I'm Back!

Happy Xmas and Merry New Year to all of you that I didn't get to see before I left or the wilds of Wales. Had a good Xmas chez the folks but its also good to be back in the land of black pudding and civilisation. Hope you all had a good time too. We're coming up to the end of the Cranford voting so I'm open to offers on what you'd like to see me poll on next. Actually, I might do it on the Xmas Dr Who - wasn't it pants? Miss DD has a full itinerary lined up for me from tomorrow so watch this space since I'm sure my leisure time between now and going back to work will be jam packed! That's all. J x

Quick Update

Friday got blotto on VMs (I blame the trainees - they're all far too young and their constitutions too strong). Consequently was still drunk Saturday morning when I got up to catch the train to London. Sobered up by the time I arrived, thank God, met Fig and went to see Lord of the Rings (the musical). Not good. Although Fig enjoyed it. Then back to Brighton to see Fig's new kitchen (v nice). Sunday morning saw John for a bit and then up to Gatwick for flight back home. Monday morning off to Liverpool for meeting, Tuesday evening wrote Xmas cards, Wednesday lunch time went to civil service carol concert in St Anne's church (nice, haven't been to a carol concert for ages)and in evening got dragged out for a couple of VMs by Ms Drury (the one and only). Was supposed to have spent this evening wrapping Xmas presents but got distracted by computer instead. Will have to do them tomorrow now. Saturday its off to Swansea and therefore will be incommunicado for a week (unless I can wait for Dad's dial up to load so that I can blog - we'll see). That's all. J x

Fabulous

Just too too fabulous. Tears, laughter, death and railways. It just doesn't get better than that. That's all. J x

Stop Press

Just seen on CNN - Jodie Foster comes out. Fantastic. (Of course we in the gay community knew all along because we can always tell...), That's all. J x

Cranford

Not a whole lot of laughs this week it has to be said. And it looks like we're not going to get to meet the gay son. Still Francesca looked fab at the May Day festival. And Julia did raise a smile when she declared that she hadn't "had a goose in her garden" for a few weeks. I'm hoping it all turns out happily ever after next week. Especially for the poor (not very attractive) young doctor. That's all. J x P.S. John's brother is now doing fine thank goodness. Nanny Ogg's husband has had to go into hospital though so we're all rooting for her (and him) at the moment. Lots of love to you Nanny, give me a shout if you need anything.

Xmas cars?

Oh I wish... that should have been "cards" of course. J x

Good Session

3 calls, 2 really interesting and one quite unusual. Can't say more than that on account of confidentiality but suffice to say I felt like we'd helped which gives one a nice feeling. Xmas shopping, Xmas wrapping and Xmas cars today. Oh the joy... Put my Xmas decs up yesterday (Mrs T, your candlesticks are central to this year's display) and that was fun. That's all. J x

To Them That Have Shall Be Given...

...lots of lovely things. Armani phoned me up yesterday and invited me to visit their shop this week and they'll give me 30% off everything. 30%. Everything. Armani. Child and sweetshop are the words that spring to mind. Rest assured I will indeed be paying them a visit (not that I'm promising to buy anything!).

Helpline Xmas do was fun last night. Lots of enthusiasm for setting up a LGBT book group (not that I'll be ignoring my regular - first & best - book group). Out in the Village afterwards. Got home about 0100. The latest I've been for ages & ages. Also got told that I looked "dazzling". And that's the first time that's ever happened!

Doing my second helpline "listening in" session tonight with Jeff. Looking forward to it and hoping we have more calls than my first session (nil!).

Next weekend I'm off to London/Brighton to stay with the lovely lovely Figgy to see Lord of the Rings The Musical. Can only stay the Saturday night though as too much work on at the mo. That's all. J x

Kicking & Screaming

I didn't want to go (obviously - lets go to the gym I said) but she took me out for 4 (yes count them, 1, 2 , 3, 4) VMs. What's a boy to do? And we're out tomorrow for the (second tier) birthday celebrations and then its straight on to the Helpline Xmas Party on Friday. Other news - neighbours moved out today. They left their mobile number because they're after my bath when I have the refurb done. Cheapskates! Hope my new neighbour isn't a party girl. I like the quiet life... That's all. J x

Shock Horror Tippi Hedron a Lunatic

Who knew? Apparently she runs a sanctuary for tigers and the like in Los Angeles. One of the keepers just got bitten. And... she's the mother of Melanie Griffith. The actress. I didn't know that either.

In other news, Wayne's birthday tomorrow so we're ll going out for a meal. DD's birthday on Friday so we're all going out for a drink... on Thursday. Only the select few have been invited on Friday. And I'm not one of those. That's all J x

Have We Correct Time Now?

Just checking... That's all. J x

All New Look

And now with voting buttons! You can look forward to some interesting surveys dealing with the hottest political and social questions of our time in the future - and to start us off a really hot topic - what do we think of Cranford? Voting closes on 31/12 so use it or lose it.

I appear to have temporarily lost my site visit counter but rest assured we are working hard behind the scenes to get it restored. And I still haven't got the time right yet. That's all. J x

Can't Wait

Just one hour until Cranford!

Went to the vigil last night. Very moving despite the pouring rain. There were a couple of speeches. One from the chair of Manchester Body Positive. He is a haemophiliac who was diagnosed with HIV 25 years ago. At the time the doctors gave him 6 months to live (just time to sort out his affairs - he said that the doctors clearly hadn't reckoned with his lack of organisational skills because 25 years later he still hadn't sorted them out!). He also tested positive for hepatitis C at the same time but the doctors didn't tell him because they thought he'd be dead in 6 months. How appalling is that? Hopefully it wouldn't happen now. And then to cap it all he's recently tested positive for VCJD too. Makes you think... The choir were really good too. DD and I went for a drink in Malmaison afterwards (I know, I know we said we'd never go again but you try finding somewhere to have a drink that has seats available at 1900 on a Saturday night). And then she went off to the Xmas markets and I met Mark for a couple of beers around the Village.

Had a call from John today and his brother is really ill in hospital. My thoughts are with him and his family and I hope it all turns out alright for everyone concerned.

That's all. J x

I Heart Janice

And I hope she wins...

Did my first listening in last night. Not a single bloody call! Still had the lovely Paul and the lovely David to pass the time. Off to the World Aids Day vigil tomorrow and then off out with Mark afterwards. And then Cranford on Sunday! Yippee. Aged Ps are back from Portugal - they had gorgeous sunny weather the whole time they were there. The buggers. Heard from Mrs T. She is fine but currently unemployed. Spoke to Figgy this week too. Panto-fest may be in doubt as he's used all his holidays. Still, will see him on the 15th as we're off to see Lord of the Rings (the musical). That's all. J x

What a Lovely Surprise

Linda sweetie, thanks for the lovely card and note. It brought a smile to my face (in a good, nostalgic kind of way). I too am sorry that I had to miss the "Death of Crawley" party but I'm definitely up for a get together in the New Year. And I'd love to see both you and Sue P at some point even if there isn't an official get together. I'd meant to write to Sue to thank her for the lovely cards she sent me while I was ill but she hadn't included her address. I badgered Karen for the address and when she sent it to me I promptly deleted the text! I didn't have the nerve to tell her I'd done it and so never got to write to Sue. When you see her/talk to her next tell her I'm sorry and that I'l apologise in person when I see her. And also thank her for the cards for me because they really meant a lot.

Did Andrew George make it to the party? Any change? And Ms Johnson, given that you've mentioned how successful she is I'm guessing there's been no change there...! Talk soon honey. J x

Noise and Disease and the Irish!

Honestly its enough to make you have a headache of phenomenal proportions. Or even the Quincy. On both sides! Cranford is as delightful as ever. That's all. (But rest assured that Kylie was recorded). J x

Back from Brum

Well, isn't the plot of Il Trovatore just too depressing and ludicrous for words? And the staging didn't help either. All very dour and dark and unimaginative (to my mind). And poor old Dennis O'Neill. Fantastic voice (even when he's singing off-stage as he has to lot in this play) but 4 foot high and 5 foot around does not the figure of a romantic troubadour make! Still Cinderella was brilliant. No fairy godmother (something to do with the Pope's attitude to witches when Rossini wrote the thing apparently) but a couple of really comic ugly sisters and a fantastic father. The prince had a lovely voice as did his tutor (a central character essentially replacing the fairy godmother). The costumes were also great as was the imaginative staging. The rats got on my nerves a bit though. Apart from that lots of shopping (didn't buy a great deal though, 2 pairs of cufflinks and a Xmas present and that was it) and a couple of drinks on the scene. Their Harvey Nicks is tiny although their Selfridges is bigger than ours - and housed in that fantastic building too. Hotel was warm and comfortable with lots of hot water so all in all a very nice weekend. That's all. J x

Solihull and Beyond

Well, I'm back safe and sound. And aren't we all in line for a shake-up? And that's even before we get a new chairman/woman who wants to do everything differently anyway. Off to Birmingham tomorrow for 2 days of opera (Fig we need to speak of John Barrowman). Back on Sunday. That's al. J x

Unbelievable

Politicians and the media running around like headless chickens. The discs have fallen down the back of someone's desk and will turn up in due course. And I really don't understand why the chairman had to resign. We had guidelines in place and they weren't followed by a member of staff. Its the member of staff who should have gone. That's all. J x P.S. Off to Solihull tomorrow for 2 days to discuss important matters such as, no doubt, how to seal envelopes and correctly address them...

Cranford

And a camp classic is born. How will we ever forget Julia Mackenzie saying "that cow is like a daughter to me"? And the expression on her face as the purgative she has fed the cat gets to work... Just fabulous. That's all. J x

Saturday

Fun day. Garden centre in morning with DD. She bought a holly, pansies, Xmas decorations, compost and a bird feeder and I bought... nothing! That's right readers, I went shopping and didn't buy anything. The local papers have been informed. Flat cleaning in afternoon (that wasn't a fun bit) and then playing on the computer whilst texting Mark and discussing IACGMOOH in the evening. Biggins is a good addition we decided. And not a vodka martini to be seen... That's all. J x

Stardust

Went to see it last night with Gill and Ricky. What a fun film. Robert de Niro as the drag captain of a pirate ship was superb. And Charlie Cox. Phwoar! Then out for a vodka martini or 3 tonight with Ms D. Off to a garden centre with her tomorrow morning and then a well earned rest for the rest of the weekend - its been a hectic week (at least that's the plan so far!). That's all. J x

IACGMOOH

Its car crash telly. I don't want to watch. Honest I don't. I can't stop though. J x

It Was 2 VMs

And why not? Negotiations about NYE took place. I can't quite remember what we decided though...

Pleasant day today. Lunch with Eve and then a haircut after work. Oh, and Phil D's twins are on the way... That's all. J x

When DD Calls...

