Monday. Back at work. Damn.
Heck, it's only for a fortnight. I'll cope.
The weekend disappeared rather quickly. Saturday, I took Nat & Fox back to Lincoln and then called in at Reg's to wish her Happy Birthday.
Good to pick Jack up on the way home.
Yesterday, H popped into Lynn with her sister, so I took Jack to Denver Sluice and back along the river bank. We had both worked up a thirst, so headed for the Livvy on the way home.
All in all a good day.
This week sees me being on duty at 10pm tomorrow. That should make the rest of the week somewhat tiring.
H is heading to New York early on Friday which should be great fun for her.
More to follow!
Monday, July 30, 2007
Thursday, July 26, 2007
Hundred
Well nothing too adventurous going on since last post. We headed off the a large supermarket and stocked up on various stuff (alcohol included). Today we're doing the same. My poor car will be straining under the weight!
Yesterday morning, we paid a visit to mother's sister, who lives about 7 miles away. They only moved here about three weeks ago so are in a state of unpacking. Still quite a lot to do on their house too, but time is one thing that they have lots of!
The rest of the day was spent lounging in the sun interspersed with dips in the pool to cool down.
Yesterday morning, we paid a visit to mother's sister, who lives about 7 miles away. They only moved here about three weeks ago so are in a state of unpacking. Still quite a lot to do on their house too, but time is one thing that they have lots of!
The rest of the day was spent lounging in the sun interspersed with dips in the pool to cool down.
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
Sam's Town
So it got around till about 10.15 last night. Nat had been busy looking up riddles on t'interweb. She finished, put down the laptop and went to stroke Tessa, one of the dogs. Tessa had been asleep and was startled by Nat. She immediately snapped at what she thought was something maybe attacking her.
So Nat went down with her hands to her nose. We thought that Tessa has maybe just caught her. Then Natalie said that her nose was bleeding. G'ma became chief nurse and went for the nose with tissues. Whilst Natalie held these against her nose, G'ma shot off upstairs. On her return, she promptly stated that I wouldn't like what she was about to do. I asked what it was, "Aloe Vera" was the reply.
Now my mother has all good intentions at heart, but she does seem to latch on to any old "old wive's" remedy that someone might suggest to her. For the last five years or so it's been Witch Hazel. What Witch Hazel can't fix isn't worth fixing! Well it seems as though Witch Hazel has been knocked off it's pedestal by Aloe Vera.
After a liberal application, much to Nat's concern, she popped off into the kitchen to fetch something else. Enough was enough and I expressed my opinion on home-made remedies quite vocally.
I had a look at Nat's nose and what initially I though might have been a graze, turned out to be a rather nasty split on both sides of her nose. At least I can profess to have been professionally trained. Stitches needed. I asked Mr B senior where the nearest A & E was. His shrugged shoulders and my realisation that every single one of us had had a few glasses of wine put that idea to bed.
In the meantime Mme B happened to mention that she thought she had some steri-strips. Ah ha! At last something useful.
So Dr Tom went to work on the split nose. The bleeding had stopped, and after some careful cleaning and quite a bit of wincing from Nat, I managed to close the cut and hold it together on both sides of the nose.
So, pics!
Note how Natty was not so pleased at me taking the second one. I did say that she'd be glad of the photos later, even if she didn't appreciate them at the time. I think she swore at me!
So Nat went down with her hands to her nose. We thought that Tessa has maybe just caught her. Then Natalie said that her nose was bleeding. G'ma became chief nurse and went for the nose with tissues. Whilst Natalie held these against her nose, G'ma shot off upstairs. On her return, she promptly stated that I wouldn't like what she was about to do. I asked what it was, "Aloe Vera" was the reply.
Now my mother has all good intentions at heart, but she does seem to latch on to any old "old wive's" remedy that someone might suggest to her. For the last five years or so it's been Witch Hazel. What Witch Hazel can't fix isn't worth fixing! Well it seems as though Witch Hazel has been knocked off it's pedestal by Aloe Vera.
After a liberal application, much to Nat's concern, she popped off into the kitchen to fetch something else. Enough was enough and I expressed my opinion on home-made remedies quite vocally.
I had a look at Nat's nose and what initially I though might have been a graze, turned out to be a rather nasty split on both sides of her nose. At least I can profess to have been professionally trained. Stitches needed. I asked Mr B senior where the nearest A & E was. His shrugged shoulders and my realisation that every single one of us had had a few glasses of wine put that idea to bed.
In the meantime Mme B happened to mention that she thought she had some steri-strips. Ah ha! At last something useful.
So Dr Tom went to work on the split nose. The bleeding had stopped, and after some careful cleaning and quite a bit of wincing from Nat, I managed to close the cut and hold it together on both sides of the nose.
So, pics!
Note how Natty was not so pleased at me taking the second one. I did say that she'd be glad of the photos later, even if she didn't appreciate them at the time. I think she swore at me!
Music Is Power
Right. Got to try and catch up here.
The weather forecast wasn't so good for yesterday, so we decided to head to FUTUROSCOPE.
Give it a look. A brief description though is that it's a visual based theme park. A lot of the attractions use film in one way or another. The park itself is visually stunning...
The first ride that we went on, for example, involved two IMax screens the first in the traditional place. The second though was beneath our feet. The seats were built upon a glass platform. This experience was pretty damn amazing, but quite difficult to describe."
The only ride, in normal sense that we went on was "Dance With Robots". It was situated in a large hall where there were ten large robot arms. Attached to the end of each were two seats. You get the picture. Yous sat in the seats and were flung all over the place for two minutes. I'm currently uploading the video to Facebook, then I'll link to it.
A lot of the rides were 3D and of course involved wearing the stupid goggles...
All in all, it was a good day and we could have quite easily stayed for a few more hours. Unfortunately time caught up with us.
Okay, more later. Most importantly, my exploits as a top surgeon!
The weather forecast wasn't so good for yesterday, so we decided to head to FUTUROSCOPE.
Give it a look. A brief description though is that it's a visual based theme park. A lot of the attractions use film in one way or another. The park itself is visually stunning...
The first ride that we went on, for example, involved two IMax screens the first in the traditional place. The second though was beneath our feet. The seats were built upon a glass platform. This experience was pretty damn amazing, but quite difficult to describe."
The only ride, in normal sense that we went on was "Dance With Robots". It was situated in a large hall where there were ten large robot arms. Attached to the end of each were two seats. You get the picture. Yous sat in the seats and were flung all over the place for two minutes. I'm currently uploading the video to Facebook, then I'll link to it.
A lot of the rides were 3D and of course involved wearing the stupid goggles...
All in all, it was a good day and we could have quite easily stayed for a few more hours. Unfortunately time caught up with us.
Okay, more later. Most importantly, my exploits as a top surgeon!
Monday, July 23, 2007
Everyday People
Where did I get to?
Ah yes (that's me just looked rather than recall my memory). Yesterday lunchtime.
After a lovely lunch, we chilled again. Some nice sunbathing followed by a bit of a dip in the pool and more of the same.
Mme Brown did a slap up roast for dinner which went down a storm too.
Pics...
