Goodbye 2009, you have flown by at a rate of knots!
There have been ups and downs, masses of great fun, lots of friends (and new friends). Sophie had Scarlett and I became a Grandad Glitz, Sam finished school, did well in his exams and is now doing really well at his catering college. Gigs, gigs and more gigs plus a great relationship with Toni.
Tonight we're going to party like it's 1999, or at least 2009, at THE New Year Bash in Southend and I intend to be dressed to the nines and VERY drunk! Have a great time tonight everybody and see you next year!
Thursday, 31 December 2009
Wednesday, 30 December 2009
Avatar 3D
Went to see Avatar in 3D tonight in Bas Vegas. Had a yummy Nandos dinner before picking up our 3D glasses and taking our seats.
The 3D adverts were AMAZING!
And so came the much talked about Avatar itself. The film wasn't bad at all. Some of the 3D effects were brilliant and I don't think I could have actually watched the film in 2D.
The film was good, visual effects were stunning although the plot was a little thin and some of the fast action sequences didn't work too well in 3D. Perhaps it was a little over ambitious. It didn't feel like it was 2.5 hours which is good as there's nothing worse than wondering when a film will end.
It was a shame that it didn't take much to work out that they were going to go with the whole Gaian Hypothesis by the end of it. It didn't disappoint though, they did!
Definitely worth seeing but make sure you see the 3D rather than 2D version.
The 3D adverts were AMAZING!
And so came the much talked about Avatar itself. The film wasn't bad at all. Some of the 3D effects were brilliant and I don't think I could have actually watched the film in 2D.
The film was good, visual effects were stunning although the plot was a little thin and some of the fast action sequences didn't work too well in 3D. Perhaps it was a little over ambitious. It didn't feel like it was 2.5 hours which is good as there's nothing worse than wondering when a film will end.
It was a shame that it didn't take much to work out that they were going to go with the whole Gaian Hypothesis by the end of it. It didn't disappoint though, they did!
Definitely worth seeing but make sure you see the 3D rather than 2D version.
My ailments and pains update
Went to see the GP at 07:30 this morning as I had a couple of stomach flare ups again over Xmas.
Toni and I paid close attention to what I was eating over the Xmas period and tried our best to analyse the locality of my pains and were of the opinion that my problems are not wind or IBS related but are probably caused by gall stones. The pains that I was getting lasted for 1-3 hours and the location and symptoms matched those of gall stones.
We relayed this information to the GP who has now referred me for an ultrasound scan to investigate further. Not there yet but at least I feel like we could be on the right track. Just have to hope that it doesn't flare up too much between now and the scan as painkillers hardly touch it and I really don't want to be going through the agony that I experienced at one point over Xmas again.
Fingers crossed that there is light at the end of the tunnel and it will all be over with quickly.
Toni and I paid close attention to what I was eating over the Xmas period and tried our best to analyse the locality of my pains and were of the opinion that my problems are not wind or IBS related but are probably caused by gall stones. The pains that I was getting lasted for 1-3 hours and the location and symptoms matched those of gall stones.
We relayed this information to the GP who has now referred me for an ultrasound scan to investigate further. Not there yet but at least I feel like we could be on the right track. Just have to hope that it doesn't flare up too much between now and the scan as painkillers hardly touch it and I really don't want to be going through the agony that I experienced at one point over Xmas again.
Fingers crossed that there is light at the end of the tunnel and it will all be over with quickly.
Tuesday, 29 December 2009
Back to work and Brutal Legend
Back to work today. Thankfully it was all pretty quiet. As its the weird working period between Xmas and New Year the sandwich lady doesn't deliver so today I was very naughty and had a McDonalds!
After work I went home and watch the Capitals grab a much need 4 - 2 victory over the Newcastle Vipers whilst having a lovely fish salad and baked potato.
Finished the evening off playing the awesome BRUTAL LEGEND game. It is amazingly cheesy and has Spinal Tap style metal cliches but was GREAT fun to play.
After work I went home and watch the Capitals grab a much need 4 - 2 victory over the Newcastle Vipers whilst having a lovely fish salad and baked potato.
Finished the evening off playing the awesome BRUTAL LEGEND game. It is amazingly cheesy and has Spinal Tap style metal cliches but was GREAT fun to play.
RIP Jimmy “The Rev” Sullivan
Sad to hear the news today that Jimmy “The Rev” Sullivan, the drummer from Avenged Sevenfold has died. Apparently it was natural causes but he was only 28 FFS! So tragic that another life has gone :o(
Last.FM listening post
Here's last week's top picks music lovers!
