Goodbye Blogger - Hello Wordpress

Well after much thought I have decided that I will no longer be blogging via Blogger.

Instead I am going to continue the delights via Wordpress. If you want to continue reading my blog then you will be able to find it here.

Thanks to the small few of you that have read my blog from here. I hope you will continue under Wordpress.

Mike (",)

Avatar - The Review

When the trailer for Avatar hit the screens, it wasn't a film that I wanted to go and see. Firstly, my previous experiences of 3D has been disappointing and secondly, it just didn't seem to be appealing.

I have had mixed responses in relation to the film aswell, with some saying it's fantastic, while others are saying it was pants. Both were looking at it from different views; graphics and storyline.

Chris and I bit the bullet and went to watch it...on the IMAX screen!!!

Before starting on the film, just want to mention one specific cinema-goer, A guy came in sat next to Chris and then moved before the film started...to behind us.

A couple of times through the the film he kicked the back of my seat, although I am not sure it was meant to be on purpose. Then he started to snore half way through the performance...loudly!!! The guys that were sat next to him woke him up twice to tell him to stop snoring. And if he weren't snoring or kicking the seat he was rustling his Tesco back for snacks (I thought you weren't allowed to bring you own snacks into the cinema?). At the end if the film, he did come across as a bit of a simpleton, so although he was a extremely annoying at times it can be forgiven.

Now for the film: I aint going to bore you with explaining the synopsis of the film. If you are really interested in know the storyline, then check IMDb (Note it contains spoilers).

When you think of 3D, you automatically think of those ghastly red and blue glasses that do a small 3D effect, but it's main change they caused was the colour of the picture. Them were the days eh?

Well haven't times changed since I remember 3D glasses. When entering the room, I was handed a pair of glasses that covered a third of my face. Although the best thing was that it didn't change the colour of the picture.

In relation to the 3D-ness, it was okay. It does add a little depth to the film, just like the old ones did. It was probably a little better than what I remember. Well it was *cough* years ago.

Now this is the first film that I have seen in the cinema so this type of 3D could have been around for a while, but if it has, then I have a nasty feeling that the red and blue grasses may be given out with the DVD/Blue-ray.

As for the graphics; I was informed that they were brilliant and I wasn't lied to. The mixture of real with fantasy was scarily seamless. You couldn't help but wonder how much of it was actually real. Probably not a lot of it.

What it oozed in graphics was sadly lost with storyline. From the people who gave the film a bad review, blamed it on the storyline and I can kind of see where they were coming from. It wasn't as bad as I thought it would be, but it wasn't exactly worth an Oscar either. Well not for Best Picture, although it should for Best Visual Effects.

Avatar was definitely worth being the film that I broke my IMAX virginity with. I am not a big movie goer, but I am looking for things to go and watch at the cinema and preferably in the IMAX. Well, there is Alice in Wonderland coming out soon.

Rating:

Lady Gaga Concert - The Review

I have to be honest, when Lady Gaga first appeared on the scene, I wasn't overly keen because I thought she was over-played. But, as time has gone on, you can't help but sucked in by her eccentricity.

With Lady Gaga, you expect to have a show put on....and boy, didn't she put one on. This wasn't like any other concert I have seen. It was like a hybrid of a concert slash theatre production.

The first support act was Semi Precious Weapons, or as I kept on calling them Semi Hardon. To be honest they wouldn't be a group I would go listen to, but it was still strangely entertaining to watch. They are just as mad as Lady Gaga so it's obvious there is history between them.

The other support act was something I was looking forward to seeing as I quite like them aswell; Alphabeat. And they were good, I can't help but smile at Anders SG who looks like he ate all the blue smarties and was getting rid of the excess energy while on stage. Saying that, I enjoyed their performance and have added their album to my wish list when it is released in March.

There was a little break before the Gaga embraced the stage, but it was worth it. From beginning to end the show was amaaazing!!!

The show was broken into 4 acts, City, Subway, Forest and Monster Ball with plenty of costume changes and all the great songs that appear on both Fame and Monster.

There are a number of songs that need to have a special mention purely because they are amazing.

Firstly, one of my favourite songs 'Beautiful, Dirty, Rich'. It wasn't the stage that made this special...just that I love the tune. And that's enough for it to get a mention.

The burning piano used while Lady Gaga sang Speechless was mind blowing. Another great emotional tune sang with perfection.

Alejandro is another of my favourite tunes and deserves a mention, just because I can.

The final act is the one that deserves a full mention, with Gaga reaching her Monster Ball, it has to be fitting that a Monster appears on stage. The Sea Monster which looks like a hybrid of a piranha and octopus fittingly came on to Paparazzi, which was lost on the BBC reporter who said:

It wasn't entirely clear why this was happening, or what relevance it had to the song. But it must have seemed like a good idea to someone (presumably not the tour accountant).

Firstly taken into account the theme is a Monster Ball, what would a party be without the actual monster. Secondly, I don't think it was a coincidence for the song choice either. The impression that I got from the whole bit was that the monster was the paparazzi. Not that difficult really!!!

The final song of the show got the whole stadium chanting along. Bad Romance is one of those songs that you can't help sing along to, even though it is over-played and in effect waring on me. Though I still can't help but listen to it on the album.

Overall the show was fantastico and a must for any Little Monster, to which I am happy to attach that label to. However, there are few small issues that

The costume breaks seemed long at times. Although her costumes were not as elaborate as her usual get up, changing from one leotard to another does take time. And although the wait does tend to be worth it, it can become a little tedious when it starts to happen after nearly every song. And I couldn't help but watch the hole in her tights grow as the night performed.

