Sunday, December 07, 2003
Saturday, December 06, 2003
AXIM posting
How sad am I have spent the last 2 days setting up wireless networking on the handheld dell axim kewl, posting using it now.
Gout on a saturday
Healthy living I am crippled with pain in me left foot. Not good. Slept really well. Dreamless though which is odd, though better than the guilt trips which have been a feature of late.Awake in the middle of the night and its actually 7.30 so thats quite satisfying. oze some more before surfacing at 9.15. Jean doing something with her mother and Ally preparing stuff for christingle service. Then they go off to town, I had planned to gym but a pain in my left foot sinals take it easy instead.
Friday, December 05, 2003
Friday Morning.
Jean is off and she aways with Bea to Morrison for more festive frippery. I chill a bit after waking up about 9. Get off to Springwood Crem for 12 noon. Professional mourner or what. This is for Mals dad, mal is from the cell. I meet taxi Billy, fords Jimmy and Nigerian Heseremay. Bet I spelt his name wrong.
We get in the funeral and the four of us make a fair report on the singing. Nice service by Nick from Frontline who conducts. Two touching poems from grandchildren and Mals bit goes down well He is, I think, pleased to see us.
Over to the pub in the park with the boys for lunch afterwards. bump into Kath and Michelle from the matchworks.
Home and then meet up with terry and Mick later. Home sharpish and chill.
We get in the funeral and the four of us make a fair report on the singing. Nice service by Nick from Frontline who conducts. Two touching poems from grandchildren and Mals bit goes down well He is, I think, pleased to see us.
Over to the pub in the park with the boys for lunch afterwards. bump into Kath and Michelle from the matchworks.
Home and then meet up with terry and Mick later. Home sharpish and chill.
Awful Plastic Surgery
Awful Plastic Surgery So glad to have found this with my up and coming plastics appt on monday - made me smile though.
Thursday, December 04, 2003
Growing up in Lance Lane, Wavertree
Growing up in Lance Lane, Wavertree This grand old lady used to go to our church in wavertree.
Thursday -
Wake up ninish and remember that a visit to SAJMH PCTC is indicated. Sir Alfred Jones Memorial Hospital Primary Care Treatment Centre for the acronymically challenged. Found a nice snap. Not sure who the geezer was but probably some victorian philanthropist, Liverpool abounds with em the Rathbones, Ethel Wormald, Florence Melly, Mabel Fletcher et al. Anyway Frank had sent me for bloods including a fasting glucose. Iron Thyroid Liver, basically what Frank calls his alive or dead tests FBC, a gamut of tests to rule out physical causes of depression. A very nice lady does them, I am seen by several members of staff, who dont recognise me. then its off to Boots opticians at ASDA where I get Allys glasses fixed. then back home for a late breakfast. then Colin picks me up for atrip to Blessed Sacrament Church Walton. Couldn't find a website This was the best I could do. A nice service by a very nice Parish Priest. I have been to many funerals of people I hardly knew. Comes of my mental health days, i always thought it showed respect turning up to funerals of staff etc, did the whole spectrum from the tearjerker to the plain ridiculous. Still grief is a personal gig. I know when me dad dies there were one or two geezers in the crowd from work and its appreciated, dont cost much but goes down well. I remember when Jean worked for social services one of her colleagues died and nobody from management turns up -reason - no policy. Policy my jim Royle what happened to doin the right thing. I had a special funeral coat, replete with pennies for the poor kids. i loved em and always found some material for the book I'll never write. Take mother to ALDI a depressing gaff, german discount supermarket which she loves.Get home and chill bigtime.
Wednesday - gym and Prof
Reluctant to crawl out of the pit this Am I slept so well it feels a good place to be. I eventually muster and trip off to the gym for a legs and back day - don't ask I don't understand. Then its lunch, mushroom soup, is there something mood lifting about soup. After last years episodes see Blog- octover to January I thought I would never do soup again.now we are old friends again. Then its off to see Prof Morris at Moss House top guy but feel a bit of a sad git comin back again. Well after 10 minutes its in and off for some top notch assessment and treatment. Jib the Citalopram and start Prozac and depakote. This man is tops. See him again 23/12/03 and review. Off home still feelin pretty ok. Colin pops round to discuss the arrangements for Gerrys funeral tomorrow. Nip up to winwick to see mickey and adair,which of course its therapeutic in itself.
Wednesday, December 03, 2003
Tuesday - Operation Nanna to Christmas Party
Well I take me mam to tuebrook pensioners party run by Merseyside police. As she has connections with neither tuebrook or the Polis I am slightly troubled. Still she has been before so good enough The devonshire house in Kenny. The picture is quite flattering and is probably a view I aint seen before. The question is not if she will acquire a friend or two but rather how many. These will usually need to be ferried to some far flung corner of the universe. Accrington or such having travelled for 4 days by public transport in an iron lung. I amuse my self at the gym and indulge in mushroom soup whilst I wait. Fortunately she acquires only one biddy who lives in woolton which is thankfully in the same county. I take mother to ASDA and purchase some festive frippery.
After tea Jean and Ally off to Beas and me I'm off to Cellgroup at Franks. Top stuff, somethings going right. Plenty to pray about and we do, and sleep much better as a result.
After tea Jean and Ally off to Beas and me I'm off to Cellgroup at Franks. Top stuff, somethings going right. Plenty to pray about and we do, and sleep much better as a result.
Tuesday, December 02, 2003
friday five running late
1. Do you like to shop? Why or why not?
Yes in supermarkets - but not at christmas.
2. What was the last thing you purchased?
christmas biscuits 3 for 2.50 at asda
3. Do you prefer shopping online or at an actual store? Why?
Store - when I have time
4. Did you get an allowance as a child? How much was it?
Yes half a crown on a saturday off me dad - usually buy a Ladybird book which are stillgoing but when I got em they were hot stuff. My favourites the firebrigade and the navy. Top stuff.
5. What was the last thing you regret purchasing?
Christmas tree hat in Eurodisney. It upsets my centre of gravity
Yes in supermarkets - but not at christmas.
2. What was the last thing you purchased?
christmas biscuits 3 for 2.50 at asda
3. Do you prefer shopping online or at an actual store? Why?
Store - when I have time
4. Did you get an allowance as a child? How much was it?
Yes half a crown on a saturday off me dad - usually buy a Ladybird book which are stillgoing but when I got em they were hot stuff. My favourites the firebrigade and the navy. Top stuff.
5. What was the last thing you regret purchasing?
Christmas tree hat in Eurodisney. It upsets my centre of gravity
Manic Depression Fellowship
Manic Depression FellowshipThis their disclaimer which I may have to pinch for wlsinfo.
Monday GP time
Off to see Frank, the excellent Doctor. I am slipping and he advises antidepressants, and immediate referral to Prof Morris the Art Garfunkel lookalike. Guess I have to accept I have Bipolar Affective Disorder, and Frank confirms this. Will probably need to go on mood stabilisers. Dont relish it but accept it. Seems I dealt well with the obesity problem just got to tackle this. Frank orders a ruck of blood tests which I find reassuring. He really is good and really cares. I get off to the gym and after a cardiovascular session start to work on my shoulders and triceps. Ouch that hurts - I am truly a sixteen stone weakling.
Sunday tired
Mooch in the morning, slept poorly back to bed and then to Ruth an Pauls for lunch, CJ was home and on good form. Liverpool is considerably less Christmassy than Disney. Take Bea home then Off to see Nanny Banks who looks very frail and weak. Mum is ok about things so we underplay how rough nanny looks.
Sunday, November 30, 2003
Newport Bay Club
Top gaff well decorated. Up to the room 6240 on the 6th floor, the admirals floor. Two double beds telly in a cupboard balcony mini bar, what else do we need. Stop to unpack and chill for a bit then its off via the bus to the main park. In to the main park using the 3 day tickets picked up from the marriot desk. Disney does christmas well decoration wise. Up into the park and a whizz round lookig for eateries, fantasyland, no joy adventureland no joy at the blue lagoon round into fantasy land again back into main street and its a nugget thing at Caseys themed baseball gaff. Stays down and feels ok. Then its off to watch the fantaillussion parade. Mr D does a good parade for sure. I enjoy and take loads of pics. Then its out of the park and into Disney Village. Ally goes shopping Jean and I go for a pint in the Sports Bar. Something big in the football world on starring Beckham. Beamish 6.40 Euros. Ally joins us then a walk back in the through the rain cold and wet, tired but fun. Will continue disney as time and energy allows.
2nd day down for breakfast in the captains quarters, nice lady at desk told me it was more select holds about 60 and has a superior range of items on the buffet. She aint joking its a top gig we sit in like a bar bit after we have satisfied her we are part of the admirals floor set. Lady brings us individual pots of delicious coffee. Real linen napkins this is impressive. I skip the fruit and get straight into ham(jambon) turkey (dinde) and cheese (fromage) with a croissant. Most enjoyable. Back to the room then off to the park on the big yellow bus.
In to the park and straight into fantasyland where we do lancelots carousel, and Its a small worls - Allys fave.Top stuff.
2nd day down for breakfast in the captains quarters, nice lady at desk told me it was more select holds about 60 and has a superior range of items on the buffet. She aint joking its a top gig we sit in like a bar bit after we have satisfied her we are part of the admirals floor set. Lady brings us individual pots of delicious coffee. Real linen napkins this is impressive. I skip the fruit and get straight into ham(jambon) turkey (dinde) and cheese (fromage) with a croissant. Most enjoyable. Back to the room then off to the park on the big yellow bus.
In to the park and straight into fantasyland where we do lancelots carousel, and Its a small worls - Allys fave.Top stuff.
Dlp next bit
i should just explain how we come to be at DLP. The keen blog followers will recall my success in the Nursing Standard awards. Well with the 500squid prize money I was keen to do something for Jean and Ally. We toyed with a few days away and christmas shopping. well through the door popped a note from these geezers. It oferred a three night break in DLP at the Newport Bay Club for several hundred less than the asking price. In return you had to sit through the timeshare presentation. that'll do us. Add in a couple of cheap flights from John Lennon Airport with Easyjet and you are laffing. 17 one way not sure about the other but 147 or so all told. Cool.
So we arrive we have stayed at DLP twice before both times at Sequoia Lodge which was dear enuff but this was the next gaff up. Both times we qualified as Mickeys special friends - ie the disabled. First time Jeans Knee was in Plaster and the second time I was at me worst physically. We have to report to the Admirals desk. A separate part of the checkin area. Slightly removed from the bustle of the ordinary punter. Top stuff, we get a better room, luggage service, can breakfast in our room for 8 euros can eat brekkie in the captains quarters and we get a free drink for under 12's.
Nice lady takes the info and gives me the Disney ID card tells me to leave bags with grumpy porter and room ready at 3 so oft we go to the park to immerse fully in the DLP experience. We elect to walk around Disney lake to the village then up into the main square. Then its off into Walt Disney Studios This is the new park bit which was under construction last time we was here. Almost immediately we encounter Pluto and goofy. Couple of photo opps, then it is in to the studio one building which is a few shops and a big mcdonalds style gaff. They make pretend movies in there too. Hit the restaurant as thoughts turn to lunch - Ally Double Bacon Cheeseburger - Jean Chicken burger - big boy LASAGNE this is looking good burger joint that sells lorenzo (what nanna clare calls it). it cost an arm and a leg this Euro thing is phasing me -keep thinking they are quids. Then its in to the studio we go off to disney channel france headquarters to see them making a show. Bit crap really, then into some other animation type thing bit better that. Then off on the studio tram tour. A sedate train driven thing which looks poxy till you get into this bit where there is an earthquake, a tanker fire and tidal wave and Jeremy Irons. Then its back to the hotel to claim our room.
So we arrive we have stayed at DLP twice before both times at Sequoia Lodge which was dear enuff but this was the next gaff up. Both times we qualified as Mickeys special friends - ie the disabled. First time Jeans Knee was in Plaster and the second time I was at me worst physically. We have to report to the Admirals desk. A separate part of the checkin area. Slightly removed from the bustle of the ordinary punter. Top stuff, we get a better room, luggage service, can breakfast in our room for 8 euros can eat brekkie in the captains quarters and we get a free drink for under 12's.