An hour or so after dinner, I really did feel the need to expend some energy. Veering off on a tangent for a minute though, I have been keeping the running up. On Saturday I did two runs, firstly round half of the village. This was not quite long enough. The second was to the next village and back. At about 3.4 miles, this was better. I did this again yesterday. Today, I've slacked and not done anything. I have been active in other ways though! I'm determined to not bang on any weight, but at the same time enjoy the food here.
Right, where was I? Yes, yesterday evening. Took a walk out and father chose to come too. Another venture with the camera...
Which brings us on to today. But this post is way too long, so more later, or even tomorrow...
Ah yes (that's me just looked rather than recall my memory). Yesterday lunchtime.
After a lovely lunch, we chilled again. Some nice sunbathing followed by a bit of a dip in the pool and more of the same.
Mme Brown did a slap up roast for dinner which went down a storm too.
Pics...
An hour or so after dinner, I really did feel the need to expend some energy. Veering off on a tangent for a minute though, I have been keeping the running up. On Saturday I did two runs, firstly round half of the village. This was not quite long enough. The second was to the next village and back. At about 3.4 miles, this was better. I did this again yesterday. Today, I've slacked and not done anything. I have been active in other ways though! I'm determined to not bang on any weight, but at the same time enjoy the food here.
Right, where was I? Yes, yesterday evening. Took a walk out and father chose to come too. Another venture with the camera...
Which brings us on to today. But this post is way too long, so more later, or even tomorrow...
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Is It Any Wonder?
Meant to put this in yesterday's. A little bit about the language barrier.
Mon pere is pretty good at French. Mine is passable. Here's an example of how it can slip though.
At the meal yesterday, five of us wanted aperitifs. The restaurant does both alcoholic and none. Of course, we all wanted the boozy one.
So the waiter asks what we want. Dad says "cinq" and I say "cinq". I'll blame it on him, but "cinq" sounds somewhat like "sans" if you don't hit that "q" fairly hard. So what the waiter hears is "cinq sans". In other words "five without".
Curses!
On to today. Up at 9-ish. Breakfast and then hit the sun loungers. It's absolutely lovely today. The sun is very hot and we're all working hard on the tans.
Mon pere has just been very good in dishing out the chilled sauvignon. Top bloke.
More later.
That pool is going to be very welcome. The temperature is not going to peak until about 4pm.
Mon pere is pretty good at French. Mine is passable. Here's an example of how it can slip though.
At the meal yesterday, five of us wanted aperitifs. The restaurant does both alcoholic and none. Of course, we all wanted the boozy one.
So the waiter asks what we want. Dad says "cinq" and I say "cinq". I'll blame it on him, but "cinq" sounds somewhat like "sans" if you don't hit that "q" fairly hard. So what the waiter hears is "cinq sans". In other words "five without".
Curses!
On to today. Up at 9-ish. Breakfast and then hit the sun loungers. It's absolutely lovely today. The sun is very hot and we're all working hard on the tans.
Mon pere has just been very good in dishing out the chilled sauvignon. Top bloke.
More later.
That pool is going to be very welcome. The temperature is not going to peak until about 4pm.
Saturday, July 21, 2007
In The Morning
Eeeek! That's a while since the last post.
Ne'er mind, who's counting.
Well, posting now en France.
I picked Nat and friend (Fox "don't call me Foxicles") up on Thursday afternoon. We all headed off for an early night (after some medicinal alcohol to help us sleep) ready for an early start.
Friday morning and my alarm went off at 4am. I had been beaten to the bathroom by the Fox (she's 18 and supposed to have lie ins! What's that all about?). Myself and H decided it might be a good time to start packing. On the road by 5.10.
Torrential rain in England yesterday, but we missed the most of it by arriving at the Chunnel by about 7.45. So that got us on an earlier shuttle at 8.23.
If you've never been on this crossing, it really is very good (says he, who's only done it twice). You barely know it's moving, it's that smooth. It's also very quick, we were hitting the French motorways by just after 9 (stick an hour on for the time difference).
Good old Tom Tom comes to the rescue at driving in a different country. Totally takes the stress out of driving leaving you to remember to drive on the right.
We were making good progress, but hit quite a bit of traffic on the outskirts of Paris. That cost us about 50 minutes, but it really wasn't that bad. In the UK, you can crack along nicely at 15 mph over the limit (not that I do of course). They do say that the French police are a little keen, so I didn't take so many chances, sitting not much more than 140 kph.
So we arrived at les parents at about 6pm local time.
For those who don't know, here's a link to where they are...
CLICK ME!
So that was yesterday.
Today, after a much needed early night, we got up and wished the old man Happy Birthday.
I the spent the next couple of hours sorting out Father's wi-fi connection. For the past 6 months, he's had a wireless router and still used his laptop wedged in the corner of the kitchen with an ethernet cable stretched across a table. Not anymore!
We then headed out to the Cheval Blanc, a really nice restaurant about 20 minutes away. What we had was a fixed five course meal. As I'm a food buff, and want to make you jealous, read on...
Aperitif to start was a juicy number with lots of fruit.
1st course, vegetable soup with warm bread rolls
2nd course, tomato cakes with jambon slices
3rd course, sliced steak with roast potato and stuffed tomato
4th course, cheese*
5th course, apricot with cream and pastry
* French cheese is just awesome. We're not talking a few lumps of cheddar and some Jacobs crackers. The cheese trolley had about 30 different cheeses on it. You have these as a separate course. No biscuits unless you specifically ask for them.
We got there at about 12.10 and left after about 3.5 hours.
Back home and the temperature had improved somewhat. Now hitting about 24, but feeling a lot warmer. The youngsters (only here, can I call myself a youngster!) hit the sunchairs and took in some rays. Nat and Fox braved the pool, but not for long.
So here we sit, out in the veranda at 8.25, blue skies, very warm, drinks in hand, typing a blog, 50m from the, now working, wireless router.
I've earned my keep already.
More tomorrow. Did I mention that it's going to hit 30+ degrees?
Photos...
Ne'er mind, who's counting.
Well, posting now en France.
I picked Nat and friend (Fox "don't call me Foxicles") up on Thursday afternoon. We all headed off for an early night (after some medicinal alcohol to help us sleep) ready for an early start.
Friday morning and my alarm went off at 4am. I had been beaten to the bathroom by the Fox (she's 18 and supposed to have lie ins! What's that all about?). Myself and H decided it might be a good time to start packing. On the road by 5.10.
Torrential rain in England yesterday, but we missed the most of it by arriving at the Chunnel by about 7.45. So that got us on an earlier shuttle at 8.23.
If you've never been on this crossing, it really is very good (says he, who's only done it twice). You barely know it's moving, it's that smooth. It's also very quick, we were hitting the French motorways by just after 9 (stick an hour on for the time difference).
Good old Tom Tom comes to the rescue at driving in a different country. Totally takes the stress out of driving leaving you to remember to drive on the right.
We were making good progress, but hit quite a bit of traffic on the outskirts of Paris. That cost us about 50 minutes, but it really wasn't that bad. In the UK, you can crack along nicely at 15 mph over the limit (not that I do of course). They do say that the French police are a little keen, so I didn't take so many chances, sitting not much more than 140 kph.
