From the sick bed of SEH ...

Good evening dear friends, I might not have much time left so I will share my thoughts with you... What a load of bollocks.

Many thanks to Jimmy for your kind comments.  It' s good to see a bit of humour coming from you during the difficult times that you are enduring. I might add the 'photo is not actually of me - but it could be in that I feel like he looks.  Up again, this morning @ 0200 until 0400, then back to bed and up again @ 0700 before setting off for 'work'.  God but I didn't want to go in.  But I did, returning home and straight to bed.  The 'flu / cold or whatever is now 'breaking' with the sore throat / chesty cough becoming reduced though my nose is running - a good sign, my body is trying to expel the grot - see you get educated when you visit this blog. Excuse me while I go blow my nose. I always remember when I was 'a kid', about 11 years old, a long time ago, if I had a cold my Dad would make me drink a cup of hot milk with a shot of rum added to it.  Old wives's tale?  I dunno - but it didn't seem to do any harm - it meant that for ever after I would buy him, for his birthday / Christmas, a bottle of rum - when he died we found the stuff up in the loft - about twenty bottles of it - it all went to a good cause.  Everytime I see a bottle of rum I think of my poor old Dad.

The Elder has decided to cancel her operation [Friday], I am off work tomorrow {just as well], off the weekend and Monday morning, then off Wednesday and, finally, off Friday.  Or, in simple language, in 2.5 days next week.  At 'work' this morning, I had to attend a 'briefing' - my ears were so blocked up that I couldn't follow what was being said - ah the perils of getting older! The Elder, bless her, made me something to eat though I left most of it.  She, The Elder, has been decanting the black sacks [26 of them], that I filled recently into those sort of bags that allow you to draw the air out  reducing the bulk.  These bags, that she is using, are now in storage at a local site where she paying about £25 for a storage container - a sort of poor man's Swiss bank security box.  Still, it's her money.

Technorati tags: Captain Morgan, storage, cough

Flu' ...

Little more to say - poor old me.

This and that ...

Another day -  Back to the 'head office' today where I have been seen off by an administrator [a clerk].  Briefly I have to inform 'admin', where in 12 month's time I would prefer to work when the training, in which I am presently involved, comes to an end.  Idea is that this choice assists in getting a permanent post 'in the trade' so to speak.  If you follow my other blog you should be able to work it all out.  Anyhoo, I have sent my response and received a lashing.  This 'lashing' has been supported by my 'line manager'. In truth the admin eejit has no right to make the comments that they have and the manager is trying to calm the waters in case I make a complaint.  Me? I just, electronically. smiled and thanked him for his feedback.

Still suffering a sore throat etc. and I was up at 0200 this morning [having gone to bed at 2355]. I was sent home, this afternoon - before my cold infected the whole 'workforce'. Might, unusually, involve a trip to the docs.

Back to The Organisation [see yesterday].  The numbers that might attend are, I am informed, in single figures so the event will, definitely, be cancelled.  I could use the money to hire a lap dancer [thanks Mel for the suggestion] - but, I guess, I will not. Tonight The Elder made the dinner and it was yummy - so well done to her.  She is on leave, all week, and #3's bedroom remains untouched.

My Mother might have skin cancer & is to go for tests soonest. I have received a letter from an agency job inviting me to interview - you are called out when workplaces, see my other blog, have staff that go off or sick or whatever.  If appointed you don't have to accept the 'call out' but it's useful to be 'in the system' as you are able to apply for 'internal applicants only' posts.

That's all - I am almost apprehensive to go to bed - off tomorrow [and Friday].

A kick in the proverbials ...

Good evening and welcome to you all [ha!].

After this morning's quickie, in the early hours, it was back to bed for a restless sleep before lurching out at 0745 - bother!  I am cutting it fine.  It all works out, it always does.  I reported to the head office for 0900 only to find the start time had been delayed by 30 mins [0930]. It will be an early night for me tonight. 

To all those of you that are poorly I send you my sympathies - I know what you are going through. God, but it's cold tonight. The only good news is that The Dog was pleased to see me on my return. I will be trying the [expensive, barely used] hair clippers on him this weekend.  Referring to my other blog, for a moment, the principal person that I have been working with, for the last three months, monitoring / approving my work, it could be said. Well, this person made it known, loudly, that they were looking for clippers to cut their dog's hair.  I, stupidly, offered to donate mine and then, last night, even though I had taken them to 'work', I changed my mind.  As the result of what I found out, today, from a co-worker I don't feel any remorse or regret.

Anyhoo, the title ...

As 'Chair' in The Organisation, you probably noticed earlier, I have, 'in my year', to arrange a social function for the members etc.  No problemo - all sorted, booked, the entertainment, the menu, lap dancer [I was only kidding with the last bit] and so on.  The members have been aware since November of the function and the date,  Flyers are posted and, last week, each member received an individual invite. A colleague, at The Organisation, took on the job of organising the seating plan, place names and all that sort of stuff ended with him, I am so grateful, telephoning the members to find out if they would be attending. 

It now, only bloody now, transpires that another member of The Organisation has arranged, on the same date, his own function '12 months ago' so I am told and neither he nor the members of The Organisation attending his function have, since I 'gave notice' last November, had the courtesy to inform me. Consequently the guy 'phoning round has had to report, to me, the positive replies are low, very low. 

Hey ho - we can still go with it except.... The function / hotel / caterer specifies a minimum number of attendees.  I have looked at the numbers from previous years and averaged it out.  I have informed the caterer etc.  They will send me a contract for the minimum number that I quoted per their figures and if insufficient turn up then that's my problems.  Let's say I booked e.g. 100 @ £30 per person.  If only 40 turn up I have to find the difference [60] at the price quoted per person i.e. 60 x 30 = £1800.  I also have to pay the entertainment, the flowers, a tip for the bar man, the surcharge for a private bar and so on - let's say £2000.  If 80 turned up I would have to pay 20 x 30 = £600.  What a bummer eh?

