Wednesday 31 December 2008

Last Years New Years Resolution

What a fantastic year 2008 has been. I wrote on this blog on the 3rd of January:
"To start the new year off I've made a resolution to lose weight. I've joined a slimming class. I was asked why I wanted to lose weight "Apart from the fact I'm fat" I asked? Inside me there is a thin person trying to get out (Just the one I hear you ask) I will try my best and give it a good go. Hopefully by next Christmas my Santa suit will be too big for me."
Nine months later I had 7 stone off. I've gone horse riding, hill walking, snorkeling, I even went scuba diving in the Caribbean, I went to Slimming Worlds Man of the year 2008 competition as a semi finalist (How mad is that) and had to sell my Santa suit before Christmas as it was too big for me...lol
As far as New Years Resolutions for 2009 go, I've no idea what I'm going after. I recon I could improve my road rage and try not to shout at other motorists, and someone told me I sometimes turn into Gordon Ramsey (F word) so I'm going to have to try and work on that as well.
One thing this year has taught me: "Believe in yourself and anything is possible"

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE for 2009

Tuesday 30 December 2008

Tescamo's

Bought a TV from Tesco's on Christmas Eve. Built in DVD, Freeview and a docking station for my iPod. Despite buying a digital booster aerial I couldn't get it to tune into the stations it was suppose too, and I noticed it even had it's own dead pixel....
Took it back and explained to customer services about the dead pixel, they asked me did I phone the helpline, not much point as the TV has a dead pixel. After a little wait I got my money back. I was disappointed the TV didn't do what it said on the box.
Needed to get some sparkling water, when I got to the isle I made a great money saving discovery. The bottles sell individually at 30p or you can buy four in a plastic sealed cover for £1.23p (So if you want the plastic covering it costs you 3p, mad eh?)

I also hear the Easter eggs will be on the shelves before the new year....

Friday 26 December 2008

Flusville

Our house has turned into Flusville. My poor little SD and I have contracted the deadly virus "Daughtersflu..."
LSD Jnr arrived yesterday to spread her Christmas Germs (That's what happens when you bring up your children to share things) After all it is Christmas and we now have loads of tinsel!.....

Thursday 25 December 2008

Wednesday 24 December 2008

Forgot To Say

Forgot to say, I think quite a lot of people are going to be disappointed tomorrow with the none arrival of the fat man in the red suit (NO NOT ME)
I can't remember which Caribbean Island it was I was on when I spotted the Santa fella relaxing and it didn't look like he or his team had any work in mind ......... Ho Ho Ho aw sod it!

Merry Christmas From Grumpyhead

Tuesday 23 December 2008

It's Gone

Passing the grounds of Belfast City Hall I could see the clearing up operation was in full swing after the Christmas continental market . That's it over for another year. Time seems to be flying in, it's hard to believe the market had been there for over a month. Today is Christmas eve eve and it only seems like yesterday that the market opened.
Tonight there was no fat fighters class as such, but we did have the option to go and get weighed. Sharon had supplied some seasonal treats for anyone who wished to partake, there was bucksfizz, smoked salmon canopies, crisps and of course diet coke (Guess what I had) Weighed in with yet another one pound on... Need another one and a half pound ON to get back to my target.... (Never thought I'd ever have to say something like that) I recon I'll need to lose after Christmas... lol (If all goes according to plan)

7 Stone 3 and a half pound OFF

(Well done to my LSD for having two pound OFF this week)

Monday 22 December 2008

Smashing Day

My little swamp duck was getting the pressie's wrapped (More pressies that is) and she found two beautiful glass Christmas tree trinkets (Try and say that quick with a few slups in you) One was for her sister and I passed a comment that I thought the other one would look great on our tree. (Not the tree in the dinning room nor the one in the bay window, but the big one in the hall, you guessed it... the house is like a forest) I was holding it up by its tie (Looped over my finger) The tie just became undone. Crash, bang, wallop and into many pieces, as the poor little glass trinket hit the wooden floor. If the floor had been of carpet, it may have stood a chance.
I rest my case.

Sunday 21 December 2008

What Did Today Bring

Shopping and more shopping (Well, I did have yesterday off). This I made a sweet potato curry for tonights tea (Lovely) Went to a Carol service at Belfast North Salvation Army hall.... then back home.
Up dating everything that needs updated at the mo. Should be going for a swim in the morning...

Saturday 20 December 2008

Friday 19 December 2008

What a Great Night Out

Had our departments Christmas Dinner on Thursday night at Hill Street Brasserie. What a great night, great friends and great food. Think I must have had something that disagreed with me. Felt awful today.......

Thursday 18 December 2008

Woof Woof Where Are You

Shopping is a nightmare when I'm out with my beloved. You only have to blink and she has disappeared into some other isle or shop. You try the mobile and you get the voice mail. I now have learnt to find a seat and await the return. Sometimes the wait does get to me and I head off on the quest to find her. I really think she could work for one of the security branches as it's only by luck if I ever do find her, and only then it's when she wants me too.
"I'll only be a minute" must be one of the top lies we are told daily, another one is "I've been looking for YOU for the last ??? minutes" Yeah right...... They think us guy's are a soft touch, they think we believe everything we're told...... Will, I have news for you gals,....... you could be right.
But I think I've found a solution for us guy's if our spouses, girl friends, boy friends even mistresses, take shopping to the missing level. Spotted these guys yesterday outside the Christmas Market. Some guy must have called them to find his missus....... Wonder how they ever got the name MISS US?................

Wednesday 17 December 2008

Weigh Up The Holiday

Back to the weighbridge (Scales) tonight for the first weigh in after the holiday. Two weeks of eating and drinking American style. And if you've ever been there you'll know what I'm talking about.
When I got onto the scales (Drum Roll Please...................) I had four and a half pound ON..... Yes, I am happy, not bad for having such a great holiday and still a Slimming World target member at

7 Stone 2 and a half pound off..... Roll on Christmas... Ho Ho Ho

Tuesday 16 December 2008

Twinned With Manchester

Had to go to Manchester today. Went for lunch in the city centre and thought I was at home. I didn't know Manchester had a big wheel, not only that, but a few yards away from the wheel there were a load of stalls just like our contential market. (Ours is better though)

In the departure lounge at Manchester airport I spotted Baileys on offer £15 for two x litre bottles (Great value, they were two for £20 in Gatwick last Saturday) anyway, I went up to pay for them and the girl asked me for my boarding card (Not a problem) I showed her it and asked her "Can anyone get into this area without a boarding card?"......... "Oh no" was the replay. So I asked her "Will, why do you have to see it" Her eyes rolling said it all.
The flight was a bit bumpy most of the way back. I was sitting in the last row and I can only decribe it like being a flea on a happy dog's tail.... (Wasn't sure if it was a touchdown or a crash landing we did at the GBCA)

Monday 15 December 2008

Back to Porridge

Back into work today, I felt chilled and looking forward to getting back. That was until I hit the traffic.... ARGGGHHHH
Work was fine though, and it wasn't too long before the ZZZZZZ's started to take over. Went for my swim at lunch time to try and wake me up but that lasted for about an hour... At least it's pay day.

