Handedness
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Showing posts with label Christmas. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Christmas. Show all posts
Saturday, 1 January 2011
Friday, 1 January 2010
Diary of my Christmas
I expected a busy Christmas period, but it didn't turn out that way.
Spent Christmas Day at my Mothers since she was not on Holiday this year, my sister and one brother, partner and two nephews also where there and we opened presents together, before tucking into turkey and trimming.
My other brother Stephen was off on short of holiday seeing his new girlfriends parents somewhere in the far South East of the country for few days.
I got my nephews money as is their want, but made them earn it by putting it inside puzzle boxes which they had to open to get to. My main present to my mother was a digital photo frame pre-loaded with loads of family pictures, my sister got a large chocolate pizza from firebox. Me and my mum also ended up buying each other identical books, both spotting a pre-Christmas bargain no doubt.
I received a excellent jumper and shirt from them, they seem to have a good sense of clothing I like and never fail to get me something good.
After opening each others gifts we then went to see Derby County play football, well they were terrible not that I'm a expert, but it seemed to be unanimous verdict after the game.
By the time we got back, Katie was home and opened her gift, a gorilla pod which may encourage her taking up photography something she has wanted to do. Linda and AndyT then made us a light tea which could have fed fifty people, so I found myself eating to much for 2nd day in a row.
Derby playing Blackpool and loosing 0:2
Sunday I travelled to see Julie and Dave in Coventry to play a couple of board games, and just catch up, I saw Julie's present from Dave and we exchanged gifts, Julie said she was not knitting anything this year, but still managed to start something for me which she knows makes me very happy. They also got me a magnifying glass I had been eyeing up at TORM it had gone when I went back to buy and was kinda hoping it was them that bought it, plus a mini chess set as well as some pretty boxes.
Julie between winning games (she was lucky) managed to cook a giant cottage pie, while Missy and Charlie avoided me like I was a cat killer.
Monday/Tuesday was supposed to be walking days, but illness and a overloaded Christmas made my friends cancel until they have a quieter weekend in January. So I went sale shopping purchased nothing, not because there was nothing to buy, but because I would not join the massive queues to the tills. Called in to see Jock and Bridgette who bought me a large pendulum thing that draw patterns in the sand and also popped into Chimera and saw Heather.
Spent the rest of the two days playing Fallout3 on my PC, seems ages since I've played a computer game, it was probably the previous Christmas when I bought Warhammer Online which was a big disappointment.
Wednesday played wargames with Jock and AndyH at DaveA's house in Nottingham where his basement is a dedicated war games room. We played a great game which took ages in fact until 8.30pm when we realised we needed food before the pub stopped serving. The pub was doing a quiz night, which somehow the four of us won despite our poor knowledge of TV soaps and current pop music. The only downside was part of the prize was free drinks tokens, which AndyH was determined to consume before we went home.
New Years Eve did not go to plan, although I did find chance to nab some sale bargains and spend a Gift voucher. It didn't go to plan due AndyL and Heather having to cancel last minute with a sickness bug taking a big hold of one their girls. I did get text from Sam inviting me over to her party once she discovered my predicament but it was just a bit late in the evening and bit far so in the end I decided to have a extremely quiet New Year on my own.
I still have one night out left a Steve's for a Birthday meal, but really that's it so a couple of days of rest before going back to work.
That's my Christmas, was good one, thanks mainly to my great friends and family.
Spent Christmas Day at my Mothers since she was not on Holiday this year, my sister and one brother, partner and two nephews also where there and we opened presents together, before tucking into turkey and trimming.
My other brother Stephen was off on short of holiday seeing his new girlfriends parents somewhere in the far South East of the country for few days.
I got my nephews money as is their want, but made them earn it by putting it inside puzzle boxes which they had to open to get to. My main present to my mother was a digital photo frame pre-loaded with loads of family pictures, my sister got a large chocolate pizza from firebox. Me and my mum also ended up buying each other identical books, both spotting a pre-Christmas bargain no doubt.
Brother and Nephew
Nephew, Mum and me.
For Boxing day I went AndyT and Linda's, Christopher did his usual and disappeared all day playing computer games, Katie was working at McDonalds having just finished 6th form, not wanting to go to University and having no idea on what she wants to do.
For Boxing day I went AndyT and Linda's, Christopher did his usual and disappeared all day playing computer games, Katie was working at McDonalds having just finished 6th form, not wanting to go to University and having no idea on what she wants to do.
I received a excellent jumper and shirt from them, they seem to have a good sense of clothing I like and never fail to get me something good.
After opening each others gifts we then went to see Derby County play football, well they were terrible not that I'm a expert, but it seemed to be unanimous verdict after the game.
By the time we got back, Katie was home and opened her gift, a gorilla pod which may encourage her taking up photography something she has wanted to do. Linda and AndyT then made us a light tea which could have fed fifty people, so I found myself eating to much for 2nd day in a row.
Derby playing Blackpool and loosing 0:2
Just after the game wrapped up warm, although the day was not that cold.
Sunday I travelled to see Julie and Dave in Coventry to play a couple of board games, and just catch up, I saw Julie's present from Dave and we exchanged gifts, Julie said she was not knitting anything this year, but still managed to start something for me which she knows makes me very happy. They also got me a magnifying glass I had been eyeing up at TORM it had gone when I went back to buy and was kinda hoping it was them that bought it, plus a mini chess set as well as some pretty boxes.
Julie between winning games (she was lucky) managed to cook a giant cottage pie, while Missy and Charlie avoided me like I was a cat killer.
Monday/Tuesday was supposed to be walking days, but illness and a overloaded Christmas made my friends cancel until they have a quieter weekend in January. So I went sale shopping purchased nothing, not because there was nothing to buy, but because I would not join the massive queues to the tills. Called in to see Jock and Bridgette who bought me a large pendulum thing that draw patterns in the sand and also popped into Chimera and saw Heather.
Spent the rest of the two days playing Fallout3 on my PC, seems ages since I've played a computer game, it was probably the previous Christmas when I bought Warhammer Online which was a big disappointment.
