World of Mick

Time to Go

2008-01-03T17:50:00.000Z

First to the moron who keeps making sarcastic anonymous comments on my blog over the last few months "YOU ARE PATHETIC". I've deleted 6 or 7 in recent times and assume its the same person, in fact I suspect its somebody that knows me and gets their kick out of cowardly comments. Hopfully one day I'll find out who if they are grown up enough to admit it.

To the rest of my blog friends this sort of behaviour has really cheesed me off so I'm saying goodbye to this blog for now, may come back one day but may not, just don't know. I will add I still intend to comment on your blogs.

I will still be on MySpace if anyone is on that site and wants to join my friends list and keep in touch, my profile is set to private so you've got to apply for the friends list to see it. You can link to my site from the side bar on this blog. I know two of you are already on it (Rachel & Rebecca).

I know some of you have my email address also so maybe we could stay friends, if you haven't
got it and would like it just say on the comment section for this post and I will give it to you via your blog.

I would like to say its been a great two years on blogger, I've made some fantastic friends and been lucky enough to meet three of you. Hopfully I'll meet more in the future on my travels, who knows.

I'm leaving all the posts up for now, may decide to delete them at a later date.

Thanks for all your friendships.

WRB xxx

So what will 2008 offer

2008-01-01T16:53:00.000Z

Like most people I believe I always see the start of a new year as a reason to make plans, develop expectations, and plan my life. Ok quite often we can be doomed to failure but that never stops me making plans.

This year is a first for me cos I will be starting it without a job, in fact I'll be signing on at the Job Centre on wednesday this week I already have an appointment. I wont be entitled to many benefits but can claim Job Seekers allowance (its not a lot) for a few months while I've no income and am looking for a new job.

I've decided to draw my Works pension in April (Job seekers allowance would stop then) following my 50th Birthday, I'll get around 55% of what it would have been if I left it 10 years until I'm 60 but I've put a large part of my redundancy payments into it to boost it back up. It is inflation protected so goes up each year and I've calculated it'll cover my running costs Gas, Electric, Car, Telephone, Internet, Food, Council Tax, insurance etc. there should be a bit left over for emergencys.

So that leaves me using the rest of my redundancy & other investments I've made in recent years for pleasure activities (Holidays, Nights Out, Sport, etc). Ok I'm hoping to find bits of work eventually maybe only part time but to be honest I'm in no rush I've been given an opportunity to live how I want.

Anyway 2008 plans :-

Weight Loss - As always I do plan to lose weight but I wont be weighing as a routine each week, I've come up with a different approach - "Clothing". Yes I've bought some shirts that don't quite fit they are too tight so I post a photo now and I will post a photo every few weeks for you to comment on my progress. I'll also post occasionally on what I'm doing to help. Fitness - As a sportsman I want to get Fitter, yeh sure I'm getting older but I reckon I've never really been as fit as I could be and to maintain my standard when competing against younger players I need to get fitter. Thats my plan to counteract slowing down with age.

Not working will be benefit I'm sure because my job was too much office based in recent years and sat on your backside never helps.

To be honest I've started over Christmas (but the Food & Drink aint helping) by starting an exercise program each morning, ok I'm not doing much each day but my plan is to keep increasing repetitions each week.

I've also started doing long walks (hell I'll be jogging next) on days I've nothing on, I've done three 6 mile walks in the last week (the rain did stop me today though).

Sport - I'll still be playing Table Tennis and hoping to train when I can, I'm joining a new club in York where I can train during the day instead of an evening. I want to keep playing at my current level but its hard with a lot of younger players coming through.

Another sport I want to spend more time doing is Golf, I've always enjoyed it but haven't had enough time to play in recent years (work got in the way). I've got a couple of contacts to play with and I plan to join a Club. I'd like to get my handicap to single figures although thats a big ask.

Travel - Love it and I'm planning at least five trips this year, the first is booked for a long weekend to Chicago. I'm looking for another trip around April/May time and others June/July, September & December.

Nothing cast in stone yet but it'll be great if I get to meet some online friends on my travels, I'd like that. Anyway I'm sure I'll meet some interesting people I usually do.

Romance - Well all us singles are looking for their ideal partner and I'm no different, maybe I'll find somebody on my travels you just never know. I've never really considered online dating, maybe I should but I'm a bit old fasioned and would rather meet people as friends first and if something develops great, if not we can still be friends (hope that makes sense).

2007 - Finally I'd like to look back on the highs and lows of 2007.

Blogging - "Low" Lost a few online friends that are no longer blogging - "High" Made some fantastic new online friends.

Another "High" Met one of my online friends Rebecca - "Low" Should have met two online friends but circumstance meant Rachel couldn't make it, maybe this year, I really do hope so.

Soccer - "Low" Leeds United got relegated then docked 15 points - "High" Fought back from brink of extinction and are up to third in the league aiming for automatic promotion in May 2008.

Weight Loss - "Low" Not sure how I finished the year as my home scales arn't working properley but my guess judging by how my clothes feel is I'm maybe a couple of pounds heavier than I started the year. - "High" I'm determined to give it another go.

Travel - "High" Managed three trips to the States taking in four new cities for me (Seattle, Boston, Philadelphia & Atlanta) - "Low" Was planning four trips but work situation resulted me not travelling in December.

Work - "Low" Redundancy for the first time in my life I'm out of work - "High" At least they gave me a decent pay off, this is a opportunity right ?

Table Tennis - Suffered numerous injuries in the first part of the year forcing me to miss loads of important matches - "High" so far this season I've been ok and have played quite well, had a few decent results.

Hope you all have a Great 2008. xx

Music Monday - Legends "Ronnie Lane"

2007-12-31T14:13:00.000Z

Ronnie Lane - Bass player Ronnie nicknamed Plonk (don't ask me why) was born in London in 1946 and sadly passed away at the age of 51 in 1997.

He first came to the publics attention as part of the insperational 60's group "The Small Faces" were he teamed up with Singer Steve Marriott, Lead Guitarist Ian McLagen & drummer Kenney Jones. The group have been cited by many other performers as hugely influentual in the British Music industry.

In 1970 along with McLagen & Jones, Lane joined ranks with Rod Stewart & Ronnie Wood to form "The Faces".

In 1973 Ronnie also formed his own group Slim Chance and had a couple of chart hits.

Sadly in 1977 Ronnie was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis and his health slowly started to deteriate. In 1984 he moved to Austin Texas because the climate was good for his health where he became a king among mucisians for 10 years. His last live performance was at a Roy Wood concert in 1992. An album has been released "Live in Austin" of his studio work while living in the City.

Eventually Lane moved to Trinadad, Colorado in 1994 where he eventually passed away of his illness. Sadly he died a Poor man as he never recieved any Royalties for his work with the Small Faces. Eventually after his death these were secured by the two surviving members of the group McLagen & Jones (Marriott had died in a house fire).

Ok we'd better have some Small Faces as part of this tribute :-

Ronnie was thought of so highly that many mucisians paid for his medical treatment in his later years, the majority by such famous people as Rod Stewart & Jimmy Page.

In 2000 one of my favorite mucisians Paul Weller wrote a song "He's the Keeper" as a tribute to the life of the great Ronnie Lane :-

Enjoy this Final tribute to a true superstar of British Music :-

RIP Ronnie your memory lives on.

Another Sad Day for Soccer

2007-12-30T12:18:00.000Z

Well as it is time for my Sunday Sport post, I should really come up with some excuse for my team losing 3-2 at Swansea yesterday but all I'll say is well played to them they deserved to win and at present they deserve to top the division (6 points in front of us). A long way to May though and we are only at the half way point.

However yesterdays results look somewhat insignificant considering yesterdays tragic event at the Motherwell match up in Scotland. Motherwells captain 35 year old Phil O'Donnell collapsed and died on the pitch. I don't know too much about the player, I believe he represented Scotland once but as a true sports fan my thoughts go to his Family, friends and supporters of his Club.

RIP Phil

Band Aid

2007-12-28T18:35:00.000Z

No post just my daily Christmas music today but I thought I'd set the music fans among you a bit of a question. I'm posting the origional "Band Aid" song from 1984 so how many people can you name thats on it ? I mean people not the name of their group.

I wish it could be Christmas everyday

2007-12-27T17:36:00.001Z

Well maybe I do or maybe I don't but thats the title of my today's choice of Christmas song, its the classic by Roy Woods Wizzard.

So I hope you are all having a fun time as for me I've had a quiet Christmas, eaten too much yes but quiet. I've actually been sorting a few jobs at home that I've been putting off. My Father pulled a Muscle in his shoulder last week so I've been cooking my parents meals "not poisened them yet".

One thing p****d me off yesterday when I saw a comment on my last post which I've now deleted. Why do morons put offensive comments under anonymous names beats me, have they not got the guts to put their own name.

I've been thinking about blogging much and I know a few of you have commented that I don't write much about myself nowadays. Well my reason is too many people close to home read my blog (and don't comment), I think blogging about personel thoughts and issues is now out of the question.

I suppose thats leading to me writing about Sport & Music and not much else, I'm sorry for those of you who don't appreciate them posts but I don't know what the alternative is.

Did I mention I've booked my first trip of the year a long weekend in Chicago Thurs 28th Feb to Tues 4th March. Its supposed to be to celebrate my Birthday but its 3weeks early so will have another do when I get home. I've a couple of mates Lofty & Skid coming with me so it should be a laugh.
I'm trying to arrange another trip somewhere in April/May more details later.

Anyway thats enough here is todays song :-

White Christmas

2007-12-26T16:49:00.000Z

Well Boxing Day is all about Sport so I thought I'd post this for today's musical christmas offering from them two big Leeds Fans Bing & Frank. This is to celebrate Leeds going top of the league. Ok it was only because we kicked off early but we did stick our noses in front for a couple of hours with today's hard fought draw at Hartlepool. We're only half way through and considering we gave everyone 15 points start it really is a White Christmas.

"Christmas My Arse"

2007-12-25T18:21:00.000Z

Well no written post today just my daily Christmas offering and as its the big day how about this one from that loveable slob Ricky Tomlinson :-

Music Monday - Legends "Kirsty MacColl"

2007-12-24T17:55:00.000Z

For Christmas Eve I thought I'd choose an artist that was part of what many people think the best of all the Christmas songs.

Kirsty Anna MacColl was born in Britain in 1959 and was sadly killed in a boating accident aged 41 years in December 2000 while on holiday in Mexico with her family.
She was brought up in Croydon South London daughter of Dancer Jean Newlove and Folk Singer Ewan MacColl so had plenty of showbiz encouragement.

At an early age she started to write and perform music in her own Folk/Pop/NewWave style and first released a single she had written herself "They don't know" in 1979. However despite plenty of radio airtime a record producers strike at the time stopped it ever charting. However the song was performed four years later by Tracy Ullman and became a success for that lady.
She first hit the British charts in 1981 with that song with the short title "There is a Man works down the Chip Shop thinks he's Elvis", great song though :-

MacColl eventually made the top 10 of the British charts with the classic "New England" in 1985.

In 1986 Stiff records who MacColl recorded with went bust and nobody came in to buy her contract from the reciever so she was unable to record. Her recording engineer husband Steve Lillywhite (whom she divorced in 1994) arranged for her to do some vocals for a few other artists including, The Smiths, Talking Heads & Big Country.

In 1987 she scored her biggest hit when she teamed up with Punk Group "The Pogues" to make the Christmas Classic "Fairytale of New York". Many people regard this as the best Christmas song ever and it is a great performance (isn't Shane MacGowan lovely girls). The song peaked at No2 in the UK chart kept from top spot by The Pet Shop Boys "Always on my mind".

Her life came to a tragic end in December 2000 while taking a well earned holiday in Cuzumel Mexico. MacColl was skuba diving with her two young sons in a designated "No Boats Area" when she saw a speedboat enter the area heading straight for her group. The boat was going to miss Louis but hit her youngest son Jamie so MacColl went to push him out of the boats path and was struck herself, she died at the scene.

The boat was owned by a Mexican supermarket millionaire Guillermo Gonzalez Nova who many witnesses claim was at the wheel at the time of the accident. However one of his workers took the wrap and was sentenced to 2years 10 months for manslaughter but was released by someone paying a fine.

And we can't finish without that song and this is today's Christmas offering :-

RIP Kirsty

Merry Christmas to all my Friends

2007-12-23T18:14:00.000Z

As its Christmas I thought I'd treat you to a couple of Photo's of me in my slightly younger days.

Judging by the smile on my face in the first one I haven't got the present I wanted, lol.

The 2nd photo I'm sure you can all spot which is me.

Anyway Merry Christmas and happy New Year to all my online friends and I'll look forward to the next 12 months in blog world.

Have Fun my friends. xxx

Did I mention starting today until the New Year I'm posting one Christmas song so heres todays offering from 1974 and that great group "Mud":-

First 24 hours of not having a job.

2007-12-22T18:05:00.000Z

Yesterday I finished work and in a way it was sad but to be honest its dragged on that long I wasn't overly upset. In fact I'm sort of looking forward to a bit of a break, I've a few things I wanna do and I can do things in my own time.

I finished just before Lunch yesterday took my car home and one of my workmates Barry got his daughter to give us to a Pub/hotel. Its a new place in the area so we went to try the meals. Eight of us turned up so we had a lunch (I had Lamb), it was ok but I've had better. As a gesture the Plant Manager paid out of his own pocket which was good of him.

Following the meal and a few beers we made our way into town where we met up with a few other workmates for a farewell drink. A few were knocked back and I eventually made my way home early evening and crashed in front of the telly slightly intoxicated.

This morning I got up at 7.30am, although its weekend and I'd be off work anyway, I just seemed more relaxed about life, I suppose knowing the phone ain't gonna ring telling me "I'm wanted they have problems" is a big help.

I had some toast for breakfast and decided to have a steady walk into town as there was a couple of things I wanted. Now nipping up town and back, looking in a couple of shops usually takes me just over one hour.

This morning was different, don't know it was because I felt had all the time in the world but I just stopped talked to numerous people on my route, I was out nearly 3 hours.

First up I'd just left the house and I bumped into a neighbour John and we chatted for about 15 to 20 minutes before I moved on. Half way into town I crossed paths with Dave who was a Mechanic that left our works back in April with the first redundancies.

Got into town and in the first shop I met Lenny a bloke I used to play against at Tanble Tennis a few years back. Hes a good bloke and we chatted for awhile before going in different directions.
Next shop it was Mark our pool team captain who I had a short chat with before moving on.

Eventually I set off home only to come across Alan one of my Electricians who left to go to a new job about a month ago, so he was telling me about that and I told him what had been happening on site. Funnily while we were talking a Lady that I used to play Pool with (got to Mixed Doubles Final once) passed and said hello, ain't seen her for ages but she didn't hang about cos I was talking to Alan.

Finally I got on my way again to meet Dianne who was our HR Manager at work, she stayed to the end like me technically but wasn't there last week cos she was away on vacation. I asked her about how the holiday went and told her a few new updates from work. She's got a new job despite been offered work with the new owners. Eventually we gave each other a Christmas Hug and moved our seperate ways with me finally getting home.

Just had a bowl of soup for Lunch, didn't fancy anything else, had a check on my computor before putting the Radio on the listen to the Leeds Match. It sounded a good match Bristol had a go but the boys eventually got the all important goal to win 1-0 and move to third in the table. I did consider going to the match but my cough wouldn't cope with all the shouting.

After the match I did myself some Baccon, waffles, Tomatoes & Beans for my evening meal and now I'm blogging with a full stomach.

So this is what retirement is like ?

A quick update

2007-12-19T20:03:00.000Z

I've tried to get around everyones blogs tonight but to be honest I'm struggling, I've had a head cold I can't shake off and had an irritating Cough. I'm taking medicine and Brandy for it but its slow improvement. I'm coughing that bad my ribs really hurt but I think its starting to improve.

Didn't help that I had to work outside this morning and I just got so cold, went home just after lunch and its took all day to feel warm, I'm sat at my computor with a woolly hat on. Well only two days to go and I finish work, I've already got my redundancy check, I put some towards my pension (it saves tax) and I've invested the rest.

On another subject I've been a bit pissed off with a few people lately (not blog friends) so I decided to wipe their numbers out of my phone, actually about half the people in there. If they want me they can contact me but to be honest I couldn't care less.

Music Monday - Legends "Keith Moon"

2007-12-17T18:01:00.000Z

Well now my alphabet challenge is complete I need to do something for my Monday Music Post and I'm sure some of you who are regular readers of my music post will appreciate this one.