So we arrived at les parents at about 6pm local time.
For those who don't know, here's a link to where they are...
CLICK ME!
So that was yesterday.
Today, after a much needed early night, we got up and wished the old man Happy Birthday.
I the spent the next couple of hours sorting out Father's wi-fi connection. For the past 6 months, he's had a wireless router and still used his laptop wedged in the corner of the kitchen with an ethernet cable stretched across a table. Not anymore!
We then headed out to the Cheval Blanc, a really nice restaurant about 20 minutes away. What we had was a fixed five course meal. As I'm a food buff, and want to make you jealous, read on...
Aperitif to start was a juicy number with lots of fruit.
1st course, vegetable soup with warm bread rolls
2nd course, tomato cakes with jambon slices
3rd course, sliced steak with roast potato and stuffed tomato
4th course, cheese*
5th course, apricot with cream and pastry
* French cheese is just awesome. We're not talking a few lumps of cheddar and some Jacobs crackers. The cheese trolley had about 30 different cheeses on it. You have these as a separate course. No biscuits unless you specifically ask for them.
We got there at about 12.10 and left after about 3.5 hours.
Back home and the temperature had improved somewhat. Now hitting about 24, but feeling a lot warmer. The youngsters (only here, can I call myself a youngster!) hit the sunchairs and took in some rays. Nat and Fox braved the pool, but not for long.
So here we sit, out in the veranda at 8.25, blue skies, very warm, drinks in hand, typing a blog, 50m from the, now working, wireless router.
I've earned my keep already.
More tomorrow. Did I mention that it's going to hit 30+ degrees?
Photos...
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Thou Shalt Always Kill
Right, back to Edinburgh.
Friday morning came and we set off after dropping Jack off at the kennels. TomTom was telling us about 6.5 hours. Normally, I can knock that time a bit though. However, that wasn't counting on the weather. We went from drizzle to sunshine to torrential downpours and then back to sunshine again!
This slowed us up a bit and then we grabbed something to eat near Scotch corner.
So the satnav ended up being spot on. A quick call to Gordon and he popped down to guide us up to their flat. Fifth floor, so a quick hike up the steps. It really is a lovely flat too, but Di insists that it's her influence.
After a coffee, we left our car at their place and all headed to our hotel in their car. Thanks to Tesco being generous with their Deal tokens, we chose to stay at the Hilton. The receptionist's face was a picture as I strolled in wearing scruffy shorts and a T-shirt!
We decamped to our room, had a quick change and then met up again with D & G at the bar next door. After a couple of beers (which went down well after the long drive), we walked to the restaurant, past the castle and some of the city's sights.
Good choice of restaurant, it was really lovely food.
After a couple of bottles of wine and more beer, it was time to head back to the hotel. Myself and Gordon were quite up for keeping the drinking going, but the girls chose the best route of calling time.
I went out in the morning at about 7.30 for a run through one of the parks. It was great at that time in the morning. Unfortunately, the weather didn't hold and after having a large breakfast, it had started to drizzle. Donning coats, we went out to check the shops. Unfortunately, the rain got heavier and heavier and within an hour or so was really pouring down. Back to the hotel.
At about lunchtime, G phoned and asked if we fancied the art galleries. This we did and they were pretty good. A coffee and snacks followed and the rain ceased.
Now was chosen to be a great time to head up Arthurs Seat, which is a a craggy hill that overlooks the city. Behold...
You can see how much the weather had improved. Look at the sweat!
After the swift climb and descent, we headed back to their flat for more refreshments.
The evening was spent quietly at the hotel.
G & D joined us for the huge breakfast in the morning, and then we headed for home. A much better journey back, knocking about 50 mins off the Tomtom time. I didn't speed once - honest!
All in all, it really was a nice weekend, despite the weather. Already looking forward to the next time that we get to meet up.
Friday morning came and we set off after dropping Jack off at the kennels. TomTom was telling us about 6.5 hours. Normally, I can knock that time a bit though. However, that wasn't counting on the weather. We went from drizzle to sunshine to torrential downpours and then back to sunshine again!
This slowed us up a bit and then we grabbed something to eat near Scotch corner.
So the satnav ended up being spot on. A quick call to Gordon and he popped down to guide us up to their flat. Fifth floor, so a quick hike up the steps. It really is a lovely flat too, but Di insists that it's her influence.
After a coffee, we left our car at their place and all headed to our hotel in their car. Thanks to Tesco being generous with their Deal tokens, we chose to stay at the Hilton. The receptionist's face was a picture as I strolled in wearing scruffy shorts and a T-shirt!
We decamped to our room, had a quick change and then met up again with D & G at the bar next door. After a couple of beers (which went down well after the long drive), we walked to the restaurant, past the castle and some of the city's sights.
Good choice of restaurant, it was really lovely food.
After a couple of bottles of wine and more beer, it was time to head back to the hotel. Myself and Gordon were quite up for keeping the drinking going, but the girls chose the best route of calling time.
I went out in the morning at about 7.30 for a run through one of the parks. It was great at that time in the morning. Unfortunately, the weather didn't hold and after having a large breakfast, it had started to drizzle. Donning coats, we went out to check the shops. Unfortunately, the rain got heavier and heavier and within an hour or so was really pouring down. Back to the hotel.
At about lunchtime, G phoned and asked if we fancied the art galleries. This we did and they were pretty good. A coffee and snacks followed and the rain ceased.
Now was chosen to be a great time to head up Arthurs Seat, which is a a craggy hill that overlooks the city. Behold...
You can see how much the weather had improved. Look at the sweat!
After the swift climb and descent, we headed back to their flat for more refreshments.
The evening was spent quietly at the hotel.
G & D joined us for the huge breakfast in the morning, and then we headed for home. A much better journey back, knocking about 50 mins off the Tomtom time. I didn't speed once - honest!
All in all, it really was a nice weekend, despite the weather. Already looking forward to the next time that we get to meet up.
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Victims
The weekend was spent in Edinburgh with some great friends of ours - Gordon & Di. More of that later, but for some reason yesterday, I felt like being creative in the kitchen, so this post is about that.
I e-mailed H during the day and asked what she fancied. Her response was "Moroccan".
Well, nothing like a challenge! So called off at Tesco on the way home.
So here is my take on Moroccan Chicken.
Coarsely chop a red pepper and a couple of onions. Thinly slice 2-3 cloves of garlic and a couple of red chillies (de-seed where you can)
Take some chicken portions (I used six thighs). Brown these well on all sides to seal. Fry the chopped peppers, onions etc. Add some smoked paprika.
Fry for a while.
Add about a pint and a half of chicken stock. Reduce to a simmer.
Add a tin of chick peas. Season (I also added a small sprinkle of curry powder). Add some brown rice (don't ask how much, I just judged it!).
Stir well. Remove from the heat. Place the chicken on top, bang on a lid and chuck it in the oven, 180 for about 90 mins.
Pre-oven...
Post-oven...
Plate the chicken, add some freshly torn corriander to the mix and stir well beofre plating up with the chicken.
It was very good. So much so that we're having the leftovers tonight. Gonna add some sour cream after heating it, to give it a bit of a different taste.
I e-mailed H during the day and asked what she fancied. Her response was "Moroccan".