Wednesday played wargames with Jock and AndyH at DaveA's house in Nottingham where his basement is a dedicated war games room. We played a great game which took ages in fact until 8.30pm when we realised we needed food before the pub stopped serving. The pub was doing a quiz night, which somehow the four of us won despite our poor knowledge of TV soaps and current pop music. The only downside was part of the prize was free drinks tokens, which AndyH was determined to consume before we went home.
New Years Eve did not go to plan, although I did find chance to nab some sale bargains and spend a Gift voucher. It didn't go to plan due AndyL and Heather having to cancel last minute with a sickness bug taking a big hold of one their girls. I did get text from Sam inviting me over to her party once she discovered my predicament but it was just a bit late in the evening and bit far so in the end I decided to have a extremely quiet New Year on my own.
I still have one night out left a Steve's for a Birthday meal, but really that's it so a couple of days of rest before going back to work.
That's my Christmas, was good one, thanks mainly to my great friends and family.
Thursday, 1 January 2009
Christmas to New Years Eve
I've had a busy Christmas, at least busy in the sense I've been out of the house a lot.
Christmas day was spent with AndyT and Linda and Boxing day with Julie and DaveP, Sunday I went for a meal war gaming at DaveA's who now lives deep in East Nottingham, Monday I travelled even further way out to Louth on the east coast of Lincolnshire to meet up with Pete and Barbara who I had lots of stage and reenactment adventures with many years ago, and last night I was at AndyL and Heathers for New Year Eve, inbetween all that my mother came back from her cruise and I've met up with brother Robert, done a bit of shopping and stopped AndyL playing Warhammer Online in the Shop for several hours. So apart from my friend Steve's Birthday at the weekend when the plan is to go for Chinese I've done going out, I can now watch telly and perhaps even do stuff around the house.
Mums Cruise went from Acapulco Mexico in the Pacific through Panama Canal to Barbados in the Atlantic Ocean. She and my sister both enjoyed themselves getting very wet in the jungle excursion and eating lots on the ship, but neither want to be away at Christmas again.
Since they finished up in Barbados they brought me back a Rastafarian hat complete with dreadlocks modeled in the photo below...
...a tee shirt to suit a very fat American (not modelled), I think to make up for last holidays tee shirt which was too small, my mum also bought a herself a animatronic singing rastafarian lion as video below, the song Don't Worry, Be Happy does succeed I felt happy after watching this. I did chop out quite a bit of the video clip since the lion sings the full song and the clip was over the 100MB limit, 130 MB I think now compressed, cut and reduced 7MB
My trip to Pete and Barbara's was with Jock and Bridgette on the way we called in at Horncastle for a spot of lunch which was horrid I ordered a small pizza thing which they emptied a jar of dried herbs on top of, the Coffee house was however better at its drink having the one of biggest selection of hot drinks I can remember seeing, I ordered a black tea blended with wild cherries which was lovely despite no lid on the tea pot because all the staff were off and they had no one to wash up.
Once at the small village just outside Louth were Pete and Barbara live I got to see their mud and stud house for the 1st time, a house built in the 16C from mud and straw, with a timber frame. When they bought the house they had to replace a collapsed wall by digging fresh mud from the garden. The house has no straight or level walls or floors, I not talking a few inches more a few feet here and there, the Kitchen cabinets seem to lean at strange angles but are I'm told the only straight and level item in the house. The bedrooms each have independent stairs to them that are more like ladders and one of the beds has a 8" block to level it a one corner. I was going to take photos but forgot, next time I'm there.
Christmas day was spent with AndyT and Linda and Boxing day with Julie and DaveP, Sunday I went for a meal war gaming at DaveA's who now lives deep in East Nottingham, Monday I travelled even further way out to Louth on the east coast of Lincolnshire to meet up with Pete and Barbara who I had lots of stage and reenactment adventures with many years ago, and last night I was at AndyL and Heathers for New Year Eve, inbetween all that my mother came back from her cruise and I've met up with brother Robert, done a bit of shopping and stopped AndyL playing Warhammer Online in the Shop for several hours. So apart from my friend Steve's Birthday at the weekend when the plan is to go for Chinese I've done going out, I can now watch telly and perhaps even do stuff around the house.
Mums Cruise went from Acapulco Mexico in the Pacific through Panama Canal to Barbados in the Atlantic Ocean. She and my sister both enjoyed themselves getting very wet in the jungle excursion and eating lots on the ship, but neither want to be away at Christmas again.
Since they finished up in Barbados they brought me back a Rastafarian hat complete with dreadlocks modeled in the photo below...
...a tee shirt to suit a very fat American (not modelled), I think to make up for last holidays tee shirt which was too small, my mum also bought a herself a animatronic singing rastafarian lion as video below, the song Don't Worry, Be Happy does succeed I felt happy after watching this. I did chop out quite a bit of the video clip since the lion sings the full song and the clip was over the 100MB limit, 130 MB I think now compressed, cut and reduced 7MB
My trip to Pete and Barbara's was with Jock and Bridgette on the way we called in at Horncastle for a spot of lunch which was horrid I ordered a small pizza thing which they emptied a jar of dried herbs on top of, the Coffee house was however better at its drink having the one of biggest selection of hot drinks I can remember seeing, I ordered a black tea blended with wild cherries which was lovely despite no lid on the tea pot because all the staff were off and they had no one to wash up.
Once at the small village just outside Louth were Pete and Barbara live I got to see their mud and stud house for the 1st time, a house built in the 16C from mud and straw, with a timber frame. When they bought the house they had to replace a collapsed wall by digging fresh mud from the garden. The house has no straight or level walls or floors, I not talking a few inches more a few feet here and there, the Kitchen cabinets seem to lean at strange angles but are I'm told the only straight and level item in the house. The bedrooms each have independent stairs to them that are more like ladders and one of the beds has a 8" block to level it a one corner. I was going to take photos but forgot, next time I'm there.
Yesterday apart from quick visit to the shops I stayed in since it was bitter cold -4 deg C and the frost was blowing around like snow, even Julie's hat did not stop my head feeling cold.
Last Night I spent my evening a AndyL and Heathers with various people I know and a few I didn't, Mike, Rich and Leah Andy's shop staff, Matt and Apryl local friends who left early and Heathers old school chums Liz and Jackie I think were their names, who where very friendly. Most of the guest were staying the night, I however like to get home to my own bed, rather than drink so drove home about 2.30pm after playing a game of 3 card brag which AndyL inevitable won since he plays it a lot at events.
