Thursday, May 29, 2008
Bishop Of Rochester Tilts At Windmills
The Bishop of Rochester has lashed out at the principles of tolerance, decency and fairness. He believes that these values are not as good as Christian "transcendental principles" (for this read anti-abortion, anti-euthanasia and anti-stem cell research. Last time I read the New Testament Christ was talking about some rather more philosophical ideas than those but hey, he's a Bishop! What do I know?!). He also believes, without any real demographic evidence, that Islam is filling the "moral vacuum" left by the collapse of the Anglican Church. Please... the moral decay in this country is nothing new and is quite unrelated to religion. British culture is the real issue...
He is one of the most powerful fundies in the Anglican Church and his idiotic comments are infamous. He's had a go at everything and everyone from his future boss to the Anglican Church (that's his own church by the way). But he really does love to take pot shots at his Muslim compatriots.
This is not a true Christian man. This is an angry man in a position of power. Get him out now!
The Big 4's position in Eurovision is up for discussion. Good! It's time Britain allowed itself to engage in a fairer fight. Here is Terry Wogan bemoaning how unfair Eurovision is now, whilst he's working for the country with an unfair advantage! But I admit I also want to see other countries paying their share for this wonderful event.
Despite being somewhat of a Royalist, I quite agree it was time for the Nepalese King to go. He was a tyrant and he showed us exactly why absolute monarchy is a system with some serious flaws.
However let's not get too Republican happy. The main forces in the new Nepalese Republic are the Maoist parties. Let's just hope they have learnt from the past mistakes of Communism and respect the Nepalese people by defending, rather than destroying, a new democratic republic.
He is one of the most powerful fundies in the Anglican Church and his idiotic comments are infamous. He's had a go at everything and everyone from his future boss to the Anglican Church (that's his own church by the way). But he really does love to take pot shots at his Muslim compatriots.
This is not a true Christian man. This is an angry man in a position of power. Get him out now!
The Big 4's position in Eurovision is up for discussion. Good! It's time Britain allowed itself to engage in a fairer fight. Here is Terry Wogan bemoaning how unfair Eurovision is now, whilst he's working for the country with an unfair advantage! But I admit I also want to see other countries paying their share for this wonderful event.
Despite being somewhat of a Royalist, I quite agree it was time for the Nepalese King to go. He was a tyrant and he showed us exactly why absolute monarchy is a system with some serious flaws.
However let's not get too Republican happy. The main forces in the new Nepalese Republic are the Maoist parties. Let's just hope they have learnt from the past mistakes of Communism and respect the Nepalese people by defending, rather than destroying, a new democratic republic.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
More Thai Movies
Satree Lek, Iron Ladies, is a brilliant movie. Sure it's not the deepest, or the cleverest, movie around. But it's good for a laugh.
Based on a true story of a group of gay and kathoey Thai's winning the national mens volleyball championships... it's been one of those movies I've heard of but never seen for a very long time and I'm glad I finally got a chance to see it.
Funny and sweet.
Beautiful Boxer is an amazing movie based on another true story. It's an interesting journey from gender confused child through to Muay Thai boxer and on to kathoey-hood. Check it out, and for the real person it's based on see Nong Thoom
Can you, Dear Constant Reader, guess what my current obsession is?
Social Experiments
Before I went away I left my work keys somewhere secure and in the three weeks between then and getting back I, fairly predictably, forgot where that secure place was.
So the last week I've not had them, which isn't a problem for me as there are now people who actually get to work before me (YAY!). However it would appear I'm the only person with keys for doors to other locks, and it's been fairly amusing watching the chaos and mess that has ensued.
It has kind of persuaded me that the people I work with are not as clever as even I had optimistically hoped and has helped me with a decision I'll mention below...
But anyway... I brought my keys today... unlocked all the side doors and secret rooms that make life here somewhat easier... and they are all so conditioned by last week that they aren't even using them anymore. HA HA. Which proves that all the fuss of last week was absolutely not necessary.
So today I feel like doing something kind of reckless... resigning without any other job lined up. I've written my letter but my boss is off today so I have one more day to think about it. If I did resign my leaving date would be 31/07/2008.
I feel like I'm being treated badly here, that the company is now going in a direction I really don't want to follow, and that I'm so over customer service on the phones. What would I do? ANYTHING. Work in a shop. Become a civil servant. I quite like the idea of a security guard job... that'd be interesting. Anything that doesn't involve a customer service in the way I do it now. I know most jobs do require customer service but trust me... it's quite majorly different to what we do here, even if I now only answering one or two calls a day myself.
I really want to resign. I mean the very thought of resigning fills my heart with a sunny, happy feeling that makes me want to skip down streets singing musical numbers. And that's despite of my intense fear of unemployment. The dark terror that has kept me here is now actually completely obliterated by my urge to be free. That says something quite powerful to me.
Also not having a job as of August might force me to get off my fat arse and look for something more suitable.
So the last week I've not had them, which isn't a problem for me as there are now people who actually get to work before me (YAY!). However it would appear I'm the only person with keys for doors to other locks, and it's been fairly amusing watching the chaos and mess that has ensued.
It has kind of persuaded me that the people I work with are not as clever as even I had optimistically hoped and has helped me with a decision I'll mention below...
But anyway... I brought my keys today... unlocked all the side doors and secret rooms that make life here somewhat easier... and they are all so conditioned by last week that they aren't even using them anymore. HA HA. Which proves that all the fuss of last week was absolutely not necessary.
So today I feel like doing something kind of reckless... resigning without any other job lined up. I've written my letter but my boss is off today so I have one more day to think about it. If I did resign my leaving date would be 31/07/2008.
I feel like I'm being treated badly here, that the company is now going in a direction I really don't want to follow, and that I'm so over customer service on the phones. What would I do? ANYTHING. Work in a shop. Become a civil servant. I quite like the idea of a security guard job... that'd be interesting. Anything that doesn't involve a customer service in the way I do it now. I know most jobs do require customer service but trust me... it's quite majorly different to what we do here, even if I now only answering one or two calls a day myself.
I really want to resign. I mean the very thought of resigning fills my heart with a sunny, happy feeling that makes me want to skip down streets singing musical numbers. And that's despite of my intense fear of unemployment. The dark terror that has kept me here is now actually completely obliterated by my urge to be free. That says something quite powerful to me.
Also not having a job as of August might force me to get off my fat arse and look for something more suitable.
Monday, May 26, 2008
Serial Killers, Music and Thai Movies
I got into Dexter whilst I was away and just finished the second series yesterday. What an awesome show. As one of those people who has always harboured a macabre interest in serial killers I think it's really an interesting moral dilemma. A serial killer of killers? Is that a good or bad thing?
Although Dexter does have a rather annoying way of forgetting highly important events from his past, only remembering them at the very last moment before that knowledge is needed.... grr...
Germany is fretting over it's poor Eurovision showing. Well I can explain... your act could not sing on the night. It was appalling. Case closed!
Just finished watching "The Love Of Siam" (Directors Cut). That is one hell of a powerful and emotional movie. The Thai "Beautiful Thing" but with a little bit more class. I think it's going to be one of those movies that stays with me for a while.
P.S. Mario Maurer and Witwisit Hiranyawongkul kissing; HOT.
Sunday, May 25, 2008
I'm A European, Get Me Out Of Here
Oh God darn it. Slightly bored and with nothing better to do I went and read the BBC's Have Your Say section about Eurovision. How depressing. Just a bunch of bitter people parroting the same old discredited complaints about Eurovision.
A question for my wonderful non-British readers, do people in your countries moan as much or spell things quite as badly as us Brits?
Sometimes I wonder how we managed to maintain an empire for so many decades when I suspect everyone back home was moaning about all the effort and cost.
But let's think positively and oogle this picture of Dima yoinked from Uroskin
How can you say that body shouldn't have won Eurovision? ;)
A question for my wonderful non-British readers, do people in your countries moan as much or spell things quite as badly as us Brits?
Sometimes I wonder how we managed to maintain an empire for so many decades when I suspect everyone back home was moaning about all the effort and cost.
But let's think positively and oogle this picture of Dima yoinked from Uroskin
How can you say that body shouldn't have won Eurovision? ;)
And the winner is...
The gorgeous Dima!!!! aka my husband.
See some voting analysis here.
To be honest, beyond the fact that Greece got so many points (shame on us for the 12 points given, have the British no taste at all? And points to Latvia... I'm so ashamed), I think the voting was actually fairly spot on. Sure Sweden should have done better but hey... if even the Nordic block abandoned them then it obviously just wasn't up to the job.
Dima's performance on the night was great, but not as good as his open shirt second end of show performance. Mmmm...
Ukraine fumbled some parts and did not really deserve the win, even if I so wanted them to.
Greece.. yuck.
Armenia doing so well was a big surprise for me. But now I have Qele Qele stuck in my head so obviously there's something to it.
Sir Terry made some rather obnoxious comments about Bosnia doing so well. Well Sir Terry most people I've asked over the last week LOVED Bosnia. It was quirky, but fun.
I am disturbed by how well Croatia did.
*LATER* More vote analysis on West/East voting patterns. We really aren't that much different.
See some voting analysis here.
To be honest, beyond the fact that Greece got so many points (shame on us for the 12 points given, have the British no taste at all? And points to Latvia... I'm so ashamed), I think the voting was actually fairly spot on. Sure Sweden should have done better but hey... if even the Nordic block abandoned them then it obviously just wasn't up to the job.
Dima's performance on the night was great, but not as good as his open shirt second end of show performance. Mmmm...
