DIY Plumber & Miles’s Birthday

Spent the morning under the sink trying to sort out a leaking tap – it was a nightmare and all sorts of shouting and swearing was taking place, was getting so frustrated. Somehow, and I don’t know how, certainly more by luck than judgement I turned off the water and got the tap dismantled and repaired the leaked – albeit just tightening up the washer but it did the trick.

Pottered around rest of the day – went to Curry and got Derek a tablet for his birthday present which we’re all going to contribute towards.

Storm Ciara took place this weekend and it was a nightmare out there – strong winds and rain, not pleasant to be out in.

4.00pm went to The Phelans for Miles’s birthday celebrations – nice Indian meal and it was a pleasant afternoon/evening. We stayed until about 8.00pm and it was good fun. One of the kids hasn’t cut his hair for 3 years and has pony tails etc so today they cut those off and then shaved his hair off. Unusual entertainment that’s for certain!

Back home we watched the penultimate episode of Der Pass so will finish that tomorrow and then off to bed around 10.00pm – a long weekend but nice and relaxing!

Very, very lazy day

Hungover – or still drunk in the morning

Tash, Charlotte, Miles and Mum went to London to watch Hamilton show that Jake Halsey-Jones is in – they loved and it and had a great time

I sat on the sofa all day knackered and just watched films – literally all day! What a massive waste of time. Jexi, 21, and other films I can’t even remember! Made dinner for Jack and Emma, Jack' played in Dunstable and drew 0-0, he was taken off at 75 mins but seemed okay and thought he’d played alright.

Watched the rugby and then in the even a couple of episodes of Der Pass an then bed!

I didn’t feel ill today, just couldn’t be arsed to do anything, not even the gym, I think I might seriously look at alcohol consumption and reduce it dramatically so I start making better use of my time – wasting a life away!

Zoe’s Birthday

A very slow day working today, found it hard work! Didn’t get much achieved – wasn’t in the mood

Dinner when Tash got home and then Zoe came over and we went outside to the bar and proceeded to get quite drunk!

Jack, Raff, Awadh and Cory were over and brought in cake with Emma and then left to go clubbing in town and we carried on the party

No idea what time we finished but it was good fun

Lazy day today

Dropped Tash into work this morning as she’s meeting up with work colleagues for a meal and loads of wine no doubt.

Didn’t achieve much at work today, found it really hard to be motivated.

Did some exercise during the day but got progressively stiffer from last night’s exercise

Nice walk across the meadow with Bess – it’s chilly today but she liked the freedom of being out on the meadow instead of the Lakes

More work and exercise in the evening

Picked Tash up and then to bed – hopefully be more focussed tomorrow

Decent day, decent gym session

Worked at Raintree as usual – decent day’s work – got a lot done and was busy

Went to see Derek afterwards and he was fine – got there early and stayed until about 6.15pm so a decent stretch. He was okay, quite a bit chattier than usual, probably because Mum’s not been up there for a couple of hours and he’s not tired and glad of someone to chat to. He’s got his phone wet somehow so that might need a new one – annoying.

Went to the gym directly from the home and Tash came up later for her boot camp session. I was there for about 90 minutes and it was good, tired at the end of it and back home for food.

Showered and then watched Silent Witness as usual – sad episode, Thomas died…didn’t see that coming!

Bed!

Gym update – I am pleased I am going a bit more regularly, I am pretty sure I could work harder and do more but the bike and the rowing machine do work up a real sweat but I need to extend the time I am on those now.

Pretty Dull Day all told

Worked from home today, started a bit late because of late night and finishing at 1.00am yesterday and just ploughed through work I’ve got on my plate for clients – catching up with lots of things but also closing things down that have been nagging away at me

Haven’t done any exercise at the time of writing – might go to gym later

Oxford Utd are on TV tonight playing their FA Cup reply against Newcastle, so that should be interesting – really not sure if I will watch it or not – we’ll see how I feel.

Wrote this whilst waiting on a report to complete – it’s still not finished – testing for Consortium…loads to get through but getting there

Oh, also made contact with the phone company to see about getting a new phone – some good options but not sure I want to tie into a 24 month contract – will think about it and decide soon enough.

Busy Day at Work and in the Evening

Worked through things today and got up to date – getting a bit concerned as work has really dried up at the minute. So any work I have been able to do I’ve made sure I’ve done it to best ability…what’s new? Got some invoices raised so that should help but it’s this month and next where things are going to get tight!

Didn’t do any exercise today – poor show.

Jack got a decent write up in the paper:  https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/sport/18206078.football-didcot-stun-thame-derby-southern-league-round-up/

He also want to JR this evening because he thinks he’s broken his hand – thankfully only badly bruised so that’s a relief. And the gypsies didn’t descend on his place of work as promised on Friday so that’s even better news.

Had a catch up with Lewis and all’s good in Manchester

Charlotte is starting her CIPD in April

Took Tash into town with Anna Ballance and they’re meeting Cathy Bergal and going to the Ivy for a meal – alright for some eh?

I stayed at home and worked on reports and picked them up in the evening

Jack's Match Report from the weekend

Match report can be found here: https://tinyurl.com/tdz6pqp

Photos can be found here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/rogredhat/albums/72157712931534811

Relaxed Sunday

Nice to wake up without a hangover and then had a coffee in bed and read some of the new book I got for Xmas and then up and working in the garden to clear the wood down the bottom of the garden. Tash went out for a long walk with her friend Clare Barnes and then we had something to eat before us two, Charlotte and Jack went out together, oh, also Bess we went to see Derek but he wasn’t interested in going out for some fresh air so we stayed in the conservatory and chatted for an hour – although Derek didn’t talk too much but it was appreciated that we went to see him and spend some time there.

We then went to Sue’s for dinner and I put the house name plate on the wall which she was pleased with

England lost their Six Nations opener to France badly – played shit

Stopped at Vics to see Theo – he’s lovely

Home and the girls watched Little Women, I wasn’t interested so did some diary entries sat on the sofa with headphones on relaxing!

Bed by about 9.30pm – a nice weekend again

Oh, uploaded Jack’s goal video to Facebook and that got a lot of love so that was pleasing

Jack scored 40 yard opening goal!!

Yes you read it right…he scored a quality goal today (his first league goal) which set his team a platform to win 2-0 against local rivals Thame and luckily I was there watching it so I was so delighted and proud. I was also chatting to Dennis Gascoyne at the time so that was nice to have his witness my son scoring a cracker! Everyone was delighted for him and mobbed him. The keeper kicked out from the left side of the penalty area but a bit of a miscue to Jack on the centre circle on the left, he had a touch to control it and then hit a sweet half volley straight back flying in – it’s not the best but there is a video of it that was posted on Twitter down below.

It was nice catching up with Dennis and we had a decent chat and caught up wit things. I had a couple of pints and then went and met the family in Bicester as Wendy and Graham were over and we had food in Jacob’s Inn there – the girls got a bit tipsy and I was driving, but that was fine with me. Home and watched a bit of TV but didn’t have more to drink – wasn’t in the mood for it.

Tash and I went to the gym this morning, she did yoga and I was in the gym as usual and it went well – sweating like mad – enjoyed worked hard though

We also saw Derek earlier but because Jack was starting we didn’t stay long as I wanted to see him from the beginning.

A good day all told

I love the comments in the video - "He's trying...he's trying....YEAH!!!"

Vinyl on the wall in the bar

I spent the day today working in the office and the bar, the morning I was putting all my photos and such like on the walls in my office – and then tidied up the place, looks much much better now.
In the afternoon I watched a YouTube video on how to best (cheaply) display album covers on a wall so I popped out to Wickes and then Tool Station to get the items I needed. The strangest thing happened through, the L-Shaped hooks that I wanted weren’t in Wickes so I Googled them and found they were in Tool Station so I walked up to the catalogues to look for it and the page was open on the item I needed. How spooky is that??? I was astonished and took photos and told the family – so creeped out!

So I got what I needed and then came home to do the DIY – the result I am so very pleased with as you can see below, just a shame that some of my very favourite albums were ruined by damp so I couldn’t use them.

Went and had dinner when Tash and Charlotte came back from the JR having seen Vics, Danny and Theo – nice toad in the hole and Emma cooked crepes for us which were nice.
Watched a bit of TV but everyone was knackered so early nights all round.
End to a good weekend

Office wall

Bar wall (before)

Bar Wall (after)

I’m a Great Uncle…but we already knew that!

I don’t think it needed confirming but I am officially a “great” uncle!

Victoria and Danny had their baby today, Vics was in labour all day and had a boy in the evening – they’ve called him Theodore.

There were complications etc along the way which had Tash worried but all is fine now and they’re okay I think.

Everyone will want to go up there to the JR and see them, I’ll wait until they out and home and comfortable.

So that’s likely to be the first of many for the family and the size just keeps increasing!!
P.S. There was a sweepstake on the date of his arrival and I missed out by choosing the due date around 17th Jan – I think one of the nieces up in Edinburgh on Gareth’s side of the family won - £200.00!!