...you jump. We're off tuxedo hunting followed, no doubt, by a VM or 2! That's all. J x

Helpline

Yesterday was the last day of the training. Next up are the "live sesions". 3 sessions of just listening in to one of the mentors taking calls and then 6 sesions of being listened into by a mentor. The last training day was as good as ever and we all went to Canal Street afterwards. It ended up with just me Mark & Paul at the end (is this a trend emerging?). Mark has given me a copy of he Ethel Merman Disco Album which I'm looking forwad to listening to enormously. Will probably meet up with Paul for coffee in the week as he works just round the corner from me.

Hectic week ahead as ever but the following week is even more hectic as have 2 days in Solihull (I know) on business and then 2 days in Birmingham for opera - Il Trovatore ad Cinderella. Know nothing about the latter so it should be interesting. And since its WNO you're pretty much guaranteed that it will be good.

That's all. J x

Brrr

My but its gone cold tonight. Went with DD to see plans for a development down the road (800 flats, shops, offices, hotels and a doctor's surgery - probably). The nice young architect who talked us through the plans reckoned that it would raise the value of my apartment so that's OK then! Off to the Hilton afterwoods for a VM. The place was packed to the gunnells with accountants in tuxedos for some annual dinner or other. Thence to Albert Square for the Xmas lights turn on but as hot as Shane Ward looked he couldn't heat up the whole square and we had to come away before the new enormous Father Xmas was illuminated. Saw the fireworks from my apartment though. That's all. J x

The Count

(No, not Dracula - although I understand that Mel Brooks' musical version of Young Frankenstein is due to open on Broadway soon - worth the trip to New York just to see that I expect). But its just over a week since I launched that counter thing on this blog and during that time there have been 186 visits! Obviously some of those are me and some will be repeat viewings by my regulars but I'm fairly chuffed with the number anyway and so you'l be pleased to know that I intend carrying on with the blog. That's all. J x

The Weekend

Helpline training yesterday - excellent as ever. Went for a drink with a couple of the guys afterwards which was fun. Have to get on with the cleaning now as Denise is coming round later to browse my extensive collection of Xmas decorations as she wants to borrow some. Will find out if she's bought our tickets for NYE. Spoke to the Aged Ps this morning and will be trying to book for Hairspray when we go to London to see the Terracotta Army in London in January. God only knows what my father will make of it! Sounds like we will also be making a trip to Venice next year en famille with my Aunt & Uncle. That should be fab. Then making some soup this afternoon I hope followed by watching the recording of Britz I made in the week since the world and his wife is telling me it was fantastic. That's all. J x

Elizabeth

Went tonight to see the above with Sara. I really enjoyed it, Sara less so. I think she was bothered by the whole historical accuracy thing. I, on the other hand, think that Elizabeth probably did have a Joan of Arc outfit in her wardrobe just waiting for the appropriaye occasion (ooh, I don't know, lets say the arrival of the Spanish Armada). She looked dead good in it too. In fact she looked dead good in her all her costumes which were just sumptuous. Need to get a book now to read all about it and what actually happened. Other than that a quiet week (apart from the 13 hours in Bristol). Got helpline training tomorrow which will be fun. Probably go for a drink afterwards. Cleaning and ironing on Sunday - got to make a start as Aged P's visiting mid-December. Also mother wants to go and see Hairspray whilst we're in London to see the Terracotta Army. Michael Ball in a dress? You won't get any arguments from me. That's all. J x

Oh What a Perfect Night

Forced into the bars (kicking and screaming) by DD. So had 2 VMs at Panacea followed by a third at the Hilton. I'd forgotten quite how stunning the views are from the 23rd floor, particularly at night. Still at least we've more or less decided where we're going to spend NYE. Havig considered San Fransisco, Florence and Marrakech we've settled on Panacea. As the barman told us tonight, at least you're known here and assured of a warm welcome. Whether we eat there or not has yet to be decided. We may also do the Hilton on the same night just for the sheer glamour of it all. Plus we'll be saving huge sums of money over what we would have spent on San Fran. That's all. J x

13 hours

Caught the train at 0615 this morning and got home at 1930. Its inhuman do you hear me? Inhuman. That's all. J x

Secondment Hell

Catching the 0617 from Manchester to Bristol tomorrow morning and not getting back to Manchester until 1920. Greater career aspirations hath no man that he lay down his sleep for his job... Actually, thinking about it, tomorrow has got nothing to do with the secondment, its just part of my normal job. Am I working for heartless taskmasters you're clearly asking yourselves at ths point. Go and ask Jane Murray is my reply... That's all. J x

Technology

I think I have now installed a visitor counter. So even though no-one appears to be leaving posts anymore (but I have heard from one person that there may be problems around this - let me know on jonathan95@mac.com if you're also having problems) I should still be able to see whether people are visiting me. Obviously of I'm getting half a visitor per week then I need to think about whether I should carry on with the thing... And, honestly, don't ever go and see Aspects of Love. That's all. J x

Just Don't

Ever. However tempted you might be. Just don't go and see Aspects of Love. Even if someone offers to buy you a ticket. Or if they had a friend who has dropped out at the last minute and therefore have a spae ticket. Even if they offer to pay you to go. However much. Even a million pounds. Don't do it because you will regret it for the rest of your life (and possibly the rest of the afterlife too). J x

A Quiet Night In

DD came round to watch the Grand Prix. Poor Lewis. And since she'd started on a bottle of wine she stayed to watch Dead Calm. Which was a good film once upon a time but is looking a little dated now. Back to work tomorrow. Hurrah! That's all. J x

Don't Stop The Train(ing)

Spent the day at LGF re-doing the training ready for me starting my volunteering again. As ever the LGF was warm and welcoming and staffed with lovely lovely people. Sometimes when you go down Canal Street you can feel that the whole gay community is shallow and heartless and interested in nothing more than their next drug fix or shag. But then you go to organisations like LGF and everyone is so nice and welcoming and can hold a conversation... But everyone goes to Canal Street (me included) so they can't all be bad. It just feels that way sometimes. Anyway, it was quite a tiring day (these things can exhaust you emotionally) so I just came home, watched Deep Impact on the telly (it always makes me cry) Chatted to John (he'd had a tiring day too). Also talked to Gill and tried to decide which film we're going to see next week and when (secondments leave you with very little free time - in London on Thursday and travelling First Class at the taxpayer's expense - only because I'm going with 2 other people who are travelling First Class and we have stuff to discuss on the way down, and doubtless on the way back too. I normally go Standard Class because I'm conscious of the expense and I don't see why I should have privileges - my salary apart - over other people in HMRC). Also exchanged text messages with Lesley and Jane concernig the sexuality of Dumbledore. Who knew? And now off to bed as have loads of cleaning washing and ironing to do tomorrow. What do we think the liklihood of those happening is? That's all. J x

Busy Day

10 hours in work and then an hour of helpline training this evening. Actually it was a day's helpline training squished into an hour. I'm re-doing the training because its been so long since I last answered the phone on the helpline. I should have started last Saturday but I was at Macbeth so Jim kindly agreed to do this refresher for me. He's so nice. I'll be doing "Day 2" on Saturday. Out drinking tomorrow afternoon with my old boss Bob. It'll be great to see him because I haven't seen him since July and we'll have a lot to catch up on - well I will, he reads the blog apparently so he'll know everything I've done. Sould be nice and relaxig anyway after this bloody secondment which is driving me scatty. Had a "feedback" e-mail today from one of the trainees I've mentored this year. She's emigrating to Australia (I'm guessing its nothing to do with my mentoring) but the e-mail was so nice I barely recognised myself. She said the sweetest things. Anyway I forwarded it to my boss so he can see how good I am too. That's all. J x

Its "Just" Fashion

Had a shitty day. Saw Frances this morning (speech therapist). She's signed me of because there's nothing more she can do for me. At least its one less appointment to keep but it does mean that I'll never chew again... Afternoon was spent in a dreary meeting that decided nothing and which doesn't make any difference in the scheme of things anyway. Pointless. Still, at least there were enough chairs (if no Jane Murray - where were you my dear?). And I got to sit next to the rather delicious Dan.

It all perked up after work when I met DD for a coupe of VMs and then off to HN for the fashion show. Which was really good. Some top fashion and some top totty. But My God. The women in the audience. Quelle horreur. Still I needed some Clinique and got the £30 back that we'd spent on the tickets. Result!

That's all. J x

Pain in the Back

I have a dry disc apparently and ther's nothing that can be done about it. That's the bad news. The good news is that I don't have a great big fat tumour sat on my spine. Neurologist was just what you'd expect really - mid 50s, smartly dressed, male... He was very nice though even though my heart sank when after listening to all my symptoms he uttered the immortal line "I've got just the same thing"! Luckily though we didn't spend the entire consultation talking about him. He showed me my scan results and it was very easy to see the one disc that was dry (and hence painful). He says my back is strong enough for me to go skiing if I want (not that I've ever been skiing before - nearly went once but that's a long long story) but I'm not to go bungee jumping. Phew.

He recommends going to the gym (so just as well I haven't let my membeship lapse even though I hsven't been for ages - Denise's fault) and maybe acupuncture (although that didn't work before) but not osteopathy but I coulod try massage or chiropractic. We'll see. There's a chiropracter who shares my dentist's premises so perhaps I'll try and arrange an initial consultation to see what they offer. And I'm sure massage will be fun!

Then off to book group in Didsbury (Jem & I) - very nice. We talked quite a lot about the book but none of us felt that it was particularly resonant that we were eating in a restaurant mentioned in the book.

Hospital in the morning (Frances, speech therapist - not expecting much) and then fashion show at HN i the evening after cocktails at Panacea with DD. That's all. J x

Magnificent Macbeth

It was stunning. Patrick Stewart was mesmerising and the staging was just to my taste - the weird sisters were, in fact, nursing sisters. Those of you familiar with my views on nurses will know how appropriate this seemed to me. Lady Macbeth was adequate without being instantly a classic (in my humble view). You have to work quite hard I think to do something new with the character after all this time. The witches actually were really sisnister and well done. There's also a really clever bit concerning Banquo's arrival at the feast (as a ghost for those of you unfamiliar with the text). This happens just prior to the end of act one with Banquo turning up covered in blood. The exact same scene is played at the start of act two but this time only Macbeth can see the ghost. It gives the audience an idea of how the other guests at the banquet must have reacted to Macbeth's actions. Very clever. The "eye of newt/pricking of my thumbs" bit is done as a "rap" which actually works rather well although you can't distinctly hear all the language at this point.

The Crack (or Shibboleth to give it the correct name) is also rather good. It works on loads of levels and I won't wax lyrical on them all here for fear of boring you. But if you get a chance to go and see it then do.

Journey home on dear dear Virgin was fine - I upgraded to 1st class for £15 and had a whole table to myself al the way. This meant I was able to get to the hospital on time for the MRI scan which went without a hitch. I'l get the results on Tuesday when I see the neurologist so I'l let you know how it works out.