Ukraine fumbled some parts and did not really deserve the win, even if I so wanted them to.
Greece.. yuck.
Armenia doing so well was a big surprise for me. But now I have Qele Qele stuck in my head so obviously there's something to it.
Sir Terry made some rather obnoxious comments about Bosnia doing so well. Well Sir Terry most people I've asked over the last week LOVED Bosnia. It was quirky, but fun.
I am disturbed by how well Croatia did.
*LATER* More vote analysis on West/East voting patterns. We really aren't that much different.
Comments On The UK In Eurovision
I'm quite disillusioned. I never thought my own country could be such bitter, bitchy and pathetic losers. But you live and learn I suppose.
Terry Wogan should stand down as commentator. His comments at the end of the show were completely inappropriate.
Andy Abraham did not give the performance of his life. I thought he may have stumbled his opening and I've never really liked the song. It was ok but did not stand out at all. Sorry Andy, I'm just being honest.
And the only reason it got through our qualifiers? Because Sir Terry Wogan went against the decision of the UK public and chose Andy as a wildcard for the second voting round scuppering Michelle Gayles chances. May this lose be on his head.
Now I'm not going to deny there is a lot of "political" voting in the contest. But I think it's more than just voting for countries you like. I think the countries proximities may in some cases simply mean the song they vote for has been promoted well prior to the contest. Dima for instance is a big star in Russia and in the former USSR. So it's no wonder people chose his song. I'd be interested to know how many countries Andy Abraham visited prior to going to Serbia? How many television and radio slots did he perform on?
And the Big 4 don't take part in the semi finals. Personally I choose my favourite based on the semi finals, and I don't change my mind very often. I suspect others do the same. If you chose Ukraine as I did, and then saw Andy Abrahams performance on the night would you have changed your vote? Don't think I would... it was forgettable. I've got plenty of songs from last night stuck in my head, but I can't even remember the words to our entry.
I think it's time the Big 4 said "We want to share the load" and stop being the privileged Big 4. It sends out an elitist message and I think a lot of other countries need to start pulling their financial weight. It would then be a lot fairer, we could perform in the semi finals and we could perhaps get our song out there for people to start enjoying prior to the main contest.
So Britain, stop being poor losers and put on the traditional stiff upper lip. This is war, and we need to make sure next year we go in with all guns blazing. But I suspect most Brits enjoy this moaning about losing and simply won't bother to help chose a good song next time round.
Terry Wogan should stand down as commentator. His comments at the end of the show were completely inappropriate.
Sir Terry, who has commentated on the competition since the 1970s, said: "Russia were going to be the political winners from the beginning."
He told viewers: "I think it's tremendously disappointing from the point of view of the United Kingdom.
"Andy Abraham gave, I think, the performance of his life with a song that certainly deserved far more points than it got when you look at the points that Spain got, that Bosnia-Hercegovina got - some really ridiculous songs."
Sir Terry said his producer, Kevin Bishop, was stepping down after this year's contest.
"He and I have to decide whether we want to do this again," he said.
"Indeed, western European participants have to decide whether they want to take part from here on in because their prospects are poor."
Andy Abraham did not give the performance of his life. I thought he may have stumbled his opening and I've never really liked the song. It was ok but did not stand out at all. Sorry Andy, I'm just being honest.
And the only reason it got through our qualifiers? Because Sir Terry Wogan went against the decision of the UK public and chose Andy as a wildcard for the second voting round scuppering Michelle Gayles chances. May this lose be on his head.
Now I'm not going to deny there is a lot of "political" voting in the contest. But I think it's more than just voting for countries you like. I think the countries proximities may in some cases simply mean the song they vote for has been promoted well prior to the contest. Dima for instance is a big star in Russia and in the former USSR. So it's no wonder people chose his song. I'd be interested to know how many countries Andy Abraham visited prior to going to Serbia? How many television and radio slots did he perform on?
And the Big 4 don't take part in the semi finals. Personally I choose my favourite based on the semi finals, and I don't change my mind very often. I suspect others do the same. If you chose Ukraine as I did, and then saw Andy Abrahams performance on the night would you have changed your vote? Don't think I would... it was forgettable. I've got plenty of songs from last night stuck in my head, but I can't even remember the words to our entry.
I think it's time the Big 4 said "We want to share the load" and stop being the privileged Big 4. It sends out an elitist message and I think a lot of other countries need to start pulling their financial weight. It would then be a lot fairer, we could perform in the semi finals and we could perhaps get our song out there for people to start enjoying prior to the main contest.
So Britain, stop being poor losers and put on the traditional stiff upper lip. This is war, and we need to make sure next year we go in with all guns blazing. But I suspect most Brits enjoy this moaning about losing and simply won't bother to help chose a good song next time round.
Saturday, May 24, 2008
The 53rd Eurovision Song Contest
So tonight is the night we've all been waiting for. You can watch live here.
Here we go.... It's Terry time!!!
OK... opening number is a gay marriage?? How very Eurovision!
As much as he makes some unnecessary comments about Eurovision, you just can't help loving Terry Wogan!
Romania "Pe-o margine de lume" - Nico & Vlad Miriţă
This song is a really nice duet in Romanian and Italian and is actually rather good. It's not my usual cup of tea but still a nice way to start off the night.
United Kingdom "Even If" - Andy Abraham
I'm not going to pretend I've ever really liked this song. Sorry Andy. But I do pray we get some points!!!
I could barely hear this at some points. Sound problems or voice problems? AH! Poor Andy.
Bring it home!!
Albania "Zemrën lamë peng" - Olta Boka
Not a big fan of this one but it's the best Albanian entry for years. No silly hats for instance.
Germany "Disappear" - No Angels
The version of this I've got on my iPod has some very awful singing on it so I was interested to hear it on the night.
Sadly it wasn't just the version on my iPod that was iffy. Good song, shame about the singing.
Armenia "Qele Qele" - Sirusho
Great opening, the voice was spot on and I do like this song. But... her voice just wasn't up to some parts.
Bosnia and Herzegovina "Pokušaj" - Elvir Laković Laka
I LOVE THIS SONG. But I don't know why. It's just mad and made me smile.
Israel "Ke'ilo kan" - Bo'az Ma'uda
Pretty boy singing and an okay song. But not in my favourites list.
And as is my Mums standard mark for Israel "Nil Point - Stop Killing Palestinians" (note I don't exactly agree with the statement [well I do but I think it could be worded better] but it's a family Eurovision tradition.)
Finland "Missä miehet ratsastaa" - Teräsbetoni
I really like this song.
Croatia "Romanca" - Kraljevi Ulice and 75 cents
As Terry said... it's men in hats and a grumpy old man. I don't like this song at all.
Poland "For Life" - Isis Gee
Personally I think this song is very boring. Amazing teeth on Isis though. I'll be interested to see how many points we give, I wonder if the Polish diaspora will influence the British vote...
Iceland "This Is My Life" - Eurobandið
Great song. And a very enthusiastic performance. I hope Iceland do well.
Turkey "Deli" - Mor ve Ötesi
I think this is a good solid song. I don't expect it to win but it deserves some votes.
OH NO! It's the Green Room. Why do they always choose the most annoying people to do the Green Room segments???
Portugal "Senhora do Mar" - Vânia Fernandes
I hate this song. Sorry, but it's boring... it's called Lady of the Sea and she looks like Ursula from the Little Mermaid?? This can't be a coincidence...
Latvia "Wolves of the Sea" - Pirates of the Sea
Honestly, the name says everything you need to know about this song.
Sweden "Hero" - Charlotte Perrelli
It's the favourite!! But you know what... I have a sneaking suspicion that the Ukraine will pip Charlotte at the post. I like the song, it's fun.
Denmark "All Night Long" - Simon Mathew
It's alright. But hardly of a calibre to win in my opinion...
Georgia "Peace Will Come" - Diana Gurtskaya
I like the chorus. My brain says it's an awful song. My heart says "Hey it's not that bad!".
Ukraine "Shady Lady" - Ani Lorak
My favourite (shame Andorra didn't make it). Singing isn't actually that good but the stage production and song are great.... Love it.
France "Divine" - Sébastien Tellier
This is an amazing piece of music, in Eurovision terms anyway! I do really like it... please let it do well! Love the beards... shame about the cameras!
Azerbaijan "Day After Day" - Elnur Hüseynov & Samir Javadzadeh
Just plain weird!!!
Greece "Secret Combination" - Kalomoira
The performance was better than at the semi final, but still... I don't think it's going to make it.
Spain "Baila el Chiki-chiki" - Rodolfo Chikilicuatre
This is the only song that I did not listen before the contest. My Mum just sent me a text and her comment on the song was "Oh Please!!". It wasn't godawful but was also a lot like Ali G Does Eurovision. No thanks!
Serbia "Oro" - Jelena Tomašević and Bora Dugić
It's not a bad song, but not my thing.
Russia "Believe" - Dima Bilan
Sorry... was he singing??? I didn't notice, because he was giving me this come hither look. I love Dima... can I keep him?
Norway "Hold On Be Strong" - Maria Haukaas Storeng
We end on a high note, on second viewing I'm going to say it is a good song. And I agree with Terry, this might be the dark horse of the competition.
Can't believe it's nearly over for another year. Much sadness. :(
My hopes:
Ukraine to win.
Sweden, France, UK and Bosnia do really well.
Croatia comes last. Please let it happen!
And Mum has texted me her vote (I'm glad even though we are separated by distance we still judge Eurovision together): Finland! She's always liked rockers with long hair. She's such an eighties girl!
