Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club....nice!

A fairly normal day at work today, although I managed to finish a little earlier than usual which was handy because we had plans for the evening. John and Pauline arrived and we all caught the bus into town where we met up with Tash before wandering down to the train station.

We were comfortably early, which is always preferable to cutting it fine, and soon found ourselves on the train with a table seat secured and a couple of tinnies opened. Just two each for the journey — enough to get the evening started without overdoing it.

We arrived in London in good time and then jumped on the Elizabeth Line, which continues to impress. It’s so modern, clean and efficient compared to some of the older parts of the Underground network.

From there we walked through Soho and found Ronnie Scott’s. There were huge queues outside which initially looked a bit worrying, but thankfully we were booked into the upstairs venue, so we bypassed all of that and were shown straight to our table. It was quite cosy — perhaps a little tight — but it felt like a proper little booth and we quickly settled in.

Cocktails and food were ordered and both were excellent. We had originally booked to see Vula, of Basement Jaxx fame, but unfortunately she was ill and unable to perform. We already knew that before arriving, so it wasn’t a surprise. The group covering for her — I think they were called Village Vibe — were absolutely brilliant though. They played a fantastic set, full of energy and great music, and the whole 90-minute performance flew by. There was even a bit of dancing towards the end.

After the show we spotted the band outside, had a quick chat and grabbed a photo before making our way back towards Paddington. We still had about an hour before our train so found a pub nearby and enjoyed a couple more pints before boarding the 9.20pm service home.

The train journey back featured a few more tinnies and plenty of conversation, and once we arrived in Oxford we weren’t quite ready to call it a night. Instead we headed into The Grapes, which turned out to be a great decision.

They have a turntable set up on the bar along with a box of vinyl records for customers to choose from. Naturally, I picked out a Duran Duran album and they happily put it on while we sat there. A cracking little touch and something a bit different.

Eventually we caught the bus home, said our goodbyes and called it a night.

A fantastic evening from start to finish and one I’d highly recommend repeating.

End of Day Summary:
A brilliant night out combining good company, good music and a few drinks along the way. Ronnie Scott’s lived up to its reputation despite the change in performer, and finishing the evening listening to Duran Duran on vinyl in The Grapes was the perfect way to round things off. One of those evenings that feels effortlessly enjoyable from beginning to end.

Valentine’s Day - Pasta Making Course in London

Up early and we both took Bess out for a walk. I “pretended” I’d forgotten my phone and popped back inside… in reality to get the flowers, chocolates and bottle of bubbly I’d bought for Tash. Subtle.

The walk was good — we’re doing well keeping the routine going, which feels positive.

Back home, Tash was really pleased with her bits and gave me a card too. Then it was time to get ready for the day.

Charlotte and Miles arrived bang on time, with Miles driving as we headed into London. Quick stop at Beaconsfield Services where we used some of Jack’s Greggs voucher — repayment for covering his dinner the night before. Belgian buns, obviously. Excellent.

We parked on Bayswater Road with minimal fuss, grabbed some Boris bikes and cycled over to Oxford Street. Quick stop in M&S, then a very brisk march to John Lewis. I didn’t want to be late and apparently my determined pace caused some amusement — they’re not used to me striding out like that.

We weren’t late, but we were the last to arrive out of about 20 people for the Jamie Oliver pasta-making class at John Lewis. A glass of fizz on arrival (and Tash had pre-ordered a bottle for later too), then the chef talked us through the plan and did a demo.

It was actually very good. I was pleasantly surprised at how simple and quick it is to make fresh pasta — and equally how straightforward the sauces can be. We each had our own ingredients and station, so no one was left watching while someone else did all the work.

Genuinely great fun. Would definitely recommend it.

We ate what we’d made, grabbed our coats, said thanks and headed upstairs to the rooftop bar. Sat in one of the igloo pods, although I wasn’t keen — the acoustics were odd and a bit disorientating. Had a beer and a glass of champagne each before deciding to head off Oxford Street and find somewhere else.

Found a pub just off the main drag and went in. Busy upstairs, so we went downstairs where there was space — only to realise it seemed to be full of Japanese guests. We suspect we accidentally gatecrashed a private party. No one moved us on though, so we stayed put and carried on chatting and drinking.

We had train tickets booked for 5.45pm, and Charl and Miles were staying overnight, but they asked us to stay longer… so we did.

More drinks followed. We got properly merry — Tash especially.

As the evening rolled on, we decided we should probably head back. Quick stop in Selfridges to try some perfumes, then onto the gay pub (Quebec something-or-other) for a final drink.

