Xmas Eve

Can’t remember what we did during the day if I am honest!

We had a table booked for 5.30pm at Jacob’s Inn so made our way over there and were in the marquee they have set up – it was cold in there but it was fine and was not too dissimilar to the Crazy Bear. There was all the family, including Miles and then Mum and Sue also came. Had a few drinks and nice food and it went really well

At 7.30pm we left and the mums both went home and we then went to the White Hart as we had a table booked – Zoe and her kids were already there waiting and we had a good drink and a good laugh catching up with everyone. Charlotte and Miles went to his and then we all left about 10.00pm. Tash was steaming drunk and was a pain with Lewis and I, banishing us to the garage bar when she was sorting out the stockings, but then 10 mins later coming and berating us for being in the bar! Ah well, didn’t ruin things, just made us laugh.

Stayed up another hour or so on the beers and then off to bed – looking forward to tomorrow

A good day all told.

Visit Derek

Went to see Derek at the care home today, we’d not been to see him since the mini-break in restrictions in October/November. Jack came with us and we went with the intention of catching up and to give him his Xmas presents. We arrived at 3.00pm as planned but he was still in bed, so they had to sort that out. Bit cross because they knew we were coming at that time because you have to book to visit the care home. Anyway, he came down to the conservatory and wasn’t in the best of moods – probably because he’d been woken up.

It was hard work, Jack and I didn’t contribute to the conversation much – Tash was brilliant but it was very hard work even for her, he was so unresponsive and not talking at all.

After 20 mins we’d had enough to be honest, we gave it a bit longer and then gave up and left. Incredibly the following night when speaking with Mum she said he was chuffed we’d gone there and was relaying the conversations that were had – I was speechless! So he was listening to us but was either tired or confused and wasn’t in the mood to talk to us

Felt a bit sorry for Jack afterwards as it brought him down a bit and he said, “I don’t want to remember grandad like this” – heart-breaking, but he’s right

Xmas Family gathering that never happened

This weekend was supposed to be a big family gathering with everything (Bicester crowd and us) but because of Covid restrictions it wasn’t possible

But Lewis and Emily still came down as planed and we made a nice weekend of it all

They got here about 8.30pm on Friday, Miles was around and we had a few drinks watching TV and relaxing and catching up – was really nice

Didn’t get up too early Saturday but had nice brunch and went and got the Xmas tree from Carl’s shop and then went down to town. Debenhams is in big trouble and could be closing so I wanted to see if there were any bargains to snap up – found jumpers v cheap so got one! Wandered round town more and then went to the Wetherspoon’s by the castle and had dinner and a few drinks.

Back home and Mum came round and we went out for a walk and then back for coffees and then back on the beers and Miles making dinner, a vegetarian prawn curry which went down very well. Zoe turned up and we played Logo game and proceeded to get very drunk indeed. Tash was out cold, Charlotte and Zoe were crashing into things and breaking glasses, Lewis and Emily collapsed asleep of just me and Miles pushing on until about 3.00am when we had to give up eventually!

Great night

Everyone knackered next day – Tash not well at all, no surprise, they’d finished a whole bottle of vodka! Tidying up, sort of, in the morning but really just settled down to watch TV. Made a fry-up and then went to Sue’s and back home for dinner, Salmon this time that Lewis and Emily made, very nice and they then left at 6.00pm

We also decorated the tree

Watched a film and then a new series called the queens gambit – really enjoying it

So a lovely but boozy weekend. Loved it!

Advent Calendar

Miles bought me (and Tash thinks for her!) an advent calendar which he gave me yesterday. It’s a coffee one so we get a posh coffee to open and use in the pod each morning.

Had it today and went 50/50 with Tash – very nice it was too.

So we’re in December now, I’ve managed to get some exercise done during the day and get a lot of work done which was pleasing.

Nice evening, watched more GoT and Charlotte and Miles were making the gingerbread house with their mates on a zoom call – I think it was Annie and Bradley. It’s something they’re trying to do for the month each day. Could be hard.

A decent day anyway all told

Last weekend of isolation

It’s been fine to be honest, but then I’m lazy so it’s not been a big deal for me. Charlotte’s lockdown finished so she went to Miles’ house which was nice for her.

Didn’t do much to be honest – drank far too much

Tash and I are almost finished with Game of Thrones – we’re onto the last season now – season 8! I’d forgotten how bad the last two seasons were and how rushed they were – never mind, we’ve enjoyed it.

Had a few beers on Friday night and then worked on things around the house on Saturday. Must admit I can’t actually remember what the hell I did do! Mum came round for coffee as did Zoe and people have been taking Bessie for walks.

Saturday we had the fire on and did Xmas things and then started drinking. I tried Dark/Spiced Rum and coke and really liked it – Jack joined in and Tash stuck with wine. Two bottles later she was bollocksed! Watch TV again and then to bed

Sunday – surprisingly Tash had her head down the toilet and it was my fault for not stopping her! Pottered around with dealing with jobs again and had a fire going. Oxford City were on the TV in the second round of the FA Cup with Shrewsbury and took them to extra time, sadly losing to a jammy goal 1-0. Should have been penalties at least. Brought back memories of course of my playing days – miss it.

Got Xmas presents ordered and was productive. More GoT in the evening and then an early night.

We’re out of lockdown tomorrow so that’s nice – need to get out and run/cycle to make the most of it now.

Maradona has died today

Shocking (sort of) news today when Diego Maradona was announced to have died at the age of 60. The world has greeted the news with shock, disbelief and a constant stream of platitudes. Rightly deserved, he was probably the best player the world has ever seen – including Messi and Ronaldo. He’d had a bleed on the brain a couple of weeks ago and surgery but had a heart attack and that did for him

Despised by English fans for his Hand of God goal in the 1986 World Cup but completely respected at the same time.

He’s someone that everyone has a memory of, that’s some legacy to leave behind!

He certainly lived the life, drugs and drink and so much more – weirdly enough, today is also the same day that George Best died 15 years ago – isn’t that strange?

Covid-19 Update

It’s official – we have COVID-19 in our house!

Charlotte has been feeling unwell for a few days and not being able to taste or smell things so she got the test and it came back positive this afternoon

Nightmare.

This means we have to completely self-isolate for 14 days, can’t leave the house or anything. Everyone’s work has been understanding, doesn’t really affect me as I don’t go anywhere but it’s not ideal and means things we had organised like dentist and giving blood and Mum coming round all need to be rescheduled.

None of the rest of us has symptoms (yet) but you never know. We’re trying to trace back how it started – no idea really.

Just need to stick to the rules which means we might have to get people shopping for us and taking Bess for a walk etc etc

Hopefully this is the only instance we will have of it, but it makes you suspect every cough and sniffle now and makes you a bit paranoid.

To be fair, we’ve been the most lax with respecting the virus so I don’t think it’s much of a surprise.

It also means if we have it now – during a national lockdown anyway – it means we’re not really missing out on anything and we will be sorted before/after Xmas for things we might like to do

Every cloud and all that…

My Birthday

Lewis came down for my birthday weekend and he brought his new girlfriend, Emily, down with him. She seemed very nice and got involved with the family so that was a bonus. They seem happy together. Early days and all that but it was nice to see Lewis relaxed and happy

Weekend went really well – got spoilt.

Went to the golf driving range in the morning to test my new clubs, waited for a while but got in eventually and then went into town in the afternoon to The Varsity Club and had a few beers and nibbles and then to the Crown. Really nice

Back home, meal and Mum came over and then into the bar for cocktail making. Zoe also came over which was nice

It turned out as you’d expect – drunken and partying but it was such a good end to a lovely day. Enjoyed it loads

Relaxed day on Sunday – heavy heads. Meal and walks at home before Lewis and Emily left and then watched a couple of films

Mum up for dinner, not much else to report

Another busy day at work – happy with that, got a lot done and felt positive about it

Could easily have carried on into the evening but Mum was invited up so I had to stop and it was a nice evening.

It was just us and then Jack a bit later. Charlotte was in Cornwall with her friends for the week now.

Mum was fine and it was nice to host, she looks forward to coming over and we look forward to seeing what desert she’s going to bring with her!

Watched some TV – the Repair Shop – and she left at 9.00pm. I was shattered, the late night working last night catching up with me, so I went to bed at 9.15pm – read some of my book and then crashed out!

A nice day all told

Jack lost again

Busy day and then in the evening decided to go and watch Jack play football. Didcot were hosting Kidlington and I got there on time and wandered round and made sure I didn’t need to stand close to anyone.

Jack started and was out wide in quite an attacking position.

It was an even game but Didcot were under pressure a lot and not a surprise when Kiddy scored.

I felt Jack had been playing well so that was positive. Second half they really should have got some goals but failed, Jack going close, and then they were punished and lost 3-0 in the end. A shame.

I’m a little concerned about Jack’s place in the team, he’s not having an impact and is being criticised for goals that I don’t feel were really his issue.

Anyway, I left as soon as I could and then came home and worked until 1.00am on a Data Mining project requested by Hodder – very full on and a bit boring but not going to complain if I am getting paid for it!

Lewis is about to buy a house!!

Woke up on the sofa this morning at 5.30am – heavy head and beer spilled on me!

Got up to bed for a couple more hours sleep and then we needed to get showered and on the road by 8.15am to get up to Manchester

Run up there was only 2.5hrs but it was hard work as we’re experiencing Storm Alex right now meaning it was constant rain but we got there in good time and then went to see the house that Lewis is interested in.