There also appeared to be a few technical problems, although nothing serious. Part of the stage didn't light up and the chandelier screens appeared to be out of sync slightly. But nothing to really complain about. Problems happen and the show was still brill.

And there was one thing that really pissed me off, and nothing that Lady Gaga could prevent. The gits behind me spilt a drink which went all over my coat and ruined the Lady Gaga programme (alas I don't have one now).

I would definitely go and see Lady Gaga again, and urge anyone who gets the chance to do so.

Rating:

Website(s) of the Month

The interweb is a huge place and not everyone can get around the millions of sites that are out there. So I thought I would share the ones that I come across that I use on a regular basis or found quite entertaining.

For February, I am going to tackle a couple of websites that fall under one category...Bad Taste Bears

1. The Bears Nuts (www.thebearsnuts.com)
This is probably the best reference website available for Bad Taste Bears. And I may be a little biased as I am a moderator of the website, but compare this to the official website and you will notice that this has more content. For example...a history of all bears produced!!!


2. Bad Taste Bears (www.badtastebears.com)
This is the official website where you can buy Bad Taste Bears. If I am honest, the site is not as good as it used to be. After being promised that things were due to be done, I have gave up waiting. Saying that, it's still a good site.


3. Chocolate Starfish (www.chocolatestarfish.com)
This is one of the Bad Taste Bears' creators websites. This site is more the 'adult' site (as you can probably tell by the website address) and contains the Art Club where you can get original artwork from the creator...mainly Bad Taste Bears.


4. Peter Underhill (www.peterunderhill.com)
This is the other website from the BTB creator, which is aimed more for the 'angelic' fan. As well as BTBs Pete has his fingers in many pies, including children's books (written and illustrated). This site was aimed more for kids who may come across his website...well you wouldn't want your children seeing a bear flashing his widgy now, would you?

The website also has a link to Pete's own blog, which gives you an insight to his ongoings in the world outside Bad Taste Bears.


5. OddBlog (www.oddcolimited.blogspot.com)
This is OddCo, the creator of Bad Taste Bears, official blog. As well as Bad Taste Bears, it also provide sneak peeks at their other ranges, including Bogies, Weenicons and their newest ranges: Popmash, Teeny Demons and Rubber Garden.

Unlimited My Arse

You have all seen the adverts from phone and broadband companies where they are offering you unlimited this or that. But is it really unlimited?

While I was making comparisons for a new mobile phone, I was being informed that I can get unlimited texts or unlimited data download. Yet looking at the small print, I learnt that sometimes the word unlimited doesn't necessary mean the best deal.

For example, Vodafone advertised with a cap of 1GB on Internet browsing, while Orange and O2 advertise as unlimited. You would automatically think that the latter companies are offering the better deal. However, when you look at the small print it states that there is a limit to 750MB under the fair usage policy, so in effect it isn't unlimited and they are offering the worst deal.

Now 'unlimited' has been round for a while in these type of adverts, but does this necessary mean that it is acceptable?

Accordingly to Vodafone it is. In relation to fair usage policy for text messages they stated on a forum:

The text usage is not limited, as we do not prevent you from using more that the fair usage policy. You would not be automatically charged for going over this amount.

If we do determine that you are exceeding this amount on a regular basis and thus abusing the fair usage policy then we would contact you regarding this before any action is taken or additional charges are applied.

The fair usage policy would be the same for other services and other companies.

On the other hand, you could argue, that those who exceed the limit on a regular basis are being penalised because they are not getting the unlimited service they were advertised.

As the dictionary states:

un⋅lim⋅it⋅ed
–adjective
1. not limited; unrestricted; unconfined: unlimited trade.
2. boundless; infinite; vast: the unlimited skies.
3. without any qualification or exception; unconditional.

Let's get something straight, I am not against the Fair Usage Policy. Infact, I think it's extremely wise that companies do provide a limit. However I am against the use of the word 'unlimited' to promote a service when it isn't.

Why do companies not advertise the 'Fair Usage Policy' amount in the section it is related to instead of the word 'unlimited'? That way all customers are clear what they are actually signing up to. They can still apply fair usage for those that exceed the limit occasionally.

The reason being is greed. In my opinion, they want people to exceed the amount so they can charge them. They know a lot of people will not read the terms and conditions and be aware of the limits, and once they have signed the contract and outside the cooling off period you are stuck for the agreed period of time. Plus, advertising the true limits shows that the deal you are being sucked into is just not as good as you think.

I have a feeling that nothing will be done, but I have made a complaint to ASA due to the word 'unlimited' being used when there is a limit. I know I am not the only person to make a complaint about this as I was informed when I queried about it. Maybe one day, they may actually act upon it.

Celebrity Big Brother?

So the final Celebrity Big Brother has started, and with the theme being hell I can safely say the start has been more of a match than a bonfire.

Eleven 'celebrities' have entered the house for the next month. I am going to use the word celebrity very loosely here as the majority are either Z-Lister's or a nobody.

Here is a rundown of the people who have entered the house and my opinion of them:

Stephen Baldwin
The show started of with a Hollywood celebrity and the thought was, that this could be just one of the best line-ups ever.

I'm not a fan of Stephen and don't think I have actually seen a film with him in it, but he must be good at what he does. Right?

Although the question does rise on why he would do reality shows? He also did 'I'm a Celebrity...Get me out of Here' in the US in 2009 and 'Celebrity Apprentice' the year before that.

Stephen Baldwin's Official Website

Natalie T
The world 'celebrity' is used loosely for the next housemate. Saying that, it's a bit like her career. Loose!!!

