Eeek

The Apprentices are coming North. Lock up your self respect and head for the hills... J x

Quiet Weekend (ish)

Not done a huge amount. Mostly spent today cleaning and stuff. Unable to do any on Saturday or Sunday on account of getting over hangovers (hence the "ish" in the title). Saturday night was out with Ms DD and Gill & Brian (her friends from Guildford). Went to the Great John Street hotel and a new bar called Corridor which is down a back-street in Salford and yet was really good (very knowledgeable barmen who knew what they were doing (how fantastic/unusual is that?). Did get very very drunk though.

Week in Warrington was good. Plenty of meetings and stuff (of course). Exciting week coming up - even more meetings! Also went to a meeting at the Helpline (I just can't get enough of them). This was the first time since the chicken pox and it was good to catch up with people.

Just watched 100 Greatest Musicals (an inspired piece of television if there ever was one). But Grease as the greatest musical? I think not. I'd probably go for Les Miserables? Into The Woods? A Chorus Line? Let me know what you think... That's all. J x

28,000 and 500

I have posted 500 messages on this blog and they have been read over 28,000 times. That's pretty amazing for someone who a) was convinced they were going to die and b) only started this thing because I didn't want visitors to view my disfigurements by visiting me in hospital. Hey ho. Well I ain't dead yet. And I'm still the pretty one.... That's all. J x

RIP

Bea Arthur has died. She played Dorothy in Golden Girls and was rather fabulous. I liked her and will miss her. That's all. J x

Birmingham

So, 2 days at the NEC. I could hardly wait. What a load of tosh. Although I was rather impressed by our director who tells it like she sees it. Shame she needs glasses...

Actually the best bit was Thursday night in the bar. Got totally rat arsed on cheap vodka with a couple of the other Business Learning Managers from Merseyside. Twas a good night. Unfortunately we were a little late for the start of Day Two of the conference. It can't have helped that our boss was already seated when we had to make our late entrance. Oops. I'll let you know Monday if I still have a job...

Off to Her Maj's tonight for an evening of soup and Madmen. We're spending the rest of the month in because Paris was a little more expensive than she'd anticipated. A whole week in the office next week so might actually get down to some work! That's all. J x

Lang Lang Rules

Despite sounding like a panda, Lang Lang is, in fact, a piano player. Now I'm not normally a huge fan of the piano but I have never felt such emotion when watching a classical concert before. The man is incredible. It was just him on stage with a piano for about 2 and a half hours but it was unbelievable. The Bartok wasn't so much a piece of music as an assault on the piano. It was all out war with not a tune in sight and yet it was fantastic. The Schubert was exquisite and the Debussy was lovely. Even the Chopin was great and I hate Chopin (just too boring for words). And then he did an encore of Chinese folk songs which were, well, Chinese sounding. The Bridgewater Hall was a sell out and they (and I) loved him. If you ever get a chance to go and see this man play pay whatever it takes. You won't regret it. No photos though (sorry Jane). J x

Back to Manc

So Eater was good. Spent it in Swansea with the Ageds. Ageds are fine and it was fun. The weather was fabulous. As instructed, there should be some photos of some of the gardens we visited attached to this post. That's all. J x

Easter, Schmeaster

Off to Swansea for the hols. Aged Ps delighted at the prospect of (yet) another trip to the National Botanical Garden of Wales (its their own fault really as they bought me the membership for Xmas). Will also be visiting a garden centre (I have some ideas for my terrace) and other bonding family activities. Back on Monday for another 4 day week in Warrington. Discovered today that I have arranged a Team Meeting for Tuesday when there's only me and one other team member in. Oh the joys of being in charge and completely lacking in organisational skills. The poor team member is just going to have to sit there and listen to me drone on about the BBS (ask a current member of HMRC if you don't know what this is) and then devise a solution all on his own for how we address the over 18 month old cases problem! He wasn't in today and so won't find all this out until Monday. Poor sod. That's all. J x

Very Good

The leaving do was lovely. Probably about 50 people throughout the day but not all at once - some arrived early and left early, others late and late. I received a briefcase as a leaving present. But not just any briefcase. It was an "official" briefcase (back in the day the Department used to give a briefcase to everyone who qualified as a Grade 7 but they'd stopped doing it by the time I qualified so obviously I've always wanted one). It says ER on it and everything. Its not a brand new one - they don't make them anymore but its lovely nonetheless. They'd also made up a photo album with pictures of every team I'd worked with since coming to Manchester which is just fantastic. I'll treasure it.

Of course I had too much to drink. I was trying to stick to Peronis but then people started buying me martinis so what could I do? No idea what time I got home. The party kicked of at 1200 and it was somewhere around 2100 to 2200 that I left (I'm guessing). I woke up on the sofa in the early hours so can assume a good time was had by all! That's all. J x

And so I'm back...

Valencia was lovely (but wet). The city has some really old bits and some really (really) new bits. In fact its the perfect mix - just like Manchester. Had to fly to Alicante on Monarch though. The flight out wasn't too bad - we were given extra leg room seats despite not having paid ridiculous seat booking and extra legroom booking fees. Alicante was also hot and sunny and we had a couple of hours there before catching the train to Valencia. We went first class and it was lovely - free vodka!

The apartment was also quite nice although it cost us more than we thought due to a cock up by me. In fact I suspect that DD won't let me book anything for the 2 of us again since there were also some "issues" around the timing of our flights too ( we had to leave the apartment on our final day at 0615 to get the train to go back to Alicante - in the pouring rain).

It rained on and off for most of the weekend but it didn't really spoil anything apart from the bus tour because it wasn't "open-top". It was also impossible to find the perfect vodka martini but then without James Bond poor Johnny Foreigner doesn't stand a chance. I will go back though as there's so much still to explore.

Back to work and a ton of e-mails and no computer services. Plus ca change...

Official promotion celebrations/leaving do at The Pitcher & Piano tomorrow. Looking forward to it and hoping (probably in vain) that I won't have to make a speech. I'll update you on the festivities and any injuries sustained once I'm sober. That's all. J x

Bloody Typical

The weather forecast for Valencia has been sun, sun, sun for weeks, months now and then, on the weekend that we're due to go, rain all weekend. Bugger. BUGGER do you hear me? And thrice bugger I say. Still, there'll be museums and shops and bars (oh my). So I'm sure we'll have a good time. That is, of course, if we ever make it there. We fly to Alicante (taxi booked for 0515 tomorrow am) and then have to get the train to Valencia. We've tried booking train seats but DD's computer is rubbish and the Spanish railway doesn't support Apple computers. Bugger again. Anyway, I've packed for nice weather (I'm an optimist - apparently optimists see the doughnut where pessimists see the hole...) but made one concession by packing an umbrella (now that my builder has told me where he hid it). So anyway, not taking the computer - Monarch weight limits and all that - so I'll blog when I get back and let you know all about it. That's all. J x

Well, What a Week it's Been

So busy I haven't even had time to blog (although to be fair I did find time to go and see Vicky Cristina Barcelona - really good and Penelope Cruz is stunning - and down one or 6 vodka martinis). But I'm sure you're all dying to know how the job is going. Well I have to say that so far its going really well. The days are longer what with the commuting and all - especially when I have to go into Liverpool (2 days this week). And I haven't managed to get hold of all the computer services I need yet. But my team are really nice and they seem really keen and up for the job which is good (and unusual). I think I made the right choice going back a week early. Its really strange having a personal secretary but again she is really nice and very helpful. Its a shame I wasn't able to start when I should have (02/02) because I haven't had the advantage of a handover from the previous manager but in some ways perhaps that's good too because it means I have no preconceptions of the people on the team. Also, luckily, no-one has asked me a question yet that I didn't know the answer to - but its just a matter of time. I'll keep you posted! Quiet weekend ahead (but Valencia next weekend - hurrah). That's all. J x

New Job Today

Oooooh. J x

Briefly

Have sorted out travel insurance, found my passport (and E111 card thingy - in date) and also found some old Euros. Now really feel like we're off to Valencia (a week next Friday). Oooooh. J x

Catch Up

So, where were we? Ah, yes, still on the sick. Well that all changes next week as I go back on Monday having obtained an un-sick note from my doctor (my original sick note runs out a week on Monday). It'll be a fairly busy week as I'll be in Liverpool for meetings on 2 days and have a dental appointment on Tuesday. In fact, it seems like I've hardly been out of the dentist for ages now as I had a hygienist appointment last Tuesday, saw the hospital dentist on Thursday and now see my regular dentist next week. Things are not looking too bad though teeth-wise. In fact, the hospital dentist wants to take photos of my mouth to show to his colleagues because he reckons that you can hardly tell I've had oral radiotherapy by just looking at my teeth. He reckons its because I use Tooth Mousse which is a new product that you can only get from Australia at the moment. Whatever it is I'm quite content if things are going OK (although of course my teeth are rubbish anyway from all those years of smoking).

