisted buying crap food or sweets-that hurt harder!!

So this is my latest attempt to lose some weight and get in shape. Again!

Charlotte’s Birthday–what celebrations!!!

Where to start???

I will update this one day but we managed the following:

• Trip to London for great meal at the walkie talkie building after having an alien experience in an escape room
• Zorb football on her birthday on the Saturday
• Surprise party at the wig and pen in the evening

Fantastic time had by all!

General Update

Been busy with the family.

Quick recap of things we've done

Went to Brighton for Katie's birthday. It was a surprise and we'd hired a minibus to take us down there. Very nice bus and even though we hit bad traffic it was still a great day. Sat on the beach drinking and eating. Some of them went on the zip wire and we had a game of cricket which was a laugh. Actually it was rounders. On the way home we decided to go out and ended up at Raouls with Charlotte, Miles and Lewis. That was good fun

We then had centre Parcs in Woburn for Sue's birthday. Great weekend.

I played football the other day in an over 50's tournament that was hard work. It was incredibly hot and we didn't have enough players and I had an appalling hangover. True to form for Sunday football I was sick in the bushes after the first game. Absolutely hanging

It was good and we made it to the final where the Welsh beat us a second time. I could barely walk!! Enjoyed it all the same.

Struggling with work

I am finding motivation for any sort of work hard to come by at the minute, not sure if it’s because I have so may things on my plate and I am struggling to focus on one thing so I am procrastinating on anything else. Work is a bind, Oxford city football is not enjoyable at all and stressing me out, holidays lined up, birthdays and so on etc.

It’s been like this for a number of weeks and I need to snap out of it – just feels like a rut!

Centre Midfield Maestro

Took Jack to football this afternoon at Woodstock as he had a friendly organised for first against reserves, I didn’t have any money so went and got some from town and stopped in the King’s Arms for a pint before wandering back to the ground. I was surprised, but pleased, to see Jack was playing in centre midfield and he did really well. The match wasn’t ideal and I had a couple more pints whilst watching although second half I was linesman!

I couldn’t keep quiet as I should do and it amused me in the car on the way home when Jack said that a couple of players commented that “your dad is quite scary when he shouts across at you like that isn’t he?” – I wasn’t being aggressive but it was interesting to hear that!

Came home and had a few more drinks and a relaxing evening.

Another good game for JD

Jack played for Woodstock Town again last night in the friendly over at Launton and he got a decent second half run out and 15 minutes in the first half as well. He did well and I was very proud of him. He impressed the players and management alike so that’s really pleasing for him. I ended up running the line which I didn’t mind doing but I do fond it hard to keep my mouth shut, I can’t help but contribute to the proceedings – I will learn though!

It’s quite time consuming though because I had come back from London early and then was out from 5.45pm through until after 9.00pm!

When we got home Charlotte and Miles were over and he’d been driving our car – we have insured him on that so he’s pleased although a little anxious about doing so but I think he’ll be fine, just needs to drive more and build his confidence in that way.

Not sure how many other families would do that for a daughter’s boyfriend but we like to try and help others as much as we possibly can

Anyway, Charlotte and Miles are both into Game of Thrones and they were watching Season 4 so it was good to sit and watch two episodes with them, especially as it was the Mountain versus the Viper episode that we watched and I made Tash watch that final scene – brutal!!

Lewis Degree Results–stop reading now…

Lewis had his resit results today – if we thought that 5% couldn’t be made worse he managed to get 4% in one of them! I am beyond being upset or angry about it, he’s clearly not set up or equipped to deal with this work. I believe that he’s just wasted a year and not studied, I simply cannot believe that anyone with the knowledge can struggle so dramatically that they get 4% in an exam!! Anyway, he’s failed and he’s not allowed back to Huddersfield for any sort of tuition for a year. Not sure what he’s going to do or how this will progress – I suspect it’s a case of trying at another Uni. I don’t know. He’s been in touch regarding his first few days at work and it’s gone well for him and he’s enjoying it, really hope that he does the business and thrives here – such a good opportunity. Emilee is causing hassle for him in Huddersfield and trying to get him to go over there, very selfish indeed to put any sort of pressure on him after only his second day in the role. He can’t travel from Manchester to Huddersfield midweek, that’s just mad. I wonder how long things will last now because of this, it’s a shame for Lewis as he obviously likes her but he has to prioritise and I have serious concerns regarding how much he actually did work last year and she be a distraction. I might be wrong but recent events suggest otherwise…

