Sunday, January 17, 2010
It's the end of the second week of our health and fitness lifestyle change. Last week, I had lost 6lbs. I don't know if I will have lost that much this week, but who knows? There was no football today (again) because of the supposed bad weather. The games were cancelled on Thursday, but of course Friday and Saturday were warmer and wetter so all evidence of snow has been washed away. Quite a few people around thought the games should have gone ahead this weekend but who could tell how things were going to go? Anyway, we decided to use the day for a trip we had wanted to do for a long time. Sarah finally got to go to the top of the Malvern hills, and as you can see, she found it a bit confusing, ha-ha.
We walked from St Ann's Well, up to the Worcestershire Beacon, and then down to the Wyche Cutting. We were going to carry on to British Camp, but after a roast beef dinner courtesy of the Wyche Inn, we thought better of it, and decided to head back to Great Malvern the way we came. This time we walked back along the east side of the hills, back to St Ann's Well, and back down through the town to the station. All told, we walked for 3 and a half hours (stopping for lunch for about 30 mins) so it was good exercise and a really nice day up on top of the hills. There were lots of people around, and lots of dogs up there having a whale of a time. The pictures of our day trip can be found here!
The fitness/gym stuff this week has been good. I wouldn't say we are into a routine yet, but it's been good going every day after work and doing some running and weights. I feel that it's making a difference to my overall fitness but it will be hard to tell until we get some football starting up again. Our diet is also going well, we are managing to make all the food we used to make, but with more understanding of the calories in it, and how portion control is important.
Better go for now! Weigh in time!
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
"Ready or not, but I waste no time!"
When is the weather going to improve? Snow and ice are getting tiresome now. As I sit here, we are waiting for more snow. The last few days have been snow-free, but the ice and crud from the last week is still hanging around because it's so cold. Football training is cancelled for the second week in a row because the outdoor 'all weather' pitches are frosted up. I don't know what the prospects for a Sunday League game are this week, but again, it's not looking good. We've had 3 or 4 games cancelled, which is really bad because come the end of the season we'll have to play midweek games again, which isn't fun.
The "new start" healthy lifestyle is going ok. We are both finding it hard to stick to calories and do exercise. Sarah isn't feeling too well at the moment (she has a head cold and a cough) so it's doubly difficult for her to motivate herself to measure ingredients, calculate calories, and go to the gym. We're still managing to do OK, and after the first week's weigh in, had both lost weight, so that's good :) This is just the start of the journey and I'm sure it will get easier as time goes on. We are supposed to go and join the gym tonight which is a step towards sealing the deal...!
Last night we finally got around to watching Inglorious Basterds on blu-ray. To be honest, I was a little bit "meh" about this film. I didn't enjoy it as much as it was hyped. I won't give too much away, but let's just say it wasn't historically correct and if you're going to make a so-called "War Movie" then for me, it needs to be historically accurate. (Hello, U-571?). It was a typical Tarantino flick though, I don't know why I was expecting realism from him. There was a lot of tension and suspense in some of the scenes, it was built up really well. Other scenes, there didn't seem to be much point in including them. Maybe I need to watch it again more closely.... but on first watch, I wasn't impressed...
Gym tonight for running/cross trainer/weights.... Hopefully I can put in a hard work out week, to keep my fitness up ready for a game of football on Sunday... fingers crossed...
Saturday, January 9, 2010
"If you don't know like what you've got, why don't you change it!"
It's coming to the end of a loooooong day in London. We were up this morning at 7am to get the train to Paddington, with plans to visit the Natural History museum. The day started badly with a half hour delay on the train.... Predictable! Then once we arrived in London we found that most of the Underground lines were closed for planned works. Which idiot plans them for weekends? Probably the same one who plans motorway closures for busy times.
We eventually made it to the museum and it was much the same as I remember. The dinosaur exhibits were great. My brother is obsessed with them and was a able to name most of the ones he saw. I found out the kids in his class call him 'dinosaur boy' and know I know why! Unfortunately the blue whale exhibit room was closed, and that is the room we wanted to see the most....Overall to be honest the museum was a bit dated... Some of the exhibits seemed to be from the 80s but considering it was free, apart from a donation, it was reasonable.
The museum next door, the science museum, was much much better! It was a lot more interactive and had better stuff in it. Again though some of it was dated and hadn't changed in the 15 or so years since my last visit! The space and flight sections were excellent and the science launchpad (with loads of hands on experiments for kids) was really well done and my brother loved trying all the stuff out (we did too, to be honest!)
It was certainly a long day and the journey back across London was a great reminder of why I dislike the capital. With the stupidity of some of the retards that use the Tube, I feel sorry for friends of ours that have to use it regularly. We were at Picadilly Circus station, waiting to get on a Bakerloo line train to Paddington. Because of all the line closures, the station was really busy and the platform was packed. There was no space to move. As soon as trains pulled in, people were barging each other to get on and not even giving people a chance to get off the train. One poor bloke was trying to get a push chair off, and people were pushing him back ON the train in trying to force their way on. Idiots! Nobody showed any consideration for anyone else, it was an 'every man for himself' scrum, and not at all safe. We waited for two trains to fill up and go... And on each one, people were crushed up against the doors when the trains pulled off.
We got to Paddington in the end and we're safely on the way home. Think tonight is going to be a relax and blu-ray night, after today's excitements!
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We eventually made it to the museum and it was much the same as I remember. The dinosaur exhibits were great. My brother is obsessed with them and was a able to name most of the ones he saw. I found out the kids in his class call him 'dinosaur boy' and know I know why! Unfortunately the blue whale exhibit room was closed, and that is the room we wanted to see the most....Overall to be honest the museum was a bit dated... Some of the exhibits seemed to be from the 80s but considering it was free, apart from a donation, it was reasonable.
The museum next door, the science museum, was much much better! It was a lot more interactive and had better stuff in it. Again though some of it was dated and hadn't changed in the 15 or so years since my last visit! The space and flight sections were excellent and the science launchpad (with loads of hands on experiments for kids) was really well done and my brother loved trying all the stuff out (we did too, to be honest!)
It was certainly a long day and the journey back across London was a great reminder of why I dislike the capital. With the stupidity of some of the retards that use the Tube, I feel sorry for friends of ours that have to use it regularly. We were at Picadilly Circus station, waiting to get on a Bakerloo line train to Paddington. Because of all the line closures, the station was really busy and the platform was packed. There was no space to move. As soon as trains pulled in, people were barging each other to get on and not even giving people a chance to get off the train. One poor bloke was trying to get a push chair off, and people were pushing him back ON the train in trying to force their way on. Idiots! Nobody showed any consideration for anyone else, it was an 'every man for himself' scrum, and not at all safe. We waited for two trains to fill up and go... And on each one, people were crushed up against the doors when the trains pulled off.
We got to Paddington in the end and we're safely on the way home. Think tonight is going to be a relax and blu-ray night, after today's excitements!
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Tuesday, January 5, 2010
"Well.... You could be friends of mine..?"
What a ridiculous day! A little bit of snow falls and the whole country grinds to a halt. It's really a bit of a joke to be honest. We get some minor weather and anyone would think it was a full on avalanche blizzard of death. In Canada a few weeks back, people had -20degrees and 3 feet of snow, and just got on with it. Worcester gets 2 inches of snow and it's bedlam... People rush home from work as if they won't be able to get home, and buy up bread, milk, and other food like there won't be any more made... EVER. It's stupidity on a grand scale.
Went to the gym today because St John's sports centre shut the 'all weather' pitches... Ha!
Gym workout was ok, did weights first then 40mins of cardio, and felt good. We'll see if doing them in reverse has any longer term benefit ;)
Went to the gym today because St John's sports centre shut the 'all weather' pitches... Ha!
Gym workout was ok, did weights first then 40mins of cardio, and felt good. We'll see if doing them in reverse has any longer term benefit ;)
Sunday, January 3, 2010
"It's all the same.... Only the names have changed..."
I had a trial gym session tonight.... Been a slow day because football was cancelled this morning, so that was my daily exercise out the window. Just as well... It's fair to say that the lack of exercise over Christmas hasn't helped my general level of fitness.
We went over to the Worcester Whitehouse Hotel and used their gym. I've got a 5 days of a 7 day trial left. The gym is ok, but the machines are old and could do with updating. It's also not very busy so that's good. We went fairly late in the day, and they closed at 8pm so I didn't have long to get some exercise in.
Managed 20 mins on the runner, 20 mins cross trainer (which was knackering) then 5 mins on the bike before doing some chest and shoulder press. I think ideally I need 90 mins in the gym to do the workout I want.
The food side of things is going well. Sarah has worked hard on figuring out the calories in the food we are eating, and we are keeping a diary to show what we've eaten and the calorie count which is great. I'm aiming for 2000 a day, and hoping to see some weight loss by cutting out 500 and doing exercise.
Back to work this week, should be fun, after almost 2 weeks off (except for the 5 or 6 disruptions I've had from helpdesk calls!)
More later in the week..!
Saturday, January 2, 2010
New Year's Pitchcroft Run!
Garmin Connect -
Activity Details for
New Year's Pitchcroft Run
We went on our first fitness run of the New Year today. The idea was to try and do a lap of Pitchcroft without pushing too hard. I was pleased that both of us managed to finish in under 20 minutes. The fastest I've ever run the lap is 16.54. Today we ran it in 19.53... so there is room for improvement. Sarah did really well to push hard and stay with me the whole run (usually I find myself running ahead).
Activity Details for
New Year's Pitchcroft Run
We went on our first fitness run of the New Year today. The idea was to try and do a lap of Pitchcroft without pushing too hard. I was pleased that both of us managed to finish in under 20 minutes. The fastest I've ever run the lap is 16.54. Today we ran it in 19.53... so there is room for improvement. Sarah did really well to push hard and stay with me the whole run (usually I find myself running ahead).
Anyway, it feels good to have got that first run out of the way, and now we can concentrate on getting into a routine/regime of fitness! The journey has started!
Friday, January 1, 2010
"Keep on walking that road, and I'll follow"
So, we watched Avatar. I'm sitting here typing my thoughts, with the popcorn farts. £10 each to see the film, and £9 for a large Sprite, a large popcorn, and a small hot-dog. The question is, was the £30 outlay worth it?
