Sunday Morning

Woke relatively early at 10.30. Felt good when I woke up, drinking build-up soon put that right. Feel guilty as Jean has to do all the cooking for the lunch, her mum, Alan ruth and Paul are coming. Roast beef, gratin dauphinoise, ratatouille and eton mess. Soup and ice cream for me I think. The strong smells of onion andgarlic really knock mey stomach off. I'm trying to be of use by keeping out of the way and going to pick Ruth and Paul up from Church. Back feels pretty good - Frank as usual is spot on with his plan. Got weighed yesterday lost 5lbs in a week, lost the bit of paper with the details on so need to find it and update chart. Need to get to grips with WLSInfo.org.uk over the next few days, launch planned for 27th Jan (my birthday).Can't go out for a meal so we might as well launch a website instead. Couldn't find anything on the web about the calorific value of Oasis - not a good sign - but a nice drink.

Saturday night

I was Thirsty when taking my mum home so I stopped in the newsagents by her and bought a bottle of oasis summer fruits. It was great, but did not contain details of food value etc so must be disalllowed. I will check later.

Saturday

Dog tired yesterday after work, avoided the temptation to go to sleep. Went to mother in laws, after first picking up Ruth and Paul whose car has died. Went to Tesco with them after and got myself down looking at all the things I can't eat. Got some flowers for Jean and OK magazine for Al. Took some diazepam to relax my back and it seems to have worked feeling a lot better today. Didn't get out of bed till 12.30, and felt pretty nauseous after my breakfast build-up. Eventually got myself together and went to the gym. Lost another 2.5kg (in a week) had a good workout, showered and went off to pick my mother up. NannyBanks has got really bad celluilitis and is taking antibiotics.
Rang the Hospital to see how H was (had op on wednesday) she had gone home, obviously they wouldnt tell me what the score was and I was worried she had done a runner or worse still been cancelled. 30 minutes later she rang me with the great news that she had been done laprascopicallyand was as at home today. She sounded great, and I was dead impressed with her willingness to become only the second patient Mr K had done. All the outcomes for laprascopic surgery seem better than the open type. I was overjoyed for her she sounded great.
Ally will be pleased too, she has been out today, to Hannah J's party. Off in a limousine to Caesars palace and then back to Hannahs. I would like to go somewhere in a stretch limo must be an experience.

Friday morning.

Exhausted at work yesterday, fell asleep on the toilet, don't think I was there long but, it felt like too long. Took some milk headed home. Fell straight asleep when I got in and perked up after 2 hourskip. I slept in a bit this morning and felt pretty good on waking up. The build up drink is less nauseaous now but still a challenge. Jean has gone to town shopping for birthday prezzies I am moping around before going in to a meeting at Childwall at 2pm. Still more party invites to sort and lots of things to do.

Thursday morning

Sent out the invite to the party with no date on it Friday 31/01/03 for anyone who needs to know. Didnt realise two stone of the weight loss was off my brain. Doh!

Thursday

Went to a quiz last night and won! I also won some chocolate walnuts in the raffle - which I was quick to give away. Felt energised by the social side, though a bit frustrated at my recall ability. In to work today for another short day - I was up early again 8.15, and now sorting breakfast pills etc. Wonder how H is after her op last night. Started sending out party invites, but will no doubt forget some people and cause a fuss.Must write to college today and tell them I have another sick note. Yum yum chocolate build up for brekkers.

Wednesday Evening

Colin came round last night and we attempted to sort out our summer holiday. Me Jean Ally, Colin, Jenny and Hannah. Found a cool looking place on Brittany Ferries site near the coast. Ferry is proving difficult though. Cricket club is available for the 31st though , in a different room - should be a bit more atmospheric (smaller). Must confirm that tonight. If you are reading this and think you should have been invited then let me know by phone or email and I'll sort it.
Today started early 8.15 abluted then dashed to the doctors before brekkie. Saw Frank, top man as ever says I look good but trying to do too much. Then end up feeling guilty when I dont do enough. Sorted me out with some diazepam for my back. He thinks excess bruising caused by lack of vitamin C. Sicknoted and topped up with scripts and I'm off. Matchworks for brekkie where I forced down a choccy build up and my tablets. Felt drowsy and sick most of the morning. Took the rise out of Ali and Andrea who share a table with me - sound characters.Was not match fit at all, left about 2.45 and retreated to bed after booking a holiday. Slept soundly till 5.15, woke up feeling ropey but after a groggy spell felt better than I have since the op. I ducked out of going to a conference today, but Frank said I am trying to do too much, and I dont think I would have been fit anyway.

Tuesday evening

All food on board and staying there - stil more milk required or should it be ice cream. Last week a lady listed for surgery contacted me she and her husband came to meet Jean Ally and I she was very unsure about the whole thing. I think they found it useful and decided to go ahead. I have just rung Aintree and spoke to her she is nervous but the op is tomorrow - good luck H. Just sent her a card to arrive Friday isn't t'internet brill Moonpig sends real cards not email or web page stuff. Busy day tomorrow. Been to gym today and workout was easier with fuel onboard. All going well - just need to sort the birthday.

Tuesday

Jean came in last night and delighted in the news from the dietitian. Off she went to Tesco and returned with a sack of Hi-cal goodies. One chocolate build up later I was stuffed. I felt like I had had 6 pints of guiness in a short lunchtime. I lay wallowing on the bed. Followed up later with a raspberry trifle and only minimal wretching. All kept down and slept better. Still trying to sort the party out.
Tuesday am and I have a meeting for 10 at the matchworks. I have just mailed them to say I wont be there till 10.30. WHilst I sit trying to devour a strawberry build up, trifle for lunch, build up for tea and a pint of milk in between. Sounds like a 1000 calories to me. Take it slow and sip said Jenny the dietitian, milk shakes are an abomination it must be said.

Monday Morning

Jean left me with a list of must be dones today.
1. Ring GP seeing Frank at 9am on Wednesday.
2. Ring Dietitian
3. Renew Car Insurance
Do her a map to get to turf Moor.
The dietitian was tops.Jenny - concentrate on getting some calories and protein in. So the new regime 2buildups a day made with full cream milk, + 1 pint milk a day soup, ice cream, porridge,mousses andcustards. Go to see her in 2 weeks. Keep a food diary. Calories and protein more imortant than eating healthy at the minute. Hear hear, I'm knakkerred I sustained most of last week on less than 200 cals a day. Not enough to keep my brain going says Jack. Watch out world the new slim me will have energy again soon. Messed about setting up discussion board software.

Sunday

Slept well with chemical help, back pain improving, guts ropey. After consultation with Jean, milk and water day see if I can get through without barfing. Catching up on a bit of work and stuff whilst the girls are at a parade service at the parish church. Few emails to reply to and a host of personal correspondence etc to sort. Need to order some more clothes and try out some of the stuff that was too small 2 weeks ago. Getting more worried about the evil in the middle east - Dubya I refer to. TV yesterday was full of jingoism as the ark royal was sent to the gulf - scary.

Saturday

Took to pureed fruit for brekkie. Stayed down went to the gym and got weighed - I have lost over 10 stones since the op - made up, new picture at the main web site. Barfed after some liquidised vegetable soup. Agreed with Jean I should see the dietitian ASAP. I don't think I am getting enough in. Started work on www.wlsinfo.org.uk the new new site which will have info and support for people this side of the atlantic. Hoping to persuade Kieran "Loopy" to help me with the info feeds. Signed up for a new web hosting account which I hope to be reimbursed for at some point. A bit of sponsorship perhaps, from the surgical tool makers. Downloaded some nifty soft ware to set up discussion boards, and fixed the sound on my PC - feeling good if a little tired. Rang the Heath Hall to see if it is a suitable place for birthday party, will visit tomorrow.

