Wii or not to Wii

Well after a long spell of wanting to buy one - I took the leap . . . Report back from the work front . . . beer with T . . . Street Kings - Rosario - Proposal / Model - Rangers and Celtic.

(All photo's courtesy of Nina and her trip to Port Nolloth, near Namibia - her home town and she is truly objective about the place [not]. This time all Namaqualand flowers . . . )

Well I finally purchased a Wii and I am well impressed - my living room has been converted into a virtual Wimbledon tennis courts and I have the sore arms to prove it . . . mind you I have also been bowling - hitting home runs - practising my swing and trying to maintain my under par scores - so I have been busy - however I have now taken delivery of a virtual tennis racket / a baseball bat / a golf club / and a steering wheel . . . so look out Bjorg; McEnroe - showing my age now - Tiger Woods - Babe Ruth - Lewis Hamilton . . . . Time will tell . . . not to mention the arms . . .

Well all quiet on the western front - we had a quick meeting on Monday at work . . . all of us round the table and within 5 minutes we had a working agreement - all's well that ends well . . . at the end of the day a lot of the problems can quite simply be ascribed to a lack of communication . . . we have all addressed this and I think we now understand each other and guess what - the major problems we had were caused by a comedy of errors - but clearly data integrity - i.e. we were not entering the information correctly . . . and then to top it all off we were working in GIS and forgot to commit and post our changes . . . so the guys must think - oh-oh that lot again . . .lol

Went out on Friday evening - simply going for a beer but then it turned out T was meeting G and drinks were to be had - well not being one to miss out - I tagged along and needless to say half a dozen later - walked up to Cine - saw Street Kings - the new Keanu Reeves; Forest Whitaker and Hugh Laurie - not bad but in my opinion it tries to be too clever - plots within plots and Hugh Laurie - does not quite make it in my opinion - bottom line - give it a miss! (thumbs down)

Hard at work putting the finishing touches to my proposal for university - sent it to Sam this evening and awaiting her feedback - just to get an objective viewpoint - limited time - and it is just to give them an idea of how you would put something together - it would still be negotiated and it is difficult question . . . oh well here goes - nothing ventured nothing gained . . .

What a cracker again Rangers and Celtic on Sunday - 1 - 0 to Celtic - then 'Gers equalised - then they went ahead - just before half time Celtic equalised - and even although it was Rangers turn to have a penalty - Celtic were awarded a penalty and they ended winning 3 - 2 - a cracker of a game - Setanta - money well spent . . . lol . . .

Rosario's birthday - my niece's little boy - what a cracker he is - all over the place as 2 year olds are - I got him in the bathroom - standing on the bath and he had turned the hot water on - there was face cloth in the sink so it would have over-flowed in another few seconds - very dangerous as he was precariously balanced as it was - let alone burning himself and pulling back and falling . . . needs lots of boundaries which I am afraid to say he ain't getting . . . . now my niece has found a job - working night shift so not sure how that is all going to work . . . even fewer boundaries if you ask me . . . lol - phew - many problems to come I fear . . .

Had a strange and very interesting dream - I am in some large dormitory . . . . lots of people sleeping together - single beds - difficult to describe . . . suddenly I am aware that this person Yvette who used to study at University of Cape Town but whom I don't know but have accepted an invitation to become her friend on Facebook on the Internet (what actually happened Facebook saw we both studied at UCT the same year and probably sent us both emails - I thought she had sent it and thought it might have been one of the girls in my class - I didn't read it properly and clicked on it to accept - Facebook then sent her an email and she eventually accepted - so we don't actually know each other but the wonder of technology somehow joined us / connected us - haven't spoken to her) - anyway weird as it may seem in my dream I suddenly become aware of the fact that she has been trying to get in touch with me via Skype (which is like an Internet telephone set up) - in my dream I still thought that is strange as we don't even know each other why would she try and get in touch with me?? Anyway I am going to phone her back (don't know how . . . but its a dream remember ) but then I realise it is getting late and if I go on to Skype now everyone will be trying to get to sleep and I will be on phone . . . . then suddenly Nina is in my head and she wants me to explain something / she wants clarity on something - what I do? and what this dormitory is all about and how it all works and I seem to remember something about children as well - I don't know whose or who they are ?? and I am afraid that is all I can remember . . . .??? Anyway the weird thing is I send Nina a text and ask her if she is OK and is there anything she wants to know - she comes back says - funny I should ask because she dreamt about me and in the dream she was asking me something but she can't remember what . . . .???? Weird yet wonderful . . .

Received an email from Benita - first really cold day in South Africa - she had on the scarf I bought her . . . . how diametrically opposite could we be - I email her back and tell her really first day of really hot weather here . . . .

All a bit weird as you say but amazing . . .

Work continues to get busier and somehow I ma getting bogged down and exhausted - problems with systems again - lack of information - half the story etc., - but then still having to train people under these circumstances as work has to be done . . . . for the second time in less than a week - I've had to basically go straight to bed on coming home - now I don't about you guys but that is not a good sign - I don't think! Hmmmm!

This Friday evening is the big Hilton Bash . . . and I am going ala Bonnie Prince Charlie . . . lol - watch this space!

Just not Cricket

Wow! All hell breaks loose on the work front - I rant / Senior Manager phones back with rant - we are all ranting . . . lol - wasn't sure I had a job to go back to on the Monday . . . lol - Phew!

Went to see In Bruges - I thoroughly recommend - a black comedy - dark humour at times - but brilliant a breath of fresh air - I thought!

IKEA 21st Birthday (21% discount) - a waste really - not really looking for anything at the moment - lovely layouts - kitchens / lounges etc., !

Lazy weekend - let work get to me more than I should. Looking at some courses again - had some brief feedback now its all guns blazing! Taxidemist??? What a weird film - interesting - Hungarian I think? I'll look it up.

Wii finally twists my heart strings - it's on its way - I like the look of Wii Fit . . . but it is not out yet - but having said that looks like pre-release orders have already bought every single copy available . . .lol.

Setanta continues to grow on me - what with Man U - Blackburn and then the Bundesliga Cup Final and IPL 2o/20 cricket - its got something on all the time at the moment as we speak Porto are playing Benfica - PSV have just taken the Dutch league - I like the fact that it is not just English Premier division . . . sick of that being the only league worth watching - just a pity the Spanish league is not featured but I think that is because of Sky commitments.

Work in Progress . . . .

1 week later

Had a Spring clean - way overdue - threw out futon bed - how relieving - to finally get shot of it - and now being able to move more freely in all sorts of areas. Whistler is very happy - he can get moving around a lot more now . . . . what a difference - ???

