RIP Uncle Billy

Franks for a haircut where deaf peter treats me to a crumpet. He does the deed and back home get ready, cant find black tie borrow one from John next door. Off to springwood crem and give the flowers to the wrong undertaker- oops. He confirmed the name so I am guessing blame is shared.
Bit of a delay as Auntie Pat needs a bog stop. Into the chapel, kinda know the preacher worked with his sis who was Marys mate. Mary sat next to him at school. He did a kind of more religious gig than I expected. Nice service.
My personal reflection on Billy Connolly - favourite uncle - always generous and pleasant. Liked a pint or more, a bet, and footy. Loved his grandkids. Worked in the abbatoir - always giving me mum and dad meat when I was young. He and Auntie Pat could do a mean jive too. Steven his only son was more like a big brother to me when we grew up - I felt for him today. three pints and nice buffet. Back home and chills ville. Mum couldnt go hope its not the flu she is getting.

28th and 29th

Not much to report a meal on Wednesday night at a Liverpools first gastropub. Dissapointing but good atmosphere due to company. I had king prawns and pheasant with wild berry stuffing. Good night in all, bitterly cold trying to cab it out of town.
29th memorable as me dads birthday he died 8 years ago. Mum coming down with a cold.

27th was meant to be a jama day

Usually around christmas one day is designated a "jama day" we dont sit round reading this esteemed rag but we usually do shag all. Trying not to cross the threshold or get dressed. Difficult as the rabbit needs looking after and I have to mess in the garden snapping the rabbit. Results to post later. Feel a bit guilty about my mum being on her own for two days so Ally and I take her out to albert dock its bitterly cold but she enjoys it.Home and chill.

Boxing Day

quiet in the am. tea out at Ruth and Pauls much jollity in the mens discussion in the front room. Subjects from everton thro to prostates and a discussion of Colins suspected helico stuff. Last year I managed to inflict regular bowel actions on him by the power of suggestion. Backhome and chill.

The girls crying at alfies return in easties. George and a bit of the busy John

 
 

Dave and Maria going on to a better doo

 
 

Nanna and Ally get sociable Sue looks on

 
 

Christmas is all for the kids

 
 

Its serious stuff

 
 

The girl is a winner

 
 

Sister Mary states her views

 
 

Wake up boy Christmas is done

Where did it go its a blur.
Balancing two mothers and a three families 1 celebration and and an occaisional look in at a website the festives are done.
Christmas Eve
Mother in law (Bea) is established in Ward 2x at the Royal. Main problem seems to be a whopping infection in left leg. She is happier than in Garston - we think for 2 reasons - a) its a proper hospital and b)they are keeping her off her feet and preventing the R word. Jean thinks that once the infrction is treated and the poor sods there have to rehab her we will back to square 1.
Christmas eve is running round tidying and prepping food. Its established that we are down to 11 for lunch. I decide microwave needs replacing and buy a shiny new number from tesco. In the process I escape with a DVD in the security case which was hiding down under the box. The alarm does not sound on the the way out or on the way back in. I explain to the security guard that I want to pay both he and the queue at the service desk look at me quizically. It is a 3in1 war fest for Alan - Tora Tora Tora, The longest day and Patton. The woman clearly thinks I am bonkers but honest. Off home and peeling commences. I skip carols from Kings - bit same old same old. Wrapping pressies a job I hate. Think I got enough for Jean. We certainly have too much for Ally.Cook pork and turkey.
Bed and drag Ally out at 7.30 much to her protest.
Pressies galore Allys main being a dvd telly combi and a surprise pink thing she is moved by the gift. My main pressie is the delicious canon eos 350 d. It is a beaut and I am taken back to my youthful play with the

my first slr

which I and many others consider a timeless classic. This does everything that didnt and more. TTL flash monitoring is a dream. I play merrily when I get the chance. Which on Christmas day isnt often. Jean gets a posh watch (she picked).
Alan arrives on time, Colin next he and the girls do pressies in the dining room. Then Ruth and Paul and full pressies are exchanged. Lunch - the turkey in my view is pants. I may well join my brother in law in the turkey is an abomination club. I cock the peas up through a lack of familiarity with the microwave I set fire to my ovenglove three times - deep joy. And suffer a full thiickness burn to right hand - which by my reaction you would think needed treatment at a supra regional plastics unit. First casualty of chrimbo is my bowels. My routine is thrown out of kilter and I dont pooh at the usual point in my morning procedings (no time). Oh deep joy gut ache all day and an abortive attempt for a discrete post prandial dump (yeah like thats likely). Didnt eat much as a result - no harm there then.
Lunch goes down well, though less than a bottle of wine is consumed as most folk are driving. The shock joke announcement is that colin and alan are off to South Africa in the new year and they are getting hitched. We often rib colin about his moustachioed single lifestyle. His brother Alan is is the same. Colin plays to the audience and camps it big time to the hilarity of the throng - what makes it even funnier is Alans clear discomfort with talk of sexuality at the lunch table double entendres everywhere. Ohhow we larfed. I forget to serve the ham but there is too much food anyway. If a troop of gurkhas had turned up we could have fed them too. We were 10 for lunch eleanor a late drop out due to diarrhoea
After lunch its off to the hospital to see Bea then to Culcheth to see siter Mary and mum John ann and george. Much fun to be had playing cards.

Gadgets » The Top 10 weirdest case mods

Gadgets » The Top 10 weirdest case mods Thanks to Jane who recommends the number two (no pun intended model.

friday a weeks gone

Bit of a mad one.Jeans been running round sorting her mum out, I am trying to sort Christmas, Ally is making us proud with great mock results. We had a fairly good weekend, Jean had a mad day at work heating broke relocate patients and all staff by 5pm. Asbestosfound in boiler room nice, then its Monday night and off to the cathedral. It was Allys carol service. Not many singers but a an impressive site. I got quite tearful at one point realising that this was the first one I had been two. At first it was coxz i was too big, then post surgical, then depressed. Sort of makes me feel like I have come a long way - which intself makes me feel tearful. Get home and relax with a bevy. Bed woken by the news that Uncle Billy has been rushed to A&E. Mums distraught. Doesnt sound good about an hour later news comes through hes dead. RIP Billy.
Billy was always my favourite uncle aled up, with a cigar, pink shirt with a ruffled front sort of a rocker hair style. He would encourage me to have a beer from about the age of 6. He always gave me a few bob and was always good humoured. I shall be raising a glass to him on the 30th a fine man. He and Pat could still turn a fairly mean jive too. He had a pacemaker fitted a few years ago and has had TIA's so I guess it was coming - I feel sorry for Pat and the kids that it came at such a bad time of the year.
So round to Mums Tuesday after liason with sis. Change hours to be worked across three days. In to work late, Louise is cool, home and Jeans off to her mums to shower her with Ruth. I discuss mum with Mary - seems to have gone well at Pats- much initial wailing and gnashing but then the three sisters settle. They are pleased to be joined by Ann (their sister in law) who is terminally ill and Ronnie the brother. Other Brother not present. It amazes me how old people just get on with it, we would have counselling, 3 months off and all sorts. These just are all fairly chipper the next day. My dad (one of 14 of whom only 7 made 21) once told me death wasso much more common and families dealt with it together. I remember when I was little all the sisters lived within 23 streets of me nan. That we went up in the world and moved out to Garston - or Allerton if you are my mum.
Jean comes home distraught her mum isnt good ona variety of levels.
Tescos maintain their vendetta against me.
ie refused payment on my card sunday despite dosh in bank
rang bank & tesco monday am both deny all blame and blame the other.
Monday afternoon refused at checkout escorted to service desk phoned thro its ok.
Tuesday night - home shopping man fones card referred. Looks like I may have to drive to Swan to pay me getting angry now. Phones back its been authorised. Jolly nice chap delivers it (a good honest artisan) he gets a tip - (and it was sort ya fecking IT out).
Jean announces we are stressed - oh good its official - we are running essential services only. First casualty Christmas cards. People we know know we having a crappy time.
Wednesday repeat cycle mums work etc. Jean comes in stressed and knakkered send her to bed. Ruth rings we discuss options as it seems unlikely that Bea will be able to leave house for Christmas day. All sorts is discussed two lunches, I am afraid I cant do lunch for 14 ina strange kitchen- apols if I am unreasonable.Ruth and Paul off to a wedding - who in their right mind arranges something like a wedding the wednesday before christmas. Yeah Elton John.
Thursday repeat wednesday add in a trip with Ally to the doc, festives at Sefton suite. Got my first pay cheque for what my job broker describes as good honest work, it is permitted work so it doesnt effect my benefit. Drop off script take mum to asda purchase turkey pork and other sundries. Home Colin comes round Jean remembers we have to invite the old lady Eleanor next door for Sunday. Happy days, serve three separate meals head up bum. Jean calls from Beas change of plan we take all our food from here to Ruth and Pauls they cook there. I do not adapt well to things changing on the fly so I have to work through every permutation of what can and cant go wrong. I lapse into catatrophising mode and flip. hey ho. After about an hour I sort of get back down on level ground. Start planning - it actually means less graft/stress for us. Just need to deal with the self esteem issues here. So start working it out go for a walk with Ally. Getting there.
Woken with a call from Alan at something to 8am Bea been taken by ambulance to the Royal "gone of her feet" send Jean ack to bed and tidy kichen, mumble at rabbit and start shitting that dinner may be here now.
MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE.
PS Janet Evans from the matchworks said me blog getting boring. You should be working.