Well, nothing like a challenge! So called off at Tesco on the way home.
So here is my take on Moroccan Chicken.
Coarsely chop a red pepper and a couple of onions. Thinly slice 2-3 cloves of garlic and a couple of red chillies (de-seed where you can)
Take some chicken portions (I used six thighs). Brown these well on all sides to seal. Fry the chopped peppers, onions etc. Add some smoked paprika.
Fry for a while.
Add about a pint and a half of chicken stock. Reduce to a simmer.
Add a tin of chick peas. Season (I also added a small sprinkle of curry powder). Add some brown rice (don't ask how much, I just judged it!).
Stir well. Remove from the heat. Place the chicken on top, bang on a lid and chuck it in the oven, 180 for about 90 mins.
Pre-oven...
Post-oven...
Plate the chicken, add some freshly torn corriander to the mix and stir well beofre plating up with the chicken.
It was very good. So much so that we're having the leftovers tonight. Gonna add some sour cream after heating it, to give it a bit of a different taste.
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Shape Of My Heart
Well so much for my "creating". But the thing is, that I haven't actually done any since last Wednesday.
What news?
Firstly a spot of luck for H rather than me. As PA to two of the directors, she deals a lot with a travel company booking flights and the like.
Last week, they phoned her up and asked if she, along with another PA, would like to go out for dinner as their guest. That's nice, isn't it?
The venue? New York!
So, they're being flown Business Class, to New York. Being put up in Trump Towers and generally wined and dined for a couple of days.
This is well deserved though because she does work bloody hard.
Next. It was our friends Tim & Bobby christening for Zach on Sunday. We headed down there in the afternoon. Another new experience being a Greek Orthodox service. Very relaxed and informal. It was the same at their wedding. People just seem to get up and wander round taking photos and the like. As for the "bun fight" afterwards, it was divine! Fantastic food.
Another one of our jaunts this weekend. We're heading up to Edinburgh on Friday. We're spending time with some friends, Di & Gordon. Looking forward to that muchly and some good photo taking opportunities. I just hope that the rain holds off a bit. That's not very likely as it's Glastonbury weekend, so guaranteed to rain. Talking of which, a big wave at Mazz, Vicky and PN who are all braving the conditions to be there.
What news?
Firstly a spot of luck for H rather than me. As PA to two of the directors, she deals a lot with a travel company booking flights and the like.
Last week, they phoned her up and asked if she, along with another PA, would like to go out for dinner as their guest. That's nice, isn't it?
The venue? New York!
So, they're being flown Business Class, to New York. Being put up in Trump Towers and generally wined and dined for a couple of days.
This is well deserved though because she does work bloody hard.
Next. It was our friends Tim & Bobby christening for Zach on Sunday. We headed down there in the afternoon. Another new experience being a Greek Orthodox service. Very relaxed and informal. It was the same at their wedding. People just seem to get up and wander round taking photos and the like. As for the "bun fight" afterwards, it was divine! Fantastic food.
Another one of our jaunts this weekend. We're heading up to Edinburgh on Friday. We're spending time with some friends, Di & Gordon. Looking forward to that muchly and some good photo taking opportunities. I just hope that the rain holds off a bit. That's not very likely as it's Glastonbury weekend, so guaranteed to rain. Talking of which, a big wave at Mazz, Vicky and PN who are all braving the conditions to be there.
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
The Good Times Are Killing Me
Right, going to carry out something that I thought of a while back. I already incorporate music into here quite a bit (more recommendations coming up soon). But what I'm going to try and do is incorporate one of my other passions - cooking.
So when I make something new, I'll post it up here (with pics if I remember).
The lastest creation was risotto that I made on Sunday...
As usual with my cooking, all measures are approximate!
Soften some finely chopped garlic (two cloves) in olive oil
Make up about a pint and half of vegetable stock
Add a good glass of white wine
Add the arborio rice (you'll have to judge how much yourself)
Season
Simmer away so that the rice absorbs the stock
About 15 mins to go, add some crumbled up smoked haddock (two fillets)
Add some king prawns
5 mins to go, add some frozen peas and some rough chopped onion
Just before serving add some grated parmesan to absorb any remaining liquid
It was very, very nice :)
Tonight, I'm throwing something together as well. I've got some leftover fresh spaghetti from the weekend. We also had sausages last night, so I've got four of those. So...
Slice up the sausages
Cut some bacon into strips
Fry both in olive oil
Chop up some onion
Chop up a couple of cloves of garlic
Add these and keep frying
Add a tin of tomatoes
Reduce heat to simmer
Add a couple of sliced chillies
Add roughly chopped basil and coriander
Season a little
Serve over the cooked spaghetti
Add parmesan shavings
So, we'll wait and see on that ones. Like I said, photos if I remember!
I think I wont just publish new stuff. I might post fave stuff of mine that I make anyway.
Edit: So here are the before, during and after pics. It was absolutely delicious :)
So when I make something new, I'll post it up here (with pics if I remember).
The lastest creation was risotto that I made on Sunday...
As usual with my cooking, all measures are approximate!
Soften some finely chopped garlic (two cloves) in olive oil
Make up about a pint and half of vegetable stock
Add a good glass of white wine
Add the arborio rice (you'll have to judge how much yourself)
Season
Simmer away so that the rice absorbs the stock
About 15 mins to go, add some crumbled up smoked haddock (two fillets)
Add some king prawns
5 mins to go, add some frozen peas and some rough chopped onion
Just before serving add some grated parmesan to absorb any remaining liquid
It was very, very nice :)
Tonight, I'm throwing something together as well. I've got some leftover fresh spaghetti from the weekend. We also had sausages last night, so I've got four of those. So...
Slice up the sausages
Cut some bacon into strips
Fry both in olive oil
Chop up some onion
Chop up a couple of cloves of garlic
Add these and keep frying
Add a tin of tomatoes
Reduce heat to simmer
Add a couple of sliced chillies
Add roughly chopped basil and coriander
Season a little
Serve over the cooked spaghetti
Add parmesan shavings
So, we'll wait and see on that ones. Like I said, photos if I remember!
I think I wont just publish new stuff. I might post fave stuff of mine that I make anyway.
Edit: So here are the before, during and after pics. It was absolutely delicious :)
Monday, June 11, 2007
Make This Go On Forever
Wow, the weekend went a little bit too fast for my liking.
Friday started with the Sams AGM. Well attended and pretty good. Top food and free wine. What more can you ask for £5?
Saturday was really nice again. The weathermen got it so wrong. They predicted rain showers and clouds. We got bright sunshine all day. H decided to weed the front drive, which she did impeccably but it did take her pretty much all day. Meanwhile I washed both cars and topped up my tan and then headed out on the bike for a 15 mile circuit taking in Wimbotsham, Stow Bardolph, Nordelph and back. Averaging 15.6, so pleasing.
Just to make Reg jealous, I cooked up a mass of spaghetti bolognese for dinner.
Sunday saw H heading into Lynn shopping so I decided that a decent walk was in order.
