Mike Dalgarno

Goodbye Blogger - Hello Wordpress

2010-03-15T20:07:00.002Z

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

2010-02-26T21:56:00.008Z

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

2010-02-19T22:55:00.006Z

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

2010-02-12T19:29:00.006Z

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

2010-02-01T18:47:00.003Z

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?

2010-01-04T00:18:00.009Z

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

2010-01-01T14:53:00.003Z

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

2009-12-31T13:50:00.002Z

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

2009-12-20T22:00:00.003Z

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

2009-12-20T21:00:00.002Z

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

2009-10-16T20:23:00.005+01:00

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

2009-10-02T01:46:00.004+01:00

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

2009-09-26T18:26:00.004+01:00

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

2009-09-18T22:44:00.002+01:00

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!!!

2009-07-31T15:05:00.003+01:00

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

2009-07-30T14:59:00.006+01:00

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!!!

City of Manchester 10k

2009-07-05T20:29:00.006+01:00

Last year, I competed in the City of Manchester 10k. I have to say I really enjoyed doing it, even though I was suffering from an injury. You can read my previous blog here.

So, I was hoping to compete again this year although I thought this wasn't going to happen; because the running club that organised the race had to put a message up to state that the run was no longer happening. I was a little gutted to hear the news.

Then out of no where I received an email from Sports Tours International confirming that they were doing the race again in July. It appears that the organiser has left the running club and now works/owns Sports Tours.

At first I was gutted because I had already planned another race for the weekend, but because of the enjoyment from last year I thought I decided to change my mind and do this race.

The first thing I noticed that was different was the price. There had been a huge hike in the price. Although still a lot cheaper that Great Manchester Run, I found this very disappointing. My hope was, that it was going to be worth the increase. I can tell you now, I don't think it was.

I had been looking forward to this race since last year, and now I have done it I feel like it was such an anti-climax and like the Great Manchester Run, will probably never do it again.

One of the best bits about the race is the start and finish on the sports track, and that still hasn't changed. However, it's clear that if you have a large number of runners starting off at the same time in such a confined space wasn't going to work...and it didn't. I walked nearly the whole way round the track because it was that congested. Personally I thought the 1¾ run around the track didn't work at the start. Although, it's a great feeling.

There was also a change in the route from three laps to two. This was a good change to the race, however it would have been nice to have some sort of map up confirming the route.

Although they changed the route, they didn't change where the water station was, which meant that runners had to wait until the 6.5k mark before receiving any water. I also heard rumours that they were ran out of water aswell, and were picking up dregs to pass to runners. I noticed that when I passed the amount of water that was left was minimal. This is unacceptable and needs to be re-evaluated for next year.

As for the run itself, I found it a lot harder than I wanted to. Although then again, I hadn't ran since Edinburgh Marathon so I did expect my fitness levels to drop. I don't think it helped either that I lost a lot of time at the start, making me panic and probably running faster at the start which burnt me out a lot quicker than I should have.

And then there was the after finish experience. Shockingly, there was no water. There was a lad (a lot of kids were helping out at the race), who was just tall enough to perch over the fence handing out bottles of Gatorade (which also looks limited). I was fine with that, but surely water

Then there was the goody bags. They had to be the worst ever given out. I was informed by Graham over the tannoy that the goody bags were excellent, so imagine my dismay when I opened it up to find a t-shirt, pen and a penguin with loads of leaflets. Excuse me, but since when has that been an 'excellent' goody bag? And it appears that all the goody bags were not the same. I have heard reports that people were getting socks, lip balm, nothing

Taken into account that this run is now run by a larger company, you would expect the organisation to be far better than what it was. Instead it was absolutely shocking. It appears that larger companies increase the prices to fleece the money from the runners. Look at Great Run, it appears that Sports Tours are the same.

And what is even more annoying is that the organisers are pretending everything went smoothly. Well I have emailed Graham, the link to this blog so he can see my thoughts. It would be interesting to see what he thinks of my comments. I would also suggest he reads the thread on Runner's World which shows a mixed bag of responses.

Time Completed: 48 minutes 49 Seconds

Position: 455 of 1621

New baby has arrived....finally

2009-07-02T20:28:00.005+01:00

Chris' car was coming to the end of it's life after 14 years on the road. The last MOT was close to costing a fortune and we knew that the next MOT would probably be it's last. *wipes away a tear*

Then the Government announced the car scrappage scheme and it was too good a deal to miss.

Originally, we were looking at a Peaguot 107 in yellow. The only downside to this car really is the boot. It would just about fit Chris' handbag in it. Not good, especially when we look at going away for the weekend.

When we started to enquire about the car, we were told that they had sold out and none would be available until September. I had a rough idea that this would be the case, so wasn't overly surprised.

However, what put us off was the salesman. He just came across like he couldn't be bothered and we were just interupting him while he played solataire on his computer. How rude of us!!!

We decided that we would go home and find another dealer who had Peagouts for sale and send the business their way. Instead, on leaving the cardealership we decided to go and have a look at the one across the road.

This place had the new Corsas and they were stunning. Looked like there was a good deal on aswell, because with the scrappage scheme they were selling them for under £5,000. Although, when we enquired about this they told us that this was on white cars and they have none left. And the impression that I got was they weren't getting any in again either. So surely they should have taken this false advertising down?

We ended up falling in love (Can you fall in love with cars?) with the car and decided that we would purchase a black one. At the end of the day, with the scrappage scheme it was too good a deal to miss.

And even better, we were told that it would be here on the Friday, or the end of the month at the latest. Good times!!!

Friday came and no car. Then, on Saturday Chris received a phone call saying that it wouldn't be available for the end of the month because he didn't know he had to order the car. I mean, hello? You work there, you should know this!!!

Nearly a week after we were promised the car, we were finally able to pick it up. At last!!! And to make it even better, I have a personalised number plate. Our number plate ends 'MKE'. Let's just say, Chris aint happy.

Some People Are Gay, Get Over IT!!!

2009-06-24T23:00:00.007+01:00

After my time at the Uni Open Day, Chris and I decided that we would go for a walk along the River Irwell.

Everything was going well. We decided to pop into Lowry Outlet to go to the toilet and to get a drink, and a group of lads decided to shout 'Queens' at us.

It's sad to say, but verbal abuse is quite common, but you just have to plod on and not let it worry you. However, it does make me giggle that these people have to wait until they are so far away before hurling the abuse.

Thinking we have had a daily dose of abuse we headed home.

Just before we got onto the estate, we decided that we would go to Sainsbury's to get something for tea. In the process of doing this we had to go past about a dozen teenagers, who unfortunately were failing to drown themselves in the canal basin.

After passing them the next thing I knew was a stone had just past me. I turned round to find them throwing stones. Next thing we heard was them starting to call us 'faggots'. Three of the stones hit Chris so decided, for the first time ever, to call the police and report the attack.

It's nice to see that our education has taught these kids well.

What makes it more annoying is that the kids live on our estate and have previously called us 'faggots' when we have drove past in the car.

So I can safely say, at the moment I am not entirely comfortable on the estate!!!

'Kylie' Bad Taste Bear in Production

2009-06-23T23:00:00.006+01:00

At the end of last year I wrote a blog about how a 'Kylie' Bad Taste Bear should be produced. After entering (and losing) a competition where I designed the bear, I ask Pete to draw me a proper Kylie sketch, which he did and I love.

At the time, there was a chance that the bear could go into production after receiving positive reviews from the Company.

A month or so back, a poll was done on the BTB forum to get peoples views on the sketch and it received an very positive response (phew!!!). This then built my hopes up that it may just go into production.

I had a look at the Bad Taste Bears Blog today and found out that the Kylie bear is in production and is due to be released as part of a music mini-range. The blog also contained pictures of the bear in production:

It appears that the name for the bear is going to be Charlene after her Neighbours character.

Let's just say, I am a little bit pleased. Now I can't wait for it to be released so I can buy a couple.

UPDATE: 25 June 2009
I completed version of the Charlene bear has been added to the BTB Blog and I have to say it's one of the best they have released. But I would say that wouldn't I?

If interested the Bad Taste Bears blog, Behind the Scenes; has done 3 blogs about how a bear is born. You can see them here.

Job Wanted!!!

2009-06-17T23:00:00.002+01:00

At the end of last month I was given my letter to confirm that I am being made redundant at the end of July. Although I have known since November, it felt kinda weird receiving the letter. It really made it all official.

Part of the redundancy support, we are given two days off a week to sort our CV and apply for jobs, which is really useful and nice for the company to do. However, I did have to fight for these days off.

As I am going to uni, I was told that I wasn't entitled to the days off.

I had to explain that I need to find a job to support myself through uni or I couldn't go. I felt like I was being discriminated against for going into further education.

I understand the arguments from both sides, however I have to be selfish here and think of myself. And it worked, as I have been given the days off to look for a new job.

So first things first, is to write up my CV. I had thought the current one would just need a bit of tweaking as it was only done last year. Turns out it will need to be a full re-write. The joy!!!

I have also been looking at available retail jobs, but there doesn't seem to be that much available in the city centre. Ideally I don't want to work all evenings and weekends, but I may have to. We shall see.

Edinburgh Marathon

2009-05-31T23:00:00.005+01:00

I have never really wanted to do a marathon. However, I wanted to set myself a challenge to raise money for Cancer Research UK, and this seemed to be the most logical thing to do.

If you have been reading my previous blogs you will have noticed that I have had a few problems with my knees which has really scuppered my training. This didn’t help with my enjoyment of running either. If I wasn’t doing the marathon I think I would have quit running by now.

Come race day, it was safe to say I was a little anxious. Apart from the knees, I wasn’t happy with the distance that I have ran in training. And to top it off, it’s was going to be a scorcher of a day, making the whole experience that little bit more unbearable. Nerves were starting to kick in.

However, I was better prepared this time. Well, compared to my Great Manchester Run anyway. As well as remembering all the essentials I also remembered to put sun cream on. Although I didn’t expect it to stop me from getting burnt, I hoped it would at least reduce it. My Uncle Gordon did give me a cap to use to keep the sun of my head, but as this wasn’t part of the original prep stuff, I forgot to pick it up. Plus, it clashed with my top.

Another thing I forgot to pack was my watch to keep track of the time. Although I am kind of glad I did, because it took a lot of pressure off me to try and reach a specific time. At the end of the day I just wanted to finish. I was originally hoping for a sub 4 hour finish, but due to injury I was realistically looking for a 4½ to 5 hour finish. If I did that then I would be happy.

I got to the start of the race about a hour before, which meant I was at the front of the wave. Seems stupid as I knew that I would be at the back of it (and other waves) before the finish. I was going to be one of those people who you curse for getting in the way because they are too slow.

For the first eight miles I felt really comfortable. I didn’t feel like I was going too fast, which was something I was wary about. Although my confidence was starting to increase, I needed to keep on reminding myself that this was not a half marathon and to pace myself. It seem to helped.

One thing I was conscious of before starting the race was about needing the toilet. Okay, for guys peeing is not bad, because you can just go in the bushes, but I was more worried about number twos. Knowing my luck this is what I would need during the race, and guess what? With over 18 miles to go I needed to go, but there was nothing I could do, except run.

Come 13 miles and the stomach cramps were kicking in. There was some portaloos at the relay changeover, but the queues were huge, that I would have spent a hour queuing. It wasn’t worth it.

Apart from the toilet incident, I was feeling really good with myself because I am now officially running the longest distance I have ever done. One of the marshals was trying to be encouraging by shouting we were half way there and ‘the last half is the easiest’. I just turned to the runner next to me and said ‘Like f*ck it is’

Reaching the 16 mile mark, I started my 10 mile countdown to help deal with the last stretch. I have been told it would help and I think it did. By now the sun was pounding down and I was really feeling the heat, so for about ½ minute I decided to walk.

More annoyingly, water stations on both sides of the road has now run out of water, which is unbelievable in this weather. At first though I wasn’t that bothered about the water. What I was more bothered about is getting to the toilet as the cramps had started to get a little more painful. Thankfully at the 19 mile mark there was some portaloos so I ran across the road and dived into them.

Between the 17 and 19 mile part, we entered trail surface around Gosford House. The uneven surface is not the easiest to run on, especially after 17 miles on tarmac. By now, my feet were pounding and the heat was starting to get the better of me. I was probably walking about 40% of the time and when I was running, it was more a feeble attempt of slow motion walking.

I was also starting to feel a little dehydrated. I honestly felt there was no water left in me. I noticed that I had stopped sweating as well. Although it was nice to have a break from wiping my brow, surely that isn’t a good sign.

After hitting the 20 mile mark it was the home stretch. I aint had any water for about 6 miles and I was starting to feel it. Extremely light headed and dizziness at times. I decided that if need be, I would walk the rest of the way. The time didn’t bother me anymore, I just wanted to finish the race!!!

It was quite sad, having to watch runners trying to find drabs of water from discarded bottles on the road. And disgusting as it sounds I was thinking it myself although I was struggling to find any bottles that had water in it. However a fellow runner did come to my rescue and offered me some of her water. Whoever you were, thank you. This generosity gave me that little spurt to run again.

A little bit further down the road, I came across a caravan park (well I think that was what it was). When I passed them originally they were using a hosepipe to cool runners down. However, now they were filling discarded bottles with water for runners. In the process of trying to fill a bottle, I got totally drenched and although it was freezing, it was absolutely lovely. It felt great to get a little bit of water down my now extremely dry mouth.

For the next two miles I had started to pick up my running, with only 30% of my time walking. However, my feet were getting worse and I was starting to feel the miles. The markers just couldn’t come quick enough.

This was also the first and only time where I experienced a problem with my knee. As I started to walk, I got a sharp pain in my knee similar to what I have experienced before. It only lasted a couple of seconds and then it was gone. So what I expected to be an issue in this race turned out not to be.

I was also able to get some liquid from an official water station, although it was very depleted and got it on agreement that I shared it with another runner, which I had no problems in doing. So I paired myself with the runner next to me and off we went with a bottle of Lucozade in hand.

Although the majority of the route had spectators, it was around the 23 to 25 mile mark that they provided me the support that I really needed.

By now, I was extremely knackered, and was running off and on in a couple of minute spurts. Without the crowd, I think I would have walked the whole way. Although getting closer to the 26 mile mark, I was starting to run more regularly knowing that the end is in sight.

Coming to the 26 mile mark, the crowds were fantastic and egged me on that little more. I was even able to gain some speed until I crossed the finish line. Trust me, hearing the crowds shouting your name really helps. Although, I can’t remember anything visually apart from crossing the line, which is when utter relief hit me.

Just like the race, after the finish line just seems just as unorganised. It started off kind of well, going through a section while people struggle to give you water, Lucozade and a banana. You then came to the medal section, which I liked. I felt kind of special someone putting the medal on me and saying congratulations.

The photo section was a little disappointing. Having not even got myself composed, I had someone take a picture of me looking in pain (I was). Personally, I would have liked a backdrop showing Edinburgh Marathon which you stood in front. Instead you get someone staring waiting for them to have a picture taken!!!

Collecting the goodie bags was just as unorganised. This is where a bottle neck happened because everyone was going to the same person and asking for their size in t-shirt. Surely it would have been more practical to have different areas for different size t-shirts. It seems to work at other races, so why didn’t they do it here?

And to make the matter worse, I didn’t know how to get out of the finishing area. There was no signs showing you the way to the exit. Instead I spent about 10 minutes hobbling from one end of the field to another until I found the small gap. Granted the congregation of people finally gave it the exit away.

Would I do a marathon again? No, I don’t think I ever will. It was a challenge that I have done and to be honest I didn’t enjoy it from 17 miles onwards. Although taken into account the weather, this was probably the biggest factor for that decision. I think I will stick to 10k and half marathons from now on. Although, if I did decide to do a marathon again in the future (you know how things change), I can guarantee it would never be the Edinburgh Marathon until they learnt how to organise it properly!!! And if I have to give advice to anyone, don’t ever compete in Edinburgh Marathon!!!

Time Completed: 4 hours 37 Minutes 39 Seconds
Position: 5169 of 8419

Finally...

I just want to say thank you to everyone who has already sponsored me for doing the marathon. I still have a long way to go until I reach my target, so it's still not too late for those who haven't already, to dig deep and sponsor me.

Great Manchester Run

2009-05-17T15:37:00.003+01:00

This year saw me entering my 3rd Great Manchester Run, with the intention of running sub 45 minutes, however this wasn’t to be due to my stupidity.

I was able to head to the start of the race a lot earlier than I normally do, with the hope of getting a better starting position. Although 25 minutes before the race was to start, it was still relatively busy.

Just as I was about to head into the wave pen, I noticed the guy's feet in front of me and then realised something and thought ‘Oh f**k'. I had gone and forgotten the chip which is used to provide my official time. A quick u-turn and a dash home to get the chip, which is probably not the ideal thing you should be doing just before a 10k run.

20 minutes later, I was back to the start of the race with a now even more packed pen. With a quick jump over the fence and a couple of minutes to try and catch my breathe, the gun went and the race had started. Let’s just say, I was now no longer prepared for the race.

Like every Great Manchester run, the beginning of the race was packed, and you do have to dodge people left right and centre to try and get a little further ahead. However, unlike last year it felt like I could relatively comfortably after 3-4km.

Coming to the 4km mark, the knee started to play up. Nothing serious until the 5km mark and then the pain started to become a little unbearable. So I slowed my speed down for a while which reduced the pain. Before hitting the 6km marker I couldn’t feel the pain anymore and was able to increase my speed again.

At the last 200 metres, I ended up trying to race a guy to push us both on to finish a little bit quicker. Of course I lost, but at least it gave me that final push.

I finished in 46 minutes and 19 seconds. A little disappointed cause it wasn’t under the 45 minute mark, but it is still a PB for Great Manchester Run. And taken into account that I had already had a 20 minute run before the race, it’s still a good time to finish in. I should just stop being hard on myself.

I have another two 10k runs before I retire from running, so I still have a chance to beat my target.

Yep you heard that right, as of the end of July, I have made the decision I will no longer be running, there are a number of reasons for this including, the constant knee injury has been a frustrating thing to experience, hopefully the rest will fix the underlying cause. Plus with me going to university in September and also trying to hold down a job, the amount of time I can dedicate to running will be reduced. And to top it all off, the possibility of getting weekends off to run are going to be slim to none.

Who knows, maybe after a couple of days, months or years the desire to run will still be there and I will find the time to start again, but for now my dedication is going into uni.

Although, there is one thing I do know. I will never run the Great Manchester Run again. Although the crowd are fantastic (you can’t fault it) I believe Great Run organisation are a bunch of money grabbers. Over the last couple of years the price of the run has dramatically increased to a disgusting £36!!! I can do half-marathons for half the price. Plus you also get a far better goodie bag at the end. Great Edinburgh Run, which incidentally is a lot cheaper for the same distance, has a far better goodie bag than the Manchester Run.

Although Great Run can get away with over-charging because it’s such a popular race. It’s sickening to feel that an organisation rips people off especially with the majority doing the run to raise money for charity.

Time Completed: 46 minutes 19 Seconds
Position: 2235 of 33000

Edinburgh Marathon Training - Week 14

2009-05-17T15:36:00.002+01:00

Monday: Rest
The weather really put the dampener on the Monday morning blues. I just wanted to get home and forget the day!!!