We were shown around and it was nice enough, we both felt it was worth going for and Lewis should put in an offer. It reminded me much like Napier Road, it needs work but it definitely has potential for someone (Lewis and his mates) to do up and make money on it. It was quite exciting and we felt good about the location and build and everything about it.

It’s on the market for £220k, we went and wandered around Cheadle Hulme and got a coffee and I told Lewis to text the Estate Agent and put in an offer of £210k, I felt it would be worth spending the full amount but if he did then he’d not have money for the additional work that’s required, the most pressing being the kitchen made more fit for purpose. We did a but more pottering about and then back to Lewis’s house for a coffee before jumping in the car to come home again – the weather was even worse this time!

About an hour into the journey Lewis called to say they turned down his offer but asked if he would go to £215k which he agreed to – so he’s got the house. We are so pleased for him – very exciting.

How he needs to get his head around the mortgage and all the other work that’s required. But it’s excellent news.

We got home about 4.50pm, after dropping some wine round to Zoe because she’s self-isolating and I slept for 30 mins before we walked down to John and Pauline’s. Had a really nice evening, drank far too much but John made some lovely fried chicken and it was a really nice meal. We then spent time working on a new trip away in view of our Turkey trip being cancelled and we opted for a cottage on the Norfolk Broads – looks really good. Costing more than I’d hoped but there you go!

Jack came down after football – they’d lost 2-1 and he was a bit pissed off. But he caught up with Emily about the house buying process, that was interesting and informative and she’s experiencing a few issues with her brokers but hopefully that will get sorted soon. She’s got plans so should do well.

We stayed until about midnight and then wandered home and I had a coffee and watched the end of a film I’m halfway through

A very full on and tiring day but worth it and so pleased for Lewis.

Meal with Nikki & Gaz

Weird day at work – didn’t get what I wanted to get done achieved. Raised invoices so hopefully those will go through ok!

Dropped Charlotte and Miles at the Crazy Bear in the evening because they were having a meal as part of Charlotte’s birthday, Jack was going to pick them up because we were going out in the evening ourselves.

Got back to home in time to get the 6.30pm bus and down into Jericho to meet Nikki and Gaz in  Jude The Obscure where we had a couple of pints and then wandered along to the Jericho Grill for our meal

The restaurant wasn’t very busy but we had a really nice evening and the food was excellent.

We mentioned that Nik and Gaz were Emily’s parents because the restaurant had contacted her to offer her a free meal and it meant we got the bottle of wine for free so that was nice and worth doing

Incredibly Gaz insisted on paying for the meal (they’d also paid for the drinks at Jude) so we had a completely free night, but know we need to repay them so will start saving for that night too.

We then got our bus home and had a drink in the bar and watched some TV – Tash went to bed but I wanted to stay up and watch the Snow piercer film – really quite good. Enjoyed it.

A nice evening all told.

Charlotte’s Birthday weekend starting

Busy day at work and got things done

Charlotte’s birthday this weekend so quite full on in preparation for that.

Lewis came down and had left work early so arrived about 6.30pm – he’s looking well and healthy and is clearly keen on his girlfriend Emily so that’s really nice for him and pleasing from our point of view that he’s happy and healthy.

Mum also came round for dinner tonight – I think it’s going to end up being a weekly event now because that’s the last 3-4 weeks we’ve done this. I think she looks forward to it as it’s getting her out of the house and getting company.

Had a few drinks and watched some TV – Lewis and I stayed up a bit late then he fell asleep by midnight so I gave up and went to bed. Will see how drinking this weekend goes – hopefully it will be sane and not mad!

Also my birthday present arrived..a set of golf clubs I’d won on eBay. They’re clearly cheap ones but I hope they’ll do as a beginners set – we’ll see soon enough when I get down the driving range!

Oh dear – Tash hungover!

Bit of a restless night, up and down getting drinks of water and hoping the hangover wouldn’t kick in. I felt a bit rough in the morning – that was x3 pints of Moretti, but Tash was really ill and throwing up in the toilet.

A real shame and something we need to look at avoiding, it doesn’t make for a decent weekend and is a lot day. So everything we would have liked to have done in the morning went a bit pear-shaped as she was still being sick at 3.00pm.

Anyway, we had a booking for swimming at 9.15am and went to that but were only in the pool for about 20 mins and then back to the Manor for breakfast but she had none and went back to bed – what a shame and a waste.

Breakfast was nice – we then checked out, dumped the bags and wandered around the course. It’s a competition course and has hosted the Ryder Cup before, the greens looked punishing, they were incredibly hard.

I’ve been looking at getting some golf clubs so had a bit of extra interest watching players techniques, I think I’ll find it hard going!

Anyway, got in the car and drove home without incident and unpacked at home, and then made our way over to Sue’s for dinner

But that wasn’t before we met a girl that Jack is interested in and has been seeing for a couple of months – Afnan Sadani – she came down and chatted in the garden with us. Studying law at Manchester and is a very pretty girl. Articulate and friendly as well so it was nice to meet her.

Sue’s was nice, not much going on there other than I participated in and won an auction on some golf clubs on eBay – delighted about that and now need to practise like made so I can get on the course at some point!

Came home and watched the end of the Dennis Nilsen drama we’d watched which was enjoyable and then off to bed for an early night

A really nice weekend and the visit to the Manor was really enjoyable but I think it’s highlighted an issue with drinking that we need to be aware of, it’s causing us a lot of lost time, and money and isn’t so good.

Celtic Manor Resort

Got sorted in the morning in readiness for the day and picnic etc. Dropped Tash at Yoga and then dropped Bess at Mum’s. Mum was really looking forward to having her, Bess looked a bit sad when I dropped her off and left – but I know she’ll have a great time

Had a call with a Property Broker with Jack and that was interesting then went and picked Tash up and we went off for our weekend away

Just south of Bristol we went to a beach called Ladye Beach which was pebbly but popular – was quite nice to have our picnic and a snooze and just relax for a few hours

Went to the Manor and it was what you expected it to be, very oldle worlde. They’re hot on covid19 but it was fine

Nice room overlooking one of the holes (16th?) and we relaxed with music and some drink. Had an early dinner booked at Pad which was a Thai restaurant for 6.45pm.

The meal wasn’t the best – the Thai Red Curry was far too hot and I swapped with Tash (it was hers) and I couldn’t finish it. The couple next to us heard us giving feedback and turned and talked to us. They were a couple from Cardiff, Steve and Michelle, nice enough but we couldn’t get away from them and ended up sat in the bar with them for the rest of the night and got very drunk indeed.

Eventually gave up the evening (they wanted us to stay longer) and staggered to bed and crashed out. Wasn’t what we really wanted or envisaged for a relaxing night away. Never mind, they were really nice and it was an interesting night.

Earlier in the night we found out Jack had won his match for Didcot 4-1 and he’d scored a goal we could see on Twitter so that was pleasing and he was buzzing about it

A very nice day all told

Normal type of day–nothing too interesting

Okay day today – got work done

Met Jason in the morning up the road and it was a decent chat with him – he was a bit concerned about my well-being so it was appreciated that he took the time to get in touch

He’s given me a project to consider working on which I will take up – SharePoint Knowledge bank

Back home I got more work done and it was productive.

Finished and had dinner when Tash was home – Charlotte was about for a bit which was nice and then she was off to Miles’s house for the evening

Tash and I watched x2 episodes of Game of Thrones and then to bed, I read for an hour and enjoying my book

Last (?) chance to visit Bournemouth

Had a bit of a heavy head in the morning but nothing major!

Went downstairs and found that most of the people from last night had stayed the night in one room or another.

Tash and I got our things together then went and picked up Zoe and drove down to Bournemouth for the day. Sue let Tash down (yet again) so that was a shame and I felt sorry for Tash. She just wants to spend some time with her and she gets her hopes up and then gets kicked in the teeth every single time.

No problem parking at Branksome Chine and got a place on the beach and I then just crashed out – my hangover kicked in and was trying to better me but I fought it off!

That’s all we did, just sat listening to music or sleeping or reading books – very relaxed.

About 5.00pm we left and came home – came through the scenic route (Salisbury) because of traffic congestion outside of Bournemouth – took over 2 hours but it was fine and without incident.

Charlotte and her friends were all still there and watching Harry Potter in the front room and had bought Pizza from Dominoes which we had one which was nice!

That was it really, we tidied up a bit and I did some more work on the shower which I hope has finished it, but I don’t think it will have done - but were knackered and went to bed – bit more reading and crashed out about 10.00pm

A nice weekend

Charlotte’s 24th Birthday Party

On Monday there is a new enforced restriction of only 6 people allowed to meet up – so Charlotte very cleverly brought forward her Birthday party plans to today instead of in a fortnight’s time. Tash went out to Yoga in the morning and then she and Charlotte went to town for birthday shopping and then Bicester for Katie’s baby shower, so I was left to my own devices which was nice.

Got loads of jobs sorted to make the bar and garden etc all look good ahead of the party this evening. Then worked on trying to mend the leaking with the shower and then went out to collect Mum and go to Didcot for Jack’s FA Cup match.

They played Wootton Bassett and they were a tough side. Jack was left back and the winger got past him nearly all the time – Didcot looked very shaky and lacking ability and confidence. After a close game they ended up losing 2-1 and getting knocked out of the cup. I got a bit frustrated so need to reign that in, pissed off watching it though and think this is going to be a very long and quite painful season. Jack wasn’t pleased but he’s got to prove himself and improve on his defending and positioning to avoid being replaced.