Think I'll go back to Florida.....

Sunday 14 December 2008

What Jet Lag

Up bright and early (Around 1.45...PM that is) helped (Slightly) with the unpacking. Off to my Sister-in-law's this evening for an early family Christmas get together. Thought we were back on the cruise with the food and drink that was on offer. The entertainment was supplied by my nieces Jane and Katie... A great evening.
On the way back I had to stop at Rathcoole to take a photo of a house decorated with Christmas lights. (They do it in aid of McMillan Cancer) Fantastic.

Saturday 13 December 2008

Home Sweet Home

All flights on time. The overnight flight from Orlando touched down at 06.55. The flight had been a great flight and we arrived to a very cold and wet LGW (London Gatwick). Our Flybe flight to BHD (George Best City Airport) was like a roller coaster ride, and that was only on take off. The rain and wind pushed the plane all over the runway during takeoff and the landing wasn't much different (I didn't care I just wanted home). We were reunited with our cases at the airport and LSD Junior picked us up and took us home. "Home Sweet Home"

I believe no mater where you go, it's great to get home.

Tonight we had a friend's birthday party to go to. It's always great to get out with friends, unfortunately I faded very early (Age does have it's limit's) BTW I enjoyed the party....

Friday 12 December 2008

Ruby Tuesday

After yesterday, all's I wanted to do was get home. We called into Downtown Disney where Virgin Atlantic have an early checkin. $10 a person, well worth it. Checked the cases in (Won't see them until Belfast) then off for breakfast... To be honest we had planned to have the rest of the day at Universial, but after yesterdays incident all's I wanted to do was get to the airport and get rid of the car. Got to the airport about 11.30am flight not until 18.05. My LSD understood (She knows me so well)
After getting rid of the car we looked around the airport shops. Time for a few beer I thought, so I went for a few.
Our Virgin Atlantic 747 is called "Ruby Tuesday"

Thursday 11 December 2008

Near Death Experience

It's not often we can say we have had a near death experience. Shopping was the order of the day (Holiday presents) One last thing could not be found but with the aid of my GPS the store I needed was 12 mile away.
Today was a very wet day and in my experience if it's wet after a long period of dry weather the roads will be greasy. I thought, if an accident is going to happen today's the day. Drive carefully!
We were on our way towards the Florida Turnpike, when this car slid across our path from an adjoining slip road, I jammed on the anchor's and our car started to lose grip. Foot off the brake and foot to the board on the gas. I just made it through the gap but ended up on the central reservation. Quite shaken but unhurt. (I've no idea how I missed hitting the car) If I'd hit the car someone was going to die. It really was a bad way to end a holiday.
(I need to send the other driver a laundry bill)

Wednesday 10 December 2008

Happy Grinchmas

Back to Universal Studio's today for the the Grinchmas show (My type of guy)... We met the Grinch in passing and my LSD said hello to him and he ate the bake of her for being happy (As I said, my type of guy)
Tomorrow is our last full day here in the orange state (Could make a few comments on that name, but I wont)' Going shopping tomorrow then taking my LSD out for a meal to somewhere special. (Don't know where yet)
Hey the road rage kicked in today when I was cut up by someone driving while on their phone... I knew it had to happen.....

Tuesday 9 December 2008

Mickeys Christmas Parade 2008

With the Magic Kingdom all luminous as our monorail approached, I looked around the carriage and tried not to show my excitement too much... It really is a magical place, more so when Mickey's Christmas Parade is on.. Every part of the park is so festive, and all of the refreshment stations (Cafes) have hot chocolate and cookies on offer (Free). Before the parade I had to do some of the rides (Yes, I am like a big kid)
The parade started, the artificial snow fell and the look on everyone's face (Young and old) said it all. It was a great to be alive moment. The fireworks late on were spectacular...
Got the monorail over and the steamship back.... What an amazing place....

Monday 8 December 2008

Universal

Up and in the hotel pool by 7 am. Went for breakfast in the hotel then off to Universal Studios. Got on many of the rides including the Simpons, the Mummy, and Jaws, watched this years Macy’s Christmas Parade then went to the cinema to see Madagascar 2. After our dinner at Universal we headed back the eight mile to the hotel. I was going to go for a swim but I’m tired so I’m off to bed after I update the blog…..

It's been a full year since I was at Universal Studios. Last years photo's were great especially the one of me with the Santa Girl's.. Ho Ho O'helloooooooo ladies.... Had to get the same type of photo again this year and here they both are:


Sunday 7 December 2008

Back To Land

The ship docked around 6.30 am Florida time. Our time to get off was after 9.30. It all went so painless. We picked up our car where we had left it a week ago and headed for Orlando. I decided to drive the scenic route down past Cocoa Beach. When I got a good distance down the road I pulled over and switch on my GPS and selected our hotel as our destination. After it had calculated the route it told me to rejoin the road and turn left. I checked both ways and no traffic. I pulled out onto the road and started my journey. A 4X4 approaching from the opposite direction was flashing his lights continuously, I said to my co-pilot “Speed trap ahead”. WRONG…. I was driving the wrong way…. Opp’s
No harm done…. Spun around and headed south…. GPS still telling me I was going the wrong way.
Arrived safe and sound at our Orlando Hotel (After some shopping stops) … Phew….

Saturday 6 December 2008

2nd Day @ Sea

Bit rough on the high seas last night so no sleeping in. Up nursing a hangover. Tried swimming it off with no luck. Even tried crazy golf onboard. That didn’t work either so a hair of the dog was needed. (That done the trick) A restful day then after a final dinner with our table 302 cruisers we bid our farewells, and headed to cafe promenade for our last night on board. Been a fantastic week…. The size of the ship is unbelievable, my favorite area was the Royal Promenade with all it's shops and bars.... hic!

Friday 5 December 2008

Mexico

We never booked any tour for Cozumel, Mexico. We just waited until we got to the quay side and got a local tour around the Island for about half the price to what the ship was charging. We went to the Maya ruins, then a beautiful coast drive called into an Maya village before hitting the shops in Cozumel. Ended the shore day with a visit to Senior Froggies. Party night onboard (Every night is a party night)
Tomorrow we are at sea. So perhaps Ill get a little longer in bed…..

Thursday 4 December 2008

George Town

Up at 7am to watch the sun rise, and to get ready for my first ever scuba dive. Collected my dive gear from the ships dive shop and boarded the first tender to take me ashore to George Town, Grand Cayman. Transport took my fellow divers and I to a dive school. With our BCD’s inflated (Dive talk) I entered the water, swam out what seemed a long way then the dive instructor gave us the signal to go down. What an experience, equalizing every few feet on the decent. (More dive talk) My first ever sight of fish swimming in and out of the coral. I was kneeling on the sea floor at 40ft (I know that doesn’t seem deep, but believe me when I say it was deep enough for me)
We got back to the ship early where I had made arrangements to meet my LSD (Or so I thought) I waited in our cabin while she waited on the dock at George Town. It was my fault of course…. Lol.