I'm signing off now to enjoy the results tally offline, Terry always has me laughing so hard during them. We'll do the result breakdown and the opinions tomorrow once I've had time to grapple with the brutal, crushing disappointment I always feel at the end of Eurovision. Until then...
Here we go.... It's Terry time!!!
OK... opening number is a gay marriage?? How very Eurovision!
As much as he makes some unnecessary comments about Eurovision, you just can't help loving Terry Wogan!
Romania "Pe-o margine de lume" - Nico & Vlad Miriţă
This song is a really nice duet in Romanian and Italian and is actually rather good. It's not my usual cup of tea but still a nice way to start off the night.
United Kingdom "Even If" - Andy Abraham
I'm not going to pretend I've ever really liked this song. Sorry Andy. But I do pray we get some points!!!
I could barely hear this at some points. Sound problems or voice problems? AH! Poor Andy.
Bring it home!!
Albania "Zemrën lamë peng" - Olta Boka
Not a big fan of this one but it's the best Albanian entry for years. No silly hats for instance.
Germany "Disappear" - No Angels
The version of this I've got on my iPod has some very awful singing on it so I was interested to hear it on the night.
Sadly it wasn't just the version on my iPod that was iffy. Good song, shame about the singing.
Armenia "Qele Qele" - Sirusho
Great opening, the voice was spot on and I do like this song. But... her voice just wasn't up to some parts.
Bosnia and Herzegovina "Pokušaj" - Elvir Laković Laka
I LOVE THIS SONG. But I don't know why. It's just mad and made me smile.
Israel "Ke'ilo kan" - Bo'az Ma'uda
Pretty boy singing and an okay song. But not in my favourites list.
And as is my Mums standard mark for Israel "Nil Point - Stop Killing Palestinians" (note I don't exactly agree with the statement [well I do but I think it could be worded better] but it's a family Eurovision tradition.)
Finland "Missä miehet ratsastaa" - Teräsbetoni
I really like this song.
Croatia "Romanca" - Kraljevi Ulice and 75 cents
As Terry said... it's men in hats and a grumpy old man. I don't like this song at all.
Poland "For Life" - Isis Gee
Personally I think this song is very boring. Amazing teeth on Isis though. I'll be interested to see how many points we give, I wonder if the Polish diaspora will influence the British vote...
Iceland "This Is My Life" - Eurobandið
Great song. And a very enthusiastic performance. I hope Iceland do well.
Turkey "Deli" - Mor ve Ötesi
I think this is a good solid song. I don't expect it to win but it deserves some votes.
OH NO! It's the Green Room. Why do they always choose the most annoying people to do the Green Room segments???
Portugal "Senhora do Mar" - Vânia Fernandes
I hate this song. Sorry, but it's boring... it's called Lady of the Sea and she looks like Ursula from the Little Mermaid?? This can't be a coincidence...
Latvia "Wolves of the Sea" - Pirates of the Sea
Honestly, the name says everything you need to know about this song.
Sweden "Hero" - Charlotte Perrelli
It's the favourite!! But you know what... I have a sneaking suspicion that the Ukraine will pip Charlotte at the post. I like the song, it's fun.
Denmark "All Night Long" - Simon Mathew
It's alright. But hardly of a calibre to win in my opinion...
Georgia "Peace Will Come" - Diana Gurtskaya
I like the chorus. My brain says it's an awful song. My heart says "Hey it's not that bad!".
Ukraine "Shady Lady" - Ani Lorak
My favourite (shame Andorra didn't make it). Singing isn't actually that good but the stage production and song are great.... Love it.
France "Divine" - Sébastien Tellier
This is an amazing piece of music, in Eurovision terms anyway! I do really like it... please let it do well! Love the beards... shame about the cameras!
Azerbaijan "Day After Day" - Elnur Hüseynov & Samir Javadzadeh
Just plain weird!!!
Greece "Secret Combination" - Kalomoira
The performance was better than at the semi final, but still... I don't think it's going to make it.
Spain "Baila el Chiki-chiki" - Rodolfo Chikilicuatre
This is the only song that I did not listen before the contest. My Mum just sent me a text and her comment on the song was "Oh Please!!". It wasn't godawful but was also a lot like Ali G Does Eurovision. No thanks!
Serbia "Oro" - Jelena Tomašević and Bora Dugić
It's not a bad song, but not my thing.
Russia "Believe" - Dima Bilan
Sorry... was he singing??? I didn't notice, because he was giving me this come hither look. I love Dima... can I keep him?
Norway "Hold On Be Strong" - Maria Haukaas Storeng
We end on a high note, on second viewing I'm going to say it is a good song. And I agree with Terry, this might be the dark horse of the competition.
Can't believe it's nearly over for another year. Much sadness. :(
My hopes:
Ukraine to win.
Sweden, France, UK and Bosnia do really well.
Croatia comes last. Please let it happen!
And Mum has texted me her vote (I'm glad even though we are separated by distance we still judge Eurovision together): Finland! She's always liked rockers with long hair. She's such an eighties girl!
I'm signing off now to enjoy the results tally offline, Terry always has me laughing so hard during them. We'll do the result breakdown and the opinions tomorrow once I've had time to grapple with the brutal, crushing disappointment I always feel at the end of Eurovision. Until then...
Low Brow Journalism
I despair when reading BBC News sometimes. After reading Flat Earth News
, I realise what is causing the problem but still the mistakes and errors they make can be quite annoying. Yesterday this story appeared under the title "Blairs Nearly Had Water Turned Off".
What a lie! It is illegal to use unpaid bills as an excuse to turn off water to a domestic property! What numpty wrote that? Well obviously it has been changed now but still they are acting as if the water board was about to take the ex-Prime Minister to a debt collection agency. This is a reminder notice! Of course it is a little harsh, that's how they get the money out of people who don't pay bills! But at least two more letters must be sent before they can send you to a debt collection agency. Grrr... how can people work in journalism be so stupid?
And the worst part? Some actual serious news was released with regards to MPs expenses but it was hidden under this populist twaddle. Shame on the BBC.
, I realise what is causing the problem but still the mistakes and errors they make can be quite annoying. Yesterday this story appeared under the title "Blairs Nearly Had Water Turned Off".What a lie! It is illegal to use unpaid bills as an excuse to turn off water to a domestic property! What numpty wrote that? Well obviously it has been changed now but still they are acting as if the water board was about to take the ex-Prime Minister to a debt collection agency. This is a reminder notice! Of course it is a little harsh, that's how they get the money out of people who don't pay bills! But at least two more letters must be sent before they can send you to a debt collection agency. Grrr... how can people work in journalism be so stupid?
And the worst part? Some actual serious news was released with regards to MPs expenses but it was hidden under this populist twaddle. Shame on the BBC.
Must Read Article On The Cult Of Scientology
Check it out at the Guardian. It'd be funnier if it wasn't so scary, let's see if we can get Boris Johnson to comment on this... I think that would be an even greater laugh!
Friday, May 23, 2008
Just Because
You know I think there hasn't been enough totty around here lately and you can never have too much totty.
Edilson Nascimento was yoinked from Fit Sports Men
Things you'd like to do to him on a comment please... ;)
Edilson Nascimento was yoinked from Fit Sports Men
Things you'd like to do to him on a comment please... ;)
Eurovision: One More Sleep
So the two semi finals are over and we are all now aware of who, and what, is going to be in the final.
The countries I'll rooting for this year are:
Ukraine: This song is just so catchy. Have had it in my head all day.
France: Good enough to actually sell some records this one! Good tune.
Bosnia: Crazy enough to actually sneak through. Love the quirkiness.
I predict Sweden and Ukraine will give each a good run for their money, whilst the UK might not do quite so well. Ok so that second prediction is pretty easy!!
One more sleep!
The countries I'll rooting for this year are:
Ukraine: This song is just so catchy. Have had it in my head all day.
France: Good enough to actually sell some records this one! Good tune.
Bosnia: Crazy enough to actually sneak through. Love the quirkiness.
I predict Sweden and Ukraine will give each a good run for their money, whilst the UK might not do quite so well. Ok so that second prediction is pretty easy!!
One more sleep!
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Eurovision Semi Final 2
So here we go again...
Remember we can vote in the UK this time! So don't forget to choose your favourite...
Oh God another opening ceremony... what did the people of Europe do to deserve this??
Iceland "This Is My Life" - Eurobandið
Very clubby this one, I've been listening to it on my iPod. I like it, although the singer has a remarkably large forehead doesn't he?!
A much more upbeat start to the evenings events than the first semi final .
Sweden "Hero" - Charlotte Perrelli
This song just screams Diva. Love this song, very strong performance. Bit weirded out by the grey start but quite cool.
Turkey "Deli" - Mor ve Ötesi
I really like this song, very Manic Street Preachers. However it's a bit depressing. Well sung and good tune though.
Ukraine "Shady Lady" - Ani Lorak
I'm always a big fan of the Ukraine's offerings (I think I still have a crush on Ruslana), and this one is no different. Love the dancers in the glass boxes. Powerful entry, almost guaranteed to go through to the final and if Sweden makes it too will give them a run for their money.
Lithuania "Nomads In The Night" - Jeronimas Milius
Very, very similar to something you might find in the Phantom of the Opera or Les Mis. This doesn't make it bad, but I don't know if it'll make it. Good singer, alright song... but Eurovision material? Hmm...
Albania "Zemrën lamë peng" - Olta Boka
I've not really ever like Albanian entires. This one was the best I've encountered so far, still it's not to my liking.
