Car Troubles - part 3
Danger - Mango chutney in progress
Car Troubles - Part 2
You're saying words you can't recite
A sea of noise so empty
Get on your way
There's no excuse for the delay
Before it's just a memory
A weekend of car troubles
Welcome to Tier 3 London!
That's what really
annoys me, My home area has been placed in tier 3 for COVID-19
restrictions, meaning that the following rules are in place:
- You cannot mix indoors, in private gardens or in most
outdoor venues, except with your household or bubble
- You can meet in a group of up to six in other outdoor
spaces, such as parks, beaches or countryside
- Shops, gyms and personal care services (such as
hairdressing) can stay open
- Bars, pubs, cafes and restaurants must stay closed,
except for delivery and takeaway
- Sports fans cannot attend events in stadiums
- Indoor entertainment venues - such as bowling alleys
and cinemas - must stay closed
So, when London, parts of Essex and Hertfordshire get put into tier 3, you would have thought that the world was ending - especially the way that it was being reported by the media. These two gems came from BBC News and Sky News respectively:
The director of the Theatres Trust said the London's theatres would face "disaster" under the stricter rules, while business owners in the capital said it would "be a ghost town".
The Confederation of British Industry warned that "thousands of jobs and livelihoods could be at risk" due to the government moving London into Tier 3.
Congratulations. Now you know what the rest of us are having to put up with. Why the south of England thinks that they are so unique, I have no idea. They're not the only areas that have had these issues.
Areas in the north of England (and my home in darkest Warwickshire) are all under these restrictions - and I think that we have gotten off lightly, as we (Warwickshire) only got placed into tier 3 the beginning of December, where as places like Newcastle have been in tier 3 since the beginning of September (if not longer!)
Ah well - rant over. I've had enough of staring at a computer screen today.
Back when I get chance...
Innocence is lost
Thinking he's so clever
Lines have been crossed
Man won't live forever
Shadows on the wall
Can't get it together
Sacrifice all
The tiers are in… And we’ve been rated…… TIER 3.
Great. The new tiers have been announced, and my home area is in tier 3, as is my partner’s home. Now his area, I can understand, but mine? Unless there is something I have missed, I didn’t think we were as bad as some areas
So, as we’re in a support bubble (and we’re in the same tier) I’m planning to escape next weekend to see him, as I haven’t seen him since the end of October. I know it’s not as long as the first lockdown, but this time of year, things are that much gloomier, and it makes me want to curl up with someone I care about, and chill out watching a film.
Ah well, guess I’d better get back to the grindstone – my lunch break is nearly over.
Back when I get chance.
Karen
To last me forever I know
Our love is forever
You gave me your love
To last me wherever I go
Working from home (part 2)
Well, I’m back at home, due to the new lockdown that was announced on Saturday night. The office is closing from tomorrow night, so I’ve had to make sure that I have everything I need at home.
That’s not an issue – apart from me being an idiot and not plugging the headphones into the laptop (they were plugged into the monitor), and wondering why I couldn’t hear anything.
Once I’d realised what I’d done (and finished feeling like an idiot) I was up and running. EE must have done some serious network improvements, as I’ve not had to curse the dongle once. Which is a miracle.
Ok – I’ll rephrase that. I only cursed whilst my dratted laptop decided to do an update this morning, meaning that I was late logging on to the system. OK – not an issue…
Or I thought it wasn’t…. Until I realised that I couldn’t use the phone. Or log into part of the system where I keep files that I need to get access to.
So, one call to the IT helpdesk, and the issue with the cloud storage was sorted. The phone side was sorted by emailing a colleague who is already working from home, and they managed to help me sort the settings, so that was nice and easy. What I didn’t realise was that I would end up feeling…... Numb.
OK – on the plus side, I have the view of the garden, and no travelling, meaning a decent lie in in the morning, and no fighting my way through the traffic to the office, and contending with 4x4 with only one child in going to the private school!
Ah well, time to log off and join family. I shall be spending enough time staring at this damned screen for the next four weeks or so...
Back soon.
Karen
Another lockdown
The PM has finally confirmed what the papers had been saying yesterday. We go back into lockdown on Thursday.
Only this time, it's not a complete lockdown - I can (at the moment) go into the office as I cannot work from home.
Whether the office remains open is another matter. It depends very much on the decision of the leadership team, and if they decide to close the office, then I am stuck.
Not because I don't have a laptop (I do - hateful thing) but because I am one of those rare people who don't have broadband at home.
Ok - I have been given a WiFi dongle that should (in theory) allow me to work at home... But because it's on a network that is hopeless where I live, I might as well use it as a doorstop.