NHS Blog Doctor

thanks Jim for this cracker of a blog.

Thursday working alone.

Kinda quiet without Louise. But I cunningly retune her wireless from seventies stuff and inane "easy listening". She'll flip when she hears eddies dulcet tones and the archers theme tune. Anyway I get my stuff sorted andscoot off home. Jeans up for her christmas night out at the holiday inn so Ally and I dine at tyhe madhari. I nip out later to get me ma from the sacrex heart pensioners club.

Wednesday - talking to patients and surgeons.

The admin corridor is pervaded by the smell of a cooked breakfast. Put on as a treat for the surgeons attending the level two bariatric surgery course. I get involved with a couple of meaty jobs for Louise and I start to realise how much I enjoy working here. Just then Louise announces my replacement has been appointed. Pleased for them. Hey ho. Some of the Tyco people and the staff are off to 60 Hope Street, me I am off to the christmas quiz chinese meal. In the end I do neither and stop in. I was asked to give a patients perspective to the surgeons. Two interested looking blokes and miserable gas passer and a v. Interested bunch of women who I suspect are theatre nurses. I wind my home for a visit from the delightful Sandra Bagnall and the lovely Orlaith her and Mikes 4 month old sprogette. Jean goes clearly gaga. Babies do that don't they.

Jumped the tube and then home

Got to Euston with the mimimum of fuss. In to the first class lounge at Euston. Then on to the 7.18 to lime street. Apalling service and I am sat opposite two boring people who don't look like a couiple. Turns out in the taxi rank that they aren't least they don't live together. Separate cabs. Tempted by a refreshing beer in the head of steam but in good boy mode I am away home. Job well done in London.

I didnt understand but it looked impressive

 
 

So I followed them

 
 

While walking along the Mall

 
 

Home from the house

Start the day with a meander in search of a paper and a bag somehow end up in covent garden. End up taking a number 1 breakfast in. Pontis then back to the hotel. Struggle with the tap in the bathroom and my third poo of the day. Don't know how much is big match nerves and how much prawn related action. Then I decide to go to watch the changing of the guard. Well its the tourist in us all. Arrive as the horseguards are trotting out the mall. Walk down to Buck House from the flag flying liz is in. Shame its a cold day as the soldiers have greatcoats on but I see two guys wandering round with the colours. most interesting I then wander up birdcage walk and add my insoles my feet hurt. Two plasters too. Then sort of get lost but come out at st annes gate at the side of the home office. Wander long and take a coffee at the westminster abbey coffee club pray for words of wisdom and some courage. Get to saint stevens entrance and am searched and scanned in to the main entrance and!
left to the great hall oldeat bit of westminster parts dating to 1066 impressive. I introduce myself and meet peter baker david haslam and howard stoate mp. They are the other speakers. I am bricking it. The room is called the jubilee room its up the stairs at the back. Posh ceiling and green chairs with a portcullis. I am cacking difficult audience with a couple of stern faces as usual I play for laffs and lock on the one really friendly face. She turns out to be atrustee of the mens health forum and publisher. I talk to her later dead sound woman. I think it goes down ok I play ball and stick to the brief but wlsinfo gets a mention. It goes well good questions and some good feedback. I enjoy two butties and three glasses of wine though I am drunk on the atmosphere. Even the toilets have a sense of history and occaision. I leave via the HOC gift shop and sanffle some goods. One tube stop and off at embankment. In to starbucks and chill with a well earned coffee. Then !
back to the hotel pick up bag and into the tourist stuffed sherlock ho
lmes theme pub stuff. Talk to some Americans and engage in polite small talk. Food is pooh and I make a poor choice. Train is at 7.18 so some surfing for me.

From covent garden

Had an interesting choice of hotel the citadines apart hotel odd concept but the only thing left. ( V. Short notice). It ok once I realise the sofa doubles as a bed and the pillows are hidden in a cupboard there is a cupboard hoover and a kitchen complete with dishwasher. I hoof it off to waterstones for a coffee and during a discussion with nell it appears I have once again cocked up. I had assumed the meet started at 8 but its 6.30 at the naval club in hilll street mayfair. It being a nice night I opt to hoof it. Its cold but a brisk walk and I am sorted. Find the place at 6.25 and go in small but nice meet run by the inspirational lara. Danny a post opper black diamond and a new 6 week bandster and a preopper with her partner. It goes very quick then the majority of us walk to green park and I get off at leicester square. I then wander round china town and look for food all the good ones seem full of works christmas nights so I find sad bastard central where three guys ar!
e eating alone. Its really called the Yee Tung. My concerns grow when two of these guys are staff who clearly don't speak to each other. I order steamed pork dumplings (unfried wor tip). Butterly prawns and seafood hand pulled pan fried noodles. Big mistake not much sea food but plenty of butterfly prawns. Wander back to the apart and chill.

Pulling in to Euston

Mr Branson getting us in on time. Camp conductor gets over familiar, treats me as a special regular traveller he is but he knows it makes me nervous. Pass the huge plume of smoke from the hemel hempstead nlaze and it is shocking for sure.

Sunday/Monday.

Down down to SAJ were all is far from well. Jean is very upset by the whole thing. Difficult situation when ones parents need putting straight. I try to take some of the brunt but feel I fall sjhort. Still its a lousy mess where no one feels good. Of to bar reva for brunch then round for a conflab with Ruth and Paul, realise that family outsiders only see a veneer and that things can look good and be crap. Back to ours and work sorting the telly dvd media pc etc we get a working solution and Ally and I watch the fellowship of the ring while jean has a kip. Colin comes round in the pm for some present buying advice.
Monday morning is busy and I take mum to franks he does sterling work and prescribes a calcium channel blocker. I have a catch up and drop in to Craig and Erics with the script. Then it home back to mums pick up some stuff I forgot then off to Lime Street and then on to 13.15 platform seven pendolino to euston. By the way my mate Andrew is courting that's good news. Food on train ciabatta and waldorf salad two glasses of red and 4 copies. Purpose of trip speaking ata reception of all party parliamentary group on mens health in houses of parliament tomorrow. Excited big time btw. The theme this year is obesity and the conference was all about that. I have to speak for 5 minutes to. A standing lunchtime reception. 2 hours in there tops. Tad nervous truth be told.

Heathcotes review

Impressive venue, by the no longer working fountain on Beetham Plaza. Warm welcome, straight efficient service. Straight to table winter menu available as per website. Some specials including a turkey dinner.
So Starters
Salad of Ham Hock blackpudding and poached egg with mustard. Ken and Paul.
Pumpkin soup with sage oil ruth
sweet pickled orkney herrings for jean.

Mains
steak for ruth
pan fried hake on baby spinach with spiced puy lentils for me
smoked haddock mussels and creamed curry sauce paul
goosnargh duck breast braised red cabbage fondant spud jean
side of veg and chips

puds
paul had posh cheeses
ruth banoffee sundae
me and jean the posh ice cream with a carmellised sherry lobbed over it.
I at pauls recommendation lobbed an espresso over mine too. It was boss.
One top meal round of aperitifs 1 bottle of red and and a bottle of white a bargain at 168. Excellent food and great night. We got messed about a bit and asked to leave the table but no request had been agreed at a time of booking so we got 4 complimentary glasses of v. nice LBV Taylors port.
Splendid night and off to home.
Wake up in the morning and a storm is brewing down at Sir Alfred Jones Memorial Hospital, in the shape of Jeans mum.