In a word - Yes. Avatar is worth seeing in 3D. It's quite a spectacle. It's also a film that for once really made me think. The story was "ok" and nothing new. The effects were stunning. I found myself forgetting that I was watching CGI. You basically couldn't tell what was real and what was computer generated. The character animation and faces was astounding. It really was something. The biggest surprise was the use of 3D. For once, it wasn't gimmicky. By that, I mean there were none of the 3D chicles that you often see. It was used in a really really clever way. One scene that stands out is a fight where machine guns were being fired and the tracers were coming out of the screen, with bullet casings flying through the air at you.
So - I asked myself, what would I have thought about the film if it was just a pixar animation a la Toy Story. Probably not that much. But the addition of the 3D elements and breathtaking CGI work really do make this a film that you need to see if you are into cinema. Right now, my only regret is that I didn't see it in IMAX.
If this is the future of cinema (i.e. all future movies will be shot in this sort of form) then sign me up. Watching films is gonna get a hell of a lot more fun.
What was even more interesting is that Sky TV had an ad before the film saying they are launching 3D TV this year with exisiting HD set-top boxes. You just need to shell out for a 3D ready TV! I'm still trying to work out how Super Sunday is going to work in 3D but it should be a laugh...
"I'm just a teenage dirtbag, baby!"
Happy New Year Everyone. I hope 2010 is a great year for all readers! (so, both of you!)
We have had a good festive season. Today is the last day of indiscetions (snacks beer and junkfood) before we start our lifechanges! We have worked out a programme and food plans today. Sarah is aiming to lose 19lbs to reach her 'ideal' weight. The challenge for me is slightly harder than that. The BMI charts and healthy weight guides say that I need to shed a massive 50lbs to be at the top end of my ideal weight. Not bad then. Just got to lose 3 and a half stone: from 16 stone down to 12.5 stone. I know it's going to be hard but I think it is achievable with the right balance of exercise, diet, and lifestyle. The challenge starts now. We are weighing and photographing each week so we should have some measure of progress. The deadline for the challenge is June 30th 2010 so that's 6 months of hard work!
Right now we are waiting in the Vue cinema to watch Avatar 3D. Considering the hype, it better be good! :)
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
We have had a good festive season. Today is the last day of indiscetions (snacks beer and junkfood) before we start our lifechanges! We have worked out a programme and food plans today. Sarah is aiming to lose 19lbs to reach her 'ideal' weight. The challenge for me is slightly harder than that. The BMI charts and healthy weight guides say that I need to shed a massive 50lbs to be at the top end of my ideal weight. Not bad then. Just got to lose 3 and a half stone: from 16 stone down to 12.5 stone. I know it's going to be hard but I think it is achievable with the right balance of exercise, diet, and lifestyle. The challenge starts now. We are weighing and photographing each week so we should have some measure of progress. The deadline for the challenge is June 30th 2010 so that's 6 months of hard work!
Right now we are waiting in the Vue cinema to watch Avatar 3D. Considering the hype, it better be good! :)
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
"Move in now, move out, hands up now hands down"
It's one more day before 2010. New decade, new lifestyle! Me and Sarah have decided that for the new year we will be looking much more closely at the things we eat and the exercise we do. It's fair to say that for various reasons (injury/laziness/weather), the exercise regime I was following earlier in the year has fallen by the wayside. It's "traditional" for people to put on much more weight and over indulge during the holidays, but personally (apart from a big Christmas dinner!) I've tried to stay off alcohol and not eat too much. My weight has gone back up from around 200 to 220lbs (my weight yo-yo's between these two depending on how much exercise I am doing), but this time I want to lose some weight and keep it off. I'm planning to do the Vancouver Sun Run again this year, and I really want to beat 50 minutes after the disappointment of last year's 57 minute run. On top of that, I have my deferred entry to the Great North Run with Paul, who has done an amazing job of losing weight. He's a good inspiration for what I want to achieve.
Anyway, as of January 1st, there will be no more alcohol (for at least a month!), no excess sugars, no MSG... basically just healthy simple foods, twinned with regular good exercise (I want to get back into the habit of 3mile runs each day, with football on Tuesdays and Sundays). We are going to do what most other people do in January and join the gym, but we will stick to going regularly. It's just a shame that none of the local gyms around here are top notch. My old gym (that me, Coops, and Deano used to go to for 90 mins per day) was really good, it had the right sorts of equipment, and it wasn't really that busy ever. There are a couple of options around here that I just don't find any good for one reason or another - either they use old machines and are small, but not busy, or they have the latest machines, but they have classes that mean you can't use the equipment when you want. Yes, St John's, I'm talking about you!
I'm sure we will find a gym that suits us both. In the meantime, I'll be hoping the weather isn't too awful, so I can run pitchcroft. I was pretty pleased that in the summer I could do a lap of it in 16 minutes, but I'll be a long way off that pace at the moment.
I'm determined that this time, once I lose the weight and get my top fitness back, that I stay on top of it and don't slip back. This will be the 4th or 5th time in 2 years that I'm trying to lose the weight and keep it off. I have no problems losing it, but then i'll get an injury or illness, and all the hard work gets undone....
Friday, December 25, 2009
Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas Everybody. It's been pointed out that I haven't been updating my blog these days, so I resolve to do much better in 2010. A big change that most people know about is that my lovely girlfriend moved over from Canada to live with me in England (poor girl), and we have been living together in an apartment in the middle of Worcester since July 2009.
Anyway, stay tuned for more updates in 2010! :)
Thursday, April 30, 2009
"The Ham and Cheese, and Margarine, they speak an evil language"
As always, it's been a really long time since my last update. I can't seem to be able to keep up regular posts on what's going on. Got to try harder on that....
Well, as I type, I'm sitting in the BA business lounge, waiting for my flight home to England. I've been on holiday in Vancouver for the last few weeks, staying with Sarah. I've done the predictable couple of days of work (which I *knew* would happen, despite not getting compensated for it!) but on the whole I've had a great time doing nothing. Those of you that I occasionally visit will know how much I appreciate the value of just sitting around doing "not very much in particular" these days. I think I must be getting old or something....
Anyway - I am pleased to report that I actually ran the Vancouver Sun Run again with a whole bunch of friends. Eddie, Shane, shane's lovely girfriend, and their cousin Eric. We all met at Eddies place downtown on the day of the race, and at around 9:15 we were off for 10km of running around Vancouver's downtown streets.
I have previously written about running training. To be honest, I hadn't run at all 6 weeks before this race, because I am suffering from what the doctor called "a potential hernia" that made running training uncomfortable. I was still trying to play football throughout this time, with little success. So - I approached the 10km race with minimal training, and carrying an injury of sorts. I was apprehensive before the race because I didn't want to break down. I ended up covering myself in almost a whole tube of deep heat pain rub, (and Eddie borrowed some too, cue much hilarity throughout the day as we talked about "Eddie's Magic Cream", after he managed to get it on his nut sack.) - Rub applied, we started the race, and I stuck close to Eddie as in previous years. I was shocked that we did the first 1km in 3.45 - almost a sprint pace. By 5km, we had taken 25 minutes, and I was really happy, because I was running faster than I ever had done in training. However, at around 8km, on the home stretch, I had hit a brick wall, and I was starting to feel aches and pains, and Eddie had long since dissapeared into the distance. Eric came flying by me at some pace, and my fitness had gone. I resigned to finishing the race as fast as I could... limping across the line in 57.12, which was dissapointing to me considering that I thought 2 years ago I was in worse shape, and I finished the race in 54.20.... But I can at least be glad I finished the race in under an hour, considering that that morning I had been doubting whether I could even take part at all.
Special mention must go to my brave (or is that foolish) girlfriend, who was suffering with an irritated meniscus of the kneecap, and had been finding walking difficult for the days leading up to the race. She did the run regardless, and finished in just over an hour despite the obvious discomfort of running downhill (of which probablu 40% of the course is downhill running). So, I am pleased and proud that we both managed to take part and had a wonderful day with our friends. (Apart from the lunch we went for at Moxys on Broadway, but that's a different story)
The Sun Run occupied our thinking and activites for the first part of the holiday, but after that, my time was my own, and it was great to be staying with Sarah in her place, and not being stuck in a hotel. I missed not being close to everyone in Richmond (and the Foggy Dew / Harold's Bar) but it was very nice to be able to make our own food in the evenings, and watch tv/visit local places in New Westminster. We even went swimming to the local pool which was really good, and I wish we'd gone a few more times. It's definitely given me the swimming bug again.
When I get home, I have to start packing to move into my new place. All being well, I hope to move on on May 5th. I'm moving into an apartment back in the city centre, 2 mins from the train station and bus station, so it will be like living on Broad Street again, but this time without all the going out and getting drunk EVERY night! I'll have a lot to do when I get back, but I'm hoping it will all go smoothly and I can find a couple volunteers to help me move, and of course I'll need a van as well (Dad? Alan?)....
Well - that's enough for now - we are getting on the plane soon. Looking forward to business class. Should be able to get some good rest before the train journey back from Heathrow...
More updates soon, (yeah right! See you in June)
Well, as I type, I'm sitting in the BA business lounge, waiting for my flight home to England. I've been on holiday in Vancouver for the last few weeks, staying with Sarah. I've done the predictable couple of days of work (which I *knew* would happen, despite not getting compensated for it!) but on the whole I've had a great time doing nothing. Those of you that I occasionally visit will know how much I appreciate the value of just sitting around doing "not very much in particular" these days. I think I must be getting old or something....
Anyway - I am pleased to report that I actually ran the Vancouver Sun Run again with a whole bunch of friends. Eddie, Shane, shane's lovely girfriend, and their cousin Eric. We all met at Eddies place downtown on the day of the race, and at around 9:15 we were off for 10km of running around Vancouver's downtown streets.