I am unable to change the venue date because it clashes with other functions, the entertainment is not available on other dates, any other entertainment will charge top price because of the short notice. I have no option but to cancel [no, I cannot share with the other guy and his function].

Life's a shit, babe and then you die. What next? I wonder ....

Traffic wardens & grapes ...

Good evening!  First of all I must refute any suggestion that the body, in the 'Bullworker' picture is that of The Elder - I mean, I don't believe The Elder has a pair of blue pants.

So here we all are again on a Sunday evening. I hate Sundays and, especially, Sundays when I have to work more so when I don't finish until 2000 or so. This time, approximately, last year I was the 'victim' of a set up at 'work' [same employer but a different branch of the job that I am presently involved in]. The Elder was receiving chemotherapy and I was at a workplace where I had to report, as at present, to a n other.  To cut a long story short, a n other failed to manage me and I had to ask the 'Unit Manager' to allocate me a substitute 'a n other'.  A n other #1 learned of the involvement of a n other #2 and, with job evaluation and the unit possibly closing down #1 went for #2.  The Unit manager realised what was going on and the easy solution was to blame me.  I was removed from the contract and my 'employer' suggested I leave the 'company' until I had sorted out the domestic matters.  I was assured that I could rejoin the company, later in the year, but, later in the year, I was sold up the river.  I managed to join another branch of the company to prove, by completing the recent contract, that I had been unfairly treated.  Still, what's it matter?  You talk to a monkey for a week and what are you left with? A monkey.  If nothing else, having successfully completed the recent contract, it means, if I wish, that I am able to leave the company, in my time and with my head held high. Watch this space.

Despite, today, my most optimistic hopes I was not sent home sick but had to remain until the shift ended. I was glad to get away. I am becoming increasingly convinced that the nature of the job is a la traffic warden where qualified people control others - perhaps they, the controllers, get a kick out of it? Sorry I am waffling away.

I haven't seen The Elder, to talk to, for several days. We are both out tomorrow - me to the 'head office' and The Elder to hospital for a pre-op assessment, she is in for an op later in the week, minor surgery (grapes) for a common problem (grapes) affecting men & women (grapes).  It wouldn't be appropriate to divulge the nature of the op (grapes) but if you need to get to the bottom of it then you must work it out yourself.

Until later.

A virus ...

Good morning on what is the last day that I attend the ' job / contract' [you know to what I refer].  The title?  If 'it' is doing the rounds then it appears easy to spread - aching ears. sore throat, painful swallowing and other aches that need not be discussed so early on this Sunday morning. When, yesterday, I returned 'home', back to Chez Shithole, I was so knackered that I fell asleep [complete with The Dog - he doesn't sleep when the place is empty].  Struggling to open my eyes, about an hour later, I found [if that is the appropriate word], that I had, once again, mislaid my specs.  I really must get a grip.  The bloody things were only found after I had, practically, emptied my room.

During my restless sleep I had an awful dream.  This, for sensitive readers, is a medical dream and carries a parent guidance rating as the discussion may not be suitable for anyone under 13 years of age - sorry, don't mean to be silly.  Suffice to say, in the dream, during routine personal examination, as you do (?), I detected a third lump where there should only be two, 'natural', lumps. Waking, in a bit of a sweat, I was relieved to find no extra lump after all. My 'rule of thumb', about dreams, is that they are often the reverse of what is going to happen.  Watch this space. I will watch elsewhere. Purpose of this ramble? Regularly check what and where you should. Bet you just wanted to know that didn't you?!  Don't forget this blog is my daily diary - some of the regular rubbish is, at least to me, important rubbish.

Although cold, in the morning, the days are, thankfully, getting longer and milder during the day itself.  The daffodils are on the verge of blooming, various bush plants are about to blossom, the contract is practically finished and, as I sort of mentioned yesterday, there is now a purpose to life. The old itching to return to my previous job is getting to me again - two jobs [15 miles away] and two jobs up t'north.  I would be quite happy to live up t'north but, as your kids bind you, so does The Dog. Not to worry, an 1100 start, today, though I might get sent home poorly - with a bit of luck!

Finally, tomorrow [Monday PM], my 'other blog' will be going into hibernation until early May - just to let you know.

Technorati tags: Virus, male self examination, daffodils

Last minute memories ...

As I get ready to close down I have the radio playing 'oldies' and the track that has just started is Paul Simon's 'Mother & Child Re-union' - bad memories. 

When I split up with The Elder, end 2004, I moved up t'north and was 'lucky' enough to obtain local authority property - a flat in a tower block, in the red light area - lots of asylum seekers - it was not good.  The song?  The woman next door was a rampant alcoholic.  One night I woke at about 0100 to hear the said stupid song being played and played and played and...  Seems she had hit the bottle, as usual, decided the song was her favourite of the moment and set her player on repeat [that song only].  After about an hour I was cracking up - I went next door 0230 in the morning - seriously dangerous!  Banging on the door got me nowhere -  she was obviously too far gone [pissed] and was oblivious to it all.

What a way to end the day - The Dog is on my bed, warming it up, shame that he has just 'let one go' - still, he's a good boy and, as you know, he means the world to me.  Spoke to a man today that bought his wife a new cat - paid £750 for it - I nearly fell off my chair.

Get a grip ...

Greetings, as the month of January approaches its completion. A seriously busy day, yesterday, when I was, mostly, completing the reports etc. for work - all have to be completed within the next few days - little to do and I have no worries [famous last words].

Today? I was at work, same tomorrow, and in, at 'head office', all next week.  The 'job', over the last couple of days,  has taken over my 'leisure activities'.  As the warm weather / spring approaches a young man's thoughts turn to getting fitter [looking for love? Not too sure about this]. To this end it will be out with the trusty bike, taking The Dog out more often and getting to grips with my ancient / little used item of kit by which I mean, of course, my Bullworker The picture is not of me - sorry to disappoint.

The Angry Woman ...

No, not The Elder but, spare a thought for Geoffrey Jones who suffered in the most painful way when he, apparently, fell out with his ex-partner. Clearly a cautious approach is needed if and when I ever get round to disposing of this property et al.