Hope you're doing OK Bill. I heard that you had to miss your chemo this week because of a low platelet count. Not that I know, but I don't think this should be anything to worry about since it shows the chemo is working - it f***s all your cells, not just the cancer. Lets hope its equally effective on the cancer cells. As ever, if you need anything or if there's anything I can do then give me a shout.

Aged Ps are off round the Mediteranean on a boat for 15 days from Monday so I'l miss them. Although I understand that said boat does have ship to shore so they shouldn't be out of touch for too long.

That's al. J x

Designer Update

We're making progress! Saw designers and builder today which was useful. Builder knows what is and isn't possible. I think we're agreed on most things now. We're going to have a "walk through" on Monday to decide on lights and sockets and stuff. Also I think the guy will be there to discuss the shutters on the windows at the same time. Watch this space... J x

Cutting It Fine

Typical. Off to London on Saturday to see the Scottish Play starring Captain Jean Luc Picard and, hopefully, taking a gander at The Crack if we have time, and then I get a phonecall today to say that I'm required to attend Hope Hospital for a scan on Sunday at 1400. There is a train from Euston at 0834 Sunday morning that gets me into Piccadilly at 1249. But its a Virgin train. And its Sunday. What are the chances of an uneventful journey arriving in Manchester on time? Hey ho. I can't miss the Captain though. Will just have to explain to the consultant on Tuesday how good high culture is for back pain... Seeing designers tomorrow. Wonder where we'll be on refurb after that? Not holding my breath. That's all for now. J x

An Old Friend

Just dropped Mrs T off in the wilds of Bolton. It was great to see her and she's looking and sounding good. She arrived bearing photos (from the evil sister) of my last party. My God. I was huge. I must say that (if it doesn't come back) the cancer may end up actualy prolonging my life because looking at the size I was I must have been a prime candidate for a heart attack. Wouldn't that be ironic?

Went to see Michael Clayton with Gill last night. Really good film and George Clooney is excellent in it. He's also still gorgeous.

Off to cinema in the week to to see the new Jodie Foster film which looks really good. And then next Saturday its down to London to see Patrick Stewart in Macbeth. The reviewer from The Times didn't seem to enjoy the production but I think it sounds great. Its set in a hospital apparently which seems ideal. As we know, most nurses (apart from the lovely Debbie) are witches...

Seeing DD tomorrow for coffee (I think she's found me a chink in her hugely hectic social life for which I am, as ever, extremely grateful....

Seeing the designers this week to so I'll let you have an update on the refurb as soon as I know anything. J x

Blogs, They're Just Mad

Have seen a blog today called "Lowecase L" that is dedicated to finding examples of people inappropriately using a lowercase L. There's pictures and everything. Mad I tell you... J x

www.basicinstructions.net

Its a blast. J x

Godspell

What a revelation. A really fantastic show. The cast were all young and energetic and very talented (apart from the lead that is, Mr Gateley isn't wearing well I'm afraid - a little chunky now, not charismatic and his voice is OK rather than anything else). The show has a dated feel to it (in a good way - you could see why it would have been considered shocking in the 70s) but its been updated too with lots of ad libbing and modern references. Judas had a body to die for and the voice of an angel. Al in all a good night out. J x

And So You're Back, From Outer Space (actually Valencia)

2 vodka Martinis in Panacea tonight. You've guessed it. DD's back in town... J x

Today

I have been listening mostly to Siouxsie, Bob Dylan and Paganini. Mostly. I have also been washing, ironing, hoovering, tidying and dusting. I have also been playing on the computer. Thank you. J x

Just Discovered...

...Blogger Play. I think you go to www.play.blogger.com. This a screen that just shows you a slideshow of photos as they are added to their sites by people around the world. Its rather compelling. Of course there are a fair number of photos of people's dogs (nice if you like that sort of thing), a smattering of porn (again, nice if you like that sort of thing) but on the whole its a fascinating glimpse into the big wide world.

Had a phone conversation last night with my Eastbourne correspondent. The move is not going well. But the flat in Eastbourne sounds so nice that I'm sure it will all be worth it in the end. Even if it means living in Eastbourne!

Mother's birthday yesterday and I'm sure you all join me in wishing her Many Happy Returns. They went to a hotel in the middle of Wales somewhere last night with friends. I'm sure plenty of alcohol was consumed as no-one had to drive!

Secondment is proving fun so far although I think it will all kick off soon and he whole of the Department will hate me. Hey ho. You don't go into Tax Inspectoring to be popular...

No other news really. Sorry. J x

Cotton Schmotton

King Cotton. Its pants. Don't go. J x

Does It Say Sandwich?

And a catch-phrase was born... J x

Happy Bithday Jane

Hope everything went OK today. Love to Bill. P.S. Andrew Wright phoned today and he's going to give you los of cases! J x

Christies

Just back from the hospital where I had to wait over an hour but got to see a really cute Aian doctor so that wasn't too bad. Everything is tickety-boo you'll be glad to hear. Got to say hello to Charlotte and have a chat with the lovely Debbie too. Also had a chat in the corridor with Sean. He has made the referral (like I ever doubted him...) and he phoned the back specialist's secetary and it sounds like my initial consultation will be some time in October which is good news. Having some lunch now and then back into work to carry on with my very important stuff that I do. J x

Busy As Per

Down to London on Tuesday for a very high powered important meeting full of people talking about things I didn't understand. No change there then. Unfortunately it sounds as though this 3 month secondment I volunteered for isn't going to be my passport to promotion. I think they asked for volunteers because they knew that the job entailed pissing off every important person in the Department and that whoever took on the job may very well never work in HMRC again much less get promotion!

Book Group on Thursday. a select band of 4 of us talking for half an hour about Harry Potter 7 and then talking for three hours about the members of the Group who weren't there!

Hugh and Sarah stayed last night. They're off around the world for 12 months (taking less clothes between them than I take for a weekend away). Dropped them at the airport this morning. They've promised to see if they can get me an I "heart" Omsk T-shirt. And yes, it is a real place. I looked it up on Wikipedia and apparently between 1918 and 1919 it was actually captal of Russia.

Private Lives and vodka martinis tonight with Denise and her crew and then off for a look at Gorton Monastary with Miss Denise tomorrow. Then another busy week ahead including a visit to Christies on Thursday. Phew. Aged Ps currently in Cambridge with Aged Aunty & Uncle. Hope they're having a nice time. TTFN. J x

Welcome

Welcome one and all to my blog which is coming to you now from my new apple laptop. And what a beauteous (not 100% sure that is an actual word) machine it is too. Its going to take some getting used to I suspect because nothing is where it was before but at least everything I've found so far works and doesn't crash and doesn't have a ny viruses. My aol e-mail doesn't appear to work on apple though so I'll have to sort out a new e-mail account but I'll tell you all about that on here when its sorted and send all of you (for whom I have an e-mail address) notification anyway. J x P.S. I apologise to those of you who had to witness my drunken rant on the subject of he working classes. It was deleted as soon as I had sobered up!

Hairspray

What a fantastic movie. Its so "feel good" its off the scale. Brilliant cast, brilliant songs and fantastic choreography. And John Travolta is a star! Go and see it. J x P.S. And take me with you...

Its Out

The tube is gone. Well not completely gone. There's a bit of it that will remain with me a little while longer. But I shall not mourn its passing (if you see what I mean). Of course, this being the NHS I had to wait around for an hour (despite being the first person on the list this morning) for a procedure that took less than 3 minutes. there was no sedation and no kicking and screaming. The nurse simply cut the tube, threw the outside bit away and poked the stubby bit through into my tummy. She then fixed a dressing on the wound which I have too change for the next 2 days after I have a shower. Miss Denise was a star though. She remained with me through thick and thin. And missing work to do so. So now have the rest of the day off to finish the cleaning (is it ever really finished?) before the designers arrive at 1530. Today was quite a milestone for me nevertheless. It was the last thing linking me to the MRI and now that it has gone I only need to go back there to see the dentist from time to time. Of course I'll still have my check ups at Christies but that's a much nicer place... J x

Trip Out

Went to the Yorkshire Sculpture Park with Denise yesterday. Perfect weather (but got stuck in interminable traffic on the M62). Saw the Goldsworthy and the Deer Shelter and then I went and sat under the trees and read Vogue whilst Miss Denise tramped over the entire park looking at everything.

Hospital tomorrow morning. Miss Denise coming with me as apparently I have the option of being sedated. Apparently, although they only cut the tube, they need to put a camera (gastroscope?) down your throat to make sure that the bit inside detaches itself from the stomach wall and then can "pass naturally". Not looking forward to any part of this process although I am, of course, looking forward to no longer having the tube.

Then seeing my designers in the afternoon for final discussions on prices. Karen arrives from Brighton on Wednesday and it'll be really good to see her as haven't seen her for ages and ages... Fig has decided he's coming up for Pride so that'll be good too. Must start cleaning now... J x

Back Down...

...to 36.4. Phew. No idea what caused that. Feeling much better now though. J x

And On The Other Hand

Die Hard is v v cool. And Bruce Willis rocks. He even manages to crash a car into a helicopter whilst the helicopter is in flight. Cool or what?

Have temperature of 37.9 degrees. NHS Direct says I need to worry when I hit 38. Off to bed with all the windows open and hopefully will feel better tomorrow. J x

Brief Encounter

Went to see it at The Cornerhouse tonight. What a preposterous film. And yet aslo strangely moving. It was certainly good fun watching it in the cinema. Spent yesterday afternoon in Alderley edge with my designers looking at sound and light and electronic wizadry. Alderley Edge is pretty cool too and we had lunch there. Spent lunchtime today running round building societies wondering how I'm going to pay for all that electronic wizadry... J x

Blackpool

Skank city. Why would you? Why did I? Never again. j x

Going... Going...

...almost gone. Its coming out. The tube that is. On the morning of the 13th of the glorious August. The lovely lovely Debbie has waved her magic wand (and told a few fibs) and made it all happen for me. Oh wondrous day. Kaloo, kalay (not sure of the spelling on this last bit). My dad thinks that the contents of my stomach will be leaking all over the place (what, more weight loss?) and so I have to phone L L Debbie tomorrow so that I can reassure him that won't happen. Aged Ps, by the way, are mostly OK although it appears that my dad may have carpal tunnel syndrome. Not sure how he would have got that because I thought it was only typists that got it but what do I know?

Also saw the dental hygienist (private) today. And what a wonderful woman she is too. Told me lots of things and gave me lots of advice on caring for my teeth and gums. More than that moody bugger at the dental hospital ever did. From whom, incidentally, I had a letter today delaying my appointment by 2 weeks. No explanation. Not so much as a "by your leave". The NHS has such a long way to go in some areas before it can even hope to begin to provide a proper service. I know that explaining why appointments have been changed is not on a par with saving someone's life but it doesn't have to be one or the other. It would not have taken any longer to type a letter saying "and this is because..." than it did to type the letter saying the appointment was being postponed. When I think how "customer focussed" (awful phrase I know but handy shorthand nevertheless) parts of the rest of the civil service have become (and I include HMRC in this) it just shows you how behind the times organisations like the NHS and local councils are.

