I make no apologies for this, especially given my personal feelings on the US president…
Wouldn’t it be great to turn on the TV and hear President Bush give the following speech?
My Fellow Americans:
As you all know, the defeat of Iraq regime has been completed. Since congress does not want to spend any more money on this war, our mission in Iraq is complete. This morning I gave the order for a complete removal of all American forces from Iraq. This action will be complete within 30 days.
It is now time to begin the reckoning. Before me, I have two lists. One list contains the names of countries that have stood by our side during the Iraq conflict. This list is short. The United Kingdom, Spain, Bulgaria, Australia, and Poland are some of the countries listed there. The other list contains everyone not on the first list. Most of the world's nations are on that list. My press secretary will be distributing copies of both lists later this evening.
Let me start by saying that effective immediately, foreign aid to those nations on List 2 ceases immediately and indefinitely. The money saved during the first year alone will pretty much pay for the costs of the Iraqi war. The American people are no longer going to pour money into third world Hell-holes and watch those government leaders grow fat on corruption. Need help with a famine? Wrestling with an epidemic? Call France.
In the future, together with Congress, I will work to redirect this money toward solving the vexing social problems we still have at home. On that note, a word to terrorist organizations. Screw with us and we will hunt you down and eliminate you and all your friends from the face of the earth. Thirsting for a gutsy country to terrorize? Try France, or maybe China.
To Israel and the Palestinian Authority. Yo, boys. Work out a peace deal now. Just note that Camp David is closed. Maybe all of you can go to Russia for negotiations. They have some great palaces there. Big tables, too. By the way Palestinians, we are no longer going to restrain Israel!
I am ordering the immediate severing of diplomatic relations with France, Germany, and Russia. Thanks for all your help, comrades. We are retiring from NATO as well. Bon chance, mes amis.
I have instructed the Mayor of New York City to begin towing the many UN diplomatic vehicles located in Manhattan with more than two unpaid parking tickets to sites where those vehicles will be stripped, shredded and crushed. I don't care about whatever treaty pertains to this. You creeps have tens of thousands of unpaid tickets. Pay those tickets tomorrow or watch your precious Benzes, Beamers, and limos be turned over to some of the finest chop shops in the world. I love New York.
A special note to our neighbours. Canada is on List 2. Since we are likely to be seeing a lot more of each other, you folks might want to try not pissing us off for a change. Mexico is also on List 2. President Fox and his entire corrupt government really need an attitude adjustment. I will have a couple of extra tank and infantry divisions sitting around. Guess where I am going to put 'em? Yep, border security. So start doing something with your oil.
Oh, by the way, the United States is abrogating the NAFTA treaty - starting now. We are sick and tired of the one-way highway. It is time for America to focus on its own welfare and its own citizens. Some will accuse us of isolationism. I answer them by saying, "darn tootin'."
Nearly a century of trying to help folks live a decent life around the world has only earned us the undying enmity of just about everyone on the planet. It is time to eliminate hunger in America. It is time to eliminate homelessness in America. It is time to eliminate World Cup Soccer from America. To the nations on List 1, a final thought. Thanks guys. We owe you and we won't forget. To the nations on List 2, a final thought. Go to Hell.
God Bless America.
Thank you and good night.
If you can read this, thank a teacher. If you are reading it in English, thank a soldier!!!!!!!!!
Ok, I know that there will be people who will be screaming blue murder, because I'm taking the mickey out of the US president, but I make no apologies for this. If I could find something that poked fun at the British political system, I would get it posted onto my blog. And no, this isn't something that a Brit sent to me - this came in from the States. And all that remains for me to say is....
Many thanks for the jokes big guy...
Suppose I'd better look like I'm doing some work...
Back later, if I get the chance.
Karen.
Don't let the b'stards get you down.
Woah - what we have here is sense of humour failure...
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Karen
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Why can't people be more open minded? All I got today was comments about me being cuddled by a fella at the post conference piss up. The truth of the matter is, I was stone cold sober, as I was driving, and was absolutely freezing whilst I was walking up the drive at Warwick castle, and the fella in question was a real gent and acted as a wind break for me.
As we walked through the Kingmaker exhibit, the floor was rather uneven, and some of the waxworks were real people, who seemed to delight in making people jump. I had one of them jump out at me, and it was only because the fella I was with grabbed hold of me, that I prevented myself from getting injured, or falling flat on my face.
Mind you, he didn't object, as he jokingly said that he'd 'pulled.' (I knew damned well he was married and he knew that I was attached and that my partner was also at the do, so there was absolutely nothing in it.)
The comments were just enough to irritate me, and I will admit, it was one of the rare occasions that I was glad of managerial intervention. My line manager stepped into the fray, and told the responsible people to cut the comments, otherwise he wouldn't be held responsible if I decided to lay a few tales to rest.
But that didn't stop the subtle hints, and just to make matters more awkward for me, the fella whom had been my 'escort' for want of a better term, was in the office. He was totally professional and if he heard the comments, didn't rise to the bait. Well - not that he showed, anyway!
What makes me say that? Simple. He caught up with me in the canteen area, where I was making myself a coffee, and asked if the interest in our being together on Tuesday night was normal. I nodded, and I guess that he must have realised that I was heartily sick of all the comments / nudges and winks, because he gave me a lovely cuddle, and told me not to worry.
It turned out, after I'd left the rest of the party-goers and headed for home, he'd spoken to my partner (or significant other - the choice of phrase depends on my mood!) and elaborated on the plan that the pair of us had hatched.
It basically boiled down to the fact that not many people at the office know him, and as I'm a newbie (so to speak), we were going to give all the office mob something to talk about - even though absolutely nothing happened!
To be honest, the sense of humour failure was mine - but thankfully, there were people willing to make me laugh, and act as unwilling scratching posts for my claws this afternoon. My poor maligned line manager being one of them.
He started taking the mickey out of one of the other girls, and I decided to start flexing the claws again, as I'd been rather subdued for a while... I gave her the idea that she could refuse to pick up his lunch for him when she went out for lunch, and that was met with a howl of anguish, and the comment:
"Ok, Karen, put the claws away. I didn't mean it."
That just made me laugh, but it was soon to be my turn to get on the receiving end of the waspish sense of humor that my line manager seems to have. But, instead of reacting verbally, I just waited to get a more pertinent type of revenge.
I waited until he was leaning back from his computer, stretching his back, and then took careful aim, and threw my lavender stress ball, so that it bounced off the keyboard and onto his desk.
The look of surprise was well worth it, as I'd never given any indication that I could throw as accurately as that. However, his accuracy wasn't as good as mine and he missed the return shot at me by a country mile. Mind you - I made damned sure of that - I ducked!
A few minutes later, it was time for me to escape, and it was with great hilarity that I left, as my line manager was too embarassed by the missed shot to even say anything to me, apart from wishing me a good weekend, and that he'd see me on Monday...
Suppose I'd better call this entry quits - I've got to get the cats sorted for the night.
Back when I get the chance.
Karen.
Don't let the b'stards get you down.
As we walked through the Kingmaker exhibit, the floor was rather uneven, and some of the waxworks were real people, who seemed to delight in making people jump. I had one of them jump out at me, and it was only because the fella I was with grabbed hold of me, that I prevented myself from getting injured, or falling flat on my face.
Mind you, he didn't object, as he jokingly said that he'd 'pulled.' (I knew damned well he was married and he knew that I was attached and that my partner was also at the do, so there was absolutely nothing in it.)
The comments were just enough to irritate me, and I will admit, it was one of the rare occasions that I was glad of managerial intervention. My line manager stepped into the fray, and told the responsible people to cut the comments, otherwise he wouldn't be held responsible if I decided to lay a few tales to rest.
But that didn't stop the subtle hints, and just to make matters more awkward for me, the fella whom had been my 'escort' for want of a better term, was in the office. He was totally professional and if he heard the comments, didn't rise to the bait. Well - not that he showed, anyway!
What makes me say that? Simple. He caught up with me in the canteen area, where I was making myself a coffee, and asked if the interest in our being together on Tuesday night was normal. I nodded, and I guess that he must have realised that I was heartily sick of all the comments / nudges and winks, because he gave me a lovely cuddle, and told me not to worry.
It turned out, after I'd left the rest of the party-goers and headed for home, he'd spoken to my partner (or significant other - the choice of phrase depends on my mood!) and elaborated on the plan that the pair of us had hatched.
It basically boiled down to the fact that not many people at the office know him, and as I'm a newbie (so to speak), we were going to give all the office mob something to talk about - even though absolutely nothing happened!
To be honest, the sense of humour failure was mine - but thankfully, there were people willing to make me laugh, and act as unwilling scratching posts for my claws this afternoon. My poor maligned line manager being one of them.
He started taking the mickey out of one of the other girls, and I decided to start flexing the claws again, as I'd been rather subdued for a while... I gave her the idea that she could refuse to pick up his lunch for him when she went out for lunch, and that was met with a howl of anguish, and the comment:
"Ok, Karen, put the claws away. I didn't mean it."
That just made me laugh, but it was soon to be my turn to get on the receiving end of the waspish sense of humor that my line manager seems to have. But, instead of reacting verbally, I just waited to get a more pertinent type of revenge.
I waited until he was leaning back from his computer, stretching his back, and then took careful aim, and threw my lavender stress ball, so that it bounced off the keyboard and onto his desk.
The look of surprise was well worth it, as I'd never given any indication that I could throw as accurately as that. However, his accuracy wasn't as good as mine and he missed the return shot at me by a country mile. Mind you - I made damned sure of that - I ducked!
A few minutes later, it was time for me to escape, and it was with great hilarity that I left, as my line manager was too embarassed by the missed shot to even say anything to me, apart from wishing me a good weekend, and that he'd see me on Monday...
Suppose I'd better call this entry quits - I've got to get the cats sorted for the night.
Back when I get the chance.
Karen.
Don't let the b'stards get you down.
There’s something about just shooting the breeze…
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Karen
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There's something to be said about going out after work with a couple of work mates, and sitting shooting the breeze, knowing that what you say won't be taken out of context or taken any further the table that you're seated at.
It started out as a joke between me and one of the other girls that I work with. We'd arranged to buzz off to a pub after work for a quiet drink and a chat, and as a joke, asked one of the guys that we worked with.
To be honest, I was rather sceptical about his participation, and as he was finishing after the pair of us, I gave him my mobile number with the request that he called me to make sure that we were still at the pub.
Well, much to my amazement, about an hour or so after we'd gotten to the pub, my 'phone rang, and my colleague said that he was en-route, and would join us in the pub.
If I'm brutally honest, I think it did me the world of good, as I was able to talk to people I like and respect, knowing full well that what I said would go no further. But I also leant more about the people I work with, and more importantly, how people in my department perceived me.
The fella who met us at the pub was part of the team that was doing the presentation on Tuesday, and he said that both he and my line manager had been really concerned about me, as I was paler than they'd ever seen me, and it was only because I was wearing a dark coloured shirt that I managed to get any colour in my face.
"To be honest, I was wondering if I was going to need a shovel, you looked like you were absolutely shitting it. But you really proved that you've got great strength of character - and that's been noted by the powers that be."
That really surprised me. Yes - I will admit to being terrified, but to have it open stated that I looked terrified really surprised me. Mind you, I wasn't really taking much notice of how I looked when I nipped into the ladies loo to change into my t-shirt!
We then got talking about other things, and I finally admitted the reason why I'd been so keen to get out tonight. Simply because talking to my ex had upset me more than I'd realised. Or, more to the point, it had upset me more than I'd been willing to admit to myself.
The more the three of us talked, the happier I became, and by the end of the evening, I was even getting the claws out, and having a quick swipe at people.
But, the most important thing for me, was the fact that the three of us have gotten to know each other slightly better, and have said that we'll have to go out again after work, and the agreement that we keep what is discussed between the three of us will be our bond.
Time to call this entry quits - I need my ugly sleep as I've got to be up early tomorrow morning.
Back tomorrow - if I get the peace and quiet at work!
Karen.
Don't let the b'stards get you down.
It started out as a joke between me and one of the other girls that I work with. We'd arranged to buzz off to a pub after work for a quiet drink and a chat, and as a joke, asked one of the guys that we worked with.
To be honest, I was rather sceptical about his participation, and as he was finishing after the pair of us, I gave him my mobile number with the request that he called me to make sure that we were still at the pub.
Well, much to my amazement, about an hour or so after we'd gotten to the pub, my 'phone rang, and my colleague said that he was en-route, and would join us in the pub.
If I'm brutally honest, I think it did me the world of good, as I was able to talk to people I like and respect, knowing full well that what I said would go no further. But I also leant more about the people I work with, and more importantly, how people in my department perceived me.
The fella who met us at the pub was part of the team that was doing the presentation on Tuesday, and he said that both he and my line manager had been really concerned about me, as I was paler than they'd ever seen me, and it was only because I was wearing a dark coloured shirt that I managed to get any colour in my face.
"To be honest, I was wondering if I was going to need a shovel, you looked like you were absolutely shitting it. But you really proved that you've got great strength of character - and that's been noted by the powers that be."
That really surprised me. Yes - I will admit to being terrified, but to have it open stated that I looked terrified really surprised me. Mind you, I wasn't really taking much notice of how I looked when I nipped into the ladies loo to change into my t-shirt!
We then got talking about other things, and I finally admitted the reason why I'd been so keen to get out tonight. Simply because talking to my ex had upset me more than I'd realised. Or, more to the point, it had upset me more than I'd been willing to admit to myself.
The more the three of us talked, the happier I became, and by the end of the evening, I was even getting the claws out, and having a quick swipe at people.
But, the most important thing for me, was the fact that the three of us have gotten to know each other slightly better, and have said that we'll have to go out again after work, and the agreement that we keep what is discussed between the three of us will be our bond.
Time to call this entry quits - I need my ugly sleep as I've got to be up early tomorrow morning.
Back tomorrow - if I get the peace and quiet at work!
Karen.
Don't let the b'stards get you down.
Busted... And still smiling - but only just.
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Karen
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Just one of the perils of being half asleep and sitting where I do (with my back to the door.) I'd got Solitaire running before I'd officially started work and me being dopey, I'd forgotten to close the game. It just my luck, as I was searching for a particular screen my line manager walked in, and spotted the offending game.
The first I knew of it, was when he said "Solitaire Karen? I'm very disappointed." Luckily for me, I was able to talk my way out of it, but it's made me realise that I need to be that much more careful - especially when I'm updating my blog!
I guessed that he wasn't too unhappy with me as he'd been teasing me, because I'm wearing my glasses. I will admit to being slightly miffed, but as I was taking the mickey out of him yesterday, I guess that I shouldn't complain too much.