Wednesday 3 December 2008

Jamaica (Yeah-Mon)

The sun never let us down again today. What a lovely day yet again (That’s what I paid for) Ocho Rios Jamaica was our port for today. Off the Mariner to join a tour of shopping and sightseeing. Dunn River Falls was our main stop where I had intended to climb the falls but getting absolutely soaking was the order of the day so I declined. I was going shopping and maybe a few cocktails before rejoining the ship and I didn’t want to have yee old wet pants.
My wonderful LSD bought me a watch I had spotted so I took her to Jimmy Buffets Margaritaville… we had a fantastic time and there was a competition were they wanted 6 guys. They (WE) had a tennis ball on a string tied around our waist and we had to swing it between our legs and knock a small cardboard box (With the tennis ball) to the far end of the bar and knock it through a girls legs to win. “Yeah, I won” …. lol
The large margarita I received (and drank) somewhat put me to sleep early…. (Ah well, it was fun at the time)

Tuesday 2 December 2008

Haiti

Up to catch the Caribbean sun rise and what a site it was to behold. With Labadee in site I got the snorkeling gear ready and waited for the first tender to take us from the ship to the island. We got our beach lounger set under a palm tree then off into the water for a while. The day was hot, so under the palm for some shade. Had to get back onboard for my LSD had booked a spa treatment while I tried a tank dive with scuba equipment. It was fantastic...
Tonight we went to one of the specialty restaurant onboard. After our diner we ventured to the theatre to catch one of the shows then we went to what was becoming our favorite bar on the Royal Promenard. It was 70’s night and the music was great with the promenard filled with everyone dancing, I just enjoyed the people watching (And the cocktail drinking). Looking forward to our next stop tomorrow, Jamacia. "Yeah Mon"

Monday 1 December 2008

Day @ Sea

Up shortly after 6am and took use of the Mariners jogging track on deck 12. Very windy (The weather not me) overcast, and a few spots of sea spray, but at least it’s warm. After I’d finished I went to the café on the ships promenade for a nice cup of mint tea. (The café is open 24hrs) then back to the cabin for a shower and wait on room service bringing our anniversary breakfast. (29 Years)
Very overcast and stormy looking, but warm, no sign of pirates yet (I suppose no self respecting pirate would be out a day like this)
After a lazy day on the high sea’s it was time to get ready for the first formal night. The dinning room was full of tuxedos and evening dressing like a scene from “High Society” (My flip flops may have let me down) I did asked my bride of 29 years if I looked like Bond, she replied "Yeah, Brook Bond!"

Sunday 30 November 2008

Ship, Sun And A Storm

The old body clock is still out of tune. I never went to bed last night until after 10 pm (3 am uk time) I awoke this morning at around 3am (8 am uk time) I was able to fall back to sleep for another couple of hours. Out of bed, packed and off to Port Canaveral to join the Mariner Of The Seas….
Security, check in etc was stress free and I loved it.
Once onboard it was feeding time, and I mean feeding time…. Seen better manners at the zoo. You would have thought some of the people hadn’t been fed in yonks… Take as much as you want (BUT EAT IT)… Hate to see food going to waste… (Believe me, a lot of food used to go to my waist)
News filtered through that the space shuttle wouldn’t land at KSC because of the bad weather!. What bad weather I thought…. Then it came, a storm from hell. Heavy wind and rain was the order of the hour. A close by Disney ship left its birth because of the storm and a gangway fell into the sea. (Lucky boarding had finished, but who tied the rope?)
The Mariner left a few minutes late (Caribbean here we come)
The ship is so big I doubt if I’ll see it all in a week. Signed up for scuba diving (Another first) Right I’m off for a few drinks, the party starts NOW.

Saturday 29 November 2008

What Time Is It Dear

As the day went on I kept asking the time... It felt a hell of a lot later than it was. Shopping was the order of most of the day. I bought a waterproof watch in Walmart and had to take it back as the I noticed the security tag was still on it when I got it back to the hotel. (This was after Macy's, JC Pennies, Ron Jons surf shop and a list as long as me arm of other shops)...... AGHHHHHHHHHHHH
We went to an ocean side bar (Beside Port Canaveral) called Grills to meet the other cruisers who had signed up online to the cruise forum. We have been communicating (Via the forum) for months, it was great to meet and put faces to names. We enjoyed a bit of craic and some grub at Grills, with music in the background. It was spooky as I'd mentioned Van the man in the last post and the guy was singing "Brown Eyed Girl" when we arrived (Another VTM's song)
We chatted about our pending cruise (Tomorrow) and watched a couple of ships departing today, one of which was "Disney Magic"
What a site.. A jock (A person who speaks jockenese) once asked me "Whats the difference between Bing Crosby and Walt Disney... Bing sings and Walt Disney"....
Don't forget, the time of this post is -5 GMT, so fi oyu ees an y spellgin simstaeks, I'm tyered......

Sunrise @ Cocoa

Up at sunrise for a walk along the beach. I wasn't the first either. The suffers were already there starting to wax their boards. It was cool (Temperature) and it wasn't long before the beach casters had the lines in the water. It was amazing to see a cruise ship coming over the horizon.
What a beautiful morning...Heading for breakfast soon then a spot of shopping.... "Wish it could be like this all the time" (Van the man)

Friday 28 November 2008

Up Up And Away

Never thought I’ve ever see the day I’d say it was great to be delayed. We boarded the Virgin Atlantic 747-400, flight VS 15 three hours later than scheduled. As Virgin has a name for all their craft, I was please to see this one was called “Virginia Plain” Y you may ask. “Virginia Plain” is a favorite song of mine recorded by Brian Ferry (Click on the name if you’re under 30)
The flight was undersubscribed; as we were flying poor class (Economy) I expected it to be full. The complete opposite, my little swamp duck and I shared a cabin with six other people. (I heard the flight before us was jammed packed)
I had organized champagne and truffles (With a card) to celebrate our forthcoming 29th anniversary and the ducks (XX) birthday. They arrived in style.. I was so happy as I’d ordered it weeks ago, I was overcome with emotion (Ok tippsy) I ordered another bottle… I went to pay for it and was told “With compliments of Virgin Atlantic”. How cool is that?
As Virgin virgins (Sounds good) I feel our service has been second to none.. The cabin crew has been fantastic. Real people people.
The flight dinner was great (Spinach pasta) and it’s not often I’d say that. What a great advancement it has been from the delay.
Paper work time. Those of you who have been to the USA before know there’s paper work to do before entering the great country. The green form OMB 1651-0113 (Department Of Homeland Security) the usual, name, address, passport number, where you staying etc etc… I started to fill our forms in and came to question C (Do any of the following apply to you, answer yes or no (You get the picture)…. The C question is always the worst, no mater what the forms are. Quote: “Have you ever been or are you involved in espionage or sabotage, or in terrorist activities, or genocide, or between 1933 and 1945 were involved, in any way, in percussion associated with Nazi Germany or it’s allies?”
Let me think? Ummmm…………………..NO, but in all honesty, who the friar tuck is going to answer YES to that question?

