Very cold and a wet day!

Struggled to get much done today, I have plenty to do but just can’t seem to get the focus I need.

Went food shopping with Tash in the morning – pissing down with rain – but got food for us, Jenny next door and Mum so that was our good deeds for the day sorted

Back home and had Tash’s nice home made tomato soup she made yesterday, very nice indeed and then she went over to her Mum’s to help sort out her credit cards and banking as she’s been caught up in a scam and her details have got out and she’s experiencing fraud – a real shame. But she doesn’t help herself, she has about 40 different credit cards, one for each shop she goes into…madness.

Got things sorted in the afternoon so that was better and then watched more TV in the evening – Line of Duty again, season 3 now!

Busy today – and Baby News

Head down and ploughed through work today – very productive

Charlotte not being furloughed which I think is good because other people are in her company and they’re keeping her on – I think that’s a good omen for her prospects in the future and proves she’s valued. That’s the way I see it

Had some good news announced today – Oscar and Katie are expecting their first baby. We knew about it a few weeks ago but they’ve gone public with it today on Facebook so that’s nice for them – due in November. Exciting.

Tash has made a T-Shirt for Jess as per the celebs – not quite sure about her artistic abilities to be honest though!! Her practice effort and then the finished article - she's pleased with the results... :-)

And I have been making ice today so as to not have to keep buying it from the shops – might as well save myself a few quid I think – should have some fun with it because I’m doing some big chunks – let’s see.

Not much done in the evening, caught up with a few things and watched TV again

Still not exercising!

Birthday weekend is over – back to normal

Hard to get up this morning but back to it

Not a lot to do for clients but kept myself busy with social media and sorting out HMRC and my accounts – felt productive to be honest

My accounts are not in a good position if I am honest, bit worrying.

Been advised by the Utilities that our electric/gas bill has doubled, no surprise there with us all working from home

Walked Bess and that was a nice relax, Tash went for a walk with Zoe and we also got Mexico paid for today. No idea if it will go ahead but needed to be done to avoid losing deposit

Watched a few videos on cocktail making so will try and do those in the near future as I have the ingredients!

Dinner was good and then we watched some TV – x2 episodes of Killing Eve and then bed as we were all knackered!

Tasha’s Birthday Weekend – Sunday – Relaxing

Late morning/breakfast – no one up very early, I think I was one of the first around 10.00am – no hangover thankfully. Pottered around and tidied up

We then had Brunch as people woke up and came downstairs and we just relaxed around – boiling hot today. Very hot and relaxing in the garden

Went for a walk to the Green with Bess, Miles, Charlotte, Lewis and of course Tash

Back to the house and sat around chatting and relaxing and then created a couple of cocktails which was fun, both alcoholic and non. The were good, mostly Mojito but with so many mint leaves growing in the garden it was hard not to! Did well.

Got the BBQ set up and going – heard one of the kids next door comment, “Dad, they’re having a BBQ again..!” – can’t argue with that really! Tash had bought some lovely steaks and I’d covered them with the flavouring and Miles made some pepper sauce as well. Cooked them well and the flavouring/sauce were excellent additions. Did really well.

Lewis left soon after, around 5.30pm which was a shame, thought he’d stay later but there you go, he’s always keen to get back to Manchester. Ah well.

We continued chatting/drinking in the bar with Charlotte and Miles and it was all quite quiet and subdued but it was easy going and enjoyable.

As it got colder etc we then went inside and watched TV for last hour in the evening – started a new series (Treadstone) – not something Charlotte or Tash will like but there you go

I think it was a very nice weekend for Tash – loads of love and having everyone around much have been good.

Bit stressed a few times but successful – all down to Charlotte as well

As always, I wish I was more thoughtful and organised, I wonder if I ever will manage to be so…

I do love her loads.

Tasha’s Birthday Weekend – Home made pizza and First Dates virtual Gin tasting

Another day of trying to sort things out at the last minute for Tasha’s birthday – I am useless I really am

Worked in the morning and then out to the shops to get flowers and drink and a few other things.

Sorted more of the video out in the afternoon and got things sorted. I think we’re there for a good weekend.

Tash was out all day, Jack had taken her to Sue’s and then round the houses to see the other relatives and they were gone all day from 11.30am until about 4.30pm – when she got home it was very clear that she was drunk and had been very emotional all day and loads of crying and even arguing with Sue. It made for a very awkward atmosphere.

I went out and got the pizza oven going and we just got on with things and tried to relax/calm Tash down and eventually it worked – especially after we told her what the evening activity was!

And that activity was virtual Gin Tasting session with Chase Brewery and the main barman in the Channel 4 series called First Dates, Merlin.

John and Pauline Bampton had organised it for us.

So we had the pizzas and then got ready and were in the bar using the laptop and Charlotte/Lewis were the other side taking photos and drinking as well.

It was really good, loved it. Loads of gins to try and Tash got a shout out at the end for her birthday. I recorded the session so we can go back to it at a later date!

We then started more drinking and getting music on and it was a great evening, Tash fell asleep which was fine, we carried on!

Charlotte got Miles and then Lewis was asleep – he’d drunk nearly a bottle of Southern Comfort I’d just bought…

So we then watched loads of musical type videos and it was a really good evening. Gave up in the end around 3.00pm!

