I think someone is punishing me for talking about women the way I did in my previous post - either that or my luck ran out with all the sport I do.
Playing football (soccer to you Yanks) and I wasn't in goal and I managed to break a bone in my hand, work that one out. What's more embarrassing is that I collided with my own player on the field and ended up snapping something.
Got a brace on for the next few weeks which of course means no football or weight training, something that hasn't made me happy.
Taking forever to write!
22.11.06
18.11.06
Women? Pssh
The most complex and beautiful creatures known - women. Just recently I started to get to know a lovely barmaid at a bar I drink at. At first I had no intentions of anything but a simple acquaintance - and my local barmaid, I suppose. Anyway, after weeks and weeks of talking I noticed that she had been spending all her breaks talking to me and making an effort to joke with me over the bar, something she doesn't do with others. I decided one evening to ask her out on a date and she went a little bashful but said she'd love to.
A week later, no date, which was understandable because before I even got flirty with her she told me that she was a very busy person at the minute, being a student at a dance college and doing productions throughout the week for various companies. This is fair enough. The next week I saw her and she said she'd probably have the Wednesday free to come on a date. I didn't hold my breath but I said that'd be great and would wait to hear from her.
Tuesday evening arrives and there was nothing, so I text her just for a little heads up. It's now Saturday and I've still not heard from her.
She apparently said to my cousin that she thought I was a really lovely lad and that she "really really likes me". If this is the case, where's the text message/phone call? I don't want to hear that she was too busy to send me a little text 'cause that's rubbish. Even if she is a busy person, some sort of communication is surely not too much to ask.
I've spoken to many people and they say she is doing one of a number of things, and they are:
Playing hard to get
Is too shy to meet up
Isn't really interested - but then explain the comments from above
Not trying to rush anything in case I'm a typical male who is after just one thing (sex)
...and a hoard of other reasons.
I don't think men are this complicated, there's normally only three options:
We're just after sex
We're after a relationship
We're not interested
None of this hard to get bollocks, most of us aren't too shy to want to meet up and I know a decent guy would get back to the girl to let her know what is going on.
If any females come across this, please send me your feedback!
A week later, no date, which was understandable because before I even got flirty with her she told me that she was a very busy person at the minute, being a student at a dance college and doing productions throughout the week for various companies. This is fair enough. The next week I saw her and she said she'd probably have the Wednesday free to come on a date. I didn't hold my breath but I said that'd be great and would wait to hear from her.
Tuesday evening arrives and there was nothing, so I text her just for a little heads up. It's now Saturday and I've still not heard from her.
She apparently said to my cousin that she thought I was a really lovely lad and that she "really really likes me". If this is the case, where's the text message/phone call? I don't want to hear that she was too busy to send me a little text 'cause that's rubbish. Even if she is a busy person, some sort of communication is surely not too much to ask.
I've spoken to many people and they say she is doing one of a number of things, and they are:
Playing hard to get
Is too shy to meet up
Isn't really interested - but then explain the comments from above
Not trying to rush anything in case I'm a typical male who is after just one thing (sex)
...and a hoard of other reasons.
I don't think men are this complicated, there's normally only three options:
We're just after sex
We're after a relationship
We're not interested
None of this hard to get bollocks, most of us aren't too shy to want to meet up and I know a decent guy would get back to the girl to let her know what is going on.
If any females come across this, please send me your feedback!
9.11.06
Chilled
After a hard days work, an hour and 15 minutes session down the gym followed by a football match this evening, there's nothing better than just relaxing in a nice comfy chair with some soothing music playing in the background. Coldplay's 'We Never Change' is perfect for this moment.
Bliss!
Bliss!
23.10.06
Ouch To You Shoulder
A week into my bodybuilding regime and I've already injured myself, clearly a case of "learn to walk before you can run".
I've been pumping weights on my chest, biceps and triceps for over 10 months now and decided I should probably get down the gym to work the rest of my body before it all goes out of proportion. However, it seems I forgot that I've never really pushed my shoulders before, so when I attempted to do it, I ended up damaging my Deltoids or Rotary Cuff, can't work out which although I believe it's the latter.
Looks like it's going to be a case of rest up and stick to cardio for the next week and a half. Great!
I've been pumping weights on my chest, biceps and triceps for over 10 months now and decided I should probably get down the gym to work the rest of my body before it all goes out of proportion. However, it seems I forgot that I've never really pushed my shoulders before, so when I attempted to do it, I ended up damaging my Deltoids or Rotary Cuff, can't work out which although I believe it's the latter.
Looks like it's going to be a case of rest up and stick to cardio for the next week and a half. Great!
12.10.06
Britain Is Fatter than Europe
According to a recent study, Britain is the fattest country* in Europe with one in four people being obese - the fattest being located in Boston, Lincolnshire (Where I used to live).
However, it's not the people of Britain that are at fault for this, it's the Government. We're taught in schools from a very young age how to read, write and add. Going through to secondary school we're given inadequate sex education which is possibly the reason why so many teens are having babies these days, but the one thing we're not taught is nutrition.
Sure, we're brought up being told not to eat junk food, but ask a young child what they think junk food is and they'll probably tell you vegetables, simply because of the dislike in taste. The government should now be making it compulsory for every school to have a nutrition lesson once a week, possibly coinciding with P.E (Physical Education) so that when youngsters leave school they know very well what is right and wrong in the ways of eating and they can then make up their own mind about which path they wish to choose.
As I was growing up my parents would always tell me Mcdonalds was bad, but I never listened to them because they weren't telling me why it was bad. Sure, it's "fattening" is a pretty bog-standard answer, but I was never told what types of fat there are and what they can do to your body. I became over-weight and it was simply down to lack of education.
I'm healthy and fit now, but only because I put in the time and effort to learn for myself what is good for my body and what isn't. There are still thousands, if not millions, of young children who are growing up and leaving school not knowing what "Polyunsaturated fats" are or what "Fibre" actually does for your bowels, and as such, they're eating rubbish foods with no more health benefits than drugs (well).
It's about time the Government stepped up and listened to the likes of Jamie Oliver and others and began introducing nutrition classes in school - making them as equally as important as Maths, Science and English.
On another note, BMI scales. Anyone heard of this? BMI stands for Body Mass Index and works out a persons height and weight and tells them if they're overweight or not.
According to this article by the BBC, a gentleman of 6ft 2 in height who weighs around 15 stone is classed as overweight - and when you hear the term "overweight", you instantly think of "fat".
However, I have a friend who is of the same height and weight but he is clearly not fat. If I could post up a picture of him I would but he has muscles galore and not an inch of fat on him. Every part of his body is sculpt to perfection with 'cut' definition and rock solid pecks. He is a fitness instructor and spends 4 to 5 days a week down the gym. According to the BMI index, my friend is over-weight and thus is expected to die younger.
My view? What a load of bollocks! The government are once again failing to educate people about what is fat and what isn't. They refuse to scrap an absolutely pathetic and disgraceful system called the BMI chart for something much cheaper and more reliable - a mirror.
Next time you want to lose weight, throw your scales in the bin and forget visiting the doctor to find out if you're over-weight. Simply take a look in a mirror (a decent one, I know some that make you look fat) and decide for yourself. If you see lumps in the wrong places or your stomach sagging over your belt, then you know it's time to lose weight. If you can see some definition in your body then you're most probably fine - and if you can see more bone than muscle, then it's time to start eating more.
*I'm fed up with the media calling Britain or Great Britain a country, it is not a country but a geographical location made up of three countries; England, Scotland and Wales.
However, it's not the people of Britain that are at fault for this, it's the Government. We're taught in schools from a very young age how to read, write and add. Going through to secondary school we're given inadequate sex education which is possibly the reason why so many teens are having babies these days, but the one thing we're not taught is nutrition.
Sure, we're brought up being told not to eat junk food, but ask a young child what they think junk food is and they'll probably tell you vegetables, simply because of the dislike in taste. The government should now be making it compulsory for every school to have a nutrition lesson once a week, possibly coinciding with P.E (Physical Education) so that when youngsters leave school they know very well what is right and wrong in the ways of eating and they can then make up their own mind about which path they wish to choose.
As I was growing up my parents would always tell me Mcdonalds was bad, but I never listened to them because they weren't telling me why it was bad. Sure, it's "fattening" is a pretty bog-standard answer, but I was never told what types of fat there are and what they can do to your body. I became over-weight and it was simply down to lack of education.
I'm healthy and fit now, but only because I put in the time and effort to learn for myself what is good for my body and what isn't. There are still thousands, if not millions, of young children who are growing up and leaving school not knowing what "Polyunsaturated fats" are or what "Fibre" actually does for your bowels, and as such, they're eating rubbish foods with no more health benefits than drugs (well).
It's about time the Government stepped up and listened to the likes of Jamie Oliver and others and began introducing nutrition classes in school - making them as equally as important as Maths, Science and English.