Anyway, enough complaining. The tube, she is coming out, no? Eez time for a fiesta. (And bugger only knows why I went all Mexican there). Nifght. J x

Tatton Spark

Off to Tatton tonight with Jane & Bill. Bill is looking and sounding good. You can tell he's been ill since he's lost a bit of weight (about 1 stone so far) but that's nothing to worry about. He'll start his chemotherapy soon and hopefully becuase he's on a low dose over a relatively long period of time he won't have too many side effects. Anyway, it was nice to be out with the 2 of them again. I've missed our cultural excursions together.

Tatton was cold and (a little)wet and the music was not up to previous years' standards but we enjoyed the stuff from Spartacus - the theme from the Onedin Line for all you oldies out there - and the Tchaikovsky Romeo & Juliet. The fireworks were, as ever, spectacular although the new innovation they tried with the swans didn't really work. Prioir to everything kicking off we happened to see about 7 or 8 stags swimming across the lake together. It was quite a sight. But the highlight of the evening (and how sad is this) is the fact that we felt as pleased as punch that we'd forked out an extra £20 for VIP parking. We left the park at gone 11 and I was in the flat by just after half past 11. Last year we hadn't even made it out of the park by this time. Definitely worth the money I think. We'd also all taken chairs to sit on this year which, given the weather, was much more comfortable. Anyway, I'm off to bed now as its way past my bedtime. Night all. J x

Gay & Depressed

Just watched Clapham Junction. Bloody hell its depressing being gay (apparently). Queer bashing, paedophilia, infidelity.. you name it, we're up to it. Mercifully hairderessers were thin on the ground but you couldn't have asked for a more stereotypical bunch if you'd lived in the 70s. Still, the one redeeming feature was the fact that none of the heterosexuals were happy either. Perhaps its just living in Brown's Britain that does it. Anyway, I'm happy. I know what happens in the end of Harry Potter. I'm off to Tatton on Saturday to watch the Halle Orchestra and fireworks (probably in the rain though) but we've got priority parking so it shouldn't take us as long getting home. And work's going well. Plus I had an e-mail from my manager today to say that he hadn't forgotten me. "That's nice" I thought. It remains to be seen what "not being forgotten" will lead to though. Watch this space gossip guzzlers. j x

And Now On The Page

The book group has decided to do the latest (and last) HP this month. I bought it Saturday morning and had finished it by this morning (albeit that it made me late for work). Wish I'd started them from the beginning now although not owrth going back now I know what happens in the end. Life otherwise OK. All quiet on the theatre front this week although I'm off to Tatton Park on Saturday night for the annual Halle Fireworks concert. I wonder if it will rain? J x

HP

Saw the latest Harry Potter last night and thought it wasn't a bad film (this, coming from someone who is not a natural HP fan, more a LOTR type person). Imelda Staunton was stunning though. Off to Book Group tonight (well it is my choice - Prime Levy, If This Is A Man).

Sean phoned me the other day and he is going to refer me to a back specialist that he's discovered for me which is jolly decent of him. If only everyone in the NHS was as nice (and as good) as him (and the lovely Debbie) we'd have no problems at all. Still no word from Charlotte on the tube removal date. I'll give her another week and then start chasing. Its just so annoying that you have to do these things. Its even worse when you're sat there and someone is telling you that they're going to do something and you know full well that they're not...

Hey ho. Another full day in HMRC to look forward to so better get cracking. Love to everyone. J x

Good Toase, Naughty Toase

(You had to be there).

Christies this morning and didn't see Sean but some young whippersnapper of a Doctor who gave me the once over. And very thorough he was too. Most impressed. No-one's had their finger that far down my throat for quite some time. My gag reflex almost kicked in. Almost.

The lovely Debbie was there and she's going to check up on Charlotte for me about getting the tube taken out. Charlotte insists she's put things in motion but I've yet to see the evidence. It'll all be sorted now Debbie's on the job though...

To the Museum of Science & Industry tonight (after a vodka martini at Numero with Denise and chums followed by a Peroni at Dimitris with Jane, Lesley & Andrew)to see Neil Bartlett's The Pianist. And what a special night it was. The building/venue was marvellous, the actor telling the story was vaguely famous (The Bill but not Casualty) and the guy playing the piano was stupendous. I shall certainly be adding some Chopin to my collection now - stating with the Nocturne in C Minor (and no Fig, that's not the Donna Summer one).

Dentist in the morning and gym (apparently) in the evening tomorrow and then Leeds on saturday to see Sarah, Sarah & Donna. It just never slows down... J x

Oh I Don't Know

I know I said I'd keep this thing up to date but I'm so busy having a social life that I've got no time to actually write about it! I've done a gazillion things over the last few days and I've got a gazillion more coming up over the next week or so. Which means I'm afraid that I won't have much time to blog. However, things should calm down a bit after that once the festival is over. But then its just a slippery slope straight into Pride (and Figgy may be coming back up t'road for that). Anyway, to cut a long story short, I'm feeling well. I'm seeing Sean on Thursday morning and hopefully he'll have the name of a good back consultant for me and Charlotte will have an appointment lined up for the removal of my tube (its been 8 weeks since I saw her last so I'm sure the appointment must be just round the corner... actually, I'm guessing that she's forgotten all about it but I'm prepared to give her the benefit of the doubt for now. Caroline would definitely have forgotten about it but I'd have been chasing her up every week because I'd have expected her to forget about it. She got away with it through her natural charm though and being unashamed to say that she'd cocked up - always a good trait in a medical person I feel). I've then got the dentist on Friday (not the hospital one who I don't like, but a regular one). Hopefully he can suggest a replacement gel for the one recommended by the hospital dentist since Colgate aren't manufacturing that one at the moment but you can't get through to the hospital dentist on the phone since his reception number is either constantly engaged or just not answered. Got the dietician on Tuesday next week and I'll have to ask her if one can survive for the rest of one's (hopefully long) life on Ensure Plus since I don't think solid food is ever really going to happen again. She's followed by the Scar Clinic later the same day and I've decided to give them another try but if they keep me waiting over an hour again then I'll just not bother. So there we go. You're up to date on my medical but not my social history. And its taken hours just to type all this. How on earth can I be expected to keep up with the social side of things? TTFN J x

Ocean's 13

Not very good. And isn't Brad Pitt looking old?

Anyway, One Man Star Wars Trilogy on Thursday which should be fun. Gym tonight (with or without Denise who may or may not have a gammy leg). After a delicious bowl of my home made red pepper and chilli soup that is (which is delicious and red - once I'd worked out that you need red peppers for it rather than green...) J x

Thinking Of You Bill (and thinking of you jane)

For those of you who know Jane's husband, Bill -

I spoke to Jane last night and Bill came through the operation well. The cancer had spread a little farther than the doctors had initially thought but they got it all during the operation. The thinking is that he will now have chemotherapy (I told her that if he's offered it he should take it because no matter how shit it makes you feel at the time you get over it and its better than the alternative). The doctors also don't think that he'll need a colostomy which is good news. Yay. J x

Not So Impressed

Rigoletto was a little ho hum. Not sure if it was the opera or the cast that were at fault though. One imagines that Verdi could write an OK tune (there's the "elephant's ear" song in Act III for example). But there didn't seem to be any others in this opera. But then I found the sopranos rather shrill. Acts II & III were definitely better than Act I though. Perhaps I should go and see it performed by a better company than Opera North. I'm sure it'd be fairly impressive at the ROH. I'll keep my eyes peeled. I've always wanted to go there anyway. Can one have too much culture (Miss Fig)? I don't think so. High brow, low brow, no brow. Bring it on I say.

Anyway it was fantastic to see Mrs T (even though she didn't like my new shirt...). And dropped her off in Bolton this morning ready for her 21st birthday barbecue tonight (not her 21st obviously!). Have had the call (from DD natch) and am off shopping this afternoon. There's a whole world of sales out there for us to explore... J x

Just A Quickie

Thank you Linda for the card and the clipping about Caroline. It was a lovely piece. And please do keep me up to date about the "get together" of the old Crawleys. If I can make it I will.

The Tempest last night was superb. A brilliant staging and Pete Postlethwaite was fantastic. A very talented man. Ariel in his tight white pants was not bad either. And don't even get me started on Ferdinand. Just imagine a younger prettier version of Ben Fogle with a superb body and you're half way there...

Anyway, back to the cleaning now, 24 hours until Mrs T arrives and there just aren't enough hours in the day. Thank God today is longer than any other! J x

It Just Never Stops

Just back from the Flute with DD. It was fantastic. The Queen of the Night (you'll be glad to hear) hit all her top notes. And what spectacular notes they were. Pamina was the real star though. To The Tempest tomorrow with Nanny and assorted others (not sure who but I'm sure they're all very nice). Jane has already seen it and says its fab. Thursday night off (cleaning for the arrival of La T). And then Friday is Rigoletto. Which I don't know so should be quite interesting.

Oh and almost forgot, attended the scar clinic this afternoon. I had an appointment for 1440 but after an hour and a half of waiting (and given there were still 3 in front of me) I left. Its only a follow up appointment anyway so I'll just write them a letter of complaint. There were about 4 nurses standing round just gossiping the whole time I was there. And then when I enquired how much longer one might have to wait I was given a filthy look and told "we have got 2 doctors on you know". Yes dear, but they're seeing patients together so there's no f***ing point (I didn't actually say this bit - I might just put it in the letter).

Little Babes, it would be fabtastic (that's a typo, I'd meant to type "fantastic" but I think fabtastic sounds so much better that I'm going to leave it as it is)to meet up next time I'm in London or whenever its convenient. Lets synchronise our diaries next time a London trip is in the offing. J x

Reporting In

So, to a conference (the first National Direct Tax Confeerence)at the British Library on Wednesday. Went down on Tuesday afternoon and stayed with Sarah Tuesday night. We got stuck on the Victoria Line when there were signalling problems which was quite unpleasant in the heat but not too bad as Brixton (where she lives) is the last stop on the line so we didn't have to fight our way through crowds to get off. Incidentally, if you buy an Oyster card all the fares on the tube are a lot cheaper (its £4 from Euston to Brixton without one!) so its worth investing I think next time I go down. The conference was interesting for the most part - apart from the message that we're becoming friendlier and more customer focussed so we all have to hug a taxpayer from now on...

I had an hour to kill after the conference so I went into the Library itself (which I've never visited before) and went to their Treasures room. And what a mind-blowing experience that was. I saw the Magna Carta - yes, the actual Magna Carta. In fact, I saw 2 of them (there were 4 originally apparently). And if that wasn't enough I saw pages from the notebook of Leonardo da Vinci, the first ever Shakespeare publication, a letter from Queen Elizabet I. Amazing stuff. In fact I was so distracted that once I'd got on the train (and turfed the interloper out of my reserved seat - he had some choice words to say on the subject I can tell you)I poured my coffee all over the woman who sat next to me. She wasn't very happy. But she just sulked for the rest of the journey.