Went for a drink with Sara on Wednesday at The Bridge and was later joined by her holiness. Needless to say we ended up at Panacea and had several (?) cocktails. We also got more free tickets for something or other but since its on a week night I won't be able to go.

Called into work (Manchester) on Thursday to clear out my desk. It was good to see everyone again. Will have to call back at some point though for my "presentation" (apparently there's been a collection). Will arrange at the same time as my leaving do which will probably be the 03/04 now.

Yesterday had a visit from HRH Ms Taylor. Fabulous to see her and she looks really well but the visit was too too brief. Yesterday evening was Comic Relief and Sara and DD came round for soup (I'm quite the expert now on tomato soup) and one or two little drinkies. A fun evening was had although CR was pretty hit and miss as usual (and as inevitable since they're trying to be all things to all people). Today is currently blank and tomorrow is the cinema again with Graham. I'll let you know how it goes at work next week. That's all. J x

Cyber Overload

Blogs, e-mail, facebook, twitter... how does anyone get anything done these days? Its exhausting just trying to keep up with all the different ways of communicating online.

And on the subject of overloading oneself I actually made it to the gym today. Did about 40 minutes of cycling, sit-ups and stretches. Knackered now. Am pondering going back to work next week and so tried to make an appointment to see my doctor but he has no appointments available for the rest of this week unless its an emergency. Will now speak to another doctor on the phone tomorrow and see what he/she says. I'll let you know.

Went to see The Young Victoria last night with Graham from upstairs. Surprisingly good I thought. Thence to the Raddison for a couple of VMs (well, one has to n'est pas?). Off for a shower now. That's all. J x

All Quiet on the Manchester Front

Been back in Manchester almost a week and I haven't done a great deal. Went to see the Tom Stoppard at the Library Theatre (Rock & Roll) which I enjoyed but I'm not sure I "got" it all. There was a lot of philosophical stuff on Russia and Czechoslovakia (Jane will explain it all to you if you need more information) and I've never been a particular Pink Floyd fan...

Went to MRI (walked there and back - phew!) for a CT scan (to check out the fluid on the lungs issue) but am not seeing the consultant until 22/04 so can't let you know he outcome until then. Presumably though they'll call me if there are any urgent issues. Also went to Christies for my regular check up. Everything fine. Not sure if I told you (and too lazy to look back through the blog) but the growth thing on my tongue disappeared whilst I was in hospital - which means it responded to the antibiotics which in turn means it wasn't cancerous. Hurrah.

Also had a haircut (long overdue). I could virtually sit on it.

Not sure when I'm going back to work. My sick note runs until 20/03 but I'm feeling quite strong so we'll see. I definitely won't go back next week but may go back a week early. But then everyone's telling me not to be over-ambitious. We'll see how I feel next week.

Had various drinks with DD (natch) and also made my first soup. Tomato. Recipe from the BBC. It was really nice (and DD agreed). I recommend it - give it a try.

Booked tickets for the Rufus Wainwright thing and the 3 Bach performances as part of the Manchester International Festival this summer but not managed to get any Bartlett tickets yet. I think that's failure of the booking system though and I'll get the tickets at the box office next week.

I also joined Facebook whilst I was in Swansea but I'm thinking of giving it up because its not that good (IMHO) and I've got this blog which, whilst not exactly interactive (why does no-one comment anymore?), at least lets all my readers know what's going on.

Anyway, that's all. J x

Back for Good

So, arrived back in Manchester yesterday afternoon and barely had time to unpack before I was out for cocktails with DD Aaah it was nice to get back to normal.

Feeling pretty good health-wise but still not very strong. Hopefully though will build myself up over the next week or two so that I can return to work before too long - perhaps even before my current sick note runs out. I'll keep you posted.

Having my new bedroom furniture delivered today so won't be put and about much today. That's all. Except to say that Callum, one of my builders, has injured himself so it may be some time before I get things finished in the flat. Will phone him today to find out what the position is. That really is all. J x Except to say, thank you for the lovely cards Andrea and Donna. You're both very sweet.

Sir Derek

Twelfth Night was magnificent. Derek Jacobi was superb as Malvolio. And Viola/Cesario was played by that woman from Lark Rise (the more timid of the dressmaking sisters). She was superb too. In fact the whole cast was superb apart from Orsino and since he wandered round for half the play with his top off I forgave him. To Browns Hotel afterwards for a few cocktails. V nice. J x

Saatchi

Saw the "Unveiled: New Art from the Middle East" exhibition at the Saatchi gallery this morning. Fantastic art. Fantastic gallery. And on Sloane Square too so fantastic shops (but didn't have the energy to visit any of them unfortunately). Now having a lie down in the hotel before Twelfth Night. Will blog later with details of how Derek did... That's all. J x

Well

Dr Atomic was interesting. Not a single tune you could hum though. But the staging was fantastic, the singers were good (and made the best of the material they'd been given) and the story itself was interesting. But I really wouldn't recommend it. Act 1 just about passed muster (hence I stayed for Act 2). But Act 2. Bugger only knows what most of it was about. Mrs Oppenheimer appeared to have completely lost her mind and was just ranting about anything that came into her head (at least that's how it appeared). Mr Oppenheimer wandered round the stage quoting from the Bhagavad Gita (it says in my programme). No, me either. And then a whole tribe of native americans turns up and sings some stuff and wears antlers. I kid you not. Anyway, high point of the evening was my first vodka martini since New Years Eve. There was no falling over. Twelfth Night tomorrow and the possibility of the Saatchi Gallery. That's all. J x

Picasso

What a fabulous exhibition. It is all about paintings done by Picasso that were based on or influenced by earlier paintings done by the great historical painters - El Greco, Goya, Rembrandt etc. And it is just displayed so well and the audio commentary is so good and the paintings themselves are just so stunning that it completely blows you away. At least it did for me. It was a little too crowded (even with timed tickets) but that was probably inevitable given how popular it was always going to be. If you get a chance, go and see it. Dr Atomic tonight. That's all. J x

Hats

Went to see the hats this afternoon. Fab. Really good, really interesting and really impressive. Cost a fiver though but well worth the money. Bought a book if you can't afford the fiver (see how Northern I've become?). Ma and Pa gone to see my aunty (still in the hospital following her stroke last year) and to have a meal with my uncle. I'll meet them in the bar (Hilton, Green Park) later. Picasso, god-mother and Dr Atomic tomorrow. That's all. J x

Swansea-->London-->Manchester

Went to Cardiff Saturday night to see The Marriage of Figaro at the Millennium Centre. Impressive building, crap opera. Like my cousin, we walked out at the interval. Its a shame because Welsh National Opera are normally very good. And we like Rebecca Evans (who was the best thing in it). But my back was playing up too so we didn't stay.

Its a bit of a bowls-fest this week so I don't expect to see too much of the Ageds. But then we're off to London on Friday. Itinerary (for me) includes an hat exhibition at the V&A, the Picasso exhibition at the National Gallery, Dr Atomic (a new opera at ENO) and Twelfth Night with Derek Jacobi. Quite a full itinerary so I hope my (poor, battered, sickly) body doesn't let me down.

And then back to Manchester on Monday to see all my old chums. Hurrah!

For anyone interested, I walked all the way to the shops and back today. That's all. J x

Home Alone

It was only a matter of time before the need to look after their son clashed with the social commitments of the Aged Ps. Needles to say, I'm sat at home on my own and they're out playing bowls.

We have had a good today though. We went to Aberglasney as a birthday treat for my father. The garden is lovely (if a little bare at the moment) and we had a really nice lunch there. And of course the Ninfarium is wonderful what ever the time of year.

Health-wise I'm feeling really good although I do still get tired really quickly. I've also started to put on weight (one whole pound! - I'm now 11 stone 9 pounds, which isn't far off what I was following the cancer treatment). My breathing is also a bit easier and I'm losing the tenderness on my right side (which is the side of the pneumonia infection). Yesterday I managed a 15 minute walk up a hill but was completely knackered at the end of it.

And guess what? There's a cricket match going on. Morning, noon and night. Bloody cricket. Still its a small price to pay for the care and attention I'm receiving. That's all for now. J x

A Surprise

I've had a valentine's card from someone and I don't know who its from! It has to be someone who knows my parent's address and yet doesn't know how to spell my name... (JonathAn).