The worst part (for me) is answering the phone. Simply because me being lazy, I use a headset, as that gives me both hands free to type with (but it doesn't improve my spelling!) But it does make life rather uncomfortable on my head, as my headset squashes the arms of my glasses into the side of my head.
But that's not the only thing that's annoying me today. I got caught a real beauty at lunchtime. My mobile rang, and me being not quite with it, having been engrossed in my book, I answered it.
It was the worst thing I could have done, as it was my ex. He was all sickly sweet, asking how I was, and I will admit, I felt really tempted to put the 'phone down on him. But, for some reason, pity stayed my hand, and I spoke to him.
But I was really surprised at myself - I felt like I was taking to a total stranger - any emotions that I may have had for him, seem to have vanished like the early morning mists. I got the impression that he wasn't too happy, and he asked why I sounded so disinterested.
To be honest, I wasn't that bothered what he thought, and only bristled very slightly when he asked if I was seeing anyone. I am, but what irritated me was the way that he seemed to insinuate that I was being nasty and flaunting my new relationship.
So, rather than risk an argument, I politely told him that I was coming to the end of my lunch break, and needed to get back to my desk. (I was actually only halfway through my lunch break, but I was damned if I was going to let him waste any more of my free time!)
Once I'd gotten off the 'phone, I settled back down to read my book. I'm currently reading a non-fiction book, about the life of Mary Queen of Scots called My Heart is My Own. It's really well written, and I will admit, I'm quite enjoying it. But, I'm still not encouraged enough to go and study history!
I suppose I'd better get on with some work...
Back later - if I get the chance.
Karen.
Don't let the b'stards get you down.
The first I knew of it, was when he said "Solitaire Karen? I'm very disappointed." Luckily for me, I was able to talk my way out of it, but it's made me realise that I need to be that much more careful - especially when I'm updating my blog!
I guessed that he wasn't too unhappy with me as he'd been teasing me, because I'm wearing my glasses. I will admit to being slightly miffed, but as I was taking the mickey out of him yesterday, I guess that I shouldn't complain too much.
The worst part (for me) is answering the phone. Simply because me being lazy, I use a headset, as that gives me both hands free to type with (but it doesn't improve my spelling!) But it does make life rather uncomfortable on my head, as my headset squashes the arms of my glasses into the side of my head.
But that's not the only thing that's annoying me today. I got caught a real beauty at lunchtime. My mobile rang, and me being not quite with it, having been engrossed in my book, I answered it.
It was the worst thing I could have done, as it was my ex. He was all sickly sweet, asking how I was, and I will admit, I felt really tempted to put the 'phone down on him. But, for some reason, pity stayed my hand, and I spoke to him.
But I was really surprised at myself - I felt like I was taking to a total stranger - any emotions that I may have had for him, seem to have vanished like the early morning mists. I got the impression that he wasn't too happy, and he asked why I sounded so disinterested.
To be honest, I wasn't that bothered what he thought, and only bristled very slightly when he asked if I was seeing anyone. I am, but what irritated me was the way that he seemed to insinuate that I was being nasty and flaunting my new relationship.
So, rather than risk an argument, I politely told him that I was coming to the end of my lunch break, and needed to get back to my desk. (I was actually only halfway through my lunch break, but I was damned if I was going to let him waste any more of my free time!)
Once I'd gotten off the 'phone, I settled back down to read my book. I'm currently reading a non-fiction book, about the life of Mary Queen of Scots called My Heart is My Own. It's really well written, and I will admit, I'm quite enjoying it. But, I'm still not encouraged enough to go and study history!
I suppose I'd better get on with some work...
Back later - if I get the chance.
Karen.
Don't let the b'stards get you down.
The day after the conference...
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Karen
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And oh my God, are there some sore heads in the office. Mine isn't one of them, but I will admit to only getting an hour's sleep last night... I got home just after midnight, and was too wired to sleep, so that's the reason for the lack of sleep. (Well, one that I'm sticking with, anyway!)
I've also got a rotten headache to boot, as my eyes are really suffering. My own fault really, I'm too vain to wear my glasses instead of my contact lenses.
Having said that though, it's been quiet enjoyable, watching the rest of my colleagues suffering - including my line manager - who has been very subdued, due to the size of his hangover. (And yes, I am malevolent enough to take great glee in that fact!)
But he was still bright enough to have a quick pop at me, when I said that I'd gotten very little sleep. I knew he wasn't with it enough to fight back when I threatened to flick water over him, in an attempt to stop him falling asleep at his desk!
I guess that I should talk a bit about the conference... It was quite good, but I will admit, I wasn't really able to enjoy the morning, as I was really wound up about the presentation that I was going to do in the afternoon.
Lunch was very tasty - (the little bit that I managed to eat!), and the afternoon session was quite good fun. Those of us that were at the conference changed into t-shirts, with a motto that said:
A contact centre agent is for life - not just for Christmas
I've also got a rotten headache to boot, as my eyes are really suffering. My own fault really, I'm too vain to wear my glasses instead of my contact lenses.
Having said that though, it's been quiet enjoyable, watching the rest of my colleagues suffering - including my line manager - who has been very subdued, due to the size of his hangover. (And yes, I am malevolent enough to take great glee in that fact!)
But he was still bright enough to have a quick pop at me, when I said that I'd gotten very little sleep. I knew he wasn't with it enough to fight back when I threatened to flick water over him, in an attempt to stop him falling asleep at his desk!
I guess that I should talk a bit about the conference... It was quite good, but I will admit, I wasn't really able to enjoy the morning, as I was really wound up about the presentation that I was going to do in the afternoon.
Lunch was very tasty - (the little bit that I managed to eat!), and the afternoon session was quite good fun. Those of us that were at the conference changed into t-shirts, with a motto that said:
A contact centre agent is for life - not just for Christmas
on the front, and our first initial and surname on the back, with 05 (a reference to it being the 2005 conference) underneath. They looked really good, and we've all agreed to wear them the first Friday of the month, in order to raise money for the company's selected charity.
The presentation itself went quite well, and I will admit, my colleagues on the stand were a real help, giving me visual signals of encouragement (such as thumbs up) when I got the visual cue from the video that was part of the presentation.
But, I guess the real crux of the matter was the fact that I didn't chicken out,which I get the feeling that my line manager was worried I'd do. Simply because I was really scared in the morning, and could just about manage to do a final run through.
Afterwards, he admitted that he'd been worried that I would freak out and refuse to do the presentation due to my nerves, and that he had been quite willing to step in and help me if I'd felt too overwhelmed.
However, what he didn't realise was that I was determined to overcome my nerves, and once I'd got the first bit over and done with, I was relatively happy. Ok - I'll re-phrase that. Happier than I was in the morning!
The real fun was in the evening. We ended up going to Warwick Castle, and had to stand in the cold, listening to some idiot in armour drivelling on about the history of the castle. Normally I'm fairly interested, but when I'm freezing cold and hungry to boot, there's not much point in trying to get my interest.
The food wasn't really anything to write home about - but the entertainment was good in places, and missed the target in others. But for me, the best part was getting to know my colleagues better, and share a few jokes with like minded people... Including having a quick dig at my line manager!
As I've said in previous posts, I was determined to stop him calling me by his chosen nickname for me... So, last night, I jokingly asked him not to call me "Karen" all the time, as I always wondered what I'd done wrong.
His response was to complain that I was always changing my mind, ("typical bloody female") and he didn't know what the hell he could call me! I started laughing, and suggested "Kaz." He agreed, and said that this would be the last change, otherwise he'd start calling me something truly unrepeatable (in polite company, anyway!)
Ah well, time to call it quits - it's time for me to log off and bog off.
Back later (if my headache has cleared)...
Karen.
Don't let the b'stards get you down.
Feeling awful... And I think I know why....
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Karen
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No, I haven't said anything that I may regret. Yet. (There's still the evening 'do' to get through so I'll try to avoid tempting the Fates like that!)
The reason I'm feeling awful is the fact that I discovered that I am a rotten traveler when I'm uptight or worried about something. Crazy, I know, especially when you consider all the thousands of miles that I must have traveled over the years....
As you know from my last post, I was helping to set the stand up for my department's presentation, and that involved traveling. Not a good move, as I wasn't feeling too good anyway - I'd got a rotten headache even before I left the office, and spent the outward journey as a quiet passenger.
Once at site, I brightened up, even to the extent of doing a little bit of baiting, much to the amusement of one of my colleagues who jokingly called me Tiger. Ok - I can cope with that, as I have a real soft spot for the big stripy pussy cats.
The fun started when I was heading back to the office. I settled into the back seat of the car, and that was it. I started to feel really ill. My traveling companions were chatting, and it was soon noted that I was rather quiet.
Normally, if I get asked if I'm ok when I'm in a car, I make a joke and say that I'm "checking my eyelids for light leaks" or something like that. This time, I was really ropy, and just quietly admitted that I wasn't very good when it came to traveling in the back of a car.
My colleagues were really sweet, and said that I should have said something before, and I could have sat in the front. Very commendable, but given how I was feeling, the best thing I could do was close my eyes and snuggle down into my heavy winter coat - to the extent that all you could see of my face was the brow of my nose and my eyes.
Thankfully, the trip wasn't that long, and I was able to get out of the car, and stretch my legs. But I still felt rotten, and managed to avoid the very kind offer of a lift to where Mum works, on the grounds that the last thing I wanted to do was spend any more time in an unfamiliar car.
Don't get me wrong, the person who was driving was very steady - fast, but steady. Speed doesn't really bother me, but there was just something that I wasn't comfortable with, and I guess that it's because that I'm really wound up about this presentation.
Luckily for me, I'm going to be driving to the conference tomorrow, so I'll be too concerned with making sure that I get myself and the car to the site in one piece, so I hopefully won't have time to get travel sick.
Slightly change of topic now - Mum and I have booked our break to the Isle of Wight. We've booked a four night break at the St Maur hotel in Ventnor (see http://www.stmaur.co.uk/index.html) for full details. Now all I have to do is go and see the Doctor to get myself sorted out for the ferry!
Suppose I should log off and bog off. I want to get a decent night's sleep so that at least I can go to the conference semi-relaxed.
Back on Wednesday....
Karen.
Don't let the b'stards get you down.
The reason I'm feeling awful is the fact that I discovered that I am a rotten traveler when I'm uptight or worried about something. Crazy, I know, especially when you consider all the thousands of miles that I must have traveled over the years....
As you know from my last post, I was helping to set the stand up for my department's presentation, and that involved traveling. Not a good move, as I wasn't feeling too good anyway - I'd got a rotten headache even before I left the office, and spent the outward journey as a quiet passenger.
Once at site, I brightened up, even to the extent of doing a little bit of baiting, much to the amusement of one of my colleagues who jokingly called me Tiger. Ok - I can cope with that, as I have a real soft spot for the big stripy pussy cats.
The fun started when I was heading back to the office. I settled into the back seat of the car, and that was it. I started to feel really ill. My traveling companions were chatting, and it was soon noted that I was rather quiet.
Normally, if I get asked if I'm ok when I'm in a car, I make a joke and say that I'm "checking my eyelids for light leaks" or something like that. This time, I was really ropy, and just quietly admitted that I wasn't very good when it came to traveling in the back of a car.
My colleagues were really sweet, and said that I should have said something before, and I could have sat in the front. Very commendable, but given how I was feeling, the best thing I could do was close my eyes and snuggle down into my heavy winter coat - to the extent that all you could see of my face was the brow of my nose and my eyes.
Thankfully, the trip wasn't that long, and I was able to get out of the car, and stretch my legs. But I still felt rotten, and managed to avoid the very kind offer of a lift to where Mum works, on the grounds that the last thing I wanted to do was spend any more time in an unfamiliar car.
Don't get me wrong, the person who was driving was very steady - fast, but steady. Speed doesn't really bother me, but there was just something that I wasn't comfortable with, and I guess that it's because that I'm really wound up about this presentation.
Luckily for me, I'm going to be driving to the conference tomorrow, so I'll be too concerned with making sure that I get myself and the car to the site in one piece, so I hopefully won't have time to get travel sick.
Slightly change of topic now - Mum and I have booked our break to the Isle of Wight. We've booked a four night break at the St Maur hotel in Ventnor (see http://www.stmaur.co.uk/index.html) for full details. Now all I have to do is go and see the Doctor to get myself sorted out for the ferry!
Suppose I should log off and bog off. I want to get a decent night's sleep so that at least I can go to the conference semi-relaxed.
Back on Wednesday....
Karen.
Don't let the b'stards get you down.
Getting over the weekend...
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Karen
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I had a quiet weekend, doing very little - apart from getting my hair streaked. Instead of going for the normal blonde, I've opted for red streaks. Not a vivid red, but a subtle dark red.
To be honest, I was quite apprehensive, as I'd got horrible visions of it going wrong, but when it was done, the result was really surprising. Far from being the vivid red that I'd feared the streaks would be (as the colourant was a bright red colour), they're quite subtle, and you've got to get me in decent light to see them.
I've also managed to achieve a miracle. I've stopped my line manager from calling me by an "nickname" of sorts, my surname with a "Y" added on the end. Admittedly, I did drop myself in it rather a long way, and caused a lot of hilarity in the office, as I was aiming at a colleague, who was encouraging the use of the hated "nickname". Instead of me saying to my colleague "Shut your trap.... " I got the name wrong.
Thankfully, my line manager has taken it in good humour, and admitted that he hadn't actually heard the comment. How he failed to do so is beyond me, but I was quite grateful. It's also had the additional benefit that I'm now just called "Karen" instead of anything else!
So, now my next "task" is to get a new nickname established, as most of the people who know me call me "Kaz", which I will admit, used to annoy me, but as I've gotten older it doesn't bother me so much...
Slightly off topic, this e-mail was sent to me by an American e-mail friend....
A worldwide survey was conducted by the UN. The only question asked was:
"Would you please give your honest opinion about solutions to the food shortage in the rest of the world?" The survey was a huge failure.....
Coz in Africa they didn't know what 'food' meant, in India they didn't know what 'honest' meant; in Europe they didn't know what 'shortage' meant; in China they didn't know what 'opinion' meant; in the Middle East they didn't know what 'solution' meant; in South America they didn't know what 'please' meant; and in the USA they didn't know what 'the rest of the world' meant.
Oops! Time for me to log off & bog off - I've got to go and help set up the stand for the conference tomorrow.
Back later, if I get the chance....
Karen.
Don't let the b'stards get you down.
To be honest, I was quite apprehensive, as I'd got horrible visions of it going wrong, but when it was done, the result was really surprising. Far from being the vivid red that I'd feared the streaks would be (as the colourant was a bright red colour), they're quite subtle, and you've got to get me in decent light to see them.