Then it was time to part ways. I was more or less half-carrying Tash by this point.

We reached Marylebone at 10.10pm… and had missed our train by five minutes. Next one wasn’t until 11.05pm, and Tash was absolutely not prepared to wait that long. There was a train to Bicester North sooner, so we jumped on that and thankfully Jack agreed to pick us up.

Tash slept the whole way. I listened to music and sobered up slightly.

Jack got us home, we had some toast, and then straight to bed.

Such a fantastic day. Absolutely loved it.

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End of Day Summary

A brilliant Valentine’s — thoughtful start, hands-on pasta fun, London wandering, too many drinks, mild chaos, and a late scramble home. Laughter, spontaneity and proper shared memories. One to remember. ❤️

Cinque Terre - Day 1

We were up at 4:00am and out of the house by 4:30, heading to Heathrow in the dark. Thankfully, the car drop-off was smooth and security was no hassle at all. As usual, we managed to grab some breakfast before the flight—something comforting about that little ritual.

There was a slight delay taking off, but the pilot made up the time in the air and we landed pretty much on schedule. Tash had done her homework on how to get from the airport, which made things a lot easier. We took the Metro to Pisa train station, then managed to get tickets for the train to La Spezia. There was a moment of mild panic when our first train option was fully booked, but we sorted it in the end.

While waiting, we tucked into pizza and beer in a local place overlooking the road and traffic - and of course, posted about it on Facebook! The train journey to La Spezia was just over an hour. We were both so tired that we ended up dozing rather than admiring the Italian countryside, but the rest was much needed.

At La Spezia, we got our bus tickets to Porto Venere. There was a bit of confusion about which stop we needed, but it all worked out. Porto Venere itself was absolutely beautiful. We found our accommodation easily enough, and our host Fabio—a lovely old man—was very welcoming. We saw him a few times wandering about the village, always with a smile.

After getting ourselves sorted, we headed out for a wander. The village was bustling with tourists at first, but then the coaches left and it felt like the place emptied in minutes. We explored the winding paths and found the little church perched on the cliffs, with stunning views over the sea—just breath-taking.

Back in town, we stopped at a local bar for a couple of beers, soaking up the relaxed atmosphere. Then we found the restaurant that Fabio had recommended. It was completely empty when we arrived, and still empty when we left—but the food was excellent. Stuffed mussels to start, which were really good, followed by tuna that was even better. A lovely bottle of wine completed the meal, and we were both really happy with our choice.

We finished the evening with a few more drinks at another bar before heading to bed. It’s been a great first day—so good to be here, and even nicer to be just the two of us. We really do enjoy our own company.

Bratislave & Budapest - Day 4

Woke up without a hangover, apartment slowly coming to life around 9.00am as we showered, had hot drinks, and packed. Walked through the town to the offices we’d been directed to and left our bags for a couple of hours. Set off again for more exploring, nothing too strenuous planned. Stopped within minutes for coffee and croissants, then carried on walking around the city walls.

Soon we hiked up to Bratislava Castle overlooking the city. Gardens and fortifications were interesting to explore, and we eavesdropped on a tour guide to pick up a few extra facts. Took in the panoramic views across the Danube and the newer parts of town we hadn’t seen before.

Made our way back to the old town, and Tash took a detour to see the Blue Church - a nice little sight. Back at the apartment offices to collect our bags, grabbed a couple of baguettes, and raced to the train station for a fast-paced dash - unnecessary, as the train was 25 minutes late anyway. Sat on the platform, ate, and once on board settled for the 2-hour journey. Beautiful, flat farmland out the windows, and Tash reading out all the things we can do in Budapest — looks like we’re going to be even busier than before! I grabbed a quick snooze.

Arrived in Budapest with no issues, walked to the apartment, keys from the Boutique Hotel, just 3 minutes around the corner. Very old door, courtyard, and building — a bit of a shock and wondered what the hell we'd booked. Opened the door… wow! Don’t judge a book by its cover. Very, very nice inside. 

Showered and sorted ourselves out, then went out to the Ruin Bar. Brilliant spot, had just one beer.

Walked around looking for somewhere to eat and found Secret Garden restaurant — kebab, lovely. 

More wandering to find somewhere to drink, passed through Karaoke Street — mad, but just walked on and through it unfortunately - I'd liked to have visited one of the bars. Found a craft beer place instead which was fine actually, had a few there, then home to bed.

A really good start!