Friday night

Got to work about 10.30, picked up Sam and Jayne on the way, felt a bit ropey. Saw Jayne about acting up into a trainers job. Both Sam and I are sure she will shine. Stayed in the matchworks till 3 after a cold custard lunch. Lots to sort this weekend. Barfed after liquidised soup at teatime - not good. Back still sore just took twostrong painkilllers and an hypnotic to try to get a good kip.

Friday 3.45 am

Late night blogging can't sleep. Had a good meeting with Sam - she really has achieved loads while I have been away, she fills me with enthusiasm. Kieran dropped in later. a good natter and a larf as ever. Just fluids today and still sore. Jack the masseur rang, he has never caused bruising before. I'll mention the bruising to the doc incase my clotting or vitamin K is up the pole.

Thursday AM

Ruth and Paul came round last night, I had barfed after my tea so have decided to stick to fluids. We invited Ruth for a real fire. We are blessed with a proper open fire in the living room. It is a pain to clean get going etc but once its there it is great. Ruth is a particular fan. It led to a very relaxed evening and I lay in front of the fire warming my bruises after they had gone, I slept very well and awoke at 9.15, greeted by a cup of tea from my daughter. Sam is coming round to see me at 10.30, there is no where private at her office so we sometimes meet in the coffee shop at the top of the road. But no chance post op the smell of bacon butties would drive me bananas.

No entry on Wednesday

Didn't get to sleep till 4.30. Pain in back, not just in usual site but across lumbar region. Jean examined me in the morning and confirmed large bruises, Ally took photos so I could see them. I have been forbidden from posting them as they are a bit near the knuckle(or bum to be more precise). Ally is off sick, and Jean working a half day, so I slept fitfully between 9 and 1. Phone call from Ally Lee spurred me into action I thought going in for a few hours was better than nowt. Got to work at 3 and stayed till 5.30. Everyone seemed pleased to see me, and was really friendly. Felt a bit strange to me but glad I made it. Posture remains poor, and pain in back severe (is it aggravated by temperature?) It is minus 4 outside.Felt normal to be back in a work situation - I think I'll try it again.

Tuesday 7th January

Didn't get into work yesterday, barfed after breakfast - for what seemed ages. Complete with Nausea and abdo pain. Eventually settled and went back to sleep. Woke about 2 with what felt like a hangover. Generally not good fluids only today I think. Recovered later in the evening and spent the night getting ready for Jacks visit. Booked some time away at half term in Flaxton 9 miles north of York.
I slept very poorly, reading for a while Stupid White Men by Michael Moore. First time I have come across him but its excellent stuff. Still awake around four and lay there for a couple of hours, I was tortured with dreams and thoughts of large meals, I was overwhelmed by the amount of stuff I used to ingest.
Jack arrived early and set up his portable table in the front room, I was feeling quite nervous never having had anything like this before. It was not he said like swedish massage which he said was like a tickling. This was a medium sports massage. He started with me on my back and did my legs, it felt like he was using a series of implements but he assured me it was all his hands. It was hard work for him and painful for me. It did feel good when he stopped though. He rolled me over did back of the legs and then proceeded to pummel my legs shoulders neck and spine. He saved the bit in spasm till last it hurt but it feels better now. He said it might take two or three days to get the full benefit. It seemed a lot of work for 15 quid I was impressed. He stayed for a coffee afterwards, advised me to drink plenty of water and no alcohol tonight. Feels like a positive step - he said the tightness was not to do with my spine, and the muscle felt softer afterwards. A good investment.

Monday 6th January

Seems like ages since I was active this early. Plan is medicate breakfast ablute and then saunter into the office. Got a meeting this afternoon but can tinker with email post etc in the meantime. Its been very frosty again and the car will need a scraping. Onward and forward.

Sunday 5th Jan

Back still giving me hell. Actively medicated with a diazepam/analgesia combination to little effect. Went out for lunch to Ruth and Pauls - still no barfing. Going into work tomorrow for over half a day- (what to wear)? Need a list of things to do. Talk in the this house is of holidays - sounds like a half term in York, and main Summer in Britttany. Morale quite high and the thought of work whilst tiring is exciting.

Saturday 4th Jan

Back still sore rang Jack gym boss, then went to see him. He changed my exercise program and is coming to our house on Tuesday he does sport massage and a whole host of holistic medicine. He advised working through the pain and continuing with my revised workout. I felt tired but fulfilled afterwards. Still sore and will start popping painkillers tomorrow. Jean and Ally went to town shopping again. Watched kiss the girls in the evening, a good film Heard from Marta in the states. BTW weight loss now at 9st 10lbs. Must remember to do another photograph tomorrow.

3rd Jan

Went into work to meet with Elaine and discuss what I would be doing. In extreme pain walking really bad. Lift wasn't working and stairs were real bad. Still looking forward to going back and a plan is hatching for next week. Off to Jeans Mums in the evening

2nd January - Thursday I think

Still in pain, I didn't think the operation would cure all my physical problems but it seemed to, until the back problem flared up again. Strangely I still haven't barfed still Boxing day and I am pretty pleased with that. Plan to start back to work next week for 2 days a week, I'll be well cheesed off if my guts are fine and my back is in bulk. I wanted to ditch my crutch but I'll be keeping it a bit longer.

1st January

Last night was alright, bought I am still in spasm with back pain. 5mg of Diazepam helped, its an excellent muscle relaxant. Went to Ruth and Pauls for tea, 17 guests in all. Good night despite the pain, finding keeping up with blogging hard.

31

I forgot to mention my back has been playing me up, since I went to the gym on Sunday. It got worse and this morning it went into spasm and I can hardly walk. I didn't use my stick over the holiday - wonder if thats whats caused it

31st - New years eve

Never liked it anyway, too much false sentimentality and fights. I once got wrestled to the floor by several coppers on New Years Eve - I was innocent honest. They were very nice when they realised it was a mistake. The plan has been the same for several years now Jeans mum, Ruth and Paul are coming round here - watch festive TV and eat a bit. I am saving myself for a prawn - whoopy doo. Visited by our old friend Gordon today, another one of my friends who'll be glad to see the back of 2002. He was on top form as we reminisced about the fun we had in mental health days.

30th

Major PC problems, Video card it turned out to be after much messing. Sound isn't working now???? Nuisance factor 10.
Visited by Simon and Angie, Simon of bypass(heart type) fame, a fellow "that's a big operation boy." All went well except we didnt have any Bacardi Breezers in for Angie, she told me not to mention it on the blog though. Simon looks well and invited us to his 40th birthday party in Irby club - sounds good.

29th

Dads birthday - he died five years ago but I still miss him. Raised a glass to him in the evening. Went to the gym and worked out, saw Roy a retired guy who I haven't see for about 2 months he was amazed with my appearance. Got weighed 156kilos thats 132lbs, 60kg lost or 9.43 stones in english money. I was worried the red wine would have stopped the weight loss. That's a stone since 17/12/2002. Made up.

27th and 28th

Didn't do much at all, played with my prezzies and became addicted to Civilisation III on the laptop. Jean had to work on the Friday but Ally and I slobbed out (same as most Christmases but I wasnt eating goodies). Things did stay down well though and I didn't barf either day.

Boxing Day

Visited by Ally, Paul and Archie, great to have a baby around to put you in the Christmas spirit. I might hire one for next year. We entertained at teatime so it we had a busy time tidying and prepping for tea. 10 guests and us three, I decided not to eat anything, so soup and milk only for me. Some redwine as well. I had left the bingo set in Culcheth so I had to download some software and print out cards. I used the program to generate the numbers on the laptop. It went down well, especially with the older set. Paul, Alan and Colin my brothers in law hid in the backroom - drinking I suspect. I had more redwine and some port. I think I was drunk by the end of the night but it doesn't take much.