The card was posted in Guernsey so I'm guessing its been done over the internet (trained investigator you know). And its a perfectly lovely card with pictures of baked cookies in the shape of men's underwear - boxers, Y-fronts, thongs that sort of thing. So thank you mystery person, the card is much appreciated.

Just sat through Swansea v Fulham - 1 all so there's a replay (oh joy) - and have the rugby to look forward to now. Temperature normal (although a little raised last night). Have also had an appointment for a CT scan when I'm back in Manchester so it looks like the doctors decided they wanted me to have one anyway. I see my chicken pox/pneumonia consultant on 22/04. And that's about it except to inform those interested that I have booked to see the opera Dr Atomic at ENO in London when I'm up with the Ageds to see Derek Jacobi in Twelfth Night at the end of February. They're not interested in the opera. Its a UK premiere so I'll let y'all know how I get on. And that really is all. J x

All Quiet on the Welsh Front

So, I'm just generally taking things easy at the moment. Not a lot to report. Went to PC World this morning (new monitor for my father's birthday - we saw one we liked and then came home and bought it online!). Followed by Sainsburys. And that was more than enough for me.

Aged Ps are dining out tonight with friends and so I've been left to fend for myself. Bugger all on television (Jonathan Ross later though - by which time they'll be back and talking through it!). And that's all there is to say really apart from to thank both Fig an Sarah for lovely Valentines Cards - I love getting and sending them. They're just so pretty. Never mind all that lurve bunkum...That's all. J x

Welsh Wales

So here I am, safe and sound in Swansea. The journey down was good - no snow or ice. Think I've overdone it a little today though as I feel quite knackered and my temperature has just crept over 37 degrees (for the first time in 3 days). I promise I'll take things easier tomorrow. No plans for anything yet but I'll keep you updated with my full itinerary as soon as I've got one.

Doctor has given me a sick note until 20/03 (which is 6 weeks recuperation - the hospital recommended 6 - 8 weeks but I don't thnk it will take that long). I'll review the situation nearer the time. This period does however cover the long weekend DD and I had planned for Valencia which (hopefully) I'll be fit enough to go on. Will probably cancel Portugal this year though as it will be too soon after starting the new job. And that's all I think. J x

Current Plans

So it looks like we'll be attempting the journey to Swansea on Wednesday since the latest weather forecasts show this as the best day for traveling this week. It all changes daily though so watch this space. Aged Ps have booked into the hotel over the road because sleeping on the floor is no good for them and they refuse to allow me to give up my bed. Hopefully though they'll now have a good night's sleep and a decent breakfast They'll come over afterwards.

Feeling quite good although I had a shower this morning and it exhausted me. How quickly we lose fitness and muscle tone. Jane A popped round tonight (good to see her and hear all her news) and said that I look thin. This is no bad thing though as I had started to put on a bit of weight before all this kicked off and some of my new clothes were starting to feel a little tight. I really do need to come up with a less dramatic weight-loss programme for the future though...

That's all. J x

Home Sweet Home

Am now back in the flat for a brief period. Will be travelling to Swansea for a couple of weeks recuperation once the roads clear. If you want to visit now then you only have a window of a few days. But let me know and I'll see if I can fit you in. Otherwise it's likely to be early March before I'm back. Thanks for all your cards, messages and support. They've made a huge difference. That's all. J x

End in Sight?

Doctors say nothing is growing in my cultures yet (which means the fluid isn't heavily infected). They want a CT scan though. If that takes place today then I could be home tonight. If it's scheduled for tomorrow then they'll keep me overnight. If it's scheduled for Monday then they'll send me home for the weekend. When I know more, you'll know more. J x

No News

I was ultrasounded and had fluid drained this morning - there seemed an awful lot of fluid to my eyes but the consultant said it wasn't a lot. Anyway they've sent the fluid off to the microbiology lab for various tests. Not seen a doctor since. Presumably will find out tomorrow on normal ward rounds where we go from here. When I know more, you'll know more. J x

Endless

Well. The good news is that I remain HIV negative. The bad news is I have a few more days in hospital yet whilst they drain some fluid that has collected around my lungs. Better safe than sorry of course but it's all a bit frustrating. When I know more, you'll know more. J x

Tuesday's child is free from hospital!

Yes, I've managed to piss off so many people with my complaints about the dietician service (or lack thereof) that they've decided to throw me out. I'm off the oxygen now and they're keeping me in tonight to make sure my blood oxygen saturation holds up. Have seen a dietician today and informed her of each of the separate occasions on which she and the system have failed me. I feel better for this. Will also be having a chest x-ray today to see if they need to drain any fluid. That's all. J x

A Better Day

Managed to get a few hours sleep last night. And the fact that I'm now receiving food parcels from home is helping to build my strength (I still haven't seen a dietician herewhich means that "officially" I should be surviving on the 600 calories a day prescribed by the pharmacist - don't even get me started). Had a shower and spent about 2 hours off the oxygen. Ma and Pa have just been to see me and The Saint arrives shortly. Of course, because it's the weekend I haven't seen hide nor hair of a doctor. Still, no doubt, everything will kick off tomorrow. When I know more, you'll know more. J x

Thursday's (child) Update

So here we are. Headlines: found Biggins, call off the dogs; I could be out by Monday

To start at the very beginning, a very good blah blah. Have had a couple of rough days. Sickness, sleeplessness, pain, nausea etc. Today I saw the head honcho, Dr Chris Hardy, and he examined me and declared I'd be cleared in no time. Ma and Pa were here at the time which was good for them. For everyone else of course it meant tripping over them and repeating themselves twice to make sure he'd heard. Bless. Allegedly, and get this - controversial, the pneuomonia is unrelated to my chicken pox! I know! How this is possible I don't know but as long as I get better who gives a flying monkey where it's from. That's all for now. When. I know more, you'll know more. J x P.S.Biggins is the head honcho (or at least looks a bit like him if you squint in a bad light. P.P.S. Kathryn, I'm in MRI

Acute Medical 1

That's where I am currently and potentially for the next ten days while the treatments work and they refine them in response to blood, urine and sputum cultures. Feeling a little better. Not a lot but I didn't die the other night and I Ain't Dead Yet ( which was the T shirt DD and I were going to buy in London. When I know more, you'll know more. That's all. J x

I have pneumonia

Just when you thought it couldn't get any better. I'm on oxygen and had a shot of something in A&E earlier. I start on a course of Acyclovir (a wide spectrum, kick-ass anti-viral). I'm on the Medical Assessment Unit in a private room (still contagious). But it's all the usual NHS nonense - I won't blog details here because if you remember someone complained about the cost of phone calls so all that fantastic Internet wizadry has now gone. Thank God for iphones. If all goes according to plan I should be back home Thursday or Friday. J x

Ooops

Of course that should have been 1600 that I phoned...

Latest

Have asked the on-call doctor service to make a home visit. The breathlessness is a little scary - and even though my Dad is the cleverest person in the world - I thought better safe than sorry. Unfortunately they only have one doctor to cover for visits for the whole of Manchester and can only promise a visit with 6 hours. I could have visited them but I don't have the strength and I don't want to expose DD. Had a sudden thought - I could have phoned Jane Murray, I'm sure she would have done it. Hey ho. Too late now (sorry jerseylil).

Will post again once they've visited unless they take me in - in which case their are contingency plans with DD -but feel better already just knowing they're coming. J x So hopefully should post before 2200 (I phoned them at 1400).

Chicken Pox is a Fucker

I was talking to Fig on the phone yesterday during my "up" period and we came up with the above post title which references (as those of you have been with this blog for many years will recognise) my early days post entitled "cancer is a c***". We thought that was really funny. Oh how cruelly fate twists the knife. Following my last post yesterday I spiraled rapidly downwards, my temperature shot up, I couldn't sleep, I had trouble catching my breath and I threw up a couple of times. I still feel no better yet. I'm a little worried about the breathing thing because I thought it might be caused by fluid collecting on my lungs. My Dad doesn't think this is happening because he says one can hear when there is fluid on one's lungs. He thinks it might just be stress related. I might give the on-call doctor a ring later because I'm sure he said something to me about breathing problems. I'l see how things go this afternoon when I'm sat upright - its more difficult to breathe when lying flat and let them get over the remnants of a Saturday night in Manchester before I call though. Temperature is currently back up to 38.6. That's all for now. J x

37.4

That's my latest temperature. Its back in the normal range. Hurrah. J x

Chipper

At this precise moment in time I feel quite chipper. Half an hour ago I was too hot and really uncomfortable. At least the bad bits are interspersed with some good bits now. The Saint dropped off the stuff from Sainsburys and I had a bath - which didn't induce any itching, a good sign. It was also not as painful as last time which suggests to me that there are less pus-filled blisters on my back than hitherto.