Saturday

Iam neglecting my blog - its poo and I am ashamed to admit it. But its the second casualty of a busy life. First is gym. So reviewing the week tells of a media pc telly set up that looks good but dont work right. trip to richer sounds which I heartily recommends provides speakers good advice and top quality service. Work as ever is top. I had to change my days to facilitate delivery. So we now have suite, lamps, living room in ship shape apart from audio visuals. 32" lcd telly, elonex artisan media pc, cable box, and denon amp and reciever. Its all on a posh stand. We have a 5.1 speaker sytem. Just need to get the thing wired and moved back and we'll be funky. Jeans a bit miffed that there are more boxes than I promised and that watching telly will be a pain. Me and Ally are plain in to it.Surfing the web on a 32" LCD is cool.
In the midst of all this Jeans mum is causing mayhem at SAJMH, spiked a temp and is slightly toxic and isnt keen to stay. Result is Jean is stressed out plus plus. I prescribe retail therapy on friday night and fresh sprouts her fave veg. So today off to tip (for the fourth time this week)got to go see Frank the barber go to charity shop - cats welfare probably and then a man is coming to enable us to get freeview. Which reminds me I'll need to nip to maplins get a DVI cable and some sound cables speaker leads etc. Then in the PM its off to Simply Heathcotes with Ruth and Paul bit worried that it will be Christmas menu only. The wine doctor is less than kind. So I am off to find another review - my liverpool says better.

I have become Alan Partridge

Or more precisely an "Argos/world of leather man." Least thats how it looks in the pictures. I do increasingly find myself developing in to the worst of homer/meldrew/brent/partidge. Not pleasant - still the lack of work means less Brentisms. I did feel a moment or two coming on during my leaving speech but managed to steer away. Good to see Clarkey won a much deserved gong at the NW dada fest, though the sod did have a shameless appeal for votes. I voted of course. Jean admitted to voting in the sports personality of the year -HELP - next thing you know it will be strictly come dancing.
The room downstairs looks great with the downside is it makes the rest of the house look pants. Discuss dining room upgrade.
Jeans mum admitted to Royal then on to SAJMH with fractures in L4 and L5.
Telly arrives and is unpacked - it looks good.
Media PC set up but its a pig to configure to be honest. Still hours of fun to be had.
Allys surprise chrimbo pressie arrives - shes in so there goes the surprise.
I have been for my three year follow up.
I shall extract a post from WLSinfo
Went to Walton for my three year follow up appointment today. As ever in the NHS a wait for quality care but thats the penalty for a lengthy consultation in which you don't feel rushed. As at every stage of my care I felt blessed to have fallen on my feet again. I saw the new Consultant on the team Mr Macadam and was impressed.
I had gained but not within unmannageable paramaters (less than I dreaded). We talked about why and an action plan. (will post stats later).
We talked about my compliance with vits and minerals - 100% forceval, 40% zinc and calcium citrate /d3.
Discussed plastics - no thanks.
Discussed my mental health, social and psychological effects.
Bloods ordered Renal bone and Liver screen. Full Blood count, Vit D parathyroid Hormone, Trace elements,B12 and folate.
Offered dietitian consultation if required.
Met Physio from weight management clinic - Kate.
See in 1 year.
Once again excellent service from the team at Univeristy Hospitals Aintree.

Done well - weight up to 19st 12lb but he was happy - I am less happy but at least psychologically I didnt have the burden of breaking the 20st barrier.
Sure more has happened but detail is hard. Christmas looms and we need to get ship shape. Working today and I need to sort with Louise my days for the next couple of weeks.

More cushions than we need

 
 

New floor

 
 

A really good idea

Whilst browsing for some mens health fodder I found this gem amongst the muscular bodies and lingerie buying advice.Is it me or am I too old for the general target audience for mens health advice. The byeline - Tuesdays daily dose - Work your entire body with the Turkish get up, inspire her to dress sexier and learn techniques to cut cravings. Plus make  broccoli and beef stir fry on this typical laddish site did nothing for me. Though I must confess to feeling something aimed at chilblain advice for my alter ego might be appropriate. Typical public service broadcaster the quiz isnt working but from my reaction, I think I score v.v. high in the meldrew stakes

Helluva queue at the post office.

Week was a blur. Decorating continues some parcels arrive. Media pc dvd rw for ally. Buy curtains work monday and wednesday. Plenty to do and social side is good. See peter kinderMan and have a top session thursday in the am. Reflect that my mental health is better than any time in last 4 years and things are getting there this brings a strange calm and I don't take a drink Thursday night I had failed to complete his positive affirmation stuff but he works with me anyway.

Friday and the weekend

To tell the truth I had been dreading it apologies had ben flowing in and a rather touching array of emails wishing me bon voyage. It was unclear who was organising it though plenty of people denied it. Could have been dissapointed with some notable no shows but the most important people without good excuses where there. Val Vernon delivered an excellent see ya speech including a touching piece from gary glitter lookalike Bob Steele. He couldn't be there so had sent an email. Good to see faces from mickey browne through to ann deane delia catilidge and sam howlin. Career summed up in four people. Nice gift of pc world vouchers some champers and some wine. Some nice cards and warm words. Went to pub afterwards Gordon Jones turned up got drunk went home much to Jeans surprise very early.
Woke up in good shape Saturday and made spoon for a pleasant lunch. Do some shopping and chill in our spartan living room.
Sunday up late rush breakfast cause indigestion miss church light lunch and hit patio for their price fixee. I go halves with scallops and white bait with Colin. Main course is fillet of sea bass on a pillow of prawns scampi and scallops. I halve a cinder toffe cheesecake with al. Top stuff.

Leaving do done

Went well vals speech good mine passable and within acceptable limits. OF to the atrium which is too loud.

Thursday

So its Thursday JK comes and does a few bits while I get ready. Then its off to the Swan and draw out a few bob to pay for the motor. Off to manc land and pick it up. Well pleased with my 1.9diesel scenic dynamique. Drive back home. Off to see Prof Morris at the Moss house. Speak to Suzanne who seems to be some sort of uber admin type.
Phil from cell is there waiting for his appt , have a quick natter before he goes in. I pass my time with the mersey care mag and the manuals for the new motor. It seems to have too many buttons and cubby holes. Still I feel certain I will get to find my way round in a year or too.
Prof and I pleased with progress and I am convinced that my sessions with peter kinderman are helping immensely. Continue with meds think about prozac reduction in spring. Need valproate levels doing and liver function and full blood count. Home via speke retall pick up fan heater and victuals from M+S. We have pork and veg selection. Ally has the most delicious oven chips and a steak slice. I know because I tried 4. We chill watch thing about lifeguards and little britain. We decide that it past its best and try to find something else. Thinking about speech and not short of ideas worried that I will shout Arse! At the top of my voice. Jean gives me a lengthy list of topics to avoid.

Wednesday work and a job broker.

Wor goes well but glad I am done, getting really nervous about Fridays doo. Kim says my nothing to lose speech is eagerly anticipated I have several themes running through my mind but will firm them up Friday AM.
Off to the job centre plus to see Vicki my job broker from the Shaw Trust. Sound woman and I enjoy the session think she says me as different to her bread and butter client but is willing to help none the less. Get home and the lack of furniture in the front rom is getting on the girls pip. I kinda dig the minimalist squat decor. Few beer tins and chip papers I would be well in.

Tuesday work and support group

First day at work and it flys. Louise and some others from the Sefton suite have scooted to Leeds for a course. I immerse myself in simple tasks. The hone doesnt stop and I quickly realise how hard Louise works. Lunch in the staff canteen was plop. 4.20's worth. Chicken and veg - butty tomorrow for sure. Back in the afternoon then off to St Pauls to get my eyes checked wait an hour and a half get seen by a thorough guy pupils dilated and Jean has to come and get me. Saw Dave and Maria. Jean Drops me off at Greenbank were a few members are already eating. Some great changes and some new faces. Felt v. positive. Home in cab and bed.

Monday bought a car scary.

Went to the 206 centre to buy a 406 they had sold already ended up with a renault scenic dynamique. Funky car and I am well pleased. Pick it up later in the week. Two sun rooves (roofs) and a 6 cd - see how car savvy I am.
Good natter with JK then run mum up to bank and to Tesco. Home and then nipped roundto Jacks with airwalkers for uruguay trip. Then home blooming cold. jean full of cold and didnt go to work.

FW: Ken Clare's Leaving Do

Sending you this for one of several reasons - Maybe
a) I happened across you in my now ended NHS career and wanted you to help
celebrate my early retirement
b) I thought you should know I no longer am in full time employment and I am
a hot property
c) I wanted to let you know I was lucky enough to escape early
d) I was worried you had not been invited through the formal invitation
system that has been established
e) Maybe you are adjacent to someone who meets one of these criteria in my
address book and I pressed the wrong button.

Anyway even though I have left the day job please keep in touch
If you can come on Friday that would be great
Ken Clare
-----Original Message-----
From: McNaught Kim [mailto:Kim.McNaught@southliverpoolpct.nhs.uk]
Sent: 21 November 2005 17:22
To: Ken Clare (E-mail); Ken Clare (E-mail)
Subject: FW: Ken Clare's Leaving Do
Importance: High

See below for my latest info bulletin.