So, if they decide to close the office, I am stuck. It means getting up at stupid o'clock in the morning to get as much work done as I can before the system kicks me off, and then working in the evening to make sure that I get my hours in.
And that's not the only thing that is going to cause a problem. The lockdown also includes restrictions on so-called non-essential travel. Ok, I can understand that. But you can travel for work or to go to your support bubble.
Now my support bubble is with my partner. Who lives about 50 miles away from my home. So I can see that causing issues with the police as they would be within their rights (as I understand the rules) to stop me and ask why / where I am travelling to.
Knowing my luck, they wouldn't believe me that I was going to be with my support bubble, so this may be the last weekend I can spend with my partner until the lockdown is over and done with.
So, I am going to make the most of today, as it may be a few weeks before I can see my partner again.
Back when I get chance.
Karen
Making the most of today
A new phone has arrived
And I didn’t expect to have to replace my Motorola G7 Play as fast. But it’s gotten to the stage where I can’t trust the damned thing *not* to die as it says that the battery is depleted. Yet when I power it back on, it seems to miraculously have about 50% left in the battery – not impressed at all.
So, I decided to do some research and find myself a phone that:
1. Wasn’t an iPhone – I don’t want to use the Apple software as all my apps are on Android.
2. Didn’t cost stupid money – some phones were very high three figure sums (and I have a habit of dropping phones – either into the bath, or onto the tiled floor in the kitchen...)
3. Wasn’t so small that I need a magnifying glass to see the buttons.
4. Has a decent battery life (preferably one that doesn’t die after about 20 minutes usage)
5. Has a good internal memory – so many apps (and their relevant updates) take a lot of space, and you soon run out even with 32GB internal memory.
So, taking all this into consideration, I have opted for a Nokia. And it’s huge. It’s the Nokia 5.3 – with a huge screen, and a good internal memory – plus the option to add extra storage via a micro SD card. The only “downside” is trying to get the updates done on the phone, and then adding all the apps to the phone.
Stuff that I use on a daily basis (not to mention the NHS COVID-19 app – there are quite a few places that require you to scan the QR code to check in). I also have to buy a new case. Which is a shame, as I like the one that I have for the G7. It’s got an Anne Stokes image on it:
Can I find one for the Nokia? Can I hell. So, I've opted for something slightly different:
So I am not too unhappy - it's a nice case, and stands out from the normal black cases - and it has enough space to keep the necessary pass cards in, so I don't have to wear a lanyard with my security stuff - I hate lanyards!
Ah well, guess I'd better call this quits - I need to go and sort my flight bag ready for tomorrow - I'm away for the weekend.
Back whenever,
Karen
No chains on me
Oh, ain't no chains on me
I will decide myself
I am set free
That venue is cursed…
Yet again my plans to see Magnum at Birmingham Town Hall have been changed. This time, it’s COVID-19 that has scuppered it.
The band have released the following statement:
As most of you have presumably noticed by now, this year continues to be more than a bit rubbish. So this announcement won’t exactly come as a surprise.
The decision has been made that most of the shows planned for November, December and February are again being rescheduled - to September/October 2021. These are the Scandinavian, Dutch, UK and Irish shows. This is of course 100% beyond the band’s control, and we’re all very disappointed and frustrated with the ongoing situation.
All tickets will remain valid and will be automatically transferred over to the new date. If you instead require a refund please get in touch with your ticket supplier. Unfortunately the shows in Hull and Exeter will not be going ahead at all. Please contact your ticket supplier if you have tickets for these shows.
Please note there is also a change of venue for the Birmingham show: this will now be taking place at The Symphony Hall. Tickets will be available from 10:00am Friday 2 October 2020. If you have already purchased tickets for the Town Hall, please wait to be contacted by your ticket supplier for the specific details of the venue change. Your booking will be automatically transferred to the new performance, with your tickets located in like-for-like seats.
Announcements for other dates will follow in due course.
The live events industry as a whole is suffering a great deal, but Magnum will be back as soon as we are able. In the meantime we ask everyone to stay patient, stay safe, keep loving music and maybe buy an extra t-shirt if you can!
The band has been back in the studio during this extended hiatus, and we hope to bring you more positive news soon.