Starting at Castle Rising, I crossed the A149 then followed a stream for a couple of miles before cutting up towards Roydon (waves at Ms Little), then slightly into Pott Row before heading across some Heathland and heading for Castle Rising again. Total was about 11 miles with a minimum guide time of 4.5 hours. I pushed on round in just over 3. I am suffering for the pace a little today though.
Friday started with the Sams AGM. Well attended and pretty good. Top food and free wine. What more can you ask for £5?
Saturday was really nice again. The weathermen got it so wrong. They predicted rain showers and clouds. We got bright sunshine all day. H decided to weed the front drive, which she did impeccably but it did take her pretty much all day. Meanwhile I washed both cars and topped up my tan and then headed out on the bike for a 15 mile circuit taking in Wimbotsham, Stow Bardolph, Nordelph and back. Averaging 15.6, so pleasing.
Just to make Reg jealous, I cooked up a mass of spaghetti bolognese for dinner.
Sunday saw H heading into Lynn shopping so I decided that a decent walk was in order.
Starting at Castle Rising, I crossed the A149 then followed a stream for a couple of miles before cutting up towards Roydon (waves at Ms Little), then slightly into Pott Row before heading across some Heathland and heading for Castle Rising again. Total was about 11 miles with a minimum guide time of 4.5 hours. I pushed on round in just over 3. I am suffering for the pace a little today though.
Thursday, June 07, 2007
Time Wont Let Me Go
It's time for another tribute. It's Reg's turn.
I first met Reg a couple of years ago when she joined the OOS forum. My first comment referred to her as a him. An easy mistake to make, surely! I was soon put right. Her proper name is Rachel. The reason for Reg? Well, I love this. Rachel is obviously shortened to Rach. However, when her friends are out having a few drink Rach gets slurred into Reg. The name has stuck. Good, innit?
So this is Reg (wii-ing in our day room, dirty bitch)...
She'll hate me for that pic.
As time went on, both myself and H got close to Reg. Eventually she came to stay with us and we had a great time. She even taught H how to throw the horns. Unfortunately, H still can't remember how to do this and always ends up doing the cub scout salute instead.
She's stayed with us twice since then, and each time we have a fab time.
It's amazing when you meet someone and then realise you actually have quite a bit in common. So get this...
She lives in Lincoln, where I grew up, so we have knowledge of a lot of the pubs etc. Although a lot of them have changed names since I used to go out in Lincoln. Some remain the same though - The Crown, The Jolly Brewer, The Tap, The Cornhill Vaults etc.
She actually went to the same school as me (The City School) albeit a few years after me.
Her parents moved to France when she was younger. Her mum still lives there, about an hours drive from where my folks are.
So that's Reg. A genuinely warm and sincere person. We love her to bits, as does Jack!
I first met Reg a couple of years ago when she joined the OOS forum. My first comment referred to her as a him. An easy mistake to make, surely! I was soon put right. Her proper name is Rachel. The reason for Reg? Well, I love this. Rachel is obviously shortened to Rach. However, when her friends are out having a few drink Rach gets slurred into Reg. The name has stuck. Good, innit?
So this is Reg (wii-ing in our day room, dirty bitch)...
She'll hate me for that pic.
As time went on, both myself and H got close to Reg. Eventually she came to stay with us and we had a great time. She even taught H how to throw the horns. Unfortunately, H still can't remember how to do this and always ends up doing the cub scout salute instead.
She's stayed with us twice since then, and each time we have a fab time.
It's amazing when you meet someone and then realise you actually have quite a bit in common. So get this...
She lives in Lincoln, where I grew up, so we have knowledge of a lot of the pubs etc. Although a lot of them have changed names since I used to go out in Lincoln. Some remain the same though - The Crown, The Jolly Brewer, The Tap, The Cornhill Vaults etc.
She actually went to the same school as me (The City School) albeit a few years after me.
Her parents moved to France when she was younger. Her mum still lives there, about an hours drive from where my folks are.
So that's Reg. A genuinely warm and sincere person. We love her to bits, as does Jack!
Monday, June 04, 2007
Turn Back Time
Morning!
Firstly, note the new link to the left hand side. Yup, I'm now a Facebook addict as well as Myspace. In fact, Myspace is getting a lot less use. Facebook is the one that seems to be getting my interest at the moment. If you're not already signed up, go for it. It's pretty good once you get into it a bit.
Seriously hacked off with the UEA (University of East Anglia) last week. I got an email on Thursday evening telling me that Faithless were to play there on 13th June. Tickets were going on sale 9am Fri. SO I had a ring round etc and got 3 friends who fancied going too. Fri came and I was camped out on their website. Sure enough, went through all the procedures and bagged 4 tickets. An email confirmation had been sent to my home email address. Job done. Or so I thought...
I got home sure enough, there was the email. Received at 9:04...... along with another one received at about 3:30. The second one said that the gig had been sold out and by booking had been cancelled. WHAT?
One, seriously snotty email later and I got some sort of explanation saying that it had been ridiculously over-subscribed and that a lot of emails, like mine, had gone out by mistake.
Not happy, but not a lot one can do!
Saturday headed out to the lovely town of Aylsham. Did a walk of about 6-7 miles which was lovely. The sun was out for some of it, so managed to start to top up the tan. That was until yesterday...
Had arranged to meet Joe and go and watch some motor racing at Snetterton. Tickets courtesy of the legend that is Nick Bowen.
It was fairly misty when we arrived. Still, we went and had a chat with Nick, and then got ourselves positioned on a viewing bank to watch the first few races before lunch. The grass was still a bit wet, so we were stood for most of it. Approaching lunchtime and the sun was out though.
Heading back to the cars for lunch, a load of "supercars" were parked up. Photos will follow later, but there were Astons, Porsches, Ferraris and an XJ220. You don't see many of those arounf at all.
After lunch, we headed back to the same spot. It was a GT race with some very tasty Astons, Porsches etc. A two hour endurance. Pretty entertaining and eventually won by a biofuel powered Aston.
Unfortunately though, the sun decided to up the strength. Unfortunately, there is no escaping it out there. Typically, you don't quite realise just how powerful it.
By the end of the day, I certainly did know how powerful it had been! Burnt up something rotten!
I'll try and get some pics of the cars on later.
Edit: Here are the pics...
Firstly, note the new link to the left hand side. Yup, I'm now a Facebook addict as well as Myspace. In fact, Myspace is getting a lot less use. Facebook is the one that seems to be getting my interest at the moment. If you're not already signed up, go for it. It's pretty good once you get into it a bit.
Seriously hacked off with the UEA (University of East Anglia) last week. I got an email on Thursday evening telling me that Faithless were to play there on 13th June. Tickets were going on sale 9am Fri. SO I had a ring round etc and got 3 friends who fancied going too. Fri came and I was camped out on their website. Sure enough, went through all the procedures and bagged 4 tickets. An email confirmation had been sent to my home email address. Job done. Or so I thought...
I got home sure enough, there was the email. Received at 9:04...... along with another one received at about 3:30. The second one said that the gig had been sold out and by booking had been cancelled. WHAT?
One, seriously snotty email later and I got some sort of explanation saying that it had been ridiculously over-subscribed and that a lot of emails, like mine, had gone out by mistake.
Not happy, but not a lot one can do!