Received my first (and indeed, only) Get Well Soon card today (thanks Joolz). And that's all there is to report at the moment. May post later. Incidentally, anyone seen the new Saturday Times? Its rubbish. J x

Sorry

Had a really bad evening on Thursday - my temperature shot up to 39.2 and I felt really unwell. I phoned NHS direct and was told that they were really busy but someone would phone me back in 2 hours! Not the sort of thing you want to hear. Luckily my GP has an out of hours service and although they took half an hour to call me back the doctor I spoke to was very helpful and reassuring. The high temperature is to be expected as my body is fighting a virus and I only really need to worry if it hits 40.0.

Yesterday was awful. The high temperature remained and I was sick quite a lot. I was only managing 2 ensure pluses a day (normally 6) and this made me really weak and unable to do anything much.

Feel a little better this morning. Have had 2 ensures for breakfast so my total consumption today should go up. My temperature is down to 38.5. Although the blisters are still all over my face the ones on my tongue appear to be going. Elsewhere they have now reached my hands and feet and so have nowhere left to go. Fingers crossed, I may have hit the turning point.

The Saint is off to Sainsburys for me today and I'll flash her a look at my face across the hallway so that she can see the true horror. That's all for now. J x

Update II

Threw up earlier. Not much though. Also had diarrhea. That was a relief though because up until then I had been constipated (I know you're all fascinated by these details!).

On the plus side, Jane called round to see me which was very nice bringing with her the bicarbonate of soda and a book. I think she was quite shocked by my appearance. I got tired very quickly though so she only stayed for about 3/4 of an hour. I had a bath straight away afterwards which was quite painful (my blisters making contact with the hard bath surface) but it has made me feel a little better. Have daubed my face with calamine lotion and that has helped the itching. My scalp is still driving me mad though. Now gong to watch some more Sopranos. J x

Update

So had about 3 hours sleep last night. Feel knackered. Not seen any new spots for a while now and my scalp is scabbing over. My face is a complete mess though and my tongue is covered with blisters. Very unpleasant. I think I probably smell a bit as well as haven't been able to wash since Sunday. Jane is coming to see me this afternoon so I may have to keep my distance and light a scented candle. And get this, I think I have an in-growing toenail. What a time to develop that. Not much else to report. Still feeling really depressed but I suppose that's natural too. That's all for now. J x

A Little Better

Had about an hour's sleep this afternoon. Not currently in pain although still got stomach cramps. About to have some ensure plus which will probably make these worse but I need to have some nutrition. I don't think I've developed any new spots this afternoon which might be a good sign. My current boss is coming to see me tomorrow (all her family have already had it) which is really nice of her. Will be the first person I've seen for days! That's all. J x

This is Just Awful

I mean presumably I felt worse with the cancer but it doesn't seem like it (mind you I was on morphine then). My body hurts everywhere. The number of spots and blisters is unbelievable. I'm either too hot or too cold. I can't sleep. I can't shower. I'm getting stomach cramps. Its just dreadful.

Christies have told me not to darken their doors for 2 weeks - if I'm out of action for 2 weeks then I'm going to have to cancel my office leaving do as well.

Anyway, enough moaning. I'm sure I'll fell better in a few days. But you'll have to put up with the complaining on here as I lose more and more sleep until it does start getting better. That's all. J x

Just found this...

adultchickenpox.blogspot.com Looks like I'm not even half way there yet. Oh joy. That's all. J x

Pox

Its the bloody chicken pox. Last thing I needed. Have to blockade myself in my flat for between 1 and 2 weeks which coincidentally is my last 2 weeks in HMRC Manchester. Bugger. Hope I don't have to cancel my leaving do. Am cheering myself up by arranging a jaunt to Valencia with the Saint for March. On the plus side I'l get to watch the inauguration today.

Have had to postpone my builder too which is a pain but unavoidable. Also I was supposed to be at Christies on Thursday but obviously I can't walk into a waiting room full of immuno-suppressed cancer patients. Presumably they must have arrangements in place for these sort of situations. I've texted the lovely Debbie (who is presumably back from her freebie trip to Prague) to find out.

Luckily I don't feel too bad (yet) and I am sleeping well so perhaps it won't take too long for me to become non-infectious. I'll keep y'all posted. That's all. J x

Poorly Bad (as they say in Wales)

So not gone to Warrington to hob nob. Instead am lying on my sick bed at home. To be honest, although I felt pretty rotten when I woke up I don't feel too bad now but I do appear to have broken out in a rash al over my body. Have checked out NHS Direct and they suggest that a rash without too many other symptoms isn't anything to worry about. So I'm monitoring the situation. Have changed the bedclothes and am about to go back to bed for another snooze (although I slept quite well last night) and I'l let you have an update later on. Luckily, the builder isn't here today so its nice and quiet (apart from the building site over the road - don't they know there's a credit crunch on?). That's all. J x

Recovering at Home

Friday saw me having my first drink following The Fall. Three halves of lager at a (Manchester) trainee's promotion do. That was fine. No ill effects. Met up with The Saint for coffee yesterday afternoon (where we sat next to Steve Ovett for all you - old - celeb watchers out there). Then of to Boothstown British Legion (I know, me in a British Legion!) for Jim's birthday bash last night. It was really good - loads of helpliners there that I hadn't seen for ages and it was good to catch up and meet some new people. Had 5 or 6 Peronis to drink and am suffering for it today or I may just be coming down with one of the many bugs there are out there at the moment (apparently Boothstown is a disease hotspot). Actually I've no idea where Boothstown even is because Jim (God bless him) had laid on a bus (or coach, if one is pedantic about these things) from Manchester and then back at the end of the night.

So currently just lying on the sofa taking pain killers and awaiting the Sainted arrival (she took the car last night - so thank God there was a bus/coach) and is doing some shopping for me on the way back from wherever she's been. Hopefully the car will be dent free...!

Busy week ahead - Warrington to hob nob with Local Compliance royalty on Monday (and yes, you can still see traces of the bruise) and then Christies again on Thursday to check out something that appears to be growing on my tongue. Hopefully it'll just be another of those "viral warty things" but I'll keep you posted. That's all. J x

Wandering Afar

So. Went to my new office in Warrington yesterday. Yes, still sporting a huge black eye but luckily (for me) none of my new trainees were in the office so they didn't get to see it. Unluckily (for them) where the hell were they? I can see I'm going to have my work cut out for me there... Of course, all my fellow Business Learning Managers (who I'd gone there to meet) got to see the eye but then they probably need to know what sort of person they're getting as a colleague. And I'm sure a few of them aren't strangers to the dangers of having one (or 6) too many!

Last weekend went to The Library Theatre on Friday with Saint DD and a few others to see Great Expectations directed by Neil Bartlett. It was good and the staging was inventive but it wasn't as good or as inventive as his Oliver Twist a couple of years ago. On Sunday went to The Lowry with Gill and Jim to see The Wizard of Oz which wasn't that good to be frank. Again, saw this a few years ago in Leicester where it was done very well and The Lowry production suffered by comparison. But to be honest it wold have suffered even without a comparison. There was one notable exception - Lorna Luft (the daughter of Judy Garland as some of you will know). She was playing (oh irony of ironies) the wicked witch of the west and was excellent. Head and shoulders above everyone else in the cast.

Otherwise its been a quiet week (not a single drop of alcohol) and looks like being a quiet weekend ahead. Shopping with Saint DD this morning and then not much else planned. The builders are getting on well and their standard of workmanship appears fantastic. Unfortunately they keep turning up stuff that the other builder cocked up and needs putting right (we've had to virtually rebuild the en-suite for instance to stop leaks and patch up bits he'd just left undone). I thought I'd protected myself from all this by having some designers to project manage everything but you live and learn. Its going to cost me more but what can you do? Its not enough to make suing anyone worth the hassle or expense. Anyway. Ma and Pa are in London this weekend to see Mum's sister (Jane's Mum) who had the stroke. There is currently no change in her condition but I'l let you know more when I know more. That's all. J x

Not A Pretty Boy

Ouch! So there we were, DD and I, having a very enjoyable New Year's Eve at Panacea. It wasn't until we left that it all started to go wrong. Managed to find a taxi but when it got us back to my place (DD insisted on not being dropped off first to ensure I got home safely) I managed to fall out of it and smack my face on the curb. I have a couple of cuts and the hugest black eye you've ever seen. No-one will ever believe this story of course and everyone is going to think that I have been fighting (and to be fair, that's what it looks like). However I have DD as an independent witness. So there. So if you should see me in the next week or so please don't be too shocked. And hopefully it will all have disappeared by the time I start my new job...