Well I'm going to start a "Tribute to music legends" post, true legends, yes those that are no longer with us. I'm going to start tonight with a man who many rate as one of the greatest Drummers the World has seen "Keith Moon". "Keith Moon" - Born in in 1946 Keith John Moon sadly passed away at the age of 32 in 1972 after overdosing on drugs he had been prescibed for his Alcohol addiction. On the night of his death he spent the evening having a meal as a guest of Paul & Linda McCartney at the film preview "THe Buddy Holly Story".
Above "The Last Supper".

Moon was the Origional Wild Man of Rock and was effectionally nicknamed "Moon the Loon", he was as crazy as he was brilliant. As a child he failed his 11 plus and lacked the ability to pay attention, some of his school reports called him retarded. His music teacher was the only person to recognise his undoubted talent.At 17 years old Moon was invited to join Roger Daltry, Pete Townsend & John Entwistle in a Mod Band called "The High Numbers" later to become houshold names and one of Britains greates groups "The Who".

Moon was a destructive person and it certainly wasn't unusual to see him trash his Drum kit at the end of shows. Although he spent all his music Career with the who he actually did play the instrument for many famous musicians, including on the famous Jeff Beck instrumental classic "Becks Bolero" others on that recording include Led Zepplins Jimmy Page & John Paul Jones.

Moon also played in a few Film Roles, playing Uncle Ernie in The Who's classic Rock Operas "Tommy" & "Quadrophenia". Another film he played in was "That'll be the Day" with long time friend Ringo Starr and David Essex. Moon played the resident drummer in the holiday camp.

As a tribute to Keith Moon the middle room at the London Astoria is named in his honour.

Here is another tribute to Keith, enjoy my friends :-

RIP Keith

I hope you all enjoy this post and I'm sure you all have your own ideas of some legends I maybe could post about in future posts.

One Week and Counting

2007-12-14T20:18:00.000Z

A week today I'll be out of Work and to be honest I'm starting to look forward to having a break. I reckon when I leave my place of work next Friday I'll be slightly sad, I've been there such a long time, over 33 years since I left school its been a part of my life.

Alas we all have to move on and this certainly is a Crossroads in my life, I'm unsure what direction I'll take, I've a few things in my mind for the immediate furture but I'll probably just see where life takes me.

One thing I've promised myself is not to become a coach potato, I must not get into a habit of lazing around. I intend to still set my alarm and not stay in bed too late, I'm planning to make sure I have something active to do every day whether that be jobs around the house or recreational things. I must keep my mind & body active, don't you agree ?

I've been thinking of making plans, goals, resolutions for next year, I'll blog a list as soon as its finalised. I want to get fitter & lose weight among many other things.

Hello

2007-12-13T10:14:00.000Z

Just another quickie (post that is).

I've not had much time this week to blog, Pool match Monday, Table Tennis match Tuesday (and tonight).
Last night I went out to York for a meal with 11 others from work, it was paid for so everthing tasted nice. I had "Wild Mushroom Medlay" for a starter followed by Fillet Steak for my main course. It was all cooked to perfection, it was a good restaurant. Of course we downed a few bottles of wine just to wash it down.
After the meal we moved on to a Wine Bar and eventually got home around 1am, it wasn't easy getting out of bed for work this morning I can tell you.

Talking of work I finish next Friday so we are just sorting out a few loose ends there is only a handfull of us left on site. I've been tidying up my office and putting a few confidential notes through the Shredder.

Well time for another Coffee take care xx

Music Monday - The "Z's"

2007-12-10T17:13:00.000Z

At last I've completed this alphabetic marathon of Music, today my last challenge is with the letter "Z", not the easiest finish but as always I've managed to come up with some different styles. I hope you enjoy and I hope you've enjoyed my weekly post.

1. ZZ Top "Viva Las Vegas" - The bearded wonders reached No10 in the UK chart with this cover version of some little known male solo artists classic.

2. The Zombies "She's not there" - British sixties group made No12 in 1964 with this
classic.

3. The Zimmers "My Generation" - Thought I'd bring us into the 21st Century with this cover version of a "Who" classic from one of the top up and coming groups in the world. I reckon a great song to finish on what do you think ?

So what will I do with my music monday post next week, you'll have to wait and see.

Disaster Weekend

2007-12-09T19:25:00.000Z

Just a quickie to let those that are interested know how we got on at our British League Matches today.

Well as I predicted without a full strength squad we struggled and like Saturday lost both our matches. One weekend 4 matches, 4 defeats we've moved from title challengers into a relegation battle.
Both today's games were close we lost them both 5-3, personally I played well winning all four of my games but without some of my regular teamates we struggled. I'm disapointed personal success doesn't replace team success.

If anyone is interested I've just posted individual photo's our players from this weekend (1st & 2nd team) on the Clubs blog, check it out - Derwent Table Tennis Club

And just to cap off this miserable weekend Ricky Hatton got beat.

A Bad Day

2007-12-08T20:28:00.000Z

Today I've got home not too happy with the results of our Table Tennis Matches. We were playing British League at Sheffield equal top in our division and with big ambitiond for the weekend. Now our division is really tight with one point seperating the top 5 teams, its wide hope and anyone can beat anyone.

First up we played the team that were equal top with us so it was critical we got a result, however it went wrong from the start and we were crushed 7-1, we lost a number of very close matches including mine. In one game I started really strong taking the first too sets with ease but I lost my way in the third allowing my opponent back in, then it all went downhill. I still can't believe I lost, I was so much in control.

Anyway I wasn't down to play in our 2nd match, it was against one of the bottom teams and we had calculated it better to rest me (I'm not fully fit still got a cold) but we would still be strong enough. Anyway it started to plan with the lads storming to a 3-1 lead following the first round of matches. Then disaster struck as our opponents took the last 4 matches three of which went to five sets, we couldn't believe how we clutched defeat from the jaws of victory, confidence is very low in the squad now.

Tomorrow we have two more matches and our top player Richard is unavailable but we thought the teams we are playing against their top players would be weak against defenders. Without Richard it would leave Trev & Myself playing the top half and we are both defenders. We reckoned our lower ranked players could pick up the pieces to help achieve the desired result. However Trev pulled his back muscle today and I would say is very doubtful for tomorrow, It sort of only leaves me who has played top half at this level before and I'm only half fit. It also means one of our better lower ranked players will have to play against better players than he is used to, we will be struggling.
Two defeats is a serious possibility and it would move us from top to a relegation dogfight, we need something out of tomorrows games.

It wasn't all bad today at least Leeds United cheered me up with a comprehensive 4-0 win against Huddersfield, well done the lads.
Shame that some of the scum pikey supporters decided to shame their Club by defacing "Billy's Statue". Lets hope when the Police catch them their Names & ADDRESSES are printed in the newspapers, I'm sure they have made some new friends that would love to meet them.

And finally Good Luck to Ricky Hatton in tonights big fight.

King Billy - RIP

2007-12-07T18:05:00.000Z

Today it is the 10th anniversary of the premature death of a true Leeds United legend Billy Bremner. King Billy a scotsman was our captain in what is known as "the glory years" and is immortalised in the City of Leeds.

Billy Bremner

He died on 7th December of a heart attack just two days before his 55th Birthday, he will never be forgotten, there is even a song about this Leeds legend.

He was voted number one player of all time in a pole about Leeds United players, the man was special.

Billy's Story

Billy was the spirit of the club supporters loved him for the way he wore his heart on his sleeve when he put on the famous white shirt.
Outside the ground is a statue of the man which now acts as a meeting point, a shrine where people always worship on a visit to our temple.Tommorows match a local derby threatens to be a real blood & guts match, the clubs have massive rivaly and its already a sell out. This is the type of match Billy would have loved to play in. Before Kick off there will be two minutes applause in Billy's memory.

Talking about the match I had to laugh at a couple of videos placed on You Tube by Leeds fans taking the p**s out of Huddersfield and their fans, just to wind them up a bit. Judging by some of the comments I reckon their not pleased :-

The Final Countdown

2007-12-06T19:16:00.000Z

Its certainly getting close to me finishing work (21st Dec), I've still had no official contact from the new company to see if anything is on offer. To be honest I'm looking forward to Christmas off it'll be the first time I've had the full week off for a few years.
A lot of people leave tomorrow but a small skeleten crew including myself will be there to the end. It is just so quiet its sort of spooky.

A lot of people are off out for a drink tomorrow night but I'll just show my face and go home, I'm playing Table Tennis in the British League all weekend in Sheffield. The division is really tight with one point seperating the top five teams so every match is critical. We are equal top with 6 points and we play the team level with us first up Saturday morning. I've been struggling with cold all week but I am improving, hopfully I can up my performance we'll see.

Ok I'm missing the leaving do tomorrow but a few of us are off out for a meal next Wednesday, should be good I'll have to remember my Camera.

I've been scanning the deals for my travels next year, the prices arn't quite right yet but they are dropping so watch this space. I'm hoping to maybe visit some online friends during the next year, I reckon one is a cert (she knows who) but it'd be nice to meet more friends if possible, I suppose it depends where I go.

Take Care all of you xx.

Happy Birthday Mum

2007-12-04T08:11:00.000Z

Today is my Mothers Birthday, not just a ordinary Birthday I reckon she has reached another milestone. She was born on 4th December 1917 (during the 1st World War), so today she is 90 years old so I reckon its worthy of a mention and a few photographs.

1. As a young child

2. Sat with a friend in deck chairs (why anyone sits in deck chairs on the street is beyond me).

3. Looking after some lovely young child (no prizes for guessing who) in the sea.

4. Yes the played Womens Football before the 2nd World War, apparently she played once for England representitive side against France. She is 2nd from left on the back row.

5. Yep thats my parents wedding photo, they don't make family shots like they used to, looks like something out of a Mafia film to me.

Music Monday - The "Y's"

2007-12-03T17:53:00.000Z

Well the penultimate letter is "Y" and I've actually come up with three UK No1 songs, I'm sure you will be all impressed.

1. Yazz "The only way is Up" - This classic topped the chart in 1988.

2. Paul Young "Wherever I laid my Hat" - It was back in 1983 that Paul topped the chart with his debut single.

3. Jimmy Young "Unchained Melody" - Yes this song did top the chart before Robson & Jerome" were born, this is from 1955.

On this last one there is a bonus song from the fifties at the end Adam Faiths "Poor Alfie".

So You think you know about Music ?

2007-12-02T08:47:00.000Z

Do You know anything about Popular Music if yes take this Cryptic Quiz. There are 70 Groups from the last few decades to find so let me know how you get on.

Here is a couple of examples :-
Eg 1. (Clue) Her Majesty = (Answer) Queen
Eg 2. (Clue) Picture House Tune = (Answer) Roxy Music.

So here is the Clues :-
1. Year Quarters
2. Both of You
3. Silhouettes
4. Sad Fur Coats
5. Nookie Guns
6. Hamlet Humans
7. Dark Sunday
8. Insanity
9. Warm Galaxy
10. Nuclear Cockerel
11. Nun Toboggan
12. Throttlers
13. Unemployment Card
14. Merlin
15. B.A. B.Sc. B.Eng.
16. Revolvers & Flowers
17. Prosperous City Vermin.
18. Spinning Rocks
19. First Man Insects.
20. Refinement Association.
21. Plasters.
22. Hebrew Beginnings
23. Desperate Trouble
24. Pale Serpent
25. Hard of Hearing Wild Cat
26. Babies on the Slab.
27. The lads that sell Mice.
28. Igloo
29. Grafting Blokes
30 Easily Readable
31. Sobs in Panic
32. Skinny Betty.
33. Three of the Elements
34. Sibling of the Bard.
35. Bird of Prey with Colic.
36. 4Owatt Bulb Band.
37. Get Paste from a Tube.
38. Rub out Midge
39. Mr Sinatra is off to make a film
40. Part Time Coppers.
41. Aviation Strikers.
42. Youth Association looking at animals.
43. Treacherous Man of God.
44. Barbers Century
45. Unglossy Cinzano.
46. Nosy Dead Pussy.
47. Correct Commented Trueman.
48. Metal Airship.
49. Orange and Champagne.
50. Changed Pictures.
51. Overseas Person.
52. Tissue Shoe Tie
53. Ready to assemble Vegetable.
54. Big Band moving at night.
55. Late night athlete on Deck “C”.
56. Not a good Firm.
57. Identical Pair of Sub Machine Guns.
58. Senior Teachers Conversation.
59. East End Revolutionary.
60. Doggy Bark
61. Gorgeous Confederacy.
62. Green House Plants.
63. South American Camera.
64. Stop Jock & Stop Jock.
65. Fun Park Magnetic effect.
66. Scrounge a baby cooing.
67. Next Command.
68. Entrance Way and Horse Food.
69. The Germans without Mary & Midge.
70. Cheerful Start to the Week.

Vegas look out Ricky's Army are coming

2007-12-01T10:42:00.000Z

As everyone one knows I'm a big Sports fan and one Sport I love is Boxing in fact its probably the ultimate Sport. Well every so often it throws together two fighters that you just know are going to produce a Classic.
In fact seven days from now in Las Vegas the sport has come up with one such fight in fact its been built as the fight of the 21st Century, it will decide who is the best welterweight on the Planet.

So who is fighting well the favorite is American Floyd "Pretty Boy" Mayweather who by many experts is considered the best pound for pound boxer in the World. He shows a record of 38 wins in 38 fights with 24 knockouts, he has won 5 world titles at 4 different weights. His best wins are probably against Jose Luis Castillo, Felix Trinadad and Oscar De La Hoya.
Mayweather is a bit of a poser riding around in flash cars and boasting how good he is, so I reckon all the American fans will be quietly confident.

However over here in England we have our own man in Ricky "The Hitman" Hatton whom himself has won 4 world titles at two weights. Ricky is also unbeaten with a record of 43 wins from 43 fights 31 of which were knockouts. His best wins coming against Australian Kostya Tszyu, Luis Collazo, Juan Urango & Juan Luis Castillo (Hatton stopped Castillo Mayweather went the distance).

Hatton is quite a contrast to Mayweather, he's a typical northern down to earth lad who is straight talking and likes nothing more than a game of darts in his local pub with the lads.
His weight as fluctuated dramatically between fights, probably something to do with his love of Guiness and Takaway Food. Ricky's battle with the bulge

Jokingly he has had numerous Tee Shirts printed in the build up to this fight calling himself "Ricky Fatton" featuring his head on some fat blokes body. However don't believe one word of it, he is one of the fittest fighters of all time and will pressurise his opponent from the first bell. Mayweather seems to be coming 2nd best at most of the verbals he even resorted to wearing a Manchester Utd shirt to try wind up Manchester City fan Hatton at one press conference, hell he doesn't know how many of us really hate him know.

Mayweather may have the advantage of fighting on home soil but Las Vegas is set for a British invasion as many as 30,000 are making the 5,000 mile journey to support our boy. I can't wait for next Saturday two unbeaten superstars what more can you ask.

I don't know if its an omen but this week our Amateur Boxers gave their American counterparts a bit of a drubbing by 9 bouts to 2. read this GB V USA

Anyway for now I'll leave you with this tribute to Ricky Hatton, Mr Mayweather you need to be frightened very frightened.

.

I'm

2007-11-29T15:17:00.000Z

I'm Tired - I don't mean just at the moment over the last week or so I've been feling really knackered, its to do with lack of sleep. Yeh I've had a few late nights but to be honest I've also not been sleeping that well always seems something on my mind and my brain won't shutdown.

I'm Fed up - Mainly I think to do with all the uncertainty at work.

I'm undecided - With reference to the work situation I did have a chat with the new owners the other day and will be speaking to them again. I'm very undecided whether I want to work here if I'm offered a job, I suppose I'll look at what they offer.

I'm Hungry - I'm trying to get back on the weight loss routine, I've had so many leaving do's to go to recently I've lost my way a little. The good news is I jumped on the scale at work yesterday and I've maintained at 107kg in full working gear.

I'm stuck - For ideas of what to get my Mother for her Birthday next week.

I'm Struggling - My TT form has been horrendous in the last week, I've lost to two players I never lose to and been taken very close with four others I would normally hammer.

I'm Blank - Well I reckon there is a lot more I could write but can't think of the words.

Take Care everyone

Music Monday - The "X's"

2007-11-26T17:30:00.000Z

I must say its now getting difficult, I can't really think of too many major acts beginning with the letter "X". Don't criticise the quality of the following if you can't come up with better, X isn't easy.