If getting your baps out and shagging footballers makes you a celeb, then where do I sign up?

I have never heard of this Jordan wannabe, although something tells me that she has been put in to titillate the male 'straight' viewers, just like they do in every celeb show (although some are actually celebs).

Alex Reid
Another Z-list to add to the pot. Originally famous for starring in Hollyoaks and getting 7 kinds of poo-poo (incase my mum reads this) out of him in a cage (incidentally he looks like he has as well). Now more famous for going out with the biggest trollop in the world....Jordan.

I understand why he is going in, because he wants to show people that he isn't the bad guy that everyone makes him out to be. He has earned this reputation just being with Jordan.

However his entrance was full of pure arrogance and cockiness, something tells me that he may make a bigger tit of himself than Jordan's 34FF (or whatever they are now).

Stephanie Beacham
Another proper celeb is entering the house. I am shocked!!! After being in the business for 40 odd years, I think she is entitled to have the status don't you?

This is the celeb Chris is all excited about. He loves the fact that as a British actress, and she still remembers her roots and comes back to the UK to star in television programmes.

I think she will be a good housemate, because she has this air of old fashioned showbusiness about her. So it will be interesting to see how she handles what Big Brother throws at her.

Stephanie Beacham's Official Website (WARNING: The site is pants!!!)

Lady Sovereign
Believe it or not, I have actually heard of Lady Sov. I quite like her track 'So Human'. Get me being down with the kids!!!

However is she a celeb? Probably, but taken into account this is meant to be the last Celeb Big Brother and was promised bigger names, I have to say she is more y-list than d-list.

I wasn't expecting Kylie to enter the house, but someone a little more chart exposure would be nice. Even Sonia would have been a better choice...Oh what a thought!!!

Lady Sovereign's Official Website

Sisqo
Most famous for signing about thongs (which he just had to sign on the launch show) and then he just seemed to have disappeared, just like a thong up the crack of your butt cheeks.

He oozes rapper; sorry singer arrogance. I just hope he ain't going to be annoying as Coolio.

So does that mean when he leaves the house we are expecting a song about another article of clothing? I suggest he should try and make Granny Knickers the next release.

Dane Bowers
The whole reason why Dane has entered the house is due to Alex Reid and the hope that there may be some fireworks between them. Although something tells me they will most likely be those pathetic ones that go just 'puff' instead of 'whoosh...bang'.

I have to say that just before he entered the house, he looked really sweet with his nerves showing. Something tells me that he might be entertaining. We shall have to wait and see.

Dane Bowers' Official Website (WARNING: Extremely out-of-date)

Heidi Fleiss
I never thought it would be possible to find a 'celeb' as low as Jordan or Jodie Marsh, but no Celeb Big Brother have found one. An actual Madam. She hasn't done anything to be famous for apart from find tarts for rich celebs.

She served celebrities, it doesn't make her an actual celeb.

The whole reason they have placed her in the house is to see if she will blag about who has used her services, but don't get your hopes up I don't think it will happen.

And was I the only one that thought Heidi wasn't on this planet when she entered the house?

Jonas (aka Basshunter)
A celebrity that is more current in the charts than the previous. Even Chris went 'oh I know this one' which says something.

Appearing in the tuxedo gave him an air of geekiness in a cute way. However something tells me that he is going to be a bit of a party animal when he gets going.

Basshunter's Official Website



Katia Ivanova
And just when you thought it couldn't get any lower than Heidi, they introduce someone who is purely known for having an affair with a Rolling Stone and then selling it to the papers.

Seriously since when has sleeping with someone and selling your story make you a celeb. I remember the days when you used to be a called a trollop. Oh wait, they still do?




Vinnie Jones
Probably seen as the big name out of the whole lot, and most likely end up being favourite to win.

Known for being a bad lad, I have a feeling he may turn out to be a proper laugh.

Rumour was that Gazza was meant to be entering the house, but the chances of him passing the psychology test where as high as Kerry Katona (who failed supposedly).

Vinnie Jones' Official Website (In need of a new website and updating)

If the line-up has anything to go by, then this years Celebrity Big Brother is going to be pants. Let's just hope that they have much more under their sleeves otherwise I wont be arsed about watching it.

Happy 2010 - New Goals Time

For those who regularly read my blogs will know that I haven't made a new year resolution in years. Instead I make goals that can be achieved throughout the year. Granted, these don't always happen, but it's the thought more than anything.

So for 2010, my goals are:

Goal 1 - To get through University
2009 saw me start university life by starting a foundation year. The goal for 2010 consists of me passing my 6 subjects to get through the foundation year and to start my degree at the end of the year.


Goal 2 - To be more organised
One thing I have noticed is that I procrastinate a lot, which can be annoying especially with uni work.

This year, I need to become more organised so that I don't procrastinate as much meaning that I am able to get university work done and still have a life. Cause at the moment, all I seem to do is work and uni.


Goal 3 - To be healthy again
Since being made redundant, I have stopped going to the gym. At the moment, I can't afford to go either. So this year I am going to try and make time to join a new gym and go. Even if it's only twice a week. It's better than nothing. I need to get rid of the spare tyre that is forming around my stomach.

I also need to start looking at what I eat again. Although it's not a big issue at the moment, I am eating a lot of rubbish recently.

2009 Goals - The Review

At the beginning of each year I make new year goals instead of resolutions. However, I have noticed I have not been reviewing the goals since 2005, which would just make them as pointless whether I completed them or not. So I am going to start again this routine again.