On another note, BMI scales. Anyone heard of this? BMI stands for Body Mass Index and works out a persons height and weight and tells them if they're overweight or not.
According to this article by the BBC, a gentleman of 6ft 2 in height who weighs around 15 stone is classed as overweight - and when you hear the term "overweight", you instantly think of "fat".
However, I have a friend who is of the same height and weight but he is clearly not fat. If I could post up a picture of him I would but he has muscles galore and not an inch of fat on him. Every part of his body is sculpt to perfection with 'cut' definition and rock solid pecks. He is a fitness instructor and spends 4 to 5 days a week down the gym. According to the BMI index, my friend is over-weight and thus is expected to die younger.
My view? What a load of bollocks! The government are once again failing to educate people about what is fat and what isn't. They refuse to scrap an absolutely pathetic and disgraceful system called the BMI chart for something much cheaper and more reliable - a mirror.
Next time you want to lose weight, throw your scales in the bin and forget visiting the doctor to find out if you're over-weight. Simply take a look in a mirror (a decent one, I know some that make you look fat) and decide for yourself. If you see lumps in the wrong places or your stomach sagging over your belt, then you know it's time to lose weight. If you can see some definition in your body then you're most probably fine - and if you can see more bone than muscle, then it's time to start eating more.
*I'm fed up with the media calling Britain or Great Britain a country, it is not a country but a geographical location made up of three countries; England, Scotland and Wales.
8.10.06
21st Over
I woke up on Saturday morning feeling a little sombre from the mood I was in the day before. I was a little hung-over but I felt unusually better by around lunch time, so I think it was more of an anti-climax that my 21st birthday had ended.
It was a great night though. I started off with 20+ mates in a bar near me. I hadn't planned to get drunk there but it so happens that most of my mates weren't coming to the club we had planned to take a visit after, so they all ended up buying me drinks. By about 10 o'clock I had three pints sitting in front of me waiting to be drunk topped off with a couple of shots of Sambuca and I had to catch a cab by about 10:30!
Before we left though the D.J cut the music in the bar and started singing happy birthday to me, which was incredibly cool - I'm not used to all the attention. Afterwards six of us managed to head outside to make our way over to a club closer to the city. All I can remember from that was flirting with the woman who let us all in and making a joke with the bouncer - incredibly nice fellas actually.
The rest of the evening was highlighted by a D.J freestyling a rap which informed everyone of my 21st, another touching moment, my mates buying me loads of drinks and getting me plastered plus two fine looking promotions girls who were there as part of the WKD rodeo machine. Unfortunately though the evening was cut short when my mates dog died but other than that I loved it.
After that we somehow headed home and all I can remember thereafter is a cold wooden floor that I spent the night on at my cousins.
Very appreciative to all my buddies and family who made it a great day for me. Now to get back to the real world...
It was a great night though. I started off with 20+ mates in a bar near me. I hadn't planned to get drunk there but it so happens that most of my mates weren't coming to the club we had planned to take a visit after, so they all ended up buying me drinks. By about 10 o'clock I had three pints sitting in front of me waiting to be drunk topped off with a couple of shots of Sambuca and I had to catch a cab by about 10:30!
Before we left though the D.J cut the music in the bar and started singing happy birthday to me, which was incredibly cool - I'm not used to all the attention. Afterwards six of us managed to head outside to make our way over to a club closer to the city. All I can remember from that was flirting with the woman who let us all in and making a joke with the bouncer - incredibly nice fellas actually.
The rest of the evening was highlighted by a D.J freestyling a rap which informed everyone of my 21st, another touching moment, my mates buying me loads of drinks and getting me plastered plus two fine looking promotions girls who were there as part of the WKD rodeo machine. Unfortunately though the evening was cut short when my mates dog died but other than that I loved it.
After that we somehow headed home and all I can remember thereafter is a cold wooden floor that I spent the night on at my cousins.
Very appreciative to all my buddies and family who made it a great day for me. Now to get back to the real world...
6.10.06
21 Years Young
I felt old the other day when my 15 year old niece had no idea what I was talking about regarding her last year in school, apparently things have changed that much in the 5 years I've been gone.
You also know you feel old when you get a letter through the letter box regarding your pension scheme - triffic.
What e-mails did I get today? A bill from O2 - cheers O2.
What texts did I get? Many and thankful - I do have friends.
Parents have made a homage of me on our living room wall and it seems to be a picture of me naked when I was three years old laying down on a mat or something, looks rather professional, quite sweet.
I've got a load of friends popping round this evening to open a couple of bottles of champagne with me and then we're gonna head out on the town and see what sort of mischief we can get up to - all in the name of fun of course.
Should be a blast.
Edit: It doesn't seem like such a unique day when all of these people are celebrating their birthdays too. They even bum you out with a list of folks who died on this day as well!
You also know you feel old when you get a letter through the letter box regarding your pension scheme - triffic.
What e-mails did I get today? A bill from O2 - cheers O2.
What texts did I get? Many and thankful - I do have friends.
Parents have made a homage of me on our living room wall and it seems to be a picture of me naked when I was three years old laying down on a mat or something, looks rather professional, quite sweet.
I've got a load of friends popping round this evening to open a couple of bottles of champagne with me and then we're gonna head out on the town and see what sort of mischief we can get up to - all in the name of fun of course.
Should be a blast.
Edit: It doesn't seem like such a unique day when all of these people are celebrating their birthdays too. They even bum you out with a list of folks who died on this day as well!
29.9.06
Microsoft Zune Loss
It seems the only way Microsoft can compete with rival companies these days is to lose a lot of their money. The only way the original Xbox console could compete with the Sony Playstation 2 was by losing money on each sale, something Microsoft have openly admitted.
And with Microsoft about to release their portable media player - the Zune - in two months time, they have once again admitted that the only way to compete with Apple's iPod and iTunes is by matching their pricing system, thus forcing them to lose money on each sale. I suppose they've managed to find success with their Xbox360 console in getting it out before Sony and Nintendo's next generation systems, but there's only so much you can do with a media player and Apple seem to have already perfected it. Microsoft have virtually copied Apple's design on that as well.
Anyway, I'm not lying out of my back teeth here, check out MacNN.
And with Microsoft about to release their portable media player - the Zune - in two months time, they have once again admitted that the only way to compete with Apple's iPod and iTunes is by matching their pricing system, thus forcing them to lose money on each sale. I suppose they've managed to find success with their Xbox360 console in getting it out before Sony and Nintendo's next generation systems, but there's only so much you can do with a media player and Apple seem to have already perfected it. Microsoft have virtually copied Apple's design on that as well.
Anyway, I'm not lying out of my back teeth here, check out MacNN.
28.9.06
Power League
After months and months of trying to worm my way into a Football team, I've finally done it and with a bit of luck our season will start next week. I've been granted the number 10 shirt, a number I've had in teams since I was a young lad, so that's put a little smile on my face.
I've been playing with the lads since the beginning of summer now, but the actual team hasn't played together properly at all so the first few games we'll probably be really shady. I'm going to give it a 110% though and see what comes of it. I can't wait.
I've been playing with the lads since the beginning of summer now, but the actual team hasn't played together properly at all so the first few games we'll probably be really shady. I'm going to give it a 110% though and see what comes of it. I can't wait.
25.9.06
Love Issues
I think I'm probably going to be one of those people that will never get married. I'm only 20 so I'm possibly being over-dramatic at the minute and I've not had anywhere near enough experience with the opposite sex on an adult level to even justify my previous comment. However, after my ex and I split up some time ago I've not once had the passion or drive to get back into a relationship again.
Don't get me wrong, I've met many fantastic women, but everytime I consider taking it to the 'next level', I panic and decide against it.
I've been partying hard all weekend with some friends of mine, two birthdays infact. On one night I met a lovely woman, a few years older than me, who I instantly connected with. The whole night I spent talking to her and her friends, none of whom I've ever met before. We ended up sharing a kiss before the night was up and I figured that was that. I spent the night at someones house only to find the next morning she had come round to offer me a lift home, as I had said the night previously I wasn't sure how I was going to get home. Really sweet of her.
I took her up on the offer and the whole way home we spent chatting in the car. We got back to mine and I invited her in for a cup of tea and spent the next four hours after that chatting, but it really didn't seem like four hours - the time just flew by. She decided it was about time to go, so I walked her to her car where we spent another hour chatting more. The whole time just bonding and completely understanding each other.
I'm not one to jump the gun and say "yeah, sweet, she'll do for me" because relationships shouldn't and don't work like that. I've got to admit though that she's the first lady I've met in a while that I've actually had an understanding with... and I'm still frightened to make anything more of it.