Cowley Road Meal – sort of

Met Wayne and Kerry in Be At One this evening after a decent day’s work and we had a couple of cocktails as usual and then wandered down to The Coconut Tree. It’s a bit cramped in there as they push the tables up close of each other but it was fine – we’re slim!

Chose some food and it was fantastic, so tasty – really enjoyed it, I was even eating the mushrooms!

Had a few beers and at 11.15pm we went over to Café Tarifa and had a couple more in there – it was too late for Jack to pick us up – which pissed me off and we got a taxi home.

Wasn’t too happy about it but it is what it is, straight to bed, really good evening.

Decent Weekend – busy!

Friday:

Finished work and decided to have a few beers…ended up on the Gin and Tonic and Tash on the wine and then had a bit of a blowout and got drunk! Watched a film and eventually went out to the bar and slept out there until 5.00am. Loud music and loads to drink – plenty of dancing but all on my own!! Bit sad but had a good evening!

Saturday:

Hungover of course, woke up around 10.30am and then did some work pottering around the house and painting things for Tash. Tash & Charlotte took Mum out for afternoon tea at Crazy Bear and then popped into see Derek afterwards and he was fine, but I watched Jack play football – he got 25 mins and they lost 4-2 against Berkhamsted. Felt for him because he’s been playing well and started two matches. I took Bess and she was annoying, spilled my chips and boiling coffee! Home and dinner and another film in the evening which was nice – although not very good. Tom Hanks in A Wonderful Day in the Neighbourhood – load of shite!

Sunday:

Up early – more household DIY carried out today, fixing the door frames upstairs and clearing leaves in the back garden. Tash went for a run then we went for a walk with Bess in the meadow and ended up at the White Hart for the Farmer’s Market – not many stalls, and we had a coffee which was nice. Pottered around at home and cleared out the loft as well and then went to Sue’s for dinner which was nice and we watched Princess Diaries which Charlotte and I enjoyed. Came home and then went to White Hart again but with John, Pauline and a student call Una for the pub quiz, had a few pints and the quiz was hard – we came third (out of four teams)…but it was a nice evening and it went on late though so we didn’t get home until about 10.45pm – I watched some of MOTD and then went to bed

A good weekend all told

Normal day, normal diary entry that will never be read again!

Normal day working in Raintree – they had yearly conference or something so I was left alone in the office for much of the day. It’s fine though, I had loads to do so got on with it with no fuss

Went to Wheatley afterwards and cut through Blackbird Leys and Garsington – great shortcut to get there. Mum was there and I stayed an hour. He refused food but apparently had walked to the bathroom – his own request – so that was a bright point. Not much else to report really, it’s such a sad sight seeing him in there.

Took ages to get home and was in about 7.00pm crossing Tash at the bottom of the road as she went to boot camp at the gym – just dinner and relaxing for me!

Watched Silent Witness and then to bed again by 10.00pm! Pretty non-descript sort of day really.

Oh, over in the States the Democrats pushed ahead with the impeachment proceedings against Donald Trump – bit pointless really as the Senate is controlled by Republicans and they’re so partisan they will throw it out without any proper due process. Massive waste of time and money!

Morning in London, afternoon in gym, evening in front of TV

Travelled to London today to run a training session with a Hodder user so that they can run reports for them instead of me…not ideal but that’s what they wanted! Went fine and without incident and gave me a chance to catch up with things on the way there and back.

Half a day and back to Oxford by 2.00pm so decided to go to the gym, asked Tash but she wanted to paint the doors at home instead!

Worked really hard at the gym, 20 minutes on the bike had me sweating like mad and then 2000 metres on the rowing machine and then other stuff, was there until 4.00pm so a decent session for once.

Back home and couldn’t be bothered to work so relaxed in the bath and pottered about and then Tash and I watched Silent Witness and me, Charlotte and Tash watched Jo Jo Rabbit – I really enjoyed it but I don’t think the other two were particularly impressed. Had a funny conversation with Charlotte as she couldn’t understand that Hitler could be alive but ALSO an imaginary friend – so odd her way of thinking sometimes it really is. She just couldn’t comprehend that a real person can be an imaginary friend…I didn’t know there were rules for imaginary friends!!

Once all done, off to bed for an early night around 10.00pm for once!

Pleased with my effort at the gym, yes I know it’s January and everyone’s like that, but I so want to be in shape in the summer this year…perhaps this is the year I manage it….doubt it though!

House Day

Tash has it in her mind that January is “make up jobs” month!

So the pull out larder is no more…we emptied it and then I took out the pull out shelving and changed the doors so these are swing instead of pull out now. We thought we had shelves in the shed – nope! So we need to get some made and hopefully the guy at her work can do something for us.

Took ages to do this. Charlotte and Miles came home from their weekend in the log cabin in Hereford and stayed for dinner, opened a couple of bottles of wine and watched The Terminal – Tom Hanks film, wasn’t interested but really enjoyed it. They left so Tash and I watched the end of the other film we’d started – Peppermint – and then bed at 10.00pm, end to a decent weekend

Mum’s Birthday

Supposed to be working in the morning with a tel call but they’d forgot – bit pissed off by that to be honest as they’d requested be do the session at the weekend!

Did my tax return instead…joy! Bit worried about this one to be honest because I think we’ve gone too far with dividends to Tash – scared of a hefty tax bill coming our way.

I picked up Tash from the gym where she was having a coffee with Zoe after yoga and we then went to the Nursing home in Wheatley and met with Mum and we took Derek down to the Harvester by Asda. Pushing him in the wheelchair was quite hard work but it was only about a 15 minute walk and it was fine.

Nice bit of food and drink and he didn’t have much but we think he was glad of the time away from the home and Tash was very organised in ensuring Derek had some flowers and a card to give to mum, Tash has been amazing she really has. Walked back to the home and said our goodbyes and then we went straight to Didcot to catch the second half because Jack was playing (he’d started) and it was a typical lower league match (17th v 18th) – Jack did well what we saw and was unlucky not to score. He got subbed near the end and they won 1-0 so that was pleasing.

Couple of drinks in the bar and then home to get ready and sort/walk Bess – she’s much better now and fully recovered from her illness.

Went and picked up Mum and then parked down Manzil Way and went to Malikas Indian Restaurant – Jack joined us and we had a lovely meal. Couple of beers and glasses of wine – Tash drove, Jack went off to meet mates and we got the cake brought out again! The manager then came over and offered free drinks – I said no but Tash and Mum had another wine and Mum was a bit tipsy by the end of the evening when we dropped her home.

I think she had a good birthday and appreciated what we’d done for her in trying to make it enjoyable. Louise didn’t come down or anything which isn’t very good at all – I am not going to raise it with her though – no need and it’s her that’s missing out.

A good evening, home about 10.30pm, watched a bit of MOTD with a coffee and then bed! Lots of jobs tomorrow!!

Giving Blood

Gave blood this morning and just got home – all went well and as usual posted a tweet with a photo of a Club biscuit, it’s the only time I get to have one of them!!

Decided to cycle there today, good decision, the traffic as usual was a nightmare, it was so nice not to be caught up in it – will definitely do that again.

But the cycling was hard work, my legs just had no strength in them at all. It will be interesting to see how quickly/well I do it in 6 weeks time assuming I manage to continue with some sort of exercise regime…it’s January of course so I am interested in losing some weight. But then I also want to for the Mexico holiday, I so want to look good for that after the New Years Eve game where everyone said I was the fat one! Bitter much??? Me??

Skiing in the Alps to start 2020

Just got back from 4 days in Les Deux Alpes and it was fantastic fun.

Jack found out he wasn’t playing football on Saturday 4th so we booked up and went skiing. Drove down on New Years Day night after his football match for Didcot where he got a full 90 minutes and we took his mate Aleks. The journey down was fine and got there at 7.00am local time, slept in the car for a bit and then dumped our stuff in the hotel and were out on the slopes by 11.00am.

Decent hotel, good location and loads of slopes. Lively resort in the evening as well as on the slopes themselves – stopped in Pano Bar every day for a couple of beers.

Evening meal and breakfast included, slopes shut at 5.00pm so slept and relaxed before dinner and then afterwards out to the pubs/bars (The Polar Bear and The Secret Bar, also the Windsor pub!)

Skiing was great fun as always, I wasn’t as pathetic and hurting/aching as I have been in the past, perhaps the gym sessions in December helped?

Aleks and Jack got on really well so that was a relief, he is a nice lad to that helped, he got us a couple of coffees on the slopes so that was good of him, we did buy him a lot of drinks and food, but it was fine.

Coming home wasn’t so good – we were caught in traffic trying to get out of the Alps so it added over an hour to the journey and we stopped for food instead of driving through. I did drive a 6.5hrs stint from 8.30pm to 3.00am so that was tough going. Tash drove the UK side of things so I could sleep and that worked really well.

So a really great holiday, will upload some photos but I’d recommend to anyone to go there if they asked me.