DD (who is a saint) stayed overnight and nursed me the next day - which I spent throwing up. But I was fine by Friday and feel fine now. It just doesn't look too good. That's all. J x

Personal Message

Jane sweetie, my phone hasn't retained your telephone details so I can't get in touch with you about Friday. I'm suggesting we meet in the bar at the Midland from about 1800 or at the box office at 1915 (as I have to pick the tickets up on the night). Show starts at 1930. Give me a bell if you want to discus. J x

Safe & Sound

Back in Manchester. Journey was dead easy, virtually no traffic. God its cold up here though. And forgot to get milk so had to turn round and go back out again straight away. Hey ho. Had a fabulous Xmas. Loads of good presents and no rows. Also got to go to the National Botanic Gardens which I like - especially now I'm a member (Xmas present). Bloody cold there too. Nothing else to report really. Oh except had "the family" round on Saturday. Good to see Mary, Barrie et al again. And Dylan, god bless him, what a gorgeous child.

Off to Bridgewater Hall tomorrow night with Jim for the Hallé doing show tunes. Should be interesting. Possibly Canal Street afterwards. Panacea with DD (and possibly Jennie from next door) on NYE. And then The Library Theatre on 02/01 for Neil Bartlett's Great Expectations (which should be fantastic) with Lesley, Ben and people. Can't wait. And then Wizard of Oz (Starring Lorna Luft - ironically playing the wicked witch) with Gill on Sunday. Busy busy as usual... That's all. J x

Christmas Day

So, just finished watching Casino Royale (fabulous trunks) and awaiting Dr Who so thought I'd take a minute to blog. The presents were a success (unlike last year) and both the Aged Ps are happy with their allocations. For my part I received everything I asked for - DVDs (ER, Sex And The City The Movie, Sopranos), slippers (boring but necessary), socks - pink argyle ones, very nice, hand towels (again, boring but necessary) and a step ladder. Which was wrapped! Also a cocktail shaker to match my kitchen splashback - very clever, my Mum. All in all a successful Xmas. No rows. Food was fabulous (apparently) and I had a bit of mashed up this and that. Even the wine I brought home was good. Now awaiting a disaster of course...

Hope you all had a good time too. Heard from DD this morning and the weather in Spain in the mountains is very good (apparently the rain has stayed mainly in the plain). She also gets UK TV and was therefore able to watch Gavin and Stacey which was v v good. Roll on Series 3... Also spoke to John (without arguing - it was a fairly brief conversation) and had a best wishes text from the lovely Andrea. Text from the Taylors yesterday so may not hear anything further on that front until 2009.

Booked for Twelfth Night with Derek Jacobi in March at the Donmar West End in London and will be going to see The Marriage of Figaro at The Millennium Centre in Cardiff in February. Plus start new job on 02/02. So 2009 already shaping up as busy. Hurrah. Oh forgot, also got membership of the National Botanical Gardens of Wales for Xmas so hopefully off for a visit there soon (I just love it there). So goodwill to all you men and women out there and see y'all soon. J x

Its Been Ages

I know, I know. Sorry. Its been a busy couple of weeks. To start with some good news, well done to Kathryn who has just passed her 4 year milestone of being free of the Big C. I'm dead chuffed for you (to use the Swansea vernacular). Also some good news chez moi, I went back to Christies to get the results from the biopsy of the bit they cut off my lip just before I went to London. Having sat in the waiting room for 2 hours whilst they looked for my notes (!&+**@!) I had a 5 minute consultation to be told that it was a "viral warty thing" (sometimes I just get completely lost with all this technical jargon) and nothing to worry about. Phew.

Jane's funeral was lovely (as funerals go). Anne did make it (albeit in an ambulance and she was in a wheelchair) but I'm sure it was important that she was there. I understand that she hasn't improved greatly since but I believe this may be the way of things with strokes - it takes your body a long while to understand and deal with what has gone on and you need to sleep a lot in the weeks following it happening. At the funeral Murray (Jane's husband), Robert (her brother) and 3 of her friends all spoke. Its an incredibly difficult thing to do (as Robert will no doubt attest being completely unable to say the last sentence of the words he'd prepared) but it makes such a difference. We heard about Jane from the people who knew and loved her in a way that was much more personal instead of a vicar just blithely repeating what they've been told and mispronouncing names etc. The chapel was lovely (but very cold) and the graveside was muddy but then I imagine they always are. After tea and sandwiches in a local hall it was back up to Manchester. I'm glad I went.

And what's happened since then? Well there have been drunken nights out. Christmas shopping, decorations and wrapping presents. There has been a Chinese meal book group at which I discovered I can eat peppers (yay). I've also been to the cinema to see The Day The Earth Stood Still -one of the worst films I have ever seen (it fails on every level). Denise and I have also been given free tickets to Panacea for New Year's Eve (normal cost £25 each - double yay).

I'm in work tomorrow and then its back to Swansea on Tuesday until the 29th and then back to Manchester for the new year and preparing for the new job. Really looking forward to Xmas - it seems like ages since I spent time with the Aged Ps (just looked in the diary and apart from the brief get together at the funeral not since the end of August). That's ages. I'll no doubt post from Swansea over Xmas but in the meantime:

Merry Xmas and Happy New Year to all my readers. That's all. J x

Sublime

The opera was fantastic. I've no idea why it isn't performed more often. And the lead soprano was wonderful (although apparently suffering from "vocal fatigue" bless her). There was no sign of vocal fatigue though when, at the end, she was "consumed by paroxysms of grief and died in convulsions".

A walk around Regent's Park in the winter sunshine was a wonderful way to spend a Sunday morning but the Design Museum in the afternoon was disappointing. Its really badly run which one could forgive more if they didn't charge an £8.50 entrance fee. Then a quiet night in the hotel before the funeral at 1200 today. Spoke to my mum yesterday (they came up to London last night) and she doesn't think my aunt will be well enough to attend after all. But no decision will be taken until this morning. Back to Manchester this evening and I'll let you know how it all went. That's all. J x

Hairspray

Well I was all prepared to be disappointed by this show on account of the fact that I was informed when I arrived at the theatre (note, not when I purchased the ticket) that none of the lead performers (apart from Michael Ball) would be appearing. And whilst some of the substitute leads were weak (particularly Tracey and Link - who was blonde: what was that all about?) the show has such a fantastic score and is such a warm hearted show that I was won over by the end. I would like to go and see it again with the proper leads though. And I have to say that Michael Ball - who I don't normally rate - was excellent as Edna. Afterwards went to One Aldwych for a martini or two. Very nice.

Today have spent mostly shopping on Regent Street, New Bond Street and Dover Street. Needless to say I've spent a fortune but have some very nice shirts/jackets/suitcases. Tonight is the South Bank Centre and Donizetti's Parisimina. No idea what it's like or what its about about but its the London Philharmonic so it should be good.

Some good news about Monday too (in the sense that there can be any good news about a funeral) It sounds as though my aunt (Jane's mum) may be able to attend the funeral in a wheelchair. Fingers crossed that this is possible because although it will be very very sad and upsetting for her, its also a necessary part of the grieving process. I'll let you know how it went when I'm back in Manchester. That's all for now. J x

Butchered!

To Christies yesterday where the doctor (or butcher) decided that he'd hack off half my lip and leave me with a completely disfigured face. Actually, the fact is that I had a small spot on my upper lip that had been there for about 4 months and which I thought might be a new tumour (you all know how dramatic I can get). Turns out not to be cancer (phew) and the doctor - a chap called Aran who was very nice but obviously not Sean who was engaged elsewhere and not looking after me (his number one patient) - offered to remove it for me. I agreed and so he did it there and then. I now have a stitch there and the lovely lovely Debbie says I'm not to kiss anyone until she takes it out on Tuesday!