Celeb Spotting

One thing to do when a delay happens at an airport is Drink...opps! Not anymore. What I did mean to say was Celebrity Spot. I hadn't started people watching for long when, strictly come dancing retiree John Sergant past within inches of where I was sitting... I saw him an immediately pulled my feet in, just in case he stood on my toes.. He looked strictly peed off.... (Must be on our flight, for he looks the way I feel)
Yee laptop was running out of steam so I'd to find some more coal... Most power points in public areas are public proof and unuseable. Spotted a bank of seats by a pillar with two RCD power points. The have to work I thought..... AND THEY DO.... more steam, more steam..
Just said hi to Gloria Huniford, a much nicer smile that JS

USA Here I Come

Started on the journey in a taxi at 5am. The George Best city airport was almost deserted when we arrived. Checked in with no problems and headed through security. I had cameras, chargers, this laptop and I sailed through. My other half though had a different story, they went through every single thing in her carry on luggage…. (The mystery of a woman’s bag)
We went to the gate to board and I have to say it was freezing… Got a text message from Virgin Atlantic to tell us the good news that our flight to Orlando is delayed for three hours (Just what I did not want to hear) They were de-icing the plane as we climbed the steps to the Flybe flight to London Gatwick. It was colder inside the plane as it was on the tarmac.
Great flight of about hour. Sitting in Gatwick now people watching and looking for blogging subjects…lol. Loads to choose from.....

Thursday 27 November 2008

Holiday Eve

Spent today charging this and that and making sure all is packed and ready for tomorrow... First flight out in the morning to LGW (Gatwick) and our flight to Florida is suppose to be at 12:55. Been keeping an eye on the departures for the flight in recent days and they have been very punctual, that is until today... It left 290 minutes late (4 hours 50 minutes) Ah well, tomorrows another day.. (I hope)
Think I'll go out for a Pizza......

Wednesday 26 November 2008

The Late Grumpyhead

Today started off with my swim, I then went for breakfast with loads of time in hand. I started talking and before I realised it, I was ten minutes late for work. (I SO HATE BEING LATE) Bad start to any day. Late (There's that word again) afternoon had a team meeting. As it was my last day at work before my holidays my boss and the great team I work in, wished me Bon Voyage for Friday (What a team, they keep me sane)
Tonight, the first stop was my weekly weigh in... I know I've reached target and I'll get shouted at if I lose anymore, well, I've put on weight the last two weeks, and as I'm off to Florida on Friday, I thought last week I'd try and give myself a few extra lbs to play with by losing some more. I did that little bit extra training (Swimming, walking) and I'd four and a half pound off this week. I am really please, but I know there are other people with different views on the subject.... 105 lbs off.... (I wonder will I get my 15th half stone award?... now theres a question!)
After class my LSD and I went out with our phoneless Daughter (She had her mobile nicked today) and Son in law to Darcy's .... for a pre holiday meal, and what a fantastic meal it was.

Back home to do a little more holiday sorting...... I suppose today was really spot on and I wasn't too Grumpy (Well, compared to most days)

Tuesday 25 November 2008

Spanner In The Works

Left work with the growing holiday feeling, yee old grumpy feeling as distant as my next Ulster Fry (Full Irish if you're reading this down South) I even stopped and let cars move into my lane including a couple of taxis. The atmosphere in the car was as calm as a mill pond...
That was until I was trying to turn right off the main road. The traffic lights changed to stop for the oncoming traffic, so I thought I'll get across now. Wrong, this car just blocked the way. I nodded to the lady driver (In a nice way) that it would be possible for her to move forward another four feet closer to the car in front so I could proceed. The back windows of the car were darkened out, this arm came out of the darkness and gave me the fingers. (How rude)... the clam broke. I did asked the owner of the arm if they had a problem... When he showed his face I realised why the windows were darkened out. It was like a bull dog chewing a wasp...
She did move forward and I did turn right but I wish I'd taken a photo.....

Deck The Halls

The Christmas spirit is just increasing daily in our house. Just watched this years first Christmas film on TV "Santa Clause 3" (Nice wee movie)
The dinning room has now been converted into what looks like a scene from a Christmas movie, I can't wait until the the old bird is lying in the centre of the table (Turkey), spuds and veg close at hand and the family (Minus a few) sitting around the table on the Santa covered chairs. (I'll not go as far as saying, and singing Carols!)
I usually lose the Grumpiness over Christmas (Peace and goodwill to all etc etc) so just like me, if you have any senior neighbours don't forget to pop in and say hello and make sure they're OK!.
Have to say, today is a sort of sad day for me like. (Sort, like, street talk, no what I mean like) I'm selling my Santa suit. With losing my weight I think it just wouldn't be the same being the jolly old thin man in the big red suit and having white hair and beard. I've been doing Santa for years and years and have always had a big red suit in my wardrobe, but time to move on..... It was a dream job, only had to work for three weeks in any one year... HO HO HO
(BTW only four weeks til Christmas Day)


Monday 24 November 2008

Bah! Humbug!

I may be Grumpyhead but I do love Christmas.. The trees went up in our house yesterday and they look fantastic (Well done Mrs Christmas)
We are off on a break at the end of this week and my very organised her in doors wanted to get the trees up before we go. (Still more to do with regards to the old decorations when we get back) then it will be all systems go..

I love my time off at Christmas, the turkey, the ham, those old Christmas films, my favorite being "A Christmas Carol" Starring Alister Sims (1951) as Scrooge.

Bah! Humbug (Has a certain ring to it don't you think?)


Sunday 23 November 2008

Ticket Day

The last of our holiday tickets arrived yesterday. Only five days to go before we fly out to Florida (The Mickey Mouse State) Starting to really get that holiday feeling. Sat for a while and put some destinations into the Sat Nav (Hotel, eateries, attractions etc) so hopefully when we get there in the dark, finding our way from the airport to our hotel at Cocoa Beach will be a doddle for the Sat Nav... (Still going to take a map though)

Last year when we were out one night in Orlando the rain was so heavy you could hardly see a road sign, and with it being also dark it took me ages to find my way out of the hotel car park. (He He)

Saturday 22 November 2008

Old Dog New Tricks

In the old days (What a saying) I got my friends around, put the projector and screen up, loaded spools and spools of Super 8 film, showed the movie and of course the hundreds of 35mm pics of the holidays, waved my friends goodnight and then tried to contact them the following day.. No chance! I had bored them away.... (Ok, nothing new there then I hear you say)
Equipment needed: A Super eight camera, spools of Super eight film (To be sent away for processing when finished, returned in about a week).. a projector and screen to play the films.. and things got even more complicated if sound was used. The 35mm films had to be sent away also for processing and at least two thirds of the photos were binned as they were dung.

Things are so different now... I just love the digital age... you can do all the above with the minimum equipment of just a mobile phone (With the required facility's of course, which most have anyway) some website or social network to host your movies and photos. and someones PC or upload straight from the phone. Another great advantage is you can view the result the second after you have taken the photo or movie and best of all, once uploaded to the web, if people want to see your media (Movies/Photos) it's in their hands, and they still remain your friends. I hear day and daily people saying "I'm to old to learn all that stuff" NONSENSE I picked it up and I'm nearly 45 (OK OK.. 50) (Oops, maths was never my strong point) Seriously.. it's great fun.... Give it a go... You're never too old for the digital age....