Top weekly tracks:
Top weekly artists:
Overall top tracks:
Overall top artists:
Top weekly tracks:
Top weekly artists:
Overall top tracks:
Overall top artists:
Monday, 28 December 2009
Shopping and Sherlock Holmes
We went into Chelmsford today, had Pizza Hut for lunch and then went to Game to do some post Xmas shopping. Toni got a load of games and accessories for Aaron and Gemima's Xbox 360 and we enjoyed the delights of queueing for over 30 minutes to pay for them. It was madness in there although I did also walk away with a copy of Brutal Legend for the PS3.
After shopping we popped back to SWF for a short while for a cup of tea and chill and then we headed off to Bas Vegas to watch the new Guy Ritchie film, Sherlock Holmes. It was great fun and I would definitely recommend you all to go and see it.
We returned to SWF to have some more yummy turkey soup and watch Don't Mess With The Zohan.
After shopping we popped back to SWF for a short while for a cup of tea and chill and then we headed off to Bas Vegas to watch the new Guy Ritchie film, Sherlock Holmes. It was great fun and I would definitely recommend you all to go and see it.
We returned to SWF to have some more yummy turkey soup and watch Don't Mess With The Zohan.
Sunday, 27 December 2009
Final presents and hello/goodbye to Sam
We shot over to Livvy's from Eltham today to collect Sam and take him back to SWF.
Gave him his Xmas presents (he had agreed to wait until after Xmas) which he totally loved. Not long after we had got back and exchanged presents Sophie arrived to pick him up and take him back to Nottingham until New Year.
Sophie and Sam gave me an Old Wrinklies joke book! (LMFAO thanks guys hehe)
Gave him his Xmas presents (he had agreed to wait until after Xmas) which he totally loved. Not long after we had got back and exchanged presents Sophie arrived to pick him up and take him back to Nottingham until New Year.
Sophie and Sam gave me an Old Wrinklies joke book! (LMFAO thanks guys hehe)
Saturday, 26 December 2009
Boxing Day fun
Today was a busy day.
We were up early-ish for breakfast and then we had to prepare for the arrival of Toni's family as well as Pete's parents.
It was all a bit hectic but the day went very well. Everybody got on well, lots of yummy food was eaten and alcohol consumed (a whole bottle of JD for me!)
It was an added bonus that we also got a couple of extra presents from Leanne (Toni's sister).
I got a fabulous mug (in a similar style to the goblets that Toni had given me) plus a lip gloss in a black glitter ball.
Pete's mum and dad gave us some gorgeous Belgian biscuits and Pete gave us some sweets.
We were up early-ish for breakfast and then we had to prepare for the arrival of Toni's family as well as Pete's parents.
It was all a bit hectic but the day went very well. Everybody got on well, lots of yummy food was eaten and alcohol consumed (a whole bottle of JD for me!)
It was an added bonus that we also got a couple of extra presents from Leanne (Toni's sister).
I got a fabulous mug (in a similar style to the goblets that Toni had given me) plus a lip gloss in a black glitter ball.
Pete's mum and dad gave us some gorgeous Belgian biscuits and Pete gave us some sweets.
Friday, 25 December 2009
An excellent Xmas
It was a really good Xmas. Strange without Sam there but we all had a good time. Got up and had a big breakfast and then started preparing the Xmas lunch. Ham, turkey and beef was the order of the day and it was totally delicious.
Following a wonderful meal we then opened our presents.
I got:
Hello Kitty face mask (from Jade)
Hello Kitty bed set (from Toni)
Hello Kitty fondue set (from the kids)
2 gothic goblets (from Toni)
A disco duck (from mum)
A shark shower cap (from mum)
2 VW campervan mugs (from mum)
Bottle of JD (from mum)
Jade came round with Pete in the evening and we sat and around had a good old chin wag.
Following a wonderful meal we then opened our presents.
I got:
Hello Kitty face mask (from Jade)
Hello Kitty bed set (from Toni)
Hello Kitty fondue set (from the kids)
2 gothic goblets (from Toni)
A disco duck (from mum)
A shark shower cap (from mum)
2 VW campervan mugs (from mum)
Bottle of JD (from mum)
Jade came round with Pete in the evening and we sat and around had a good old chin wag.
Merry Christmas everyone!
Merry Christmas to all my family and friends.
Hope you have a good time with your loved ones
Hope you have a good time with your loved ones
Thursday, 24 December 2009
The Night Before Christmas
Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
In hopes that St Nicholas soon would be there.
The children were nestled all snug in their beds,
While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads.
And mamma in her ‘kerchief, and I in my cap,
Had just settled our brains for a long winter’s nap.
When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash,
Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.
The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow
Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below.
When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,
But a miniature sleigh, and eight tinny reindeer.
With a little old driver, so lively and quick,
I knew in a moment it must be St Nick.
More rapid than eagles his coursers they came,
And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name!
"Now Dasher! now, Dancer! now, Prancer and Vixen!
On, Comet! On, Cupid! on, on Donner and Blitzen!