You might recall that I have twice been 'stood up' by a guy that desires I be one of his minions, in a local organisation?  He, apologising, 'phoned [earlier this week] and asked if we could meet up tomorrow? No problemo.  Sorted my busy schedule out for tomorrow [ha!] and late this afternoon - yep - he's phoned again and cancelled.  I think I know how the woman ['the ripper'] in the previous paragraph must have been feeling!

That's one roast beef meal down quite a few more to go. Busy day tomorrow - today / tomorrow is, effectively, my 'weekend off' - so here I am, on 'Saturday' and quite bored - not done much all day and I feel a lot better for it.  I seriously question why I am continually 'pushing myself' - I am financially secure [not 'well off' - though I would be if I sold the house], no need to work and, I am mulling over what to do with my life [what's left of it]. Feel free to make suggestions.

It's a week since The Elder and myself sat down in #3's [former] bedroom - of course nothing else has happened.  Watch this space.

Technorati tags: Rip 'em off, Stood up

A groggy morning ...

Good morning - though it started badly.  The Dog, as he does, had ascended the staircase [at 6 bloody 23 AM], to let me know that he wanted to go out. No option but to get up and sort him out.  Only problem was that I couldn't find my specs - now, don't get wrong as I have aged my vision is no longer 20/20 [hah!], and although I can see quite well it greatly helps if I wear my specs.  The Dog was sorted and I returned to my room, accompanied by The Dog, I set to looking for the elusive specs whilst The Dog set to getting comfortable on my bed.  The worry, of course, is that I might stand on my specs.  It was, then, a case of carefully examining every surface and moving items from one side of the room to the other.  All sorted, eventually, when a degree of calm was restored.  By now it was 0800 or so, The Elder was waking from her slumbers [confirmed because the snoring had stopped] and so it was a case of getting dressed etc.  I have to confess to feeling washed out. The Dog is still on the bed, sound asleep.  The dustbin sits on the road outside [today is collection day], the wagon has arrived and accompanied by a lot of noise the bin has been emptied.  The Dog has slept through it all.  His deafness has increased - a couple of years ago he would, on hearing the dustbin being emptied, rush downstairs barking furiously - alas, as he has aged, his performance has reduced. Such is life.

The Elder, with always an eye for a bargain [I must have been a bargain - she certainly has had her money's worth], identified, at the local store, large, cooked, joints of roast beef - lovely!  However, as always, however - the bloody things are meant for a family of eight [at least] leaving lots to spare for sandwiches etc later.  Looks like it will be beef for the next few days - I am at a loss.  On the subject of finance - mmmm ... a quick review of cash etc has revealed limited, ready, hard cash.  I am trying to save [reasonably successfully] and live off a fixed amount each month - we all do it.  Get your income, deduct the fixed bills / regular savings, so much aside for the car, food and clothes [to name some], save a bit for just in case and blow the rest.  Problem is that I have 'spent up' with a week to go - bugger, means that I need to dip in to next month's income.  Still wondering by how much my income will rise next month [birthday]. The income has been frozen since it commenced, a number of years ago, and rises only when I reach the age of my next birthday.  My understanding is that it will rise in line with inflation - presently about 2.5%.  In the meantime gas has risen by 15%, local taxes by 4%, The Dog's health insurance by 23% ..... Someone once told me that the annual increase, frozen since the payment commenced, is totaled up, for each frozen year, -  it would be nice to receive a one off 12.5% increase [to reflect on five years of frozen payment] - I am not optimistic.

Maybe more later - thanks for calling.  Now back to listening to the radio - I have just installed a free prog that allows you to listen to radio stations, over the world, record live or set up a scheduled recording - all clever stuff.

The Organisation ...

Greetings fellow cyber communicators ...  It was out to The Organisation this evening from where I had to deliver my speech.  Perhaps the speech was proving too exciting for those attending?  Before I could get started one of the guests collapsed and was taken away, still breathing, by the emergency services. Consequently the evening ended with all in a sombre and reflective mood - there was a buffet meal, no speech and most departed as soon as the moment permitted. Sad for other reasons - as 'Chair' it was my sad duty to accept the resignation from one of the members.  This member, had not attended for months, and against my best wishes I had been 'steered' into appointing him to a 'committee post' - I knew he wouldn't attend but others warned me of dire consequences [his actions] if I did not appoint him. So I appointed him , early last year, and he has attended the once.  Time to go - I told you so.

Arriving back here to Chez Shithole, this afternoon, [the house being empty], The Dog was practically demented. Once he has been out and had a late lunch then the minute I sit down, even though I had to get ready to go out, he promptly curled up, on my lap, and went to sleep.  I will never forget his bloodshot eyes and 'what have I done?, why did you have to wake me up?' look when I had, reluctantly to move him.

As the contract ends at work everything is going very well.  The desired results etc. are being achieved and I look forward to leaving the 'workplace' and the shifts that are involved, returning to 'regular' hours next week, being based in the nearby city.  There are advantages, at the moment, in that the [contract] workplace is only 10 minutes drive from Chez Shithole.  'Working' in the city centre will involve a much earlier start to get there and a later arrival, back here, when the 'day's work' ends.  Pity The Dog.

A good day, for a number of reasons, but equally, a sad day for a variety of other reasons. Time for bed. Day off tomorrow - good.  Hope you are getting better [Mel].

Technorati tags: Speech, The Committee, The Organisation

Just a quickie ...

So, back at work i.e. for today and tomorrow followed by more time off and then a couple of days to close the contract.  I am out, as you know, to The Organisation [tomorrow night].  I should get by with my speech but it's going to be a while before I get to bed, tonight, as I have leaflets / flyers to print off.

The Elder has had three days off and, you recall, recently we both sat in #3's former bedroom to discuss what happens next.  The Elder, bless her, assured me that on her days off she would be making a start.  Nothing has happened so I must assume she refers to different days off. To her credit she has made an effort to tidy up 'the lounge' and did have a hot meal that she had cooked waiting for when I returned this evening. 