I was still getting videos sent to me so I didn’t finish editing the final take until going to bed…fingers crossed it’s okay

A good start to the weekend I think.

Pub Quiz Success

Worked throughout the day, not exactly flat out but it was okay.

Finished and took Bess for a walk and then had nice dinner

Charlotte had a group chat organised for 7.00pm as Sebby & Harriet were hosting a quiz session. I got involved and Charlotte left me to it, she helped with some of the questions, as did Tash and we ended up with 56 points, which I thought would mean we’re about 3rd. However, as the marks came in we found we were way in front, nearest was about 40 or 30. So that was a nice feeling to have done well!

Had a few drinks, not good but can’t help it, and then watched some TV.

Watching far too much but can’t help it

Football boots first time in 18 months!

Worked in the morning and then around 4.00pm Jack asked if I would go to the park with him to practise football

As per the subject heading, I’ve not worn football boots since October 2018, was a bit nervous to be honest, and rightly so.

Went up to Five Mile Drive and it was busy so we went to the middle goals and did a bit of a warm-up, I was blowing and my touch wasn’t the best. He then wanted long passing and kicking, I really, really struggled, everything hurt. My right groin is buggered that’s for certain so many times a misplaced pass from him went passed me because I couldn’t move!

Glad I did it though as I worked up a sweat and he benefited from it, so will do it again but dreading tomorrow when I stiffen up completely!

Was up there for about 2 hours, then home for dinner and some nice red wine and more TV watching!

Watching the Tiger King now, it’s mad, Tash and Charlotte went to bed around 9.30pm so I stayed up and finished the series of Picard that I got into, it was fine and predictable but was late so bed at 1.00am.

Oh, Boris Johnson went into Intensive Care because of his Coronavirus infection so that was a bit of a shock for the nation, makes it seem all the more real and serious, if that was really required.

Busy day inside

Lovely weather all day today, right from the beginning. Worked and was busy all day, quite focussed as well which was pleasing – I am spending far too much time being distracted with social media and news in general – massively procrastinating.

Tash worked in the morning and then sunbathed outside my window – not helpful at all!

Got things done but still at around 5.30pm I was thinking I’d love a drink, this lockdown is bringing out the worse in all of us. Not sure if I will be able to resist though

More watching TV in the evening! I wonder when I’m actually going to get Tasha’s birthday addressed!!

Gareth’s mum, Veronica, isn’t very well at all, they think she only has a matter of time left – such a shame. Jess and Katie went up to Blackpool yesterday and today Nik and Gaz did. Awful situation to be in. Bless her.

Giving blood and gaining work

Worked hard in the morning and then had some great news that one of the customers I have been trying to get in with has agreed to a 3 month trial of one day a week – this is great news. So relieved. Obviously need to ensure I impress! With that news I was able to go out and give blood with a bit of a skip in my step!

Absolute doddle getting out to the JR – no traffic and no one in the car park, what a nice trip that was.

Busy at the hospital, they said they’re getting a lot of appointments so that’s good – you’d think it would drop off, but I guess it’s an excuse for people to get out and about and also do their bit.

Took a photo this time and posted on social media.

Back home, it was warm and quite hard to get going – and then around 3.30pm fancied a drink so hit the Gin & Tonic. Was speaking with Wayne and Jason on WhatsApp so that was distracting as well, gave up working around 4.30pm and just relaxed.

Had a bit of a taste for it and then Tash joined in so it was nice to do nothing

Kids stayed around for dinner and then buggered off so Tash and I taught ourselves Backgammon and had a game of that – didn’t really enjoy it, annoying game.

Decent day, so relieved about the work

Busy day, but for how much longer?

Worked solidly today on Raintree projects so that was enjoyable to be busy. But I honestly don’t know how much more it’s going to continue, with or without this bloody virus.

Didn’t sleep from 2.00am onwards, I lifted a box in my office yesterday and it was far too heavy and I am paying the price now, I heard it pop and sure enough I can’t move or sit or sleep or anything, it’s a nightmare. Trapped a nerve for certain.

Didn’t manage much exercise today, even though it’s the start of the month and a determination to get on with fitness should be upon me! In fact, Tash made ginger cookies and they got absolutely blitzed!! Greedy pig.

Nice Thai green curry for dinner – very tasty and then a game of Scrabble in the evening, it all got a bit competitive and Jack won by 10 points so he was pleased with that.

Watched a new episode of season 2 of Line of Duty and then off to bed. Managed a few sit-ups last thing, hopefully will be able to crack on with more once my back improves…who am I trying to kid??

Another day locked down

Not much to report today

Worked hard on website functionality and some other work but not making progress on many other things right now

Did zero exercise and was depressed to find that I’ve not cycled or rowed or anything like that for 3 weeks – nothing whatsoever! That has to change

Tried to walk Bess into Summertown but couldn’t walk, everything hurt. So cycled and met Tash down there

Coming back tried to wear Bess out with cycling and her running – she loved it.

Back home, couple of beers and nice dinner then more TV.