Can you put something on your blog as well in case people don' t get my
message, please??

> Dear All,
> As you know Ken's presentation will be at 3.30 in Room 24 in Hamilton
House on friday 25th November. He is going to the Atrium Bar on Tithebarn
Street afterwards if anyone fancies a drink and/or if you can't make it to
the formal event. He's asked me to let everyone know but I suspect I am
failing badly in this role so please pass this on to anyone who might be
interested - I will, no doubt, have forgotten about people (early onset of
Alzheimer's and all that...).
>
> I've got a collection and card if anyone wants to contribute or sign the
card - if you haven't already done so.
>
> Many thanks!
> Kim
>
>
> Kim McNaught
> Assistant Director of Finance
>

Sunday come home Jean

Chill in the am pleasant breakfast with the papers. Clear out the rabbit with Ally. Then its off to get Bea and off to Ruth and Pauls for pleasant beef dinner. Back home after seeing Mum. Mooch round and sort Allys pc. Got washing sorted for Mr Mo the ironing man. Plenty to do before setting off to machester airport to pick Jean up. Frank rang he's got a busy week teaching at the university and I have an anxious moment with my formal retirement doo coming up. Don't like the idea of a party being thrown for me, and me having no control of the invites or

Saturday - good day

I whip Ally down to Neighbourhood for brunch. Tasty if pricey.Then its drop her in town and then off to the tip for me. Then pop into see Nanna she wants taking to Asda for a new pan - not a "shite one" presumably not Le Creuset though. She spends 13 notes which is a lot for her. I drop her at home and then the speke branch of PC world. To be onest I am dissapointed, poor selection though media pcs look an interesting concept. Then its off to M&S No Mercy branch. Could claim Kieran named that but Gordon penned the name for the North Mersey Community Trust.
Then home and out to buy hay for the boy. Then a domin pizza for tea, it was pants.

Its at this moment I realise I need a digital SLR

 
 

Friday the weekend starts here

Take mum out for a bit find plenty to do around the house mooching kind of day. New kit arrives Laptop for me, one for jean and a desktop for ally. Throw in a 19" Laptop for me and I am happy. Double specced the m,emry on the laptops.
The Vaio is a cute beast and the 3 year warranty was a clincher. Laptops.co.uk beat Dells sales line anyday of the week and the two 3g cards was worth a lot to me. Off to Beas in the evening.

Catford Support Grop Sunday 19th Nov

 
 

The Central London Group

 
 

Wednesday off to discuss a four letter word.

A meeting at 10 at Abbey Sefton to discuss work potential, and difficulties/options/solutions sounds workable. Very low level low committment stuff. Also concerned about how it affects me pension, earnings benfits etc and have a meeting at the jobcentre plus to discuss this on Thursday. Get home tired and feeling like its a go. JK has started decorating project.
Me on insurance for Jeans new car and its off to Manc airport for a flight to glasgow she is off for 2 2 day courses.

I cant believe its that long since I blogged type post

Journey home on Tuesday was an experience a combination of fear and prayer prayer won coz I got through it. The Walton to Waterloo was cool.
Then under Rebeccas careful instructions I had to go south on the the northern line then a via bank train to Moorgate. We met and had coffee and a brekfast buttie great to see her.Back on the less crowded thereful less frightening tube. the its Virgin 12.18 first class to Lime Street - crackin stuff great journey good wine good food. Home with presents necklace for Jean and lipstick notebooks and mobile phone for Ally.
Then its chill stuff.Do photos etc.

Most expensive car I been in for a while - Andrews courtesy car

 
 

Thursday

Well I thought I had posted this earlier so a bit cheesed off it disaapeared may well show later. Again up at Abbey discussing work but its a moot point till I see the jobcentre adviser - Eddie. He's a bit late and the atmossphere in Belle Valle jobbie is far from PLUS as the government would have me believe. One poor psychotic sod in front of me says he is considering MI5 as a career he has been inspired by spooks on the box.
Eddile gets me name wrong (de facto procedure for the Department Work Pensions). He is quite perplexed that I have made an appointment within one month of finishing work. Seems its a bit unusual he is also surprised at my willingness to do something. So he explains the rules of permitted work. It seems its 20hours and 81 quid a week. Seems cool to me all without affecting my incapacity benefit.
I enquire about the new deal for disabled people and he arranges an appointment with Vicki my job broker from the shaw trust. Meeting her next week at Belle Vale. Thursday night its home and a bit of browsing in Tesco Old Swan.

Pressed send instead of save.

Easily done so I continue.
Hit Portsmouth andrew cleverly avoids the pirate parking and we hit an Ncp run muti storey. Into the historic dockyards and we sign up for a 2 year season ticket each. I wasn't buying him flowers so I figure its a good gift. We hit the mary rose museum which was good and then a guided tour of HMS victory with a n old salt who reminded me of the chairman of a local trust. His delivery was initially poor but warmed up. The thing itself was stunning and it was difficult to imagine 850 men living aboard. Then we chugged along for our harbour tour which we both enjoyed saw plenty of naval ships which I was well into. I aint sure about boats but I managed ok. We had to rush for food and the selection for food was pants got two pies for 4.50. Eat them on the boat. The skipper was quite amusing and drop his mate a Quid tip on the the way out. Impressed by the spinnaker tower and landed at the shopping centre as the tide was low. Walked back to the museum and went in to see the Mary!
Rose my word it was impressive. I was dead impressed. Then we walked back to the shopping centre found a coffee shop then I went on the hunt for a pressie for Jean. Mission accomplished we went upstairs to the santa fe restaurant. A sort of tex mex gaff I opted for two starters shrimp fritter things and crab cakes the guy told me to add in some new spuds. They was good it was a bit hot. Then wander back along the coast to shoreham by Sea. Real nice pub and the group meets in the back room. Deeply moved by the warmth of welcome. Good for me in terms of feeling positive. Ann and Rick run a great group and full credit to them. I won't list people but its moving the changes to their lives that WLS has made. I won't single names out cos I am bound to miss people but met a reallife blogwatcher allison. I said I would mention you. She pointed out how much the blog focusses on food. I recall what a foodie I am at heart. Great meet rounded off by two pints of Greene King IPA. Then!
hours drive to andrew diverting to a 24 hour Tesco near where Jane li
ves. Get a few things then back home. Too late a night given the planned early start.

Monday Portsmouth and stuff.

So we left Andrews later than we planned and followed the sat nav to Portsmouth. Seemed a long journey but broken by a delightful stop at The Devils Punchbowl cafe. I must look it up but it seemed like a funky place. National Trust run caff gaff run by really nice people who clearly loved their job. The FEB was great and the locally sourced sausage was too delicious for words.

Sunday in London

We get up and hit the A3 for London we stop to take on gas and fuel for us ibhit a breakfast turnover. A strange piece of pastry with some sausage beans and a pice of bacon as well as something that was once an egg. How odd. Then into the ca again and hit London traffic we eventuyally park in somewhere near centrepoint. Walked a bit then found the cafe nero at 7 dials. Met suzannah, bobrob,trish, verity, and the londoner. A great bunch. Then its in to the merc for a sat nav journey across London to Catford to the support group. Good lively bunch led by Gill. I will throw a picture up here later. Touched by the appreciation of people for the site and what I have achieved, I leave with a warm feeling. Then its back to Andrews where we chill before eating in Si. A pleasant eatery where I do calamari and a prawn pasta thing. Back home.

Good Thai and chill

Enjoyed the food the George seemed loud and it boasts several national front members. Good pint of spitfire.Very pleasant evening just chilling and dinking wine. Feet are sore.

Good day in the smoke

Got the train in from Walton after a good breakfast. In to Waterloo then Jubilee line to Baker Street and we 3e off tio find a music shop for a reed for Andrew sax. Then into selfridges get Allys pessie then walk along and then jump a bus to a place near British Museum for lunch. Then into museum we book ito a 90 minute highlights tour with a delightful old lady. We see the rosetta stone some call stuff from assyria and the elgin marbles. There was loads to see a real wow place. I kept seeing things off the telly waht blew me away was the last room of the tour the sutton hoo finds top stuff. Backk home on the trains and I am blogging in the George wich is busy and serves a range of shepherd neame stuff so I started on a spitfire and may have a bishops finger or a master brew next. We have ordered a thai take away from the gaff next door andrew is doing his sax practice.

Walton

Andrew picks me up in his rented Mercedes SLK 350 which has a 3.5 litre engine and goes like the wind. He takes me to the thames which is 2 minutes from his really nice house. His living room is cool with more gadgets than is decent in one house. Big plasma screen and wireless media streaming. All sorts of stuff. We chill then its off to Oatlands hotel a very posh gaff indeed. Had a bar snack and a great old conversation.
Back to Andrews in the fast car then its natter watch have I got news for you and drink wine for too long. London is calling.