'Hello!'  The Dog has just surfaced from under my quilt [on my bed], tail wagging he has rushed downstairs to see what's available. I guess he will be back shortly.

Early start tomorrow; the events today have not been anything to write about [the toothache has reduced] otherwise my health is good, my shares have rallied [a bit] - more later.

Early morning ...

Good morning!  Here's another depressing day when the value of my shares, given to me, years ago, have continued to fall.  This time last year they were worth £1125 more than they are today.  Most worrying.  The shares are a sort of 'reserve' fund for paying the mortgage or unexpected bill though, to be honest, my calling them in appears to be remote.  Let's hope it stays that way.  Anyhoo, for you cat lovers, here's a video that you really ought to watch - it's all about being woken up.  More later - work today, toothache today, not wanting to go in today etc.

Grumbles ...

Hi and welcome.  I have contacted the dentist and cannot be seen until next month - bugger.

Today amidst, feeling sorry for myself I have concentrated on my 'speech', for next Wednesday, becoming increasingly uncomfortable, and prepared for work [tomorrow]. Otherwise I have not, if truth be told, done much at all.  Played around with the blog design, went to see a guy from The Organisation, by appointment [at his house] and he wasn't in!  What is it with people standing me up like this?!  I hate being let down when someone has agreed something with me - I don't do it and I resent those that do.  Grumble concluded.

I'm away to my bed.

A bit of this and that ... [none of the other] ...

A busy day - it has not been.  Oh dear.  I have a meeting, next Wednesday, where I have to give a speech, of sorts, being a prepared script and which I should have learned off by heart.  OK, I have looked at the thing, on and off, but - ha ha!, my big excuse is that the old toothache has returned and, I fear, the regular check is going to have be brought forward and the offending molar, a wisdom tooth [I think], may have to part company from me. 

Otherwise I have been reflecting on another matter, involving a much valued reader.  Thanks for the feedback - I was a bit apprehensive(!), I agree with everything that you said - it's just so strange. Anyhoo, we shall see. Otherwise #2, I asked The Elder into #3's [former] bedroom to explain what I had, over the last few days undertaken and what remained to be completed.  It was all very sad.  The Elder sat on a stool, surrounded by junk i.e. boxes, bags, books, paper, and other items, in the middle of the room, I sat on the lower [bunk] bed, with The Dog.  The Elder looked around at we have allowed to come to pass and the tears, almost, flowed [from us both].  The Elder agreed to 'pick up' sorting out papers, books and personal items but, even though I offered to help, I know it won't happen [she's not up to it - and, as we have just found out, she is to have further surgery in a couple of weeks - all I will say, on the subject, is 'grapes']. A very sad day.

More time wasting involved tuning my DAB radio and finding 'Gold' - means I have been rocking, rolling and doing my 'Saturday Night Fever' and more - oh yes.  Finally I have been messing about with my computer especially this blog - adding a few new features [see right].  As you might be aware I use a programme that auto reads blogs, in the background, and automatically downloads new blog post, a sort of auto retrieve e-mail without having to visit the site concerned [and be disappointed when there is nothing new].  Although the 'reader', in use, is free it does have limitations but, whoot!! it is now possible to download and use for free [previously shareware],  a prog - NewsGator. Brilliant. 

Off tomorrow and back to 'work' on Tuesday [and Wednesday] and I will then be working on the weekend [after which the 'contract' at this particular workplace comes to an end]. For those on holiday [Monday], enjoy the day.

Finally, thanks to Mel for the info about the shirt [see previous / farting dog / EBay] - I was creased.

Technorati tags: Farting Dog, NewsGator, Teeth

Another chilly day ...

Hello and greetings!  As I churn out this rubbish it's 2345 UK time.  The Dog is on my bed and judging by the emissions from his rear end he's gonna get shifted soon.

On more cheerful topics - maybe not - I forgot to mention that when I took The Dog for his haircut, yesterday, the lady / cutter / stylist [choose whatever you like], confirmed that The Dog, in addition to his deafness, is going blind.The Senior constantly urges me to sell Chez Shithole and 'get a life'.  I agree with her but, as I explained, I simply cannot move whilst The Dog provides such companionship.  The Senior said it herself - 'he is always pleased to see you', 'doesn't argue or answer back', 'curls up alongside you and goes to sleep', 'plays games' and 'shows sadness if you have to tell him off or correct him'.  The sting in the tail, from The Senior was, 'yes, in a way, he's just like you'. Some women never lose the art of making you feel bad.

Spare a thought for Jimmy seems his wife left him and he decided to propose to her via email.  She turned him down. Jimmy - I share your sadness and question your reasoning(!) - life begins again - get on with it.  Such wise words from someone that doesn't follow his own recommendations.

Out this morning to the hotel where, in my capacity as 'Chair' of The Organisation, I am holding my social occasion later this year. I was met by a very attractive young woman that had all the answers at her finger ends.  She was very competent and smoothly, with a smile, committed me to spending a lot of money.  I expect, hopefully, to get my money back resulting from members of The Organisation attending, with their partner / guests and paying the necessary charge. 

You might remember [btw I am sat here getting tiddly as I sip the remnants of a bottle of Vodka, I wouldn't mind I hate the stuff but it's warming my bones and, somehow, making the odour from The Dog's bum, less noticeable], where was I? Oh yes, you might remember that, recently, I was appointed 'WebMaster' for an organisation [another organisation], to which I belong?  I went to meet the 'Area Chief' [my made up term], last week and he didn't show - I only found out that he wasn't attending when I switched my 'phone on [having arrived at the meet location]. Anyhoo, amidst his apologies, he asked to meet up, again [today] at a location some 20 miles or so from Chez Shithole.  I went and - he didn't bloody well show!  I guess I could have 'phoned him but I didn't have his number and, worse, when I arrived back at this dump, he had left a message, a cheery, bloody, sort of message, on the house 'phone, telling me that he wouldn't be attending after all.  Now I know.  Breathe deeply, have another slurp.

