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

Christies visit

Saw Young Sean this morning. Also saw the lovely lovely Debbie (albeit briefly). News from the antipodes is that Caroline has arrived safely but has yet to build her house. No-one seemed to know whether or not she was watching the cricket. YS said that everything was fine and nothing to worry about. He thanked me for the Xmas hamper and said that no other patient had sent him a gift like this in the past. What is wrong with these people? YS and his team save lives. Perhaps I should have done a present to the team? I'm sure he shared it with them anyway... Also saw Mr (Dr?) Ho and his indecently tight trousers. Ho by name...

Missed the start of CBB last night (gasp) but this was because I was engrossed in Series 3 of Six Feet Under (I had the DVD for Xmas). Have had to quickly visit Amazon and order Series 4 and 5 now as its so good. Will catch up on CBB tonight. Apparently H from Steps has come out. I was so surprised I nearly turned straight...! J x

Happy New 2007

The casino was fun. Lost £60 (but since this was less than I'd won on the lottery - £68 - it wasn't too bad). The place was quite busy with lots of people who looked like they might be clients of HMRC and yet would sit across a desk from you and tell you that they never smoked or drank or went out much less gambled... the amounts of money being gambled were obscene. I apparently sat next to Tyrone from Coronation Street whilst playing blackjack but had no idea who he was. Got home about 0130 which wasn't too bad. Had a text from DD saying she was home at 0400....!

Might go out for a drink on Canal Street tonight. Don't know yet. And then its down to some serious cleaning for the arrival of Madame La Fig.

Just heard from DD. She's just got up (I know!) and is now off to the match (Everton apparently). Will meet her later for a drink as well. J x

Back In The Land Of Boddie

Well Xmas has gone and I have once more migrated North with the caribou looking for fresh pasture. Xmas was good, saw lots of people I haven't seen for ages and they're all fine and dandy which is nice. The Aged Ps are well and enjoyed their Xmas too. For Xmas lunch I had parsnips, roast potatoes, stuffing, bread sauce and cranberry sauce all mashed together and covered in gravy. It was like nectar of the Gods. Not easy to eat it must be said but it tasted divine. Also had bolognaise sauce whilst in Swansea so the week was a succession of "firsts". Had DVDs and CDs for Xmas along with National Trust membership and a bottle of Jack Daniels. Hurrah.

Off to the gym at 0900 tomorrow morning with DD so we'll see who faints first (I suspect it will be me!). Then to the casino on NYE. I'm fairly sure I'll have to go and find something new to wear in the sales. I'll report back once a purchase has been made. J x

Can One Tattoo Over A Scar?

Just a thought... J x

Its That Time Of Year

Christmas Competition

Ok this is for charity so pay attention. For every person who responds to this posting I will put £1 in a jam jar. Your response should include your favourite christmas(ish) quote and the details of your favourite charity. Come the New Year I'll read through all the quotes and decide which is my favourite (I'll also give my reasons and feedback for the unsuccessful quotes where required). All the money in the jam jar (once the jam has been hosed off- ho ho ho) will be donated to the winner's charity. Clear? Then get posting. For all you posting virgins out there who just read the blog and never comment this is your excuse to sign up and get blogging. Merry Christmas everybody. J x

Scarred For Life

Went to the scar clinic today. What a depressing place Wythenshawe hospital is. And the staff, don't get me started. However, the doctors were nice and, apparently, I saw two of the top plastic surgeons in the country. Unfortunately there isn't a great deal they can do for my scars. They do think, however, that they will get better and less obvious over time. So I had some photos done and they're going to leave me for 6 months during which I have to wear a tube bandage on my arm. This applies pressure to the scar which apparently makes it disappear. No but seriously, it does flatten the scar and cause the red colour to diminish. If there is not much change after 6 months they'll see what can be done with my arm although there would be disadvantages to having further surgery i.e. further scarring! So its a question of wait and see on the scars. Not done much else today. Had a lovely long sleep last night though. And don't forget, its only a couple more days before the year turns and the evenings and mornings start getting lighter again. That's me for you. Always looking on the bright side... J x