We didn’t stay after the game and I dropped Mum home straight after and went back to ours. A few people were there already and gradually they all turned up – only about 10 people I think but it was enough and it was really enjoyable. Tash and I stayed involved the whole time and after the BBQ food we went inside the bar and had the usual sort of evening of drinking, singing and dancing so it was good fun.

A couple of scares when Freddie was behind the bar and knocked everything flying – a few broken glasses!

We left them to it around midnight (I think) and went off to bed – a nice end to the day

I was quite drunk if the truth be told!

Friday Night Dinner

Busy with work – used the afternoon to really focus on my website and got that in a good position by the end of the day.

Mum arrived about 5.00pm for dinner so I stopped working and went inside. Had a few beers and opened the red wine as well as I got the taste for it and to wind down.

Nice dinner and evening, Charlotte and Miles both there and Jack so it was enjoyable. Mum stayed until about 9.00pm and then we started to watch some TV but no one was really interested so they went to bed – I didn’t want to so stayed up and watched a couple of films and gave up around 1.30am

Not drunk but a bit silly to stay up like that – not sure why I did it.

I am finding that I am drinking a lot more now in a bid to forget about problems and work – sticking my head in the sand really which isn’t good

Hopefully I will get myself out of this cycle sometime soon.

Struggling

Really struggling with motivation and will-power. I am wasting so much time lately on un-productive items – browsing internet etc

I am also doing too much work for no pay in the hope of keeping customers on-board. I am not generating new income which is not good.

I know I need to get into the Inventory side of things but just finding it a really bind and can’t get my head around doing it

I’m hoping typing this up will make a difference and help me move forward – putting my thoughts down in writing and getting them out there

We’ll see!

Drinks in John & Pauline’s new garden

Busy day at work – getting through things. Not much else to report

Nice dinner that Tash made and I popped out to get some beers for later

Went down to John and Pauline’s at 6.45pm and as it was nice we stayed out in their refurnished garden. Lovely new patio and set up – done a great job over the lockdown period. They were (rightly) proud to show it off

Had a number of beers and probably stayed a little later than necessary for a school night but it was a really nice evening and good to catch up with them

Sadly there is a change to the lockdown rules and they’re being tightened again meaning we have to go back to only allowing gatherings of 6 people maximum – which is a bugger for Charlotte’s planned party for her birthday. A real shame as she was looking forward to that and this will only make her mood worse as she had a really bad day at work yesterday and is feeling under the weather, so she’s not a happy bunny!

Sue’s Birthday Garden Party

I worked on the beer bottle top table in the morning and poured on the resin, it was hard work! There were still some gaps at the side and I spent an hour or more lying on the floor with black tape trying to seal all the holes and dripping resin. Made me very nervous and anxious as I didn’t want it to drain.

After about an hour or so it seems to stop and looking at the resin itself it looked okay as far as I could tell in terms of clearness – we’ll see.

That took the whole morning and we then went to Sue’s for her birthday celebration garden party – Charlotte and Miles drove us over there and it was nice enough afternoon.

Tash got very drunk but the rest of the family were steady and seemed to have places to go to and left around 6.30pm (ish). We stayed and then made our way to town to get the bus and Tash was getting more and more lairy and loud, it was probably a mistake to go to another pub and then also to find Emily. But we did and had a drink with her as well.

Got the bus fine at 9.15pm and Zoe was great and picked us up from 5 Mile Drive and got us home

Nice enough day and evening but the family are all a bit odd. Everyone wanted to be elsewhere so we were alone and also Sue apparently is tempted to buy a puppy – madness!

Giving Blood and Golf practise!

Decent day today – loads of work with Raintree in the morning and then cycled to the JR to give blood

No problems this time and done and dusted within 5 minutes! Very quick.

Cycled home through town so did 13 miles in the end – decent start

Loads more work and then after dinner Jack, Charlotte and I went to Binsey Lane and got onto the golf driving range. Had to wait as it was full but got 100 balls and it was fun

Jack and I were okay this time and using the driver was exciting – Charlotte was less “accomplished” it has to be said…but it was nice to spend some time together and will have to do it again.

Back home and watched some TV – James May in Japan again and it was so cool seeing him in Hiroshima and visiting the island we did.

A nice day all told

Champion’s League Final

Lazy day which was nice

I did some more work on my Beer bottle top table so this is in a position that I can now buy the resin for the table top – nervous about that!!

Tash had invited Nathan and Sue over for Sunday roast – Jack & Charlotte were there as well so it was a nice gathering and really relaxed. Nathan seemed to enjoy himself and we ended up getting the chess set out. I played him and won, quite close and then he played Jack and won quite convincingly to be honest. Caught up on his chat with records and such like and it was enjoyable afternoon/evening.

When they left I went out to the garage and watched the Champions League final with Jack in the bar and continued drinking. The game was very cagey and not too exciting and the Germans won so that was pleasing!

Stayed up a bit too late and was a bit tipsy by the end of the night!

Car not working – nervous/anxious wait

The car battery died over the weekend and when we charged it the immobiliser active message came on and nothing’s working.

I’ve got Halfords outside now replacing the battery but I am so very worried that this won’t be the solution and I will need some diagnostics work actioned to fix the immobiliser. No idea how to deal with that if that happens and is the case. Will likely have to tow it somewhere and this battery replacement will have been a waste of £140.00!

I need the car at the weekend for camping – absolutely worried silly sat here typing this…I hate cars!!

**Update – it didn’t fix it – so yes, £140.00 wasted! He’s going to try and get another team to come and take a look**

**Second Update – got the RAC out as part of my insurance and expected to have to get the car to a garage but he got it going – can’t believe it, I am so relieved!**

Natasha is watching Game of Thrones

She started on Saturday night as a bit of a protest at me getting drunk in the bar I think – she got through two episodes and said it was okay

So tonight we sat down and watched x3 episodes – it was so good seeing it all again and seeing her enjoy it and take an interest and ask questions

It was so hard not to give spoilers as well.

She got very worried when Ned Stark was ambushed by Jaime Lannister and was relieved he wasn’t killed saying later they couldn’t kill him as he’s the main character…oh dear!! :-)

It’s going to be fun to re-watch these, I doubt I will keep up though as I need to work

Fat Boy Slim DJ Rave set over Zoom

Bit of a lazy day today, pottering around and not doing too much. Decided to then get things sorted for camping next week so was lugging stuff from the sheds to the living room and cleaning things and sorting them out. Productive.

In the afternoon I tried the car again and no luck whatsoever, just wouldn’t start. Tried all sorts of ideas from the internet but nothing worked. John came round and had some ideas but still no luck but appreciated the help.

So I was a bit fed up and distracted now and watched some of the England v West Indies cricket and started drinking.

Got things ready for the evening as FatBoySlim and Idris Elba were doing a DJ set from 8.00pm so I was all set at 7.00pm! Tash wasn’t interested so started watching Game of Thrones from Season 1 – Episode 1 and I stayed in the bar. I got a bit drunk!

The music was great and I texted John and invited him up and sure as anything he was up with some beers and we got wasted. The rave session was brilliant and we had a good time and then after that just YouTubed music and comedy sketches etc. Game up around 2.00pm I think, probably later, I was very drunk!

Collapsed on the sofa and then made it to bed at 4.30am…heavy head in the morning!!

Meal at Mum’s

Busy with work today and then me, Tash, Jack, Charlotte and Miles went to Mums in the evening

Charlotte and Miles stayed for an hour or so because they were off to see some mates but we stayed for dinner

Out in the back garden, which was fine, it was warm enough and Mum had made a real effort for us so it was great we were able to go in the end. We had postponed tonight with a view to celebrating Miles’s graduation but that fell through at the last minute as his parents couldn’t make it.

Anyway, this was great and Mum clearly enjoyed having us there – very nice and pleasant evening.

Stayed until about 10.00pm so made the most of it.

Wine tasting experience at Skylon, London South Bank

Worked in the morning, bit tired today because of such a long and drawn out day yesterday. But got things done so that was pleasing.

Downed tools around 1.45pm and made dinner and got ready. After we’d eaten Jack dropped Tash and I at the Parkway train station and we went to London for our wine tasting experience that Charlotte and Miles bought us for Xmas.

Walked from the station to South Bank – cut it fine and it was a long way – but we went through the very rich areas so that was nice. London was really quiet to what you’re used to, very similar to what it was like in Porto when we went, so much still closed. Eerie!

We were at the Skylon near the London Eye and we were entitled to x5 wines – all of which were lovely as you’d expect. We had a nice waiter and gradually the place got busier, it was really enjoyable afternoon and we loved it. Would definitely recommend it to others and would be happy to go again to be honest.

I couldn’t walk back to the train station, blistered feet! So we jumped in a cab (£17.00) and got an earlier train home.

Jack picked us up and we got cheesy chips from the kebab van and more wine sat on the patio to end a lovely day/evening.

Day on the beach…after a decent fry-up

Up early – in fact both of us needed a wee at 3.00am and the view was stunning.

The sky was completely empty of clouds but packed solid with stars, really impressive.

Anyway, got up at 8.30am and went through the usual camping morning routine…coffee and fry-up! I did well and was happy with bacon, eggs, tomatoes and fried bread. Set us up for the day ahead.

Made a decent packed lunch and then jumped in the car and made our way to Mudeford and actually went to Hengistbury Head, about 45 mins drive away.

Quite busy but parked and went wandering around and made our way to the Mudeford Sandbank which was where all the expensive beach huts are available to buy or hire.