Tuesday: 1 hour run
Today has seen me the happiest for a long time because this has to be the best run I have had in ages. I had no knee problems before, during and after the session. I was ecstatic.

I wanted to continue, but my face was sore due to the copious amount of times I wiped the sweat from it.

Wednesday: 1 hour tempo run
Another great run today. Only a small twinge near the end of the session, which disappeared within seconds. So apart from that I am happy.

Thursday: over 1 hour run
Probably one of the most entertaining runs. Well for people who may have been watching. Half way through the run the treadmill broke and I nearly fell off it as I wasn’t expecting the sudden stop.

I just got onto another treadmill and continued with the run. This time, I was able to get one near the fan which kepts me a little bit cool. Not much though.

Plus I got blisters on both my pinkies. They look so sweet. I think I will name them Pinky and Perky!!!

I must have also been in an extremely feel good mood today, as I got home and signed up for the Pride Games and City of Manchester 10k. I must be mad as the Pride Games is the weekend after the marathon. Not sure I will be able to do it, but we shall see.

The City of Manchester 10 is in July and I intend to run a far better race this time round and forget the awful attempt last year.

Friday: Rest
After 3 successful runs, I was kind of looking forward to the rest.

Saturday: Rest
My shins were a little sore today. Knowing that I had a race tomorrow, I didn’t want to push it so decided to rest them.

Sunday: Great Manchester Run
Full a full report on how I got on with the Great Manchester Run, then please see the separate blog.

Please note that this is going to be my last training blog for the Edinburgh Marathon. The next blog about the Edinburgh run will be the race report. So wish me luck and if you haven’t already, get sponsoring!!!

Edinburgh Marathon Training - Week 13

2009-05-10T15:35:00.005+01:00

Monday: Rest
As you all know that the reason why Iam doing the Edinburgh Marathon is for my aunt. At the end of last year she was told that she had secondary cancer and that it had spread throughout her body All the doctors can do is provide treatment to prolong the inevitable.

I received a phone call from my mum this afternoon to tell me that my aunt had her latest results and they are good news. Although the cancer has not gone, it has retreated a little. The last time that the Doctor saw these type of resuls, the lasy lived for another four years. Although this doesn't mean the same for my aunt, it's great news taken into account that if the treatment didn't work, then this would most likely be her last.

My aunt is continuing with the treatment and if the bext set of results still show as positive, she is contemplating going back to work. I know many of us would like time off work not want to go back.

This is the reason why I support Cancer Research UK so much. Research is not about just trying to find cures, although ideally that is what we want, but it is also looks at ways to help several cancer sufferers by giving them a little repite.

Tuesday: Rest
Had to cancel today''s session at the gym because I didn't feel well.

All day, I have had a sickly feeling, and I just knew that if I stepped on a treadmill I would vomit within seconds.

Instead I headed home and had an early night.

Wednesday: 1 hour run
I had a great session today. I could have run for longer, but TV was rubbish and I wanted to get hom in time for the Apprentice.

Thursday: 45 min run
The exercises that the sports therapist provided have probably my least favourite part of the whole gym routine as I feel like a tit doing them. Although they appear to be doing the job so I know I need to do them although I find them uncomfortable.

However frustration took its toll today and I ended up quitting the exercises half way because people pissed me off. Everytime I went to get a mat to do the exrcises, someone would get there just before me. But the final straw was when I finally got the mat and then went to an exercise ball. When I came back one of the personal trainers had nicked my space and then had the nerve to ask was I there. 'Erm no, that's why my stuff is just delicately placed on the mat. Because I wasn't there!!!'

So after a mini-huff, I decided to scrap the exercises and go straiht for a run which was a little more pleasant.

Taken into account that the run that I didn't do much warm up, the run was good with a small twinge around the twenty minute work. However, when I stopped running I started to get the annoying pain in my knee. Thankfully this disappeared after a couple of minutes

Friday: Rest
Taken into account that I didn't do a run on Tuesday, I was all prepared to go to work and get inthe extra shift. However, after an extremely awful day at work, I decided that the only thing that I wanted to do was go home and chillax. And that is what I did.

Saturday: Rest
I was all dressed and ready to go for a run around my mum's place. Just while I was having a brew with my mum, heavens opened up and scuppered my run.

Granted, I could have gone for a run in the rain, but I am not that stupid!!!

Sunday: Rest
To be honest, I have no idea why I didn't go for a run today. Laziness perhaps???

Edinburgh Marathon Training - Week 12

2009-05-03T23:16:00.001+01:00

Monday – Rest
After a non-stop weekend I was glad to have a rest and get in front of the television and watch my programmes.

Tuesday – 40 min Tempo Session
Had another good run today. Kept the same speed as the last tempo session that I had, and I was also able to run an additional 9 minutes. Personally I would have liked to have run for longer, but I was starting to get twinges in my knees so thought it was better to be safe than sorry.

Still enjoyed the run, albeit slightly frustrating at times.

Wednesday to Sunday: Rest
To be honest I shouldn’t really be doing this at the present moment, but I have decided to take a break from running for the moment due to a number of reasons.

Firstly, due to putting my concentration on other things, it has meant a lot of mini tasks just haven’t been done. And trivial as they are, it’s starting to stress me out as I literally have no time to have a look at them, let alone do something about it. Although, I technical got a small amount done in the last few days, I personally feel like I have removed a load from the shoulders.

Secondly, the exercises are starting to annoy me. I know they are doing the job they are meant to do, this can be seen in my running results, I still can’t help but feel like a tit while I do them. It’s the one part of the whole running thing that I dislike doing and I am dreading going to the gym purely because of these exercises. However I know if I don’t do them, then I expect to get an injury. So although annoying they are still an integral part of my sessions and they will still be on the schedule when I get back into it.

But finally, and more importantly, I need a break. It’s been kinda non-stop for the last couple of weeks. I just needed a couple of days if literally doing nothing and trying to enjoy life. So it’s been great to go to the cinema (the first time in ages) and use my Wii. Saying that I did do over 1½ hours on Wii fit so does that count as exercise?

I could carry on and do the marathon training and kill me (not literally), but at the end of the day I am doing this to raise money for charity. That is my goal! Not to finish within a specific time etc. Taken into account that this year has seen me deal with knee injuries galore, as long as I finish, I will be happy.

Edinburgh Marathon Training - Week 11

2009-04-26T23:00:00.002+01:00

Monday: Rest
I can’t believe that I am still stiff after Saturday’s activity of cutting down the tree.

At least I can breathe properly now.

Tuesday: 45 min run
I think things are starting to look up as I another great run with no pain in my knees

Also got my running pack for Great Manchester Run today. I am in the orange wave again. Going to try and get there a little earlier so I am at the front of the wave which will also help with me trying to get a better time than last year.

Wednesday: Rest
Wasn’t in the mood to run today after finding out that I am officially a thicko and have been rejected from two of the three universities that I applied to.

Thursday: Rest
After being a drama queen yesterday, I got the news that I have been accepted at MMU for a foundation degree. I am not going to repeat myself here as I have already done a blog about it.

So to celebrate my good news and also to see Steve who has come back from Gran Canaria after only three weeks, I decided to replace a run with the pub.

Friday: 45 min hill session

Taken into account that my recent runs have been really good and pain free, and that Edinburgh isn’t know for being flat, I decided that it was about time that I put some hill sessions into my training plan.

The session consisted of a three minute inclines with two minute jogs for 45 minutes. Overall the session was a lot better than I thought it would be. I only got a slight twinge at the end of the session. Taken into account that I struggled with 20 minute runes, I am really happy that I could run 45 minutes.

Saturday 70 min
As we were visiting my mum again so Chris could work on the garden, I made sure that I went for my run this time.

My intention was to run down the lines and back, so off I went and was pleased that I felt no pains in my knees by the time I got to the same spot as last time. As I carried on thinking there would be at least twice the distance to run, however within a couple of minutes the path stopped. I knew that this wasn’t the end of the track because I was no where near my old home, so I carried on running on the dirt track. As I carried on the track became more over grown and harder to run. So I ran down a steep hill and ran back up and decided to head back via the main roads.

Taken into account that I had been around Tottington since I was a kid I was kind of surprised at how I vaguely remembered where to go. As I was walking up the main road, noticing how a few things have changed since my last visit I decided to carry on up the road into Ramsbottom.

The run to Ramsbottom was mainly on an incline, and after about 20 minutes, my knee was starting to ache. I was slightly peeved, but I carried on in the hope that the pain would go which it has done occasionally. It did, although not always on a permanent matter. As I ran down Greenmount on the way home, I misjudged a pavement and the knee started to hurt again. I was about 10 minutes from mum’s so I wasn’t going to stop.

Within 5 minutes of getting home, from what has become a sunny day, the pain in my knee went and I was able to help Chris with the garden. This involved a lot of manual work where my duties involved moving a ton of rubbish from the garden to the skip.

Let’s just say, by the end of today I was absolutely knackered.

Sunday: Rest
Well at least I woke up on Sunday with no stiffness, taken into account the amount of work I did in the garden. Although the same couldn’t be said for the knee. There was a small pain, and I didn’t want to push it by going for a run.

Instead, Chris and I went out for a walk around Turton & Entwistle Reservoir near Bolton. Never been before, but as soon as I got there I was itching to go for a run. Typical eh?

The walk around the reservoir was nice, plus it had trails through the woods and stuff which made it more entertaining.

Thank You Karen

2009-04-23T23:00:00.004+01:00

I received a phone call from my friend Karen asking if I was available tonight as she would like to pop up because she has something for me. I said I was, plus I had something for her. I just hadn’t got round to posting it yet.

As there had been a Bad Taste Bears event the previous weekend, I thought she had the event stuff from another collector and never really thought anything of it until she arrived and then I started to get suspicious. No BTB bags and the hands behind the back with a cheeky grin sort of gave it away that it wasn’t my BTB stuff.

As soon we got into the front room, Karen started to give this speech about me and how much of a wonderful friend I was and a list of other things that I do including running Edinburgh Marathon for charity. Felt kinda weird listening to the speech, because firstly it was embarrassing and secondly had no idea where this was going.

Karen then proceeded to tell me that she spent ages trying to get something organised for me, and was happy to pull it off. Karen continued that she had been in contact with Kylie’s agent in the UK and she had a long conversation with the company about me. Explaining everything that I have done, how much of a Kylie fan I am and whether there was anything that could be done as a thank you.

The next thing I knew, Karen had pulled out a photo frame from behind her back. My initial thought was that it was a lovely frame, until I saw what was within the frame. A personalised signed photo from the Goddess.

Let’s just say I was surprised. More so that it was personalised. I honestly can’t believe Karen went to all that trouble just for me. Thanks Karen. Sort of pissed on my present to you really.

I have also been told that Kylie also has my website address. Whether she has actually read the site is another thing. Well she is a busy lassie after all. But if she does – thank you ;o)

OMG - I'm Going To University!!!

2009-04-23T22:00:00.002+01:00

Although I have never made a specific blog about this, just comments in my running blogs, I can now confirm that I shall hopefully be going to university in September.

When work announced that the head office was going to close, in effect making redundant, I had no idea what I wanted to do. I just knew that I didn’t really want to stay within the same sector and the chances of finding a job, in the current climate, with a similar salary was slim to none. So my initial plan was to pay off all my debts and find a lower salaried job. As I would have no debts, I technically wouldn’t feel the pay cut.

Then my friend Claire planted a seed in my head about going to uni. This is something that I have thought about previously, but it never happened. However, this time round it just seemed like the right thing to do.

The whole application process was frustrating and stressful. I honestly felt like I had no support in what I needed to do. I phoned the university’s and they directed me to UCAS. I phoned UCAS and they told me to complete the online application. But I had, and still do, a load of questions on what I need to do.

My personal statement was probably one of the most organised essays I have done since school. It was planned out to the last minute detail and very positive about me as an individual, which is something that I am not comfortable about doing. I was proud of what I had written taken into account I haven’t done anything like that for over 13 years. However I got a couple of people at work to read it just to make sure it was okay. Michelle, who is fantastic at these things, ripped it apart and guided me into what I needed to write. Although the actual content hadn’t changed, just they way it was written I couldn’t help feel a little deflated. However I took her advise and did the changes and submitted the application.

Yesterday, I received two replies from the universities to confirm that I hadn’t got into the place. One was Manchester University and the other Salford University. Deep down, I knew I wouldn’t get into Manchester University, but I was upset that they gave the acknowledgement and refusal within a couple of hours. Was I really that bad? At least Salford gave it a week before responding.

When I phoned Manchester University to find out what the reason was, they confirmed what I thought, I didn’t have the qualifications. However what pissed me off was the back handed snide comment that they gave ‘You need As and Bs in GCSEs Math and Science and you only got Cs and Ds’. Without thinking my response was ‘At least they are still passes!’. Plus my qualifications are probably equivalent to A*s in today’s GCSEs marking levels.

Salford University also confirmed that I was rejected due to qualifications. Again slightly rude in the way they told me, but also slightly helpful telling me what I could do to build up my points and guaranteed me a place if I passed the access course.

Let’s just say I was gutted, and absolutely deflated. I had my heart set on going to university and it just seemed like the rug was being pulled out from under my feet. Now, in a couple of months I would be out of a job and have no idea what I was going to do.

After a day of panicking, sulking and the little advice from Salford University, I had decided that the next step would be for me to go back to college for a year and do an access course with the intention of applying for uni again next year. However, today I received an email from UCAS to say that I have had another reply. Taken into account there was only one more university to respond (MMU) I knew it would be from them.

I signed onto UCAS and noticed a new reply box, but didn’t think anything of it. When I looked at the list of university’s my initial thought was that I was unsuccessful, as that was all I could see. However sandwiched between Manchester and Salford Uni’s responses was ‘unclassified’. I nearly fell off my seat, and read it about 15 times just to make sure. So that’s it. I have been officially successful in getting place into university.

The course I am going to do is Computer Science. However, unlike Manchester and Salford, I selected the foundation course which in effect has the access year included within the degree. I pass the foundation year and I am automatically accepted into MMU for the degree. I believe this must have been the deciding factor for me. Wise choice I must say.

I also feel extremely lucky, because the same day I was told that I was successful in getting into uni, it has also been announced that about 30,000 applicants would be rejected due to the number of available places being reduced by the government.

The next thing I need to do now is apply for a student loan….wish me luck!!!

Edinburgh Marathon Training - Week 10

2009-04-19T23:59:00.000+01:00

Monday: Rest
I had all intentions of doing a long run today, but that failed drastically.
Firstly I was up at 6.40am to get the new sofa delivered and ideally that would have been an ideal time to go for a run. So had some porridge, got my gym kit on and went into the bedroom to start doing some exercises. What actually happened is I got on the bed and fell asleep for several hours!!! Not good.

If I carry on and don’t get any long runs in I shall be doing a Jade Goody at the marathon soon.

Tuesday: 2 hour run
My fear of running alone in the wilderness (aka Salford) seems to be having an effect on me so unintentionally I ended up doing my first long run…on a treadmill.

As it was relatively quiet in the gym, I was looking to do about 1 hour run, as I reached that original deadline, I decided to extended it the run for another 30 mins and then quickly changed this to 1 hour 45 which would be the time for a half marathon.

80 minutes into the run, I started to get a knee pain and thought that I would have to cut short the run to 90 mins. However the pain literally disappeared within minutes. Did I re-adjust my running to prevent the pain? I don’t know, but whatever happened it worked.

Coming up to the 1:45 target, I decided that I would try for the 2 hour target now. Well what was another 15 minutes?

Overall, taken into count the problems I have had with my knees, I am ecstatic to have run for 2 hours, which is the first time I have ran that long.

I only had a few twinges walking home with my knees, but that were quickly resolved with an ice pack on them.

Wednesday: Rest
Had to take an impromptu rest today as I absolutely shattered and there was no way I would able to run for 5 minutes, let along 30.

Over the last month I have struggled with sleeping and the late nights and early mornings have started to take it's toll. The whole situation, at this moment seems to just be getting on top of me, so I decided to seek help.

Surprisingly, I was able to see the Doctor straight away, and he has prescribed me two weeks sleeping tablets top try and get me back into a routine. If that doesn't help, then counselling is the next thing on the agenda. We shall see how w get on for the next couple of weeks.

Thursday: 40 min speed session
At last, I had a really good night sleep. Just seems to have brought a spring into my step for today. Although I digress.

The run session was also really good. I did a speed session where and had no problems with my knees. Hurray!!!

Friday: 31 min tempo session
It feels like the exercises provided by the sports therapist are really doing the job as I had another good run today.

I did experience the occasional twinge in my knee, but I was also doing faster tempo sessions than normal so that could have been expected.

Other news for the day, which kinda falls under the exercise banner; the Wii I ordered was delivered today so the evening was spent setting up and playing with that. Surprisingly my Wii fit age is not that far of my actual age...32. I was expecting it to be about 70 or something!!!

Saturday: Rest
Another day spent at my mum’s while Chris worked on the Garden. I had full intention of going for a run along The Lines again as it’s a really nice place to run, but alas Chris decided that this wasn’t going to happen. Instead I had to help take down the tree in the Garden. Although I have to say that, taking the tree down was exercise itself. I was absolutely knackered by the end of the day and my arms were killing me.

We are at my mum’s again next weekend to start doing some of the cleaning up. Chris has been told that I have to go for a run.

Sunday: Rest
Although I was planning to do a run today it was totally out of the question. When I woke up I honestly thought someone had nicked a lung I was finding it hard to breathe. And then when I tried to get up, the stiffness in my arms and back was unbelievable. Who would have thought gardening would be that hard on my body!!!

Edinburgh Marathon Training - Week 9

2009-04-12T00:32:00.002+01:00

Monday: Rest
Lack of sleep makes Mike a dull and grumpy boy. I am glad this is a rest day, because I really don’t have any time for anything else.

I spent my evening doing umpteenth versions of my personal statement for my university application.

Tuesday: 30 min run
The exercises provided by the sports therapist seemed easier today. Maybe I wasn’t doing them properly. Although I should add, they were still hard work and brought me out in a sweat.

Run wise, I just wasn’t in the mood for a run so thought I did quite well to last for 30 minutes. My calves felt a little tight at times, and I thought if I carried on my knee would start to play up.

Wednesday: 40 min tempo run
Another sports therapist session, this time I came out with a planned training session to do until my next appointment next month. Overall the session went really well, I just hope I can remember what the new exercises are when I come to do them.

After the session, I went for a tempo run and for the first time in a long time, this is probably one of the best speed work sessions I have had in a long time.

After my second speed session, my knee did start to play up. It wasn’t unbearable so I carried on and the pain eased slightly for me to do another 3 speed runs making it the longest tempo session I have done since I can remember.

It honestly feels that the work I am doing with the sports therapist seems to be paying off.

Thursday: Rest
Another day where lack of sleep interrupts my training schedule.

I don’t think I could run for 2 minutes let alone two miles, so decided to take an impromptu rest day.

Friday: Rest
As I took yesterday as a rest day, I did have intention to make today a running day, but it was non-stop that I didn’t have time to fit one in.

As soon as I woke up I was getting ready and out of the door heading to Ikea, where we got our new sofa and also met some close friends, Karen & Dave. From there we went to meet Karen’s parents and had tea and scones with them.

Before we knew it, it was past 7pm and time to head home. Doesn’t time fly when you are having fun?