Didn't get any more refreshments

Still it was deffo worth the upgrade. Sat opposite two welsh speakers. Off the train at Euston northern line charing cross branch southbound to waterloo. Coolio. Up to the main concourse and 3.50 ticket to Walton on Thames. Speak to nice lady with own business who helps people set up their own business over the internet. Then its the 14.42 stopping train to basingstoke delayed due to a small fire at the side of the track. Leaves 3 minutes late. In touch with Andrew via Blackberry PIN messenger.

Didn't get any more refreshments

Still it was deffo worth the upgrade. Sat opposite two welsh speakers. Off the train at Euston northern line charing cross branch southbound to waterloo. Coolio. Up to the main concourse and 3.50 ticket to Walton on Thames. Speak to nice lady with own business who helps people set up their own business over the internet. Then its the 14.42 stopping train to basingstoke delayed due to a small fire at the side of the track. Leaves 3 minutes late. In touch with Andrew via Blackberry PIN messenger.

London bound

I forgot to mention that have been invited to address the all party parliamentary group on mens health in December cool I have always wanted to go the houses of p. Bit terrified and tjhe gig is only five minutes to standing members. (Sorry couldn't resist). As usual in a panic about getting out and probably have forgotten my meds or something. Don't think so.
Get confirmation of my pension and lump sum and its officially happy days believe me I am blessed.
Will be pleased to get car sorted out now looking at 406 estate to facilitate transport of our kid.
Christmas looks better all of a sudden. Deciding which gadget to empower myself with in Londinium. Choosing is two thirds of the fun.
Taxi to Lime street and hit Boots and WHSmith. Pick up a poppy of a royal marine and stare at it in contemplation during the poorly observed 2 minute silence.
On to the 11.15 to Euston Pendolino 1st class coach G 13A. Coffee almost straight away and then wine and water and lunch served by crewe.
A copy of the Times and free headphones. Lunch was cheddar, camembert, carrot salad and pate brown roll tangerine and shortbread. Plenty of tea and coffee one more alcohol round and still an hour to go. Well worth the 17 noted do far (and 4 seats to me self). Happy days.

Thursday doctors jack and aintree

Up with the lark and out to pick up the script. Bit of a hiccough means it aint available for about 10 minutes. Coolio I sit and blog. Then up to craigs pharmacy drop in the script and wait in hampers where I partake of breakfast. Back then pick up script see jack for an houir and a half. Top man Jack. Then pick up JK to go see sarah and elaine in the sefton suite. Most pleasant then back via the furniture outlet villlage. In the pm jk comes round to size up the decorating and stays for a brew. Discuss details with Andrew after JK goes.

This appeared on an Informatics mailing list to which I subscribe and was taken from a Doctors mailing list I think

Made me smile in a David Brent type way. Its headed Nice Lady Doctors

 

1) To save time, please remove knickers before entering the consulting room. No more than one layer of loose fitting clothing should be worn.

Breast lumps should be clearly marked. Before you ask, the reason your stomach is swollen is that you are fat.

(2) Nice Lady Doctors (NLD) are trained to completely ignore inflammatory terms such as " constant projectile vomiting", "hair falling out in handfuls" and "I feel like a ninety year old". So don't bother using them.

(3) Please consider bringing the NLD a gift of some extra strength air freshener or pot pourri. It really pisses us off that we have to buy our own. It isn't us who stink.

(4) Nice Lady Doctors have no additional training in period problems. We have our own periods, of course, but consider periods to be a strictly private matter of absolutely no interest whatsoever to anyone else, and we wouldn't dream of boring you with the details.

(5) Don't consult the NLD to discuss your concerns about the health and habits of your beer-swilling, couch-potato, half-witted husband. We can assure you that you are the only female on this planet concerned with his welfare

(6) The NLD may appear tired, frazzled or even suicidal to you. This is because she may have problems of her own. If you wish to see a doctor who can devote their entire attention to your numerous worries, make an appointment with a male doctor.

(7) Do not make the mistake of believing we know just what you are talking about. Our lives are not like yours. For example, we do not have time to consult our GP.

(8) It may astonish you to learn that no cures exist for feeling tired all the time, farting noisily, or a pain in your right ear which occurs once every 200 years. Nice Lady Doctors do not, in actual fact, have a magic wand in their desk. Weak kittens should be treated by a vet.

(9) NLDs greatly appreciate your expensive gifts and public expressions of gratitude However, offering to loan the doctor your size 22 purple chiffon Marquee style evening dress will result in your removal from our list

(10) Men should not consult Nice Lady Doctors. We will think you are a wimp or a pervert. We will laugh hilariously at your inadequate physique when we meet up with other NLDs

(11) Only use approved laboratory containers for urine specimens. Using a Bacardi miniature can put us off our favourite tipple for life.

(12) Lists should be legibly written on clean paper. Please show the doctor the entire list to increase our amusement. Expect to have at least half of what you have written ignored. We haven't got all day.

(13) Nice Lady Doctors are not born with a special slimness gene. If your NLD is a size 10 it is because she does not gorge herself on fish and chips whilst watching Australian soaps all day, and nor should you. If the NLD is generously proportioned, she probably has a medical problem with her glands

(14) Nice Lady Doctors are not clairvoyants. We do not know exactly when your baby will be born, nor do we know when your menopause will be. We do not know how long you will continue to suffer terribly, or when they will finally invent a cure for your red cheeks or sweaty feet.

(15) Nice Lady Doctors do not know for certain why your husband doesn't listen to you, or why he ran off with a neighbour, or why he never remembers your Wedding Anniversary. We can, however, hazard a reasonable guess

(16) Nice Lady Doctors will often have children of their own. Such children, will, of course, never be bed-wetters, fussy eaters, drug addicts or obese slobs because we are the founts of all knowledge, blessed with perfect lives.

 

On the road again.

After town slugged around the bed room sorting a few things. Mary rang good discussion about mum. Sorted out Christmas day I think. Then its off to new mersey retail looking for food - pizza hut and then a 3 piece suite. Our desire for a 3 and 2 chairs sets us apart and its a no joy. Blast need to go to a place on Long Lane tomorrow.

Job offers and stuff

Well I always planned to return to some form of employment but I didn't have next week in mind. The speed is scary, but as Nell said be careful what you pray for. You just might get it. Spend sometime trying to understand New Deal for the Disabled, which is more than the guy on the New Deal help Line had done. He hadn't even read the one page pdf on all you need to know about NDD. Basically uncle tone doesn't want us sickly scroungers hanging about when we could be out selling matches or summat. He will help us regain our self esteem by getting a job broker to help us polish our cv's. We will be helped to identify our marketable skills and helped on the road to recovery. Whilst conveniently reducing his numbers happy days. Ah well my first day of retirement seems to have coincided with the launch of a shop a scrounger initiative. In true self form I contemplate shopping my self. Call from caroline about the formal egg and cress retirement which it would appear will be on fri!
day 25th November and we plan a more informal celebration on 2nd december venue tbc. Pick. Mum up off to postie and then to tjs for lunch and I am in to see prof k. Good stuff. He is based ine old royal excellent use of buildings.

After Frank

I wouldn't be my mums GP for a gold clock, she is a classic "poor historian" and her bizarre communication makes it bloody hard for the lad. But he does a champion job as ever. Upshot is shes got probable anaemia and angina both contributing to her continued breathless. Also bunged up and wicked cramps. Take her to the bank, drop her script into the ghood man craig who delivers it later and call in to Tesco for a rest and a cup of tea.Get a fone call at 4.30 the pills are cocked up so i'll go and sort em tommorrow. Happy days. Will combine with a trip to the post offie and TJ's (I need a suitcase) before dropping her off at sacred heart bingo and heading for Peter Kinderman at 1pm. I go to take mince out the freezer for tea and discover that there isnt any there. So in the blue torture machine (fiesta) to Somerfield at the Clock. Decide to drop the car and scoot down to Frank. It is fearsome wet but hey who minds the rain.
peter does the deed and its back to the shops via look round wavertree car centre it scares me the man looks so nice. But he would, 5-600 for the torture car and a discount for cash know what I mean. Minded of Alexei Sayle Ello John got a new motor. I liked him, hell I even looked like at times.I have never bought me a car, always had lease things, no risk. Jeans fiesta (said torture vehicle) Was a freakin rip off from Rice Lane Motors. All classic 2nd hand car cons were pulled. Go on boys try suing me.
When I flog it Rumsfeld wants it for Guantanemo bay - it demoralises from the first glance. Let me annotate some of its design features.
It has an intermittent locking faul on the drivers door. Sometimes if its dry and sunny it opens first time. If its lashing it down it refuses to open and wont let the key out until you are wet through. You then have to round the car open the passenger door return to the drivers side remember it aint central lock and return to the passenger side. Contort way down andd lean through to the drivers door exposing yer bum crackto the rain. By now you aint in the best mood.
The you get in sit on the moist Guardian which is soaking up the latest sunroof leak Insert the key wait three days for the diesel pre warming routine malarkey to work hear three pathetic atttempts to start, just when it seems certain today it kicks in you need to rev it like mad. The cacophany of noise sounds like the deaths head hussars panzer division all starting up in a dutch town square. Then you stall and repeat.
When you get going it progresses nervously at 27 miles an hour you are rewarded with a bone shaking vibration.
It shouls be a site of special scientific interest it has its own micro climate. The inherent dampness means as soon as you start it becomes like a Amazonian rain forest. Showers occur internally. There is a piece of NHS blue roll hanging from the interior light (soaking up another leak).The heating system is the top hat - the controls are nothing to do with it. When its hot outside the heater works top whack, when its cold, yes it refuses to work. Reversing lights work intermittently.
So When I got home after cell last night with a numb damp bum wet scalp and irritable the final indignation I parked next to Jeans new C3 which towers above like a huge 4X4 - and thats a noddy car. Not happy with my motoring experience.