Set up on the beach, had a few beers and just relaxed in the sun. Went for a walk and found a bar so was happy with that and just listened to my music etc

Walked back along the cliff-top of Hengistbury Head which was impressive and back to the car. Off to the chip shop and waited almost an hour for them to provide our order (not impressed!) and we drove to Southbourne Beach about a mile away and sat there to each sausage and chips. Very lively place that was…loads of youngsters about.

Very nice day and went home for about 8.00pm and just ate, drank more and played cards.

Up fairly late and then bed!

A really lovely and relaxing day all told

Camping down in Dorset

Packed up the car, finished what work we had outstanding and then drove down to Wimborne, near Bournemouth

The traffic down there at about 4.00pm was busy so it’s clear that things are getting back to normality gradually.

We arrived at the campsite, well it was a field, and set up – all done and dusted in abut 30 minutes, great going and sat and relaxed and drank wine, beers and gin.

The site is where Charlotte and Miles were last week and it was fine. Not busy but families playing cricket/rounders and such like. Bess was a good girl and not too much of a pain.

Nice weather to people watch and we played a few games and had spag bol for dinner.

Nice to be somewhere different for a couple of days.

Busy with Work

Been working with EdCo this week, been full on but enjoyable and happy to be busy

It does mean I’ve neglected working in my new business venture so I need to get back on track with moving things along there. 

Not much else to report, think I might be doing more work with EdCo but we’ll see what happens. 

Uni Parks and White Hart

Worked on jobs in the morning, very productive and enjoyable actually. Hedges cut, roses deadheaded, hose mended. Nice breakfast and then cycled down to wolfson college to go punting but the punt was missing. 

We then went to Uni parks instead and had our picnic, if a couple of beers and we then just snoozed. Had my speaker so had some tunes as well. Very chilled. 

Went into town to refund something and then back home before going to Garsington to get Bess and Bella

Matt and Nicky Henderson came round in the evening and we had a few drinks at ours but Matt was itching to get up to the White Hart so we went up there and had a couple more drinks. Eventful evening as some lads were there very drunk. It was fine though. 

Nice to see familiar faces up there. All the usual suspects!

Wedding Anniversary

Our 27th Wedding anniversary today. Gave Tash the usual things, card, chocs, red roses and fizz. Think she was pleased with those. 

Worked from 6.30am to catch up with things for this EdCo work is been requested to do. Very full on but happy to get on it. A couple of phone calls with Andrew and Jason and hopefully get more work out of this, we’ll see. 

Worked on other things later and it was good to be focused. Finished for the day and as Tash came home and started cooking. Made a lovely creamy mustard and mushroom sauce for our steaks and then cooked the steaks on the bbq. 

Stayed up in the evening and had quite a lot to drink

A nice day and evening

Day Two of Inventory Training

Surprised that Tash wasn’t hungover this morning but had coffee and read in bed to start the day.

She went off with Kerry and Zoe for a walk and I had my training again from 10.00am until 4.00pm.

Another decent day on it and I feel fairly confident with being able to complete the form and get going now – just need to plan all the requirements, paperwork etc and get going. Need to do it whilst it’s fresh.

I’ve been stressing about EdCo Support work all weekend and today was no different, really worried about it but I need the money!

Tash isn’t too happy with me regarding hiding the amount of tax I owe, I’ve not come clean with her about it either in terms of the amount, just need to hope and push for it to be up to date before I am asked to make further payments to HMRC!!

After the training we pottered around and got dinner on the go and also took Bess out for a walk and caught up with things.

Tash and Charlotte had been to Cotswolds for a walk and tea etc and brought me back some cheese and chutney so I look forward to tucking into that.

Discussed next actions for the business and I have a bit of focus now so fingers crossed!

Watched a film in the evening, Jack was a pain because he’s stressing about his car not working and then also booking a holiday and festival next month, I couldn’t believe what I was hearing and he got angry with me.

Anyway, gave up in the end and went to bed early to prepare for a busy week ahead!

Day One Training for Inventory Business

Bit of a lie-in and then got myself ready for the training course today, and tomorrow!

It was a Zoom meeting with 8 other candidates and the trainer – Emma. It was okay but literally a PowerPoint run through and a few exercises. Had to introduce ourselves and it was a mixed bag, very much people starting out from fresh but with experience in the industry. Enjoyable and I recorded it all so I have that to fall back on at any stage I need it.

I did learn that I am not a good learner, my attention/memory span is appalling. I made loads of notes as well though.

So that was me from 10.00am until 4.00pm and then I went out to Sue’s, taking Jack, to catch up with Tash and that. Nikki was there too and they’d tucked into a lot of Prosecco and Tash was steaming drunk. We stayed for a number of hours and had some food for dinner and eventually left. Nik had given me some glasses for the bar so that was nice.

Came home, and then went out to the Plough as today was “Super Saturday” where all the pubs that wanted to could open. Took Bess and there were a couple of people we knew there but it was dead otherwise. Not busy at all and we chatted to Tim the owner and he was a bit down about it all.

Glad we went to show our faces and support and they will hopefully appreciate that gesture as well.

Came home and watched a film whilst Tash went to sleep…

Mum over for wet dinner…almost!

Mum came over in the late afternoon for dinner today and I set up to cook chicken korma. Tim went off to London so it was us normal family members and Miles.

I called Mum when setting up the table as Tash said she might prefer to be outside and she was right so I set up outside on the patio and as soon as I did it started raining!

I persevered and got the covers set up and blankets and all that and when Mum arrived it was raining hard! The kids looked horrified but we stayed out for about an hour until dinner was ready and then even Mum said, “Okay then, let’s go inside!” – so that was a relief and I was freezing! Actually, I’m exaggerating there, I was wet, not particularly cold I’d say.

Nice dinner and a few drinks – got a bit argumentative with Jack at the table that was a bit embarrassing but there you go.

Mum stayed until about 9.00pm and left, nice evening for her as she’d been away with Louise for a week.

Nothing much else after that, watched some TV and then to bed because of the training I have lined up tomorrow

New Adventure

I have been looking into working as an Inventory Clerk and the other week I went out with Clare Barnes and that was productive and I took the plunge today and signed up for a course this weekend - £399.00 so it better be good and worthwhile!

The idea is that I can learn this trade and get out and about as and when with this role. Looking on websites I think there is a huge amount of competition but we will see what happens.

Aside from that, a fairly productive day getting other things done that I wanted to address

Nothing much in the evening, dead time really – watched the Disney film Moana and that was enjoyable.

Things are all a bit slow at the minute…

Halfway though the year 2020

It’s been an absolute nightmare year and we’re only halfway though it!

Sat here working today but my work has dropped right down, looking to expand elsewhere so will see what happens with this Inventory idea.

But still sat in the middle of the Covid-19 pandemic with little chance of it changing anytime soon although for some reason the Government are reducing the lockdown rules this Saturday – it’s being dubbed as Super Saturday – where pubs are open and all sorts – it’s going to be mental. Absolutely mental.

Black Lives Matter movement is still bubbling away but not too mainstream in the last week or so but there is a current theme to find anything remotely racist and look for it to be censored or removed from sketches in comedy shows or statues etc.

Donald Trump is still an absolute Loon!

Liverpool won the League…that sums up this year! To be fair, they’ve been excellent for two seasons and this year was well deserved, but don’t we know it?

Anyway, need to get back on track with things so will stop with this one now…more later

Another day on the drink!

We cleared up in the morning after a lie-in. We were knackered from being up late/early with the party noise.

Loads of mess in the bar and that but didn’t take too long to fix and it needed a good cleaning anyway

I got distracted with the puzzle again and spent too long messing about with it whenever I got the opportunity

Tash and I went out for a walk in the afternoon and found Pixey Meadow and then had an interesting return home along the river where we got lost and encountered an assault course with crossing the stream and locked gates – all good fun

Around 4.00pm we went to the Phelans for a BBQ and that was a nice evening. Loads of food – too much – and drink – too much as well! Charlotte was really ill from last night so we saw nothing of her, been throwing up all day, poor thing. But it meant she drove so Tash and I got a bit tipsy and carried on until late. We don’t know when to stop! Didn’t leave until about 11.00pm, we will learn one day!

Anyway, that was the end of a long weekend, I suspect we will hold back from buying any more spirits and beers for a while so we can detox and also save some money.

We’ll see!

Charlotte partying in the bar

Bit of a heavy head this morning but okay – Tash wasn’t cross – think she’s got used to me doing this!

Pottered around in the morning after a lie-in and it wasn’t the nicest weather so we stayed home and did jobs around the house/garden for the rest of the day.

Worked on a puzzle of the London Underground that Pauline has lent us and that took up our time and focus!

In the evening Charlotte had friends round and they were out in the bar all night…literally.

We watched some TV and went to bed around 11.00pm but the noise from outside got too much, I had to go down twice because they kept leaving the bar door open – and at 3.00am that’s not good. Charlotte got a bit stroppy with me at 3.30am but she was steaming drunk so I just accepted it and they left at 4.00am. There was no need for them to go, that’s not what I was asking them to do, only to keep the door closed, but they had a great time

In the morning I found that they’d drunk the bar dry, Vodka and Gin completely gone, little bit annoyed because I’d only just topped those up and it’s likely I will have to buy the bottles again. Charlotte said she will but we’ll see. In saying that, it’s worth it for them to have a great evening and love the bar and it creates a lasting memory for them – so what’s £14.00 bottles of spirits in that context??

So not much sleep really but there we go. A nice day and evening

Late Night Drinking & BBQ

Can’t remember what we did during the day to be honest!