Jack playing men’s football

Jack has been playing football for Old Woodstock the last two weeks in the men’s league. Only friendlies and I was concerned for his safety in respect of it being that much more physical but both games have been fine and he’s coped really well. He’s confident and talkative and you can tell he thinks he’s good enough to be there, it’s funny hearing him telling the men what to do or encouraging them etc. The manager and the players seem keen for him to sign on but it will clash with his Saturday JPL commitments so he’s not going overboard in terms of being excited about it. I will let him sign on and see how things pan out.

Talking of JPL – unfortunately Tom Griffiths has dropped out and it’s likely other players will as well – can’t blame them, the cost of £400.00 for a year is madness

Quick family update

This is more a list of what’s been happening as opposed to going into great detail

We finally got the truth out of Lewis about his situation with university and it wasn’t a nice truth to learn – he had falsified his submission documents and lied to everyone involved consistently – absolutely heart-breaking and I am writing this a week later!! I actually cried at work when speaking to Tasha about it because I was so disappointed with everything about this whole scenario, the lying, the waste of time, the money, the let down, I was tired anyway from stress with work and other things so that exacerbated things no doubt! Well, it’s out in the open and we need to see where this takes us now!

He came down this weekend and will be here all week so that’s nice and we can sort things out and clear the air with each other.

Got up at 4.30am this morning, an hour before I should on a Monday because the new season 7 episode of Game of Thrones was out so Lewis and I got up early to watch it together instead of setting our alarms for 2.00am! Glad I did that ecause I don’t feel so tired travelling this morning.

Nice weekend otherwise, even though I worked throughout – I have a lot on my plate with various customers so I took the opportunity to get up to date a bit – it’s been stressing me out as well and I think it worked in that I feel a bit more in control sat here this morning…no idea how long that will last!!

Also on Friday it was Paul Holden’s 70th birthday celebration party held at Oxford City FC – it was a joint party with Chloe although none of her friends were there – but it was good to see loads of old faces and it was worth going to. Not much else to report at the minute…trying to get my head into gear regarding the coming season with City!

Jack’s Prom and work mishap with stress ball

It’s tomorrow that we’re hosting some of the kids round our house for his prom pre-party tomorrow night. He’s not overly bothered about it all but Tash is pushing for it which I am sure they will be pleased about in the end. It’s just not much time for them so will only be here for an hour if that!

Anyway, I am in London so will have to find an excuse to leave early – but then I am in there at 6.30am so it shouldn’t really be an issue!

Not much to report today, worked at Raintree and made a bit of a fool of myself actually thinking about it, this is the post that I put on Facebook that has really amused a lot of people:

Just had some help from the IT techie at a company I'm working at and on my desk he placed one of those rubber stress balls so I picked it up and squeezed it whilst watching him work....only it wasn't a stress ball but a plum...it split and sprayed juice all over me and the desk!! Just a bit embarrassing!!

Standlake Camping, Fathers Day and Charlotte travelling…

What a great weekend…

On Friday afternoon Charlotte, Miles and I went to Standlake and they helped me pitch the tent and then they went back to Oxford and I stayed setting things up. I had a phone call at 4.00pm which went okay and then was able to relax after that and enjoy the evening. Nikki and Gaz and all the kids came along and it was a great evening. Walking the dogs and drinking etc etc. Nice meal and chatting.

Same again on Saturday, Jack and Cory came over and I did a full fry up breakfast, it was so very hot all weekend and I stupidly didn’t put any cream on – I am suffering for it now! Ah well, it will calm down sooner or later, can’t put my rucksack on my shoulder as it’s too painful. Saturday was lovely, just chilled (in so far as relaxing and enjoying the scolding hot weather). Couldn’t get on the water sports as all fully booked. BBQ in the evening and more drinking…

Sunday was packing up in the morning and then home to sort things out. Jack and Lewis went off to the Summertown Stars tournament but I was too tired so stayed at home and left them to it. They didn’t win the competition which was a surprise/shame. Never mind. We then did a BBQ in the later afternoon for Grandma’s 97th Birthday and that was lovely. Pimms out in the back garden was great.