Party On Dude

So went to the party. Which was in Whalley Range (honestly, I didn't know such places existed). But in a nice part of Whalley Range. House was huge (three sitting rooms!). Packed to the rafters with gay men, most of whom I'd never met before. Sounds like heaven? And it would have been at one time except I found myself strangely self concious. Gay people are just so damn judgemental (and I include myself in this). At one point everyone gathered round the piano and sang carols. Only I couldn't join in because I had no idea what my singing voice would sound like. Do you realise I haven't sung along to anything (not even in the shower when I tend to be thinking about work - remember that Bob?) since the operation. Rest assured I have been singing today and it sounds OK - or at least as OK as it ever did. Gordon & Lizzie were there (as was Jim) and it was great to see them all again so I enjoyed myself actually. I was just surprised by my own reactions to a large crowd. Didn't get home until well after midnight. Dirty stop out!

Went to the gym this morning and did a workout which was cool. Now have my own programme to follow which I'm supposed to do 3 times a week but I don't suppose I'll fully get into it until after Xmas now.

Called round to DDs after the gym and then took her Christmas booze shopping (she filled 5 carrier bags) and then went back to bed this afternoon. Watched Hogfather (disappointing) and Lost (cliffhanger as per but we don't get to see any new episodes until February - bastards). Anyway, happy holidays everyone. J x

Hours & Hours

Did 5 and three quarter hours on Friday. My longets day since the op. Let me tell you about that day...

Wake up in morning take painkillers and nutrition. Walk through rain to work. Work. Walk through rain to go home at lunchtime. Painkillers and nutrition. Fall asleep on sofa for half an hour. Walk through rain back to work. Work. Walk through rain back home. Painkillers and nutrition. Walk through rain to gym. Do gym induction. Wlak through rain back home. Exhausted. And wet.

Off to a party tonight with Jim and Gordon & Lizzy. No idea who is throwing the party but they're obviously people after my own heart since they have a theme. Everyone has to take a Christmas decoration that is somehow related to Alice in Wonderland. What a good idea...

Back to gym Sunday morning to find out what sort of training programme they have worked out for me... J x

Casino Royale

The casino is to die for darlings. We'll be spending our NYE there for sure.

Met up with Jacky (newcastlewench) on Tuesday evening. Went to The Living Room for a drink and a catch up. She'd bought me a whistle thing with a plunger that makes noises like the clangers for Xmas. Just what I always wanted... Now where is that pesky soup dragon?

Then off to a director's meeting for the building. Walking through Manchester city centre at 1800 with all the hustle and bustle of people shopping and leaving work and going out for drinks took me right back to the good old days of leaving work at that time. I got quite nostalgic. Anyway, I'll soon be back there as did my first 6 hour day today (3 hours in the morning followed by a 2 hour lunch - snoozed for half an hour - and then 3 hours in the afternoon). I think it will work out OK.

Have had to postpone my gym induction until Friday as its the social club Xmas do tomorrow and I can't miss that (even though the buffet will be beyond my reach - oh for the days when I was first in the queue...). J x

Joined The Gym

Which means Denise gets £20 or something. Anyway, we're treating it as an excuse to go to Manchester's newest casino for cocktails on Wednesday.

So Long, Farewell, Auf veidersein (sp?) Goodbye

The Aged Ps have departed the banks of the Medlock and set sail for sunny Wales. It'll only be 12 days before I see them again so the farewells were not too tearful. We spent yesterday morning at The Lowry (theatre not hotel). The current exhibitions are good (if you like Lowry the painter, which I don't) and excellent if you like football (which I do a bit but I thought the 2 exhibitions - photographs from the World Cup and general "art" on the subject of football for some competition or other were out of this world and well worth a visit). Then a quick mince round the mall before hopping on a tram and back to the executive suite at the Hilton. Honestly you needed to prise them out of there with a crowbar and, indeed, most of yesterday afternoon was spent there. Considering the weather yesterday though this was no bad thing. They went off to Choice for their evening meal last night but were disappointed by the "small and ordinary" menu. I stayed home and watched Lost. Not the most exciting episode ever (is anyone remotely interested in Africa?) but it sets Jack up for an exciting op in the future. Do we believe that woman who looks like his ex-wife? Hmmm....