For the first time in months I have used my credit card - most unlike me.  Normally I steer well clear and, if I do use it, I pay the whole amount when payment falls.  I paid for three reasons - 1. I went out without any cash, 2. I needed the money to buy fuel to meet the guy referred to in the previous para. and 3. I was at The Organisation tonight.  The meeting tonight was a shambles with a lot of people stopping away - it's easy to make excuses not to attend and I am really grateful to those that did make the effort.

If you haven't guessed I am waffling on - the effect of Mr Smirnoff.  I will close [hurrah!], with some good news.  I found, in #3's bedroom a boxed set of [DVD] The Lord of the Rings - I must get them copied - somehow.

I never got to the bank this week.

Technorati tags: Mr Smirnoff, Lord of the Rings, farting dog

An interesting day ...

Oh yes.  A day when I learn that certain individuals pen cryptic letters for purposes best known only to themselves. The facts are here.  Anyhoo, these mysteries aside [though I hope I am able to see an end result], here's what else has happened today.

The Dog has been for his hair cutting.  Might not be a big deal to you but it is to me [and him].  He looks so scruffy before he goes and so smart when he returns - I feel so proud of him.  The day had started badly with The Elder wanting to know, to the minute, when I would be using the shower [before taking The Dog and before she, shortly, got ready to go to work].  I advised I would be a couple of minutes but this wasn't good enough for The Elder.  Beats me why but she persisted in wanting to know.  Reflecting for a moment I advised her that I would, in fact, be making two visits to the bathroom.  The first was imminent, resulting from pressure on my bladder and would last, approximately, 1.75 minutes [tee hee - I am a devil sometimes!].  This answer proving unsatisfactory she 'went for me' resulting in a serious bust up.

I had my shower [4.9 minutes] and was out of Chez Shithole with a stressed The Dog.  I dropped him off and travelled on to a DIY store to purchase strong plastic sacks for the purpose of storing soft toys [from #3's bedroom].  Returning back to Chez Shithole I opened the container, drew out one of the sacks and starting moving soft toys from #3's room into the sack.  I had used up the [10] sacks within 15 minutes.  Serious miscalculation.  I returned to the DIY store, purchased more, a lot more, sacks prior to collecting The Dog [so smart!!] and returning to this dump.  Once again it was a case of getting stuck in to the room, packing soft toys and, after a good hour I had filled up ... wait for it ... honestly... go on, have a guess.... how many sacks?  OK - I filled up twenty six plastic sacks.  True.  The sacks now occupy the top of #3's bed [everything else having been moved off].  The sacks are properly stacked and look quite tidy.  On top of the sacks, being too big, sits a cuddly lion.  It's such a sad task.  I reckon each sack, if you use the purchase price of the items contained within, contains toys to the value of at least £75 per sack.  twenty six sacks @ £75 per sack .... nearly two grand.  Bloody awful.  Someone, mostly The Elder, has spent good money - what a waste, what a shame. A good interruption was the matter referred to in para #1. 

The Elder returned, this evening, and is still not talking other than, as I made her a cup of tea [which she accepted], telling me that, from now on, perhaps we should only provide meals for our self.  I agreed and, 15 minutes later, was asked if I wanted half of a pizza that she had cooked.

That's all - I ache in every bloody joint - I have had a hot soak and rubbed smelly stuff on my aches.  Another mistake, The Dog [apparently, since his hair cut, thinking himself 10 years younger], smelling the muscle cream, or whatever it was I used, has tried, unsuccessfully, to 'shag' my leg. He's now in his basket, sulking and licking his wounds [or something].

Technorati tags: DIY, cuddly toys, Dog

Now the day is over ... [or 'my poor back' ...]

Too much - 'too much what?', you might ask.  Truth is, like the returning gardener, doing too much, I have tried to empty #3's room all in one day.  Just not going to happen - a bit more to do, tomorrow, but [in the morning] I have to take The Dog for his hair cut.  He, usually, looks quite skinny once his hair is cut and anything but as the hair grows - he will go out tomorrow a 'size 16' and return a 'size 10'], possibly a size 12 if we reflect on his lack of exercise, increased intake over Christmas.

To my surprise The Elder has not said anything, when she returned from her work, she had a quick peek in #3's room and said nothing.  I fully expected a row.  Looking at the room the difference, to the eye, is only slight - however, I have filled four plastic sacks with rubbish, two huge sacks with clothing and placed a multitude of soft toys on top of the bunk bed - the soft toys - teddy bear[s], Tigger, Muffin, right back to 'Care Bears' are virtually new, most still have the various label that came affixed to the toy.  I estimate, with an average value of £5 per toy [when bought] of £5 and with there being at least 200 toys in the room the value would have been - well, work it out yourself.  The real sadness is that The Elder has, invariably, been the one that has spent the money, often doing without herself or  running up large debts on her credit card/s.  It's all very sad.  The Elder blames me for the behaviour of #3.  I have stopped arguing - not that I accept her view, of course, but it doesn't matter what you say The Elder is quite fixed in her views.  #3?  She milks it for all it's worth. I began by saying too much and my poor back aches - still it's good for exercise.  The Dog loved exploring the 'new room'.  I mean he has never been in it before [I have not been in it much more].

Last night I telephoned a colleague, from another branch of The Organisation, he, like I have to soon, has already arranged and enjoyed the social function that he was required to organise.  I picked his brains for the venue, menu and cost and, to be honest, when I see the venue manager, Friday, I am simply going to ask for a similar arrangement [and cost].

Back to 'The Jazz Singer' [see previous], I watched part of it whilst eating my dinner [use of the dining table has ceased until next Christmas [?] and it's back to a regime of meal / TV tray / TV].  If I cook, which I usually do, then The Elder lets me watch whatever I want and so I watched a bit more of the film [Jazz Singer].  There is a scene, in the film, where Neil Diamond returns home to his girlfriend [having walked out a year earlier].  His partner is on the beach with the three month old baby, not expecting ND's return and the realisation he has returned / electric atmosphere coupled with the song ' Hello Again' had my eyes filling - it was all I could do not to weep.  Silly old fart eh?