Skiing holidays are so hard to beat…it’s never boring seeing the mountains and you’re just so detached from the real world – I love it so very much. We all do!

New Year’s Eve

Got things sorted for the skiing trip and pottered about the house during the day.

Went to the Millar’s in the evening, Wayne and Kerry picked us up because Sharon really wanted Tash to have a drink!

It was just me & Tash, Wayne & Kerry and Jason & Sharon. Laura and a friend of hers were there for some of the evening as well.

We drank and talked and soon played a couple of games that was fun. The first one called Linkie was really enjoyable, worked in couples and had to answer x4 questions and then work out the connection (link). We won, it was very close and went down to the last card, it was quite challenging but at the same time not overly hard that it wasn’t fun.

We then played ‘Bad People’ and that was a good laugh, you have cards that provide a statement and you have to determine who best fits that card – I was getting quite a lot of them…worst one was who’s put on weight since getting married – unanimous pointing at me! Didn’t like that…truth hurts…

Midnight came and went and we had a sing song and stayed until about 2.00am and then got a lift home.

Really lovely evening that we all enjoyed and thankfully didn’t overdo it with the long drive ahead of me on New Year’s Day!

An end to a very eventful year, as always, we wonder what’s in store in the new year…we shall see soon enough!

Ice Skating at Winchester Cathedral

Hangovers for Charlotte and Mum this morning – seriously ill and being sick everywhere!

I got blamed because my Gin measures were a bit too generous!

Spent the morning clearing up and sorting things out and then around midday drove down to Winchester with Wayne & Kerry and the kids for the annual ice skating trip. Winchester is a really nice place – really impressed with it and would go back there at Xmas time in the future.

Had some quick food from Macs to help with the hangovers and then went to the cathedral where the ice skating was being held. Nice set up but the rink was pretty small – it was fine though and we enjoyed the hour on the ice.  Didn’t fall over and looked fairly fit – I think – it was good though.

Meal at Ask Italian afterwards and that was lovely, then back home in the cars and an early night – everyone was knackered!

Good fun as usual

Dark Side Bar Opening

The Dark Side Bar officially opened today!

I had a practise run a couple of weeks ago where I stayed up all night and got absolutely hammered but this time other people were invited!!

From about 3.00pm onwards we invited people to come over – it was nice, there was a steady trickle through and everyone was really impressed with the bar set up and we all crowded into it. Drinks were flowing and it was a great afternoon and evening.

As per usual we overdid it and stayed up until about midnight and got steaming drunk – including getting out the smoke machine and strobe lights.

A good start to life with the new bar – realised there are a few things we need to add to it but as things stand and as a beginning all is good so far. Looking forward to getting more use out of it over time!!

Panto visit

Went to the panto this evening – in Aylesbury as usual.

Parked no problem and then met up in the pub opposite and had something to eat, a few people not feeling too well because of colds/flu but all was fine

The panto wasn’t actually all that to be honest – it felt flat and not very enjoyable. A bit boring actually.

The water guns was mental this year, absolutely mad

We had a couple in front of us who had learning difficulties and it was hard not to love them! She kept being so wrapped up in the show and what was happening and making comments it was so lovely and innocent to listen to her making remarks and suggestions for how the princess could survive and marry etc.

Had the usual photo outside afterwards and then made our way home

A nice evening and great tradition but it wasn’t as good as usual – perhaps we’ve built it up too much!

Derek Moved into Nursing Home

As the title suggests – he was moved into the Triangle Nursing Home today being transferred from Didcot Hospital

Mum and I had obviously reviewed the place and felt this was the best one for him and it’s fine – he will settle in no problem hopefully.

None of us went up today but we will do so over the weekend and see him.

A shame it’s come to this but it’s necessary sadly, no idea if he will ever recover to be able to leave the home or not, time will tell

It’s good it’s only Wheatley as Mum can get up there easily enough

Derek Moving to Nursing Home

Mum has been given a date (Friday) for Derek to be moved to the Triangle Nursing Home

I went with her yesterday to check out the room and when we got there they advised he’d been allocated one of the ground floor – so no decision was required, we much preferred him to be downstairs.

We checked out the room and it was adequate, a little small, but on a good location so we were happy with that.

He moves there tomorrow, he’s got an appointment for his hearing aid at the JR in the morning and then instead of going back to the hospital he’s off to Wheatley instead.

Mum is bearing up well and is happy with it, hopefully Derek likes the move as well

Derek – Nursing Home

Mum has been advised by the hospital that Derek needs to go to a Nursing Home now because he can’t be cared for at home when released.

They gave her a couple of options so she and I spent today going to them. We had three and went to Wheatley in the morning.

It’s not nice, people just sat in the living room watching TV and nothing happening – except ‘waiting’…if you know what I mean.

Staff were lovely and we had a good tour and it’s small so only 24 residents. We liked this place and with it being close to Mum is very convenient.

Went to Greater Leys in the afternoon – not so nice. It was fine but 3 times as big and less personal. We weren’t there long, I think we’d already made up our minds for Wheatley, and we decided not to even bother with Bletchingdon because it was too far away.

So that’s decided then, over £1k per week, but I think this will be paid for by the NHS and not Mum/Derek.

It’s all a bit depressing and sad, it really is. He’s too young and fit to go into a home, but we could never have seen this happening.

I think he is improving ever so slowly, but as usual it’s ups and downs – but compared with when I went about 2 weeks ago he’s much better.

Weekend fun; Emily’s Birthday & TOAD tour

Friday night:

Emily’s Birthday party in Bicester at the bowls club, we decided to get the train, quite a few of us, including John & Pauline and Zoe at her kids. The venue was right next door to the train station so that was a bonus and the drinks were really cheap, didn’t dance, just drank! Nothing much else to report really, a nice evening and then we got the train home which wasn’t too late – I think it was about 11.00pm, we were all steaming drunk though! Walked home from the train station and home to bed!!

Saturday:

Fry up in the morning to clear the head and the stomachs ready for our gin tour in the afternoon. Me, Tash, Lewis, Charlotte, Miles & Mum went to TOAD (The Oxford Artisan Distillery) that is opposite Cheney school. Really good tour, enjoyable and the lad running it was very personable, had a lot of shots as well – bit tipsy by the time we’d finished the tour! Stayed for a bit then Charlotte and Miles went off with Mum to drop her home and me Tash and Lewis when shopping into Oxford. The TOAD people were great and we were able to get a minibus ride into the centre of town. Did some shopping but we weren’t in the mood so soon stopped for something to eat at the Wetherspoons, a couple more beers and then home to watch films and relax. A really nice day – sadly Jack didn’t play today

Sunday:

Very relaxed and slow day – went to see Derek and then over to Sue’s for something to eat. Lewis’s house-mates turned up and he gave them a lift home to Manchester and we watched some TV and then came home – nothing too exciting!

Jack’s Cheeky Chipped goal – great skill!

Jack’s struggling to get a regular game at the minute which is causing all sorts of anger and frustration – feel really sorry for him and I get just as wound up when viewing Twitter updates and see he’s not playing

But this evening in the Berks and Bucks cup match he started and did well culminating in this goal which was videoed. He was rightly chuffed to bits and he got a lot of love on Twitter as a result!

Very proud of him!

My Birthday – 51 years old…really???

It’s 4.15am and I am downstairs working! I couldn’t sleep this evening – the pain I am in with my back and a trapped nerve is terrible, so I thought I might as well get up and stop lying there in pain and disturbing Tash with my moaning and groaning. Not really enjoying the start to my birthday I have to admit!

Can’t believe it’s a year since all the celebrations last year – seems ages ago. But it’s nice seeing Facebook memories showing the trip to New York – great trip

Nothing planned today – have loads on my plate for work in terms of training clients so a busy day

Will go out in the evening for a meal – Mum will come. Feeling sorry for her because Derek’s still not in a good place (and I don’t mean that as a slight on Didcot!) he’s just not really improving much and the people are suggesting he be coming home in a matter of weeks and Mum doesn’t want to become a carer etc – it’s a tricky situation and is causing a lot of concern.

Also, Grandma is in a Community hospital in Witney and I don’t think Susan is coping too well so it’s all a bit of a mess

Glad we’re going away to Menorca for a few days tomorrow!!

Another family member in hospital!

So currently we have Derek in hospital for 3 months now, Grandma is in Emergency Ward due to falling and fracturing the top of her leg and today I got a phone call from Witney Sue saying that Kidlington Sue has severe stomach pains last night so they called an ambulance and she’s at the JR as well – so three people all in the JR at the same time!

Madness.

Derek’s not really changing much, he has sleepy moments and then the next day will be talkative – but he’s still confused when talking and often refers back to being in the army. It’s concerning, I honestly don’t know where things will go with his situation

Grandma is fine – I think being in hospital is actually doing her good. People to see and being pampered and resting. I do wonder now, as do the family I think, whether she will be able to return to her bungalow. If she needs more care then it might be a case that she’s admitted to a home/hospice. That’s a sudden turnaround of events but it might be something that she’s happy to do and the family as well. At 99 it might give her a new lease of life and she enjoy the company, no idea – will see how quickly things go with her mending her leg

All a bit strange and definitely exhausting it has to be said. I went to see Derek last night as Mum was at Molly’s graduation – that was fine and he was chatty

Charlotte’s First Day at work – Oodle

As the title suggests – Charlotte started work today at her new proper job as a HR Assistant with Oodle. They’re a car finance company and they’re the ones that she initially turned down until her other job went wrong.