Well things are drawing to an end with my current position and a number of people will be affected - to cut a long story short - it looks as if the end of May will be the end of everything - well nearly everything . . . . so an evening is to be held at the Grosvenor Hilton - in the West End - a slap up meal and an open bar will be there to accompany an evening of prize giving . . . so yours truly is going to go the full hog and is considered getting himself kitted out for the evening (a black tie evening) so let us see where we end up . . . . lol - looks like Trish; Kirsteen & I will have to paint the town red . . . so to speak - should be fun.

Well been scanning the Internet and I have now booked for Amy MacDonald and Buddy Guy - both forthcoming events and Friday night went to see Unconquered - a very interesting play that was on at the Tron . . . . - I left work Friday - thought I'd rather come home first - well got as far as the back road to Milngavie and there was a sign in the road " Road Closed " - now I was in two minds anyway as I had the play to go to . . . but I thought - it's silly to stay in town - I could just as well go home first . . . but when I had a road closed sign - I thought - what the hell - who am I to argue with the forces of nature . . . . synchro-destiny as they say - anyway turned out that my usual parking garage (opposite Concert Hall & Cineworld) was also closed - so I was forced to use one further up Sauchiehall street - and then just as I was leaving the car park - who should I bump into but Sonia ??? Now that was fate for you - had circumstances not conspired I would never have bumped into her . . . . and then I went to Waterstone's and would I not bump into someone else . . . weird - don't you think??

I never mentioned Wednesday at work was a very difficult day - why? well things were very frustrating - things were not quite hanging together - then I received an email from a division that I work very closely with - and they were being very pedantic - in my opinion . . . . anyway to top it all I had had a phone call from my agency and I thought wow - they must have something for me (job wise) and it turned out that it was some misunderstanding about pay structures - so it was very dis-heartening - in fact I took it very much to heart and was upset about the whole thing until I decided - what the hell its only money and hell maybe I did mis-understand someone or maybe I just heard what I wanted to . . .when I did this and let go - how much lighter the whole thing became rather than arguing and insisting I was correct - I just said this is what I understood - maybe I got it wrong - who cares - water under the bridge - lets decide how we deal with it now??

Trish is away on 2 weeks holiday in Tunisia - received a text today - another scorcher she tells me . . . .

Went back to Bowling on the weekend took some more photo's of the canals and boats - not sure hat it is but I am fascinated by the water . . . . must be in my blood . . . ???? What a difference some sunlight can make. Even popped in at Magic cycles - a bicycle still very high on my wish list of wish lists . . . Bill from my Monday evening computer drop in swears by Magic Cycles and better still there is now a scheme whereby a company can get a tax break by sponsoring a staff member to cycle to work . . . I will need to investigate this.

I can't believe the football - I wanted Arsenal to beat Liver's in the second leg of the Champions League . . . they totally outplayed them but unfortunately no one to clinically finish-off for them??? An area Wenger needs to spend money . . .but to play so well but to not get a result - Wenger's pain is understandable . . . . And what a finish by Rangers against Sporting - what a finish . . . most of the game might not have been attractive to watch . . . but they are into the last 4 of the UEFA cup - so next round is Fiorentina - a very useful side - not an asy game - hope to get tickets after watching the Sporting game (home leg) at Ibrox . . . .

In a moment of madness I subscribed to Setanta Sports - all I know they have some games that Sky do not have - and tomorrow evening I'll be able to put my feet up and watch Rangers Celtic match - I think there is another game still outstanding after this game though . . . . so a must win for Celtic .... (It turned out to be a classic game - not necessarily the result I would have wanted - but thrilling!)

Tuesday - so it must be Dundee again - and yes that is where I spent the day again - visiting my current favourite coffee maker . . . lol - and guess what - I somehow did not get lost on the way home - so no I did not have drive through Dounne twice today . . . . lol - had a Training session again - was warned before the time - lots of difficult questions - Hey! I can only do what I can do - If I can't answer I can't answer - for whatever reason - I can surely find out for you though and if need be escalate problems to the next level and the powers that be can decide whether or not they have an issue. It was no problem in the end - chaos at times -but what else is new . . .

Came across thinking pictures some really stunning photo's - see what you think . . . .

Went to BCCC and for the first time managed to see how my tablet works - seeing as I only bought more than 4 months ago - interesting - would have to experiment more with it. Suggested we start a wii fitness club . . . lol - I am very interested in buying one now - I've even bought the Sega Superstars tennis game already - console to follow shortly . . . watch this space . . . lol

cya - A

on Safari - in photo's

Safari - Aquila - South Africa

Cape Town in photo's

Cape Town - SA 2008

Birthday celebrations in photo's

Cape Town - Birthday - Big 50

Post party; sunset; Table Mountain; Fish braai

Photo's - starts with Jenny's place and extension she is having done - Table Mountain from Table View (Yep - you know how it got it's name . . .) - two photo's taken from on top of Table Mountain - the first one clearly shows Lion's Head (larger mountain) and Signal Hill - with Robben Island in Table Bay - (other photo in earlier blog of Cape Town harbour through a fissure (also taken on my birthday) and you can just see the coast line - gives you an idea of where the shot of Table Mountain was taken from) - photo 12Bells - roaring fire . . . . V&A Waterfront - please note Jonathan in the photo (Jonathan who? Livingstone Seagull - of course) - a slightly different view of Waterfront - lastly 12 Bells

And so that was the party over . . . . quite some time in the planning – almost a year . . with a few changes along the way, venue etc., - sometimes even by choice . . . but mostly fate have a little hand in everything . . . and slowly quietly leading proceedings.

That was Sat 15 March . . . the next morning I was at Jenny’s place early morning – as she was leaving for Durban that same afternoon – so had I not seen her that morning – we were not sure of when I might have seen her . . . . spent a couple of hours with her Allison and her Dad, who is now staying with her . . . In fact her place is / was in shambles – as she has a Granny or in this case Grandfather flat being built on – this extension is almost as big as her existing house . . . well not quite but one hell of an extension. And there is building sand all over and the South Easter is blowing away sweeping up everything before it – sand everywhere – all you can do is to try and keep it damp – a hopeless task given that wind just dry’s it out again . . . only other option is to place a tarpaulin over it.

Later on in the afternoon met up with Sam, Hud & Jessila for sundowners some of my nicest photo’s across the bay again - almost the same quintessential photo of Cape Town . . . lol . Done very little – went back to Jess’s place and had a bite to eat and then back to 12Bells . . . the next day was my Birthday.