Saturday: Rest
Another non-stop day so didn’t have time to go for a run.

The day was spent with the in-laws, by the time we got home it was time for Dr Who and Britain’s Got Talent before heading out for the night.

Sunday: Rest
I knew a long session would be out of the question today as Chris and I had planned a night out with the boys. I intend to do the long run tomorrow instead

Fundraising Update
With less than two months left, just thought I would give a little update in relation to how the fundraising is going along. I have reached a third of the target. Thank you to everyone who has already sponsored me. It is very much appreciated.

For those who haven’t got their ass into gear yet, then click on the ‘Sponsor Me’ button below and get sponsoring.

Here is a lovely fact: if every one of my Facebook buddies sponsored me the minimum amount for the page (£2) I would raise over £800 which would help me pass my target. Just a subtle hint ;o)

Edinburgh Marathon Training - Week 8

2009-04-05T01:52:00.002+01:00

Monday: Rest
After last weekends antics, I need a rest.

Tuesday: Sports Therapist Consultation
Having seen the sports therapist in the gym previously, I have seen a number of exercises he has done with other customers so kind of knew what to expect. What I didn’t know is how painful it would be. And this wasn’t a session, this was to suss out how much help I needed. And I need a lot.

A couple of tests were done to check my flexibility and core strength. In total it is marked our of 21. I got a disappointing 5½ in total.

In a nutshell, my core muscles are weak, so my other muscles are over compensating and tiring really quickly, hence the problems I am having. I have also been told that I should stay off the weights, as this affects my core. I’m not even allowed to do press ups (even though I don’t) at the moment. Although, if this is short term to help with my running, then so be it.

So over the next couple of weeks, I have a load of exercises to do to try and resolve the correct problem, and in return be able to help me with the marathon training.

Wednesday: Sports Therapist Session
All I can say, the sports therapist is a meanie!!! I honestly felt like I did a harder workout than I do with weights.

Plus, the pain. I honestly didn’t think it was that possible to hurt anymore than yesterday, but it did. I thought I was going to be ripped in half on occasions while he stretched me here, there and everywhere.

What was obvious, even after the little exercises that we did today, there was a vast improvement in my flexibility from yesterday.

After the session, I wasn’t in the mood to go for a run. My legs were in agony and I felt as if I was doing a John Wayne/Tina Turner impression as I walked to the changing rooms.

I just hope these exercises will start to help as I am conscious that I have less than two months now until race day!!! OMG

Thursday: Rest
My gym day was changed into a drinking day. Well the sun came out and it’s only fair that we celebrate it’s arrival. Although it was slightly cold and spent the time in the pub instead of outside in the ‘sun’.

Friday: 45 minute run (easy)
Using the exercises that I did in the sports therapist session on Wednesday, I got myself onto a mat and started to work away.

Some of the exercises I was unable to do as I needed someone there to support, although I was able to do the majority. And like Wednesday, they were still as painful as ever. Let’s hope they get easier as time goes on.

I also felt extremely self-conscious while doing the exercises. It was bad enough using the weight machines, but you don’t have feel like a tit when you are on one leg arse in air and trying to stretch in front of you.

After the exercises, I went for a 45 minute run. Just nice and easy, and no pain felt at all. I am really happy with the session today, lets hope it stays this way.

Saturday: 50 minute run
Saturday session was done around my mum’s place as we were up their to do some of the garden. Okay, Chris was here to do the garden while I went for a run and tried to complete my university application. Although, I should say I did help by sawing down some of the trees.

I was really looking forward to this run, as I was going to be running around where I was brought up.

I ran from my mums up to Greenmount, passing my old house, before heading to The Lines. They have definitely been working on this area as when I was a kid, the lines was all mud but now it has been concreted over. Understandable, but rather disappointing now.

I also ran passed my old school which has changed a lot as well. Unfortunately for the worse. All the ugly prefab buildings that have gone up cheapens the place now.

As I continued running down the lines, within 25 minutes I started to get excruciating pain in my knee. I decided that I would have a couple of minutes break to catch my breath and then head back.

Last 25 minutes of the run was not nice at all, but at least I got home in one piece.

Sunday: Rest
Just wasn’t in the mood today to attempt a long run, especially after my appalling run yesterday. I was still feeling a little pain in my knee aswell.

Plus, I was a little peeved as today I should have been running another half marathon, unfortunately when I went to enter it was fully booked. Lesson learnt, if I want to do a run, then to book earlier!!!

Edinburgh Marathon Training - Week 7

2009-03-31T23:59:00.000+01:00

Monday: Rest
Due to me not doing another long run last week, I did think of doing it today instead. However, as I have had to change my running schedule at the end of the week, it would mean six days of continuous running and I don’t think my knees would be able to cope!!!

Tuesday: Rest
I am not happy. This was not meant to be a rest day, but I had no choice, unless I wanted to stay in the gym until closing time!

I got into the gym to find that every piece of cardiovascular item was being used. I thought if I did some weights, surely a machine would come available sooner or later.

After a hour of weights, I was ready to do my exercises and then got on the treadmill. But there was a problem, there was no where to do my exercises and still none of the machines were available.

After 10 minutes of walking around like a headless chicken, I decided that it weren’t going to happen.

It’s not as if I could even go out for a run either, because it was pissing it down and getting dark, so I stormed off home in a mood.

And to piss me off even more, some bint in a car decided to drive through a puddle and splash me. Grr!!!

Wednesday: 60 Min Run
I didn’t have any problems getting a machine today, and what’s even better they have got a new foam roller in the gym. I am so easily pleased.

I wasn’t intending to do a 60 minute run, but I felt totally comfortable and relaxed that I carried on.

The knees never gave me any pain, so I was really pleased.

I was also a little faster than previous sessions, but was not at all out of breathe. Now is that what you call an easy run?

Thursday: 35 min Tempo session
Speed seems to be the killer thing for me at the moment. Maybe I need to get someone to look at my running technique to see if I am doing something wrong. How do you train yourself to run a different way? Is it possible?

Start of the run, everything was fine, but as I started to build speed up the pain in my knee started to return. Slowing the speed down reduced the pain.

Friday: 30 mins
I had another disappointing run today. I tried to get some more speed work into my run today, but the pain came back within minutes of starting my run.

After 30 mins I decided to call it day.

I also got speaking to one of the Personal Trainers at the gym who has seen me doing my exercises. He is more of a sports therapist, so I have got a session with him on Tuesday to see what other exercises I can do to strengthen all my core muscles.

Saturday: 20 Min run
As I knew I was going to be having a heavy night on Saturday, I brought forward my long run to this morning to make sure I didn’t miss it again. Unfortunately, within 20 minutes I had to stop because my knee was starting to hurt.

I was really looking forward to this run, as I do enjoy running along the promenade in Blackpool.

As I ran down to the South Pier, within 10 minutes I started to feel the pain in my knee. When I turned round to head back up the promenade, the pain in my knee became crippling that I had no choice in stopping. I also don’t think it helped that I was also running into the wind.

Even after putting ice on my knee, I had severe problems walking for the rest of the day.

Sunday: Rest
After a heavy night the rest was much needed. Wise move to try and move the long run to Saturday, shame the long run didn’t last that long!!!

Edinburgh Marathon Training - Week 6

2009-03-22T23:59:00.002Z

Due to one thing or another, I have not had time to write my blog for a couple of weeks. However problem is, as soon as time goes by, I actually forget what I did, so I apologies for the scarceness of this weeks blog.

Monday: Rest
Monday is my ritual rest day. In all honestly, I don’t think Mondays are a good day for me anyway. I am always tired and just not in the mood for anything.

Starts to sing ‘I hate Mondays’ by Boomtown Rats

Tuesday: 45 minute run
Completed a 45 minute run today. In all honestly I can’t remember how I did with this run, whether it was a comfortable run or I was in pain after a short period of time.

Wednesday: Speed Session
Speed session and no doubt I was in pain. I just always seem to be whenever I do speed sessions or tempo runs.

Thursday: Rest
A little bit of sun comes out, and it was off to the pub for a pint…or two. Okay, I am slacking, but the intention is to go on Friday instead.

Steve goes away for a couple of months, so the after work drinking sessions wont happen until after the run when he returns. So I am making the most of it while I can.

Friday: Run
I can’t remember anything about the session, although I believe it was an easy run for around 45 minutes.

Saturday: Rest
For whatever reason, I can’t remember why I didn’t do a run on Saturday.

Sunday: Rest
I had full intention of going for the run yesterday, but what turned out as a couple of drinks ended up being a big night out.

I got up at 12pm to do the family thing. Well it is Mother’s Day after all.

My stomach was not in a good mood the full day, and I felt like I was gonna vomit. I am getting too old for this drinking malarkey!!!

Edinburgh Marathon Training - Week 5

2009-03-15T23:59:00.004Z

Monday: Rest
I have booked a session with the physio tomorrow morning to try and sort the problems with my knees out. I am kinda scared. Not of being told what is wrong with me; but being told I can't run.

Still, I shall take my gym kit with me...just in case.

Tuesday: Speed Session
The day started off with a trip to physio. I was a little apprehensive and was waiting for him to say no more running. In fact, it was the total opposite. He told me to continue running, just not the long distances for the moment. What a relief!!!

I knew that the problem with my left knee was due to my iliotbial band, and the physio confirmed that I was suffering from ITBS. I was told that the other discomfort that I was feeling in my knees was nothing to worry about (phew).

After a painful massage, I was given some exercises on how to use a foam roller (which was more painful than the massage), bending exercises and an exercise to strengthen my gluteus medius (some muscle on the side near my butt).

Good news coming out of the session was that the physio says that overall I have good strength and flexibility.

At work, my knees started to play up again, and I was in two minds about going to the gym or not. However, off I went and I am glad that I did.

I got in my usual weights, and then used the foam roller to stretch my iliotibial band. The sides of my legs feel tender and bruised (which I have been told to expect).

I wasn't going to push myself on the treadmill today. I had decided that I would do a speed session instead of what was planned. Something the physio said would be best.

After 6km which included 4 x 1km speed sessions, I decided that this was the best time to stop. So overall the speed session was the same as last week.

The good news is I never felt any twinges in my left knee. I was conscious of the way I was running though. After physio and being told was causes the injury, I was trying to not put too much pressure by over leaning. So I was trying to run with my legs open. Think of Tina Turner running...it's not a pretty look. But it seemed to have worked.

I got the occasional twinge in my right knee though, but nothing to worry about. So I am looking forward to my run tomorrow.

Wednesday: 45 min run
Today has probably been the best run I have had in ages. And pain free!!! The exercises provided by the physio definitely seem to be working. I feel so confident in them; I have even bought a foam roller to do the exercises at home. Get me!!!

The run itself was approx 5-6 miles. The only problem I had was I forgot by sweat towel, which is not a pretty sight I can tell you. Apart from that it was relatively comfortable run.

I’m not pushing the speed though, as I just want to try and build up the distance first and then speed. At the end of the day I don’t care how long it takes me to finish the marathon, just as long as I finish it.

Thursday: Rest
As my brother was visiting, I decided to make today my rest day.

Saying that, I do prefer the gym on a Friday as it is a lot quieter and I can just plod along without worrying if someone wants to use the machine.

Friday: 30 Min Tempo Run
I was hoping to last a little longer than 30 minutes, but as I built up the speed in the tempo session, the pain in my knee started to re-appear.

Being overly cautious and not wanting to create any unnecessary damage, I stopped at the 30 minute mark and went home to ice the knees (a regular task after running).

Apart from the last couple of minutes, the run itself was relatively comfortable.

Saturday: Rest
Didn’t end up going for a run today; instead I went round to my mothers and helped Chris clear the garden out

Sunday: Rest
I woke up in the morning with no drive to go for a run. I think the problem is that I just don’t have the confidence to run alone. I really need to get rid of this ridiculous fear.

I promise that I will go for a run next Sunday. I need to get the long runs in quite soon.

Edinburgh Marathon Training - Week 4

2009-03-08T00:27:00.006Z

Monday: Rest day
Half of me is itching to get back to the gym, and the other half is apprehensive. My knee feels fine, but I just am paranoid that the knee will ache once I start running.

Tuesday: Speed Session (3 x 1km with 3 min jog recoveries)
Come to do my training session and I couldn't remember how many 1 kms I needed to do. For some reason I thought it was 5!!!

The run started off superbly. Felt great being able to run and not feel any knee pains. Actually pains of any sort. I was doing a km in 4 minutes with my 3 minute rest.

The first 3 km felt great, however coming to the 4th the pain started to resurface near the end. When I slowed down for my job, the pain disappeared. Come the 5km, I tried to start running and the pain was unbearable, so I stopped there and then.

I am going to have sort this out, especially if I intend to do the run in 12 weeks time (eek!!!).

For the next week or so, I will build the strength in my legs but do less strenuous cardio to keep me fit.

Wednesday: X-Trainer
Instead of a 5 mile run, I got on the X-Trainer for 15 minutes. I just don't understand this machine. I loose less calories using this machine, but I sweat loads more.

I also did a few weights on my legs. Felt good after the session.

Thursday: Rest
Decided to swap my gym day to Friday, and I went to pub instead.

Well my excuse is that it's quieter on a Friday.

Friday - Sunday: Rest
With all intention of going to the gym on Friday I decided to cancel all training for the moment until I seek some medical advice.

I have noticed just recently that if I sit down for long periods of time, that I start to get a dull pain in both knees. Not good when I am sat at a desk all day.

However on Friday, the pain was continuous. I have to face the fact that I need help in sorting my knees out. Especially if I have any hope of continuing with my training painless.

My big concern, is that I am told that I can't run the marathon. To me this isn't an option. Even if I have to strap both knees up so they can hardly bend, I will be competing in the run.

Edinburgh Marathon Training - Week 3

2009-03-01T00:08:00.006Z

Monday: Rest
My thighs were feeling a little stiff after yesterday's race. Nothing serious mind, but glad I have now made Monday's rest days.

Tuesday: 6 miles
Really disappointed with myself because for the first time since I started the training plan, I have had to cancel a run half way through.

I had forgotten my knee support, plus I don't want to get dependant on it, But within 15 minutes of starting the pain in my knee starting to heighten. Not wanting to risk injury any further I decided it was best not to continue.

And what is more annoying, as soon as I stopped running, the pain disappeared!!!

Distance: 2.5 miles approx
Time: 22 minutes

Wednesday: Recovery Day replaces Hill Session
Well this was supposed to be a hill session, but I decided to have a recovery day.

My knee isn't 100% and my shins are rather sensitive, so seemed the most logical thing to do.

I just hope that I recover soon, because I can't afford to be on the injury bench when I am supposed to be training.

Thursday: Recovery Day replaces 5 Miles
Decided that I would also rest my legs again today. They weren't as bad as the previous days, but I am still getting twinges, especially in my shins.

I have also noticed that the pain in my knee doesn't appear unless I have been sat down for a long period of time. Note to self, must stretch more often.

Friday: Rest
I feel a little bot of a cheat having a rest day since I haven't done anything all week.

Saturday & Sunday: Recovery Days replaces 6-8 Miles & 12 Miles
I have decided that I will have the remainder of the week off from running and see how I feel on Tuesday for me to start all over again feeling fresh as a daisy. Hopefully.

I could have made it to the gym and did other cardiovascular work, but in all honestly I felt kinda down that I couldn't run so didn't want to exercise on the whole.

Although next week, if I still have to reduce my running, I will make sure I do cardio work so I can retain my fitness.

I also found an application for my phone that can calculate distance and speed via GPS. It's alright if I run outside, but no use when on the treadmill. Maybe I should try and make my weekends outside sessions. Thing is, I have no idea where to store my phone while running. I will worry about that when it's time to run outside.

Mary Poppins

2009-02-27T23:59:00.001Z

When we were younger Chris and I were both involved with amateur dramatics. I gave it up to concentrate on my college work, something that I regret to this day as t was something that I loved to do. So whenever we go to the theatre to watch a production, I kind of get jealous because I would love to have been up there. With that in mind, I hardly go to the theatre anymore. Although Chris wanted to go and see Mary Poppins, so I got him tickets.

When telling people that Chris and I was going to go and see Mary Poppins at the theatre, they laughed, but then secretly admitted they would probably go and see it aswell if they had the tickets. And they weren’t the only ones who thought that. When getting to the theatre there was a lot of adults without kids, so we were definitely not the only ones reliving our youths.

The set was brilliant. The Banks home was characteristic of the Wendy house in the film, with the front, rear and loft opening to show you rooms inside. The use of mechanics and wires brought an air of magic to the show; with Mary flying several times throughout the performance ending the showing flying into the audience and leaving through the top of the room, and Bert dance along the stage walls and ceiling to name a few.

The lighting was great too, and true to the film, with the majority of the film having the grey/dark feel about it, but in those odd scenes the colour is vibrant and full of life.

They stage show wasn’t identical to the film, but I wasn’t expecting it to be. Scenes from the film were deleted, and replaced by new ones, but it was all done seamlessly so you wouldn’t have known if you weren’t a huge fan of the show.

There were also a couple of new songs in the production. Again you couldn’t tell they were new songs as they fitted perfectly with the old ones. My only criticism is that the singing wasn’t as good as the film, but then again that was a high standard to go by.

In a nutshell, it was a great show and well worth going to see.

Great North West Half Marathon

2009-02-22T23:00:00.004Z

Knowing how panicky I get before a race, I decided that I would stay in Blackpool for the night, giving me a little more time to get prepared. Let's just say, that it didn't work out as I planned.

I woke up at 8.30am, and chilled for a hour watching kids TV (hasn't it gone downhill?) and a brew. Got all my stuff together and headed to get myself a bacon buttie, which I decided was gonna my pre-run half marathon breakfast after the Great North run.

I had no idea where the Hilton Hotel was in Blackpool, so got out my phone which has Google map on it, and went to where it told me too. I wont be using that again, because it wasn't there. Madam Tussuad's was there!!! After panicking for a 20 minutes, I found a runner and decided it was best to follow them, but stopped just as I reached the North Pier to wait for Chris who had now arrived in Blackpool.

I got to the start of the race with 2 minutes to spare, so my relaxing night over was ruined. Especially as I had to rush putting my shorts on behind a wall, because I forgot to pack them and Chris brought me some from home. Also, because of the rushing I forgot my gloves (cause it was nippy) or my sweatbands. Before panic could kick in, the race started.

The start of the race was comfortable, albeit busy, and felt in good pace. I noticed I was keeping up with the Runners World 8 min/mile pace and just after the half mile mark, I decided that this was too slow and passed them.

The first half of the race was comfortable. A little too comfortable for my liking. I actually felt like I was running far slower than normal. Event when I completed the first lap and noticed the time was 50 mins, it just didn't click until a mile later that I was on for a PB.

Just before the 10 mile marker, both my knees started to have a dull pain in them. Something I was worried about happening. Then after the 10 mile mark when you turn on yourself to return to the start/finish, my left knee was in double agony. It looked as if the turning twisted it. I reduced my speed and spent a mile hobbling. Now I was thinking whatever PB was on the books was now out of the window and I would be happy with just finishing the damn race.

Miraculously, just before the 12th mile the pain in both knees disappeared. I couldn't believe it. I honestly thought I made up the pain. With this new found strength, I was able to regain a bit of speed for the last mile and a bit.