I have previously written about running training. To be honest, I hadn't run at all 6 weeks before this race, because I am suffering from what the doctor called "a potential hernia" that made running training uncomfortable. I was still trying to play football throughout this time, with little success. So - I approached the 10km race with minimal training, and carrying an injury of sorts. I was apprehensive before the race because I didn't want to break down. I ended up covering myself in almost a whole tube of deep heat pain rub, (and Eddie borrowed some too, cue much hilarity throughout the day as we talked about "Eddie's Magic Cream", after he managed to get it on his nut sack.) - Rub applied, we started the race, and I stuck close to Eddie as in previous years. I was shocked that we did the first 1km in 3.45 - almost a sprint pace. By 5km, we had taken 25 minutes, and I was really happy, because I was running faster than I ever had done in training. However, at around 8km, on the home stretch, I had hit a brick wall, and I was starting to feel aches and pains, and Eddie had long since dissapeared into the distance. Eric came flying by me at some pace, and my fitness had gone. I resigned to finishing the race as fast as I could... limping across the line in 57.12, which was dissapointing to me considering that I thought 2 years ago I was in worse shape, and I finished the race in 54.20.... But I can at least be glad I finished the race in under an hour, considering that that morning I had been doubting whether I could even take part at all.
Special mention must go to my brave (or is that foolish) girlfriend, who was suffering with an irritated meniscus of the kneecap, and had been finding walking difficult for the days leading up to the race. She did the run regardless, and finished in just over an hour despite the obvious discomfort of running downhill (of which probablu 40% of the course is downhill running). So, I am pleased and proud that we both managed to take part and had a wonderful day with our friends. (Apart from the lunch we went for at Moxys on Broadway, but that's a different story)
The Sun Run occupied our thinking and activites for the first part of the holiday, but after that, my time was my own, and it was great to be staying with Sarah in her place, and not being stuck in a hotel. I missed not being close to everyone in Richmond (and the Foggy Dew / Harold's Bar) but it was very nice to be able to make our own food in the evenings, and watch tv/visit local places in New Westminster. We even went swimming to the local pool which was really good, and I wish we'd gone a few more times. It's definitely given me the swimming bug again.
When I get home, I have to start packing to move into my new place. All being well, I hope to move on on May 5th. I'm moving into an apartment back in the city centre, 2 mins from the train station and bus station, so it will be like living on Broad Street again, but this time without all the going out and getting drunk EVERY night! I'll have a lot to do when I get back, but I'm hoping it will all go smoothly and I can find a couple volunteers to help me move, and of course I'll need a van as well (Dad? Alan?)....
Well - that's enough for now - we are getting on the plane soon. Looking forward to business class. Should be able to get some good rest before the train journey back from Heathrow...
More updates soon, (yeah right! See you in June)
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
"Everytime you leave me here alone, it's like I've fallen overboard!"
For once, I'm not really sure how to start this latest blog entry. Lots has been going on, as normal. Loads of work to do, not enough time in the day, and also trying to fit in gym time and running training for April's Sun Run, and also I got accepted into the Great North Run in September. I'm running it with Paul, and we've already got accomodation sorted (thanks to Hilton HHonours Diamond VIP status!) - 2 free nights in the Hilton Gateshead. Should be fun!
The running and general fitness are going ok, but I think I've left it a bit too late in life to be bothering with getting fit. I seem to be getting niggling injuries and aches and pains every week. It's mostly related to football, although we haven't played an 11-a-side game in a couple of weeks. I'm happy with the way my 11-a-side football is progressing. It's amazing that having played and watched the game for so long (7 years of watching Premiership football live, every week), that I can talk a good game, yet have to work on fundamental skills that a kid learns (yes, step up, learning to head the ball!)
Still - at least - I'm listening to what the managers tell me, and I do actually feel like I'm getting better, and becoming harder to ignore as a starting-11 player every week. It's harder for me sometimes because of the constant travelling. Just when I break into the team, I travel away for a couple of weeks, and end up (fairly enough so) back down the pecking order. It does mean that when I get a chance back in the team, I have to give it 110% and try and force my way back in.
The running is going "ok". I'm a couple of runs down on where I should be, training-wise. I owe myself a 3 mile run from Saturday, and a 2.5 mile run from last night (although I played 5-a-side football at the sports centre). I'll hit the gym tonight and try and make up some of the distance on the treadmill.
I'm trying to raise money for my various running activities (at http://www.justgiving.com/andrewmcfee) for the County Air Ambulance. At the moment though, I only have £40. Donations greatfully recieved for this charity! Go and pledge something!
Work-wise - things are as busy as ever. I have a Vancouver trip booked for 15th March to the end of March, and then back in time for John and Kate's wedding on April 4th. A couple of weeks after that, I'm off again (on holiday this time!) back to Vancouver for the Sun Run, and 2 weeks of relaxation (and a bit of running!). Should be fun! I'm definitely looking forward to it. I think there is a chance for a couple of weeks work in Vancouver as well at the start of May, so I could be in town for a few weeks. We shall see.
In the house, we are coming to the end of our tenancy, and the other guys have decided that they each want to go their seperate ways, so amidst all this travelling, I'm looking for a new place to stay. It's going to be tricky to get something sorted, get packed, and move, with all the travelling away. More hassle! I don't know where I'm going to go, I was thinking about moving back into the city, but I'd like to stay in St John's. We'll see.
The running and general fitness are going ok, but I think I've left it a bit too late in life to be bothering with getting fit. I seem to be getting niggling injuries and aches and pains every week. It's mostly related to football, although we haven't played an 11-a-side game in a couple of weeks. I'm happy with the way my 11-a-side football is progressing. It's amazing that having played and watched the game for so long (7 years of watching Premiership football live, every week), that I can talk a good game, yet have to work on fundamental skills that a kid learns (yes, step up, learning to head the ball!)
Still - at least - I'm listening to what the managers tell me, and I do actually feel like I'm getting better, and becoming harder to ignore as a starting-11 player every week. It's harder for me sometimes because of the constant travelling. Just when I break into the team, I travel away for a couple of weeks, and end up (fairly enough so) back down the pecking order. It does mean that when I get a chance back in the team, I have to give it 110% and try and force my way back in.
The running is going "ok". I'm a couple of runs down on where I should be, training-wise. I owe myself a 3 mile run from Saturday, and a 2.5 mile run from last night (although I played 5-a-side football at the sports centre). I'll hit the gym tonight and try and make up some of the distance on the treadmill.
I'm trying to raise money for my various running activities (at http://www.justgiving.com/andrewmcfee) for the County Air Ambulance. At the moment though, I only have £40. Donations greatfully recieved for this charity! Go and pledge something!
Work-wise - things are as busy as ever. I have a Vancouver trip booked for 15th March to the end of March, and then back in time for John and Kate's wedding on April 4th. A couple of weeks after that, I'm off again (on holiday this time!) back to Vancouver for the Sun Run, and 2 weeks of relaxation (and a bit of running!). Should be fun! I'm definitely looking forward to it. I think there is a chance for a couple of weeks work in Vancouver as well at the start of May, so I could be in town for a few weeks. We shall see.
In the house, we are coming to the end of our tenancy, and the other guys have decided that they each want to go their seperate ways, so amidst all this travelling, I'm looking for a new place to stay. It's going to be tricky to get something sorted, get packed, and move, with all the travelling away. More hassle! I don't know where I'm going to go, I was thinking about moving back into the city, but I'd like to stay in St John's. We'll see.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
"Say, I never want to be..... I never want to be like you"
Hmm, as usual, it's been a long time since updates. Christmas has come and gone, the New Year has come and gone, and some of the worst weather I've ever seen has come and gone. I've been back and forth to Canada 3 times for various trips since my last update. No surprise there, then. I also entered the ballot for the Great North Run, and was rejected. I did however sign up for the Vancouver Sun Run 2009, and booked my travel arrangements for a 2 week stay (holiday for once, not work!), so that will be good.
I'm currently training for the Sun Run. I found a good regime on an internet running website that is comfortable, and seems to fit the bill. My aim is to complete the race in under 50 minutes, beating my previous time by 4 or 5 mins. Considering the lack of serious training I did for the race last time I ran it, I am hopeful.
I bought a nice training gadget - the Garmin Forerunner 405 - which is a great training aid, and a real motivator to put in the effort when running. It automatically tracks your running, pace, and your route, and uploads it to a website so you can review your training. Other people can also see it. It's pretty cool. Here is a recent run I did in Richmond, along the side of the Fraser River, and past the new Olympic speed skating oval.
Anyway, I hope it aids me in my training. There aren't many people in Worcester who want to run along the bypass in the cold and rain. Unfortunately, that's where I do most of my training. Maybe I should take to running alongside the river!
I'm currently training for the Sun Run. I found a good regime on an internet running website that is comfortable, and seems to fit the bill. My aim is to complete the race in under 50 minutes, beating my previous time by 4 or 5 mins. Considering the lack of serious training I did for the race last time I ran it, I am hopeful.
I bought a nice training gadget - the Garmin Forerunner 405 - which is a great training aid, and a real motivator to put in the effort when running. It automatically tracks your running, pace, and your route, and uploads it to a website so you can review your training. Other people can also see it. It's pretty cool. Here is a recent run I did in Richmond, along the side of the Fraser River, and past the new Olympic speed skating oval.
Anyway, I hope it aids me in my training. There aren't many people in Worcester who want to run along the bypass in the cold and rain. Unfortunately, that's where I do most of my training. Maybe I should take to running alongside the river!
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
"She was a fast machine, she kept her motor clean"
Death by meat!
This is the "Elvis Platter" from Memphis Blues. We went last night, and 4 of us devoured this beast. It's meant for 5 people. We ate almost all of it. Maybe that's why I feel like I've got 10 tons of meat in my stomach. We're supposed to hit up Gotham Steakhouse tonight for dinner. I think I'll pass!
This is the "Elvis Platter" from Memphis Blues. We went last night, and 4 of us devoured this beast. It's meant for 5 people. We ate almost all of it. Maybe that's why I feel like I've got 10 tons of meat in my stomach. We're supposed to hit up Gotham Steakhouse tonight for dinner. I think I'll pass!
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
"Wouldnt be the first time I've been Wrong.... Wouldnt be the last I'm sure, I've Known"
It's a dreary afternoon in Canada. As I sit in the office, waiting for our surveyor to finish working out GPS co-ordinates on the airfield, I'm kinda bored. I'm listening to Chinese Democracy on iTunes. While I don't think it's amazing, it's very good. There are a lot of different ideas on the album, and no two songs sound the same. Rolling Stone gave the album 4 out of 5. It seems to be getting good reviews, but most people are saying "meh, it's not even GnR, it's Axl Rose and about 20 different musicians". The album credits are quite a read. Some of the tracks have 5 guitarists credited as playing on them.