I've also managed to achieve a miracle. I've stopped my line manager from calling me by an "nickname" of sorts, my surname with a "Y" added on the end. Admittedly, I did drop myself in it rather a long way, and caused a lot of hilarity in the office, as I was aiming at a colleague, who was encouraging the use of the hated "nickname". Instead of me saying to my colleague "Shut your trap.... " I got the name wrong.
Thankfully, my line manager has taken it in good humour, and admitted that he hadn't actually heard the comment. How he failed to do so is beyond me, but I was quite grateful. It's also had the additional benefit that I'm now just called "Karen" instead of anything else!
So, now my next "task" is to get a new nickname established, as most of the people who know me call me "Kaz", which I will admit, used to annoy me, but as I've gotten older it doesn't bother me so much...
Slightly off topic, this e-mail was sent to me by an American e-mail friend....
A worldwide survey was conducted by the UN. The only question asked was:
"Would you please give your honest opinion about solutions to the food shortage in the rest of the world?" The survey was a huge failure.....
Coz in Africa they didn't know what 'food' meant, in India they didn't know what 'honest' meant; in Europe they didn't know what 'shortage' meant; in China they didn't know what 'opinion' meant; in the Middle East they didn't know what 'solution' meant; in South America they didn't know what 'please' meant; and in the USA they didn't know what 'the rest of the world' meant.
Oops! Time for me to log off & bog off - I've got to go and help set up the stand for the conference tomorrow.
Back later, if I get the chance....
Karen.
Don't let the b'stards get you down.
Getting feedback is always nice..
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Karen
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I guess that I'd better respond to a couple of queries that I've received from posters about my blog...
In answer to Brian's comment, am I just sarcastic or is it just an English thing? Well, it depends on who / what I'm aiming at. And it's not because I'm English - I'm half Canadian from Dad's side of the family.
But most of the time, no, I'm not sarcastic - just rather fed up with the stupidity of people who don't seem to have anything better to do apart from complain.
Now onto the latest post / details... It feels like WWIII has broken out in the office. Two of the girls are involved in some silly little dispute that appears to have escalated into out and out war, and this dispute is now in danger of pulling me into the fray.
The worst part (for me, anyway) is the fact that both of them are using me as a shoulder to cry on, and as regular readers of this blog will know, I've got more than enough to keep me on my toes without this being added to my woes.
The mere fact that the probate court is querying the fact that Dad's will hadn't been updated for about 17 years. To be honest, neither he nor Mum thought that there was any need to update their wills as nothing had changed. So, I've got that hanging over me, as well as doing this dratted presentation at the conference.
Despite that, I'm keeping pretty much to my own council at the moment, as I'm currently the main contact for earthmover / industrial tyres in the office, as one of my colleagues is having a couple of days off.
As result, I've been kept pretty busy and have been on the 'phone most of the day. Mind you, I don't mind as the guys I talk to always end up veering off the subject and we end up talking about everything apart from work!
But, having said that, there are times when I wish I wasn't in the office and I'm starting to feel that today is one of them. Simply because I know that sooner or later, a complaint will be made to our departmental line manager, and I'll be hauled in to explain what's been going on.
The worst part is, I don't really want to drop either one in the proverbial, so I'm caught between a rock and a hard place. I know that I should be ready, willing and able to explain what I've seen and heard (not to mention said myself), but I feel that I'll be betraying the confidence of both girls.
Still, I guess that life could be a heck of a lot worse, and I've decided to adopt a new motto:
"Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, chocolate in one hand, martini in the other, body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming ~ "WOO HOO what a ride!""
Back when I get fed up.
Karen.
Don't let the b'stards get you down.
In answer to Brian's comment, am I just sarcastic or is it just an English thing? Well, it depends on who / what I'm aiming at. And it's not because I'm English - I'm half Canadian from Dad's side of the family.
But most of the time, no, I'm not sarcastic - just rather fed up with the stupidity of people who don't seem to have anything better to do apart from complain.
Now onto the latest post / details... It feels like WWIII has broken out in the office. Two of the girls are involved in some silly little dispute that appears to have escalated into out and out war, and this dispute is now in danger of pulling me into the fray.
The worst part (for me, anyway) is the fact that both of them are using me as a shoulder to cry on, and as regular readers of this blog will know, I've got more than enough to keep me on my toes without this being added to my woes.
The mere fact that the probate court is querying the fact that Dad's will hadn't been updated for about 17 years. To be honest, neither he nor Mum thought that there was any need to update their wills as nothing had changed. So, I've got that hanging over me, as well as doing this dratted presentation at the conference.
Despite that, I'm keeping pretty much to my own council at the moment, as I'm currently the main contact for earthmover / industrial tyres in the office, as one of my colleagues is having a couple of days off.
As result, I've been kept pretty busy and have been on the 'phone most of the day. Mind you, I don't mind as the guys I talk to always end up veering off the subject and we end up talking about everything apart from work!
But, having said that, there are times when I wish I wasn't in the office and I'm starting to feel that today is one of them. Simply because I know that sooner or later, a complaint will be made to our departmental line manager, and I'll be hauled in to explain what's been going on.
The worst part is, I don't really want to drop either one in the proverbial, so I'm caught between a rock and a hard place. I know that I should be ready, willing and able to explain what I've seen and heard (not to mention said myself), but I feel that I'll be betraying the confidence of both girls.
Still, I guess that life could be a heck of a lot worse, and I've decided to adopt a new motto:
"Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, chocolate in one hand, martini in the other, body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming ~ "WOO HOO what a ride!""
Back when I get fed up.
Karen.
Don't let the b'stards get you down.
Something to make the day easier...
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Karen
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Just a little thought for those who work in an office....
Prayer for the stressed
Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change things I cannot accept and the wisdom to hid the bodies of those I had to kill today because they got on my nerves.
Help me to be careful of the toes I step on today as they might be connected to the feet I may have to kiss tomorrow.
Help me always to give 100% at work: 12% on Monday, 23% on Tuesday, 40% on Wednesday, 20% on Thursday and 5% on Friday.
And help me to remember when I am having a bad day and it seems that people are trying to wind me up it takes 42 muscles to frown, 28 to smile and only four to extend my arm and smack someone in the mouth.
AMEN.
I know it sounds like all I do is bitch about work, but the office isn't as bad as it could be... There have been some offices that I've had the misfortune to work in, where you felt like you'd done well if you only had one knife hilt in your back!
Ah well, suppose I'd better get on with some w*rk...
Back later if I get the chance.
Karen.
Don't let the b'stards get you down.
Prayer for the stressed
Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change things I cannot accept and the wisdom to hid the bodies of those I had to kill today because they got on my nerves.
Help me to be careful of the toes I step on today as they might be connected to the feet I may have to kiss tomorrow.
Help me always to give 100% at work: 12% on Monday, 23% on Tuesday, 40% on Wednesday, 20% on Thursday and 5% on Friday.
And help me to remember when I am having a bad day and it seems that people are trying to wind me up it takes 42 muscles to frown, 28 to smile and only four to extend my arm and smack someone in the mouth.
AMEN.
I know it sounds like all I do is bitch about work, but the office isn't as bad as it could be... There have been some offices that I've had the misfortune to work in, where you felt like you'd done well if you only had one knife hilt in your back!
Ah well, suppose I'd better get on with some w*rk...
Back later if I get the chance.
Karen.
Don't let the b'stards get you down.
After the run through...
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Karen
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Talk about being emotionally drained. The run through was worse than I'd expected! Ok - I know that my colleagues were quite happy with the way I coped, but appearances are tremendously deceiving. Inside, I was little more than a quivering jelly!
My line manager was really helpful, and offered to help me on the first attempt, but I'm the stubborn (or bloody minded - take your pick) type. I will admit, I politely declined the offer of help, as I said that it was easier for me to "fling myself in at the deep end, and get this started - otherwise I'll just wimp out."
It wasn't as bad as I'd feared, and given the fact that I'd only watched the video a couple of times, I don't think I did too badly... Everyone in the group was really supportive, and my line manager was really impressed - he jokingly accused me of reading the script over his shoulder as he prepped it on his laptop!
But the more I ran through the script, the more my nerves started to affect me, and it didn't help the fact that my colleagues were pulling faces at me in an attempt to ease my nerves. In the end, I declined the offer of another run through, on the grounds that all it was doing was making me even more nervous that I already was.
As I left the room with the others, my line manager asked me to wait a couple of minutes, as he wanted to talk to me. I will admit to being even more uptight than I was before, but it transpired that all he wanted to do was re-assure me that if I didn't feel up to doing the presentation at any point, just let him know, and he'd step into the fray for me.
I will admit, I was really grateful for the offer, but said that I would feel that I had let myself and my group members down by wimping out at the last minute. As I type this, I'm beginning to wonder if this time, I've finally bitten off more than I can chew...
Back when I get chance.
Karen.
Don't let the b'stards get you down.
My line manager was really helpful, and offered to help me on the first attempt, but I'm the stubborn (or bloody minded - take your pick) type. I will admit, I politely declined the offer of help, as I said that it was easier for me to "fling myself in at the deep end, and get this started - otherwise I'll just wimp out."
It wasn't as bad as I'd feared, and given the fact that I'd only watched the video a couple of times, I don't think I did too badly... Everyone in the group was really supportive, and my line manager was really impressed - he jokingly accused me of reading the script over his shoulder as he prepped it on his laptop!
But the more I ran through the script, the more my nerves started to affect me, and it didn't help the fact that my colleagues were pulling faces at me in an attempt to ease my nerves. In the end, I declined the offer of another run through, on the grounds that all it was doing was making me even more nervous that I already was.
As I left the room with the others, my line manager asked me to wait a couple of minutes, as he wanted to talk to me. I will admit to being even more uptight than I was before, but it transpired that all he wanted to do was re-assure me that if I didn't feel up to doing the presentation at any point, just let him know, and he'd step into the fray for me.
I will admit, I was really grateful for the offer, but said that I would feel that I had let myself and my group members down by wimping out at the last minute. As I type this, I'm beginning to wonder if this time, I've finally bitten off more than I can chew...
Back when I get chance.
Karen.
Don't let the b'stards get you down.
Tired, and stuck with a headache.
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Karen
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There's nothing like a headache to make you feel flat. I've had this dratted headache for the past couple of days, and I'm beginning to wonder if it's got something to do with the fact that I'm worried.
No, it's not family or anything like that. This is work related. Me being dumb, I've agreed to speak at the company conference this month, and I'm scared witless. I know people will be saying "for goodness sake, say something!" but it's not as easy as that. I feel like I'm letting down my colleagues & team mates if I back out now.
Hopefully, I'll feel brighter this afternoon - I'm going to be doing a run through, to make sure that everything goes to plan...
Suppose I'd better log off & bog off - I want a few minutes peace and quiet before I get hauled in to do the run through...
Back later - if I get the chance.
Karen.
Don't let the b'stards get you down.
No, it's not family or anything like that. This is work related. Me being dumb, I've agreed to speak at the company conference this month, and I'm scared witless. I know people will be saying "for goodness sake, say something!" but it's not as easy as that. I feel like I'm letting down my colleagues & team mates if I back out now.
Hopefully, I'll feel brighter this afternoon - I'm going to be doing a run through, to make sure that everything goes to plan...
Suppose I'd better log off & bog off - I want a few minutes peace and quiet before I get hauled in to do the run through...
Back later - if I get the chance.
Karen.
Don't let the b'stards get you down.
Finding a UFO in the car... (Uninvited Furry Object)
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Karen
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No, I'm not going 'round the twist. I was checking the car over in the garage, and obviously, to get access to the controls and the bonnet catch, I had left the driver's door open.
The cats have the run of the house and garage, and Fred, being the nosy / dumb moggy that he is, hopped in to the car. Ok - not a major problem, as he had a quick sniff 'round, saw that there was nothing of feline interest, and hopped out.
Ponto, on the other hand was a different kettle of fish. (Or fur - your choice!) He hopped into the car, and promptly settled down for a sleep on the back seat. I closed the bonnet, and the door of the car, and went back into the house to grab my coat and handbag, so I could leave for work.
No problem there. The problem arose, when I backed the car out of the garage, and had just closed the garage door, with the intention of heading to work. Only to have a small (or not so small) grey head pop between the front seats, look up at me and go 'Meow.' As if to say "where are we going, and will I be able to sleep?"
I will admit, I was too stunned to even scream. I stood on the brakes, and slapped the hazards on - the last thing that I wanted was for one of the other residents to plough into the back of my car, whilst I was busy throwing Ponto back into the house.
Grabbing hold of him wasn't that difficult - I think he was more stunned by my reaction than I was! I opened the garage door, and then opened the back door and plonked him down on the floor with a few kitty crunchies. Whilst he was munching, I scarpered out the back door and back to the car, muttering darkly as I did so.
If the truth be known, Ponto & Fred wouldn't dream of going near my previous car, as I used to take them to the vet, and the minute they saw the door open on the car, the two of them fled!
So, I guess the moral of this furry tail (ok - I mean tale) is to make sure that neither cat is in the area when I'm checking the car over... Until I have to take them to the vet that is!
Suppose I'd better get on with some work...
Back later - if I can get the peace and quiet!
Karen.
Don't let the b'stards get you down
The cats have the run of the house and garage, and Fred, being the nosy / dumb moggy that he is, hopped in to the car. Ok - not a major problem, as he had a quick sniff 'round, saw that there was nothing of feline interest, and hopped out.
Ponto, on the other hand was a different kettle of fish. (Or fur - your choice!) He hopped into the car, and promptly settled down for a sleep on the back seat. I closed the bonnet, and the door of the car, and went back into the house to grab my coat and handbag, so I could leave for work.
No problem there. The problem arose, when I backed the car out of the garage, and had just closed the garage door, with the intention of heading to work. Only to have a small (or not so small) grey head pop between the front seats, look up at me and go 'Meow.' As if to say "where are we going, and will I be able to sleep?"
I will admit, I was too stunned to even scream. I stood on the brakes, and slapped the hazards on - the last thing that I wanted was for one of the other residents to plough into the back of my car, whilst I was busy throwing Ponto back into the house.
Grabbing hold of him wasn't that difficult - I think he was more stunned by my reaction than I was! I opened the garage door, and then opened the back door and plonked him down on the floor with a few kitty crunchies. Whilst he was munching, I scarpered out the back door and back to the car, muttering darkly as I did so.
If the truth be known, Ponto & Fred wouldn't dream of going near my previous car, as I used to take them to the vet, and the minute they saw the door open on the car, the two of them fled!
So, I guess the moral of this furry tail (ok - I mean tale) is to make sure that neither cat is in the area when I'm checking the car over... Until I have to take them to the vet that is!
Suppose I'd better get on with some work...
Back later - if I can get the peace and quiet!
Karen.
Don't let the b'stards get you down
Happy New Year!
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Karen
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Happy New Year! Sorry it's taken a while for me get this post on to the blog, but I've been rather pre-occupied with various things - including making sure that my friend is ok...