Coming onto the home stretch, I still thought I was outside a PB, so when I saw one of the clocks and realised I was definitely going to get a PB, my speed crept up that little bit more.

I passed the finish line with just over 1 hour and 42 minutes on the clock, knocking nearly 3 minutes of Great North Run's time. I was very pleased with the result.

Today reminded me the reason why I enjoyed running. I wasn't looking to win, I just like to be part of the race and enjoy soaking in the atmosphere. Granted it's a far smaller affair to Great North Run, but I enjoyed it.

Time Completed: 1 Hour 42 Mins 18 Secs

Position: 413/1195

Edinburgh Marathon Training - Week 2

2009-02-22T22:03:00.003Z

Monday: 8 Miles
After missing my long run last Sunday, today's rest day was to be replaced. Well it serves me right.

I don't know what it is, but I always seem to struggle with my pace when I first start a run, and this one was no different. I also don't think it helped that I had movement restriction due to wearing my knee support.

After two miles of uncomfortable running, I was close to giving up, but my stubbornness kicked in and I continued on until the end. It soon improved, but all in all, it was not a good run.

Probably didn't help that I probably lost a stone in weight through sweat!!! Oh, and I got a friction burn from the knee support. Note to self, must get a new support!!!

Distance: 8.02 Miles
Time: 1 Hour 6 Mins 46 Secs
Pace: 8'19"/mi
Pace Breakdown:
1 = 9'53"
2 = 8'13"
3 = 7'02"
4 = 8'13"
5 = 8'13"
6 = 8'13"
7 = 8'13"
8 = 8'13"

Tuesday: 5 Miles (Tempo)
If I am honest, I probably didn't push myself as much as I should have. Still worked up a sweat though. Taken into account this was meant to be a tempo session, I was still feeling relatively comfortable after the run. Must try harder next time.

Distance: 5.01 Miles
Time: 40 Mins
Pace: 7'58"/mi
Pace Breakdown:
1 = 7'02"
2 = 7'02"
3 = 7'02"
4 = 7'02"
5 = 9'51"

Wednesday: 6 Miles
I decided today that I would run the session without the knee support. The good news is, I had no problems with the knees. My calf's of the other hand is a different story. Nothing serious, they were just telling me it knows how much running it has done already this week.

Distance: 6 Miles
Time: 48 Mins 14 Secs
Pace: 8'01"/mi
Pace Breakdown:
1 = 7'02"
2 = 8'13"
3 = 8'13"
4 = 8'13"
5 = 7'02"
6 = 8'13"

Thursday: Speed Session
Today's run didn't have a specific distance to do, as it was all about speed. Which is quite lucky because the LCD screen on my Nike+ has faded making it impossible for me to see the distance.

Before the run, my calf's were telling me to cancel the run. I must be a glutton for punishment because I ignored them. The way I see it, the only way for them to get stronger is to build them up, and that's just what running is doing for them.

After a 10 minute jog, I started the speed work. I could have pushed myself that little bit faster, but was probably being over-conscious of my legs. Although looking at the pacing below, it gives the impression that I was running at the normal speed. Yeah right!!!

After the race, my legs decided that they were no longer playing and decided to make my walk home as uncomfortable as possible. So as soon as I got home they were iced up!!!

At the moment my session has alternate Monday running sessions. For the moment, I am going to make Mondays rest days. Just until my legs are a little stronger. As stated previously, cardio wise I feel comfortable it's just my legs that let me down.

As a whole, this week has been difficult, and I am beginning to wonder why I got myself into running because all I seem to do is have injuries of some sort. It's getting ridiculous. So after Edinburgh Marathon, I think I will call it a day!!!

Distance: 4.63 Miles
Time: 40 Minutes
Pace: 8'38"
Pace Breakdown:
1 = 8'13"
2 = 8'13"
3 = 7'02"
4 = 12'21" ???
0.63 = 8'13"

Friday: Rest
After yesterday's horrendous post run blues, I was kind of glad to have this rest day as it was definitely needed. So I went to the pub for a couple.

Saturday: 6 Miles
After my Nike+ dying a death on Thursday, it would not be possible for me to use this in training. So before heading to the gym, I went away to see if I could find a replacement. After trying SheRunsHeRuns who said they weren't getting any until May, I headed to Nike to see if they had any. I was told that they had all been withdrawn due to a malfunction problem and are currently re-designing a new version. Good news was, that the shop also agreed to accept my faulty good in return for a credit note, so I am happily not out of pocket.

Just as I started my treadmill run, the athletics started on the TV. So I unplugged my iPod and turned to the TV instead. This was probably one of the most comfortable races I have had in a long time. Maybe it's because my mind was on other things.

I am now just about prepared for the half marathon tomorrow. Although I am slightly worried that I may be pushing myself too much.

Distance: 6.5 Miles Approx
Time: 60 minutes

Sunday: Great North West Half Marathon
For a full report of the race, please click here

Edinburgh Marathon Training - Week 1

2009-02-15T21:17:00.010Z

Monday: 5 miles (Easy)
This was supposed to be an easy run, but I didn't half struggle tonight.

The problem with me is that I am not used to running slow, so come 1.5 miles into the run I start to get a hot pain sensation in my right shin/calf. I persevered for another mile before reducing the speed further to see if that would help. It did.

I think what may have happened is that I was tensing my leg while running, so my muscles started to react to it.

For the last mile, I put the speed back up slightly and changed the style of run, and although the pain had never gone throughout the run, it had eased and I was able to complete the full distance.

So note to self for the next easy run. Don't run like I did today!!!

Distance: 5 Miles
Time: 43 Minutes 46 Seconds
Pace: 8'44"/mi
Pace Breakdown:
1 = 8'13"
2 = 8'13"
3 = 8'13"
4 = 12'21" (Now I never went this slow)
5 = 8'13"

Tuesday: 6 Miles (Start Slow. Finish Fast)
Today's run was a lot better than yesterdays. I think I learnt from my stupid mistake yesterday as the heat pain didn't return today. Although I did get the odd twinge in my knee. So must remember to stick my knee support on tomorrow.

I don't understand the pace markers on my Nike+. I think it's talking out of it's a**e (well if had one it would).

I am on the treadmill, and I can physically tell that I am getting faster. Plus, I started at 9km/h and finished on 11.5km/h. I upped the speed every mile, yet according the pace breakdown below I didn't speed up. What a load of crock!!!

Distance: 6 Miles
Time: 48 Mins 8 Seconds
Pace: 8'00"/mi
Pace Breakdown:
1 = 8'13"
2 = 8'13"
3 = 7'02"
4 = 8'13"
5 = 7'02"
6 = 7'02"

Wednesday: 7 Miles (Hill)
Well I had put my numpty crown on for this training session, as I misread what I had written and thought today's session was a hill work when infact it was a speed session. I did find it strange that I was running uphill for one minute and then downhill for two.

I did get a little speed work in though, as I always ran the straight a little faster. Probably just not as fast as I was supposed to run it though. Oh well, too late now to worry about it.

Distance: 7 Miles
Time: 1 Hour 2 Minutes 24 Seconds
Pace: 8'54"/mi
Pace Breakdown:
1 = 9'52"
2 = 8'13"
3 = 8'13"
4 = 16'21" (Eh???)
5 = 9'52"
6 = 9'52"
7 = 8'13"

Thursday: Rest
I was supposed to be doing a 6 miler today, but I was absolutely shattered after work that I have decided that I will do it tomorrow instead.

Friday: 6 Miles
Today, I had a carrot waved in front of my face today and asked if I wanted to go for a pint. Tempted as I was, I was a good boy and said no and went to the gym instead. Although I could really have done with that pint. Or knowing Steve, the four!!!

Session itself wasn't that bad, although my calf's were starting to feel the strain from the running this month. Just a little tight, but apart from that a reasonable run.

Distance: 6.01 Miles
Time: 50 Minutes 16 Seconds
Pace: 8'21"/mi
Pace Breakdown:
1 = 8'13"
2 = 7'03"
3 = 8'13"
4 = 9'52"
5 = 8'13"
6 = 9'53"

Saturday: 7 Miles
Again, the numpty crown was firmly on my head today. Starting the session, I thought everything was fine and dandy until I checked my Nike+ and realised I hadn't actually started the thing!!! So I had ran over 1/2 mile before turning the thing on. Still made sure I ran 7 miles with Nike+ on. Serves me right for being stupid.

Also struggled running today. Maybe it's because I aint used to running at weekends, but it just felt like my legs couldn't keep up. About 20 minutes in I was close to wanting to give up. Instead I just reduced my speed and kept on running.

My knee was also really hurting, even with the support on. Reducing the speed helped reduce the pain, but I am now starting to panic that if I am gonna have to take time out of training to try and sort this knee out, then I just wont be prepared for the marathon.

Distance: 7 Miles
Time: 1 hour 1 minute 13 Seconds
Pace: 8'44"/mi
Pace Breakdown:
1 = 8'13"
2 = 8'13"
3 = 8'13"
4 = 9'51"
5 = 9'51"
6 = 8'13"
7 = 9'51"

Sunday: Rest
Okay, this wasn't meant to be a rest day. I was meant to do my long run today. However, the carrot from Friday showed it's head again on Saturday night, so I decided to go out for a couple of drinks, with all intention of still doing the run today. A couple of drinks ended up being an all night clubbing session. Oops!!!

I woke up in the afternoon and just couldn't face a run. And then when I was just about ready, it was starting to get dark and I wouldn't run in the dark in Salford let alone around the canal!!! I was also supposed to get ready for visiting my mum.

I know, excuses excuses. But I don't intend to lose the long run. Tomorrow is a planned rest day. Well it aint no more. I am going to do my long run tomorrow instead.

I Want To Break Free

2009-02-09T19:26:00.001Z

My ritual walk to work turned into a little minor drama today after a little accident.

I am in Boots getting my lunch when I drop my packet of crisps on the floor. As I bend down, I hear this almighty rip, which is saying something as I had my iPod on. I look up to see some of the staff looking at me.

My face started to get red when I suddenly realised that I had ripped my pants. I'm just glad I had a good pair of undies on.

Thankfully, I had my gym bag with my so the rip was hidden, but an emergency stop at Topman for a new pair of trousers was needed before heading to work.

Let's just say I got the next size up, which are a little too big but there is less chance of them ripping when I bend down.

Edinburgh Marathon - Let The Training Begin

2009-02-08T16:34:00.002Z

Well this is it; my last day before I start a 16 week training schedule for Edinburgh Marathon. And yet I am still trying to suss out what I have got myself into.

Do I think I am ready for this? Honestly, no! Cardiovascular wise I feel fine, but my legs are still not 100% in either strength or health. I'm still getting the occasional twinge, so am using the knee support for the longer runs. If I struggle to do over 6 miles, how will it cope with 26?

I knew this wasn't going to be easy, but now the time has come to take it serious I am starting to panic. But hey ho, I am up for the challenge...I think!!!

The one thing I am gonna have to sort out is running at the weekend. I don't normally exercise at weekends (I know; me bad). So knowing that on Sundays I have to run outside is petrifying. Add the distance that I need to do and it doesn't make it any easier.

I did plan to do a test run today along the canal, but chickened out at the last minute, blaming previous nights alcohol and a grueling schedule next week. Tsk, I am such a wimp!!!

Anyways, wish me luck and I shall post again next Sunday with a update on how my first week of training went.

New Camera

2009-02-05T16:33:00.005Z

People who work in the Financial Industry will know that the FSA are getting sh*t hot on Treating Customers Fairly (TCF), and any company that doesn't comply with the outcomes will be fined accordingly.

To try and promote TCF within the Company, my work has been giving out prizes for people who have showed they have used TCF as part of their role.

I found out last week that I had won an award for the hard work I had put in on a task over the last seven months. I had a choice of either an iPod, sat nav or a camera. I already own all the items, but I have currently been looking at new cameras since my last one was a little old and my phone camera has better picture quality. So this is what I asked for.

I was given the new camera today. I have never heard of the brand (Pentax) before, but none the less I am happy to have a new camera.

This is definitely not a professional camera, but then I aint a professional. It has a load of different functions which I may or may not use such as modes for sports, kids, landscapes, flowers etc. Although there is one mode that I do like, but probably wont use it as much, and that's the panoramic mode.

It works by taking three pictures and marrying them together. Being a little dubious of this tool, I took a picture of Manchester from my balcony and have to say I was pleasantly surprised by the results. You can't see where the three pictures lined up:

As well as winning this prize, another example of TCF that I have done is being used in posters at work to promote it. Which means I have my ugly mug throughout the Company. I keep on threatening that I should sign a load before I leave.

Edinburgh Marathon - Training Plan Ready

2009-01-27T20:19:00.006Z

If you read my New Year Goals blog, you will have noticed that I am going to be running the Edinburgh Marathon to raise money for Cancer Research UK and dedicate it to my Aunt Linda.

Having never ran a marathon and really had no intention to either until I made this 'wise' decision, this is definitely going to be a challenge and a half.

January saw me gently get myself back into the swing of running again after taking some time off due to injury and losing my mojo. Good preperation for when the training starts on February 9th.

The training plan is also sorted out, and let's just say I am scared. Accordingly to my schedule, I will have completed nearly 100 miles in February alone!!!

Plus, I still have to get over the fear of running on the roads. 10 miles on a treadmill is fine, but I don't think 20 is acceptable. I need to get myself used to roads. This is going to be a routine that I am not used to either.

As well as my training schedule, I have also got my sponsorship page up and running. I have to raise a minimum of £750 before gift aid. However I have set myself a challenge to raise £1,000 instead. So help me out and get sponsoring people!!!

Bloggers Unite

2009-01-18T15:19:00.002Z

When re-designing my website at the beginning of 2007, I accidentally deleted half of the content from my computer and the server. And although I could start from scratch for the majority of it (albeit a bit of a ball ache) there was certain parts which I thought were lost for good, such as my blog. Let's be honest I can't remember what I did last week, so trying to remember a couple of years stuff was out of the question.

While doing a clean up of my computer, moving stuff to me external hard drive, I came across an old version of my website. I was able to locate my original blog, so decided that the best thing to do would be to put the information together

2 weeks later and over 300 posts, both blogs are now united. Some of the dates I just had to guess because I didn't provide them and the majority of the images I used were lost. But now it is done.

While doing the move I read nearly every single blog (didn't change anything), and it was quite entertaining to see what rubbish I wrote. I was more open than I was now, but it had a lot more of what I got upto and it was great to reminisce back to those times. So maybe I need to have a median between this. Who knows.

The Next Iconic Advert?

2009-01-17T17:32:00.006Z

Over the years, there has been many iconic adverts which you just seem to remember, such as the British Airway's Face and Cadbury's Smash.

Last night while watching Big Brother, T-Mobile showed a 2.5 minute advert which played on the Flash Mob craze:

I have to say that this is definitely one of the best adverts to be shown in a long time. be interested to see if t Mobile intend to do similar Flash Mobs in the future. Could this be an iconic advert that people talk about in the future?

Talking of iconic adverts, what was your favourite one from your lost youth???

Happy New Year...Happy New Goals

2009-01-05T17:51:00.010Z

I have not made a New Year resolution for several years. To me resolutions are there to be broken, so in the end are totally useless. Why put yourself through that agony, when deep down you know you are gonna start whatever you have deprived yourself again in a couple of days, or if your lucky, weeks?

A couple of years back I decided that instead of resolutions, I would do goals. What's the difference? Well goals don't have to be started straight away. It's something that you can work on through the year to improve, stop or lose. And if you fail first time; then you can dust yourself down and try again and you don't see yourself as a failure.

Last year I didn't actually write anything down about what my goals would be. I don't think I created any. I'm not sure why, but it's most likely because I couldn't be arsed. Well at least I am honest!

However, this year I have decided that I will make sure I get them written down and then review again at the end of the year.

So here goes:

Goal 1 – To run 500 miles
This would be your equivalent of a 'getting fit' resolution. Although I wouldn't exactly say I aint fit, just that I could do a little better.

I enjoy running. And last year saw me do over 170 miles. Last year also saw me get two injuries, with the last nearly making me stop running all together out of pure frustration.

When I first set the goal I thought I was mad. Especially as it is more than double what I did in 2008. However, when you break it down it's less than 10 miles a week and even with injuries, holidays or whatever, the target is still achievable.

If you fancy cheering me on, you can do here. It will give you a lovely update on how I get one. I shall also get a widget added to my website aswell.

However, what will also help me with the challenge is my second goal

Goal 2 – To run the Edinburgh Marathon
On the way home from the club on Sunday (always a wise time to make a decision), I decided that I was going to run the Edinburgh marathon. If I am honest, I have no interest in running that distance. I'm quite happy with 10km and probably the occasional ½ marathon and that's it. But I want to run Edinburgh marathon this year and there is two reasons for it.

Firstly, I get to go back to Scotland and see my family and secondly for my Aunt Linda.

My Aunt was diagnosed with cancer a couple of years back and everything looked like it was fine when she was given the all clear. But just after my birthday my mum told me that the cancer had come back and far more aggressively. To say the least I am gutted.

My aunt is a fitness freak, so it seems fitting that I run the marathon dedicated to her. In the process I will also be raising money for Cancer Research UK so expect me to start pestering for sponsorship soon.

You will be able to be kept updated by my blog as I go through the training highs and lows.

Goal 3 – To recycle more
Granted I already do a bit of recycling, but could be doing more. It's difficult to recycle in a flat and since my blog at the beginning of 2008 the council seem to be do nothing to help make it any easier either.

So this year, I want to do more than just recycle a bit of paper. So I am gonna take things into my own hand and do something about it. And Chris, if you read this, you will also being doing your bit too, whether you like it or not!!!

Goal 4 – To blog more
I have sort of been neglecting my site, including my blog, just recently. If I am honest, sometimes I do wonder why I bother because it's not like I have thousands of people looking at the site. But at the end of the day, I do it for me really. It's like my scrap book come diary, just a very public one.

And maybe my blog isn't being read from it's original place, I do know that just recently people have been having a gander via Facebook (hello Facebook buddies – all 3 of you who read this lol) because they left comments there and anything. So at the end of the day, people are interested. Seriously guys, why?

If you fancy leaving a comment at the actual site, then feel free.

Goal 5 – To actually suss out what I am gonna do this year
This is a goal that I know I am going to achieve. Simply because I have no choice really. It's got to happen whether I want it to or not.

Later this year I am going to be made redundant. So what I do after leaving the company I have worked at for over 9 years, I have no idea. And this is what I need to work out.

So what is planned for me now? Well I don't want to go back into finance. But then looking at the current climate, I think I would be lucky with whatever I can get my hands on.

I'm currently doing a web design course, but I have little confidence in it especially after the amount of mistakes I found in the first text book. Plus, I am so bored of the current subject. Home courses are definitely hard because you have to find the motivation, which I am lacking. So should I go to uni instead? It's something that I have been thinking about, so who knows. I might actually be a proper student.

Only time will tell...

Birthday - Another year to add to the rest!!!

2008-12-16T13:00:00.002Z

Well the time of the year has come to increase the age by one, and this year I am going to do it in style with celebrations all weekend.

Firstly, I was out on Friday with my work colleagues. Oh okay, it was the teams Xmas meal and not a birthday night out, but I was still out until the early hours of the morning (I blame Claire) and I had people wishing me Happy Birthday so I am gonna take pretend it was a joint thing. LOL

Then on Saturday (my birthday), Chris went to his Xmas do while I watched the X-Factor final (yay to Alexander). Once finished I went to join Chris at Via for a couple of drinks. After that, I dragged Chris to Essential for a couple of hours before heading home.