Last night I was lucky to get a last minute ticket for the Vancouver Canucks vs Detroit Red Wings game. It was a one sided game of hockey. The Canucks got out shot 33 shots to 16, but still ran out 3-2 winners after an overtime goal. It was a big result over the best team in the league. On this trip, I was also really lucky to get a ticket for the Canucks vs Toronto Maple Leafs game (probably the biggest game on the calendar??) and the Canucks won that one too! So 2 out of 2 isn't bad.
Earlier this week, I also got to check out another place to eat downtown. The restaurant was called Joe Fortes, and it wasn't bad at all. I'm told it's been trading for 80 years. The menu choice was excellent, and they had about 200 wines on the drinks menu. I went for beef carpacio for starter, and a 12oz pork chop for main, which was easily the tastiest and most succulent chop I've ever had. I'd definitely go back there. Speaking of food, tonight, we are due to revisit Memphis Blues. I haven't been there for a LOOOONG time, but when we last went, we ate so much. We're going to go for Elvis Platters all round I think - a massive basket of ribs, brisket beef, pulled pork, chicken, smoked sausages, beans, corn breads, fries, and coleslaw. Last time we went there, 5 of us couldn't put a dent in this thing. Needless to say, I haven't eaten much today, and I'm starving, but looking forward to tonight.
The rest of the week is going to be really busy with work, we have a deadline of the weekend to get everything done.
I fly home on Saturday, but on Friday night is the long awaited AC/DC gig in Vancouver. It sold out in 4 mins when tickets went on sale, so getting one is nigh on impossible. I haven't had any luck calling in any favours, but there is still a slim chance I might get one (or two, or three!). I am hoping anyway. It would be a brilliant way to end what has been an "interesting" trip.
Next week, I think a couple of people (Sy?) are taking the week off work, so I might join them and just have 5 days of chilling out and christmas shopping, before the rush to christmas. It would be nice to get home and just relax in front of the TV, play xbox, and just generally waste time. Just before I left the UK, I got myself a new TV and blue ray player, but they've sat there hardly used.
It will be good to get home as well for football. I dont think the team has had many games while I've been away, but I need to get home and get back into the swing of running, and using our home gym(!) to get back into shape. 5 weeks of being away in hotels and eating out every day takes it toll on the gut!
Last night I was lucky to get a last minute ticket for the Vancouver Canucks vs Detroit Red Wings game. It was a one sided game of hockey. The Canucks got out shot 33 shots to 16, but still ran out 3-2 winners after an overtime goal. It was a big result over the best team in the league. On this trip, I was also really lucky to get a ticket for the Canucks vs Toronto Maple Leafs game (probably the biggest game on the calendar??) and the Canucks won that one too! So 2 out of 2 isn't bad.
Earlier this week, I also got to check out another place to eat downtown. The restaurant was called Joe Fortes, and it wasn't bad at all. I'm told it's been trading for 80 years. The menu choice was excellent, and they had about 200 wines on the drinks menu. I went for beef carpacio for starter, and a 12oz pork chop for main, which was easily the tastiest and most succulent chop I've ever had. I'd definitely go back there. Speaking of food, tonight, we are due to revisit Memphis Blues. I haven't been there for a LOOOONG time, but when we last went, we ate so much. We're going to go for Elvis Platters all round I think - a massive basket of ribs, brisket beef, pulled pork, chicken, smoked sausages, beans, corn breads, fries, and coleslaw. Last time we went there, 5 of us couldn't put a dent in this thing. Needless to say, I haven't eaten much today, and I'm starving, but looking forward to tonight.
The rest of the week is going to be really busy with work, we have a deadline of the weekend to get everything done.
I fly home on Saturday, but on Friday night is the long awaited AC/DC gig in Vancouver. It sold out in 4 mins when tickets went on sale, so getting one is nigh on impossible. I haven't had any luck calling in any favours, but there is still a slim chance I might get one (or two, or three!). I am hoping anyway. It would be a brilliant way to end what has been an "interesting" trip.
Next week, I think a couple of people (Sy?) are taking the week off work, so I might join them and just have 5 days of chilling out and christmas shopping, before the rush to christmas. It would be nice to get home and just relax in front of the TV, play xbox, and just generally waste time. Just before I left the UK, I got myself a new TV and blue ray player, but they've sat there hardly used.
It will be good to get home as well for football. I dont think the team has had many games while I've been away, but I need to get home and get back into the swing of running, and using our home gym(!) to get back into shape. 5 weeks of being away in hotels and eating out every day takes it toll on the gut!
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
"Everyday! Everyday, I have the blues!"
Again.... as always... it's been a while since an update. I'm never in one place long enough to log on and write down the random stuff that's happening. This halloween was great - I got dressed up - as you can see, and had a great time terrorising people in town. It was even more fun than new year when we all dressed up and I went as Papa Lazarou. I got a lot of compliments on the zombie makeup, and people asking how I did it... well, it really was quite simple. Sharon helped me out, and we did it in about an hour. It cost me about £20 in facepaints and fake blood, and I wrecked some old clothes, but I am well happy with the effect, and I'll probably go out dressed in the same garb again (with maybe a few different colours next time)
So - I just got back from Canada, but we are going into the next phase of the project and I'm hopeful of being back in town again soon. We went to two amazing places to eat - Hapa Izakaya, and La Bodega. I recommend them both! La Bodega had the most amazing tapas food. This is probably my all time favorite type of food, so I was well happy. I tried rabbit there for the first time, in a spicy casserole.
Speaking of game food, it was the first pheasant shoot of the season on Saturday. It was good to be back out in the countryside for the day. We even took it easy with the port and red wine because we had the halloween party at The Conservatory on Saturday night.
I didnt get much sleep (3 hours) after the exertions of Friday and Saturday, but was up at 8:30 on Sunday for our football game. Having been away for a few weeks I wasn't sure I'd get a game, and turned up expecting to not even need to get changed. Unfortunately we didnt have many players, and not only did I get changed, but Tim got injured early in the game, so I ended up playing most of the 90 mins. I've had a niggling groin problem since earlier in the season (damaged it taking goal kicks without warming up) and throughout the game it was getting worse and worse. In the end, with about 10 mins to go, I was concious that i couldn't track back properly, and had no mobility (which really IS no mobilty given that I'm out of shape to start with!), and I had to come off. I hope I can get fit for next week's game, as after that I should be away for a while.....
So - I just got back from Canada, but we are going into the next phase of the project and I'm hopeful of being back in town again soon. We went to two amazing places to eat - Hapa Izakaya, and La Bodega. I recommend them both! La Bodega had the most amazing tapas food. This is probably my all time favorite type of food, so I was well happy. I tried rabbit there for the first time, in a spicy casserole.
Speaking of game food, it was the first pheasant shoot of the season on Saturday. It was good to be back out in the countryside for the day. We even took it easy with the port and red wine because we had the halloween party at The Conservatory on Saturday night.
I didnt get much sleep (3 hours) after the exertions of Friday and Saturday, but was up at 8:30 on Sunday for our football game. Having been away for a few weeks I wasn't sure I'd get a game, and turned up expecting to not even need to get changed. Unfortunately we didnt have many players, and not only did I get changed, but Tim got injured early in the game, so I ended up playing most of the 90 mins. I've had a niggling groin problem since earlier in the season (damaged it taking goal kicks without warming up) and throughout the game it was getting worse and worse. In the end, with about 10 mins to go, I was concious that i couldn't track back properly, and had no mobility (which really IS no mobilty given that I'm out of shape to start with!), and I had to come off. I hope I can get fit for next week's game, as after that I should be away for a while.....
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
"What have we done with innocence It disappeared with time, it never made much sense....."
It's time for another (in)frequent update to the blog..... As always, it's been a busy time. Talk about burning the candle at both ends. In the last 3 weeks, I've had 3 trips abroad (1 to Vancouver, and 2 to Dubai), and the major event last Friday 26th September- my dad's surprise 50th birthday party. We managed somehow to keep it a total secret from him for the entire time, and the look on his face when he arrived was worth it all! We had the Ian Parker Blues Band providing live music, and the venue was Keystones in Worcester. It was a brilliant night - a big thanks to everyone who came along. It was great to see so many of dad's friends there, and I think everybody had a good night. Most of us were really hungover the next day, so that must mean it was a good night!!
On the football front, things are going well. I'm still working on losing weight, and eating well, and my general fitness and conditioning is getting better. I'm hopeful of finally breaking into the team once I get a chance to play! The manager is trying to arrange some training 1 night per week, I'll be keen to get involved with that. Our league record isn't so good at the moment, but we are a new team, and we haven't quite clicked yet.
My Vancouver trip was awesome. I was only in town for 4 days, but I managed to catch up with everyone, and have a few drinks with all my friends over there. Dubai was a bit hit and miss. We flew out, but I came home for the middle weekend (because I couldn't get an airport pass in time to do any useful work), and ended up flying back the following week for a few days. Unfortunately for us, it was Ramadan, and the country basically grinds to a halt during this time.
In other news, I took the plunge and ordered Sky HD for my place earlier this week. It's getting fitted next Monday. I was actually looking at getting a Sky+ box (mainly to record American Chopper / Mythbusters!) and it turned out the HD box was £25 cheaper, although of course they add an extra tenner to your subscription for the 25 HD channels. Anyway, it will be a novelty to have HD sports and documentarys, and be able to record them.
I don't know what the next few months hold for me. There is the potential of a Canada trip, or maybe a few more days back in Dubai. I'm just trying to get myself settled into a routine at home, and trying to enjoy spending time in my own bed, and hanging around with friends a bit more! I definitely feel fried after the last few weeks though. This week is the first week I've had decent night's sleep in a while, so I figure I'll use some annual leave and take the rest of this week and the start of next week off, to recharge the batteries a bit....
On the football front, things are going well. I'm still working on losing weight, and eating well, and my general fitness and conditioning is getting better. I'm hopeful of finally breaking into the team once I get a chance to play! The manager is trying to arrange some training 1 night per week, I'll be keen to get involved with that. Our league record isn't so good at the moment, but we are a new team, and we haven't quite clicked yet.