There's an obvious physical attraction between us both, but at the minute I'm just far too protective over my own feelings to want to do anything. I'm not sure if I'm emotionally scarred from a past relationship or whether I'm just one of those guys who doesn't want to put any committment in. Perhaps I'm enjoying being single too much? It's not like I sleep around either so I'm still trying to work it all out.
Anyway, I'll no-doubt post my thoughts up here if anything should come of it.
Don't get me wrong, I've met many fantastic women, but everytime I consider taking it to the 'next level', I panic and decide against it.
I've been partying hard all weekend with some friends of mine, two birthdays infact. On one night I met a lovely woman, a few years older than me, who I instantly connected with. The whole night I spent talking to her and her friends, none of whom I've ever met before. We ended up sharing a kiss before the night was up and I figured that was that. I spent the night at someones house only to find the next morning she had come round to offer me a lift home, as I had said the night previously I wasn't sure how I was going to get home. Really sweet of her.
I took her up on the offer and the whole way home we spent chatting in the car. We got back to mine and I invited her in for a cup of tea and spent the next four hours after that chatting, but it really didn't seem like four hours - the time just flew by. She decided it was about time to go, so I walked her to her car where we spent another hour chatting more. The whole time just bonding and completely understanding each other.
I'm not one to jump the gun and say "yeah, sweet, she'll do for me" because relationships shouldn't and don't work like that. I've got to admit though that she's the first lady I've met in a while that I've actually had an understanding with... and I'm still frightened to make anything more of it.
There's an obvious physical attraction between us both, but at the minute I'm just far too protective over my own feelings to want to do anything. I'm not sure if I'm emotionally scarred from a past relationship or whether I'm just one of those guys who doesn't want to put any committment in. Perhaps I'm enjoying being single too much? It's not like I sleep around either so I'm still trying to work it all out.
Anyway, I'll no-doubt post my thoughts up here if anything should come of it.
Phone Upgrade
So I recently decided to upgrade my mobile phone on my phone network. I'm not going to name the name of the network.I've been with them for three years and have not once had a problem with them, until last week of course. Phone upgrades have always been free for myself and everyone else I know. However, the other day when trying to upgrade they wanted to charge me £79.99 for the phone. I told them that they had surely gotten something wrong as my cousin, uncle, aunt and father (who I all told to go with this particular phone network in the first place) have all recently upgraded, for free, to the latest phones. After much debate I told them I wanted to cancel my contract...
...And it's here where you get your deals ladies and gentlemen.
The moment you tell a phone company you want to leave their network for a rival company because that other company is offering something your current phone company aren't, then they suddenly want to do everything in their power to please you. Which goes without saying really, but it's a shame that it takes something as much as "I want to stop giving you my money now" to do that.
Unfortunately and fortunately for me I didn't get the phone for free, I still have to pay £79.99 for the upgrade. But because I threatened to leave the company they have offered me the next 12 months of my contact (and my contract is 12 months anyway) for half price, which saves me in roughly £180 throughout the year.
Now let's question that for a moment. The phone company didn't want to give me the phone for free, because they presumably wanted the £79.99. However, they'd much rather literally give me £180 instead and keep me connected for another year, thus they've lost around £100.01. Now I'm not complaining because although I have to splash out extra cash now, I've saved £100, but isn't this a bit stupid of the phone company?
The reason I'm not mentioning the phone companies name is because up until this point they've been incredibly good to me with not one complaint from yours truly in the three years I've been with them.
Anyway, after some system errors and about 10 phone calls later, my phone is finally on its way and I can at last get rid of this ageing Nokia I've had for some time now - it's slow, big and ugly.
Sony Ericsson K800i here we come!
12.9.06
Personal Issues
Unfortunately for yours truly I've hit a rough patch. Things haven't gone the way they should have in the past couple of weeks and today has proven to be a bit of a low one for me. There's plenty worse things happening out there so I am grateful on that front. However, all belief and confidence I had has just been smashed into a large brick wall - with spikes n' stuff.
I'll post more when I'm happy enough to face everything.
I'll post more when I'm happy enough to face everything.
4.9.06
Generosity For A Day
I run a Katie Melua forum elsewhere on the internet - so I'll admit that I'm a fan of her music. I'm used to receiving kind gestures from forum goers who appreciated my quick set up of the forum after her official forum was closed through petulant reasons. But today I was offered a gesture that goes beyond kindness.
A forum member offered me a ticket to her concert in December, which I've gratefully accepted. I think it was out of thanks for everything I've done for the fans of Katie. There's many members on the board and over 40,000 posts, which I think is more than the official forum (has now been re-opened).
Anyone interested? I won't be naming the site up here, but a quick search on Wikipedia should bring you to my message board.
I might not be the biggest fan of Katie's latest album, but I'm still fond of her earlier stuff and so can't wait to go to the gig. Should be a blast to meet up with other forum members as well.
A forum member offered me a ticket to her concert in December, which I've gratefully accepted. I think it was out of thanks for everything I've done for the fans of Katie. There's many members on the board and over 40,000 posts, which I think is more than the official forum (has now been re-opened).
Anyone interested? I won't be naming the site up here, but a quick search on Wikipedia should bring you to my message board.
I might not be the biggest fan of Katie's latest album, but I'm still fond of her earlier stuff and so can't wait to go to the gig. Should be a blast to meet up with other forum members as well.
30.8.06
Gaming Revolutionising?
It's console makers like Microsoft and Sony who seem determined to stop computer gaming evolving into something else. Rather than innovating ideas, they'd much rather stick to high end graphics, fast game play and well, that's it. I've finally realised why I get bored of computer games so much now and it's because they're all the bloody same. No one seems to want to make anything different these days, but with software developers it's down to what they can do, not what they want to do.For example, the Xbox 360 has a bog standard controller with nothing particularly special about it, except for the wireless thing. Sony's upcoming PS3 controller is just the same as before but with a minute motion sensor built in. Neither of these controllers will allow anyone to do anything outside the norm of gaming.
Enter Nintendo Wii. A bit late with the news, I know, but Nintendo (who I'll admit to bashing for years) have finally created a computer console with a controller than can be deemed a little 'out-of-the-norm', and for the evolution of computer gaming this is the way to go.
The Nintendo Wii's controller doesn't follow the route other controllers run down. The controller comes in two parts - the 'remote control' and the 'nunchuck'. And their selling point on the controller? Motion sensor.
I love how Nintendo are trying something different from Microsoft and Sony. After all, hardcore gamers will surely be getting bored of the traditional games out there now, right? I know I am. I used to be an avid gamer but after buying a PS2 I just wasn't getting my kicks anymore. I figured the XBox 360 and PS3 would bring something new again, but they're just the same old consoles with a bit more power. It's about time they realised that graphics might look pretty but don't equate to making a great game. What's so funny about this on a personal level?
For years I bashed Apple Computer for making rubbish computers, despite their innovation. Until the iMac G4 was released I just wasn't impressed, but they finally did something that stood out and made me (and millions of others) take notice. However, it wasn't until their latest home desktop computer, the G5 (now been updated with Intel processors of course and simply called iMac) that I changed my opinion of Apple completely and purchased one of their machines. After years and years of bashing, I ditched my PC for a Macintosh.
Come the last quarter of this year, I think I'll be ditching my PS2 as well.
29.8.06
Godfather Fever
One of the first things I did upon my return from the Isle of Wight was to check my e-mails. I had over 30 e-mails spread out over three days just sitting in my Inbox wating to be opened, but 28 of those e-mails were Spam. Okay, so not exactly a lot compared to most, but I almost never receive Spam. So to be away for three days and return to find 28 crappy e-mails sitting there was a bit of a shock to the system - and of course, a let down that none of my friends or family had e-mailed me.Anyway, the Christening was lovely although at times I felt a bit out of place as I'm actually an athiest, so becoming a Godfather was a little bit hypercritical, right?
Here's a small gift from my sister as a thank you. It's nothing official (that's left for the Church of England apparently) but it is a little reminder of my duty to my nephew. It was fun spending some time with the family and I'll hopefully be doing it all over again in just over a months time for my 21st birthday.
Oh and by the way, the other two e-mails were newsletters - Mr Pop You Lar, I think you'll find.
25.8.06
Apple Computer's Pet Leopard
I've come across this blog of someone running a few previews of Apple's next OS, due in Spring next year, called Leopard.
I'm pretty sure it's breaking a few copyrights, especially as the blog owner admits to downloading an illegal beta copy of the operating system through Bittorent. Still, it's an interesting read, especially if you're a Mac owner.
I'm liking some of the new features of Blogger Beta version x.something, or whatever version it is, but I'm still finding errors when trying to comment on other blogs when signed in under my Gmail account username. Unfortunately I can't sign in on my other username anymore as I made the transition to the new blogger. Hope they get it sorted soon because I want to comment on a few blogs I read (check out my links bar).