She’s started today with 12 other people and they all had balloons on their desks and welcomed and she’s got her own desk and laptop etc so she’s chuffed to bits

A good start and I think she’s going to love it – they’ve already told her of events and parties so she’s excited.

Hopefully she’ll do well.

Jack Dark a livewire…

Jack gets a decent mention in the match report last night in the cup match against Thame which they won

https://www.pitchero.com/clubs/didcottown/teams/85240/match-centre/0-4730685/report

“Jack Dark had been a real live wire all evening for Didcot and the young winger twice went close to getting his first Didcot goal, Hill saving a left footed effort before Dark skilfully tricked his way beyond the full back before drilling a shot wide when he had Isaac probably better placed in the middle of the goal.”

Rough Runner - 10k

Up nice and early for an 8.20am leave to drive to South London – Morden.

Parked okay – free on-street parking and then walked across to the park.

It was a 10k obstacle run – the emphasis on run more than obstacles! There were 16 in total. Hard the warm up and then off we went. Mum was there but obviously wasn’t participating and caught up with us a few times as we went round and she seemed to enjoy herself watching us and other people failing!

It wasn’t a mud-run – the obstacles were very much inspired by gameshows like Total Wipeout and things like that – it was actually great fun – we had a really good time and laugh. Loads of walking though, were not very fit and by the end I struggled to actually walk! Anyway, went through it all and gradually more water was introduced to the challenges and we all came a cropper in some of them, couldn’t be helped! I think the best one was the four balls to try and run across – that was hard.

Lewis was best out of all of us, he did really well, his balance and fitness really came out – very impressed – even Jack had to begrudgingly give him respect!!

At the end of the course there was a travellator that had speeds of fast, medium, slow and upwards! Lewis and Jack managed the fast one, I tried but failed immediately and as I came down got cramp, I couldn’t move – so hard to go on the belt of shame (the one going upwards!) and was laughed at as a result – but that was fine, I wasn’t the only one.

It was an exhausting experience and I am writing this the following day on the train – I’m broken! Let’s see if it helps me work on my fitness now then shall we?

We keep referring to the Nuts Challenge so we need to try and do that again – that’s still our favourite.

Came home and on the way heard that great grandma had fallen over in the night and found on the floor the next morning, she’s in hospital (same as Derek!!) but only really precautionary, scans show nothing broken but we’ll see, she’s struggling to stand.

What a nightmare – it’s all going on!

30 Day Challenge

So today I am going to start a 30 day challenge – I need to write it down so as to make it stick.

I am going to try and follow/meet the action points I get from my Alarmed App.

So eating the Frog, exercising, doing my diary.

I have removed Twitter from my phone and each time I am tempted to use it on the website I try and force myself to do something else.

We’ll see how this progresses…I can’t see it lasting!

Jack makes an impact

Jack has been very patient with football, he’s been on the bench for about 6 games and not been used at all. He’s getting pissed off but we’re trying to keep him positive and patient. It’s paid off

On Saturday he got 20 minutes and did okay and yesterday he also got 20 minutes in a cup match against Kidlington. I was working at home but watching Twitter and he made an impact right at the end when he beat the full-back, got brought down and won a penalty which was converted by Phil Thomas’s son so they went through 2-1.

He was rightly buzzing and everyone was pleased for him – Andy Sinnott and loads of others have recognised how patient and determined he’s been and he’s taken his chance.

Hopefully he will build on this now, not sure how the rest of the game went and he might well be on the bench again this week and he be used as an impact sub, but for 18 years that’s okay

Really pleased for him – very proud.

This is the match report and also my tweet which also showed how much his team-mates like him with some decent banter!
https://www.pitchero.com/clubs/didcottown/teams/85240/match-centre/0-4697127/report

Jack signing for Didcot

Jack has put pen to paper and signed for Didcot Town this season – this is the announcement on Twitter!

Hopefully he will do well and get game time, he’s comfortable there and feels wanted and welcomed.
He came home from training the other night with all the kit so he’s part of it all!

Will be good fun to go and watch him on a regular basis – looking forward to it.

Quite funny because Noz and Tommy’s sons are both part of the squad as well – and what with Millar over the in the club-house all the time it could be interesting how much I spend on drinking there!!

Derek Minor Progress Update

Went up to see Derek tonight and Jack came with me. He went in first and then he and mum were kicked out during the handover and I went in with mum afterwards. The breathing tube has been removed from his throat and his breathing was better. He responded in terms of looking at us but it does feel as though there’s not much really registering behind his eyes. I’m a bit concerned as to how cognitive ability is there if I’m honest.

But again it’s another day of improvement so mums pleased and clutching at anything remotely positive which is understandable. Let’s see what tomorrow brings

Jack run out with Didcot

Went and watched Jack at Didcot where he got a decent run out in the second half. He didn’t get a lot of the ball but when he did he was okay. I made a mistake of telling him to take a player on when he should have crossed it. I need to learn not to say anything to him from the sidelines now

I went with Wayne and we had a few pints and it looks like they want jack to sign so this could be a regular thing...not good for my liver as Millar is there all the time!

Back to ours for more beers and I got the pizza oven out. Zoe came over as well and it was a really nice evening l, drank far too much. Got respect for my pizzas though as they were all cooked to perfection!!

Also went to Sue’s in the morning and helped with some of the boxes following her house move. It’s a huge great house with a massive garden. I’ve no idea why she bought it, it’s definitely not a move to downsize at all. Madness.

Derek Update, but not much to report

No improvement today with Derek, in fact he might have gone backwards to some small degree. I worked at Raintree so couldn’t help out with lifts or anything in the morning but Tash worked early so she could get up to the hospital for about midday and support Mum and bring her home afterwards when they’re kicked out at 1.00pm. Tash said that he just slept throughout and there was little response to any discussions etc and it was an emotional morning with plenty of crying.

So I got some stuff sorted when I got home from work and then went to the JR about 7.15pm in the end and again it was the same thing, I think he opened his eyes a couple of times and reacted to both Mum and my voices but it was little else that happened. He does move and flinch from the discomfort of the tubes down his throat so we see that as a positive thing because it shows there is feeling and activity, if he was doing literally nothing then that would be much more concerning.

Mum did most of the talking as usual, it’s a nervous talking and is constant, but it’s good for her that one of us is always there for her. Charlotte is going to go tomorrow, I think she’ll find that really tough and emotional and understandably so. We haven’t put any pressure on the kids to go and it’s their own decision, it’s shocking but you do sort of get used to it but it’s still so sad. Not sure if Jack will go, I think he wants to and it would be nice if he did but again, we’ll see how things progress.

So tomorrow they are likely to take the tube helping him to breathe out so that he does breathe on his own, apparently you can become so used to things helping you that your mind switches off and “forgets” how to breathe…not good! The tube is not breathing for him, it’s just increasing the oxygen when he takes a breath, but he does need to do it himself asap apparently.

We will see how that goes later, I am in Kent tomorrow so won’t be home until late and not able to go up there until the evening.

Still don’t know how Mum is managing to cope with it, she must be under such strain and be exhausted.

Derek seriously ill

Whilst we were away on holiday last week Derek suffered a subarachnoid haemorrhage – basically a bleed on the brain. Mum got him to the hospital and he was operated on and placed into the Intensive Care Unit. It’s not possible to stress how important life-threatening this is. At the time of writing this it’s now 6 days and we’ve visited him with Mum for the last two days (having not come home until midnight on Sunday) and we’ve only seen him open his eyes in that time.

During the holiday we kept in touch with Mum and it seemed he was progressing and she was positive but something went wrong and he had to go back to ICU which is where he’s remained and where we’ve seen him. Tubes coming out of him in all places and helping him to breathe, it’s heart-breaking to witness.

Mum is bearing up okay but she must be exhausted, it’s tiring for us and we’ve only been there a couple of sessions – we’re allowed there in the morning and afternoon/evenings. It’s hard to know what to do or say and slowly we’ve got more information from the nurses or doctors there. They’re very good and he’s on a constant watch, it makes you realise how serious this all is and reading the literature, it’s not positive reading whatsoever!

We can only keep supporting Mum and hoping for the best. Tash went up there with Mum this evening and they came out much more positive as his eyes were open and they were trying to communicate with him, how much he sees or hears we don’t know but you hope it’s helping in some small way.

It’s draining physically and of course emotionally, it’s so sad to see him like this and also see the desperation in Mum willing him to be well and to pull through this, she’d be so lost without him and it’s a terrible thing to face up to and think about, but it’s a real possibility that he won’t survive this, but also, if he were to survive, what sort of state he will be in terms of mental and physical health. We can’t and mustn’t speculate, we just want him to get through this first hurdle and then go on from there.