Saturday headed out to the lovely town of Aylsham. Did a walk of about 6-7 miles which was lovely. The sun was out for some of it, so managed to start to top up the tan. That was until yesterday...
Had arranged to meet Joe and go and watch some motor racing at Snetterton. Tickets courtesy of the legend that is Nick Bowen.
It was fairly misty when we arrived. Still, we went and had a chat with Nick, and then got ourselves positioned on a viewing bank to watch the first few races before lunch. The grass was still a bit wet, so we were stood for most of it. Approaching lunchtime and the sun was out though.
Heading back to the cars for lunch, a load of "supercars" were parked up. Photos will follow later, but there were Astons, Porsches, Ferraris and an XJ220. You don't see many of those arounf at all.
After lunch, we headed back to the same spot. It was a GT race with some very tasty Astons, Porsches etc. A two hour endurance. Pretty entertaining and eventually won by a biofuel powered Aston.
Unfortunately though, the sun decided to up the strength. Unfortunately, there is no escaping it out there. Typically, you don't quite realise just how powerful it.
By the end of the day, I certainly did know how powerful it had been! Burnt up something rotten!
I'll try and get some pics of the cars on later.
Edit: Here are the pics...
Monday, May 28, 2007
Two Left Feet
Some very quick points that I want to tell you about...
1. I've got two good books lately (from Amazon - will they give me a discount for the plug?). The first is a fascinating read (so far). It's called Insanity and is a bit of an autobiography by Charles Bronson. The notorious prisoner, not the film director. Extremely good, also quite relevant as he has spent quite a bit of time at Whitemoor, where I'm going to be visiting quite a bit!
The other book is all about HTML, CSS & XHTML writing i.e. it's about how the internet pages are coded. It's something that I've wanted to get into, so watch this space as I guess my trials may be on these very pages.
2. Had a great walk on Saturday. It was on of those moments when I just had to go and do it. I looked up a walk, not too far away and 9.5 miles. Good one. The guide time was 4 hours. Now, I'm not saying that I'm competitive. Well no, actually that's exactly what I am saying. 4 hours? Right, I have so got to beat that! So off I set. The first section followed the Little Ouse from Santon Downham to Brandon. I had shorts on. The path was quite overgrown. I suffered badly from nettle stings.
At Brandon, it then headed off to Weeting and then Weeting Castle before crossing into Thetford Forest. Unforunately, here, the book showed it's age and the directions got a bit vague. I had to follow my nose a bit and I think I went on a one mile detour. Still I picked it up again and was on the home run. I got back to the car and checked the time. Let's call it 10 miles with the detour. That was in pretty much 2.75 hours. 4 hours indeed!
Mind you my legs were a little on the achey side!
3. So a day off exercise yesterday. But today I was determined.. Unfortunately, it's been raining since about 3am, so it was the gym. Could I do 10Km, I asked myself. Sure enough, I dialed it in to the treadmill. 59 minutes later and job done. That feels good to have just gone and done that. The downside being that the bar is now upped. It will have to be 10 miles or 15 Km next.
4. The Downham Carnival / Parade was cancelled today. Shock Horror!
1. I've got two good books lately (from Amazon - will they give me a discount for the plug?). The first is a fascinating read (so far). It's called Insanity and is a bit of an autobiography by Charles Bronson. The notorious prisoner, not the film director. Extremely good, also quite relevant as he has spent quite a bit of time at Whitemoor, where I'm going to be visiting quite a bit!
The other book is all about HTML, CSS & XHTML writing i.e. it's about how the internet pages are coded. It's something that I've wanted to get into, so watch this space as I guess my trials may be on these very pages.
2. Had a great walk on Saturday. It was on of those moments when I just had to go and do it. I looked up a walk, not too far away and 9.5 miles. Good one. The guide time was 4 hours. Now, I'm not saying that I'm competitive. Well no, actually that's exactly what I am saying. 4 hours? Right, I have so got to beat that! So off I set. The first section followed the Little Ouse from Santon Downham to Brandon. I had shorts on. The path was quite overgrown. I suffered badly from nettle stings.
At Brandon, it then headed off to Weeting and then Weeting Castle before crossing into Thetford Forest. Unforunately, here, the book showed it's age and the directions got a bit vague. I had to follow my nose a bit and I think I went on a one mile detour. Still I picked it up again and was on the home run. I got back to the car and checked the time. Let's call it 10 miles with the detour. That was in pretty much 2.75 hours. 4 hours indeed!
Mind you my legs were a little on the achey side!
3. So a day off exercise yesterday. But today I was determined.. Unfortunately, it's been raining since about 3am, so it was the gym. Could I do 10Km, I asked myself. Sure enough, I dialed it in to the treadmill. 59 minutes later and job done. That feels good to have just gone and done that. The downside being that the bar is now upped. It will have to be 10 miles or 15 Km next.
4. The Downham Carnival / Parade was cancelled today. Shock Horror!
Friday, May 25, 2007
True Faith
I've just realised that I haven't updated you on the bike ride.
It was last Sunday. As mentioned previously, we had a friend, Reg, come and stay. On the Sturday evening at about 9pm, we decided to pop down to the Livvy to have a couple of beers and also see the a band, Roxoff, playing.
The plan was to have a couple and head for home at about 10.30.
Ooops. 10.30 turned into midnight, and a couple turned into well, several.
So I woke up on the Sunday a little bit worse for wear. Not the best start to a 14 mile ride out. Still, head out to Dersingham we did.
It was a nice day with a bit of sun and little wind. A good turnout too, maybe about 60 riders. We duly got set off my some mayor or other.
I sat back at about 7th to start, but after about half a mile, we hit the first (and steepest) hill. This seemed like a brick wall to some, but I just sat back in the saddle and motored on up without dropping a gear. So leading all the way up, I put some space between myself and everyone else.
Now anyone who thinks that Norfolk is flat is welcome to come and try this ride. Believe me, there are some fierce hills! But, for every climb, there is a drop.
I was aiming to do the ride in about an hour, so where possible, I kept my speed above 14. It became somewhat difficult to gauge though as on the uphills, I'd drop to about 10 and on the downhill get as quick as 25.
Still, I pushed on. I stayed a long way out in front until about 5.5 miles when an 18 year old went flying past me on a proper road bike. There is no way on this earth that I'd have been able to stay with him, so I let him go and carried on at my own pace.
The rest of the ride was pretty uneventful. It didn't seem that long until I came back to the start/finish. H & Reg weren't expecting me and were sat in the car. I hopped off the bike and checked my time. 53 minutes with an average of 15.8mph. Very pleased with that. I swear at some point though that I was sweating 80% Kronenburg!
Thanks for the sponsorship. Now I need your money!
It was last Sunday. As mentioned previously, we had a friend, Reg, come and stay. On the Sturday evening at about 9pm, we decided to pop down to the Livvy to have a couple of beers and also see the a band, Roxoff, playing.
The plan was to have a couple and head for home at about 10.30.
Ooops. 10.30 turned into midnight, and a couple turned into well, several.
So I woke up on the Sunday a little bit worse for wear. Not the best start to a 14 mile ride out. Still, head out to Dersingham we did.