Going away for the weekend now for a Christening. I'm Godfather for my nephew in the Isle of Wight on Sunday. Spent a lot of time rushing around trying to sort out a nice suit, only to be told it'll be casual wear over anything else. Pain in the arse or what?
Anyway, would like to get a few pictures and post them up, but I shan't for anonymity reasons.
I'm pretty sure it's breaking a few copyrights, especially as the blog owner admits to downloading an illegal beta copy of the operating system through Bittorent. Still, it's an interesting read, especially if you're a Mac owner.
I'm liking some of the new features of Blogger Beta version x.something, or whatever version it is, but I'm still finding errors when trying to comment on other blogs when signed in under my Gmail account username. Unfortunately I can't sign in on my other username anymore as I made the transition to the new blogger. Hope they get it sorted soon because I want to comment on a few blogs I read (check out my links bar).
Going away for the weekend now for a Christening. I'm Godfather for my nephew in the Isle of Wight on Sunday. Spent a lot of time rushing around trying to sort out a nice suit, only to be told it'll be casual wear over anything else. Pain in the arse or what?
Anyway, would like to get a few pictures and post them up, but I shan't for anonymity reasons.
24.8.06
Pluto Shambles
Before I begin, I should probably apologise to a few people who have left comments on my blog and not seen them appear. I'm still pretty new to Blogger and until I updated to the Beta today, I didn't realise I had any comments awaiting moderation. They're all up now though and I'll have anymore e-mailed to me in future.
Anyway, it's a complete shambles that Pluto has been taken off the Planet list. I can't see how it would make a difference anyway, it's not like it's actually leaving the solar system. All this scientific rubbish annoys me at times, no matter how much of a space enthusiast I am.
Update - In response to some comments left by a few readers, I've tried to comment on your blogs regarding posts you've made and, unfortunately, this new Beta blogger doesn't like me making any comments - I got a horrible 404 error after trying to reply.
F.Y.I to one, I find that if you're in the middle of cocking up dinner for guests, it's best to cock it up completely, rather than just a little bit. Come Christmas, you can all laugh about the time you completely cocked up dinner for everyone. Try it, it's kind of fun.
Anyway, it's a complete shambles that Pluto has been taken off the Planet list. I can't see how it would make a difference anyway, it's not like it's actually leaving the solar system. All this scientific rubbish annoys me at times, no matter how much of a space enthusiast I am.
Update - In response to some comments left by a few readers, I've tried to comment on your blogs regarding posts you've made and, unfortunately, this new Beta blogger doesn't like me making any comments - I got a horrible 404 error after trying to reply.
F.Y.I to one, I find that if you're in the middle of cocking up dinner for guests, it's best to cock it up completely, rather than just a little bit. Come Christmas, you can all laugh about the time you completely cocked up dinner for everyone. Try it, it's kind of fun.
19.8.06
Doll Mistake?
My cousin (with his parents) left for their holidays about an hour and twenty minutes ago, but not before I put a kids 'baby doll' into his suit case.I told everyone about it, except my cousin, and now I'm worried that it's going to disrupt their journey considerably. With the extra security checks in place at British airports right now, I just know he's going to get stopped as his case goes through its scan. What will his reaction be in front of everyone when the security guys pull out a baby-doll?
Ahah, sod it! It'll be something to talk about at Christmas.
17.8.06
Henry The Internet Junkie Monkey
YouTube.com has been getting a lot of shouts over the internet and on British T.V the past few days - apparently there's been a huge boom. I don't use it often as I find watching crap people have submitted to be rather boring, although if you take a peak through this blog you will see a couple of instances where YouTube has come to my rescue with some interesting clips.
I stumbled on this following video clip which is of Henry, an internet junkie Monkey. It's quite funny, especially with his accent. I suggest you just hush up and watch it now.
Watch now.
I stumbled on this following video clip which is of Henry, an internet junkie Monkey. It's quite funny, especially with his accent. I suggest you just hush up and watch it now.
Watch now.
Pet Hate
One thing that really bugs me about MSN users is when they come online with their status already set to 'Away'. What's the bloody point in coming on if they've got no intension of talking to anyone, it doesn't make sense.
Another thing that annoys me. I hate it when users sign onto MSN and, once you've initiated a conversation with them, they apologise for not being able to talk because they're busy with an assignment. So again, what was the bloody point in signing onto MSN?
Another thing that annoys me. I hate it when users sign onto MSN and, once you've initiated a conversation with them, they apologise for not being able to talk because they're busy with an assignment. So again, what was the bloody point in signing onto MSN?
13.8.06
Autumn In August?
Something's just not right. I don't care what people say about averages of weather, England is experiencing some Autumn weather at the minute, in the middle of Summer.June was exceptionally hot, probably the hottest it's going to be this year, but generally August is hotter. So when we're presented with weather that gives you nipple erections, requires you to put on a tiny bit extra clothing and drink a little less water in the middle of Summer, us Brits tend to freak out a little.
Still, I probably shouldn't complain, the south east of England is finally getting some rain so hopefully the drought down here will end soon.
11.8.06
I'm No Tiger
All this talk of war and terrorism is too depressing to talk about right now, so I'm going to take a break from possibly many other blogs by talking about a new hobby I've picked up. Golf!
Not an easy sport by any means - I still haven't gotten over how much skill, intelligence and patience it requires, something I'm not used to from football and rugby which is more a mix of skill and intelligence plus physical contact.
Anyway, I've been a few times before to a driving range with my father when I was a kid, he's an avid golfer. Unfortunately for me though, at the time I was too small to hold his clubs so having a crack at it from a young age wasn't an option - and I doubt my Dad wanted to spend money on a set of clubs for me that I'd only be using for a few years. But yesterday was the day when I finally gave it a go, and to my cousin and uncles surprise (and mine for that matter), I was actually pretty good. My technique wasn't too bad and I seem to be able to whack a ball about 200 yards.
It's all gravy! I'm going to continue giving it a go on the driving range before I move onto a golf course, and if I like it as much as I think I will, I'll end up buying my own graphite clubs. Canni wait.
Not an easy sport by any means - I still haven't gotten over how much skill, intelligence and patience it requires, something I'm not used to from football and rugby which is more a mix of skill and intelligence plus physical contact.
Anyway, I've been a few times before to a driving range with my father when I was a kid, he's an avid golfer. Unfortunately for me though, at the time I was too small to hold his clubs so having a crack at it from a young age wasn't an option - and I doubt my Dad wanted to spend money on a set of clubs for me that I'd only be using for a few years. But yesterday was the day when I finally gave it a go, and to my cousin and uncles surprise (and mine for that matter), I was actually pretty good. My technique wasn't too bad and I seem to be able to whack a ball about 200 yards.
It's all gravy! I'm going to continue giving it a go on the driving range before I move onto a golf course, and if I like it as much as I think I will, I'll end up buying my own graphite clubs. Canni wait.
9.8.06
Do You Know Where You Are?
According to the BBC, a poll suggests that without major landmarks, a lot of Britons struggle to know where they are. I suppose this would be the case for the average Brit who doesn't get around much (for whatever reason). I only managed to score 5 out of 10 on the quiz which I'm a little ashamed about, considering I've been to most of the locations mentioned. I won't give away too much, but give it a go and see how you do.
To the quiz.
On another note, I'm fed up of being told I'm not experienced enough with I.T jobs. I'm going to take out a loan, which will no doubt cripple me, in order to pay for the CCNA and MCSA courses. There's a few 5 day intensive with books courses that are going on around London, so I'm going to take them on.
The whole 5 day thing sounds worrying, but I've checked it out and it seems koshur. My cousin did a similar thing with his electricians course a while back and he's well on his way to becoming fully qualified now.
Here's to hoping.
To the quiz.
On another note, I'm fed up of being told I'm not experienced enough with I.T jobs. I'm going to take out a loan, which will no doubt cripple me, in order to pay for the CCNA and MCSA courses. There's a few 5 day intensive with books courses that are going on around London, so I'm going to take them on.
The whole 5 day thing sounds worrying, but I've checked it out and it seems koshur. My cousin did a similar thing with his electricians course a while back and he's well on his way to becoming fully qualified now.
Here's to hoping.
5.8.06
Foamtastic Hangover
Given the status my body is currently in, I don't know how well I'm going to be able to write.
Spent a good half hour waiting around last night whilst I was just practically jumping around with excitement at the thought of a foam party with many beautiful women. Thought I was going to get let down in some way at some point but that thankfully never happened.
I don't remember a lot, except for the vitals. Plenty of girls doing a few dirty dance moves with yours truly, who loved every second, and more than enough foam to clean east London - unfortunately the latter I'm now paying for. I spent most of the night dancing with girls I couldn't see, only feel (and boy does soapy skin feel amazing!). I was completely covered in soap suds from head to toe with no exaggeration. Clothes drenched, hair dripping, more girls dancing with their bodies close to mine. Great fun.