At the beginning of 2009 I made 5 goals that I planned to do, although did I achieve them is another thing:

Goal 1 - To run 500 miles
At the beginning of the year I was into my running and did see this as a possible achievement. However after the Edinburgh Marathon I haven't ran since, so the goal wasn't achieved.

After being hit with injuries galore, I wanted a break from running and that is what I did. Then, as time has past, there has been several changes in my life which has meant that running has had to take a back seat. As I now work weekends, I am unable to do any races anymore and kind of makes the whole running thing pointless at the moment.

Will I get back into running? Maybe, but I am just not in the mood at the moment.

Goal 2 - To run the Edinburgh Marathon
Without a doubt this was one goal that I was determined to achieve as I was running it for my Aunt Linda.

The training and running the marathon was one of the hardest things I have done, but at the end of it, the greatest achievement to date.

A full race report of the Edinburgh Marathon can be found here.

Goal 3 - To recycle more
I didn't do much in relation to recycling in 2009, which is a little disappointing. Although, how can you recycle when all the recycling points have been removed.

At the end of year, the council have brought back the recycling bins for the flats, but I am reluctant to use them due to previous experience and lack of security. And there is still a lot of stuff that can't recycle. So still utterly pointless.

Maybe this is something that I will try and do more of next year, but until the council improves their recycling abilities, then I ain't going to lose any sleep over it.

Goal 4 - To blog more
Compared to 2008, I have actually blogged less so in a way failed with this goal.

My website, including my blog has taken a bit of a back seat this year because I have been so busy with other things.

I have a huge list of jobs that need to be done and just no time...or energy, to do it. I do plan to get it a bit up to date soon though. And maybe then, I will blog more as well.

Goal 5 - To actually suss out what I am gonna do this year
This goal was going to happen, but in what context I had no idea. I have to say I think it's turned out for the best. 2009 has seen so much change for me.

Firstly, I have changed jobs. After being made redundant I have gone to work at H&M part time. I am enjoying the job and it's so different from what I did previously.

Secondly, I am now at university. I am currently doing a foundation year, but once I pass this (notice the positiveness there?) then I will start a degree in web development. Going back to education was hard, but it feels like the best thing I could have done.

So overall a mixed year in relation to the goals set. Can 2010 be any better?

Work - The First Couple of Months

I suddenly realised that I have been in my new job for nearly three months and I aint officially announced that I had got a new one. Doh!!!

Signing On
However before I do that, I just wanted to say that although the job centre is degrading, the experience wasn't as bad as previous. I think they realised that with the recession on, the type of people who were going through the doors were not just scroats who have never worked in their lives.

The only issue I had, was they knew I was going into full time education in just over a month, but they were forcing me to waste mine, and employers, time by applying for full time jobs that I wouldn't be able to accept is offered. I was just applying for jobs, but knowing I can't do the role I made sure that they didn't ask me for an interview.

It was very difficult to meet my needs. I would of been fine if I was going back full time, as there was loads available. There was a number of places that did pop up which included Debenhams and H&M.

Debenhams
Debenhams can not organise a piss up in a brewery. After completing a telephone interview, I was to attend a face-to-face interview. The interviewee had no idea that I was coming so wasn't prepared. However at the end of the interview I felt positive, which was then confirmed by asking to come for a third interview with the new manager the following week. I did, and the new manager had no idea I was coming. Seriously, taking the piss. I was kind of informed in the interview that I am ideal for the job and they would let me know by Friday.

A week later I heard nothing, so decided I wanted feedback because it was so positive and I still didn't get the job. In the end, I turned round and gave them feedback about their interview process and kindly put that it was a shambles. I still didn't get my feedback, but after all the messing about, I'm kind of glad I didn't get the job.

H&M
Around the same time, I ended up having an interview at H&M. However, this time I gave a pants interview. I was so nervous as I felt a lot more under pressure because Chris works for them and I felt like I had to not only represent myself, but also make sure I represented Chris as well.

However, I must have done a good job cause I got a position, and even better it was on the department I would have preferred...menswear. Yay!!!

Three months in and I am enjoying the job still. It can get frustrating at times cause they move everything around and being part time I get lost and spend the majority of the time looking like a lost sole on the shop floor. Plus the way some customers treat the stock is unreal. If they treated crockery the same way, they would be forced to purchase the items. I have even heard customers say that it's our job to clean up after them. Erm, no it's not!!! We are here to help you, but not clean up after you. Tsk!!!

Within my time working there I have experienced a few of the hectics, sales, stock count, designer collaborations (Jimmy Choo - I have a fab pair of Jimmy Choo boots) and Xmas. All hectic but fun.

I have been told that I am doing a good job, so all is good. Makes me glad I am back in retail even if it's only for a short period of time while I am at uni.

The only main gripe I have, which I was fully aware of when I took the job, is the amount of hours. It just isn't enough for me to survive on, but I know coming up to the quietest period this isn't going to be extended. I just hope it can be in a couple of months. We shall have to wait and see.

University - The First Term

The first term of university has now passed so I thought I would provide a bit of an update to let people know how I have been getting on. I had planned to do this after the first week, then month, but I just didn't seem to have any time.

After the Freshers Week, I was questioning whether going back to uni was the best decision I made. I can say that it has had it's ups and downs but I feel like I have made the right decision...even though it's hard than I thought it would be.

The first couple of weeks. the main thing I was worried about was being ale to find the right room for the classes. As I flicker between 3 buildings it was easy to get confused. Especially if you don't know the tutor and fellow students. So imagine my horror that I did actually sit in the wrong lecture in my first week.