Hoping to join the gym this afternoon and then its back to work tomorrow. J x

P.P.P.S

Seeing newcastlewench on Tuesday (she's packed her gun and headed off for manchesterford on the slow train) so if anyone wants me to give her a hug or anything then just let me know (although I'll be giving her a hug anyway whether you want me to or not). J x

Shopped & Dropped

Harvey Nicks and Selfridges (natch). Boots on account of my father managing to lose his glasses last night despite having them firmly tied round his neck. And then the Christmas market which (and I've no idea how it happened) completely underwhelmed my parents. I think its all that high living (and high drinking) in the executive lounge. It's gone to their heads.

So they've all buggered off to Albert's Shed leaving me to fend for myself (lentil curry puree followed by black cherry yoghurt followed by ibuprofen) and so it's an early night for me.

Off to The Lowry tomorrow (the theatre not the an hotel) and I'll let y'all know how it goes. Nighty nighty. J x

Updating...

Thursday night: to Dimitris (where else?) to celebrate la DD's birthday. She was there, resplendant as ever along with her posse (does she ever travel without them?). Including a new model type. Very pretty. Although I notice we only got his box in the newspaper... (answers on a postcard to Keith Chegwin...)

Friday and the physiotherapy reassessment went very well (although exhausting). I'd improved in all categories (did you doubt it even for a minute?) and even broke a few records. Must have been helped by the very attractive young intern from Stoke who was just along to help out!

Friday also and the Aged P's et leurs amis sont arrivent. Their rooms (or should I give them their proper titles, their executive suites) are tres belles (they were on offer though). Since they are staying in executive suites they have access to the executive lounge which is on the 23rd floor next to the bar. Except you don't have to queue. Nor do you have to suffer the hoi polloi. And pre dinner drinks from 5 till 8 are free. Yes, you read it here first. Free alcohol. Needless to say the Aged Ps are in seventh heaven and vowing never to stay with me again. Took them on a walking tour of Manchester's Xmas lights (v impressed natch) and then dropped them off at Livebait for their dinner. Everyone had had an exhausting day so I didn't come back into town to meet them after dinner (mine was pureed bombay potatoes - yum, followed by vanilla youghurt and a paracetomol). Watched unanimous (what a bunch of bastards they all are) and then went to bed. Having taken my ibuprofen at 2130 last night I slept until 0730 this morning. 10 hours without painkillers. That's the longest I've been for about a year which was very encouraging.

Shopping today but I'll update you on that tomorrow... J x

Here I Am

Had a quiet (on the whole) weekend with John. We did some Xmas shopping - I bought myself an Armani jacket and he bought me a book (Wintersmith since you ask). He also bought himself some pants. D & G though darling...

Went to see the new Bond which is terrific. Really enjoyed it and I'm not at all a Bond fan normally. Also watched some DVDs - Pirates of the Carribean (II being better than I in my opinion), Sin City (fantastic photography if a little gory) and something else that I've forgotten about already. No late night partying at all I'm afraid.

Saw DD tonight in the Fat Cat. She's fine and dandy and looking forward to being ** years old on Thursday. Spoke to Mrs T (like the new "Mine's a wine" name though) and she's fine and dandy too as is the redoubtable Mr T. Apparently he's about to buy a kilt.

Aged P's arrive on Friday with their friends from Swansea. They're all staying in the Hilton (on upper floors apparently) and I can't wait to see what the rooms are like. They've already booked restaurants for the 3 nights they're here so I'll only be seeing them during daylight hours.... J x

See, Not Very Exciting

Yesterday. Went to work, came home, fell asleep on sofa, watched "...Celebrity..." went to bed. How exciting is that? Which is why I no longer post every day.

Off to a conference though this morning (oooh, very exciting) all about Risk. And now you've all fallen asleep again...

John arrives this afternoon for the weekend. It'll be good to see him again. Not decided what we're going to do yet (well, not all the time anyway). Might go and see the new Bond film. Might do some Xmas shopping. Might get drunk (although this latter is likely to take a long time at the rate of one bottle of beer per hour).