The neighbours kids kept coming round which was really funny, they seem very relaxed and confident in just walking through the back door – Vince and Cal – that was amusing

It was also Father’s Day today so the kids got me a t-shirt and cards and some beers so that was nice to get.

Then finally, Charlotte is going off Inter-Railing with Miles for 3 weeks tomorrow so she’s all packed and ready for that, should be so good because they’ve got a great itinerary planned – very jealous of them both!

So a great weekend – and Cornbury in a couple of weeks so that will be something to look forward to

Election Result

Well that back-fired spectacularly for Teresa May – she called the election 7 weeks ago because Corbyn and Labour were about 23 points behind the Tories and she wanted to capitalise and grind them into the dust with an over-whelming majority but she completely ballsed up the canvassing – it was pathetic how she worked and would not engage in debates etc and she was found wanting. So instead of making a huge majority we’ve ended up with a hung parliament. Absolutely nightmare

So I’ve been active on Twitter and Facebook amusing myself but it’s serious and it could well mean another election in the Autumn, what a waste of time and energy and money.

Anyway, not good and caused a lot of trouble and disruption as you would expect.

We shall see what happens now!!!

General Election

Worked in GL today and as per twice a week I was in the car by about 5.40am and travelling down the M40 – decent journey meaning I was in work by 6.45am, I got my head down and ploughed through so much, it was really good and productive.

Anyway, today was the general election called by Teresa May of the Conservatives and it looks like it’s going to be tight. IN the evening we went out to Sue & Roger’s because Brett was over and it was nice to catch up with him for a couple of hours and had nice food and wine at their house.

Good to meet up with everyone

Came home about 10.30pm and the election results were on – I stayed up until 1.00am watching them and it wasn’t good viewing for any Tory supporters!! Looks like it could be a hung parliament – this is not good!!!

Raintree Redundancies

Odd day today as I was working at Raintree and 5 people were leaving at the end of the day. They've made about 12 redundant and then next batch leave next week. Not nice. Some had decent payoffs so they weren't too bothered.
They all went to the pub. I wasn't invited, I don't really mind about that as they don't think of me as an employee anyway. The office is going to be even more quiet now as it's already pretty empty on a good day!
Saddened to hear that Angela has also handed in her notice as sue told me. That's a frustration because she's quite an ally for me.
Need to think about my own position and what I offer so as to be valuable to them.
Lewis is still holidaying in Crete and enjoying himself. He had a phone interview today with Siemens which he said went really well and they sound keen on him so that was rally pleasing to hear. Says he might be offered a face to face interview as a result of the phone call. That would be great if something comes from it. I'm not confident in his exam results. They'll be out soon. Scary!
Not much else to report. I'm typing this at the tyre place as my car has a slow puncture. Didn't know they could fix it without replacing it. Not sure that they can, we'll soon see either way
Got my haircut done today as well. It's been a nightmare the last 4 weeks as it was a shut cut a few months ago!!

It’s been a long time…

Odd that I’ve not updated this diary in such a long time. I started the year with a manual diary which I managed for about a month and then gave up on that sadly. And since then I have simply not bothered to update it and yet I’ve had such a good 6 months to report!! Typical.

I am at Jack’s karate now in my usual pose of sat at the temp desk they provide me and eating shit, although I am supposed to be on some sort of diet or other…it’s not going well.

So what’s happening, I can’t recap on everything so I will add the most recent events which was this weekend just gone where Tash, Wayne, Kerry and I went to London on Saturday afternoon and relaxed around Canary Wharf and then went to Depeche Mode in the evening at the Millennium stadium. The concert was really good, I really enjoyed it but also at the same time I thought it could have been much better, but I also was about 200 metres away from the band, my companions had no desire to go closer which pissed me off a bit – quite often I was wishing I was there on my own so I could go forwards and enjoy it more, nevertheless it was still really good.

When we left it was mental chaos to find a tube but we got there and got home but there was nothing open which was a let down and a surprise.

Canary Wharf is a lovely area, we were really impressed, had a few (expensive) cocktails and some beers and a nice meal before hand overlooking the quay and we were hoping for more of the same when we got back to the hotel – ah well.