We finished the first series of Line of Duty – decent series and will definitely watch more of it

Need to get back on the fitness trail though, was really disappointed with myself when I saw that statistic in the spreadsheet

Normal Monday really

Long day at work today – got a fair amount done.

Not got any other work coming in though

Busy on social media – Twitter and Facebook – need to turn those off soon as taking up too much of my time

Not much to report on Coronavirus – still taking over the world and now the US are the worst for cases and Donald Trump isn’t doing so well with dealing with it. He’s a strange man. Boris has contracted the disease apparently so that’s interesting to see how things will continue to progress

After work nice dinner and then did some more stuff in the office and then back in to watch more Line of Duty. Tash went to bed but I stayed up and watched the last three episodes of The Umbrella Academy. Really enjoyed it but that took me through to about 1.00am!!

Tired.

Clearing out the shed

Heavy head again in the morning – not too desperate though. Did a bit of a fry up for breakfast and then I worked outside in the garden for the rest of the day.

It was cold but it was nice working in the small shed with my music on and clearing it all out. Very worthwhile job to sort it all out and create new space and I did throw away some of the things I don’t need.

That was it really – the full content of my day!

Dinner in the evening and then more TV – Line of Duty this time – going to get through that series as he’s been recommended by so many people

Strange weekend, wonder how long this situation is all going to last for?

Family Pub Quiz remotely

Up quite early but with a headache..

We’d agreed to do a pub quiz for the family later today so I spent the morning researching and preparing and it literally took me all day – I was knackered.

We used an app called Houseparty which meant we could get 8 people/families/households on the group and it was a nice thing to start with.

However it soon deteriorated as phone batteries died or wifi internet connections died and sound on the music round, and then people were getting frustrated with the difficult questions, I got really pissed off to be honest and won’t be doing that again. But they seemed to be thankful I did it even though it carried on from 4.30pm until about 7.00pm!!

Sue definitely enjoyed it, she seemed quite tipsy

Once that was done we had dinner and then watched Ant & Dec and then a film – Sicario 2 – which I’ve wanted to watch for ages.

Nice day and evening in the end

First BBQ of the year

Finished working today fairly early and planned to have a BBQ but found out we don’t have any coals

So I dug out the gas one and then got things set up in the garden and worked with that. Unfortunately the gas was running out and it was bloody cold out there – I had bobble hat and scarf on in the end! But it was fine and we sat outside under the patio heater and it was nice evening

Went inside and watched a film – can’t even recall which one, everything is merging.

Nice to have few beers though

NHS Clapping

Worked in the morning and had calls but dragging things out really.

Didn’t get out much and didn’t exercise again.

Did some work on my shares and working out calculations for buying and selling – no idea if it will work or not…

Days are merging into each other now – we’re forgetting which day is which.

Decent dinner and then decided to have some beers in the evening

At 8.00pm there was a co-ordinated clapping session where everyone clapped from their windows and doorways to thank the NHS staff working – all very emotional and it really was observed across the whole of Britain.

Started watching Line of Duty!

Isolation and working from home

Working from home today – we all are. It’s fine, bit stressful at times but it will level out, Tash is the least comfortable with the situation but that’s because Charlotte is working in the bar and I am in my office – we’re not getting interruptions from the student.

Got a fair amount done but still no exercise achieved, I really must get onto that again

Cycled into Summertown and it was eerily quiet – so interesting. Restrictions for getting into shops and such like – very interesting

Spoke to Zoe and her kids on the way back as they were walking into Summertown as well

Took Bess on a long walk – loads of people out and about walking and running – not sure they should be but there you go. Everyone is allowed out for one form of exercise a day, most people are taking advantage of that it seems – the weather is very nice at the minute so even more reason to get out. Everything feels like it’s a Sunday.

Did more stuff in the evening and then watched TV – doing too much of that right now!

Dropped Tucks an email to see how things are for him over in Boston.

Britain is LOCKED DOWN

So this evening Boris Johnson confirmed what needed to be done and locked down Britain. Businesses have been told to close down and people work from home, don’t socialise with other houses and only go out once a day for exercise. Amongst other things to be raised.

It’s madness, it really is, the country is isolated and people are likewise.

You can still go food shopping but the shops are struggling with demand and things like that

Shares dropped like a stone once again and it’s hard to judge how long this is all going to last – the lock down is due to be re-assessed in 3 weeks time but it’s going to be super hard to cope with the lack of contact etc

Checked in with Mum and all that and she was okay – bit worried and a bit sad because she’s had to say goodbye to visiting Derek for now – but it’s for the best.

I’ll try to keep updates on here but it’s tough

Work is at a premium and we’re watching TV too much!!

Coronavirus hits the Stock Market – My Shares Portfolio

It’s been an absolute nightmare for the Stock Market and everyone’s taking a massive hit.

My portfolio is struggling but I am hoping that the investments I’ve done as the market was crashing will improve things (IAG, Barclays and Legal & General)

Literally everything is 50% value compared to what it was 4 weeks ago

Ignoring Tremor which was a poor decision a long time ago and BT which has been 45% off the investment value for about a year the GVC shares were in great shape and were 55% above my investment value so all this red is a bit depressing.

Let’s return here in 6 months and take another screenshot and see if there are improvements…I bloody well hope so!