To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall!
Now dash away! Dash away! Dash away all!"
As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly,
When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky.
So up to the house-top the coursers they flew,
With the sleigh full of Toys, and St Nicholas too.
And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof
The prancing and pawing of each little hoof.
As I drew in my head, and was turning around,
Down the chimney St Nicholas came with a bound.
He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot,
And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot.
A bundle of Toys he had flung on his back,
And he looked like a peddler, just opening his pack.
His eyes-how they twinkled! his dimples how merry!
His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!
His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow,
And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow.
The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth,
And the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath.
He had a broad face and a little round belly,
That shook when he laughed, like a bowlful of jelly!
He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf,
And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself!
A wink of his eye and a twist of his head,
Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread.
He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work,
And filled all the stockings, then turned with a jerk.
And laying his finger aside of his nose,
And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose!
He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle,
And away they all flew like the down of a thistle.
But I heard him exclaim, ‘ere he drove out of sight,
"Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night!"
- The Night Before Christmas (Clement Clarke Moore)
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
In hopes that St Nicholas soon would be there.
The children were nestled all snug in their beds,
While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads.
And mamma in her ‘kerchief, and I in my cap,
Had just settled our brains for a long winter’s nap.
When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash,
Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.
The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow
Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below.
When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,
But a miniature sleigh, and eight tinny reindeer.
With a little old driver, so lively and quick,
I knew in a moment it must be St Nick.
More rapid than eagles his coursers they came,
And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name!
"Now Dasher! now, Dancer! now, Prancer and Vixen!
On, Comet! On, Cupid! on, on Donner and Blitzen!
To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall!
Now dash away! Dash away! Dash away all!"
As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly,
When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky.
So up to the house-top the coursers they flew,
With the sleigh full of Toys, and St Nicholas too.
And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof
The prancing and pawing of each little hoof.
As I drew in my head, and was turning around,
Down the chimney St Nicholas came with a bound.
He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot,
And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot.
A bundle of Toys he had flung on his back,
And he looked like a peddler, just opening his pack.
His eyes-how they twinkled! his dimples how merry!
His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!
His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow,
And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow.
The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth,
And the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath.
He had a broad face and a little round belly,
That shook when he laughed, like a bowlful of jelly!
He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf,
And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself!
A wink of his eye and a twist of his head,
Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread.
He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work,
And filled all the stockings, then turned with a jerk.
And laying his finger aside of his nose,
And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose!
He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle,
And away they all flew like the down of a thistle.
But I heard him exclaim, ‘ere he drove out of sight,
"Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night!"
- The Night Before Christmas (Clement Clarke Moore)
It's nearly Xmas!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Despite my blog post yesterday I woke up in a completely different mood today. Am really looking forward to Xmas with Toni this year!
Got up at 7 today, Sam made me a cup of tea and a bacon sandwich and I checked and rechecked that I had packed everything I needed for Xmas. Kickstarted the day listening to Twisted Sister's "A Twisted Christmas" album to get me in the spirit!
Can't wait to finish work today and get over to Toni's!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Got up at 7 today, Sam made me a cup of tea and a bacon sandwich and I checked and rechecked that I had packed everything I needed for Xmas. Kickstarted the day listening to Twisted Sister's "A Twisted Christmas" album to get me in the spirit!
Can't wait to finish work today and get over to Toni's!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Last minute preparation
Eek, was supposed to be having an early night! Started making sure I had everything ready for the morning and then I started thinking of other stuff to take.
Have grabbed 4 DVDs that I think are mandatory to watch at Xmas plus loaded up my mp3 player with lots of trashy American TV to watch too. I then realised that my laptop has an HDMI socket so then went in search of the spare HDMI cable so that we can watch things via the laptop on Toni's funky new monitor.
I WILL try and get some sleep now!
Have grabbed 4 DVDs that I think are mandatory to watch at Xmas plus loaded up my mp3 player with lots of trashy American TV to watch too. I then realised that my laptop has an HDMI socket so then went in search of the spare HDMI cable so that we can watch things via the laptop on Toni's funky new monitor.
I WILL try and get some sleep now!
Wednesday, 23 December 2009
Slowing down
The pace at work is slowing down a little in the run up to Xmas which is nice. Not only has it meant that the pressure has reduced but it has also given me time to start migrating my data and programs to a new Vista machine (that is going to have Windows 7 on it very soon).
Got home from work today and finished wrapping the last of the Xmas presents. Sam then made a lovely spicy mince and rice dish and we watched WWE Raw and then Phantom Of The Opera. Was nice to just chill out and watch a film together especially as we won't really see each other again properly until the New Year. He is spending Xmas with Livvy while I go to Toni's and then we'll see each other briefly on the 27th before he goes off to spend the rest of next week and New Year with his mother and Sophie in Nottingham. Will be weird not having him around at Xmas although I fully understand why he wants to go to Livvy's rather than come with me.