So the one thing I’ve not mentioned yet, when we got on the tube at Stratford I look at my Twitter feed to see what people had to say about the concert only to see my timeline full of alerts and stories about  terror attacks in London. That’s right, we were in London and we’d experienced an attack which thankfully was small scale and not anywhere near where we were. So last week there was a terrible bomb blast in Manchester at an Ariane Grande concert in which sadly about 22 people (kids and mums) were killed – absolutely awful and heart-breaking.

The attack in London took place at London Bridge and Borough Market and was similar to one a few months ago on Westminster Bridge, a van mounted the kerb and ran people down and then three men jumped out and started stabbing people apparently in the name of Allah. They were despatched quickly by armed police but they still managed to kill 8 people. I find it shocking and sad and pathetic – I just don’t get what is being achieved by these senseless acts. Maybe in 30 years things might be different and whatever changes these people are trying to instigate will have happened. Personally, I hope not, religion to me is madness whichever one you follow I’m afraid.

Also, we’re at the end of an election campaign and the country goes to the polls in two days time – to be honest none of them are fit to rule, it’s quite depressing. We have Teresa May (Tory) who won’t do interviews, Diane Abbott (Labour) who is the most inept politician you will ever listen to, her interviews are a car crash every single time – it’s amazing to watch, and finally Jeremy Corbyn (Labour) who 4 weeks ago was 24 points behind in the polls, hence May calling the election to wipe him out, but he’s spoken well, promised the earth but not how to pay for it and May has been appalling and destroyed the lead to about 4 points. I think she could even lose and it would be her fault without a doubt

Finally, we have the biggest mockery around, Donald Trump being President of the USA. He is a mental case and is on Twitter upsetting absolutely everyone, except his idiot supporters. I don’t know where to start and perhaps it’s best I don’t write too much about him now. I will take a gamble and say that he will be impeached and removed as President, I don’t know how soon from now and whether he will last the year or not. I wake up every morning and check the news and Twitter just to see what madness he’s said now. I will be really interested to read this in the future and see what history records of Donald Trump – I don’t think it will be positive!!

Wembley. Oh, and Mothers Day

So today is Mother's Day. Tash was up early and made Charlotte go for a 6 mile walk which I don't think she was too keen on!! They did it and whilst out we tidied up around the house and I did a fry up.

That went down well and we then pottered around before getting ready to go out. Collected mum and Derek and we drove to London for the England match against Lithuania. Mum hadn't been to a big game so this was on her list and so the kids clubbed together to buy her the tickets for Xmas. 

We parked just over a mile away at a church car park, was a bit worried about the walk for Derek but he was fine. Everyone was quite excited and we stopped at a Caribbean restaurant which had the worlds worse waitress!! We were scared of her!

Anyway, went to Bobby Moore's statue and took some photos and then went and got our seats. We were high up but it was fine. Nice to be there and experience it all. Wasn't the best game but England won 2-0 so we saw some goals and mum really enjoyed it. That was obviously the key purpose. Made out way back to the car in the knowledge that we'd be back again next week for the cup final that Oxford are playing in. 

The traffic was mad but we got out the f London really quickly, I was so surprised but delighted at the same time. Took just over an hour to get home and drop mum and Derek off. 

Really nice day, wat he's a bit of telly and then early night. 

Gareth’s Birthday in Edinburgh

Such a great weekend – and only one full day in Edinburgh! so it was Gareth’s 50th birthday this week and he, Nikki, Ted and Kaye were going to Scotland for the day and night on their own…little did they know we were all on the way to greet them and travel with them as well!

We were up and gone from the house by 5.30am with Lewis driving in his car and me as navigator! Eaxsy journey to Standstead, parked and then Liam and Zoe turned up – the rest of the gang all arrived (the Bulls) and we went through customs no problem and waiting at the Wetherspoons on the beers immediately at 7.15am – what a great way to start the day! Keeping in touch with Nikki throughout they turned up, we put on our ‘Gareth’ masks and surprised him – he was delighted!

The plane journey was uneventful as you would expect as it’s only 60 minutes but we were then told that due to fog we couldn’t land at Edinburgh so were diverted to Glasgow instead. Sat o nthe tarmac for a while and then they kicked us off and organised coaches. We found a Tescos so stocked up on beers and eventually got on the right coach and we were on our way! By the time we made it to the Premier Inn at Edingburgh, after having paid the driver an extra amount to drop us at the door, we were pretty tipsy ad ready to get going!