I've come up with these three.

1. XTC "Making Plans for Nigel" - made No17 in the chart back in 1979.

2. X Ray-Spex " Oh Bondage up Yours" - A bit of Punk from 1977 from the group fronted by that lady called Poly Styrene (classic !).

3. Xscape "Who can I run to" - American Girl Group from Atlanta with a song that charted in the UK in 1996.

Not Happy

2007-11-25T18:05:00.000Z

Well I'm not happy the Mighty Whites went down 1-0 at Cheltenham, our 2nd defeat in the league. This is not against a good team so I am not happy.
We dominated the match for long periods and had a goal disallowed. If we had have won like we should we would have moved to third in the table but we'll have to settle with 5th.
Saying that we would have been happy to be 5th at this stage at the start of the season due to our 15point penalty. We are still well on target for the title cos there is a long way to go until May, bound to be some setbacks on route.

Boring Saturday

2007-11-24T14:48:00.000Z

Today I'm slightly delicate as it was the works leaving do last night. Drink was free all night and I think I must have had a bad one cos I'm suffering.

Anyway I'm p****d off cos Leeds haven't got a match today, they play tomorrow at Cheltenham 2pm kick off. Don't ask me why its probably televised somewhere. In fact one thing that irritates me is nowadays matches are played at all times over the weekend because of telly. Well I preffered it when the all kicked off at 3pm on a Saturday thats traditional to me.

Anyway thats my winge but I'll post this to cheer me up :-

On another note poor Luton town have been docked ten points for going into administration so we are not the only ones been docked points. Taking the points off has put them bottom of the league and in danger of relegation, I really should laugh at them cos they were one of the Clubs that voted against us.
However my principle is that Sport of any description shouldn't be a handicap event, points should not be taken off for financial irregularities. The punishments should be based on trading restrictions and the people causing the problems (Chairmen & Directors) should be banned from been involved with Soccer Clubs. In these situations its always the Fans who live and breath their Clubs that suffer.
Good Luck Luton stick through this, follow our example and create a siege mentality and you can survive, put two fingers up to the Football league.

Another Football debate is who is going to be the next England Manager following Steve "usless git"McClaren sacking. Another gripe is this idiot has had his contract paid up apparently worth £2.5million, this is a joke, he f****g failed. Surely when a coach is selected his contract should state certain targets like qualifying for competitions.
Anyway moving on a lot of names are been touted in the press including a few foreign coaches. Its my belief that it should be a Englishman and the argument I'll put is that no country has won the World Cup with a Foriegn Coach.
I know there isn't too many candidates other than the obvious King Dennis but we are keeping him. I'll go along with Harry Rednap or Sam Alladyce as my choices. Both are good motivators and I think thats the key to International football as they don't work with the players alll the time.

I reckon I'm Busy

2007-11-22T11:23:00.000Z

Yesterday at work we had a visit from a large group of people representing the new owners. I took a few of them around part of the site, I think they are just getting a feel for what they have bought.
When we had finished a tour one of the senior ones told me he is coming back to site to talk with me next week.

On a different subject England Football team failed to qualify for the European Championships last night when they were beaten 3-2 by Croatia. To be honest they were garbage but manager Steve McClarens selections & tactics were a complete disgrace. This morning he has just been sacked, not before time in my opinion.
To drop your goalkeeper and play a young lad in his first competitive international match was stupidity, the lad bottled it and his career is probably destroyed.
Why was Wayne Bridge playing and Ashley Cole on the bench, there is no comparison. Why play with only one striker ? I could go on but the result says it all.

It wasn’t all doom and gloom last night, I had a good night at Pool. It was the Local Pubs annual competition Semi & Finals night. I’d qualified for the Semi and was drawn to play my mate Lofty. It started badly when he won the first two frames of a best of five match, he then was on top in the third and got down to relatively easy Black. Of course his mental block against me kicked in (can’t beat me at anything) and he bottled it big style.
As they say “the rest is history” as I turned up the heat to win the remaining frames in style.
The 2nd semi also went to five and was won by my League team mate Phil. Two long matches and we started the (best of seven) Final at about 10.40pm, it was going to be a late one. Once again the match went to the wire although I was never behind 1-0, 1-1, 2-1, 2-2, 3-2, 3-3 to set up a grand finale. Again my nerve under pressure held firm into the early hours as I took the frame to be crowned Champion.

Tonight I’m out again playing Table Tennis for Lofty’s team in the local league so of course I’m sure I’ll mention the Pool, hell you’ve got to when you have the Bragging rights.
Hope I play better than I did in the York League on Tuesday, I was abysmal losing three straight to a Player I always normally beat. Our team got a bit of a drubbing 8-2 although I was involved in both our points, one singles and a doubles.

On another note I've not been doing too well on the weight loss I reckon, I've been eating and drinking too much lately. I've not weighed in so you never know. I've another leaving do on Friday night, its paid for by the company and about 60 people are going. A night of free drink and food is always fun.

Ah well that’s my update, take care everyone.

The Last Month

2007-11-21T08:42:00.000Z

Today is 21st November so I make that one month to go to my last day at work. The date I have been served with for redundancy is 21st December.

I still haven't been contacted by the new owners so don't know if I'll be offered a job. If the rumours are correct they are supposed to be coming to site this week to talk with key personnel.
I'm still very undecided about what I want, I'll see what they have to say.

Music Monday - The "W's"

2007-11-19T16:47:00.000Z

Today I've decided to use the letter "W" to have a ladies day, so here are four I've picked out :-

1. Tammy Wynette "Stand By Your Man" - Made No1 spot in 1975 for this American Country singer with her UK debut single.

2. Dionne Warwick "Walk on By" - This 1964 classic made No9 for this superb American singer.

3. Kim Wilde "Kids in America" - Marti's daughters debut single made No2 in 1981. I reckon Kim looks hot in this video.

4. Weather Girls "Its Raining Men" - Couldn't leave out these ladies, got to No2 with their only UK hit in the mid eighties.

I'm dreaming of a White Christmas

2007-11-17T18:45:00.000Z

No this is not a reference to Snow, its all about the Mighty Whites topping the division one table at Christmas. As xmas is only about the half way stage achieving this would be nothing short of miraculous considering we gave every other team a massive 15 points start.

Is it possible, well yes it is, we are now up to 4th in the Table following todays win 2-1 over Swindon Town thanks to 2 goals from Jermaine Beckford. In fact we are only two points behind the leaders although a couple of teams do have a game in hand. Without the riddiculous penalty we would be an amazing 13 points clear, its even sweeter cos at start of the season people were backing us to get relegated.

A lot of people pointed out we have no depth in the squad, but despite a few injuries they counted without our superb crop of fast developing youngsters, today it was the turn of home grown teenager Jonny Howson who had a blinder in the midfield to earn Player of the Match.

This week our manager told England Under 21 manager to get his backside to ER and check out a few of our young uns.

Anyway the message is still the same F**K OFF to the Football League.

No motivation

2007-11-14T17:41:00.000Z

To be honest I'm feeling a little de-motivated to write a blog post, I think its because I've a lot going on in my head, especially with regards to the work situation.
I've a lot of big decisions to make, a lot of questions to answer, some financial, some to do with shaping the rest of my life. I'm coming up with a few answers but it aint easy without the facts.

Yeh sure I've plenty I could blog about its just the motivation of putting it in words.

In the words of Arnie "I'll be back".

Take Care everyone.

Music Monday - The "V's"

2007-11-12T17:29:00.000Z

A little harder to come up with great acts starting with the letter V, but here goes :-

1. The Verve "The Drugs Don't Work" - I like this one from Richard Ashcrofts group.

2. Ricky Valance "Tell Laura I love her" - No1 in 1960 for this one hit wonder.

3. The Vibrators "Automatic Lover" - Punk Classic made No35 in 1978.

Geography

2007-11-12T09:24:00.000Z

The Geography of a Woman:

Between the ages of 18 - 21 a woman is like Africa or Australia. She is half discovered, half wild and naturally beautiful with bushland around the fertile deltas.

Between the ages of 21 - 30 a woman is like America or Japan. Completely discovered, very well developed and open to trade especially with countries with cash or cars.

Between the ages of 30 - 35, she is like India or Spain.
Very hot, relaxed and convinced of its own beauty.

Between the ages of 35 - 40 a woman is like France or Argentina. She may have been half destroyed during the war but can still be a warm and desirable place to visit.

Between the ages of 40 - 50 she is like Yugoslavia or Iraq.
She lost the war and is haunted by past mistakes. Massive reconstruction is now necessary.

Between the ages of 50 - 60 she is like Russia or Canada.
Very wide, quiet and the borders are practically unpatrolled but the frigid climate keeps people away.

Between the ages of 60 - 70 a woman is like England or Mongolia. With a glorious and all conquering past but alas no future.

After 70, they become Albania or Afghanistan.
Everyone knows where it is, but no one wants to go there.

The Geography of a Man:

Between the ages of 15 - 70 a man is like Zimbabwe - ruled by a dick.

Back Home & Knackered

2007-11-11T21:50:00.000Z

I got home about an hour ago, I've been away all weekend down in Essex. I've been playing Table Tennis for Yorkshire Veterans and we've had a good time.
On Saturday we won one match but lost the other, today we won both matches. Our team Captain said he would have been happy with two wins as we only got promoted to this division last season.
Personally I was a bit iffy yesterday, should have travelled Friday night instead of Saturday morning, I reckon I was tired from the long drive early in the morning. Today though I was really pleased with my performance, much better, felt more confident.

Last night we went to a Pub for a meal, they had a Carvery with different meats and cos we went late on they were very generous with the portions. That was good cos we were starving after a long day.
Of course we also knocked back a few glasses of the local brew, in fact probably a few too many. One thing for sure it helped me get a good nights sleep.
Anyway I'll catch up with everyones blogs tomorrow, off to bed now.

Work to Christmas on 20% salary

2007-11-09T12:02:00.000Z

I can confirm my finishing date at Work will be 21st December, Officially we close on 30th November but along with a few others I've been asked to stay an extra 3 weeks. This new date is the handover of the site to the new owners.

My final two payments (Nov & Dec) I will be only actually getting 20% cos I've made a decision to put 8o% as voluntary contributions into my works pension. By doing this I can beat the Taxman and significantly boost my pension when I decide to take it.

Don't panic I wont be poor on this rate, ok my Nov pay will be low but my December payment includes on top of my months salary, 3 extra months notice period payed up, my holidays paid up and numerous bonuses. Basically I'll still end up about double what I normally get in my bank and also stop the Taxman getting a huge slice.

On top of this I will also be getting a very good severance payment and a large slice of this is tax free, the 2nd part I pay tax on but have an option of putting in my pension to save the tax. The rate for this isn't as good as for salary "voluntary contributions" so I'm undecided which way I'll go.

Works pension calculations are complicated but its based on aged 60, I have options of taking it early with penalties (6% compound interest per year = 55% pension at 50), I considering taking at 50, 52 or 55, more sums to do.

Anyway the new company may offer me a job but I'm unsure what I'll do, my department is in tatters, of the 5 men I have working for me 3 have found jobs and one is retiring, only leaves two of us. The hassle and stress of trying to keep a 24hr/365day process running may not be worth it. I've never had the ambition of been the richest man in the graveyard.

Well back to my Maths.

Flood Warning

2007-11-08T22:09:00.000Z

Keep you fingers crossed for Britain cos tonight the whole of the east coast is expected to be hit by storms that are developing in the North Sea.
A 3Metre Tidal wave is expected to hit some areas and coincide with high tides and high winds.
The threat of Flooding and danger to lives is serious, people are been evacuated.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/7085394.stm

I live 40 miles inland but in a low lying area on a tidal river, at present we are expected to miss the worst but many others arn't looking so good.

My town last suffered major floods about 7 years ago, although I was ok I had friends with homes flooded, Electricity for the whole area was off for quite awhile cos the main sub/station flooded.

Another Quickie

2007-11-07T11:59:00.000Z

Update :-

1. We won our TT match last night 7-3, I won all my games although it was tough against their No1, I came from two sets down to win 3-2. I felt really strong and even when losing felt confident.

2. The Mighty Whites got back to winning ways with a good 3-1 victory away to Bournemouth. Goalscorers were Tresor Kandol with two and Seb Carole with the other.

3. I met the Pension man and he confirmed I was doing my calculations correct. But hell it is complicated trying to beat the taxman, hate giving money to him.

4. The new owners visited work today, I was involved showing some of them around, looks like I'll be with my current employer while Christmas when things are handed over. I've a lot of decisions to make I reckon.

5. The blokes doing my loft insulation didn't turn up, apparently one had a Car crash. Think he's ok but don't know when they are coming.

6. Still Love You all.

This & That

2007-11-06T17:35:00.000Z

Just a quickie (post I mean)

1. I'll start with a question - Where are you Sandii your blog as gone awol ? Can't have you missing I'll get withdrawel symptoms.

2. Had medical at work today and passed ok, everyone gets one before we leave. I've got the lungs of a 45 year old which aint bad for a 49 year old. Blood Pressure ok, hearing ok, etc.

3. I'm in a rush cos I've someone coming around tomoz to fit some more loft insulation, I've just cleared tons of junk from the loft.

4. Off out soon, got TT match in York league another tough one but I feel up for the challenge.

5. I've an appointment tomoz with the Pension man to discuss what to do when I terminate my contract. Thinking about drawing it with penalties when I reach 50 (soon).

6. Just thought I'd say "Love You All".

Music Monday - The "U's"

2007-11-05T13:56:00.000Z

Not quite as much choice with the letter "U" but I reckon I've found a four classics, what do you think ?

1. Ultravox "Vienna" - Classic song that never made No1 for Midge Ure, Joe Dolce's "Shaddup a Ya Face" stole that spot in 1981.

2. Undertones "Teenage Kicks" - The boys from Belfast fronted by Fergal Sharkey made No31 in 1978 with their first Chart song. This was famous Radio One DJ John Peels favorite song.

3. U2 "I still haven't found what I'm looking for" - Can't leave out another Irish group this time this supergroup from Dublin made No6 in the charts in 1987 with this effort.

4. UB40 "Red Red Wine" - These boys named after an employment claims form made top spot in 1983 with this effort.

Sport Sunday - Well done Brits

2007-11-04T19:24:00.000Z

Well Done to Boxer Joe Calazaghie who was impressive in winning his World Super Middleweight Fight against Mikkel Kessler.

Well done to Golfer Justin Rose who topped the PGA European Order of Merit following his victory in Valderama.

Well done to recent Mum Paula Radcliffe who won the Ladies Race in the New York Marathon.

Well done to the GB Rugby League Team who thrashed New Zealand 44-0 in the 2nd test.

Some Weekends its just great to be a Brit.

Busy Month Ahead

2007-11-04T18:53:00.000Z

I've a busy month ahead of me, next weekend I'm away in Harlow (Essex) playing for Yorkshire Veterans County 2nd team. We got promoted last season so our matches are likely to be really tough but I'm looking forward to it.

I've three leaving functions from work to attend, Friday 16th a few of us are going for a drink with some of our work colleagues including two from my department who leave on that day.

Friday 23rd the company is putting on a function for everyone thats left, yes its a freebie so plenty of Food & Drink will be had. Around 45 people are invited so it should be a fun night. Its actually the same night as the Sportsman dinner I've been invited to but will be declining. Just my luck two free functions in the same night.

Friday 30th will be our official closing date at work (although could drag on I reckon) so everyone is off to the Pub after work.

I've Pool Matches every Monday and on Wednesday 21st its the Pub finals night, I'm still in the Semi-Final where I am drawn to play my mate Lofty, don't know which of the other two I'll get in the final though, lol.

I've a few Local League Table Tennis Matches coming up, did I mention we lost 7-3 last week, I managed two wins but couldn't get near the Area Mens Champion he proved too strong on the night, well there is always next time. We have another tough one this coming Tuesday, but I'm pleased cos its the hard games that test you.

On top of the County & Local Matches I've also a Yorkshire League Match playing for York against Bradford on the 25th.

I'm expecting things should become more clear at work over the next few days, I still am unsure when I'll be working and to be honest I don't know if I want to work for the new company but I need to give my situation a lot of thought.

I've been looking at another vacation and there are a few good deals available, I've resisted booking (so far) until the work situation becomes more clear.