I was determined to not go to the wrong class that I kept on checking my timetable. I think I checked it about ten times on the way to college. However, as soon as I got to university all knowledge of where I was to go went out of the window and instead of going to the room for Wednesday's class, I ended up going to the room for Friday's.

As I sat down, quietly (and nervously), I looked around and saw everyone being very academic with folders out. The tutor arrived and quickly went into the class. Within a couple of minutes I realised that I was in a year two biology lecture. But by now I was too embarrassed to get up and leave. So I sat the whole lecture. Thankfully it was only 30 minutes, so I was able to leave as catch the last 30 minutes of the correct lecture.

I have also felt my age a bit in class, because the 'kids' who think they are big and clever by chatting, laughing or throwing things in class are pissing me off more than humouring me.

Sometimes I do feel like I am in primary school and not university. If people don't want to learn, then feck off and get a job. Don't ruin it for other people, as I am really not bothered what you got up to that night.

Okay, that's my rant over with!

Along with the nuisances in class, there also has to be the geek boy. Part of me is thinking good on him for being so enthusiastic and completing his essays the first week they have been set, but a larger part of me is getting slightly peeved with his know-it-all conversations. Most of which are too quiet so I can't hear what he is saying and then start to get lost through lecture.

I do have to giggle when the tutor turns round and tell him that he has got it wrong. Happened a few times now and well worth not hearing anything.

It wasn't until a couple of weeks in that I felt less isolated and starting making friends, which is definitely making university life a little easier. Probably the main friend will be Jen as we share a lot of the same classes this year and will likely be in a few throughout the degree as well. She will probably see this in Facebook and comment.

Although I am struggling with Technology, Communications and the Media I kind of understand it. If only there was a little less chaos from the kids then it may actually sink in. However the worst subject would be Business Enterprise Skills.

Firstly, there feels like there is no organisation to the class. The tutor states that he doesn't provide handouts, reading lists or use the university website because 'you don't get that in work, so why should you get it in university'.

Plus, the tutor kind of annoyed me when I spoke to him just after my aunt died. In a nutshell he came across as a bit of an asshole. Saying that, he is still coming across as that now.

Finally, the whole class is team project based. It would be okay if the team was up to par, but in all honestly I only think there is one person who is on the same wave length as me. The rest appear not to give two monkeys. Which is kind of scary when they also affect my mark.

One of the biggest fears that I had about university was my age, but it really hasn't been that big an issue. Yeah, I am older than the majority of them, but then again when I do discuss my age they can't believe that I am that old. Go figure!!!

Although, one girl in a class after asking my name did say one 'How old? You are nearly as old as my mum'. Nowt like being made to feel your age eh? However, I saw the funny side more than anything.

Taken into account that the foundation year is meant to be one to break you back into education, I can't believe at the amount of assignments that I have already had. This is definitely no break in, just thrown in.

I'll be honest, I have struggled. I am not good at writing essays. On the other hand, I think I have learnt a few things, just need to keep on remembering to put them into practice.

I have already had two assignment marks back which were really good (90% & 92%), but they were easy assignments. I am slightly worried about the four that are outstanding. I know I just need to get a pass to get through to the course, but I always want to do my best.

One thing, I have learnt this term is that I have a severe case of procrastinating. I really need to buckle down and concentrate on what I am doing. I am getting slightly better, but not good enough. This is something that I need to improve on this year.

Overall, I am enjoying university life. Although I don't feel like I have a life outside of work and university, in the long run I will benefit.

I wish the winter break was just that...a break. Unfortunately, I have three assignments that I need to work on. Plus I am also hoping that I will do well in a test, so I can sit an exemption test meaning I no longer need to do the rest of the course. Fingers crossed eh?

Daily Mail Lives Up To Their Homophobic Nature

The Daily Mail published an article today about Stephen Gately which stated that he died of a gay lifestyle and not of natural causes

This article originally had the headline "Why there was nothing 'Natural' about Stephen Gately's death" before being changed.

To me, the whole purpose of this article is to attack homosexuals and to cite homophobic hatred. Jan Moir's insensitivity is not just of Stephen's death, but also brings Matt Lucas' ex-partner into the equation as well to prove a pathetic point.

Let's get something straight (pardon the pun), Stephen's sexuality had nothing to do with his unfortunate death. Neither has what had happened that night. As confirmed in the coroner's report, Stephen died of acute pulmonary edema, yet Jan Moir continues to express in her article that she doesn't believe this is to be true and that it was Stephen's lifestyle which was the cause of his death.

What qualifications does Jan have to make such an outrageous accusation without firstly, doing the autopsy herself (or even seeing the full report...and understanding it) and secondly, understanding the full situation of the event running up to Stephen's death? As she has pointed out in the article she doesn't know anything (by asking a lot of irrelevant questions) more than everyone else, yet feels she is in a position to say otherwise!!! Wrong!!!

This article then goes on to criticise civil partnerships, hinting that she disagrees with them using this and another recent incident of Matt Lucas and Kevin McGee to strengthen her weak argument.

Let's stress that, Matt and Kevin's partnership breakdown has no comparisons to Stephen and Andrew's relationship (they were still happily living together). So why was it used?

She has mentioned a couple of relationships which didn't work, however never mentioned a single straight relationship that have been in similar situations.

I am not going to sit here and say that all gay relationships are perfect. However, I am not going to say that about straight relationship's either.

If you look at passed straight relationships and see if there is any similarities then you know no matter what sexuality, there is always going to be up and downs.