Sunday evening was spent round at my mates having something to eat and drink. I don't see the boys as much as I would like due to work and other things so it's always good to meet up.

And as a birthday treat to myself, I have booked a week off work to do nothing!!!

I'm in the mood for ... decorating!!!

2008-12-04T00:40:00.008Z

Last year Chris and I said we would treat ourselves to a new TV, however it never happened due to one thing or another. This year we have decided that we would get the TV sorted and into the front room for Christmas.

However before we could do this, a few things had to be done. Firstly, it had been agreed that the TV would go where the fish tank currently is. So moving this would be a job in itself. The new home for the tank is going to be where my Bad Taste Bears are, so these would have to be moved. Another job in itself. And just to add to the list, before the tank was moved, I wanted the place redecorated. Now you can see why we weren't in a great rush originally to do this.

The Friday saw Chris and I head to B&Q to look at paints. I had an idea what I wanted (dark brown and cream). So after seeing the colours, we got them made up and off home we went.

The first job was to pack away the Bad Taste Bears. And while packing them up, I was already aware that I did not intend for them to return to the front room. My enthusiasm for the bears has severely dropped this year and it has now seen my collection start to show holes as I am starting to refuse to purchase bears that I don't like. Where they go from here, I don't know. I haven't ruled out eBay yet that's for sure!!!

The Bad Taste Bear Collection

Before heading to bed the plan was to paint the wall that the fish tank was going to be, and then do the rest the next day. But since we had the paint opened, the majority of the walls were done and the glossing started.

Saturday was the fun day of moving the fish tank, which I left for Chris to do the majority of. Once moved it was time to finish painting the walls.

The colour that was left was the dark brown wall and when it started to go on the walls it was quite a shock, but well worth it me thinks.

The rest of the week saw me do the finish touches (aka the glossing), but overall I am happy with the new look. Still a few things that need to be done to finish off the room, which includes a new sofa (we would ideally like a corner one), a new TV cabinet (for the new TV) and some shelves for the CD's and DVD's (which have been hidden for way to long).

Flat before the decorating:

Flat after the decorating:

Our Survey Said....

2008-11-21T20:30:00.002Z

The one thing that makes Family Fortunes funny is the answers that the contestants give. Here are just some of the answers received over the year:

Something that you lose when you get older: Your purse

A sport which involves throwing something: Tennis

A type of bean: Lesbian

Something you would with in the bath: A bazooka

Someone you wouldn't swear in front of: Yourself

A country where Arabic is spoken: Nigeria

Someone or something whose existence has never been proven: Hitler

A number you might have to memorise: Seven

Something that makes you close your eyes: Dark

Something that comes in pairs: Rabbits

A way of toasting someone: Over a fire

A boy's name beginning with the letter J: Gerald

An instrument you can play while walking in the street: A cello

A Type of oil: Sewing machine oil

A word beginning with z: Xylophone

A slang word for a girl: Slag

An animal with horns: A bee

A medieval weapon: Hand-grenade

Something made of wool: A sheep

Something a bridegroom might wear: A dress

Someone you wouldn't expect to see in a strip club: Animals

An animal with a long tail: A rabbit

Something a train-spotter would have in his pocket: A magnifying glass

Something you put out for birds: Worms

A way to prevent snoring: Put a pillow over his face

A work used to describe a very hot day: A very hot day

A song from 'The Sound of Music': Dancing Queen

Someone who works early hours: A burglar

Something made to wheel around: A hammer

A reason for kneeling: To be beheaded

A nickname for a slim persom: Slimmy

A measurement of liquid: Paint

Something that's nice to wear next to your skin: Pants

A famous Dick: Carrot

A wild animal that's native to Britain: A bear

Something that Father Christmas does when he comes to your house: Feed your pets

Something that comes in 7's: Fingers

A vocalist known only by one name: Machael Jackson

A yellow fruit: Orange

An animal beginning with B: Bullfrog

Something associated with Liverpool: The yellow brick road

A boy mentioned in a nursery rhyme: Little Red Riding Hood

Something associated with Queen Victoria: Her husbands

Something you hide in your socks when you go swimming: Your legs

A place you would keep a pen: A zoo

Something you bear: An apple

Something associated with rain: Water

An animal that lives in teh English countryside: A lion

Something that you make into a ball: Eggs

A game thta uses a black ball: Darts

A popular TV soap: Dove

Other than 'carrier', a type of bag: Horse

Something you might find in a garage: A grand piano

Something a Grenchman would say Answer: On Garde

A fast animal: Hippo

Something that you keep in the garden: A cat

Something that gives you goosebumps: Mumps

A character from Little Red Riding Hood: Hansel and Gretel

Something that has a shell: Batman

Any dance apart from the waltz: The ball dance

Something a policeman might say: Spread 'em

Something that frightens Dracula: The King of the Vampires

A non-living object with legs: A plant

A sign of the Zodiac: April

An animal associated with a nursery rhyme: Andy Pandy

A mode of transport that you can walk in: Your shoes

An animal with big ears: A bear

Something that you do on water: Wallpaper

A musical instrument you can playin the bath: A drum kit

Something associated with Egypt: Cigars

A part of the body you onlt have one of: A big toe

Something you pull: A potato

An animal used as a form of transport: A turtle

A famous Phil or Philip: Phil Johnson

A habit people try to give up: Spitting

A Thunderbirds character: Doctor Spock

Another TV gameshow with the word 'family' in the title: The Generation Game

A seaside resort on the South coast: Rio De Janeiro

Something that you open other than a door: Your bowels

Something with a red light on it: A Dalek

Something that makes you scream: A squirrel

A food that can easily be eaten without chewing: Chips

A type of record: A floppy disk

A type of large cat: Persian

A job that a working dog does: A slave

Something that people might be allegic to: Skiing

An occupation where you need a torch: A burglar

A well known superstition: Running in front of a car

Something that you use a microchip in: A fish-fryer

A dangerous race: The Arabs

A game played in the dark: Charades

Some famous brothers: Bonnie and Clyde

A jacket potato topping: Jam

A part of the body you have more than two of: Arms

Something you find on a fire engine: Coal

A famous royal: Mail

Something you do before going to bed: Sleep

An item of clothing worn by the Three Muskateers: A horse

An animal you see at the zoo: Dog

Something you might do in a power cut: Read a book

A famous Parisian landmark: Hawaii

One of Harry Enfield's characters: Sooty

A famous Irishman: Disraeli

The first place detectives look for fingerprints: The floor

Something you associate with the sea: A coffin

A famous Arthur: Shakespeare

A type of cut: Skull

A weapon in the game of Cluedo: Dice

Something that peope take to the beach: Turkey

A reason someone digs a hole in the road: Grave digger

An ingredient in chicken studding: Chicken

Something a girl should know about a man before marrying him: His name

A bird with a long neck: A blackbird

A bird with a long neck (2): Naomi Campbell

An item of clothing a woman night borrow from a man: Underpants

Something taken from a hotel as a souvenier: The lamps

Something you keep in a garden shed: A gardener

A song with moon in the title: Blue Suede Moon

A famous cowboy: Buck Rogers

A famouse Wild-West character: Wild Bill Eacock

Something you'd associate with the three bears: Red Riding Hood

Fruit used in fruit salad: Cucumber

Something you wear on the beach: A deckchair

A method of cooking fish: Cod

Something you borrow from your partner: Shoes

A part of the body beginning with N: Knee

A famous Scotsman: Vinnie Jones

A famous Scotsman (2): Jock

Something red: My cardigan

A kinf of ache: Fillet-o-fish

Something with a hole in it: A window

Something you di in the bathroom: Decorate

Something you put on walls: Roof

A domestic animal: A leopard

Something that floats in the bath: Water

Something that's in the garden that's green: The shed

Something a blind man might use: A sword

The last thing you take off before going to bed: Your feet

Something that flies without an engine: A bicycle with wings

End of an era

2008-11-14T18:56:00.001Z

After 9 years working for Friends Provident the time is drawing to an end, as I am being made redundant.

On Wednesday the company told everyone that the Manchester Head Office will be closed by the end of the year; with the majority of the work being transferred to another Head Office or outsourced to another company.

Initially I was shocked. I even cried at the news. Yep, I am officially a proper saddo!!!

Redundancy has been the most overused word this year at work. Actually probably everywhere to be honest. We had already seen a cull in other departments, and after being given the faint impression that we were safe for the moment, this news was then dropped on our doorsteps. It's one of those things that even if you actually expect it, it's still a clanger.

After being told the news, I had to get out of the building. Especially, when one of the main managers in the Company came over to the team to see how we were taking the news. Like how do you expect us to take the news? I felt it was best that I left as soon as possible before I said something that I may regret later. As you could see shock was soon replaced by anger.

If I have to be honest, I believe the company have made a stupid mistake. However, they have made their bed, and it's now time for them to lay in it.

The company believe that service will not be affected by this change. In a nutshell....bollocks!!! Since new business is mainly in the North, in my opinion, service will be effected. You can train people to do the role, but you can't provide them with the experience which has been gained over the years.

Also there is a possibility that I may have to train my job to someone else. I wouldn't even know where to start. Apart from being a kick in the teeth to do the training, everything that I know is in my head and comes from experience and knowledge of our systems from when they were first introduced.

So what does the future hold for me? Well, the company have a good redundancy package so I should get a reasonable payout. My intention is to pay off all my debts, making me debt-free for the first time since I was 18. This also includes paying for my computer course that I started last year. Meaning that if I need to take a pay cut then I am not going to feel the drop in funds as much.

After taken a long break from the computer course, because I was frustrated with the IT technician part, I have restarted with the hope of finishing next year. I had actually started a week prior, so maybe something was telling me to get my arse in gear and study.

Job wise, I have no idea yet. I wont have any idea how long I will be with the company until end of January when all the departments have sorted out the time-scales. One thing is, I don't want to get back into insurance.

Ideally, I will be going down some route in relation to web design/IT, but if push comes to shove I will happily go back to retail (still kinda miss it). Have already been joking that I will go work at a supermarket again cause Chris will have the discount on clothes while I will get the discount on food!!!

And where do I see Friends Provident in a couple of years? Once I have left and I have got my redundancy money, I couldn't give a f*ck what happens to the company. It could collapse for all I care. Do you think I am still angry?

The talk in the office is that in a couple of years the company will be closed to new business to which I agree with. I definitely don't believe that the small presence left in Manchester will still be here in a couple of years time when the lease on the other building is up.

Could the company be preening itself for a takeover bid? Personally, I don't think that card has ever been taken off the table. If it wasn't for the current climate, I do feel someone would be knocking at the door. So only time will tell.

I Should Be So Lucky!!!

2008-11-08T12:05:00.004Z

For years, I have been asking for a Kylie Bad Taste Bear to be made, but it always seemed to fall on deaf ears. Either people don't like the idea (why wouldn't they?) or people couldn't envision it doing well.

I even planted the seed personally into Pete Underhill's head, and he did say he would do what he could do. Understandably he had little free time because he was working on his latest venture The Boy With An Axe In His Head amoung other things.

At the last BTB Summer event there was a design-a-bear competition. The prize was to have your design made into a figurine. So, I decided I would try and attempt a Kylie bear with the hope that seeing the idea may make the bigwigs go 'I like it'.

Let's get something straight, I cannot draw to save my life but I had an idea of what I wanted so decided to put pen to paper and came up with the following design:

I didn't win the competition (it was a bear coming out of a toaster that did) and I was a little peeved because I so wanted it to be made. Green eyed monster perhaps?

Anyway, I asked Pete to draw me a Kylie bear; basically because he is a lot better at drawing than I am. Well, he does make a living from it. And the good thing is he kindly agreed.

This week saw me receive the sketch, and I absolutely love it. I got so excited I nearly dribbled wee with excitement. It is a lot better than I imagined and is going to take pride and place next to my other original 'Scottish' sketch.

And the other good news is that Pete also gave a copy of the design to BTBears, and it has been getting a positive response from them. So, could potentially be made into a bear. Fingers crossed? I shall keep you posted.

My running mojo has gone for a run...without me!!!

2008-10-25T15:23:00.002+01:00

Can someone please help me find my running mojo because it seems to have done a runner?!?

After the Great North and Gin Pit 5, I was all excited about getting out for a run again and planned to do the Alexandra 5k in November and then also looked at some other local races for next year. I was even plucking up the courage and look at joining a running club (not the one I went to earlier this year).

But then over the last week or so the excitement and enjoyment has just vanished. Now everytime I look at the running medals I have, I want to rip them down and throw them in the bin! Dramatic I know, but this is me you're talking to.

I don't think it helps that I've got another knee injury. This time it's in my left knee!!! And over the past couple of days even walking to and from work hurts. The joy!!!

And to add, my gym mojo seems to have found a new gym buddy. After concentrating on my running over the last couple of weeks in prep for the Great North, now I am struggling to get back into the routine of doing the weight training. I tried for the first time this week, and got bored so I went home.

At the moment I feel like the hard work that I have done this year was just a waste of time. This year saw me put on over a stone (in muscle) and I was actually feeling good about myself for the first time in a long time. Now I have lost about half a stone (I expected to lose some with the running) but I am feeling fatter than I did.

Yep, I am feeling sorry for myself, but I am allowed to every so often.

Gin Pit 5

2008-10-12T16:23:00.004+01:00

After the Great North Run, I felt deflated and like a woman on PMT!!! I really had no idea why I felt so down, so when someone mentioned that now the GNR has come and gone, I had nothing to look forward to, so suggested I get myself on another run.

So off I looked to see what there is. I decided that I would probably do the Alexandra 5k at the beginning of November, as it's walking distance and I have a rough idea where it is. However I came across another race in Tyldesley and as Chris was off on Sunday I decided to give it a go.

The Gin Pit 5 race is a popular local race, although I felt out of place because it's very much a club runners race. Granted there was other unattached runners, but just felt like I didn't deserve to be there. Now just to clarify, the runners didn't make me feel like that, just me!!!

The last 5 mile run I had done was back in May last year, which was my first ever proper run. I was hoping that I would beat my previous time (45:03). To be honest I would be absolutely disgusted with myself if I didn't after all the running I have been doing.

The course consisted of 1 small loop and then 2 larger figure of eight loops. For about the first 1/2 mile it was very congested, but I think that was more to do with the size of the paths (and the puddle dodging) so difficult to get past. Soon as the path widened, the runners started to spread out and I was able to get a more comfortable pace.

The first mile seem to pass really quickly, but then the rest seemed to be longer. At one stage I thought there wasn't a 2 mile marker and we just going to get alternatives. Starting to believe that I had already passed the 2 mile mark, I was gutted to then see it ahead of me.

There was a killer steep hill that I had to do three times. First time I didn't even notice (where was I?), but my calves felt it the next two times. Thankfully when I came to run it the third time I was aware that the finish line was just on the other side which was a relief.

Once I reached the top and I could see the finish line, I had decided that a little sprint was in order. Where I got the energy from I don't know as I was knackered! And the best feeling was when I beat this guy, who was way ahead of me, to the finish line.

My official time was 36:01 however I was several seconds behind the start line, so going off my Nike+ I completed it in 35:54 which I am happy about. I was also 87th out of 208 runners

The goodie 'bag' was nothing to be desired. I could choose from a large t-shirt or a pair of socks. I chose the socks. No medal either, which was a shame. But for £6 (I should have paid £8) I can't complain. The race is twice a year, so I may try it again next year.

Chris was having problems using my camera phone that day, so decided to take some video clips instead, so I have been having a play with it and did short clip of the run (and I mean short):

Nike+ Stats
Distance: 5.25 Miles
Time: 35 Mins 54 Seconds
Pace: 6'50"/mi
Pace Breakdown:
1 = 6'10"/mi
2 = 6'10"/mi
3 = 8'13"/mi
4 = 8'13"/mi
5 = 7'02"/mi
5.25 = 7'06"/mi

Great North Run

2008-10-06T20:21:00.003+01:00

So after months of preparation the time has come to run the race!

I travelled up on Saturday with Stew and Rob, and after having dinner with them, they dropped me off at Northumbria University where I was staying for the weekend.

I decided an early night was in order, and surprisingly I fell asleep relatively quickly. However a couple of hours later, I was wide awake and struggling to sleep. It's the night owl in me! I finally got back to sleep at 4am in the knowledge that I would be up in a couple of hours.

Come 6.45am, I was up and getting ready. Gym kit was checked for the twelve time and put on. My throw away Primarni trackie bottoms and top were on and I was ready to go.

Breakfast was included with the accommodation, but I had no idea where I was meant to go on the campus, so decided to staying my room until it was time to get the coach to the start line.

We arrived at the start line around 8.30am and it was bitterly cold. I was beginning to wish I bought some throw-away hat and gloves aswell!!!

Knowing not having breakfast was not a wise move, I went and got a bacon buttie. Wasn't sure if that was a wise move either but it did taste good.

After putting my bag on the baggage bus, I headed to the agreed destination to meet the Runners World forumites that I had been chatting to for the last couple of months before the event. Great bunch of people and really friendly. I didn't really expect anything else really, but as always meeting new people really scares me.

Come 9.30am, I decided to head to my pen with the hope that if I got into the middle of the group of people then I wouldn't feel as cold. That didn't really work though. But, the good thing about arriving early meant that I was near the front of the pen and this would be more beneficial in the long tun. Also, good news (and possible bad) was that the bad forecast weather was now turning into a really sunny day.

When the race was about to begin, I stripped myself of the Primani trackie set and tossed it aside for charity. However my bladder which was gently telling me that I needed a wee before entering the pen was now demanding action to be taken. By now though, it was too late to do anything. I now realise why so many people need to dive for wees within minutes of the race starting. I felt like I was going to have to join them, but I knew stubbornness to get a good time prevailed.

I didn't hear the starting gun go off. The first sign that it was starting was when we moved forward. Taking everything in was just over-whelming and within a couple of mins passing the start line I had a lump in my throat.

The race itself was relatively clear. I didn't feel like I had to dodge that many people and was able to keep a nice steady pace throughout. This was very different to Great Manchester which was awful in comparison.

What the Great North also did a lot better that Great Manchester was the crowds. The majority of the course had people cheering you on. And putting my name of my t-shirt really made a different because I lost count at the number of people who cheered me on by name. It was a proper buzz!!!

Plus there is those in the crowd that go out of their way and provide treats for you, in the shape of oranges, juice, beer, ice pops, sweeties or biscuits for the runners. You can tell they are a proud bunch to host this event.

Apart from the above there is two more highlights of the event; Tyne Bridge and the finishing stretch.

Running across Tyne Bridge was amazing. This is the realisation sinking in that you are actually doing the Great North. And as for the last stretch of race. All I can say is wow!!! To see that many people cheering you on was simply jaw dropping and when I was crossing the line I was fighting back the tears of joy, relief and amazement that I have actually completed the half-marathon.

Although the race was relatively comfortable to run, there was probably two niggly low lights.

The first felt like I was constantly on an incline. I knew at the beginning I had a two mile incline and relief was on my face when I saw a sign saying there was now 3 miles downhill. However after a short decline I was on an incline again. However my legs kept strong the whole way through. I give credit to my runs on Dove Stone Reservoir.