That's my week, happy New Year to everyone who reads this.
Last Night I spent my evening a AndyL and Heathers with various people I know and a few I didn't, Mike, Rich and Leah Andy's shop staff, Matt and Apryl local friends who left early and Heathers old school chums Liz and Jackie I think were their names, who where very friendly. Most of the guest were staying the night, I however like to get home to my own bed, rather than drink so drove home about 2.30pm after playing a game of 3 card brag which AndyL inevitable won since he plays it a lot at events.
That's my week, happy New Year to everyone who reads this.
Saturday, 27 December 2008
Christmas with friends
Christmas Day was spent with my friends AndyT and Linda they cooked a nice big Christmas dinner with lots of veg and some lovely stuffing which I could have ate loads of. We were also joined by their daughter Katie and her boyfriend Luke who has just escaped from the army for few days, Andy's mother Doris and occasional visits from their son Christopher who spent most of the day in a room on his own playing his new computer game.
Late afternoon we all walked down the road to Freda's, Andy and Linda's friend.
(Doris, Linda, Katie and Luke)
I took round some presents including snail cream for Linda, a face cream to remove wrinkles and stretch marks made from slime collected from snails, Linda seemed not impressed ;) for Katie I found a totally pink tool kit with everything from a pink cordless screwdriver to pink handled hammer, it even included a pink bandanna to wear when your working, I was quite impressed with the kit with came inside a strong pink aluminium case. Andy and Linda got me a Viking belt bag and fashionable top.
(Belle Katy's new cat.)
Late afternoon we all walked down the road to Freda's, Andy and Linda's friend.
(Freda)
When we got there I learned we had gone to do karaoke, or Sing Star it was called, a computer game that not only provides the words but judges how in tune you are. Breaking out in cold sweat, I really hoped I wouldn't be roped in, I really hate my singing voice, (private bathroom or car performance with myself has the audience only) Freda's family and boyfriend was also there who I vaguely know adding to any embarrassment.
Andy and Linda are very extrovert and really got stuck in, as did everyone else, apart from me, Katie and Luke who sat it out. Freda's son Dan is studying music at University and in a band and very, very good, he then played the guitar so we could sing along with Christmas carol, before playing us some of his own songs.
Once I escaped the karaoke we walked back Andy & Linda's house where Christopher was still playing his computer game and ate desert before trying to play a game of Munchkin Quest unfortunately as I read the rules I declared we did not have a whole day to play what looked a very complex game. By this time it was late and so we decided play Kill Dr Lucky, this did not go plan since Andy was drunk, Katie was talking to her friends over the Internet on her new pc, Christopher kept saying I coming to join us but never actually left his computer screen and Luke was busy trying to program a new fancy remote control for Linda.
For Boxing day I went round to Julie and Dave's to play games, and swap gifts, their friend Nat was also invited making a cosy little group.
Julie made me a knitted hat, which I love, it suits me and she knows I have wanted some of her hand made knitting for quite a while, worth the wait.
Once I escaped the karaoke we walked back Andy & Linda's house where Christopher was still playing his computer game and ate desert before trying to play a game of Munchkin Quest unfortunately as I read the rules I declared we did not have a whole day to play what looked a very complex game. By this time it was late and so we decided play Kill Dr Lucky, this did not go plan since Andy was drunk, Katie was talking to her friends over the Internet on her new pc, Christopher kept saying I coming to join us but never actually left his computer screen and Luke was busy trying to program a new fancy remote control for Linda.
For Boxing day I went round to Julie and Dave's to play games, and swap gifts, their friend Nat was also invited making a cosy little group.
Julie made me a knitted hat, which I love, it suits me and she knows I have wanted some of her hand made knitting for quite a while, worth the wait.
(New hat)
I found Dave a large tartan hat with cabbage leaves around the edge, which I hope he gets to fit him since it would make a ideal accessories for a McUen. I also managed to get Dave a book he already had a copy of, but it eventually found a good home, I also got a another book from Julie and Dave which is a look at medieval reenactor.
Dave showed me his latest Orc models for warhammer, if he has time he really should do a blog he puts a lot of effort into the modelling, probably spending twice as long with his milliput than his paints, he also does lots ambigrams which I think would be appreciated as well.
Dave showed me his latest Orc models for warhammer, if he has time he really should do a blog he puts a lot of effort into the modelling, probably spending twice as long with his milliput than his paints, he also does lots ambigrams which I think would be appreciated as well.
We played a few games ate Julie's lovely chicken stew and watched Dave try to get out of Julie humorous attempt to make him feel guilty for picking on her during our game of Munchkin Booty.
And I did get proper game of Kill Dr Lucky, its a good game.
And I did get proper game of Kill Dr Lucky, its a good game.
Thursday, 25 December 2008
Its Christmas
Since I have time I'm writing this.
Normally by this time on Christmas day I would have been at my mothers with my two brothers, my sister and my two nephews opening presents and preparing for Christmas dinner. Today with with my mother and sister on holiday in Central America the family are going their separate ways with friends and partners and it feels very strange. I will be off in an hour or so to my friends AndyT and Linda for the day and really looking forward to it.
Sunday evening my dad made his annual visit which was pleasant and he left me more memorabilia of his side of the family, including a whole file of census forms and birth certificates right back to 1841, seems half my fathers side come from Burton on Trent the other half from St Helen's Lancashire.
Since I don't know that many Andy's I also went to see AndyL at the shop on Sunday and deliver presents, the shop was dead, Ripley was empty and AndyL was painting Warhammer figures with Mike, I spent a few hours chatting, and will see them New Years Eve along with Heather and few others for the evening.
On Monday night I went out with Jock (AndyC) and Assy (AndyH) where we chatted about relationships, World of Warcraft, reenactment, larp and it seems Jocks want to retry his hand at Larp and Assy being frothed at by DaveP when we went TORM wants to try it. We have agreed they will have a go at a local AscendancyLRP linear event in the spring and also when I'm free and we can coordinate it probably June have go at MaelstomLRP two different styles of larp.