Switzerland "Era stupendo" - Paolo Meneguzzi
Though I felt his voice faltered at times, the song is good. And after last years travesty of Vampires Are Alive not even qualifying it's time to give Switzerland a break!!!
Cute dancers!
Czech Republic "Have Some Fun" - Tereza Kerndlová
Given that Prague is my European Dream City, I have a soft spot for this entry. However her singing was terrible!!! :( Poor Tereza. Such a good song, and a good official video but I feel terribly let down. If this goes through she will be extremely lucky.
Belarus "Hasta La Vista" - Ruslan Alekhno
Yay for Europes last remaining totalitarian dictatorship! Far worse than last years entry. The singing was awful. Bet it goes through though! I think there is a good song in here somewhere, desperate to escape...
Latvia "Wolves of the Sea" - Pirates of the Sea
One for all the Pirate lovers out there... but not for me I'm afraid. Reminds me of some holiday camp performance...
Croatia "Romanca" - Kraljevi Ulice and 75 cents
Erm... I'm sure this is good if you like that sort of thing.
Bulgaria "DJ, Take Me Away" - Deep Zone and Balthazar
Well you certainly couldn't call this boring! Not much of a song though... more a musical medley of sounds.
Denmark "All Night Long" - Simon Mathew
My doesn't he have a cheeky smile?? Not a very interesting song but it's not criminal either.
Georgia "Peace Will Come" - Diana Gurtskaya
I can't decide what to think about this song so I'll sit on the fence.
Hungary "Szívverés" - Csézy
Forgotten
Malta "Vodka" - Morena
Come on Malta! For us Brits Malta is ever dependable in voting for us no matter how terrible we are. Sadly I think this song is a bit pants... but good luck to them anyway, they are certainly enthusiastic.
Cyprus "Femme Fatale" - Evdokia Kadi
What??? It was ok I suppose. A bit random.
FYR Macedonia "Vo Ime Na Ljubovta" - Tamara, Vrčak and Adrian
Not for me thanks!!
Portugal "Senhora do Mar" - Vânia Fernandes
The last song of the evening...
OMG It's Ursula from the Little Mermaid!
My favourites: Sweden, Ukraine, Iceland, Turkey.
They really did not want to get the Mother of Eurovision out. I don't think she quite knew what was going on!
Finalists are:
Ukraine (YAY)
Croatia???? What a waste of a final place...
Albania... Oh God... here we go with the Eastern accusations again...
Iceland (YAY!)
Georgia.
Denmark.
Sweden (PHEW!)
Latvia.. uh oh!!
Turkey (all my faves got through this time!)
Portugal. Why??? I bet this was the judges decision...
So... that's another step down... next stop... Saturday and the final!!
Remember we can vote in the UK this time! So don't forget to choose your favourite...
Oh God another opening ceremony... what did the people of Europe do to deserve this??
Iceland "This Is My Life" - Eurobandið
Very clubby this one, I've been listening to it on my iPod. I like it, although the singer has a remarkably large forehead doesn't he?!
A much more upbeat start to the evenings events than the first semi final .
Sweden "Hero" - Charlotte Perrelli
This song just screams Diva. Love this song, very strong performance. Bit weirded out by the grey start but quite cool.
Turkey "Deli" - Mor ve Ötesi
I really like this song, very Manic Street Preachers. However it's a bit depressing. Well sung and good tune though.
Ukraine "Shady Lady" - Ani Lorak
I'm always a big fan of the Ukraine's offerings (I think I still have a crush on Ruslana), and this one is no different. Love the dancers in the glass boxes. Powerful entry, almost guaranteed to go through to the final and if Sweden makes it too will give them a run for their money.
Lithuania "Nomads In The Night" - Jeronimas Milius
Very, very similar to something you might find in the Phantom of the Opera or Les Mis. This doesn't make it bad, but I don't know if it'll make it. Good singer, alright song... but Eurovision material? Hmm...
Albania "Zemrën lamë peng" - Olta Boka
I've not really ever like Albanian entires. This one was the best I've encountered so far, still it's not to my liking.
Switzerland "Era stupendo" - Paolo Meneguzzi
Though I felt his voice faltered at times, the song is good. And after last years travesty of Vampires Are Alive not even qualifying it's time to give Switzerland a break!!!
Cute dancers!
Czech Republic "Have Some Fun" - Tereza Kerndlová
Given that Prague is my European Dream City, I have a soft spot for this entry. However her singing was terrible!!! :( Poor Tereza. Such a good song, and a good official video but I feel terribly let down. If this goes through she will be extremely lucky.
Belarus "Hasta La Vista" - Ruslan Alekhno
Yay for Europes last remaining totalitarian dictatorship! Far worse than last years entry. The singing was awful. Bet it goes through though! I think there is a good song in here somewhere, desperate to escape...
Latvia "Wolves of the Sea" - Pirates of the Sea
One for all the Pirate lovers out there... but not for me I'm afraid. Reminds me of some holiday camp performance...
Croatia "Romanca" - Kraljevi Ulice and 75 cents
Erm... I'm sure this is good if you like that sort of thing.
Bulgaria "DJ, Take Me Away" - Deep Zone and Balthazar
Well you certainly couldn't call this boring! Not much of a song though... more a musical medley of sounds.
Denmark "All Night Long" - Simon Mathew
My doesn't he have a cheeky smile?? Not a very interesting song but it's not criminal either.
Georgia "Peace Will Come" - Diana Gurtskaya
I can't decide what to think about this song so I'll sit on the fence.
Hungary "Szívverés" - Csézy
Forgotten
Malta "Vodka" - Morena
Come on Malta! For us Brits Malta is ever dependable in voting for us no matter how terrible we are. Sadly I think this song is a bit pants... but good luck to them anyway, they are certainly enthusiastic.
Cyprus "Femme Fatale" - Evdokia Kadi
What??? It was ok I suppose. A bit random.
FYR Macedonia "Vo Ime Na Ljubovta" - Tamara, Vrčak and Adrian
Not for me thanks!!
Portugal "Senhora do Mar" - Vânia Fernandes
The last song of the evening...
OMG It's Ursula from the Little Mermaid!
My favourites: Sweden, Ukraine, Iceland, Turkey.
They really did not want to get the Mother of Eurovision out. I don't think she quite knew what was going on!
Finalists are:
Ukraine (YAY)
Croatia???? What a waste of a final place...
Albania... Oh God... here we go with the Eastern accusations again...
Iceland (YAY!)
Georgia.
Denmark.
Sweden (PHEW!)
Latvia.. uh oh!!
Turkey (all my faves got through this time!)
Portugal. Why??? I bet this was the judges decision...
So... that's another step down... next stop... Saturday and the final!!
The President of The Gambia Is Not Insane, He's Just A Very Naughty Boy
The President of The Gambia's 24 hour ultimatum to his country's homosexual population to leave or be murdered has passed with little fanfare from the rest of the world.
It is amazing the things people can still get away with... a mad President (see his beliefs on AIDS) threatening to commit mass murder doesn't even warrant a major news story.
I wonder what would happen if Gordon Brown said he'd chop off the head of every Gambian in the country if they didn't leave within 24 hours? And then proceeded to proclaim a cure for cancer involving some Kentish apples and a special cream? Hmm... I wonder...
I will be thinking of those poor LGBT people in The Gambia tonight. Sadly there is no God to beseech nor any real hope of protection for them... let's hope they stay safe.
It is amazing the things people can still get away with... a mad President (see his beliefs on AIDS) threatening to commit mass murder doesn't even warrant a major news story.
I wonder what would happen if Gordon Brown said he'd chop off the head of every Gambian in the country if they didn't leave within 24 hours? And then proceeded to proclaim a cure for cancer involving some Kentish apples and a special cream? Hmm... I wonder...
I will be thinking of those poor LGBT people in The Gambia tonight. Sadly there is no God to beseech nor any real hope of protection for them... let's hope they stay safe.
More Eurovision!
It's just under an hour until the second Eurovision Semi Final showing on BBC Three here in the UK, but you can watch it on the Eurovision website if you are in a non European country.
It'll be very interesting to see how Sweden and Iceland do, and tomorrow I'll be writing about my opinions on the two semi finals and the prospects for Saturdays final. Tonight I will be live blogging my opinions on the competitors.
It'll be very interesting to see how Sweden and Iceland do, and tomorrow I'll be writing about my opinions on the two semi finals and the prospects for Saturdays final. Tonight I will be live blogging my opinions on the competitors.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
If I Should Be Close To Death...
... do not stop treating me!!! I know some people do want to be allowed to die. That is their choice. However as someone who believes that when we die we cease to exist I believe intense pain and despair is better, for me at least, than ceasing to exist at all.
I also have a major issue with the idea of a doctor not being allowed to treat a patient when they are suffering and having no choice but to let them die. I know it's the patients choice but I worry it'll lead to a change in the doctors mentality for the worse. But hey as a libertarian I'm forced to keep those opinions on here, and stay out of the debate. BUT... DO NOT STOP TREATING ME UNTIL I'M REALLY DEAD. I might start carrying a card saying "I Choose To Continue To Live".
I read a really interesting G2 article about Euthanasia whilst I was in Thailand. Pretty disturbing stuff is going on there.
I'll make it clear that I'm not anti the right of others to die, I am a libertarian after all, but it does disturb me to see such abuses occurring. There must be a better way to organise this stuff, less open to the abuse.