For example, their was the Jennifer Aniston, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie love triangle. Then you have Chris Tarrant and his affairs. Plus what about Jude Law and the 'wife' swapping scenario that he supposedly did. Although, I was not a huge biology fan, I am sure that these are straight relationships and goes to show that just like civil partnerships, marriages don't always last either!!! Unfortunately, some relationships do end no matter who is in them.

But what needs to be remembered is that Stephen and Andrew's relationship was not on the rocks. They were still happily together.

In relation to what happened the night of Stephen's death. I am not going to judge people and how they act behind closed doors. As long as both are happy then so be it. People are entitled to a little privacy.

As you can imagine, Jan Moir's hatred has caused an uproar on the Internet, with celebrities such as Stephen Fry and Antony Cotton providing their opinion. Plus, larger advertisers, such as Marks & Spencers and Nestle have asked for their adverts to be removed the page with the article stating the 'do not tolerate any form of discrimationation' and 'comments were in breach of the Swiss company's code for "mutal respect and tolerance"'. Personally, I don't feel the companies went far enough. If they were totally against these comments, then they should have removed all future adverts with the Daily Mail (paper and online) with immediate effect.

There has supposedly also been over 1000 complaints made to the Press Complaints Commission (PCC) about the article which led to it crashing. Let's hope that something is done about this pathetic excuse of journalism!!!

If you want to make sure your voice is heard, then make a complaint to PCC. As tweeter kenrayner says, "[Jan Moir] breaches 1, 3, 5 & 12 of the code".

Related Articles
Daily Mail: A strange, lonely troubling death...
Telegraph: No, Stephen Gately did not die of 'being gay'
Guardian: Twitter and Facebook outrage of Jan Moir's Stephen Gately article
LGF: Daily Mail infers Stephen Gately died of a 'gay lifestyle'

R.I.P. Aunt Linda

If you have been reading my blog (does anyone?), you will have known that my Aunt Linda was diagnosed with Breast Cancer, which she was given the all clear. But, at the end of last year the cancer had come back more aggressively.

On Monday 26 September, my aunt lost her battle against cancer!!!

Although, I knew that this day would come it doesn't make it any easier. You always think there is going to be this miracle cure around the corner and everything will be alright in the long run. It never happens.

I was lucky enough to get back to Scotland a couple of weeks back to see Aunt Linda. Although noticeably weak, she was still the aunt I remember and love. I have many great memories which I shall cherish.

Next week, I will be going back to Scotland for the funeral. As requested by my aunt, I will be wearing a pink tie.

It seems fitting that October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. Although the survival rates for breast cancer are improving, this is a stark reminder that not everyone succeeds!!!

University - Freshers Week

Full of excitement, yet anxiety, and what appeared to be a lifetime, the time has come for me to start university.

Tuesday was a nice easy break back to education. My full day involved me attending university to pick up my student card, marking the officialness of me becoming a student. So less than 30 minutes later I was heading home.

Wednesday was my first full day where we were introduced to the university and also learnt about what was going to happen over the next year. It was also laid on thick about attending classes, meeting deadlines yadda yadda yadda.

To complete this year, I need to do pass six units. Two of the units are compulsory for all foundation students, then I had another two units that were linked to the degree that I want to do. This meant that I had to look through all the other units that were available and pick two others. Sounds easy, but some of the units were ruled out because they are for specific degrees. Then I ruled out any to do with politics and a further maths unit (one was enough).

When reading the unit details, I was wondering what I had got myself into. I was not sure I could pull this off. However at the end of the day all units were picked and my timetable sketched out.

So for the next year I will be studying:

• Academic Methods
• Applied Numeracy and Information Technology 3
• Introduction to Technology, Communication and the Media
• Introduction to Management, Information Systems and Organisations
• Business Enterprise Skills
• Introduction to Humanities

Let's just say I wasn't feeling that confident on the year ahead.

Thursday morning was spent in another meeting and then meeting our link degree tutors. Within a couple of minutes we were told that we were going to have an exercise which involved speaking to the person next to me.

Although this may surprise a few people, speaking to new peeps scares the living daylights out of me. Knowing that I had to do this now made me nearly brought on a panic attack. Let's just say I was glad to get it out of the way.

After another presentation we were split into our departments and met one of the tutors. As I looked around I noticed that I was the oldest in the group (great) and I am sure I am older than one of the tutors aswell.

I really started to feel out of place and when I decided to go to the Freshers Fair, I felt out of place even more. Although, it's probably me I did feel like quite a few people who were holding stalls took a look at me and turned away. Seems the only ones that were interested were the ones who were selling stuff (mainly gym memberships). Let's say I didn't stay much longer at the fair and decided to go home thinking 'have I made the right decision?'

Later that day, I went to exploit a student night at Boots, where they had 10% off and if you spent over £20 you got a goody bag. All of which I did. I was pleasantly surprised at the size of the goody bag, although I am sure they were taking the Mickey with the hair products!!!

Friday, only required me to quickly pop into uni to go through my timetable and confirm everything is correct ready for next week. It was, so yay me!!!

Although I am feeling slightly out of place at the moment, I know it will get easier next week when the actual classes start. I kinda can't wait!!!

50 Questions

1. What was the last thing you put in your mouth?
Kit Kat Chunky Caramel - Yum de yum yum

2. Have you ever kissed anyone named Matthew?
Yes, I believe I have a long time ago

3. Where was your Facebook profile picture taken?
At Ocean Terminal in Edinburgh last weekend.


4. Can you play Guitar Hero?
I have played it once and failed. Although I would like the Beatles one, but Chris wont let me.

5. Name someone that made you laugh today.
Chris, just being Chris.

6. How late did you stay up last night and why?
3am - I'm a proper night owl and was watching CSI.

7. If you could move somewhere else, would you?
Yes - I want to move back to Edinburgh. This is something that I may consider after uni.