My Vancouver trip was awesome. I was only in town for 4 days, but I managed to catch up with everyone, and have a few drinks with all my friends over there. Dubai was a bit hit and miss. We flew out, but I came home for the middle weekend (because I couldn't get an airport pass in time to do any useful work), and ended up flying back the following week for a few days. Unfortunately for us, it was Ramadan, and the country basically grinds to a halt during this time.
In other news, I took the plunge and ordered Sky HD for my place earlier this week. It's getting fitted next Monday. I was actually looking at getting a Sky+ box (mainly to record American Chopper / Mythbusters!) and it turned out the HD box was £25 cheaper, although of course they add an extra tenner to your subscription for the 25 HD channels. Anyway, it will be a novelty to have HD sports and documentarys, and be able to record them.
I don't know what the next few months hold for me. There is the potential of a Canada trip, or maybe a few more days back in Dubai. I'm just trying to get myself settled into a routine at home, and trying to enjoy spending time in my own bed, and hanging around with friends a bit more! I definitely feel fried after the last few weeks though. This week is the first week I've had decent night's sleep in a while, so I figure I'll use some annual leave and take the rest of this week and the start of next week off, to recharge the batteries a bit....
Saturday, September 6, 2008
"Take me down.....to the Paradise City"
"Where the grass is green, and the girls are pretty!"
It's a dreary Saturday... and someone is shouting outside in the street. It's pouring with rain, and I feel a general malaise. This weekend marks the start of what could be a massive two weeks. I have a lot of work to do, and about 13 thousand miles to travel. On Monday, I go to Vancouver for 4 nights, to make some improvements, and a few other things. I come back next weekend for a day and a night, before flying out to Dubai. I'll need to totally repack my suitcase of course, because it's monsoon season in Vancouver, and boiling hot in Dubai...
We had massive thunderstorms for about 10 minutes in St John's this morning. I was watching tv and the room lit up and then there was a massive flash and about half a second later a loud crash and rumble. I recon some houses around here must have got struck.
I am wasting time and not getting on with things... I have to pack, do washing, etc etc, and pack my football stuff for the morning and i've done nothing all day except watch TV and start watching season 5 of '24'. It hasn't started well... same old shit as the last season, totally dumb premises and situations that just WOULDN'T happen, and the same annoying characters... Chloe O'Brien, I mean you... yet, there is something there that makes you want to watch "just one more episode". It's so annoying....
It's a dreary Saturday... and someone is shouting outside in the street. It's pouring with rain, and I feel a general malaise. This weekend marks the start of what could be a massive two weeks. I have a lot of work to do, and about 13 thousand miles to travel. On Monday, I go to Vancouver for 4 nights, to make some improvements, and a few other things. I come back next weekend for a day and a night, before flying out to Dubai. I'll need to totally repack my suitcase of course, because it's monsoon season in Vancouver, and boiling hot in Dubai...
We had massive thunderstorms for about 10 minutes in St John's this morning. I was watching tv and the room lit up and then there was a massive flash and about half a second later a loud crash and rumble. I recon some houses around here must have got struck.
I am wasting time and not getting on with things... I have to pack, do washing, etc etc, and pack my football stuff for the morning and i've done nothing all day except watch TV and start watching season 5 of '24'. It hasn't started well... same old shit as the last season, totally dumb premises and situations that just WOULDN'T happen, and the same annoying characters... Chloe O'Brien, I mean you... yet, there is something there that makes you want to watch "just one more episode". It's so annoying....
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
"I was caught In the middle...... of a railroad track!"
Yeah, Thunderstruck! I'm looking outside and that's what it looks like the weather is gonna do. We didn't really get a summer this year, did we? At least most of Worcester was dry and not under 10 feet of water. A lot has happened since my last update.... Work is still really busy, lots to do and not enough time to do it. I have at least 2 trips to fit in before the end of September and no idea how I'm going to do it.
I've realised a lifetime's ambition (:p) and signed on for Sunday League football with "Coppertops Athletic". It's great to get involved with the lads and enjoy the banter of getting changed and going out and playing football in the rain. It's a good reason not to go out every Saturday and drink too much beer as well! We have played 1 game so far, a 3-3 draw, and I was on for the last 6 mins! I hope that once I get some match fitness I can make more of an impact with the team. The last games of our Malvern 6-a-side are tonight, but it's not going to be fun as the rain is hammering down. Our team is top of the league and we need to win it to secure another "title". It's not quite the same as real football as we don't get trophies or anything.
Thanks to everyone for birthday cards and wishes... it was a nice birthday weekend, we had a great night out and the usual embarrassing photographs are on facebook somewhere. I'm not gonna provide a link.. no chance.
Sunday, I tried my most ambitious cooking yet when I somehow foolishly ended up inviting 8 people round for Sunday dinner. I did a massive joint of roast beef, with loads of different veggies, and the usual extras (yorkshires/stuffing/loads of gravy!) By some miracle it all worked out on time and was ready and warm when it was served. I only SLIGHTLY burned the top of the cauliflower cheese (when I was browning it!) and the home-made rice pudding which was nuclear welded into the bowl it was cooked in. I'm told it tasted ok apart from Sy found "jacket potato" in his and said there was too much nutmeg. I dunno, some people!
I've realised a lifetime's ambition (:p) and signed on for Sunday League football with "Coppertops Athletic". It's great to get involved with the lads and enjoy the banter of getting changed and going out and playing football in the rain. It's a good reason not to go out every Saturday and drink too much beer as well! We have played 1 game so far, a 3-3 draw, and I was on for the last 6 mins! I hope that once I get some match fitness I can make more of an impact with the team. The last games of our Malvern 6-a-side are tonight, but it's not going to be fun as the rain is hammering down. Our team is top of the league and we need to win it to secure another "title". It's not quite the same as real football as we don't get trophies or anything.
Thanks to everyone for birthday cards and wishes... it was a nice birthday weekend, we had a great night out and the usual embarrassing photographs are on facebook somewhere. I'm not gonna provide a link.. no chance.
Sunday, I tried my most ambitious cooking yet when I somehow foolishly ended up inviting 8 people round for Sunday dinner. I did a massive joint of roast beef, with loads of different veggies, and the usual extras (yorkshires/stuffing/loads of gravy!) By some miracle it all worked out on time and was ready and warm when it was served. I only SLIGHTLY burned the top of the cauliflower cheese (when I was browning it!) and the home-made rice pudding which was nuclear welded into the bowl it was cooked in. I'm told it tasted ok apart from Sy found "jacket potato" in his and said there was too much nutmeg. I dunno, some people!
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
"I'm not a man, I'm a machine... Chisel me down, Until I'm Clean"
I'm just listening to Maximo Park's album "Our Earthly Pleasures". It's pretty cool. I've totally overlooked recent UK music, and I'm really enjoying it. Especially the tune "Our Velocity"
So.. what's new? Well, I'm sitting in a hotel room in Dubai. I've been here a couple of days now. The trip was supposed to be last week, but it was delayed. Gotta say, it's a pretty strange place. It's so hot all the time, but the sky is permanently overcast. You can still sunburn really fast though. I'm told the smog and construction dust hides the sun, but I find that hard to believe. Apparently, you can only see the sun/blue skies a few times a month.
Weather aside, the hotel is awesome. It's 4 star or something. My room is on the ground floor, and if I step out of the patio, I have a couple chairs and a nice deck table. The pool is about 10 steps away. It's just a shame I'm here to do some work! That said, I got today off (waiting for paperwork to be processed for my airside security pass) and I'm going to get tomorrow off as well. Hopefully the pass arrives by Thursday. If not, the Dubai weekend is Friday/Saturday, so I won't get the pass until Sunday, and I'll have to lounge around by the pool until then... What a shame!
Today I was up early to go register my paperwork and get photographs taken. After that we walked back from the airport to the hotel (a 5 minute walk), and although it was hot, the air was quite bearable. I'm told that today has been the coolest day in recent weeks, and the air was less humid than normal. Long may it continue! Today was probably the hottest I've been in, but without the bright sun, it was acutally quite nice. Kinda like being in a sauna or steamroom.
I actually went to the gym for a couple of hours this afternoon, and they've got a top notch setup. They have every kind of work out machine you can think of, free weights etc etc, so it's pretty cool for me. I did a couple kms jog and then 7km bike, and then some weights. Just as well, as for dinner tonight we stayed in one of the hotel's 15 places to eat and had a seafood buffet. For once, I had a lot of a little, trying all the different things, rather than going crazy and eating loads. (on a related note, my attempts to lose weight are going well, lost 13lbs now in 2 weeks, hopefully gym and swimming while here will help that out). They had some really nice tikka fish, and sweet and sour prawns, which I'll have to try again. They also had sushi but I didn't trust it. (I'll wait until I am back in Richmond!)
My colleague has to work tomorrow. I would have been helping out, but I can't get my pass until Thursday earliest. He's going to try get all his stuff done by the afternoon, and we're going to go check out one of the local water parks. Should be fun, haven't been to one of them since Gran Canaria about 6 years ago with Chris and Gaz. That was probably one of the last times I flew out of Birmingham as well. It was odd to be flying away with work, and not using London Heathrow and the BA lounge and all the perks. That said, the Emirates flight was cool. I had nobody sitting in the 2 seats next to me, so could relax, and the food and entertainments were much better than BA premium economy. The seats were more narrow which was a shit deal for me, the stewardesses kept knocking into me with their trays (I was in the aisle seat) so I had to move. Wouldn't have been much fun if I had to stay in that seat the whole time...
Anyway, enough for now. I get another day of R&R, and then hopefully Thursday start the real work out here before coming home next week....
PS - Photos added to the gallery here
So.. what's new? Well, I'm sitting in a hotel room in Dubai. I've been here a couple of days now. The trip was supposed to be last week, but it was delayed. Gotta say, it's a pretty strange place. It's so hot all the time, but the sky is permanently overcast. You can still sunburn really fast though. I'm told the smog and construction dust hides the sun, but I find that hard to believe. Apparently, you can only see the sun/blue skies a few times a month.