Rescheduled dates 2021:
05 Sep 2021 De Pul Uden NL
07 Sep 2021 Fryshuset Klubben Stockholm S
08 Sep 2021 Vulkan Oslo N
09 Sep 2021 Folkets Park Huskvarna S
10 Sep 2021 Pustervik Gothenburg S
11 Sep 2021 Nojesfabriken Karlstad S
13 Sep 2021 Babel Malmo S
16 Sep 2021 Rock City Nottingham UK
17 Sep 2021 Leadmill Sheffield UK
19 Sep 2021 Waterfront Norwich UK
20 Sep 2021 Assembly Hall Islington UK
21 Sep 2021 Engine Rooms Southampton UK
22 Sep 2021 Tramshed Cardiff UK
24 Sep 2021 Academy 2 Manchester UK
25 Sep 2021 Picturedrome Holmfirth UK
27 Sep 2021 Symphony HalL Birmingham UK
29 Sep 2021 Junction Cambridge UK
30 Sep 2021 Garage Glasgow UK
02 Oct 2021 Voodoo Lounge Dublin IE
03 Oct 2021 Limelight 1 Belfast UK
It’s almost as if the music gods don’t want me to see them
at the Town Hall… But if I am honest, I
am not surprised, as this year has been pretty screwed up due to the damned
virus…
So, I have something to look forward to next year..
Guess I'd better call this quits - time to home..
Karen
Hear the crowd applauding
If it's real I like the feeling
If I'm wrong who am I deceiving?
Taking more responsibilities…
Well, I feel like I have been thrown in at the deep end – with a pair of concrete shoes. Simply because I have been asked to take over a load of the work that one of my colleagues in the playpen does, whilst they are on secondment to another department.
I don’t mind, as I deal (or have dealt) with the stuff in the past – there is only one thing that has changed since I went near it, and there is a manual for me to have a read of. It just means that I have to raise my game, but since I was put out to pasture (AKA furlough) I am in a better place mentally when it comes to my work.
Partly because I am meditating and partly because I have started to listen to Classic FM on my headphones. Yes – I can still do my job, but I am isolated from the noise and the distractions in the office and people that I don’t want to speak to.
Nasty as this sounds, I am more than happy to be in the corner – away from everyone, so that I can get on with my work - and be left alone to work in peace and quiet. Whether that stays that way remains to be seen..
Guess I’d better call it quits – my poor little phone is making pathetic beeping noises again.
Back when I get chance..
Karen
Only a walk across the street
Different worlds
You never know what you might meet
Wildlife in the garden
Watch the birdies
Normally, that's not something I would pay much attention to, as I would be busy with other things that my life involved, and forgetting about taking the time to watch the birdies...
So I guess there is something to be said for living in Darkest Warwickshire... When I get sights like this from the conservatory, it helps me appreciate home even more.
Ah well, time to call this quits. My poor little phone is making pathetic beeping sounds at me, as I have't put it on charge to do this...
Back when I get chance / inclination...
Karen
Well, it's a brand new morning
And it's the start of your new life
Yeah, it's a brand new morning
You'd better try and get it right
Brand new morning
You've been awake since early light
Brand new morning
So spread your wings and you'll take flight
Furlough, and training
Look for the answers you know you can trust
One day they might blow away
Reading challenge...
My Goodreads challenge has increased from a measly 120 books for the year to 170... And I can see it increasing.
Simply because there are some cracking books making an appearance this year... Gems such as the new Dreseden Files books - Peace Talks and Battle Ground, as well as the next book in the Hollows series - American Demon.
All I can say is, thank god for the kindle. I'd have gone stir crazy...
And yes - it is a genuine list. I have almost given up watching the TV, as I am getting fed up with the crap that the broadcasters seem to think that people want to watch.
There are only so many repeats of Bargain Hunt and Homes Under the Hammer I can watch before my eyes start to glaze over, and my hands start instinctively to reach for the kindle (or tree book) that I am reading....
And guess what? My kindle is calling again...
Back when I can escape the lure of a good book (or three...)
Karen
See the night sky supernova
Chase the cold moon passing over
Start the dragon's fire to smoulder
On a storyteller's night
Enforced lock-down extension.....
Cowslips in the paddock |
The funny thing is, we only planted a couple of plants - and they were the red and yellow ones - they obviously reverted over the past 20 or so years.. And spread. Not that I am complaining, although I don't mind admitting that it does make mowing the grass a little difficult...
However, there is a drawback to the lock-down... I haven't seen my partner for just over 5 weeks. OK - that has happened before - it happened last year when I caught a nasty chest infection that flattened me, and meant that I spent more time asleep than anything else. But at least we knew that when I was recovered (and fit enough to drive) we would see each other.
This time, we are (as I type this) both fit and healthy, and only apart due to the social distancing rules. And all I can say is thank god for unlimited texts / minutes on my phone. I know there is a reason for the separation, but it doesn't stop me missing him like hell.