Friday 21 November 2008

It's Started

The hustle and bustle of the festive shopping. To make things worse there is a pre Christmas sale on at one of the major stores in the city. Of course her in doors had to go... I tried to lend my support (Carry bags) but the pushing and shoving of the Christmas shopping psycho bitches just drove me out of the store ... like a demon being exorcised from a poor possessed soul.
Though it is great to see the City busy coming up to Christmas....

Thursday 20 November 2008

Give My Head Peace

OK OK, I know the blog hasn't been updated in a couple of weeks but there is a good valid reason.. "I couldn't be arsed" (Nah, only joking) The truth is I've been somewhat busy on the home front. Have been entertaining here and there and just had to prioritise my time. Been also getting ready for my up and coming holiday to Florida.
Looking forward to speaking to the locals and finding out their reaction to latest election result and what they think of the new President Elect.
I would usually stay clear of FRP (Football, Religion, Politics) but think it will be interesting to hear what some of the locals have to say.

I could have blogged about loads of stuff, from family visits, Children In Need, The Christmas Market, being discriminated against by a local establishment because of my tattoos (Will blog later about that one when I've finished speaking to the equality commission) just to name a few. OH yes! and my good old slimming class (Yes I'm still there weighing in at)
7 Stone 2 and a half lb off)
I'm going to blog when on holidays.... I know some will say how sad, taking timeout to blog! Listen I just want to tell all about the fantastic time I'll be having (So you can be jealous) I may even include some video so you can see where we have been.
Loads and loads to still do.... Christmas cards written, one Christmas tree up and two to go, they will go up this weekend so the house is in the festive mood for our return.
Speaking of Christmas, Belfast City Council have done a great job this year with the Citys Christmas decorations......

Thursday 6 November 2008

Who's A Naughty Boy Then

Crossed the line last night at my Slimming World Class. As I said in a last weeks post "Opps, How Did that Happen (29/10/2008)" I had gone over my allowance of weight loss as a target member. (Weight loss target reached, I go for free) This week I dropped another lb, making my weight loss:


7 Stone 4 and a half lb


It earned me an ear bashing from my Slimming World Consultant Sharon (A wonderful person)
I can explain.... After last weeks upset I decided to go off the motorway (Express weight loss route) to the more scenic route (Being that little bit bad) I was out for a meal, a bottle of wine on Thursday night, a few drinks on Friday night and a great cheese board, a wonderful meal plus wine and cheese on the Saturday night (I even had chocolate) finished off with a fantastic Sunday chicken dinner. I was daft and felt guilty (I should know better) I thought to myself that I should up my daily fitness routine. Mon, Tues and Wednesday I hit the gym twice a day,(Even had a walk up the Cave Hill) and that's why I had the result of more off last night..... Lesson learnt ... (Sorry Sharon)

Wednesday 5 November 2008

The Holidays Are Coming

Ho Ho Ho.... The holidays are coming.... Christmas trees and decorations are already up in Ballysillan (Not sure if they ever came down from last year) I was passing a house last night and the tree and window decorations were glowing (No not on fire) Christmas lights.

I was passing the City Hall and a notice board for the Continental Christmas Market with be in town from the 19th November to the 20th December... Happy Day's

Monday 3 November 2008

All About Walking

I was telling my friends about Saturday's walk, and out of the blue came an email with these one liners...

1. Walking can add minutes to your life. This enables you at 85 years old to spend an additional 5 months in a nursing home.
2. My grandpa started walking five miles a day when he was 60.. Now he's 97 years old and we don't know where he is.
3. I have to walk early in the morning, before my brain figures out what I'm doing..
4. Every time I hear the dirty word 'exercise',I wash my mouth out with chocolate.
5. The advantage of exercising every day is so when you die, they'll say,'Well, he looks good doesn't he.
6. I got a lot of exercise the last few years,......just getting over the hill.
7. We all get heavier as we get older,because there's a lot more information in our heads.That's my story and I'm sticking to it.
8. Every time I start thinking too much about how I look, I just find a Happy Hour and by the time I leave, I look just fine.

Hope at least one of them made you smile.

Sunday 2 November 2008

A Walk In The Park

What a wonderful afternoon I had yesterday. For the first time in over 30 years I ventured up Belfast's Cave Hill. I had said to a friend a few weeks back that I fancied giving the hill a climb and she said she would go with me. To be honest I had reservations about my fitness (I know it's only a wee hill, but for me it looked like Everest) but I made it to the top. I met Una at the entrance to the grounds of Belfast Castle then we started our assent (I'm even talking the talk) The weather was fantastic for this time of the year. I could not believe how many people were out on the hill, all ages from the very young to the not so very young. My friend Una is a very experienced hill walker and I was so pleased that I was able to keep her in my sight (I think she took pity on me and went at my pace, or perhaps it was because she has a sore ankle) We reached the summit (Told you I can talk the talk) and the view was nothing short of fantastic. The view of the City, Belfast Lough, Slemish Mountain all in County Antrim to Strangford Lough, Scrabo Tower and the magnificent Mourne Mountains all in County Down.
(Una has said that she will make me climb Slieve Donard sometime soon. We will see about that)

Saturday 1 November 2008

Whats That Sign Say ?

Had to laugh when I read this article from the BBC News website

PC ???

I went into Paperchase in the House of Fraser @ Victoria Square. Saw a few items for sale which I'm still not convinced won't offend some shoppers... You can make up your own mind...
You can buy a money box in the form of a Holy Statue, make Holy Toast or even cover that devil of a scratch with a Holy Plaster.
What do you think ??

Friday 31 October 2008

Word Of The Week

SNATTERS is the word of the week. As the comments on the post “Eating Out” seem to be around this word, I thought I’d create a post on the Word. The word brings back childhood memories from my old head.

1. Nose Icicles
2. Bogie Tracks
3. Face Tinsel
4. Glass Legs ...... Just to name some….

When I was young there used to be a wee girl (NO not Wee Dolly Bird) in our street (Avenue actually) who always had Nose Icicles. You were classed as a tough lad if you dared to kiss her... (Or a psychopath if the kiss turned into a snog)
Feel free to send me your interpretation of SNATTERS... Wikipedia does not have the word’s Snat or Snatters (Too common) so maybe someone should put up an Ulster Snats Version ?

A Poem
Have you ever seen a bunny?
With it’s nose all green and runny
You may think it’s funny
Well, it’s snot…………

Thursday 30 October 2008

Wake Up To The WWW

Happy day's, how we embrace technogly: As the traditional Irish wake goes online.
READ FULL STORY

Wednesday 29 October 2008

OOP's, How Did That Happen

Just back from Slimming World. As I said last week I'm in the business now of trying to keep my weight within a three lb bracket of my target. (7 stone). Slipped up this week. I don't normally weigh myself through the week but I was out last Friday night for a few glasses of wine then home for a wonderful steak dinner and I have to confess I went overboard on the cheesecake (Three slices) then a cheese board, had more of the same on Saturday, coffee and muffins on Sunday. I got on the scales on Sunday and I had two pound ON.
I re-focused and I hit the gym and went swimming Monday, Tuesday and Today hoping to at best maintain (Same weight as last week). What a surprise I got when I got on the scales tonight... Another pound and a half off...

