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Absolutely fantastic weekend in London but marred by some sad news. The good stuff first though. Arrived Saturday and we went to see the new St Pancras station. Very impressive. And very blue. Nice walk there as well although it took us about three quarters of an hour. Didn't do much in the evening. Saturday to the V&A to meet my godmother and to see the theatre design exhibition- really interesting and fascinating. Also saw some craft exhibition for new designers which was quite challenging and interesting to see where you can go with crafts. Will try and post a couple of photos at the end of this blog. In the evening went to the cinema to see Charlie Wilson's War which we all enjoyed. Cinema was also super plush and had a bar so you could take alcohol into the auditorium which pleased the Lewis family no end! Monday to the British Museum to see the First Emperor exhibition. The BM is a fantastic building and the covered courtyard is truly impressive. The exhibition was also really impressive spoiled only slightly by the number of people there - even though we were all on timed tickets. The terracotta figures themselves were marvels of engineering and so well preserved. We went with my auntie and uncle and we learned the sad news that my uncle has an incurable blood disorder. He's still awaiting test results to find out what this means in terms of time left but it could be anything from a few months to about 4 years (the best scenario). My Mum and Dad were really upset as was I but since my illness I think I approach life and death a little differently. For me now its not solely about how long one has left (although I recognise that this is important) but more importantly for me its about the quality of life you have whilst you're still around that matters. For instance I personally would prefer a shorter, pain-free life to a longer pain-filled one or one that saw me severely disabled. I realise everyone has their own views on this but that's the way I feel. From the short chat I managed to have with my uncle when we were on our own I got the impression that the quality of the life he has left is also an important consideration for him too. I know a lot of you reading this blog have your own views on these matters from things happening in your own lives so feel free to comment and join the debate. I know my aunt and uncle read this blog so I'd just like to pass on my love and everyone's best wishes from blog-land.

After the BM the Lewis's found a bar and drank too much! That's all. J x
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The Demon Depp of Fleet Street

Just back from seeing dear dear Johnny. Good film, beautifully filmed and JD and HBC very good. Very gothic. Not sure its an entirely successful filming of a Sondheim musical though. Occasionally a little too Twist. And they've cut the best song (the title track indeed). It may be impossible to actually film a Sondheim successfully. I think you need to be there with the action happening in front of you. I have to say I preferred seeing it in the theatre even though Jason Donovan isn't a patch on dear dear Johnny...

Off to the big smoke tomorrow with the Aged Ps. Not seen then since Xmas so lots to catch up on. Apparently they've even started reading this blog again so going to have to be careful what I say! To the theatre design exhibition at the V & A on Sunday and at the same time meeting up with my godmother who is rather marvelous. Then to see the Warriors (the terracotta ones) at the British Museum on Monday. And back oop North on Tuesday.

And what have I been up to since last I posted? Hmmm. Vodka martinis at Panacea on Thursday night. The waitress came and put a "reserved" sign on our usual table because the Spice Girls had it booked from 2200. Good job we weren't planning on staying that late otherwise there would have been hell to pay. Saw An Ideal Husband at the Royal Exchange on Tuesday. Very good. Fabulous chandeliers. And there were 6 of them. And Mrs Chievley was wonderful although we all thought that Gertrude was a little weak. Went with Jane & Bill. Bill is having his last chemo this week so that's really good news. Went for something to eat beforehand at Grado (obviously they ate and I didn't). Its a new Heathcote restaurant and very nice it is too. Gorgeous Spanish waiters who can barely speak a word. But who needs them to? We picked our drinks from the sherry menu. Who knew there were so many? I had 2 glasses of a Mantazillo or something similar. And it was very scrummy. Tasted of honey. Could sherry become the new VM? Watch this space... That's all. J x

This Morning Stockport...