As I type this, Rachel is still in hospital recovering from the riding accident, and to be honest, I'm wondering if she'll ever want to get back on a horse again.
But, I'll cross that bridge when I come to it - no point on dwelling what may not even happen. If the events of the past year have taught me anything - it's grab every chance with both hands - life's too short for what if....
So, having taken that lesson on board, I did exactly that, and did something that most people would consider crazy. I bought a horse. Not just any horse, but a thoroughbred. As in race horse breed. I've no intention of racing her, as I don't fancy the expense / heartache that comes with race horse ownership.
However, she's a really bright / intelligent horse, and she's called Heart of Flame (more often called Flame for ease!) When I get the scanner sorted out (really must take the computer apart this weekend!) I'll take some photos of her (I don't do self portraits), and post them on my blog.
On a personal note, aside from the purchase of my horse, things have been ticking along quietly, and things are getting..... Interesting. Obviously, I'll refrain from naming people (unless I get their ok), but suffice to say that I'm happier than I've been for quite a while.
Admittedly, I do take some stick at work for it, but it's water off a duck's back as they say, as there is very little that anyone can say / do to dampen my happiness.
Ah well, time to call this entry quits - I've got to get dinner ready for when Mum gets in...
Back tomorrow - possibly.
Karen.
Don't let the b'stards get you down.
As I type this, Rachel is still in hospital recovering from the riding accident, and to be honest, I'm wondering if she'll ever want to get back on a horse again.
But, I'll cross that bridge when I come to it - no point on dwelling what may not even happen. If the events of the past year have taught me anything - it's grab every chance with both hands - life's too short for what if....
So, having taken that lesson on board, I did exactly that, and did something that most people would consider crazy. I bought a horse. Not just any horse, but a thoroughbred. As in race horse breed. I've no intention of racing her, as I don't fancy the expense / heartache that comes with race horse ownership.
However, she's a really bright / intelligent horse, and she's called Heart of Flame (more often called Flame for ease!) When I get the scanner sorted out (really must take the computer apart this weekend!) I'll take some photos of her (I don't do self portraits), and post them on my blog.
On a personal note, aside from the purchase of my horse, things have been ticking along quietly, and things are getting..... Interesting. Obviously, I'll refrain from naming people (unless I get their ok), but suffice to say that I'm happier than I've been for quite a while.
Admittedly, I do take some stick at work for it, but it's water off a duck's back as they say, as there is very little that anyone can say / do to dampen my happiness.
Ah well, time to call this entry quits - I've got to get dinner ready for when Mum gets in...
Back tomorrow - possibly.
Karen.
Don't let the b'stards get you down.
Guess things must be making an impact...
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Karen
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To get a comment about my blog was unexpected, but to be told that the writer of the comment doesn't like what he / she / it reads is just up to them. Simple solution - if you don't like what I write, don't read my blog.
Now that's sorted out, I can get on with the rest of my blog. As you may or may not know, one of my hobbies is horse riding. And I will admit, I've had my share of scares / accidents / injuries over the past few years. Well, it wasn't my turn to go splat.
It was Rachel's turn. Her horse shied at something, and that was it - she was out the back door, and fell back first onto a boulder. Thankfully, she was wearing body armour, but it didn't prevent her being badly injured.
So, I spent a happy time (take that with a very LARGE pinch of salt) at the A&E - in the same room / area where Dad had died. Needless to say, I came very close to freaking out. But freaking out was not an option for me, as I needed to make sure that her sister (who's little girl I am God-mum to) was ok.
Rachel is, as I type this, in hospital recovering from surgery to pin her shoulder back together, and will be in hospital for the New Year. (Much to her disgust!)
Her sister has made me promise that I will take her to the saddler that I use, to make sure that she gets the same body armour as I wear. Ok - I admit it probably wouldn't have prevented the injuries, but it may have prevented them being so serious.
Ah well, that's what you get when you decide to take a hobby that involves dealing with something that has a mind / will of it's own.
Suppose I'd better call this quits - I need to make sure that Rach's operation has gone ok...
Back when I get the chance.
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
Now that's sorted out, I can get on with the rest of my blog. As you may or may not know, one of my hobbies is horse riding. And I will admit, I've had my share of scares / accidents / injuries over the past few years. Well, it wasn't my turn to go splat.
It was Rachel's turn. Her horse shied at something, and that was it - she was out the back door, and fell back first onto a boulder. Thankfully, she was wearing body armour, but it didn't prevent her being badly injured.
So, I spent a happy time (take that with a very LARGE pinch of salt) at the A&E - in the same room / area where Dad had died. Needless to say, I came very close to freaking out. But freaking out was not an option for me, as I needed to make sure that her sister (who's little girl I am God-mum to) was ok.
Rachel is, as I type this, in hospital recovering from surgery to pin her shoulder back together, and will be in hospital for the New Year. (Much to her disgust!)
Her sister has made me promise that I will take her to the saddler that I use, to make sure that she gets the same body armour as I wear. Ok - I admit it probably wouldn't have prevented the injuries, but it may have prevented them being so serious.
Ah well, that's what you get when you decide to take a hobby that involves dealing with something that has a mind / will of it's own.
Suppose I'd better call this quits - I need to make sure that Rach's operation has gone ok...
Back when I get the chance.
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
Just a thought..
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Karen
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If this was used here in the UK, I guess that there would be uproar... But it would bring home the danger of using a hand held mobile phone whilst driving...
And yes - I am quite aware that it has now become a 3 point penalty offence. (Just for the record, you're allowed a maximum of 12 points, then it's a mandatory one-year ban.)
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
Bird Bath....
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Karen
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Another American gem...
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
South East Asia Earthquake & Tsunami...
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Karen
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I guess I should mention this, as I will admit, this has had me glued to the 24 hour news channel (BBC News 24 - very imaginative name!)
I was heartbroken to hear that Sri Lanka was hit - this was a place that I had planned on returning to, as I'd enjoyed several family holidays there when I was a lot younger (ok - about 12 years old!) And for once in my life, I am going to give to an overseas charity appeal - as I know that the affected countries need all the help that they can get.
Time to call this quits - I'm being yelled for.
Back whenever..
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
I was heartbroken to hear that Sri Lanka was hit - this was a place that I had planned on returning to, as I'd enjoyed several family holidays there when I was a lot younger (ok - about 12 years old!) And for once in my life, I am going to give to an overseas charity appeal - as I know that the affected countries need all the help that they can get.
Time to call this quits - I'm being yelled for.
Back whenever..
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
Politically correct jokes? I don’t think so.
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Karen
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Just another one of my pet hates. Ok – I agree that there should be limits, but when it comes to humour, there are few boundaries I won’t cross. My trouble is, most of the jokes I know are racist, sexist or down right offensive. Or, as a good friend of mine like to point out – if I’m lucky – all three! If you’re easily offended, skip the rest of this post!
I was given the DVD of the self-proclaimed Australian Bard (also known as Kevin “Bloody” Wilson) He of such classic songs / ballads as She’s the kinda Sheila for me, Santa Claus, DILLIGAF (Do I Look Like I Give A F****) and my personal favourite That f*****g cat’s back.
Suffice to say that I was howling with laughter – especially when he came out with the comment about making PC jokes.
“’Cause to me, political correctness has always been a contradiction in terms. If it’s political, it’s a real good chance it’s not correct.” (Or words to that effect!) Needless to say, it has had me in fits of giggles.
There were jokes about fun runs. (Now there’s a contradiction in terms!) It turned out to be a 5k run, which took him 3 days, as there were pubs along the way… “And I didn’t know you weren’t allowed to spend all the money every b’stard had given me.”
The best bit is where he takes a swipe at his fellow countrymen. He asks the drunks in the audience to put their hands up… Only a few people stuck their hands up, so Kevin asks people sitting next to a drunk to put their hands up…. “That’s the Australian attitude – dob your mates in.”
The other thing that’s had me in stitches is a book that Mum gave me for Christmas. It’s called A year in the merde by Stephen Clarke. (And yes – I am quite aware of the title’s translation. French was one subject at school I enjoyed!)
Still, where would this world be, without a sense of humour? In my opinion, it would be a poorer place, especially when you get gems like this sent to you…
http://www.gotlaughs.com/funflash/boobs_hang_low.cfm
And I make no apologies – it’s an old ‘un but a classic!
Time to call this entry quits – I can hear my two furry thugs starting a punch-up with the cats next door…
Back tomorrow.
Karen
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
I was given the DVD of the self-proclaimed Australian Bard (also known as Kevin “Bloody” Wilson) He of such classic songs / ballads as She’s the kinda Sheila for me, Santa Claus, DILLIGAF (Do I Look Like I Give A F****) and my personal favourite That f*****g cat’s back.
Suffice to say that I was howling with laughter – especially when he came out with the comment about making PC jokes.
“’Cause to me, political correctness has always been a contradiction in terms. If it’s political, it’s a real good chance it’s not correct.” (Or words to that effect!) Needless to say, it has had me in fits of giggles.
There were jokes about fun runs. (Now there’s a contradiction in terms!) It turned out to be a 5k run, which took him 3 days, as there were pubs along the way… “And I didn’t know you weren’t allowed to spend all the money every b’stard had given me.”
The best bit is where he takes a swipe at his fellow countrymen. He asks the drunks in the audience to put their hands up… Only a few people stuck their hands up, so Kevin asks people sitting next to a drunk to put their hands up…. “That’s the Australian attitude – dob your mates in.”
The other thing that’s had me in stitches is a book that Mum gave me for Christmas. It’s called A year in the merde by Stephen Clarke. (And yes – I am quite aware of the title’s translation. French was one subject at school I enjoyed!)
Still, where would this world be, without a sense of humour? In my opinion, it would be a poorer place, especially when you get gems like this sent to you…
http://www.gotlaughs.com/funflash/boobs_hang_low.cfm
And I make no apologies – it’s an old ‘un but a classic!
Time to call this entry quits – I can hear my two furry thugs starting a punch-up with the cats next door…
Back tomorrow.
Karen
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
The day after the day before...
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Karen
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Christmas. You seem to spend about half the year preparing for the big day, and when it finally arrives, it's almost as if it's a case of is this it? All that work / stress / hassle for this?
Ok - maybe I'm getting cynical in my old age. (And before I get comments - I know I'm only 30, but there have been times when I've felt 130! The morning after my department's Christmas do being one of them! More on that in a later post.)
Having said that, it wasn't too bad - Mum and I had a quiet day - which is what the pair of us really wanted (apart from Dad being with us - but that just goes without saying, really.)
Mum was over the moon with the perfume bottle, and said that it was from a maker that she'd never considered collecting in the past. The foot spa was well received, and Mum put it to the test later in the day, and said that it made her feet feel a lot better.
Me? I got Green Day's new album - American Idiot. I'm listening to it now, and some of the songs are really though provoking - especially Boulevard of Broken Dreams. I will admit - that's one of my favorite tracks, but the rest of the album has the normal guitar riffs and good strong vocals.
The one present that really made me smile was given to me by a guy that I met (ok re-phrase that - got to know better as a person!) at the Christmas do. He gave me a little box that was gift wrapped, and insisted that I waited until Christmas day to open the box, and then call him to let him know what I thought...
He'd bought me a pair of Peridot earrings! They're really unusual, and to say I was speechless was an understatement! I called him as soon as I could, and said that I was really touched, and felt a real rat, because I hadn't gotten him anything.
The reply was something that took me by surprise - "Princess, you don't need to get me anything. You're the only thing that I want for Christmas." Normally, I'd be making comments along the lines of - "Where's the vomit bucket / what are you after, etc"
Needless to say, after that, I was struggling to find words - not something that I usually have problems with - as my friends well know!
Ah well - time to call the entry quits - I'm off to Leek Wooten to see Amber & co...
Back whenever.
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
Ok - maybe I'm getting cynical in my old age. (And before I get comments - I know I'm only 30, but there have been times when I've felt 130! The morning after my department's Christmas do being one of them! More on that in a later post.)
Having said that, it wasn't too bad - Mum and I had a quiet day - which is what the pair of us really wanted (apart from Dad being with us - but that just goes without saying, really.)
Mum was over the moon with the perfume bottle, and said that it was from a maker that she'd never considered collecting in the past. The foot spa was well received, and Mum put it to the test later in the day, and said that it made her feet feel a lot better.
Me? I got Green Day's new album - American Idiot. I'm listening to it now, and some of the songs are really though provoking - especially Boulevard of Broken Dreams. I will admit - that's one of my favorite tracks, but the rest of the album has the normal guitar riffs and good strong vocals.
The one present that really made me smile was given to me by a guy that I met (ok re-phrase that - got to know better as a person!) at the Christmas do. He gave me a little box that was gift wrapped, and insisted that I waited until Christmas day to open the box, and then call him to let him know what I thought...
He'd bought me a pair of Peridot earrings! They're really unusual, and to say I was speechless was an understatement! I called him as soon as I could, and said that I was really touched, and felt a real rat, because I hadn't gotten him anything.
The reply was something that took me by surprise - "Princess, you don't need to get me anything. You're the only thing that I want for Christmas." Normally, I'd be making comments along the lines of - "Where's the vomit bucket / what are you after, etc"
Needless to say, after that, I was struggling to find words - not something that I usually have problems with - as my friends well know!
Ah well - time to call the entry quits - I'm off to Leek Wooten to see Amber & co...
Back whenever.
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
I like this one...
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Karen
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Blame this on American friends - it had me howling...
Karen.
Do Spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
‘Twas the night before Christmas…
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Karen
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Not a creature was stirring – not even a mouse. ‘Cause he was pissed like everyone else!
Sorry. Couldn’t resist that. But it does sum up how I feel about Christmas, simply because we finished work at 12:30, and decamped straight to the pub! I couldn’t drink as I was driving, but thankfully, I wasn’t the only one.
OK – you’d got the stupid ones who were determined to drink as much as they could, before they headed for home but they were few and far between.
It was a really good time, with a whole load of friends & workmates, and it was a case of a few of us realising that we’d still got to get food / present for some obscure relative who was going to be coming to the family home on Christmas day.
Thankfully I wasn't one of them, but I did have a visit to make - to my Godsprog! I told the truth - I'd promised I'd see the little munchkin before Father Christmas (or as Amber calls him - Santa) arrived, and there was no dammed way I was going to break that promise.
I wasn't the only one who was leaving at that time - my line manager was also leaving to keep family commitments, and there was much speculation that the pair of us were sloping off together.
He held his car keys up, and said that he’d got his car, and I did the same, as the last thing either us wanted was for our names to be linked at Christmas! I know it would have been done in good fun, but you always get the odd one or two who wouldn’t be able to let it rest.