Ah well, guess I should call it quits - my favorite Magnum song has started playing on my MP3 player... Welcome to the Cosmic Cabaret.
Back whenever,
Karen
Hard game and the music's going nowhere
This room's getting smaller by the day
Some dog on the street, he just keeps howling
Welcome to the cosmic cabaret
Out to grass - aka Furlough.
I'm one of those rare people that doesn't have broadband at home - in this bit of Darkest Warwickshire, we rely on a carrier snail. And that met with an accident called a pot of salt.
So, until June 1st, I am officially on the payroll of HM Government, meaning that I don’t go near a computer (I’m posting this via the Blogger App on my phone), so it means an enforced break from the usual stuff that lands on my desk (ok – working from home, it’s been the dining table).
But, I can at least keep up with the training that I have been trying to complete, and may well be able to get some more bits done that I am interested in – mainly updating my excel skills.
They were good enough (just) to keep me afloat, but things have changed, and I admit that I am struggling with nasty things such as VLOOKUP, data validation and other functions (something that the powers that be have decided that I really should know about)…
So, I’ll be updating on things as they arise, and I can be bothered to type on a tiny keyboard on my phone. Just hope the spell check is up to it!
Back whenever…
Karen
Hold on, there's a new way a-coming
Looks like it's arriving tonight
There's no more hiding or running
There's no more walking on ice
Damn, damn and damn.
A combination of government measures in numerous countries, and liaising with promoters and our co-headliners Gotthard has meant that ultimately the decision has been taken out of our hands.
The Serpent Rings Tour will be postponed until later this year and early next. Dates will be announced as soon as possible.
Those with tickets will be entitled to a refund or to attend rescheduled shows - information on this will be given as soon as we know more.
We're very sorry to all the loyal fans who were looking forward to coming to see us. But even more than this we are sorry for those who will feel the financial impact of this for months and even years to come. Our friends, the crew, who now have empty diaries and no immediate prospect of new shows of any kind. Our support acts, promoters, venue staff, security, bar staff and the touring industry as a whole - all of whom face exceptionally hard times now.
It was never our intent to cause anger and hurt with our previous defiance. With so much already paid for, contracts all in place and the band all rehearsed and ready to go we had very little choice but to try and carry on despite mounting pressure. We really wanted to play more than you can imagine. We held on as long as we could.
Good luck to everyone in these troubled times. We'll see you on the other side...
Bob, Tony, Rick, Lee, Dennis and all the Magnum team”
An attitude I can relate to....
UK melodic rock stalwarts Magnum have vowed not to let the coronavirus outbreak interfere with their touring plans. The band, who are introducing new bass player Dennis Ward on their forthcoming run of European dates, say that the flu-like virus – also known as COVID-19 – should not prevent fans from living their lives "to the fullest."
"Let's get this right out there," say the band, in a statement of Facebook. "The band are not going to cancel the tour."
The statement continues, "We've been in rehearsal for three weeks now. We're all in excellent health. Dennis has been fitting in fantastically and we're looking forward to playing our new material for the first time to as many people as possible.
We are contractually obliged to play every single show and we intend to do so. We'd urge every fan and indeed every human being around the world to not fall into the trap of allowing fear and misinformation surrounding the virus to prevent them from living their lives to the fullest.
If a band with an average age of nearly 60 are chomping at the bit to get on a tour bus and go and play our hearts out for three months solid we sincerely hope that you're not too afraid to come out and see us! Pack these venues out and show us what Magnum fans are made of.
F**k coronavirus. See you on the road.”
And yes – I am looking forward to seeing them the end of this month – I am one of the lucky ones who has tickets for the gig at Birmingham Town Hall.
Back later....
Karen
It's another rainy day
Talk of freedom got away
Time to get the message right
It's never black or white
So I'm walking in the rain
Found a reason to explain
No excuses, no regret
We all deserve respect
Meet the new boiler - same as the old one
So, we have had (and accepted) a very reasonable quote from A1 Gas Force to install the new boiler. The engineer thought that they would have to dig a soakaway as it's a condensing boiler, and were quite surprised when they found that we already had the pipework in place.
In fairness, the old (and condemned) boiler was one of the first condensing boilers on the market, but they only really took off about 16 years ago, so it wasn't really surprising that they didn't realise what it was.
And the best bit? It's being fitted on Thursday, so we should (hopefully) have full heating back on line on Thursday night. It can't come soon enough for me, as I don't like getting out of the shower in a cold bathroom.
Ah well, time to call this quits, as I need to get to bed early - got to be in the playpen for 08:00 tomorrow morning.....
Back soon,
Karen
Still cold in Darkest Warwickshire