The second low point was probably around the 10 mile mark when my knee started to hurt a little. It wasn't really bad, but there was that panic that a previous injury was going to resurface. Luckily it didn't and I was able to complete the race.

The target finish time for the Great North was 1:45 and I am proud to say that I beat this target by completing the race in 1:44:25 (official time).

Mike Nike+ states that I did over 14 miles. I would say that I did probably do over 13.1 miles as I dodged a few people and also took the long route to miss the masses, but definitely not over an extra mile. I really love the calibration on that thing!

So will I do a half-marathon again? Most definitely.

Will I do the Great North again? Most probably.

What about a marathon? Hold your horses there!!!

Nike+ Stats
Distance: 14.49 Miles
Time: 1 Hour 44 Mins 29 Seconds (I must have started/stopped it early/late)
Pace: 7'12"/mi
Pace Breakdown:
1 = 6'10"/mi
2 = 7'02"/mi
3 = 6'10"/mi
4 = 8'13"/mi
5 = 7'02"/mi
6 = 7'02"/mi
7 = 6'10"/mi
8 = 7'02"/mi
9 = 8'13"/mi
10 = 7'02"/mi
11 = 6'09"/mi
12 = 7'02"/mi
13 = 8'13"/mi
14 = 7'02"/mi
14.49 = 7'12"/mi

I know this is already a relatively long blog, and I apologise for this. Actually if you are still reading this I applaud you and ask if you have actually got a life!!! ;o)

However I have a story about my last night at Northumbria Uni (where I was staying for the weekend) which was quite eventful as such.

I seemed like I was the only runner left in the block that I was in, as there was no one around. I decided that I would go and watch X-Factor and Harry Potter in the common room.

There was no-one about and while watching TV I kept on seeing shadows in the corner of my eye, however when I looked there was nothing. So just thought it was the light playing tricks on my and never thought about it.

Then about the quarter of the way through Harry Potter, I then heard someone come into the common room area (it's a lock so you need a key), a bit of fumbling out of sight and leave after a couple of minutes. No one actually came into the common room and I saw no one outside. Again never thought anything about it and carried on watching the film.

About 3/4 of the way through and the shadows started to appear again. But dark shadows and this was starting to creep me out. And as I was started to feel tired I thought I would head back to my room.

Then about 11ish, I started to hear footsteps on the top corridor. Again, never thought anything about it as I just thought it was another runner coming in from a night out.

The next day, I got speaking to the block cleaners and was telling them I felt stupid last night because I kept of seeing shadows while in the common room. The both looked at each other and then said 'Oh that would be Bella' the blocks ghost.

I thought they were pulling my leg and said that they weren't, there has been many reports of people seeing ghosts.

I then spoke to them about the sound of someone coming in to the common room and leaving and then footsteps upstairs, and they said that would have been Bella too as there was no other runners in my part of the block.

I left within 5 minutes of them telling me this!!!

Great North Run Training - Week 9

2008-10-03T20:30:00.003+01:00

Final week of training. The day is fast approaching. Not excited yet, just very anxious.

Monday: Rest Day
The intention was to do my final long run before the Great North today as I never did it yesterday. However after taken some advice from fellow runners I decided against it as this week should ideally be an easy week. So now, I feel disappointed in myself. Plus I am starting to get nervous. Not with the actual run as I feel relatively comfortable with that. Just the whole going to Newcastle thing. I just aint good with strangers.

Tuesday: Long Run
I did plan to go for a run in the park, however Mother Nature put a stop to that. It did not stop raining all day. So instead I decided to go to the gym instead.

The intention was to only do 3 miles, so on the treadmill I got, However, when I go to 3 miles I decided to run to 5 miles because it was more a rounded number. Then when I reached this marker, I decided that running for 60 minutes would be a good target to have instead. Once I got to the 60 minute mark, I thought 'What the hell, may aswell run for 10 miles'.

I think deep down I was conscious that I had not done a long run last week, so sort of pushed myself to go that little further. Was this a wise move, probably not but I now mentally feel a lot more prepared for the weekend.

Distance: 10 Miles
Time: 1 Hour 21 Mins 11 Seconds
Pace: 8'06"/mi
Pace Breakdown:
1 = 8'13"/mi
2 = 8'13"/mi
3 = 8'13"/mi
4 = 8'13"/mi
5 = 8'13"/mi
6 = 7'02"/mi
7 = 12'21"/mi (Because the treadmill cuts off after 60 minutes)
8 = 8'13"/mi
9 = 7'02"/mi
10 = 8'07"/mi

Wednesday: Rest Day
Rest day today, although I did do about 5 miles walking so in a way did my cross training that way instead. Legs feel relatively fine after the longest run of my life.

Shins are probably a little tender, however I expect that to go by Sunday. I may change my last run before the race from Thursday to Friday just to give it a little breather.

Thursday: Rest Day
After my long run on Tuesday I decided that I would have a rest day today. Thought it was kinda wise.

Plus, I didn't fancy the thought of standing up for several hours at a The Ting Tings gig (which was good btw) after doing a 5 mile tempo run.

Friday: Rest Day
Okay, I did change this day to a running day, but then decided that it wasn't needed. Aren't I brave lad!!! Plus, I had started to get a little nervous and anxious about the event that I couldn't concentrate on running.

Instead, I decided that I would get everything sorted which I decided to leave until the last minute as usual.

After much toying, I also decided that I would add my name to my top. I have been told you get a buzz from people calling you're name so thought why not.

I have also decided that from now on, I am going to have a running slogan, because have the time I don't really know why I suddenly got into this. So from now on, my logo is 'Chasing Sanity!'. What do you think?

As I am travelling up to Newcastle on Saturday it's clear that I wont be doing any running and I shall do a full report for the actual run itself, so I shall just post this now.

Great North Run Training - Week 8

2008-09-28T23:06:00.002+01:00

Well, the penultimate week to the event and this was the one where I could get in the final long run in before the event itself, and after a week off I was raring to get back into it.

Monday: Rest Day
My ritual day of rest from the gym.

Tuesday: Easy Run
Found this session really hard today. Not so much cardiovascular, but more with my calf's. My legs just felt twice as heavy as they should have been. I just put this down to not training the week prior and due to stiffness of the muscles.

Distance: 5 Miles
Time: 41 Mins 50 Seconds
Pace: 8'21"/mi
Pace Breakdown:
1 = 8'13"/mi
2 = 9'52"/mi
3 = 9'53"/mi
4 = 7'02"/mi
5 = 8'39"/mi

Wednesday: Rest Day
Again, normally I would be doing cardiovascular work but as I am not weight training at the moment, I don't like doing in just to do cardio if it isn't running. Strange, but true.

Thursday: Tempo Run
Legs still felt a little heavy this session, and I was starting to get the odd twitch in my knee again, so will need to watch out for that at the next run. If still an issue then I will need to put the knee support back on.

Apart from the leg issues, the run itself was moderate. I was contemplating running for 7 possible 8 miles, but come to the 6th and I had had enough so decided to stop.

Distance: 6 Miles
Time: 48 Mins 08 Seconds
Pace: 8'00"/mi
Pace Breakdown:
1 = 8'13"/mi
2 = 7'02"/mi
3 = 8'13"/mi
4 = 7'02"/mi
5 = 7'02"/mi
6 = 8'13"/mi

Friday: Rest Day
No cardio here from me, well apart from the impromptu night out and me dancing away on the dance floor

Saturday: Rest Day
Had the niece so traipsed around Bolton (cause Chris wanted to see the new H&M) and went to the cinema. That's the exercise for the day.

Sunday: Rest Day
Originally, today was going to be my last long run before the event. The intention was to go to Dove Stone Reservoir and do 4 or 5 laps of the thing. Something that I had been looking forward to it since my last visit there.

However, instead we went to visit my mum, with all intentions of going from there, but ended up have a full Sunday roast instead. At the end of it, I couldn't move and it was then also too dark to go for the run.

The intention is to try and fit the long run in on Monday instead!!!

50 Giveaways Signs To Tell You Are Scottish

2008-09-24T00:22:00.003+01:00

Thanks to Carrie for sending me this joke. How true is this? Well if you're not Scottish you may not get it:

1. Scattered showers with a cold northerly wind and outbreaks of sunshine, is your idea of good weather.

2. The only sausage you like is square.

3. You were forced to do Scottish country dancing every year at high school.

4. You have a wide knowledge of local words, and know: Numpty is an idiot, Aye is yes, Aye right is No, Auldjin is someone over 40 and Baltic is cold.

5. You have an irrational need to eat anything from the chippy, as long as it's deep fried - Haggis, pizza, white pudding, sausage, fish, chicken and battered Mars Bars

6. You used to love destroying your teeth with - Penny Dainties, Wham Bars, Cola Cubes, and Soor Plooms.

7. You always greet people by talking about the weather.

8. Even if you normally hate the Proclaimers, Runrig, Caledonia, Deacon Blue, Big Country, etc, you still love it when they are played in a club abroad (in fact you'll probably ask the DJ to play them)

9. You have an enormous feeling of dread, even when Scotland plays a diddy team.

10. You are proud that Scotland has the highest number of alcohol and smoking deaths in Europe.

11. You used to watch Glen Michael's Cartoon Cavalcade on a Sunday Afternoon with his lamp Paladdin.

12. You got Oor Wullie and The Broons books Every Christmas.

13. You only enjoy Weir's Way on the telly, when you are pissed.

14. You are able to recognise the regional dialect, (Glasgow) 'Awright pal, gonie gies a wee swatcha yir paper nat, Cheers, magic pal. (Aberdeen) Fitlike Loon? Furryboots ya bin up tae? fair few quines in the night, min. (Inverness) Ah-eee right enuffff! How's you keeeepeeeen?

15. You know the police are about to arrive when you hear someone shout: 'Errapolis.'

16. You have witnessed a 'Square Go'

17. You know that when you are asked which School you attended they really mean, 'Are you Catholic or Proddy?'

18. You have eaten the following: Mince and Tatties, Cullen Skink, Tunnock's Teacakes, Snowballs and Caramel Wafers, Porridge, Macaroon Bar, Baxters Soup, Scotch Pie, Oatcakes, Neeps.

19. A Jakey has asked you for 10p for a cuppa tea.

20. You wait at the shop counter for 1p change.

21. You know that the right response to 'you dancin?' is 'you askin?' followed by 'am askin' and finally 'am dancin'.

22. You associate sawdust with vomit, coz the jannie always used to pour it over sick in school.

23. You lose all respect for a groom who doesn't wear a kilt.

24. You don't do shopping; you 'go for the messages.'

25. You're on a bus and the drunk picks you to sit next to.

26. You are able to conduct a 20 minute phone call using three words only; Awright, aye, and naw.

27. When you refuse the offer of a drink, you hear, ' you no well?'

28. You have heard the following: 'You canny fling pieces oot a 20 storey flat, 700 hungry weans'll testify to that, If its butter, cheese or jelly, If the breed is plain or pan, The chances o' it reachin earth Are ninety nine tae wan.'

29. You know that going to a party means 'bringin a Kerry oot.'

30. Your holiday in Benidorm is ruined when you hear there is a heatwave back home.

31. Scotland go 2-0 up against the French, and you immediately think, getting beat 3-2 was 'no a bad result'.

32. You can pronounce: McConnochie, Ecclefechan, Milngavie, and Kirkcaldy.

33. You love deep fried Pizza.

34. You can't pass a Kebab shop after being at the pub.

35. You are used to four seasons in one day. (Winter, winter, autumn, winter)

36. You can fall over when drunk and not spill your drink.

37. You see people wearing shell suits with Burberry accessories and think 'that's class'.

38. You measure distance in minutes.

39. You understand Rab C. Nesbitt.

40. You go to Saltcoats because you think it's abroad.

41. You can make a whole sentence using only swear words.

42. You know what haggis is made with, but you still enjoy it.

43. You know someone who planned their wedding around the football fixtures.

44. You have been to a wedding and the football results have been announced in church.

45. You are not surprised to find one shop selling ALL of the following: Pizzas, Nappies, Fags, Curries, Milk, Paint, Shoes etc

46. Your seaside home has Calor gas under it.

47. You know that Irn-Bru is a good hangover cure.

48. You could swear before you could count.

49. You would 'nut' a terrorist if they tried to bomb your Airport.

50. You are not only Scottish but Glaswegian when you understand the following - How's it hingin', clatty, boggin', cludgie, Ba'heid, bawbag and double nougat.

Great North Run Training - Week 7

2008-09-22T02:13:00.003+01:00

With two weeks to go until the Great North Run you would think I would be quite strict on my training, wouldn't you? Well I haven't.

After last weekends activities, it all took it's toll on me. All my muscles were stiff for the first half of the week. It was mainly my thighs, but I was struggling to walk let alone go for a run.

Then on Thursday while in bed, I decided I would go to the gym. And just as I was thinking that, I got cramp. I have this nasty habit of stretching while half a sleep and trapping a muscle/nerve/something which then means I am a niggling pain for the rest of the day. Not unbearable, just not wise to exercise on it.

Then come the weekend I was just deflated with doing no running all week. I planned to have a long run on Sunday however the thought of going for a run in the local park bored me so decided not to bother.

I now have two weeks left to go, next week will be the last week where it will be intense. I am also going to try and run over half-marathon distance next Sunday, which shall be the last time I can do a long run.

The week after, will be an easy week in preparation for the Great North on the Sunday. However, with nowhere to stay yet I may not be going and this whole training malarkey will be a waste of space. I am hoping to sort that out this Friday when I have a) time and b) money!!!

Until then, I can't get excited about the event. And even if I think about being there, it aint excitement, it's nerves of doing this...on my own!!!

Great North Run Training - Week 6

2008-09-17T01:42:00.004+01:00

Well it appears that my training week has just gone out of the window this week...again. To be honest, I have never been good at following a set rota and I think that's been obvious from the start of the training plan.

Monday: Rest Day
Mondays is a day where I can't be bothered to run. I mean it's the first day back in work after the weekend and all I want to do is get home and rest.

Tuesday: Easy Run
The plan was to run 3 miles on the treadmill, and all was going well when I decided to turn off the iPod and plug into the Movie Awards. Before I knew it I had ran 6 miles!!!

Distance: 6 Miles
Time: 48 Mins 59 Seconds
Pace: 8'09"/mi
Pace Breakdown:
1 = 8'13"/mi
2 = 8'13"/mi
3 = 9'53"/mi
4 = 8'13"/mi
5 = 8'12"/mi
6 = 8'14"/mi

Wednesday: Rest Day
Ideally, I should have gone to the gym and done a cross-training session, but in a nutshell I couldn't be arsed.

Thursday: Club Run
That's right, I went along to the local running club, YMCA Harriers, to look at joining.

You wouldn't think that I have lived in the city centre for over 5 years in total, and yet I can still get lost. I originally headed the wrong way towards Trafford, but after a little guidance I found myself arriving at the destination.

After getting over my shyness of meeting/talking to new people, I was made to feel welcome and was ready to go for the run along the canal into Salford Quays.

It was a nice comfortable run close to 6 miles, where I think I spoke to everyone within the group. I really enjoyed it, so am now considering becoming a member. Although I need to be a member of Y Club gym aswell, so need to look at prices and cancelling LA Fitness before I can join the Harriers. Something that I need to try and sort out before the end of the month. So hopefully we shall see!!!

Distance: 5.72 Miles
Time: 42 Mins 35 Seconds
Pace: 7'26"/mi
Pace Breakdown:
1 = 8'13"/mi
2 = 8'13"/mi
3 = 15'14"/mi
4 = 8'13"/mi
5 = 7'02"/mi
0.72 = 7'12"/mi

Friday: Rest Day
I decided Thursday night that I wasn't going to cross-train on Friday. My excuse was that I need to register for Pride Games after work. Granted, I could gone after that because registration doesn't take long, however as registration was within the Village, it would be wrong not to stay for a couple of drinks!!!

Saturday: Pride Games - Track & Field event
Today's events was probably my cross training that I have missed for the last couple of weeks all rolled into one day. For a full insight to the days activities, you can view it here

Sunday: Cancer Research Run 10k - Heaton Park
After Saturdays activities, I would up as stiff as a starched shirt collar. My mum sent me a text message about what time we were meeting up and I struggled to turn round to answer.

My legs, shoulders and ass were killing me and I had no idea how I was going to be able to run the 10k. If my mum wasn't coming to see me run I would most probably not have gone on the run. However, I put a brave face on and persevered. I wasn't aiming for a PB today, I just wanted to finish.

I was lucky enough to get to the front of the race, and before I knew it, it was time to run.

At the start of the race, I felt like I started off to quickly. I knew this run had a couple of hills, so I had a feeling that I was going to tire myself out and then struggle at the hills.

Everything seemed fine for the first 3km, come the 4th I was started to slow down and then at the half way mark a crowd had assembled which gave me that little extra push.

A little bit longer, I was looking forward to passing the 8km mark. I knew then that the end was close. Unfortunately turned out I hadn't passed the 7km mark yet. I am sure they added an extra one in!!!

And then there it was, 8km mark with the steepest hill on route. It was alright going down it, but I didn't know I had to go up aswell. That was a killer!!!

Next thing I knew, the finish line was in site and looking at my clock I was on course to do something I didn't think would have been possible today. I was on track to get a PB, so I picked up pace trying to shed those vital seconds off the time. And I did. I passed the finish line 46 mins and 33 seconds knocking a minute of my previous time.

And then I did what I do on a regular occasion, forget to turn off my Nike+ to f**ked up my timings. But what I do know, is that next week I am going to be in pain!!!

Distance: 10.34 km
Time: 47 Mins 20 Seconds (Actually crossed the line at 46 Mins 22 Secs)
Pace: 4'34"/km
Pace Breakdown:
1 = 4'22" /km
2 = 4'22" /km
3 = 4'22" /km
4 = 5'06" /km
5 = 3'49" /km
6 = 4'22" /km
7 = 4'22" /km
8 = 6'07" /km
9 = 4'22" /km
10 = 3'49" /km
0.34 = 4'34" /km

Pride Games: Track & Field

2008-09-16T23:06:00.006+01:00

As you are all probably aware by now, I am into my running. A couple of weeks back while having a gander on the interweb, I came across the Pride Games website.

I noticed that there was a 10k race organised, unfortunately it clashed with a Cancer Research one that I was already planning to do. So as an alternative and to try something different I thought I would try the track and field event, which are being organised by Open Athletics.

Now taken into account the last time that I did athletics of any sort was when I was at high school, in which I tended to always come last, I was only doing this for a laugh. Unfortunately, turns out that I had no one who wanted to have a laugh with me. I wonder why?

Not being comfortable with new people (yeah really, I was quite anxious about actually going on my own. To be honest, I was close to forgetting about it, but after a successful attendance at a running club I knew I would be able to do this.

Within 5 minutes of arriving I was chatting and having a laugh with people there, so I really had nothing to worry about.

When you arrived to register, you are asked what events you wanted to partake in, but as day progressed I did start to put myself down for more.

First part of the morning was coaching sessions, where I originally concentrated on javelin, as this is what I intended to do. After a bit of playing around I thought I would go and join the group on what I thought was the long jump coaching session. Turned out to be the triple jump which is something that I have never done before but got the hang of it quite well.