Admittedly, I did get a kiss – on the cheek! But no more than that, aside from good wishes to the respective families, and “see you on Wednesday”, as the pair of us are working.
The drive to Leek Wooten was less traumatic than I’d thought it was going to be, and Amber was bouncing ‘round like Tigger® on acid! She was being a real menace at times, and her mother was at her wits’ end…
I soon sorted the problem – I threatened to light the open fire in the living room, and give Father Christmas a hot backside. The poor little mite was running ‘round crying “no hot Santa, no hot Santa!” That made everyone laugh, and her mother murmured that she wished she’d thought of that!
Still, I left the presents for Amber and her little sister (no – not the cymbal set – thankfully, Granddad Peter has taken care of that – he’s taken the drum and cymbal set off the two of us (Amber’s aunt and myself!), so he’ll be the one to get earache, not us!)
I found out that Amber is really into the play kitchen set that her Mum & Dad bought for her birthday, and there were several additional sets that would compliment the original set up. I bought one of the sets, and made sure that Amber was too engrossed to see me hand it over to her Dad.
Elian, (Amber's baby sister) I bought one of the Fisher Price® play sets that goes over the floor mat, and has dangling things that she can hit / spin / chew / annoy the cat with.
I made my excuses and left a couple of hours later - ok they weren't really excuses - I'd still got to wrap Mum's present up, and put the ribbons on the foot spa box.
That and the fact that I knew damned well I’d have Fred trying to play with the ribbon and the sellotape, before he finally ends up with it entangled in his fur!
Ah well, nearly time to call it quits – I can hear Mum’s car pulling up on the drive…
Karen. Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
PS - MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU ALL!!!!
Sorry. Couldn’t resist that. But it does sum up how I feel about Christmas, simply because we finished work at 12:30, and decamped straight to the pub! I couldn’t drink as I was driving, but thankfully, I wasn’t the only one.
OK – you’d got the stupid ones who were determined to drink as much as they could, before they headed for home but they were few and far between.
It was a really good time, with a whole load of friends & workmates, and it was a case of a few of us realising that we’d still got to get food / present for some obscure relative who was going to be coming to the family home on Christmas day.
Thankfully I wasn't one of them, but I did have a visit to make - to my Godsprog! I told the truth - I'd promised I'd see the little munchkin before Father Christmas (or as Amber calls him - Santa) arrived, and there was no dammed way I was going to break that promise.
I wasn't the only one who was leaving at that time - my line manager was also leaving to keep family commitments, and there was much speculation that the pair of us were sloping off together.
He held his car keys up, and said that he’d got his car, and I did the same, as the last thing either us wanted was for our names to be linked at Christmas! I know it would have been done in good fun, but you always get the odd one or two who wouldn’t be able to let it rest.
Admittedly, I did get a kiss – on the cheek! But no more than that, aside from good wishes to the respective families, and “see you on Wednesday”, as the pair of us are working.
The drive to Leek Wooten was less traumatic than I’d thought it was going to be, and Amber was bouncing ‘round like Tigger® on acid! She was being a real menace at times, and her mother was at her wits’ end…
I soon sorted the problem – I threatened to light the open fire in the living room, and give Father Christmas a hot backside. The poor little mite was running ‘round crying “no hot Santa, no hot Santa!” That made everyone laugh, and her mother murmured that she wished she’d thought of that!
Still, I left the presents for Amber and her little sister (no – not the cymbal set – thankfully, Granddad Peter has taken care of that – he’s taken the drum and cymbal set off the two of us (Amber’s aunt and myself!), so he’ll be the one to get earache, not us!)
I found out that Amber is really into the play kitchen set that her Mum & Dad bought for her birthday, and there were several additional sets that would compliment the original set up. I bought one of the sets, and made sure that Amber was too engrossed to see me hand it over to her Dad.
Elian, (Amber's baby sister) I bought one of the Fisher Price® play sets that goes over the floor mat, and has dangling things that she can hit / spin / chew / annoy the cat with.
I made my excuses and left a couple of hours later - ok they weren't really excuses - I'd still got to wrap Mum's present up, and put the ribbons on the foot spa box.
That and the fact that I knew damned well I’d have Fred trying to play with the ribbon and the sellotape, before he finally ends up with it entangled in his fur!
Ah well, nearly time to call it quits – I can hear Mum’s car pulling up on the drive…
Karen. Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
PS - MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU ALL!!!!
Dealing with Christmas cards
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Karen
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Well, I'm just about finished the Christmas cards. I've sent the e-card to my late father's friends in the USA, and all I've got to do now is post the other three cards (yes - I know I've left it late to post them - but some of us have been busy!)
The hardest bit has been putting the letter inside the card, to let people know what has happened. I will admit, the return cards have reduced Mum & myself to tears on more than one occasion.
Suppose I'd better bring this blog up to date a bit... It's just been a case of trying to find the time and place to put this down onto a keyboard - without getting skinned!
I went on the office Christmas do on Wednesday night - good food, good drink and good company - and a minor hangover the following morning!
Despite that, it was a good night out, and I'm not going to say any more than that, as I don't really want to reveal anything. Well, not yet anyway! *Grin*
I've also been promising a friend of mine, White Wolf, that I would publish a poetry website he publishes on... http://www.allpoetry.com/
He's written some good stuff, and hopefully, I'll be able to talk him into starting his own blog - his outlook on life is very refreshing, and frequently has me howling with laughter when we're on the phone.
Time to call it quits - got stuff around the house to do today.
Back when I get time & peace & quiet!
Karen
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
The hardest bit has been putting the letter inside the card, to let people know what has happened. I will admit, the return cards have reduced Mum & myself to tears on more than one occasion.
Suppose I'd better bring this blog up to date a bit... It's just been a case of trying to find the time and place to put this down onto a keyboard - without getting skinned!
I went on the office Christmas do on Wednesday night - good food, good drink and good company - and a minor hangover the following morning!
Despite that, it was a good night out, and I'm not going to say any more than that, as I don't really want to reveal anything. Well, not yet anyway! *Grin*
I've also been promising a friend of mine, White Wolf, that I would publish a poetry website he publishes on... http://www.allpoetry.com/
He's written some good stuff, and hopefully, I'll be able to talk him into starting his own blog - his outlook on life is very refreshing, and frequently has me howling with laughter when we're on the phone.
Time to call it quits - got stuff around the house to do today.
Back when I get time & peace & quiet!
Karen
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
On the ramp at Brimingham
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What a sight! This was taken by a friend of my late father's on the ramp at Birimgham Airport
Side view of the world famous nose
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Concorde's world famous nose in the upright position
Nearly down...
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Nose down - the only way that the crew can see where they're going!
Welcome to Birmingham International Airport!
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Comming into land - welcome to Birmingham old girl!
Here she comes!
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Here she comes... Concorde's arrival at Birmingham International Airport on her farewell flight.
Shots of Concorde on her farewell tour - Birmingham International Airport - 20/10/2003
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Concorde on the ground at Birmingham Airport
A few pictures that I found digging around my hard drive... Forgot I had these shots! I'll publish more as I track them down..
For more images & tech spec, etc on this beautiful aircraft, please see http://www.concordesst.com/home.html
Karen
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
Getting into the Christmas spirit? I think not.
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Karen
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I'm starting to dread the annual ritual of writing the Christmas cards to people. The family are ok, as they obviously know what's happened, but it's people that we (Mum & I) haven't seen / spoken to since last year that are worrying me.
Why? Because Mum & I are going to have to compose a letter to enclose with the cards, and let people know what has happened - and then wait for the 'phone calls, which I know damned well will upset Mum, as well as me... But I've already had one freak out episode in this so-called season of goodwill already....
I know this will sound crazy, but I had a minor crack up episode on Friday (after I'd posted to my blog.) I wasn't feeling very sociable at lunch-time, and rather than face having to try and make small talk with colleagues over sandwiches / soup and other lunches, I made a choice, that with hindsight, probably wasn't the smartest thing I could have done.
I went to the Crem and "spoke" to Dad. I was ok, until I read one of the Christmas cards that had been left in the Chapel of Remembrance. It was to a Beloved Father, and spoke of how the sender may not have seemed appreciative of his / her father, but that they always knew that they could rely on them when they needed support.
That was it. I burst into tears, and God knows how I managed to drive back to the office. I think that someone must have been looking after me on that drive, and when I got back into the office, my colleagues were concerned, as I looked a wreck.
My mascara had run (I wasn't wearing the waterproof mascara that I'd bought for Dad's funeral - brilliant stuff by Bourjois - it's called Plump up the Volume Waterproof in Brun Solis), and my eyes were all red and puffy.
Thankfully, I was left alone, but I'll say one thing for my colleagues - they all made sure I was ok - including my boss, who was worried about me driving home Friday night.
Admittedly, I wasn't going straight home - as Friday was my Godsprog's birthday, I had to make an appearance. But, I will admit, I was really glad that I did make the effort and go.
The look of delight on Amber's face when she saw the space hopper was something that really made me feel a lot brighter. Not to mention the glee with which she took to the space hopper - and started chasing the family cat!
So, I got home and saw that Mum had left me a note as she was working the late shift... We'd ordered a mower back in September.... Only for the company whom we'd ordered it from to say that they couldn't get the mower, and neither could Mountfield themselves!
So, Mum had the money refunded to her, and the note asked if I could go into Stratford to the mower place on Western Road (Simms) to sort one out - she's already reserved it, and all I needed to do was take the payment into them, and sort out the delivery.
Thanks. I was trying to avoid going out at the weekend, as I've done all my Christmas shopping (smug grin). Ok - I've still got to get one thing - my Secret Santa gift.
For those people (un)lucky enough to avoid this ritual, it basically involves everyone in the office writing their name on a piece of paper, and then someone else drawing it out of the bowl and scampering off to celebrate or drown their sorrows - depending on who they managed to get. But, I digress.
Simms was easy to get to, and get parked. The fun came when I had to pull out of Western Road. Those people who know Stratford-Upon-Avon will know the place that I'm talking about - it's just off the main drag up to the Tesco Superstore.
Which means that the only way to get out onto the main road, is take a chance and push your way out. Or, you could always wait for some kind motorist to let you out.
But, at this time of year, they are few and far between, especially when they've realised that Auntie Mavis is comming for pre-christmas drinks, and will only drink Bristol Cream sherry - which is the one drink that isn't kept in the house!
So, it was a case of speak softly - use airhorns - which had I been driving the Toyota, I would have done. But the Peugeot doesn't do too badly - especially not when the horn is followed with verbal abuse and / or appropriate hand gestures!
Once out onto the Birmingham road (the main drag), I tried to get past the hoards heading to Tesco and the Maybird shopping centre (which has a vaiety of stores from B&Q to Next and Halfords.)
For some reason, the great British motorist seems to take offence when they get the impression that someone might be trying to get ahead of them! They were all turning right - all I wanted to do was go straight on! I lost count of the dirty looks that I got, simply because I seemed to be moving through the traffic faster than I should have done.
Ah well, suppose I'd better log off & bog off - I've got to get the rest of my Christmas cards written...
Bah Humbug!
Back later - if I haven't gotten writer's block!
Karen
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
Why? Because Mum & I are going to have to compose a letter to enclose with the cards, and let people know what has happened - and then wait for the 'phone calls, which I know damned well will upset Mum, as well as me... But I've already had one freak out episode in this so-called season of goodwill already....
I know this will sound crazy, but I had a minor crack up episode on Friday (after I'd posted to my blog.) I wasn't feeling very sociable at lunch-time, and rather than face having to try and make small talk with colleagues over sandwiches / soup and other lunches, I made a choice, that with hindsight, probably wasn't the smartest thing I could have done.
I went to the Crem and "spoke" to Dad. I was ok, until I read one of the Christmas cards that had been left in the Chapel of Remembrance. It was to a Beloved Father, and spoke of how the sender may not have seemed appreciative of his / her father, but that they always knew that they could rely on them when they needed support.
That was it. I burst into tears, and God knows how I managed to drive back to the office. I think that someone must have been looking after me on that drive, and when I got back into the office, my colleagues were concerned, as I looked a wreck.
My mascara had run (I wasn't wearing the waterproof mascara that I'd bought for Dad's funeral - brilliant stuff by Bourjois - it's called Plump up the Volume Waterproof in Brun Solis), and my eyes were all red and puffy.
Thankfully, I was left alone, but I'll say one thing for my colleagues - they all made sure I was ok - including my boss, who was worried about me driving home Friday night.
Admittedly, I wasn't going straight home - as Friday was my Godsprog's birthday, I had to make an appearance. But, I will admit, I was really glad that I did make the effort and go.
The look of delight on Amber's face when she saw the space hopper was something that really made me feel a lot brighter. Not to mention the glee with which she took to the space hopper - and started chasing the family cat!
So, I got home and saw that Mum had left me a note as she was working the late shift... We'd ordered a mower back in September.... Only for the company whom we'd ordered it from to say that they couldn't get the mower, and neither could Mountfield themselves!
So, Mum had the money refunded to her, and the note asked if I could go into Stratford to the mower place on Western Road (Simms) to sort one out - she's already reserved it, and all I needed to do was take the payment into them, and sort out the delivery.
Thanks. I was trying to avoid going out at the weekend, as I've done all my Christmas shopping (smug grin). Ok - I've still got to get one thing - my Secret Santa gift.
For those people (un)lucky enough to avoid this ritual, it basically involves everyone in the office writing their name on a piece of paper, and then someone else drawing it out of the bowl and scampering off to celebrate or drown their sorrows - depending on who they managed to get. But, I digress.
Simms was easy to get to, and get parked. The fun came when I had to pull out of Western Road. Those people who know Stratford-Upon-Avon will know the place that I'm talking about - it's just off the main drag up to the Tesco Superstore.
Which means that the only way to get out onto the main road, is take a chance and push your way out. Or, you could always wait for some kind motorist to let you out.
But, at this time of year, they are few and far between, especially when they've realised that Auntie Mavis is comming for pre-christmas drinks, and will only drink Bristol Cream sherry - which is the one drink that isn't kept in the house!
So, it was a case of speak softly - use airhorns - which had I been driving the Toyota, I would have done. But the Peugeot doesn't do too badly - especially not when the horn is followed with verbal abuse and / or appropriate hand gestures!
Once out onto the Birmingham road (the main drag), I tried to get past the hoards heading to Tesco and the Maybird shopping centre (which has a vaiety of stores from B&Q to Next and Halfords.)
For some reason, the great British motorist seems to take offence when they get the impression that someone might be trying to get ahead of them! They were all turning right - all I wanted to do was go straight on! I lost count of the dirty looks that I got, simply because I seemed to be moving through the traffic faster than I should have done.
Ah well, suppose I'd better log off & bog off - I've got to get the rest of my Christmas cards written...
Bah Humbug!