The last thing I did yesterday was visit Pets at Home for a few gifts for Jasmine which we opened last night, the vibrating frog was a immediate success, the crinkly fingers were also played with but the Cat Bubble Gun with catnip flavoured soap suds sent Jasmine behind the sofa, although this mornings fun is diving into the Christmas wrapping paper.
Actually not quite the last thing I also visited my friends Ste and Deb to drop off present, their house was chaos with lots of people comming and going, so I only stayed just over an hour, not one who likes too many people, especially those I don't know.
Anyway I've opened my selection of present which include gift vouchers, socks, biscuits, a magnifying glass, incense burner, clockwork Robby the Robot, magic cards, tea, a book on hand shadows and a pretty box, no presents from the family this year since we decided not to buy any, although I did since I purchased some of them at Chatworth in August. My brother Stephen also cheated and bought me something and brother texted me and said he would be dropping off a present so no buying present didn't go quite to plan.
Merry Christmas to anyone who reads this, I will probably seeing quite a few of you anyway over the next week.
Normally by this time on Christmas day I would have been at my mothers with my two brothers, my sister and my two nephews opening presents and preparing for Christmas dinner. Today with with my mother and sister on holiday in Central America the family are going their separate ways with friends and partners and it feels very strange. I will be off in an hour or so to my friends AndyT and Linda for the day and really looking forward to it.
Sunday evening my dad made his annual visit which was pleasant and he left me more memorabilia of his side of the family, including a whole file of census forms and birth certificates right back to 1841, seems half my fathers side come from Burton on Trent the other half from St Helen's Lancashire.
Since I don't know that many Andy's I also went to see AndyL at the shop on Sunday and deliver presents, the shop was dead, Ripley was empty and AndyL was painting Warhammer figures with Mike, I spent a few hours chatting, and will see them New Years Eve along with Heather and few others for the evening.
On Monday night I went out with Jock (AndyC) and Assy (AndyH) where we chatted about relationships, World of Warcraft, reenactment, larp and it seems Jocks want to retry his hand at Larp and Assy being frothed at by DaveP when we went TORM wants to try it. We have agreed they will have a go at a local AscendancyLRP linear event in the spring and also when I'm free and we can coordinate it probably June have go at MaelstomLRP two different styles of larp.
The last thing I did yesterday was visit Pets at Home for a few gifts for Jasmine which we opened last night, the vibrating frog was a immediate success, the crinkly fingers were also played with but the Cat Bubble Gun with catnip flavoured soap suds sent Jasmine behind the sofa, although this mornings fun is diving into the Christmas wrapping paper.
Actually not quite the last thing I also visited my friends Ste and Deb to drop off present, their house was chaos with lots of people comming and going, so I only stayed just over an hour, not one who likes too many people, especially those I don't know.
Anyway I've opened my selection of present which include gift vouchers, socks, biscuits, a magnifying glass, incense burner, clockwork Robby the Robot, magic cards, tea, a book on hand shadows and a pretty box, no presents from the family this year since we decided not to buy any, although I did since I purchased some of them at Chatworth in August. My brother Stephen also cheated and bought me something and brother texted me and said he would be dropping off a present so no buying present didn't go quite to plan.
Merry Christmas to anyone who reads this, I will probably seeing quite a few of you anyway over the next week.
Tuesday, 16 December 2008
Weekend of cold and pleanty of tea.
The Ascendancy Christmas party this year was at the Unstone Grange a kind commune conference centre run by dedicated bunch of nice people on a shoe string, not far for me to travel either.
I came down with a mild cold earlier in the week and it appeared to be just going on Friday before the event however once at the event I got terribly bunged up, my sinuses swelled and my head felt like it was being suffocated in cotton wool. This put a kind of damper on the event since everything seemed like hard work, I nipped off several times during the event for a lie down for 1/2 an hour since I was so tired.
It was nice to see everyone and hand out Christmas cards, I even got a couple of Christmas presents back one from SamK, AndyL and Heather gave me a present too both will be opened Christmas Day. What was very unexpected is yesterday my next door neighbour who I hardly speak too gave me gift voucher, apparently for cutting their hedge a couple of time in the year.
Talking of Sam she is 40 this year, can't believe it, I thought she had a couple of year to go before she joined me in her forty's, pity I have other arrangement so will miss her birthday.
With dry throat and a handy kettle I drank lots of tea, also with a indoor event you don't have the fear of having to get out your warm sleeping bag and dress for sub zero torrential rain if you bladder demands the loo, you can more or less decency permitting get up and go. I managed to snaffle a room of my own based on saving everyone from the snoring monster that gives Julie nightmares, apparently, it also hopefully acted has a quarantine hopefully reducing the chance of me passing on my cold, although I think it had mostly passed the contagious stage by then I was just heavily bunged up.
(Picture of fellow tea drinker.)
After the event Andy revealed his plans for next year which have gone down well with most, although some who don't like to travel far or can't drive would have liked at least one core event a bit more South, although nothings totally finalised yet. Biggest bit for me is no week long next year, so will have to look elsewhere for any holiday plans.
Once home Julie and Dave stopped off for long afternoon and a bit of food, I gave them my house keys while I took AndyL and Gabriel home, and by the time I got back Jasmine was being pampered and brushed and really enjoying herself, so much so she did not even say hello has I unloaded my car.
Before they left we finalised part of my Christmas plans since my Mother is away on cruise through the Panama Canal and so will miss Christmas and with it no family get together will occur, this left me feeling a little stranded, luckily my supply of very good friends have all come up with ideas and pleasant days to ensure I have a good Christmas.
I can know breath through my nostrils and don't have muffled hearing, only 6 working days left to Christmas hurrah I can't wait.
I came down with a mild cold earlier in the week and it appeared to be just going on Friday before the event however once at the event I got terribly bunged up, my sinuses swelled and my head felt like it was being suffocated in cotton wool. This put a kind of damper on the event since everything seemed like hard work, I nipped off several times during the event for a lie down for 1/2 an hour since I was so tired.
It was nice to see everyone and hand out Christmas cards, I even got a couple of Christmas presents back one from SamK, AndyL and Heather gave me a present too both will be opened Christmas Day. What was very unexpected is yesterday my next door neighbour who I hardly speak too gave me gift voucher, apparently for cutting their hedge a couple of time in the year.