When we were young 

The Yes Album - Nice 

Doh!

I retired from work on ill health grounds yesterday. Everyone says I look younger/healthier  than ever, well the thought of escaping one grind is liberating. Here I am at my desk when I happen across this from the management blog. That cheered me up - not. The Management issues blog is a place I have bookmarked. Todays entry made me smile - moaning at work is a sackable offence.
I knew something was going to go wrong today after four successive interactions with customer services helplines - it was too good to be true. Which brings to mind an old favourite of mine call centre confidential sadly now defunct but still there if you need a chuckle.

Mum to docs.

Tuesday take mum to see Frank. She needs to get results of her blood tests and get something for her reflux. Her breathlessness has improved but she is still worried about her cramps in her hands.

I'm free

26 years in the NHS and they are letting me out. Ill health reitrement and my last day "in service." A weird day and I decide to grasp the nettle by calling in the matchworks for my effects. Sarah the trainered receptionist had boxed them up and she was the only soul I knew in the lifeless place. It was kinda like picking up a dead mans kit, I have emptied plenty of lockers of dead men in my time and managed to lose porn, and other shady stuff which I thought widows best not see. Sort of boring reflection that my only incriminating stuff is a collection of staples hey ho.
Then its off to Aintree for a meeting with Louise of the Sefton suite we catch well and she needs to talk. A meeting with David Kerrigan who nips down in between cases for effect. Good jangle about the charity and future prospects. Drive home and feel a sense of relief after 5.
then its off to Woolies on the bus and get some frippery. Ally and Jean get two CDs wach I get trivial pursuit and a star wars book. Then off to the ark for a mondqay night special. I do prawns and lamb steak, jean veggie filo and pork, ally mussels and seafood linguine. 15.95 two courses and a bottle of house - each - way too much wine. Oh dear and we didnt drink it all.

Weekend

Did lunch Saturday at Neighbourhood, I had a delightful if weird sounding salad. Tuna, mixed bean , macadamia and coriander may not be a classic combination but it was a textural delight.
Had a bit of a wobbly in the pm to be truthful the enormity of Monday began to hit and Shakespeare and I are frightened of the firework noises. We also witnessed a two pump incident at the back of the halfway, the area was awash with community support officers. Off to Tesco at night and picked up some bargains in hardware chuckout corner. Ally went to Sefton park to see the fireworks.
Sunday was busy making lunch did a fine job as usual varied it this week by doing a mixture of conventional and jacketed roast spuds. Par boiled maris pip[er and lobbed in small desiree for the record.
Freezer stuff made up the rest and a strawberry and rhubarb M&S cheesecake went down well. popped round to see me ma while Jean kipped.
Quiet evening.

Goodbye Zafira Goodbye sobriety

Spent most of the morning working on the PC lots to do. Useful time filled waiting for the man from Appleyards. Nice geezer wanted a chat but no tea hes a type two diabetic and had a bypass last year get his medical history in a minute. Sad to see the big blue bus go. Jean comes home, Ally gets home. Tea off to Beas Friday night. Colin comes round bearing wine oh dear, still I didnt need much persuasion. Bad lad.

Home Tired and Sober

Have decided to stay dry for November a kind of I can do it if I really want to type feeling. Feels hard but truth is alcohol cost money is unused calories and makes my moods more unreliable. I like it though - too much so a months abstinence is planned. I find abstinence easier than control - something else about my binary personality. I pick 1st November for several reasons - a) its not a Monday and b)Tuesday is a cell night easy to avoid the devils buttermilk and c) Wednesday is a winwick quiz night. As ever I feel strangely more hungover but definitely by Friday morning the smug satisfaction is creeping in. There are two tins of stella in the fridge and I open the door to laff at them. I do lunch Thursday at short notice with Kim as enjoyable as ever. She has had a 15 day stint recently so thwacking her performance is my first target. I feel more organised and able to achieve more of an evening mid afternoons finds me well goosed though wonder what that's about.
Jeans new car arrives Thursday PM. Citroen C3 Desire in Iron Grey she's made up and it is pleasing. Friday morning nice Yorkshire man takes Zafira home and I am Mr Fiesta till me money comes through. Not looking forward to buying a car.

Girls outside Mussel Inn

 
Scene of two great meals. 

Museum of Modern Art

 
Cool Gaff 

Pedestrian Glasgae

 
One spends a long time staring at the little red man here. 

Email catch up

Inbox is lookin fearsome. I make heavy inroads and deal with some stuff that's been in there so long its festered. Relieved to heard that the magical AW8 which triggers my pension has arrived and will be processed by 8th November. Ring the social about my p45 and given duff gen sort it at the customs and excise website. How anyone without internet access can sort this out is beyond. Wake Tuesday and discuss with some jerk from telewest upgrading my package. At 8.15 I ask you. Git.

Monday - slow start

Sluggish start exercise the boy shakespeare who seems to have gained some pounds. Stick out some washing and whip Ally the docs. Bit unsure what to do re shopping and menu planning. Going to try to contact pension mission control at Fleetwood a ring see what's going down there. Need to let the social no I am finishing work as well. The form looked complicated with a series of scenarios. None of which fit me. On the way home from the Docs we see a struggling old lady who turns out to be nanna. We bundle her in the car and its off to tesco then bingo at Kensington fields.

LibraryThing | Catalog your books online

Ally check this from kieran.

Sunday home

Left about 11.05 a very wet journey home. Lunch at anandale tea at westmoreland coffee and a wee at charnock richard. About an hours delay in total jean kips most of the way, Ally listens to zen mp3 thing I tune into radio 4. P45 waiting for me when I get in funny sensation. Beginning to feel real. Pie from Westmoreland for tea most delicious. Ring mum mick and get horrified by back log of mail and posts on wlsinfo. Loads to do, boy retirement is going to be busy. Bit peeved with the breaking news about Blunkett. To me he is either incompetent or dishonest either way strikes me he should be off. The labour government never cease to amaze me.

The theatre

Home from the bonnie banks we trot back to the room. Combination of reading surfing snoozing is done. Wake Jean change and in our finery (well anew shirt) we are off to Di Maggios who serve us well. The pre theatre doesn't suit so we ski off piste (the family expression for going ala carte). Then its round the cormer on to hope street for the Theatre Royal. Ok so this shakespeare freaks me a bit. Will I get it ? Bit intimated to be honest, feared of lookig a buffoon. It seems most people do a shakespeare play for english lit. I did CSE which was sort of an NvQ for thpose not bright enough to do GCE exams. Mind you I have a photographic recollection of the mucky bits in cider with rosie. The play was complicated but funny clever and well worth the dosh. We had a great night. Will do some more of the bard me thinks. And so to bed.
Saturday we rise late (well the girls do u me up with lark at 8pm). We separate Ally of to frip moneuy jean and I wander down to the merchant city see the city hall. Then along past the posh shops with bouncers armani versace etc. Spy the museum of modern art with wellington on a horse with a traffic cone on his head. The square around is lilke covent garden but more me to be onest. Meet Ally by chance and then renegotiate our plan off to the mussell inn for a lunch. The girls opt for the lunch special moules frites/salade bread and a drink for 6.95 excellent value in my book. Me I opt for for a more expansive stiry fried noodle ginger pak choi gig topped by half a dozen king scallops. Bloody marvellous. Then its a taxi ride to gartnavel hospital along a very busy great western road. Greeted by fi and monica and along to the boardroom. A great bunch and a good meet. Then a lift from mike and kay to walkabout. A aussie sports bar pants beer but great craic. We had a few grog!
s then the party broke up. Jean and I eat fish and chips in Sauchiehall street (a fish supper). Back to the hotel.