Weather aside, the hotel is awesome. It's 4 star or something. My room is on the ground floor, and if I step out of the patio, I have a couple chairs and a nice deck table. The pool is about 10 steps away. It's just a shame I'm here to do some work! That said, I got today off (waiting for paperwork to be processed for my airside security pass) and I'm going to get tomorrow off as well. Hopefully the pass arrives by Thursday. If not, the Dubai weekend is Friday/Saturday, so I won't get the pass until Sunday, and I'll have to lounge around by the pool until then... What a shame!
Today I was up early to go register my paperwork and get photographs taken. After that we walked back from the airport to the hotel (a 5 minute walk), and although it was hot, the air was quite bearable. I'm told that today has been the coolest day in recent weeks, and the air was less humid than normal. Long may it continue! Today was probably the hottest I've been in, but without the bright sun, it was acutally quite nice. Kinda like being in a sauna or steamroom.
I actually went to the gym for a couple of hours this afternoon, and they've got a top notch setup. They have every kind of work out machine you can think of, free weights etc etc, so it's pretty cool for me. I did a couple kms jog and then 7km bike, and then some weights. Just as well, as for dinner tonight we stayed in one of the hotel's 15 places to eat and had a seafood buffet. For once, I had a lot of a little, trying all the different things, rather than going crazy and eating loads. (on a related note, my attempts to lose weight are going well, lost 13lbs now in 2 weeks, hopefully gym and swimming while here will help that out). They had some really nice tikka fish, and sweet and sour prawns, which I'll have to try again. They also had sushi but I didn't trust it. (I'll wait until I am back in Richmond!)
My colleague has to work tomorrow. I would have been helping out, but I can't get my pass until Thursday earliest. He's going to try get all his stuff done by the afternoon, and we're going to go check out one of the local water parks. Should be fun, haven't been to one of them since Gran Canaria about 6 years ago with Chris and Gaz. That was probably one of the last times I flew out of Birmingham as well. It was odd to be flying away with work, and not using London Heathrow and the BA lounge and all the perks. That said, the Emirates flight was cool. I had nobody sitting in the 2 seats next to me, so could relax, and the food and entertainments were much better than BA premium economy. The seats were more narrow which was a shit deal for me, the stewardesses kept knocking into me with their trays (I was in the aisle seat) so I had to move. Wouldn't have been much fun if I had to stay in that seat the whole time...
Anyway, enough for now. I get another day of R&R, and then hopefully Thursday start the real work out here before coming home next week....
PS - Photos added to the gallery here
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
"You're burning out, you're burning out It's never the same again"
I look outside to the hot summer's day in not so sunny England. And what do I see? The rain.... and it's pouring.... Things have been miserable here for a while. There is no sign of good weather. So much for summer.
What's been happening? Well, in truth, not much at all. I finally got my guitars back this week after getting off my ass and taking them to get fixed and set up. I had to pay £55 for the pair, and ended up spending more like £80 on various extras that I needed. Now I need to go away and learn about how to set up guitars and amps to get various sounds. I have my effects pedal, but no real clue as to how the amp levels should be set etc. Anyway, it's a diversion, and something to go away and learn about. It feels good after so long to be able to pick up a guitar and just strum, even if I am still not that good techincally. This time around, I'll concentrate on scales and technical stuff as well as just playing the chords of songs I like :p
I'm sure there is much more I could write about, but I'm a bit demotivated right now. I'm still in the rut I talked about last post. The ankle is not so painful now. I just need to devise some 'getting fit' exercises and start working on them to get the strength back and get into football again. With the weather being so awful it's hard to even think about going out on the mountain bike, let alone go out on it! I'm hoping for a drastic improvement in the weather soon.
What's been happening? Well, in truth, not much at all. I finally got my guitars back this week after getting off my ass and taking them to get fixed and set up. I had to pay £55 for the pair, and ended up spending more like £80 on various extras that I needed. Now I need to go away and learn about how to set up guitars and amps to get various sounds. I have my effects pedal, but no real clue as to how the amp levels should be set etc. Anyway, it's a diversion, and something to go away and learn about. It feels good after so long to be able to pick up a guitar and just strum, even if I am still not that good techincally. This time around, I'll concentrate on scales and technical stuff as well as just playing the chords of songs I like :p
I'm sure there is much more I could write about, but I'm a bit demotivated right now. I'm still in the rut I talked about last post. The ankle is not so painful now. I just need to devise some 'getting fit' exercises and start working on them to get the strength back and get into football again. With the weather being so awful it's hard to even think about going out on the mountain bike, let alone go out on it! I'm hoping for a drastic improvement in the weather soon.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
"One step forward, two steps back"
Literally! Life is so aggrevating at the moment. I'm stuck in a rut, and I can't dig myself out of it. I'd resolved to get back to my old ways - gym, running, and being in shape. Things haven't been going right in the lifestyle direction lately, I've been getting a little more overweight, and sluggish. I noticed it most in football training, and in playing games. I'm so far away from where I was at earlier this year, it's not funny. I've got no real excuse. I could blame injuries (had a rib injury that stopped me training for the Sun Run, and now, the latest thing, I've wrecked my ankle), but it's just been a slip back into my old ways really.
I hurt my ankle over a week ago, trying to cut out a shot at football training. End result, a trip to the hospital for x-rays, and a bad sprain of the ankle, requiring crutches for a few days. I've been taking tablets for the inflammation and pain, and as soon as I could walk on it, I started to (on Doctor's orders.) Over the weekend, it was sore, but I could walk on it. I went back to work in the office on Monday, and it was a terrible day. I was hobbling around the office, and outwardly, was acting as if things were ok. Truthfully, it was killing me. I couldn't find a comfortable position for the leg sitting at my desk. I got home on Monday night and it was starting to swell up again. The swelling has got worse since Monday night and now I'm almost back to square one in terms of having to ice it, and take tablets to get the swelling down. I've lost my patience. I did exactly what the doctor told me to do, and it seems I've only made things worse.
The other frustrating thing is that I wanted to start running again, and training. I decided to make a real effort on it on the Tuesday afternoon, and on Tuesday night I did this. It's really pissed me off!
The other thing that is annoying me is that I don't like being at home. I've been back home now for a month or more, and I am bored all the time. The only things I've been doing are going out with friends to the pub and drinking (which I DONT want to keep doing - not gonna help me put myself right fitness and health-wise). I seriously need to get my music going again - get some strings back on my guitar, and start all over with that. It's not helping at all that I feel like a cripple, can't go out running, can't go out on the bike, argh!
I'm trying to clean my room up a bit, and re-arrange things. I acutally arranged my dvds in alphabetical order last night, I was so bored. It made me realise I have a few missing from my collection - Spaced, Sean of the Dead, I think Rob and Carly have these?, and My Name Is Earl Season 1 and Season2, and Clerks 2, which I think Jon has (and probably hasn't watched). If anyone out there has any of my DVDs, give me a shout and let me know. For the record, I have 126 of them... about 10 aren't even opened. Gotta stop impulse buying from play.com
I started working my way through my '24' box sets (season 4 right now) and even that is annoying me... isn't it strange how everything bad that ever goes on (alright, I know it's fictional) happens within a 15 minute square of CTU? It's actually smaller than that, because wherever Bauer or whoever is, they are always "15 minutes out" when they need to get somewhere. So it must all happen inside an area about 2 miles square. And, why, in every series, is there always an "insider" who's working for the bad guys inside CTU? Didn't they learn the first time? Bah.....
I just had Monty Python's Holy Grail delivered. I might watch that later... I took Sarah to see the Spamalot musical in London, and it was great fun, but I've never seen the original film, so I thought i'd watch it and make a comparison!
I hurt my ankle over a week ago, trying to cut out a shot at football training. End result, a trip to the hospital for x-rays, and a bad sprain of the ankle, requiring crutches for a few days. I've been taking tablets for the inflammation and pain, and as soon as I could walk on it, I started to (on Doctor's orders.) Over the weekend, it was sore, but I could walk on it. I went back to work in the office on Monday, and it was a terrible day. I was hobbling around the office, and outwardly, was acting as if things were ok. Truthfully, it was killing me. I couldn't find a comfortable position for the leg sitting at my desk. I got home on Monday night and it was starting to swell up again. The swelling has got worse since Monday night and now I'm almost back to square one in terms of having to ice it, and take tablets to get the swelling down. I've lost my patience. I did exactly what the doctor told me to do, and it seems I've only made things worse.
The other frustrating thing is that I wanted to start running again, and training. I decided to make a real effort on it on the Tuesday afternoon, and on Tuesday night I did this. It's really pissed me off!
The other thing that is annoying me is that I don't like being at home. I've been back home now for a month or more, and I am bored all the time. The only things I've been doing are going out with friends to the pub and drinking (which I DONT want to keep doing - not gonna help me put myself right fitness and health-wise). I seriously need to get my music going again - get some strings back on my guitar, and start all over with that. It's not helping at all that I feel like a cripple, can't go out running, can't go out on the bike, argh!
I'm trying to clean my room up a bit, and re-arrange things. I acutally arranged my dvds in alphabetical order last night, I was so bored. It made me realise I have a few missing from my collection - Spaced, Sean of the Dead, I think Rob and Carly have these?, and My Name Is Earl Season 1 and Season2, and Clerks 2, which I think Jon has (and probably hasn't watched). If anyone out there has any of my DVDs, give me a shout and let me know. For the record, I have 126 of them... about 10 aren't even opened. Gotta stop impulse buying from play.com
I started working my way through my '24' box sets (season 4 right now) and even that is annoying me... isn't it strange how everything bad that ever goes on (alright, I know it's fictional) happens within a 15 minute square of CTU? It's actually smaller than that, because wherever Bauer or whoever is, they are always "15 minutes out" when they need to get somewhere. So it must all happen inside an area about 2 miles square. And, why, in every series, is there always an "insider" who's working for the bad guys inside CTU? Didn't they learn the first time? Bah.....
I just had Monty Python's Holy Grail delivered. I might watch that later... I took Sarah to see the Spamalot musical in London, and it was great fun, but I've never seen the original film, so I thought i'd watch it and make a comparison!
Thursday, June 5, 2008
"I can't remember anything, can't tell if this is true or a dream"
Been a while since my last update. I've got no excuse really. A lot has gone on in the last 2 months. I've been on various trips and excursions (to Canada a few times, to the US, and to various places around England). We've also now got two new housemates in the house, after one guy left. So, for the first time ever, the house has 4 people in it, and it's occupied most of the time. We're just starting to get the garden sorted out (professionally!) hopefully in time for a good summer.