Talking of Sam she is 40 this year, can't believe it, I thought she had a couple of year to go before she joined me in her forty's, pity I have other arrangement so will miss her birthday.
With dry throat and a handy kettle I drank lots of tea, also with a indoor event you don't have the fear of having to get out your warm sleeping bag and dress for sub zero torrential rain if you bladder demands the loo, you can more or less decency permitting get up and go. I managed to snaffle a room of my own based on saving everyone from the snoring monster that gives Julie nightmares, apparently, it also hopefully acted has a quarantine hopefully reducing the chance of me passing on my cold, although I think it had mostly passed the contagious stage by then I was just heavily bunged up.
(Picture of fellow tea drinker.)
After the event Andy revealed his plans for next year which have gone down well with most, although some who don't like to travel far or can't drive would have liked at least one core event a bit more South, although nothings totally finalised yet. Biggest bit for me is no week long next year, so will have to look elsewhere for any holiday plans.
Once home Julie and Dave stopped off for long afternoon and a bit of food, I gave them my house keys while I took AndyL and Gabriel home, and by the time I got back Jasmine was being pampered and brushed and really enjoying herself, so much so she did not even say hello has I unloaded my car.
Before they left we finalised part of my Christmas plans since my Mother is away on cruise through the Panama Canal and so will miss Christmas and with it no family get together will occur, this left me feeling a little stranded, luckily my supply of very good friends have all come up with ideas and pleasant days to ensure I have a good Christmas.
I can know breath through my nostrils and don't have muffled hearing, only 6 working days left to Christmas hurrah I can't wait.
Sunday, 7 December 2008
Craft and Chimera
What a lovely bright weekend. Yesterday (Sat) I went to visit friend Martin whose wife Jo teaches ceramics, she was displaying some of her own work at a local craft fair in Wirksworth where they live. Wirksworth is beautiful town, that somehow has managed to hold onto its independent stores owned by the residents, built into a valley the houses rise steeply from the meandering main road. Parking was horrendous, I ended up almost out of town, as well as the craft fair the town was having local farmers market.
(Below Martin and Jo)
(Below Martins Garden)
(below outside F and B)
(Below Rich and a sleepy Becci)
(Below Bossman himself AndyL)
(Below Martin and Jo)
The craft fair was spread over the Town Hall and the Parish Rooms, I found Jo and she phone Martin who took me to his house to show me Jo's kiln and workshop. Martins house is well up the hillside and he has no way of parking his car anywhere near his house. I met his cat, 22 years old, blind, shaky back end but very cute, she can't go out, not because of traffic, but 20 foot drops from the garden to the next house below. Martin showed me his other garden with the Kiln which involved getting a extending ladder to climb up too.
(Below Martins Garden)
(Below view from Martins Garden)
After leaving Martin I found a brilliant antiques come junk shop, the sort where the items are just piled on top of each other in giant heaps and you have to clamber your way through, to make matters worse the shop has no natural light and is lit by a single sodium lamp giving everything a yellow/orange tinge. I found some bits of brass and a old brass blow torch, how much for these, hmm seven quid said the owner, not what I was expecting, I will be back again to look through his junk, (DaveP if you read this you would love it).
I bought some of Jo's work for Christmas presents. Her work the Raku work, basically pottery firing at low-ish temperature then dropping into sawdust while still fire hot to remove the oxygen, most of the other work was well out my pocket, paintings for fifteen hundred quid and more, un-priced bits of very arty bent metal that each have a story and photographs to explain how they where conceived they have to be expensive. Wirksworth is one of those town where Arty type accumulate.
(below some of Jo's pottery)
On Saturday evening I went to Chimera Christmas works meal, somehow I got invited, basically all the shop staff Becky, Leah, Mike, Rich, owners AndyL and Heather plus Jock & Bridgette who helped man the shop during the summer and me, who spends far too much time there. We went to Frankie and Bennys and it was good fun night, a few photos below, AndyL and Heather paid has a thank you to everyone which was a pleasant surprise, should have ordered a dessert ;) then again I think I would have exploded trying eat anymore.
(below outside F and B)
(Below Jock)
(Below Bridgette)
(Below Mike and Leah)
(Below Rich and a sleepy Becci)
(Below Bossman himself AndyL)
I do have photos of Heather but she would not thank me for posting them.
After that I spent the rest of my weekend wrapping present, everyone is now done apart from one yet to be delivered by the Online supplier, but that should be here sometime next week, then that's it all done well ahead of schedule. I had to be since my Mums goes on her Panama cruise with my sister this Friday so she won't be around for Christmas, which is going to be very odd, in fact I delivered her presents, and my brothers and sisters today.
Is it only the 1st week of December, it does seem odd.
Sunday, 16 November 2008
Busy Weekend
I've had busy weekend of shopping, visiting and game preparations.
Saturday started with a early morning looking for a present for Katie's 18th, her mother not being able to help with ideas left me to fend for myself, what do I know about suitable gifts for 18 year girls, well zip really. Having consulted a couple of people for advice which gave me a few avenues to pursue I went looking, but with no time I could not find stuff that fitted the bill and my sense of humour for presents. I had less than a hour to find the gift since the rest of the day was full, in the end I got a remote control realistic rat that jumps and giant jar of jelly beans, nowhere near my intended jewelry box or pink slippers.
Next the Optician where my prescription as not changed again, but since my glasses are 5 years old decided new glasses are in order, I went for rimless variety for a change.
Straight after that I picked up Jocks wife Bridgette and AndyH to go to TORM, Jock wasn't coming due to World of Warcraft addiction of a new upgrade, although he would claim otherwise. Setting off for Coventry we crawled through the centre of town to pick DaveP up and then headed off to TORM where everyone disappeared on their own little shopping spree's. I found myself looking at a grey/brown wig which suited me, got a second opinion, then went into to purchase, it was a little expensive so I asked if he would reduce the price, he did budge a inch, being so used to always getting a few pence off traders and it being a something I did not really need at that price made me step away from the purchase. I then purchased a cloak I did not need and some jewelry and saying would you do me a discount the trader gave a instant 25per cent off, a lot more than expected. After that I wondered the stalls with DaveP running into Colin and Lotti, Doug and Iszy, Kate and I can't remember her boyfriends name, Doug was very jovial, spending money on kit, while Iszy was at the Mulberry Dyers stall buying yarn. Me, Bridgette and AndyL left Dave for coffee and chatted to a few Medieval friends while Dave did a last minute dash before we headed home.