The alcohol is taking its toll today, but not as much as that foam is. My eyes are still red and sore, so much so it looks like I've been knocking back pills all night.
My cousin and I were up at 4am holding our eyes actually, that's something I've now come to remember. Perhaps as time goes on, I'll remember more of what happened and post it up here.
Word to everyone - you've not lived until you've taken part in a foam party.
Spent a good half hour waiting around last night whilst I was just practically jumping around with excitement at the thought of a foam party with many beautiful women. Thought I was going to get let down in some way at some point but that thankfully never happened.
I don't remember a lot, except for the vitals. Plenty of girls doing a few dirty dance moves with yours truly, who loved every second, and more than enough foam to clean east London - unfortunately the latter I'm now paying for. I spent most of the night dancing with girls I couldn't see, only feel (and boy does soapy skin feel amazing!). I was completely covered in soap suds from head to toe with no exaggeration. Clothes drenched, hair dripping, more girls dancing with their bodies close to mine. Great fun.
The alcohol is taking its toll today, but not as much as that foam is. My eyes are still red and sore, so much so it looks like I've been knocking back pills all night.
My cousin and I were up at 4am holding our eyes actually, that's something I've now come to remember. Perhaps as time goes on, I'll remember more of what happened and post it up here.
Word to everyone - you've not lived until you've taken part in a foam party.
4.8.06
Foam Partay!
Foam Party tonight, seriously can't wait. Bikini's and foam was mentioned and I put my name down to be there, should be a blast.
On another note, a friend of mine has a new girlfriend, god bless him, but she's a cocaine dealer who ponces cigarettes, drink and money off of him - 16 years old as well. Some what disappointed in him for picking her and I know she'll end up hurting him, but if he's happy for the time being there's not a lot else I can do.
But screw that, foam party!
On another note, a friend of mine has a new girlfriend, god bless him, but she's a cocaine dealer who ponces cigarettes, drink and money off of him - 16 years old as well. Some what disappointed in him for picking her and I know she'll end up hurting him, but if he's happy for the time being there's not a lot else I can do.
But screw that, foam party!
31.7.06
July's Heat The Hottest
Looks like the uncomfortable heat Britain experienced over the past 31 days is going to be the hottest of this year - more importantly, it's been the hottest July in England since 1914 with temperatures of 39C reached in some areas around me (London). I'm not so interested in the record being matched (or there abouts), but I'm more interested in something else I've read.
According to Sky News.com, speculation of August temperatures being even hotter than July's have now been thrown out of the window. On average, August is generally the hottest month in England, with temperatures of 33C being the real maximum we normally see - 25C being the average. But it looks as though July is going to be the hottest month of this year. According to the report, Met Office forecasters say that August will be the same as always and won't follow the trend of this months constant heat waves.
That's really reassuring, especially for commuters on London's underground and bus network. 45C has been the average temperature on the Underground this month with 57C being reached in some buses across the capital. On that note, I believe it's against the law to transport cattle in temperatures exceeding 27C - good job we don't let cows on our bus network.
29.7.06
Youth Scum
At around 10:30 this evening I gave my mother a call whilst I was out at a local bar, turns out there had just been a fight and my parents and neice were in the thick of things.
I ran home with my cousin and mate at top speed (I knew working out would come in handy) to see my parents just standing there. Apparently some yobs were having a fight down the road when one broke away and started breaking the windows in some cars. My mother screamed at him to stop with my father calling the guy a moron and telling him to stop it - that kind of backfired though. The little shite yelled at my Dad and ran off over a park fence. He hurdled back about 10 seconds later with what appeared to be a car battery from an old Jewish settlement near us. He immediately ran toward my Dad with this car battery whilst my Mum both bravely and stupidly put herself infront of my Dad and raised her hand in a "please-don't" style gesture. The guys mate, who was actually rather nice, rugby tackled this idiot whilst my Dad put him in a lock. My Mum then called the Police who showed up nearly an hour later, saying that there wasn't anything they could do - in reality, there's nothing they wanted to do (Government tax well spent aye?)
I don't know whether I was most petrified that my parents had just got in a fight but were safe, or that they could have gotten in a much worse fight and ended up injured, especially with my 15 year old neice present.
Thankfully though, my Dads quick reactions at stopping this prat and the even quicker gathering of my family out the front soon put an end to it all. I joined a few minutes later (after the phone call). In a sick kind of way, it was nice to see my uncle, two cousin, two mates (who are like family), myself and my father all outside in a line with our arms crossed waiting to wave off anymore trouble before the police arrived.
All in an evenings work, but I had to put down a bottle of Corona after only one gulp of it. I'll go back there tomorrow.
I ran home with my cousin and mate at top speed (I knew working out would come in handy) to see my parents just standing there. Apparently some yobs were having a fight down the road when one broke away and started breaking the windows in some cars. My mother screamed at him to stop with my father calling the guy a moron and telling him to stop it - that kind of backfired though. The little shite yelled at my Dad and ran off over a park fence. He hurdled back about 10 seconds later with what appeared to be a car battery from an old Jewish settlement near us. He immediately ran toward my Dad with this car battery whilst my Mum both bravely and stupidly put herself infront of my Dad and raised her hand in a "please-don't" style gesture. The guys mate, who was actually rather nice, rugby tackled this idiot whilst my Dad put him in a lock. My Mum then called the Police who showed up nearly an hour later, saying that there wasn't anything they could do - in reality, there's nothing they wanted to do (Government tax well spent aye?)
I don't know whether I was most petrified that my parents had just got in a fight but were safe, or that they could have gotten in a much worse fight and ended up injured, especially with my 15 year old neice present.
Thankfully though, my Dads quick reactions at stopping this prat and the even quicker gathering of my family out the front soon put an end to it all. I joined a few minutes later (after the phone call). In a sick kind of way, it was nice to see my uncle, two cousin, two mates (who are like family), myself and my father all outside in a line with our arms crossed waiting to wave off anymore trouble before the police arrived.
All in an evenings work, but I had to put down a bottle of Corona after only one gulp of it. I'll go back there tomorrow.
27.7.06
One Of Those Moments
This post is going to be one of those moments where I look back in about a years time and think to myself "my god, what an idiot! What were you thinking?".
I'm low again and I'm not sure if it's because I've not been out in weeks, whether I have no money to go out or whether I'm jobless - it's actually probably a combination of all three really. This post is more about feeling sorry for myself, so I doubt it'll be much fun for anyone to read.
Anywho, I'm pissed off and it's becoming a daily thing now, just always grumpy and fed up. I'm annoyed with people who keep saying I don't do anything all day long, if they actually spent a day with me and saw how frustrating it is they'd understand. They've got it easy having jobs, believe me. See, I'm desperately trying to get into the I.T industry, whether this is in I.T support, like a technician, or for an Internet Service Provider. I have a Diploma in IT which I could have progressed into a HND in IT had I stayed in the location I lived in before, but moving with family has completely ruined those plans and it would now cost me an awful lot to step up to a HND. Anyway, it appears that a Diploma in IT just isn't good enough these days. It's great that I've got it, but companies now require that I have experience. Normally I could get away with "must have 1 year's experienced in.." but most are asking for 3 years plus. How the hell am I supposed to get any kind of experience in IT when no company will take me on.
I've thankfully seen a couple of jobs that don't require experience and I have applied but, so far, to no avail. I'd even be willing to do voluntary work for 6 months or something, but how am I supposed to afford travel expenses and bills as well as juggling a pay-less job? I just don't see how it's possible. Some could say 'get a loan', but I'm not going down that route because I've seen what it's done to my family - evidently, no good!
I'm fed up of looking for jobs now, even though I must continue. I just wish someone would give me a break and employ me already. I'm increasingly frightened I'll still be unemployed come Christmas. Please, no!
I'm low again and I'm not sure if it's because I've not been out in weeks, whether I have no money to go out or whether I'm jobless - it's actually probably a combination of all three really. This post is more about feeling sorry for myself, so I doubt it'll be much fun for anyone to read.
Anywho, I'm pissed off and it's becoming a daily thing now, just always grumpy and fed up. I'm annoyed with people who keep saying I don't do anything all day long, if they actually spent a day with me and saw how frustrating it is they'd understand. They've got it easy having jobs, believe me. See, I'm desperately trying to get into the I.T industry, whether this is in I.T support, like a technician, or for an Internet Service Provider. I have a Diploma in IT which I could have progressed into a HND in IT had I stayed in the location I lived in before, but moving with family has completely ruined those plans and it would now cost me an awful lot to step up to a HND. Anyway, it appears that a Diploma in IT just isn't good enough these days. It's great that I've got it, but companies now require that I have experience. Normally I could get away with "must have 1 year's experienced in.." but most are asking for 3 years plus. How the hell am I supposed to get any kind of experience in IT when no company will take me on.