All good things come to an end

2007-11-03T18:00:00.000Z

Carlisle "3" Leeds United "1"

Yes the mighty whites have been beaten, the unbeaten record as gone so I'm sulking tonight. Despite my dissapointment I will say well done to Carlisle you did well.

Leeds actually led at halftime with a Jermaine Beckford goal and looked in complete control until Carlisle scored a 35 yard wonder goal to equalise. Slack marking at a corner led to the Cumbrians 2nd and a late third due more to the fact Leeds were commiting too many men forward in search of a equaliser flattered the Cumbrians.

Listening to the commentary on Radio Leeds were actually playing well but somedays the ball doesn't run from you. The pulling power of the mighty whites showed again with Carlisle getting their first full house for 31 years.

Anyway I'd have settled for 9th in the table after 14 matches (11wins, 2 draws & 1 defeat), really we would have been happy to be out of the relegation zone at this stage given our 15 point deduction. Infact without that penalty we would be 8 points clear at the top of the league (the real table).

The important thing is we bounce back on Tuesday when we travel to the South Coast to play Bournemouth. The last time we visited there was in the eighties when we won the old 2nd division on a Bank holiday weekend back in 1990. Great idea putting Leeds with their fanatical support in a seaside town on a Bank Holiday. All I'll add is the people of Bournemouth now hate us cos that day was a little wild, over 20,000 travelled a lot never even got in the ground (photo below) and the place ended in a mess following a three day beach party. I reckon I've worked out why its a tuesday night this time !

What the hell lets cheer us up and look back at that title winning day back in 1990 :-

3 in a row

2007-11-02T18:47:00.000Z

October was a case of three in a row for the lovely Sandii who was again my number one blogger. She not only made most comments she made a amazing 29 comments now thats a record I believe. So the challenge is on for the first person to break the 30 comments in a month barrier.
Anyway I reckon she deserves a big e'hug.

The top five bloggers reached double figures and another two pretty ladies took up the silver and bronze positions Airliebird with 17 comments followed by Rebecca with 14 comments.

The others making double figures were Ironman (formally Spider) and Celtic Girl with 12 & 11 comments respectively.

Thanks to everyone for their imput it makes blogging worthwhile.

Takeover

2007-11-02T09:05:00.000Z

Well it looks like the takeover at work is going to happen but the good part is of course I'm still getting my contract terminated. This means I'll still get all my redundancy money at the end of this month irrespective of whether I work for the new company or not.

We don't even know what the plans are for the site, what products they will make but we are expecting the owners to come to site and start recruiting an initial team. According to the local newspaper they are hoping to start some production in January/Febuary. I think a lot of money needs spending on site infrastructure cos a lot of maintenance work is required.

I reckon with my job and site knowledge I should be offered a job but I'm making no decision until I see the offer, I'm certainly fancying December off at least. At present I'm very open minded about what I'll do, just need some thinking time.

Tell you more later.

Work Update

2007-10-31T18:32:00.000Z

Well the takeover absolute dedline came and went and we are still no wiser -

11.00am - Local MP talks to staff rep on phone inform us the papers are been signed over.

11.30am - Local press phones Plant Manager asking him about takeover, he refuses to comment as he has not had confirmation from head office.

2.30pm - Absolute dedline for takeover passes.

3.00pm - Plant Manager phones head office to see whats happening to be told agreement close takeover imminent, me thinks we been here before.

4.00pm - People go home including Me & Plant Manager.

I've lost count how many dedlines we've passed, now we all go home for good in one months time we need to know whats happening.

Hell I'm pissed off.

More about me and my thoughts

2007-10-30T18:58:00.000Z

Today I was optimistic that I would find out at work whether we would be taken over, but alas still no confirmation either way. However if the rumours are correct the takeover will happen, but as I've said before I wont hold my breath. This has gone on far too long and like many others I'm fed up about it.

If the takeover happens I'll expect to be made redundant at the end of November so I've been working out my finances. I'll probably put a lot of my pay off money into my Pension, this way I can avoid paying a lot of tax. It will also allow me to take my pension early but more about that later when I know more.

Anyway if I am made redundant I wouldn't mind having a vacation before considering another job so I've been checking out a few deals. Where would I go, probably the States again cos I've got quite a few dollars left over from my last trip (Atlanta was cheaper than I expected) so wouldn't need much spending money.
While I'm on about dollars, have you seen the exchange rate over $2 to the £1 its a cheap trip for me once I get there.

If I do make the trip it would be good if I met up with another one of my online friends but I suppose that would depend where I went. I've actually now been lucky enough to meet four online friends and there are plenty more I really would like to meet in the future, we'll see maybe they wouldn't want to meet me.

I played Yorkshire League Table Tennis away at Halifax on Sunday, we drew the match 5-5 but I managed to win all three of my singles (lost in doubles). But hell it was tough I really had to push myself so hard to win I was knackered after, everthing hurt, gee I need to be fitter.
I've a hard match in the local York league on Thursday, its against one of the better teams who have the local Mens Champion playing for them, I'm really looking forward to the challenge.

Did I mention the "Coach of the Year" award took another twist when the Photographer from the local paper turned up at work to take my photo.

Take Care Everyone

Music Monday - The "T's"

2007-10-29T17:54:00.000Z

Well upto the letter "T" and again I'm going to ignore some great acts such as T Rex, Take That, Thin Lizzy, Temptations, Tears for Fears, etc. Why cos I'm dedicating this letter to Lady singers cos there are a few good uns.

So here goes -

1. Tina Turner "The Best" - Can't leave my theme song out can I, lol. Great song though made No5 in the UK chart in 1989.

2. Bonnie Tyler "Total Eclipse of the Heart" - This was a No1 hit for Bonnie in 1983.

3. T'Pau "China in Your Hand" - Another 80's hit, made No1 spot in 87 for this group fronted by Carol Decker.

4. The Tourists "I Only want to be with You" - Drop back to the 70's with this No4 hit from 1979 which was a cover version of a Dusty Springfield classic for Annie Lennox.

I want to Rant

2007-10-28T21:06:00.000Z

I read something in the newspaper this week that really made me angry - A former inmate at Armley Prison is putting in a claim for £2million against the prison authorities. Why ? because he was Muslim and they gave him a ham sandwich for a meal. Sorry mate this isn't about religion its about you doing your time for commiting a crime in our country, your choice eat or starve. I'm sure if I broke the law in a muslim country I'd get Roast Beef and Yorkshire Pudding for Sunday lunch.

I'm Embarrased

2007-10-27T21:15:00.000+01:00

I don't believe what I've just read in the Local York Newspaper and feel embarrased by it.

There was a double page spread on the Area Sports Awards and I was reading with interest wondering if anyone I knew was up for an award. A selected Committee had selected a short list of three people in every catogary covering a range of Sports.

Well I got down to the award for "Coach of the Year" and couldn't believe my eyes I've been nominated. There was a write up how I was one of the areas top qualified Coaches and how I've developed numerous players to National & County level at Table Tennis.

Apparently I'm up against a Coaches from Athletics and Roller Hockey and everyone nominated is invited to a special Sports Dinner (black tie job) in November where the winners will be announced.

Sure I'm highly qualified and in the past developed many players to good standard but thats where the embarrasment begins, I packed in coaching over one year ago so how on earth can I be " Coach of the Year". I can just imagine going up for the award and been asked to talk about the coaching I do.

I'm going to have to turn this down its unfair and a insult to the people that do the work, I don't anymore.

In the Play Off places

2007-10-27T19:03:00.000+01:00

Another Saturday and yet another win for the mighty whites. Goals from David Prutton, Jermaine Beckford and a brace for Jonathan Douglas (pic below) gave us a 4-2 victory over Millwall.Thats now lucky thirteen matches unbeaten (11 wins, 2 draws) and despite giving everyone 15 points start we are now in the top six, yes one of the Play Off spots. We are only four points from the top of the table, ok a couple of teams have a game in hand but this position is way in front of target.

Its good to be a Leeds fan at this moment in time.

48hr Checkemlads Cancer Awareness

2007-10-25T21:26:00.001+01:00

lets all have the checkemlads model as our main pic for 48hrs.

its better than donating to the cause as it may just encourage somebody to check their balls

save the pic below then make it your profile pic for 48hrs & get your friends to do the same.

Thanks My Friends

UPDATE :- Following last nights comments I'll add a bit of an explanation -

This is a campaign been promoted by some British Musicians to raise awareness to Testicular Cancer. Its designed to encourage Men to check themselves out to try catch what is becoming a very common cancer early. If not caught early enough it is a killer. Even if you don't put the picture up it is not a bad idea to encourage any male friends to check out their "Crown Jewels" on a regular basis. If one life is saved its worth it.

The campaign is been promoted on MySpace trying to get as many people as possible to change their Profile Picture for 48hrs to this one. I thought it a good idea to do it on Blogger also.

The Musicians I know that are promoting this campaign are Paul Weller & Steve White (not sure what others) as I recieved bulletons from both of them on MySpace.

Soon be the Weekend

2007-10-25T19:20:00.000+01:00

Well life is boring at present tonight I was supposed to be playing Table Tennis in my home town local league. The standard is not great and I don't play too often in this league nowadays but I was looking forward to it as it was against one of the better sides. Work is also boring at present so any nightime activities are good.

While on Work we should find out before next Wednesday whether the takeover bid is succesfull, I don't know what will be best to be honest. A couple of the blokes in my department have found jobs and will be leaving next month. You can't blame them and I hope it works out for them they are good lads.

We'll sure have a leaving do to say goodbye but I'm sure everyone will keep in touch. I'm actually at another leaving do tomoz for one of the Fitters called Chris who starts a new job next week. Its straight after work just a few beers with workmates.

Saturday the mighty whites are at home to Millwall but I can't go as I've a TT training session. A lot of tickets have been sold and it will be a big crowd and great atmosphere. Its not a bad one to miss cos Millwall Supporters have a big reputation for violence, their Mob the "Bushwackers" make Hitler Youth look like Liberals. Ok Leeds also have a bit of a reputation and I've a bad feeling about this fixture we'll probably end up getting docked some more points.

Sunday I've actually got a TT match its in the Yorkshire League I'm representing York against Halifax, it could be a tough game but thats how I like it.

I've been Thinking

2007-10-24T18:36:00.000+01:00

Yes I know the fact I've been thinking is maybe a bit scary cos I'm likely to come up with something stupid.
So what have I been thinking, well its really what to do with the rest of my life especially when I finish work.
I've been thinking what should I do workwise and to be honest I just don't know, I feel like a total change in career direction would be quite motivating. The trouble is I don't know which direction to turn. I'm also thinking about the possibility of only doing part time work not necessarily less hours per week but only sort of working 6 months or so per year. But as I say I'm struggling to make decisions, I really need to know when I actually will finish (its still unclear).
I have seen what redundancy payments will be and also seen my works pension details. These were based on finishing at the end of November but I will possibly be there after that date so they can only be better, plus I'll earn more money in the meantime which could be Useful.
My Pension is based on claiming it at 60 but it can be taken earlier with penalties (-6% compound interest per year). Obviously I've a few sums to do to see what would best suit me, depends on how much work I do.

Another thing I've been considering is a December Vacation but I've not booked anything, again Work is dominating my decision. If I'm going to finish in the next few months I'd be better saving my holidays and cashing them in. However if I'm going to be working longer then I want a vacation, I just need a decision.

The other day I did a short "Interview Techniques" course and one of the things they asked us to do was name our own strengths and weaknesses. Obviously that was with respect to our jobs but it led me to think what are my strengths & weaknesses as a person. Its not easy but I came up with the following :-
Strengths -
Honesty (I pride myself on this)
Loyalty (If your a friend I'll do anything for you but don't be a enemy).
Reliability (what I say I do)

Weakness -
Emotions (My emotions can get the better and I take things to heart)
Temper (I have a short fuse sometimes but bark is louder than my bite, I just say things I regret if someone winds me up)
Sulking (I like getting my own way)

There is other subjects I've been giving a lot of thought to in fact I feel my life is at a crossroads and I'm making a few decisions about which direction I should go. Hell its not a rehearsal its just one chance a life you just gotta do what you think is right at the time.

In a Rush

2007-10-23T17:32:00.000+01:00

Not a lot of time tonight as I walked to work I was a bit late home and am going out early. I've a TT match in York but have to go early than norm and take a detour to pick a new player up.
I'm only in the house just over one hour to get my meal, showered & changed so this is it for tonight catch up with all your blogs tomoz.

Take Care.

Music Monday - The "S's"

2007-10-22T17:13:00.000+01:00

We are now upto the letter "S" and I reckon this is the letter that most acts name begins with sort of individual talents like Bruce Springsteen, Helen Shapiro, Sandie Shaw, Neil Sedaka, Frank Sinatra & Rod Stewart, sixties super groups like the Small Faces & the Shadows, seventies Glam stars Slade & Sweet, even Punk Groups Sex Pistols, Stranglers, Siouxie & the Banshees, Sham 69, others like Smokey Robinson, Status Quo, Soft Cell, Simple Minds,Simply Red, Showaddywaddy, etc. I'm sure you can all come up with more but I've gone mad and not including any of the above and still giving you 5 classics.

1. Shangri La's "Leader of the Pack"- This song from the origional Girl Band was released on four occasions in the UK reaching No11 on its first visit the only time it didn't make the top ten.

2. The Stone Roses "I am the resurrection" - I love this record and can't understand why it only made No33 in the charts. One of the best groups to come out of Manchester and thats good coming from me.

3. Squeeze "Cool for Cats" - I like some of the stuff Squeeze did although some of their songs can send you to sleep, this was the first I heard of theirs and it made No2 in 1979.

4. Spencer Davis Group "Keep on Running" - Sixties Classic that made No1 in 1965 for a group including a young Steve Winwood.

5. Steppenwolf "Born to be Wild" - Only just made the charts in the UK but a all time rock classic I reckon.

Shit I missed the Spice Girls

Sport Sunday - One Down One to go

2007-10-21T11:34:00.000+01:00

This weekend England were hoping for two World Champions but alas it wasn't to be for our first attempt in the Rugby Union World Cup Final. They lost 15-6 to South Africa in a tough if not spectacular game. But at the end of the day you have to hold your hands up and say well done South Africa you were the best team in the tournament and deserved your success.

I think the players can come home with their heads held high, they lost to a very good team but had their chances and could have won had a bit of luck gone their way.

The match hinged on a Try that England scored that was disallowed by the 4th Official (surprisingley Australian, thanks). It was dissallowed after studying the replays for quite a long time, we problay lost the World cup by millimetres.

You judge was his toe over the line :-

So far its been a bad week for England on Wednesday our Football team lost 2-1 in Russia and we now need a miracle to qualify for the European Championships. To be honest I wasn't surprised cos our manager Steve McClaren is a complete muppet, has never done anything in Football and never will, time for a change I think.

While on Football I've got to mention the Mighty Whites, another win yesterday, still unbeaten with 10 wins and 2 draws from our 12 matches and we've moved into the top ten (9th) in the division. Amazing achievement after giving everyone 15 points start. Yesterdays Goal Scorer was the prolific Tresor Kandol seen below celebrating with our manager Dennis Wise.

I've got to mention one of our rival clubs in Division One Hartlepool was hit by a tradgedy this week when one of their up and coming starlets Michael Maiden was killed in a car crash. There game was cancelled yesterday and my thoughts go out to his family & friends.

Back to World Champions and we stiil have a shot with Lewis Hamilton in the Brazilian Grand Prix. He leads the standings by the narrowest of Margins from Fernado Alonso & Kiki Raikkonen. He will start todays race (5pm out time) 2nd on the grid with his two rivals just behind him. Home town driver Fillipe Massa took pole in his Ferrari and will be trying to help team mate Raikkonen I reckon.

Hamilton is only 20 years old and if he wins will become both the youngest driver to win the title and also the first to win in his rookie season. Good Luck Lewis a country is right behind you.

Update

2007-10-19T19:00:00.000+01:00

Well again I walked to work but today I had a weigh in, although not a lot I've lost 0.5kg (1.1lb)since my last weigh in. I'm now 107kg in my full working gear.

Today at work we had a course on job interviews and what to put on your CV, our company has hired a firm in to this sort of thing with everyone getting made redundant. Its quite good for such as me cos although I've interviewed others I've not had one myself for years.

I've sort of been working out what my financial situation will be if I finish in November, obviously if I get chance to stay longer I'll be better off. If I base my plans around this date I can only be better off, I'll get by.