Back later - if I haven't gotten writer's block!
Karen
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
A bit of a rough patch...
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Somehow, I've managed to duplicate a couple of orders for a couple of the accounts that I work with. To be honest, I'm somewhat embarrassed about this, as it's the first time that I've made such a mistake. My colleagues have told me not to worry, as it's "just one of those things", but that doesn't make me feel any brighter, as I feel that I've let myself down..
Still, I shouldn't be too downbeat - I'm off out tonight to see an old friend. No - not my ex - but a fella who knows just what to do to cheer me up - and make me smile in the process. Including sending me silly jokes whilst I'm at work - along the lines of:
Vodka & Red Bull Christmas cake
Ingredients:
1 cup water
1 cup brown sugar
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
Lemon juice
4 large eggs
Nuts
1 bottle vodka
I can Red Bull
2 cups dried fruit
Method: 1. Sample the vodka to check the quality
2. Take a large bowl and sample the vodka again
3. To be sure it is of the highest quality, pour one level cup and mix with a little Red Bull and drink
4. Repeat
5. Turn on the electric mixer, beat one cup of butter in a large fluffy bowl
6. Add teaspoon of sugar. Beat again.
7. At this point, it is best to make sure that the vodka is still ok.
8. Flavour with Red Bull to taste.
9. Try another cup just in case, turn off the mixerer.
10. Break to leggs and add to the bowl and chuck in the dried fruit.
11. Pick fruit off the floor.
12. Mix on the turner.
13. If the dried fruit gets stuck in the beaters, pry it loose with a drewscriver.
14. Shample the vodka for tonsistency, flavour with a little Bed Rull.
15. Next ssiffft two cups of salt. Or something. Who gives a ***t.
16. Throw a pinch of Bed Rull over your shoulder.
17. Pick up can, mop floor.
18. Check the vodka.
19. Now shift the lemon juice and strain your nuts.
20. Add one table.
21. Add a shpoon of sugar, or somefink. Whatever you can find.
22. Turn the cake tin 350 degrees and try not to fall over.
23. Don't forget to beat off the turner.
24. Finally, throw the bowl through the window, finish the vodka and kick the dog.
25. Fall into bed.
CHERRY MISTMASS
Ah well, suppose I'd better get on with some work....
Back later - if I get chance.
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
Still, I shouldn't be too downbeat - I'm off out tonight to see an old friend. No - not my ex - but a fella who knows just what to do to cheer me up - and make me smile in the process. Including sending me silly jokes whilst I'm at work - along the lines of:
Vodka & Red Bull Christmas cake
Ingredients:
1 cup water
1 cup brown sugar
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
Lemon juice
4 large eggs
Nuts
1 bottle vodka
I can Red Bull
2 cups dried fruit
Method: 1. Sample the vodka to check the quality
2. Take a large bowl and sample the vodka again
3. To be sure it is of the highest quality, pour one level cup and mix with a little Red Bull and drink
4. Repeat
5. Turn on the electric mixer, beat one cup of butter in a large fluffy bowl
6. Add teaspoon of sugar. Beat again.
7. At this point, it is best to make sure that the vodka is still ok.
8. Flavour with Red Bull to taste.
9. Try another cup just in case, turn off the mixerer.
10. Break to leggs and add to the bowl and chuck in the dried fruit.
11. Pick fruit off the floor.
12. Mix on the turner.
13. If the dried fruit gets stuck in the beaters, pry it loose with a drewscriver.
14. Shample the vodka for tonsistency, flavour with a little Bed Rull.
15. Next ssiffft two cups of salt. Or something. Who gives a ***t.
16. Throw a pinch of Bed Rull over your shoulder.
17. Pick up can, mop floor.
18. Check the vodka.
19. Now shift the lemon juice and strain your nuts.
20. Add one table.
21. Add a shpoon of sugar, or somefink. Whatever you can find.
22. Turn the cake tin 350 degrees and try not to fall over.
23. Don't forget to beat off the turner.
24. Finally, throw the bowl through the window, finish the vodka and kick the dog.
25. Fall into bed.
CHERRY MISTMASS
Ah well, suppose I'd better get on with some work....
Back later - if I get chance.
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
Short staffed, and short voiced....
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Karen
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We've got a whole load of people off sick / on holiday today, and I'm losing my voice. Still, guess it could be worse - I could still look like Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer!
But, having said that, the weekend was quite good, as I managed to get all of my Christmas shopping done - including getting my Godsprog's birthday and Christmas presents. The little munchkin is getting a space hopper for her birthday - that way, she can chase the family cat to her heart's content...
Christmas.... Me being malevolent, I've bought her the cymbal set to match her drum set that her aunt has bought her for Christmas. Her mother is going to skin the pair of us, but I think she may forgive me.... Eventually. *Grin*
Having said that though, I know that Amber will appreciate the pressies - and will take great delight in driving her family barmy!
Mind you, I picked this little gem up from the company newsletter....
A Christmas Story
It was Christmas Eve, and the excitement and anticipation of the night ahead, was so close you could almost taste it. Kitchens all over were infused with the heady scent of mince pies oozing with brandy butter. Children were hanging their stockings on the chimney breast hoping that tomorrow they would be stuffed beyond their wildest dreams (the stockings, not the children!?!).
So what tragic irony that amidst such seasonal goodwill, Father Christmas, the man who shoulders the burden of all our Christmas expectations should be having such a torrid time.
Mrs Christmas wasn't speaking to him as she'd discovered she was getting perfume for the 10th year running. The Elves were complaining that they had not been paid for the overtime they'd put in while making the toys for the world's children.
The reindeer had found a bottle of cherry brandy at the back of the cupboard and had taken the sleigh out for a spin, crashed it into a tree and were now rolling around laughing hysterically and telling silly jokes.
Poor Father Christmas was at the end of his tether. "I CAN'T believe it! I've got to deliver millions of presents all over the world in just a few hours from now and my reindeer are drunk, my elves are on strike, the wife's in a strop and I don't even have a Christmas tree! I sent that silly Little Angel out HOURS ago to find a tree and he still hasn't come back yet!"
Just then the Little Angel, all aglow with heavenly goodness, opened the front door and stepped in from the snowy night, dragging an enormous, lush Christmas tree behind him. The little Angel looked up at Father Christmas with shining eyes and spake forth: "Where would you like me to stick this, Father Christmas???"
And thus it came to pass, in homes the whole world over, the tradition of an Angel perching precariously atop the Family Christmas tree. Sure to bring a tear to even the most unfeeling eye!
Suppose I should think about doing some work, instead of blogging..
Back later - if I get the chance...
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
But, having said that, the weekend was quite good, as I managed to get all of my Christmas shopping done - including getting my Godsprog's birthday and Christmas presents. The little munchkin is getting a space hopper for her birthday - that way, she can chase the family cat to her heart's content...
Christmas.... Me being malevolent, I've bought her the cymbal set to match her drum set that her aunt has bought her for Christmas. Her mother is going to skin the pair of us, but I think she may forgive me.... Eventually. *Grin*
Having said that though, I know that Amber will appreciate the pressies - and will take great delight in driving her family barmy!
Mind you, I picked this little gem up from the company newsletter....
A Christmas Story
It was Christmas Eve, and the excitement and anticipation of the night ahead, was so close you could almost taste it. Kitchens all over were infused with the heady scent of mince pies oozing with brandy butter. Children were hanging their stockings on the chimney breast hoping that tomorrow they would be stuffed beyond their wildest dreams (the stockings, not the children!?!).
So what tragic irony that amidst such seasonal goodwill, Father Christmas, the man who shoulders the burden of all our Christmas expectations should be having such a torrid time.
Mrs Christmas wasn't speaking to him as she'd discovered she was getting perfume for the 10th year running. The Elves were complaining that they had not been paid for the overtime they'd put in while making the toys for the world's children.
The reindeer had found a bottle of cherry brandy at the back of the cupboard and had taken the sleigh out for a spin, crashed it into a tree and were now rolling around laughing hysterically and telling silly jokes.
Poor Father Christmas was at the end of his tether. "I CAN'T believe it! I've got to deliver millions of presents all over the world in just a few hours from now and my reindeer are drunk, my elves are on strike, the wife's in a strop and I don't even have a Christmas tree! I sent that silly Little Angel out HOURS ago to find a tree and he still hasn't come back yet!"
Just then the Little Angel, all aglow with heavenly goodness, opened the front door and stepped in from the snowy night, dragging an enormous, lush Christmas tree behind him. The little Angel looked up at Father Christmas with shining eyes and spake forth: "Where would you like me to stick this, Father Christmas???"
And thus it came to pass, in homes the whole world over, the tradition of an Angel perching precariously atop the Family Christmas tree. Sure to bring a tear to even the most unfeeling eye!
Suppose I should think about doing some work, instead of blogging..
Back later - if I get the chance...
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
Why can’t I sleep?
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Karen
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It’s crazy. I’m too wired to sleep, and I will admit, my brain cell has been racing, trying to work out the reasons why. I think the main reason is because I didn’t want to admit to myself how wound up I’d been about my review.
I know this sounds crazy, (and those people who know me will no doubt agree with me) but I was really worried. My boss was really pleased with me, and said that it was one of the easiest reviews that he’d had to do. (Guess I must be doing something right then!)
But, I know that I have no room for complacency, and in a way, I think I was sub-consciously prepping myself for a real kicking.
So, rather than lie in bed, feeling frustrated, as there is bugger all on TV worth watching (I refuse point blank to watch I’m a celebrity – get me out of here! – For those people who haven’t heard of / seen it – believe me, you’re not missing much!) I decided to do some updates for my blog.
I admit that I've not been updating it as much as I would like to, but given that my workload over the past few weeks or so has been horrific, I’ve hardly had chance to think straight, and when I get home, the last thing I want to do, is sit in front of a computer again!
As I type this entry, I must be a real glutton for punishment. I’m listening to a variety of music that I’ve copied onto my computer (ah, the joys of a 120 GB hard disk), and one of the songs is Eurythmics – Thorn in my side.
I will admit, it does remind me an awful lot of the way I’ve ended up feeling about my ex-fiancé. It talks about feeling emotionally overpowered by someone else, and that the only option left to the singer is to get the hell out of the relationship. See what you make of it…
Thorn in my side
Eurythmics [spoken] You gave me such a bad time
[spoken] Tried to hurt me
[spoken] But now I know
Thorn in my side
You know that’s all you ever were
A bundle of lies
You know that it’s all that it was worth
I should have known better
But I trusted you at first
I should have know better
But I got what I deserved
To run away from you
Was all that I could do
To run away from you
Was all that I could do
To run away from you
Was all that I could do
To run away from you
Was all that I could do
Thorn in my side
You know that’s all you’ll ever be
So don’t think you know better
‘Cause that’s what you mean to me
I was feeling complicated
I was feeling low
Now every time I think of you
I shiver to the bone
To run away from you
Was all that I could do
To run away from you
Run, run, run, run
Run, run, run, run
Run, run, run, run
Run, run, run, run
Run, run, run, run
Run, run, run, run
Run, run, run, run
Run, run, run, run
Run, run, run, run
To run away from you
Was all that I could do
To run away from you
Was all that I could do
Don’t get me wrong – I don’t regret getting involved with him the first time, but I should have listened to my gut instincts and stayed away when we first split up, instead of allowing myself to be talked into giving the relationship another try. Crazy I know, but again, another song sums up how low I was feeling towards the end of the relationship…
The Rasmus
The One I Love
Haven't slept in a week
My bed has become my coffin
Cannot breath, cannot speak
My head's like a bomb, still waiting
Take my heart and take my soul
I don't need them anymore
The one I love
Is striking me down on my knees
[The one I love] Drowning me in my dreams
[The one I love] Over and over again
Dragging me under
Hypnotized by the night
Silently rising beside me
Emptiness, nothingness
Is burning a hole inside me
Take my faith and take my pride
I don't need them anymore
The one I love
Is striking me down on my knees
Drowning me in my dreams
[The one I love] Over and over again
[The one I love] Dragging me under
This bed has become my chapel of stone
A garden of darkness to where I'm thrown
So take my life, I don't need it anymore
The one I love
Is striking me down on my knees
The one I love
Drowning me in my dreams
The one I love
Over and over again
Dragging me under
All I can say is thank God I got out before I married him – otherwise I would be in a bigger mess than I am now. Admittedly, I’m single and more than happy with that situation (despite what people may think – I don’t need to be arm candy for some fella – been there, done that and got the battle scars thank you very much!)
Ah well, suppose I'd better call this entry quits - I've got to be up and around in a few hours - I'm going Christmas shopping.
Back later - if I'm not too bumped, bruised and battered from the trip!
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a bug fat hairy human in the bath?
I know this sounds crazy, (and those people who know me will no doubt agree with me) but I was really worried. My boss was really pleased with me, and said that it was one of the easiest reviews that he’d had to do. (Guess I must be doing something right then!)
But, I know that I have no room for complacency, and in a way, I think I was sub-consciously prepping myself for a real kicking.
So, rather than lie in bed, feeling frustrated, as there is bugger all on TV worth watching (I refuse point blank to watch I’m a celebrity – get me out of here! – For those people who haven’t heard of / seen it – believe me, you’re not missing much!) I decided to do some updates for my blog.
I admit that I've not been updating it as much as I would like to, but given that my workload over the past few weeks or so has been horrific, I’ve hardly had chance to think straight, and when I get home, the last thing I want to do, is sit in front of a computer again!
As I type this entry, I must be a real glutton for punishment. I’m listening to a variety of music that I’ve copied onto my computer (ah, the joys of a 120 GB hard disk), and one of the songs is Eurythmics – Thorn in my side.