It's hard to write an update on things when so much time has passed. I can't actually remember most of the stuff that's gone on. I guess whatever pictures I took are on facebook somewhere, and there might be a few wall posts here and there. Meh...
In any case, the most recent thing is of course that Sarah came to visit for two weeks. The time went really really fast, which was a shame.... No sooner had she arrived through the gate at Manchester airport, we were seeing her off again. But we managed to fit in a lot of stuff in the time we were together over here (again, refer to facebook notes for the details!).
I have a busy summer coming up, work wise, with lots of things happening. Hopefully I'll make it over to Vancouver for a short time to do some work, but mostly, I think I'll be based out of England, which will be a novelty! I guess it's about time I made use of the house I pay so much rent for. And with the garden and trees being sorted out, it will be good to have a nice summer - plenty of BBQs and stuff I'm sure...
Games-wise, I guess over the last couple of months, I've gone rhythm game crazy. My real guitars still aren't stringed (although I hope to get to do this one of these days soon), so I've been playing Guitar Hero III and Rock Band on the xbox360. They are fun, but it's frustrating to think I could put that effort into real instruments and get somewhere, so I am resolved to sort out my real guitars ASAP.
On the note of instruments, I watched a show by Derrin Brown (Trick or Treat), in which he taught a piano novice to play a concert piece (she did a recital in a well known national concert hall) in only 2 weeks, and she barely touched a piano before the performance. Just prior to going on stage, she said "no way, I just don't want to do this at all." She went out, played a few notes, and then stopped. Just when you thought the whole thing had collapsed, she took a deep breath, and then played the most amazing piano recital (given that she couldn't play at all). The astonishing thing is that she learned the whole thing in her unconcious mind, and Derren Brown removed some mental blocks she had that were stopping her playing, and wham - she did the whole thing. Interesting. He's also done some other shows, notably one where a guy absorbed the contents of hundreds of books in a week or so, by speed reading them, and then went and came second in a "pub quiz of champions" competition.
I might apply for the next series!!
It's hard to write an update on things when so much time has passed. I can't actually remember most of the stuff that's gone on. I guess whatever pictures I took are on facebook somewhere, and there might be a few wall posts here and there. Meh...
In any case, the most recent thing is of course that Sarah came to visit for two weeks. The time went really really fast, which was a shame.... No sooner had she arrived through the gate at Manchester airport, we were seeing her off again. But we managed to fit in a lot of stuff in the time we were together over here (again, refer to facebook notes for the details!).
I have a busy summer coming up, work wise, with lots of things happening. Hopefully I'll make it over to Vancouver for a short time to do some work, but mostly, I think I'll be based out of England, which will be a novelty! I guess it's about time I made use of the house I pay so much rent for. And with the garden and trees being sorted out, it will be good to have a nice summer - plenty of BBQs and stuff I'm sure...
Games-wise, I guess over the last couple of months, I've gone rhythm game crazy. My real guitars still aren't stringed (although I hope to get to do this one of these days soon), so I've been playing Guitar Hero III and Rock Band on the xbox360. They are fun, but it's frustrating to think I could put that effort into real instruments and get somewhere, so I am resolved to sort out my real guitars ASAP.
On the note of instruments, I watched a show by Derrin Brown (Trick or Treat), in which he taught a piano novice to play a concert piece (she did a recital in a well known national concert hall) in only 2 weeks, and she barely touched a piano before the performance. Just prior to going on stage, she said "no way, I just don't want to do this at all." She went out, played a few notes, and then stopped. Just when you thought the whole thing had collapsed, she took a deep breath, and then played the most amazing piano recital (given that she couldn't play at all). The astonishing thing is that she learned the whole thing in her unconcious mind, and Derren Brown removed some mental blocks she had that were stopping her playing, and wham - she did the whole thing. Interesting. He's also done some other shows, notably one where a guy absorbed the contents of hundreds of books in a week or so, by speed reading them, and then went and came second in a "pub quiz of champions" competition.
I might apply for the next series!!
Monday, April 7, 2008
"Here's a thought for every man.. who tried to understand what's in his hands"
"Bound with all the weight of all the words he's tried to say,
Chained to all the places that he never wished to say,
As he faced the sun, he cast no shadow...... "
It's another dreary Monday. As I type, the sky is grey, and it looks like rain. Happy days! It's been another busy couple of weeks, not much has happened but work has been mad - loads of small things to do. I'm off on my travels on Wednesday, flying home on Sunday. The flight to Canada leaves out of Heathrow Terminal 5, and I am slightly worried about going out of there, seeing as since it's official opening, it's been nothing but a gonk-show. For once, I might just pack hand luggage. I don't want to check any bags in, then they can't get lost on the way to my destination! We shall see...
I'm trying to help write a presentation at the moment on "working smarter." It's not exactly going well. How do you work smarter? Well, for a start, take away access to pages like Facebook and BBC News. That might be a start. Also, invent a drug that stops procrastination and time-wasting. Productivity would go up 1000% in a few days....
My iPod is really annoying me because no matter what settings I mess with, the song shuffler refuses to actually shuffle songs properly. It *inexplicably* seems to mix from 3 or 4 albums worth of songs at a time - so for example - in a 5 song "random" list, I might get 2 prodigy songs, 2 blur songs, and iron maiden, but it will be in the order Prodigy, Blur, Prodigy, Blur, Maiden...
Why can't it just shuffle across all songs and all albums? I don't want the same artists playing every couple of songs... It's just aggravating!
I can't be bothered to talk about the football at the weekend. It was just boring. I think I am finally losing my interest and patience in the sport. It's getting stupid expensive, and the whole controversy of players and respect for referees is a joke. There is no consistency in the sport and it's just a bit of a circus now!
Chained to all the places that he never wished to say,
As he faced the sun, he cast no shadow...... "
It's another dreary Monday. As I type, the sky is grey, and it looks like rain. Happy days! It's been another busy couple of weeks, not much has happened but work has been mad - loads of small things to do. I'm off on my travels on Wednesday, flying home on Sunday. The flight to Canada leaves out of Heathrow Terminal 5, and I am slightly worried about going out of there, seeing as since it's official opening, it's been nothing but a gonk-show. For once, I might just pack hand luggage. I don't want to check any bags in, then they can't get lost on the way to my destination! We shall see...
I'm trying to help write a presentation at the moment on "working smarter." It's not exactly going well. How do you work smarter? Well, for a start, take away access to pages like Facebook and BBC News. That might be a start. Also, invent a drug that stops procrastination and time-wasting. Productivity would go up 1000% in a few days....
My iPod is really annoying me because no matter what settings I mess with, the song shuffler refuses to actually shuffle songs properly. It *inexplicably* seems to mix from 3 or 4 albums worth of songs at a time - so for example - in a 5 song "random" list, I might get 2 prodigy songs, 2 blur songs, and iron maiden, but it will be in the order Prodigy, Blur, Prodigy, Blur, Maiden...
Why can't it just shuffle across all songs and all albums? I don't want the same artists playing every couple of songs... It's just aggravating!
I can't be bothered to talk about the football at the weekend. It was just boring. I think I am finally losing my interest and patience in the sport. It's getting stupid expensive, and the whole controversy of players and respect for referees is a joke. There is no consistency in the sport and it's just a bit of a circus now!
Monday, March 24, 2008
"Heart of gold but it lost its pride"
It's been a good easter break.... I'm not looking forward to going back to the office tomorrow, to be honest. Since getting back from America on Thursday, it's been good to just do nothing. I've not gotten back into the UK sleep pattern yet - I am awake til 3am, and haven't been getting out of bed until after mid-day each day, so tomorrow is going to be fun.
Not much more to add right now, so, er........
Not much more to add right now, so, er........
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
"I never said never, ever"
Aiieee! Death by cleaning... As is the ritual, I am desperately trying to do laundry and clean my room and place up so that when I get back from the states, everything will be in good order. During the cleanup process, I noticed i've got a whole load of crap that I need to get rid of. About 2 bags of old clothes that I never wear for one, and various technology bits for another (VHS player anyone? Or surround sound system for computer/console?) I think I finally need to get myself an ebay seller's account and have a sale once I get back to England.I just cut the guitar strings off my Pacifica (well, one of them!) and discovered that months of standing idle is not good for a guitar. I've now got two stringless Pacificas, and both of them need a really, really good clean and restring. Trouble is, I have NO IDEA how one would go about doing that properly and safely without damaging the frets and neck. To the Internets! I'm sure I can find a decent guide. In the meantime, if anyone has any tips.... well, I'm listening!
As for the rest of the week..... Well, I still have to do laundry and pack a bag for Friday. I'd like to go out tomorrow night for a drink with a few people (not a late one!), but I need to ensure that I am ready to go before hand. I'm getting quite good at packing these days (strangely enough) so it shouldn't be a problem. However, right now, one of my fingers is bleeding where I jabbed the end of it with sharp guitar string!
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
"I must have died and gone to heaven, 'coz it was quarter past 11"
Well, today I had good news :) I got a letter from our human resources department informing me of my promotion, yahoo! So now it's all official and I am the lead support engineer for our system. Urk. Well, I look forward to the extra responsibility.
This Friday, I fly out to the USA with Graham for a week, and then April 7th, I am back out to Vancouver which should be good. I'll be coming out with a couple other guys, and the project manager has decided he wants to stay in downtown Vancouver which will be a change from Richmond! I don't know if that's going to go ahead yet. Although it would be good to stay in the city, I would not be looking forward to the daily commute up Granville Street. If only the Skytrain was finished.
So, tonight Liverpool play Inter Milan in the second leg of the Champions League. I'll watch the first half, and then go football training I think. I had my leg checked out at the doctor yesterday, and he said there was no sign of DVT (phew) but I probably had a light strain. He advised no alcohol before flights, and to make sure to drink plenty of water and do some exercises - which I pretty much already knew I had to do...
While I am here I have to give congratulations and love to two sets of my closest pals, who have had babies very recently. Once I have a little bit of time off, I'll come and visit. I promise! So for now, love and best wishes to John and Kate and baby Mabel, and to Nick and Clare and baby Joshua :) I suggest both sets of parents take time out from baby duties to post lots of pictures of their new arrivals!