Have decided to send Young Sean a hamper from Harvey Nicks for Xmas to thank him for keeping me alive this year. J x

History Schmistory

Went to see The History Boys at The Lowry. What a marvelous and, in places, unexpected play. We were in one of the upper circles but given the lay out of The Lowry still had a good view of the stage apart from the screen at the back. The Lowry had rather thoughtfully provided 2 small televisions to compensate for not being able to see the screen but it wasn't quite the same...

Went for a drink with Denise to The Deansgate afterwards. Despite the refurb its still as rough as ever so we only had one. Spent Sunday cleaning and putting up Xmas decorations ready for John's arrival on Friday.

Sorry I haven't been making daily entries to the blog but really its because my life is pretty boring at the moment. Not because I'm whizzing around doing all sorts of exciting things. Even the medical appointments are dropping off now. Have decided that I'm better leaving yoga until after Xmas though as there's too much present shopping to do. Will see about joining the gym before Xmas though. Or perhaps I'll just go along to a line dancing class? J x

Saturday

Had my last physiotherapy class yesterday. I've really enjoyed the classes and I'm sure they've done me some good in terms of strength and stamina. Have a reassessment in a fortnight so I'll be able to see whether they have or not. Then saw Frances . Only saw her a fortnight ago so yesterday's appointment was really just to check up that I'm managing the semi-solids OK - which I seem to be apart from mashed potato. Not quite sure why I can't manage mash but it somehow seems too "sticky". Anyway, all the other stuff I manage to puree seems to be going down alright although not without effort. Beer seems to be happening a bit easier now as well - I can manage a bottle in under an hour! Whoopee. Will now see Frances again after the New Year.

Had my haircut and have decided to try growing it a bit longer than I have had it in the past. Hopefully this will distract from the lump on my neck...

Off to the theatre tonight with Denise and her posse to see The History Boys. She thinks its the same cast as is in the film but I'm not so sure...

Have decided to take up yoga (as recommended by my physiotherapist) so if anyone knows of any good classes, please let me know. Apparently I need to start with Hatha Yoga which is a nice gentle one rather than Ashtanga which is quite vigorous. Am also considering joining a gym (again) but actually going this time... J x

Home Early

Left work early today as could not face the pain of "moving day". Apparently all the computers have been put back in the wrong place. left them to it. It also didn't help that my painkillers were in my crate which I couldn't unpack until I knew what desk I was going to be sitting at.

Walked round the shops on Sunday. There was a geek alert in force outside the G-Mex as there was a Collector's Fair on with the personal appearance of "stars" from minor cable channel sci-fi shows. This allied with the fact that there were 2 storm troopers on the doors was enough to guaranteee that outside was knee deep in acne and anoraks. Harvey Nicks was also chock-a-block but with a much better class of customer sweetie. The Christms Market is the usual array of wooden German toys and food stalls selling all manner of unpronounceable wares.

Met Denise for a drink on Saturday (Dimitris, where else?). She was in a good mood because of City's win. Afterwards met Jim for a drink on Canal Street (my first drink on Canal Street for over 8 months). Nothing had changed there. Still as grimy and dirty as ever. All it would take is one upmarket place with a cleaner and all the other places would be out of business...

Am having to dealy my physiotherapy assessment as have been asked to attend a Risk Conference (its not anywhere exciting). Should be fun though. J x

Medical Visits

To Christies this morning to see Young Sean. He's looking well and chipper. The lovely lovely Debbie was with him too. Who needed anyone else? YS was happy with the way things are looking. Had still not heard from dentist so YS said he'd write to him (was this not done first time round?). The lovely lovely Debbie had held up her end of the bargain though because I have a referral to the scar clinic for the 19 December and she'd even managed to come up with a couple of the very expensive (thank you) plasters for me to try on my arm. I'll let y'all know if they do any good.

To MRI this afternoon to see Laura the physiotherapist (the one for for my back and my shoulder). She's also very happy with the way things have gone and she thinks there is nothing left she can teach me. So I'm to keep on keeping on with the exercises she's given me and good luck and merry christmas. So that was good news too. I'm still at the Friday classes though for another 3 weeks. J x

Mash & Daal

Sunday lunch was a bit of a disaster. I thought I'd made the mash quite runny but even so as soon as I put it in my mouth it was like trying to eat sawdust. It just felt so dry and once it was at the back of my throat trying to swallow it was virtually impossible. So after much choking I had to throw it away. Did manage 2 beers though - I'm down to about a beer an hour now.