Wento to see Pirates of the Carribean on Friday night. It is very long but not too long I don't think. I enjoyed it. Saturday morning was the gym - the first time in about 2 months but since I'm now over 12 stone and looking a little chunkier it was about time. Saturday evening was Kiss of the Spiderwoman at The Lowry which was brilliant. I'd never seen the film (or the musical, or read the book) so it was all new to me. Not terribly sure if it had a point to make but it was interesting with some unexpected twists and turns.

Sunday afternoon round the shops with DD. Ostensibly to buy her a rug, a coffee table and a curtain pole. Needless to say she didn't buy any of these things but I bought a suit! 2 operas this week - The Magic Flute with DD and then Rigoletto with Mrs T on Friday. What fun! J x

Catch Up

Well what a busy week it's been. Angels in America Parts I and II on Tuesday and Wednesday respectively. Both 4 hours long! Part I was really good and had 2 intervals whereas Part II was pretty incomprehensible and had only one interval - meaning it was too long as well as being incomprehensible. Altogether the plays were OK though but since they were written in the 1980s there were large chunks of the text taken up with "explaining AIDs".

Aged Ps arrived Thursday afternoon (and the apartment was looking pretty clean if I say so myself). Didn't do anything Thursday evening but went to the Trafford Centre on Friday. Mother bought clothes and the rest of us didn't so she was happy. Friday evening back to The Lowry for Office Suite. This was Patricia Routledge in 2 Alan Bennet plays from the 70s. And didn't it show. These were the days before computers in offices and a lot of the humour seemed to centre around the numbers given to forms. It was all pretty dated (but OK if you took it in that spirit) and Pat wasn't quite as forceful a presence on the stage as one might have hoped.

Saturday (lovely day) was off to Crosby to see Another Place - the Anthony Gormley exhibition on the beach which is pretty special. And the tide was right out (unlike the first time I went when you couldn't see any bugger coz they were all under the waves). Ma and Pa both really enjoyed this excursion and we didn't get lost once. Hurrah.

Sunday was lunch with Denise (who was, as ever, good value for money). Followed by mother staying in watching the tennis while Dad and I went to the newly reopened Rylands library. And very impressive it is too. The new bit is stunning and the old bit is just as stunning as ever. And the space where old meets new is just fantastic. And apparently Roger Federer lost.

And that's about it. Have reported about Dr Who in an earlier post. Busy week next week - tax conferencve in the British Library on Wednesday so going down Tuesday evening and staying with Sarah. Who is also always good value for money! J x

Fantastic

Best Dr Who yet by a long way... J x

The Twins Must Die

yes, I'm watching Big Brother... (in between all the cleaning - Aged Ps arrive on Thursday, just 5 days to go, how will I ever fit it all in?). J x

I Have Seen the Future of Drag

...and its name is Taylor Mac. Who isn't black. Not really sure why i said he was. But he is incredibly talented nonetheless. He sings, he acts, he tells stories, he is funny, he gets dressed and undressed on stage in front of you. And he plays the ukelele. Very well. If you get a chance to see him then do go. Out with Denise for a drink to the cast bar at the Palace afterwards where we bumped into a star or 2... J x

You Have To Go And See...

...Dublin By Lamplight. Unfortunately that means tonight if you're in Manchester as its the last night but I bet there are still tickets available. If you live in Newcastle (any of my readers in Newcastle?) then its on next week there. What a stunning theatrical experience. I can't remember when I last enjoyed a night at the theatre so much. Prior to that out for a drink to celebrate Pete's recommendation for promotion (well done you). Off the The Lowry again tonight to see Taylor Mac - a 6ft, black American drag queen. Should be interesting... J x

Busy Day

To Christies for 1015 but not seen until 1130 (although the lovely lovely Debbie did make a point of stopping by and chatting beforehand). Didn't see Sean initially as they were pretty backed up and saw Indu instead. She is nice too though so that wasn't a problem. Asked to see Sean anyway and got to see him about 1200. Asked him about Erbutix (I think) which is a drug that is licensed in this country but not permitted by NICE. Apparently its only used in conjunction with radiotherapy and as an alternative to radiotherapy with chemotherapy. Its as effective as the latter but with fewer side effects. Since I had radio and chemo therapies anyway I would have just had fewer side effects with the drug rather than any better chances of survival. So I'm not too bothered (with hindsight that is, I'm sure if you'd have asked me at the time I'd have cared which I was having!) that I didn't get the drug. Also asked whether he knew any back specialists among his consultant chums (since my back isn't getting any better(despite wearing this silly wristband that my mother bought me) and I need to get something sorted. Incidentally my mother has now had unprescribed drugs from abraod sent to me to see if they help. The woman is virtually a dealer... Anyway, Sean didn't know anyone in particular but will ask around for me.

Also arranged to have my tube out since I don't use it anymore. But apparently there is a waiting list of 8 weeks for this to happen. No idea why since all they do is cut the tube, throw away what's left on the outside, put a dressing on the hole and allow nature to takes its course with what's left on the inside. Watch this space (or perhaps don't...!).

Saw the hospital dentist in the afternoon to get my stents. These are just covers for my teeth which I need to wear for 20 minutes a day with a fluoride gel in them to strengthen my teeth which are at risk because of my dry mouth (no saliva). Got to see him again in 3 months to check how I'm getting on.

Then went to drop off a prescription request at the GPs and then to see my designers. Cleared up a few misunderstandings about what I want to do to the flat. They're going to call round next Thursday so we can have a further chat.

Then went to meet Denise and Cath for a drink in Dimitris. Phew. I'm exhausteed just typing all this! Got an appointment at the eye hospital this afternoon just to check that my "eyelash dandruff" has cleared up. And then its the weekend. I'll be glad of the rest. J x

P.S. Nanny, if you're reading this can you let me know what the book club blog is called again please? I seem to have mislaid it!

Turfed Out

Back in Manchester a day early after being thrown out by my parents. Honestly, you go down to visit, drive your father hither and thither, do all the hoovering (upstairs and downstairs!) and then they throw you out on the stret and say never darken our doorway again. OK, so I'm being a little over-dramatic here. And maybe it had something to do with the fact that the weather forecaast for tomorrow is so horrendous that it would have been dangerous driving home. But honestly! Thrown out! (actually I think the nearnesss of the Eurovision Song Contest on telly tonight had more to do with it that the weather but they'll never admit that).

Anyway, you'll be glad to know that The Foot is looking good and much less painful than it was. The house is now clean (well at least the carpets are...). And we're not buying a new car. Went to have a look at the new Volvo C30 but Mum couldn't get out of the back of it without a hoist so its a non-starter. Also went looking at lap tops in PC World. What a waste of time that was. Some pre-teen girl with greasy ginger hair attemptedd to tell us about lap tops but patently knew less than I did and did her cause no good whatsoever. I certainly won't be shopping there again.


And that's about all the news I think. Seeing Sean on Thursday and back to the eye hospital on Friday. And busy busy busy in work as per. Had a lovely card from Linda (in Crawley). Thank you Linda. And that's yer lot for now. Hope the Harvey Nicks book group went OK and look forward to hearing what we're doing next (have nearly finished Primo Levi - what a fantastic book). J x

Off Again

Another busy weekend. Gardening Saturday morning followed by Jekyll & Hyde the (amateur) musical on Saturday night. What a fantastic show! Had been dreading it because, you know, it was amateur and it was one of my not favourite musicals. But what a great job the company had done. The sets were really good and professional looking (hardly any wobble), the principal singers had great voices and the tunes weren't as bad as I remembered them. Thouroughly enjoyed myself. Also got to see loads of people I hadn't seen for ages. Sunday was a brief trip to the gym with Denise followed by B & Q (hurrah, another bank holiday and another B & Q trip) plus a visit to some god-forsaken furniture store with some of the worst sofas ever created (if Sue Poulton is reading this they were even worse than the horse-head sofas!). Monday was housework (boo) followed by a drink with, you guessed it, Ms Drury at, you guessed it, Dimitris. Then back to work Tuesday for a very very busy day. Off to Swansea this morning and back to Manchester on Sunday. The Foot is progressing well and is being seen by the nurse this morning. Watch this space for an update. The tragedy of this timing of this visit to Swansea is that a) I get to miss the book group discussing The Devil Wears Prada in Harvey Nichols and b) the fact that Eurovision night will be spent in Swansea rather than at some fabulous party thrown by my friend Cath. Greater love hath no man than that he give up a Eurovisin party to spend time with the Aged Ps! Toodle pip for now. J x

Goodbye Caroline

Caroline Bryceson was a woman I worked with in Crawley office and one of the nicest people I ever met. She died this week from Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. The world is a poorer place without her. RIP sweetie. J x

Satyagraha - I Kid You Not

That is the name of the opera I saw last night (I added the "I kid you not" bit). Its sanskrit for (I think) nonviolence. There is a very interesting little piece in the programme notes on nonviolence and the fact that there is no word in any language (sanskrit apart apparently) for nonviolence. Discuss (and the answer, by the way, is not "peace" or some such since pacifism apparently is the act of not doing anything whereas nonviolence is an active noun like "war").

Anyway, the whole opera was in sanskrit and was about Ghandi's time in South Africa. God knows how the performers learned their lines. And for all we knew they didn't and just made it up as they went along. Who was there to tell them if they used the subjunctive rather than the pluperfect? I probably couldn't correct you in English on that point though...

Anyway, the opera was superb. The staging was like nothing else you'll see on a stage (apart from the Lion King funnily enough since there was a heavy use of puppets). The Lion King of course doesn't have the music of Philip Glass but rather that of Elton John. Trust me, there's no comparison. Although having said that the Lion King does include quite a bit that is sung in an African language although I'm not sure which one. Anyway, they're completely different. Satyagraha as I said is like nothing else you'll ever see or hear. The music is hypnotic and in places reminiscent of Laurie Andersen and O Superman (for those of you that remember that far back) and in fact the programme notes mention that Philip Glass worked with Ms Andersen. And Satyagraha was written in 1980.

It was also very long - over 3 hours although it was broken down into 3 Acts with 2 intervals. Although the staging to a large extent supported the "action" on stage neither I nor my Uncle nor my Aunt quite worked out the significance of the big ball of sellotape in Act 3. The chap playing Ghandi had a gorgeous voice. And there was one rather startling point where it appeared as though Brunhilde had blundered in from a Wagner opera being staged down the street but she didn't last long.

Loved it, loved it, loved it.