I will admit, it does remind me an awful lot of the way I’ve ended up feeling about my ex-fiancé. It talks about feeling emotionally overpowered by someone else, and that the only option left to the singer is to get the hell out of the relationship. See what you make of it…
Thorn in my side
Eurythmics [spoken] You gave me such a bad time
[spoken] Tried to hurt me
[spoken] But now I know
Thorn in my side
You know that’s all you ever were
A bundle of lies
You know that it’s all that it was worth
I should have known better
But I trusted you at first
I should have know better
But I got what I deserved
To run away from you
Was all that I could do
To run away from you
Was all that I could do
To run away from you
Was all that I could do
To run away from you
Was all that I could do
Thorn in my side
You know that’s all you’ll ever be
So don’t think you know better
‘Cause that’s what you mean to me
I was feeling complicated
I was feeling low
Now every time I think of you
I shiver to the bone
To run away from you
Was all that I could do
To run away from you
Run, run, run, run
Run, run, run, run
Run, run, run, run
Run, run, run, run
Run, run, run, run
Run, run, run, run
Run, run, run, run
Run, run, run, run
Run, run, run, run
To run away from you
Was all that I could do
To run away from you
Was all that I could do
Don’t get me wrong – I don’t regret getting involved with him the first time, but I should have listened to my gut instincts and stayed away when we first split up, instead of allowing myself to be talked into giving the relationship another try. Crazy I know, but again, another song sums up how low I was feeling towards the end of the relationship…
The Rasmus
The One I Love
Haven't slept in a week
My bed has become my coffin
Cannot breath, cannot speak
My head's like a bomb, still waiting
Take my heart and take my soul
I don't need them anymore
The one I love
Is striking me down on my knees
[The one I love] Drowning me in my dreams
[The one I love] Over and over again
Dragging me under
Hypnotized by the night
Silently rising beside me
Emptiness, nothingness
Is burning a hole inside me
Take my faith and take my pride
I don't need them anymore
The one I love
Is striking me down on my knees
Drowning me in my dreams
[The one I love] Over and over again
[The one I love] Dragging me under
This bed has become my chapel of stone
A garden of darkness to where I'm thrown
So take my life, I don't need it anymore
The one I love
Is striking me down on my knees
The one I love
Drowning me in my dreams
The one I love
Over and over again
Dragging me under
All I can say is thank God I got out before I married him – otherwise I would be in a bigger mess than I am now. Admittedly, I’m single and more than happy with that situation (despite what people may think – I don’t need to be arm candy for some fella – been there, done that and got the battle scars thank you very much!)
Ah well, suppose I'd better call this entry quits - I've got to be up and around in a few hours - I'm going Christmas shopping.
Back later - if I'm not too bumped, bruised and battered from the trip!
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a bug fat hairy human in the bath?
Getting fed up..
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Karen
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Yes, I'm getting fed up. I'm supposed to have been through my annual review, and as you may have guessed, I'm getting fed up. Ok - I admit that I'm not that desperate to go through this review, but I'd rather get it over and done with, instead of having it hanging over me.
Every time my boss says "Oh, Karen, I'll do your review with you this afternoon" you can guarantee that something will go wrong, or one of us will be called away for a meeting.
Still, at least I know I can't be doing too badly, otherwise I would have been hauled over hot coals by now, or had my ears chewed off. But, despite that, I know that I've got no real room to be complacent....
The other thing that I'm getting fed up with, is the mere fact that I can't drive. No - I've not been banned (frantically looking round for a piece of wood to grab hold of!) I've damaged my shoulder - again.
So, I spent four dratted hours at Warwick Hospital, and have been put back into a sling, and am dosed up to the eyeballs on painkillers... Still - should make having a drink a lot more fun - it'll take me less to get plastered!
Ah well, suppose I'd better get on with some work...
Back when I get the chance...
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
Every time my boss says "Oh, Karen, I'll do your review with you this afternoon" you can guarantee that something will go wrong, or one of us will be called away for a meeting.
Still, at least I know I can't be doing too badly, otherwise I would have been hauled over hot coals by now, or had my ears chewed off. But, despite that, I know that I've got no real room to be complacent....
The other thing that I'm getting fed up with, is the mere fact that I can't drive. No - I've not been banned (frantically looking round for a piece of wood to grab hold of!) I've damaged my shoulder - again.
So, I spent four dratted hours at Warwick Hospital, and have been put back into a sling, and am dosed up to the eyeballs on painkillers... Still - should make having a drink a lot more fun - it'll take me less to get plastered!
Ah well, suppose I'd better get on with some work...
Back when I get the chance...
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
I wish!
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Karen
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Wishful thinking at the moment! (Or more to the point, until I get the car run in properly!)
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
Another week begins...
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Karen
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And I'm knackered! Add to that, the mere fact that my shoulder feels like there's some little demon sitting inside, carving its initials and other intricate drawings in the joint tissue and you get an idea of the reason why I'm feeling like this.
I must look & sound pretty rough, as my boss asked me if I was ok this morning, as "you're not as chirpy as normal." For him to notice, I must be flat!
But, I'm going to see the doctor tomorrow, and that way, I can make sure that I haven't done anything major to the joint. Still, at least I can still type (and update my blog!)..
The weekend was quiet, and Mum and I went to Bridgemere Garden World near Nantwich. Mum drove, as her car needed to get a proper run, and my shoulder wasn't 100% pain-free. We got parked, only to discover that Santa had arrived just before us, so the place was full of spoilt little brats.
Needless to say, neither of us were very impressed, as the pair of us have very little time for kids. Don't get me wrong - I do have time for kids - but not when they're screeching little b'stards, with no manners.
But, thankfully, the bits that Mum and I were interested in were well away from the screeching hoard. I treated Mum to a double flowered cyclamen, and a couple of amaryllis bulbs, as they're the sort of plants that she grows. Me? I bought myself a fern that will cope with drafts, and needs the compost to be kept wet, so that will survive on my desk (hopefully).
That reminds me - I did promise to keep this blog updated with progress reports on the cuttings... Well, the good news is, that they've all taken and there are now little Tradescantias all over the office - including on the boss's desk!
There have been jokes about me trying to turn the office into a greenhouse, but for me to do that, I really need to get a decent heating / ventilation system installed - then I could grow my real passion - Carnivorous Plants.
Yes - the things that eat meat - along the lines of the infamous Venus Fly-Trap in the classic musical - Little Shop of Horrors. (The plant was called Audrey II - the most memorable line from the plant was "feed me!")
Hmm - suppose I ought to call this entry quits, as it's nearly time to log off & bog off...
Back tomorrow - possibly.
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
I must look & sound pretty rough, as my boss asked me if I was ok this morning, as "you're not as chirpy as normal." For him to notice, I must be flat!
But, I'm going to see the doctor tomorrow, and that way, I can make sure that I haven't done anything major to the joint. Still, at least I can still type (and update my blog!)..
The weekend was quiet, and Mum and I went to Bridgemere Garden World near Nantwich. Mum drove, as her car needed to get a proper run, and my shoulder wasn't 100% pain-free. We got parked, only to discover that Santa had arrived just before us, so the place was full of spoilt little brats.
Needless to say, neither of us were very impressed, as the pair of us have very little time for kids. Don't get me wrong - I do have time for kids - but not when they're screeching little b'stards, with no manners.
But, thankfully, the bits that Mum and I were interested in were well away from the screeching hoard. I treated Mum to a double flowered cyclamen, and a couple of amaryllis bulbs, as they're the sort of plants that she grows. Me? I bought myself a fern that will cope with drafts, and needs the compost to be kept wet, so that will survive on my desk (hopefully).
That reminds me - I did promise to keep this blog updated with progress reports on the cuttings... Well, the good news is, that they've all taken and there are now little Tradescantias all over the office - including on the boss's desk!
There have been jokes about me trying to turn the office into a greenhouse, but for me to do that, I really need to get a decent heating / ventilation system installed - then I could grow my real passion - Carnivorous Plants.
Yes - the things that eat meat - along the lines of the infamous Venus Fly-Trap in the classic musical - Little Shop of Horrors. (The plant was called Audrey II - the most memorable line from the plant was "feed me!")
Hmm - suppose I ought to call this entry quits, as it's nearly time to log off & bog off...
Back tomorrow - possibly.
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
Back to the posts....
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Karen
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Trying to get a little bit of time to post for my blog has been a real nightmare at the moment! I've been on a training course for the earthmover & industrial tyres, and all I've really managed to do is re-affirm my first thought that the tyres tend to be big and expensive.
But, it's also given me another idea about what I would like to specialise in... Aircraft & related tyres. Ok - suppose I'd better explain that leap in logic. Aircraft tyres are considered as industrial tyres, and given my background (I grew up with aircraft as a result of Dad's job. Most kids played with toy spanners - I played with the real thing!) it would be rather interesting...
However, my other great love is motor sport. So, at this moment in time, I'm torn between heading off into the motor sport realm, or going into a similar field as my late father.
But, no doubt the people here will be able to guide me, and I know which ever route I decide to scamper off down, Mum will give me her full support - as she said that the main thing in life, is that I'm happy in my work.
Hmm - suppose I'd better call this entry quits, and get some work done...
Back later - if I get the chance.
Karen.
Do spiders scream if they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
But, it's also given me another idea about what I would like to specialise in... Aircraft & related tyres. Ok - suppose I'd better explain that leap in logic. Aircraft tyres are considered as industrial tyres, and given my background (I grew up with aircraft as a result of Dad's job. Most kids played with toy spanners - I played with the real thing!) it would be rather interesting...
However, my other great love is motor sport. So, at this moment in time, I'm torn between heading off into the motor sport realm, or going into a similar field as my late father.
But, no doubt the people here will be able to guide me, and I know which ever route I decide to scamper off down, Mum will give me her full support - as she said that the main thing in life, is that I'm happy in my work.
Hmm - suppose I'd better call this entry quits, and get some work done...
Back later - if I get the chance.
Karen.
Do spiders scream if they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
I thought I'd recovered... Mother Nature says I haven't!
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Karen
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And boy, doesn't the old bitch make you suffer for it! I damaged my right shoulder back in April (I managed to rupture the rotor cuff in the shoulder. That's the bit that holds the arm to the body - and when you damage it - it makes life v. painful - not to mention awkward!) and now it's really hurting.
It's almost as if ol' Ma Nature has decided that I've had an easy time of things just recently, and has decided to give me some real pain.
Still, there are such magical things as Wheaties - these are just material sacks with specially treated wheat gains in them, that you can put into the microwave, and heat up. I find it's incredibly beneficial, especially as I can sit at my desk, and enjoy the heat and relief that it provides.
Time to go and heat the wheatie.....
Back later - if workload allows!
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
It's almost as if ol' Ma Nature has decided that I've had an easy time of things just recently, and has decided to give me some real pain.
Still, there are such magical things as Wheaties - these are just material sacks with specially treated wheat gains in them, that you can put into the microwave, and heat up. I find it's incredibly beneficial, especially as I can sit at my desk, and enjoy the heat and relief that it provides.
Time to go and heat the wheatie.....
Back later - if workload allows!
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
More warped humour...
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Karen
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Again, this came in from the USA, and was sent to me by an American...
The new Homeland Security Bill has passed. Things will be different now. Internet surfing will be tracked by the FBI with a non-intrusive method. The FBI says you will not notice anything different. Click below for a demonstration.
Unobtrusive?!?!? Find out by clicking the website below:
http://users.chartertn.net/tonytemplin/FBI_eyes
I will admit, I had an awful lot of fun playing with this.................................
Suppose I should get on with some work....
Back later (possibly)
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
The new Homeland Security Bill has passed. Things will be different now. Internet surfing will be tracked by the FBI with a non-intrusive method. The FBI says you will not notice anything different. Click below for a demonstration.
Unobtrusive?!?!? Find out by clicking the website below:
http://users.chartertn.net/tonytemplin/FBI_eyes
I will admit, I had an awful lot of fun playing with this.................................
Suppose I should get on with some work....
Back later (possibly)
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
Scaring myself stupid
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Karen
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Not something that I do very often, but messing around with the seetings on my blog, I managed to wipe out all the formatting! EEK! Thankfully, I was able to restore it, but it's made me a little bit more aware about messing with HTML - and I'm now going to see if I can beg/borrow/copy a decent HTML editor...
Time to call this quits for tonight - I need my ugly sleep.
Back tomorrow.
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
Time to call this quits for tonight - I need my ugly sleep.
Back tomorrow.
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
Totally addicted to frogs...
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Karen
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No, I haven't lost the plot (although there have been times when I have wondered about this today!) I've signed up to an addictive new game that a friend of mine was good enough to e-mail me about.. It's called Racing Frogs (for more information, see http://www.racingfrogs.org/)
It appeals to my very warped sense of humour, and I've got two frogs entered.. One is called Froghopper, and the other is known as heartoffrog...
Time to call this entry quits - got to train my frogs!
Back tomorrow.
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
It appeals to my very warped sense of humour, and I've got two frogs entered.. One is called Froghopper, and the other is known as heartoffrog...
Time to call this entry quits - got to train my frogs!
Back tomorrow.
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
Presidential elections and other matters of importance
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Karen
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To be honest, I'm heartily sick of the American election. So the incumbent president won. Big deal. Ok - maybe it is a big deal for the Americans, but please, spare those of us who have no interest in American politics whatsoever..
I mean, for the past three days, the news has been overtaken by the election, and all the subsequent analysis that goes with it. If there are people so obsessed with this, put the coverage on a separate channel, and leave the rest of the news for those of us who have no interest in American politics. Ok - that's that particular rant over and done with.
Now onto another rant... I read on BBC on-line that an a fellow blogger - Queen of the Sky (see http://queenofsky.journalspace.com/) has been fired (ok - in the spirit of political correctness - her contract has been terminated) by her employer. (See http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/3974081.stm)
I personally feel that this is taking the matter to an extreme - and yes - I do believe in free speech - so long as you're not causing offence to your employer, and there is nothing in your contract to say that you can't mention what you do for a living. (Especially if you do most of your posting from your desk!!)
I mean, it would be a bit daft if you were working for one of the security agencies, and were blabbing secrets that could cause people to lose their lives or cause real problems for national / international security... I guess that the cautionary tale from Queen of the Sky's unfortunate situation, is avoid mentioning your employers by name...
Those people who know me, know who I work for, but I refuse point blank to name the company, simply because I know that they (the powers that be) are just a little bit sensitive about being shown in a grotty light by a disgruntled employee.
Not that I'm disgruntled - far from it. I enjoy working here, and the mere fact that I get to deal with everything from standard (and not so standard) cars right through to the big 44 tonne wagons is a bonus, as I am, by my own admission, a petrol head.
On to a little bit of world news- there's been a news flash that says "Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat has fallen into a coma at the French hospital where he is under treatment, Palestinian officials confirm." God alone knows what will happen to the Palestinian people when he dies, as he's been in power for as long as most people of my generation can remember.
All that the rest of the world can hope, is that there is minimal infighting,and that the new leader is acceptable to the Israeli government of the time, and that they can resolve their differences - without resorting to bloodshed.
I know that this blog is slightly out of character for me, as I rarely mention world events, but there are some events that need to be commented on - and to Queen of the Sky - I salute you - and wish you all the luck in the world with your fight for unfair dismissal. 'Cause if it happens to one blogger, what's to stop 'Big Brother' tactics being used by other employers against us bloggers?!
Back later - if I get the chance....
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
I mean, for the past three days, the news has been overtaken by the election, and all the subsequent analysis that goes with it. If there are people so obsessed with this, put the coverage on a separate channel, and leave the rest of the news for those of us who have no interest in American politics. Ok - that's that particular rant over and done with.