I've thankfully seen a couple of jobs that don't require experience and I have applied but, so far, to no avail. I'd even be willing to do voluntary work for 6 months or something, but how am I supposed to afford travel expenses and bills as well as juggling a pay-less job? I just don't see how it's possible. Some could say 'get a loan', but I'm not going down that route because I've seen what it's done to my family - evidently, no good!
I'm fed up of looking for jobs now, even though I must continue. I just wish someone would give me a break and employ me already. I'm increasingly frightened I'll still be unemployed come Christmas. Please, no!
25.7.06
Funny Weather
Weather is a funny thing. Take a look at the forecast for the next five days in London, England. Despite the fact that although we're scheduled thunderstorms on Thursday, we know this won't happen due to the unpredictability of English weather (and possibly bad intelligence at the Met Office). But for Weather in general, it's amazing how a thunderstorm can be compared to someone putting out a fire.The fire gets hot, so you sprinkle it with water to bring it under control, now although the fire doesn't get any less hot, its mass can be brought down a great deal by constant spraying of water.
Weather is similar. Although weather can never be 'put out', it can control itself in weird and wonderful ways. The heat at the minute is rather intense for English weather, but with one thunderstorm the temperature drops, however, not enough. After a few days of the weather cooling a little, it decides it's not nearly cool enough and so in an attempt to bring the temperature down to something bare-able, it shocks and wets itself further more... Most probably until the English stop moaning about how hot it is.
23.7.06
Film4 Free
I don't know how things work in America, but over here it's difficult to get things free, especially on T.V. For years those of us who refused to pay money for rubbish Sky/Cable television have now got something to laugh about. Freeview, the terrestrial digital service which offers 25 more channels to the already 5 available, has now got its very own film channel, Film4.
What was a subscription service has now gone, and although adverts do unfortunately cut the film in half, it's a decent price to pay (pun) for some quality television.
Just finished watching the excellent Lost in Translation with the brilliant Bill Murray and the beautiful and talented Scarlett Johansson - okay I have a soft spot for her.
Film fun!
22.7.06
Football Fever Settling In?
It's around three to four weeks now before the English F.A Premier League campaign kicks off again, and what better way to build up to this with some football fever flying around my estate.
Friday night at around 8.30pm, a few friends and I decided to head over the field for a kick about and to our pleasant surprise, a 55 year old goalkeeper veteran joined us and turned out to be more of a challenge than we had first thought. It was mainly myself and another friend knocking some crosses in to the penalty area to witness some rather funny goals - and the odd shoe doing its rounds for an early space visit!
Saturday morning continued the football vibe as a friend and one of my cousins decided to head to Lakeside Shopping Centre in Thurrock, London. There's an official West Ham United store there and to my joy, had plenty of jerseys in for me to nab. Of course, after witnessing my happiness at finally grabbing hold of a West Ham jersey for the first time in exactly 10 years, my mate and cousin decided to head over to another sports shop to pick up a horrible, in my honest opinion, Arsenal FC jersey. I've never liked the red and white combination.
One of the funny things that happened today though was the ring-sticking-moment my cousin had. We walked into a men-only shop and browsed for a few things. I'm after a rather expensive suit for my newphews Christening next month you see, I'm due to be Godfather so must dress the part. Anywho, my cousin got a little bored and decided to try on some rings, only to find that one of them was a little too tight and got it stuck on his middle finger. In a panic, trying to get it off, he started causing himself a lot of pain, to which he then decided that there was no other option but to buy the ring. Fortunately for him it had come down in price quite a lot, but I'm sure it's something he could do without. For those who are worried about my cousins overall welfare, the ring is now safely off and on a finger that isn't as fat.
Oh also, does anyone remember the London-Gangster film, Snatch? The female behind the counter in the bookies, I can't remember her name. She had short hair and was rather odd looking, but had a typical east London accent. Well, she walked straight past me today. I haven't seen the film in a while, but I do, apparently, have a memory for faces and hers was one I recognised. I've tried searching for a picture of her, but it appears she's only ever been in one film, and that was Snatch.
Stealin' stones and breakin' bones people!
Friday night at around 8.30pm, a few friends and I decided to head over the field for a kick about and to our pleasant surprise, a 55 year old goalkeeper veteran joined us and turned out to be more of a challenge than we had first thought. It was mainly myself and another friend knocking some crosses in to the penalty area to witness some rather funny goals - and the odd shoe doing its rounds for an early space visit!
Saturday morning continued the football vibe as a friend and one of my cousins decided to head to Lakeside Shopping Centre in Thurrock, London. There's an official West Ham United store there and to my joy, had plenty of jerseys in for me to nab. Of course, after witnessing my happiness at finally grabbing hold of a West Ham jersey for the first time in exactly 10 years, my mate and cousin decided to head over to another sports shop to pick up a horrible, in my honest opinion, Arsenal FC jersey. I've never liked the red and white combination.
One of the funny things that happened today though was the ring-sticking-moment my cousin had. We walked into a men-only shop and browsed for a few things. I'm after a rather expensive suit for my newphews Christening next month you see, I'm due to be Godfather so must dress the part. Anywho, my cousin got a little bored and decided to try on some rings, only to find that one of them was a little too tight and got it stuck on his middle finger. In a panic, trying to get it off, he started causing himself a lot of pain, to which he then decided that there was no other option but to buy the ring. Fortunately for him it had come down in price quite a lot, but I'm sure it's something he could do without. For those who are worried about my cousins overall welfare, the ring is now safely off and on a finger that isn't as fat.
Oh also, does anyone remember the London-Gangster film, Snatch? The female behind the counter in the bookies, I can't remember her name. She had short hair and was rather odd looking, but had a typical east London accent. Well, she walked straight past me today. I haven't seen the film in a while, but I do, apparently, have a memory for faces and hers was one I recognised. I've tried searching for a picture of her, but it appears she's only ever been in one film, and that was Snatch.
Stealin' stones and breakin' bones people!
21.7.06
We're Being Watched
If you put some thought into it, it's not an odd thing to have someone famous or in the spot light come across your blog. If I were to type something about Scarlett Johanson in my blog, and she one day decided in an incredibly boring state to search for her name on Google, she would, eventually (after a long long trek I mean) come across my blog, especially as blogger.com is owned by Google.
But this was really brought to light from an article by Newsnight Editor, Daniel Pearl, of the BBC. He was basically stating the obvious to many tech heads, but the not so obvious to those out there who think they can write a blog and keep it private between friends and family.
Last year I had another blog on the go via Wordpress. It was a little more personal than this one, with my name and photo being published up on a regular basis. The one thing that got me all exicted about blogging though and really brought my attention to what Daniel mentioned, is that an old old friend managed to track me down to an e-mail address via a search for my name in Google. After browsing for a few pages she came across my name on a website to which she clicked. To her amazement, she saw my photo and a diary of my past year in London and instantly e-mailed me.
And we're now talking a regular basis over MSN Messenger again. Fun stuff!
But this was really brought to light from an article by Newsnight Editor, Daniel Pearl, of the BBC. He was basically stating the obvious to many tech heads, but the not so obvious to those out there who think they can write a blog and keep it private between friends and family.
Last year I had another blog on the go via Wordpress. It was a little more personal than this one, with my name and photo being published up on a regular basis. The one thing that got me all exicted about blogging though and really brought my attention to what Daniel mentioned, is that an old old friend managed to track me down to an e-mail address via a search for my name in Google. After browsing for a few pages she came across my name on a website to which she clicked. To her amazement, she saw my photo and a diary of my past year in London and instantly e-mailed me.
And we're now talking a regular basis over MSN Messenger again. Fun stuff!
20.7.06
Don't Get Fired For Blogging
I never really thought enough about this to let it bother me, but apparently people all over the world are being sacked because of their blogs, and even a pseudonym won't help you!
An article at the BBC news website runs through a few people who have recently lost their jobs through blogging, although I think two out of three of those people now have book deals because of their blogs, so it can't be all bad.
But to go tangential to the topic of my post, I've started to wonder why I didn't write a blog back in the day when I was a kitchen fitter and call it "Life of a London Kitchen Fitter". I mean, you hear stories all the time about the 6ft man who entered some womans house to 'fit her kitchen', don't you? Nothing sexual ever happened on my job, although there were a few clients who were absolute stunners, but to write about it surely would have lead me to a book deal like the rest of these average joes?
Bollocks!
An article at the BBC news website runs through a few people who have recently lost their jobs through blogging, although I think two out of three of those people now have book deals because of their blogs, so it can't be all bad.
But to go tangential to the topic of my post, I've started to wonder why I didn't write a blog back in the day when I was a kitchen fitter and call it "Life of a London Kitchen Fitter". I mean, you hear stories all the time about the 6ft man who entered some womans house to 'fit her kitchen', don't you? Nothing sexual ever happened on my job, although there were a few clients who were absolute stunners, but to write about it surely would have lead me to a book deal like the rest of these average joes?