Took Mum & Cathie to Parow-Valley where they were to stay for 2 days – with Maureen. Hud and I went up Table Mountain – free for me on my Birthday and what a day it turned out to be – absolutely stunning almost no wind at all – I had to stop and buy myself a hat which affords some protection for neck as well . . . not a cloud in the sky and amazing weather . . . (see photo's) That evening Jessila; Arran; Elaine; Denise; Johan & Fransie; Stoffel & Mariette as well as Nina came round for a sea food braai (barbecue) – Sam made a sea food pot (potjie) and I attempted to braai some snoek . . . but Johan just took over and I must admit the Snoek (Cape Town delicacy) fish come out lovely. We even had fish spring rolls as well as calamari for starters . . . a roaring success – everyone seems to have enjoyed themselves. Sam & Hud went to bed early - I kept topping up everyone's glasses with red wine - we sat and chatted until around midnight then Johan and Fransie as well Stoffel and Mariette went home. Put some more wood on the fire and Nina and I blethered into the wee hours of the morning – seems there is a new found love in her life – I hope things turn out as she hopes . . . don’t we all – in fact I suppose, for most of us that is life . . .

The next evening was with Morney, Benita and their two lovely kids - Armin (8) and Mika (4) - I had given Armin an All Blacks top and he loved it from the moment he received - he said he was going to sleep in it . . . get on very well with them all and used to work with Morney - went round to his place when Benita gave birth to Armin and we had a braai and sat up drinking and talking a load of rubbish into the wee small hours . . . Benita is a email buddy in that she and I stay in touch but I rarely speak to Morney on line - funnily enough it is the same with Stoffel - get on really well with them and Mariette is an email buddy - they must both be the strong silent alpha males . . . lol - who knows - it seems to work and are all able to stay in touch with each other . . . only recently have I phoned on the odd occasion . . . Anyway braaied at Morney and Benita's - we had sort of a snack braai - you make chicken wings and nibble on that and then braai some steak and allt he time there are different things to eat whilst talking / chatting . . . was lovely and we ended going down the spirtuality route - actually they did - Benita has been saying for ages she has a list of things she wants to discuss with me - just things in general that we've discussed in emails but that somehow you can't really give them their due consideration because its almost a case of having to be with the person to truly be able to discuss and get your point across . . . . there wasn't really time - I had been up once before but they had guest at the time and Morney being such a keen cyclist he had the Argus tour on the nect day - so I knew he needed his sleep and they know sometimes you can't get rid of me . . . well I've been known to ahng around a bit . . . . so we sat outside a lovely cloudless evening - absolutely stunning and as I said intelligent conversation - what more can a person ask for??

Wednesday was retail therapy day for me - I had been given a number of gift vouchers as presents - so I set off for Canal Walk and bought a couple of CD's at Look and Listen - Chick Corea - Return to Forever; Louis Mhlanga; Kenny Burrel; Then off to Exclusive books I bought the Passion Test - its not what your thinking; lastly Musica where I bought a Shakira DVD - so that was me . . . shopping over - This was the day there was a horrific accident on the N1 - which is the main high way into Cape Town - a truck had overturned and a number of people and vehicles had been involved with fatalities - what happened was that the highway was closed for hours - and all the roads were absolute chaos . . . Sam & Hud had been going to do a tour of the Townships but after half an hour had only moved 3 or 4 miles - so they just came home and decided to do that the next day. I had been to the SPur with Nina as I felt I owed her a lunch after all the running around she had done for me organising things - we had a quick lunch and she left to go back to work and I left to pick my Mum and Cathie up - we drove through to Cape Town - we had us an appointment with Eva at Permanent Trust - she looks after my Mum's place in Parow. Cathie had said she was starving as she had nothing since breakfast (I felt a bit guilty - just having had lunch - but I had told them when I was coming - so not sure why they had not been given lunch???) I picked them up about 14h30 and against all the odds we actually made it in time - I walked in to Permanent Trust office at 15h14 our appointment was for 15h15 - just as well - I didn't realise Eva was German - you know what they are like with time . . . . anyway it was good to meet her - have been dealing with her via email for years now there is a face to put with name. Sorted out quite a few things and my Mum has about £3000 worth of maintenance that has to be done - ironically my Mum never even paid that much for the property when she bought initially. But it needs to be done - and rather now before the Cape winter.

This was my last evening in Cape Town and I had booked a table at Bloemendal - which is on one of the Durbanville hills with beautiful views - so much food again - you know its just ridiculous - you've got about seven starters you can try and 14/ 15 main courses - and of course I will be greedy . . . then dessert . . . lol - no wonder when I came back I felt I had had half a dozen Christmases (at least) . . . .

I left the next evening - OK - technically Friday morning 00h25 - well that was the scheduled time - however they over booked the air plane and 2 people got on board with a boarding pass for the same seat . . .lol - needless to say this caused chaos and eventually KLM offered anyone who was willing to give up their seat 350Euro's plus a night in hotel etc., - I was still considering it when someone else jumped up - by this time everyone applauded as we thought that would be it sorted - but of course this persons luggage had to be taken of - so it was about an hour later the scheduled time - and my return trip reminded me how uncomfortable seats in a plane can be . . . which is funny because going I was in between two people coming back I had an aisle seat . . . Iwas in my shorts a t-shirt and my crocs - true to form Amsterdam welcomed me back with European weather - it really started to snow quite heavily when we taxied on to the runway - so much so that we had to go back and have the plane hosed down to prevent ice build up on the wings . . . Glasgow welcomed me with hail - I was freezing in my African gear.

I had had a great time - yes tensions ran a little high at times but I am really looking forward to Bali next year . . . .Yoohoo! The big wedding - Sam & Hud.

Story Continues 2

Photo's - Clifton 4th Beach and then 1st Beach. Our accommodation in Milnerton '12 Bells' - Chapman's Peak Drive with Hout Bay in the background - the Lapa where I had my birthday party


So as I was saying - Aquila was great fun and in all honesty a new experience for me! One which I really enjoyed - having lived in Africa for most of my life but never having been on a Safari - I was both intrigued and because I thought I was not really in Darkest Africa (only on the tip of Africa) - I had my reservations . . . . lol - but as I say it was really well worth it.

Came back and the very next day we were off to Madame Zagara - entertainment - more contortionists and a couple of singers - but very professionally done . . . throughly enjoyed the whole evening - food included . . . mine was meat with a chocolate sauce . . . .

The following evening it was another restaurant - Stardust - basically Arts students - who performed in between courses . . . also good fun - all acted as a good prelude to my actual birthday - the star of the show.

The party was to be held at the Goodwood Sports Club - I went through on Thursday and the woman kept talking about finalising the menu - and I thought what is she talking about - but it turned out (I think it was all set up) they wanted me to use their caterer - which is supposedly a prerequisite for hiring the premises . . . needless to say I had my own caterer and had signed a contract with them - so there was no way I could suddenly say - fine lets use someone else - well they made it quite a long story and the penalty was a plate of food for the person who would have done the catering - which I thought was quite strange i.e. why would someone like that want a plate of food???? Anyway I was at this stage just happy they were allowing me to carry on - as I had visions of at the last moment trying to find somewhere else . . . . which I can assure you I did not want to do!