J x

Busy Weekend Ahead

Off to Brighton tomorrow morning. Staying with John on Saturday and Sunday nights. Off to London to meet up with my Aunt & Uncle on Monday and then Monday night off to the ENO to see a Phillip Glass opera about Ghandi (can't remember what it's called but I think the whole thing is in sanskrit so I'm hoping there are surtitles!). Back to jolly old Manchester on Tuesday (thereby missing the strike at work) and back to work Wednesday. Hopefully to the gym Wednesday night as haven't seen Denise in an aeon (she's in Ireland at the moment). Eagerly awaiting a phonecall from the migrating Ts. Was supposed to have received one tonight but they are obviously between houses at the moment... J x P.S Aged mother doing fine and being seen by the District Nurse every 2 days to have her dressing changed. Things looking good on the bottom of her foot.

Good News

Mother out of hospital and lording it over one and all from the sofa at home... Portugal still looking doubtful though. J x

P.S.

Mrs T has a new house. Yay. Apparently it only has one bedroom though so no-one can go to stay...

Back In The Land Of The Virtuous

Mum still in hospital but she's quite chirpy (now she's stopped feeling sick) and her foot is looking not too bad. I was there when the nurse changed her dressing this afternoon and I was really impressed (with a nurse, yes) by the quality of infection control she displayed - wearing gloves, no cross contamination , the works. Right up until the point she took a pair of dirty scissors from her pocket and proceeded to cut away part of the dressing. Honestly, I couldn't believe it. Why go to all the trouble in the first place just to let yourself down right at the end? Needless to say nurses are back in the dog house (where they've been ever since my stay in hospital).

Weekend was OK. Got some pots for my hostas (which dad insisted on paying for bless him) and I potted them up while I was down there. I'd sent for 4 from Parkers catalogue but when I got to open all the bags there were only 3 there. So I'll have to chase that up next week. As well as getting my car MOT'd. Which is going to be at least £250 apparently because its a 40,000 mile service. Joy of joys.

Took some books home with me to read but only managed to start one - The Prince by Niccolo Machiavelli! How pretentious am I? Answers on a postcard... J x

Lots To Report

London was good. Got there on Thursday afternoon and met up with the Aged Ps. we didn't do much and had our evening meal in the hotel (which was nice). Friday morning was shopping - Harrods, Jaeger, Burberry & Orange! I didn't buy anything but my Dad bought a jumper and my Mum bought a wash bag. Met up with my Uncle and Aunt for an early dinner in Covent Garden and then off to the Savoy theatre for Porgy & Bess. Not my type of musical. But Mum and Dad enjoyed it which was the important thing. Saturday morning met up with my godmother who I haven't seen since she became my godmother. Needless to say we'd both changed quite a bit and wouldn't have recognised one another in the street! Went to the National Portrait Gallery (where I hadn't been before) which was impressive. Only had time to do the modern bit but I really liked it. Then down to Brighton to stay with John on Saturday night. Watched Conor play a bit of football on Sunday morning (they lost 4 - 0) and then back to Manchester Sunday afternoon.

To the theatre again Tuesday evening to see Blood Brothers, which is good for the most part although it only has about three songs which get repeated all through the show. Linda Nolan appeared to be digitally enhanced for her big numbers.

My Mum was also taken back into hospital on Tuesday afternoon with her foot. She had another operation Tuesday night and they're now monitoring her. Luckily it sounds as though the ward she is on is a lot better than the one she was on before so hopefully her stay will be a lot more comfortable this time. So I'm going home this weekend to help out my Dad and to do what I can for my Mum. It looks as though Portugal won't be going ahead now though which is a shame. Never mind, Mum's health comes first.

Saw Frances this morning and she was quite encouraging. She thinks it is worth perservering with trying to eat solid food even though it is difficult. Any improvements to be made will be smaller now than at first so I don't have to see her now for another 6 months. She'll pop in and see me from time to time when I see Sean at Christies though so I don't feel totally abandonned! Seeing the hospital dentist tomorrow at MRI. Not entirely sure why but I'll update you when I can.

My Uncle and Aunt have got me tickets to see a Phillip Glass opera at ENO a week Monday so I'll be off to Brighton again the weekend after next and then staying with them in London on Monday night. All depends on how things are with my Mum of course. This also means that I can't make the book group for The Devil Wears Prada (which I've actually read this time) but since Harvey Nicks isn't open on a Monday we'd have had to reschedule anyway...

Bumped into the Incredibly Reverend Roger Stone tonight as I was leaving work (he's now an Anti-Avoidance Manager and has staff all over). It was good to see him and we'll get together for a drink next time he's in town. He did make the sign of the cross over me though as he was being driven away so I think its all downhill from here on in!

Night. J x

Orf We Jolly Well Go

Off to London & Brighton for the weekend. Yippee. Aged Ps and John. Porgy & Bess. Sunshine. Shopping. What could be finer? Will post extensively when I get back. But while I'm away here's something to ponder - should this blog also become a discussion group for issues of the day e.g. should we all be regularly posting our thoughts on vital matters such as which of the aspiring apprentices (apprentici?) is the most annoying/attractive/stupid/clever? J x

Happy Easter

The sun is out. I went to the gym last night. I'm going to B & Q this morning. Denise is back. Are all these events connected? Who knows but I know I'm feeling good.

Got a packed long weekend of gardening, garden centres, DIY stores, gym, drinks, cinema. Who could ask for more?

Managed to make it to the Book Group on Monday (the first time for over a year). We met at Chez Gerard (phew, they do soup and ice cream). It was nice to see evryone after so long. The next meeting is down to me to arrange and since we're doing The Devil Wears Prada its fitting that the meal should be at Harvey Nicks! I enjoyed the film but we'll see what the book is like. Can't be worse than Penelope bloody Lively and Moon Tiger though.

Is everyone watching the Apprentice? Personally I can't stand Alan Sugar but its worth putting up with his over inflated ego just to see what a bunch of tossers there are on the programme. Honestly I have to hide behind a cushion at times because they are just so awful. I want to take a knife and stab each and every one of them. Repeatedly. And slowly. And as you all know I'm not a violent person...

Off to London next Thursday (with the Aged Ones - mother's foot not too bad at the moment - now she's remembered that painkillers actually help with pain - and father's broken rib is easing)and then to Brighton on Saturday to stay with John. Looking forward to it.

And that's all the news for now I think. Will post again over the hols if I think of anything else. J x

Good News Good News Good News

The scan was clear. I was so relieved. And bless him Sean told me the scan was clear before he'd even said hello. This is such a weight off my shoulders. I don't think I should type anything else now but I know what a group you are for minutiae so I suppose I ought to expand on the rest of the meeting for you. The lovely lovely Debbie was there briefly. Has she coloured her hair a different colour? Hard to tell but I though I detected a subtle lightening of tone. Suits her. Frances was there too wanting to put the tube up my nose and down my throat (that woman is obsessed) but we agreed that we'd do it at my next consultation with her when she'll be able to record it. I think she's making a series. I expect to see my inner workings on You Tube any day now. Sean enquired after my weight and for those of you interested I am currently stable and fluctuating between 11 10 and 12 1. This is what Sean weighs apparently which makes him overweight on the BMI scale (he's a tiny bit shorter than me). Just the odd foot or 2! But his hips are bigger than his waistline so that's OK. Apparently. According to the TV it means you're a rower or something. Whilst in Portugal I will have to be aware of the sun (Ha!) but I don't have to avoid it altogether which is good news (should there be any sun). And that's all folks. But I'm sure you'll agree a momentous day. Oh and I also got some vouchers through the post - money off at Livebait (that's the Aged Ps happy) and money off Chez Gerrard (that's the book group happy because we're meeting there on Monday). TTFN. J x

Good Golly Miss Dolly

Well Ms Parton was OK. I think she was let down by the venue by which I mean that I don't think large arenas were built for country & western music. Big arenas are for shows like Kylie or Take That where they're full of screaming pre-pubesence or at least filled by a spectacular light show. Country and western is actually about listening to the music. And its a bit harder to do that in a very large venue. The place was packed out though. Who knew she had so many fans? Went for pre-show cocktails in Harvey Nicks with Jane first. They had the Dolce & Gabbana spring/summer menswear show on continuous loop on the DVD player so there was something pretty to look at whilst downing my espresso martini. In fact we enjoyed Messrs D & G so much that we ate there as well. I had broccoli and stilton soup followed by black treacle, cinnamon and calvados ice cream (three separate flavours rather than all in one). Jane had chicken a la king followed by some sort of rhubarb. All very tasty. And the toilets in HN are fab too. You really must go. After that to Zinc for a drink and to meet Cath followed by the concert. Had to have a medical before they'd let me past the doors with my bottle of water (yes, really). After Ms Parton met up with Gordon & Lizzie for a drink in Label (how appropriate given that I was wearing so many of them) and then home by 11.30.

Scan this morning - not as bad as I was expecting. Having your head bolted to a table for radiotherapy treatment every day for 6 weeks means that half an hour/40 minutes in an MRI scanner isn't quite as scary as you remember it. I'll get the results next Thursday when I see Sean. Also have to see my GP next Thursday as he needs to review my drugs habit - he better not be thinking of making me go cold turkey (which I understand is one of UKIP's main policies) or there'll be trouble. Night night everyone. J x

Update

Didn't have MRI as machine was broken. They claimed they tried to contact me before I drove all the way down there and paid my £1.50 for parking but there was nothing on my machine... Now got MRI scan on Wednesday (day after Dolly).

Saw eye doctor today and they don't think I have cancer in my eye (whoopee). Instead they think I have eyelash dandruff (there is a technical term but the leaflet is in the front room and I really can't be doing with walking all the way there to get it so eyelash dandruff will have to do for now). Anyway, this ED can clog your pores and cause a "sty-like" infection which is what they think has happened to me. I'm now armed with a cream and cotton buds which should clear it all up pronto (whoopee again).