8. Ever been kissed under fireworks?
Not, that I can remember.

9. Which of your friends lives farthest from you?
Probably Gemma & Chris who live down south. Watch this, I will have probably of forgotten someone and they will have a go at me now.

10. Do you believe exes can be friends?
Yes - Ben is my ex, and a close friend.

11. How do you feel about Dr Pepper?
It's very tasty, although I'm going through an Irn Bru phase at the moment.

12. When was the last time you cried really hard?
About 2 weeks ago after a conversation with my mum.

13. Where are you right now?
I am in the spare room waiting for Chris to stop playing with the water feature so we can watch a film.

14. What bed did you sleep in last night?
In my own

15. What was the last thing someone bought for you?
My mum bought me a pressie in Edinburgh last week - which I love.

16. Who took your Facebook profile picture?
My mother

17. Who was the last person you took a picture of?
It will have been of my mum and my niece, Ashleigh


18. Was yesterday better than today?
No, I preferred today actually. And I hope tomorrow is better than today.

19. Can you live a day without TV?
Which day are we talking about cause there is certain programmes I don't want to miss. Otherwise if it is a quiet day and nothing I want to watch, then yeah I could.

20. Are you mad about anything?
Not at the moment - I'm feeling quite placid at the moment.

21. Do you think relationships are ever really worth it?
I have to say yes to this one otherwise Chris will beat me up. LOL

22. Are you a bad influence?
I would like to say I am not, although my friends Karen, Gemma and Dawn, will probably say otherwise.

23. Night out or night in?
I do prefer a good old night out to be honest. Otherwise known as a piss up.

24. What items could you not go without during the day?
Technically it isn't an item, but the Internet.

25. Who was the last person you visited in the hospital?
It would probably be Chris when he dislocated his shoulder.

26. What does the last text message in your inbox say?
From my mate Steve: 'Get me. Drinking with students. Does this mean we have to go to Baa Bar? I finish at 17.30.'

27. How do you feel about your life right now?
It could be worse, it could be better. Just a lot of changes at the moment and I am still trying to get used to it. Although I am contempt with the place I am in life at at the moment.

28. Do you hate anyone?
Not at at the moment

29. If we were to look in your Facebook inbox, what would we find?
Loads of spam messages from groups I a member of

30. Say you were given a drug test right now, would you pass?
I would hope so.

31. Anyone ever called you perfect before?
I don't need people to tell me I am perfect. I know I am.

Otherwise....no

32. What song is stuck in your head?
I don't have any tunes stuck in my head at the moment. Although I did listen to Susan Boyle's Wild Horses a few times.



33. Someone knocks on your window at 2am, who do you want it to be?
I would have a heart attack if anyone knocked on my window. I am seven floors up!!!

34. Wanna have grandkids before you’re 50
Hmm, the chance of that happen is slim to none!!!

35. Name something you have to do tomorrow?
Chris and I are going to do something together, once we have decided where to go.

36. Do you think too much or too little?
Oh yes, way too much

37. Do you smile a lot?
I would like to think I do, but probably don't.

38. Who was your last missed call on your Mobile phone?
Chris - Although he rang again and I decided to answer it.

39. Is there something you always wear?
My jewellery - chain, rings, piercings.

40. What were you doing 30 minutes ago?
Walking home from the shops cause we had forgotten to buy milk and run out. Doh!!!

41. Did you have an exciting last weekend?
Went to Edinburgh to see my aunt.

42. Have you ever crawled through a window?
Yeah, when I was a kid.

43. Have you ever dyed your hair?
When I had hair - yes I have dyed it, several different colours. Although not at the same time.

44. Are you wearing a necklace?
I am wearing a chain around my neck.

45. Are you an emotional person?
Yes, I would say I am. Very!!!

46. What's something that can always make you feel better?
Family and friends.

47. Will this weekend be a good one?
Do people hope for bad weekends? I am hoping it will be a chilled but pleasant weekend.

48. What do you want right now?
Another Kit Kat Chunky Caramel bar.

49. Have you ever worn the opposite sex's clothing?
Yes, when I dressed as Dorothy for a Bears Nuts weekend.


50. Have you ever worked in a food place?
I have worked in a supermarket which sells the food. Does that count?

I'm just another statistic!!!

After nearly 10 years, the time has come for me to leave Friends Provident.

At the beginning of the week I was looking forward to leaving. You can be forgiven for thinking like this if you had to go through the eight month ordeal like I had to. Plus, I had something to look forward to (uni) and this just seemed to be delaying the inevitable.

However come to the final day, and the whole thing felt weird. Understandably. It was finally happening.

I had decided from outset that I wasn't going to send a goodbye email. I'm sure people are sick and tired of them already. Although this didn't stop the countless emails being received saying goodbye to me. Either people were just being kind or I was going to be missed.

I popped down for the final lunch with the usual crew, Morgan got Jo and I a leaving card each which was unexpected. There was a tear in the eye, but that's all they were getting. Lunchtimes would never be the same for any of us, that would be sure.

Then just as I was about to leave; Andy, who used to be the head of new business, grabbed me to say that he had come down to see me specifically as he wanted to say goodbye and wish me luck.

He said that I was well known throughout the company (in a good way) for the hard work that I had put in for our online services. I was shocked that someone would come to me and say this.

Just as I was about to head back to my desk, Jackie was there to say goodbye and then I nearly let my guard down and cried, but alas, no tear was dropped.