Porto – Day 4 – Coming Back to England

Up early and sorted and waited for our food to be delivered because we’re not allowed downstairs to the breakfast room

Didn’t appear even after we chased them for it so had to leave to get the train – whilst paying in reception the tray went past so we quickly grabbed a load of items and walked off to the Metro which was literally 5 mins away

Woman sat next to me kept coughing – she’d been to Marrakesh she kept telling us and was getting on my nerves

Airport no problem and very quiet indeed – walked through and quickly realised ours was one of the very few flights actually going ahead – don’t think I’ve seen so many Cancelled notifications on the board, certainly not since the 80’s

Our flight was fine though and went ahead as planned and Tash and I got 3 seats for the 2 of us

Everything very smooth – got some gin in the duty free so bonus and then drove home

Did some work in the afternoon and caught up with everyone.

A very nice break indeed

Porto – Day 3 – Last Day – Loads of walking

Up at 9.00am and down for breakfast. Not as much as yesterday as was still quite full.

Decided to do the walking tours from the book and sat here now at 5.00pm and regretting it!! Of course I’m not, but my body feels broken.

Got round loads of the town and through backstreets and all that. Was interesting even though most places are closed like shops, galleries and churches. Nice coffee overlooking the river, then a walk along the riverfront and then up those bloody steps so as to be able to cross the Louis bridge. Great views

More on the other side and then lunch in the park before being chased out by the Rozzers. More dawdling through the town and then back to the hotel and sat in the rooftop bar looking out over the city catching up on news and reading and having a beer.

Had a snooze, well two hours and then went to the restaurant at the hotel. Empty of course and we sat where we wanted overlooking the city. Stayed inside although I’m sure outside would have been amazing, just cold!

Treated ourselves to nice food and wine and all very pleasant Caught up with family and social media and then bed, end of a lovely weekend.

Porto – Day 2 – River, Walking & Drinking!

Up early for breakfast and went down to the river front for our boat tour only to find that the tour had been cancelled because of the virus.

Apparently all boats were cancelled but we walked 10 metres and were approached by a tour rep and he said there’s was still going. So we signed up for that one

About 5 other couples joined in and it was a pleasant run under the 6 bridges. Bit windy and cold but when the sun was out it was nice.

Wandered along the quay when it finished, and stopped for a beer at one of the few open cafes and then it started raining as forecast

We had a voucher for Port tasting so we went and found it and it was a good idea. Very nice cellar and location and the port was really nice. It was quite out of the way but very quickly fill up as other people with vouchers arrived! A group of 6 older women were there and one of them came over and filled out glasses from a bottle she’d bought. So that was nice.

More walking after that break as we meandered back towards the hotel, got our bearings etc

Snooze at the hotel and then back out in the evening.

More walking and detours down streets but it was good and so many sights to see. Stopped at a small restaurant with just 3 tables for a beer and a bread and cheese meal which we’d seen a number of times and finally treated ourselves...well worth it.

We then continued down to the river and found a very nice restaurant that we went in and had a decent meal. A young couple were getting turned away because they were full as we were finishing so we said wait a second and have our table but they then sat down and joined us and chatted for 10 mins about working and living in Holland etc. Nice enough couple

We made our excuses and left but ended up in a wine cafe that was really lively.

Stayed there for 3 more drinks and were quite tipsy walking home.

A nice day and evening done

Porto – Day 1 – Travel, quiet, beach and drinking

Up at 2.00am and on the road by 2.20am heading for Stansted airport. No issues, nice and quick journey. Shame Nik and Gaz decided not to come but it was fine and an understandable decision. Airport was quiet but it was 4.00am and out of season.

Went to the lounge we had booked and had breakfast and a free bar, nice one. Buck’s Fizz and then Gin and Tonics!! Bit tipsy but nice feeling and then got our plane, only half full, if that. Loads of room and crashed out asleep for the two hour journey

No problems the other side and through customs in minutes. Really easy Metro to get to town and 5 mins walk to the hotel. All very, very quiet and shut down. Signs on doors throughout advising closure because of Govt or Virus. Such a shame

Dropped bags at hotel and wandered into town. Mice city, much bigger than we’d expected it to be. Walked through the lanes and then down to the river front. Huge bridge taking over the skyline.

Weather was nice and today was due to be the best day so we decided to go to the beach and went and found they tram stop but that was not running so luckily got a (free) bus instead.

Walked along the sea front for a bit, very bracing Atlantic sea wind and crashing waves and we then found a bar and had a couple of beers and video called the kids which was nice

Crashed out on the beach for an hour or so hidden by rocks so nice and sheltered and caught up with sleep having started so early in the day. Walked a bit further along the beach. Literally about 100 yards to another bar which was more exciting and luxurious and had beer and some snacks. Decided to stay and watch the sunset so had our evening meal there as well! Sunset was nice.

Walked further up the coast to the bus stop but got the feeling it wasn’t running so decided on an Uber...the car arrived literally as the bus arrived!! Typical, but the Uber was only £7 and took us to our hotel so that was worth it in my opinion

Back at the hotel Tash had a tea from our freebies but I wanted coffee so wandered down the streets and found somewhere open which was a nice treat. Back to hotel and we caught up on social media etc and we just had an early night.