Nice lady takes the info and gives me the Disney ID card tells me to leave bags with grumpy porter and room ready at 3 so oft we go to the park to immerse fully in the DLP experience. We elect to walk around Disney lake to the village then up into the main square. Then its off into Walt Disney Studios This is the new park bit which was under construction last time we was here. Almost immediately we encounter Pluto and goofy. Couple of photo opps, then it is in to the studio one building which is a few shops and a big mcdonalds style gaff. They make pretend movies in there too. Hit the restaurant as thoughts turn to lunch - Ally Double Bacon Cheeseburger - Jean Chicken burger - big boy LASAGNE this is looking good burger joint that sells lorenzo (what nanna clare calls it). it cost an arm and a leg this Euro thing is phasing me -keep thinking they are quids. Then its in to the studio we go off to disney channel france headquarters to see them making a show. Bit crap really, then into some other animation type thing bit better that. Then off on the studio tram tour. A sedate train driven thing which looks poxy till you get into this bit where there is an earthquake, a tanker fire and tidal wave and Jeremy Irons. Then its back to the hotel to claim our room.
Saturday, November 29, 2003
DLP
Taxi works out at 9squid bung him the tenner as we arrive there is a queue at the checkin desk. I last flew in about 1990 and Jean last in 1988 on our honeymoon. My last flight to Limerick for work had bee hell I was wedged into the seat, permanently reclining as my massive form pressed the recline button. I kept getting knocked by the stewardesses. This flight would be monumental stepwise following surgery. Checkin Ok and hop upstairs for the cafe and then through into flight side and a bit of duty free. Ally gets stooped after the security check coz of the chain on her Jeans which could be used as a restraint. Get out to the departure gate and in true style we walk to the aircraft an easy jet 737. We take off a bt late, Ally is nervous for her first flight and to be honest I aint the best in aeroplanes. We get a three seat together and settle in. Before you realise it we are seeing Liverpool passing away to the right and turn left and head out across the Wirral and cheshire. Before you know it we are over Brighton and then its clocks forward an hour and final descent to Chaz DG airport. If memory serves it was a top gaff. Wrong we hit terminal three which makes Speke look like a thriving centre of communication. Shed best describes the way it looks. Then its outside to pick up the bus to the park. The VEA Shuttle 14 Euros a piece and sorted. pick it up outside nice newish bus and straight to Our Hotel - The Newport Bay Club.
Wednesday - surprised at the realisation there are two 5 o'clocks
We get up mess about and book a taxi, for the trip to Speke. 7.30 we is booked for on Easyjet to Charles De Gaulle for our journey to Disneyland Paris
Tuesday mood stays low
Feelin pretty grot cancel the dietitans gig at London next week. Well somethings have to go. Touched by the outpouring of genuine human support on the website. Off to the gym for physical exercise, new program with big Steve my soul source of inspiration since Jack departed for pastures new. To be historically correct it was Steve who first oreintated me to the gym. It is a complete revamp. An amazing workout that turns my intensive cardio regime upside down. Steve says my cardio is ok at the mo. I am fitter CV wise than most geezers my age. That shocks me somewhat. Arrive home very late but feel warm and good. I have noticed marked diurnal variation of mood. I definitely have a pooh nights sleep wake up ruminating about 5am then get better as they day goes on. Go off to house group which tonight is at Mal the kitchen mans house. Cept he informs us there aint none tonight. So get home before Jean and Ally take littlepart in the packing as is usual, my contribution is to keep asking have you packed xx, have we got xxx. as ever she has and we have. Get to kip no pills got to get up early
Tuesday, November 25, 2003
Return from the Bear and staff
Something strange has happened the house feels odd the washing machine is on when i return, oh no clean burgulars, Jean scares the life out of me by emerging from the front room. She looks shockin, sent home sick from the place of work. What a fine couple we make.
Go to see Emily and me mum in Broadgreen she dont look well, and isnt sure what they are doing to her. There is no one there for me to ask. Nanny dont like being in there and mum does. Creates an interesting tension. Neither of them are very happy. Home and watch Merseybeat- trash telly but impressive in that I grew up by where there station is and pass it on my way to work.
Go to see Emily and me mum in Broadgreen she dont look well, and isnt sure what they are doing to her. There is no one there for me to ask. Nanny dont like being in there and mum does. Creates an interesting tension. Neither of them are very happy. Home and watch Merseybeat- trash telly but impressive in that I grew up by where there station is and pass it on my way to work.
Monday, November 24, 2003
Morning comes round too quick
Awoken by Alison L who was ringing to sort our lunch date. I had already slept through Jk ringing twice trying to fix the bog. He arrives at 12 and does the job. Ali picks me up and we meet Kim in the Bear and staff. Delicious lunch and excellent company as ever. They really make me laff.
Sunday
Moderators meeting and I struggle along far slower than usual. Concentration is hard and I feel like I am wading through mud. Every move is hard. But I get there. Leave for home about 12.15, we give Noreen and Tilly a lift, exceptional company. Get home and relax. Oversleep after night medication and wake up at 10 on Monday morning.
Saturday
We attend the national meet in Dudley. I aint meself and somehow the spark isn't there. I dont think many notice but I have to work hard to appear OK. It is a fine occaision old friends new friends and inspirations. I am overwhelmed during the opening bit. I really feel I have started something special here. It has touched many many lives. The hotel is fine Jean gets some flowers and Ally a book token. I go to bed earlier than usual at a gig like this and to be honest feel better the next day.
Friday
the up and down of mental health continues feeling better today but aint sure if I am slipping.
Friday, November 21, 2003
the friday five
the friday five
1. List five things you'd like to accomplish by the end of the year.
Sort job out
Get on a even keel mental health wise
Finances sorted
Wlsinfo future sorted
The best Christmas ever
2. List five people you've lost contact with that you'd like to hear from again.
Vision25
Gwyn the pharmacist
Glynn Scott
Colin Butterworth
Simon Frampton
3. List five things you'd like to learn how to do.
Write better HTML
Write serious reports
beg money from companies
keep me mouth shut
ride a bike again
4. List five things you'd do if you won the lottery (no limit).
Buy a bike
sort wlsinfo and emply people full time
pay off me debts
buy a gym and open a fat friendly place
buy some sclaes for Jenny the dietitian
5. List five things you do that help you relax.
read trash fiction
watch amusing tv
go to the gym
walk
real ale
1. List five things you'd like to accomplish by the end of the year.
Sort job out
Get on a even keel mental health wise
Finances sorted
Wlsinfo future sorted
The best Christmas ever
2. List five people you've lost contact with that you'd like to hear from again.
Vision25
Gwyn the pharmacist
Glynn Scott
Colin Butterworth
Simon Frampton
3. List five things you'd like to learn how to do.
Write better HTML
Write serious reports
beg money from companies
keep me mouth shut
ride a bike again
4. List five things you'd do if you won the lottery (no limit).
Buy a bike
sort wlsinfo and emply people full time
pay off me debts
buy a gym and open a fat friendly place
buy some sclaes for Jenny the dietitian
5. List five things you do that help you relax.
read trash fiction
watch amusing tv
go to the gym
walk
real ale
Blogger on the Cast Iron Balcony
I like this one from down under, certainly makes me smile.Blogger on the Cast Iron
Thursday, November 20, 2003
Wednesday Evening
Mum rings me nan has been transferred to Ward 11 Broadgreen Hospital and Kathleen wants pickin up at 6.30. i will oblige. Prepare a more basic tea for us, chicken lasagne for Jean Cheeseburger for Ally and finest beef lasagne for me. Top stuff. Off to get mum and Ally joins me. Then a nip to Tesco for essentials score some pork steaks for the girls tea. Jean shoots to house group, I watch some dreadful gender swap thing called reversals. Sleep is poor with some very disturbing dreams which make me feel I am slipping. They keep me awake for about half an hour but that time of the morning aint good. Mebbe more active steps required to manage low mood. Still unable to concentrate for more than five consecutive minutes. And old frienfd the light box is broken out. To be onest I would try anything to keep this stuff at bay.
Wednesday, November 19, 2003
Wednesday - the man comes to fix me plumbing
Or rather JK does. After much grunting from the bathroom, he has, after all, had a BPD/DS. In fact I think he was the firstdone in the UK. he has had top results and it hasnt affected his plumbing (skills) at all. A top job well done. He returns the Clare throne to a vastly improved measure of health and strength. Cant wait to try it under combat conditions. Yup its true bariatric surgery compounds any pre-exsisting bowel obsessions. In fact the free discussion of said stuff encourages it. Jk has fixed the curtain rail an all, top man. And he has started framing the certificates that we have won prior to showing them. Nursing standard arrives and we get some exposure in the news section. Also covered in the Gastrointestinal Journal which was nice.
Off to the gym and a top workout. A member I aint seen for a while fails to recognise me. She says it because I was running, a bit out of context for me I supose. Then a guy appears on the next treadmill. A good jogger, he recognises me from the echo - respect he says, nice guy a milkman.
Off to the caff and its mushroom soup today good for the souls some prawns which I cant finish. I engaged the chef in conversation the other day he now cements our relationship with extra food. Not good I parcel it up and feed it to a cat outside.
Off for a walk in the park to the aviary cafe, a very strange place indeed. Treat meself to a Mr Whippy.
Off to the gym and a top workout. A member I aint seen for a while fails to recognise me. She says it because I was running, a bit out of context for me I supose. Then a guy appears on the next treadmill. A good jogger, he recognises me from the echo - respect he says, nice guy a milkman.
Off to the caff and its mushroom soup today good for the souls some prawns which I cant finish. I engaged the chef in conversation the other day he now cements our relationship with extra food. Not good I parcel it up and feed it to a cat outside.
Off for a walk in the park to the aviary cafe, a very strange place indeed. Treat meself to a Mr Whippy.
Tuesday Afternoon
Off to the Bear and Staff in Gateacre with Kim and Andy, stalwart companions from the finance team in the matchworks. A pint of prawns works well for me in the absence of soup. I repair to Tesco Woolton to cah in my script and shop for tea. Back home and I retire to bed for an hour and half sleep comes quickly and is refreshing. I awake and prepare the meal. Steak and chips for Jean and Cheeseburger and chips for Ally. Salmon and prawns hot with a garlic butter sauce suffices for me.
Mother rings with the news that Nanny Banks is negotiating A&E at RLUH " the Royal" as it is known. Not good and mums scrambler is set maximum encryption so I elect to wait till a personal meeting can sort it. I arrange to meet her at 7 at the front entrance. Nanny still aint been admitted, and I whip mum home. I go in and chat and after fearsome interrogation it would appear that me Nan has cellulitis, though this is on top of chronic acopia.
Off to cell group via Tesco for petrol and a satisfying time with Romans 5. Arrive home ten past ten they are a fine bunch there and most uplifting. My private meditation focuses around release from fear and fund raising to pay for Saturdays meeting.
Mother rings with the news that Nanny Banks is negotiating A&E at RLUH " the Royal" as it is known. Not good and mums scrambler is set maximum encryption so I elect to wait till a personal meeting can sort it. I arrange to meet her at 7 at the front entrance. Nanny still aint been admitted, and I whip mum home. I go in and chat and after fearsome interrogation it would appear that me Nan has cellulitis, though this is on top of chronic acopia.
Off to cell group via Tesco for petrol and a satisfying time with Romans 5. Arrive home ten past ten they are a fine bunch there and most uplifting. My private meditation focuses around release from fear and fund raising to pay for Saturdays meeting.
Tuesday, November 18, 2003
Off to the doc
I help JK load Big ken into his van for necessary repair work and transport to Dudley. It has been decreed that bigboy and I cannot travel in the same vehicle for fear of accident, bit like the royals. I away to see Frank for a 11am slot. Arrive at 5 to the hour. Frank did once confuse me by being ready on the dot. This guy is quality primary care writ large you dont get the allotted 10mins with Frankie. I had taken the Guardian and the Bible JK gave me and read the excellent letters to Mr Bush in G2 Online here as well as an Amusing Steve Bell. top stuff. Get in about 12.05 and given 25 mins top listening, diagnosing treating holistic primary care.
Whilst waiting the demons have worked overtime I think of the many times I have sa in this waiting room feeling worthless and wretched with a fear I am slipping down that road again. Frank recognises this phenomena well, and drills down beyond it to get to where I am at. He postulates two theories
1) I am exhausted anxious stressed and reacting normally and actively managing meself.
2) I am at the start of a depressive phase.
We agree to agree on option 1. Which on reflection feels like where I am. Its a bit like a steep sided pit with greasy inclining walls feeling like it has drawn me in. The very fact I have taken the steps I have convinces him and I that I have hold of some rail at the side and am crawling back up that wall. No psychotopics save for a script for sedatives. A dependency for which he would prefer to my current alcohol induced sleep pattern.