As I've said previously although I'll hang in here once I finish I'll take some time out (and I'll be travelling) I'm thinking what trips I'll do and have a few ideas (yes Australia is a serious option). One definate I'm hoping to do is Orleans for the Jazz Fest April/May, I'll do Chicago again in June/July for the Taste of Chicago .
Another place I want to visit is Austin (Music Capitol of the World) wanted to go their for a while now. Of course there is my birthday trip mentioned in last nights post don't know where yet. I'm sure other trips will happen hopfully meet up with a few blog friends would be nice, you're all welcome when in your area to join me, I'd like that.
Yep I'm gonna travel believe me.
Saying all that I'm still mulling over my December trip, I may put that off due to the work situation but don't count on it.

Finally we're all hoping England has two World Champions this weekend, England play South Africa in the Rugby Union Final, 50,000 England fans are expected in Paris for the final.

Our other hope is Lewis Hamilton who will be attempting to become the youngest ever winner of the Formula One championship in is rookie season. He leads the standings going into Sundays Brazillian Grand Prix the last of the season.

So Far So Good

2007-10-18T19:58:00.000+01:00

The heading means I've started trying to get myself more motivated to exercise and back on the weight loss bandwagon. I've started walking to work and done it for the last three days it takes about 40 minutes each way. I try to keep a decent pace.
I've also been careful with what I eat so hopfully when I weigh I'll see the improvement, maybe not this week but as the weeks pass by.

Still no wiser what will happen at work or when I'll finish, hopfully next week I should get some figures of what payout I'll get assuming finishing end of November. Obviously it it isn't taken over by then as said previously I'll probably be staying a few months which can only enhance my pay off. Its so frustrating just not knowing whether we should prepare for closing or reopening.

Its so quiet at work until we are pointed in a direction, it doesn't help motivation and its amazing how too much thinking time makes your mind run off at tangents. Its also difficult to concentrate on anything. I played a Table Tennis match last night and was poor lost two games ok to decent players, both in 5 sets but I was dissapointed cos I wasn't up for it and I'd play a few good points then give some sloppy one's away just no concentration.

As most of you know I'm old and next March will be my birthday a big one its my 5oth. I was discussing what to do was just gonna have a party but now thinking maybe a long weekend in the US with a few of the lads. A couple of friends have already indicated they are up for it (have you mentioned it yet to the missus yet Lofty). Not sure where we would go probably to where we can get the best price cos money may be tight for some people.
Today at work some others were showing a bit of interest but obviously a lot of folk say that until it comes to finding the cash. Don't worry that will be collected prior to booking.
Now checking the dates my Birthday clashes with Easter which is early next year (Good Friday to be accurate), now my questions to my American Friends :-
1. How busy is Easter in the US ?
2. Do Bars & Clubs close early at easter ?

Boredom & Motivation

2007-10-16T17:50:00.000+01:00

At work we have about finished production and to be honest its getting really boring. You may think its great to go to work sit on your backside with very little to do is good but hell the day just takes forever.
Quite a lot of people have now gone so there is even less to talk to. We are in limbo at present not knowing whether we will be taken over as a production plant or we will be closed. At least once we know the answer to that question we can start preparing the plant and should be reasonably busy. Its going to be a long two weeks before we find out.

The trouble is when you have a lazy day its hard to motivate yourself to do anything when you get home.

I'm trying though today I started my regime of exercise by walking to and from work, its a thing I did last year and eventually it will help the weight loss I'm sure. I do want to get back on track I've sort of lost a lot of motivation with the weight loss & fitness levels of late but I now feel the time is right to start working at it again.

Back to work and I've decided I'm not yet ready to start applying for jobs, I've decided I'll just stay as long as I'm been paid then have a few months off probably do some more travelling cos a new job may not give me as much time off as I get now. I still need details of how much I'll actually get but I have a rough idea just need confirmation. If someone does takeover my options may be different but I'll try negotiate a job with more time off, I'm determined to live and see the parts of the world I want.
To be honest I feel like a change of direction on the job front, I've worked in industry too long and fancy doing something different just don't know what if that makes sense.

Did I mention I was out in York last Friday night at yet another leaving do for some of the process shift workers. It was a laugh but I didn't stay too late, got the last bus as I had to be up Saturday for a TT training day. Remind me not to get the bus again it takes forever driving through every village and stopping at every farmhouse, I thought my bladder was going to burst.

Last night I went out for a few frames of Pool with Lofty and following a few drinks he confirmed he would like to come with me on one of my US trips next year for my birthday. I asked if he had mentioned it to his wife but he suggested I mentioned it on my blog so she could find out here.

And its good to see one of my origional Blog friends Joel DcNats back in circulation this month I hope he keeps blogging. And as a 2nd bonus I see the lovely Redneckgirl as posted on her blog lets hope she is here to stay.

Finally a question - If there is something in life you feel is really what you want but looks totally impossible, is it worth the effort to try ?
I would appreciate your opinion although the question may not make sense.

Take Care Everyone.

Since writing this post I've just had a bit of a shock, the Yorkshire Table Tennis Association handbook came in this mornings post so I sat down to read it. Turned a page and read a trophy had been donated in memory of a old friend called George. This chap I've known for years as a Coach & Umpire he was a smashing chap one of lifes true characters always said what he thought.
Yes sure he was knocking on a bit (probably mid Eighties) but I didn't even know he had died, I'm gutted I never attended the funeral or even spoke to his widow. I don't even know when it happend but must have been early this year I think.

Music Monday - The "R's"

2007-10-15T17:29:00.000+01:00

I'm now upto the letter "R" and to be honest I'm a litte spoiled for choice so I thought I'd come up with four (yes a bonus track this week) totally different styles.

1. Rednex "Cotton Eye Joe" - Remember this song made No1 in the UK in 1994.

2. Otis Redding "Sitting on the Dock of the Bay" - This classic made No3 in the charts back in 1968.

3. Ramones "Baby I love You" - Thier highest UK hit when it made No8 in the chart in 1980 for these New York Punks.

4. REM "The One I love" - And how do you like this one from 1987, I reckon its a good song.

Questions, Decisions, Thoughts, etc.

2007-10-14T11:56:00.000+01:00

Ok this post isn't about anything specific cos I've a few things going on in my head at present. All my regular readers know about work and the fact we are closing and officially most people will be redundant from the end of November. However due to my job as Electrical Manager I'll be kept on for a period probably Feb/March next year as part of a skeleton team for safety reasons.

There is a chance still that another company will take over the site, I'll know this for sure by the end of this month. If this happens I'll still get my redundancy payment but probably also be offered my job back under new terms & conditions.

As part of the workers representitive team I met the bloke trying to buy the place on Friday, he was full of big plans for the factory but I'm not totally convinced, I'll believe it when he puts the money on the table, the takover plans are just taking too long.

Anyway saying all that basically I don't know when I'll be working till so that leads me to thinking "should I start applying for jobs ?".

The other thought is how much work do I need to get by, my redundancy package is decent and maybe I'll only need part time work, I keep doing the sums but require to know exactly what my work options are.

I'm still thinking about whether to have a short vacation in December like I mentioned on a earlier post, Trouble is if I was finished work sort of early next year Jan/Feb I'd be better saving my holiday days and cashing them in, hell I'll have plenty of time to go then.

However if the work dragged on to March/April or longer or we are taken over and I decide to work for the new owner I'd like to take my holidays. Not knowing when I'll actually finish is a pain.

While I'm on about vacations I've some questions for some of my blog friends, first to the Australians amonst us. When I finish work I've decided I'm conviced I should visit your country, so my question "Which would be the best city to visit and why ?" I know the initial thoughts is Sydney in the same way people visit London if coming to the UK or New York if visiting the USA. I'll add neither of these would be my choice.

My 2nd vacation question is to Rebecca, I've been checking out the Flight/Hotel deals for NO during the Jazz Fest late April early May. A lot of hotels prices arn't up yet but some are but I'll be monitering until I get a good deal.
My question, I know you said its best to stay in the French Quarter but would it be a problem if I got a hotel in the Buisness District within say 3 blocks of the quarter ? The reason I ask is their seems better options there.

I'm also giving a bit of thought to weight loss and what small changes I can make to start shedding a few pounds again, I've stagnated a bit at present, I put on weight on vacation and ain't done enough since I returned.

Obviously partly related to the weight loss I want to up my fitness level, I've felt a bit sluggish lately, I know having a cold hasn't helped but thats on the mend so I can't use that for a excuse. I just need to push myself into doing more exercise, I've been lazy I used to do Sit ups, press ups each morning but haven't done em for a while. I've also stopped walking to work when I can so I intend to start that routine again.

A big sporting Saturday

2007-10-13T19:47:00.000+01:00

First up this afternoon it was Football with England doing their chances in the European Championships a big boost with a comfortable 3-0 victory over Estonia. All the goals were in the first half then they sort of took their foot off the gas. Leeds United kept their unbeaten run going but were held to a draw at Elland road by early pace setters Leyton Orient. The Londoners even had a man sent off in an eventful match played in front of the divisions biggest crowd of the season.

Orient took a first half lead but Seb Carole equalised and Leeds had a great chance to win it but Tresor Kandol missed a late penalty, we'll forgive him he's scored a few this season.

Then this evening Leeds has become a very proud City following a great performance by their Rugby League team the "Rhinos", they overcame favorites St Helens in fact the thumped them 33-6 with a fantastic performance.

One of my friends Lofty and his wife "Anonymous" (well thats what she signs on my blog) are big fans so I reckon he can buy the beers at Pool on Monday.

Its been a great season for Yorkshires Rugby League Clubs with Castleford Tigers and Featherstone Rovers winning their respective play offs last week.

Finally it was the turn of Englands Rugby Union Team to play France in the World Cup Semi-Final in Paris. Well four years ago we won it and lets just say we will be defending it next week, result was a 14-9 victory for our boys, it was nearly as good as Argincort, by we just love beating the French.

In next weeks final we will face either South Africa or Argentina who play tomorrow.

Fed Up

2007-10-10T17:39:00.000+01:00

Today at work I managed to have a little accident where I ended up slashing open the back of my trouser leg and also cutting myself, I won't go into details its a long story but I wasn't laughing but couldn't blame anyone but myself.
The good thing about it was I got a free pair of jeans from the stores, didn't know they stocked them, they seem ok for work. Wouldn't go out in them though.

I still haven't shaken my cold off, just can't seem to get rid of it. I've been feeling really crappy and my chest is a little tight. It keeps giving signs of clearing up then seems to go back to step one. Hopfully it'll soon clear though.

Reading everyones blogs tonight I noticed Rebecca commented on the fact that there seem less comments of late. Its a thing I've noticed that a lot of bloggers are not only doing less comments but are not posting so much on their own blogs. I've been thinking maybe doing a few random blog searches to try attract a few new friends with comments on blogs I like (I did this a bit when I started).

However after giving it a lot of thought and looking down the list of blog friends I decided I was happy with the people on my friends list, there is a good selection of people all with different outlooks. I can blog on different subjects with different people and to me you all seem like people I can trust and could get on with if we lived close by. Saying that its not a closed shop and I'd always be happy for anyone else to join in with comments, I always try to return comments to others blogs.

Finally as you can imagine work is quite depressing at present with people leaving, I think at the end of this week there will be less than forty people on site. We still don't know for sure whether the take over will be succesfull or we are shutting. Not knowing seems worse than either way so much indecision, some people don't know whether to look for other jobs or not. Me I'm just staying put until they stop paying me, I don't think I'm going to look for work straight away may have some time out.

With all the indecision and not knowing if or when I'll finish I'm undecided whether to have a short vacation in december, I have been checking out a few deals and there is a few good offers about. Four Cities I've never visited that I can get a decent deal at present are San Diego, Austin, Phoenix & New Orleans. Others that Ive been to that I can get a good flight/hotel price include San Francisco & Chicago but believe it or not the best price of the lot is to Atlanta, sods law I've just been there.

Opinions please if I do decide to go somewhere which of the above Cities do you reckon would be best to visit (7 days) in mid December ? Obviosly some of these prices change by the day so that may influence any decision I make.

Music Monday - The "Q's"

2007-10-08T17:07:00.000+01:00

Well upto the letter Q and not so many to choose from this week but I reckon I've come up with three good acts. What do you think ?

1. Queen "Killer Queen" - A group that can truly be called a "supergroup" with a string of top hits. This offering was their 2nd UK chart hit and reached No2 in 1974.

2. Suzy Quatro "Devil Gate Drive" - Another hit from 1974 and this reached the top spot in the UK. I always reckoned she was kind of cute for a girl that wore leather, remember her in some of the Happy Days episodes with the Fonz.

3. Queens of the Stone Age "Little Sister" - I'll bring you more upto date with my final offering from Qeens of the Stone Age. This group were actually playing at the Roxy in Buckhead, Atlanta on the saturday I was in that city and a bloke I got talking to in a bar had tickets to go.

Sport Sunday - Almost a Perfect Weekend

2007-10-07T12:32:00.000+01:00

I haven't done a Sunday Sport Post for quite a while as I've just been concentrating on my main love for Leeds United. However this weekend has been good as I say almost perfect.

Obviously as mentioned yesterday the Mighty Whites continued their unbeaten run with a hard fought 1-0 victory over a good Yeovil team, the start to the season has been fantastic almost unbelivable. Following the 15 point deduction a lot of people expected the club to lay down and die, sorry folks you were wrong this is the start of something big. Momentum is building we look unstoppable.
Anyway as we are ten matches into the season I thought I'd post this video of the season so far, hell I'm so chuffed.

The Soccer team wern't the only one's to make the City of Leeds proud this weekend because Rugby League Side the Rhinos stuffed Lancashire Outfit Wigan Warriors 36-6 on Friday night to reach the Super League Grand Final. They will face favorites St Helens in the final but on their day the Rhinos are capable of beating anyone. The City of Leeds is buzzing with the success of their sports teams anything is possible.

Talking of anything is possible the Rugby Union World Cup Quarter Finals were played this weekend, England despite been champions just haven't really performed in the four years since that great day and everyone expected them to be hammered by one of the favorites Australia. But guess what a 12-10 victory sets up a semi-final clash with host nation France who also had a great win over the New Zealand All Blacks. Now who said the southern hemisphere sides are much stronger ?

Boxing and our up and coming superstar Amir Khan continued his rise to the world title with his 15th succesive victory over Scott Lawton to retain the commonwealth crown. The lad is only 20 years old but looks to have the speed and power to become a all time great.

I did say it was almost a perfect weekend because this was supposed to be when Lewis Hamilton became the youngest ever Formula One world champion. However a mistake in not changing his tyres soon enough in the China Grand Prix cost him as he crashed out. He still leads the championship but only by four points and it all goes down to the last race.

While I'm doing a article I thought I'd post this its probably the best song ever, I'm sure Airliebird will agree anyway.

The Late Show - Again

2007-10-06T19:35:00.000+01:00

I've just got back from Elland Road watching the mighty Whites take on Yeovil, to be honest our opponents played well especially in the first half but this Leeds team doesn't know how to lose and with one minute left on the clock onloan striker Mark DeVries headed the winner to once again send the fans crazy.
In ten matches we have smashed the 15 point penalty to pieces with 9 wins and one draw (cheated), Lord Mahwinny and his cronies on the Football league committee must be gutted.
We are now up to 12th in the table, yes the top half which is unbelievable, 11 teams in front of us and 12 behind that we have overtook. We are 6 points off the lead and only 3 points away from a play off spot.
The sickening fact is without the riddiculous penaly we would be top Nine points clear of 2nd place.

A Bit of Everthing

2007-10-05T19:08:00.000+01:00

I'll start with Weight Loss because as pointed out bySpidey on his blog I haven't weighed for quite while. Actually it was back in August and on the scales at work I was 102.5kg. To be honest I knew I'd increased I have had a lot on my mind and losing weight has not been a priority.
I've also been on vacation and two weeks of drinking and eating is not helpful to any weight loss, anyway my fears proved correct cos today I weighed in at 107.5kg a 5kg increase. Remember I am weighing in full working clothes. I hope to now get back on track I'll update next week.

I've played in three Table Tennis Matches this week, Sunday it was against Wakefield in the Yorkshire League we won 9-1 and I won all my games but struggled a little, I was a touch rusty since my hol.
I've had two York league matches this week Tuesday we won 6-4 and I won all three of my games, Thursday we lost 7-3 and I won two lost one. To be fair I lost comfortably in my defeat the other player is one I always struggle with. I didn't feel sharp and was dissapointed but credit where it is due he played well.