The virus really is affecting the whole world and every day gets worse for businesses especially. Airlines, tourism, bars and restaurants are being absolutely battered. The stock markets are in free fall, it’s a nightmare

Where we are there are people with masks but they’re not too common and it feels like people are trying to ignore the situation but it is clear from the places being closed how bad things are. The shares I bought have lost hundreds, will sit it out but really not sure how things will work with my business. I could end up with hardly any money coming in at all.

Gym Consultation

Went to the gym as planned this afternoon for a meeting to go through my fitness requirements and plan of action

No surprise to find I am overweight and all that but it was a good chance to assess things and get something sorted

Was going to use the gym but couldn’t be bothered – not a good sign!

Will get a tailored routine created which I can pick up on Monday

Up to see Derek

Working from home (as per usual) and Charlotte first day of doing so for about the next 4-6 weeks! Busy and got lots done – but my list of things is reducing

Went to see Derek in the afternoon and Mum was there. He was okay but not very chatty or responsive really. But he was glad I went up there I think and I stayed for 90 minutes

Back home and we had Boris Johnson giving a press briefing about COVID-19 and advised that for the UK we’re actually about 10-14 weeks away from its peak…that’s alarming!

Nice evening, Miles came over and we we all caught up on some TV and drank wine

Coronavirus taking hold

Worked from home today and it was productive – loads done and loads to get done still

Charlotte confirmed that her office is now closing down and everyone is to work from home – quite likely for 6 weeks, madness.

Had some food and then Tash and I went to Bootcamp – it was run by the girl this week and wasn’t very hard or inspiring to be honest, worked up a sweat but the other sessions have definitely been better.

Home afterwards and caught up on another episode of a series we’re watching – “The Split” – it’s enjoyable enough and then I watched a film before heading to bed at midnight.

Trump has now set up restrictions to all European flights in and out of the US – but for some reason not the UK. I bought £500 worth of shares in Legal & General today as well – hopefully buying at rock bottom prices will work, just depends if the stocks I’ve bought are the right ones and will recover…we shall see in 6 months I guess!

Working from home

The Coronavirus is having an impact!

Italy is completely shut down – the whole country is locked down – no flights in or out, no one allowed to work or leave their houses – nightmare

Charlotte is working from home today with me

Nikki has told Tash that her and Gaz are not coming to Portugal on Saturday now – it’s not put me at Tash off so we will still go, unless the trip gets cancelled. We can’t afford not to go - £500 lost otherwise!

Business as usual otherwise, just working through things on my plate and trying to keep busy – not having any luck with job hunting. Getting worried and it’s affecting sleep etc

My shares have taken a battering – but you just know they’re going to go back up again so it’s tempting to chuck some more money at them to ride the increases that should be due…we’ll see

Birthday Celebrations in Bicester

Did some stuff around the house in the morning then went to the gym

Was at the gym for 2 hours – 20 mins run, 20 mins rowing, few exercises and then 60 mins cycling – very pleased – knackered though! Jack turned up and we did some stretches together and then home for dinner

New student arrived from Thailand – lovely enough and same as anyone from Thailand – not the best grasp of English but plenty of bowing!

Then we went over to Sue’s as it was a celebration of Nathan and Paul’s birthdays and everyone was there, that is except for Gareth who never attends any of the family events anymore for whatever reason. Which is a bit of a shame but his loss.

Had the rugby on in the background and Scotland somehow beat France which completely opens up the 6 Nations tournament now – England back in with a chance of winning it.

Loads of food and some drink later we then made our way home

Watched some TV and then early night – starting to ache from the gym!

Pressure Washing fun!

Got jobs done in the morning and also a recorded test for an interview I have applied for – it was hard and I doubt I did very well but it needed to be done

Pottered around for a while and then we went over to Sue’s and I did the pressure washer on her decking – what a nightmare, it’s going to take me days to complete it really is. When I went back the following day it has made a real difference but it’s very time-consuming.

Anyway I just got on with it with my headphones on and when it was too dark came in and had a very nice Chinese take-away so that was good. Jack got home from football, not very well – been sick on the return journey and they’d lost in the last minute, he’d been taken off again with 20 left – strange decision if you ask me. But then I wasn’t there.

Managed to watch some of the rugby and England beat Wales

Watched a decent film in the evening and then home

A decent enough day

Improv Night

Normal day working at home – didn’t get any of the jobs I have applied for – getting a bit desperate really

In the evening we went out with John and Pauline and met Wayne and Kerry in town for a couple of pints and then over to the church opposite the Magdalen cinema for a performance from Emily Bampton in an Improv troupe she’s got in with. It was students doing a skit on the Cold War and it was enjoyable. Emily did well and they all clearly enjoyed themselves.

Back to the Wig and Pen afterwards and that was nice and home!

Nice evening, and a little different to normal!

Worked late and Jack playing football at last

But still struggling to get the number of hours up

I am getting distracted by Social Media so really need to stop that

In saying that, was watching updates on Jack’s match today – away at Newport Pagnell in the Berks and Bucks cup and he scored the opener for Didcot but then they lost 2-1 in the end and he was taken off with 20 mins left – odd decision! Their first game for some time because of the storms

Applying for jobs isn’t going well – getting turned down left, right and centre – no idea what’s going to happen this and the following months to come.