Technorati tags: Filth, backache, rubbish

Happy holiday ..!

Another day off - yeah!  Both The Elder and POFM #2 are at work so I am, happily, with The Dog, looking after myself. 

Unusually I cooked myself an early lunch and settled down to watch Neil Diamond in 'The Jazz Singer' - oh but how the tears flowed.  The film suggests that there is always hope that a reconciliation may occur but, sadly, not in this house. 

For the last two hours I have trawled my way through about a square meter of crap [in the room that used to be occupied by POFM #3].  I simply cannot believe that I am spending my day off doing this.  Imagine if you will, if you must, about 10 dustbins, full of non food matter, thank God, and just tipped up on the floor - sanitary towels, tissues [lots of used tissues], washing most clean, medication [The Pill], and other stuff, toys, coat hangers, books, college notes and photographs - lots of photographs.  A fair number of the photo's have me on the picture; you have to work it out though because the photo's are torn in two or three strips. The bad news is that everything has to be examined to make sure that it's not valuable and so on.

I had, clearly in my wildest dreams, a notion that I would be making significant inroads by the end of today - what a mistake to make. I have just stepped out, to take a breather and count, not to 10 but 110. Any cash that I find becomes mine.

Technorati tags: Neil Diamond, Jazz Singer, Tramp

Let there be light ...

Another easy day - day off from 'work'.  So what have I been doing with myself?  OK I'll tell you. 

In a moment of madness The Elder decided that I could start cleaning out #3's bedroom after all.  So it was with square shoulders and a firm resolve that I set to.  I could cry.  The room is an absolute shit tip though after about 30 minutes I succeeded in arriving at the window at which the curtains have not been opened for about 15 years. Honestly.  It was, then, a case of drawing back the curtains exposing filthy window frames and many generations of wood louse that had perished.  It was all too much.  The Elder came into the room [first time in 15 years] and sought to drag out a couple, or so, of plastic sacks [the sort that fit in a refuse bin].  You couldn't tell the difference.  A number of electrical items were removed for storage 'off site', shall we say, leaving the rest of the room for my detailed attention tomorrow.

The plan is quite simple.  CD's, books, paper, photographs, you know, anything flat will be placed in a suitcase, or two [or three...].  Clothes that are hung up, bedding and other clothes [strewn about] will also be, carefully, folded and placed in a suitcase, or two.  That leaves a large number of plastic sacks, strong plastic sacks, to be purchased for the storage of toys especially soft cuddly toys [no, Dear, not like me]. Finally, once the bed [bunk bed] has been stripped, suitcases stored downstairs, sacks placed on, under and around the bed it will be an opportunity to vacuum, first time in 15 years, the carpet [I think there is a carpet there]. One problem nearly drove me mad.  I couldn't get the light to come on in the bedroom - I exposed wires, tested links, renewed the wiring, swore at the bloody thing, swapped the light bulb until suddenly I saw the light [again].  Hidden under an enormous pile of plastic sacks was a pull on/off switch that, also controlled the light. 

Otherwise today I have identified a load of people that I need to contact, for one reason or another, worked out my remaining finances for the month and, desperately tried to connect my laptop to my desktop PC, via a cable though without success.  I have to confess to feeling better, than of late, perhaps, as I age, as we all do, my body is trying to tell me to slow down and take life a bit easier.  Perhaps I should listen to the messages.

I didn't get to the bank.

Technorati tags: Filth, getting on

The things people do ...

This evening it was a visit to The Organisation or rather a sub branch of The Organisation.  Later this year I have to organise a social night - black tie.  It's all arranged and all those that might visit are aware of the date.  That said there is a nasty 'behind the scenes'. discussion ongoing about my lack of advertising the bloody thing.  This only came to light when a much valued friend asked why I had not 'phoned him back in response to his ansafone message - bless him, he was aware of the developing situation and wanted to warn me off.  Bass turds to use a quote. Apart from this 'worry' the evening has been quite enjoyable.  The biggest smile was caused when I called in to the garage for diesel fuel [for my car] and I met the 'manager' of my 'workplace'.  His face was a picture as he saw me in attire that is not often used by those in my line of work i.e. I was wearing a suit and tie [and other things].  That's two things that he has learned of me - all within a matter of days before my 'contract' ends.

Today? Off work and it was a case of sorting out funds.  I have to, really have to, go to the bank tomorrow to deposit various amounts.  I must take The Dog - he's in for a hair cut later this week and The Elder is picking up the cost - yeah!! Things are back to 'normal', here in Chez Shithole.  The Elder has agreed that a start may be made on POFM #3's bedroom tomorrow.  One blog that I visit draws your attention to writer's daughter's bedroom [is that grammar correct and do I care?], and the mess in her bedroom - honestly, matey, you haven't lived!

I'm off to my bed. Did you know that you can be very lonely even when surrounded by others?  I must away before the recently consumed mulled crappo encourages me to write things that I really ought not to -  e.g. I [to be continued] ...

Technorati tags: In the back, buddies

Welcome!

Greetings and welcome back.  Last week was a bad week, mainly because of certain pressures at work - work I had to produce and certain concerns as the 'end of contract' approaches.  Thankfully I am off work, most of this week, and I plan to recharge my batteries by undertaking a number of household jobs.  I was going to 'sort out' #3's bedroom but, The Elder reminds me, I had advised her [The Elder] that this would be taking place in late Feb.  Outcome? A lot of bleating that 'I want to get in first'.  Now, hold on .... '.

The Elder had had years and, since last September, months to do something.  I want to get started and what happens? The brakes get applied, that's what happens.  Now, you can bet your last cent that nothing will happen, if at all, until the weekend before I want to start the job. Mark my words. The alternative is to pull up a load of shrubs and bushes from the garden.  The garden certainly needs a lot doing to it but it has not been the weather.  Anyhoo, roll on tomorrow, which fast approaches.