I've had a Cold since Monday and felt a bit crap, I'm starting to improve so the signs are good, I hope so anyway.

Work is a bit depressing with a number of people leaving, today the local MP was on site to meet us. Apparently there is a prospective buyer for the site and they have been given while the end of the month to put the money on the table. If that happend (and I'm not holding my breath) I'd still get my redundancy payment then possibly be offered a job back.

Tomorrow I'm thinking of going to Leeds to watch the mighty whites hopfully clock up another win, they play Yeovil a club they have never played before. Well done to our manager Dennis Wise who has been named the divisions manager of the month for the 2nd month running.

For those of you that are interested I've now downloaded all my holiday photo's for Atlanta & Philadelphia, you can find them here - Micks Photo's

The Clock is ticking

2007-10-03T18:56:00.000+01:00

Just to update everyone with my work situation, we have now put the last production run on which will probably all be finished by the middle of this month. Some production people will then leave while everyone else will work on decommisioning of the plant.
The target is to have everthing clean so virtually everyone will leave at the end of November.

However a very small skeleton crew of 6 to 8 people will remain to complete any other work and for site safety for a period following this date. As Site Electrical Manager I am likely to be in this group so I will be in work until I would think Feb/March next year. We will be there until the site is sold either as a working site or for salvage.

I am assured of my redundancy so my money for that is safe (I do get a very good deal due to my service) and if somebody does reopen the factory jobs may be on offer, that would be great for the area. Another benefit is for those of us involved in decommision we are on financial weekly bonus of £100 so that certainly boosts my money.

I've been working on this site since I left school and interestingly I started this year the 17th longest server. I'm now actually the 2nd longest server but the one bloke who is in front of me is a process worker so he will probably finish before me. I suppose it will be a achievment to make the No1 spot just wish it could have been in happier circumstances.

Great Team Amazing Fans

2007-10-03T17:37:00.000+01:00

No apologies for a 2nd Football post this week.

Last night Leeds travelled over the hills to play Oldham a place that hasn't always been a great hunting ground in the past. It was a close scrappy match which often happens in these "Battle of the Roses", we were without our two main strikers who were both suspended following their sending offs at Gillingham at the weekend.

The game looked set for a creditable 0-0 away point but with the final kick of the match supersub Ian Westlake struck a superb volley to send the massive travelling support into ecstasy.

Its now played nine won eight, drew one(cheated) lost none, we are now 14th in the league and closing in on the leaders. 37 matches to go we will go up. Without our 15 point penalty we would be clear top by 6 points at this stage.

Our fanatical support are filling every stadium we visit in all our away matches so far this season it has produced our opponents biggest recorded crowd. The atmosphere and noise generated is just drowning out the home fans and last night apparently a new chant was introduced mocking our 15 point deduction, listen and get the feel of supporting Leeds United.

This Chant which goes like this for those that can't speak the Yorkshire Lingo :-

15 points
Who gives a f**k
We're Super Leeds
We're Going Up.

Of course we are at home Saturday (to Yeovil) and the atmosphere will be unbelievable.

Music Monday - The "P's"

2007-10-01T18:00:00.000+01:00

Up to the letter "P" this week so here are three classics from three different decades (60's, 70's & 80's) :-

1 Procul Harem "Whiter Shade of Pale " classic No1 hit from 1967 from a very good group.

2. Police "Roxanne" - Best song ever about a prostitute back in 1979.

3. Poison "Every rose has its thorn" - 1989 classic from a underated group.

And for the 2nd month running -

2007-10-01T17:08:00.000+01:00

Thats another month gone so its time to check who has commented most on my blog, a quiet month with less posts than normal due to my vacation so I was pleased four people reached double figures.

Anyway for the 2nd month running the lovely Sandii stays in top spot with 15 comments despite not been very active on her own blog for various reasons.
It was a close run thing because only one comment behind on 14 was Spider his highest ever position I believe.
Rebecca whom I was lucky enough to meet in Atlanta was third with 11 posts closely followed by Suzy who with 10 posts achieved her highest position so far.

Thanks to everyone for their input its always appreciated my friends.

How to stop Leeds Front Men Scoring

2007-09-29T17:50:00.000+01:00

Well so far this season Leeds have been brilliant and our Front Men Jermaine Beckford and Tresor Kandol have been almost unstoppable scoring goals for fun. We have made a mockery of the fifteen points we were docked at the start winning our opening 7 matches to equal the Clubs best ever start to a season.

Well the run had to end somewhere but today was sickening the way it happend. Away at Gillingham we started really well taking the lead through winger Seb Carole (pictured below) and were cruising. But this is Leeds United and the referee decided he would even the Match up a bit by sending off Kandol. We still kept playing well and controlling the game so he decided to send off Beckford as well, but not before he had two goals disallowed, we played the last 30 minutes two men short and with the referee helping them it was a bit like the Alamo.

The players played brilliantly fighting for everything again with fantastic vocal support from our army of travelling fans but disaster struck in the final minutes of the game with Gillingham equalising, we did hang on for the draw wish is a great result in such circumstances. Even reporters on the TV said the referee was diabolical and they don't normally stick up for Leeds.

The above fans view short clip gives an incite to what our travelling fans thought first they cheer off our heroes then let the ref know there feelings as he leaves the field under a police escort for his own protection.

At least we still haven't been beaten, we will still win this league. At present we are 20th in the table but after only 8 matches and giving 15 points start its amazing we are off the bottom and out of the relegation zone. Without the penalty we would be three points clear at the top, thats the real league table.

This week Leeds appeal against the 15 points to the FA was ignored, they will not interfere with a Football League management decision, its never bothered them before. Leeds Coach Gus Poyet was this week charged by the same FA over comments he made about a previous referee. Is all this just a conspiracy, something smells about everything that is going on.

On another note I've a Table Tennis Match tomorrow afternoon its my first match following my vacation and I need the exercise, I haven't weighed but I feel fat, I'm sure I've put a fair bit on.
I'll be representing York against Wakefield in the Yorkshire League so I could have some hard games.
I've two matches in the York league coming up this week Tuesday is our scheduled fixture and I think we will have a rearranged match Thursday.

Last night following work I went out for a few drinks with some of the people who left yesterday, they were the remaining ones from the previous redundancies. We maybe off out for a meal on Wednesday but not sure it definate yet.

In my last post I mentioned blog friend Rachel and I'll just say that she has been in touch, we've exchanged a number of emails and everything is ok between us. She has had a very tough time and reached rock bottom in her life but a few things are now starting to look brighter, for one she should be starting a new job Monday which she really needs.
She will be back blogging eventually with a new blog but at present she does not have internet access at home, she is walking to the local library to email. Wish her luck cos she is rebuilding her life from scratch, I'll be supporting her as much as I can.

Is today the first day of the rest of my life

2007-09-25T18:01:00.000+01:00

Today when I got to work I found out that I was going to be made redundant, my place of work is closing, it wasn't totally unexpected. I've actually worked at the same factory for 33 years I went there straight from school at 16 so it is a big part of me.

During the time I've worked at the plant I've moved from Apprentice Electrician through various promotions to "Site Electrical & Utilities Manager". I've also worked for six different companies that have owned the place.

Some people are leaving at the end of this week (I've got a leaving do to attend Friday), while others will go throughout October with a few staying to the end of November which is the planned date to have everything finished. In my job I'll probably be one of the last out the gate, hell someone has to flick the light switch.

With my service I'm luckier than most that I will get a very good redundancy payment so that is quite pleasing.

Another glimmer of light on the horizon is that somebody is trying to buy the site to make different products, I will know for sure this Friday I believe. If this happens they will want some of the workforce back but we'll have to wait and see what their contract offers.

Obviously I'm sad after spending so much of my life there but I'm also happy with the payment I'll recieve it will create opportunities to do new things in my life, possibly even more travelling.
I've a lot of thought process to go through before I decide what I want to do with the rest of my life, I've a few loose ideas but now I need a real plan.

Another thing I'm very upset about is that I've appeared to have upset and lost a very good blog friend, I think most of you will have worked out its Rachel and I'm gutted about it. I really hope she has a change of heart she is going through such a hard time in her life and I just want to be supportive.

Back safe & sound

2007-09-25T15:06:00.000+01:00

Just a quick post to say I'm back home from my trip, I'm a little tired but not too bad. I've sort of unpacked my bags and started to download some photos. I need to tidy up a few of them so hopfully I'll be able to post in the next few days.

Again I enjoyed many aspects of my trip but maybe I'll report a bit more later when I've looked at the photos (I'm getting old tha knows and the memory is not what it was, lol).

The journey home was a bit of a killer, the flight from Atlanta to Philadelphia was bang on time which was good, I actually fell asleep and even missed my free drink.

The Philadelphia to Manchester Flight was delayed about 1.5hours which was bad cos I already had a 8 hour stopover. Let me tell you there is only so much you can do in Philadelphia Airport in 9.5hours. I got a meal had a few beers, checked out all the shops then got totally bored.

Luckily on the 7 hour flight to Manchester I managed to sleep for a good part of it, but was awake at meal times so I got fed. I was sat with a bloke that was a bit of a pain all he did was complain to the flight attendants, they were doing there best and I couldn't fault them. Anyway I just ignored him, put my Mp3 player on and eventually nodded off.

With the flight delay I missed my normal train home and only just caught the next one by two minutes, I was lucky cos when I went through customs the person in front of me was selected to have his bags searched, if it had been me I don't know what time I would get home.

On another note I'm expecting some news at work, I'll find out the facts when I return tomorrow and maybe post later.

Rebecca, Me & Great Sax

2007-09-23T20:35:00.000+01:00

I'm now nearing the end of my vacation in fact its my last night and I've actually a long day ahead of me tomorrow, I'm first flying from Atlanta to Philadelphia where I've over 7 hours to kill before the long flight home. I won't actually be back in England until 9am Tuesday. I've just booked into my 5th hotel in 13 days close to the airport so I can get a good start in the morning. To be honest this hotel looks the best of the lot, nice swimming pool (with two lovely ladies in it wen I went past) and a cooked breakfast in the morning. My room is right next to the fitness centre, don't know if they are trying to tell me something ?

Anyway on to what as been happening, well as you may have accessed by this posts headline I've met another online friend and had a great time. Friday evening Rebecca drove up from Columbus, she arrived at my hotel just after 7pm, I met her in the lobby recognised her straight away she is a pretty girl. We gave each other a welcome hug then we got her booked into her room.

We agreed to meet in the hotel bar when we'd got scrubbed up and our glad rags on at about 8.30pm, Following a drink and information from the hotel staff we went to a Jazz Club called Sambuca. It was very busy when we arrived and had to wait by the bar for a table, we took the opportunity to phone another online friend Rachel who was supposed to join us, but due to circumstances at home was not able to come. To be honest she's a good friend and we were both bitterly dissapointed for her, I'm sure a weekend away from lifes pressures would have done her the world of good. Plus today is her birthday so "Happy Birthday Lady".

Anyway back to the Jazz Club we were eventually seated in one of the best seats not too close but directly facing the stage, The group were awesome led by a Saxophone player (hence the title of this post for those that thought I'd made a spelling mistake). even Rebecca was impressed and that say's a lot for a lass from New Orleans and Jazz expert, in fact she got a signed CD later and I took a photo of her with the main man.

While we were watching we had a meal at the Club which was really nice, I had steak while Rebecca opted for a Pasta dish, we enjoyed that place.

The Club eventually got us a Taxi back to our hotel just after midnight, we were going to have a nightcap but the bar was shut. Like a true Gentleman I tried to escort Rebecca back to her room, took her up in the lift, said our goodbyes then realised I'd pressed the wrong button in the lift like a total plonker and we were on the wrong floor. Eventually we found the correct floor said our goodnights and both went for some shut eye.

In the morning Rebecca phoned me and we arranged to meet in the lobby at 10am where she insisted it was now the time to do one of her favorite hobbies, yes the dreaded "S", I just knew thats what she would want to do, but as a gentleman its only right to oblige the lady, she was my guest. As a single bloke its not a thing I spend a lot of time doing.

Yes you've all got it we went Shopping the Lenox Square Mall was opposite the hotel and it had a few upmarket shops. Anyway shopping to me is the weeks groceries, maybe some CD's or look in a sports store, tend not to look at much else unless really necessary.

Now first if I remember correctly it was furniture stores and we went through everything that would maybe suit Rebeccas spare room, after a couple of these type store we then moved onto her favorites, first it was a specialist soap store where we spent the next half hour smelling different soaps to see if there was one she liked. I think she bought some in the end.

We then grabbed a Coffee when Rebecca said I'll just pop in that Perfume store, 30 minutes later with me stood outside with loads of husbands and boyfriends of others in the store I decided to venture in. I found trying everthing, I mean everthing. She pointed out the Mens perfumes so to fill in time I had a look but 1o minutes later I joined her again. Now she was actually spraying stuff on her arms and asking what I thought, in fact there was some nice stuff believe me, I will add here even without this Rebecca smells good enough to eat believe me.
Anyway she settled for a new perfume when the shop assistant pointed out to me that they do it in Mens also, the assistant & Rebecca insisted I tried it, so again I did. She sprayed a sample on my arm and they both had a sniff, Hell big smiles appeared on their faces, their eyes started to bulge and they moved towards me, I was frightened and backed off slightly, then bought some.

Anyway after Rebecca had bought most of this shop we eventually went to lunch which was nice, and then made our way back to the hotel as she had to make for home. As we said our goodbyes I must admit I was a little sad to see her go.

I really enjoyed my time with Rebecca she is fantastic company, very intelligent but caring, kind, considerate, she also likes a good laugh, I reckon she is a person I could trust and that is so important to me. She made me feel comfortable with her which is also important for a shy small town boy like myself. I really enjoyed the night out and to be honest I found the shopping fun it was a novelty for me, yeh I enjoyed been with Rebecca, hope we can do it again one day in the future.

Yet another Update from Atlanta

2007-09-20T20:57:00.000+01:00

Another day gone and I'm certainly starting to feel the pace of a lot of walking up and down these mountains, I am tired. I think the Food & Drink maybe playing a part also.

This morning I walked to Piedmont Park and spent a couple of hours there walking around, it is a very nice area. Got talking to a nice lady who originated from Boston she was asking me how I enjoy the US.

This afternoon I visited Underground Atlanta which has loads of shops restaurants and nightclubs, apparently its one of the places to visit downtown. I'm actually staying in Midtown which is a nice area with plenty of decent nightspots itself.

Saying that I was dissapointed with the bar I visited last night it wasn't to the standards of previous nights. The staff I would consider unfriendly it seemed a effort to serve people, the food was not great either in size and quality, won't visit again.
Anyway because I was tired and not enjoying the bar I was in I decided to leave at 9.30pm to have a early night, I am tired so thought maybe that was best. When I got back to my hotel I thought I'd have a nightcap as the hotel bar stays open till 10pm only.
I stook my head in the bar and there was one bloke and the girl serving, the bloke looked like he had downed a few, in fact it turned out he'd booked in 3 hours earlier gone straight to the bar and his luggage was still in his car.
The girl serving was called "Precious" and we got chatting about allsorts, I knew that was her name because she had it tatooed on her neck. After a while I commented on the Tatoo as you do and she cracked a few jokes about it. She then asked if I'd like to she her other tatoo, not been rude I said "yes" to which she suddenly undid her top to reveal the tatoo on her back, sexy bra also I may add.
Did I mention this was even funnier because she is about six months+ pregnant so had a bit of a bulge.
Believe it or not next she started th massage my upper body and asked if I thought it felt good, hell this is the 2nd women to do this in Atlanta, I'm considering moving here, lol. It turned out her other job was a massage therapist, hell I was getting a freebie and not complaining.
Anyway I had a couple more drinks before she suddenly for no reason started mixing cocktails and asking me and the other bloke to try them. She was giving them to us free hell the bar was supposed to be shut ages ago.
Eventually we left just before midnight but she wouldn't let me go until I gave her a hug and kiss, so anything to oblige. I will add it was all in good fun, I tink !

Another Night & Day enjoyed

2007-09-19T20:55:00.000+01:00

I'm still having a good time in Atlanta today I actually visited the Aquarium, I know in Philly I said I wasn't really into Fishy things but apparently the Georgia Aquarium is the biggest in the world so I thought why not while I'm here.
I also went up to the observation deck (72nd floor) of one if not the tallest building and took some photo's of the City and surrounding areas. Apparently Atlanta has the tallest buildings in the US outside Chicago & New York, I was surprised didn't know that until I read up about the place.