Work & Boot Camp

Was at Raintree again and normal day – busy

Had to let Bess out at lunchtime so that was an hour out of the day

Back home after work and after dinner and more job searching went off to the gym for the second week of boot camp

Different person doing the session today but I was paired with Tash and we worked really hard. Charlotte was with Zoe and they did okay

Didn’t do anything afterwards other than a few minutes in the steam room

Back home and watched a bit of TV and then an early night

Supposed to be snow tomorrow, can’t see that happening though

Lost Weight

Delighted to say that since Xmas I have lost half a stone. Doesn’t sound much when you say lost 7lb but half a stone!!! I am delighted and it’s made me want to be focused to lose more

Problem is, I feel guilty going to the gym instead of looking for work

That’s a terrible stress on me at the minute, I am struggling to cope.

No idea what’s going to happen – have an telephone interview tomorrow with a company so will see what comes from that

Coronavirus and no work…which is worse?

I’ve not written about the Coronavirus yet, it’s becoming a bit of a worldwide pandemic that originated in China but is going global. Basically people are contracting flu-like symptoms and 2%-3% are dying!

It’s now made its way into Europe so flights and things are being cancelled and people are being quarantined or encouraged to do self-isolation

Hopefully it will peter out but it’s not looking good

What else – carried on job searching today and had some interest so have a 30 mins interview call on Thursday so hopefully that will go okay

Worked on stuff I already had lined up but it’s touch going

Have dropped off from the gym as well – really wanted to go but it felt like I was cheating on Tash if I did that instead of researching!

Work & money worries

Probably should be looking for a job instead of updating this blog but it’s procrastination at it’s finest I guess.

I’ve been getting less and less work from EdCo over the last couple of months and on Friday I was told it’s going to be even less – basically nothing!!

So it was a bit uncomfortable telling Tash of the situation especially with her birthday coming up and the money we want to save/spend on everything that’s coming up

So over the weekend I spent a bit of time looking and applying for jobs – no idea how that’s going to proceed – see if something drops into my lap.

All very, very concerning!

Job Hunting & Gym, Tash out at the Ivy

Up early today, partly because of Bess barking and being annoying but also my mind is racing and stressed so couldn’t sleep

Sat downstairs researching job opportunities and then got breakfast on the go as we had pancakes.

More discussions regarding my work situation and then Tash got ready to go out because she was meeting Sue. Nik and Tiffany for dinner at The Ivy for Nik’s birthday celebration

I picked them up from the bus-stop and drove them into town which I think they appreciated and then I went to the gym and was there for 90 minutes working hard – the sweat is pouring off me when working on the bike – it’s mad. Jack was quite surprised at how hard I worked. In saying that, I didn’t feel too strong as the only thing I’d eaten all day was two pancakes so I was lacking a bit of energy.

Back home at 3.00pm in time for the rugby – England v Ireland – in which we dominated and won comfortably.

Sorted dinner and then Tash phoned for picking up – they were all tipsy but in a happy place so that was nice

Dropped Nik and Sue in Bicester and Tash told me that Tiff is now pregnant – only 5 weeks but she had no choice to tell them because she wasn’t drinking.

Got home and Tash went off on one at Jack and then me and it was horrible – really angry all of a sudden an no idea where it came from, I think she was blaming my job situation but also moaning about Jack thinking he’s not going to pay Lewis for his car and so on. She then sat in bed and wouldn’t come down. Really horrible way to finish the weekend

I stayed and watched a bit of TV with Jack and then did more job hunting – loads out there, just not sure how suitable I am for any of it!

Camping & Caravan Show

Up early this morning as Wayne & Kerry were coming round to pick us up from about 9.15am  - Wayne drove us to Birmingham NEC for the Camping & Caravan Show being held there. Traffic was a nightmare outside the venue but got in there eventually and made our way to the halls.

It was huge! Got very carried away looking at the campervans – they were amazing. Very expensive but gave us ideas for how we’d like ours to be if/when we ever get one. It does make you dream of carrying out a different life and having things much more simple. Walked around the show and different halls and it was really well worth the time and effort and money to get there. Really enjoyed it.

On the way home we stopped at Banbury for food at a Frankie and Benny’s and then onto home.

Jack’s football was disappointing, he started and was doing well but then the left back got sent off and instead of playing Jack there they took him off and replaced him with a more experienced defender – this was on 40 minutes! Thing is, as soon as he was taken off the other team scored!

Jack had mates round so that was a bit annoying because they were in and out the house constantly

Tash and I just watched more TV

Unfortunately during the meal Kerry asked me about work and I said I was struggling and then Tash came back from the toilets and heard so it wasn’t a good way to hear of the situation and she’s pissed off/worried.

I’m absolutely useless – I really am a waste of space sometimes.

Evening Meal with Clare and Greg

Busy (ish) day at work that culminated with Darren phoning me querying work I’m doing for TEP as he’s been queries by JG – “Why is Julian still doing work for them?” – basically means I am fucked! I have no income coming in.