...this evening Negresco. I like catching trains on business. Bizarre but true. I'm fairly sure I'd hate it if I had to do it on a regular basis but now and again its really enjoyable getting on a train with a load of other people wearing suits. Stockport was OK. Had a meeting for about an hour and a half and then back to Manchester. Rest of working day uneventful. Book group tonight. I hadn't read the book although listening to everyone talking I wish I had. The book was the Number 1 Lady Detective's Agency. May read it at some point in the future. 5 people turned up (Penny we missed you - hope Charlie is doing OK). The food at the restaurant was very nice according to everyone but the soup was a bit too chunky for me. And of course its a fabulous place. Rumours that we spent more time talking about John Barrowman than the book are completely without foundation... Home now. Oscar Wilde tomorrow - An Ideal Husband at the Royal Exchange with Jane & Bill. Haven't seen Bill for a while and I think he's finished his chemotherapy now so it'll be good to see how he's doing. That's all. J x

Current Stats

These are showing that 95% of visitors to this blog are from the UK, 2% from Spain, 2% from the US and 1% from the Russian Federation. Chile seems to have dropped off the map for the moment as does SE Asia. I don't know what period the stats refer to but I'm guessing that they're fairly recent because I know Hugh and Sarah are is SE Asia and keeping up to date with what is happening at home... Off to a furniture shop in Macclesfield today with DD. 6 people confirmed so far for Book Group on Monday - we're off to Negresco which is a very interesting looking restaurant. It remains to be seen what the food is like (but tomato soup is on the menu so I should be OK). That's all. J x

Vera

I never watch it but I watched the death scene tonight. Hardly dramatic.... J x

Good News

Had my bi-monthly appointment at Christies this morning. Actually got to see Sean too (first time for ages). No problems, he's happy with how everything seems to be going. Also "had the call" this evening from Ms D. The woman was supposed to have made a "no going out" resolution this New Year but I suppose she's done well to last this long - 17 days! Anyway it was back to Panacea (where they hadn't forgotten us!) Also had a really good session on the helpline last night. Had some really good calls. My session was from 1800 to 2000 and wouldn't you know it but I got a call at 1955 - lasted until 2045. And then I just had to tell him that I was sorry for his distress but John Barrowman was back on the telly in 15 minutes in a new series of Torchwood and could he phone back please? Just joking! Did make it home in time for Torchwood though and wasn't I just glad I did. Some serious man on man action from the start - how can you go wrong? Sci-fi, Cardiff and homosexuality. A match made in heaven! Our thoughts go out to Charlie tonight who is back in hospital and on the high dependency unit for some treatment. And our love goes to his family Penny & Kerry. Thinking of you. That's all. J x

I Am Legend

Ooh, scary film. Quite good though and Will Smith is his usual personable self (when not being chased by zombie type creatures). Think I need to watch Shameless tonight to bring me back down to earth. That's all. J x

Saturday Night's Alright For Dancing

Off out soon for Jim's birthday. Spent the morning taking Denise to the tip and to Sainsburys. As always, lovely spending time with Ms D. Is threatening to make me walk somewhere tomorrow. Has been a good week this week. Work has gone really well and the refurb looks to be back on course. Plenty of time for it all to go horribly wrong though so fingers are still crossed. Just need to arrange finance and book a holiday and then it can all kick off! Am thinking of spending a fortnight visiting Swansea, Eastbourne, Brighton & Marrakech. That should give the builders enough time to at least do the plumbing if nothing else. Will need to pack up loads of stuff and store it somewhere for the duration. I have a feeling Ms D's flat is going to be a little crowded for a while... Don't think there is any other news for the moment. Although I think I may be putting on some weight. That should please mother. Unless its a tumour growing of course. Lets hope that's not the case though. That's all. J x

So What's The Buzz, Tell Me What's-A-Happening?

So, busy busy as per. Denise took me on a walk for an hour on Sunday. It took 2 hours. But hey, give the girl a map and there's no telling what will happen. We certainly didn't find the Irwell Sculpture Trail but we did find the Lowry where she treated me to a double espresso and a paracetomol. I think my back may be getting worse which is a little depressing. Those bods at Manchester Uni had better hurry up and develop their treatment soon. Maybe I should volunteer to be a guinea pig? Certainly I used to have the figure for one...

Also got taken to Housing Units to look at side tables (I'm not allowed to buy anything in January). And was out round the Village on Friday night with Paul from the Helpline. Got my 3rd shift tomorrow with Trish. Had an e-mail from Sam at the LGF today and it sounds as though we'll go ahead with the LGBT bookgroup - where will I find the time?