This Friday, I fly out to the USA with Graham for a week, and then April 7th, I am back out to Vancouver which should be good. I'll be coming out with a couple other guys, and the project manager has decided he wants to stay in downtown Vancouver which will be a change from Richmond! I don't know if that's going to go ahead yet. Although it would be good to stay in the city, I would not be looking forward to the daily commute up Granville Street. If only the Skytrain was finished.
So, tonight Liverpool play Inter Milan in the second leg of the Champions League. I'll watch the first half, and then go football training I think. I had my leg checked out at the doctor yesterday, and he said there was no sign of DVT (phew) but I probably had a light strain. He advised no alcohol before flights, and to make sure to drink plenty of water and do some exercises - which I pretty much already knew I had to do...
While I am here I have to give congratulations and love to two sets of my closest pals, who have had babies very recently. Once I have a little bit of time off, I'll come and visit. I promise! So for now, love and best wishes to John and Kate and baby Mabel, and to Nick and Clare and baby Joshua :) I suggest both sets of parents take time out from baby duties to post lots of pictures of their new arrivals!
Thursday, March 6, 2008
"Nice boys don't play rock n roll"
Update time again... It's been a few weeks. I'm back in England now, and really busy at work. I got home from Canada on Monday night and then before I knew it, I was off down south to Boscombe Down for a night to help out some of the guys down there with some runway work. We worked until midnight and I have to admit to feeling pretty tired & worn out today. I think I might have to take tomorrow off.
The one good thing about being so busy since I got back is that I haven't really had a chance to think about leaving Vancouver. It was a great 3 weeks, but it went really fast. I managed to spend some quality time with Sarah, (including drinking beers in the Sunday morning sunshine while watching her play Ultimate Frisbee up at SFU :)) We had some good nights with the "Dew crew", and with Billy and Kenny. Hopefully I'll be back soon to start the next batch of work.
I got back into the office to find a new Dell XPS M1530 laptop waiting for me. Nice! It's quite good, although I still have a lot of work to do to get all the various tools and programs I use for work onto it. It's amazing how many different files and macros and whatnot I've got stored away in different places.
The one good thing about being so busy since I got back is that I haven't really had a chance to think about leaving Vancouver. It was a great 3 weeks, but it went really fast. I managed to spend some quality time with Sarah, (including drinking beers in the Sunday morning sunshine while watching her play Ultimate Frisbee up at SFU :)) We had some good nights with the "Dew crew", and with Billy and Kenny. Hopefully I'll be back soon to start the next batch of work.
I got back into the office to find a new Dell XPS M1530 laptop waiting for me. Nice! It's quite good, although I still have a lot of work to do to get all the various tools and programs I use for work onto it. It's amazing how many different files and macros and whatnot I've got stored away in different places.
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
"Looking down from the mountains and out to the sea..."
Living For Today - Thunder
Looking down from the mountains and out to the sea
You're aware in a moment, you're nothing in the scheme
But your vanity told you, you're more than a dot
Your arrogance keeps you, from thinking that you're not
So when it hits you, you're fading away
'Cause you won't live forever, start living for today
Hey yeah
And the seasons are changing faster all the time
Every day seems to pass by in the wink of an eye
Old man on the corner, laughing like a child
Chlinging to a bottle, his broken eyes are wild
Kept on a laughing, the people turned away
He knows something we don't, he's living for today
So you crawl thru your lifetime, a slave to the grind
But time overtook you, and left you far behind
So don't bother running, the moment is gone
eats you like a cancer, but still you struggle on
Why try to fight it?You're dying anyway
The future doesn't matter, when you're living for today
Oh.................
Are you living for today? Ahh
Looking down from the mountains and out to the sea
You're aware in a moment, you're nothing in the scheme
But your vanity told you, you're more than a dot
Your arrogance keeps you, from thinking that you're not
So when it hits you, you're fading away
'Cause you won't live forever, start living for today
And you're fading away
Yeah, you're fading away
Start living for today
Start living for today
- well, I think that's a pretty good reflection of the way things are for me right now. I'm resolved to throwing myself wholeheartedly into everything that's going on, and not reflecting on the future. I'm back in Vancouver for 3 weeks, and I want to make the most of my time here (professionally and personally). I've got a lot to do, so I need to stay focused and work hard, but I should still have some time here and there for the important folks. I've got a dinner booked for Thursday night with Sarah - we are going to a nice place to eat downtown, as long as we make the reservation!
I was out with Billy and Kenny last night for a little while - we had a few beers and a good chat - discussing life and the way people are. It was an interesting discussion, based around this book "The Secret" that people seem to be mad on over here. The premise is that if you are positive and think positive thoughts, then you'll get what you want out of life. Why people need to buy a book to find that out, I don't know.... And I said as much:
If you are a person who expects a lot from people (and, I admit, I am sometimes - I don't drive so I am always asking people for lifts here there and everywhere etc), then you damn sure better be as giving back to those who help you out, otherwise you'll earn their resentment. So, if you ask somebody for a lift, next time they ask for something (like to borrow a DVD or a game) say yes, but offer something extra. The bible says "Do unto others as you want them to do to you" and this really is true.
Did I need to read a $30 book to know all that? No, it's just common sense and stuff we learned in school and from our parents.
Anyway, suffice to say, we had a great time and enjoyed debating things. It made a change :)
Now, I'm off to do some running... worst luck
Looking down from the mountains and out to the sea
You're aware in a moment, you're nothing in the scheme
But your vanity told you, you're more than a dot
Your arrogance keeps you, from thinking that you're not
So when it hits you, you're fading away
'Cause you won't live forever, start living for today
Hey yeah
And the seasons are changing faster all the time
Every day seems to pass by in the wink of an eye
Old man on the corner, laughing like a child
Chlinging to a bottle, his broken eyes are wild
Kept on a laughing, the people turned away
He knows something we don't, he's living for today
So you crawl thru your lifetime, a slave to the grind
But time overtook you, and left you far behind
So don't bother running, the moment is gone
eats you like a cancer, but still you struggle on
Why try to fight it?You're dying anyway
The future doesn't matter, when you're living for today
Oh.................
Are you living for today? Ahh
Looking down from the mountains and out to the sea
You're aware in a moment, you're nothing in the scheme
But your vanity told you, you're more than a dot
Your arrogance keeps you, from thinking that you're not
So when it hits you, you're fading away
'Cause you won't live forever, start living for today
And you're fading away
Yeah, you're fading away
Start living for today
Start living for today
- well, I think that's a pretty good reflection of the way things are for me right now. I'm resolved to throwing myself wholeheartedly into everything that's going on, and not reflecting on the future. I'm back in Vancouver for 3 weeks, and I want to make the most of my time here (professionally and personally). I've got a lot to do, so I need to stay focused and work hard, but I should still have some time here and there for the important folks. I've got a dinner booked for Thursday night with Sarah - we are going to a nice place to eat downtown, as long as we make the reservation!
I was out with Billy and Kenny last night for a little while - we had a few beers and a good chat - discussing life and the way people are. It was an interesting discussion, based around this book "The Secret" that people seem to be mad on over here. The premise is that if you are positive and think positive thoughts, then you'll get what you want out of life. Why people need to buy a book to find that out, I don't know.... And I said as much:
- If you walk around with a miserable face, people will act the same way to you.
- If you never help people out and always take, you'll never get anything back.
If you are a person who expects a lot from people (and, I admit, I am sometimes - I don't drive so I am always asking people for lifts here there and everywhere etc), then you damn sure better be as giving back to those who help you out, otherwise you'll earn their resentment. So, if you ask somebody for a lift, next time they ask for something (like to borrow a DVD or a game) say yes, but offer something extra. The bible says "Do unto others as you want them to do to you" and this really is true.
Did I need to read a $30 book to know all that? No, it's just common sense and stuff we learned in school and from our parents.
Anyway, suffice to say, we had a great time and enjoyed debating things. It made a change :)
Now, I'm off to do some running... worst luck
Friday, February 1, 2008
"You know where the fuck you are? You in the jungle baby! You gonna die......!"
Well to say it has been an interesting week is an understatement.
My website and email went for a burton for a few days. I still don't know why. I gave up trying to figure it all out when everything mysteriously started working again. Not much to report at all either this week. I played some Guitar Hero 2, and was going to re-string my real guitars today but I don't think Dan can make it over, seeing as he's been doing 12hr days in the office all week.
Tomorrow, I'm off to watch Liverpool vs Sunderland. I managed to get tickets for myself and Min from the LFC Vancouver Supporters club, who is in England visiting relatives. Should be good as long as the Reds can finally perform for once after 5 very dissapointing league performances.
Apart from that, it's going to be a quiet weekend. I'm feeling shattered every day, especially after Monday and Tuesday football training, which I found really hard for some reason. My hips and back are still sore, so that's put the blockers on any form of running. I hope to be able to do some later tonight and on Sunday.
Work wise - we are very busy as always. There are a few trips coming up - Vancouver in mid Feb to early March which will be good, and then maybe the USA again for some demonstrations. Amongst all this I have my normal day-to-day stuff to get done, which is a bit less exciting.
My website and email went for a burton for a few days. I still don't know why. I gave up trying to figure it all out when everything mysteriously started working again. Not much to report at all either this week. I played some Guitar Hero 2, and was going to re-string my real guitars today but I don't think Dan can make it over, seeing as he's been doing 12hr days in the office all week.
Tomorrow, I'm off to watch Liverpool vs Sunderland. I managed to get tickets for myself and Min from the LFC Vancouver Supporters club, who is in England visiting relatives. Should be good as long as the Reds can finally perform for once after 5 very dissapointing league performances.
Apart from that, it's going to be a quiet weekend. I'm feeling shattered every day, especially after Monday and Tuesday football training, which I found really hard for some reason. My hips and back are still sore, so that's put the blockers on any form of running. I hope to be able to do some later tonight and on Sunday.
Work wise - we are very busy as always. There are a few trips coming up - Vancouver in mid Feb to early March which will be good, and then maybe the USA again for some demonstrations. Amongst all this I have my normal day-to-day stuff to get done, which is a bit less exciting.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Argh!
Website crash!