Christmas Day Part 2

Got Marys house, Nanny, Nanna, Mary, John, Ann, Dave, Maria and Sue the dog where all in fine form. I had planned to hold a bingo session for the oldies but couldn't be bothered when it came down to it. We played pontoon - for prizes. Not the most stress free game I have ever organised - I am sure that when the blog is made into a film it will be a good scene. The deafness of the oldies, poor sight and general argumentative nature led to a riot. I was glad to get home and and catch the last of the eastenders that day. A cracking episode with a wedding and a death, done to the tune of stand by me sang by a gospel choir. I had some redwine whilst watching the telly.

Christmas Day

Woke early and rushed fresh orange juice and tablets down, which I regretted later. Went downstairs to open our prezzies and drink tea. Quickly barfed and felt rotten. Sort of spoilt the presents I think. Ally got loads and she did turn back into an excited youngster for few moments before becoming "Kevin" again. I went back to bed and slept a bit longer. Woke a couple of hours later and rushed out to Ruth and Pauls. They had prepared an excellent lunch (as always) 12 for dinner and Billy Bernadette and Matthew for drinks. I think food mourning hit me before I got in the house - it smelt like the whole world was roasting potatoes. The stuffing looked divine and Jenny our neice had made some cranbrry sauces as part of her food tech A level course. I put some mash carrotts and stuffiing on a small plate. To be truthful I shouldn't have eaten anything I was still nauseous. I hung around for a bit and barfed in the living room. Felt miserable as sin as I thought I was ruining it for everyone else. Went back in after the main course and sat sipping water. Jean and Ally had made a Yule log for alternative non Christmas pudding eaters (Me and Ally). About 4 we set off for my sisters house in Culcheth (30 minutes drive away) and part 2.

Christmas Eve

Jean had to work today, Colin took Hannah out for her birthday lunch and Ally joined em. I was off to Franks for a a dose of pre Christmas Therapy(Barber not Doctor). Frank always makes me feel better, even Peter his miniscule assistant commented on the change in my appearance. Took Frank a bottle of white wine, my traditional gift to him. Went to the gym afterwards - halfway through my workout I realised I had to back for three, bombed home in time to catch Ruth and give her the pressies. Ruth Jean and their Mum traditionally visit Auntie Margies on Christmas Eve, She was the lady who died last week. Ally saw some of Miracle on 34th Street before she went out and realised that was all she needed to make her feel Christmassy.The nightime was about wrapping pressies - and worrying that I hadn't got Jean enough.

Nearly a week since last I blogged

I've been too busy what with Christmas and all that I'll try and offer a retrospective view of what happened. I have just been to the gym and been weighed - lost a stone since 17/12. Total weight loss now 9.5 stone. Absolutely made up.

Monday

Dropped Ally off at Hannahs went to Matchworks for the Christmas finger buffet. Very pleasant and saw several people I havent seen for a while. Forgot to get a haircut but what the hell - I'll try tomorrow.

Sunday

Well slept in, felt tired barfed after Brekkie, felt worse went back to sleep. Walked to the shops and back again Spoke to Ali Lee, feeling a bit better. Trying to get things in focus and keep on top of them.

Sunday night what happened to the last few days??

The last week has not been good - lots of negative feelings, food and christmas seem linked to me - probably washed down with ample beverages as well. Its been getting me down. though I have changed I haven't got my head round this yet. Being the size I was I played a role round mein host and bon viveur. Believe me we did a mean christmas dinner here. Its all the trimmings I want, stuffings (at least 4 types), sausages bacon, the ordinary stuff was good too. Honey glazed parsnips, my roasties are mean, and I can't mention the gravy. Plus the canapes, aperitifs, wines, liquers, port and numerous chocolates. Whilst I am made up at losing this weight I miss all that. Also I dont think me eating tiny amounts then wretching and barfing adds much to the Christmas experience. So thats where I am at up, and down sums it up well. Still trying to get on and I am convinvced that the operation was a) right for me and b) the right thing to do and c) a success. I'll try and pick over the last few days see what I've done.
Wednesday night went to Winwick Club - we won the quiz Mike, Margaret, Ian and Phil and I. I stayed out late and enjoyed myself.
Thursday - Was the Curry Club night out - I joined them for a drink in the dispensary then taxied up to Childwall to meet the staff from Taggart who had a good night out at Owens restaurant. I must confess to not being sober.
Friday Jean was off, Ally finished at noon. Sam came round to talk about work. I was energised by her enthusiasm and all she and the team have achieved. I felt like going back and starting work that afternoon. I cried off the Matchworks night out, I was going to go for a drink but didnt feel up to meeting so many people.
Saturday - slow day and started to get things together for Christmas found a good site Matt Granger A young Aussie lad (aged 21) who weighed more than me and has certainly made a transformation.

Wednesday Night

Didnt feel any better - couldnt sleep due to belly ache and dyspepsia. Feeling down and miserable, just had a post from the surgery support group telling me post op depression is common. Planned to go to work but didn't make it. Jean went to Margies funeral today. Got weighed at the gym 8st 6lb lost.

Tuesday Morning

Monday was a bad day, I hardly slept on Sunday night and spent most of yesterday dozing. Guts still aren't 100% this morning. Need to get my act together and head for the gym. DVD player broke so I need to go and buy a new one. Feeling pretty fed up today, constant dyspepsia and difficult to motivate.
More blogging later if I feel better.

Sunday night

Good time with Archie, Tesco delivery straightforward. Got on with coming - chicken with sweet and sour sauce and Murghi Rasedar - a chicken curry adapted from Madhaur Jaffrey 20 years ago. All went down well today, tidying the house more than the last three months was tough but it was needed before christmas. I had some curry juice and drank it as soup. Egg mayo sarney for tea, with crusts - so that came back to see me. DVD player playing up so not good news. Heard from Marta one of my American friends who continues to make progress.

Saturday morning

Busy day yesterday went to see Val to discuss my staged return to work, it was exciting and felt as good as starting a new job. There was a couple of projects with my name against them and I'll tell more when they are firmed up. I had lunch at the matchworks and then headed to Hammy House to see Fran for 2. We discussed primary care for about an hour and it almost felt like things were getting like work again. I picked my mother up from my Nans at 5.30 and took her home. Jean was off out for another Christmas party at Anfield football ground. As usual for a large Christmas night out the food was poor and the service worse.Ally and I dossed around the house doing our own things. I recovered some data off a floppy that had been reformatted (aren't I clever).
Saturday early on saw our annual pilgrimage to williams garden centre for a Christmas tree. Jean was dissapointed that she only managed to spend 56 quid despite her best efforts. I went to the gym after that where I was made up to complete 30 minutes cardiovascular training for the first time. Ali Lee is brinnging round Archie for us to mind and our Ally is off to a party. We have decided to do the christmas tree tomorrow as we are providing lunch tomorrow so I'll be busy cooking this pm. Tesco home delivery is cominglate they have already rang to apologise

Friday 13th

Anyone superstitious - no me neither. Yesterday was busy. I got to Tesco before 9 I wanted to buy Frank a christmas gift, champagne seemed appropriate. The wine aisle is a strange place at that time of the morning. One poor guy had two bottles of table wine and a Daily Star, £4.35. He wrapped the wine up in the paper, but I ended up behind him in the checkout. The front of the surgery is being altered and the path was all dug up, had to enter through the old front door. Frank was on top form, he seemed pleased with my progress and said I can go back to work anytime now, just negotiate the terms with my boss Val. Popped in to see mum and her dog on the way home. I had gone in my gym clothes with shorts underneath my long sweat pants. Twice these shorts ended up at my knees, so I returned home and donned some of my alternative boxer shorts and worked out with long trousers on. Although my dignity was preserved at all times the feeling of your shorts heading south is disconcerting to say the least. I had a good workout with 6 minutes extra cardiovascular work. I am aiming for 30 mins total by the end of January. Today I did 24.
I met Stella and Ann for lunch in the gym restaurant - I had liquidised wintervegetable soup, not sure what was in it though. Jean went out for an Indian and a few drinks with people from work. I was jealous, I really miss Indian food.