I only realised the other day that Sam and I have no decorations up at all nor do we intend to put any up LOL. I am more than happy to indulge in other people's Xmas whims but don't want to have any of my own *hehehe*
No, I am not Mr Scrooge and I am sure that I will have a fabulous time at Toni's.
Got home from work today and finished wrapping the last of the Xmas presents. Sam then made a lovely spicy mince and rice dish and we watched WWE Raw and then Phantom Of The Opera. Was nice to just chill out and watch a film together especially as we won't really see each other again properly until the New Year. He is spending Xmas with Livvy while I go to Toni's and then we'll see each other briefly on the 27th before he goes off to spend the rest of next week and New Year with his mother and Sophie in Nottingham. Will be weird not having him around at Xmas although I fully understand why he wants to go to Livvy's rather than come with me.
I only realised the other day that Sam and I have no decorations up at all nor do we intend to put any up LOL. I am more than happy to indulge in other people's Xmas whims but don't want to have any of my own *hehehe*
No, I am not Mr Scrooge and I am sure that I will have a fabulous time at Toni's.
Tuesday, 22 December 2009
Monday, 21 December 2009
Day off, housework and PS3
Had the day off today.
Spent most of it having a major tidy up, straightening out the kitchen, doing washing and general things. Still some more to do but that will have to wait until tomorrow evening (when Sam can help *sniggers*).
In between cleaning bouts I indulged in some PS3 fun, namely NHL 10 and Wolfenstein. Was delighted with Wolfenstein as I had been stuck at a certain point for ages and suddenly I managed to get past it and make real progress. My boy will be so proud of me LMFAO!
Had dinner and watched a couple of episodes of Gossip Girl.
As Sam had decided to spend another night at Livvy's I made the most of the peace and quiet and spent the evening chilling out with joss sticks, candles and Rufus Wainwright.
Spent most of it having a major tidy up, straightening out the kitchen, doing washing and general things. Still some more to do but that will have to wait until tomorrow evening (when Sam can help *sniggers*).
In between cleaning bouts I indulged in some PS3 fun, namely NHL 10 and Wolfenstein. Was delighted with Wolfenstein as I had been stuck at a certain point for ages and suddenly I managed to get past it and make real progress. My boy will be so proud of me LMFAO!
Had dinner and watched a couple of episodes of Gossip Girl.
As Sam had decided to spend another night at Livvy's I made the most of the peace and quiet and spent the evening chilling out with joss sticks, candles and Rufus Wainwright.
Last.FM listening post
Here's last week's top picks music lovers!
Top weekly tracks:
Top weekly artists:
Overall top tracks:
Overall top artists:
Top weekly tracks:
Top weekly artists:
Overall top tracks:
Overall top artists:
Sunday, 20 December 2009
Rage Against The Machine are the Xmas #1
Yes folks, it is OFFICIAL. WE DID IT!
X Factor did not claim the Xmas #1 spot for the 5th year running. Instead, thanks to the efforts of a lovely couple from SWF (NO, a different couple from SWF LOL) Rage Against The Machine's "Killing In The Name" became the Xmas #1 single and also set a couple of records.
It was the first #1 single that was done purely on downloads and also achieved the biggest download sales total in a first week ever in the UK charts.
Well done and thank you to every single person that supported the campaign and bought a copy of Killing In The Name and caused the biggest ever chart upset!
X Factor did not claim the Xmas #1 spot for the 5th year running. Instead, thanks to the efforts of a lovely couple from SWF (NO, a different couple from SWF LOL) Rage Against The Machine's "Killing In The Name" became the Xmas #1 single and also set a couple of records.
It was the first #1 single that was done purely on downloads and also achieved the biggest download sales total in a first week ever in the UK charts.
Well done and thank you to every single person that supported the campaign and bought a copy of Killing In The Name and caused the biggest ever chart upset!
Scarlett
Toni and I went over to see Scarlett at Shane's today. She was asleep when we arrived and was a little grizzly when she woke up. Was lovely to see her again.
Saturday, 19 December 2009
St Trinian's 2: The Legend Of Fritton's Gold
Started the day with a yummy breakfast at DeeLight's cafe before going back to Toni's and helping her do some furniture moving. Move the bed from Gemima's room and reconstructed the bunk beds in Aaron's room.
Following this we went and picked up Jade and headed to Greenwich to go to the cinema. The plan originally had been to see Avatar but there were massive queues for that (plus Pete and Gemima both wanted to see it too and I wasn't that fussed) so instead we decided to go and see St Trinian's 2: The Legend Of Fritton's Gold.