Jackmcfee done good.

I didn't like the look of his deep fried pizza though I have to say. But his brekky was good if a bit too much. We then headed out to Balloch for a nostalgic trip to Loch Lomond shores. A sort of gateway to the trossachs cum retail park.

Jjack mcphee

For brekkie - what's a cheesy beano. We are having two jacks special breakfasts 2 eggs bacon sqiuare sausage potato scone hash brown beans toast tea juice (free) 3.95 a head. Sounds promising.

Now where was I

After lunch we do the exhibition I was impressed - Jean more so I think. Then its off to find the bottom of Hope Street and a steady tramp to find the elusive but much sought Mussel Inn. Mission accomplished and we plan to take our evening meal there. The along Hope Street to Sauciehall Street left and then a further charlie experience at the willow tea rooms. I hit the darjeeling, jean the green stuff and ally ice cream milk shake lime flavour.Girls adjourn to the hotel I tramp along Sauciehall street toy with the fusiliers museum. Put off to be honest by the ex fusiliers who have been left to run the gaff, also seems heavily into recruiting. Worried that I'll be press ganged and wake up in three weeks in a chinook flying to Iraq - no Ta. I trot away up Bath street and enjoy the sights. Down to Buchanan Street and in to Sainsburs back to hotel. Nice trot ina very sunny day.
Girls ready we away to hope street for the mussell inn. I go for king scallops wrapped in Bacon and skewered served with creamed cabbage and crispy new spuds. Jean a mixed platter of of queenies and mussels, Ally does a kilo pot of mussels bloody marvellous, I was well impressed, we all were. Then its back to the car pass a wink at the pot still which comes recommended by uncle Johnnie, a look at the website reveals why. he is a malt whiskey monster. I may have to take a dram in there at some point. Then its off out on the M8 to Linwood to meet Fi and Auds at the Bobbin Inn. its a wacky shitehouse chain sort of place. Still we are with good friends and would have a good time in an empty house. Drive back stow the car and its back to the hotel. Ally sufs Jean and I take a couple in the bar and off to bed.
I awake early leave the girls kipping and nip down to breakfast. Well coffee juice and half a croissant. I book some tickets for the theatre, Twelfth night no less starring Matthew kelly, at the theatre royal.Looking for a review reveals this scared I am becoming a culture vulture.More scared when I trot out to ottakars to buy the rough guide to Shakespeare and a study guide.

Glasgow part two

Met the girls and chugged into Virgin Megastores picked up some sad Yes CD's sods have started rereleasing the back catologue on DVD which strikes me as a rip off (but I will proably have to buy them. Then back to the hotel girls change and off down Buchanan Street for a walk. Ally finds Borders and thats her sorted we leave her there and wander down to the street and find the amazing Princes square
even I am impressed I have to say. Then carry on and down to argyll arcade more bling than you can shake a stick at, jean who knows about such things says it isnt bling. Down past central station and down to the river nice bridges. Narrower than I thought though. Back up the street pick up all and off to the glasgow lighthouse for immersion in the charlie stuff. Lunch at the pricey but impressive doocot. It is cool pate for me finan haddock for jean and beefburger for ally. I aint never eat in a design led cafe before.

Glasgae

We arrived after a wet journey north. Found tthe holiday inn express fairly painlessly and hit the mean streets. I found Sauchiehall Street a good place. We walked the length of it mooching in shops. Two things struck me - the number of "big" people and the number of smokers. I am completely unable to understand a word spoken by the people here. They speak so fast and I don't have time to receive process and respond. Its just like france I stare openmouthed at retailers.
We tramp the length and then it starts to rain and I mean pour. We head into Starbucks at the charing cross interchange. Its 5pm and the traffic seems gridlocked. Then its back along renfrew street after negotiating a bloody steep hill. I nip out for provisions to the Sainsbury equivalent of a metro store. Back to the hotel the girls get ready jean and I wait for ally in the bar. Then its next door to dimaggios pronto gaff. Jean and I start with chilli prawns and ally has good moules. Mains sees me with a seafood fusili, jean and ally have different sauces. Have to say the food was tops with a round of drinks and a bottle of house pinot grigio the bill comes in at a reasonable 60 notes. (Well 56 but I drop 4 notes tip). Service was crisp and cheerful food was piping hot and you could watch the boys cooking it. Back home and a good kip. Woke at 7.30 checked email bank account (been paid) but don't understand the amount. Girls woke down for a pants holiday inn express conti!
nental breakfast. Then hit the mean streets out onto west nile street left into Sauchiehall Street and then into the retail cathedral city that is the Buchanan Galleries. My car is parked somewhere here. The girls leave me and I find john lewis and get a suitable wallet. I then mooch before finding myself with a pot of classic twinings traditional English and a bottle of Highland spring still. Blogging for me then a mooch around the computer department and a few stores. Coolio.

Stuff for mac

Mach 3 razorblades, sure for sensitive skin roll on he gave me 20 notes.

On the road again

Saturday AM finds us on the road to East Midlands Airport for the AGM of the charidee. True to form I am last minute Freddie. Last night spent visiting Mac, Mary and Charl all charity members on Ward 2. Could see when Charl was asling what her protein and zinc levels were that the nurse wasn't a great lover of the empowered patient. Its a shame because approached with an open mind an empowered patient could be a great learning tool. Shame then drop JK off and down the M62 to Winwick for an appearance at Brenda Hendersons retirement do. A lively woman still as bubbly and energetic as 25 years ago. See plenty of old Winwick faces and enjoy a good catch up with jackie maguire who dismisses my bipolar as a mere personality aberation she recognised 20 odd years ago. One to discuss with prof peter there I think. So the third national meet Dudley, then East midlands then here again. I almost have my plan in place. Things went to pieces a bit last year when the powerpoint I had work!
ed on refused to open. Happy days. Got a couple of pictures in the show today.

Sparse. Blogs

I am in some sort of cyber solitary. First of all my blueyonder Pop3 account dies (along with eveyone elses in the UK). Then my wlsinfo account gets the hee bee gee bees. JK has suffered in the way and like a true IT pro I put it down to user error without further evidence. So am I being punished for the lack of blog seems so to me. NOF was a top gig wwhich saw the charioty come of age third year there and lots of good stuff especially discussion about joint collaboration with Louise and Ian from TOAST. Geoff Hurst started off well but didn't score the hattrick for me. Also I ended up a bit peeved abouit the even less than tokenistic attempt at user involvement. Still we got there in the end. Lots of good people met. Highlights for me being good recognition from an RAF doctor. The Glasgow team and a hoot of a man from a herbal company.
Still october is the busiest month and this is the busiest week. Things are falling to bits but I am relaxed strangely.

Fessing up

Ashamed to say I have been to blog. October is a busy month for the charity the national obesity forum was a kicking time. That seems like an age ago and now we are off to Manchester to see the League of Gentleman in panto. I am blogging in the car to stop me panicking.

what a week

So Saturday last week getting ready for National Obesity Forum gig went down on virgin Train on Sunday after Church. The journey scheduled to take a marathon 5 hours seems a complete disaster in the making. Turns into a delight and an education sat next to a professional fundraiser for NSPCCwill write soon.

CiteULike: A free online service to organise your academic papers

Thanks Loopyboy.
Blog thin on ground since last weekend.

Reader

ReaderInteresting

In the Royal again.

I am sitting in the coffee shop of the Royal Liverpoll Hospital. Jeans gone to visit her mum in the obs ward. She was admitted with some of infection in her left leg. I have been elected to read the grauniad drink coffee and blog. I picked up the paper in the hospital WHSmith. Read it thoroughly and enjoy an excellent piece of invective about the current state of the NHS by Polly Toynbee. Also a great piece in the comic about living on the Tesco world.
Thursday was a funny old day started well with lunch at the Tai Pan with Kim who is looking well. The Dim Sum was excellent. Then it was home to the discovery that bea (jans ma) had been admitted. Then its off to Regatta Place for my meeting with Phil Wadeson Joe Hill and Maria Bryant - Jean comes too.
The comedy starts with the embryonic security guard who says Maria Bryant isn't in the building. It turns into a comedy sketch brian rix security services. Big Ron Morley saves the day. Then Joe Hill arrives. Maria jean and I have a pre-meet. Then we have a pre-meet with Joe and then we meet with Phil. Both Phil and Joe are good guys and do me proud. Terminating a senior manager could be awkward for both of them but they do the job well. Have to confess I either didn't take it or understand what exactly is happening. It seems that as of tomorrow I am back on full pay on holiday and then my contract will run out on 7th November. Pension starts the next day. Good result M+S voucher to boot. Happy days. Weird feeling though I pop into library on way.