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

Working in Cheshire

So last night I worked late again and this morning up at 5.30am to get the train from Oxford (instead of Oxford Parkway) for once and travelled up to Cheshire for the training with TimStar. It was a long journey but much easier than driving but a fraction more expensive.

Got quite a lot done on the train and then had the session

Went well, a few sticky patches which had I had more testing time would not have happened, had I not tested though it would have been an absolute shambles because loads was missing and not working last night!!

Kept getting updates on the train from James as they were fixed!

Left and managed to get the 3.07pm train so was home about 6.15pm in the end. I didn't get much done on the way back, slept one journey and then started reading 'Eat That Frog' again and it suitably motivated me.

When I got in, after some lunch, I took the books advice and blitzed the action points from the day's session...was really pleased with what I achieved in the time I had. Didn't get to bed until 12.30am and have another early start tomorrow as off to GL again!!!

All quite tiring I must admit!!

Working in London

Working in London today with a new user at Hodder Education, decided to get the later train in and make an excuse about the car and puncture etc but in saying that I don't think I will be late so not a problem...hopefully. I am obviously typing this bit on the way into the office on the train, very, very quiet on here. Either because it's a later train or it's half-term and people have taking the time off. Nice to be able to sit at one of the tables and update the diary and type away etc.

Woke up around 7.00am and had a bad night's sleep, everything with my body is aching, legs and back especially, hobbling around and walking bent over but otherwise fine!!! :-)

Couple of posts on Facebook from the lads were funny as they too were struggling with their fitness following the game last night!

Did the session with Victoria in the office, she's used it before and was also on the ball so it was a comfortable session if a little stunted in terms of rapport, not certain why to be honest. She seemed to understand everything we went through and we had a break and finished by about 2.30pm. I then had a meeting with Maria and she advised that she'd like me to come back and do some more training with her users. She has some new starters and would like some refresher training on Communigator for people. I am obviously more than happy to do that so agreed of course.

Got the train home to Oxford, very busy and people standing and all that, not ideal when you spend so much on tickets but there you are!

I have a load of action points I want to work on this evening so hopefully make some progress there, we'll see.

Update - didn't get the laptop out in the evening! Got home and had dinner and then Jack had friends come over so he was on form and excited which was nice for him but meant noise coming through the house was a pain!

Tash and I sorted out some plans for the summer in terms of going to London to see a show and that and then decided to watch some TV. The kids had got me Game of Thrones for Xmas (x3 season Box Set from day one) and Tash wants to go through them all - well that would be rude of me not to sit with her and explain many of the points and intrigue taking place. She seemed to be into it for the first two episodes so we shall see what happens there! It was nice watching it all again, everyone looks quite young

Watched the episode of Elementary as the new season has started again so I am delighted and then went to bed at 10.30pm - a decent day but my hopes of getting up to date with work didn't happen!

Pressure to work on IT issues

Into London again today and was up bright and early at 6.00am and out the house 20 minutes later for the 7.05 train, got to London 20 minutes late but the tube was fine as I was dreading it at that time in the morning, and then arrived at Edustaff.

Got texts from Tash and Charlotte saying how good the video was so that was pleasing and I then started my day. Was a bit stressed I must admit as I felt it was my responsibility to have these things working and in place but it wasn’t my fault that it wasn’t. Spoke with Adam at Deverill a couple of times and we then got on track as the show-stopping issue was fixed and I could go round and do the work I needed to which was a relief.

Slow-going and to be honest I didn’t get as much as I’d hoped I’d get done completed. Had a meeting with Wayne about TED and he was less than enthused about progress which was a shame after the positive attitude last week. More testing for me to action this evening I think!

Continued working in the office until the girls threw me out as they needed to shut the office down and then I made my way back to Paddington and the train home. I have so much on my plate at the minute so it will be good to settle down a bit but I’m not 100% certain how that will happen with what’s going on!

I’m typing this up on the train, which is packed by the way, and might as well have a sleep I reckon.

That’ll do for now!

*Update – train was so slow and didn’t get back home until 9.15pm – what a nightmare long day!

TED Training

Well, it’s day 3 and I am in Birmingham today knowing I have to be in London tomorrow. Been busy week so far with London full-on on Monday and Bristol yesterday. I got home and crashed out for an hour fully asleep. I am training clients on using the new TED interface system and it’s gone fairly well so far. Had a really awkward couple in the first group and the rest of the sessions have been really positive otherwise.

More work next week for them but I am trying to get up to date in the evenings as I am not answering any emails at all throughout the day. I think that the guys are pleased with the work I am putting in so that’s rewarding.