Kept it quiet but really pissed me off

Went to the gym at lunchtime as well and that was good – hardly anyone there so had the place to myself and did well with the running, rowing and especially the bike – I think I am getting fitter!

We had an evening booked with Tash’s old school friend Clare and her husband Gregg who’s a really bloke and we met up with them at Victors after Charlotte had dropped us into town. Had a really nice evening with them, food was decent and had a couple of drinks – nothing mad or over the top and it was pleasant. Loads to talk about, especially on the skiing front as Gregg had just been to the same place as us and caught up Annabelle their daughter

Wasn’t too late and then got a taxi home for about 11.30pm.

Stayed up for one more drink and then to bed because of the trip to Birmingham tomorrow

Derek’s Belated Birthday “Celebration”

Dropped Tash off to work in the morning so I could get her afterwards and then went to Aldi and did the food shopping – took me ages!

Rubbish day at work – got zilch done! Achieved absolutely sod all!

Didn’t do any exercise today – I was aching and in too much pain from boot camp last night – my bum cheeks were the worst hit!

Got Tash after work (about 4.30pm) and went up to Wheatley to see Derek. Sue and Simon were there and Derek was in his room still but very quiet, he’s not very well at all and was quiet and quite weak actually, struggling to hold things. Chatted etc and then gave him his tablet which was a bit of a job to get him to hold it and use it properly but I think over time he will get used to it and get enjoyment from it. Hopefully with Mum’s help they’ll get to work on it – if only with the crossword. The internet in his bedroom wasn’t the best so that’s a bit of a worry.

Had some cake and were there for about 2 hours and you could tell he was tired

Read some of this Birthday texts out to him – there were three – me, Tash and Lewis. Nothing from my sister or her kids – that’s not very good at all. Bit disappointed with Jack and Charlotte not texting him and will mention it to them.

Came home and had dinner and then watched two more episodes of The Stranger – it’s enjoyable nonsense but I am worried we’re watching too much TV – needs to find other things to do in the evening.

Early night as I have an early start tomorrow – Bess and Bella off to get their haircuts!

Bootcamp…first and last??

Worked at Raintree today and productive busy day. Nightmare getting to work, half term you think there’s no traffic – but then the council are doing roadworks and the Green Road roundabout was a pain and jammed up. I went through Headington and Cowley in the end and got to work late!

Back home and sorted things out and Charlotte was messaging implying she wanted to have a night in with us and wasn’t doing boot camp so held off dinner and me and Tash went to gym for boot camp session

It was very hard – there were 9 of us in it and they were comfortable with chatting and being silly but I got my head down and had to work really hard, the sweat was pouring off me – enjoyed it though, if enjoy is the right word! Signed up for next weeks one as well straight away. Will do me good.

Back home and had a nice curry that Tash had cooked and opened the red wine – got through 2 bottles in the end!!

Watched a Louis Theroux documentary about West Bank and Gaza Strip but it was hard work and confusing – not a good choice. Everyone went to bed but I watched another one and then a film – bed at 1.20am!!

Decent day – really pleased with the workout at the gym and it’s given me ideas for exercises of my own to try

Derek’s Birthday

Loads of exercise in the morning and throughout the day

Worked from home – fairly productive day

Bad news around mid-afternoon as Mum said that Derek needed more tests to see why he’s still ill and now throwing up. Taking him to JR so they get results back quicker but it does mean he’s still struggling and not up for having visitors which is a crying shame for him. So we’re not going up there afterall.

Hope he gets better asap and we can go and help him celebrate his birthday – belatedly

Jack’s football also got called off, he was due to go to Newport Pagnell this evening but the pitch is waterlogged.

Bloody weather!

Derek stayed in overnight and might be released back to the home tomorrow – will get an update from Mum. Just one thing after another, they haven’t established anything as a result of the tests other than it’s just normal illness – which doesn’t seem right.

The evening we watched more episodes of a new series we’re into – The Stranger. It’s quite addictive and enjoyable – we’re certainly spending a lot of hours in front of the TV at the minute!

Tash working full time this week

Apparently! She’s been saying all weekend that this week is mental as she’s working fulltime, so I was working in the garage and got a text at 10.45am asking if I wanted to come in for coffee and croissant…erm??? Some people’s definitions of fulltime are not all similar…lol

Worked in the office, okay day today, did exercises whenever I could, really trying to make progress on my fitness – I do feel motivated for it actually and miss it when I’m not working out – so that’s a good thing I reckon.

Fed and walked Bess in the evening and when Tash home sorted dinner etc and then sat down early to watch the last two episodes of White House Farm – very good series and enjoyed it.

That was it really, chatted with Charlotte about stuff and then early night and read books before turning the lights off

Nik’s Birthday and catch up with Tucks

Woke up and out of bed around 7.15am – felt so good to be up without a hangover or heavy head. Sad state of affairs to type that but it’s true!

Pottered around and got a few things sorted

Nik’s birthday and problems at home mean that Jess and Vics were contacting Tash asking her to get involved. Funny really, they ignore her for the evening meal but want her involved when there’s problems – the go to fixer! So I ran Tash over to Vics house around 11.30am and came back to the gym and worked out for almost 2 hours – really pleased with myself. Felt good.