The whole thing had been planned initially to take place at Big Bay - but at the last minute that was being used for a National competition . . . . and they decided that I could no longer have the booking / venue - argh! Not a problem - I will switch everything at the last minute .... lol.

Anyway Sat night 15 - fast approached and I am pleased to say everything went well . . . could have been more people - but I must admit the majority of people did turn up so all n all - we did not badly for someone who lives in Scotland . . . . I must say that I felt as if I was runnign around when I would have preferred to just have sat back and relaxed more . . .

The food - Brusce's Catering - we had 3 starters and a lamb spit roast as well as a Veggie pot roast and salads / rolls etc., - there were 2 desserts - Malva Pudding & as well as custard and ice cream as well. I really enjoyed the music Boab Tree - thoguht they were outstanding - very Jazzy - quite South American - very pleasant indeed.

My only other comment - could have been because I was running around - was that it was a bit dis-jointed - i.e. not everyone knew everyone else - so there were little cliques - my fault to a degree I suppose ???

Anyway on the whole I thought it was a mild success . . . . lol

That was the first 50 years of my life on this planet . . . . .

My speech:
First I stated that I was very grateful that people who knew me so well and had sahred so many years with me were there - starting with my Mum and of course my sister - as well as Jessila (my ex-wife) with whom I had spent 20 wonderful years - then of course my children Samantha and Arran - and then people like Sharon, whom I was at school with - Graeme my nephew as well as all my friends from Telkom etc.,

I was struck by an analogy for life one morning just before going for a swim - the swimming pool was without a wave and it suddenly struck that that was what life was all about i.e. we come into life and we make waves - which ripple through life and even when you get out of the pool they are still there - so you interact and are part of things you didn't even realise - even although you yourself are not consciously aware of them.

I had bought a book just prior to my party - it was all about the meaning of life - the eternal question and there was a recurring theme - one of Love - which linked in very well with a present I had been given - and I would like to quote from Khalil Gibran

Think not you can direct the course of love
For Love, if it finds you worthy,
directs your course.

Basically I would just like to thank everyone for joining me in seeing the sun set on the first 50 years of my life
and I'd just like to point out that it is all a matter of perception
and rather than seeing this as the end please join me in seeing this as a new beginning - as one thing ends another begins
and so it is with life.

The Story Continues . . . Arrive; Aquila

So as I said we were still in the air when in actual fact we should have boarded our plane already . . . .

We basically had to run (not easy with 2 x 80+ members of the group) from where we landed to where we had to board . . . Schipol is a big airport - and along the way I tried to get a golf cart for my Mum & Cathie - but to no avail - these things have to be booked in advance - they do not believe in responding reactively . . . We eventually made it and we were not that late - as we approached we were ushered into a shorter queue - we made it on board and Maureen; Mum & Cathie were together - whereas I was miles away - that cost me a lot of money . . . lol - not at all - they have 3 seats next to each other - so I was excess baggage really - they were in 3 D, E & F or something like that - I was 41 B - yes the sought after middle seat (not) . . . ended up sitting next to an Opera singer - Edmondo - quite an interesting character - whenever the trolley came past he would ask "Cognac Andrew" and I would smile and nod my head . . .

It was a day flight - we left early morning and arrived in Cape Town at about 22h30 . . . It wasn't bad at all actually - found the return flight (a night flight) was a lot worse . . . .

We arrived on time and because of my permanent residence in South Africa - I am allowed to stand in the SA passport holders queue - which was much shorter than all those tourist types . . lol (like me) - so I was through in no time . . . however, I was no sooner through than I heard my name being announced and being told to report to lost property - and I thought I know what this is about - it will be the luggage - we just made it in time for the plane but guaranteed our luggage did not make it - and true enough it was the luggage - we were told they would be on the next KLM flight . . but that was only the following evening - and of course they would only be delivered the following day - so we landed Monday evening - all going well - we should get it on Wednesday morning . . . . Now I don't know about you, but, I consider myself to be a fairly seasoned traveller, however, I do not carry spare speedo's in my hand luggage - a laptop yes . . . and I had had toothpaste / deodorant confiscated - anything over 100ml - not allowed / verboten in your hand luggage . . . . We were told we could spend up to 100 Euro's on basic toiletries and some clothes etc., We had a taxi / shuttle service waiting to take Mum; Cathie & myself through to Milnerton - we left Maureen with Graeme as she was staying with him. We arrived at our accommodation at approximately 00h15

I was in the pool first thing the following morning . . . . shortly afterwards we hit Centre Point (local shopping centre) and bought a number of things - I went to Mr Price (SA Primark) and bought some shorts / t-shirts / sandals and then went to Clicks and stocked up on the toiletries
as did Mum & Cathie. On way back to 12 Bells - our accommodation - I was describing Stoffel's jeep and lo and behold I saw a jeep parked nearby and I said just like that one - with that I saw Stoffel crossing the road . . . I shouted but he never heard me - I stood next his jeep and waited for him . . . met him and went home with him to pick up the BMW - which he gave me for the duration of my stay . . . .

Had a braai the first evening (Tuesday) Jessila, Arran and Elaine popped round . . . visited Graeme and Maureen / Kyra-Lee; went to Spur; had some more braai's - generally just chilled - weather was absolutely stunning ; could not have asked for more; wind blew a bit - the old Cape Doctor - the South Easter was blowing by the time Samantha arrived on the following Monday morning. The Sunday went to 'Riverside' in Franschoek on the Sunday for lunch - they had a musician playing popular songs - food was good - service was terrible . . . . and loads of flies all over the place - an idyllic setting.

Sam and Hud arrived early Monday morning - and Tuesday we left for Aquila - private game reserve . . . I had my reservations as I didn't quite know what to expect . . . was also not sure that they would have what one normally associates with a safari . . . . I was soon to realise it was the real thing - it is about 100km from Cape Town - 10km before Touwsrivier - take the R46 for Ceres and it is about 2km down that road - all very well organised and a success story as Touwsrivier has no real industry and this employs most of its staff from here . . . it has identified a niche market as a lot of people only come to Cape Town and do not venture inland in South Africa. Now I am not saying this is a mini Kruger national park - but it does have everything you are looking for . . . the big five: Lions; Elephant; Rhino; Buffalo; Hippo; Giraffe etc., - so it was very impressive. The accommodation was outstanding as was the catering . . . .

We went on an evening game drive and then 06h00 the next morning - I have to safe it was freezing the evening - and I am talking about 17h00 - Sam sat with 2 blankets around her - I even had a blanket for the morning 06h00 game drive and that was the better of the two as most of the animals seemed more active at this time . . . .