The spectre that I may have Bipolar Affective Disorder still looms large and the very fear may actually do more harm than the real disease. I seem to have retained my cognitive behavioural techniques in managing my depressive thoughts. We pray together and discuss at length the balances necessary between work, family, self and God. Cell group tonight.
I have messed my zinc up as well I have been self medicatin with 30mgs a day and he prescribes 250mg. Dunderhead I am.
Whilst waiting the demons have worked overtime I think of the many times I have sa in this waiting room feeling worthless and wretched with a fear I am slipping down that road again. Frank recognises this phenomena well, and drills down beyond it to get to where I am at. He postulates two theories
1) I am exhausted anxious stressed and reacting normally and actively managing meself.
2) I am at the start of a depressive phase.
We agree to agree on option 1. Which on reflection feels like where I am. Its a bit like a steep sided pit with greasy inclining walls feeling like it has drawn me in. The very fact I have taken the steps I have convinces him and I that I have hold of some rail at the side and am crawling back up that wall. No psychotopics save for a script for sedatives. A dependency for which he would prefer to my current alcohol induced sleep pattern.
The spectre that I may have Bipolar Affective Disorder still looms large and the very fear may actually do more harm than the real disease. I seem to have retained my cognitive behavioural techniques in managing my depressive thoughts. We pray together and discuss at length the balances necessary between work, family, self and God. Cell group tonight.
I have messed my zinc up as well I have been self medicatin with 30mgs a day and he prescribes 250mg. Dunderhead I am.
JK's visit
The lad and I share the inevitable WLS conversations, and we share thoughts on fluids and appearance of urine. His level approach is much appreciated. He has arrived bearing gifts a small bible and a witty book about management. I encourage him to drink more and we plan a walk later in the week. He is also helping in some practical ways, repairing the leaking bog and the curtain rail in the head office of wlssinfo (small bedroom). Both are key bariatric tasks. The bog for obvious reasons - I wonder if he should set up as a bariatric plumber, the market is there and their needs are very special. No beast would frighten that boy. The curtain rail equally important as it will protect me from the prying eyes of the local community as I don novelty headgear for Kencam.
He is also undertaking some framing projects. Top stuff. He commences on site tomorrow.
He is also undertaking some framing projects. Top stuff. He commences on site tomorrow.
Plan for today
Arisen, and wait for JK to come round an inspirational figure with I believe the most visually dramatic effects of WLS I have seen. He also has the dubious honour of being (we believe) the first NHS open Bilio-pancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch. We are still looking for others but whatever way he was the first in the pool. This is now the Rolls Royce of the Bariatric world. With the laprascopic version being the gold standard. It has a far more malabsorpitve element that my Ford Escort RNY. still more of that later and here is pulling up in the great white van.
Tuesday - chemical hangover
Assessing the quality and quantity of your own sleep is notioriously difficult, what seems like an age at night might just be moments. I remember early morning wakening from when I was depressed and I aint got that. Jean wisely as ever sums it up with - you didnt switch the light on, meaning I didnt do that bad. Inevitably at times like that I turn to man fiction, Andy Mcnab, chris Ryan, Tom Clancy that sort of genre. Escapism done large, no great literary shakes but diversion in extremis. Worrying vibes about the cost of the November meet, once again WLSINFO teeters on the financial knifeedge though hoping that Rebeccas letters will bear fruit, she wisely tells me not to worry as she will sort it out, which once again means one of us shelling out cash till we can recover it later. What we need is a member to touch the jackpot on the lottery or whatever its called. Set us up for life and sort these petty worries. Had an interesting talk with a geezer at the gastro gig last week. He couldnt believe it wasnt a suscription service. I decided day one it would forever be free while I was involved. The obese have already been mugged too many times by scamsters. Besides I know we have helped many people who have never even joined. People say even a tenner, well I know how much a tenner can be, and how little when you are well off. I have also been touched by the generosity of members and friends in the past.
Sponsorship now there is a can of worms, there is internecine strife about whose shillings we should take, me at the mo - anyones, so long as its legal decent honest and minimal sponsorship. The thought that some one would miss out on something coz I was too principled to take a ton off say slimfast or Macdonalds sticks in the craw. So plan, charity status to be sorted and Kim my mate who has experience in such professional scrounging will help sort us.
Sponsorship now there is a can of worms, there is internecine strife about whose shillings we should take, me at the mo - anyones, so long as its legal decent honest and minimal sponsorship. The thought that some one would miss out on something coz I was too principled to take a ton off say slimfast or Macdonalds sticks in the craw. So plan, charity status to be sorted and Kim my mate who has experience in such professional scrounging will help sort us.
Monday, November 17, 2003
Notes from a small curate
John Davies - About me As a spirituality fix i check out Johns site. Top geezer did me mate Peters funeral. Nice blog too.
50 bar pump
Pump Pics 30 This fella gets worse. This is another pic of the New Mercedes Atego RP's from South Yorkshire.
They are very powerful machines and drive like a sports car.
This one (Y483 HWE - Mansfield Road) is showing off it's wears with all it's lockers open.
The pumps on these monsters are able to pump at 50 bar whereas the more conventional and
more widely used pumps only pump around 35 bar!
They are very powerful machines and drive like a sports car.
This one (Y483 HWE - Mansfield Road) is showing off it's wears with all it's lockers open.
The pumps on these monsters are able to pump at 50 bar whereas the more conventional and
more widely used pumps only pump around 35 bar!
Welcome To Fire Appliances UK
Welcome To Fire Appliances UK This is a cracker the poor webmasters photos are all mixed up as well and I like the captioning.."This is a Special Rescue Unit (SRU) or also known as an Operations
Support Unit (OSU) from Bedfordshire Fire & Rescue Service. It carries some
large and heavy rescue equipment. It has a large hydraulic crane on the rear which
can be used for a number of uses (use your imagination!)
It is a Mercedes Benz appliance. "
Use your imagination .....these pictures send my imagination running. Before the reader thinks I am a sad also ran who fantasises about being in the emrgency services - I was a retained firefighter for over three years. Its a long amusing story which I have recounted after good dinners. The trauma has subsided with time but Winwick Hospital Voluntary Fire Brigade was a serious business.
I attended hundreds of false alarms some serious waste paper bin fires and a couple of big shouts. but though we were trumptonesque in appearance and deployment. We got to ride in the county boys big red engines with what is now called Blues and Twos - and I defy most blokes to say they dont fancy doin that.
Support Unit (OSU) from Bedfordshire Fire & Rescue Service. It carries some
large and heavy rescue equipment. It has a large hydraulic crane on the rear which
can be used for a number of uses (use your imagination!)
It is a Mercedes Benz appliance. "
Use your imagination .....these pictures send my imagination running. Before the reader thinks I am a sad also ran who fantasises about being in the emrgency services - I was a retained firefighter for over three years. Its a long amusing story which I have recounted after good dinners. The trauma has subsided with time but Winwick Hospital Voluntary Fire Brigade was a serious business.
I attended hundreds of false alarms some serious waste paper bin fires and a couple of big shouts. but though we were trumptonesque in appearance and deployment. We got to ride in the county boys big red engines with what is now called Blues and Twos - and I defy most blokes to say they dont fancy doin that.
Lorryspotting.com - The UK's BIGGEST Lorry Database
Lorryspotting.com - The UK's BIGGEST Lorry Database I have to make do with this no way 25 quid I'll content meself with shouting Eddie and Nobby as I drive around. Its like one of these tantalising porn sites I get sent to my hotmail account. Flirtatious shots of some serious vehicles with the promise of great stuff available inside - no thanks.
Crane spotter blues
drivin home on Friday I heard a dhow on Radio 4 about crane spotters and the pointed here Ainscough spotters its been given a 404 everytime I been there. Now as a webmaster with a penchant for publicity I know how much that must sting. Poor sad souls.
I never felt more like singin the blues............
Feels a biy fuzzy here at the moment, a good day on reflection but there feels like an awful lot I have to do, like email people at work with details of stuff left undone, and feels like so hard to do it. I have listened to upliftin music - Relayer possibly me fave album of the mo. Been to the gym and worked hard, with a tangible set of shape changes going on. Noticed the appearance of a clearly delineated muscle in my right bicep. Not very remarkable you may think but for a boy who had sand kicked in his face and dreamt of a Bullworker its a funny feeling. Something about PE at school gave me an allergic reaction, I think it was the rapidly changing bodies, the smells, the hint of suggestions about the teachers sexuality. The fact the PE teachers were bullies didnt help with SO eddie joe and JP and tom lacey watch out, tom lacey was a music teacher who just enjoyed the ridicule aspect. Anyway Ken Clare 1 gyms 0 for the first time in this boys life.
Lots of reflection and a bit of soul searching today, feel a chemically assisted (POM) slumber will assist greatly.
Lots of reflection and a bit of soul searching today, feel a chemically assisted (POM) slumber will assist greatly.
Monday
Speak to Caroline from HR about my health, she is a cool dude and dead supportive. Feel so much better just by taking a bit of control. Go to the gym and have a great workout workin on the theory that endorphins are good for the soul. Nice crew in there and Cath as always is delightful. Lunch at the gym mushroom and asparagus soup with some prawns top gear and 3.60. Head over to Tesco to purchase some spuds an onion gravy gear as the basis for a good meal for the girls tonight. Ally will revolt at the thought of mash so I buy some oven chips - less than 5% fat. Sossies in the fridge bangers and mash good soul food. I'll have lasagne. Feelin jaded and need to work at this gig with frank tomorrow at 11. He will sort me out. The news of Tom Kierans brother law has upset me. Suicide is such a waste, and the fact I once contemplated seriously still sends a shiver.
Shopping nightmare continues
Need to go to tesco to get the stuff the previous two shops didnt pick up. End up in Tescos Old swan an altogether better Tesco exxperience. Dinner goes well we cok chilli and salmon and prawn pasta. Pudd is ice cream, black forest cake, rice strudel and any old mix. Paul as ever is a treat. They scoot and its on to the website. Jean takes a kip its smoked salmon and prawns for tea. Chat room at 6pm and a relaxing evening during which I sign off protem from WLSINFO. I am tired and stressed anit coping well at work. Too many bits of the job that dont suit my skill set. I am messing up big time and it is in serious danger of dragging me down. So the plan see Frank ASAP, get to the gym, look after meself and rest.
Saturday Night strange nightmare stuff
Go to pick me mam up. Nanny looks shocking and I am worried. She fell asleep on the stairlift and woke up a 4am. Mum looks dreaful toand her stools indicate further liver probs. Stop at Sommerfielsd then off to Tesco.
It is the Winwick hospital staff reunion at the Winwick club. I pick Mickey and adair up and we wander that way. Car park is full club is full. The 12 saturday night regulars aint impressed.
It appears to have been organised by Terry Flaherty who was a young nursing officer when I started there in 1979. I am one of the youngest there it would appear. Some names to conjure with Dot Dicks doesnt recognise me - till I speak. Infact no one recognises me. Wally Gomersall Dave McKendrick malcolm price pat price Rocky McAuley brenda henderson Frank carroll
Nell gwynne, pam someone and Jackie Maguire. Jackie and I were an Item many years ago - she aint seen me for 20odd years she thought I looked ill. She should have seen me a year ago. I take Mickey home and leave adair pressing the flesh he is a few years older than us.
get home and chill with some red wine watching the repeated BAFTA tribute to Billy Connolly.
It is the Winwick hospital staff reunion at the Winwick club. I pick Mickey and adair up and we wander that way. Car park is full club is full. The 12 saturday night regulars aint impressed.
It appears to have been organised by Terry Flaherty who was a young nursing officer when I started there in 1979. I am one of the youngest there it would appear. Some names to conjure with Dot Dicks doesnt recognise me - till I speak. Infact no one recognises me. Wally Gomersall Dave McKendrick malcolm price pat price Rocky McAuley brenda henderson Frank carroll
Nell gwynne, pam someone and Jackie Maguire. Jackie and I were an Item many years ago - she aint seen me for 20odd years she thought I looked ill. She should have seen me a year ago. I take Mickey home and leave adair pressing the flesh he is a few years older than us.
get home and chill with some red wine watching the repeated BAFTA tribute to Billy Connolly.