Tash spoke to the nurse today asking about their experience in this sort of situation and they advised that it’s the first 10 days that’s the main milestone for someone to survive, tomorrow is day 7!

The kids are not sure about visiting, I think Charlotte might go but Lewis is up in Manchester and I think Jack won’t feel comfortable – he might wait and see what Charlotte says if she does go on Thursday.

It’s hard to think of anything else at this time, it’s a horrible, horrible situation and as I mentioned above – absolutely heart-wrenching.

Fingers crossed is all we can say

Jack playing in front of 841 people

Played for Thame Utd in the second half against Oxford Utd – right mid – did well

Jack’s got an ear-ring!!

Got a Snapchat through to the Dark Dickheads family group and Jack has got an ear-ring in Aiya Napa! Mad. It’s fine, it’s a diamond stud but he makes us laugh!

Haven’t seen any update from Tash, in saying that, Raff has got a big tattoo as well…not sure how that’s going to go down with his family, huge great rose on his forearm

Jack#s get us up to date well and it looks like he’s had a fantastic time, he’s been on the paraglider and even talked his way into an all-inclusive luxury hotel and send videos from there in the infinity pool and getting free drinks

No idea how he manages it!

I go and collect them from Luton tomorrow…

Working away from home

Haven’t worked away from home in bloody ages! I am up n Derby today working for EdCo to try and help with their Support team set up and reviewing calls that are coming in. Not sure how it’s going to go but it’s been okay today, hopefully I will impress, but it’s going to cost a fair amount so I hope they don’t get funny when I send in my invoice!

Left for home this morning at 6.00am and it’s now 10.30am in a pretty ordinary hotel, won’t come back here again in a hurry I must admit.

I have gone from being quiet and worried about money to being quite busy again now, but I think I like that as it focusses the mind and makes me push myself that bit harder – I am not a good person with too much time and being the one that has to motivate myself to work, definitely a stick not a carrot person!

Oh, have ordered the building materials today from Blanchfords for them to get working on my new office next week, exciting! It’s costing a bit but with this extra work on my plate hopefully we’ll be fine with setting it up…the bar in getting closer all the time!

Jack has now finished his A-Levels!

That’s it, he’s finished his A-Levels and his school years!

Makes me and Tash feel old, but it’s not about us. He’s worked hard but this has been a hard time to get through, he’s an annoying little shit who has an answer for everything and we’ve really had to push him to keep his focus. I am concerned that he’s not done enough but it’s clearly too late now, he’s NOT doing retakes.

I so very much hope that he’s done enough to get some decent grades, he keeps saying that he’s not going to go to further education but he still needs to have some decent grades to show for the last two years, else they were a waste of time and he might as well have done an apprenticeship.

Not sure how long we have to wait for the results, but he just doesn’t care about them and now will be dossing about and then goes on holiday next Wednesday which I am sure he will absolutely love

Charlotte’s Dissertation Result…what will it mean overall??

Charlotte got a FIRST in her dissertation – she was almost crying, Tash said she was shaking she was so pleased and shocked about it – I am delighted for her and so very, very proud. She’s worked incredibly hard so to get the recognition now and the feeling that she’s capable is so pleasing for me, Tash and herself – she rightly deserves it too, she’s very good at what she does and I don’t think she has that confidence in her ability. She’s going to do so very well whatever it might be and I hope this result gives her that confidence. So what does that result mean?

Well, all this year she’s got mostly 2:1’s and a few 2:2 – I think this is her first time she’s got a 1st this year so I am expecting her to get an overall 2:1 which her and Tash are going to be delighted with. I really, really don’t think she will drop to a 2:2, that can’t possibly happen, we’d be stunned if that happened. But what about sneaking a First????? I don’t know, I think we all think that would be a real stretch, but we won’t rule it out and none of us are really thinking about it, so let’s hope for the best and that will be a 2:1 which like Charlotte said, she didn’t think she’d even get into University in the first place!

So proud of her – she’s lovely!

MRI Scan & Raff’s Family for Dinner

Went to the JR this afternoon for an MRI Scan – they’re not much fun at all it has to be said. Tash dropped me down there and it was about 25 minutes in this little tube that is quite claustrophobic and tight. I just accepted it and closed my eyes and then all the noise starts up and it’s odd feeling in there. In saying that I almost fell asleep…! Will find the results out in due course and hopefully they’ll be able to see what’s wrong with my back, if they say there’s nothing obvious I will be so surprised.

In the morning we did work on the house and got loads of jobs done including another dump run for Sue, but then found out that Nikki has been round as well and has suggested getting a skip and then took Sue for lunch – it’s pathetic it really is, the answer to everything is spending money and eating food. Tash was quite upset because it was obvious that Sue’s been moaning about her being round and she wasn’t invited to the Jacob’s Inn with them – I do feel sorry for Tash.

In the afternoon we hosted Raff’s family for dinner and it was nice, Jack and Raff are going off to Aiya Napa in a couple of weeks so it was some last minute planning and we’d been to their house so it was our turn. It was a nice enough evening and they left quite abruptly when Raff said “Can we go now?” – quite shocked by that rudeness but there you go. Stayed up and watched a film and then had an early night.

Another nice weekend all told

Chernobyl drama – brilliant TV viewing

We’ve been watching a fair amount of TV over the last few months, we always get an hour or so at the end of the day to sit and relax. Got through loads of programme and the latest one we’ve completed was one on Sky Atlantic called Chernobyl.

As the title suggests this is a short 5 part docu-drama about the events at the Chernobyl Power Plant in April 1986 – it was fascinating and has garnered constant praise and acclaim, I’ve not heard anyone moan about it.

Last episode was this evening and it finished as strongly as it started and was a shocking view into the mentality of the men involved and what being Russian involves and their hierarchy and command chains – it’s scary.

Anyway, I am sure it will win awards and rightly so, it’s been great. Now to find something else to watch…what’s on the planner?

Kate Millar’s 18th Birthday

Up quite early washing the car this morning and 3 people (including Charlotte) said “You can do mine next!” – made me smile putting that on Facebook and got some good reactions. I did actually do mine, Charlotte’s and Tasha’s cars in the end. I then sorted out the wood in the stable and then trimmed the hedge out the front, so was busy busy busy. Took the dogs for a walk, hot again.

Our latest student, Michele from Switzerland, left this morning as well, she was a lovely girl and really enjoyed her stay with us. She was very quiet but would get involved if only to sit and observe us being drunk or a bit crazy (as she put it in her card). She gave us a thank you card that was lovely and also some spaghetti because of her first meal and Jack throwing his on the floor! Doubt we'll ever see her again, we never do, but I think we made a nice impression on her.

Over to Didcot to the Millar’s house, haven’t been there for a long time I don’t think, they’ve sorted out the back garden and it’s really nice there – done it well. Phil Thomas was there cooking at the BBQ and Tracey was on form, usual suspects were there and it was a lovely afternoon. Had to go inside near the end because of the rain but food was all good and loads to drink!

Jack was driving so Tash and I had a few  and when we got home Charlotte was on the sofa so we watched some films and it was a nice evening.

Everyone was knackered, it’s been a long weekend.

Bournemouth Beach & Champions League Final

Up fairly early this morning, got things sorted and then jumped into the car and me, Tash and Charlotte went down to Bournemouth for the day. We got there about 12.15pm (quite a long journey) and it was nice and hot but very busy. We went to Canford Cliffs as normal but there were no dog signs everywhere.

Walked down to Branscombe and found the only section of beach that was dog-friendly and set up there. Had our picnic and threw the ball for Bess into the sea and she loved it. We then all crashed out and slept nearly all the afternoon. Listening to music and relaxing, it was lovely.

We needed to get home for the football in the evening and left about 5.15pm, I was worried about the traffic but there was no need, we flew home, it was amazing how smooth it was.

Quick shower and change then up to the White Hart, I was originally happy to stay at home but Tash wanted to meet the Henderson’s so I watched the TV and she sat talking outside. It was a game between Liverpool and Spurs and I obviously didn’t want Liverpool to win. Unfortunately, they were fairly comfortable in winning 2-0, Spurs were better than them but didn’t threaten and it was a really shit game to watch. Liverpool also were gifted a penalty in the first 30 seconds, it was incredible. I am not 100% sure about it being a pen, but there have been so many instances where they’ve been given I am not surprised. Thankfully it wasn’t the only goal.

I was quite drunk by the end and we had a chat with Matt and Nicky before coming home.

A lovely day and decent evening, if only the match was better and a different result! As you can well imagine, all my mates were celebrating on Facebook and Twitter.

Nicole Holden’s 18th Birthday

I did absolutely nothing all day today, I was heavily hungover and didn’t lift a finger, just browsed the internet or slept, fucking idiot!

Went to Wayne & Kerry’s in the early evening as it was Nicole’s 18th birthday and we sat in the garden and Wayne did a BBQ. nice food and relaxing evening. I did have a few beers but it was a struggle!