On a sadder note I'm off to London today for the weekend and to attend my cousin's funeral on Monday. Not sure what I'll do in London although I have booked to go and see the London Philharmonic on Saturday evening at The South Bank. May try and get into a show tonight. Further bad news is that Jane's mum (my auntie) has had a stroke and won't be able to attend the funeral. Word from my uncle is that, as strokes go, it could have been worse so its fingers crossed for her recovery. I'll update you more after the weekend. That's all. J x

Sad News

My cousin Jane died yesterday. She was my age and, you'll remember, had developed further problems following a breast cancer diagnosis. I hadn't seen her lately but when I worked in Crawley we used to meet for lunch occasionally because she worked in Deloitte & Touche there. Its a really sad time for all the family, particularly so because it inevitably brings back memories of Sally's death. Its a cruel outcome that 2 sisters should both lose their daughters early. My thoughts today are with Anne & John (my aunt and uncle), with Robert & David (Jane's brothers) and Murray and Rebecca and Laura (Jane's husband and daughters). I know how hard it will be for all of them since there still isn't a day that goes by when I don't think of Sally at some moment or other. Now though when I think of Sally I smile rather than get upset. I still miss her. J x

The Weekend

So. What a fantastic weekend. Journey to London on Friday was fine (first class since cheaper than standard - bizarre) and met up with Sarah & Donna with no problems. Thence to Tate Modern for 1) Rothko - fantastic. He's a very powerful, emotional painter and you really have to see his stuff up close to appreciate it. 2) Some other exhibition by some unpronounceable South American bloke (or woman?) who is more of an installation artist. Not usually a fan of installation art but this was exceptional. Very hands on and very immediate and scary. Would take too long to explain it all here but buy me a drink and I'll wax lyrical. Back to Donna's for soup and beer with Rudi and Leo. Slept very comfortably on the sofa bed and the following morning it was off to Tate Britain for the Francis Bacon exhibition. Again a very powerful painter who is not at all "easy" but who repays viewing in the flesh. My only criticism of the show is that the paintings are behind glass and one gets reflections which can be a little distracting. Following all the art it was down to Eastbourne for a little relaxation.

Is there anywhere more relaxing than Eastbourne? A town where a vodka martini is as elusive as anyone under the age of 40. Having stormed out of the Eastbourne Grand (Sarah really must stop dressing like a prostitute) we eventually were lured into The Cavendish by the twinkle of a rather impressive chandelier. Thank God we were (motto: never doubt a chandelier). Young Peter made us cocktails until his fingers bled (literally) and a very enjoyable evening was had by all. The following morning we went for a really nice walk along the seafront and then I hopped on the train for Brighton. Checked into The Hilton and then off to meet Fig for an afternoon of drink and drag. 2 shows and not a small number of beers later we parted company having spent many a happy hour in our old haunts. Back up to Manchester the following day and a sleep in my own bed. Hurrah.

Off to Solihull tomorrow and Friday with work - about 50 of us apparently, including some people I used to work with in Brighton. It will be good to see them again after all this time. They won't recognise me though (last they saw me was before the cancer so it'll be interesting to see their reactions. I'l let you know how it went when I get back. That's all. J x

So...

...Barnum was OK. But oh my God, the politics of the amateur dramatic world! Jim, God bless him, was virtually poached on the night!

Remembrance was lovely apart from the fact that we got there a little late and missed all the marching uniforms. Next time go early I think, see the soldiers, shut up for 2 minutes and then skip off for a coffee before all the hypocrisy/religion kicks off.

What else? Spoke to Mrs T this week. She's fine and dandy and may be in Manchester for my leaving do (30/01 for anyone filling out next year's diary). Mr T is fine as well. As is the dog. Went to see the new Bond with Gill last night. Not bad (although not as good as Casino Royale). DC is still v v gorgeous though. Especially after he's been roughed up a little. Yum!

Saw a builder on Tuesday. Going to give me a quote. We'll see.

Late drink with DD tonight followed by tomorrow night in London, Saturday night in Eastbourne and Sunday night in Brighton. As I said before, busy, busy, busy. That's all. J x

We Love You Brad

To the cinema with Gill last night to see Burn After Reading. A completely bizarre and yet fantastic film (i.e. typical Coen brothers). Brad was just brilliant. And George was as gorgeous as ever. But the plotline.... Indescribable. Spent this morning serving coffee at the office Macmillan coffee morning. That, together with the raffle and a couple of other fundraising ideas raised £1800 which was just brilliant. Quiet night in tonight, loads of paperwork to do tomorrow and then off to Bolton in the evening to see Barnum with Jim. And to the Remembrance thing with DD on Sunday morning. Busy, busy, busy. That's all. J x

Leeds

Off to Leeds yesterday to catch up with my old chum Sarah. She, you may remember, took 12 months off work to go traveling the world with her partner Hugh. Well, they're recently returned and this was the first chance we had to catch up and fit it in with a couple of vodka martinis and a bit of shopping. Sarah is well and not suffering from any foreign diseases you'll be pleased to know. Although she is currently unable to drink white wine. We don't know why but presumably its the fault of something exotic. So we drank, and we shopped, and we caught up (luckily she had a blog whilst traveling so we didn't ned to spend the whole time talking about foreign parts and looking at photos... We didn't buy anything in Harvey Nicks (I know, unheard of) but I did get a pair of boots in Oliver Sweeney so that was OK. It was a really nice day out and we're now trying to see if we can sort something for the Bacon and Rothko fest I'll be attending later this month. Quiet day planned for today watching little Lewis Hamilton in his car. That's all. J x

Hola

Well, we survived the journey out. Take some advice from me, don't ever travel overnight by train. Its a nightmare. The bunks are really small, really uncomfortable and really close together. I didn't sleep a wink. However, things got better once we reached Madrid. The apartment was really nice and really central. The TV didn't work but since we'd probably only have got Spanish TV anyway it didn't matter too much. On the cultural front I went to the Prado, the Reine Sophia, the Teatro Espangnol, Saint Miguel and the cathedral at the bottom of the street (can't remember the name). The Prado was a little disappointing. Velasquez isn't all he's cracked up to be when you're up close and personal although Tintiretto made up for this a little. Equally, the Reine Sophia. Guernica is, of course, fabulous and all the related sketches and photos of the development of the picture is fascinating too. But I don't like Dali. And Spanish galleries are so badly designed. They don't flow at all and you end up spending half your time retracing your steps. The Teatro was fantastic though. We saw Sweeney Todd. In Spanish. And it was fabulous. I thought Sondheim was all about the words but he's not. The music is really good too. And the others liked it. The cast were just out of this world. I went to Mass at the cathedral (I'd never been to one before) but it was a bit disappointing. Just one bloke and a nun. No choirs, no thuribles, nothing. What's that all about?

Otherwise we spent a lot of time shopping (a shirt and a tie) and drinking (too many to name and I can't even remember half of them) which was a lot of fun. Coming home, Easyjet was surprisingly good but that the fact that they'd switched our airport to Liverpool was a pain. But here I am. Safe and sound and back home. Work tomorrow. Goody. That's all. J x

Oh This Year We're Off To Sunny Spain

Yes, ladies & germs I'm off to the sun drenched shores (well actually there aren't any shores but you get the picture - its the "sun drenched" you need to concentrate on) of Madrid. Our trusty band of adventurers armed only with the Spanish for "four beers please" (no, I don 't know, ask Denise) will brave the Spanish race and the Spanish railways to spend 4 nights on the sun drenched... oh yes, I've already done that bit. Rather unusually I am simply going along for the ride and have taken no part in the organisation whatsoever. Its strangely liberating not worrying about everyone else and what we'll do and see etc. So you'll have to wait until I get back to hear the hilarious tales of me trying to but a new outfit in The Prado etc etc. Anyway, looking forward to the break. See you soon. That's all. J x

Night on the Tiles

Night out with the trainees celebrating various exam successes. Started off in Sinclairs (which luckily doesn't do vodka martinis and therefore didn't get too drunk too soon) but ended up in Panacea which does so I did! Got various bits of advice on what it takes to be a good BLM (and what it doesn't). As expected, my ideas around standards of dress (i.e. shirt and tie not jeans and T shirt) were not that popular. Luckily though it looks as though my new trainees already wear shirts and ties to work so it shouldn't be a problem. The die-hards there at the end were me Nick, Lesley & Ben. Well done you! That's all. J x

Just Watched...

.... O Brother. Where Art Thou. (With no question mark - why not?). What a fantastic film. Beautifully written, beautifully acted and beautifully shot. And beautiful George Clooney. Perfect. That's all. J x

Random Posts

Been getting some random comments on the blog so I have instituted a "check first" regime. Any comments you make will now have to be viewed by me before they appear on the site. Hopefully this won't mean too many delays. Out with D and friends last night to Strada (no soup) and the Great John Street hotel (far too many VMs for a school night). Feeling a little rough this morning. That's all. J x

I Know, I Know

I'm overdue another post. I'm off to Swansea today and back on Tuesday (missing line dancing on Monday - quelle horreuer!). I'll try and blog from bonny Wales but if not I'll update y'all when I get back. Promise. That's all. J x Oh, P.S. I start in my new job on 02/02/09.