I also have a major issue with the idea of a doctor not being allowed to treat a patient when they are suffering and having no choice but to let them die. I know it's the patients choice but I worry it'll lead to a change in the doctors mentality for the worse. But hey as a libertarian I'm forced to keep those opinions on here, and stay out of the debate. BUT... DO NOT STOP TREATING ME UNTIL I'M REALLY DEAD. I might start carrying a card saying "I Choose To Continue To Live".
I read a really interesting G2 article about Euthanasia whilst I was in Thailand. Pretty disturbing stuff is going on there.
I'll make it clear that I'm not anti the right of others to die, I am a libertarian after all, but it does disturb me to see such abuses occurring. There must be a better way to organise this stuff, less open to the abuse.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Eurovision Semi Final 1
So it begins...
It's a real shame Terry Wogan doesn't do the semi-finals isn't it?
That logo really is beautiful. Bravo!
God.. will I be able to sit through three opening ceremonies this week??? I don't know if I can take too much of this...
Montenegro "Zauvijek volim te" - Stefan Filipović
Stefan is actually quite cute. I think it's the hair. This song is uninspiring though...
Israel "Ke'ilo kan" - Bo'az Ma'uda
Oooo... nice... Shame about the song, he sounds like he is just shouting. Hardly a beautiful voice.
Estonia "Leto svet" - Kreisiraadio
A joke entry?? Uh oh...
Wow... they are making Scooch look like Beethoven!!!
The least funny joke entry in Eurovision history??? Makes We Are The Winners look like comedy genius
Moldova "A Century of Love" - Geta Burlacu
Not a bad voice but what is it with these depressing songs??? I think everyone paid a bit too much attention to last years winner...
San Marino "Complice" - Miodio
Welcome San Marino!!
I'd probably like this song for listening to when depressed but vote for it... I'll say it's ok...
Belgium "O Julissi Na Jalini" - Ishtar
A happier song in a made up language... but not exactly great... Based on Eurovision entires I'm thinking Belgium is a bizarre country...
Azerbaijan "Day After Day" - Elnur Hüseynov & Samir Javadzadeh
Oooo... Andy Abraham is on the UK edition promoting his song... Get off the telly and go promote us on other commentators sets... their countries are the ones voting for ya!!!!
"Highest voice since the Bee Qees"
Oooo... boy in angel wings... this can't be all bad!
What theatre! Love this set.
Well the song was more Eurovison than the others we have had so far so all credit to them!
Slovenia "Vrag naj vzame" - Rebeka Dremelj
To hell with it... this girl knows her Eurovision... costume changes, dancers with chains and on those shoes with roller blades...
Thank you Slovenia... bringing Eurovision back!!
Norway "Hold On Be Strong" - Maria Haukaas Storeng
Very pop... not a bad song but don't think it's going to win. Hopefully it'll make it to the final though.
Poland "For Life" - Isis Gee
Her teeth scare me...
I'll say this is a vast improvement compared to last years Polish entry. Decent singer, decent song. Bit tooMariah Carey Celine Dion for my liking.
Ireland "Irelande Douze Pointe" - Dustin The Turkey
As Terry would say... "Prepare yourself dear"
Ireland... why have you forsaken us!!! What poor losers.
Andorra "Casanova" - Gisela
I've been listening to this one on my iPod. I quite like it....
The backing singers need some help but otherwise I like it!
Bosnia and Herzegovina "Pokušaj" - Elvir Laković Laka
Like the set, wedding dresses, very eccentric.
You know what. I like it. It's crazy, has a sense of humour and is very quirky.
Armenia "Qele Qele" - Sirusho
Not the best voice in the world but the song was fun.
The Netherlands "Your Heart Belongs To Me" - Hind
The Dutch entry... I'll have the black guy on the right... he's cute!! Oh I've been listening to this song too... it's okay and based on the other entries so far it should go through. Oh who am I kidding... we never know what might go through when it's Eurovision!!
Are we nearly there yet??
Finland "Missä miehet ratsastaa" - Teräsbetoni
Oh Lordi! It's ok in it's own way but really, can you win twice in 3 years with pretty much the same sort of song?
Romania "Pe-o margine de lume" - Nico & Vlad Miriţă
I'm not a big fan of ballads but this one is ok.
Russia "Believe" - Dima Bilan
Hands off, this boys mine!!! The song is ok, not as good as his 2006 entry but hey it's Dima!!!
Andy Abrahams insults DIMA!! NOOOOOOOOOOOOO... That's it... I'm supporting Andorra in the final.
Greece "Secret Combination" - Kalomoira
I like this one, it's on my current commuting playlist. However... this performance wasn't great. Shame... but still deserves a second chance. The song is good enough.
Well that's the songs over... sadly that means we return to the presenters... Please God no...
My apologies to the presenters... our commentators are worse...
Nearly voting time...
Greece goes through
Romania is through
Bosnia - Herzegovina makes the cut!
Finland... wow... they will be happy
Russia... YAY!!!
Israel. Hmm...
Azerbaijan. Jonathon Ross and Philip Schofield as they say on commentary.
Armenia.
Poland.
Oh the tension...
Norway!!
No Andorra?? :(
That's it folks until Thursday! Roll on...
It's a real shame Terry Wogan doesn't do the semi-finals isn't it?
That logo really is beautiful. Bravo!
God.. will I be able to sit through three opening ceremonies this week??? I don't know if I can take too much of this...
Montenegro "Zauvijek volim te" - Stefan Filipović
Stefan is actually quite cute. I think it's the hair. This song is uninspiring though...
Israel "Ke'ilo kan" - Bo'az Ma'uda
Oooo... nice... Shame about the song, he sounds like he is just shouting. Hardly a beautiful voice.
Estonia "Leto svet" - Kreisiraadio
A joke entry?? Uh oh...
Wow... they are making Scooch look like Beethoven!!!
The least funny joke entry in Eurovision history??? Makes We Are The Winners look like comedy genius
Moldova "A Century of Love" - Geta Burlacu
Not a bad voice but what is it with these depressing songs??? I think everyone paid a bit too much attention to last years winner...
San Marino "Complice" - Miodio
Welcome San Marino!!
I'd probably like this song for listening to when depressed but vote for it... I'll say it's ok...
Belgium "O Julissi Na Jalini" - Ishtar
A happier song in a made up language... but not exactly great... Based on Eurovision entires I'm thinking Belgium is a bizarre country...
Azerbaijan "Day After Day" - Elnur Hüseynov & Samir Javadzadeh
Oooo... Andy Abraham is on the UK edition promoting his song... Get off the telly and go promote us on other commentators sets... their countries are the ones voting for ya!!!!
"Highest voice since the Bee Qees"
Oooo... boy in angel wings... this can't be all bad!
What theatre! Love this set.
Well the song was more Eurovison than the others we have had so far so all credit to them!
Slovenia "Vrag naj vzame" - Rebeka Dremelj
To hell with it... this girl knows her Eurovision... costume changes, dancers with chains and on those shoes with roller blades...
Thank you Slovenia... bringing Eurovision back!!
Norway "Hold On Be Strong" - Maria Haukaas Storeng
Very pop... not a bad song but don't think it's going to win. Hopefully it'll make it to the final though.
Poland "For Life" - Isis Gee
Her teeth scare me...
I'll say this is a vast improvement compared to last years Polish entry. Decent singer, decent song. Bit too
Ireland "Irelande Douze Pointe" - Dustin The Turkey
As Terry would say... "Prepare yourself dear"
Ireland... why have you forsaken us!!! What poor losers.
Andorra "Casanova" - Gisela
I've been listening to this one on my iPod. I quite like it....
The backing singers need some help but otherwise I like it!
Bosnia and Herzegovina "Pokušaj" - Elvir Laković Laka
Like the set, wedding dresses, very eccentric.
You know what. I like it. It's crazy, has a sense of humour and is very quirky.
Armenia "Qele Qele" - Sirusho
Not the best voice in the world but the song was fun.
The Netherlands "Your Heart Belongs To Me" - Hind
The Dutch entry... I'll have the black guy on the right... he's cute!! Oh I've been listening to this song too... it's okay and based on the other entries so far it should go through. Oh who am I kidding... we never know what might go through when it's Eurovision!!
Are we nearly there yet??
Finland "Missä miehet ratsastaa" - Teräsbetoni
Oh Lordi! It's ok in it's own way but really, can you win twice in 3 years with pretty much the same sort of song?
Romania "Pe-o margine de lume" - Nico & Vlad Miriţă
I'm not a big fan of ballads but this one is ok.
Russia "Believe" - Dima Bilan
Hands off, this boys mine!!! The song is ok, not as good as his 2006 entry but hey it's Dima!!!
Andy Abrahams insults DIMA!! NOOOOOOOOOOOOO... That's it... I'm supporting Andorra in the final.
Greece "Secret Combination" - Kalomoira
I like this one, it's on my current commuting playlist. However... this performance wasn't great. Shame... but still deserves a second chance. The song is good enough.
Well that's the songs over... sadly that means we return to the presenters... Please God no...
My apologies to the presenters... our commentators are worse...
Nearly voting time...
Greece goes through
Romania is through
Bosnia - Herzegovina makes the cut!
Finland... wow... they will be happy
Russia... YAY!!!
Israel. Hmm...
Azerbaijan. Jonathon Ross and Philip Schofield as they say on commentary.
Armenia.
Poland.
Oh the tension...
Norway!!
No Andorra?? :(
That's it folks until Thursday! Roll on...
Sorry... But....
I have this advert stuck in my head... please make it stop!!
Also I apologise for the high volume of posts today!!! You ain't seen nothing yet....