It was good old British cinema fun, not big, not clever but lots of fun and laughter to be had. OK I will admit that I was a BIG fan of the first film and the sequel was just as good.
After the film we dropped Aaron and Jade off and then headed back to SWF
Following this we went and picked up Jade and headed to Greenwich to go to the cinema. The plan originally had been to see Avatar but there were massive queues for that (plus Pete and Gemima both wanted to see it too and I wasn't that fussed) so instead we decided to go and see St Trinian's 2: The Legend Of Fritton's Gold.
It was good old British cinema fun, not big, not clever but lots of fun and laughter to be had. OK I will admit that I was a BIG fan of the first film and the sequel was just as good.
After the film we dropped Aaron and Jade off and then headed back to SWF
Friday, 18 December 2009
Xmas party
Had our office Xmas party tonight and it was totally awesome.
I went back to Toni's where we both got dressed up.
We then headed to Mottingham station in the bitter cold and got the train to Waterloo. On the train:
Next we braved biting winds to get to the London Aquarium. We did however stop briefly by the Thames for a quick photo:
It was a relief to get inside where it was nice and warm:
We had a lovely champagne reception and watched some of the fishes!
Lots of champagne was followed by a really nice meal and lots of wine, great company, much laughter and a little dancing!
Ryan and Nick
Steve
Mike and Moira
Toni and I
It was a fantastic night.
I went back to Toni's where we both got dressed up.
We then headed to Mottingham station in the bitter cold and got the train to Waterloo. On the train:
Next we braved biting winds to get to the London Aquarium. We did however stop briefly by the Thames for a quick photo:
It was a relief to get inside where it was nice and warm:
We had a lovely champagne reception and watched some of the fishes!
Lots of champagne was followed by a really nice meal and lots of wine, great company, much laughter and a little dancing!
Ryan and Nick
Steve
Mike and Moira
Toni and I
It was a fantastic night.
Thursday, 17 December 2009
Der Schnee ist hier
Well what a great day. Der Schnee ist hier. LOADS of snow started falling, so lovely to watch!
I had planned on going out for a curry with my friends from James Bryan Opticians but given my recent stomach issues I decided to give it a miss as I didn't want to risk anything as things seemed to be on the mend. Was a shame as I was looking forward to seeing them all again but we'll just have to hook up in the New Year now.
Got home and Sam made us a wonderful pasta dish and I am pleased to report that tonight was 2 days in a row where by bizarre stomach symptoms have stayed away thank goodness.
Spent the evening chilling and also doing some tidying up of the bedroom, putting clothes away etc.
Sam kept looking out the window excitedly at snow. He REALLY wants a white Xmas!
Here's various views from the house this evening
I had planned on going out for a curry with my friends from James Bryan Opticians but given my recent stomach issues I decided to give it a miss as I didn't want to risk anything as things seemed to be on the mend. Was a shame as I was looking forward to seeing them all again but we'll just have to hook up in the New Year now.
Got home and Sam made us a wonderful pasta dish and I am pleased to report that tonight was 2 days in a row where by bizarre stomach symptoms have stayed away thank goodness.
Spent the evening chilling and also doing some tidying up of the bedroom, putting clothes away etc.
Sam kept looking out the window excitedly at snow. He REALLY wants a white Xmas!
Here's various views from the house this evening
No bloat!
Had a great night sleep and no problems with bloat at all! Woke up in the morning feeling refreshed and no sign of the dreaded stomach beast, fingers crossed that whatever it was has finally decided to hide away.
Wednesday, 16 December 2009
Awesome HOLLYWOOD DOLL rehearsal
I love it when a plan comes together!
Had an awesome HOLLYWOOD DOLL rehearsal tonight. For once we kicked off with our own material and we actually only played two covers once each tonight. The rest of the time was spent tightening up our SIX original songs that we have! That's eight in total that we now have nailed and Matt and I already have ideas for at least another three songs!
Time flew by and it was a sign of how well things were working tonight. Our mission now is to find some rhythm guitarists to audition at the beginning of January to complete the line up as a five piece and then it will be full steam ahead.
WATCH THIS SPACE!
Had an awesome HOLLYWOOD DOLL rehearsal tonight. For once we kicked off with our own material and we actually only played two covers once each tonight. The rest of the time was spent tightening up our SIX original songs that we have! That's eight in total that we now have nailed and Matt and I already have ideas for at least another three songs!
Time flew by and it was a sign of how well things were working tonight. Our mission now is to find some rhythm guitarists to audition at the beginning of January to complete the line up as a five piece and then it will be full steam ahead.
WATCH THIS SPACE!
Quack!
Went to the GP this morninging about my bloaty hurty tummy! Was all a bit wishy washy to start with as I expected, "could be this, could be that" but at least she took it seriously and didn't say I had a virus and prescribe amoxycillin.