In the evening we’d invited John and Pauline over and around 5.00pm they turned up with the kids and we sat in the garden and got on the beers and Pimms! Sat down the bottom end so we could use the firepit and it was a great evening. Loads of chat and we got a cool box down there in the end so as to not have to keep walking to the garage, music on and the BBQ.

Got far too smoky but the food was good and we were out until late and it was dark. Pauline went home usual sort of time and John stayed. Tash gave up and we were in the bar until about 3.00am singing and dancing and had the smoke machine and lasers and everything else on – really good laugh. John left about 3.00am and I carried on a bit longer but gave in eventually and slept on the sofa!

Good fun.

Jack Badly Hungover!

Tash went to Bournemouth today with Sharon Millar and was out of the house by 8.30am – very nice hot day for it.

Worked from home in the morning and was constantly interrupted by Jack with his head down the toilet throwing up! His night out yesterday catching up with him, he was sick all day long.

I decided to get out for a bike ride and left around 1.30pm…and I went for it.  Up Botley, through Eynsham, off to Witney and back through Woodstock – took me over 2 hours to do about 26 miles – I was knackered and it was very, very hot out there. Glad I did it though.

Back home and Jack still no better so I cooked dinner and then drove Jack to football training in Didcot, walked around some of the parks there and all very nice indeed, sat and watched the end of the session, I’d love to be a player now, I could be cruising it…honestly!

Anyway, took Jack back home and he’d perked up and soon Tash was home and we caught up on her day – not too busy for her despite all the media issues and posts

A good day all told

Lewis is home for the week

Nice to have Lewis down here for the week, he’s staying until next Sunday (Father’s Day) and he’s obviously here for Grandma’s 100th birthday.

Be nice to have him around for a while.

Caught up and had a load of beers in the evening so that was nice!!

Got the pizza oven going and then went inside the bar and watched The Godfather – never watched it but enjoyed it although I have to admit I was exhausted so had to stop after two hours. Will catch up another time – Lewis, Miles and I were the other three awake, Tash was steaming and Charlotte was fast asleep

A nice day

Rob Dennis Funeral

Sad day today because it was Rob Dennis’s funeral. He’d been battling cancer for 4 years and last week he lost his battle

Today there was a funeral procession out of the village, through Wytham, town and then up to the Crematorium.

The family had asked for villagers to line the streets and at 12.30pm that’s what happened. Pissing down with rain but it didn’t put people off and there was a good turnout.

We walked behind the procession for a little of the way and then it was off and we went back to things.

Went down later and there was a display of the flowers and messages and even a box of Flakes because that was his favourite. Spoke quickly to Anne and Laura and they were very well kept together.

He was a lovely man and well liked and respected – it’s no surprise so many people lined the roads for him

As I mentioned on Facebook when his death was announced, I’ll always remember the drunken night we had at the Bamptons dancing to Beyoncé and Single Ladies – that was a very funny evening!

Gone but not forgotten as they say.

Bless him.

Grandma’s 100th Birthday

So the day has arrived and she’s made it!!

Grandma is 100

We went round to her house in the morning to set up the shelter in case of bad weather and Sue and Mum were there already sorting a few things out and Louise and Molly also arrived. They’d been to our house first to drop off the wooden spindle I’m after so that was pleasing.

Chatted for a bit then we all went our separate ways to get ready and work etc.

Back to the house about 4.00pm and grandma came out and she was fine and in good spirits.

I had birthday music on all afternoon which was amusing and we sat around chatting etc and watching her opening her cards and presents.

Got the message from the Queen and then also a call with Derek and Brett so that was a bonus.

Also a shout out on the local radio – we turned down the offer to interview her but the message was lovely.

We had fish and chips and Sue/Simon were generous and paid and it was very nice food actually – will use them again.

Stayed quite late but she tired and went and sat in her room and we then took everything down and left to be home by 9.00pm – quite a lot later that expected.

Not enough room in the car so me, Tash and Lewis walked home.

Had a couple of drinks when we got back and chatted etc and watched a bit of TV and then off to bed

Amazing that she’s 100 years old, no idea how much longer she’ll go on for, a number of years yet I suspect.

Pick That Out Team Talk #2

Waste of time today – getting stressed with no work, hating this situation. I can’t get focussed on anything to learn either – feeling completely overwhelmed.

The day passed and I just moved on and put it behind me. I do feel almost paralysed by inaction.

Went out for a cycle ride, same as yesterday’s and almost the exact same time. Back home for dinner and then out to the garage for another Zoom call with Lee and Kieran.

This time it was in relation to the 1999 FA Cup  run against Wycombe for Oxford City. On the call as well as me and the PTO team were Jermaine McSporran, Matty Whitehead, Alan Foster and Shaun Wimble.

It was great to see the lads and catch up and it was a pleasant hour well spent.

Jermaine was particularly scathing of Mick Woodley so some of it might have to be cut out – but it was interesting to rake up the old memories, it just confirmed what an unpleasant man he was.

It didn’t distract from the evening though and it was really enjoyable.

Only lasted an hour this time and then I went in and watch TV with the family and then early(ish) night.

Fitness Challenge Continuing

Worked for Wednesday client today – full on and very busy. Set alarm for 6.15am so was up and with the world early for once. Makes a nice difference, need to do it more often.

Not much to report from the day, ate and drank loads which is not good – putting on the weight I’ve lost!

After dinner I went out for a cycle ride for an hour which was needed and then we watched The Last Dance documentary about Michael Jordan, really interesting. It’s enjoyable.

Tash went to bed when that was over and I stayed up to finish a film I was halfway through and then two episodes of Vikings, bed at 12.45am…

Bit of a nothing day

Worked today – found it hard to get motivated that’s for certain.

Got stuff done but wasn’t very enjoyable

Did some exercise and watched some TV – not productive at all.

Sad day today as it was 6 years ago that Rik Mayall died, lots of love for him on Twitter as you’d expect. Such a great man and well loved, sad indeed.

Hungover today…

Where did that come from?!?! Out of nowhere we got on the sauce last night and now suffering for it today.

Not ill or anything like that, just heavy headed and can’t be arsed to do anything or focus at all.

Not good. Got up and started working at about 10.00am! Didn’t get much done at all

Had a training call in the afternoon and that was it – no exercise of any nature.

Had dinner and then watched programmes in the evening, we watched a film called 13th – it’s a documentary regarding the 13th amendment in the US and it was tacking systematic racism and the culture of locking up a larger majority of blacks for the purposes of forced labour amongst other things. It was interesting, and shocking.

By about 9.30pm we were knackered so went to bed – but I did my 25 press-ups!

We did also look at campervans again, could be something we get soon – if I can just get some money and work!

Nice day, great night!

Busy day today, cut back the trees by the pond, job well done.

Got other things sorted and then worked on the PC in the house and Tash and I went out for a cycle ride. Nothing too strenuous – just out to Kidlington to get some shopping done.

Went past Yarnton though and looked at the campervans – we’re getting closer and closer to getting one I think. Should be good.

Did the shopping and then back home

Charlotte and Miles were back again and Miles was clearly up for some drinks and music in the bar!

Had dinner, chicken and chorizo Paella – it was very good, and then we had bingo with the Holdens and Millars and it was good fun. Sharon had some quiz cards that she obviously wanted to play so Wayne and I stayed on and it was really nice. Stopped around 9.00pm and then went to the garage. Stayed there a few hours and got really quite drunk – no idea why, but it was a great evening.

Bed about midnight – pissed up!!

Did my exercises in the bar1

All nighter!

Worked in the morning but not in the mood – so around 11.00am I got Jack to help me get the pressure washer over to Sue’s because it’s so heavy. Just needed help with getting it out of the car

Got set up and then started – it was so powerful, great to use, for all of 90 seconds!

It then split!

I couldn’t believe it, I don’t like to borrow things from people because of this exact reason, it was unusable because it had no pressure at all, I tried to fix it, no good. I could have cried. Costs about £70.00 for a new one.

Spoke to Terry and he said not to worry and just for me to take it back as he had a mate who could probably sort it out. I thought that whilst I was there then I might as well get some done so I worked with my one for about 2 hours and then came home. Tash was over for a bit but we had to get home for 4.15pm.

Zoe was over bang on 4.30pm and Wayne and Kerry came in at 5.00pm and it was a really nice evening, good to spend time together. The Millar’s couldn’t come because Jason was in a bad way with swelling hands and legs – very strange. Update on that is that the doctors prescribed the necessary remedy and it would all go down – but it wasn’t looking good!

Had dinner which Tash had made and gradually it got cold outside so Wayne and I went in the bar and the girls stayed outside, Kerry is still very hot on the social distancing subject so that was fine with us – they were warm enough outside.

Just drank, chatted and watched videos on the screen and it was soon 11.30pm and time for them to leave. Said goodbyes and I said I wanted to stay up a bit longer, Tash went to bed, I went to the bar!

And stayed at the bar…didn’t get drunk but just watched loads and loads of great videos, music, comedy, family, everything – soon it was 4.30am and the birds we up and singing and it was daylight outside.

Thought I’d better get some sleep so did so around 5.00am – but I wasn’t pissed up so that was a relief.

I do like doing that so very much, it’s a great release and many people would think it a super mad to do – drinking alone and watching videos – actually perhaps not super mad but super sad!! I don’t mind that though, it’s my guilty pleasure!

Woke up at 8.00am had to join the real world – thankfully Tash wasn’t funny with me…phew!

Team Talk Video Chat

Yep – weighed myself in the morning – 13st 7lb – I’ve lost half a stone!