Zoe and the girls were over and other family and friends, it was nice. The girls went into town and slowly people left and we were last as usual.

Tash drove although I could have really.

Can’t believe they’re all turning 18, it’s so odd.

Elton John film – Rocket Man

I’m going to take a leaf out of Elton John’s diary and be more perfunctory with my diary entries now, he used to do everything in bullet point form and short sharp entries, I think if I do the same then I will not find creating diary entries such a chore, that’s not the right word, just so I can add them more quickly really.

Worked at Raintree today, went ok.

Finished early and home by 4.30pm – quick lunch then over to Grandma’s house to meet up with Brett and Melanie who are over here. Nice to see them if only for 45 minutes along with the rest of the family. We get on well with them and there is a nice/special bond we have with them so they’re always really pleased to see us.

Over to Bicester and met with Nikki, Gaz, Emily and Sue in Nando’s for a quick drink and then over to Vue for the Elton John film Rocket Man. Biggest thing of popcorn I’ve seen (free) and couldn’t finish it, felt a bit sick!

Film was very enjoyable, won’t win any awards but it was entertaining and we liked it – certainly gave us a taste for his concert to come in Italy.

Home by 11.00pm – saw that Chelsea beat Arsenal in the Europa League final – 4-1, not good for Arsenal at all!

Lazy (very) TV day!

Tash worked today and was up and out around 9.00am – I was dead! Stayed in bed for another hour before feeling guilting and getting up and walking the dog and doing chores. Went and got Lewis from Bicester and also the shelter and then home around midday in which we proceeded to watch TV literally all day long! Tash came back from work and just crashed on the sofa so we watched film after film, incredibly lazy but quite satisfying at the same time.

Complete waste of time but we didn’t mind

Has some food and then more TV and Lewis went back to Manchester about 8.00pm after I’d walked Bess once more

A really enjoyable weekend all told.

Victoria’s pregnant!

Pottering about in the morning. More of Sue’s garage clearance with help from Lewis then over to Danny and Victoria’s for a BBQ. We took our shelter and that was an excellent idea as it pissed down with rain at one point and it helped keep any heat in.

Loads to drink and nice and relaxing.

They then announced that Victoria was pregnant so that went down really well and everyone was pleased as you’d expect.

Tash had to work in the morning and surprised me by drinking as much as she did! We were planning to get a bus home but Jess offered us a lift so we didn’t turn that down and she gave Tash and I a lift home – Lewis stayed and went out into Bicester town with Katie and Oscar and a couple of other people

Really good day and evening and great news about the pregnancy – please about that.

Yoga and Punting–not a good mix!

Heavy head and tired but not too bad.

Did some gardening and then Tash dragged me to the gym to participate in a Yoga season. Oh my god that was hard. Sweat was pouring off me and I found it so hard, I have no flexibility at all and struggled. Was in pain for much of it. Afterwards we did some clearing out at her mums house and then made some lunches and went down to Wolfson College to get the HMC punt.

Zoe and Laoisa came with us. Zoe has never been punting before. We went to the same place as we did last month with Ivy and stopped for our food. Lewis was late so didn’t meet us for the beginning but he then parked at the Victoria Arms and walked along the bank to find us.

We then punted back to the VA and had a pint there and then back to college to drop the pint off.

My back was killing me from the yoga so I jumped in the bath and also slept a bit for an hour by which time John and Pauline came up and we hosted them and got the pizza oven going.

Had a few drinks but nothing mad and it was a really pleasant evening.

Stayed outside under the heaters and it was really good. It wasn’t too late either, they left around 10.30pm, we cleared up and off to bed.

A really good day.

Jon Ward’s Mum’s Funeral

Didn’t get too much done in the morning, quite distracted really and then got ready for Jon Ward’s mums Funeral. It was held at the crematorium near Wantage and it was a good turn out. Lots of familiar faces and Jon was pleased that we turned up.

We then went to Cosenor House in Abingdon and had a few drinks and food there. I wasn’t drinking but it was good to catch up with people.

Back home I did some more work and then signed off around 5.00pm having taken Bess for a long walk run around the meadow, I’d done well, was pleased with my running and then worked around the house.

Zoe came up in evening and we sat outside eating nibbles and drinking. It wasn’t particularly hot so I went in and watched some TV but I was drinking double and treble gin and tonics!

Bedtime came but I wanted to stay up watching more Tv. Which then turned into a YouTube night! I eventually gave up and went to bed at 4.00am pissed up!

Good fun and hopefully not too groggy the next day!

Lewis pay-rise, Charlotte in France, Jack in exams

Really pleased for Lewis – he’s been away in Croatia for a week’s break and had a great time. He was driving and there were no reports of problems or incidents and the photos on Facebook suggest it was a lovely place and they loved it. Back to reality now but he’s just advised the family group that work are really pleased with him and he’s been given a pay-rise again so he’s now on £34.7k – which is brilliant for his age!

Certainly a lot more than I am on. Told Tash about Peters Books and she wasn’t surprised at all, positive attitude and all that but I need to get more work and in touch with people to get more money coming in asap.

Charlotte is now in Nice, South of France, she travelled down yesterday by train of course because Miles is still scared of flying and they didn’t get there until about 10.30pm – they travelled all day, nightmare really but there you are. She’s been sending photos throughout today and it looks lovely and hot there and she’s spending money on perfume and clothes so she’s enjoying herself

Jack as Business and PE exams today, I’ve no idea how he’s doing, I don’t think he’s doing enough and last night he went off and played football and didn’t d anything in the evening claiming that he’d done all the work he could in the day. I’m not convinced!

That’s it, I am in day 4 of a new diet and fitness attempt to lose weight, it’s not working yet but I am really watching what I am eating and I am trying to be more mobile and doing exercises. I’ve given myself 8 weeks to lose a stone – I’d love to get under 12stone, currently I am about 13st 9lbs, that’s depressingly fat and heavy for someone my size. It’s early days yet but I am not missing eating loads of food so it might be something that I can stick to…again, I doubt it very much but it would be great to not be self-conscious and embarrassed when I am on the beach in Crete. I hate my moobs and stomach so much, getting really pissed off seeing me in photos looking so big…well,  it’s up to me to sort it!

Jack’s A-Level Exams started today…

Jack starts his exams today and the first one he had was 9.00am this morning on Economics. We didn’t get much out of him when we asked him about it, I don’t think it went too well if I am guessing right.

Not much we can do about it now other than to keep encouraging and helping where possible, although I don’t think my idea of help is much appreciated.

Really hope he does well, he’s not asked for as much help from us as I’d like and when we push him he claims he’s in control, I am not so certain.

Well, fingers crossed, I am sure he’ll do well.

This was our encouragement last week…Tash’s idea – she’s learning well from me!

Game of Thrones – Finale

Today was the last ever Game of Thrones – I watched it this morning as I normally do at 6.15am and it was okay. It wasn’t particularly emotional or poignant, it was just…okay.

It’s a huge shame that a massive great story-telling machine has been wrapped up so quickly and the overall feeling is that this has been rushed. I think the show-runners and maybe the actors had had enough and wanted to move onto other projects, this has been running for about 9 years after all!

I think there will be other offerings but they won’t have the same impact and I suspect will feel forced and will slowly die off, but it’s been great fun and I’ve enjoyed it so much. But like all good things, it has to have an ending and this was it. If ever they wanted to do follow-ups then it would be possible because so many of the main characters actually survived, but I don’t think that will happen.

Anyway, that’s all done and dusted and it’s time for me to get into something else now with my time…

Garage clearance, Wedding Reception & FA Cup Final

Pottered around the garden in the morning and then went and got an eye test at Spec Savers – wasn’t in there for long at all and only went because my close up eyesight is a bit blurred now.

They advised that reading glasses might be a good idea but I didn’t need them for anything else, I wasn’t keen to spend money on them right now so I thanked them and made my excuses!

Back home and we went round to Sue’s and worked in her garage removing stuff and taking it down the dump. It’s going to be a long and full-on job to complete!

I then watched some of the FA Cup Final, this was between Man City and Watford, I said before the match to Tasha that I wasn’t too bothered about watching it because it would be one-sided and it would likely be 4-0 to Man City. It was okay for 20 mins, I was right about it being one-sided and Man City scored one goal and you knew it was all over so I got ready and walked the dog, no interested and sure enough it ended up 6-0! Not good really.

Tasha’s friend Ria got dropped round and we then went out to Thame for a wedding for Tash’s old work colleague Michelle, we also picked up Mike on the way. I had agreed to drive and it was a shit decision, I was bored out of my mind and it was a pretty shit evening, just sat there drinking water and eating cheese people-watching. We were not involved in anything and I was relieved when we left at 12.45pm – everyone there had a nice time, but we were very much on the fringes. Dropped them all home and got back about 1.00am.

What made the evening worse??? It was the Vets end of season night out..so WhatsApp was full of daft and drunken messages and photos. They had a great time – the only consolation is I didn’t spend too much and I didn’t have a hangover!