We had dinner; breakfast and lunch - all a buffet and the selection was outstanding and the food exquisite - a sea food potjie; meats everything you could dream of - and lovely dessert . . . my only regret - I didn't have a swim . . .

Silence - no more! Work - Cape Town South Africa March 2008

Photo's - all mine - 1 & 2 Table Mountain from Table View - (Sam & Hud) 3 - a gorge from on top of Table Mountain (CPT harbour in background) - 4 Canal Walk



Wow! It has been quite some time since I posted - my humble apologies . . . a lot has happened since I wrote to you last - I want to get back into the swing of writing / maintaining my Blog . . . this will start with a posting and may in fact instead of 1 massive posting may evolve into a series of postings . . . let us see how it evolves . . .

A quick update then - what have I been up to - working hard - I can tell you - but that was all for a specific goal and culminated in a night out with Kirsteen; Trish; Ian & Linda - this was followed shortly there after with my trip to Cape Town to celebrate my 50 years on this planet. Who all went along - My Mum & Cathie (her friend) Sam & Hud - we hired a house in Milnerton (near Centre Point . . . .) but as usual I am getting ahead of my self . . . .

So how did the work go - I hear you ask . . . well numerous Teams / different Processes and IT Systems - at times it was impossible to get everything to talk to each other . . . which made end to end examples and walk through's virtually impossible - it then became a case of explaining this is how it will work - with a few raised eyebrows as in 'so you say' but where is the proof. I ended up following UAT (user acceptance testing) scripts so that I could get a complete and integrated picture of how it all works - this enabled me to document the whole process including actual screen dumps / captures - so that we had step-by-step dummy guides . . .

How would I rate the Training - it was problematic because of integration problems and everything being so dynamic - IT were still developing and ironing things out whilst we approached launch date . . . . all very challenging but exciting times . . . right up my street - I love nothing better than being faced with the unknown - and diving in and sorting it out for myself and then attempting to impart that knowledge to others . . . I can be very critical of myself . . . I have been in the game long enough to know when I have done well and when I could have done better . . . . and on some occasions I could have done better . . . .

Well as I said everything worked itself up into a nice little frenzy - with even myself having to work 7 days a week towards those crucial deadlines . . . . everything - for me peeked the end of February - as I had come into the project with my South Africa trip booked - so it was non negotiable . . .

The Friday 29 Feb - don't get them every year - lol - we went out for a few drinks - for me it was the beginning of my holiday - had spent the day in Edinburgh - met my SA mytjie - doing Training - in attempt to tick another few boxes - managed to do about 60 percent but just couldn't do it all - so somewhat frustrating - but we can only do what we can do . . . . not so? Anyway had a good night out . . . champagne right at the end of the evening - I think is worse than shooters - if you ask me . . . .Trish & I shared a taxi home - I got her home safe and I slept over at my Mum's - left my car at work and picked it up on the Sat morning . . .

So it was now all systems GO! for the South African tour . . . I ended up deciding to park my car at the airport - NCP - flightpath - cost a bit of money as it was almost 3 weeks - but benefit is it is right at the airport - could of got cheaper parking - but then its at least 20 minutes away and you have to give them your keys and they move the car - etc., and HEY! I only just bought my car (a Nissan Micra tjie) the middle of Feb - so I didn't like the idea of Tom Dick and Harry driving around in my car - and the difference over the 3 weeks was something like £4 ???? so it was really a no brainer which one I was going to opt for . . .

Well 3 March arrived - departure date - and would we not have a blizzard . . . the worst weather we have had in the last year . . . I mean what is that about - the country throws a damn site more than a hissy fit . . . . what a confusing set up Maureen (my sister) stays just round the corner from my Mum - gets her own taxi - I drive by myself - leaving the two old yins ( my Mum & Cathie) both over 80 to see to themselves . . . quirky - to say the least - I got their first and booked everyone in (kind of) - woman told me they are old enough to look after themselves - but she did group everyone together - or so I thought . . .

When I arrived at the flightpath (had to circle the airport twice before I found it) as I had said the weather was terrible - so the shuttle bus arrived just as I was parking so I kinda hurried to catch it . . .made it no problem - but as we drove off I realised that in my haste I had forgot to lock my car - what now - we were already driving away . . . took a chance and pressed the lock on my keys and in the distance saw the car indicators respond - just before we turned the corner . . . lol. Arrived in the departure hall - flying KLM - too early - desks not even open - what time was it you are saying - this was 03h45 - I think - flight was 05h55 or something . . . my suitcase was overweight and had get a heavy tag - no problem though - I can vouch for it it was damn heavy - don't talk about hand luggage - it was dfficult to lift . . . anyway done and hauled out the names of the rest of my party . . . .and pre-booked them all in . . . they arrived in drips and drabs . . . .

When we got on to the plane it was still snowing heavily - they ended up having to clear the runway (this is the first plane out in the morning) and hose the ice off the plane - to cut a long story short we only left somewhere around 06h30 . . . we were still in the air approaching Amsterdam when we were supposed to have boarded our plane for Cape Town . . . .

Judi - Chinese New Year - Year of the Rat - Lent - Waitangi day?

Yes its the Chinese New Year - year of the Rat actually . . . but before we go there . . . some sad news - Judi & I have split up - It has unfortunately not worked out and I am saddened but we have now parted.

So yesterday 6 Feb was the Chinese New Year - New Zealand's national day and lent . . . . all on 1 day - wow! What next reminds me of an alingment of the planets - waited with baited breath but it came and went - and as far as I know nothing untoward or extraordinary took place.

I have just started 'Kite Runner' by Khaled Hosseini - (link to his blog) - I have seen the film (unfortunately - not that it wasn't a very good film) so I know the story - it is just the sequence that I don't approve of - i.e. would probably have preferred to ahve read the book first - but that normally means I don't enjoy the film - trade-off's - the book is very well written and has already won me over.

I am following the US elections with interest - the main interest is between Obama and Clinton - it is proving to be a neck and neck race - rumour has it Clinton for president with Obama as vice president - whether the two will speaking to each other by the time of the Democratic congress is another matter. (Lets not talk about the rumours of Blair wanting (I'll bet he does) to be the first European president . . . . lol.

Cinema - I've started off viewing a number of new films:

No Country for Old Men (best of the bunch)
Sweeney Todd ( excellent - exceptionally well made - Tim Burton is the director - very clever and well made)
Valley of Elah (interesting . . . not as good as the other two.

Still working away at the Utility Co., - things have both slowed down and intensified strange as it sounds - now learning and integrating processes with the IT Systems - now realising the process documents do not always mirror or give the full detail of the steps involved in the IT systems. I will actually be conducting some of the Training myself now.