I have a prescription for some acid reducing tablets should the problems persist. Have also been told to try using gaviscon as well. If things don't improve then I am to go back and they can test for H.Pylori with a stool sample although I fail to see how my furniture can help that ;o) She didn't think it was IBS although said it was a possibility. She is also wans't sure if it may or not be a gluten/wheat thang but said to keep an eye on what I was eating to see if there were any catalysts.
I have a prescription for some acid reducing tablets should the problems persist. Have also been told to try using gaviscon as well. If things don't improve then I am to go back and they can test for H.Pylori with a stool sample although I fail to see how my furniture can help that ;o) She didn't think it was IBS although said it was a possibility. She is also wans't sure if it may or not be a gluten/wheat thang but said to keep an eye on what I was eating to see if there were any catalysts.
Tuesday, 15 December 2009
RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE FOR CHRISTMAS NO.1
Fed up with Simon Cowell's latest karaoke act being Christmas No.1?
Me too... So who's up for a mass-purchase of the track 'KILLING IN THE NAME' from December 13th as a protest to the X-Factor monotony?
This year the Christmas No.1 will be announced on Sunday 20th December
TIME TO BUY! Do NOT buy more than 2 copies as it will flag as suspicious and not be registered.
INVITE MORE PEOPLE.
Purchase links follow - careful you buy 'Killing in the Name':
iTUNES - 99p - track #2 (click on 'view in itunes' on the right) http://bit.ly/ratm-itunes
PLAY.COM - 65p http://bit.ly/ratm-play
AMAZON - 29p http://bit.ly/61wUi8
7DIGITAL - 50p it's the second track http://bit.ly/5umxQV
Me too... So who's up for a mass-purchase of the track 'KILLING IN THE NAME' from December 13th as a protest to the X-Factor monotony?
This year the Christmas No.1 will be announced on Sunday 20th December
TIME TO BUY! Do NOT buy more than 2 copies as it will flag as suspicious and not be registered.
INVITE MORE PEOPLE.
Purchase links follow - careful you buy 'Killing in the Name':
iTUNES - 99p - track #2 (click on 'view in itunes' on the right) http://bit.ly/ratm-itunes
PLAY.COM - 65p http://bit.ly/ratm-play
AMAZON - 29p http://bit.ly/61wUi8
7DIGITAL - 50p it's the second track http://bit.ly/5umxQV
Work Xmas meal and return of the bloat!
We had our work Xmas meal at Nandos in Brentwood today. Was really nice and a good time was had by all. Despite my cutting out of all the wheat products I still ended up with my bloated pain returning :o(
Got home and curled up with a hot bottle and painkillers :o(
Got home and curled up with a hot bottle and painkillers :o(
Another restless night
Last night was another restless, pain wracked one. Had hardly any sleep at all with most of the time curled up in pain against a hot water bottle. Things had improved by the time I had to leave for work but it was still uncomfortable which was a relief.
Got a text message from Ron this morning saying that he dropped some post through the letterbox and did I know I had keys hanging from my front door! They must have been Sam's from when he came in last night, SO lucky I live on a quiet street and they were still there. Had a word with Sam about it as I don't want to risk something like that happening again.
Go to work and called my GP and I have now made myself an appointment for tomorrow morning at 07:50 to talk about my inflating stomach!
Got a text message from Ron this morning saying that he dropped some post through the letterbox and did I know I had keys hanging from my front door! They must have been Sam's from when he came in last night, SO lucky I live on a quiet street and they were still there. Had a word with Sam about it as I don't want to risk something like that happening again.
Go to work and called my GP and I have now made myself an appointment for tomorrow morning at 07:50 to talk about my inflating stomach!
Monday, 14 December 2009
Bacon, wrestling and hurt
Got in and chilled for a bit.
Started preparing a lovely piece of bacon for dinner with roast tatties and carrots. Sam was going to be back late so that gave me time to get everything ready and then I watched a bit of TNA wrestling to pass the time.
When Sam came in he made the gravy and we had a lovely dinner. I forget how easy it is to cook proper food and not just crap! Will have to do that more often LOL
We watched most of the recent WWE PPV Tables, Ladders & Chairs and chatted to Toni on MSN before heading to bed. My stomach had started to hurt again and by the time I hit bed I had started to bloat *groan*. My only though was that it might have been the gravy as I had been really careful not to eat anything with wheat in all day. Will make an appointment with the doctor tomorrow as I can't go on like this every few days.
Started preparing a lovely piece of bacon for dinner with roast tatties and carrots. Sam was going to be back late so that gave me time to get everything ready and then I watched a bit of TNA wrestling to pass the time.