Saturday, November 15, 2003
who says I am predictable
Saturday Morning – a change from the usual routine. The girls seem content to lie in, I rise from my slumbers about 7.30. Site is kewl and a bit of a mooch later and the girls get up. Becky from NGFK the pr darrrlings has forwarded my press pack on.
Fo a break in tradition I declare it necessary to hit the gym before noon. In a new found enthusiasm I am determined to get my full routine in. It’s a while since I managed this so it proves to be interesting. Perhaps it would be timely to list the current workout.
30minutes on the treadmill, go like billy-oh to do 3k which I achieve in a PB 26.50.
12 mins on the top xt a device you pedal with your hands.
12 mins on the bike 5k covered.
Machine you sit in and lift a bar with your legs 2x15 sets 35kg
Machine you sit in and push a bar with your legs 2x15 sets 35kg
2x15 sets of free standing squats, I perform a squat holding two dumbbells and hold. This is cunningly designed for max humiliation also to make you feel like you need a pooh.
Then its on to the lat pull down 2x15 – my favourite machine always makes me feel like I can lift weights.
2 x 15 on a machine you push a bar forward
2x15 on the vertical row – like that one.
2x15 on the pec deck – that hurts.
2x15 on the triceps press.
Then its down to the end of the gym for my benchwork – see I even know the lingo.
2x15 6kg arms at the side then straight out and hold
2x15 8kg arms at side then lift and hold directly in front of you
2x15 8kg sort of dumbbell lift – my fave coz you can see the muscle.
A good time on the way round talking to jimmy, ex-soldier and tennis champeen. And Kath part time gym worker part time learning disabilities student. She’s a cool dude.
Lunch in the restaurant, is tomato and basil soup and six griddled prawns – good stuff.
Then back home and whip Ally to Borders for a read – it is the busiest I have ever seen it. Saw Shirley who used to work in the team she is a Ggrade on the IV team at Garston now.
Fo a break in tradition I declare it necessary to hit the gym before noon. In a new found enthusiasm I am determined to get my full routine in. It’s a while since I managed this so it proves to be interesting. Perhaps it would be timely to list the current workout.
30minutes on the treadmill, go like billy-oh to do 3k which I achieve in a PB 26.50.
12 mins on the top xt a device you pedal with your hands.
12 mins on the bike 5k covered.
Machine you sit in and lift a bar with your legs 2x15 sets 35kg
Machine you sit in and push a bar with your legs 2x15 sets 35kg
2x15 sets of free standing squats, I perform a squat holding two dumbbells and hold. This is cunningly designed for max humiliation also to make you feel like you need a pooh.
Then its on to the lat pull down 2x15 – my favourite machine always makes me feel like I can lift weights.
2 x 15 on a machine you push a bar forward
2x15 on the vertical row – like that one.
2x15 on the pec deck – that hurts.
2x15 on the triceps press.
Then its down to the end of the gym for my benchwork – see I even know the lingo.
2x15 6kg arms at the side then straight out and hold
2x15 8kg arms at side then lift and hold directly in front of you
2x15 8kg sort of dumbbell lift – my fave coz you can see the muscle.
A good time on the way round talking to jimmy, ex-soldier and tennis champeen. And Kath part time gym worker part time learning disabilities student. She’s a cool dude.
Lunch in the restaurant, is tomato and basil soup and six griddled prawns – good stuff.
Then back home and whip Ally to Borders for a read – it is the busiest I have ever seen it. Saw Shirley who used to work in the team she is a Ggrade on the IV team at Garston now.
miserable journey home
terriible night on the m6 stop in tesco woolton on the way home. good to be back. Girls go out to allys school prizegiving.
Friday, November 14, 2003
Friday
Woke at 7.20, feeling a sense of trepidation. The hotel is pretty cool and the telly alarm goes off at 7.30. Wander down for breakfast, see Dawn and Paul on the way in and sit with Brian and Jane, and another RCN events lady.
Drive over to the international conference centre, parked up, suss out the registration desk and check in. Scoot round the exhibition. Suss out the RCN publishing desk and pick up some copies of the gastroenterology mag. Get interviewed by a journo from Nursing Standard. I have decided to launch the national support line on the back of the presentation today. Chill with a coffee whilst waiting for the 11o’clock gig.
Nip out to the car and pick up cardboard Ken. He causes a wow factor as usual.
Top set up twin screens mike lcd screen for speaker and fully miked. Paul helps to reassure me by telling me he always panics before speaking.
Dawn Elliot the chair of the forum gives me a really good introduction and I step up. Cardboard Ken gets the wow and there seems a genuine warm buzz. I am playing for laffs and getting them. I also slip in several pooh jokes and even the Labrador gets an airing. A chunner from Paul and Dawn looks mortified. But I get a top reception and I feel sorry for the joint award winner Gill who is following me.
I sit down and feel terrified. Went well and bit of a buzz to be honest. Jills talk goes down well and she has done some top stuff with the faecally incontinent. Having ridden that way before but fortunately avoided frequent flyer status I feel real empathy and sympathy with them.
Slow transit constipation is a an interesting one.
Then its own for the main man Liam Donaldson impressive geezer and good talk like his thoughts on expert patients. After his talk he asks will I have me foto done with him and cardboard Ken. No danger jimmy.Full media whore strikes again top[ stuff. I then get invited into a secret room where we get a yukky lunch but a chance to meet the man. He seems to be very interested and to be honest I am impressed. I OF COURSE BABBLE RUBBISH BUT. i do me best. Apols for the caps lock but I am too tired to correct. Whip down to the hall then and get engaged by a few people top stuff. A lady wanted to speak to me on a issue for a relly. I was whisked off to speak to the CMO. I hope she emails me. Then a frankly odd presentation from someone at the RCN some very odd attitudes on display. Then a top nurse from Sheffield who is doing a biut there. She scoots off before I could contact her and I need to collar her, email jobbie me thinks.
Drive over to the international conference centre, parked up, suss out the registration desk and check in. Scoot round the exhibition. Suss out the RCN publishing desk and pick up some copies of the gastroenterology mag. Get interviewed by a journo from Nursing Standard. I have decided to launch the national support line on the back of the presentation today. Chill with a coffee whilst waiting for the 11o’clock gig.
Nip out to the car and pick up cardboard Ken. He causes a wow factor as usual.
Top set up twin screens mike lcd screen for speaker and fully miked. Paul helps to reassure me by telling me he always panics before speaking.
Dawn Elliot the chair of the forum gives me a really good introduction and I step up. Cardboard Ken gets the wow and there seems a genuine warm buzz. I am playing for laffs and getting them. I also slip in several pooh jokes and even the Labrador gets an airing. A chunner from Paul and Dawn looks mortified. But I get a top reception and I feel sorry for the joint award winner Gill who is following me.
I sit down and feel terrified. Went well and bit of a buzz to be honest. Jills talk goes down well and she has done some top stuff with the faecally incontinent. Having ridden that way before but fortunately avoided frequent flyer status I feel real empathy and sympathy with them.
Slow transit constipation is a an interesting one.
Then its own for the main man Liam Donaldson impressive geezer and good talk like his thoughts on expert patients. After his talk he asks will I have me foto done with him and cardboard Ken. No danger jimmy.Full media whore strikes again top[ stuff. I then get invited into a secret room where we get a yukky lunch but a chance to meet the man. He seems to be very interested and to be honest I am impressed. I OF COURSE BABBLE RUBBISH BUT. i do me best. Apols for the caps lock but I am too tired to correct. Whip down to the hall then and get engaged by a few people top stuff. A lady wanted to speak to me on a issue for a relly. I was whisked off to speak to the CMO. I hope she emails me. Then a frankly odd presentation from someone at the RCN some very odd attitudes on display. Then a top nurse from Sheffield who is doing a biut there. She scoots off before I could contact her and I need to collar her, email jobbie me thinks.
Thursday
couple of catch up meetings. Veronica confides that she uses the blog to keep up with what I am up to. Then off to Hammy for a meet with EMIS.
Over the waater to the wirral and head for the M6 arrrive telford about 6.30. The telford branch of The holiday inn. top gaff free slippers and a lady calls to turn you down (bed actually) but as i is starkers she makes do with passing me two chocs as I pour meself into the dressing gown. Dignity maintained at all times. Then a walk over to the conference venue.
Meet the delightful Dawn ans her partner Paul top pair and they inform me I am on the top table cool. Sit next to paul a cool dude ex RAF energetic geezer, with a raft of good ideas. Angry old git though so we get on well, till he tells me he used to drink at the marquee with Yes. We take a few tinctures together and are soon old friends. Other side of me is Brian RCN events man - top fella. Feel a bit out of it when the dancin starts and paul and i retreat to the bar. True old gits we sit at the side moaning about everything a soul mate. I convince him of the therapeutic nature of blogging. Back to the hotel bar where we are joined later by Dawn, they retreat to bed I aint far behind. Minor incident in that I couldnt get in to me room but soon sorted.
Over the waater to the wirral and head for the M6 arrrive telford about 6.30. The telford branch of The holiday inn. top gaff free slippers and a lady calls to turn you down (bed actually) but as i is starkers she makes do with passing me two chocs as I pour meself into the dressing gown. Dignity maintained at all times. Then a walk over to the conference venue.
Meet the delightful Dawn ans her partner Paul top pair and they inform me I am on the top table cool. Sit next to paul a cool dude ex RAF energetic geezer, with a raft of good ideas. Angry old git though so we get on well, till he tells me he used to drink at the marquee with Yes. We take a few tinctures together and are soon old friends. Other side of me is Brian RCN events man - top fella. Feel a bit out of it when the dancin starts and paul and i retreat to the bar. True old gits we sit at the side moaning about everything a soul mate. I convince him of the therapeutic nature of blogging. Back to the hotel bar where we are joined later by Dawn, they retreat to bed I aint far behind. Minor incident in that I couldnt get in to me room but soon sorted.
Wednesday
Strategic planning & primary care directorate meeting this am. First meeting with Eileen the new Modernisation person. Then a gang of people from Sheffield come across to talk about a computer system interesting with Linda and John in attendance. Then off to tescos with kim to pick up lunch.
Tuesday
Meet with Dabe who is going for a new job and has approached me for advice, do the best I can for him. Rest of the day spent catching up.
Off to cell group at Jacks this evening a very pleasant two hour and an oasis in the middle of a busy week.
Off to cell group at Jacks this evening a very pleasant two hour and an oasis in the middle of a busy week.
The Onion | Mom Finds Out About Blog
The Onion | Mom Finds Out About BlogIts a bit rude but it made me smile.
Tuesday, November 11, 2003
Monday Morning
A busy day ahead. I start with a early morning heads and fran, useful stuff, but we over run and I cancel finance Andy. Finish off PEC paper and thanks to Kim for impccable proof reading skills. Off to lunch with Lesley, a delightful lady I have for a long time we reminisce then talk about tele medicine. The Bear and Staff is fine. Vegetable soup and prawns. Then back to the works for a sparsely attended Informatics working group. Still goes well and Bob is pleased with my strategy paper. We retire to Starbucks/ Borders for an americano/latte. top stuff. he makes me feel enthusiastic about informatics and valued. He surprises me with an enthusiasm for Jazz, but the fact he likes Michael Moore does not shock. Off home and then fish for tea. Website business and a couple of funny emails.
Roosters Yankee
products I engage in several pints of Yankee which is delicious. Fruity and yup lychees. Jk and I laff out loud. Heaven knows what any eavesdropping punter thinks of our conversation. We must do this more often. I pledge to make the Liverpool Bariatric Real Ale Society a reality.
Ship & Mitre, Premier Real Ale Pub in Liverpool
Ship & Mitre, Premier Real Ale Pub in LiverpoolSpent a pleasant evening here with JK and great news to see the web site is updated at last.
Sunday
Chill in the mornin then its off to Mary and Johns to install the new Dell. Top gear with a 17"TFT - kewl. Takes a while to set up and I had forgotten the joys of downloading a three meg Norton patch via a 56k dialup. Sweeeet delight. Delicious lunch cooked by nervous sister, concious that pre-op bot would have been quantity focusse she provides a toothsome meal and a delightful Beef in red wine. Most enjoyable.
Sunday, November 09, 2003
Saturday
News of the day
Jog 3k in 27mins - which impresses me. But break the 17 stone barrier I am now at a lean 16st 13lb thats 17 stone gone. officially halfthe man I was. Top banana. Take the award memorobilia to show me mam and me nan. Nan looks a bit rough really tired and drowsy, not good at all. Pick Ally up drop mum off and then off to Borders/starbucks. BAd news the GPRS signal in there is pants. Not good.