Bollocks!
19.7.06
It Might Snow
...On the contrary, it's too bloody hot for that.The funny thing about the English is that we complain about the weather at all times of year, except Spring and Autumn when the weather is quite similar. During Winter months when we're all wrapped up, sitting by fires and heaters, we love nothing more than to moan about how cold it is and you can place money on someone piping up with "I can't wait until Summer". Then when Summer does arrive the same thing happens. We sit outside basking in the gorgeous sun, bikinis, shorts and a lack of tops and someone, somewhere, always complains about how hot it is. Once again, you can place your hard earned cash on someone saying "I can't wait for Winter to arrive".
Many tourists complain about British weather, but I love it. It's one of the most varied weather patterns in the world, with some other countries along the lines of the equater experiencing heat all year long and of course, our friends way up north and way down south experiencing some rather similar weather to the title of this post.
England's Summer temperatures are, on average, around the 25C mark, which most will tell you is a nice comfortable temperature to be doing your daily things in. However, 2006 in England has seen some rather odd behaviour with weather patterns. We had a rather warm winter for a start, our Spring felt like early Summer and now our Summer feels like we've been gifted the weather of something you'd see on a holiday destination, it's lovely. For the first time since I can remember, I'm experiencing temperatures of nearly 38C in London. Having lived in Boston, Lincs. for the majority of my life, I've been used to much cooler weather than this, so it's definitely something new to me.
Am I complaining? Certainly not! Now it's time to catch some rays and read the newspaper.
17.7.06
The Juggling Man
I don't know much about this, who this guy is or why he is doing what he is doing, but it amazed me enough to make a post about it.
I present to you, some guy called Chris Bliss
Thanks my friend at Movie Guff.
I present to you, some guy called Chris Bliss
Thanks my friend at Movie Guff.
Heat exhaustion or other problems?
I'm a very active person who loves nothing more than to keep fit, my life is revolving around it at the minute, not in an obsessive way, and so I make an effort to eat the right foods and do the right things. But the past week I think I've either failed myself somewhere, or the heat of Summer has hit me more than usual.
I've ruled out dehydration due to me drinking water all day long, I've ruled out the possibility that I don't eat enough because I have four to five small meals each day, I've ruled out me being worn down because I don't have much stress in my life at the minute, I haven't ruled out me not eating enough vegetables, which is now probably taking its toll on my body - I have, however, done my best to rectify this problem by eating vegetables on a daily basis now, no matter how much I dislike them.
I've been feeling pretty lethargic all week and was in a race against time to be fit for football yesterday afternoon - and the result of that race came to a miserable conclusion half way through the match.
I managed to make it to the end, but not without getting cold chills in 32C heat, nearly passing out toward the end and almost collapsing to the ground in one last push at goal - to sum up the feeling of my body after the match? Exhausted. I ate all the right things before the match, drank plenty of water before, during and after and did the required amount of warm up exercises before the game, yet come the end I was ready to dig my own grave - although I doubt I could have even managed that.
I've felt alright today but my physical activity has been kept to a minimum, although I have just finished my routined weight-lifting work out. I think if things don't get better with me in the next couple of days, I'll be forced to make a visit to the doctor for a blood test or something. I've spent much of the day writing my next article for a certain website as well as filling in an application form for an IT Technician post at a local Secondary & Science school - something which took nearly four hours to complete - sign of desperation there?
In other news, I'm quite happy and relieved that Space Shuttle Discovery has succesfully completed its mission of dropping off a Germany astronaut and a few other supplies for the ISS today. It landed back at Kennedy Space Centre, Florida, at 13:14 BST.
I've ruled out dehydration due to me drinking water all day long, I've ruled out the possibility that I don't eat enough because I have four to five small meals each day, I've ruled out me being worn down because I don't have much stress in my life at the minute, I haven't ruled out me not eating enough vegetables, which is now probably taking its toll on my body - I have, however, done my best to rectify this problem by eating vegetables on a daily basis now, no matter how much I dislike them.
I've been feeling pretty lethargic all week and was in a race against time to be fit for football yesterday afternoon - and the result of that race came to a miserable conclusion half way through the match.
I managed to make it to the end, but not without getting cold chills in 32C heat, nearly passing out toward the end and almost collapsing to the ground in one last push at goal - to sum up the feeling of my body after the match? Exhausted. I ate all the right things before the match, drank plenty of water before, during and after and did the required amount of warm up exercises before the game, yet come the end I was ready to dig my own grave - although I doubt I could have even managed that.
I've felt alright today but my physical activity has been kept to a minimum, although I have just finished my routined weight-lifting work out. I think if things don't get better with me in the next couple of days, I'll be forced to make a visit to the doctor for a blood test or something. I've spent much of the day writing my next article for a certain website as well as filling in an application form for an IT Technician post at a local Secondary & Science school - something which took nearly four hours to complete - sign of desperation there?
In other news, I'm quite happy and relieved that Space Shuttle Discovery has succesfully completed its mission of dropping off a Germany astronaut and a few other supplies for the ISS today. It landed back at Kennedy Space Centre, Florida, at 13:14 BST.
16.7.06
The Little Giant Girl
I was just browsing the internet when I came across this 5 minute video. It's a little hard what to make of it at first, but it is pretty impressive and I suppose one would call it art of some form. It impressed me anyways.
I've read that 'The Little Girl Giant', as it is actually called, is a living fairy-tale theatre event and parade called The Sultan's Elephant, involving a giant girl marionnette and a 42-ton mechanical elephant. It's all been created be a French art group called Royal de Luxe.
I think you'll agree that the music plays a huge part of the video experience. You can download a free and, I presume, legal copy of it here.
I've read that 'The Little Girl Giant', as it is actually called, is a living fairy-tale theatre event and parade called The Sultan's Elephant, involving a giant girl marionnette and a 42-ton mechanical elephant. It's all been created be a French art group called Royal de Luxe.
I think you'll agree that the music plays a huge part of the video experience. You can download a free and, I presume, legal copy of it here.
15.7.06
Feeling... Different
Tonight, whilst I should be out with friends and family at a cousins moving in/girlfriends birthday party BBQ, I'm stuck in suffering from, I presume, the effects of a lack of iron. For the past 6 months I've been eating healthily-ish, training on a near daily basis and generally looking after myself as best as I can, but one thing I forgot... Iron! Turns out those green leaves known only as Kale, Spring Greens and Cabbage actually contain a vast amount of iron which I've been reluctant to eat due to, well, the incredibly boring taste of them. I've learnt my lesson, especially so as I was looking forward to going out tonight.
So whilst I'm under the weather, what do I do? I was pondering around the house and, with everyone out, decided to venture over to a bottle of D&G scent cream that my niece is using. I opened the bottle and got a whiff of what can only be described as heaven. A major mistake in my tirey state, I came to the conclusion that I would be cheating myself out of a pleasantly boring evening if I didn't put some of this cream on my arms. Well now I'm partly regretting it, not only am I wanting sex with some illustriously hot female, but I'm also feeling rather camp.
Time for Die Hard!
So whilst I'm under the weather, what do I do? I was pondering around the house and, with everyone out, decided to venture over to a bottle of D&G scent cream that my niece is using. I opened the bottle and got a whiff of what can only be described as heaven. A major mistake in my tirey state, I came to the conclusion that I would be cheating myself out of a pleasantly boring evening if I didn't put some of this cream on my arms. Well now I'm partly regretting it, not only am I wanting sex with some illustriously hot female, but I'm also feeling rather camp.
Time for Die Hard!
Superman Returns
As I said in my previous post, my cousins and I took a trip up London to go and see the new Superman movie. In fact, we ended up going to Thurrock (Lakeside) to the My Vue cinema to watch it - fab location.
After an extended play of annoying advertisements and more than enough trailers, the movie began.
All those memories of when I was a child, watching the movies with Christopher Reeve came back to me, the music hit, the lights went out, my heart began to race!
The effects were amazing, the sound was excellent and the acting was top draw. I was a little skeptical that the characters in this new movie would alter slightly compared to the previous and original movies, but I was wrong. Brandon Routh, who plays Superman, portrays the mysterious fella himself perfectly and his acting of Clark Kent is just spot on - the old geeky and slightly awkward Kent is back. Routh actually studied Reeve's performances in the original films so well that at times you forget who you're watching. Kate Bosworth (Lois Lane) and Kevin Spacey (Lex Luthor) both get their characters traits across excellently, helping to forget that this film has been released 30 years after its predecessor.