Prof II

Prof K is a top bloke really like his style like me he doesn't believe in the medical model. He challenges why I comply with the med then. I suppose the real answer is compiance is yet another example of my desire to please others. I do think they help. What he really is not into is the DSM-IV rigid criteria type stuff. My view is that approach is good for a lot of physical illness but people have a uniqueness that whilst making them individual and a delight makes them difficult to "treat. " Or even "diagnose" this fella reminds me of stuff I learnt ages ago. Top bloke seeing him again.

One prof to another

Just looked at my blog. Haven't been good at keeping it up though the cursed comment bots have been busy. I say prof morris last thursday he was cool about me dna'ing. No big shakes. Everytime I see him he reveals a bit more about bipolart and me. He asks me how the pensions letter made me feel. I joked said I felt sorry for the poor git. He made me feel I don't take it seriously enuff which of course is true. He laid the severity and poor prognosis out on the line. He pointed out I had put on weight asked me why seemed genuinely concerned. We talked about addiction he told me to get off me bum I think. I felt pants cheers doc.
So now its wednesday and I am waiting to see prof kinderman I am of course early so I am sitting in the wrvs caff at the royal. The 85p coffee is pants.
I shall try and recall what happened.
Between then and now.
Friday nothing much cept a meeting at aintree with a man from a company wants to help the charity.
Saturday tidying frenzy and lunched at the auberge on allerton road.
Sunday quiet. Playing with Joomla!
Monday ditto then JK came to fix the mirror.

Wednesday - up and down

This self management thing with bipolar us hard. I feel high and low at the same Jean says ishe thinks we reacted too quick. So I am back on the usual regime and feeling restrained physically but it not touching me mentally. I enjoy the chance to catch up with Kim over lunch. The lunch deserves a separate entry.

The Prof Heavy session

Jean takes the car - something wrong with her mirror - I enjoy a walk anyway. Its payday but the bad news is I ran out of pay two days ago. Worrisome. Some email exchanges and i am set up for a meeting in the regatta plaace next Thursday. Tinker about - do lots of washing - the rabbit enjoys being let loose when I am in the garden

Lunch at Filini

Filini is the restaurant in this gaff. Classy looking place and good reviews. The hotel and tower are impressive to me.
Nice looking restaurant but empty.
Menu good -
?Starters
Italian meat platter, olives, parmesan, Vassoio piatto con salumi, olive e parmigiano italiani £6.95
Pumpkin ravioli, crispy sage, Ravioli con ripieno di zucca e salvia ricciuta £5.50
Home made tagliatelle, garlic spinach, gorgonzola cheese, Fatto in casa tagliatelle con spinaci all ‘aglio gorgonzola £5.50
Porcini and potato soup, garlic crostini, Zuppa Minestra di funghi porcini e patate, crostini all ‘aglio £5.25
Rabbit, pork and fennel terrine, pickled apples, pomegranite dressing, Terrina di coniglio, maiale e finocchi, con mele sottaceto, melagrane £6.75
Seared Scallops, tossed fregola grossa, Capesante alla griglia servite su fregola grossa £ 8.00
Truffle and pecorino risotto, Risotto con tartufi e pecorino £7.25
Ham, lentil and herb broth, Brodo Minestra di prosciutto, lenticchie e verdure £5.50
Peppered tuna, rocket, lemon, tomato, Pepperonata di tonno, rucola, limone e tomato £ 6.95
Beef carpaccio, mustard mayonnaise, parmesan, Caraccio di manzo, con mostarda, maionese, parmigiano £6.25

Kim opted for tagliatelle and spinacg, me the seared scallops obviously.

?Mains
Spiced duck sausages, cabbage and red onions, Anitra condita con salse, cavoli e cipolle rosse £14.95
Organic Salmon, spiced lentils, crème fraiche, Salmone organico, lentchie piccanti, franche crema £16.00
Braised lamb neck, fontina cheese, potato sandwich, Tramezino di collo d aagnello stufato, con formaggio fontina e patate £16.50 ‘
Smoked haddock, broad bean and thyme ”lasagne”, Merluzo affumicato, fave e timo £13.95
Octopus, chilli, potato and capers, Polpo, pepperoni, patate e capperi £ 14.00
Artichoke, aubergine, tomato ragut, garlic crisps, Carciofi, melanzane, ragu di pomodori e aglio £13.50
Poached chicken, shitake ice cream, honey jus, Pollo poached, gelato di Shitake e miele £14.95
Smoked ricotta and leek cannelonni, garlic spinach, Ricotta affumicata con cannelloni di porro e spinace con aglio £ 13.95
Seared calves liver, onion confit, vinegar sauce, Fegato seared, cipolle confetti, salsa di aceto £ 16.50
Prawn, pea and tarragon linguini, Linguini di stragone e piselli con gamberetti £14.75
Kim wanted the duck sossies but was out of luck and opted for the canneloni, me inevitably the calves liver.
The food was very good and the service slow - as ever with a near empty gaff 100 seater place 6 covers dining. Food was worth it, service definitely not.
Still we had a good time even if we did get soaked walking back.
Just in case anyone from the social is reading Kim paid not me.

S82C Winwick Hospital circa 1980/81 

Tuesday old friends new friendships

Phil from cell has asked me to sit in on a visit with his housing officer at his flat. Jack usually does it but I am standing in on the subs bench as he is in spain. The woman comes and goes but we are unaware as his bell and intercom are broke. Still its good to feel useful. We go for a brisk walk round seftoin paarkl and then lunch at greenbank. See jacqui Abdul and mick "the head" thwaite from the pct. Funny feelings for me. Drop phil off at his mums and then on to tesco. Have. a coffee and a blog. Home chicken salad brutalised viciously by shakespeare. Out to cell and return to watch the outrageous nighty night. Have restless sleep though not sure if I am awake or just dreaming I am awake. Net result is the same I wake goosed.

Sunday and monday.

Went well the lunch. Was a bad nights sleep and I woke too early with kmind racing. Instigated going high management plan and after a busy morning managed to chill in the pm. Watched "sink the bismarck" on VHS. Thoroughly enjoyed it. Waking the dead good as well.
Monday over slept and went back to bed after foring brekfast down. Woke again at 1.30 and had to drag myself to Allerton road for a walk. Worth it really to spy Merseyside fire brigades Search and Rescue Unit on its way to a shout. Damaged my right foot in some bizarre way, Jean heals it at night. Heavy email traffic with work.

Famous Bipolars

http://mixednuts.net/bipolar-famous.html

http://www.bpkeepers.org/famous/famous.html

http://www.antenna.nl/nsmd/FAMOUS.html

http://www.bipolarworld.net/Bipolar%20Disorder/Articles/art14.htm

 

Saturday - shopping and prepping

Get ready for Sunday visitors, and take mum to Lidl in Kensington. One mighty weird shop where you can get everything from smoked salmon to horse blankets. Mum loves it the half price fruit and veg is cool too. After that we are off to Tesco for a coffee and the remainder of the shopping. Home and cooking.

Friday - confirmation keeps coming

Letters from te Department of work and pensions lead to phone calls and explanations of wrong procedures from their minions. The people I speak to were helpful in the extreme. Feel better when I get my decision letters in my hand which explain what I am getting and why. Be nice to see some money in the account which is perilously empty.The Giro helped. Take me mum to M&S and Somerfield for a run out. Get plenty of bargains.Home then mother in laws.

The boy Shakespeare 

Thursday looking up

Mail arrives with confimation of incapacity entitlement. Take mum to New Brighton which in her words "fills her applecart" which I think translates as floats her boat. Then we nip to Tesco extra at Bidston. It looks big and they are expanding it. We go into the clothing department housed in a tent. Albeit a fine tent. My mother gets lost in there I hear her discussing her gusset preference with a genteel lady farmer, I decide to leave her lost. Home and jean reveals she is working late. I knock up duck breasts with sea salt and black pepper ratatouille and boiled spud. It was delicious (if I do say so myself).

Good day results at last

Get a weird letter from the department of work and pensions. It seems to say I am not entitled to DLA. A phonecall to the bnefits enquiry line reveals I have been granted it but not from the date I could have been. Hmm. Lunch out at the Taipan with Kim Then I ring the incapacity man michael at belle vale jobbie plus. He true to form sorts it. At 4.10 I am in cubicle 3 collecting a Giro. Happy days we got money till payday. Benefits hoops jumped thro the good news keeps coming. Dave my brother and Maria are getting married in August next year. I have been asked to be his best man a lifelong ambition.
An email from carolinr rand at work. Then its off for a good night at frontline. Top day feel blessed.