Family BBQ out of the blue

Worked in Raintree today and pretty full on but finished and got home as we were hosting again this evening with a BBQ for Mum, Derek and Grandma. They came over about 5.30pm and I got the coals going, wasn’t the best one but it cooked all the meat fine in the end, we had loads today for some reason. Miles was also over and we got on the gin that Pauline and John gave to Tash for her birthday. It was a small-ish bottle and it didn’t stand a chance…it was so tasty we actually finished it.

We then went through loads of wine as well…anyone would not think it was a school night. It was a lovely evening, a bit cold but those near the patio heater were okay…I wasn’t one of them! Wrapped up in blankets it was fine, stayed outside chatting etc until about 9.00pm when they left and we then stayed out until about 10.30pm. I think both Charlotte and Miles would happily have stayed up longer but we’d run out of wine, so that was the signal for bed.

A very nice evening and Mum appreciates us doing it for them and Grandma just enjoys being out and about so it works well. It’s so nice for the kids to have a great grandparent – she’s 99 in a couple of weeks – we’re going to host a lunch for her then as well, all the families are invited, that’ll be interesting.

Lewis on holiday in Croatia, and a quick family update

Lewis is in Croatia right now, he’s gone with some friends and he’s the designated driver! Not too sure how I feel about that because he’s responsible for about 9 people in a minibus. He’s pretty confident about it all so I am sure he will be fine. They’re just travelling around places and sight-seeing and enjoying a week away from work. Looks nice what I have seen of his photos so far so I hope he has a great time.

Not much else to report, work is desperately slow, I am getting fed up with a client who won’t pay me so that’s a stress I could do without and obviously I don’t have as much work as I’d like..so stress from all areas!

Charlotte is working at Anna Balance’s old school and she’s enjoying it but the real stress in the house is Jack’s A-Levels coming up thick and fast. He’s been working really hard with revision and such like but we have an argument almost daily because I still don’t think he’s doing enough and is too easily distracted. We will see soon enough, they start next week, I really hope he does well in them

Game of Thrones is finishing…one episode to go

So Game of Thrones is coming to an end…sad emoji!!

We’re in Season 8 and have just had episode 5, so Monday will be the last one ever. I have to admit that the show I fell in love with has faltered this season and last, it’s gone too much towards the CGI and action instead of the story-telling and intrigue that made it so great to watch. There’s also not a feeling of dread/danger for some of the characters now, I think it’s referred to as “Plot Armour” or “Character Armour” in which they flirt with danger but then survive!

Anyway, it’s been a great adventure and I will be disappointed when it ends and I strongly suspect I will be very disappointed with the last episode, there is just far too much for them to wrap up in a single episode of 80 minutes, I think it will break the internet with complaints!

What’s been nice is that Charlotte, Miles and their friend Freddie have been round on a Monday night and we’ve watched it together. It’s funny, we’re in total silence taking it all in, it’s not a social event by any means..!

Well, fingers crossed that I am mistaken and with low expectations perhaps I will be pleasantly surprised…I’ll let you know!

Sad news today – Helen Candlin

Mark O’Hara phoned be today and told me that Helen Candlin had died last week having lost her battle with cancer. He knew we’d been together as 16 year olds and he’d always got on with the family and thought I’d want to know.

He’s right, I was glad that he’d told me. Such a shame, she was a nice girl and she was my first proper girlfriend back in the day, we were together for about 18 months I think, and she used to have a scooter/moped to get around and I would cycle to her house in Garden City, Kidlington. I’d not seen or spoken to her since about 20 years old but it’s still a sad thing to hear and consider. What I feel about her death doesn’t matter, it’s not about me, it’s about her family – her older brother had cancer when we were together so it’s a shame for that family that it seems to be with them.

I know the details of the funeral, I really don’t know if I will go, whether it’s appropriate or not – I will decide on the day, at the time of writing this I would like to, to show some support to the family even though they won’t know who I am.

This is going to be the sort of post that will happen more and more I sadly suspect – in our 50’s now, people are going to die, however young or old we feel inside.

I have some old photos of Helen and our time together, I won’t be sharing them with the memorial page or anything.

Such a shame, I hope she had a good life.

This is her tribute page online - https://helen-candlin.muchloved.com/

Nice meal out in Jericho

Pottered around in the morning and worked on jobs around the house, I spent most of my time in the pond! In the afternoon I was still working in there and also on things in my office whilst Tash went out for a picnic for Jessica’s birthday, they went to Brill. I decided not to as I had a lot here I wanted to get through and it was a productive day all told. In the late afternoon we both sat out in the sun and crashed out for about an hour, absolutely knackered, it just hit us. The sun was beating down and making it nice and relaxed.

We’re watching a decent drama at the minute called The Widow with Kate Beckinsale in it, it’s been quite good and is gripping so we made time to watch an episode this evening before getting ready to go out. Taxi arrived on time and we picked up Katherine and Pete on the way and then went down to Raoul’s in Jericho. We saw Tony Thomas and Sheri go past and then had a couple of drinks before heading over to Branca. A few more drinks and then a lovely meal in there, I had the kebab and that was a great choice so I was happy with that!

By the end of the night (10.30pm) TT and his friends were in the bar and calling us over so we joined them for a couple of drinks and it was a really nice end to the evening. Found out he’s a diabetic and has a strict diet now, Tash immediately starting pointing the finger at me and my weight which wasn’t really appreciated!! But then the truth hurts.

Tash was getting tired so we called it a night, got the taxi and dropped the Casey’s home and back to ours.

As we got out of the cab we bumped into Geoff and Vicky who had been to the White Hart and were steaming drunk (surprise) and it was tempting to ask them into ours for a few more drinks but I resisted the temptation, probably rightly so and we said our good nights and parted ways.

A nice evening

Jack’s Prom Night

It was Jack’s Prom Night this evening and after a bit of a panic throughout the week to get the suit and then get it the legs taken in so they were a bit “skinnier” it was time to go. He looked good, as you can tell from the photos below. A few of his mates turned up to the house but he, and they, weren’t here for all that long and after a while they jumped into Jack’s car and drove off to school. Tash and I wanted to be there to see them off but it was too awkward to get in there and also no other parents were there so we wished him well and came home.

It’s a strange year group, they’re all too cool for school and parents aren’t really welcomed, a shame and a big contrast to what we’re used to with the other kids, ah well.

They went to Worton Hall near Witney and they had a great night and they went to Atik afterwards – we saw that through Snapchat! Jack doesn’t drink so he was fine driving and he said the following day he’d had such a good evening. So that was pleasing to hear.

End of an era, a couple of weeks of exams and then he’s finished with school – very odd to have them all done and dusted. Where has the time gone?!?

BBQ Hosting

BBQ hosted at our house - loads of beers and v drunk including a walk on meadow in the evening where I sang to myself and then laid down and stared up at the stars for about 20 minutes!

A good end to the weekend!

The Perch Beer & Wine Festival

Around midday the family from Bicester arrived and we set off with the dogs down to the Perch. Had a couple of beers for the walk and it was a nice stroll down there and they had a Beer and Cider Festival set up – we knew about it as it’s there all weekend.

Loads of space, so we got a table and then started on some of the beers. There was nothing that I was particularly keen on so I stayed with anything that resembled lager, everyone else was a bit more adventurous, except Nikki who got a bottle of Prosecco – good choice!

Had some food and snacks and it was a good laugh, but it was strong stuff, we didn’t go mad but within a few hours of drinking and being in the sun we were a bit tiddly. Jess took Nik and that lot home quite early – I think about 4.00pm but we weren’t ready so carried on.

So there’s me, Tash, Lewis, Charlotte and Miles. Jack went off to get the car and then it started to rain so we went in the tent hiding and Lewis and Tash walked home with Bess. Apparently she feel off the kerb near the Trout and into the road – lucky escape!

Jack drove us home and we all had more to drink in the evening – sat outside with the heaters on and it was a good evening. Everyone went to bed quite early actually…steaming!

Peters work lost today…

Worked at Peters Books today and was called into the office at the end of the day and told I’d been given a months notice. Claire was apologetic and all that but it’s not the point. That’s money I really need and I said as much that I don’t have any work currently. Really pissed off about it, but they do need me still for some work so I will quote for ad-hoc work and rate and see what comes about from that.

I really feel a bit lost at the minute, where is money going to come from to pay all the holidays and breaks that we’ve got coming up? Even this weekend we have things lined up in terms of going out to the Perch for a beer and cider festival and then everyone round to our house for a BBQ on Monday.

I’m getting stressed just typing it!!!

Not sure when I’ll tell Tash, will get the cinema tomorrow out of the way first!

Also, I’m being ignored by people and Hodder owe me thousands and aren’t answering my emails for payment – this is really worrying me, I have a horrible feeling they’re going to refuse some of the costs I’ve charged them, this is a nightmare.

I’m sure it’ll be okay but it’s not ideal and I really don’t need these problems.