Russell T Davies Steps Down
The man who brought Doctor Who back to our screens, and even helped take it from a maligned interest back to a popular Saturday night TV show, has confirmed he is not going to be Producer for series 5. This is a darn shame in one respect, he is after all an excellent writer and producer, but great in another as Steven Moffat has been chosen to replace him. Hopefully the quality shall continue, with a little fresh blood added in for good measure.
Mr Davies, thank you. You have brought great joy across our nation.
Hopefully he'll move on to bigger and better things.
Mr Davies, thank you. You have brought great joy across our nation.
Hopefully he'll move on to bigger and better things.
Eurovision 1st Semi Final Tonight!!
For those here in Britain it will be on BBC Three at 8pm. We will not be able to vote due to a complicated, but hopefully constructive, approach to the voting this year. Our chance to vote will be during the 2nd Semi Final.
My beloved Dima will be strutting his sexy stuff for Russia, whilst Ireland will be represented by puppet of a Turkey. I'm glad to see Ireland has finally got serious about winning this year.
I'm hoping this new semi final system will lead to a more balanced final and avoid as much political voting as possible.
Check back here after the show for the results of my live blog, and my opinions on the 1st Semi Final.
My beloved Dima will be strutting his sexy stuff for Russia, whilst Ireland will be represented by puppet of a Turkey. I'm glad to see Ireland has finally got serious about winning this year.
I'm hoping this new semi final system will lead to a more balanced final and avoid as much political voting as possible.
Check back here after the show for the results of my live blog, and my opinions on the 1st Semi Final.
Monday, May 19, 2008
First Day Back At Work
The excitement was almost too much to bear when my alarm clock went off at 6 a.m. and in my rush to get up I forgot to turn it off, which annoyed Jim for half an hour whilst I got ready in the bathroom. Oops...
Then I was out the door to find, thankfully, nothing changes in London; the train was late!! And dirty. And crowded. Waited for next train, and actually met up with Jim for once to go to work together. Well we both just listened to our iPods so it wasn't much different to travelling on our own...
Oh the office!! I was so happy to be back in the office with a near 20% changeover of staff just to add to the fun of returning from a 3 week trip abroad. Still haven't found out new peoples names. It's on my to do list.
9 a.m. I received an obscure reminder from my past self, written in code. Took me a while to decipher it, but when I did I laughed; "Look for a new job!" :D Am I the only person who sets myself reminders randomly?
My cold/flu/illness which I picked up is awful and I have such a sore throat... Jim sounds no better either. :(
Should really unpack when I get home but I think doing that kind of makes the end of my holiday absolutely official and I don't think I'm quite emotionally prepared for that trauma yet...
Yay! Britain is the bestest...
Then I was out the door to find, thankfully, nothing changes in London; the train was late!! And dirty. And crowded. Waited for next train, and actually met up with Jim for once to go to work together. Well we both just listened to our iPods so it wasn't much different to travelling on our own...
Oh the office!! I was so happy to be back in the office with a near 20% changeover of staff just to add to the fun of returning from a 3 week trip abroad. Still haven't found out new peoples names. It's on my to do list.
9 a.m. I received an obscure reminder from my past self, written in code. Took me a while to decipher it, but when I did I laughed; "Look for a new job!" :D Am I the only person who sets myself reminders randomly?
My cold/flu/illness which I picked up is awful and I have such a sore throat... Jim sounds no better either. :(
Should really unpack when I get home but I think doing that kind of makes the end of my holiday absolutely official and I don't think I'm quite emotionally prepared for that trauma yet...
Yay! Britain is the bestest...
Sunday, May 18, 2008
So....
I'm back. Tired and ill but back. I had a great time and I'm more than a little unhappy to have to return to this country. The grass is always greener I suppose but I'd love to really test the theory that absence makes the heart grow fonder and leave this country for a while... say 20 to 40 years ;)
Eurovision is this week!!!!!!! Tuesday is the day of the first semi final and don't worry... I'll be doing my usual live blogging updates... I love Eurovision...
Things are going to be changing around here... as you can see (if you actually visit my blog, which I recommend!!) come back to what you know has been retired for a while (I always end up coming back to what I know, trust me) and this blog is now called Dreaming of Chong Nonsi.
My new title is an expression of my current wistful longing for change in my life. London has been fun but honestly I need to move... 3 years of London has made me even less tolerant of others than 6 years in customer service. Plus I'm getting old (25 next month.. :( ) and need to start thinking about what I want to do with the rest of my life. Plus I'm fatter than I've ever been before and this has got to change!! And I must stop drinking so much alcohol as really I'm getting a bit bored of it...
I was drinking half a bottle of JD a night on holiday... ouch!!
And Dear Constant Reader I have one thing to say to you for all your patience with me... kop koon khrap.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Jae Kay Is Away!!
So I embark on a plane journey (not my favourite thing in the whole world!) but I should return on the 17th May... I'll miss you Dear Constant Reader!!
Remember to check out my blogroll for lots of interesting blogs.
Ok I tried not to write anything about the Jensen Ackles pic.. but I must. *Swoon* He is sooooo lovely. Oh to be a fly on his trousers, as no one I know says... ;)
What A Carry On!!
The two alleged blackmailers in the Royal gay sex case are now saying they were attempting to warn the royal involved of their employees "gay sex predations".
Now given who the Royal is, I'm pretty sure such warnings would only have encouraged this behaviour! What a laugh, what an IDIOTIC defense. I have a feeling that if this is the best the defense can come up with, then these blackmailers are going down... Greedy, intrusive bastards.
And oh look... our "moral" friends over at the News of the World had their grubby little fingers in the pie. You know, I think the News of the World is more dangerous that any terrorist. It's time News of the World employees were placed in detention for as long as possible for the sack of our country!!
Now given who the Royal is, I'm pretty sure such warnings would only have encouraged this behaviour! What a laugh, what an IDIOTIC defense. I have a feeling that if this is the best the defense can come up with, then these blackmailers are going down... Greedy, intrusive bastards.
And oh look... our "moral" friends over at the News of the World had their grubby little fingers in the pie. You know, I think the News of the World is more dangerous that any terrorist. It's time News of the World employees were placed in detention for as long as possible for the sack of our country!!
Sunday, April 27, 2008
One More Sleep (Ish)
I leave the house for my trip abroad in the early hours of Tuesday. If you do want access to my, restricted, travel blog you will need to email me asap. Thanks to those who have already requested access.
Hypocrite Tories Make Me Laugh
The News of the World and the Tories both go on about traditional values and then break their own rules constantly.
I hate living in a world where 1) a Lord having drug filled orgies is worthy of reporting and 2) where a Conservative politician thinks it's ok to have drug filled orgies and remain a member of a Conservative party hell bent on enforcing faux "values" upon the citizens of this country.
Wake up! Sex and drugs have been here forever and will be around forever. The conservative movement is pissing into the wind if they think they can change things by espousing tougher laws and values rather than trying to enact more progressive change. Look into the past to harems and the Opium trade and you'll see how things never change...
I hate living in a world where 1) a Lord having drug filled orgies is worthy of reporting and 2) where a Conservative politician thinks it's ok to have drug filled orgies and remain a member of a Conservative party hell bent on enforcing faux "values" upon the citizens of this country.
Wake up! Sex and drugs have been here forever and will be around forever. The conservative movement is pissing into the wind if they think they can change things by espousing tougher laws and values rather than trying to enact more progressive change. Look into the past to harems and the Opium trade and you'll see how things never change...
The Sontaran Stratagem: Doctor Who 4.04
Sometimes I can't quite believe that they brought Doctor Who back. And I mean that in a good way. This episode reminds me how lucky we Doctor Who fans have been.
This is another brilliant episode, with scheming Sontarans, MARTHA!!!, Donna and the Doctor being funny, UNIT, cute soldiers and good pacing.
I just love the new confident Martha and it's so sad she isn't a regular any more. Bring her back!! The Sontarans look isn't great but their attitude befits their warrior race ethos, and I can't wait to see how the Doctor foils their plan to poison the Earth. But I'll have to as I'm out of the country for the next three weeks! :(
Also... someone came to this blog last night searching for "Doctor Who porn blog"... why???
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Holiday Time!!
Friday night and work was over!!! I met Jim at Waterloo and wandered along and across the Thames to Drury Lane. We went to the Lowlander, a "Grand Cafe". It was nice and we were shortly joined by Mark and Jo. We had a couple of drinks, caught up and Jim tried a Banana flavoured beer (which, to my surprise, was absolutely delicious).
We then popped over the road to Great Queen Street for what was 1) a birthday meal for Jim, 2) the second of our monthly trips out, and 3) a meal to say farewell as all of us were about to leave the country. The service was good, the waitress knowledgeable and the food was delicious. I had crab on toast to start, followed by a truly awesome Pigeon and Foie Gras Pastie. Who knew pigeon was so delicious??
I avoided the desserts as they looked a little poncy and I like my desserts simple and honest.
Halfway through the restaurant was visited by some American army guys, one of who was quite the dish... Mmm...
Well and truly stuffed we went and had a few beers outside of the Lamb and Flag in Covent Garden. There we were accosted by a couple of tramps, and Mark and I even got a nice hug off one guy from Tanzania looking for money. He told me I was human which was nice, but alas he got no money from us...
We got the train back to Greenwich and had a night cap at the local, where Jim got given a bottle of Champagne. Lucky boy.
It was a lovely night out.