I then spent the evening after watching Merlin preparing for next weekend sea battle wargame, Jock's tall ships rules needed revising to suit the fantasy element, and simplifying for a non wargame audience, before I knew it, it was midnight, the house heating had switched off and I found myself wondering why I was feeling cold.
Sunday involved dashing over to see Katie to deliver her presents, somehow the remote control rat turn out to be a hit has she chased the families 2 dogs around with it; Jack Russels aren't they supposed to chase rats, not the other way around. AndyT and Linda where both there with bad colds as was Christopher home from University with a new girlfriend who is also into Larp, after feeding me rich chocolate birthday cake they then disappeared to the Cat Protection league looking for cat, they wanted one like my Jasmine, I think they will be very lucky if they do as was I when I found her.
I then visited AndyL (another cold victim) at his shop, discussed game stuff for next battle before going around to Jocks to play test the revised rules, 4 hours of play later a few minor tweaks we declared them OK, before I left for Sunday evening dinner at my Mums.
My mum had baked me a massive Christmas cake she was just feeding whisky to keep it moist, it smells wonderful I'm not sure it will keep until Christmas, but I will try. Whilst there she showed me a singing Christmas farting dog, well I had to video it, see below, totally tasteless but it made me laugh.
Definitely a busy and enjoyable weekend even though Jasmine probably did not appreciate me being out the house so much.
Only play when you can listen as well as watch.
You have to laugh :) even if I am shaking my head in disbelief at the same time.
Saturday started with a early morning looking for a present for Katie's 18th, her mother not being able to help with ideas left me to fend for myself, what do I know about suitable gifts for 18 year girls, well zip really. Having consulted a couple of people for advice which gave me a few avenues to pursue I went looking, but with no time I could not find stuff that fitted the bill and my sense of humour for presents. I had less than a hour to find the gift since the rest of the day was full, in the end I got a remote control realistic rat that jumps and giant jar of jelly beans, nowhere near my intended jewelry box or pink slippers.
Next the Optician where my prescription as not changed again, but since my glasses are 5 years old decided new glasses are in order, I went for rimless variety for a change.
Straight after that I picked up Jocks wife Bridgette and AndyH to go to TORM, Jock wasn't coming due to World of Warcraft addiction of a new upgrade, although he would claim otherwise. Setting off for Coventry we crawled through the centre of town to pick DaveP up and then headed off to TORM where everyone disappeared on their own little shopping spree's. I found myself looking at a grey/brown wig which suited me, got a second opinion, then went into to purchase, it was a little expensive so I asked if he would reduce the price, he did budge a inch, being so used to always getting a few pence off traders and it being a something I did not really need at that price made me step away from the purchase. I then purchased a cloak I did not need and some jewelry and saying would you do me a discount the trader gave a instant 25per cent off, a lot more than expected. After that I wondered the stalls with DaveP running into Colin and Lotti, Doug and Iszy, Kate and I can't remember her boyfriends name, Doug was very jovial, spending money on kit, while Iszy was at the Mulberry Dyers stall buying yarn. Me, Bridgette and AndyL left Dave for coffee and chatted to a few Medieval friends while Dave did a last minute dash before we headed home.
I then spent the evening after watching Merlin preparing for next weekend sea battle wargame, Jock's tall ships rules needed revising to suit the fantasy element, and simplifying for a non wargame audience, before I knew it, it was midnight, the house heating had switched off and I found myself wondering why I was feeling cold.
Sunday involved dashing over to see Katie to deliver her presents, somehow the remote control rat turn out to be a hit has she chased the families 2 dogs around with it; Jack Russels aren't they supposed to chase rats, not the other way around. AndyT and Linda where both there with bad colds as was Christopher home from University with a new girlfriend who is also into Larp, after feeding me rich chocolate birthday cake they then disappeared to the Cat Protection league looking for cat, they wanted one like my Jasmine, I think they will be very lucky if they do as was I when I found her.
I then visited AndyL (another cold victim) at his shop, discussed game stuff for next battle before going around to Jocks to play test the revised rules, 4 hours of play later a few minor tweaks we declared them OK, before I left for Sunday evening dinner at my Mums.
My mum had baked me a massive Christmas cake she was just feeding whisky to keep it moist, it smells wonderful I'm not sure it will keep until Christmas, but I will try. Whilst there she showed me a singing Christmas farting dog, well I had to video it, see below, totally tasteless but it made me laugh.
Definitely a busy and enjoyable weekend even though Jasmine probably did not appreciate me being out the house so much.
Only play when you can listen as well as watch.
You have to laugh :) even if I am shaking my head in disbelief at the same time.
Sunday, 31 August 2008
Chatsworth Picnic
This Saturday I invited Julie and Dave up to Derbyshire to have a day out at Chatsworth Country Fair, something I've been to several times before and always enjoyed, a good place to shop for some of the things you don't normally see.
The forecast was for a muggy but dry day, but even so its Britain so I packed my rain coat just in case, I also suggested we all take walking boots since with the rain over last month it had the potential to be muddy, however no mud, and reasonable amount of sun enough to leave my hat less bald head sun burnt.
The fair is quite big and if you went to see all the activities in all the corners of the fair you would need more than a day, we arrived late morning and left just before it got dark about 7.30pm with a picnic in between back at the car.
Julie bought a few Christmas presents, and so did I from the more crafty gift stalls, plus some nice bags, Dave bought some nuts and liquorice.
We looked around vintage vehicles, stopped to watch ferret racing, amateur retriever trial for dogs and also the dog agility relay photographs below, but didn't stop to watch many of the other activities such as the pony and trap dressage my friend sisters usually enters, or go have a go with black powder rifles.
Shopping was fun, Julie says she's never seen so much tweed, the fair is definitely aimed at the country activities with capital C, you can buy camouflaged hides for bird watching or pigeon shooting, wet weather gear for fishing in a typhoon, leather hats and wax jackets by the lorry load, their were several taxidermist stalls selling stuffed animals, the walking stick guild, and numerous stand selling walking sticks, I won't go on hopefully you get the picture.