Thursday morning

After running the girls around yesterday I went to the post office and stopped in at Childwall Park Avenue. A full house there - Chris, Karen, Veronica, Scott, Paul, Jane, Evelyn and Sam. I felt a bit last popping in for a cup of tea but I also think exposing myself to work is good.( As opposed to at church). Jean got home late afternoon and she was exhausted so Ally and I went shopping whilst she caught some zeds. I almost enjoyed it. Some new clothes were delivered and I had to put them on. 8 inches less in the waist ( and still a tad too big). We raised a glass to Margie in the evening, I started on beer but found even the none fizzy real ale difficult. I settled for a glass of red wine washed down by a liberal amount of water.I also had my first sandwich - I don't seem to find bread a problem apart from the 20 minutes immediatly after ingestion when I burp and threaten to barf but hang on to the nutrients. Busy times today, Frank the GP at 9.30, gym and then meeting Stella and Ann for lunch at the gym restaurant. All go or what?

Thursday AM

I didn't blog at all yesterday. Jeans auntie Margie died just after noon. I was busy looking for my wife and driving her and her sister to the house.

Tuesday Morning

Went to see Veronica at CPA yesterday afternoon. Met Chris the new health visitor and Shirley the district nurse. Veronica has achieved loads in her project and it was good to see something I was involved in doing so well. I had forgotten how complex the work environment was and after an hour my head was spinning. Still it helped ease me back in and start to get a handle on things. I was a bit ill after and it stopped me going out, so I spent the rest of the night half dozing on the couch. Dead Ringers (BBC2) was loads better on the radio - it should have stayed there.
Tuesday means gym, in a radical change with tradition I am going to go after lunch, and then pick Ally and the girls up. Christmas presents are starting to arrive, I have become quite friendly with the Omega Securicor delivery man. I think he used to be a weatherman - he always comments today it was ********Baltic mate.

Monday Morning

After church popped in to see mother and lunched at home tried out my new gruelling workout at the gym which I thoroughly enjoyed. Visited by sister Mary and then I went out for a walk to the shops - nothing to buy just for the hell of it. Sick after tea, put down to a piece of badly chewed leek, which I still deny eating. Woke up this morning with the effects of my new exercises, the lat pull down and vertical row making my back ache.

Brian Rix

I made it to church - it was good, the speaker Bill Bygroves was excellent, the congregation seemed young and vibrant, and I recognised a few people in there as well. All was fine till after it finished and on leaving for a cup of tea, my kecks fell down. Not just slipped off the top of my bum or dangled at my knees, but all the way down. I was struck by the whiteness of my legs and the blackness of my socks. I demonstrated the new agility by dropping to my knees and recovering them all without breathing, time was going sloooow at this point. I wonder how many people noticed, and if I'll be allowed in again next week. Went for a cup of tea and regained my nerves, exited slowly with hands in pocket.

Sunday Morning

Still ain't been sick for ages.Ali and Archie visited yesterday. What a good time we had, playing with an 11 month old fills me with joy., though he did have vegetable korma babyfood from a jar which filled me with envy. We went to the Christmas Fair at Ally's primary school. What a delight - though the tea was fine. Back to ours and Archie fell asleep on my knee - how peaceful. Workplaces should have small children strategically installed for calming purposes. Later I picked mum up from Nanny Banks' and did the shopping in Somerfield trip. They had run out of my favourite soup so off to Tesco as well .A quiet Saturday night in then as Jean was out visiting her Auntie.

Saturday Morning

Didn't have time yesterday, tut tut tut. Thursday went fine all food staying in its appointed place. I feel a strange sense of dietary contentment. Woke up late on Friday morning - and rushed to get in the matchworks for 12. A lot of folk were busy when I arrived, I spoke to Neil the singing podiatrist and PEC member (he has lost three stone and looks good). He wanted to know what Christingle was all about. After a bit of digging on Google I found this "The Christingle is a custom that originated in the Moravian Church in 1747 and seeks to symbolise and celebrate the creation of the earth, its seasons, and the life of Jesus Christ showing Him to be the world's true light." Which sounds to have a very pagan basis to me. I also found this link which suggests its more about making money for this charity. I also spoke to Lyn who is doing some work around the intranet for South Liverpool PCT. I met the usual crowd over lunch, Sandra. Ali B., Ali P rushing off to a meeting, Andrea and Sheila and a cast of thousands. I hung around for about two hours like a bad smell. Before being engaged in some work by Linda from Finance, felt useful for a bit.Gave lyn a lift back to Hammy house, mostly to talk about the intranet developments. Picked mummy up from Nanny Banks at 5.30, they were late, they had been for Nannys pension and scored on some cheap lager on the way back. So my mothers efforts to push the wheelchair were hampered by he 24 can tray of lager she was carrying. Nanny couldn't hold the beer as she had the stash of spirits on her knee. It was bitterly cold as well. Where Nanny lives is rough a row of proud Victorian terraces off Kensington - undoubtedly the roughest part of town. It is the litter and dog dirt capital of the universe as well. Drug dealing is a frequent sight as are burnt out cars. It has all recently been renovated but its still rough.Some helpful children had took the lid off the fire hydrant. Which in good citizen mode I decided to replace. I struggled to my knees tottered and then fell over - with a thud, accompanied by a scream from Nanny sitting helpless abandoned in the wheelchair. I hurt my hip knee and hands - good citizenship a bad thing it seems. Took mother home and went to mother in laws after tea. Not before eating smoked trout and bread, not exactly a sandwich but getting there.Ally went to a disco and I fell asleep downstairs.

Thursday 3pm - stop press

Just got back from the gym been weighed - lost 8 stone since the op 3 months and one day ago. I am going to have some fruit to celebrate.

Thursday

After all the optimism of Tuesday night I spent most of yesterday barfing. Not impressed. Didnt go out last night, Jeans auntie who has been ill took a turn for the worse. Jean took her mum to see her. Ally and I chiled out at home, tesco delivered the groceries. I note the home delivery now comes from the Old Swan store(formerly it was Allerton). They missed out five items - two of which were marked high value items on the invoice. Cointreau, Vodka and three bottles of shiraz on special offer. 40 quids worth. 20 minutes in a hold queue and they promised to ring the store and get back tous. Which they didnt, another 10 mins in the hold q, before putting down the phone in frustration. Save an hour by doing your shopping online and waste most of it on the phone trying to get it sorted. Theres the bell, ah Mr Tesco man. Holding a bottle of cointreau, he knows nothing about the vodka and the shiraz. "We have merged with with Allerton and its a bit of a mess, I shall be getting some sort of refund for this. Jean is off today and she has gone to Gemini park at Warrington for more Christmas shopping. Just been on the phone refund half the delivery charge and credit to my debit card account ......what a mess I think I'll try Sainsburys next