Jog 3k in 27mins - which impresses me. But break the 17 stone barrier I am now at a lean 16st 13lb thats 17 stone gone. officially halfthe man I was. Top banana. Take the award memorobilia to show me mam and me nan. Nan looks a bit rough really tired and drowsy, not good at all. Pick Ally up drop mum off and then off to Borders/starbucks. BAd news the GPRS signal in there is pants. Not good.
Friday
Off to hammy and the excellent fran - respect helps me put the PEC paper to bed. I hit the LIS portal news section dated 07/11/03. Infamy.
Wednesday
Caught up in the office and thought throyugh a lot of things. Team meeting, they are a gret bunch. Then its up to North PCT looked for a website for them but cant find one. We go off to the glass and bottle or bottle and glass out near rainford. Top banana. I have a pint of prawns, Paulis doing the atkins so goes for a caesar salad. I should know more about atkins really coz people often assume I am an expert on things diet related which I aint. Met a dietitian at the NOF gig who had wrote Diet trials as promised I got a copy in the post today.
After an intense and high level of strategic intent with Paul I end my day at Aintree. David is of course late, weare talking to a bunch of GP's about Bariatrics. They are a bit of a tough audience, more interested in the free freebies than anything, he gives a good talk which me and a few others enjoy. He cunningly doesnt mention that I have had surgery so the first pic is a pre-op of me and me nan. They are impressed, no one slept through my talk. Then its off home.
After an intense and high level of strategic intent with Paul I end my day at Aintree. David is of course late, weare talking to a bunch of GP's about Bariatrics. They are a bit of a tough audience, more interested in the free freebies than anything, he gives a good talk which me and a few others enjoy. He cunningly doesnt mention that I have had surgery so the first pic is a pre-op of me and me nan. They are impressed, no one slept through my talk. Then its off home.
Saturday, November 08, 2003
Thursday, November 06, 2003
Wednesday, November 05, 2003
London trip
Left in a taxi for lime street, in plenty of time. Saw Jonesy getting the train to Manchester. Great bloke ribbed him about putting on weight. Then Ruth bumped into us outside Costa Coffee. Then we saw Cath from Greenbank on her way to uni. A bit of shopping for essentials, then on to the 9.15 from Limes street. RCN had booked us in 2nd class coach A seats 1&2, as far from the buffet as was possible. Surprisingly ok as an experience Jean was cold had a bit of a kip and I played with various gadgetry. Only glitch was the trolley service running out of hot water aas it arrived at our seat. I comforted meself with a bag of crisps, which made me feel a bit sick. Arrived at Euston on time and made off to the Lancaster Gate Hotel. First mistake get told we aint stopping there. Meet twogeezers from Leeds in the same boat so we are told we are staying in the thistle round the corner – no sweat. Get to the thistle hydepark and told no it’s the other thistle round the corner. Getting a bit browned off with this now. They haven’t heard of us at all. Not good leave the luggage and hotfoot it back for a media briefing at the Lancaster. Arrive late and hungry, get squeezed into a green nursing standard t-shirt and walk to hyde park for a photoshoot. 14 of us looking total lemons (or mebbe limes). Approach a kiosk in the bar but the only fare on offer was fried or big docker butties. Manage to pinch two prawn butties off clare the RCN publishing lady and events co-ordinator.
Then asked would I speak to the Daily mail, nice journo but definitely not taking the angle I fancied. Try to convince her of the message but who knows it’s the daily mail after all.
She is interviewing a cross section of us – most of the speculation amongst the winners is interpreting every event into a view about who has won. Suppose I am thinking that way too. Some geezers are kipping in the Lancaster gate whilst the majority of us are in the thistle. The other gastro lady winner is in the Lancaster gate with four guests all paid for by the sponsors, nice work. Still Jean tells me she uses their gear in her clinical work. Mebbe I could get some sponsorship for the site?
Then into a briefing by Jean the editor of Nursing Standard then into the main hall for a rehearsal. Linda editor in chief of RCN publishing gives us a pep talk. She is one shrewd dude – I warm to her immediately. She gives us a run through and tells us what to expect. She also talks about what to do if you are the winner. Don’t get rooted to the spot. We have a walk through and I walk the wrong way down the steps.
Jean has meanwhile go to do battle over the room and succeeds though we have to change our name by deed poll to Clark. Several other cock ups in there as well. The arrival of coachloads of Russian football supporters just makes things worse.
We get finished up and then Gareth(mens health Sally Army boy) and Elly (leg ulcer club lady) and I walk back to the thistle.
Manage to stop Jean dropping off and we chat and she falls asleep. I amuse myself on the laptop and trying to get their broadband working with me laptop. Doesn't work so GPRS for me.
Wake Jean at 5.30 and start getting ready, leave at 6.15 and if I say so meself we look a fine couple. Arrive at the place and it’s the real mccoy.
Red Jacketed toastmaster lady greeting at door then introducing you to the Prez,Gen secretary of the RCN and editor of Nursing standard. Unfortunately toast lady takes a baccy break as we pull up and I say Hiya to Sylvia and Bev meself. Introduce Jean and get a drink. We are on table 1 the top table with John Reid, Sylvia El Presidente, Bev General Secretary, Linda chief editor lady, Jean Editor lady, some doc who can salsa Who turns out to be a Prof, and another award winner who was nurse of the year in Bermuda some time ago. Wahoo we have arrived. Meet with Gareth and his missus who look as uncomfortable as us. Joined by Jan Sneddon from South Sefton. Jenny and Chris Sudell join us and I shocked by how il Jenny looks, she is zonked on analgesics and has taken to a wheel chair. She is splendidly irreverent as ever. She tells me her ploy is to claim she has Tourettes and shout random abuse throughout the evening. She nominated me for this and wants me to win more than I do.Speculation then about which table you are on and how that effects yer chances. Our location is seen as a good omen. I try desperately not to hope too much but its hard as I have already mentally spent three times any prize money. Get some photos done with Nursing student commendee who is brickin it more than me, two other confident ladies. It is the geezer from the daily mail whom is a nice bloke but has dirt on his shoes. The geezer running the stage aint impressed and follows him with a big piece of sellotape. Out comes big ken, for a photo, well the girls are impressed for sure. Then back into the drinks and toastie lady calls us in. Most just sit down but we follow the lead and stand behind our chairs till madame presidente sits down. I am sat next to Linda, she seems one top geezer and is doing the work presenting the gig. She tells me she don’t take any sauce before, but tells me it is my solemn duty to stash some liquer for her for afterwards – sorted. She goes off and starts the show. Have to confess to being close to tears at her and sylvias words. They say some really nice things about the award winners and how special we all are.
When she sits down I tell her she done good, and through the meal she confirms my suspicions that she is one top geezer. She gives me loads of encouragement to use this year to do all sorts and she wants to be kept informed.
Starter was a big mushroom with chopped mushrooms and parmesan didn’t float my boat. As the mains are being served I get called out to get some more pics taken. Daily mail man had got back to the ranch and his pictures had disappeared, he aint happy.
Go back to the table and its Lamb noisettes and spuds for me. First time I had lamb since the op methinks. Don’t eat much and am finding it hard to relax. Lemon tart for pud with a red coulis that’s nice. Coffee later then on with the show. John Reid joins us at this point he has been home to see his wife - he seems a good laff and soon has us all at ease. He is MP for Belshill, which is where Kierans wifes family live.
Linda introduces him and he gives a helluva introduction. Really pitched it well I as most were was dead impressed. Then its into the awards, surgical wound care cancer and all sorts. All the award winners looked like overall winners. Heres the form Someone in my case Janet one of the judges reads out a sort of citation as pictures of your work are displayed on 2 big screens. I look up to see my mate JK about 12 foot tall smiling at me. They play music as you go up . Mr Coloplast tries to leave the stage after giving rectal lavage lady her gong and clare has to encourage him back to give me mine. Neither Jean or I can remember what music they played. Linda brought cut out pre op ken on stage at this point and John was gobsmacked he took time to chat with you and say he was dead impressed with the look of me – asked me if I could still take a drink – good he said when I replied positively.
To be continued later
I sat down and took a deep breath and a gulp of water. Whoops it all feels a bit real now. Bloomin eck I have been workin hard but its all been mightily worth it. Who would have thought from the messin about in January that this would have happened – feel a bit gobsmacked.
The overall winners were the international award category winners, one of the winners had been died earlier this year and her daughter turned up to collect it. It was really moving and they deserved it. I sat and thought well I done real good just getting this – It will do for me.
After the meal things got real relaxed, it was a party atmosphere loads of people coming up to us saying hello well done you must be proud. Got pictures taken with the great and the good. Evidence here..
Who did we speak to well who didn’t we –
Sylvia the prez.
Beverley the General Secretary.
Ian the Prof.
Prof lady from Wales one of the judges
Karen Birmingham who wrote an article about me for the gastroenterology journal.
Steve Flanagan – RCN NW guy.
Mike Travis – RCN steward in Liverpool – he was wearing a medal.
Janet the chief exec – a judge.
Linda the editor
Loads of general well wishers
Prof Justus
Jean the editor
Got pics done with John Reid
Several people who thought I was Tom – who works in RCN publishing. Then a band come on. I like live music usually in any form I have had crackin nights listening to some terrible acts but these lads were different. I suppose it was a whole sort of acoustic salsa thing in a different language. But I wasn’t the only one not very impressed once they got off and a bit of dance music came on things livened up no end.
Bit of Boogieing then retired home. Met the girls from the hotel debacle having a pint on the bar so enjoyed a couple of bevies with them and retired far too late.
Awoke breakfasted, and went for a walk in Kensington Garden. Went top the paper shop but there was nowt in the telegraph or Mail. Taxi to the station and then coffee and a wireless surf, by sitting under the first class travel lounge. Nowt in evening standard. Train home delayed by 25 minutes good to be back in the pool.
Then asked would I speak to the Daily mail, nice journo but definitely not taking the angle I fancied. Try to convince her of the message but who knows it’s the daily mail after all.
She is interviewing a cross section of us – most of the speculation amongst the winners is interpreting every event into a view about who has won. Suppose I am thinking that way too. Some geezers are kipping in the Lancaster gate whilst the majority of us are in the thistle. The other gastro lady winner is in the Lancaster gate with four guests all paid for by the sponsors, nice work. Still Jean tells me she uses their gear in her clinical work. Mebbe I could get some sponsorship for the site?
Then into a briefing by Jean the editor of Nursing Standard then into the main hall for a rehearsal. Linda editor in chief of RCN publishing gives us a pep talk. She is one shrewd dude – I warm to her immediately. She gives us a run through and tells us what to expect. She also talks about what to do if you are the winner. Don’t get rooted to the spot. We have a walk through and I walk the wrong way down the steps.
Jean has meanwhile go to do battle over the room and succeeds though we have to change our name by deed poll to Clark. Several other cock ups in there as well. The arrival of coachloads of Russian football supporters just makes things worse.
We get finished up and then Gareth(mens health Sally Army boy) and Elly (leg ulcer club lady) and I walk back to the thistle.
Manage to stop Jean dropping off and we chat and she falls asleep. I amuse myself on the laptop and trying to get their broadband working with me laptop. Doesn't work so GPRS for me.
Wake Jean at 5.30 and start getting ready, leave at 6.15 and if I say so meself we look a fine couple. Arrive at the place and it’s the real mccoy.
Red Jacketed toastmaster lady greeting at door then introducing you to the Prez,Gen secretary of the RCN and editor of Nursing standard. Unfortunately toast lady takes a baccy break as we pull up and I say Hiya to Sylvia and Bev meself. Introduce Jean and get a drink. We are on table 1 the top table with John Reid, Sylvia El Presidente, Bev General Secretary, Linda chief editor lady, Jean Editor lady, some doc who can salsa Who turns out to be a Prof, and another award winner who was nurse of the year in Bermuda some time ago. Wahoo we have arrived. Meet with Gareth and his missus who look as uncomfortable as us. Joined by Jan Sneddon from South Sefton. Jenny and Chris Sudell join us and I shocked by how il Jenny looks, she is zonked on analgesics and has taken to a wheel chair. She is splendidly irreverent as ever. She tells me her ploy is to claim she has Tourettes and shout random abuse throughout the evening. She nominated me for this and wants me to win more than I do.Speculation then about which table you are on and how that effects yer chances. Our location is seen as a good omen. I try desperately not to hope too much but its hard as I have already mentally spent three times any prize money. Get some photos done with Nursing student commendee who is brickin it more than me, two other confident ladies. It is the geezer from the daily mail whom is a nice bloke but has dirt on his shoes. The geezer running the stage aint impressed and follows him with a big piece of sellotape. Out comes big ken, for a photo, well the girls are impressed for sure. Then back into the drinks and toastie lady calls us in. Most just sit down but we follow the lead and stand behind our chairs till madame presidente sits down. I am sat next to Linda, she seems one top geezer and is doing the work presenting the gig. She tells me she don’t take any sauce before, but tells me it is my solemn duty to stash some liquer for her for afterwards – sorted. She goes off and starts the show. Have to confess to being close to tears at her and sylvias words. They say some really nice things about the award winners and how special we all are.