Last night I went to a bar advertised in my hotel called "Front Page News" its apparently supposed to have a New Orleans type atmosphere. To be fair it was quiet (it was tuesday) just a few people dinning. I got sat at the bar with some locals and we got talking for ages had a few beers. I had a meal (Steak) which was superb I really enjoyed it and it was filling, I was in the bar about 3 hours so downed a few pints couldn't believe it my bill for food & drink only came to $40, I expected the drinks to be around that without the food, awesome.
I did have a slight accident, I was leaving the restroom when I walked staraight into a glass partition which looked just like a opening, the locals were quite amused and apparently a few people have done the same, no damage though so at least I gave people a laugh.

On my way back to my hotel I heard signing from another bar, thought it must be kareoke cas somebody was slaughtering "Killing me softly". I thought it may be fun so I popped my head around the door and it was a proper singer, by he was terrible.

Gonna get some rest cos I'm tired after all my walking about the city, nobody mentioned the place was on a mountain, believe me is tough on the legs. I'll try another bar tonight after the hotel free beer hour but i'm sure it'll be friendly and a good night.

Take care everyone.

Hello from Atlanta

2007-09-18T22:08:00.000+01:00

Had my first night in Atlanta and I'm already impressed with the City it looks an awesome place. Went to the Olympic Park this morning and what a lovely area, I spent the rest of the day walking around the place it is a very clean & nice City believe me, Philly was scruffy in comparison. Even the Subway system is imaculate the cleanest I've ever been on, totally safe, security people everywhere, the trains are even carpeted.

Last night I found a Spanish restaurant/bar close to my hotel, I had a mixed grill it was unbelievable, the lady behind the bar called Diane was extreamly friendly kept calling me honey, babe & darling, she even started massaging my sholders at one stage, I was trying to eat at the time. To be fair I think it was just her friendly nature she was really nice and would try make everyone feel welcome, all the people here are a bit like that, really nice. She spent ages chatting with me as the bar was quiet (I said chatting) and I drunk a lot of beer but it was only $3 per pint so I was virtually making a profit. To be honest I was planning to have an early night cos I was tired but didn't leave the bar until 11.30pm, I enjoyed the place and the people, even the manager came over for a chat and shook my hand when I left (probably due to me increasing his profit). I'd started drinking early cos from 5pm to 6pm its free drinks in the hotel I'm staying at and it would be rude to refuse.

The hotel is great you even get a free cooked breakfast, hell I made myself bacon sarnies this morning.

Gotta go, the free beer for tonight as just started, but I'm not out till later cos I've just got back to the hotel so I'll have a couple of drinks before getting showered.

I'll update more later and try get round a few blogs.

Last Night in Philly

2007-09-16T20:21:00.000+01:00

Well tonight is my last night here before moving on to Atlanta in the morning. I usually find Sundays are quiet in American Cities but you never know. Philly is a strange place I haven't really found a music scene and the nightlife seems to be a mix of posh restaurants and quite rough bars with not a lot in between. Saying that the food is good but I do miss live music.
I reckon five days is about the right amount of time to see most of what you want, I don't think I've missed much of importance. The City has a few rough areas and you have to keep your wits about you, a young lady and her boyfriend that were staying at my hotel were robbed at knife point just two blocks away, the lady had the straps of her handbag cut. Saying that its a matter of turning right outside the hotel and it seems safe, turn left and it seems to have a few shady charactors about.
I did mention there is no live music and I'm maybe a bit unfair there was a music festival near the river at Pens Landing yesterday playing the areas traditional style, you know Chicago & New Orleans has Blues or Jazz, Nashville has Country, Detroit has Motown and of course Philly has "DooWop", yes I attended my first DooWop festival.
Today s a big Mexican day at the same spot with a lot of traditional entertainers, I've just been and to be honest found a lot of it a bit boring, at least they were giving out some free food samples.
Hopfully I can get on linein Atlanta to keep everyone up to date, I'll see. I'll be staying in Midtown Atlanta until Friday then moving to Buckhead, I'm looking forward to exploring another new city.

Did I mention I enjoyed having a Philly Cheesesteak, lovely it was.

Quick Update

2007-09-14T21:29:00.001+01:00

Thought I'd give you all a quick update as I've just come online to check the Leeds result (can't forget the Football). Yes its party time tonight the Beckford & Kandol show marches on two goals from Jermaine and one for Tresor we now have a positive points tally. The result Bristol Rovers "0" Leeds "3". Six matches six wins off the bottom, overtaking four teams out of the relegation zone (ok maybe only until the others play tomorrow). My message to Lord Mahwinney and your 57 old farts on the Football league committee you docked us 15 points it isn't enough to kill us and with forty more matches to go "We will win this league MOT".

Good news at my hotel the Austrians have all left and even better a I write this a group of about twenty ladies (aged from early thirties to mid fifties) are booking in.

Today I got the ferry across the river and had a bit of a tour, there is a aquarium but I didn't bother going in, not really fascinated by fish.

Last night I went out and again had a steak but this time in a proper steak house, just had a 12oz Fillet it was cooked to perfection really enjoyed it. They were quiet so the girl behind the bar talked with me for a while, called her Dara and she was from New Jersey.

I moved on to a couple of other bars before eventually calling it a night at about 11.30pm, was a little tired. To be honest it was not the busiest of nights but I expect tonight it will be heaving, spotted the bar I'm planning to eat at tonight it looks really trendy so I better put my glad rags on.

Well off to my room now to do what us men must do when we haven't got a good women to do it for us. Yes as you've guessed I'm off to iron my shirt for tonight.

Hello from Philly

2007-09-13T20:13:00.000+01:00

Just a note to let all my friends know I'm here safe in Philadelphia, the weather is sunny and just under 80F I've walked a fair distance today inding my way around. Got my photo took in front of a statue of the most famous American ever, yes I found the "Rocky" satue, even ran up them steps he does in the film.

My hotel is good, nice room, comfy bed, free breakfast and a happy 2 hours from 5pm to 7pm where draft beer is only $2 per pint. A couple of problems its full of a bus load of Austrians and a more arrogant & ignorant bunch you would find hard to meet, I can see me fall out with them soon, they just push in front of you at breakfast, dive into the lifts, hut doors in your face, expect to be served first at the bar, don't think the've heard of taking your turn. I suppose it is just south Germany so what would you expect.

Another problem is my hotel is slap bang between two main roads, to get anywhere you have to cross 6 lanes to Pens landing then over a footbridge across the roads so its a bit of a trek. The hotel does offer a courtesy bus to any sites within two mile but I've not used it yet.

I think I've been doing my diet no good at all, it started in my hotel at Manchester Airport, ok I'd had a meal and a few pints and was just thinking about bed when a Scottish bloke and his Girlfriend asked if they could sit at my table, well we got talking and one thing led to another and we drank a lot of beer.
As I was on my way back to my room I saw a pretty lady at the hotel vending machine, well I'll have to admit I couldn't resist soI did, yes I got a bar of chocolate from the vending machine (two actually beer makes me hungry).

I was a bit delicate in the morning but it was a buffet breakfast so I had the full monty, baccon, sausages, black pudding, beans, and a grilled tomato (so it was virtually vegetarian), I didn't hold back with the portions either.

I had a bit of a incident in the baggage queue at the airport, some women behind me was really impatient and kept pushing her trolley into my legs, I kept quiet for a while but in the end I turned around and told her a few choice words about not getting there any faster by ramming me with her trolley.

The flight was good, on time and I got sat next to a normal bloke so we had a bit of a chat which helped it pass, I always hope for a leggy blonde but usually get a nutter so I was quite happy. As far as airoplane food goes it was good, US Airways seem ok to me. I got my own telly with a choice of movies, I watched one but fell asleep it was that good, didn't recognise any of the actors so maybe it wasn't a good choice.

Anyway back to Philly I went out to a couple of Bars and got a meal in one, a lot of nightlife is close by so thats good, I'll try a few more tonight. I got a steak for my dinner it was tasty but not particular big to normal American standards and they skimped on the veg a bit plus only one onion ring (thats scandelous).

Tomorrow I'm planning to get the ferry across the Delaware River there are a few things to see over there, Saturday I think there are a few events on the river side at Pens Landing close to my hotel, they are setting up in preparation.

Take Care everyone I'll try update again before I leave Philly for Atlanta on Monday.

Goodbye and Thanks

2007-09-10T18:26:00.003+01:00

Sorry no time to do a Music Monday Post tonight as I've a few chores to do, so just a short post.

First I'd like to thank everyone for their kind comments on my recent posts and just to update you on things :-
My Mother has recovered from her virus and is in good health so that worry as gone. I was quite worried thought I may have to cancel my US trip but all is well.

Work - I'm hoping to find out something before I leave tomorrow, whether we are shutting or been taken over, I'm ready for away to be honest the place is no fun anymore. I can usually get internet access at my airport hotel so I'll let you know if I find anything out before I leave.

My Knee - Came through the weekends matches better than expected, in fact today it feels 100% so I'm pleased. I did however feel a bit of tennis elbow while playing, it wasn't too bad but I wouldn't have wanted any more games. Ok today though after a bit of rest.

So I'm off to pack my bags know as I'm leaving straight from work tomorrow but hopfully I can get some internet access while away, if not I'll look forward to catching up with you all on my return. So its goodbye for now my friends.

Take Care xx

Good Day

2007-09-09T20:05:00.000+01:00

To follow on from last nights post we played our other two British League matches today and I've just got home.
I thought they were harder matches today but we managed to beat both Barrow & Grimsby 5-3 to give us six points out of eight. Everyone was dropping points it looks a real tough division but I think we maybe equal top which is amazing as we have only just gone up to this division.
Personally I again won three out of my four matches so I'm happy with a 75% return over the weekend. I shared "Player of the Match" against Barrow.
To be honest playing eight matches at this level is tough and I am really knackered, think I'll sleep well tonight.

Today = Zero

2007-09-08T20:09:00.000+01:00

Five Matches, Five Wins, 15 points Lord Mawhinney and your Footbal League Committee you can stick your 15 points deduction up your backside.

Result Leeds United "2" Hartlepool "0" with goals from our super strikers Kandol & Beckford.

Ok we are still bottom but now we've only given everyone Five Matches start and none of the others have a maximum.
To me reckoning we are 13 points off top, 9 points behind a play off spot, 3 points out of relegation & 2 points off the bottom. As we play first next week at Bristol on Friday night a win will lift us off the bottom, unbelievable I know but we will do it. Ok it'll maybe only for 24 hours until the others play but hell they must all be looking over their shoulders and Shitting Bricks.

Another big Crowd actally the biggest in the country not bad for a third flight team.

Moving on today I've been in Accrington set off at 6.45am this morning to play British League Table Tennis, just got home about a hour ago at 7pm. Well today won our first match 7-1 against Ormesby, I comfortably won both my Matches and got the "Player of the Match Award" from the Umpire. Ok we was on a high winning out first match after gaining promotion last season but we were firmly put in our place in the afternoon with Sheffield hammering us 7-1. I actually won our solitary set which was pleasing after my opponent told me how he was gonna give me a wupping at lunch time, all in fun you understand.
Well we are back tomorrow for two more matches but I am setting off a little later 7.20am cos I'm getting picked up. Today I was driving and had to go via York to pick up a team mate but its his turn in the morning.
Hopfully I'll get time to post tomorrow night when I get home.

This and That

2007-09-07T20:07:00.000+01:00

The Work saga continues all we seem to here is rumours and couter rumours. I am not enjoying working there I just wish it was sorted I'm gonna get angry quite soon.

Leeds Utd hope to continue their winning start that is making a mockery of the Football leagues 15 point penalty, they are running scared. But this is Leeds United and today the other Football Committee as the FA has refused to sanction Leeds as a full member becauseof some financial politics. Apparently we've robbed the Tax man (who I had as dropped his case cos we've done nothing wrong just exploited the rules). They certainly have it in for us but at 5pm tomorrow we will hopfully be at zero points. Apparently the sanction means we can't vote and won't get any FA Cup Final tickets, hell whose bothered lets just show them they can't destroy us.

I'm away playing British League Table Tennis over the weekend, saturday we have matches against Ormesby (Middlesbrough) & Sheffield while on Sunday we have Barrow & Market Rasen wish us luck cos it'll be tough as we got promoted last season.

As you know I'm off on holiday on Tuesday visiting Philadelphia & Atlanta, I'm hoping to meet up with two blog friends in Atlanta both have problems and may not make it, we'll see. I'm very dissapointed though I was so looking forward to it.

Take Care everyone.

Worried

2007-09-06T18:15:00.000+01:00

I've a few things on my mind at present :-

1. The Drama at work is continuing we are in the middle of site closure redundancy situation and are in the process of a 30 day consultation. Apparently there as been a eleventh hour bid to buy the place as a production site. We know very little of the people trying to buy apart from their financial backing is from Eastern Europe. I'm worried because I've a lot to lose, if these people turn out to be short term profiteers. There are so many unknowns at the moment, the next meeting is Tuesday before I go on vacation so I may find out more then. I could get really stitched up here.

2. My Mother was taken ill earlier this week, she is elderly, disabled and quite frail, she looked really bad and I've been so worried. It turns to be a virus and lukily she is improving but I've been so concerned.

3. All summer training ok, British League starts this weekend and I get a tweak in my knee training last night. Although a touch sore I'm training again tonight but I'll take it easy if I feel anything. I'm worried cos we've 4 critical matches and I'm scheduled in the team for all four, I don't want to miss these games.

4. I'm worried about my blog friend Rachel she is going through a tough time in her life and those close to her that should be supporting her are not. She has always been a good friend to me since I started blogging so please pay her a visit and send some love her way.

A True Yorkshire Great

2007-09-04T20:38:00.000+01:00

Today Leeds lass Jane Tomlinson sadly passed away following her fight with cancer, after been diagnosed several years ago Jane became an inspiration to everyone, she raised thousands of pounds for charity's, she was a true Yorkshire Great. I have copied a obituary from the BBC for everyone to read.

RIP Jane.

Obituary: Jane Tomlinson
Though terminally-ill with cancer, Jane Tomlinson raised more than £1.5 million for charity by running in three London Marathons, several triathlons and The Great North Run.
Together with her brother she also cycled from John O'Groats to Land's End and from Rome to Leeds.
Jane Tomlinson's life changed forever when, in 1991, she was first diagnosed as having breast cancer.
Though she underwent a mastectomy, the cancer returned and in 2000 she was told that it was terminal.
Even though her cancer was incurable, Jane Tomlinson refused to give in, preferring instead to undertake a series of challenges which would normally tax even the most physically fit person.
Gruelling bike ride
2002 saw the mother of three, from Rothwell near Leeds, complete three major sporting events.
Even though she was in great pain - especially in her bones, neck, hips, back and shoulders - she took part in the London Marathon in April, a triathlon in August and, along with her husband, the Great North Run in October.
After the Great North Run, Jane Tomlinson announced that she would not be running any more races.
She said that she would be concentrating on her medical treatment, and spending time with her husband Mike and children Suzanne, Rebecca and Steven.
But, in March 2003, she set out, together with her brother Luke, on a 1060 mile bike ride from John O'Groats to Land's End, stopping twice en route to receive chemotherapy.
Arriving at the finish, Jane Tomlinson could not contain her delight. It has been brilliant, " she said.
"I am absolutely thrilled. I can't believe we are actually here. There have been some tricky moments on the way but we have just enjoyed it all."
Her own laboratory
And, almost unbelievably, days after finishing the journey, she completed a second London Marathon before returning to work as a paediatric radiographer.
But more was to come. She completed the gruelling UK Half Ironman triathlon competition in the autumn before collecting her MBE from the Queen at Buckingham Palace in October.
All in all, she raised more than £1.5 million for Cancer Research UK and other charities.
In recognition of her efforts, the laboratory at Cancer Research UK's Clinical Centre at St James's Hospital in Leeds, was re-named the Jane Tomlinson Laboratory in May 2003.
Speaking at the time, Jane Tomlinson said, "I know that my situation means that there is little to benefit me from research, but I thought if I could raise some money, I could help other people in the future.
"It's great to know that all this research is taking place in my home city and I am especially pleased to be associated with this particular lab."
Mrs Tomlinson also won a number of high profile awards, including The Sunday Times Sportswoman of the Year and BBC Sports Personality of the Year's Helen Rollason Award.
She was also voted the UK's most inspirational woman in 2003.
In November 2004, she became the only cancer patient to complete a full Ironman triathlon, a daunting feat comprising a 2.4 mile swim, a 112 mile cycle ride followed by a 26 mile marathon.
And in the summer of 2006, she crossed the United States, from San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge to Brooklyn Bridge in New York City.
On finishing the ride, she admitted, "I thought it was going to be a bit of an adventure but it turned out to be a bit of an ordeal."
But, despite her smiles at the end of her journey, the mammoth feat - 63 days on a bike, covering 3,700 miles - had left her seriously ill.
She was also disappointed that a lack of interest from the US media meant she only raised £100,000, well short of her expectations.
Early in 2007 it was announced that Jane was now too ill to undertake any further challenges but she did organise and wave off a 10km road race in Leeds.
She was awarded the CBE in the Queen's Birthday honours in June 2007.
Jane Tomlinson always looked upon herself as just an ordinary woman with cancer but her extraordinary tenacity touched the lives of people around the world.