After a bit of lunch it was then time to get the competition started. Here was how I went around the track and did the events:

Throwing Events
Hammer
You are kidding right? I didn't take part in the hammer competition. I just had visions of me swinging it into the back of my head

Discus
Wasn't originally going to do this, but thought why not. Threw an impressive first through and an ever better second one. Unfortunately, the latter was disallowed because I stepped out of the front instead of the back. Oops!!!

Distance: 17:80 metres
Position: Silver

Javelin
I loved Javelin (I did at school). First throw was good, and my second was awful and disallowed (and also hurt my shoulder), but it was the third one that went the distance
Distance: 23.94 metres
Position: Silver

Shot Putt
Don't make me laugh. Just looking at the shot putt, I realised I would more likely drop it on my foot than get it to a reasonable distance.

Jumping Events
High Jump
After having a little practise where I ended up trapping a calf nerve meaning that my leg hit the bar and smacked me across the head, I made the decision that I would not partake in this event. A wise one me thinks

Triple Jump
I have never done this before today, but I seemed to take to it quite well. Even so that the coach kept on calling me the expert!!!

Distance: 9.17 metres
Position: Silver

Long Jump
At school I was awful at long jump, and I aint really competition material either, but both jumps were impressive and actually surprising good

Distance: 4.94 metres
Position: Gold

Track Events
400m Hurdles
Again another event that I have never done again, and had no intention of doing it however somehow did. I can guarantee that it never gonna happen again.

OMG, the pain was unbearable. As there was five individuals doing the race, but only four sets of hurdles set out, they split it into two heats. I was placed into the heat with the most experienced and eventual winner.

I did however get the whole way round without knocking over a single hurdle so for that I was happy.

Time: 1 min 22 sec
Position: 4th/5

1500 Metres
Not having long to breath after the first event, I was told that the next was starting. And from the moment we set off I was struggling. It was that bad I was on the verge of quitting, however I persevered and finished.

Time: 6 min 2 Secs
Position: 7th/9

200, 400, 800 & 3000 metres
Feeling like sh*t I decided that I would sit out these events and watch from the sidelines.

100 metres
After a good breather, I decided that I would do the 100 metres. As there was 11 of us in total (including 1 female), it was done over 2 heats and was quite pleased to come third in my heat

Time: 14.67 seconds
Position: 5th/10

4 x 100 metre relay
This one was just for a laugh, and to make it fair you weren't allowed to pick the team this was already done for you. I decided to do the 3rd leg leaving the fastest of the team to do the last stretch.

The first leg we were really behind and caught up slightly on the second leg. I was able to to catch up even further on the third leg and the final we rook over and came third.

When doing the award ceremony it has us down as 4th, but one of the runners slipped and let it known they were last and then we got our medals.

Time: 1 min 1.39 seconds
Position: Bronze

Have to say I had a fantastic day. The weather was fantastic (I have the burn marks to prove it), everyone there was friendly and pleasant and it was just a great laugh all round.

I am definitely hoping to do it again next year and I would urge everyone else to have a go. At the end of the day it's for fun and it really is an enjoyable day. I was among other newbies to the event.

They probably wont see this blog, but I want to thank everyone at Open Athletics (Anna, Phil & Dave) for organising this event among others. I shall hopefully see you again next year.

Great North Run Training - Week 5

2008-09-08T00:49:00.005+01:00

I have finally got back into training after Pride. Although I have been missing out the cross training. Purely because I want to relax after a busy day at work. We shall see how this week goes.

Also got the bad news that Chris has not got any of my upcoming races off, so now GNR is up in the air. I'll be honest (and Chris knows it), I was a bit peeved off with him because he has known about GNR all year. I heard the reasons on why he couldn't book it as holiday, and I am beginning to detest H&M for it. I am sure they a breaching some work laws.

Although I did have to laugh at Chris. While he couldn't book it off as a holiday, he tried to re-arrange his shifts so he was free that weekend to come to Newcastle. So when he came home with the good news, I had to break it to him that he had actually booked the wrong week off. Bless him. He tried.

So now, I don't know what to do. My biggest issue is the confidence in going alone. The thought starts to make me panic. So with less than a month left, I don't know what to do. However until then, I am going to continue with the training.

Monday: Rest Day
After my 8 miler on Sunday, I was started to feel a discomfort in the shins so kind of glad that today was a rest day.

Tuesday: Easy Run - Distance 2 miles @ 9'19"/mi
Last week I decided that I wanted to increase the easy run by a mile. Although this probably defeats the whole point of the easy run, I just felt that 2 miles was nothing.

However as soon as I got on the treadmill, I totally forgot what distance I was meant to run, so for safe measures I ran for 5 miles instead.

Apart from sweating (I can just think about running and I sweat) there was no issues. The run itself was totally comfortable. Didn't feel out of breath during or after. It was one of those runs that you just enjoy and could carry on if you wanted to.

Distance: 5 Miles
Time: 43 Mins 38 Seconds
Pace: 8'43"/mi
Pace Breakdown:
1 = 7'02"/mi
2 = 7'02"/mi
3 = 8'13"/mi
4 = 8'13"/mi
5 = 8'13"/mi

Wednesday: Cross Training
As stated earlier on, I didn't do any cross training sessions. I know, me bad!!!

Come the end of work, all I want to do is go home. And while in September, I am concentrating on my running so am not using the weights (cause I can't be bothered), so I don't have the drive to go.

Thursday: Tempo Run - 6 miles including warm, 4 miles @ 7'54"/mi, cool
To cover calibration errors I added an extra mile to the training session.

The session itself was another comfortable run (apart from sweating like a pig) oh and my knee support rubbing on the back of my knee.

Plus I ended up with a blister between my big toe and toe. How I got it there I have no idea?

Distance: 7 Miles
Time: 57 Mins 31 Seconds
Pace: 8'12"/mi (includes the warm up and cool down)
Pace Breakdown:
1 = 9'52"/mi
2 = 7'02"/mi
3 = 7'02"/mi
4 = 8'13"/mi
5 = 7'02"/mi
6 = 9'52"/mi
7 = 8'25"/mi

Friday: Cross Training
Another cross training session that I didn't do. But I had an excuse, I had a stag do to go to!!!

Saturday: Rest Day
After the night before, a rest was needed.

Sunday: Long Run - 7 miles @ 9'19"/mi
A change from the local park, Chris and I went to Dove Stone Reservoir, albeit later than originally planned. But I blame the rain!!!

From my last run here I knew that three laps of the reservoir was about 8.5 miles, so I decided that I wanted to do 9 miles today. Yeah the training session said 8, but I am trying be closer to the half marathon distance than scheduled.

I did find that when I started to run, I really struggled to get into a rhythm and within a mile I honestly thought I would not be able to run 9 miles. However, I slowed down and persevered and by the third mile I was starting to feel comfortable.

Come the second lap it was started to get dark, and after trying to dodge what I thought was sheep poo it turned out to be a frog that leaped into the direction where I was to put my foot down, a sudden change in direction meant that I nearly twisted my ankle. It was then that I thought I should quit the run as the path was undulating. However come to the second lap, I decided to go round once more.

By the time I finished the third lap it was pitch black, and I was started to spook myself out when running passing the woods. Knowing that I was not near the 9km mark, I decided to run down the road (Chris and car in tow) to try and reach my target. However after nearly falling while passing the cattle gate I decided it was time to stop.

The plan is to go back the week prior to GNR and do 5 laps of the reservoir. Only time will tell.

Distance: 9 Miles
Time: 1 Hour 10 Mins 17 Seconds
Pace: 7'52"/mi (includes the warm up and cool down)
Pace Breakdown:
1 = 6'10"/mi
2 = 8'13"/mi
3 = 7'02"/mi
4 = 7'02"/mi
5 = 8'13"/mi
6 = 9'53"/mi
7 = 7'02"/mi
8 = 8'13"/mi
9 = 7'38"/mi

Big Brother: And the winner is...

2008-09-06T13:54:00.010+01:00

Well that's it. The last week of Big Brother has passed and I can now get my life back. Oh wait, it's X Factor time!!!

Midweek we saw two of the housemates get evicted:

Eviction No 12 - Mohammed
At last Greedy Mo has finally left the house and gawd aint I happy he wasn't in the last night.

I do believe that Mo was lucky to reach as far as he did. I am sure if he had been up a lot again, then he would have been evicted.

Eviction No 13 - Kat
Before it was announced, I knew it was going to be Kat. I felt kinda sad she didn't reach the last night, but hey ho.

What I wasn't expecting was the amount of boos that she got. Yeah, I expected her to get some, but more than Mo? Please!!!

I didn't see all of Friday's eviction shows because I was out for Gavin and Peter's stag night. However before leaving we saw the first show and was then able to watch second show in the bar.

Eviction No 14 - Darnell
The self-pitying knob is finally out of the house. Can't believe he got to the last night, but at least he didn't win. Didn't even come in the top 3. Yay!!!

I just hope he now fades into oblivion and no one actually gives him a recording contract. Please no one give him a recording contract!!!

Eviction No 15 - Rex
The final knob of the show has now left. I am surprised who could get his egotistical head through the double doors.

He is another person whom I hope would fade into oblivion. However me thinks magazine deals with him and Nicole will be fill the stands. Yeah, that's a relation set to last!!!

So left were three housemates to fight it out for the winning slot:

Third Place - Sara
I so wanted Sara to win. Out of all the housemates that were left she was the one that I liked the most.

Although I was not sure about the last week with what happened with her and Darnell. If he spoke to me like he did to Sara there would be no friendship.

Second Place - Mikey
I am kind of glad that Mikey didn't win it, but also feel sorry for him in a way... because he lost to Rachel.

My only gripe with Mikey is he is a bit of a slob. The way he eats and uses his hands to handle food knocked me for six. It just wasn't a pretty sight. Other than that I like the fact that he wasn't scared to say what he thought about the other housemates, to their faces. Unlike some of the other ones.

Winner - Rachel
I have to be honest, of all people I did not expect Rachel to win and the reaction of the crowd sort of gave the impression that they didn't either. I have never known a housemate to be booed before, but the final was really close

Although I think the money has gone to a good person, and taken into account the kind of grief she has got of certain housemates (e.g. Luke and Rex) I love the fact it's rubbed it into their faces. However, I do think she will do a Cameron and disappear.

Well that's it another year has come and gone on the Big Brother house. Have to be honest it wasn't the best, but it definitely wasn't the worst either. Until next year!!!

Great North Run Training - Week 4

2008-08-31T20:49:00.004+01:00

*Hangs head in shame* After the Pride weekend, I have not been to the gym all week so haven't kept up with any of the training plan.

Apart from being in a delicate state after Pride and it taken over 3 days to recover, I seemed to have have done some damage to my legs.

Firstly after all the bouncing, my attempt at dancing in Morning Glory, I ended up with severe tender heels and as the week progressed this led up to shins being painful whenever I tried to run. Granted I didn't have the correct footwear on, but you don't expect to collapse in agony while jogging the last bit to work do you?

However, I did make myself go out for a run on Sunday to try and get a long run in.

Sunday: Long Run - 7 miles @ 9'19"/mi
I was really looking forward to actually getting out for the run. I was also feeling relatively calm aswell. As it was drizzling I didn't have to fear the Salford scroats hanging around in the park and have the fear of being mugged, which I always feel when I go to Peel park.

The drizzle was lovely, the midgets on the other hand were awful. After eating several hundred on my run, I decided that the best thing I could do was keep my head low. Unfortunately this meant as I got home I would have a head full of the critters.

About 4 miles into the run, I could have quite easily have given up. I really was struggling. Well that's what you get when you take a week off. But I persevered and continued with the run.

The plan was to do 7.7 miles, although I just kept on running until I hit the 8 mile mark.

After every run, I feel exhilarated. Oh and knackered, but it was good to get back out there.

Distance: 8 Miles
Time: 1 hour 1 minutes 42 seconds
Pace: 7'42"/mi
Pace Breakdown:
1 = 7'02"/mi
2 = 7'02"/mi
3 = 7'02"/mi
4 = 12'21"/mi - I know I slowed down, but not this much
5 = 8'13"/mi
6 = 7'02"/mi
7 = 8'13"/mi
8 = 7'02"/mi

I have also made a change to my training plan to cater for the 'mishap'. I am going to treat this week as my easy week, which is is currently scheduled for next week. That way, I don't feel like I have lost out on much of the training schedule. I am also thinking of adding an extra mile to my easy runs on Tuesdays. I know this probably defeats the whole object of them, but I do think it will help me as I am a lot slower on these runs compared to the others!!!

Big Brother: The end is nigh!!!

2008-08-30T21:00:00.002+01:00

I've been a bit lack with the Big Brother blog, but you will be glad that it's nearly over now with us now picking the one we want to win.

So bit of a catch up from the last couple of weeks:

Eviction No. 9 - Stuart
After pleading for the majority of the series, Stuart is finally been given the boot.

Yeah, I am gonna miss the eye candy, because he did have a cracking body, but I aint gonna miss the constant moaning about wanting to go home.

The most hilarious exit from the house I have ever seen. Trying to crowd surf and everyone moving!!!

Eviction No. 10 - Nicole
Really no surprise there then. Gawd she was the most annoying housemate ever. The only time she spoke was to moan or to have a fight with Rex.

And with 94% of the votes, the most in Big Brother history, I wasn't the only person to think it either.

It's just a shame that Rex didn't leave at the same time!!!

Mario proposes to Lisa
Mario re-entered the Big Brother house to propose to Lisa live on Big Brother's Little Brother. Am I the only one that thought it was sickening!!!

Oh okay, I feel happy for Lisa because this is someone she loves and wants to spend the rest of her life with. Although I am still cringing at the custard cream incident!!!

Sara & Lisa win £25,000 each
After being put up for nomination by the rest of the housemates to their face, Lisa & Sara then had the chance to play a game to either win or share £50,000.

With the most predictable ending, both shared the money. And although the other house mates pretending to be happy, there does appear to be a lot of green faces coming from the boys!!!

Eviction No 11 - Lisa
This was one eviction where I couldn't choose who I wanted to leave as I don't feel either of them should be going. And again it appears that I wasn't the only one thinking it either as this was the closest battle to date.

If I have to be honest, if it wasn't for Rex & Darnell bullying Sara this week, then I honestly feel it would have been her going. I'm sure a lot of the viewers will have gave her the sympathy vote.

Time To Pick A Winner of BB9
From the beginning of the series I have wanted Kat to win Big Brother, however taken into account that Kat believes that the sun is in Rex's arse and not the sky, I don't feel I can support her anymore.

So here are my views on the housemates in the final week:

Mohammed - I can't stand Greedy Mo. Can someone please just give the guy a 4 pack of cider and tell him to piss off following the guys around!!!

Rex - Is just an arrogant bully. He thinks it's okay to grind people with snide remarks behind a smile. But yet he still has people thinking the sun shines out of his arse. Amazing!!!

Darnell - While Rex is shining from his, Darnell is talking from it. At first I thought he was quite clever, now I just think he is a dick.

Kat - Was my favourite, but since she has a bad choice of 'friends' I have severely gone off her. Although I did like the fact that she stood up to Rex and called him arrogant.

Rachel - I would like her to come third (although I don't think she will). Pleasant girl, who has an opinion but doesn't feel the need to shout about it. Although can be boring yet irritating with the jolliness!!!

Mikey - I have a love hate relationship with this fella. His attitude can be utterly frustrating at times, and they way he eats makes me feel sick. However he is growing on me, and I would like him to come third!!!

Sara - Is probably the best out of the whole bunch. She has taken a load of flack from the boys. And although she has one £25,000 I want her to win the other £100,000 and take the smug look off all those left in the house!!! So with that in mind I want Sara to win!!!

Vote for Sara to win

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Manchester Pride 2008

2008-08-26T21:00:00.010+01:00

Before the weekend arrived I had an inkling that this weekend was not going to be as busy as previous prides, and although it was packed it still felt a lot quieter than normal. However, this year's Pride has come and gone and has been hailed as one of the best yet by many!!!

Maybe it was the line up for the main stage, as this was definitely a lot better than previous years. Unfortunately I didn't see any of the acts (I so wanted to see Alphabeat) as I was recovering or getting ready for the night.

However apart from that, I did have a good weekend. Was it the best? No, but it wasn't the worst either. It's been the best in the last couple of years that's for sure.

Friday
This was the calm before the storm. The only time we went to the village was to pick up our vile apple green wrist bands (Chris preferred to call them snot green).

We then went to a house party, which is quite unusual for me because I am not a fan of parties as such because I feel so out of place. However I had a good night, and it was entertaining watching the pissed straight guy feel extremely uncomfortable in a room for a gays

Saturday
Chris & I went to Stew & Robs for the parade. We watched a bit from near their flat before going to meet Chris' parents and Simon near the village.

One of my biggest gripes about Manchester Parade is that there doesn't ever appear to be themes and I think that is what it misses. Yeah several clubs had the nautical theme going this year, but it was just missing that pizazz I thought.

And I also though that this year the parade was more commercial. I don't have an issue with that as such, as long as they put some effort into a float instead of dressing up in purple and handing out flyer's for their Company!!! Grr!!!

After the parade we popped into Manhattans for an alcohol top-up. By now Chris & Stew were beginning to show signs that the alcohol was kicking in:

This year also saw us do something that we haven't done before...walk around the expo and stalls.

After several more drinks, Chris & I went to the main stage, while Stew & Rob went home. Had a couple of drinks with a few people we knew, although lesson was learnt you should not spin people round while drunk has your sense of balance aint good. Ended up with the scars to prove it aswell. Sorry Loz!!!

Also gutted that I lost my sunglasses aswell. Although Chris has promised to purchase me a new pair. *note to self* Remember Chris he needs to buy my sunglasses.

Saturday night saw us head to Uni-Challenge. Ended up in the Matinee room to start off with. It was alright, but I just couldn't get into the music. So off we plodded to the Federation room where we stayed for the rest of the night. Although this didn't feel long, because it felt like the night was as soon as we got in.

I was ready to carry on partying, but the rest decided it was time to head home.

Sunday
After staying the night (well morning) at Stew & Robs, we went home leaving them in their pit, as I wanted to get changed and head back out to see some of the day.

Met up with Steve, Phil & Neil and had a couple of drinks with them. There was nothing really on the main stage that stood out, well apart from Bjorn Again.

Headed home to get ready for Federation, however my body decided otherwise and ended up asleep. Chris was finally able to get me up and out of the house by 12.30 and we met the boys in there.

Again Federation have done another good night, although was slightly worried that Chris wasn't getting into it as much as everyone else. But all was not lost as he did get a second wind later one.

After Federation, we headed off to the Village with the intentions of going to Spirit for the Federation after party, but when we got there we decided to go to Morning Glory. Have never been before, I didn't know what to expect, but I loved it. Granted I must have looked like a tit bouncing around like I did, but who cares. Actually my feet did because they next day they were severely tender!!!

Monday
Last day of Pride and we had a restful day watching TV with the boys as we knew we would be heading into town later on for the Candlelit vigil.

The vigil is what the whole thing is about in my eyes, and yeah it was intense but taking an hour out is nothing really. Although I was a little shocked to find out that they had ran out of candles. Whats the point of a candlelit vigil if you don't have a candle?

Couple of drinks in the Village we headed off to Cruz 101 to end the weekend. I had work on the Tuesday, so I was watching what I was doing. All I can say about that night, was gawd it was warm. I think I lost a stone in sweat!!!