Now onto another rant... I read on BBC on-line that an a fellow blogger - Queen of the Sky (see http://queenofsky.journalspace.com/) has been fired (ok - in the spirit of political correctness - her contract has been terminated) by her employer. (See http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/3974081.stm)
I personally feel that this is taking the matter to an extreme - and yes - I do believe in free speech - so long as you're not causing offence to your employer, and there is nothing in your contract to say that you can't mention what you do for a living. (Especially if you do most of your posting from your desk!!)
I mean, it would be a bit daft if you were working for one of the security agencies, and were blabbing secrets that could cause people to lose their lives or cause real problems for national / international security... I guess that the cautionary tale from Queen of the Sky's unfortunate situation, is avoid mentioning your employers by name...
Those people who know me, know who I work for, but I refuse point blank to name the company, simply because I know that they (the powers that be) are just a little bit sensitive about being shown in a grotty light by a disgruntled employee.
Not that I'm disgruntled - far from it. I enjoy working here, and the mere fact that I get to deal with everything from standard (and not so standard) cars right through to the big 44 tonne wagons is a bonus, as I am, by my own admission, a petrol head.
On to a little bit of world news- there's been a news flash that says "Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat has fallen into a coma at the French hospital where he is under treatment, Palestinian officials confirm." God alone knows what will happen to the Palestinian people when he dies, as he's been in power for as long as most people of my generation can remember.
All that the rest of the world can hope, is that there is minimal infighting,and that the new leader is acceptable to the Israeli government of the time, and that they can resolve their differences - without resorting to bloodshed.
I know that this blog is slightly out of character for me, as I rarely mention world events, but there are some events that need to be commented on - and to Queen of the Sky - I salute you - and wish you all the luck in the world with your fight for unfair dismissal. 'Cause if it happens to one blogger, what's to stop 'Big Brother' tactics being used by other employers against us bloggers?!
Back later - if I get the chance....
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
Bringing sprogs into the office...
Posted by
Karen
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Is not a good idea, as far as I'm concerned. I have all the maternal instincts of a rattlesnake. (If the female meets its offspring, it has the tendency to eat them - sounds pretty good to me!) All the women seem to coo over the sprog, and I'm treated with suspicion, as I make it plain that I have very little time for babies and small children in general.
Don't get me wrong, I do have time for kids - just not in the workplace. Why do I say this? Simple, because muggins here is the one who ends up doing most of the work whilst the others coo over the sprog, who looks terrified, and obviously wishes it was elsewhere! Still - can't blame the kid - I feel the same way sometimes...
Ah well, suppose I'd better look like I'm working - especially as I'm not cooing over the sprog....
Back later, if I get chance.
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
Don't get me wrong, I do have time for kids - just not in the workplace. Why do I say this? Simple, because muggins here is the one who ends up doing most of the work whilst the others coo over the sprog, who looks terrified, and obviously wishes it was elsewhere! Still - can't blame the kid - I feel the same way sometimes...
Ah well, suppose I'd better look like I'm working - especially as I'm not cooing over the sprog....
Back later, if I get chance.
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
Getting to grips with the new car...
Posted by
Karen
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I never realised just how much fun the Peugeot could be... It handles like a dream, and now that I've got the automatic lights sorted out (I didn't know that you had to activate the dratted things - the Peugeot 307 had them activated at the factory!) the car is perfect.
To be honest, I did wonder if I'd made a mistake when I bought the Yaris, but having spoken to the service manager at Arbury Peugeot, I now realise that the Yaris was the right choice of car for me - at the time when I bought it (2000).
Driving the car to Malvern (I went to the Giant Flea Market at the Three Counties Showground), was a real treat.
I discovered the Pug has a tenancy to oversteer (i.e. it tries to whip the back end 'round on a corner) which is totally the opposite to the Yaris - which was prone to understeer (i.e. it tries to go straight on in a corner.) No wonder I used to knacker my front tyres on that car!
The market itself was really good, and I spent over four hours wandering around, seeing what was what... I will admit, I splashed out on a couple of pieces - one was a sterling silver cross, with 5 peridots in it, and a test piece from Cobridge pottery. Again, that was something that Dad taught me about and as it wasn't wildly expensive, I decided to buy it...
But only after much deliberation on my part, as I was unsure about the colours. But the more I thought about the piece, the more I realised that I wanted it....
All in all, it was a good weekend, and I learnt an awful lot about the car, and I know that it's going to be one hell of a car when it's run in properly!
Suppose I should get on with some work.....
Back later - if I get the chance...
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
To be honest, I did wonder if I'd made a mistake when I bought the Yaris, but having spoken to the service manager at Arbury Peugeot, I now realise that the Yaris was the right choice of car for me - at the time when I bought it (2000).
Driving the car to Malvern (I went to the Giant Flea Market at the Three Counties Showground), was a real treat.
I discovered the Pug has a tenancy to oversteer (i.e. it tries to whip the back end 'round on a corner) which is totally the opposite to the Yaris - which was prone to understeer (i.e. it tries to go straight on in a corner.) No wonder I used to knacker my front tyres on that car!
The market itself was really good, and I spent over four hours wandering around, seeing what was what... I will admit, I splashed out on a couple of pieces - one was a sterling silver cross, with 5 peridots in it, and a test piece from Cobridge pottery. Again, that was something that Dad taught me about and as it wasn't wildly expensive, I decided to buy it...
But only after much deliberation on my part, as I was unsure about the colours. But the more I thought about the piece, the more I realised that I wanted it....
All in all, it was a good weekend, and I learnt an awful lot about the car, and I know that it's going to be one hell of a car when it's run in properly!
Suppose I should get on with some work.....
Back later - if I get the chance...
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
Feeling slightly guilty...
Posted by
Karen
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I know this sounds crazy, especially as I picked my new car up today, but I feel like I've betrayed an old friend. My previous car (a Toyota Yaris) had done 58k miles with me, and had been blasted all over the UK.. And yes, I knew and loved all the quirks - including the transmission whine that I used to get at 56 mph...
Despite that, the 206 is a cracking little car to drive, and I can see me having an awful lot of fun with it, and this time, I'm not going to allow anyone to smoke in my car AT ALL - regardless of whether they're my friend or not.
Simply because the Yaris suffered damage that was smoking related, and caused me no end of grief with my family because I don't smoke, and I was (and still am) unwilling to reveal the person responsible.
Time to call it quits - I've got to give the appetite on legs his worming pill.... Wish me luck, as this may be one hell of a long night!
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
Despite that, the 206 is a cracking little car to drive, and I can see me having an awful lot of fun with it, and this time, I'm not going to allow anyone to smoke in my car AT ALL - regardless of whether they're my friend or not.
Simply because the Yaris suffered damage that was smoking related, and caused me no end of grief with my family because I don't smoke, and I was (and still am) unwilling to reveal the person responsible.
Time to call it quits - I've got to give the appetite on legs his worming pill.... Wish me luck, as this may be one hell of a long night!
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
Messing with my head
Posted by
Karen
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No, I've not been indulging in illegal substances - it's what my ex-fiance is doing to me. He had a song, Hoobastank: - The Reason, dedicated to me.
Hoobastank The Reason
I'm not a perfect person
As many things I wish I didn't do
But I continue learning
I never meant to do those things to you
And so I have to say before I go
That I just want you to know
I've found a reason for me
To change who I used to be
A reason to start over new
and the reason is you
I'm sorry that I hurt you
It's something I must live with everyday
And all the pain I put you through
I wish that I could take it all away
And be the one who catches all your tears
That's why I need you to hear
I've found a reason for me
To change who I used to be
A reason to start over new
And the reason is you
And the reason is you
And the reason is you
And the reason is you
I'm not a perfect person
I never meant to do those things to you
And so I have to say before I go
That I just want you to know
I've found a reason for me
To change who I used to be
A reason to start over new
and the reason is you
I've found a reason to show
A side of me you didn't know
A reason for all that I do
And the reason is you
So, you can imagine how I felt, when I heard that! Especially as the message said that the song was dedicated to the only girl he ever really loved! ARRGH! *Moment of panic!*
That's the last thing I need at this moment in time - as life seems to be improving, and I'm more than happy on my own for the moment.
If I decide to hook up with someone, I can guarantee that he'll be the last person that I would consider - he made a mess of me the last time, and I'll be damned before I'll let him have another attempt!
I told my best mate what my ex had done, and was told in no uncertain terms that I would be a fool to even consider getting back with him.
I know he's right, and I'm refusing to answer my 'phone when he calls me, and on the odd occasion that he calls me at home, it's amazing how often I'm out!
Still, that's just one advantage of sounding like Mum on the 'phone - I can avoid talking to people that I don't want anything to do with!
Time to call this entry quits - I'm starting to get a bit upset...
Back later.
Possibly.
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
Hoobastank The Reason
I'm not a perfect person
As many things I wish I didn't do
But I continue learning
I never meant to do those things to you
And so I have to say before I go
That I just want you to know
I've found a reason for me
To change who I used to be
A reason to start over new
and the reason is you
I'm sorry that I hurt you
It's something I must live with everyday
And all the pain I put you through
I wish that I could take it all away
And be the one who catches all your tears
That's why I need you to hear
I've found a reason for me
To change who I used to be
A reason to start over new
And the reason is you
And the reason is you
And the reason is you
And the reason is you
I'm not a perfect person
I never meant to do those things to you
And so I have to say before I go
That I just want you to know
I've found a reason for me
To change who I used to be
A reason to start over new
and the reason is you
I've found a reason to show
A side of me you didn't know
A reason for all that I do
And the reason is you
So, you can imagine how I felt, when I heard that! Especially as the message said that the song was dedicated to the only girl he ever really loved! ARRGH! *Moment of panic!*
That's the last thing I need at this moment in time - as life seems to be improving, and I'm more than happy on my own for the moment.
If I decide to hook up with someone, I can guarantee that he'll be the last person that I would consider - he made a mess of me the last time, and I'll be damned before I'll let him have another attempt!
I told my best mate what my ex had done, and was told in no uncertain terms that I would be a fool to even consider getting back with him.
I know he's right, and I'm refusing to answer my 'phone when he calls me, and on the odd occasion that he calls me at home, it's amazing how often I'm out!
Still, that's just one advantage of sounding like Mum on the 'phone - I can avoid talking to people that I don't want anything to do with!
Time to call this entry quits - I'm starting to get a bit upset...
Back later.
Possibly.
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
More news on Silverstone....
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Karen
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This is what the reports on the BBC (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/motorsport/default.stm) have to say...
Silverstone eyes unofficial race [21.10.04]
Silverstone bosses say they may be interested in staging a breakaway British Grand Prix next season.
The Northamptonshire circuit faces being axed from the 2005 F1 calendar. Alex Hooton, chief executive of track owners the British Racing Drivers' Club, said he had heard suggestions about a new, non-championship race.
"That would have attractions as we wouldn't have to pay the fees to Formula One, but there is nothing definite," he told BBC Radio Five Live.
It is not clear whether any of the ten teams competing in the F1 championship would enter such a race, or how it would fit into their calendar.
But Hooton said the BRDC is still focused on trying to keep a British Grand Prix on the F1 calendar, despite supremo Bernie Ecclestone announcing discussions to save the race were over.
"We have to admit defeat and end the discussions," Ecclestone said on Wednesday. "It looks certain there will not be a British GP in 2005."
F1 teams to lobby for Silverstone [22.10.04]
Silverstone has been named on the provisional calendar for 2005Formula One team bosses will try to persuade F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone to keep the British Grand Prix when they meet in Brazil on Friday.
"There's a meeting and I'm sure it will be an issue for discussion," said BAR chief David Richards.
But he added: "The teams do not have the influence of where we race that one might assume we do. We can obviously talk to him and try to persuade him but the reality is it's his decision alone."
Richards, speaking ahead of the Brazilian GP at Interlagos, added: "The commercial rights are completely with Bernie Ecclestone and his companies and he determines where the races take place."
Ecclestone has said he has ended negotiations on the future of the race after talks broke down with the British Racing Drivers' Club, which owns the Silverstone circuit.
The BRDC wants a two-year contract with a five-year extension, while Ecclestone has offered a one-year contract with an option to extend by six years.
BRDC boss Sir Jackie Stewart said the deal Ecclestone had offered featured 10% compounded annual interest "which would double the price after seven years - this is unaffordable".
Britain is one of three races, alongside France and San Marino, given provisional dates for next season pending the resolution of contract issues.
Silverstone has been given a date of 3 July on next year's draft schedule but a commercial deal must be agreed before the race is confirmed.
A final calendar is due to be issued on 10 December.
All I can say is:- "Please Bernie - don't betray the UK petrolheads!"
Back later - possibly.
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
Silverstone eyes unofficial race [21.10.04]
Silverstone bosses say they may be interested in staging a breakaway British Grand Prix next season.
The Northamptonshire circuit faces being axed from the 2005 F1 calendar. Alex Hooton, chief executive of track owners the British Racing Drivers' Club, said he had heard suggestions about a new, non-championship race.
"That would have attractions as we wouldn't have to pay the fees to Formula One, but there is nothing definite," he told BBC Radio Five Live.
It is not clear whether any of the ten teams competing in the F1 championship would enter such a race, or how it would fit into their calendar.
But Hooton said the BRDC is still focused on trying to keep a British Grand Prix on the F1 calendar, despite supremo Bernie Ecclestone announcing discussions to save the race were over.
"We have to admit defeat and end the discussions," Ecclestone said on Wednesday. "It looks certain there will not be a British GP in 2005."
F1 teams to lobby for Silverstone [22.10.04]
Silverstone has been named on the provisional calendar for 2005Formula One team bosses will try to persuade F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone to keep the British Grand Prix when they meet in Brazil on Friday.
"There's a meeting and I'm sure it will be an issue for discussion," said BAR chief David Richards.
But he added: "The teams do not have the influence of where we race that one might assume we do. We can obviously talk to him and try to persuade him but the reality is it's his decision alone."
Richards, speaking ahead of the Brazilian GP at Interlagos, added: "The commercial rights are completely with Bernie Ecclestone and his companies and he determines where the races take place."
Ecclestone has said he has ended negotiations on the future of the race after talks broke down with the British Racing Drivers' Club, which owns the Silverstone circuit.
The BRDC wants a two-year contract with a five-year extension, while Ecclestone has offered a one-year contract with an option to extend by six years.
BRDC boss Sir Jackie Stewart said the deal Ecclestone had offered featured 10% compounded annual interest "which would double the price after seven years - this is unaffordable".
Britain is one of three races, alongside France and San Marino, given provisional dates for next season pending the resolution of contract issues.
Silverstone has been given a date of 3 July on next year's draft schedule but a commercial deal must be agreed before the race is confirmed.
A final calendar is due to be issued on 10 December.
All I can say is:- "Please Bernie - don't betray the UK petrolheads!"
Back later - possibly.
Karen.
Do spiders scream when they see a big fat hairy human in the bath?
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