Whee - Shopping - been taking out membership of ACM - IEEE - BCS - full membership for each always wanted ACM membership as I have found no better publications than there's - in most areas of study. In going forward I think this will be critical / crucial for any PhD applications - Yes, I am still interested in persuing this and in fact found some this week which I intend applying for . . . in fact one closes on 12 Feb - so I'll need to get oraganised.

Rugger - went to the France Scotland 6 nations game - Scotland started of well but unfortunately faded - I believe the first France try was a forward pass - but they did score a fantastic try in front of Phil (who went with me - thank goodness it was cold as he had his England jerseyon under his cardigan . . . lol) and I. It was a good day . . . . just waited for ages for the bus afterwards.

Fabio Cappello is the new England manager and last night they had their first game under him - the first half they looked very mediocre - a good goal by Jenas and in the second half almost an identical move and Shaun Wright-Phillips scored . . . . the jury is out - early days - one striker up front the fans were losing patience until the goal was scored - a good equaliser by Switzerland . . . lets see how it all develops and how long the honeymoon lasts - on paper Cappello is the best manager but its the results that count.

As mentioned earlier my SA trip is just around the corner and I am really really looking forward to some quality time in the sun . . . .

Creative Slide Show

Came across this on Webshots - absolutely lovely - just thought I need to share this . . . enjoy!



Creative Challenge Winner's Circle

That was 2007 - an eventfull Year!

Wow! Here we are 2007 is almost a thing of the past - 31 December - early morning and I am thrown into reminiscing on the year that was . . .

Started off with a flurry of activity - Sam & Hud were in Perth for Christmas and then spent some time here as well - I had spent some time with Judi between Christmas and New Year - was up to my ears in uni work - had a programming assignment; an essay & an exam to prepare for . . . then James & family arrived from New Zealand - followed closely by Graeme from South Africa and almost straight into my Mum's 80 th at the Radisson hotel . . . phew! It was a busy month and basically a gathering of the clan -Mum; Judi & I as well as Sam & Hud stayed overnight at Radisson . . . . was a stressful evening in some ways - the event had been 18 months in the planning - my one regret - I did not have a photographer as didn't really get a lot of photo's out of the evening. Was sorry did not have more time to take James & co., around. Actually managed to pass my assignments - although Internet Programming by the skin of my pants . . lol

I can't remember Feb in quite as much detail - took Graeme to see Six nations game Wales vs Scotland and by all accounts he really enjoyed this -far more than the Kilmarnock Vs Rangers game at Ibrox . . . I booked up for a holiday in Rome as Judi had told me she always wanted to go there.

March my birthday - Judi bought me a ring - hmmm usually other way round . . . lol - and there were 2 rugby games - she spoilt me that whole weekend . . . I wasn't allowed to lift a finger.

April - exams again Designing Usable Systems & Artificial Intelligence . . . then it was the long wait - which proved longer than expected - to hear whether or not I had been accepted onto Masters component of course - things could have ended here and I would have been awarded a National Higher Diploma . . . .

May - Roma (was still awaiting results) Judi & I went to Rome - stayed near Navonna Plaza - in the heart of Old Rome - walking distance to Vatican City etc., - hired an apartment - everything turned out to be within walking distance - the odd day we could have taken a bus we just walked anyway - was great immersed ourselves in the local atmosphere (by going to all the tourist haunts . . . lol) - had a great time . . .

June - finally received confirmation was accepted onto Masters - chose my dissertation topic - not without some confusion - but eventually settled on 'A comparative evaluation of Java teaching environments' - which proved to be very interesting . . . this was to keep me really busy for the next 3 months . . .

July - dissertation . . . Judi's birthday (Rome had been the birthday present) - went down to London with Judi - she attended a acupuncture conference on fertility . . . met up with Sam & Hud at went Cuban for the night . . . I ended up smoking a cigar . . . felt quite sick afterwards . . lol . . . Judi kept stealing my glass of wine . . . lol

August - dissertation . . . a brief visit down to Sam - I had a airplane ticket from a year ago ( a long story) - anyway visited and basically cat & house sat - whilst Sam & Hud were in Switzerland. What a calamity when I got lost in London and missed my train . . . . and had to get back to Sam's place after having hidden the keys inside the door . . . lol - Babbaloo was pleased to see me again and I managed to let him out so he could wander - Sam had kept him inside all the time - as they had only had him for a week . . . a friend for life - after I gave him his freedom.

September - dissertation hand in . . . . a last rush to complete and tidy up - by this time I was sick of reading and re-reading it and eventually just handed in . . . was I to regret it . . . not in that sense but I had hoped to do better . . . Murray my mentor had been great - I should have paid a little bit more attention to a few pointers / requirements - some simple stuff I left out . . . Fiona my niece arrived with her two kids Rozita & Rosario - she has decided to come and stay here in Scotland now . . . Wow! How could I nearly forget an amazing weekend in the Lake District - Ambleside - I had no sooner handed in my Dissertation than Judi whisked me off for the weekend - lovely - apparently June suggested it - good one June! Thoroughly enjoyed and loved the area - worth exploring in more detail - file under - Well Worth another visit . . . lol.

My Mum and I shot over to Vancouver for a week - absolutely lovely - a great hotel / location-wise and we managed to do a lot in our week . . . even got to Whistler . . . I've always wanted to go here . . .

October - the big question - What now?? Academic / Work / Leisure ??? Central themes for this month - Graduation - the big day a year's work behind me - blood sweat and tears . . .

November - somewhat similar to last month - more focus on applying for jobs though and lo and behold end of the month an add on the Monday morning and by the end of the week I had the job - not permanent mind you - but seeing as some confusion and no definite decisions having been made it was ideal . . .also bearing SA 2008 birthday extravaganza - It seemed ideal . . . also somewhat depressing not working and not having that sense of urgency . . . uni work etc.,
Started work on the last day of November . . . .

December - Phew - what a baptism . . . a hell of a lot of work - very complex and involved - really enjoying it but I have to say - it is taking a lot out of me - not sure that I am being justly rewarded . . . perhaps that is a commonly held point of view . . .
Judi has just contacted me - her first delivery as a Dullah (???? spelling) she has been with a client since Sunday morning about 03h00 and she just arrived home at about 05h00 Monday morning - a baby boy . . . she is totally knackered and she is already wondering how this would have panned out in a normal work week . . . . have to say so am I . . . lol

Well its been an eventful year - one that stretched me in many ways - but I am a better person, in my opinion - a lot of personal growth - more apprecaition for who I am - setting limitations and allowing myself some quality time - relaxation. Judi & I have had some ups and downs and I am sure we will have some more - I am pleased to say that we appear to be ending off the year much closer with a deeper understanding and appreciation for each other -which I feel can only bode well for the future.