But me being good, I set a time for when we were to leave and be home. Granted I didn't get to bed until about 5am and I was in work 5 hours later with the worst feeling ever. No, not a hangover, just a lack of sleep and feeling sick (did I eat something bad again?)

Overall, I had a cracking weekend. It was even better that Chris actually got it off, something he has struggled with when working in Manchester. Roll on next year!!!

Great North Run Training - Week 3

2008-08-26T20:00:00.003+01:00

This week I knew I was going to have a challenge in front of me because of Manchester Pride on Sunday, and although I had all intentions on doing my run, I knew deep down there was no hope and hell chance of it happening!!!

Monday: Rest Day
Nothing to say here really, apart from that I rested.

Tuesday: Easy Run - Distance 2 miles @ 9'19"/mi
All I can say, is that if I ever run in hot temperatures I should now be accustomed to it. As again the gym was sweltering!!!

Not really much I can say about the run. Unintentionally, I seem to be getting faster on these 'easy' runs. However apart from being hot, they are easy. I am not out of breathe and just plodding along!!!

Distance: 2.2 Miles
Time: 19 Mins 08 Seconds
Pace: 8'41"/mi
Pace Breakdown:
1 = 8'13"/mi
2 = 8'13"/mi
0.2 = 8'41"/mi

Wednesday: Cross Training
It's amazing what knocking the resistance down can do. Although, I didn't mind the Cross Trainer, I wasn't really a fan. Now though, I am quite happy to get on the machine and just plod along for 30 mins. Just another good session me thinks!!!

Thursday: Tempo Run - 5 miles including warm, 3 miles @ 7'49"/mi, cool
Before the session my shins seem to be a lot more sensitive than they should to be. I aint in pain, unless I rub them which I did several times in a sadistic kind of way. However I was a little conscious that if I ran it could end up becoming painful and be the return of the shin splints injury.

The session was good though. I do like the feeling after a long run. Although the strap on the knee support wasn't done right and left me with a lovely friction mark!!!

Distance: 5.5 Miles
Time: 45 Mins 35 Seconds
Pace: 8'16"/mi
Pace Breakdown:
1 = 7'02"/mi
2 = 6'10"/mi
3 = 7'02"/mi
4 = 7'02"/mi
5 = 9'52"/mi
0.5 = 12'21"/mi

I seriously think this Nike+ thing doesn't like part distances because I was still running at the same speed when turning it off. I didn't slow down until after it was off.

Friday: Cross Training
I decided again for this week I would tackle my arch enemy of an exercise machine....the bike!!!

So off I went and sat on the bike and cycled for 30 mins while watching the news without sound. I could have plugged my headphones in but I preferred listening to my music.

Although over 12km done and I am happy. Only had to re-adjust once!!!

Saturday: Rest Day or is it Cross Training?
Can you call dancing a cross training session? If so, I am definitely going to be doing a load of it over the weekend.

Sunday: Long Run - 7 miles @ 9'19"/mi (NOT DONE)
I had planned to continue with this session all weekend, but it wasn't meant to be. I am too week willed and I am quite disappointed in myself.

I would have liked to have done the run, but I don't think my body would be able to take it after the sever abusing from the day before.

Great North Run Training - Week 2

2008-08-17T23:00:00.003+01:00

Monday: Rest Day
Kind of glad I had a rest day. Although I was not in pain, I had a little niggle in my knee. It's that clicking niggle feeling.

Tuesday: East Run - Distance 2 miles @ 9'19"/mi
After only a couple of hours sleep on Monday night (I blame China for having the Olympics), I was not in any mood to go to the gym. And if I am honest, if I didn't have this schedule I probably wouldn't have gone. However, I decided to go, do my run and then head home.

I really wasn't in the mood and I still have the niggle in my knee. And it was hot!!! However, the niggle has now gone and feel a little better than when I started.

Distance: 2.2 Miles
Time: 19 Mins 26 Seconds
Pace: 8'48"/mi
Pace Breakdown:
1 = 7'02"/mi
2 = 8'13"/mi
0.2 = 11'19"/mi (Nike+ playing up again)

I am not entirely sure how Nike+ is measuring my pace. I am running on a treadmill at the same speed. So how come the pace is so out?

Wednesday: Rest Day
Wednesday was meant to be a cross training day, but after a really bad nights sleep, I didn't have the energy to look at the gym let alone any exercises. Instead I went home and relaxed. Although I still couldn't get to sleep until around after 12am, however this is early by my standards!!!

Thursday: Speed Run - 5 miles including warm, 1600 @ 7'23"/mi with 800 jog then cool
I just wasn't in the mood for running today. However taking into account I had already missed a cross training session, I was feeling kinda guilty.

However as soon as I got on the treadmill, I was more in the mood and when I was finished I was happy and I persevered and made myself go because I felt better (like I always do after a run)

The speed session saw me pushing myself to run faster than what I am comfortable with. However isn't that what speed sessions are about? However I did cock up on the distances. Well that's what you get when you give me a run in miles but tell me to run in metres!!!

Distance: 5 Miles
Time: 45 minutes
Pace: 8'10"/mi
Pace Breakdown:
1 = 8'13"/mi
2 = 7'02"/mi
3 = 7'02"/mi
4 = 7'02"/mi
5 = 12'21"/mi
0.5 - 8'23"

Friday: Rest Day
Was meant to be another cross training day, but I ended up going to the pub after work instead. Although I didn't take my gym kit to work either, so I didn't have any intention of going to the gym.

Saturday: Rest Day
This was my official rest day, and although I could have swapped this day and made it a cross training day. I didn't fancy leaving the house. I have been lazy with my rest cross training and this is something that needs to improve.

Sunday: Long Run - 6 miles @ 9'19"/mi
At the beginning of the week Chris agreed to take me to Dove Stone Reservoir again for my long run. However he forgot and went to his parents instead. So I decided to go into the local park (somewhere which I am not comfortable in).

The plan was to do just the norm run of 6 miles (+10% calibration), and the majority of the race I felt fine. Didn't feel as comfortable as last weeks run, but I wasn't straining myself either.

I am still struggling with the slower speed, again with me averaging just over 7'30"/mi. I need to slow down. This is something that I will look at doing after Pride.

However I stopped shorter than I wanted to. Lesson learnt, look at your distance and not your calories burnt!!!

Distance: 6.19 Miles
Time: 46 minutes 54 seconds
Pace: 7'34"/mi
Pace Breakdown:
1 = 8'13"/mi
2 = 7'02"/mi
3 = 7'02"/mi
4 = 7'02"/mi
5 = 8'13"/mi
6 = 7'02"/mi
0.19 = 7'39"/mi

Am I the only one who thinks it's weird that my mile pace always seems to be the same (7'02"). Surely I can't be running that exact same time for the majority of the miles? Oh well, that is Nike+ for you!!!

Great North Run Training - Week 1

2008-08-10T23:00:00.004+01:00

After several weeks on the injury bench, which felt like a lifetime, this week saw me start my training plan for the Great North Run.

Originally the plan was to start training with 12 weeks to go, but injury scuppered that plan. After a few short successful runs the week prior, I made the decision to start training with just 9 weeks left.

To be honest, my confidence was not that high that I would be able to run a half marathon. However, after this week I have a new lease of life. Here is how the week panned out:

Monday: Rest Day
Although I couldn't wait to get into the gym for a run.

Tuesday: Easy Run - Distance 2 miles @ 9'19"/mi
I really struggled with this, because I found it hard to run slow. I honestly felt like I was power walking and it was seriously doing my head in.

Plus, to make matters worse I don't think the air con was on in the gym so I was sweating like a pig and it made the run a lot harder than it needed to be.

The thought running through my head at this time was that if I struggle to run 2 miles, how the hell am I going to be able to run 13.1!!!

Distance: 2.2 Miles
Time: 20 Mins 30 Seconds
Pace: 9'17"/mi
Pace Breakdown:
1 = 7'54"/mi
2 = 8'13"/mi
0.2 = 8'57"/mi

Not sussed out how I got an average of 9'17" when my individual mile paces were lower!!!

Wednesday: Cross Training
Although it doesn't state the length of time I need to do, I have made the decision that I need to do at least 30 minutes.

Tuesday was spent of the cross trainer. Previously, I struggled doing more than 10 minutes on the machine, but that was because I had it on high resistance. However, I reduced the resistance and the 30 minutes flew past.

Thursday: Tempo Run - 5 miles including warm, 3 miles @ 7'49"/mi, cool
Never done a tempo run before, so was quite anxious because I just felt I was going to burn myself out.

This week has been a struggle for me, because I have had to learn to run in miles, when I am used to running in kilometres. Also made it hard in the gym as all the machines are in kilometres, so that was fun trying to suss out what I needed to do.

The run itself was okay, however near the end of the 3 mile tempo I was watching the clock, but overall I wasn't to bad at the end of the session.

Distance: 5.5 Miles
Time: 45 Mins 55 Seconds
Pace: 8'20"/mi
Pace Breakdown:
1 = 8'13"/mi
2 = 8'13"/mi
3 = 7'02"/mi
4 = 7'02"/mi
5 = 7'54"/mi
0.5 = 12'18"/mi

Again, the timings confused me, especially the last 0.5 miles. I was running a lot faster than that. I can tell you. However I appear to still be running faster than stated, but is that a bad thing?

Friday: Cross Training

Today's training session was 30 minutes on the bike. I have to be honest, I am not a fan of the bike, because after a period of time I get saddle sore. However persistence paid off and I cycled 12km in 30 minutes.

Before getting on the bike, I had a small niggle in my knee. Nothing serious as such. It just felt like it needed to click, however it was starting to get annoying. However, after the bike ride this niggle disappeared. So maybe this is something that I do need to keep within the session if it helps like that.

Saturday: Rest Day

After a drinking session on Friday where I learnt not to drink on an empty stomach, I was glad that today was a rest day. Plus the anticipation was building for my long run on Sunday.

Sunday: Long Run - 6 miles @ 9'19"/mi

I was getting out of the gym for my long run, and this is hopefully going to be the plan for every Sunday. Today's run was done at Dove Stone Reservoir, and I originally thought I would be running it in the rain, however it cleared up and stayed that way for the whole run. I even had to wear sunglasses!!!

Again, the speed was an issue for me. I just struggle to run so slow. I am not sure what the plan is with this speed. I thought it may have something to do with running for a period of time, so this is where I threw my training schedule out of the window. I didn't intend to; it just happened.

I decided that I would run at a pace that I was comfortable with, and that speed was a little faster than the proposed. Actually, about 2 minutes faster!!!

After my first lap of the reservoir, which was just less than 3 miles (ish) I felt fantastic, although there was one section where I was fighting the wind and actually thought I would be blown into the reservoir, but all prevailed.

Then my second lap was coming to an end, and I still felt great. So great I decided that I would do a third lap. Well, why the hell not, I had already threw my training schedule out the window with the pace, so why not distance aswell.

At the end of the run, my legs felt heavy, however I felt fantastic. This was the furthest I had ever ran and the longest time. What little confidence I had about being able to run 13.1 miles was now boosted by this run. I do actually feel like I may be able to achieve this.

The only downside of running round the reservoir, was the gates. This slowed me down occasionally, which could explain the stupid blimp in my timing. But I plan to run this again, as it makes a change from the local park, where I feel like I am gonna be mugged; or Heaton Park, where I feel like I will knock down a kid!!!

Distance: 8.8 Miles
Time: 1 hour 9 minutes 27 seconds
Pace: 7'52"/mi
Pace Breakdown:
1 = 6'10"/mi
2 = 16'27"/mi (Nike+ playing up again me thinks)
3 = 7'02"/mi
4 = 7'02"/mi
5 = 7'02"/mi
6 = 7'02"/mi
7 = 7'02"/mi
8 = 8'13"/mi
0.8 = 7'46"/mi

You may have noticed that my runs have always been 10% more than the training plan. Just to explain, I run an extra 10% to cover the calibration error that there is within the Nike+. Although, I do like the sound that I ran nearly 9 miles!!!

However the next toy I want is a Garmin. The calibration on this is far superior to Nike+ as it's done by satellite. So if anyone is feeling generous and would like to buy me a Garmin (405 preferably), then I wont look a gift horse in the mouth!!!

Big Brother: Catch up Blog

2008-08-10T22:00:00.004+01:00

It's been over a week since my last Big Brother blog. Where have I been? Anyways, I shall try and keep this short and sweet.

Maysoon Walks
After a month in the house, it got all to much for Maysoon that she decided to walk even though she was up for nomination that week.

I have to give the girl credit. When she discussed with the other housemates about wanting to leave, she went through with it. Just wish the other housemates who said they wanted to leave would do the same!!!

Eviction Number 1 - Luke
Can't say I am gonna miss him. He said some funny things, but as soon as his sidekick went, he lost all of the little charisma he had left in him.

Although, I have to say I did like him in his eviction interview. If only we was like that in the house then he could have won the thing!!!

New Housemate - Nicole Enters
Rex's girlfriend, Nicole, became the newest housemate of Big Brother 9. Nicole entered the house as a Big Brother ever changing surprise. And with her entering the hope was Rex would calm down and shut his trap.

Unfortunately all he appears to have done is moan more. And I didn't think that was possible.

My initial opinions of Nicole is, that if she is up she will be out (unless she is up against Rex). High maintenance is an understatement.

Eviction Number 2 - Dale
Out of Dale and Stu, Dale was the one I would have preferred to have gone home. Purely because I was sick and tired of him saying he wants to go home!!!

The only negative thing is that we are one down on the good look factor. Although when he smiled he did look like he had a low IQ.

That's all for this blog, but with the end due in the next couple of weeks the excitement begins.

Run Fatboy Run!!!

2008-07-31T20:00:00.004+01:00

Well the week is up and as I stated in my last blog, I was going to try and go for a run to see how my knee would cope. This was also likely to be the decider for whether or not I would be doing the Great North Run. I didn't want to risk causing more damage than I already had by risking something that I have never attempted before.

I wasn't going to push myself so decided to reduce my speed and take my time. I put on a knee support to give it that extra help, and off I went (on the treadmill). After 18 minutes I had done 3km (don't laugh) and I was absolutely knackered. I learnt a lesson that night....don't use a sunbed before you go for a run!!!

However the good news is that I am not in pain. The knee seems to have coped well with the little run. And I can't wait to get back out there and start running again.

So as of next week I have 9 weeks to get myself into reasonable fitness to run the half marathon. Just need to find a suitable training plan. I may go for a 10 week one, but miss the first week off.

Great North Run - Will I do it?

2008-07-27T23:40:00.003+01:00

The beginning of October should see me tackling a half marathon for the first time in my life. And ideally by now I would like to have started a running blog to coincide with the training. I am sure it would make the reading a little more varied from the usual Big Brother stuff.

However, since the knee injury I have not been able to run, and it appears that the last run I did caused a lot more damage than I thought. It took over a week before the pain subsided and even now I am still getting niggling pains in the knee.

This has put scupper to my training schedule which was already reduced from a 12 weeks to 10. However now the 10 week deadline has passed and I still haven't been able to run. Much to my annoyance.

I tried to go for a run while at the gym last week to test the knee. Nothing serious, just a light stroll on the treadmill for about a 1km. And although I wasn't in pain, I knew there was something wrong with the knee and if I pushed it any further (which I had no plan of doing), then I could end up causing severe injury again.

Taken into account that I have never run a half marathon before, I don't think I am going to have enough time to get myself ready both physically and mentally with 9 weeks left to go. So now I am seriously contemplating not doing the run now. There is 8 week training sessions out there, so I shall try and rest the knee this week and hope that I can start that next Monday. Otherwise I am f**ked!!!

Big Brother: Evictions and more

2008-07-26T17:23:00.004+01:00

A weeks of catch up to get done, so I shall make it short and sweet (well my standards anyways).

Firstly, last Friday saw the eviction of Belinda. No surprise there then. Not really got much to say that. I wasn't a fan.

Another Head of House task was done, where we saw Maysoon, Dale & Bex hanging from a rope. Bex's pathetic attempt lasted 3 minutes, and personally feel that because she couldn't be arsed to put in any effort then she should not have been sent to Heaven. Unfortunately Gormless Dale decided she did. He has confirmed that he really has no brains.

Dales role of Head of House was, erm memorable!!! Not!!! Apart from having to wake the Heavenly housemates with a kiss and his attempt for people to hate him failing. He was entertaining as static snow on a TV set!!!

I also love the fact that the Hell housemates have to earn the right to nominate, however it shall be entertaining to see how they can beat the chopping onion task this week.

This week saw three housemates go up for nomination: Mohamed, Darnel and Rebecca.

Personally, my vote was for Darnell to be evicted purely because his attitude stank this week with being aggressive to other housemates. I am still trying to suss out, how Darnell has not been provided with a warning or kicked out yet while Alex was. Honestly, has this guy got mental issues? It would definitely explain a lot.

However the viewers decided, with 65% of the votes, that it was to be Rebecca that was to be evicted.

Now I shall be honest, of all three housemates, she was the last of the ones I wanted to go. Yeah she isn't perfect, but after her little incident earlier on in the series she had settled down and became really entertaining. Well apart from the bed antics with Luke, that was just gross.

It shall be interesting to see how this week pans out for the Bex friends. Moping about most likely with their tails between their legs.

Best Housemate of the week
Hmm, difficult one really because I don't think anyone deserves that status. If I have to choose, I would say Rebecca. She has been entertaining, albeit slightly annoying.

Personally, I would have preferred her to have stayed in hell for another week. Oh what fun would that have been.

Worst housemate of the week
Has to be Darnell without a doubt. Apart from having the same amount of social skills as a serial killer, I really can't stand his moping around like a sad loser. Not everyone likes you get over it!!!

KylieX2008 Concert

2008-07-16T23:40:00.016+01:00

Lets be honest, Kylie had a lot to live up to after the Showgirl tour. Showgirl Homecoming was no match either, but she was still recovering so she can be let off for that.

I will be honest x2008 was not the best concert she has done but it was still good. But I think that has to be more to do with the seats that I had (11 from front) and I didn't have someone who was 6' odd in front (she was about 5'4" which made viewing easy).

The set wasn't as awe-inspiring as previous tours with this one weaving heavily more on pyrotechnics to make you go 'Ooh', but in all honestly it was more of an 'Oh'! Saying that though, the skull was fantastic and the best iconic image from the concert in my opinion. Oh and when the dancers picked Kylie up into the splits.

Kylie had a big stumbling block with the fact that X just wasn't her strongest album, however she seemed to get over the block with relative ease. The mix of old and new tracks with a new twist was brilliant. There was only one or two tracks which I wasn't sure on, but overall I really enjoyed the concert.

What I also found good was the merchandise. Not in actually purchasing it, but the prices. They appeared to have dropped from the previous tour prices. For example the programme this year was only £15, but at Showgirl they were about £20/£25. Granted the prices were still astronomically high and you need to take a load out just to purchase a t-shirt, but it was nice to see they had dropped in OTT value. I did however have to purchase the campest thing I saw.....a teacup and saucer!!!

Initially, I wasn't going to purchase it as I would have preferred a mug (like Showgirl), but I did. And yeah it's camp and very Jean Paul Gaultier, but I kinda like it now. Don't think I will ever use it though. This one is purely for display.