Need to keep tabs of what’s being requested and I must admit I am a little nervous as I am the face that they all now know as the person for ensuing this system works…great!!

Well, train is almost here so best get going!

Start of another week…

Decent day today, up nice and early to get the 6:47am train from Bicester and then into the Peters Books offices. I knew it was going to be because of the email from Margaret on Thursday that it was going to be a full on day and it certainly was – I worked my bollocks off!

We had a load of mailings that needed to go out, i needed to create the mailing lists and Tom worked on the design etc but we got them all completed by the end of the day which was good. I had to push EdCo to upgrade the Data Mining App as it wasn’t doing what I needed it to do. A bit frustrating working with them at the minute as they seem to be making all the requests more work than they need to be. Ah well.

I also had a meeting with Ray and Richard Butler (in charge of Customer Services) as they want to get CRM fully integrated with all areas of the business. Had to answer a ton of questions from Richard but I think he was satisfied that the system will meet his requirements. Now to proceed with a project on this for them, I also had a meeting with Ray in the evening to review and discuss all the other items that need to be addressed. He seems happy with the work I’ve done for them and there is additional work if I want it for them. Also met with Krishna who has various demands and also finally with Teresa. She was in good form, she’s off to Australia for 5 weeks so is looking forwards to that.

I left in the normal time and on the train home there was an almighty bang and the window across the aisle from me shattered. Some kids obviously had thrown a brick or stone at the train, luckily it is shatter-proof so it looked like frosted glass. Not good!

Did some more work in the evening, got a bit stressed with the kids which was wrong as I was trying to concentrate on some work and also get things sorted for tomorrow. We managed to have some pancakes though as it’s Shrove Tuesday tomorrow!!

Mid-week update

Sat in the car outside Jack’s dance lesson in Rose Hill (doors locked!) writing my diary update and there’s a fair bit to report.

Monday was early start for all of us, I went to Peters Books and got a 6.47am train from Bicester, made such a saving it’s ridiculous. Enjoyed working there today and got loads done. The seem pleased with me as Margaret said to me at the end of the day that they’d like me to work weekly for the next month or so and then once a fortnight. Pleased with that as the original agreement was only once a month! Travelling was fine, got home and was shattered, hard work getting up so early that’s for certain!

Tash was up early as well as she was taking her mum in for the operation that was cancelled before Xmas. This time did all the pre-med and that and then they gave her the option to not proceed if she didn’t feel it was necessary. Obviously she didn’t go ahead. I don’t think that’s the best decision but there you go, it’s not up to me. So they went for a slap up breakfast and all that they do to waste as much money as possible.

Tuesday I was in St Neots, near Cambridge, doing more MyFinanceCentre training. It went well and I am back there again tomorrow. Nearing the end of these training sessions, it’ll be odd going back to normality when these are finished. Need to look at how to get more buy-in and follow up sessions organised. Again, another long day so did nothing when I got home.

I was at Raintree today, a full on day, loads on my plate to get sorted which I did and then had some spare time to catch up with other things for them. Went well, very productive yet again.

At the minute there is a NekNominate craze going on within Facebook. People are videoing themselves drinking ridiculous concoctions of drinks in one go and then nominating three other people to do the same. Lewis has done it, and now Charlotte has been nominated which I am not very comfortable with to be honest. She’s excited and wants to do it when she gets back from work this evening, but I might try and put her off. I think I am worried about the possible reaction/consequences of this, she’s not a big drinker and she’s lining up all sort of spirits. I might over-rule her on this one, that’ll be interesting…she won’t be used to me saying ‘No’!

Up here in Brum..

Working for Peters Books today and decided to come up by train instead of driving and I think I have made the right choice. It’s a longer day but with organisation and once I have found my feet I will be able to leave their offices on time and then catch up with other work for clients. It also means that I can use the travel time more effectively – although updating my diary probably isn’t the most effective use of my time!

Got the 7.36am journey up here, bit of excitement near Birmingham as a fare dodger got caught out and was arguing with the guards, lying git! Really full on day in the office, I hardly spoke to anyone, they’d asked me to get so much done, still not finished when I left. Might do some tonight, haven’t decided yet. I think they like what I have to offer so hopefully my position is secure…for now.

Left around 5.30pm and then wandered through the Bullring to the station and got the 6.33pm train home. Might look at Bicester as it’s cheaper next week. We’ll see.

All in all a decent day, busy couple of days ahead but that’s fine, that’s what I get paid well do to!