It was a nice day with a bit of sun and little wind. A good turnout too, maybe about 60 riders. We duly got set off my some mayor or other.
I sat back at about 7th to start, but after about half a mile, we hit the first (and steepest) hill. This seemed like a brick wall to some, but I just sat back in the saddle and motored on up without dropping a gear. So leading all the way up, I put some space between myself and everyone else.
Now anyone who thinks that Norfolk is flat is welcome to come and try this ride. Believe me, there are some fierce hills! But, for every climb, there is a drop.
I was aiming to do the ride in about an hour, so where possible, I kept my speed above 14. It became somewhat difficult to gauge though as on the uphills, I'd drop to about 10 and on the downhill get as quick as 25.
Still, I pushed on. I stayed a long way out in front until about 5.5 miles when an 18 year old went flying past me on a proper road bike. There is no way on this earth that I'd have been able to stay with him, so I let him go and carried on at my own pace.
The rest of the ride was pretty uneventful. It didn't seem that long until I came back to the start/finish. H & Reg weren't expecting me and were sat in the car. I hopped off the bike and checked my time. 53 minutes with an average of 15.8mph. Very pleased with that. I swear at some point though that I was sweating 80% Kronenburg!
Thanks for the sponsorship. Now I need your money!
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Feed The Light
As promised, here is a little bit about my best friend in the world.
Her name is Anna aka Razzthekid aka Carter The Unstoppable Sex Machine.
We first met through Sams last year and got on pretty well. Earlier on this year though, we had a few duties together and realised we had quite a bit in common and really "clicked". The next few months saw us spending lots of time together and generally having a great time.
Currently, she is "living the dream" touring around South East Asia - China, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia etc etc, before heading to Australia for....... 2-3 years! Hence why I'm heading out to Perth in August (and looking forward to it muchly)
So, here she is...
This is in China a few weeks ago.
For an interesting read and loads more photos etc, you can check out her Travel Blog here
Anyway, here's a story for you.
At the weekend, a good friend of ours (Reg) visited. On Friday, we were in the pub and Rage Against The Machine came on the juke box. I haven't heard much by them and really liked the track. Later that night, I downloaded the album.
Yesterday, I was looking up the band on Wikipedia. This particular album cover features quite a famous photo of a monk, Thích Quang Đuc. He set light to himself in Saigon as a protest against what Vietnam administration was doing against Buddhism.
Here's the pic...
He didn't actually come from Saigon. His monastery was in Hué. The car that he drove to Saigon in (background of the photo) is actually still at his monastery as a shrine. So what?
Well, Anna was in Hué yesterday. The very day that I was reading about this guy.
But wait......
I emailed her and told her about this coincidence.
She replied and explained that yesterday, she visited this monastery and at pretty much the exact time that I was listening to the album and looking up about the monk, she was standing in front of the very same car, having her photo taken!
That, folks, is spooky!
So, that's Anna. A person that I care a lot for and who I'm looking forward to seeing in August.
Her name is Anna aka Razzthekid aka Carter The Unstoppable Sex Machine.
We first met through Sams last year and got on pretty well. Earlier on this year though, we had a few duties together and realised we had quite a bit in common and really "clicked". The next few months saw us spending lots of time together and generally having a great time.
Currently, she is "living the dream" touring around South East Asia - China, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia etc etc, before heading to Australia for....... 2-3 years! Hence why I'm heading out to Perth in August (and looking forward to it muchly)
So, here she is...
This is in China a few weeks ago.
For an interesting read and loads more photos etc, you can check out her Travel Blog here
Anyway, here's a story for you.
At the weekend, a good friend of ours (Reg) visited. On Friday, we were in the pub and Rage Against The Machine came on the juke box. I haven't heard much by them and really liked the track. Later that night, I downloaded the album.
Yesterday, I was looking up the band on Wikipedia. This particular album cover features quite a famous photo of a monk, Thích Quang Đuc. He set light to himself in Saigon as a protest against what Vietnam administration was doing against Buddhism.
Here's the pic...
He didn't actually come from Saigon. His monastery was in Hué. The car that he drove to Saigon in (background of the photo) is actually still at his monastery as a shrine. So what?
Well, Anna was in Hué yesterday. The very day that I was reading about this guy.
But wait......
I emailed her and told her about this coincidence.
She replied and explained that yesterday, she visited this monastery and at pretty much the exact time that I was listening to the album and looking up about the monk, she was standing in front of the very same car, having her photo taken!
That, folks, is spooky!
So, that's Anna. A person that I care a lot for and who I'm looking forward to seeing in August.
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Crazy
Morning!
Been meaning to post for a few days now, but other stuff always seemed to have got in the way.
What the hell has happened to the weather? Thirty odd days of sun and now the rain hasn't stopped. I don't mind a bit of each, but it would be much more convenient if it say, rained at night and was nice and sunny all day. Is that too much to ask?
What's been going on? Well, I went to Berlin last Monday. T'were a Bank Holiday too, there's dedication for you.
Was quite pleased at the airport. I've been after some Rayban Aviators (retro is so now, don't you know?). I managed to pick up a pair for £73, which is about £50 cheaper than I've found them online.
The reason for the trip to Berlin was work-related. I was going for a bit of training on some lab equipment that we've got. Yet again, the Europeans show how hosting should be done. They really did look after us well.
Also on the course was a mixed bag of folks from around the globe. By memory - us two Brits, a Belgian, a Chilean, two French, one Spaniard, one Greek and two Chinese.
The work was fairly intense, but like I said, they looked after us in the evenings. The first evening we had a lovely meal at a superb French restaurant. The second evening was a three hour cruise through the centre of Berlin whilst dining. I've got to admit to having a strange feeling on seeing the Wall for the first time.
Last but not least, the hotel gets a mention. It was very pleasant €51 per night for Berlin! It was used as a training facility for staff too, so most of them were under 25 and it's got to be said, absolutely stunning!
What else?
Thanks to those who've put their hand in their pocket for the sponsored bike ride. I've actually picked up a strained calf at the weekend, so I'm going a bit easy in anticipation of Sunday. I might give it a stretch with 2-3 miles tonight though.
B2 paid a visit last weekend. Didn't spend as much time together as we'd have liked, but still had some good fun. We even had a Scrabble challenge on Sunday. I have to admit to feeling a teeny bit guilty. Nat played a blinder all the way through and thoroughly deserved to win. As luck would have it, I got rid of all my tiles on the last round, so got a big bonus meaning I pipped her at the most. Bit unfair that really.
Right. More later.
Been meaning to post for a few days now, but other stuff always seemed to have got in the way.
What the hell has happened to the weather? Thirty odd days of sun and now the rain hasn't stopped. I don't mind a bit of each, but it would be much more convenient if it say, rained at night and was nice and sunny all day. Is that too much to ask?
What's been going on? Well, I went to Berlin last Monday. T'were a Bank Holiday too, there's dedication for you.
Was quite pleased at the airport. I've been after some Rayban Aviators (retro is so now, don't you know?). I managed to pick up a pair for £73, which is about £50 cheaper than I've found them online.
The reason for the trip to Berlin was work-related. I was going for a bit of training on some lab equipment that we've got. Yet again, the Europeans show how hosting should be done. They really did look after us well.