We finished the day by spreading the picnic blanket out and watching the hot air balloons try to get out of the valley, at least half of these struggled to gain height for whatever reason one hitting a tree, and several coming down in the fields full of cars we were parked in, the burners went on full blast to ensure they found clear spot, luckily the car park in early evening was not that full, just a few like us staying until the traffic leaving had dropped off, some having barbeque's.
We talk about what looked like a folly a moated platform it turns out after a looking online to be a garden feature called Queen Mary's Bower. This is raised garden is now associated with Mary Queen of Scots, who was said to have used the garden on top of the platform during her enforced visits to Chatsworth.
Dave bought us all fish and chips on the way home, although each fish could have fed fifty, we ate these at my house before a very tired looking Julie left around 10pm to drive home to Coventry.
The forecast was for a muggy but dry day, but even so its Britain so I packed my rain coat just in case, I also suggested we all take walking boots since with the rain over last month it had the potential to be muddy, however no mud, and reasonable amount of sun enough to leave my hat less bald head sun burnt.
The fair is quite big and if you went to see all the activities in all the corners of the fair you would need more than a day, we arrived late morning and left just before it got dark about 7.30pm with a picnic in between back at the car.
Julie bought a few Christmas presents, and so did I from the more crafty gift stalls, plus some nice bags, Dave bought some nuts and liquorice.
We looked around vintage vehicles, stopped to watch ferret racing, amateur retriever trial for dogs and also the dog agility relay photographs below, but didn't stop to watch many of the other activities such as the pony and trap dressage my friend sisters usually enters, or go have a go with black powder rifles.
Shopping was fun, Julie says she's never seen so much tweed, the fair is definitely aimed at the country activities with capital C, you can buy camouflaged hides for bird watching or pigeon shooting, wet weather gear for fishing in a typhoon, leather hats and wax jackets by the lorry load, their were several taxidermist stalls selling stuffed animals, the walking stick guild, and numerous stand selling walking sticks, I won't go on hopefully you get the picture.
We finished the day by spreading the picnic blanket out and watching the hot air balloons try to get out of the valley, at least half of these struggled to gain height for whatever reason one hitting a tree, and several coming down in the fields full of cars we were parked in, the burners went on full blast to ensure they found clear spot, luckily the car park in early evening was not that full, just a few like us staying until the traffic leaving had dropped off, some having barbeque's.
We talk about what looked like a folly a moated platform it turns out after a looking online to be a garden feature called Queen Mary's Bower. This is raised garden is now associated with Mary Queen of Scots, who was said to have used the garden on top of the platform during her enforced visits to Chatsworth.
Dave bought us all fish and chips on the way home, although each fish could have fed fifty, we ate these at my house before a very tired looking Julie left around 10pm to drive home to Coventry.
Ferret Racing
Dog Agility
Shopping
Balloons coming back down
Pretty photos of Balloons
Friday, 28 December 2007
A bit about my Christmas
Christmas day spent at my mums, but apart from my sister my other 2 brothers and kids did not stay for Christmas dinner which was traditional turkey, brussels etc. why don't we eat brussel sprouts more often they are a fine vegetable.
Although my brothers did not stay we did open all the family presents at my mums which is a little tradition, still possible because we all live within 30 minutes of her, my nephews got a remote control helicopter each which they flew round the house, my mothers cat could not take her eyes off them, pupils fully dilated she occupied the high ground wherever the helicopters flew although the kids had stern warning to keep them away from the cat.
I bought my mum a learn to paint kit and make your own doll, something to do now she has fully retired, at this moment I'm not sure if they are a good idea or not I will only find out if I see them used. I also bought the same make your own doll kit for my friend Deb which did get appreciative comments.
On Boxing day (the day when we make boxes and have boxing matches of course its a Family thing *wink* ) I went to Andy and Linda's, I spent the afternoon at a football match Derby County v Liverpool and then went back for tea. I saw their son fellow larper Christopher for the 1st time since he went university, but didn't have chance to speak since he was going out with his girlfriend. I bought his sister Katie a silly hat for one her present unfortunately it actually suited her, dam I had accidental taste, but the one I bought Linda was silly enough to get me in trouble.
I left Andy and Linda's early evening since a cold was brewing and my brain had switched to standby mode, so I never got to play Kill Dr Lucky, which I was hoping to do and went straight to bed with a lemsip.
Thursday I was knocked out and did very little except sneeze and wipe my nose, I couldn't read or do anything so just focused on the telly, Friday I was meant to be at work, but woke feeling dreadful, and that combined with the time of year I decided not go in, but I'm now feeling reasonable, so tomorrow I may venture outside the house.
Oh and Jasmine had a strange scary glove bought her photo below which she loves.
Although my brothers did not stay we did open all the family presents at my mums which is a little tradition, still possible because we all live within 30 minutes of her, my nephews got a remote control helicopter each which they flew round the house, my mothers cat could not take her eyes off them, pupils fully dilated she occupied the high ground wherever the helicopters flew although the kids had stern warning to keep them away from the cat.
I bought my mum a learn to paint kit and make your own doll, something to do now she has fully retired, at this moment I'm not sure if they are a good idea or not I will only find out if I see them used. I also bought the same make your own doll kit for my friend Deb which did get appreciative comments.
On Boxing day (the day when we make boxes and have boxing matches of course its a Family thing *wink* ) I went to Andy and Linda's, I spent the afternoon at a football match Derby County v Liverpool and then went back for tea. I saw their son fellow larper Christopher for the 1st time since he went university, but didn't have chance to speak since he was going out with his girlfriend. I bought his sister Katie a silly hat for one her present unfortunately it actually suited her, dam I had accidental taste, but the one I bought Linda was silly enough to get me in trouble.
I left Andy and Linda's early evening since a cold was brewing and my brain had switched to standby mode, so I never got to play Kill Dr Lucky, which I was hoping to do and went straight to bed with a lemsip.
Thursday I was knocked out and did very little except sneeze and wipe my nose, I couldn't read or do anything so just focused on the telly, Friday I was meant to be at work, but woke feeling dreadful, and that combined with the time of year I decided not go in, but I'm now feeling reasonable, so tomorrow I may venture outside the house.