Didn’t set the alarm and was therefore up later than planned/hoped for!

Delighted with the weight loss – see if I can maintain this and get down to 13st by end of June

Worked on things throughout the day and went out cycling in the afternoon and that went well – much better getting up the hill towards Barton!

Back home and then got ready for a Zoom video call that was with Lee Smith and Kieran and also Baz and Kimber and Wayne Holden. It went okay I think, wasn’t hilarious content and felt like it dragged a bit but it was enjoyable to do. I recorded it for myself.

Had a few beers throughout but was pleased I did it. Watched some TV before going to bed

Link it here:

Audio: https://www.ywemedia.com/en-gb/oxfordshire/pickthatout/

Video: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1M_Ee6e3vZPtAaylUz_p2iN_G5s8aEvpZ/view?fbclid=IwAR2et7HdypomOv_cHscthsDRprqIdG3SaGwyMhOWmY6wIWv12F2aMmk2jNg

Seize the Day….up early for once!

Up and at them at 6.00am this morning!

Wasted time on the sofa with Bess and my phone for 30 minutes so need to cut that out

Breakfast, exercise (stretches) and then worked.

By 11.00am I felt I’d one a day’s work – 4hrs on the clock and other things achieved – pleasing. Will set the alarm for early tomorrow now!

Had a call with Jason – good to catch up on things but I can’t see work coming my way from him, I need to get focussed on something now…

Finished work and had nice roast and then jumped onto my bike and did a circuit round Eynsham, Swinford Bridge Toll and Botley up through Summertown – worked out to be about 14 miles – did it in an hour because it’s all pretty flat. There was dodgy tarmac at the bridge and I cycled into the bungalow there – hurt my arm!

Back home we watched a film with Charlotte, it wasn’t very good but we got though it and then went to bed and read. My second book by Robin Hobb – Royal Assassin – had come through earlier in the day so I started on that – should keep me busy and quiet now!

Decent day – feel like I got stuff done

Oh also, weighed myself at the end of the day – almost down to 13st 8lb – that’s a loss of about 6lb in 3-4 days…pleased!

Black Lives Matter

It’s all kicking off in the world at the minute.

Covid-19 is driving people a bit stir-crazy and with the lockdown being relaxed and the amazing weather we’re experiencing there’s loads of people out and about wherever there are places to go to – such as the beach and parks etc. Durdle Door in Dorset is a great example – there were hundreds (thousands?) on the beach etc

But also, in the US there was an incident, recorded on a phone, where a police officer was kneeling on a black guy as part of an arrest and subduing him but had his knee on his neck disabling his ability to breathe. The video plays out in front of you and the guy clearly blacks out and still the officer doesn’t change stance when people are pointing this out to him – no surprise the poor guy dies. George Floyd is his name and as expected, it’s kicked off all sorts of protests against police brutality.

Everyone’s got something to say but it’s no real surprise when you have President Trump stirring things up – he’s not exactly tactful with his response and tweets which doesn’t help and it’s an almighty mess. Riots, peaceful protests, tear gas – the works. Thankfully over here where there are protests in support there’s not been any violence but it’s just continuing over in the US – I think this is day 4 now.

Such a shame and it’s very much a racism problem and society, not just across the pond in the States but they do appear to have it worst.

I really don’t think much will happen as a result, something else will take this off the new agenda (another school shooting or something) and it will be pushed under the carpet until the next incident like this happens.

You never know, but if they can’t ban guns after kids get all shot up then I don’t think much will happen with the institutional racism that’s clearly evident and has been for decades

Third bike ride in a row!

Worked today for Tuesday company – really busy and productive – enjoyable

Made time for myself at lunchtime and went cycling – did an 8 mile circle through Wytham and town and that was 40 minutes so that’s a perfect short one to keep in mind.

Felt good for doing so. Closer to my 100 miles in a week challenge I set myself.

Cycling isn’t part of the 30 Day Challenge – the press-ups and exercises are but the cycling works off a large number of calories so that’s good!

Tash was at Bournemouth with Zoe all day so it was quiet at home – she got back around 6.00pm.

Sorted out things in the garden and had dinner etc – caught up on the news and that was all doom and gloom as per usual and then finished the night with 2 episodes of Mrs Maisel

We’re watching far too much TV!

Another cycle ride on a month of fitness!!

Decent day’s work today – felt busy and productive

After dinner Tash was having friends round to start her birthday celebrations…so I waited until about 7.00pm so I could make myself scarse and then went out on my bike.

Cycled to Mum’s to drop off a bottle of wine which she was delighted with. Stayed and chatted so that was nice for both of us.

Back on the bike and round the Ring Road, back through town and Wytham etc – worked out at 17 miles so that was a good workout.

Made a few pleasantries on my arrival home and then sat and watched Vikings series I’ve started. They all left around 10.00pm-ish and Tash went to bed but I stayed up late again – midnight – before giving up and going to bed

Day one of my exercise challenge completed – did well by exercising and not eating too much as well.

Wonder how I will progress…

Long cycle trip…sort of

Tash was up and out early with the girls (Zoe & Kerry) in separate cars to go and wish Sharon Millar a happy birthday. I stayed and got some jobs done like mending the bike puncture and took Bess for a walk. Scorching hot once again and Wolvercote was really busy with crowds of people flocking to the bathers. Parking down our street and all over the place – wherever there was any space they’d try and fit in – much to the chagrin of the Wolvercote and Wytham Facebookers!! Miserable gits

I knew I was going to spend the afternoon at Sue’s so I decided to make a move and got on the bike and cycled over there. Obviously went via the backroads to avoid the A34 and it was okay – I was tiring near the end but it was only about 75 minutes and just a fraction under 15 miles. Happy with that.

Got to Sue’s and got my breath back and then started on the decking pressure washing – eventually you had Tash, Charlotte, Miles, Nikki, Jess, Max, Katie and Emily all there – somehow kept their distances…sort of and they drank bubbly. Miles thinks he can get an industrial pressure washer so after an hour or so I stopped and relaxed instead.

All a bit boring but it was nice for Tash of course. I didn’t eat much and avoided sugary pudding so that for June I try and get my weight down…I seem to have said something like that before! Well it looks like Mexico could be happening now so I don’t want to regret it and be the fattest bloke there.

Gradually every left, they had some fun with the kids paddling pool and slide and then after food we left and came home

Walked Bess, then relaxed and watched some TV – Mrs Maisel, wasn’t very good. Tash went to bed but I stayed up and watch 4 episodes of the The Vikings!! Only because Miles suggested it and I got into it – that’s my next thing to get through, only 5 series

Bed at 1.30am…not very professional!

Okay as of tomorrow I am going to have a 30 Day Challenge and exercise with sit-ups and press-ups for 30 days

Peak District

Up nice and early – well 7.00am and sat in the shower for ages – I had a heavy head!

Drove up to Peak District – near Ashbourne, Derby which is close to where we went for Paul’s stag weekend I think.

Arrived at 10.00am and Lewis was 5 minutes behind us, parked up and walked through and you could see it was getting busy

The National Park was amazing – it really was. Very beautiful landscape and we walked along side the river.

Tash had a walking tour outlined so we tried to follow that – it wasn’t the best and we then just wandered along and let Bess off her lead whenever we could and caught up with things.

The first part was okay, we made one error but just carried along the river and after 5 miles stopped for lunch at a village and Lewis treated us to an ice cream.

Back on the walk we then went up the dale – that was hard work. I’ve been okay up to then but this was hard for me, everything was hurting.

Bess ran off at one point and evaded Lewis – all a bit worrying but she came back from another direction – stupid dog!

We then also took a wrong turn and walked down a very dangerous slope to the road and then realised we needed to go back up it! Great!!

We then made it to the summit and it was well worth the effort – it was lovely. But the clock was ticking as Lewis had to be back to meet his friends so we didn’t hang about and got back down the hill to the river and back home to the car

Nearing the entrance it was getting rammed with people – none of whom seemed to speak English. It really felt we were in Croatia or Poland or somewhere, it was so odd not to hear hardly any English voices. Didn’t bother me, it was fascinating though. Made it through the throngs of people to see a huge jam of cars – it was mad

Made our way out and said our goodbyes to Lewis, went one way to get home and soon turned around as there was no way of getting past the queues and then it was a 2 hour drive home.

Collapsed on the sofa once home and then had nice dinner

Watched a film in the evening after a bath to relax my aching muscles

Didn’t do much else, couldn’t be bothered

Absolutely knackered!

Few Drinks & BBQ

Worked

Drinks early at around 4.30pm – couldn’t resist – it’s the weekend!

Got the BBQ going and Mum came over. Lockdown restrictions are being relaxed and from Monday we can have gatherings of 6 people so that’s going to be good.

Mum is very cautious but it was fine, she managed to keep her distance and all that

I got the BBQ going down the bottom of the garden and we sat down there – bloody hot day again.

Food was nice and we had a nice time – Charlotte and Miles were both here and we had a bit of a session as they seemed in the mood for it so that was nice.

Mum left about 9.00pm and we carried out – got the flavoured vodka out and finished that.

Gave up around 1.00pm as we knew we had an early start in the morning as we were driving up to see Lewis, I think I overdid it really so not looking forward to driving and then walking around the Peak District with a hangover…or still pissed. We’ll see in the morning.

A nice end to the week and a good start to the weekend!!

Bournemouth beach today

Up nice and early, excited to be travelling to the seaside! Got things sorted like picnic etc and the kids sorted then bang on 9.00am we were out the door, just the two us with Bessie.