When Sam came in he made the gravy and we had a lovely dinner. I forget how easy it is to cook proper food and not just crap! Will have to do that more often LOL
We watched most of the recent WWE PPV Tables, Ladders & Chairs and chatted to Toni on MSN before heading to bed. My stomach had started to hurt again and by the time I hit bed I had started to bloat *groan*. My only though was that it might have been the gravy as I had been really careful not to eat anything with wheat in all day. Will make an appointment with the doctor tomorrow as I can't go on like this every few days.
Last.FM listening post
Here's last week's top picks music lovers!
Top weekly tracks:
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Overall top tracks:
Overall top artists:
Top weekly tracks:
Top weekly artists:
Overall top tracks:
Overall top artists:
Feel better today
Woke up this morning thankfully being less bloated and feeling much better. Still a fair bit if trapped air but the pain and hardness has gone.
Unfortunately this meant that I was good to go to work, oh well!
Unfortunately this meant that I was good to go to work, oh well!
Sunday, 13 December 2009
Paella, drive back and bloaty beast
Got up at a reasonable time, had a light breakfast before taking lots of things to the tip for mum. When we got back we played some games before being treated to a lovely paella (thanks to Sam and mum).
We then headed back to SWF and had a very clear run which was a relief given the problems we had getting to Stratford-upon-Avon. Got back in time for me to troubleshoot the Capitals webcast and watch them lose 3 - 1 to the Belfast Giants (BOOO!). W
Whilst the webcast was on the painful bloated stomach that I had on Wednesday decided to return (although not quite as bad). Toni ran me a bath and I had a long soak to help me relax.
Definitely going to have to cut out gluten for a while and see if things improve so it looks like I'll be having a gluten free Xmas! This won't be a bad thing though as Toni makes lovely food :o)
We then headed back to SWF and had a very clear run which was a relief given the problems we had getting to Stratford-upon-Avon. Got back in time for me to troubleshoot the Capitals webcast and watch them lose 3 - 1 to the Belfast Giants (BOOO!). W
Whilst the webcast was on the painful bloated stomach that I had on Wednesday decided to return (although not quite as bad). Toni ran me a bath and I had a long soak to help me relax.
Definitely going to have to cut out gluten for a while and see if things improve so it looks like I'll be having a gluten free Xmas! This won't be a bad thing though as Toni makes lovely food :o)
Saturday, 12 December 2009
Nightmare drive to Stratford and Greek yumminess
We got up early this morning and Toni, Sam and I went to Stratford-upon-Avon to go and see my mum. The journey there was an absolute nightmare and at one point it took us 1.5 hours to travel the equivalent of a 2 minute drive.
When we finally arrived we had some lunch and chilled out. We played a few card games as is often our way when there as well as digging out Tricky Golf.
In the evening we went to a gorgeous new Greek restaurant and had a fantastic meal! It was a meze all round and much wine was drunk and lovely food consumed!
When we finally arrived we had some lunch and chilled out. We played a few card games as is often our way when there as well as digging out Tricky Golf.
In the evening we went to a gorgeous new Greek restaurant and had a fantastic meal! It was a meze all round and much wine was drunk and lovely food consumed!
Friday, 11 December 2009
Chill, pasta, V
Got in from work and chilled out for a bit.
Toni arrived and made a lovely bacon pasta dish for dinner that was yummy.
We watched a few episodes of the V remake. I thought it was actually pretty good, different enough to be new but hold enough similar elements to make it nicely familiar. Can't wait to see how it develops.
After the lizards we had an early-ish night as we were heading off to Startford-upon-Avon tomorrow morning to see my mum
Toni arrived and made a lovely bacon pasta dish for dinner that was yummy.
We watched a few episodes of the V remake. I thought it was actually pretty good, different enough to be new but hold enough similar elements to make it nicely familiar. Can't wait to see how it develops.
After the lizards we had an early-ish night as we were heading off to Startford-upon-Avon tomorrow morning to see my mum
Thursday, 10 December 2009
Feeling better, half day, more work and stress
Woke up this morning feeling MUCH better following on from my horrible stomach pains the night before. Had the morning booked off so it was a nice slow start. We got up, Toni started wrapping up some Xmas presents and I made breakfast. We then headed off to Shenfield where Toni dropped me at work and then she headed off to SWF.
Headed home looking forward to another round of Sam's delightful carrot and onion soup. It had been a relatively calm day at work but I had agreed to log on when I got home to test a last minute patch and send it out to a client. Did this with no bother at all, nearly an hour spent at home sorting things out but all was good, tested OK, patch sent and corresponding emails also sent.
Had the lovely carrot and onion soup and Toni, Sam and I watched The Young Ones. After food we did a little painting of Warhammer models.
I then decided to check my emails and found a "thank you" email for sending the patch out and a snotogram from the boss demanding an explanation of what had happened. Oh joy of joys we were back in witch hunt city! Then spent a further half hour making phone calls with colleagues and investigating things ready for the morning. I wouldn't mind but the "shoot first ask questions later" routine is wearing thin and in this instance although we were being kicked first our investigation showed that we were free from blame so it will be interested to see where the kicking boot ends up tomorrow!