Have been reading my cousin's blog of late. She puts me to shame, its all so professional with photos and everything. Admittedly all the photos are of greyhounds but even so. Its about time I got round to trying a few more pics. (And incidentally, if anyone knows how I change that voting thing then please let me know!). Watched Damages last night on BBC1. Looks like a cross between Devil Wears Prada and Lost. Bliss. That's all J x

All Over Now

So that was Christmas 2007... It was good for me, was it good for you? Nice to see the Aged Ps after about 6 months apart and there were no arguments (at least none that I was involved in!). Managed to take back my Xmas present on the day after Boxing Day and the replacement arrived today in the post! I think the DS Lite will prove to be a success in time. My mother's competitive streak should see to that. At least I'm sure they know how to work it.

Then it was back to Manc for New Year. DD of course had everything planned out. We went to a party at her friends Bryn & Michelle's house (lovely house too). Ev was there but everyone else was new. They seemed like a nice crowd too. Spent the night drinking Disco Vodka. Got home about 2ish (I think).

And now back to work. Which is OK. I quite like work (bizarre I know). Also went to the cinema last night. I'm Not There. The film about Bob Dylan. Very interesting (if half an hour too long). Cate Blanchett was fabulous and the cinematography was beautiful. Shame the usher decided to eat a really crunchy apple half way through and that people think its OK to check messages on their mobiles throughout the film.

Well, I'm sure you can all see the results of the Cranford jury. Although I understand that there may have been multiple voting by certain blog regulars - particularly in favour of the cow option. Shame on you all. I've no idea what the result of last year's competition was. I'm guessing that Jane won on account of copying and pasting half a book into the blog. That's all. J x

I'm Back!

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

Quick Update

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

Fabulous

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

Stop Press

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

Cranford

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

Xmas cars?

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

Good Session

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

To Them That Have Shall Be Given...

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

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

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

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

Kicking & Screaming

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

Shock Horror Tippi Hedron a Lunatic

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

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

Have We Correct Time Now?

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

All New Look

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

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

Can't Wait

Just one hour until Cranford!

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

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

That's all. J x

I Heart Janice

And I hope she wins...

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

What a Lovely Surprise

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

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

Noise and Disease and the Irish!

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

Back from Brum

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

Solihull and Beyond

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

Unbelievable

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

Cranford

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

Saturday

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

Stardust

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

IACGMOOH

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

It Was 2 VMs

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

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

When DD Calls...

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

Helpline

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

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

That's all. J x

Brrr

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

The Count

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

The Weekend

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

Elizabeth

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

Oh What a Perfect Night

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

13 hours

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

Secondment Hell

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

Technology

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

Just Don't

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

A Quiet Night In

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

Don't Stop The Train(ing)

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

Busy Day

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

Its "Just" Fashion

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

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

That's all. J x

Pain in the Back

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

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

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

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

Magnificent Macbeth

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

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

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

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

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

That's al. J x

Designer Update

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

Cutting It Fine

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

An Old Friend

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

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

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

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

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

Blogs, They're Just Mad

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

www.basicinstructions.net

Its a blast. J x

Godspell

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

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

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

Today

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

Just Discovered...

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

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

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

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

No other news really. Sorry. J x

Cotton Schmotton

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

Does It Say Sandwich?

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

Happy Bithday Jane

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

Christies

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

Busy As Per

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

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

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

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

Welcome

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

Hairspray

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

Its Out

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

Trip Out

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

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

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

Back Down...

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

And On The Other Hand

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

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

Brief Encounter

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

Blackpool

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

Going... Going...

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

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

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

Tatton Spark

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

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

Gay & Depressed

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

And Now On The Page

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

HP

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

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

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

Good Toase, Naughty Toase

(You had to be there).

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

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

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

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

Oh I Don't Know

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

Ocean's 13

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

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

Thinking Of You Bill (and thinking of you jane)

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

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

Not So Impressed

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

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

Just A Quickie

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

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

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

It Just Never Stops

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

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

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

Reporting In

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

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

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

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

Catch Up

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

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

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

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

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

Fantastic

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

The Twins Must Die

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

I Have Seen the Future of Drag

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

You Have To Go And See...

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

Busy Day

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

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

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

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

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

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

Turfed Out

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

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


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

Off Again

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

Goodbye Caroline

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

Satyagraha - I Kid You Not

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

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

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

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

Loved it, loved it, loved it.

J x

Busy Weekend Ahead

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

Good News

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

P.S.

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

Back In The Land Of The Virtuous

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

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

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