Wednesday Morning

The Crowne Plaza thing was strange, I arrived early and met Janine (I think) an acting practice manager from Birkenhead. We were then joined by Ron Bob and Paul from Hammy House. The lunch looked mediocre, sort of hot buffet, I surprised myself by assertively asking for liquidised soup. It was produced and drank about half of it. Had a good natter with Bob, poor Janine must have been bored solid.The presentation was very slick it was by a company called Cerner. Basically they want all the hospitals and GP's to have the same system and thus accomplish shared records with a stroke. Seemed very good but the culture change required overawed me. I also had nightmares about the size of GP's inboxes after the change. Even if we said yes tomorrow then it would take 33 months to implement so not an immediate worry. The interesting bit is how we get from here to there. The presentation team was international and the schmooze was flowing.
I got home around five - exhausted. We were in such a rush that Jean went to the chipshop, I had four chips and some chicken foo yung. They were delicious and I didn't barf. A quick visit to the mother in laws preceded my visit to the out patients at Aintree to see Mr Kerrigan.
I arrived at ten to eight (appt at 8), the 7.30 had DNA'd. Got weighed only about 300g difference from the gym scales. Got into see him at 8.15. Took him some pictures of me to put in my case notes and showed him my exercise routine (a printout not the real thing). He was made up with the weight loss and gym progress. We had a long talk about the vomiting and what to do. The fact it has subsided in the last four days has persuaded me to do nothing but he imparted some good information and practical advice. The opening from my new pouch is 1.4cm diameter, and we talked about food likely to block it, chicken, steak, broccoli. We also talked about when it gets blocked you get vomiting, which if frequent can lead to the "ring" becoming oedematous and you barfing even fluids. Which looking back has happened a couple of times he said the trick is to rest the pouch by taking fluids to maintain hydration, but resting the pouch. So 5mls of water every 10 minutes for 2 days followed by two days of clear fluids, then 2 days post op diet and something else giving your belly a rest for a week. (I'll have to check the details with Jean) . Seems practical but totally undesirable. The other options he offered were a barium swallow and gastroscopy to assess if the outlet had become too small, and leading to dilatation with a balloon if this was the case. Given the last four days we agreed that - I would continue as is, use the 5ml regime if things went bad again and contact his secretary Lorraine for fast tracking for swallow and scope. Seems a good plan to me and I always feel better with a plan and a way out if it goes wrong. He has read the blog a few times and said it opened his eyes to what a bad time people could have. He is still keen to press on with the website for patient information which I said I would help him develop.. He took blood for the usual things plus magnesium, zinc, fat soluble vitamins and will let me know if we need to to do anything. Blood was difficult to get and he ended up doing it. It turns out I used to work with his wife many moons ago when I was a charge nurse in Psychiatry at the Royal - small world. I left at 9.25 feeling heaps better - so did Jean, but Ally who was waiting outside was not best pleased.

Tuesday - big day

Off to a presentation at the Crowne Plaza hotel later. I'm a bit nervous really. Feels like the first serious thing I have done for months. Outpatients this evening, something seems to have clicked in the last few days and I feel heaps better, and am keeping down normal food. I think I need to see the dietitian though as I am sure I am not getting enough protein. How do I tell if I have excess hairloss - it's all headed south anyway. Got another e-mail from Patti my new transatlantic weight loss contact - she rises lots of interesting issues around the way people treat her different since she lost weight. I went to the gym yesterday and increased my regime still further - another minute on each cardiovascular exercise and more weight on the exercises. I feel good at the minute though my legs are stiff this morning from the new leg extension exercises.

Monday Morning

Cold wet windy and a definite stay in bed sort of morning so I got up early (by my standards). Must done some work on the people skills essay this morning. Eat real food last night and only barfed a bit.Still managed to miss the Christingle service. Tied to the house today waiting for man to pick up the chair. Monday means picking Ally and her friends up from school. Feeling the cold today I must go and put another layer on. Not much profound to say today. 940 visits to the blog last month - sounds ok to me.

Sunday night

More bad sleep and late rising so missed Church at Bridge Chapel. Planned to visit Christingle service at the Parish but prevented by barfing. Sleeping pills tonight I think. Started essay for college things are looking serious now. Reviewed Christmas present situation and decided there wasn't enough. So ordered more stuff from Amazon, Boots Thorntons and a couple of surprise things for Jean. This week ahead will be mostly about finishing college work. Gym visits and hospital visit will be included and attendance at a conference for a couple of hours on Tuesday Afternoon. Got an email from Patti from Pennsylvania, who has lost over 200lbs since July 2001 and stumbled across the blog.

Saturday afternoon now

I love the blog apart from when I lose material I have just painstakingly typed. It seems to happen so often I think its a design fault. Sometimes software seems to be designed for people who never make mistakes. I had a bad nights sleep last night, during the time I was lying awake I managed to sort out some fundamental truths about my job and the essay plans. Unfortunately when I woke up it had gone, all evaporated. I woke up late and feeling rough. The Amazon order finally completed today - three phonecalls and three parcels later. We seemed to have gained a copy of Oceans Eleven in VHS if anyones interested. Last night I got into one of those states where I was really up the pole but couldn't explain why. People telling me to calm down doesn't help it seems I am short of sugar or something. I don't know what's happening and I don't like it.

grrrrrrr - just lost two paragraphs again

New picture

New picture added

Friday AM

Visited by Val and Mary last night. Basically return to work plan on hold till I see the surgeon next week. I took two sleeping pills and a bowl of custard before going to sleep last night. Worked a treat I slept like a log. The big chair we rented for me is redundant - we tried to get it in the car but it wont fit so is being picked up on Monday. I don't know what Jean has planned for me today. She is busying herself in the garden whilst I skive here soaking up the rays of my light therapy.

Still teatime

Have I mentioned I am not sleeping very well - no specific reasons. My book suggests hypoglycaemia as a possible cause -hmmm. I lie there thinking about food that I cant have. Last night it was sausage sandwiches with tommy K and mustard.

Thursday Teatime

The girls are downstairs eating fish and chips, part of our empty the freezer before Christmas campaign. I am staying out of the way till all evidence is gone. Before having my tasty soup. What a day today, got up late and required a change of plan. Went to get my mum and took her to costco. I was really pleased with my endurance pushing the trolley round. I spent £100 and didn't seem to get much. Got a couple of surprises for Al and one for Jean, and some bingo prizes for christmas night (don't ask- I'll say more nearer the time). Stopped of at ours on the way back then took Mummy home. Headed for the gym where I had a good workout - lost more weight total loss now at 105.7lbs (over 7.5 stones). The Amazon parcel arrived and it was wrong again - not impressed. Later my sister (our mary, or Minty as she is known) is visiting around the same time as my boss Val. Mary used to hit me when I was little, to be fair I deserved it all and probably more, its left me with a healthy respect for older women. She used to do this cunning trick where she would hold my wrist and slap my face with my hand, whilst shouting "stop hitting yourself." Any marks left bore the small boys handprint - I got my own back by refusing to go out when she was a teenager and had boyfriends round. Could the two things be linked. I love her now anyway even if she does look 10 years younger than me. As an aside my Mum (well known for malapropisms), has had a letter from the Salivation Army asking for help.

Wednesday later

Been a busy boy today - out at the crack of dawn (9.30) for a haircut. Back home, ablute, and then off to Matchworks to see the prescribing team. Also saw quite a few others and had a natter with Eileen. Then off to Childwall Park Avenue where I had some tea with Sam, Paul, KAren and Veronica. Met Scott our new facilitator. Felt like I was part of something.

Wednesday afternoon

Went to Greenbank for lunch with Sandra and Gail, after my workout, saw Ali butt and Sharon there.Soup was a choice - Tomato and Basil or spicy sweetcorn. Sweetcorn was a bit too hot for me and I could only manage four spoons. Had a good laugh and concluded I would not be going to the christmas night out. Me not eating must be offputting for others. Went to mossley hill afterwards where Karen helped me with a load of material for my college assignment. Amazon order arrived with half the stuff missing, rang em no probs on its way and mucho apologies.
Sick Tuesday night as well - getting sick of sick now.

Tuesday night.