Drive down was fine, it’s been busier and we were in the beach at 11.00am where you can have dogs, Branksome Chine. Parked on the road amongst these amazing houses, I checked and they’re all about £1.5m, not surprised, they were lovely.

Beach was nice and clear, got busier as the day went on but no hassle and it was nice just relaxing in the sun, it’s hot today, listening to music or sleeping or eating or playing with the dog. She appears to like it but she does get restless, and always seems to be demanding something.

She enjoyed the sea and getting the ball, it was quite rough so I had to keep a close eye on her.

Took my top off at one stage, wasn’t a pleasant sight, need to get working on my body once more!! Got very burnt – not a good look on a vest!!

Left at at about 5.30pm and got home for 7.30pm and had dinner and then relaxed again before bed!

Bloody Hot Bank Holiday

Amazing weather today. Tash went out for a long walk with Zoe, Kerry and Sharon so that was nice for them. I walked Bess over the meadow and even at 9.45am you could tell it was going to be a bloody hot day...and it’s proved to be.

I then was up a ladder chopping back the trees in the pond area. Quite dangerous really as I was just balanced against the tree itself without a decent holding. Got it done with the choppers and the hedge trimmer and it looks a lot better. Was only able to do half of it as no space to dump the branches. Quite impressed with the (almost) end result. Leave it a week for the bins to be emptied and then do the other side.

Mowed the lawn and then relaxed. Stuck with soft drinks even though I really wanted to drink some alcohol, at the time of writing I’m resisting the temptation but not sure how much longer I can do so!

BBQ later in the afternoon and couldn’t resist the lure of drinks so got stuck into beers and then spirits – quite merry in the end!

Nice food and then just relaxed, a really lovely day.

Miles and Charlotte went to watch a film upstairs so Tash and I watched Line of Duty outside again. Not a late night.

Great weekend all told

White Horse Hill visit.

Up fairly late this morning and then made a fry-up for the family. Went well and I even had a go at making proper poached eggs, that was really good so that was pleasing!!

We then jumped in Tasha’s car and drive to Uffington White Horse Hill. It was busy in the car park up there but it’s such a big area it was easy enough to avoid people. Enjoyed the walk around there, didn’t realise there was a castle at the top, well a mound now dating from 350BC with an unmistakable moat. Very interesting.

Back home to drop the kids off and then Tash and a I went to Sues. Nikki and the girls were all there but soon left shortly after our arrival and then I got to work on the decking once again. Was a productive couple of hours and it’s looking good.

Had some dinner and then home to sort things out, watched the latest episode of Killing Eve and then to bed to read.

A nice day all told.

Book Completed

Stayed up until 1.00am this morning to finish the Assassin’s Apprentice – had to complete it in the bathroom as Tash was moaning at me keeping her awake with the bright torch light from my phone!

Loved the book and now need book 2 – have placed the order with Tash as she should be able to get it from work on account

When I checked for the next title(s) I found that there are loads – she’s written as many as Raymond Feist and others – so there are 16 titles that I need to get through!! Ah well, it’s a start.

I also downloaded an app for my phone so I can create blog posts on the fly more easily – should be fun and will hopefully be able to do more updates that are not so long, or boring – just thoughts to jot down hopefully, we’ll see how that goes and for how long!

Miles has finished University

So Miles has completed his last exam today – it’s strange how it’s been done because of the Virus lockdown, he was given the question and 24hours to complete it. I think they mark the papers more harshly because they’re free to research as much as they want and are not really regulated if you think about it.

His first two were completed last week and earlier this week – and he was happy with those, today’s last one was harder but I suspect he’s done well and we’ll hear that he’s got a first – hope so. Not sure what will happen with a graduation ceremony, they’ll have to sort something out when this virus all dissipates.

So that’s a huge relief for him and he can relax and move on with life now. Charlotte went to see him in the evening and I think they’ll be over tomorrow (Friday) for the weekend and we’ll have to celebrate with them and make it a nice day/evening/weekend – whatever they want.

I wonder what he’ll end up doing. I think he might stay with his family business, I don’t think he has the confidence to go out and work elsewhere but he should be able to, he’s confident with his DJ’ing so that should reflect in work-life as well. Perhaps he will just focus on music making and do well in that area, that would be amazing, having a role in something you love doing.

Oh to be young again eh??

Decent Book – Assassin’s Apprentice

I am currently reading a book by Robin Hobb called “Assassin’s Apprentice” – absolutely loving it.

I got it for Xmas and haven’t really tried to read it but now I can’t put it down. It’s a bit of a slow burner but it’s very detailed and it’s exactly the sort of writing that I like. I won’t say it’s like David Gemmell, it’s not. If I was to compare it with anyone then it would be with Raymond Feist – it does feel like I am ready Magician, but that suits me. I like that sort of thing. And with more time that I currently have, I am getting through a lot of pages.

It’s a trilogy so I will have to get the next one soon, it also feels more productive to read the book instead of going the Twitter, Facebook or playing Sudoku!

Anyway, all good so far…

Charlotte doing well

Charlotte is not being furloughed – pretty much everyone else in her company and certainly her department is though!

She’s taking on so much work and responsibility it’s incredible. All the people with more experience in the roles are being dropped but she’s not, she’s then given a bit of training and gets on with it. Very, very productive – she’s so similar to Tash in that regard it’s frightening.

I just hope she’s rewarded for all the work she’s putting in – she’s getting tired and stressed but pushes on regardless.

I can’t blame her getting a bit fed up hearing her furloughed colleagues on the conference calls saying they’ve only just got up, or have binge-watched XYZ programmes or out enjoying the sun and she’s working her bollocks off. I think they might have furloughed too many and will need to bring some back to help with the workload – we’ll see.

Anyway, thought I’d type this up because it’s really pleasing she’s doing so well.

New phones – argumentative evening

Strange old day today – quite a shame really

Got my new iPhone SE arrive in the morning along with Tasha’s SIM card and we proceeded to migrate the old phones to new – really impressive process as you needed to only put them next to each other and the Bluetooth connection made it all work. Both phones are an upgrade but both phones don’t really feel much different if the truth be told. Hopefully the battery life will be better now though

I should have guessed what the day was going to be like from right at the start of the day, Tash was in a really funny (unfunny!) mood and really argumentative and angry, it was so odd. Literally everything was a problem ad she was getting stressed about everything. I just shut myself away and worked.

Her main issue is that she doesn’t feel like she’s having a holiday during this time where she’s not working! No I’ve got no idea what the fuck that means either! It came up again in a big argument right at the end of the night which ruined that as well – yet it wasn’t with me but with Charlotte.

Anyway, she pottered around, lovely weather to be doing nothing. I actually think it’s because Lewis isn’t coming home this weekend and she’s pissed off about that and taking it out on us. We should also have been in Ibiza today but obviously with this lockdown we’re not

Nikki and Jess popped over briefly, nice to see them but they were in and out very quickly.

Then later in the afternoon Catherine and Jill Partridge were over, they’d brought some clothes over as usual and then had a walk about the garden but then tucked into gin and tonics and stayed a while – that was nice.

By now it was about 5.30pm so I stopped working and got myself a large drink and got the BBQ going and then they left.

It was nice sat down the end using the firepit and Tash clearly got more drunk – BBQ food was good and we stayed out talking etc and then she started repeating herself and crying about something when I was tidying up and then getting angry again with Charlotte. I’d had enough by then, I’d got my torches working and just switched off, I can’t be bothered with it. Eventually Charlotte went to bed about 10.30pm and Tash went literally 1 minute later – just walked off.

I’d done literally nothing wrong or spoken out of turn so I had a drink and sat for a while and then put everything out and came in. Had no intention of going to bed so watched a couple of episodes of the Jack Ryan series and then bed at midnight, thankfully didn’t wake Tash.

It was so fucking hard today, I get people getting bored but she’s just contradicting herself so badly. Moaning that she doesn’t feel like she’s had a break because of having to cook or weave or do household jobs (which she pushes herself to do) and if she was told she was going back to work in a week or two she’d be pissed off because it’s not been like a holiday…but then I did say that had she just watched TV or lounged around (which wouldn’t bother us) then she’d moan that she’d wasted the day.

Really, really hard work!

Family bike ride around Oxford again

Didn’t get up too early, relaxed and read actually. In fact I finally got into my Assassin’s Apprentice title I got for Christmas, really enjoying it and took any opportunity I could to pick it up and read it.

Got some jobs done in the morning and then the four of us went out for a bike ride after lunch. Didn’t go far, about 12 miles in the end but it was very pleasant around Oxford etc

Jack even treated Tash and I to ice creams on the High Street – Charlotte has cycled on ahead to meet her friend Hannah for a walk so missed out.

Back home I then fixed the bikes we’d not used so as to get them up to scratch and then we sat in the sun and relaxed

I read my book but soon nodded off, we both did!

Garden chores and tidying up and then nice spag bol for dinner

I then sat and read and when Tash was ready for bed we watched more TV until about 10.30pm.

A very nice weekend all told – enjoyed Saturday night, good fun!

Great day – new toy!

This is sad…I got very excited about buying a 25m long extension cable. How middle aged is that? Bought it online in the morning and went to Tool Station in Horspath and was astonished when I gave my name to the security guy outside and he knew what I was there to pick up – impressive!

I then tested it and it now means I have electricity at the bottom of the garden – hooray!

I then put it to good use with creating shelves for Charlotte’s wardrobe and our previous heater gas holder – pleased with myself.