When she sits down I tell her she done good, and through the meal she confirms my suspicions that she is one top geezer. She gives me loads of encouragement to use this year to do all sorts and she wants to be kept informed.
Starter was a big mushroom with chopped mushrooms and parmesan didn’t float my boat. As the mains are being served I get called out to get some more pics taken. Daily mail man had got back to the ranch and his pictures had disappeared, he aint happy.
Go back to the table and its Lamb noisettes and spuds for me. First time I had lamb since the op methinks. Don’t eat much and am finding it hard to relax. Lemon tart for pud with a red coulis that’s nice. Coffee later then on with the show. John Reid joins us at this point he has been home to see his wife - he seems a good laff and soon has us all at ease. He is MP for Belshill, which is where Kierans wifes family live.
Linda introduces him and he gives a helluva introduction. Really pitched it well I as most were was dead impressed. Then its into the awards, surgical wound care cancer and all sorts. All the award winners looked like overall winners. Heres the form Someone in my case Janet one of the judges reads out a sort of citation as pictures of your work are displayed on 2 big screens. I look up to see my mate JK about 12 foot tall smiling at me. They play music as you go up . Mr Coloplast tries to leave the stage after giving rectal lavage lady her gong and clare has to encourage him back to give me mine. Neither Jean or I can remember what music they played. Linda brought cut out pre op ken on stage at this point and John was gobsmacked he took time to chat with you and say he was dead impressed with the look of me – asked me if I could still take a drink – good he said when I replied positively.
To be continued later
I sat down and took a deep breath and a gulp of water. Whoops it all feels a bit real now. Bloomin eck I have been workin hard but its all been mightily worth it. Who would have thought from the messin about in January that this would have happened – feel a bit gobsmacked.
The overall winners were the international award category winners, one of the winners had been died earlier this year and her daughter turned up to collect it. It was really moving and they deserved it. I sat and thought well I done real good just getting this – It will do for me.
After the meal things got real relaxed, it was a party atmosphere loads of people coming up to us saying hello well done you must be proud. Got pictures taken with the great and the good. Evidence here..
Who did we speak to well who didn’t we –
Sylvia the prez.
Beverley the General Secretary.
Ian the Prof.
Prof lady from Wales one of the judges
Karen Birmingham who wrote an article about me for the gastroenterology journal.
Steve Flanagan – RCN NW guy.
Mike Travis – RCN steward in Liverpool – he was wearing a medal.
Janet the chief exec – a judge.
Linda the editor
Loads of general well wishers
Prof Justus
Jean the editor
Got pics done with John Reid
Several people who thought I was Tom – who works in RCN publishing. Then a band come on. I like live music usually in any form I have had crackin nights listening to some terrible acts but these lads were different. I suppose it was a whole sort of acoustic salsa thing in a different language. But I wasn’t the only one not very impressed once they got off and a bit of dance music came on things livened up no end.
Bit of Boogieing then retired home. Met the girls from the hotel debacle having a pint on the bar so enjoyed a couple of bevies with them and retired far too late.
Awoke breakfasted, and went for a walk in Kensington Garden. Went top the paper shop but there was nowt in the telegraph or Mail. Taxi to the station and then coffee and a wireless surf, by sitting under the first class travel lounge. Nowt in evening standard. Train home delayed by 25 minutes good to be back in the pool.
Monday, November 03, 2003
Call Centre Confidential
Call Centre ConfidentialOne cool site but a little rude in parts made me laff out loud.
Monday monday
Get up late for me which is good news - 5 to 7. Ally aint well and its jeans first day at CLPCT. So I am stopping here. She seems to have a bug which is bubbling away and keeps bubbling over. Decide against the doctor and then press on with writing a startegy. Several contacts throughout the day re Nursing standard gig. Sorted out gastro gig I think and start to make sense of strategy. getting there. I need to nip out at teatime when jean gets in I shophappily and then starting my act together for the trip. Busy evening preparing then enjoy prunella scales as victoria. Tired.
Sunday, November 02, 2003
Sunday mornin
Im up with the lark and down to the pool again most enjoyable. request kippers and eggs end up with smoked mackerel hot, not good makes me very very ill. I need to stop the car several times to chuck not good. Foul weather up the M1 stop at Hartshead Moor, weather over the pennines is terrible. Back home and then off to Ruth and Pauls for dinner Plenty of emails an a few to follow up. Chill on the site, the time away has given me the opportunity to think a few things through. Plent to do and need to start thinking about things.
Later the same day
Then back to the hotel, and another pool session with Ally while Jean has a kip. Very enjoyable time till a swedish footy youth team take over the pool. Talk to a nice lady about the site in the steam room. Off for dinner. I have cream of vegetable, salmon and coffee caramel cheese cake top stuff. Ally goes up to the room jean and I chill in the bar playin a quiz machine top laffs.
Mamas and Leonies Restaurant, Sheffield, UK
Mamas and Leonies Restaurant, Sheffield, UK turn up here for lunch -top gaff. Excellent Lasagne, Jean has a feta salad and Ally has a calzone. Really impressive excellent food.
Saturday.
Got it bad now its off to the gym at 8.10, meet an interesting radiographer and tell her about the site, then to the steam room sauna jacuzzi I aint never been so clean. Kippers and eggs for breakfast and off to Sheffield. Enjoy a good walk through the town and visit record shops a gogo. top stuff seeing the price variation in Yes albums. Struggle looking for somewhere for lunch.
Friday
Breakfast fruit juice poached egg and kippers. Off to Meadowhell as a local tells me its called. Get Jeans outfit for Tuesday must admit its the first time we been clothes shopping together and its hard. Debenhams come up trumps eventually. Ally has a dinkum time wandering round alone, she is truly happen here. We meet for lunch in a family pub it was crap - big time. Lasagne for me. Then back to the otel, all of us off to the pool kewl. Eat at 7.15, tomato soup, and salmon and prawn terrine for me. Dissapointing cheese and bics.
Thursday
Girls go for a haircut, I chill on the site. We set off about 11 ish, stop at Hartshead Moor services for a toilet break then Wooley edge for lunch. I end up with Chicken broth and roll the girls boogie on down to Harry Ramsdens. A treat to find but we get there in the end. Our destination its a modern gaff set back off the main Chesterfield/Sheffield road. Room 217 triple non smoker on the second floor. We are staying three nights paid for by ourTesco clubcard. Dinner Bed Breakfast 50 squid that'll do for me. Chill out round the otel and get off to the gym. Do some good cardio work and then its down to the pool, steam room jacuzzi and out. The girls didnt show they turn up in the bar so I have a mediocre pint of Boddys. Back to the room chill out and down for dinner, girls go fo mixed hor'dourves (spelling) I have salmon mains and caramel cheescake. Then upstairs to watch the Bill 25th anniversary live show. Bit dissapoining really then back down to the bar.
Wednesday, October 29, 2003
Wednesday
Mornin chillin in da house. Then a quick call from the nursing standardsends me off to office worl for a huge roll of bubble wrap to wrap up big ken to courier to london. This is the gaff top looking joint. This is th efirm Amtrak I thought it would cost a load the online quote implies it will be about 80squid for the two parcels.
Tuesday
Off to Franks for an early am cut, Peter starts about 6.30 so my 7.45 is cool. He is a top guy short of stature and deaf but we get on fine. For a long time I wouldnt let him near the barnet but he is the barber of choice now. Interviewed for gastro journalPicked up the DJ full gear from the shop at Taggart today 39 squid for a couple of weeks. off the Matchworks for the flu jab, nice ladt there. Show a few of the bods from the works cutout big ken. Much respect. off for filming goes well and then off to support group a top talk from steve pollard. Goes well then home
Tuesday, October 28, 2003
Monday
Ring the Bosch service department - comin wednesday this is gonna cost I suspect. Sort out some work gear, and chill. Book an interview for Tuesday Mornin with Karen a Journo from RCN - seems a good un, but then they all do. Chill round the house, and take my work in for a sort out with Jon, he is enthusiastic in extremis. We may be parting company, I end up sounding spookily like David Brent when I tell him I am thebest boss he will ever have, well its true, I am David Brent. Kim passes on the latest updates, her sisters credibility is failing fast after the duff gen on the Merseyrail system. Back Home Jean has been in a cleaning frenzy, which disturbs me. Generalised chilling and sorting webstuff.
Monday, October 27, 2003
Googlewhacking: The Search for The One True Googlewhack
Googlewhacking: The Search for The One True Googlewhack Spend far too much time playing with this concept
Sunday
Chill AM, till the oven breaks, luckily it was as we finished making the lunch. Went to otterspool after had a long walk along the front I was up for the pier head and backbut was overruled. Bought a PC for my sister and bro-in-law from Dell. the ask you will the machine be used to support acts of terrorism or develop weapons of mass destruction. Tempted to say yes, I must point out I was using her credit card most enjoyable. Spoke to niece home for weekend, mess onn website for the rest of the day.
Sunday, October 26, 2003
Saturday
Cool day do little in the am. Go to gym later and work hard. Pick mother up, nearly kill her as she suicidally launches herself in to the road during a reversing in a rainstorm incident. Go to borders read a book on nutrition and metabolism and realise that I have been taken the wrong vit b. I have been taking B6 which is used to prevent PMS and I should have been taking B1 to prevent Wenickes encephalopathy which has sarted showing up in Bariatric patiens. i have seen it once or twice not nice and preventable. Off to Boots Monday. Big read in the pm followed by scary moments.
friday
Postman arrives with my Blogger Hoodie kewl
Start the day late witha 10o'clock about systems at Rathbone, slightly out of my depth but accompanied by a geezer from Audit things feel clearer. It finishes surprisingly early and its back home lasagne for dinner. Jean drops me at the Matchworks then a new GMS contract fest starts first with the main group back to back with informatics and quality outcomes subgroup. Sam is a star and relieved that she is on the ball and Paul J wants an early dart.
18 years ago I gave up travelling by the merseyrail train system. A bit like the underground it is a quick way of getting round Merseyside.
Most people will know how welcome the super obese are on mass transit systems and whole well they meet our needs.
Well yesterday I took the train from Garston to Moorfields in town. It didnt help that me mate had told me I would need to change, or that I was bricking it. I stood on the platform for 10 mins the train arrived, I sat on a normal seat, enjoyed the ride Nobody else on the trai seemed to realise how special and exciting this was. It was a privilege to travel on this very fine system they probably wondered why this guy was smiling. Merseyrail had missed the occaision and there was little evidence of the welcome back Ken Clare banners. Very little trumpet fanfares when I arrived for the first time in my life in Moorfields. I was open mouthed at the whole spectacle looking like an recent arrival from an underdeveloped country. The escalator was quite spooky too. I then was faced with a choice of exits, unknown to me I just chose right and exited the station I went down the ramp, forgetting I can do stairs now. I then walked the half a mile to the pub in the cold and enjoyed it. When i got there I wasn't sweating, or in pain.I didnt need to rush to sit down. I enjoyed a few Yorkshire terriers with an old friend and it felt kinda good - a bit special really. A search for Yorkshire Terrier turned up A blog fuelled by Beer kewl
Start the day late witha 10o'clock about systems at Rathbone, slightly out of my depth but accompanied by a geezer from Audit things feel clearer. It finishes surprisingly early and its back home lasagne for dinner. Jean drops me at the Matchworks then a new GMS contract fest starts first with the main group back to back with informatics and quality outcomes subgroup. Sam is a star and relieved that she is on the ball and Paul J wants an early dart.
18 years ago I gave up travelling by the merseyrail train system. A bit like the underground it is a quick way of getting round Merseyside.