Monday seems a long time ago now. I went into Hammy House ostensibly to use the library but ended up talking to people. first stop was the LIS team for Adam, Val and Jo. Then next door to see statler and waldorf (aka John and Ron). Then I eventually checked out the library, seeing Tracey and Kieran. Intercepted in reception by Fran and Paul and off to pick Ally up from school. Bit hectic a traffic warden was dishing out tickets and advice to all and sundry.
Evening meal was a nightmare I had four spoons of mashed sausage and beans (by heinz) and was violently sick. Felt worn out for the rest of the night.

Just typed a load of stuff about yesterday and lost it. then I looked out the window and somebody has swiped the hubcaps off my car. I am not happy.

Monday am

Didn't get to church yesterday, had a vomitting attack followed by two hours sleep. Bit dissapointed. Came round in the afternoon and felt better. Went for a walk to the local shops (uphill) and felt great that I did it without stopping. Made the foolish mistake of checking my emails at work last night. I managed to delete 180 without reading them, these included 70 messages from the server telling me my account was over limit, 20 mails telling me the price of fruit on sale in a building I no longer work in, 7 messages from the same place asking if I was the person who had requested a fax. 10 messages telling me not to use a certain system, and 10 telling me it was ok now.What a load of old tosh, no wonder people with a life get frustrated by email. I shall start a campaign to cut the crap on my return to work.

Sunday Morning

Weight loss score from yesterday - 102.52 pounds lost - that = 7.32 stones 46.62 kilos since the op. 4.73 pounds since Tuesday. Did my christmas shopping last night Amazon and Play247.com , I just need to pick a few things up from the Speke retail park and I will be sorted. The greengrocers at the end of the road has got real Christmas trees in all ready - TOO SOON.

Post script

Time for another picture tomorrow I think - after I have been to church.

Saturday night

Another late instalment at the blogshop.
I went into work at the matchworks yesterday, I was nervous but it felt ok. Saw loads of people and got loads of positive feedback. Met Emma, Sandra, Angela, Alison, Olive, the receptionists,and Jan. Saw Kate, Alan and the finance team, and a lot of new faces. Quite a few people were away so I figured it was a good time to go in. Ali Butt, who was on my table is with child and in top form. She asked me to try to get some info of a corrupt disk. I took it home and sorted it, job done. I was going to post it back but as there is some patient data I'll take it in. I was there for two hours all told and it felt (I felt) a lot easier at the end. Nearly lost my kecks in the Director of Public Healths office, they were tight on Sunday. I may need to invest in braces- or a good lawyer. Saturday brought a rewarding visit to the gym. There was only two of us in a hockey playing soprano barrister and me. She is singing in Mahlers third tonight at the Phil (impressive or what). I got weighed and have lost more weight. Added some more stuff to my workout and still enjoy it.

Friday morning

Friday again Jean is off work today and has taken her Mother to Prescot for Christmas shopping. I managed to avoid this by going to work at lunchtime. Don't worry its only a social call. Frank said it would make my return to work easier, I discussed it with Val my boss last night and she thinks it is a good idea. I must confess to feeling slightly anxious about it, but today will be a good day as a lot of people are out. I am going at lunchtime but I will just have a cup of tea, I don't want to chuck up on my first visit. I never really got established there before going off on the sick, so it feels a bit strange. What to wear seems to be causing problems too. Last night I bought some kecks on ebay, brand new five pound a pair - we'll see what they are like. I got pairs in the next two sizes down. how is that for forward planning. Trousers for me at the big mans shop come in at around 45-50 quid. A fascinating section the other-clothing-plus sizes-menswear section, a fine selection of transvestite gear is available online, not for me I don't think.

Thusday Morning

Up early to see to Frank, whipped round to mothers after that. Went to the gym barfed again. Did a workout and met a new member of staff called Eva(or Ava), a charming Belgian. Si and I were trying to remember the names of famous Belgians, how many could you get? not more than 4 I'll wager. Sam visited after lunch for further lessons in how to be an Evertonian. Went to get a haircut but Franks was mad busy with only one chair operative so I nipped to Somerfield, a rather downmarket grocery store. Whilst perusing the aisles my crutch became possessed and knocked four jars of curry cook in sauce on to the floor. Good news only three broke.

Wednesday night

Vomit returns, my egg mayonnaise and mashed potato was just too good. I brought it back, first time for six days though. Settled after an hour and went to the quiz night at Winwick. Impressed myself by remembering the name of the actor who played Sandy Richardson in Crossroads. Disappointed myself by not remembering anything else.

Wednesday morning

Up before the crack of dawn. A new plan, get up and awake before Jean goes out and get carbohydrates on board. Painful but effective I think. Might even do some college work this morning. Ally still off sick, her chest still sounds awful. I have asked her to write her Christmas present list today, I need to place a big Amazon order and get that sorted out. Think I'll e-mail Mr Kerrigan today tell him I have lost all but seven stone - I am pleased.

Midnight Tuesday

What a weird day, should have been meeting Sandra for lunch at the gym restaurant. Had a strange dizzy/faint attack. I was getting wound up about being late, when all of a sudden my legs gave way. It was weird I don't think I fully lost consciousness but I was not fully aware of my surroundings. Several people have said this is inevitable given what I am not eating. Ally panicked, poor thing called my mum and Jean. I woke up feeling like I had a bad hangover, but was right as rain after some soup. Weird. Got to the gym about 5pm, which is a totally different crowd to the laidback sick/retired people I usually workout with. There were some serious athletes there with trainers and all sorts. I enjoyed my work out and got weighed after the session - 2.25 kilos in a week, total loss now = 44.45kg, 97.79pounds or 6.99 stone (I am calling it seven) that's in 12 weeks. I am made up. Looked through my wardrobe when I got home and found three pairs of trousers I have not worn for ages. Well pleased. More pictures required tomorrow, and I fixed the link on the website. Got an email from Lesley an ex-scouser who has had surgery and happened across the blog.

Monday Morning

Yesterday was the best day I have had since the op. I still ain't been sick since Thursday, and subsequently feel a whole lot more alive. Sunday went well, started off in the gym, with a good workout. Lunch at Ruth and Pauls where I had baked potato cheese sauce and leeks liquidised, it was delicious. Back home then for a visit from Mary and John (sister and brother in law). All agree I'm looking well. I put shirt tie and trousers on again and looked far more human. My trousers now reach just below my nipples in a crazy old man style. Jean has forbidden me from doing this, as I look very sad. Went to Ruth and Toms after tea (cock-a-leekie soup) and had a good laugh with Ruth Ruth Paul Tom Alan Hazel and Dave. My second night out in two months. I did get a bit excited at so large an audience after 2 months playing only to small gigs. Stayed out till nearly five to ten then home in time to watch the shield on channel five. Slept very well, though did wake up with paralysed arms. An after effect of the gym which only lasted for seconds. I am also back sleeping on my stomach which is my favourite position.
Monday - well Ally is off school again, her chest sounds foul. Veronica is visiting at lunchtime otherwise a quiet day.

Sunday Morning

Bit of an update :- Paul and I got the bed sorted eventually - what a mess, I may well be writing to Mr Craftmatic to give him a piece of my mind. We got the nuts lined up and then the brackets to fit the sides on needed new holes drilling. Took us the best part of two hours. Good news the Tivo is fully working - I am impressed. I went out last night, Ally goes to the millennium school of dance, and last night was their Christmas show. Last year it went on to long, and drove me mad, it was in a community centre in Hough Green. This year it was in the Queens Hall Widnes, almost a proper theatre like with a balcony. I know the formula for these shows - the bit with your kid is great, the rest some what mediocre, I was a reluctant attendee but three pound paid I saddled up. I got dressed up too, shirt, tie and pants, I thought the casual gym look I have recently adopted was inappropriate. If I say so myself I looked fairly good. It was a pity the rest of the audience were wearing shell suits and jeans. Still the chance to wear work like clothes and feel how loose they were was good for me. We arrived ridiculously early (as always) and bagged a good seat. The night before the commitments were playing, I liked that film. Next big attraction is the panto starring b-list celebs from Brookie and Neighbours. The dance show was good, I am prevented from being negative by my censors Jean and Ally, I am not even allowed to criticise the audience. Ally was made up this morning when I told her that she was treading a stage where both the Beatles and Johnny Vegas had performed.
As an aside the anti-sickness package is still working I feel loads better.
Today well the gym, lunch at Ruth and Pauls, visit from my sister then a few drinks for them that can at Ruth and Toms. Somehow next week I will fit in a visit to a local church. I need to start going again regularly and need a place to join.