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Saturday brought an early start as we headed down to Lympne to see the folks. My uncle David was back from Mexico with his girlfriend Cecilia who was very nice (although a little quiet, probably because she is a bit shy with her English skills). Had a nice time, with a nice meal ala Jim, some lovely gifts from Mum, and a nice drive.
Bad point: hitting a pheasant with the car. :( It flew off but still...
It's been a busy few days... time for sleep!!
Friday, April 25, 2008
Freedom Day!!
It's freedom day today!! My last day at work for three long weeks. Praise the Lord!!
Last night the office headed out on the town to LVPO in Soho. We went there once before and crashed a private party, but this time we were the private party!!
It was tres dull with many long speeches about stuff, my presentation wasn't so bad and it got a few compliments. Afterwards the presenters had to "recruit" members of the company to join their teams and I am extremely pleased with the people I've got on mine now (offers of cakes, trips to the zoo and many other promises may have been made... see I'm a nice boss!!)
It's Jim's birthday!!!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY oh gorgeous and beloved one. He is 19 I believe, or at least that's what I've heard!!
Last night the office headed out on the town to LVPO in Soho. We went there once before and crashed a private party, but this time we were the private party!!
It was tres dull with many long speeches about stuff, my presentation wasn't so bad and it got a few compliments. Afterwards the presenters had to "recruit" members of the company to join their teams and I am extremely pleased with the people I've got on mine now (offers of cakes, trips to the zoo and many other promises may have been made... see I'm a nice boss!!)
It's Jim's birthday!!!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY oh gorgeous and beloved one. He is 19 I believe, or at least that's what I've heard!!
Thursday, April 24, 2008
What Will They Do???
I know I am not what keeps the company I work for together. I go away and I come back and nothing changes. But sometimes I really wish I could find out HOW that happens as the amount of silly, stupid and darn right lazy requests that are passed my way whilst I am here have to go somewhere don't they???
Oh to be a fly on the wall to find out where people go to ask "What is the address of THIS building?" or "What's our phone number?". I really wonder what poor smuck has to put up with telling people that the best way to solve their computer issues is just to restart it.
Only 1 more day to go... one more day until freedom... except I've gotta go out tonight in Soho and do some presentation in front of the whole company regarding the company wiki I helped create. Oh well... free alcohol.
Then tomorrow is freedom day... just tidy my desk, leave early and head off for a birthday dinner for Jim with our friends Mark and Jo. The holiday starts there... let's not think about the cleaning and tidying that must occur this weekend...
Oh to be a fly on the wall to find out where people go to ask "What is the address of THIS building?" or "What's our phone number?". I really wonder what poor smuck has to put up with telling people that the best way to solve their computer issues is just to restart it.
Only 1 more day to go... one more day until freedom... except I've gotta go out tonight in Soho and do some presentation in front of the whole company regarding the company wiki I helped create. Oh well... free alcohol.
Then tomorrow is freedom day... just tidy my desk, leave early and head off for a birthday dinner for Jim with our friends Mark and Jo. The holiday starts there... let's not think about the cleaning and tidying that must occur this weekend...
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Watching Reaper...
Move over Zack... make room for Bret... Hmm.. got a real thing for cuties at moment. Who needs muscle when they look as sweet as this....
Oh Be Nice!!
Here is a piece of spam that made it's way into my inbox today... the depths the spammers go to is amazing!!
And no I didn't click the link to find out it was porn... I've got Arwen at work to do that kind of thing for me... :)
"Hello, jaekay.
Listen to me carefully, i don't know what your name is, but i'll find you and i'll cripple you, because this is you who tempted her!!!
She has already gone to hospital, you're next, this is evidence: insert link to porn here"
And no I didn't click the link to find out it was porn... I've got Arwen at work to do that kind of thing for me... :)
Zach Braff Redux
Spending way too much of my lunchtime at work watching Scrubs. Zach Braff is pretty...
St WHO??
It amazes me, in this country (and when I say country I mean the UK!) with so many great Britons, that we still look to saints to represent us. In the case of "England" the veneration of St George and of some "English" culture (trust me the legacy of the English is the legacy of the violent, genocidal Anglo-Saxon invaders, not exactly a glorious past!) is even more bizarre as he never even set foot here!
Here's my proposal... let's have a Winston Churchill day. He was at once equally magnificent and flawed. A human being whose life is so interwined with the recent history of our great country (from battles in what is now Sudan, through the Boer War, the First World War, the Second World War and the early stages of the Cold War). And it's a day all Britons can celebrate together, a day of unity and celebration and of remembering the history of our islands.
I was trying to tell people today that St George never set foot in this country and they didn't believe me. If you are celebrating St George's Day today, have fun but make sure you know a little about St George.
And don't invite me!!
*Two seconds later* Grrr.... just found a St Georges flag taped to the back of my chair... someone shall pay!!! *sends out email with Union Jack on it*
Here's my proposal... let's have a Winston Churchill day. He was at once equally magnificent and flawed. A human being whose life is so interwined with the recent history of our great country (from battles in what is now Sudan, through the Boer War, the First World War, the Second World War and the early stages of the Cold War). And it's a day all Britons can celebrate together, a day of unity and celebration and of remembering the history of our islands.
I was trying to tell people today that St George never set foot in this country and they didn't believe me. If you are celebrating St George's Day today, have fun but make sure you know a little about St George.
And don't invite me!!
*Two seconds later* Grrr.... just found a St Georges flag taped to the back of my chair... someone shall pay!!! *sends out email with Union Jack on it*
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Voting Day And Other Rubbish
So today I cast my postal vote... of course I selected Brian Paddick as my first choice for Mayor, with Ken Livingstone as my second, tactical, vote. Hopefully if the polls are right and Brian sadly doesn't get it, my vote will help ensure Mr Boris "I Like To Allow People To Be Beaten Up (allegedly)" Johnson doesn't get in.
My vote for the local candidate for the assembly went to the Lib Dems again but in the interests of plurality I cast a maverick vote for the Green Party on the Party list vote. I'm not a big fan of a lot of Green policies but I do like a few of them and I always think it's good to mix it up a little when voting.
I'll laugh with you at the candidate list I was sent later and some of the appalling adverts in there for such people as the BNP and Christian Choice. Bless them.
Work is horrid today. I am counting the seconds until home time... and until my holiday.
My vote for the local candidate for the assembly went to the Lib Dems again but in the interests of plurality I cast a maverick vote for the Green Party on the Party list vote. I'm not a big fan of a lot of Green policies but I do like a few of them and I always think it's good to mix it up a little when voting.
I'll laugh with you at the candidate list I was sent later and some of the appalling adverts in there for such people as the BNP and Christian Choice. Bless them.
Work is horrid today. I am counting the seconds until home time... and until my holiday.
Monday, April 21, 2008
The Trouble With Girls...
... is they want to be woo'd.
Prince William would not need to fly a helicopter into my backyard to woo me. He's managed that and I haven't even met him. ;)
Yeah... ok the problem really is... I'm easy... there's nothing wrong with the girls!
Prince William would not need to fly a helicopter into my backyard to woo me. He's managed that and I haven't even met him. ;)
Yeah... ok the problem really is... I'm easy... there's nothing wrong with the girls!
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Planet of the Ood: Doctor Who 4.03
I'm going to make a controversial remark; I'm not a fan of the Ood. I think they are boring. Very boring. That said the themes of slavery and freedom in this episode were interesting, even if the episode was the weakest so far in the fourth series
I'm beginning to get the feeling that this series is not going to end on a happy note for either the Doctor or Donna. The Ood mention the Doctors song has to end soon, and I think Donna is beginning to see that life with the Doctor is not as fun as she first thought... death and destruction always follow him.
Much Ado About Nothing
The News of the World (and it's readers) often wrap themselves up in the faux flag of patriotism. But they are not patriots... they are run by a naturalised American right wing capitalist who cares nothing for our history and only for cheap shots and controversy.
See for instance the non-story of Prince William's use of a Chinook helicopter during his flight training.
The flight was described as "ridiculous and inappropriate" by aviation author Jon Lake, quoted in the News of the World.
WHY?? Nowhere in this piece does it explain how it was inappropriate?? He landed for 20 seconds!! How did he gain from this???
"This is an absolute waste of training hours on the Chinook helicopter that the military are hard-pressed to afford," he told the paper.
Hmm... I wonder why that could be... could it be because of our intervention in Iraq. I wonder whether the Dirty Digger was happy to support that...
"No other pilot at Prince William's stage of training would be allowed anywhere near the left-hand seat of a Chinook."
No other pilot is heir to the throne, nor in line to become head of the Armed Forces. Honestly guys, of course he's going to be given special dispensation is he wants it. He's PRINCE William. But again... what was he allowed to do this time that was so special??? Ooo.. he landed on his girlfriends parents land... for 20 seconds!! SCANDAL!
In a statement, the MoD said battlefield helicopter crews routinely practised landing in fields and confined spaces away from airfields as part of their training for conflicts such as Iraq and Afghanistan.
"Helicopter bases continually seek permission from land owners to use their fields and there are only two fields permanently available in Hampshire. Opportunities to use alternatives are therefore regularly seized."
It added: "The aircraft landed in the field, after taking all necessary safety precautions, and was on the ground for 20 seconds.
"No-one got on or off the aircraft. This was very much a routine training sortie that achieved essential training objectives."
Is this not the most ridiculous thing for the NoW to be running when there are so many worthwhile stories out there? Anyone remember Zimbabwe??? The economy?
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Another Day Closer
If you do want to follow my trip abroad you'll need to follow me to a new secure blog. No I'm not leaving this blog! But circumstances require that I am discreet (for one!!). So let me know if you wish to have access (email me through my profile).