UK - wise Brown seems to be a total nightmare after starting off quite well - the best punchline was he has gone from 'Stalin to Mr Bean' and that really sums it all. Looks like a mild recession is on the way . . . house prices may actually drop . . . who knows ????

On a Global perspective If I could have one wish for 2008 - its that people start talking to each other . . . Hamas & Israeli's; Taliban & British / US; they are legitimate organisations with a following . . . too much to ask for?????

May you have a great 2008!

3 Weeks and running

(Motivational posters (not) accessed from www.despair.com
Well I told you I had started working again and it is all Go, Go, Go - lots of intensive analysis and trying to get to grips with what is actually going on - as you can imagine it is very difficult to parachute yourself in behind enemy lines - and try to instantiate yourself i.e. get to talk their language and understand their actual business . . . it is a real challenge one that I am enjoying though . . . majority of the people we are dealing with are most helpful and our profile has been raised with a memo that went out to everyone explaining that we had come on board and exactly what our role is . . . . so lets hope it gets just a wee bit easier . . . . we hope . . . .

Two things of note - company that hired me to work with this utility company 'XYZ' consultancy - had a meeting with us last Friday - and to cut a long story short it went on longer than it should have - everyone agrees - anyway eventually I had to say that I had to leave - so I could catch my train . . . I did so - did the 100m dash to the station and lo and behold I thought I had missed it but it turns out the train was cancelled . . . as there are only trains every 30 minutes - I had to just stand there and wait - eventually arrived at Dalmuir station - where I park my car now - at about 19h45 - only to realise that I had left in such a hurry that I had left my keys in my draw at the office - so a few seconds and there and then I decided I had to go back.

I had also agreed to pick a carpet from my Aunt's place for Maureen (my sister) - and had phoned and arranged to pick it up - so I had to phone a cancel all of this.

Had to phone one of the people on my team - to get security's phone number and arrange to get them to open up for me etc., - so 2 trains to get back - 2 trains back to car and I was home by 22h15 - exhausted, is a mild term describing how I felt . . . . . As if the work itself was not enough I had to add this to the whole equation . . .


I have to admit I have been asking a lot of questions - it seems as if I spend most of my life at the moment at work - that is how it seems - sleep ; eat ; travel ; work ; eat ; work ; travel ; eat ; sleep etc., . . . the evening just flies by - does not feel like any real passage of time before it is time for bed . . . . at first I was going to bed about 22h30 - but I am trying to push that slightly now . . . but that comes at a cost as well . . . - just seems there should be a lot more to life . . . I think I'd much rather be studying again - I found that far more rewarding (although it didn't pay . . .) -- and was significantly happier - in my opinion . . . . hmmmm - well not completely true - but I do think I had a much better quality of life . . . . ?????

Wednesday I was in Edinburgh in the morning and Dundee in the afternoon . . . . quite a bit of travelling - I slept over at Judi's place so was at the office early in the morning as she stays not to far away - walked around the corner and caught the No 11 and was there in 10 minutes . . . . phew!

Tuesday morning - major accident on the A82 - I left home at about 07h40 and within about 3 miles from home hit the traffic - I sent P a text to tell her I'd be late - bumper to bumper - radio said a car had over-turned - took about 1 and half hours just to get out of Dumbarton - by this time I had convinced myself I had left the hot water tap on - so I had to go home and of course it was fine . . . . then drove or should I say I attempted to drive to station - abandoned car - in Bellsmyre still and walked to station . . . . instead of 08h40 I arrived at work at about 10h40 - what a waste of time . . . . lol

Went to the dentist this morning . . . been having toothache and problems with my gums . . . . Holly still there (from NZ) whilst my dentist (Lucy) is still on maternity leave . . . a couple of X-rays later and a whole host of appointments - 4 in total . . . my gums are bad and need to see the oral hygienist - I am currently using Corsoydl to rinse my mouth - my oral hygienist recommended it some time ago . . . . Lets hope I get it all sorted . . .

Well - How goes it with Christmas shopping - I'm actually quite happy - I think - I want to wrap things this weekend to see where I am - as I think I have enough already . . . . for everyone - Judi; my Mum; Maureen; Fiona; Rozita & Rosario etc., - and the odd present for myself - I bought a PC tablet - will have to take it along to PC club - and try to play around with it prior to the next meeting - bought it when I saw you can take notes (free hand) and that it can be added as part of a Word document . . . . and I couldn't resist a travel bag - binoculars ; a compass etc.,

May I just take this opportunity to wish you all a Merry Merry Christmas and a Peaceful New Year . . . . . I plan to spend Christmas with Judi & the boys and Boxing day with Maureen & Mum . . . New Year I hope to be relaxing at home and will invite my Mum and we can phone all and sundry (Yes, that's you James) . . . lol.

Stay well - warm (it has been -7 in some places over the last few days - really bitter) and safe.
Andrew

Arran - Work

Photo's - a running tally of American casualties in Iraq . . . of course out of date now . . . forest setting & The Magic compass film

I struggled with an easy decision this week - my son Arran wanted me to take out car insurance for him in my name - after hesitating - I told him in no uncertain terms - that I was sorry but I just wasn't going to do it - the ramifications to him could enormous as he needs to drive for his job - he has managed to have several accidents in the last few months - have I mentioned that he doesn't even have a licence - we always want to do everything we can for our kids - I even seriously considered taking out the insurance - they weave an intricate web and we find it so easy to make excuses for them and their actions - after all they are only human - and I found it hard to say no - even although I have no doubt that it is the right / correct decision. No doubt I will be called every name under the sun - but I'll have no part in anything that could happen to him - I have told him he now needs to take responsibility for his own life and his actions and the affect they have in his life.

Well it had to happen - lol - I am working now.

You know how these things creep up on you . . .when you least expect it - saw an advertisement on the Tuesday morning and by late Friday it was confirmed that I had the job . . . it is a contract position so it is finite at the moment - at least 2 months - and with Cape Town Birthday bash just around the corner and still looking at PhD's - it was the ideal opportunity . . . no idea where it may lead to from here. What am I doing hmm a long story but the executive summary - I am helping a large utility company put together training material that they need some help with a whole raft of new processes they are implementing at the moment - clear as mud - lol. Basically new and exiting processes which need users to be re /trained in. Tight deadlines and quite a number of processes. That's about all I can say.

It's almost the end of my first week and I am feeling a wee bit tired a fair amount of travel - myself and 2 other people in team - we seem to be gelling and thus far agreeing with the way forward - enjoying some of the staff in the company.

The main area I am still getting used to is getting up at some unspeakable time in the morning . . lol. After a number of variations and horrendous traffic on Wednesday - when I had to just abandon my car on the way and turn around and catch a train - I have now worked out the optimal route by train by myself - I drive to a not too distant station and change half way and then catch another train -its not bad really - main thing is it minimises chances of being stuck in traffic like Wednesday . . . I intend buying another car - which is more reliable and would probably drive - well particularly when travel is involved as you are not dependent on times and trains etc., - get up and go basically - whenever you want - also easier to go to work earlier and corner those evasive or too busy execs . . . .and get some answers.