7 Stone 3 and a half lb

That means I've broken the rules as a target member by going a half pound under my allowance.... Need at least a half lb on by next Wednesday. Looks like I'll have to be bad the weekend.... I know.. life can be a bitch at times....

Tuesday 28 October 2008

Blonde Moment

True Story: I was standing at a ground floor lift (Elevator, if you are from the USA) When I was joined by this blonde. The doors opened and she asked me if I was going UP..... I replied "I didn't know this lift went Down"
Total silence for five floors.....

Monday 27 October 2008

Scum News

Who said it can't get any worse. Read this article about so called human being who can only be described as scum who attacked two defenceless blind brothers in there own home. "SOMEONE KNOWS WHO CARRIED OUT THIS SAVAGE ACT"
Can't say I'd shed a tear if I saw the scum being paraded to the Police station with a placard around their next saying SCUM
It's made me so cross, my heart goes out to the brothers.......

Sunday 26 October 2008

Sign Of The Times

What a time and place we live in. When dung happens there is always someone out there in fantasy land who puts it down to social frustration, broken homes, or (wait for it) there is nothing for the young to do. OK, nothing for them to do? so that's why they steal cars, set them on fire then attack the firefighters who are called to put the fire out, these men put their lives on the line everyday in order to save lives? The nothing to do team broke into an ambulance, damaged it and stole vital equipment.
Then you have the something to do team, who in front of the many young spectators (And of course TV cameras which broadcast the disgraceful scenes nationwide) in the name of their sport bring their true up bringing to the field and display nothing short of "Thugs in boots"
I do hope their sports govern body brings the full weight of the rule book down on them. Violence has no place in our society, especially sport.

Saturday 25 October 2008

Should Have Gone To Specsavers

I had to go and collect a new supply of contact lens today at Specsavers. The car park at the shopping centre is operated by a one way system. Needless to say there was a driver coming around the wrong way... HE should have gone to Specsavers....

Friday 24 October 2008

Computer Say's Noooooooo

My poor sicky bad PC seemed to be on it's death bed. It's vital organs had started to shut down one by one. With the help of a electronic miracle in the form of a re-installation (Rather than a re-incarnation...) It seems to be making a slow but steady recovery, what a pain it is having to reset everything an install the extra programs. It's going to take a while...
Glad I've the laptop

Thursday 23 October 2008

Eating Out

The odd time my vast experience in driving is called upon to become an unpaid chauffeur .. I don't mind, as it's usually to take my wonderful LSD into the city for some window shopping (I mind her purse). As a reward I'm granted permission to go to my favorite oyster bar for a few glasses of sparkling wine while my LSD continues to window shop... The Oyster bar is in the House of Fraser at Victoria Square. There's nothing better than having a few glasses of wine, oysters and granite's (Chili, lemongrass) and of course a good splash of Tabasco. The best thing is, the bar is in situ beside a shoe emporium (OK, sales rack) it's an education watching women trying to choose shoes. It's brill when they see the price.... OMG...then you hear all the reasons why they don't want the shoes.... wrong colour, too small, too big... NAH... I say TOO DEAR...dear.
Anyway, I've yet to see anyone buy shoes there.... But, then again, I've yet to see the way out.
PS: My LSD drives ME home......

Wednesday 22 October 2008

A Long Weight

I know it's been a while, so I thought I'd start back blogging with an update about my weight. Just back from Slimming World. I'm in the business now of trying to keep my weight within a three lb bracket of my target. (7 stone) Pleased to say it's working fine so far. I'd another half lb off tonight...
7 Stone 2 lb
Saw a sign today for JD's advertising a Christmas dinner and a class of wine for £5:99 ... Great deal (Or no deal ,as the case could be)
I thought, great value in this time of the credit crunch, but I'm a great believer in you get what you pay for.... "Road Kill & Vinegar" came to mind....

Tuesday 21 October 2008

Back Soon

It's been over a month now since I've updated the blog, but I will be starting back to the blog very soon. Really been up to my ears with other things.
I have been pleased though, with how many people have mentioned to me that they read my blog on a regular basis and wondered why I have stopped updating it. (I told both of them I will be updating again soon...honest)

Friday 19 September 2008

Thursday 18 September 2008

Think I'm A Carpenter

I think I'm a carpenter at times with some planks that work where I work. Intelligent people with no common sense. Parking is premium in work. It's normal for people who are taking out company vehicles to have to move vehicles which can only be described as abandoned before getting their vehicles out. It's company policy for anyone who is taking a vehicle out to be responsible for checking water, oil and fuel etc. I went to collect a car today and some plank had parked it in a way I couldn't get the bonnet up. Look at the picture to see why...

It was parked under an articulated trailer... smart or what.

Wednesday 17 September 2008

BULLS EYE

Well, I hit the bulls eye tonight with 2 and a half lb off and not only have I reached my target but passed it by a lb.
7 Stone 1 lb OFF FROM JANUARY 2008
It has been an amazing journey for me this year... 10 Slimmer of the week awards, groups biggest loser award (No funny comments please) 14 half stone awards, voted group man of the year (only one in the group) Slimming World Man of the year 2008 semi-finalist and tonight my greatest award yet.... Target Member. (Knew it would come, I wanted it so much)
I can't say it's been a hard journey, I enjoy the plan and along with the motivation and support from my wonderful little swamp duck (Her indoors) Slimming World group consultant Sharon (The person who told me I could eat loads and still lose weight) and the rest of my group (too many to name, well, Pauline is a big inspiration) that's what has enabled me to achieve my goal... Thank you so much each and everyone of you...

I'm celebrating tonight with a glass of Heartland and a small cheese board....

Monday 15 September 2008

Changing Room

Went for my daily swim at lunch time today. When I went into the changing room there was a guy sitting in his undies and vest (Just out of the gym) and he was eating his soup (It looked like oxtail) and his thermos flask sitting ready to replenish his mug. What a hygienic place to eat lunch I thought, I must bring my sarnies in with me the next time... I'm sure I can find a place to sit among the dirty linen to eat them.

Sunday 14 September 2008

A Great Night

Before I get into my post I have to say I have been real busy, so some days may be left out of the blog.
Last night I had the pleasure of being at the BBC's Proms In The Park held in the grounds of Belfast City Hall. What a wonderful night, great weather, great music (Well done the Ulster Orchestra and guests) and a fantastic atmosphere in the grounds of this magnificent building. (Well done all) I was given the opportunity of a free ride on the Belfast wheel which is situated within the grounds. I jumped at the chance... It was indeed a beautiful evening so I grabbed my camera and off I went. Nothing short of fantastic...
It was the first time I had ever been on the wheel at night. It was such a clear evening the lights of the city went on as far as the eyes could see. Believe me when I say, with my glasses on thats some distance.