Catch Up

Its been a while I know but now I'm back. I'm not suffering from liver failure (but thank you for your concern) although I do seem to have a touch of the flu for which I blame the usual culprit (Ms DD - but see later). So where were we when last I posted? Ah yes, I was off to London to celebrate (?) being 47. And I'd just been promoted. Well a lot has happened since then so I hope you're sitting comfortably...

Well, London was really good (apart from Joseph - except Lee looks really good in a loin cloth when viewed over a long period of time through opera glasses). We also saw Spamalot which is just fantastic. Sanjeev Bakshar (I think that's how you spell his name, anyway that bloke off the Kumars) rather ironically playing King Arthur. He's not much of a song and dance bloke but he worked the comedy well and allowed for some interesting racial jokes. Apart from the musicals there was shopping - CDs, a coat, a Balanciaga shirt that cost as much as the coat but looks beautiful on, and many many vodka martinis. So yes, there was drinking as well - at One Aldwych, a fabulous hotel on, you guessed it, Aldwych and also at St Martins Lane with all the local drug dealers and their whores (but only the top class ones because its a top class place). The hotel was stunning with very pretty lobby boys and was located on Seething Lane in the City (how fabulous an address is that?). It was next to St Olaves church. So bells on Sunday. On Sunday we went to the Regent Street festival, had coffee and bought vodka at Fortnum & Masons, mixed it with the Calvin Klein guys at the new Calvin Klein store and then went to Browns Hotel (having been turned away from the Ritz because Armani jeans aren't good enough apparently) but it was a lucky break because Browns is fabulous so we had one or three VMs there with the lovely waiter (who may or may not have had a holiday romance with DD who definitely did have a holiday romance with a drunken Irishman in the street).

After the weekend away I went line dancing with Patrick on the Monday - I know, I know - but it was fun. Honestly. I'm going again next week and everything. Then it was Help Line on Tuesday with Smyth and then celebrations on Friday for the promotions - mine, Sara's and Stuart's at which I got very very drunk. I also by this time had flu on account of Ms DD wearing me out in London and literally forcing vodka down my neck. This weekend has therefore been a little quiet. But that's a good thing. Busy week ahead (us Grade 6s, never a quiet moment you know). That's all and sorry for any delays. J x

Happy Birthday To Me

Yes, I'm 47 today. Off to London with DD for a birthday weekend. Will I survive? Will London still be standing? Watch this space for an update... That's all (for now - may blog from London if I'm allowed a free minute) J x

Just a Quickie

I got the job!!!!!! Yippee and double yippee. It will be the one in Warrington and it starts in February. Triple yippee!!!!!! That's all. J x

P.P.S.

And Hugh... Oops. J x

P.S.

Welcome home Sarah. J x

Sunday, Still a Grade 7

Hopeful that I'll hear tomorrow though. Watch this space.

Went to Liverpool last night to see the Klimt at The Tate. Nice pictures (I love the Beethoven Frieze) but the exhibition was padded out too much to disguise the fact that they didn't have that many original Klimt's to show (in my opinion). There was a lot of stuff about his patrons and also pictures hung that weren't even by him. Could have done better I felt. Went for a drink in the Pan American Bar first (OK) and The Azure bar afterwards (nice until they turned the music up). Impossible to get a coffee on Liverpool Lime Street Station at 2100 on a Saturday night which is frankly scandalous. And the train trip home was, let us say, interesting. Oh my God. The people getting on in order to get off at Deansgate Locks. It was never like that when I was a youngster... Liverpool has some really nice old buildings and will probably have some really nice new ones when they're finished. And somehow I expected that they'd have done all the building work before the Capital of Culture stuff so that visitors saw the best of the city not just a building site (which is pretty much what it is at the moment). Anyway, be nice to have the chance to work there (as a Grade 6!). That's all. J x

Expletive

Now been told that I won't hear until next week on the job. Can't anyone get anything right in this expletive Department? Oh, and someone who is already a expletive Grade 6 has applied for the expletive Team Leader job so providing they are suitable, no-one else will be expletiving looked at. Expletive. Expletive and double expletive. Off to do the helpline and be helpful and supportive now. That's all. J x

There's a Bright Golden Haze Over Ludlow

To Ludlow on Saturday to spend the day with my parents who are spending a long weekend there to celebrate their golden wedding anniversary. DD came along too because she's one of the family now. Had a lovely day and the weather stayed fine. Ludlow is a lovely little town with an old castle. We had lunch in an hotel down by the river (which was running pretty high and fast on account of all the recent rain). Train journey a nightmare because we had to catch the Swansea train to Ludlow and, apart from it being full of Welsh people, it was small and overcrowded. Luckily we managed to negotiate ourselves seats between bookings although we did have to change at one point. This day is always one of mixed emotions for the family though because it is also the anniversary of Sally's death and we all still miss her.

Still can't remember a single question I was asked at the interview. Its bizarre. I'm used to having a bad memory but not this bad. Everyone says its because of the adrenaline. Its still an odd feeling though. I still think it went quite well and I think I acquitted myself as well as I could - certainly there are only maybe one or two things I might do differently next time round. Like mention "data security" for instance which, I see from the papers, is once again on the front pages. And HMRC always get a mention - even when, as on this occasion, its the Home Office that lost the bloody memory stick!

Hey ho, am attempting to clean the flat today as I have somewhat neglected this task whilst preparing for the interview. So far I've had a shower and fallen asleep on the sofa. Does this count? That's all. J x

Interview

Well its over. I did as well as I could (I think). Its now in the hands of the gods or at least the hands of Local Compliance. DD has taken me out tonight to celebrate getting through it. I am therefore a little pissed. Will post later on the whole experience but thank you everyone for your good wishes... That's all. J x

Fingers Crossed...

DD has just been round and grilled me for an hour and professed herself satisfied with my performance so I'm feeling OK about tomorrow. This will be my first competence based interview though so there's no telling what might happen. One thing we can be sure of though is that I probably won't be faced with the question "how do you propose dealing with the new post sorting arrangements and what are the implications for data security?" (this, as you might guess, was a DD special). That's all until tomorrow night when I'll post and let you know how it went. J x

Soon...

Have spent most of the afternoon and evening talking aloud. Trying to get my examples fixed in my head for Friday. And they just don't want to stick. Its not looking good at the moment. But its late so I'll probably feel better tomorrow. Off to bed now with Alexander Solzhenitsyn which should be very relaxing (thank you Jane). That's all. J x

Manchester

Back safe & sound. Journey home completely uneventful. Straight into interview prep now for Friday (although I just have to finish off the other application form tomorrow). That's all. J x

Swansea

Nightmare journey down - 6.5 hours on account of an accident on the M6 which meant I hit the roadworks outside Cardiff during the rush hour. Was somewhat frazzled by the time I made it to Home Sweet Home. However, Saturday was a largely peaceful day on account of it never stopping raining and a day spent on the sofa in front of the telly watching the Olympics (The Great Haul Of China as I believe the papers are calling it!). Had one brief break for a journey to Staples to acquire some index cards to prepare my crib notes to take into my interview on Friday - starting to feel a little nervous already! Today we went to The National Botanical Garden of Wales which is just outside Carmarthen. Its a fantastic place and I love going there although my parents always moan because I always insist we go there. A load more gold medals I see today. Unbelievable how well we are doing at the moment although I suspect it will all go horribly wrong very very soon.

Sorted out my travel arrangements for Venice today (and I'll do Madrid soon too DD, don't worry).

Back to Manchester tomorrow, setting off early enough so that I have the afternoon for more interview prep when I arrive. That's all. J x

An Interview!

I have an interview... Its for a Business Learning Manager post (essentially in charge of trainees) in either Liverpool or Warrington. I'd prefer the Warrington job for many reasons but I'll take either. Apparently they're interviewing 8 people for 3 jobs so keep your fingers crossed. The interview is on 22/08 at 1000. You will be among the first to know the outcome... That's all. J x

Hello, My Name's Jonathan and I'm an Addict

I can't stop watching the Olympics. Doesn't matter what's on: archery, boxing, rowing anything. All stuff I wouldn't dream of watching normally. But because its the Olympics I'm transfixed. I need help. I can't even concentrate on filling out my application forms... That's all. J x

No News

They didn't sift the application forms last week after all. No idea why. So they're doing it next week which means there probably won't be a lot of notice for any interviews. On the grapevine I hear that there have been 12 applications (no idea whether any level transfers) so I'm not holding my breath. Have already started filling out the next one...!

Book club was good on Thursday. 8 people turned up which was a record for the group this year. Shame the book was rubbish. Next meeting is in my flat - because we're doing Mockingbird and we'll be watching the DVD once we've discussed the book. Which means I need to get on with getting it finished. Which means I'm going to have to dump the builder. So it'll be changed locks this weekend and luckily Jane has the details of someone she has used who is really good and reliable. So fingers crossed...