Saturday Morning

48 hours since the V word and feeling a lot more alive and positive in outlook. Went to the tip yesterday, and Jean picked up some stuff from Woolies on the way home.Tried to get a haircut but it was way too busy so contented myself with brushing leaves instead. I am becoming something of an expert now. Ali P called in the afternoon, good to see her she spoke a lot of sense - as usual. She is covering for me while I am away and that makes me feel better. Went off to pick my mum up from my nans where I was greeted with chaos. Nan has just bought one of these fancy adjustable beds, but she needs one cot side fitting to allow her to turn herself over. The firm have sent her the cot sides and fitting stuff and 50 quid to get someone to do it. Surely they should have a local engineer? So Paul my DIY proficient brother in law and I embark on trying to fix it. After studying the plans for 15 minutes I conclude its a straightforward job. Which was the kiss of death - the nuts were of a special locking type and were terrible to tighten. We return today with more tools. The Tivo helpline concluded I need a new gizmo, so I felt better I had set it up right. I shall get on to that today.

Friday morning

24 hours without vomit I feel better already. Jean is off work today, she is just going to work 4 days between now and Christmas. I think we need to take a trip to the tip today. Then we'll need to have a serious look at our Christmas present list. I felt the effects of my increased workout this morning, my back is stiff and a other joints are a little achey too. Still its beginning to feel more like a workout, and Jack said I can go on the bike next week. Expecting Ali P from work this pm, Frank said yesterday I should visit work to see how it feels and get over the hurdle of going back there. I shall seek advice today.

Thursday Night

Bit of a late Blog for me, Franks new regime seems to be working well, all food all medicine staying where it should. Two unannounced visitors today, Kieran from the Library bearing articles. Followed by Dave from the north, an ex-member of the Primary Care Informatics Team I used to manage. Spoke to the Tivo helpline and its nearly working. Bought the girls a packet of rolo muffins, I was driven upstairs by the overpowering chocolatey smell.

Thursday PM

Went to see GP Frank - what a star, I have total respect for him. He has come up with a plan to counteract the way I feel because of my repeated vomitting. I guess I have not held down my medication for about a week. This has led to a resurgence in belly ache, joint pains and feelings of depression. Back to sloppy diet which I was tolerating well. New antiemetic regime of medicine to be started. Break tasks up into small chunks, rather than letting the very size of them overwhelm me. All sound advice which I need to follow. Stop worrying about work was his other gem. Still I feel loads more positive after seeing him, and I went off to the gym where I increased my exercise programme under the advice of Jack. Feels more like it now.

Thursday Am

Managed to sleep surprisingly well considering I spent the day in bed. Up at 8.20 - and it is still dark - this can't be right. Got to get some food in me before I get off to the Doctors, also need to take him the draft of a note about excuse note for college. Plan to go straight to the gym after seeing Frank, though I may pop into my mums on the way there. In Tesco the other day we became separated so she took to stopping strangers telling them she had lost her son. He has had an operation and lost so much weight I probably can't see him she said.Cringe factor 10

Wednesday

Watched Star Wars episode 2 last night and enjoyed it, was sick several times which didn't add anything to the overall performance. Nausea and vomiting carried over to Wednesday Morning. Couldn't get in to see Frank - Advanced access brilliant or what. Frank rang at lunchtime and I arranged to see him at 9.30 tomorrow. By the way I got weighed yesterday. Total weight loss now 92 pounds, or 6stone 8lbs or 42.2 kg. Just had three of these anti nausea tablets and I plan to lie in bed feeling yuk.

Tuesday

I got my act together, got hydrated, had a bath, put on some baggy clothes and I was out. Sat with Ian, John and Mike in Winwick Club, watching the domino and card players. We reminisced about times at Winwick, heard the news about who had died and who had cancer or had been divorced.
Tuesday Am- Star Wars has arrived, Ally is still off school, its grey and dark here, trying to workout how I can get to the gym and do my other chores.

Monday Evening

All this talk of food must have upset me - I was sick after lunch, in a major way. I guess salmon and watercress pate did not agree with me. Feeling pretty dehydrated on waking up , going to have work very hard to get my act together to go out tonight. Ally was worried about me and rang Jean twice while I was being sick. I am OK though a little disheartened.

Monday Afternoon

Thanks to Gail from the matchworks for pointing out that Vesta meals are still available and good to eat. A search in online tesco store reveals paella, risotto, beef curry and chow mein available at 1.55 each. I shall look forward to trying the paella again.

Monday Monday

Quiet day yesterday but major progress made on sorting out bedrooms, and returning the dining room to its normal function. Spoke to my Sister about the plan for Christmas Day, I think we may have a workable plan. No sickness at all yesterday, have I turned a corner? I had Mediterranean lamb shank and cauliflower for lunch.Heinz ravioli in a tin for my tea. I definitely have this desire to eat foods from my youth. I used to think spaghetti was a vegetable, when I was young. We always had it as an accompaniment to a main course. I was most shocked to find out that spaghetti was in fact a staple and that it was really almost 12 inches long. I think I may have to have pasta for tea tonight. Does anyone remember Vesta dishes? Mysteries in a box, dried meals in the seventies with pictures of their ingredients on the front of the packet with a numbered key. Paella was my favourite (only one pan), beef and chicken curries were tops too, though a bit much in the way of fruit for my taste. Chow mein was exciting, it had a tin of waterchestnuts, or bamboo shoots and a little packet of crispy noodles to fry. Vesta meals still available from here. How bizarre, Ally is not well today and is off sick. we are both gutted that the new star wars DVD hasn't arrived today as promised.

Sunday morning

Yesterday was pretty good food wise, kept things down, which is a good thing. Ally from work rang up and came round with Archie her 10 month old son. What a delight he is, I had forgotten how much I liked children. We looked after him for a bit while Ally went shopping and he fell asleep on my knee watching the jungle book. I enjoyed the film, and this is how being a grandad must feel. All the nice bits and no hassle. Ruth Paul and Catherine arrived and Jean and Paul set about the wardrobe. They only got it slightly wrong, but the instructions were awful. Catherines boyfriend Ryan is in a band, they were playing at the Cavern in Liverpool last night.
Ally (daughter) has a fine productive cough today and so is not going to guides church parade. I'll be off to the gym when light therapy and ablutions are complete. This afternoon probably involves more tidying.

Saturday Morning

Finally go my sleep in crawled out of the pit about 11.20, could have stayed a lot longer I think. Ally has gone to an all day rehearsal of her Dance schools musical treat "Oliver". I've lots to do today and getting up late hasn't helped any of that. I feel a lot better stomach wise only two very minor barfs yesterday. I am beginning to feel guilty about work, I am so up and down that when I feel good, I think I could go to work and when I feel bad I realise there isn't a chance. I will have a long talk to Frank about it next week - if I can get in to see him. Whenever I see anyone I always put on my best show and they must think god he looks well. I'll also have to talk to Val my boss see if there is a way I can gradually start reintroducing work at a very slow pace.Tivo is good, but still needs some final tweaks, after I have done them I can rearrange the living room furniture.