Natasha’s Birthday Celebrations – Part 3 – and Jack’s end of era of Youth Football

Hangovers all round this morning! Didn’t get much done.

Jack had football in the afternoon so I went along to that – it was his last match of the season and in fact his last match as a Youth Team player. They were playing against Milton and everything was at stake, if Oxford City won or drew they would win the league, if they lost then Milton (their opponents) would win the league. Sadly, City simply weren’t at the races and ended up losing about 4-1, a real shame for them. I was disappointed, I’d have loved for Jack to win that trophy as well.

I came back a bit earlier from his match as there was a gathering at Sue’s for Tash’s birthday, all the females in the family came along – shame that Gareth doesn’t make an effort and always there is an excuse for him not to be over at either ours or Sues – ah well, his loss. Dinner was fine and Tash had a nice time, a few more wines!!

It wasn’t a late one but it went well and it was nice for her – she’s had a good birthday celebration I reckon

Bluebell Woods & Vicky’s 50th Party

Bit of a slow start in the morning initially and then worked in the garden and around the house

In the afternoon we took the dogs for a walk in the Bluebell woods and that was a good decision, they were in full bloom and looked great. Nice walk, although I was struggling to get around to be honest, my back is hurting!

Back home in the afternoon and we crashed out and fell asleep in the afternoon, sat outside in the sun we were knackered.

Went up to the White Hart in the evening because it was Vicky’s 50th birthday celebrations,  John Bampton was there and we joined him and saw loads of old faces. Caught up with Matty Timberlake (Scatty) and that was really nice to see him. It as a really good night, enjoyed it loads, got quite drunk…again and then wandered home about midnight I think…probably a bit later

Vicky enjoyed it though so that’s the main thing

Tash’s Birthday Celebrations – Part 2

Friday Worked at home today and didn’t get too much done

In the evening we got Charlotte to drop us in Summertown where we met Nikki and Gaz at the Dew Drop, they’d been there for a meal already and then we got to the serious part of drinking!! It was a nice evening and we did get through a fair amount to be honest. What was nice is that they don’t kick you out at 11.00pm anymore, there is not that stress and we were there until about 12.30am in the end!

Left and they missed their bus as usual, they got Jess to come and pick them up, she’s just passed her driving test so that’s great news for everyone

Tash and I just walked home – bit drunk!

Natasha’s Birthday Celebrations – Part 1

So up and about early and we handed out the presents to Natasha in the morning, not a lot this year really but she seemed happy with what we’d got her. Then off to work for everyone, I was at Raintree today as I’d changed my working day so that was nice to be around. Left usual time and home by 5.00pm to Charlotte and Miles cooking a chilli. Tash home and we started straight away. For some reason, I still don’t get why, Sue told Charlotte that she wasn’t going to come round and see her and gave Charlotte her present, she’d also told Tash as well so she was a bit upset about that, it pissed me off so I messaged her and she replied that she was coming round after all. Very odd indeed!

Whilst eating there Wayne and Kerry also came over and then my Mum as well – nice crowd, we quickly finished our food and then went outside to sit in the garden. It was bloody cold but it’s what she wanted to do so we wrapped up in blankets, got the patio heater(s) on and got the drinks out! Nobody stayed very late but the drinks were flowing and it was a really nice evening – it actually warmed up a bit once the wind died down. Gave up about 10.30pm and off to bed, I think Tash might have a heavy head in the morning! But she deserves to relax and celebrate!

Easter Saturday – Book of Mormon

Woke up around 9.00am and everyone was hungover! Lewis was in a bad way, no surprise there really and slowly we all got going.

Around 10.30am we got on the road to London, I went and picked Mum up from home and Lewis and Jack just slept in the car! We drove so slowly waiting for Tash to catch up but they didn’t until we got to the actual parking place which was so odd, I could not have driven any slower! I know they have the black box but I was 60mph all the way there! Anyway, we booked a parking place near Marble Arch which was cheap and convenient and walked to Marble Arch and went past Claudia Winkelman washing her car with her kids so that caused a bit of excitement!

At Marble Arch we were greeted with the strangest sight, there were no cars to be seen at all and it was a tent city wherever you looked. It was part of the Extinction demonstrations which are part of the global peace warriors initiative. Or something like that! It’s taking place all over the UK and the world which has been in the news but it was so interesting to see it in place – there was no way any traffic was coming through these areas and the police presence was really high, we walked through the middle of it and it was interesting and we made our way to Hyde Park. Today is also 420 Day which is the universal weed/drug day as well…so that was good timing!

We found a nice spot and had our picnic which included Moet Champagne which Lewis struggled with! Bit of relaxing and then walked down Oxford Street (empty!) to Regent Street down to Piccadilly Circus where the theatre was for our show – The Book of Mormon. We got in as they were calling people to their seats and our seats were very good, high up, but we had a decent view so we were all happy with that.  I had heard reviews about the show in that it was supposed to be hilarious but didn’t know what else to expect…and bloody hell, was it a shocking surprise. As suggested, it focussed on the Mormon church and teases religion and racial stereotypes and prejudices. But it was disgusting! I can’t describe the songs or the dances, it was just simply appalling bad taste but very, very funny indeed. The shock value was turned right up to ten! I later found out it was written by the guys that write South Park so that put it all into context for me/us.

After the show we all agreed it was brilliant and we loved it, but at the same time could understand how it could infuriate and disgust people of a different constitution. I would certainly consider wisely anyone that I would recommend it to!

Afterwards we started walking back towards the car  but took the back streets parallel with Regent Street and found a nice pub/bar to stop for food and drink and we had a couple of pints in there. It started to get a little cold because it was in the shade so we walked on further down Carnaby street and then down Oxford Street again and we found another pub and two more pints in there. I kept extending our parking end time and it was great because there were no extra charges for doing so, excellent value for money. We finally gave in and walked to the car properly going through all the protesters again and near an incident where the roads were all cordoned off by the police but luckily it wasn’t our way out so didn’t affect us. Tash drove as I’d had a couple of pints…and Lewis and I slept all the way home…nice!

Stopped for MacDonald's on the way back in Headington – although my quarter-pounder wasn’t included and then went straight to bed, everyone was knackered!

Outside the pub after the show…

Wishing Happy Birthday to Lewis in Hyde Park before the show…

Lewis’s Birthday Weekend–Bank Holiday Easter

I didn’t write this at the time, instead I had bullet points from the weekend that were listed below – I will try my best to detail what we did!

1. Thursday - Lewis down - drinking until v late

Lewis came down from Manchester after work and we got on the beers, not too sure how or why but we ended up watching TV and stayed up very late. He fell asleep eventually but as usual I carried on until I fell asleep but not after spilling drink on myself – not a good role model really am I?

2. Friday - late up, jobs in morning, chicken roast and drinks all afternoon, Zoe, John and Pauline - meal in evening Hugh and Dierdre

Yeah so we didn’t get up very early at all, the drinks in the afternoon was fun. The weather was really nice and after doing some stuff in the morning we had a lunch and then suggesting having gin and tonic, one thing led to another and we got really drunk! Zoe turned up and joined in and then Paul and Pauline did as well. All this happening and we knew we were going out at 7.00pm! Everyone left about 7.00pm and Tash and I cycled up to Cutteslowe for a meal at Hugh and Deirdre’s. They’ve done a lot of work on the house and were keen to show it off. It was lovely and they’re right to be proud of it. I think (hope) we did a good impression of relatively sober people for a while. Jill Partridge was there as were a couple of other women and it was a really nice evening. Lovely food and all that and we enjoyed it. Cycled home without incident and straight to bed, hopefully Lewis was okay as he also went out having drank all afternoon with us!

3. Saturday – we went to London for Book of Mormon – there’s a proper diary entry for that one!

4. Sunday - Lewis birthday, fry up, Easter egg hunt, pottering about, home early, dinner at Sue's, pub with friends

Lewis’s actual birthday – as the points about mention we had a nice big fry-up and also they had an Easter Egg Hunt and were fighting over things as per usual! We went round to Sue’s for Easter dinner which was nice and then Lewis made his way back to Manchester as he was going out with friends in the evening but I think he enjoyed being down here with us. Then walking back we saw Vicky and Geoff walking up to the pub so after being at home on our own for about 20 minutes we decided to go up the pub and join people. Sat in the garden and it was all very nice, only had a couple of beers but it was a nice evening

5. Monday - punting with Tash and Ivy

I went and collected Ivy from Bicester, got a lovely welcome from both her and Woody so that was nice – “JULIAN!!!” – when they saw me on the doorstep! Ivy and I then met Tash down at work and we went to the boatyard and got the punt out. We left left this time towards Marston and it was pleasant enough chuntering along and avoiding people struggling to steer their punts. We went past the pub in Marston and realised neither of us had brought cash or cards so we pulled over later down the river and had our packed lunch. Ivy was really enjoying it all, she got more and more adventurous and was dangling her feet in the water and then walking up and down the punt, she loved it. Bess fell in which was amusing!

Came back home and had a BBQ and then dropped her home.

All in all a really lovely weekend