After all that lovely stress I chilled out for a bit and then we went to bed (later than planned). Roll on tomorrow (and, more importantly, the weekend!)
Headed home looking forward to another round of Sam's delightful carrot and onion soup. It had been a relatively calm day at work but I had agreed to log on when I got home to test a last minute patch and send it out to a client. Did this with no bother at all, nearly an hour spent at home sorting things out but all was good, tested OK, patch sent and corresponding emails also sent.
Had the lovely carrot and onion soup and Toni, Sam and I watched The Young Ones. After food we did a little painting of Warhammer models.
I then decided to check my emails and found a "thank you" email for sending the patch out and a snotogram from the boss demanding an explanation of what had happened. Oh joy of joys we were back in witch hunt city! Then spent a further half hour making phone calls with colleagues and investigating things ready for the morning. I wouldn't mind but the "shoot first ask questions later" routine is wearing thin and in this instance although we were being kicked first our investigation showed that we were free from blame so it will be interested to see where the kicking boot ends up tomorrow!
After all that lovely stress I chilled out for a bit and then we went to bed (later than planned). Roll on tomorrow (and, more importantly, the weekend!)
Wednesday, 9 December 2009
Bexhill-on-Sea and The Puppini Sisters (FAIL)
Had a half day today and went off to meet Toni. My stomach was feeling a bit squiffy and after we had a light snack I was feeling incredibly bloated. Toni reckons I could have been showing some major signs of gluten intolerance or even IBS and so I am going to cut out wheat products for a week and see how things go.
After lunch we popped into Makro to pick up some Xmas presents before setting off to Bexhill-on-Sea to see her nan. My stomach was really hurting by now and I was worried about whether or not I would be OK to go out in the evening. I slept a lot on the way but still felt rough when we arrived. I skipped dinner and went to bed to try and sleep in the desperate hope that things but it was no good. Toni decided that we should go back to London and so, sadly, we had to miss The Puppini Sisters which was a real shame as I had really been looking forward to it.
Long painful drive back to London (well it felt long anyway) which involved a bit more sleep (thanks to a wonderful microwable bean bag that Toni's aunt Sue had lent me). Once we got back to Eltham Toni stuck me in a lovely warm bubbly bath which really helped relax my stomach. After that it was time to crash out in bed....
After lunch we popped into Makro to pick up some Xmas presents before setting off to Bexhill-on-Sea to see her nan. My stomach was really hurting by now and I was worried about whether or not I would be OK to go out in the evening. I slept a lot on the way but still felt rough when we arrived. I skipped dinner and went to bed to try and sleep in the desperate hope that things but it was no good. Toni decided that we should go back to London and so, sadly, we had to miss The Puppini Sisters which was a real shame as I had really been looking forward to it.
Long painful drive back to London (well it felt long anyway) which involved a bit more sleep (thanks to a wonderful microwable bean bag that Toni's aunt Sue had lent me). Once we got back to Eltham Toni stuck me in a lovely warm bubbly bath which really helped relax my stomach. After that it was time to crash out in bed....
I'm alive!
Well I certainly feel more alive this morning! Managed to get up with no problem at all so I think I am almost recovered now thank god. Looking forward to only working a half day today and going to Bexhill-on-Sea with Toni to see her nan and The Puppini Sisters.
Tuesday, 8 December 2009
More sleep!
The old body is making a SLOW recovery from Hard Rock Hell although I did feel like complete crap when I woke up this morning and it took most of the day to feel better.
Another quiet day at work meant no stress so I could completely relax when I got home.
Watched a few episodes of Stargate Universe and a bit of wrestling before grabbing another early night.
Another quiet day at work meant no stress so I could completely relax when I got home.
Watched a few episodes of Stargate Universe and a bit of wrestling before grabbing another early night.
Monday, 7 December 2009
And..................sleep!
I was SO relieved that it was a quiet day at work today as I was still completely shattered following on from the madness that was Hard Rock Hell!
Got home and did naff all, pottered about a bit and just chilled.
Sam came home with Connor and Livvy (who were staying the night) and we had an Indian for dinner and watched some wrestling before I hit the pit for some much needed sleep.
Got home and did naff all, pottered about a bit and just chilled.
Sam came home with Connor and Livvy (who were staying the night) and we had an Indian for dinner and watched some wrestling before I hit the pit for some much needed sleep.
Last.FM listening post
Here's last week's top picks music lovers!
Top weekly tracks:
Top weekly artists:
Overall top tracks:
Overall top artists:
Top weekly tracks:
Top weekly artists:
Overall top tracks:
Overall top artists:
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