The Elder is not talking - again.  #2?  Not said anything to me all weekend.  I cannot blame either of them if I am honest with myself.  I have felt bloody awful all weekend and spent a lot of my time in bed with my old friend Z Ispin. Oh yes indeedy. Hey!  I am normally in reasonable health [all things considered], and I crave your indulgence when I bleat, occasionally, about my aches and pains - thank you.

Hope to have more of this crap up and running tomorrow - I really must get to the bank and now? I really must get to my bed.

Apologies ...

For the previous post [I could have deleted it but it was 'valid' at the time, I have kept it because it's how I felt then].  I am still alive and kicking. Having slept until 0830 I woke feeling refreshed and more like my old self.  The dental disorder has ended following various applications of a proprietary mouthwash - the name of which eludes me. No matter.

Yesterday it was a trip to the local DIY store [B&Q, if you must know], to price up various coloured plastic sacks - not a success ' duh, we only have them in black', so that's the different coloured sack / different type of content theory out of the window.  No problems - I simply apply different coloured tape / string [to the black sack].  Then it was, with furious determination to 'sort out the garden in the spring', a rush over to the various garden tools - this might cost me more than I had planned.  I want something, a bit like a strimmer [a brush cutter to give it its proper name], a cultivator and a hedge cutter - oh and it [they] has to be petrol driven. Lo and behold I identified the various goodies all of which interchange with the 'base' unit [the engine component].  Now, either I wait for the sales when typically they knock off 20% or get a pensioner friend to purchase, for me, when they get a 10% discount.

Some good news just in - previously I was employed with a major company but left because of the hassle / pressures - I was an area manager.  One arsehole made my life sheer hell.  He had kept his job despite several take overs but, as I learned today, he has now been sacked - ah well, what goes round and all that stuff ... Off work today though I have a  report to write up and I will be cracking on with it this afternoon.

Thanks for calling by [and your tolerance].

Technorati tags: Divorce, job, stress

A short intermission ...

Dear All,

I have arrived home this evening feeling very run down.  I was straight to my bed and only, in the last hour or so, surfaced - hence the time is now 0135 UK time - not like me at all!  There now follows a break, affecting my various blogs - I will e-mail / leave a comment to you as and when I pick up the thread, sometime in the future.

WYSIWYG

Greetings fellow bloggers. I have watched two TV documentaries, this evening, both warning parents of the hidden dangers of their children using chat rooms etc. where, within, lurk those that pretend to be a teenager and with sinister motives.  Just for the record this blog, whilst occasionally a bit rude a. is not managed by a teenager or someone pretending to be one and secondly, WYSIWYG, there is no way this blogger could claim to be a teenager.  So, no ulterior motives and no pretending to be someone/something else.  Hope that makes you feel better and discourages women trying to lure me into potentially unsafe liaison[I wish!].

Good day, yesterday, when I typed up and handed The Elder a letter.  The letter has broken down what my house needs in the way of repair / improvement and when I envisage the various [sub] projects starting.  The first project which 'controls' how and when other projects are started / finished is the sorting [crap removal] of POFM #3's bedroom.  Next month, when I am off work for a week, the contents of the bedroom will be sorted and stuffed into different coloured plastic sacks.  Subsequently these will be stored in the [presently overflowing] garage but only after the crap in the garage has been taken to the tip. I fully expected The Elder to wade into a row but not a peep.  I think she accepts that the work, especially #3's bedroom, is essential and she knows she cannot generate the necessary steam. So watch this space.

Pleasant surprise this evening - The Elder had cooked dinner!  Oh yes, this is more like it.  The chops had been cooked too quickly and were difficult to chew [especially with my aching teeth - a gum infection so I led to believe], the potatoes were not mashed and undercooked, the peas were hard being undercooked.  The green beans were fine though the gravy was only warm - I wonder if she does it on purpose? Still The Dog did well out of it.

I am so tired folks. Today has been such a long day and it's an early start tomorrow.  The good news is that I have progressed with the mind blowing game [type of 'line up three'] of 'Age of Japan 2'.

Some good news, just in, I have been asked to be 'webmaster' for an international charitable organisation - watch this space #2.

Technorati tags: WYSIWYG, web master

A shocking realisation ...

Good morning - well, I made another Sunday - I hate Sundays - the day seems to simply drag - a bit like a job interview, you know that the time is fast approaching. Anyhoo, enough of these negative vibes on this, another bloody cold and wet day.  Up at 0600 - watching the clock 'tick' round when I had no option but to get up.  I have now learned the lesson that drinking a bottle of ice cold beer, on an empty stomach, at 2345 and going straight to bed is a not a wise move.  Talking of beer, I was sprawled out on a settee, one of several, in the 'lounge' my faithful friend, 'himself', in turn, sprawled across me.  The Elder was on her feet and my gentle, pleading, request to be handed the beer, rather than disturb my friend [and myself], was met with a verbal lashing from The Elder - her that had been at work all day, returned back here to CS and within minutes had been provided a hot drink and a hot meal leaving her to park her arse and fix her gaze on the TV for the remainder of the evening until 2345 anyway.  Begrudgingly the beer was provided.  The verbal lashing included my observation that it wasn't a bad life that she and POFM#2 enjoyed.  The conversation drifted on to the paying of utility bills when she, The Elder, pointed out that she paid me a monthly rent and that I need not pay one of the monthly utility bills e.g. electric.  The Elder was, quickly, reminded that it was POFM#2 who, indirectly paid the bill.

Explaining further - I do not charge POFM#2 anything for living her.  She, in turn, chooses to pay her Mother an amount every month that she, #2, asks goes towards a utility bill.  Here are some example figures - #2 pays her Mother e.g. £150 per month.  The Elder pays me e.g. £225 per month.  The electric bill, e.g., might be £300 per quarter.  The Elder receives £450 per quarter from #2.  The Elder pays the bill and pockets the change e.g. £150 thus reducing her monthly rent by £50 i.e. she pays £175 per month rent [and not £225] - note these figures are all examples but pretty near the 'mark'.  When I drew this fact to her attention she, to bring the money discussion to an end, begrudgingly, brought the beer. I won't ask her again.