Friday

Late blog - been mad busy today, first of all the man called to fix the Cable he tried three new digiboxes before he got one that worked. I was visited by then by Sam, who is helping me convert to being an Evertonian. Which may not be that hard, I was brought up in that camp and have been an agnostic most of my adult life. The afternoon was spent playing with my Tivo box, what fun, playing with gadgets and disrupting the whole house.

Thursday PM

Cablemans been fixed it now its broke again. Couldn't get weighed at the gym - battery was flat on the scale - more news Saturday.

Thursday morning

Planned a late start, foiled by delivery men leaving a parcel for next door but one. A busy day today - cable TV guy due 10-12 (10 minutes to go). Allys new wardrobe from MFI (inevitably self assembly), and TIVO delivered. I have to fit the gym in as well could be difficult. Frank the barber called yesterday to say one of his customers saw him mentioned in the blog. Turns out it was Jane, Veronicas friend, district nurse based in the South. Its a small world. I typed out a bigger entry than this an hour ago and my PC froze and I lost it. Not impressed at all.

wednesdays report

Didn't do much college work - must get more disciplined. I concentrated my efforts on the physical - brushing up leaves from the garden and making the path safe at the front. I was bushed, but in a good sort of way. The man arrived with Ally's bed - self assembly (we don't like that do we) Jean and I managed it though - without any spare bolts left. I took a trip out to Winwick staff club for the quiz in the evening. It was strange being on licensed premises though I didn't like the smell of the beer. I used to really like the Tetley bitter there. I noticed a new product in there last night - Tetley bitter - extra cold, strange as one of the ways to ruin the tets was serve it too cold. The quiz was fun but too hard for someone memory challenged like me. Winwick was a large psychiatric institution 2500 patients, where I started my training in 1979. The main hospital has closed now and replaced with a small acute admissions unit. Its good to go back there and see old friends every now and again. Tony and Margaret the organisers do a sterling job every fortnight. I left early as my bed was calling, driving on the motorway was a bit strange, but the car seemed to enjoy it.

Wednesday PM

Set up a thing so you can rate the blog - just under the archive listing on the left.

Wednesday AM - cont

Tried to get an appt to see the GP but he is off all week, holidays (that doesn't seem like Frank. I am going to take it easy today, waiting in for a delivery of Ally's new bed. I may even do some college work.

Wednesday AM

Yesterdays report:- Went to the gym, continue in my mission to come out to people as a weight loss surgery patient. Met a nice young girl called Kate who has just graduated as a nurse from the Local uni. She knows my mate Mike and says his lectures were always stimulating.. Picked mother up and took her to the planet costco. Strange place, heaving with humanity, I was taken over by the desire to buy products I didn't need, (also experienced in airport duty free shops). Fortunately I couldn't get much in the trolley as mum had filled it with every conceivable household product under the sun. At the checkout, the lady in front had bought hot chickens and they dripped onto the floor. In the ongoing saga of getting it cleaned up she slipped three pairs of tights from her trolley into her handbag. She went on to pay over 200 quid at the checkout, she looked very smart and well turned out, then I noticed her getting into the big black Merc that was illegally parked right outside the store. What's all that about. I don't have a clue.
I then took my mum to a pub on the riverfront called the Britannia. she attempted to buy a sandwich for her sugar (she is diabetic) but ended up with a caramel apple granny, a sort of apple pie with caramel on top (I long ago stopped trying to explain the diet thing to her). She then told everyone what a rip-off it was at 2.85, she really does expect (and often get) a three course meal for that. We played the one arm bandit till she had had enough, she doesn't understand them but loves it when money comes out of the bottom. By the end of this I was exhausted and headed home to watch ER on channel E4. Bad news cable box is broken can't get a tech till Thursday, woe is me. A busy day and retired early for a much needed rest.

Tuesday Morning

Dropped off some forms at Childwall Park Avenue, saw, Sam Paul and Shirley. The setup up there looks ok, though with recent expansion it could be a bit cramped. After that it was off to Tesco for some essentials, back here for a light lunch then off to pick the girls up from school. Something weird happened yesterday - I wasn't sick at all- this is the first day for about 6 weeks - what a good feeling. Perhaps it was the threat of ringing the dietitian that did it. Well today, light therapy, ablutions, gym, pick mother up and take her to costco (not sure what that is about) then taker her out to a pub or something. She likes fruit machines so we have saved up our change to amuse her today. Last night there was a documentary about four women desperate to be slim. Three had drug therapy and one had surgery. She had a lap band fitted laprascopically at St Helens Hospital. Not the same operation at all. I watched with some interest, as always these things are about and aimed at women. I much prefer this a stand up comedian who had a gastric bypass. One or two smiles in here for me.

Monday Morning

Slow start today - I'll get going eventually, I think I look a bit yellow today, Jean says she has noticed it, but could it be a trick of the light. Pain in both feet, which could be gout but I am putting it down to missing my anti-inflammatory pills for a couple of days. I am going to pop up to the local branch of work today to drop off some mileage claim forms. The rest of the week looks quiet after that. There seems to be plenty of leaves to brush up so I may have a go at that as my physical exercise today. I also need to speak to the dietitian about how little food I am getting in me. Got to pick Ally and her friends up later too.

Sunday Morning

The sickness stayed around till about 3pm. Missed the gym plan to go today if I can keep calories down, might see a different crowd on a Sunday morning. After that its off to Ruth and Pauls for Sunday Lunch. Had a movie night in last night, Jean and Ally went to Blockbuster and got two DVD's. One starred Britney Spiers and was called Crossroads, I stayed out of the way of that one. Ally was crying at the sad bits and Jean shed the occasional tear. Not that I am immune to that sort of thing, The Glenn Miller story always does it for me, when they play "Little Brown Jug." We then watched Mulholland Drive - not a film for Mr memory impairment I am afraid. I read the paper, tidied up and went to bed while Jean pressed on to the end. I was relieved to hear that she didn't get it, there were some clues on the blockbuster site but they made little sense to me.

Saturday Morning

I had a lie in this morning, after 10am. Got to get my act together before the gym, first thing cup of tea has led to vomitting - which is unusual. Think I'll postpone gym till after lunchtime. Need some calories inside me. Yesterday was fairly quiet, or I can't remember what happened. Memory still a long way from normal. Have to go ...sick again......

Later that same day

I should have noted the end of the League of Gentlemen series last night, as predicted it all came together, in a rather wonderful way. Straight after on BBC Choice was a "making of" documentary which was tops. Good to see Papa Laz again, "You're my wife now." If all this means nothing ignore it. By the way 1300 Page views of this blog last month, I dont know how many people that is though.

Friday Morning

Up early - 7.20. I had a good day yesterday. Went to the gym in the morning. Got weighed, lost 5 kilos since last Friday, taking the total loss to 85lbs - Just a smidge over six stone. Jack, the gym manager seems pleased, its all going the right way. I met Mark from Central PCT on the way out of the gym, he said I look really well. I'd just done my workout and felt knakkered. Got home and helped Jean pack the car to go the tip. To be fair Jean did most of the loading, lifting things definitely causes me pain. On getting home I felt moved to brush the pavements outside the house. What a lively exercise that is . I had trouble getting the leaves into the bag, bending is not easy, Jean had to help me bag the leaves. Pat the old lady from next door - says that I look like a "proper man" now, I told her I had had a partial gastrectomy. She and her sister are in their nineties, though we don't know how exactly how old. I certainly have more energy now and feel warm and healthily tired afterwards. I did have trouble getting up the stairs afterwards but I put that down to stiffness. A quiet day today, I mean to try and build on my digestive success of yesterday - only one minor vomit. I think I still have to get on top of this.