Most people will know how welcome the super obese are on mass transit systems and whole well they meet our needs.
Well yesterday I took the train from Garston to Moorfields in town. It didnt help that me mate had told me I would need to change, or that I was bricking it. I stood on the platform for 10 mins the train arrived, I sat on a normal seat, enjoyed the ride Nobody else on the trai seemed to realise how special and exciting this was. It was a privilege to travel on this very fine system they probably wondered why this guy was smiling. Merseyrail had missed the occaision and there was little evidence of the welcome back Ken Clare banners. Very little trumpet fanfares when I arrived for the first time in my life in Moorfields. I was open mouthed at the whole spectacle looking like an recent arrival from an underdeveloped country. The escalator was quite spooky too. I then was faced with a choice of exits, unknown to me I just chose right and exited the station I went down the ramp, forgetting I can do stairs now. I then walked the half a mile to the pub in the cold and enjoyed it. When i got there I wasn't sweating, or in pain.I didnt need to rush to sit down. I enjoyed a few Yorkshire terriers with an old friend and it felt kinda good - a bit special really. A search for Yorkshire Terrier turned up A blog fuelled by Beer kewl
Thursday.
Meeting with system supplie cancelled instead we meet and I wonder what is going on. tesco for lunch pick up some chicken soup and smoked salmon. Paperwork and then the delightful Sam has organised the facilitators forum good stuff. home and chill.
Thursday, October 23, 2003
Wednesday
Supposed to be at a vodafone gig at Old trafford today, pressure of work prevents and I end up dealing with emails instead. Meeting with Kim to get on top of new GMS contract meeting actions. Then a good one to one with Val. Not a bad day at all. Get quite a bit done.
Tuesday
Niece Ann and god daughter megans birthdays today. Few probs on the website and get a lot of work sorting them. Interesting meeting dealing with sorting out the works phone system. A few jobs pulling things together then off for luch at Damons with finance gurus Andy and Kim. Cool time then a meeting about our website and ebusiness strategy. Goes well then its off home. Jk has picked pre-op Ken up kewl or what. JK is a dude he has been rough but looks better tonight than he has for ages. Well pleasing.
Tuesday, October 21, 2003
Monday Morning
Always comes round to early. TAlk to the delightful Rebecca on the way in, she aint been too good and I have been worried about her. Get into work and for a wee while actually begin to act and feel like a senior manager. Meet with Diane older persons nurse to try and plan a startegy for this afternoons meet. Then ring Jeanette in the LIS to get her to explain things to me. Single Assessment Protocol, which seems a fairly good idea but difficult to implement.
Actually make good inroads into me inbox and start getting things squared Jon has done an excellent job. Everything is fine till a box arrives from BT syntegra with a copy of the promovid I was in in it. Oh how I laffed, I almost sounded credible then the last few frames end with me with a pathetic grin on me face. Nice still makes the boys laff and laff. Also some goodies which we have to declare then share out the bounty.
SAP meeting in the afternoon when a plan starts to come together. Feels almost joined up. Scoot home and lasagne for tea, good bit of support work then a phone call to the excellent Vivvi who is seriously into fund raising and eurocash, social enterprise and socially excluded. Feels like something great will come out of that phone call.
Actually make good inroads into me inbox and start getting things squared Jon has done an excellent job. Everything is fine till a box arrives from BT syntegra with a copy of the promovid I was in in it. Oh how I laffed, I almost sounded credible then the last few frames end with me with a pathetic grin on me face. Nice still makes the boys laff and laff. Also some goodies which we have to declare then share out the bounty.
SAP meeting in the afternoon when a plan starts to come together. Feels almost joined up. Scoot home and lasagne for tea, good bit of support work then a phone call to the excellent Vivvi who is seriously into fund raising and eurocash, social enterprise and socially excluded. Feels like something great will come out of that phone call.
Monday, October 20, 2003
Sunday
Arose relatively late and hit the cooking trail.
Delia abounds, shepherds pie and adapted luxury smoked fish top stuff. All enjoy. I find the potato sits heavy. Have the fish pie at lunch and then leftover shepherds for tea. Bit of a milestone as I enjoy cooking for the first time in ages. The girls go to church and I engage in the wlsinfo chat session. I enjoy it and it is good to talk to people, sort of in real life. Also realising its not all ticketty boo, and people havedowntimes too. Enjoy Henry 8 part two, Ray bloats up towards the end, what a nasty piece of work. The church of england dont come out of it very well.
Delia abounds, shepherds pie and adapted luxury smoked fish top stuff. All enjoy. I find the potato sits heavy. Have the fish pie at lunch and then leftover shepherds for tea. Bit of a milestone as I enjoy cooking for the first time in ages. The girls go to church and I engage in the wlsinfo chat session. I enjoy it and it is good to talk to people, sort of in real life. Also realising its not all ticketty boo, and people havedowntimes too. Enjoy Henry 8 part two, Ray bloats up towards the end, what a nasty piece of work. The church of england dont come out of it very well.
Sunday, October 19, 2003
Saturday
webwork chilling and shopping. Gym again weight messing about several conflicting messages from scales. Choose to stand back and see the bigger picture. Borders in the evening with Ally and watch Henry 8.
Monday and Tuesday.
Conference gig. Natioanl Obesity Forum top gig it goes well I end up speaking and decline the Tuesday BBC news. Dont want to cheese work off. Meet hundreds of new people andlove it. Marvel at the photos, meet Rosemary Conley and Chris steele Telly doc are interesting. Just a wow.
Causes me to reflect on the last conference I attended.
Reflections from a delegate.
Last time I attended a conference in London I was probably about 33 stone, I walked with the aid of two elbow crutches, my joints screamed with pain. Attending the NOF conference made me reflect on what it was like, and the difference now.
I was roused from a deep sleep by my wife, who helped me bathe. Barely able to squeeze into our extra large bath, but unable to stand long enough to shower. I needed help to wash my feet, and had to be assisted out of the bath and towelled dry by to reach the unreachable parts. I couldn’t dress my self, my shoes and socks were things that I had to rely on my wife to attend to. Unable to stand long enough to prepare food she would do it, or I would perch on my industrial strength wooden garden chair.
We drove in my enormous Ford Galaxy (I could fit behind the wheel) to Lime street station, parked in the disabled parking space and she and my daughter carried my luggage to the virgin office, where I was handed over to a helpful lady. Having prebooked and holding a disabled persons rail card I was able to use their care scheme.
She escorted me to my reserved seat in second class it soon became clear that there was no way I was fitting in the seat, it wasn’t wide enough and the table made it impossible. I felt ashamed as the staff helpfully tried to first wedge me in then secondly extricate me.
The senior hand suggested an upgrade to first class was appropriate; the seats are made for comfort. She made a fuss of telling me it would cost 15 quid but quietly confided she only did that to stop me being lynched by the other passengers. Breathless anxious sweating and in pain I commenced a slow journey to the other end of the train. The seats were bigger but indeed I still had to be forced into position. A kind guard plied me with drinks I generally refused because I knew I was large to get in to the narrow doored toilet.
On arrival at Euston I was told to await the Euston equivalent of the nice lady, after 35 minutes in a darkened carriage a man came to evict me he radioed mobility assistance. A man who was an obvious obesophobic arrived. The friendly accusatory stare made me feel great. He threw my luggage into the back of his powered cart and I took up the entire back seat and was driven complete with orange flashing lights around Euston. Might as well been displaying a who ate all the pies banner.
On arrival at the taxi rank the smiles said it all. I struggled out with my luggage and crutches. The porter helped with luggage I had to stand queuing for fifteen minutes drenched in sweat and breathless every joint screaming in protest. I registered and made my way to my room which was helpfully disabled friendly. The had removed the toilet door.
The toilet was located so close to the heated towel rail, after squeezing myself in I burnt my leg again and again. Not many people know that obese men sit to pee. Defecation brought the delight of a long handled bottom wiper. A folding instrument around which toilet paper is wrapped. It isn’t quite clear how you remove the toilet paper in an eco friendly way. The job is usually finished with a shower and some imagination, particularly if a shower head is fixed.
I ate food delivered by room service too ashamed to travel the dining room, ok for the evening meal. But the breakfast was left on the floor outside the room. Only tactic was to get on the floor shuffle out on my backside. The door slammed and yes the key was in the room, still at least I had my shirt and underpants on. Only 20 minutes till someone passed and got the porter for me. Beginning to feel a bit low by this point. Back into the room and I got ready by now I needed another shower. Achieved with some difficulty by squatting in the shower, .
I was on the seventh floor and had to let the lift go 7 times before I got one empty enough to consider getting in. Then a cab (another fat friendly geezer - not). The conference centre and a 40 minute queue for registration, wracked with pain I get into the hall. Taking two seats is always popular. Coffee was impossible, bottled water from home. Lunch was a treat a buffet with two crutches was a non starter. Eventually found an eatery with chairs without arms.
There was I believe an exhibition I don’t know it was too far to even comprehend going to. Standing talking was impossible, a complete non starter. In the afternoon the sessions I wanted to attend were cunningly planned at opposite ends of the huge centre. In the end I just stayed in the same room and looked interested in what was going on. The drinks reception was a hoot two chairs in the whole room I got one then discovered how wheelchair users feel, conversing with peoples groins. Dinner was a nightmare chairs with arms, well I asked the poor eastern European waiter and he got the drift. The AVA technician brought in a collapsible folding armless chair sized me up then took it away. The place settings are of course set for a normal sized geezer a third of my body weight and width.
But never mind I was a jolly fat man, but never, despite appearances a fat jolly man.
It brought it home at the end of the NOF conference a man said aren’t you going shopping, I hadn’t realised I was able. I had forgotten I could run 5k in 38 minutes so I could probably do a bit of shopping.
Causes me to reflect on the last conference I attended.
Reflections from a delegate.
Last time I attended a conference in London I was probably about 33 stone, I walked with the aid of two elbow crutches, my joints screamed with pain. Attending the NOF conference made me reflect on what it was like, and the difference now.
I was roused from a deep sleep by my wife, who helped me bathe. Barely able to squeeze into our extra large bath, but unable to stand long enough to shower. I needed help to wash my feet, and had to be assisted out of the bath and towelled dry by to reach the unreachable parts. I couldn’t dress my self, my shoes and socks were things that I had to rely on my wife to attend to. Unable to stand long enough to prepare food she would do it, or I would perch on my industrial strength wooden garden chair.
We drove in my enormous Ford Galaxy (I could fit behind the wheel) to Lime street station, parked in the disabled parking space and she and my daughter carried my luggage to the virgin office, where I was handed over to a helpful lady. Having prebooked and holding a disabled persons rail card I was able to use their care scheme.
She escorted me to my reserved seat in second class it soon became clear that there was no way I was fitting in the seat, it wasn’t wide enough and the table made it impossible. I felt ashamed as the staff helpfully tried to first wedge me in then secondly extricate me.
The senior hand suggested an upgrade to first class was appropriate; the seats are made for comfort. She made a fuss of telling me it would cost 15 quid but quietly confided she only did that to stop me being lynched by the other passengers. Breathless anxious sweating and in pain I commenced a slow journey to the other end of the train. The seats were bigger but indeed I still had to be forced into position. A kind guard plied me with drinks I generally refused because I knew I was large to get in to the narrow doored toilet.
On arrival at Euston I was told to await the Euston equivalent of the nice lady, after 35 minutes in a darkened carriage a man came to evict me he radioed mobility assistance. A man who was an obvious obesophobic arrived. The friendly accusatory stare made me feel great. He threw my luggage into the back of his powered cart and I took up the entire back seat and was driven complete with orange flashing lights around Euston. Might as well been displaying a who ate all the pies banner.
On arrival at the taxi rank the smiles said it all. I struggled out with my luggage and crutches. The porter helped with luggage I had to stand queuing for fifteen minutes drenched in sweat and breathless every joint screaming in protest. I registered and made my way to my room which was helpfully disabled friendly. The had removed the toilet door.
The toilet was located so close to the heated towel rail, after squeezing myself in I burnt my leg again and again. Not many people know that obese men sit to pee. Defecation brought the delight of a long handled bottom wiper. A folding instrument around which toilet paper is wrapped. It isn’t quite clear how you remove the toilet paper in an eco friendly way. The job is usually finished with a shower and some imagination, particularly if a shower head is fixed.