The plotline is a little basic unfortunately, but I think that's to be expected of a Superman film. The real action is toward the end, with Superman saving a few lives along the way. It shows him returning to Earth after a five year absence visiting his home planet from being told it had been destroyed. He rejoins the Daily Planet, tries his best to rekindle the now awkward relationship between him and Lois and, in an unexpected twist half way through, finds out about a 'little' treat. Let's just say that the Smallville series didn't see this coming and, as such, will now have to change their storyline a little.
The ending of the film definitely leaves a gap open for a sequel and I think there is already a new movie in the works for a 2008 release - this is unconfirmed though.
Anyone wanting to get into Superman, there's never been a better time, and to anyone who is a lover of Superman, well, I'm sure you've been to see it already. Definitely well worth a watch, even for the stunning effects.
After an extended play of annoying advertisements and more than enough trailers, the movie began.
All those memories of when I was a child, watching the movies with Christopher Reeve came back to me, the music hit, the lights went out, my heart began to race!
The effects were amazing, the sound was excellent and the acting was top draw. I was a little skeptical that the characters in this new movie would alter slightly compared to the previous and original movies, but I was wrong. Brandon Routh, who plays Superman, portrays the mysterious fella himself perfectly and his acting of Clark Kent is just spot on - the old geeky and slightly awkward Kent is back. Routh actually studied Reeve's performances in the original films so well that at times you forget who you're watching. Kate Bosworth (Lois Lane) and Kevin Spacey (Lex Luthor) both get their characters traits across excellently, helping to forget that this film has been released 30 years after its predecessor.
The plotline is a little basic unfortunately, but I think that's to be expected of a Superman film. The real action is toward the end, with Superman saving a few lives along the way. It shows him returning to Earth after a five year absence visiting his home planet from being told it had been destroyed. He rejoins the Daily Planet, tries his best to rekindle the now awkward relationship between him and Lois and, in an unexpected twist half way through, finds out about a 'little' treat. Let's just say that the Smallville series didn't see this coming and, as such, will now have to change their storyline a little.
The ending of the film definitely leaves a gap open for a sequel and I think there is already a new movie in the works for a 2008 release - this is unconfirmed though.
Anyone wanting to get into Superman, there's never been a better time, and to anyone who is a lover of Superman, well, I'm sure you've been to see it already. Definitely well worth a watch, even for the stunning effects.
14.7.06
Spreading My Name
I'm a writer, am amateur one at that, but still considering myself a writer. I write for a few websites, one notable though and, unfortunately, I can't give the name of that website away for anonymity reasons. However, I was increasingly bored last night and decided to search for my [real] name in Google and I was surprised by the amount of entries that came up. I came across the obvious articles I had written, but I also came across an extended array of links from other websites where users (and professional journalists) have spoken about me and my articles. Nine times out of ten, the feedback was positive, with a few minor criticisms here and there (most were unjustifiable). Definitely made my night.
Through more boredom, I decided to search blogger.com blogs for interesting weblogs to visit. I came across one through a search term that I've now forgotten, called Ob's Musings. I've only managed to read a few of the posts on there, the more recent ones, but they're well written and I can some-what relate to the guys current relationship problems. I've [almost] been in the situation he is in now, so I felt it was only right to drop by and leave a comment. Having read a few more of his posts, I'm actually intrigued. So to stop myself from losing it, I've linked it up on this blog. Have a read sometime.
On another note, it's the U.K Premier of Superman Returns this evening. My cousins and I are going up London to watch a showing at 9.30. I very much doubt I'll be back this evening to give an account of the movie, but I'm sure I'll leave a brief review of it over the weekend.
Until then, adios!
Through more boredom, I decided to search blogger.com blogs for interesting weblogs to visit. I came across one through a search term that I've now forgotten, called Ob's Musings. I've only managed to read a few of the posts on there, the more recent ones, but they're well written and I can some-what relate to the guys current relationship problems. I've [almost] been in the situation he is in now, so I felt it was only right to drop by and leave a comment. Having read a few more of his posts, I'm actually intrigued. So to stop myself from losing it, I've linked it up on this blog. Have a read sometime.
On another note, it's the U.K Premier of Superman Returns this evening. My cousins and I are going up London to watch a showing at 9.30. I very much doubt I'll be back this evening to give an account of the movie, but I'm sure I'll leave a brief review of it over the weekend.
Until then, adios!
13.7.06
3G Fun
Okay, so my first real post is a little tech-savvy for most, but it's still something new to me. I recently acquired a Nokia 6680 3G phone from my cousin after he got an upgrade on a different network. I had never had a video phone before, so the novelty was still something new to me and, thus, couldn't wait to bare my arse to a few mates in a drunken night in (or out). I managed to sway my sister (please read on before thinking about incest video calls) into calling me on her partners phone.
...And then it happened, 30 seconds of excitement contained in one [probably expensive] phone call. My sisters movements were a little jaded, but I got to see my wee niece just smiling at me through the phone. Oh the happiness. What's more, I'm told that at the end of this month, O2 (my phone network) are going to give me free video calling minutes...
...Then my arse will make its cinematic debut!
...And then it happened, 30 seconds of excitement contained in one [probably expensive] phone call. My sisters movements were a little jaded, but I got to see my wee niece just smiling at me through the phone. Oh the happiness. What's more, I'm told that at the end of this month, O2 (my phone network) are going to give me free video calling minutes...
...Then my arse will make its cinematic debut!
My First
...Over 600 days later and I finally give up with Wordpress and make a move to Blogger.com. Why? Well, a good question, afterall, Wordpress is a damn site better than the software on offer here, but it lacks one thing - a network of other blogs. The sheer thought that someone, somewhere, might come along and read this is enough to persuade me to create an account and start blogging.
So here I begin, and what better way to start than with a little explanation of myself and a brief description of my goal. I'm male, 20 years old and living in London, England. I'm currently unemployed although that doesn't mean to say I haven't been desperately looking for work. I don't ponce off of anyone, I'm thankful I have enough cash to keep my alive for now, and I do have some other (legal) ways of making cash as well. For the past two years I've been fitting kitchens in and around London, so I do have some experience in that trade, but unfortunately fitting a kitchen isn't the required experience to get into I.T - not even a Diploma in IT helps with that.
My music taste varies, although Indie and Rock are up there on my favourites list, but it should probably be mentioned that I do have a soft-spot for Rn'B, Soul, Funk, Reggae and Hip Hop. I'm into a variety of films, but the typical chick flick and common Hollywood blockbuster don't generally interest me. As such, I prefer films that delve a little deeper into the meaning of everything, such as Donnie Darko and Requiem for a Dream. Of course, the comical films with any member of the Frat Pack is always a hit with me - cheesy comedy always cheers me up.
On other side of things that don't involve sitting on my arse, I am a very active person playing sports on almost every day of the week, as well as working out at home using a combination of weights and bananas (don't ask) three times a week.
Gosh, this sounds like a C.V doesn't it? Anyway, that's all you'll know of me for now.
My reasons for being here? Well, besides my point in the opening paragraph, I have a love for reading and writing and would seriously take up any offer of employment in Journalism - and I will be taking a course soon enough. I'll be using this blog to better my writing, as well as get a few things off my chest that I may or may not be able to talk about with others close to me. The moment my identity becomes jeopardised, I'll be swiftly heading off without a trace.
Let the fun begin!
So here I begin, and what better way to start than with a little explanation of myself and a brief description of my goal. I'm male, 20 years old and living in London, England. I'm currently unemployed although that doesn't mean to say I haven't been desperately looking for work. I don't ponce off of anyone, I'm thankful I have enough cash to keep my alive for now, and I do have some other (legal) ways of making cash as well. For the past two years I've been fitting kitchens in and around London, so I do have some experience in that trade, but unfortunately fitting a kitchen isn't the required experience to get into I.T - not even a Diploma in IT helps with that.
My music taste varies, although Indie and Rock are up there on my favourites list, but it should probably be mentioned that I do have a soft-spot for Rn'B, Soul, Funk, Reggae and Hip Hop. I'm into a variety of films, but the typical chick flick and common Hollywood blockbuster don't generally interest me. As such, I prefer films that delve a little deeper into the meaning of everything, such as Donnie Darko and Requiem for a Dream. Of course, the comical films with any member of the Frat Pack is always a hit with me - cheesy comedy always cheers me up.
On other side of things that don't involve sitting on my arse, I am a very active person playing sports on almost every day of the week, as well as working out at home using a combination of weights and bananas (don't ask) three times a week.
Gosh, this sounds like a C.V doesn't it? Anyway, that's all you'll know of me for now.
My reasons for being here? Well, besides my point in the opening paragraph, I have a love for reading and writing and would seriously take up any offer of employment in Journalism - and I will be taking a course soon enough. I'll be using this blog to better my writing, as well as get a few things off my chest that I may or may not be able to talk about with others close to me. The moment my identity becomes jeopardised, I'll be swiftly heading off without a trace.
Let the fun begin!
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