Nothing planned for weekend at the moment so will enjoy myself at gym and cinema unless something else comes up. Also need to do some cleaning though (boo). Hope everyone out there in cyberland has a good time (Jane, don't forget to decide on which shows you want to see). J x

Now got MRI scan (now with improved gadolinium - whatever the hell that is) tomorrow at 1200. The othalmologist has been rescheduled for Friday at 0845. Stoke was a blast. No, really. They should take a stick of dynamite and blast it to kingdom come. What a depressing place. And what a depressing meeting. HMRC is off to hell in a handcart I'm afraid. You heard it here first... J x

Back

Mum still in hospital. She's had an op to clear out the infection from her foot and, after 5 days, they've finally decided what antibiotics she should be on. She's now on a drip for the antibiotics and we don't yet know how long for. She's keeping her spirits up though and thanks everyone for their cards and kind wishes. We've managed to reschedule the Porgy & Bess tickets for April so that's good news. I'm feeling fine but nothing to report chez moi apart from the fact that I've had an appointment through for the opthalmologist and its for tomorrow. When I'm in Stoke. So will have to reschedule that too. Damn. J x

Change of Plans

Mum has had to go into hospital for an operation on her foot. They also want to put her on intravenous antibiotics. Therefore no longer going to London & Brighton but going to Swansea instead. Good job I already had this week booked off for leave. Will know more when I've seen my parents and will blog from Swansea if I get a chance so that you all know what's happening. J x

Phil Lethby

My friend died on Friday. His name was Phil and I met him when I first started working for the Revenue in 1993. We dated for a while but not for long. I like to think that I helped a bit in allowing him to come to terms with his sexuality. Back in the days when I first started in the Revenue Inspectors had their own offices (none of this open plan nonsense) and Phil used to come in a talk to me for ages - so much so that my DI at the time had to give me a ticking off. Phil and I stayed in touch on and off following my departure from Brighton office and, in fact, I think he was a contributor to this blog in the early days. He certainly sent me some cards whilst I was in hospital and going through treatment. He was diagnosed with Hepatitis C about 10 years ago and lived quite happily with the disease for a while but over the last couple of years he had some long spells of sickness. He died on Friday from multiple complications - they don't know exactly what yet. He was in his mid 30s which is far too young for anyone to die. I'll miss him. Rest in peace honey. J x

Open Wide

To the hospital dentist this morning. He says that he could give me dentures if I insist but that having dentures would mean possibly accelerating the decay of the rest of my teeth. Decided therefore not to have them for the moment. Since I can't swallow at the moment, chewing isn't really an issue. I'll reconsider if and when I get my swallow back. The dentist also took an X-ray of my teeth. This showed firstly that the radiotherapy hasn't done too much damage to my jaw bones (the good news) but also showed that another screw appears to have worked loose from the metal piece holding my jaw together (the bad news). Will have to speak to Sean about this. Who was handling the bloody screwderiver in that operating theatre?

Met the lovely newcastlewench for a drink after work as she was passing through this fair city of ours. She's fit and well and had bought me a goody bag of presents (thank you). These included some lovely smelly bath stuff, some pretty stones (I've no idea what I'm going to do with them) some baby food (mostly fruit based so will be nice with custard although one was "cottage pie - not sure I fancy that) and a magazine showing me how to put on muscle in 12 easy steps (well at least i can look at the pictures!).

Also had a letter from my GP saying he'd had a referral from my optician but that he thought the optician was overreacting (how does he know?). Anyway, he didn't think it was worth a referral to the oncologist or opthalmologist. Hadn't the heart to tell him I'd already seen my oncologist and had been given a referral to the opthalmologist (although not heard anything yet). Also had a letter giving me an appointment for an MRI scan which is next Wednesday which is lucky as that is the day I see Frances and the nutritionist too.

And I think that's about everything apart from mentioning my mum who has a bad foot. The blood tests appear to show that she may have Type 2 diabetes. We think she'll go for a second opinion though. I'll keep you posted.

Spoke to DD tonight. She's still feeling a little poorly but better than she was so fingers crossed for her too. And that's your lot folks... J x

The Weekend

Friday night was fun - cancer charity dinner at Urmston masonic hall. What a venue. I've never quite seen anything like it. Food was OK and they'd pureed me something for the main course which was nice of them. Raffle went on for ever and then it was dancing to Urmston's most popular wedding and bar mitzvah DJ. He had it all. Van Morrison. Status Quo. Come on Eileen (and thank you Denise for making me dance to that). Home by oneish after being sandwiched in the back of the car between a very drunk David and a very drunk Cath.

Saturday morning into Cafe Nero to meet up with everyone's favourite retirees, Mr & Mrs T. They are hale (as opposed to Hale) and hearty and speaking in Scottish tongues. Then DD & moi meme did the round of opticians picking up our new glasses topped off with cocktails in Harvey Nicks to celebrate. I had an espresso martini which was just to die for. Then to Manchester Art Gallery to see the Joe Palumbo exhibition. Bit of a waste of time that one as although he had some good ideas furniture-wise and was ahead of his time vis a vis capsule furniture he just didn't design anything that looked nice (and certainly nothing as nice as the leather chesterfield upstairs in Heals). And Burberry isn't open yet. And now its a night in followed by cleaning and dusting tomorrow. Oh and the gym I think. Night night. J x

Phew(ish)

Got to Christies at about 1000 and was seen straight away. Sean had a look at my eye and said that he could feel a "thickening" of the skin at the point of inflammation but that he didn't think it was anything to worry about. He is going to refer me to an opthalmologist (sp?) but he said more for my peace of mind than any concerns he has. He also said that he had never seen my type of cancer spread to the eye before. Charlotte and Frances (who were also there) also both said that they'd never seen my cancer spread to the eye before either (it was at this point that I burst into tears!). So I'm mightily relieved. I hadn't realised (up until I burst into tears) quite how tense I had been about the situation. I'm not celebrating yet - I'll do that when the eye doctor signs off on Sean's diagnosis but i will sleep a little easier from here on in. Thanks to everyone for the brilliant support and sympathy they've given me during this quite difficult week. J x

Caught Myself...

... walking round the flat with one eye closed tonight. Drama queen or what?

Spoke to the lovely lovely Charlotte this afternoon (Caroline's replacement, and yes she's just earned her additional "lovely") and she said I should just turn up at Christies on Thursday and she'll get me in to see someone. Much better than waiting for a referral through the GP I think.

Just out of shower after working out at the gym so feeling all warm and virtuous. J x

Not So Good News

Went to the optician to get my eyes tested today (yes I need glasses but I chose some fantastic Dior ones so you don't need to worry about me looking ugly) but the optician noticed a lump on my eyelid. He's referring me to my GP. He says he thinks its just a bit of inflammation but in view of my medical history he thinks it needs to be checked. Fingers crossed its not a return of the cancer. J x

What a Wonderful World

Had such a good day today. Saw Sean at Christies. After the usual prodding of my neck and peering down my throat he declared himself happy with the way things are looking. I asked him about the high temperature episodes and he said he thought it might have been a chest infection and that we should get an X-ray of my lungs to check they were clear. That worried me a bit but luckily I was able to get the X-ray done there and then and he and some of his colleagues looked at it and said that my lungs were clear. Which was a huge relief. He even managed to joke that "they're all clear apart from a little bit of metal...!" I also asked him about blood tests because I know my Mum used to have them and also whether I should have a scan. He explained that there isn't a blood test for my type of cancer. He had been thinking about getting a scan of my throat so that he could see how things were progressing from the inside and since I'd asked anyway he might as well go ahead and schedule one. So hopefully that will have taken place before my next appointment and those results will be all clear too. He also said that he thought that there was still room for progress on my swallowing because not everything will have settled down from the treatment yet. Phew. That was really encouraging coz I've been getting a bit depressed about that recently.

The lovely lovely Debbie wasn't there today (apparently she's at home watching her kitchen ceiling being pulled down) but the lovely Charlotte was on hand (she gets one lovely for saying I looked fantastic today - and in 32" waist Prada jeans why wouldn't I? - but she's got a way to go yet before she catches up with the lovely lovely Debbie). Also did my computer questionaire for the woman whose name I've forgotten. She comes and sees me every couple of months or so and gets me to fill in this questionaire about how I'm feeling, how much pain I'm in, what problems I'm having etc etc. She also measures how far I can open my mouth - I'm back to the standard I was after the operation but before the radiotherapy but not yet back to the pre-op stage. She asked if I'd had many problems about opening my mouth and I asked whether she was referring to my sex life - poor girl nearly died when I said that but managed to splutter that in fact she was asking about eating and drinking. So why didn't she say that in the first place?

When I got home I had a call from the nutritionist and she's going to come and see me on the same day that I see Frances next (06/03 I think). Everyone thinks I should stop losing weight now so I've been force feeding myself Ensure Pluses all day. I'll be back up to the size of a house in no time...

Went to the gym this afternoon with Denise and had a really good workout so I'm just all round feeling fine and dandy. Back to work tomorrow though so I suppose it'll be back down to earth with a bang. Never mind, I've had a bloody good day today and since they're few and far between lets just celebrate that fact. Night all. J x

Busy Busy Busy

R & G Are Dead at the Library Theatre on Monday night. Strange but good. Wouldn't mind seeing it again just to see if I got it all. Gym last night with Denise (supposed to go again tonight but she wimped out). All this whilst holding down a full time job! Day off tomorrow to go and see Young Sean. that'll be nice. Not seen him for ages. Have acquired Moon Tiger (and started reading it) as I intend attending the next book club meet. Not seen most of them since before the op. They'll have no idea who I am... J x

Mrs T Rocks

Had a fantastic weekend with the T. She had brought her white gloves but confined herself to her impressions of Michael Jackson rather than Kim and Aggie. She's looking well and enjoying life North of civilisation (boo). She joined us during the darts match (I was out first round) and Dave and Wayne ended up winning. Wayne will now be (even more) insufferable for the rest of the year...

The Vortex was very good in a Noel Coward sort of way. Will Young was impressive and very very pretty. Although he does have rather large hips. Went to Chez Gerrard for a drink afterwards. Saturday was even more glamorous as we went to Lakeland Plastics for lunch followed by John Lewis and Sainsburys. Then watched World Trade Centre (very good) and Acorn Antiques (hysterical) on DVD. I have to say though that I think I preferred the version of AA that I saw on the stage. It seemed more coherent somehow (and obviously not as long). The DVD version was a bit too "West End" if anything can be said to be that.

Had a high temperaturs again on Saturday (3rd time now). May be something to do with the long day I had on Friday where I may have overdone things but I'm seeing Sean on Thursday so I'll check things out with him. Hopefully its not a sign of returning cancer...

Tried to book for Patrick Stewart in The Tempest in London but the dates agreed with Donna and Sarah have all sold out. Boo. There is a version coming to the Royal Exchange in Manchester so might go and see that instead. J x

Great Film

Judy Dench is stunning in this film. As is Cate Blanchett. And the schoolboy is dead horny (and before you have a go at me for being pervy, Jane fancied him too). Went to Chez Gerrard (again) before the film and had soup and ice cream (again). Will have to try another restaurant for soup and ice cream whilst Mrs T is here. If anyone knows of any restaurants that do particularly nice (and not too solid) soups and/or (although preferably and) nice ice cream can they please recommend them here. Ta.

Busy day tomorrow. Work in the am, darts tournament in the pm and The Vortex with the lovely (and over the age of consent) Will Young in the evening. All this and keeping the flat up to those exhausting T standards. Phew, I'm exhausted just reading about it. Must dash as I've forgotten to dust the tops of the doors... J x

Seven and Three Quarters

That's how many hours I worked today. The longest ever. Whoo hoo. Isn't full time work a pain in the arse? All that and then I have to come home and start cleaning ready for the arrival of Madame La T and her deadly white dust gloves of shame on Friday. Oooh, I can feel her cotton clad finger running along my cornices as I type... It'll be nice to see her though. J x

Wise Words Of Willie Nelson

"Before you say something bad about someone, you should first walk a mile in their shoes. That way, if they get pissed off, you'll be a mile away and you'll have their shoes". And who can say fairer than that?