Went back out to Bicester to get Tash and they were all a bit tipsy as the Prosecco did its job! Nik was tearful over Gareth but it’s something that will pass so I didn’t give it much interest to be honest. Held Theo for a bit, he’s getting bigger all the time.

Back home around 3.30pm and Charlotte was back from Nottingham – nice Sunday roast and then over to Mum’s to give her Derek’s phone that we’d sorted and then off to Littlemore to see Tucks.

He is over for a week, although not in Oxford and it was nice to catch up with him – Barry and Linda were over as well and Bill & June of course as it was their house! Chatted a lot and stayed a couple of hours and then made our way home

Watched another episode of White House Farm (the series about Jeremy Bamber) and then to bed. It’s a decent series, we’ve enjoyed it and will likely try and complete the last two tomorrow night

Yet another decent weekend

The Coronovirus is still causing all sorts of issues and we’ve had Storm Dennis this weekend so that’s been a bit of a pain.

Storm Dennis causing hassle

We have a storm going on for the second weekend running – last week it was Ciara but this week it’s Dennis.

Strong winds and flooding everywhere. Jack went to football but unsurprisingly it was cancelled – can’t believe they thought it would be on and made the other team travel – madness!

Worked in the garden and made a fire inside and it went tits up! Not sure what happened to the vents but all the smoke came billowing into the front room – total nightmare.  So that was a let down

Went to the gym, worked hard and it was enjoyable.

Took Bess out for a walk on the meadow, none of us enjoyed that – her least of all!

Back home sorting out Derek’s tablet and Jack came back from football and offered to take me and Mum out for dinner – his treat! So we went to the Steak place in Kidlington, had a nice bit of food and he did pay – very grown up of him, much appreciated. It was a nice bit of time to spend together and then back home

Nothing doing in the evening so caught up on more programmes and took it easy. Nice quiet evening.

Felt a bit guilty having a second meal in two day to be honest! Really nice of him though, he’s growing up well

Nik’s Birthday Meal

Shit day at work – really struggled for motivation. Nothing more to report!

Jack gave us a lift to Summertown in the evening and we met Nik & Gaz in the Dew Drop and necked a drink a bit too quickly and then made our way over to Pizza Mamma Mia.

Tight and cosy place but it was a nice evening and good meal. Gaz was trying to get us to nick a poster from the toilets that he’s after but I managed to not agree to do so!

Back over to the Dew Drop for a couple more drinks and then 10.45pm they got the bus and Jack picked us up

Nice evening, not to mad or drunken and good to catch up with them

Working back in Kent

Had training session in Maidstone today with TEP and it was a long old day. Was on the road by 6.30am (ish) and then so much traffic causing all sorts of problems so not into their offices until 9.15am. Saw Charlie, she’s fine and it was nice to catch up and then a solid day of working through Data Mining with three different teams. Went okay – many of them didn’t want to have a hands-on session and were happy for me to go through all the queries and processes presentation style. Suits me but I wonder at how effective that is for learning retention.

After session went through web things with Louise and then Charlie and I caught up with things over a pint in the pub which was nice.

Then a drive home from 6.15pm for two hours so not too desperate – but I am so very glad I no longer have to do that trip on a regular basis, it would be the end of me now.

Tash went out with Nicky Henderson and I watched a programme with dinner and then off to bed! She wasn’t home too late (or drunk) so that made a nice change… ha ha!

Derek no so good again, he’s struggling with food and has lost about 17lb since Xmas, he’s back on anti-biotics so not good at all. Mum is coming over for dinner tomorrow so will catch up then

Change of working day

Was at Raintree today and got in nice and early so left on time at 4.00pm for once. Busy day there with lots getting done, they had some people in from US so there were nice sandwiches afterwards so that was a highlight to my day!!

As I’d left early I decided to go to the gym (having popped in to feed Bess and let her out) and it was okay – spent out 70 minutes in there and worked up a sweat, whether it’s better fitness or eating more food I had more energy and did 15 mins rowing and 30 mins on the bike – that was about 460 calories so I was pleased with that!

Back home for dinner and pottering about – I have a long day training in Kent tomorrow so did loads of last minute testing and prep and it was frustrating that things were still being updated and moving even as I was sat there. Nothing new with EdCo I know but still makes things hard for me.

Will see how it goes – should be okay I hope

Shit Awful Day Today

“Worked” from home today but got so very, very little done – such a wasted day. Not sure what’s wrong with me, I couldn’t focus or concentrate on anything at all

Had an afternoon training call on Logical Office and it was appalling as well – the lady in question simply could not grasp the basics of the functionality and what I was showing/explaining to her. I can’t think of anyone that’s struggled that much before

Worked on Mum’s laptop throughout the day – that’s a piece of work! Hasn’t had any updates in April 2019 and had 112 to run – got it working faster by the evening but she needs to get rid of it – it’s only got 3GB of RAM so no wonder it’s so slow

Dinner in the evening, nice, and then watched the last episode of Der Pass which Tash and I have been getting into – enjoyed it and it was a decent enough ending

And then to bed

Really hope I don’t get more days like that – it was a nightmare

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.