Another, horrible / dream, shock.  In my bladder aching / fitful dozing, this morning, I dreamed that The Younger had been found, at the house we had occupied when we first married [30 years ago], she had been found 'bricked up' in the chimney.  I woke with quite a start and it took me, aching bladder aside, several seconds to realise that I had been dreaming.  Suitably cheered I was able to leap out of bed and enjoy the first comfort of the day - all that and it's only just gone 0800 - I'm off back to bed - presently occupied by someone else.

Technorati tags: Murder, ex-wife, monthly bills

Pain - in one form or another ...

Welcome back - a 'funny' couple of days and, apart, from a nagging toothache, everything is 'back to normal'.

A good start to the day, yesterday, when The Elder came looking for me to hand over her 'rent' - it doesn't surprise me - there is nowhere else that she would get the same facilities for the price that she pays and so does all she can to avoid compromising her position. Thursday, I was working late and, it having been a sort of 'funny' day I was glad to get back to Chez Shithole.  I knew the toothache was 'developing' and my 'depression' wasn't helped by the rain lashing down and the wind blowing, with a bitter ferocity, up my trousers and wreaking, potentially, untold damage to my health and aged components.  So it was early to bed where, rather surprisingly, I slept better than of late to the extent that when I woke yesterday, Friday, I had nearly overslept - most unusual.  A much better day at work, yesterday, though I was glad to get back [CS].  The weather remains bitterly cold [horrible] and it was a case of reheating a 'stew' that The Elder had  made the previous day and each of us trying to thaw out.  The Dog, once we or one of us has returned to Chez Shithole [and he has been fed], is away to his basket or, preferably, my bed - him having been awake all day [invariably barking and yelping].

Friday? Much better and I enjoyed my 'work'.  Returning home it was a case of, sorting out The [manic] Dog and then, what a good boy!, on with the washing machine in order POFM#2 could stagger home and get on with her washing - the day, having been cold and miserable, was now bitterly cold and, as before, with the rain lashing down - please, roll on the warm weather....

A bit of a sad event, last night, when the 'phone rang.  As you pick up the 'phone the display lists the number that is calling when, if recognised, if you wish, you might reject the call, anyhoo the display read: Unavailable - typically you get this when some form of sales company is 'cold calling' or the caller doesn't want you knowing their number.  Answering the 'phone in my cheery, cheerful way [did you expect anything else?], a voice simply said 'Is Mum there?'. Yes it was POFM#3 calling from far away. What to do?  The call was costing her and I knew that she didn't want to talk to me so I said nothing other than shout for The Elder.  Although I asked The Elder about her [#3's] welfare etc. I received nothing more than 'oh, OK'. Sad eh?

Today I have quite a bit to do and I will be getting under way shortly though not before tea and washing up [dishes etc.] - #2 has just returned, from the shops, and demands to know when she might finish her washing.  Guess that's the signal for this sad old has been to comply. More later.

Technorati tags: Ex-wife, divorce

Late to bed and early to rise ...

Good morning! I have woken at 0330 and simply cannot sleep. A bit too hot in bed [I wish!], caused by having two quilts.  Going to bed the house is cold and so it's get well wrapped.  Problem, as we now know, is that in the early hours I wake up lightly poached. Out of bed, downstairs, feed The [surprised, but pleased to see me] Dog and then back to bed.  Luckily I am not at work today so I will be able to hit the sack.

Strange day, yesterday.  Lots of post - thank you and the opportunity to get round the other blogs that I like to visit. The Elder was back at work and I didn't see her until late PM - a good start to the evening in more than one way as she offered to pay her monthly contribution towards her 'keep'.  For a variety of reasons I prefer cash to cheque.

0437 - My but it's cold - 48' in my room - roll on the summer, talk about wishing your life away, when the temperature exceeds 70' and sometimes touches 80'.  How do you cope with 98' or so? Felt a bit envious, yesterday at my workplace, when I overheard two others discussing their proposed holiday [Greek Islands]. I could afford the same but I guess it isn't going to happen this year.

Getting a monkey ...

Happy New Year!  What a good day - though not for all the best reasons.  Thanks very much for the greetings, well, I mean, the greeting - really, really appreciated.  This morning #2 wished me a HNY before I could wish her one - whoa!  Things are looking up.  I asked her if she had enjoyed her night out [she had] and the conversation ended when I asked if she had any news, of any sort, that might interest me [there was none and the conversation ended].  The Elder crawled out of her bed at about 1100 - not much choice really because I had sent The Dog in to wake her up - oh yes.  He is very good at the job - once you / the subject has been woken up by the slobbering etc [how exciting!], he puts his nose to work getting under the bedding.  In a small bed, as he settles / gets himself comfortable, the occupier of the bed [human] finds that legs and other appendages are not able to be arranged, so to speak, forcing the occupier, not The Dog, out.  The Dog remains - asleep.

More good news. The Senior has informed me that she will be gifting me a 'monkey' or so on my birthday, next month [note in your diary please!], and this is to be looked forward to.  Back to work tomorrow - all as usual.  Today has been the same - all as usual.  I made the dinner and The Elder ate it.  To her credit she made something to eat this evening.  It's a credit to her that she is able to warm the oven, take frozen chips out of [freezer] bag, place chips in oven, wait 30 minutes and then serve a meal [chips] - oh yes - I sure am lucky. I jest, of course.

This evening it was out to the nearby town, a short walk, accompanied by The Dog.  The weather is turning colder and I was well wrapped up and so was The Dog.  How smart - a wrap around coat keeping the wind out and the body / neck warm - The Dog looked pretty smart too(!).  More jesting - I'm afraid. It was The Dog that was wearing the wrap around coat thing - what a man about town!  He strutted out much a like a pensioner would if they had received a more up to date Zimmer frame than their elderly colleagues.  The Elder has spent all day, since getting up, watching TV.  I kid you not.  Apart from the chips this evening she has hardly left her chair.

Finally The Senior is suffering a bad cold - it's a worry - she's not getting any younger, still, who is?