Also on the course was a mixed bag of folks from around the globe. By memory - us two Brits, a Belgian, a Chilean, two French, one Spaniard, one Greek and two Chinese.
The work was fairly intense, but like I said, they looked after us in the evenings. The first evening we had a lovely meal at a superb French restaurant. The second evening was a three hour cruise through the centre of Berlin whilst dining. I've got to admit to having a strange feeling on seeing the Wall for the first time.
Last but not least, the hotel gets a mention. It was very pleasant €51 per night for Berlin! It was used as a training facility for staff too, so most of them were under 25 and it's got to be said, absolutely stunning!
What else?
Thanks to those who've put their hand in their pocket for the sponsored bike ride. I've actually picked up a strained calf at the weekend, so I'm going a bit easy in anticipation of Sunday. I might give it a stretch with 2-3 miles tonight though.
B2 paid a visit last weekend. Didn't spend as much time together as we'd have liked, but still had some good fun. We even had a Scrabble challenge on Sunday. I have to admit to feeling a teeny bit guilty. Nat played a blinder all the way through and thoroughly deserved to win. As luck would have it, I got rid of all my tiles on the last round, so got a big bonus meaning I pipped her at the most. Bit unfair that really.
Right. More later.
Sunday, May 06, 2007
Neon Bible
Carrying on from yesterday's post about running and stuff, I've got two ramblings to share with you today.
The first is by far the most important - pay attention!
On Sunday May 20th, I'm doing a sponsored bike ride in aid Of King's Lynn Samaritans.
I did this last year and loads of folks shared some of their wealth with me. My employer has a scheme whereby everything I raise, they will match. So, if you donate £5, you've actually sponsored me £10!
Please get in touch and sponsor me NOW!
Thanks.
Secondly, partially in preparation for the bike ride, but just because I fancied it really, I went out on the bike this lunchtime. It's pretty windy today, but you take the rough with the smooth.
Why is it, no matter whether I'm running or biking, does the wind play against me? By that, I mean it always is behind me when I start and then when I turn round it's a head wind all the way home. No matter how much care I take to see which way it's blowing and plan my route accordingly.
So today, I decide a route and head off. I wanted to keep above 14mph all the way, so set off at a good pace. I headed up the A10 and soon noticed that the wind was behind me, so I was doing about 16.5mph!
I got to the halfway point, Watlington for those who know it (just near the wonderful Razz's house), I head for home on some back roads and blam - right in my face. So it's a hard 5 mile slog home.
It was hard work, but was quite pleased by the time I got home. I'd managed 12 miles in under 50 minutes which gave me an average of 14.9mph
That's all for today!
The first is by far the most important - pay attention!
On Sunday May 20th, I'm doing a sponsored bike ride in aid Of King's Lynn Samaritans.
I did this last year and loads of folks shared some of their wealth with me. My employer has a scheme whereby everything I raise, they will match. So, if you donate £5, you've actually sponsored me £10!
Please get in touch and sponsor me NOW!
Thanks.
Secondly, partially in preparation for the bike ride, but just because I fancied it really, I went out on the bike this lunchtime. It's pretty windy today, but you take the rough with the smooth.
Why is it, no matter whether I'm running or biking, does the wind play against me? By that, I mean it always is behind me when I start and then when I turn round it's a head wind all the way home. No matter how much care I take to see which way it's blowing and plan my route accordingly.
So today, I decide a route and head off. I wanted to keep above 14mph all the way, so set off at a good pace. I headed up the A10 and soon noticed that the wind was behind me, so I was doing about 16.5mph!
I got to the halfway point, Watlington for those who know it (just near the wonderful Razz's house), I head for home on some back roads and blam - right in my face. So it's a hard 5 mile slog home.
It was hard work, but was quite pleased by the time I got home. I'd managed 12 miles in under 50 minutes which gave me an average of 14.9mph
That's all for today!
Saturday, May 05, 2007
Safari Beach
There's one thing that I'm pretty strong in - willpower. If I decide that I'm going to do something. I really can put my mind to it.
So, at the beginning of the year, although it wasn't really a New Year's resolution, I decided that I was going to get back into running, cut back a bit on the alcohol and maybe lose some weight in the process.
Stats wise, I was about 13s 10lb and being a little tight in 34" trousers.
I started with a few little runs. Mostly taking Jack around the block. So it was somewhere in the region of 2 miles. It was bloody hard. But I stuck at it. Initially jogging 3 times per week. No less.
And steadily, I've been getting better.
Up to date. I now do just under 4 miles per run (often more), with just one rest day per week. I run round instead of jogging. Jack has had to fall by the wayside, as by the end, I was having to drag him along to keep up.
Results wise too, I've had to buy new trousers and jeans. a very comfortable 32" waist. I'm now down to about 12st 5lB. The 12 stone barrier is in sight.
On Thursday, my ankles were suffering a bit and I though about making it my rest day. But it's a bit like a drug. I feel as though I want to do something everyday. So I went to the gym, for the first time in about 8 months. Straight in, I dived on the stepper. 30 minutes later, I'd hit 560 calories. It felt very good.
Last night, I walked Jack with H. I felt like going out on the bike, but it was pretty windy - a bikers hatred. So, maybe Friday would be the rest day. But no, again I was restless. I decided to have a steady trot round my usual route. Except I probably did it quicker than ever before and again, it felt very good.
So, here I am at 37 years old.
Twenty years ago, I started smoking, and that continued on and off about 12 years. I also went to the gym on and off. I cycled on and off. But all of that said, I am now probably fitter than I have been since my early 20s.
Like I said, it's a bit addictive too.
So, at the beginning of the year, although it wasn't really a New Year's resolution, I decided that I was going to get back into running, cut back a bit on the alcohol and maybe lose some weight in the process.
Stats wise, I was about 13s 10lb and being a little tight in 34" trousers.
I started with a few little runs. Mostly taking Jack around the block. So it was somewhere in the region of 2 miles. It was bloody hard. But I stuck at it. Initially jogging 3 times per week. No less.
And steadily, I've been getting better.
Up to date. I now do just under 4 miles per run (often more), with just one rest day per week. I run round instead of jogging. Jack has had to fall by the wayside, as by the end, I was having to drag him along to keep up.
Results wise too, I've had to buy new trousers and jeans. a very comfortable 32" waist. I'm now down to about 12st 5lB. The 12 stone barrier is in sight.
On Thursday, my ankles were suffering a bit and I though about making it my rest day. But it's a bit like a drug. I feel as though I want to do something everyday. So I went to the gym, for the first time in about 8 months. Straight in, I dived on the stepper. 30 minutes later, I'd hit 560 calories. It felt very good.
Last night, I walked Jack with H. I felt like going out on the bike, but it was pretty windy - a bikers hatred. So, maybe Friday would be the rest day. But no, again I was restless. I decided to have a steady trot round my usual route. Except I probably did it quicker than ever before and again, it felt very good.
So, here I am at 37 years old.
Twenty years ago, I started smoking, and that continued on and off about 12 years. I also went to the gym on and off. I cycled on and off. But all of that said, I am now probably fitter than I have been since my early 20s.
Like I said, it's a bit addictive too.
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