Lots to do today and doing helpline and then out tonight so better get cracking... That's all. J x

Tatton

As usual fabulous music. Unusually it was dry. However it was a little chilly. And too many chavs. But we enjoyed it. However, we should make sure we book the premier parking next year. Fireworks are still the best I've ever seen... That's all. J x

Bloody Hell

Almost forgot to tell you. Mrs T stayed last night and she is looking fabulous. Healthy, tanned (with a little help from a major cosmetics company!) and full of life. How anyone who has moved to the middle of nowhere and works in a castle can look happy and healthy is beyond me but it clearly works for her. Its clearly agreeing with Kev to who looks lithe/ripped depending on who you talk to... That's all. J x

Rain Rain Go Away

Checked the weather report for Saturday this afternoon and it had 2 rain drops on it. It now has one so hopefully things are looking up for Tatton Park. Sam is joining us this year and it will be interesting to hear what he thinks of the proceedings.

Royal Exchange tonight for Hay Fever. Very good if you put your Noel Coward hat on - that's the only way he works these days. The cast were fantastic although only one of them hit the triple score of Eastenders, Casualty and The Bill on their CV.

Closing date for BLM jobs tomorrow. Luckily I won't be too worried about it because I'll be flat on my back in The Moon on a birthday do. That's all. J x

24/7

This is the title for a "new theatre writing" festival thing in Manchester. For "new writing" read "amateur". Went to something last night in the basement of a record shop. Apparently some of the actors had been in Coronation Street. Its pretty hard to find an actor in Manchester who hasn't been in Coronation Street though. It was entertaining enough but a little amateur for my tastes. Went to Zinc bar beforehand (very busy and very hot) and The Moderne afterwards (cooler and less busy, well virtually empty actually - I don't predict a long life for The Moderne, which is a shame in some ways since its about the only bar in Manchester one can get into late night and be guaranteed of a vodka martini and a seat).

Not much planned for the rest of the weekend (which is good since still catching up after Tuesday night (I know, it takes time these days!). Currently unable to take a shower or do any washing on account of my water having been turned off (United Utilities are doing something outside the flat). Got Mrs T staying on Wednesday night (although I'm in Birmingham all day) and it will be really good to see her. DD is popping by to say hello so we'll probably have to save the dancing round the flat in our pyjamas until later on (since DD doesn't own any pyjamas - I know, how does she survive?). That's all. J x

And It Gets Worse...

Had a chum from London/Eastbourne staying for a couple of nights. She was delivering some really high powered training course on all things international - including Rotterdam apparently. It was great to see her because its been a while since we've got together. But God am I hung over today. It all started out innocently enough. Me her and Steve met up in Panacea and then we went to the Hilton (23rd floor along with all the tourists) because she hadn't been there before and you have to go up at least once. And then of course, Ms DD turned up and it went from bad to worse. Neither of us can remember getting back to the flat. And we felt crap this morning. But I managed to get through a meeting in Blackburn (thank God I wasn't driving) and then brought in a huge settlement this afternoon so all in all not too bad at the end of the day.

Went to see Mamma Mia with Jim at the weekend. What a rubbish film - same criticism as I had about the stage show. Its really a pop concert and not a musical and therefore shouldn't sell itself as such (in my humble musical theatre opinion). You'd never find Sondheim cobbling together someone else's songs and making a fortune out of it and that's all I'm going to say on the matter. Off to bed early tonight to recover. That's all. Oh apart from to say great news from my uncle and aunt who've had some good health related news although Jane still isn't too well. I'm thinking of them all at the moment. J x

Its Been Ages

So sorry for that dear readers. Its been another busy week. My application form for the Liverpool/Warrington jobs has gone and has been received by the appropriate person (good job I checked though because she hadn't received it first time). The closing date is 01/08 and the applications are being sifted week commencing 04/08 and interviews are week commencing 18/08. The closing date for the Manchester job is 29/08 so I don't need to fill that in until I know one way or the other on the Liverpool one. Its a bit annoying because Liverpool has the job I want whereas Manchester has the location. Having said that, the Manchester job is quite attractive and I'm sure would provide plenty of challenges.

Saw Karen this week as she was in town on Wednesday. It was great to see her and we got drunk in Panacea (where else?) before she caught her train to Nottingham. It was like she'd never been away (wait a minute, it was me that went away wasn't it!).

Out to the Hilton last night with DD and others to celebrate a promotion. Had one more VM than I'd intended. No harm done though except I can't remember whether or not I phoned Sarah to discuss her staying next week so I'll have to phone her today and apologise if we've already had the conversation!

Builder has been on site 3 days this week and not done all that he should have. Don't know what I'm going to do about this. I suppose if he keeps attending then we'll carry on with him but if he disappears again then he can forget it (I know, I've said it before). We'll see. That's all. J x

Busy Week

But no builder. Sadly. That's his lot now though. I've been more than fair and he can now go and whistle for the rest of his money. Now begins the search for an alternate builder. God its depressing.

Can't remember what else is news. Oh yes, am filling in another promotion application. This time for a job in Liverpool (or Warrington). Would prefer the latter but don't think I'm able to choose. We'll see. I'll let you all know how I get on. Hopefully will at least get an interview this time. They've also advertised my boss's job. But the closing date for applications for his job is later than the interview dates for the Liverpool job. I think if they offer the Liverpool one I'll have to take it as there's no guarantee I'd get the Manchester one. Shame they didn't come about the other way round really. Hey ho. Wish me luck. That's all. J x

Ooooooh, Dr Who

What did you think? I'm not so sure. No new Doctor? Were we happy with the explanation? I'll watch it again (Sky + is fantastic) and post again. That's all. J x

So Where to Start?

Well, Lymm was good. An excellent conference. Learned a lot and met some great people - also learned never to go and stay in the Lymm Hotel since the beds were really uncomfortable. It was worth it though and I came away feeling energised and enthused. The Local Compliance Director also complimented me on one of the points I made!

Cannot believe how excited the whole world seems to be at the prospect of tonight's Dr Who. Its all anyone talks about (apart from Ms DD who does occasionally say other things, such as "shall we have another" - the answer is yes...). All flights now sorted for Madrid and am looking forward to that although its a way off yet. Its also the same month I go to Venice so it will be pretty hectic.

Did the helpline on Monday night and had a call from someone whose partner was just about to be sent down for benefit fraud. Found that call quite difficult because all I wanted to do was scream at the guy "but he deserves it" rather than listen to him going on and on about the injustice of it all because it meant that they might lose their council house. Of course I didn't and I was supportive and helpful and all the rest of it.

Saw the designers on Thursday. The builder is getting a final chance (I know, I know) but it really is the final chance. We'll see. He's got a list of things to do by next Friday and if they're not done he's off the job. Went to Heals this morning with Ms DD and ordered a load of new furniture.

Theatre last Sunday for Jim's Showcase. About 7 different am dram companies doing excerpts from the musicals which turned out to be a lot more fun than it sounds...

Saw the hospital dentist last Thursday (after an hour's wait) and he seemed happy with the way things are looking and gave me the go ahead for some crowns. Which unfortunately don't get done on the NHS so are likely to cost me a fortune.

Mother not too well at the moment. She's got a really sore throat and is finding it difficult to eat. I suggested that she try an Ensure Plus (since I have a stash at their place) but apparently it just made her feel sick. Thank God it doesn't have that effect on me or where would I be?

Off to Canal Street tonight after Dr Who so will blog again soon. That's all. J x

Not Blogged For Ages

Sorry. Off to Lymm for a couple of nights but will bring you all up to date when I get back, I promise. That's all (for now). J x But, P.S. Dr Who. How exciting?

Watching the football...

... with Ms DD. God the Spanish players are cute. Especially the goalie. I did look up his name but have had a little too much to drink (pay attention, Ms DD is involved in this story) to remember it. Anyway he's cute. Am recording Kinky Boots as Ms DD wants to watch that too. We're into extra time at the moment and who knows where we'll end up. Exciting times. That's all. J x

Well it may be...

...a fantastic hotel but they can't make a vodka martini to save their lives. What is it with bar staff these days? Don't they train them or anything?

Opera was OK. Dennis O'Neil wasn't in it - was some other chap. Who was actually was rather good. The princess was fabulous though but Aida was a bit shrill I thought. And not that many tunes. You can't beat Mozart for tunes but I'm afraid on the evidence so far Verdi leaves me a little cold (Falsatff & Aida).

Now back in my room and watching the Amir Khan fight. I hate boxing but Amir is just soooo cute. That's all. J x