I ate food delivered by room service too ashamed to travel the dining room, ok for the evening meal. But the breakfast was left on the floor outside the room. Only tactic was to get on the floor shuffle out on my backside. The door slammed and yes the key was in the room, still at least I had my shirt and underpants on. Only 20 minutes till someone passed and got the porter for me. Beginning to feel a bit low by this point. Back into the room and I got ready by now I needed another shower. Achieved with some difficulty by squatting in the shower, .
I was on the seventh floor and had to let the lift go 7 times before I got one empty enough to consider getting in. Then a cab (another fat friendly geezer - not). The conference centre and a 40 minute queue for registration, wracked with pain I get into the hall. Taking two seats is always popular. Coffee was impossible, bottled water from home. Lunch was a treat a buffet with two crutches was a non starter. Eventually found an eatery with chairs without arms.
There was I believe an exhibition I don’t know it was too far to even comprehend going to. Standing talking was impossible, a complete non starter. In the afternoon the sessions I wanted to attend were cunningly planned at opposite ends of the huge centre. In the end I just stayed in the same room and looked interested in what was going on. The drinks reception was a hoot two chairs in the whole room I got one then discovered how wheelchair users feel, conversing with peoples groins. Dinner was a nightmare chairs with arms, well I asked the poor eastern European waiter and he got the drift. The AVA technician brought in a collapsible folding armless chair sized me up then took it away. The place settings are of course set for a normal sized geezer a third of my body weight and width.
But never mind I was a jolly fat man, but never, despite appearances a fat jolly man.
It brought it home at the end of the NOF conference a man said aren’t you going shopping, I hadn’t realised I was able. I had forgotten I could run 5k in 38 minutes so I could probably do a bit of shopping.
Sunday a week ago
Seems like an age away, chilled then went to London 15.15 train took an age went via Piccadilly 5 hours made easier by a beer with the geezer from Kenyons. Arrived at hotel and set up the stand with Nell A top gaff formerly the YWCA and was designed by Lutyens of doomed Liverpool Cathedral project fame.
Saturday, October 11, 2003
that week
Saturday a gentle start to the to the day and we relax together, mental note made to take things easier have clearly been overdoing it. Which is never a good idea. Off to Borders and Argos to get a laminator and then lunch in Damons we act like a chilled family. Fall asleep in the afternoon then send Jean to pick Nanna up. Very tired
Friday
Doesn't start well and gets worse, feeling very sick send myself home very ropey. An awful lot of vomiting and then feeling goosed a s a result.
Thursday.
Off to see the trainers at Newhall in the offices of North PCT – their boardroom no less. A good conversion but Newhall is still one strange gaff. Very odd place a row of cottages facing each other a variety of uses through the years but it still retains its institutional feel. I feel strangely at home there after my extensive training at the now demolished Winwick Hospital.
Back to the works and it’s a cheerful gig with informatics meets prescribing. We get on well with Clare Lisa Sharon and the rest of the gang, at least now we understand better what they are about.
I stand Stella and Ann up (sorry mates) but needs must when the paperwork is piling. Meet with Robin Ireland from Herart of mersey an allround good guy who gives me a few things to think about.
Then its off to Hammy NCP treat, costing me a fortune.
Home inevitable lasagna and chill.
Wednesday.
Have to dip out of a meeting with Fran and Veronica to take part in the payroll review group. After that it’s the Richmond tavern with Keith an auditor who is surprising good company for an auditor. Sorry to diss an entire profession but speak as you find I say.
Then its off to Hammy House for a demo of a training database software package, still it runs on .net and I understand that a bit.
Home and chill.
Tuesday.
In the office for most of the day , turgid experience catching up but getting on top of a few things at last. Caught up with Christine about the Desktop roll out she truly has done a sterling job and got us on target in the end. Top stuff, she has really shown an excellent skill set and it has been a pleasure to be part of her development.
Then its off to see Jon Consultant Physician and Lecturer at the university. Cool dude and we hit it off straight away. He helps John Wilding run the obesity management clinic at Walton where I was treated for 2 and a bit years. We talk for ages but the time passes real quick. Heaps of stuff is covered he and I are off the the same National Obesity Forum gig next week so it cool to catch up before the conference.
What did we cover well easier to say what we didn’t cover.
Academic research into obesity surgery and the lack of quality work.
On being fat and being treated and recovering.
The Trial that he wants me to be on the steering committee of.
All sorts of stuff really enjoyable and the time just flies.
Then its off home via Sainsbury Walton, I only have time for a pasta salad as at 8 it’s the first meeting of the cell. A good group of geezers, with a good sense of humour and a deeply spiritual focus. We meet at Franks surgery and after a discussion we wander round praying in many rooms. Seems a bit odd but most refreshing spiritually
Friday
Doesn't start well and gets worse, feeling very sick send myself home very ropey. An awful lot of vomiting and then feeling goosed a s a result.
Thursday.
Off to see the trainers at Newhall in the offices of North PCT – their boardroom no less. A good conversion but Newhall is still one strange gaff. Very odd place a row of cottages facing each other a variety of uses through the years but it still retains its institutional feel. I feel strangely at home there after my extensive training at the now demolished Winwick Hospital.
Back to the works and it’s a cheerful gig with informatics meets prescribing. We get on well with Clare Lisa Sharon and the rest of the gang, at least now we understand better what they are about.
I stand Stella and Ann up (sorry mates) but needs must when the paperwork is piling. Meet with Robin Ireland from Herart of mersey an allround good guy who gives me a few things to think about.
Then its off to Hammy NCP treat, costing me a fortune.
Home inevitable lasagna and chill.
Wednesday.
Have to dip out of a meeting with Fran and Veronica to take part in the payroll review group. After that it’s the Richmond tavern with Keith an auditor who is surprising good company for an auditor. Sorry to diss an entire profession but speak as you find I say.
Then its off to Hammy House for a demo of a training database software package, still it runs on .net and I understand that a bit.
Home and chill.
Tuesday.
In the office for most of the day , turgid experience catching up but getting on top of a few things at last. Caught up with Christine about the Desktop roll out she truly has done a sterling job and got us on target in the end. Top stuff, she has really shown an excellent skill set and it has been a pleasure to be part of her development.
Then its off to see Jon Consultant Physician and Lecturer at the university. Cool dude and we hit it off straight away. He helps John Wilding run the obesity management clinic at Walton where I was treated for 2 and a bit years. We talk for ages but the time passes real quick. Heaps of stuff is covered he and I are off the the same National Obesity Forum gig next week so it cool to catch up before the conference.
What did we cover well easier to say what we didn’t cover.
Academic research into obesity surgery and the lack of quality work.
On being fat and being treated and recovering.
The Trial that he wants me to be on the steering committee of.
All sorts of stuff really enjoyable and the time just flies.
Then its off home via Sainsbury Walton, I only have time for a pasta salad as at 8 it’s the first meeting of the cell. A good group of geezers, with a good sense of humour and a deeply spiritual focus. We meet at Franks surgery and after a discussion we wander round praying in many rooms. Seems a bit odd but most refreshing spiritually
Tuesday, October 07, 2003
Monday
Start the day at Hammy House for a heads meeting, alaff and the dynamics are kinda interesting. Whip off to the car park,via delaneys. The pie shop and newsagents. I miss Pies, I purchase their home made chicken and sweetcorn soup which I enjoy in the rain the NCP is gonna cripple me I must claim mileage this month. Off to Belle Vale for a meeting about the GPwSI work that one out. A woman from the past accuses me of impersonating Ken Clare. Only remedy is to produce a before shot and say look. She finally accepts it. Paul Smith is as entertaining as ever. Julie is cool for a dietitian.
Back to Hammy House they seem tohave morphed Belle Vale and the presence of the new Morrisons store confuses me. Arrive back at the leeching NCP and back to Hammy for a meeting with Paul "Mr Angry" and Tony. Tony who is from St Helens telss me Johnny Vegas and his wife have split up. She says St Helens was too much like the league of gentlemen, tony aint best pleased but I can see where she is coming from. Back home via the LIS team. Computer problems at the works and Mick aint feelin good, Get home chill and feel stiff as a board. All day people have been saying it will b worse tomorrow and guess what, they were right.
Back to Hammy House they seem tohave morphed Belle Vale and the presence of the new Morrisons store confuses me. Arrive back at the leeching NCP and back to Hammy for a meeting with Paul "Mr Angry" and Tony. Tony who is from St Helens telss me Johnny Vegas and his wife have split up. She says St Helens was too much like the league of gentlemen, tony aint best pleased but I can see where she is coming from. Back home via the LIS team. Computer problems at the works and Mick aint feelin good, Get home chill and feel stiff as a board. All day people have been saying it will b worse tomorrow and guess what, they were right.
Sunday mornin
Off to Chester via Runcorn, nice morning but running is a bad idea. Get to the Roodee and end up parked next to Fran. Not as atmospheric as the liverpool start but a pleasant course through the historic city. Come in at 38.52 a massive shave off my PB of 47 08 wellchuffed. Photograhic evidence here. Off home wet through with a bad case of joggers nipple(s).Off to Ruth and Pauls where I eat a normal Sunday Lunch and feel good. Back home and very tired. Jean goes off to Church Ally jibs Pathfinders and we watch a frightening waking the dead.
Saturday Afternoon
No gym today, serious preparation for tomorrows run. Pick Mama up with Ally and whisk her home via somerfields.
Back to ours, and then whip ally back to nannas via Borders. Jean is off out to the tennis club I is off to Jack the Lads leaving bash. Based at Mustard smithdown road, they are eating, but the proles and post oppers wait in the bar. One of those dont want to go just stay for one and then off nights turns into a boss laff and too much bitter is consumed. Joined by Neil and Karen from South Sefton a feisty pair, who assure me they are just mates. Get home very late and very tired and emotional. Morning comes all to soon.
Back to ours, and then whip ally back to nannas via Borders. Jean is off out to the tennis club I is off to Jack the Lads leaving bash. Based at Mustard smithdown road, they are eating, but the proles and post oppers wait in the bar. One of those dont want to go just stay for one and then off nights turns into a boss laff and too much bitter is consumed. Joined by Neil and Karen from South Sefton a feisty pair, who assure me they are just mates. Get home very late and very tired and emotional. Morning comes all to soon.
Monday, October 06, 2003
Buggles had it right
Remember them interestingly they were the first video played on MTV. I remember feeling very sad they day the geezer joined YES. What a heavy bummer. I listened to to my interview in horror, do I really sound like that.At the start I thought it was going to get unpleasant but it turned out cool in the end. Click here if you dare.
Friday, October 03, 2003
Friday am I off or am i not
Jon is off I take the chance to catch up in the office Jean is off but I aint. The delightful stuart from Boots hearing rings up to check how I am doing, not well really. Get some work done, and then lunch at the Bear and Staff, Chicken and crab ballotine strange combination but good. Back to the works and get on with it. Off to pick ally and her mates up from school, good stuff and then a tesco beef finest lasagne. Then its off to to radio merseyside to appear on Roger Lyon show I think it went ok but I will hear it soon. Then its off to Beas to see ally and jean. Some git has stole allys id on a website and messed about with it, ally gets a lesson in password management
thursday
off to the works someone doesnt turn up for a meet (second time this week)reason volume control turned down on blackberry. Phone meet with a chief exec from yorkshire then improving working lives meeting at sir alfred jones. Interesting gig many of the staff saw me on the telly but whats funny is they all know me mam. Back to the works and have a confusing meeting with finance nothing new there then.
Got home just chilled with the girls.
Got home just chilled with the girls.
Wednesday
Team meeting good stuff, good presentation from Tracey even more impressed when I learn it is her first. Out to Asda with Kim pick up some lunch then back to the works. Bit of a catch up then a big meet with central.
Celebratory curry at Millon enjoy my foray with a pint of lager a pappadum and two prawn puri starters, only eat a bit of bread. Tres Bon
Celebratory curry at Millon enjoy my foray with a pint of lager a pappadum and two prawn puri starters, only eat a bit of bread. Tres Bon
Orf to leeds
So its off to Leeds for a meeting with EMIS well the notes have a dubious professionally priveliged info which means I cant talk about, suffice to say it is interesting. I travel with Doc McCoy aka greasy lover riding shotgun, and Linda in he back we have good journeys both ways and even catch a bit of yes on the way back, top stuff. Back home and off to Greenbank for tea and there is a kids party on me jean ally hil and jen chow down cool. Good meeting we are joined by mary and les and jack pops in. Good meet and plenty done then back home. The support group is moving, going places.
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