Wednesday 10 September 2008

Close But No Cigar

Weight off again tonight at my Slimmimg World class, a half pound.
You may think that's nothing to shout about, well, I will tell you this. It's one pound away from having a half pound on (Think about it!) and it brings me that half pound closer to my target of seven stone. (Nearly there)

6 Stone 12 and a half lb off

Why I Love Driving

The signs for the diversion (NO left turn at Bedford Street) are still in place even though the road has been OPEN for two days... Another thing that really got up my nose this morning was at the junction of the Oldpark Road and Crumlin Road. There are two lanes, left lane for left turn and right lane for right turn, with a big arrow painted in each lane to depict direction of traffic flow. (Thought I'd go into depth about the lanes and arrows in case a taxi driver is reading this)
I was second car waiting in the left lane (To turn left of course) when this Richard Head of a so called taxi driver passed in the empty right lane and turned LEFT in front of everyone else.
Where was my soul mate to cut him up.....

Tuesday 9 September 2008

Is It Closed Again

Traffic was as bad this morning as it has been most other mornings. As I got to the Blackman the diversion sign, and the 12x10 automated traffic sign informed me that there is "NO LEFT TURN AT BEDFORD STREET" Oh yes there is...
Perhaps no-one informed the DRD the road was open.. finger on the pulse or what?

Monday 8 September 2008

Road Re-Opened Today

At last the no left turn into Bedford Street was lifted late today. I was chatting to the workmen as they were clearing up, and they were even glad it was finished. This should ease the traffic tomorrow morning on my way into work.
Went swimming this afternoon. The pool at the gym is around 20 metres, this guy was swimming as if he was going for gold, the only thing that surprised me is as he turned at each end he propelled himself with a big kick off the end wall and was under water for well over half the length of the pool so he was swimming less than 10 metres in reality... It said head on his training bag, maybe there was a word missing?

Sunday 7 September 2008

Super Sunday

Had a good relaxing Sunday... Out to Junction 1 to get a couple of formal shirts (To go with my new tux) while my LSD bought a couple of dresses. Went into the Christmas shop there, could not believe we are so close to Christmas, only 108 days to go.
When we had finished at J1 it was off to LSD Junior's for our dinner. It was lovely grub...

Saturday 6 September 2008

Street Entertainment

The city centre is alive with street entertainment on a Saturday. It was a very pleasant day today, so more were out than usual. The Cornmarket (Arthur Square) had the likes of a three piece fiddle e dee band (They were good), an escape artist who was able to get out of a straight jacket in around 16 seconds, a punk rocker playing a banjo, but the prize of the day goes to the filthy white rabbit (No, it's not a racist remark, his white rabbit suit was boggin) playing classical music on a Yamaha keyboard. He was brilliant, well, up until I spotted the music wasn't matching his keyboard pressing.... what a fraud, and all in the name of entertainment...

Friday 5 September 2008

Am I In Danger?

Everyone said lose weight, lose weight.. After reading this article on the World Wide Wubbish, I think I've been put in danger because of my weight loss.
(They never told me at fat fighters, there's a down side to losing weight)
The article made me remember, about one night in during our Island's darkest times... I was out a dander (Walk) with some mates, when a drive by shooting occurred very close by, everyone dived over a garden hedge for cover, me, I just ran through it and lay down.
All went real quite, after a couple of minutes one of my mates shouted to me "Are you all right?" I thought for a moment to make sure and shouted my reply...
"If blood smells like diarrhea, I think I've been hit?" (Thank the almighty no one had been)

Thursday 4 September 2008

The Toaster Mystery

We got a new toaster in our works canteen (Oops, I mean staff restaurant) It's as slow as a tax rebate (Remember them?) but, it's all that's there if you are looking anything toasted.
The mystery is when you put the bread onto the moving wire frame back to back, why does the first one drop out ten seconds before the second?
Any knowledge brother or sister out there know?
It's nice and shinny though

Wednesday 3 September 2008

Back On The Motorway

I'm off the slip road and back onto the motorway. Pleased with my weigh in tonight at my Slimming World class. I had an expected set back last week of a lb on, but I have been a good boy since then... 2lb off

6 Stone 12 lbs off

Target soon (God willing)

Tuesday 2 September 2008

A Soul Mate

The traffic around the Blackman (Belfast landmark) for the last few months has been hectic. A lane closure and no left turn @ Bruce street has caused problems as far back as the Blackman. The two lane road has ALWAYS had the righthand lane straight only, since the no left turn @ Bruce street a tail back occurs. TAXI drivers have no reguards for the traffic restrictions or other motorists waiting in the left lane to turn left at the Blackman. They just bypass the queue and expect people to brake while they nip around the outside. This morning I spotted the clampet and knew he was going to nip in. The car in front of me was being driven by an old lady and I thought the taxi will be well away by the time she takes off from the lights. Bless her, she put the boot to the floor and as the taxi tried to cut in front of her she hit the horn and gave him the verbal... (A soul mate) I stopped him getting in as well and indicated to him that he should go straight on in the lane he was in and called him a silly chap. (Or words to that effect) He got into the lane behind me then changed to a lane to the left of me and raced past the queue my soul mate and I where in. He then tried to cut back into our lane and again my soul mate gave him the horn and verbal and stopped him cutting in, as did I on the way past. I would have loved to have shook the hands of my soul grumpyhead driving the car in front. I went to work happy

Monday 1 September 2008

Back To School

Hooray.. They are back to school. Feel sorry for them in a way, A wet summer, very little time in the heat to enjoy themselves ( My nose has just grown)
Saw a familiar site this morning on the Oldpark road, new uniforms all pressed to perfection, tidy hair styles, fake tans and those lovely pure white ankle socks. Oh yes, and the smoke bellowing above their heads as they smoke their brains out on the way to their first assembly....
At least there were no signs of jim jams.... (Well, not so far anyway)

Sunday 31 August 2008

Advent

Nothing to do with Christmas, well I suppose I'll be told it's part of my Christmas box. I got the laptop I was looking for at PC World. After researching on the www I found out all the tech spec and even how to switch on the web cam (Not that I've ever used one before)
I was going to nip round to Curry's and show them how to work the Advent 4211
It's a great wee notebook weighing in at 1.2kgs.. (Just a little bit lighter than me)

Saturday 30 August 2008

Bad Day For A Curry

My LSD took me out today to look at laptops as she knew I was looking for a small one to take with me when I'm on the move. I saw a couple when I was in Scotland, but I prefer to buy at home (Fool, that I am) so if there is any problems the product is easily returned.
First stop Curry's at Newtownabbey. Spotted the one I fancied (Been looking online) but couldn't get the built in web cam working... (I wanted to see the quality)
I asked one of Curry's finest to show me how to switch the web cam on, he couldn't.... He went and asked another of the IT elite and came back with the excuse ... "It has to be online before it works"... I pointed out that he may be wrong (ONLY MAY) and I think they should each fine out about a product before trying to sell it... "You've just lost the sale, I'm off to PC World" and left him standing with a bewildered look on his bake.
I went home to check it out again online. There's always tomorrow.. (I hope)

Friday 29 August 2008

Holy Water

Another story to read. (To think I was worried about carrying aftershave in my hand luggage last weekend flying to Scotland...)