Jane, will try the lasagne on Wednesday but don't worry starters and ice cream are fine anyway.

Fig, I should have phoned and thanked you, a thousand apologies. Have received DVD but not yet watched it. Will probably watch it this weekend in company of Mrs T. J x

Hello Campers

I've had to reconfigure the blog so that I sign in through Google (or something like that, I'm not too sure) so I apologise if anyone has any problems accessing it from now on. Actually this might be a good point to discuss whether or not I keep up with the blog at all. As I'm sure you've all noticed I don't post as much as I used to and this is mainly because there isn't as much news as there used to be. Perhaps we should have a discussion about closing the blog down - the anniversery of it starting might be the appropriate moment.

Anyway, what have I been up to recently? Well I'll be back at work full time from Monday. This isn't because I particularly feel up to it but I really can't face filling out any more of the ridiculous forms that HR demand of me. I think the forms are one of their "incentives" to get people back on full time. That and paying people's annual leave at sick leave rates. Don't even get me started....

Went out for a meal last night. A HUGE step. Unfortunately it wasn't as successful as I'd hoped. I managed the starter (french onion soup) and the deseert (ice cream) but just couldn't manage the main course (penne arrabiata) because even though the kitchens had overcooked the pasta at my request it was just too big to swallow. The pasta I'm cooking myself at home is really tiny and even that causes me problems sometimes. I'm just going to have to find something with a lot of sauce so that I can at least manage the sauce if nothing else. The lasagne at Chez Gerrard looked like it might fit the bill. We'll see. Denise and I then went to Opus One for a drink before heading off home in the sub-zero temperatures.

During yesterday afternoon Denise and I had trawled round the Northern Quarter for books and curtains before a coffee at ILVA before Denise headed off for the match. Was supposed to be going for a walk with Denise this faternoon in Heaton Park but had an attack of dizziness and high temperature during the night and so don't want to take any chances today. It was exactly the same as the time before so I'll have to try and work out what's triggering it. Maybe its just if I try to do too much in one day. Will also mention it to Sean next time I see him just in case its anything significant. Can't see that my blood pressure (the dizziness) would be affected by cancer though...

Mrs T arriving next Friday for a couple of nights. We're off to The Vortex (with that lovely Will Young chap) after darts at Wayne's tournament (I'm expecting to be out first round as I was once beaten in a dart's match by someone who was registered blind). Before that I'm off to the cinema on Wednesday to see Notes on a Scandal with Jane & Bill which looks very good. Heard from Lizzy this week, she's just got a job as head of HR at The Dorchester in London so she'll be off to pastures new soon. I'll miss her.

So let me know whather you want me to keep up with this site albeit on a less frequent basis... J x

Film

Had a good night's sleep on Thursday night and felt better Friday morning but though that discretion was the better part of valour so didn't attempt work. Lounged around all day Friday (apart from a walk to the doctor's) and my temperature came right down to normal. Went to the cinema with Jim Saturday night - The Last King of Scotland. A film about Idi Amin. Have since looked him up on Wikipedia and a lot of the film it turns out is fictional. However the film is probably truthful when it deals with the brutality of the regime and the sheer scariness of Amin himself. Quite bloodthirsty in places. Then for a drink on Canal Street. Went to chemists this morning to pick up the prescription I'd left on Friday (they don't stock the quantities of drugs I need!) but it was closed. Will have to go tomorrow. Had 3 ginger nuts dunked in coffee this morning. Progress of sorts... J x

Cough Cough

Went to the gym last night but had to leave early as I felt unwell - dizzy and a bit groggy. Developed a temperature last night too (38.5). Denise called round after the gym (despite having hampers of ironing to do) to look after me. Dosed myself up on paracetomol and brufen though and managed to have a good night's sleep. Feel much better this morning but don't want to risk anything so will stay at home today (although will need to pop to the chemist and the doctor as I need a prescription filled). Hopefully will feel even better tomorrow as am supposed to be going to the cinema with Jim. Haven't decided what we're going to see yet. Will keep you updated on health position. J x

Catch Up

So where was I? Oh yes, went to London on Saturday to stay with my lovely friend Sarah. We met up with our lovely friend Donna and went shopping in all the posh shops on new Bond Street - Fahri, Burberry, Vuitton, Dolce, Armani (Collezioni obviously not Emporio) etc. Saw a lovely pair of Vuitton trainers but they didn't have my size unfortunately. Will either need to source them in Manchester or pay a visit next time I'm in London. Resolved to go and see Patrick Stewart in The Tempest in Stratford on Avon (which reminds me, I'm supposed to be sorting that out). In the evening went to see Avenue Q (a musical featuring muppets) which was a lot better than it sounds. Ever seen muppets having sex? Its not a pretty sight...

Sunday off to Brighton to stay with John and Conor. Didn't do a lot while I was there just sort of hung out and chilled (easy since it was very chilly) which was nice. Back to Manchester on Tuesday and then to see the speech therapist Wednesday morning. Didn't feel as upbeat as I normally do when I've seen Frances in the past but then I think I'm coming to the limits of what I am likely to be able to eat in the future i.e. I don't think I will ever fully recover my swallowing abilities. Which is a shame but at least I'm alive (which is the upside). Anyway will see what the dentist says (I've an appointment soon) and also Sean since the Aged Ps are demanding that I get a second opinion.

Thursday morning was spent in Stockport. Honestly you wouldn't believe the size of their desks. They're huge. Got back to Manchester about 10 minutes ago so I'm going to have some lunch now and its not really worth going back into work now so I'll just chill until Denise drags me to the gym tonight. J x

Gosh Its Windy

Came home for lunch and have decided not to go back. Nearly got blown off my feet walking home (I don't seem to have as much gravity as I once did). Plus with bits blowing off the office block opposite my building it could be a dangerous area to be in. So I'm home, doing paperwork and paying bills. J x

Full Time Is Exhausting

Was on a training course in Stockport today. This meant leaving the house at 0800 and not returning until 1700 plus I only got a half hour for lunch. I'm knackered so will not be going to beginners yoga tonight (in any case its Ashtanga which I believe is quite a vigorous yoga so perhaps not quite the sort I'm looking for -I want one that improves flexibility). The good thing about the trip to Stockport however was that it showed me that I can get through the day without a syringe by my side - drinking all painkillers and nutritional supplements. Perhaps I won't need to come home from work every lunchtime from now on which could mean that I'll be back on full time sooner than I thought (work won't be as intense as this training course - it was a 2 day course delivered in one day: Mrs T should be expecting a telephone call from me any day now since I understood very little of the course and she did it when you had 2 days!).

Anyway, got to get on booking Porgy & bess for the Aged Ps. TTFN. J x

How Long Have You Got?

Its been a while since I've updated this so I'd make a nice cup of tea and maybe treat myself to a biscuit if I were you while you settle down to read this entry. If you're reading this in work on a Monday morning I'd make sure the calendar was free until lunchtime... So pin back your lugholes, here we go.

Fig came up to stay last weekend. He arrived Friday lunchtime and Friday night we went to Leicester to see The Wizard of Oz. Who knew Leicester was so far away? We'd allowed ourselves pleanty of time to get there but since we ran out of petrol and had to stop to fill up and then got lost in Leicester city centre we only made it to the theatre with 5 minutes to spare - not even time to pre-order interval drinks! The show was very good though and Ceri (as the wicked witch of the west) was very good. Not green at all and very glamourous. Still managed to get booed by everyone though. So no change there from his normal shows... the rest of the cast were superb and, we thought, that the production was very good (but see later under Leeds). Had a few problems getting home as well since both Manchester slip roads off the M6 were closed for who knows what reason and we had to eventually go via the M62. Got home absolutley knackered about 0100.

On Saturday we went shopping in the morning. Quite successfully since Fig bought a pair of jeans, some shoes and a watch and I bought a pair of Prada trainers. Saturday afternoon we went to The Lowry to see Acorn Antiques which was just about the funniest thing I've seen on stage in a long time. The cast were excellent and the really good thing was that they'd changed the show quite radically from its West End debut (where Fig had already seen it, without inviting me but that's another story and I'm not bitter at all) so it was like seeing a new show for Fig too. Later on Saturday night we met up with Jim and went drinking in the Village ending up in everyone's favourite tranny bar, Napoleon's. Got home, no idea what time but quite late.

Sunday saw us meeting up with Jim again and trooping off to The Opera House to see Snow White. A more traditional pantomime. The sets and costumes were fantastic although some of the cast left a bit to be desired. The dwarves were wonderful though. Then it was back home for a late lunch and out again to the Village ending up in everyone's favourite tranny bar, Napoleon's.

Fig went home Monday and then it was back to work for me Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday averaging around 6 and a half hours a day. Also went to the gym on Tuesday and Wednesday nights with Denise. Which made me feel very virtuous.

This Friday I met up with Jim, Patrick, Paul, David, Gordon & Lizzie after they'd had a meal in Villagio for Jim's birthday and we all went out drinking in the Village ending up in everyone's favourite tranny bar, Napoleon's. Didn't get home until 0230.

Then was up dead early to catch a train to Leeds to meet Sarah. We went for a coffee and a natter and then did the sales - Westwood (you were right Gordon, its not as big as Manchester) etc ending up in Harvey Nichols (natch) where I bought a Prada belt and jacket. Back to Sarah's for lunch which is when I discovered that I'd forgotten to bring a syringe with me so had to drink my Ensure Pluses which I hadn't been able to manage before because they're quite thick (its all those vitamins and nutrients) and tends to just clag (is that a word?) round my mouth. Luckily though I've now discovered that I can drink them with not too much trouble. This allied with the fact that I can drink soluble painkillers means, in theory, that I can now get rid of the tube in my stomach. Hurrah. I won't be doing it anytime soon though as its like a comfort blanket for me at the moment. After watching some rugby with Huw (Sarah's partner) which is interesting mainly because the players wear shorter shorts than footballers we went to The West Yorkshire Playhouse (via some cocktails in a nearby hostelery) to see the Wixard of Oz. This production knocked Leicester into a cocked hat (sorry Fig). It was superb as were the cast (apart, perhaps, from the cowardly lion who was perhaps not as strong as Leicester's). Caught the tarin back to Manchester afterwards and got home about midnight.

Then had Sue & Kev round this morning for a coffee. They're both well and looking mighty fine (Mrs T is losing weight) and enjoying themselves in the barren wastelands of the North East. It doesn't look as though I'll be persuading them to move back to Manchester anytime soon. They've already started looking at properties and have seen a couple that they like and are within their price range. Boo hoo. They send their regards to everyone they know.

Have just spoken to DD and we're off to the gym this afternoon. This evening I shall be collapsing on the sofa and not answering the phone. And that's your lot. Phew. What a busy time I've been having. Hope its not so long next time between posts. TTFN. J x