Oh and Jasmine had a strange scary glove bought her photo below which she loves.
Monday, 24 December 2007
Its not long to Christmas now...who's excited?
On Saturday night I went out with my super hero friends 'The Whistler Killer' with side kick 'Soft Lad' and the unstoppable 'Squeaky Brat Boy'.We went to busy pub that has lots of quiet rooms no large screen TVs, no pub quizzes, no steak nights (that I know of) called the Dead Poets because it walls have photos of dead poets on them. We learned mainly of Squeaky Brat Boys tangled loved life which is far too complex to explain in less than 2 very thick books. A most enjoyable evening The Whistler Killer silence a few whistler while Soft Lad ran to the toilet every so often since he has a weak bladder. The journey home was only memorable because of the thick fog and poor directions mainly consisting of take the next t..... yes that one we have passed, once would have been acceptable, but reversing up dark single track roads 3 times was a bit much.
By the way I can't tell you my super hero name since those of reading this may know me and therefore learn my alter ego.
Sunday I woke up sure I had a cold, I had aching legs a sore throat and felt cold, but by lunch all the symptoms had left apart from thickly cough, colds don't go that quick so who knows what was wrong.
I spent the evening a Ste & Debs ordered in a Chinese meal and watched American football which Ste is addicted to while we chatted.
Today well for some reason I found myself buying extra presents even though I had everything bought and wrapped already, nothing much those fun under a tenner stocking filler gifts that are more for the humour of gift than the gift being actually wanted, a spent a couple of hours chatting to my friends A & H in their shop, then visited Jock and Bridgette who were each in separate rooms of their house wrapping each others presents before returning home to wash the car and watch the film Lemony Snicket's.
That's my weekend, it now Christmas eve evening, so best wishes for Christmas to anyone who has the time to read this and everyone else for that matter.
PS Not sure I like having all this time before Christmas, much prefer to work Christmas Eve
Richard
By the way I can't tell you my super hero name since those of reading this may know me and therefore learn my alter ego.
Sunday I woke up sure I had a cold, I had aching legs a sore throat and felt cold, but by lunch all the symptoms had left apart from thickly cough, colds don't go that quick so who knows what was wrong.
I spent the evening a Ste & Debs ordered in a Chinese meal and watched American football which Ste is addicted to while we chatted.
Today well for some reason I found myself buying extra presents even though I had everything bought and wrapped already, nothing much those fun under a tenner stocking filler gifts that are more for the humour of gift than the gift being actually wanted, a spent a couple of hours chatting to my friends A & H in their shop, then visited Jock and Bridgette who were each in separate rooms of their house wrapping each others presents before returning home to wash the car and watch the film Lemony Snicket's.
That's my weekend, it now Christmas eve evening, so best wishes for Christmas to anyone who has the time to read this and everyone else for that matter.
PS Not sure I like having all this time before Christmas, much prefer to work Christmas Eve
Richard
Tuesday, 11 December 2007
Christmas is getting closer
I put up my 6ft Christmas tree tonight and a giant cat attacked it, see the picture below, I dread what will happen when I put up a bigger one :-S
I completed my shopping a few weeks ago, I've done all my wrapping, put up the decorations, now what do I do with my weekends, I'm sure I should be squeezing around the shops and doing more, Christmas feels early this year.
Still before Christmas does arrive I've got a multiple Birthday party, a lunchtime works Christmas meal, and night out with some friends in a quiet pub if we can find one, how will I fit it all in between reading this book I'm enjoying, its getting hectic this year :)
I completed my shopping a few weeks ago, I've done all my wrapping, put up the decorations, now what do I do with my weekends, I'm sure I should be squeezing around the shops and doing more, Christmas feels early this year.
Still before Christmas does arrive I've got a multiple Birthday party, a lunchtime works Christmas meal, and night out with some friends in a quiet pub if we can find one, how will I fit it all in between reading this book I'm enjoying, its getting hectic this year :)
Thursday, 22 November 2007
Shopping can be fun
This year somehow I've got my Christmas shopping organised, almost all presents are purchased and it's only November.
This to me is both an incredible feat and an immense relief, because I won't have to take holidays off to join stressful town centre queues to the tills, dodge weaving shoppers, fight my way into underground car parks, or get up early to try and beat the jams.
My normal practise is leaving it until the last weeks of December when the pressure to find gifts for people becomes actual stress and you start to wander around shops you don't normally enter hoping for inspiration, not finding it so end buying something just because you feel the need to.
I talk to my fellow male shoppers, and I'm not alone in this, it's normal I guess most men are not good shoppers.
Yes online shopping helps, last year I purchased nearly half my gifts that way, this year it was only a few gifts the rest purchased from various medieval fairs, games shops, and craft shows.
So who do I thank for being in this unfamiliar and happy place, well both Julie, & my friends at the Chimera shop for getting me started very early by my standards and also for both pointing me at the odd gift, it's a relief, anything else I buy will only add to presents already purchased.
Happy Christmas (I know its only November but I'm already in the mood)
Best get them Christmas cards next, and I suppose if I want last minute I can leave the wrapping until Dec 24th
This to me is both an incredible feat and an immense relief, because I won't have to take holidays off to join stressful town centre queues to the tills, dodge weaving shoppers, fight my way into underground car parks, or get up early to try and beat the jams.
My normal practise is leaving it until the last weeks of December when the pressure to find gifts for people becomes actual stress and you start to wander around shops you don't normally enter hoping for inspiration, not finding it so end buying something just because you feel the need to.
I talk to my fellow male shoppers, and I'm not alone in this, it's normal I guess most men are not good shoppers.
Yes online shopping helps, last year I purchased nearly half my gifts that way, this year it was only a few gifts the rest purchased from various medieval fairs, games shops, and craft shows.
So who do I thank for being in this unfamiliar and happy place, well both Julie, & my friends at the Chimera shop for getting me started very early by my standards and also for both pointing me at the odd gift, it's a relief, anything else I buy will only add to presents already purchased.
Happy Christmas (I know its only November but I'm already in the mood)
Best get them Christmas cards next, and I suppose if I want last minute I can leave the wrapping until Dec 24th
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