Music Monday - The "O's"

2007-09-03T17:14:00.000+01:00

Well reached the "O's" today and again a little variation in my choices :-

1. Will You "Hazel O'Connor" - A nice ballad from a great female vocalist, very underated I think. For the record this reached No8 in the UK chart in 19881.

2. Pretty Woman "Roy Orbison" - The big O with his 1964 classic a UK No1. Obviously with a title like this I dedicat this song to all my lady blog friends.

3. Don't Look Back in Anger "Oasis" - Don't normally put people from Manchester on my blog but at least they support the Blues, this was No1 back in 1996 for the brothers Gallagher.

Yet another New No1

2007-09-02T14:12:00.000+01:00

Well another good month of blogging is passed and I've done my usual check to see who is my most prolific blog friend. Once again I'm pleased with the results with seven people in double figures once again. Its pleasing when people respond to your posts makes it feel worthwhile, on top of that I reckon I'm making some good friends through the internet.

Anyway Rebecca last months winner put in yet another good effort but is relegated to 2nd spot, she was pushed hard by Airliebird both had 16 comments. These were closely followed by Jenny and Spidey both with 14 comments.

But although these numbers are fantastic they haven't come close to this months winner who is Sandii with a fantastic 25 comments, well I reckon she deserves a big hug so its a pity she lives at the other side of the World.

Well done and Thanks to all of you couldn't pick a better bunch.

F**K Off to the Football League

2007-09-01T19:08:00.000+01:00

Only one team in the entire English league have a 100% record 4 matches 4 wins twelve points, yes you've got the mighty whites are now on minus three and the rest are now looking over their shoulders, they thought they had killed us but we are reeling them all in.

Todays result a hard fought 1-0 victory over a good Luton Town side, I was there and Elland Road is really bouncing the atmosphere is electric. The players and fans are pulling together this Us against the World mentality is really working. The Fans even gave their rendition of their new anthem "F**k Off to the Football League" I bet thats popular at head office.

Todays winner was scored by Mr Magic "Tresor Kandol" one of our new heroes, to be honest he was outstanding all afternoon. You gotta watch his video.

I must say congratulations to our Manager Dennis "the menace" Wise who won the Division One August Manager of the Month for August, reckon he'll get the September award as well. He even managed a bit of a punch up with Lutons Coaching staff today I think we are loving his spirit.

I must also say I thought his speech after been told of the award was great in the circumstances, he could have simplified it though and just said "F**k Off to the Football League".

Here is the Speech :-

"It's very nice, but it means not too much to me to be honest," he told the club's official website.
"The Football League? After what they've done to us this is like a little tap on the back saying 'we do apologise, here's manager of the month.'
"It's laughable isn't it when we're bottom of the league? I'd rather have my 15 points back than manager of the month.
"Nothing from the Football League this year will be going near my mantelpiece after what they've done to us.
"I just can't accept what they've done to us this year, but I don't want to harp on about it."

The True Story of Creation

2007-08-30T18:37:00.000+01:00

In The Beginning, God created the Heaven and the Earth. And the Earth was without form, and void, And darkness was upon the face of the deep.
And the Devil said, "It doesn't get any better than this."
And so God created Man in His own image; Male and female He created them.
And God looked upon Man and Woman And saw that they were lean and fit. And God populated the earth With broccoli and cauliflower and spinach And green and yellow vegetables of all kinds, So Man and Woman would live long and healthy lives.
And so the Devil created McDonald's. And McDonald's brought forth the 79-cent double cheeseburger. And the Devil said to Man, "You want fries with that?"
And Man said, "Super-size them." And Man gained five pounds.
And so God created the healthful yogurt, That Woman might keep her figure But the Devil brought forth chocolate. And Woman gained five pounds.
And God said, "Try my crispy fresh salad."And the Devil brought forth Ben and Jerry's. And Woman gained 10 pounds.
And God said, "Why doth thou eatest thus?"I have sent thee heart-healthy vegetables And olive oil with which to cook them."
But the Devil brought forth chicken fried steak So big it needed its own platter. And Man gained 10 pounds And his bad cholesterol went through the roof.
And so God brought forth running shoes. And Man resolved to lose those extra pounds.
And the Devil brought forth cable TV with remote control So Man would not have to toil to change channels between ESPN and ESPN2. And Man gained another 20 pounds.
And so God brought forth the potato, A vegetable naturally low in fat and brimming with nutrition.
And the Devil peeled off the healthful skin and sliced the starchy center into chips and deep-fat fried them. And the Devil created sour cream dip.
And Man clutched his remote control And ate the potato chips swaddled in cholesterol. And the Devil saw and said, "It is good."
And Man went into cardiac arrest. And God sighed and created quadruple bypass surgery. And the Devil canceled Man's health insurance.
So God showed Woman how to peel the skin off chicken And cook the nourishing whole grain brown rice. And the Devil created light beer So Man could poison his body, While feeling righteous because he had to drink twice as much of the now-insipid brew to get the same buzz. And Man gained another 10 pounds.
And Woman ventured forth Into the land of Godiva chocolate, And upon returning asked Man, "Do I look fat?"
And the Devil said, "Always tell the truth." And Man did.
And Woman went out from the presence of Man And dwelt in the land of the divorce lawyer, East of the marriage counselor.
And the Devil said, "It doesn't get any better than this."

Another Day in My Life

2007-08-27T16:56:00.000+01:00

Well as said in a previous post I went out around town for a few beers with a workmate, actually we met up with three others who used to work with us. Anyway we toured a few local hotspots it was fairly busy but not packed. To be honest I was a bit tired last night and was struggling a bit. About 11pm we went to a dance bar but to be honest I only gave it about half a hour before calling it a day, I just wasn't in the mood.

This morning I had a walk up town and around our Bank Holiday Market, never bought anything didn't see anything that caught my eye. As usual for this time of year the town was packed with "Rubber Neckers". For my troubles I ended up with a sore shin, an old lady lost control of her Electric invalid vehicle and managed to crash straight into me. It hurt like hell but she was upset and very apologetic so I just said I was ok.

This afternoon I stuck some new rubbers on my Table Tennis Bat and also I did a bit of gardening, actually trimmed a big bush but thats about all I've done today.

Tonight I'm off out again this time for a game of Pool, we are going to our local and apparently somebody from the league committee is coming down to explain some new rules to us.

Tomorrow its back to work and I'm involved ina consultation meeting about the redundancy/factory closure, its good to be involved you get a free lunch.

After work I'm hoping to get a round of Golf, two or three of us should be going. Don't know if we'll get the full 18 holes played before it comes dark, we'll see probably depends how many people are on the course.

Hope you are all well.

Music Monday - The "N's"

2007-08-27T14:41:00.000+01:00

Time for the "N's" and not a massive amount of choice I admit but I reckon I've come up with 3 classics of their own styles.

1. Nirvana "Heart Shaped Box" - This Grunge song made No5 in the UK in 1993, RIP Kurt.

2. New Order "Blue Monday" - First charted in 1983 (twice), then 84, 88 & 95, good song.

3. Willie Nelson "Always on my mind" - Not a massive hit in the UK but I reckon a country classic.

Boring Sunday

2007-08-26T16:46:00.000+01:00

I'm sort of Bored this afternoon with nothing to do, ok I've got a few chores I should be doing but since lunch I've felt sort of lazy.
This morning I went for a walk into town and around the area did about 4 miles but needed the exercise to loosen myself up. I was a little stiff and aching following my training session with our British League Table Tennis squad yesterday. The training went really well I was pleased with the way I was playing just a bit of fine tuning and I'll be really sharp for the season start (I hope).
Tonight I'm out for a few beers with one of my workmates "Skid", he's actually on 2-10 but is getting an early relief so we are meeting at 8pm. Only off around town but its usually busy when its a Bank Holiday Weekend.
I'm not at work tomorrow with it been a bank holiday a really big market with visitors from all over visiting, I'll have a walk around to see if I can find a few bargains.

I've been on my computor a bit checking out things about Philadelphia & Atlanta in preparation for my upcoming trip. I don't know too much about either City but I'm finding out a few good places to visit, I must say I'm looking forward to the trip.

On a recent post I mentioned my thoughts on the wars in Iraq and Afganistan so I've added a voting poll on my side bar so you can all give your opinion.

MOT or MIT

2007-08-25T18:20:00.000+01:00

For the third match running the mighty whites produced the goods with a superb 2-1 victory over pre-season favorites Nottingham Forest on their own turf.

So once again it was "Marching on Together" from Yorkshires own version of the "Mission Impossible Team". The simple facts are 3 wins, 9 points achieved and our deficit is now down to minus 6. Lord Mahwinney and your cronies on the Football League Committee I hope you are watching its only a matter of time until we reel everbody in. We are together it is us against the world and you can't beat a siege mentality.
Ok we are still bottom on your table but we would be top if this wasn't a handicap but with 43 games to go you ain't given the rest enough start. This is Leeds United and you can't kill us, the only way is up.

The simple facts two weeks ago we started on -15 and 15 points behind 23 other teams now we are 15 points off the top team Leyton Orient who are the only other club with a maximum, 13 points off a automatic promotion place (2nd), 12 points off a play off spot, 7 points off safety & 6 points away from bottom.

Here is Leeds in the table :- Leeds

Once again it was the late show with Jermaine Beckford (pictured below) scoring a last minute winner the pre-season fitness work is paying off.

We did take a early lead through Tresor Kandol (below) before Forest had equalised but this team never stops, we are proud.

Hell am I happy two home games coming up.

Bits & Bobs

2007-08-24T18:17:00.000+01:00

One thing I'm happy about is the fact its a Bank Holiday weekend so I get 3 days off work, not back while Tuesday and I need the break. Saying that I'll probably get called out but I hope not.
On the work front the consultation process continues next week but today it was rumoured somebody may come in with a late bid to buy the place, to be honest I'm just about fed up with all the rumours and the quicker everything is decided the better, I've been f****d about enough.

Tomorrow I'm Table Tennis training with our British league squad it should be hard but good. Sunday night I'm off out for a few beers with my workmate "Skid" just around some local pubs.

I had a weigh in at work today and the result wasn't good I've put on 1kg, I'm now 103.5kg (remember I'm fully clothed in work gear), its not a surprise I've had the occasional weak moment but I did hope to at least break even, probably not exercised enough.

History Question - What happend on this day in 1814 ? I'm sure my American friends will know and remember don't mess with the British.

The Mighty Whites are away against "Nottingham Forest" tomorrow and it will be a hard match but we are optimistic the winning start will continue and another 3 points will be knocked off the minus 15 we started with.

Hope you all have a great weekend.

Questions & Answers about Me

2007-08-23T19:01:00.000+01:00

Don't know what to blog keep changing my mind so I thought I'd bore you with more facts about me ?

Do I ?
1. Smoke - No
2. Drink - Yes
3. Take drugs - No and never have
4. Have a tattoo - No but nothing against them, just not had the urge, one or two is ok but you can have too many.

My Opinion on terrorism and war ?
1. Iraq War - A real mess but we should stay until Iraq forces are strong enough to police themselves, pulling out now would just cause even more bloodshed.
2. Afganistan - This is the real war on terror and we need to stay so its fought in their backyard and not ours, we can not let them own a country.
3. Home Grown Terrorists - Death Penalty for treason and their families and friends should be sent back to their country of origon. May be harsh but its got to be stopped and you don't fight these people with kid gloves.
4. Palestine - A problem but not our buisness need to keep out, the UN need to deal with it.
5. Russia - Starting to sabre rattle but if the west stick together economic sanctions should make them tow the line.
6. North Korea - China need to deal with these idiots not us.

Charitable things I've done this week ?
1. Donated old clothes to charity shop
2. Donated £5 to bloke at work who is doing a sponsered walk to raise money for a young lad so he can get treatment for Cerebal Pausey.

Things I've done today ?
1. Gone to work.
2. Weekly Shopping at Tesco.
3. Been on the Internet (Blogger, MySpace & Flickr)
4. Read Newspaper.
5. Repaired Lawnmower (faulty switch)

Things I've eaten today ?
1. Porridge
2. Fruit (Blueberries, Cherries, Apple, Banana & Orange).
3. Jacket Potato
4. Baked Beans
5. Thats it honest (ok 2 jacket potatos but they were small)

CD's I've played today ?
1. The Who "live at the Albert Hall"
2. Marcia Ball "So many rivers"

My thoughts today ?
1. Dominated by upcoming redundancy and what I'll do.

Number of Airmiles I've earned on my new Credit Cards ?
1. 216miles

What I'm doing tonight ?
1. Early night I'm feeling tired.

This & That

2007-08-22T17:33:00.000+01:00

I'll start with work and the plans for closure, at present we are undergoing a 30 day consultation process between management and Workers representitives. I'm actually on the committee for this so can't really say too much. The local MP came to site Monday and I met him he's actually trying to help.
There's only really two things I want to know - When will I finish & How much will I get ?

Today I was actually headhunted a company's manager phoned me up asking if I was interested in working for them, he wants me to send my CV. I'm unsure if I'm interested I'll give it some thought but its an option, need my questions answering first.

I don't think I've done too well lately with losing weight (probably holding my own at best), I went to Pool Monday, we didn't have a match but I was supposed to be playing singles but my opponent failed to show. However I then found out we had a rearranged match last night so that was too nights drinking beer (not good for weight loss).
Also yesterday I was going well, Porridge & Blueberries for breakfast, rest of day Fruit (Apple, Cherries, Banana & Orange. Anyway I got home from work and was starving, I had 4 small pieces of "Southern Fried" Chicken in the fridge so decided to do it with a few spicy potato wedges. I had some roasting Parsnips in the freezer so put them in the oven, while doing it I thought why not sling in some onion rings. Not satisfied with that I boiled up a pan of water and threw in some Sprouts, Broccoli and Carrots. Then I remembered my next door neighbour had given me some Tomato's so I chopped a couple of them in half and put them under the grill.
Well what started out as a small meal ended up totally filling a large plate (believe me it was a lot), anyway not one to be beaten I battled through it but was totally bloated afterwards.
I don't normally eat again after my evening meal but when I got home from my Pool match at about 11.30pm I remembered I had a big piece of cake and stuffed myself with that. The cake was what my cousin had brought around it was from her 25th wedding anniversary.
So today I've felt guilty so on top of my porridge & fruit I've only had a salad for evening meal and thats it for today.

Exercise - I haven't trained for over a week or since I played the Table Tennis tournament the weekend before last. To be honest I've avoided because I felt a slight tweak in my Knee and didn't want to aggrivate. I'm ok now so I'm off to training tonight so that should do me good. I've also a pre season training day with our British league squad on Saturday (6 hours), that should be tough. Our first matches are in two weeks and I'm really looking forward to playing in a higher division.

Leeds United - A great start to the season as I've previously reported and we really could do with another win at Nottingham on Saturday, we have this 15 points to make up. A special mention though to our Youth team (under 18's) for their 3-0 destruction of their counterparts from Manchester United (otherwise known as red vermin) on their own turf. The future is White my friends.

A week on Friday a few of the gang from work are going out for a meal in York and I'm deciding whether to go along. I'm also out this Sunday Skid and myself are off to tour a few of the local nightspots, not at work on Monday its a bank holiday.

Thats about it for today, well I could mention 3 weeks from now I'll be on the big bird somewhere over the Atlantic, can't wait, and I'm gonna meet a couple of Blog friends that will be fantastic.