Gareth said where he wanted to go and I couldn’t help but take lead – which I don’t think anyone minded and it seemed to work out okay. So first stop was The Oxford Bar where it was already quite busy so us lot turning up made it quite cramped – didn’t feel particularly welcome if the truth be told but we were fine and made it into the back room where we took over. People were hungry so we then went to a Wetherspoon’s that was massive and had some food before walking down to the Abbotsford Bar – outside I did a bit of tour guide barbie for them and then inside for a drink. From there we went to the Banshee Labrynth that they all loved for another drink and then finally we went to The Stramach for one last beer!

It went really well and everyone enjoyed it and felt comfortable leaving to go and get ready so that was nice – we wandered back to the hotel to get ready, I crashed out and then showered and then out for a meal at a local Italian that we’d booked. Ted and Kay were late but the rest of us just got on with it and that was a laugh, apparently I was VERY drunk and very loud…not sure I was…!

When we finished our meal we went to the Rat Pack bar and stayed there all night until about 1.00am – I don’t remember. We just danced and danced (and drank!)

Such a bloody good day – yes a long way for drinking all night and not much sightseeing but absolutely loved it and we all got on so well.

Next day – no hangovers!

Tour Guide Barbie questions

Taxis to the airport

Home!

Off to Birmingham today…

Working in Birmingham today for Peters books. Awake just two minutes before the alarm was due to go off and then got the train from Bicester. Really busy day today and flat out. Worked on the train all the way here and then at the office it was non-stop! Nice to be productive so i didn't feel bad leaving at 3.55pm to get the tea in so I'm home for football training in time.

Tash took Charlotte home to Nottingham after work and they're there at the time of writing this, on the platform waiting for my train!!

Worked on the training session plans for this evening on the train and loads of other emails that kept coming in – I seem to be on a bit of a roll at the minute!!

Not much else to report so nothing more to type!!

Not Enjoyable Day with JPL Football

Days like today make me wonder if being involved with kids football is worth it. Horrible game, horrible manager and it all got very unpleasant. Even more so and unlike me I complained about him in my match report. Whether I get any comeback or not I don't much care.

The opponents were Kidderminster who beat us last year in the cup at their tiny pitch and as soon as I met their manager I recognized what a prick he was!! He's not changed at all. Constantly and loudly questioning absolutely everything.

We did well in the match itself but couldn't get the finishing touch and eventually conceded a disappointing goal to lose 1-0. Couldn't fault the fight and attitude of my players and everyone was frustrated afterwards including me having too many subs to work with. Such a hard juggling act and I hate it. Kidderminster made accusations at the end and left without having food etc. all very acrimonious. Winds me up even thinking about it!!

The day started well enough as I was up early, what a difference not drinking at all makes, and I was sorting out work etc and then jobs around the house that needed doing, all quite productive actually. Fixing a uPVC (bathroom) window handle - not done that before and anything else Tash wanted doing!!

After football we had a lovely roast dinner, Tash wanted Charlotte eating properly before returning to Uni this week and then we just pottered around the house and watched a film. Quite late Tash went up the JR with Jessica and Oscar & Katie as Jess has fallen in the garden earlier in the day, banged her head and was now throwing up. Advised to attend the JR to get a scan and Tash wanted to be invoked...bad, but nice, idea.

I stayed up and watched a few Game of Thrones episodes and went to bed once Tash texted to say how much longer they'd be up there for and no point staying up. I got woken up at 3.30am with her calling me to be picked up, there was still another hour or two for them to wait but Tash needed to come home and sleep. So off I went in my PJs and all was ok.

Update in the morning and she's better and there's no serious issue.