Wednesday 27 August 2008

It Had To Happen

Pay back for the last fortnight of the over indulging. Weighed in tonight with a Pound On No complaints, all down to me being bad. It's the first time since I started my Slimming World plan in January that I've put any weight on, and I knew I'd gone overboard from the plan.

6 Stone 10 lb off


Back to basics now to get the 4 lb off I need for target

Tuesday 26 August 2008

Heading Home

Put the location into my Garmin and off to Prestwick to catch the flight home. I had changed the route to shortest (Big mistake) it took me off the motorway and in through the back streets of Glasgow. Got stopped at every traffic light en route. It may have been the shortest route but it certainly wasn't the quickest... (Lesson learnt)
Got to the GBC Airport and my LSD had to go straight into work so I thought we would just get a airport taxi instead of phoning one. Second mistake of the day. At least Dick Turpin wore a mask. £10 into the city centre and the moron dropped us off on the wrong side of the road. NO TIP.

Monday 25 August 2008

Edinburgh Day

Must have been a good night last night, received a text from a friend replying to a text I had sent. Had to check my sent items to see what I had sent?. Headed down to Ocean Terminal before going into Edinburgh for the day. Princes Street is a great place for people watching (While the ladies shop) with the Edinburgh fringe near it's end there were a lot of blokes wondering around dressed as if Braveheart was about to be remade (Maybe not, no sign of Mel Gibson) Just men in skirts.

Back for another wonderful quite night in...

Sunday 24 August 2008

Glasgow Day

Went into Glasgow for a days shopping... (Points needed) First stop the Barrowland Market. This is a place I used to love to go and browse around and listen to the local lingo Jockanese. Haven't been their in years. What a shock I got, the place is so run down now and a lot of the marketeers have thrown the towel in (No pun intended) and packed up.
Off to the Buchanan Galleries for a relaxing shopping experience. (Yeah right) Put the location onto my Garmin and it took me straight there. Great bit of kit.

Back to Livingston and a lovely lamb dinner, wine and cheese... happy days.

Saturday 23 August 2008

Off To Jockland

My daughter picked us up this morning and off to the George Best City Airport we went. (Hand luggage and hangover) Onto our 12.25 Ryanair flight to Prestwick. 22 minute flight (fantastic)
The only problem was the music playing while passengers were boarding and disembarking. The music was like the dung you hear when you are put on hold by call centre's.

Out to Pizza Express tonight and polished off a few bottles of wine not to mention a Sloppy Giuseppe and finishing off with a cheese board. Diet? what diet

Friday 22 August 2008

Just the 1

Went for a little aperitif after work. I was joined by a work colleague Phoned my Daughter and Son in law to see if they would like to join us. They are not long back from their holiday in Florida (They reminded me everyday since they booked the holiday that they were going to Florida). They have booked again for next year so I knew what to expect. While we were having the little drink and chat I told my sibling to tell my colleague about their up and coming holiday next year. (She looked surprised, as I moan about holiday talk) Off she went with her holiday itinerary about their 3 weeks in Florida. I told my colleague to tell them of his holiday plans.... He and his wife are taking a year out to travel the world ... RESULT...

Anyway back to the bar... I think she phoned my wonderful LSD to come and collect me... I was taken home a little worse for wear I have to admit.

Off to Scotland tomorrow....

Thursday 21 August 2008

Craigavon

Had the pleasure of going to Craigavon today. Not a place to get lost in I can tell you. It's roundabout country. It's like driving by numbers.. Directions I received.... Go to roundabout 1 and head for centre, at roundabout 2 take a left.. the roundabouts even have names (Which no-one remembers) I wonder why.

Wednesday 20 August 2008

Phew

Another half pound off tonight.... I'm cuffed...

6 Stone 11 lb off

3lb to target..... COMING SOON

Tuesday 19 August 2008

Nice Day at Last

Have to say, after all the rain we've been having lately, I thought our chance of a nice day had gone for this year. But today was very pleasant and the evening turned out to be quite warm. I wonder is nice weather on the way.... Lets hope so.
Weigh in tomorrow night. I recon I may have some weight on as I started back to the gym training, running, using weights, press ups, rowing machine, cross trainer and all the usual stuff, all to try and tone up a little. They say muscle weighs more than fat?, so I'll not be too disappointed if the scales are not in my favour.... Oh yes, and I enjoyed myself over a few nights last week with excellent food (Including, a gorgeous cheese cake my LSD made) and lots of fine wine My mates had come over from Horton Kirby.... "Wheres that ?" I hear you ask....

Exactly

Monday 18 August 2008

Egg Heads

If you've ever watched BBC's programme Egg Heads you will know what I'm talking about. Went into Victoria Square today for a Jeff Duke (Look) bought a new wallet out of Fossil and went to O'Briens sandwich bar for a triple decker toastie (Shared). In the queue behind me were two nice senior citizens, I over heard their conversation regarding what they were going to have for lunch. I thought someone had turned on Egg Heads.
"What you going to have for lunch" the first one said. "What is there" was the reply. "You can have a wrap, a tostie or a sandwich" The second one paused a while before answering. "I don't like wraps because everything falls out of them, and I don't like toasties as they are too rough in the mouth so I THINK, I'll have a sandwich"
I thought wow, there's a surprise

Sunday 17 August 2008

Euthanasia

Tonight my LSD and I were sitting in the living room, she was watching TV and I was surfing the Internet on my wireless laptop when a thought came to me, I had to share that thought with her.
I said to her, "I never want to live in a vegetative state, dependent on some machine and fluids from a bottle to keep me alive. That would be no quality of life at all, If that ever happens, please just pull the plug"

So she got up, unplugged the computer and threw out my wine!... She can be so cruel at times. .

Saturday 16 August 2008

The Holidays Are Coming

Christmas is just around the corner. Remember when you seen the coke ad on telly with the trucks driving along the snowy road with the song "Holidays are coming the holidays are coming" playing. I know when I saw it I knew Christmas must just be around the corner!
I have seen some shops ready to sell their Christmas goods, I've seen posters advertising Christmas dinners, so book early, after all it is August and you wouldn't want to be disappointed.

Ho Ho Ho...

Friday 15 August 2008

Thursday 14 August 2008

A Raise In Fares

The bus fares are to change from next Monday as a result of the rise in the price of fuel. Ok, we thought it would. I seem to be using public transport a lot more than I used to. For a good while I have been getting on buses that drivers have been a lot more user friendly. Polite and pleasant.
This morning was an exception... I caught an early bus to head into town, I was off work today but wanted to go to the gym. Not even a grunt from the driver as I boarded the bus and away the bus went, before all who who had just boarded were able to sit down. I noticed as the bus was approaching a stop a postman running (He must have had first class mail) for the bus, he must have been less than 20 yards from the stop and no way would the driver NOT have seen him but he just drove on. I thought to myself what would have been the problem pulling up to the stop and wait a few seconds for the guy?. On we went and in my opinion was faster that the speed limit allowed for the area. The same driver did the same thing at another stop further down the road and the second guy was closer to a stop than the first. What a public servant the driver was.