Then we went out to Sue’s and I spent about 2.5hrs pressure washing the decking, made a lot of progress so that was pleasing. Charlotte and Tash just relaxed, but I was fine with that. Had some dinner there and a couple of large Gin & Tonics which made me quite tipsy quickly so we got home asap.

Out in the bar I set up for an 80’s concert where legends of days gone by sang karaoke and it was brilliant, really enjoyed it. Was Facebook Messengering John Bampton during the whole evening as it was his idea that alerted me to it. I got pissed!

Tash wasn’t there for much of it, not sure why, but near the end she came in and it was nice and relaxed and we had a lovely evening.

Late to bed

Bit stressful today! Covid-19 tests taken & Jess’s Birthday

Everyone getting a bit tense today to be honest – tough atmosphere which carried over from yesterday I think.

Got up a bit late and worked for my usual company in Leicester and it was okay. Wasn’t as focussed as I could be but it was okay.

Tash was out of sorts and niggly and it made for awkwardness around the house – I decided it best to simply keep out the way, fed up with it and best way to avoid the issues. She’s not “enjoying” not working and thinks we’re having a go at her about it. We’re not, but there you are.

The four of us went to Thornhill P & R in the morning for our Covid-19 tests that Tash organised last nigh – it was like a scene from a film with tents and cones set up and loads of official looking people directing us to our testing area. I found it really unpleasant – swabs taken from back of throat (gagged) and up nose (high up), hated it. Done and dusted and we got our results the following day (we’re all NEGATIVE).

Back home and Annie turned up to do haircuts – shouldn’t really be here but Tash was desperate. Got mine done, Charlotte not happy about it! That caused friction and then Tash went off to garden centre and Bicester for a number of hours.

Nice dinner in the evening and then at 6.30pm we dialled into a Zoom meeting for Jess’s birthday in which Vic & Danny had organised a greyhound race night – was a bit of fun but we were nowhere near winning it. It was nice to have a lot of people in on it but then too much was had to drink; Miles had come over and he and Charlotte outside in the bar for some space. Then later Jack was causing argument as well because of eating constantly and not letting up!

All very niggly today/tonight, hopefully Wednesday will be better and everyone will have got whatever it is out of their systems

Tash went to bed but I stayed up and watched more episodes of Jack Ryan series I have got into – pretty sure I’ve watched it before but I don’t remember it.

Anyway, off to bed at 1.00am hoping for a better day…

Covid-19 Lockdown easing up

Last night Boris Johnson announced plans to reduce the rigidity of the lockdown and it’s done nothing but add confusion for people.

Allowing people to meet in open areas and visit family is being allowed and the plans to open schools etc has been scheduled over the next 8 weeks.

But it’s the immediate plans this week that are confusing that everyone is jumping onto! And also, we’re not really seeing a reduction in the number of daily cases and deaths happening – all feels a bit rushed if you ask me.

Aside from that, pretty much all the same really. Tash had a bit of a meltdown today because we’re joking about her having time off and we’re working and she’s saying it’s not something she’s wanted. Can’t see what the problem is, I’d be happy not to be working but there you go. So we have to tread on eggshells now to avoid her biting our heads off…

I thought she’d be glad to be able to get jobs done, never mind.

Worked today and got things up to date.

Liam Tallboys came in and fixed the electric so that was pleasing. Got a bit fed up with having the extension leads not allowing us to lock the doors!

Didn’t do much in the evening, potted about really – wasted evening

Bank Holiday Weekend for VE Day 75th Anniversary

Thursday – worked hard, drinks early. Power cut in the evening in which all our plugs stopped working – nightmare. Jack managed to get hold of Liam Tallboys to come and fix it and that was brilliant. Needs to get a part and finish it but got the plugs working so we didn’t lose food in the fridges. No idea why it happened

Friday – hot today, worked on the shed, cleared it out whilst everyone relaxed! Pina coladas today – very good but very easy to do. Other cocktails, nice and relaxed. BBQ down the bottom end and a fire pit. V warm weather, no wind, Miles over later, I wasn’t feeling well, bath for an hour and then to bed shortly after.

Saturday – v hot weather - pottered around the garden – got jobs done early. Relaxed in afternoon. Swedish candle, oil on patio, dog walk, drinking, John and Pauline’s for more drinks, Nik & Gaz chat in the garden (via Facebook), fish n chips, fire pit up and running with a BBQ cooked, logo game. Pimms today

Sunday – can’t remember – didn’t drink and took things easy!

Pretty non-descript day really

Worked all day – busy and enjoyable for my Oxford company.

Not much to report – got a lot of tasks cleared so that was good.

Worked in the garden afterwards, sorted the herb planter and attached it to the wall and then had a couple of beers afterwards.

Not much else to report today.

Opened a bottle of bubbly in the evening with Tash and sat out in the garden wrapped up - nice

Long but productive day

Worked for client today and got loads done

Meetings and updates etc – enjoyable

Not much else to report – Tash worked in the garden on creosoting the shed and then went for a walk with Zoe.

Took Bess for a walk and was told off by a busy body because I didn’t pick up Bess poo on the meadow! Ignored them.

Watched TV in the evening – that’s about it – hardly worth writing this up!

Really wanted a drink but decided against it…

Busy day and bingo in the evening…

Worked on items and action points throughout the day, was enjoyable

Did exercise in the evening which was nice to get going again

Called Mum and had a bingo session with her, me, Tash and Charlotte and she really enjoyed it which was pleasing. She’s a good sport.

Then Tash and I watched the last two episodes of Line of Duty, has been a really good season (3) and it finished well. Bed late as it was a double-header so finished around midnight!!

Start a new series tomorrow hopefully

Busy and productive day in and around the house/garden!

Busy and productive day today – on a bit of a mission!

Popped down the road to John’s and got his chimney brush off him and spent about 2 hours trying to get the chimney clean – it was a frustrating nightmare. I got all the covers in place so that protected the room from “some” of the soot and dust coming down. But I had problems getting the brush up past a certain point and then when I finally did get it through and up out the top – could I get it back down again? Could I fuck?

The neighbours were round asking what was happening and adding to the pressure – at one point I was preparing to get a ladder onto the roof and pull it out that way. Had one more try and got it to come down – shan’t do that again in a hurry!

Set the burner off and sure enough all the smoke came flooding into the front room – I’d wasted my time! I looked inside again and found the problem, an air vent had fallen down so I was trying to fix that whilst the fire was still going – hot work!! Eventually it cooled and I tried again and did fix it – so we can use the log burner again now!

Took the brushes back to John and then worked in the garden, I fixed by flag pole first and then Tash had asked me to create a planter for her herbs which I did using a pallet – took a bit longer to sort out because I needed to change the widths on it but got there in the end and it’s fine – she was delighted with it!

We then went out for a cycle ride, went down the by-pass and then through Wood Eaton and Islip and Kidlington – long ride but enjoyable and nice scenery. Although to be honest I was knackered! So slow, very, very unfit. It’s a shame because all my work in the gym has gone to waste.

Back home we were all knackered, I made a Frappuccino which was lovely which Mum and Charlotte both wanted one

I then went out and relaxed in the bar for an hour whilst dinner was being made and listened to music and made a couple of cocktails – used Summer fruits with Gin and Vodka and it was lovely.

Dinner was good and then we caught up with Millars, Holdens and Carrolls over Zoom for a Quiz via Facebook – lasted about 90 minutes and was good. We were second but it was nice to catch up with them all.

Late by the time it finished so went to bed!

A nice weekend, loved Friday – I like letting my hair down!!

New Records for the Office!

Out of bed around 10.30am – not too bad really.

Breakfast and tidied up – sorted out the bar and all that so it’s back to normal. Didn’t take too long

Went to Mum’s to drop off some Bingo cards so she can play in a couple of days time – she was fine and looking well.

Then we went to Sandhills because James Taylor messaged me in the morning having seen my Instagram posts telling me he had some vinyl records he was getting rid of, so I was round there to collet them. A bagful of about 25 which were really good, pleased with them

Then off to Sue’s and sat there for a few hours whilst sorting out her anti-virus set up because she’s been scammed – that was fun!

Back home we then walked the dog and took it easy – nothing much to do. Tidied up the office and played some of the records – never listened to Bauhaus but there were loads of them in this collection so will give them a go!

Charlotte went off to Miles when we got home and we had dinner and then watched a few episodes of Line of Duty and then to bed for an early night!

Family Bingo & Dark Side Bar late one!

Busy day working and finished work about 5.00pm and then had dinner.

Had a panic attack halfway through the day when I entered the Heart FM competition for £30k and texted them, about 5 mins later my phone went and I got so excited, only it was work – how disappointing! But my heart was pumping like mad – having that £30k would have been amazing and I’d have got the campervan as a result! Never mind…

Miles came over to see Charlotte and they popped out to get some beers to top up the fridge and we then had a bingo competition that Tash had organised with her family.

It was good fun and we had some cocktails created which were excellent – enjoyed those. Once the bingo was over – we didn’t win – we went into the bar and got the projector going and then hit the drinks pretty hard!

We made loads of cocktails and it was such good fun, a really, really enjoyable evening – we got wrecked! I didn’t want to go to bed at 1.00am so stayed up, locked the doors and got the smoke machine on…was still videoing at 3.30am but then woke up at 6.00am.

Luckily I wasn’t struggling but I think I was still pissed!

Went up to bed and stayed there until 10.30am –was a great evening, even if I spent the latter part of it on my own, I am easily able to amuse and entertain myself with drink and music!!