Looking forward to being able to complete some of the material and see its sign-off and or implementation.

Anyway just a short update of what is happening . . . in my life at the moment - it is only 21h25 and have to admit I am exhausted . . lol - sad I know - time for a nice hot bath and a long soak . . . enjoy yourselves . . .

PS - Judi said we'll both be so knackered on the weekend we'll be fighting about whose turn it is to get up to make a cup of coffee . . . .lol - regeneration time . .


I can't wait to see what they have done with Phillip Pullman's book - film the Magic compass

Links:

Kindle get with it man - what is it???

Cooking

The Tide Turns . . . Brown in the Mist

photo's - Sam, Arran & Jessila, Eortica 07 / Mike & Naz / Fiona swears allegiance to yon Queen in Buckingham palace . . .


Well after a somewhat frustrating (read depressing) wait I have finally managed to find some work - it is not a permanent position and takes me back to my core skills of Learning and Development. It is a short term contract - for two months and it seems the best way for me to do this and work in this way is for me to start my own company . I am still interested in doing my PhD and intend applying for this - when successful I will be paid a salary. However, in the interim, whilst awaiting the ultimate PhD offer - need to put some food on the table and the odd bottle of red wine of course - so this seems a good way for me to do so - there are certain tax advantages of doing it this way. A bit scary in a way as you then take full responsibility for what you earn . . . lots of work out there but it is not an easy ride - particularly if you are just starting out and do not have loads of contacts in the area . . . . Oh well - caution to the wind here we go I am setting sail for yon distant shore and trust that the weather will not be too inclement - not that I expect it all to be plain sailing . . .

As an indication of my desire to work (I hope the Job Centre is reading this . . . lol) I even went to Royal Mail and attended both an interview and a 1 hour induction - as a Christmas casual . . . I made it on to the waiting list - in fact funny how things work - had I been successful I may not have seen and responded to the above position - weird - I woke up early (earlier than usual - my usual) and was on the PC and saw the above position - its temporary nature actually appealed to me - believe me or not . . . . - anyway applied early Tuesday morning and went for interview on Thursday and was informed on Friday afternoon that I had been successful . . . . so it was fast and furious . . . lol

I am waxing lyrically about the job but in truth I do not have anything in writing yet - don''t expect any problems though . . .

Birthday's are numerous during the month of November - with Tom; Mike & ANdy all turning 1 year older - Judi has been cooking up a storm for each of her sons - with them allowed to choose the main meal . . . . celebrations . . . and sometimes bored games - oops a slip.

What else has been going on - Christmas shopping - now that Fiona with her two kids Rozita (4) & Rosario (18 months) are here brings a new dimension to this years celebrations . . . she is staying with my sister Maureen and they are somewhat over-crowded - hopefully though they will find a bigger place soon - which will be better for everyone . . . Been doing my fair share of looking and deciding what to buy . . . . I've only just realised that I will be working through this period - only qualifying for the statutory holidays - as the format of the work dictates I only get paid for the days I work . . . . so need to work every day I can . . . lol - Oops somehow slipped back to the work story . . . lol.


It looks like I will motor across to Judi's place Christmas eve and then over to Maureen's - late on Christmas day - sleep over at my Mum's and then home later on Boxing day . . . . working on the Thursday & Friday and then on Monday 31st ??? But will wait and see whether this is what transpires.



Winter is fair drawing in . . . it has been fairly bitter the last few days . . . thank goodness for central heating - Judi claims this side of the world - everything over Erskine Bridge is both cold and wet . . . she half lives on the radiator to cope with conditions here . . . lol.

Was out last night @ Walkabout - Phil & Emma's birthday . . . Matthias & Antonio as well as some other friends of Emma & Phil were there . . . turned into a good evening - there was some commotion in the place but it was sorted out by chucking the whole group out - about 20 of them . . . anyway everyone is just there to enjoy themselves and these guys were a bit over the top - I had bumped into them at the bar and the one guy had tried to swipe his credit card through my teeth or something along those lines - I just ignored him and laughed - but no doubt someone took offence with regards to something that was said or done and it escalated from there . . . .

Took Fiona to see Beowolf at the Imax cinema - it is in 3D - it was good fun and very well done in parts . . . it incorporates a new form of animated filming - it has real actors but they are portrayed by an animated character - apparently they film the real actor and it is somehow transformed into the animation . . . in most cases you know immediately who it is - but the voice helps in certain cases . . . I recommend the film - a more mature audience - not suitable for the younger viewers - may even have a PG rating - not sure.

Well football-wise that is both Scotland and England are out of Euro 2008 . . . it's quite amazing Tuesday the Data disks went missing with every family's private details and information on it . . . and then Wednesday England out of Euro . . . . what's next they say - well actually all of that was preceded by Northern Rock - what is that your saying??? Well in a nutshell Alistair Darling (who didn't exist to most people - before these fiasco's ) decided that we couldn't have a run on a British bank - which is what happened - people queueing to get their money out of the bank and the bank not having enough . . . . so - our good friend Alistair lent the bank £20bn - that is a lot of money - it translates in to each tax payer lending the bank £900+ ; which is ludicrous - in my opinion - the bank is a company - like any other - if they can't finance themselves then they probably should not be in business . . . . simplistic - yes.

Well I am afraid to say Gordon Brown goes from one fiasco to another and we are still no closer to understanding fundamentally what he stands for? The honeymoon is over - and if he continues like this it will not be long before he is jilted or the country as a whole and his backbenchers institute divorce proceedings.

I see another Bush lackey was given his marching orders - Howard in Australia - the swing away and against him was dramatic that he lost his own seat - something that has not happened in over 78 years . . . .

Another attempt at peace in the Middle East is starting up - a process which is no doubt doomed before it has even started - Abbas the Palestinian leader does not speak for Hamas - who control Gaza - so you ask yourself what is the point - if a naive observer like myself can see the futility - who do they think this process will appease - yes, America needs something to work in the Middle East - but this will be a hollow victory if they hold this up as a supposed success story . . a waste of time and money - and yes I think the upstart Blair is involved although - thank goodness we hardly ever hear about him anymore - here today and no more - apart from the odd dinner speaking engagement for a steal of £250 000???? Wow!

Anyway quite enough cynicism for the moment - cya Andrew

Links:


Emperor's New Clothes - I'll change, Vows PM after week of crisis . . . Yeah right!


Hamas warns of impending violence after talks




Scotland's finest

Best reads of 2007

Erotica 07


Facebook accused of spoiling Christmas