Had a lentil daal for tea tonight. I heated it in a saucepan and added water and then pureed it using my new hand held blender. It was, I think, about the same consistency as the mash yesterday (although I used a spoon to eat it I could have easily used a fork) but for some reason it was much easier to eat and I managed to finish it all. Hurrah. Progress.

Watch this space for further pureed culinary delights.... J x

Shopping Is So Much Fun

Went shopping for semi-solids today. Had a full shopping trolley - the first time in over 8 months. Tried a chocolate mousse this afternoon (a bit claggy and had to have a cup of hot tea to wash it all down) and am having mashed potatoes, peas, pureed carrots and brown sauce for Sunday lunch! Also bought one of those hand held blenders so am expecting to have kitchen walls decorated with half pureed carrots tomorrow.

I lied about it being the last ever time I would see Mrs T since I'm going to the cinema with her tonight (Marie Antoinette) so tonight will be the last ever time...

DD is off to the wilds of Richmond (which is in Yorkshire apparently rather than on the Thames). Hope its warmer there than it is here. Bloody freezing. Aged Ps are safely back from Portugal (where it rained all the time) and they're coming up with their friends to stay at the Hilton in December.

Seeing Sean next week which will be nice although I've still heard nothing from the scar clinic. Charlotte (the new Caroline) assures me I've been referred though so its not as if she's falling into Caroline's old ways and simply forgetting me... Also seeing Laura who is muy other physiotherapist (specifically for my back and shoulder). I think she's doing some good and my back may be improving slightly. Managed to sleep for 7 hours the other night without waking up for painkillers which is a first since I left hospital.

That's all for now. TTFN. J x

Oh What A Perfect Day (So Far)

Met DD for coffee first thing at Caffe Nero on Oxford Road followed by physiotherapy where I was put up to Level 4 (the highest level) so I must be doing something right. There was also one old biddie and one new guy (younger than me!) there today so I wasn't all on my own. Also Hannah was one of the physios and we like her.

Then saw Frances who says its still too early to say how far my swallow will develop. I think this is encouraging becasue I was beginning to worry that it might not develop much further than it has to date. She's said that i should now move onto "semi-solids" (doesn't that sound appetising!). This includes mashed up vegetables, fish in sauce, scrambled eggs (but I don't eat eggs) and cuury sauces. So will go shopping tomorrow for a whole new larder...

Frances also said that I can keep my tummy tube as long as I want to which is good news since its become a sort of a comfort blanket for me. I'd hate to think of life without it at the moment. Its just so much easier to put painkillers and the Ensure Plus through it at the moment than it is to try and drink them.

Went to see the Xmas lights tuned on yesterday with Mr and Mrs T. Simon Webb was crap. John Savident was crap (the man has no idea how to improvise so I've no idea what he'll be like in panto, I say, I've no idea what he'll be like in panto!) even the 7 bloody dwarves were crap. And as for the mayor, don't even get me started... However the much anticipated "Mamma Mia Firework Finale" was worth all the hype. It was spectacular. Afterwards we walked down Deansgate to see the lights there but they'd forgotten to turn those on!

Seeing Mr & Mrs T for the last time evr tomoprrow. Its going to be emotional.... J x

I'm Back!

At last. The man from Sky has been and twiddled my knobs and I'm back. God I've missed the internet.

Anyway, not a huge amount has happened since I was last here. Went to Chatsworth to see the sculptures (very nice - have some photos I'll try and post). Saw The Devil Wears Prada - enjoyed. Have had 2 physiotherapy sessions - on my own, I think I scared all the old biddies away. My back is playong up a bit, don't know why but still on the painkillers. And that's about it.

Sorry to hear about your friend Roger. Its a terrible thing when someone takes their own life, particularly when you don't know the reason and don't know whether there was anything you could have done to help. I'm thinking of you. J x