Working up in Manchester

The alarm went off at 6 o'clock this morning and I was absolutely shattered. Up and out within 30 minutes and then on the road to Salford, Manchester.
I am dictating this whilst driving on the M6 Toll Road and one of my biggest bug-bears is middle lane drivers, they on an absolute nightmare I don't understand why it is so difficult to move and drive on the inside lane. Twats!
Anyway I'm a bit worried about today's session for DotMailer training because Education Company support have not done all that they should have done for the data and the integration has not been sorted out so it's likely to be quite an embarrassing and awkward situation.
I have enough experience to deal with the situation but it is still far from ideal and I have made my comments to the relevant people at EdCo.
I must remember to buy Natasha some flowers today to thank her for her hard work on organising the skiing trip that we all enjoyed so very much. I think she will be completely shocked at that - we will soon see.
Update…training was fine. Two sharp people and it was at the BBC offices up there so it was interesting being in that famous environment. The issues I was expecting were raised but we got them sorted and moved on
Left about 2.30pm and came home, had to stop for a snooze on M6 as I was shattered, felt so much better for doing so though and I as home by 6.30pm. Tash was at her Mum’s and when she came back was surprised that I'd got her flowers, almost cried, she might have done if I'd got her anything but chrysanthemums (not her favourite – or even ones that she likes apparently!) – I can't get anything right can I?!?
Did nothing much else in the evening other than select and upload a load of the skiing photos to Facebook which went down well with people viewing them and caught up in an episode of the new series of Blind Spot. Can't decide if I'm going to continue watching it though as it's become very predictable and the same. Give it a couple more Episodes and then decide.
Early night in the end!

First day back in London for the New Year!

Up nice an early today with the alarm waking me at 5.25am. I was so tired and could have done without this. Same again tomorrow as I'm traveling up to Manchester!! Glutton for punishment.
Got the 6.31 train to London as normal and to the new GL offices. There's a gym here that I've signed up for so that will be used at lunchtimes now...well not today as I wasn't organised!!
Such a busy day today, did a presentation of Spirit v8 to all the CRM master group and it was very successful so that was pleasing. Loads of questions and I was shattered afterwards but still got on with loads of the work, testing and feedback. Fully focused on GL all day so that was good
Left the office at 5.15pm and fought with the usual commute, it was fine and I got the 18.18 train home which is the one I always aim for.
Had to do prep for the training session tomorrow, bit anxious but it should be ok...famous last words. It was a long evening as things just weren’t working, got there in the end but it wasn’t ideal
To make things worse, I took Jack to karate and was prepared to stay there and work and he was straight back in the car – the place was closed!! We had no idea there was no session today so that was a bit of a waste of time. Ah well.

Back to Work - Raintree

Working at Raintree today. Struggled to get going so have Bess a walk over the meadow and cycled to work. Worked up a bit of a sweat.
Got a fair amount done and had various meetings etc so it was productive. Needed to complete a training session in the after noon so went home to do that and it was a strange one. It was a webinar and was so one way, I didn't enjoy it as I got no interaction from anyone.
Anyway, it was done and I worked the rest of the afternoon at home. Had jacks football in the evening at Berinsfield and worked the 10 lads that turned up. They were puffing!! All we did was 5-a-side so I'm a bit concerned about the match at the weekend. Not much more I can do about it now though!!
Back home and I tried to help with looking at a present for Gareth's birthday. We've got a weekend in Seville with them in a fortnight and we were thinking about wine tasting tour. Looks good fun but I'm not 100% sure how good value it was. But if a waste of time as Tash is going to look into it as well tomorrow.
Watched some TV and did some more work before going to bed quite late again. Not ideal as I'm up at 5.30am tomorrow!
No exercise managed today...disappointing!

Welcome to 2017

Took a while to wake up and get going, thankfully only a heaving head and not feeling dodgy!! Mind you, I came home early and was finished by 1.30am because of the situation with jack. Later found out from Lewis that they were still in the Mines bar until 3.30am...both disappointed and relieved I didn't go back out...I guess.

Had some brunch and gradually everyone came to life and we agreed to go out skiing at around 1.00pm. Some didn't bother but when we went out we went to the Roche de Milo and then over to the glacier where we were yesterday and it was so worth the effort, it was excellent snow and a bit of a challenge but we were also so high up in the mountains that the views were spectacular!! Did some videoing again and got some good stuff. Didn't overdo things but when back on the Belle Plagne side of the mountain the snow was once again hard to navigate. We were okay though and made our way home for 4.00pm and then dropped off our ski gear for another year before going back to the apartment to pack away our stuff and then pack the cars. Mine struggled to start which was a bit of a worry but it was eventually ok once it had warmed up.

Went back to the Bobsleigh pub for food and that was really quite good and watched one of the darts semi-finals which was good fun. Left early leaving those that didn't need to drive and had an early night. Although that turned into a shit nights sleep for some reason.

Anyway, the end to a fantastic holiday once again. Now to save for the next one.