Come 12.30pm and it was time for me to leave with the last of the stuff from my desk (I had already taken the majority of the stuff home). I had joked throughout the day that I was going to leave the office like a character leaves a soap: Walking away from the office, pausing before turning back and giving a knowing smile and then walking off into the sunset'.

However, I just picked up my bag and left and became another statistic.

Bad Taste Bears Summer Event - Warwick Castle

When Bad Taste Bears announced the summer event I had already made the decision that I would not be attending.

Of course some of my friends weren't happy about the decision and then preceded to spend the next couple of weeks trying to change my mind. However, I was adamant that I was not going. However, after meeting with Karen and David one evening while they then layered the guilt trip on me nice and thick, I changed my mind on the way home. Although, I did decide that I wasn't going to let anyone know that I did this.

Having never been to Warwick Castle before, I was kind of looking forward to this especially after watching an episode of some digital programme where a man was air lifted to hospital after having a heart attack at the top of Guys Tower.

After arriving at the venue, we followed the clearly labelled way to the BTB event. After coming through the gates, we noticed that the tents were at the opposite end of the field as far away as possible for their other customers. They clearly know about us as a group don't they?

As I got to the event tents, I was soon spotted by the group and before long the screams and hugs happening with Dawn repeating, 'I knew you would come'. I am glad she knew, because I had no idea until earlier that week. LOL

The Bears
After a quick hello, I went to collect the event piece, Jimmy Riddle. As I arrived a little later than the masses, this meant there was no queue. Result! I really like the bear, but especially love the monochrome version. Which was also the most limited with just 24 made. The chances of getting one was slim to none, but I could but try.

First thing Gemma and I did was head to the shop to buy the 10th Anniversary bear among other things. The bear was getting an exclusive premier at the event. Rumours of what the bear would look like were flying around the forums. Mine as well as a few others believed it was be a female bear jumping out of a cake. We weren't that far off as it was a Borat bear instead of a bunny bear.

My impression of the anniversary bear overall is originally positive. Although upon investigating the bear it became apparent that there was one problem with it....the paint job. Not just one figurine, but it appeared the majority. Disappointing finish to a great bear.

The Competitions
There was a number of competitions that people could enter in the vain hope of winning a prize:

BTB Coat of Arms - There was a lot of good entries on this competition. I even had an idea for one myself, which I got Karen to enter on my behalf. Let's get something straight (for once), I am not an artistic person. Never have been and never will be. But, I was proud with my entry.

My heart did skip a beat, when I thought it was gonna win, but alas it wasn't meant to be. Aww well.

Bad Taste Piñata - Another competition that I decided to enter. I had the idea of a Johnny bear shaped piñata, which was filled with with condoms, lube, used tissues and 'Happy Birthday' glitter.

The whole idea of this competition was for the piñatas to be smashed at the event. However this didn't happen, which mean I put in a lot of effort for nothing.

And again I did win. In all honesty, I didn't think I would.

Birthday Card - I didn't enter the competition, because I couldn't think of anything to do. Although, I have to say, some of the entries were extremely good. I wouldn't have had a hope in hell chance of winning.

The winner and runner up were not announced on the day as they wanted to take them away and look through all the entries

There was also the usual Design a bear, Bear Painting and Bear Sculpting however I stayed away from these competitions. The reason being as I didn't see the point in entering them as it's normally the same people who win, but that's because they are good at it. There is no way I could compete. Although, this year it was nice to see a few different people winning as well.

I have to say that OddCo have disappointed me again in relation to these competitions. It's the same every year.

Here are a few suggestions for any future events:

• Make sure all the different competitions are different instead of just putting altogether on 2 tables.
• For Design a bear and competitions like the Birthday Card, provide some sort of cork notice board so entries could be attached.
• Have someone at the competitions tables (if there is a lot of competitions maybe two), who can take the competitions entries in and place them in the relevant sections.
• Don't leave the judging to the last minute. Give the entries the respect they deserve. I know you are all busy, but collectors have spent hours over their entries. They deserve something better than a quick 5 minute judging.

The Games
As well as the competitions, there was also two competitions where you could win some great prizes.

The first was a treasure hunt style game, which I didn't even bother either. And the other was the spin the wheel game, which I had a go on. The first time I had a go I didn't win anything that I would have liked (boo), but then had another two plays later where I won two birthday prints. I swapped one of the prints for another which was available that day aswell.

Previous games, we were always informed not to queue straight away as there is loads of prizes. However, the games for this event where running dry by midday. Quite disappointing.

The Venue

I have to say this has been the best venue (for one that I have been to) for a Bad Taste Bear event. Warwick was definitely a scenic and beautiful with plenty to do. Plus I found all the staff to be extremely friendly.

As well as the BTB related events, ,we were able to visit the castle which was something that I was looking forward to doing.

The castle is very commercialised (well it is ran by Merlin Entertainments), however it still is entertaining. It is definitely something for the families.

Chris and I ventured along the castle wall, which was great and had such a fantastic view. Although it was a little frustrating to have one old bid decide to push you out of the way several times. Oh how I was tempted to trip her up just as she was about to go down the stairs. Stupid bint!!!

Overall
Taken into account that this was meant to be the 10th anniversary of Bad Taste Bears, the Company did nothing to make it that extra special.

The event just seemed to missing something, which was a little disappointing.

However, this doesn't mean that I didn't have a good time. As I did. The event was made something to remember due to friends and the location. It would have been boring without them that is for sure.

Attending these events are not cheap and I personally am thinking it id no longer worth the money. Maybe the way forward for me is just to get the bears from eBay. I am sure it would be cheaper!!!