We went to Lewisham today to get some new luggage (cheap from the market... but we're only using them for one trip!), have a cheap meal at 'Spoons (mmm... Surf'n'Turf) and buy way too many feasts at Iceland. Lewisham is beginning to look like an apocalyptic wasteland... even W H Smiths is closing down. And the Socialist Workers Party electioneers did nothing to cheer the place up by conceiving of a world in which the minimum wage is £7.20. Idiots. The way to make things more affordable is to make them more affordable... not to just give people more money and increase prices. What a short term outlook. But doesn't surprise me, I have to deal with the SWP at work and the people I speak to in their offices are extremely rude. Not quite as rude as the main guys over at Respect I'll grant you.
Here is the Economist's depressing assessment of our Mayoral Election. It doesn't have to be this way!! You can vote for Brian Paddick!! Vote Paddick for Mayor of London and stop the highest powered directly elected position in the land from becoming the laughing stock of the country.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
My Great, Great, Great, Great Grandfather John Waters
I'm assuming this rather interesting encounter with my ancestor occurred in 1902 at the time of the Coronation of Edward VII, sadly he died that same year.
From the Goudhurst Coronation Book.
I found Mr Waters returning home after a spell of Hop picking for despite his 84 years he likes to feel he is doing something useful. He thinks it is far the best plan for old people not to give up, but to keep on pottering about and take an interest in everything instead of sitting about and moping as some prefer to do! He takes long walks does odd jobs about the house and I should say his is a contented old age.
In June this year I had had a talk with Mr Waters sister Mrs Osborne who lives at The Gables Kilndown see pages 396 397 As there indicated Mr Waters is the son of John Waters who lived to be over 90 He predeceased his wife a short while.Latterly he had lived for many years at The Hollies but previously he had held Nursery Farm on the main road in succession to his father who was also John "He was a Scotney man, a foreman there said Mr Waters My dad assisted in the building of the mansion at Scotney Castle"
Mr Waters was born in this house at the Hollies on January xxx 1852 Adding to his 84 years his fathers occupation of the house it has been in the Waters family for nearly 100 years.
His wife who died about 40 years ago was Elizabeth Brignell before her marriage. The ceremony was at Burwash Church where she was living at the time although her home was at Hurst Green.
Mr and Mrs Waters had nine children four boys and five girls One died eight are living. Frank Aged 48 lives with xxx Fred (my great, great, great Grandfather) is at Riseden Walter at Hillside Kilndown Jim at Sittingbourne Florence (Mrs Wright) at Lamberhurst xx at Canterbury, Bertha at Pembury and Alice.
Mr Waters first wages were 4d a day working at a tender xx for Mr Brissenden of Bewl Bridge. After three months pulling up charlock and such like jobs he left to better things having a remarkable increase to 7d a day paid him by Mr Lansdell also of Bewl Bridge "but t'other side of the bridge that'd be Lamberhurst, this side's Kilndown"
From the Goudhurst Coronation Book.
I found Mr Waters returning home after a spell of Hop picking for despite his 84 years he likes to feel he is doing something useful. He thinks it is far the best plan for old people not to give up, but to keep on pottering about and take an interest in everything instead of sitting about and moping as some prefer to do! He takes long walks does odd jobs about the house and I should say his is a contented old age.
In June this year I had had a talk with Mr Waters sister Mrs Osborne who lives at The Gables Kilndown see pages 396 397 As there indicated Mr Waters is the son of John Waters who lived to be over 90 He predeceased his wife a short while.Latterly he had lived for many years at The Hollies but previously he had held Nursery Farm on the main road in succession to his father who was also John "He was a Scotney man, a foreman there said Mr Waters My dad assisted in the building of the mansion at Scotney Castle"
Mr Waters was born in this house at the Hollies on January xxx 1852 Adding to his 84 years his fathers occupation of the house it has been in the Waters family for nearly 100 years.
His wife who died about 40 years ago was Elizabeth Brignell before her marriage. The ceremony was at Burwash Church where she was living at the time although her home was at Hurst Green.
Mr and Mrs Waters had nine children four boys and five girls One died eight are living. Frank Aged 48 lives with xxx Fred (my great, great, great Grandfather) is at Riseden Walter at Hillside Kilndown Jim at Sittingbourne Florence (Mrs Wright) at Lamberhurst xx at Canterbury, Bertha at Pembury and Alice.
Mr Waters first wages were 4d a day working at a tender xx for Mr Brissenden of Bewl Bridge. After three months pulling up charlock and such like jobs he left to better things having a remarkable increase to 7d a day paid him by Mr Lansdell also of Bewl Bridge "but t'other side of the bridge that'd be Lamberhurst, this side's Kilndown"
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
13 Days Until Thailand!!
And I am not excited... not at all....
THAILAND!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
THAILAND!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Monday, April 14, 2008
Stuff
JP sent me a rather amusing story. It's a bit like the Shop That Never Opens at the end of my street here in Greenwich (yes that was it's name!) which somehow shut down... How that works I don't know as it was never open!! It even had a sign with "OPENING TIMES" which said something like "Monday: Perhaps, Tuesday: Probably Not, Wednesday: Highly unlikely. etc".
I once did see it open and got rather excited by it's miniature Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch railway signs. Yeah... it was a random shop! Such a shame.. the florists took it over and some lingerie/clubbing shop took over the florists.
Berlusconi is back... God Save The Italians... they are going to need divine intervention.
**SPOILER**
Daleks are returning to Doctor Who by the end of the season, the Doctor disappears, Davros and the Master are both slated to return and it's a Cybermen Christmas Special!! HAPPY DAYS!
Sunday, April 13, 2008
The Fires Of Pompeii: Doctor Who 4.02
So Doctor Who... series 4 is gearing up to be the best series of the revival. The use of the set in Rome was a brilliant idea, achieving a very realistic look. The Doctor and Donna was on top form ("I'm Spartacus" "So am I"). And the villains were brilliantly realised. Top marks for yet another great installment.
On a related note: I watched an old Russell T Davies programme from my youth. Dark Season was way better in my memory than in actuality. That's not to say it wasn't good. Just different.
In good news it looks like Alan is back blogging in English! His was the first blog I ever linked to and I'm glad to see he is still going. Check him out, he is always good for a laugh!
Jae Finds Out Something About Himself
If you admit to being abusive, rude or just nasty to a customer service person at any point in your life I stop liking you. And it doesn't matter about how much I like someone, it simply stops me liking them. Completely.
That is what I learnt today. I was chatting online with what I thought was some lovely people (who I've been talking to for a few weeks thanks to SL) when the talk turned to their service experiences and they related how they went and I found most of them were utter jerks ("Sometimes I start saying their first name really sarcastically" "Oh I just ask for their supervisor straight away because you know the first one to answer the phone is always stupid" etc.). I was too polite to point that out to them, instead I signed off knowing I could never talk to them again.
So note to you: let's not talk about customer service!!
That is what I learnt today. I was chatting online with what I thought was some lovely people (who I've been talking to for a few weeks thanks to SL) when the talk turned to their service experiences and they related how they went and I found most of them were utter jerks ("Sometimes I start saying their first name really sarcastically" "Oh I just ask for their supervisor straight away because you know the first one to answer the phone is always stupid" etc.). I was too polite to point that out to them, instead I signed off knowing I could never talk to them again.
So note to you: let's not talk about customer service!!
Friday, April 11, 2008
Horrible Trip Home
I need a little Matt Damon relief after the hellish journey home. As usual I stayed late at work for a few drinks and then headed to Waterloo East. There I found the overland suspended due to train problems at London Bridge. They say to go to London Bridge to catch trains onwards.
So I get the Jubilee line there. Once there I find that all services are suspended. Joy. So I get back on the Jubilee and get to Canary Wharf. I change for the DLR at Heron Quays but it's so busy and I end up on a Crossharbour service. To try to avoid too much of a crush I walk down to Mudchute. The train pulls up and there seems to be some room and I get onboard. The doors close. All is well... wait... where's my book???
Sitting on a chair at Mudchute. Grrr... I give it up for lost and head home. Only took me an hour and a half!!
So if someone does pick up a copy of The Children of OM at Mudchute, a book about a boy who ages randomly due to a weird defect and who is kidnapped in Thailand and milked by a transvestite in order to create a new race of half and half prostitutes, please send it my way... Thanks... P.S. Sorry for the weird shock you must of got as you read the blurb on the back... yeah... it's a weird book... but interesting!!
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
The Apprentice
So three weeks ago The Apprentice return to our screens. Hmm... still not got into it properly although am getting used to the candidates. I know business isn't meant to be pretty but couldn't Sir Alan have got a few more hot guys in??
Although I have to say I'm quite taken with Lee McQueen. Mmm... wouldn't throw him out of bed for eating biscuits.
Although I have to say I'm quite taken with Lee McQueen. Mmm... wouldn't throw him out of bed for eating biscuits.
What is happening to me??
I forgot to blog yesterday... again. It wasn't that I didn't have anything to blog or just didn't feel like it. I clear forgot. This is absolutely unlike me. I've been blogging for 7 years now. It's like breathing... I can't forget because it just happens!
I am sorry yet again, I'm obviously losing it.
So today... I've got a headache (and I never get headaches...), I had to turn down a cuddle to come to work, and I'm actually at work. These things do not a happy Jae make.
:(
And the customer complaints I'm dealing with today leave me feeling dirty as they are so petty. I hate complainers anyway as I do not raise complaints with companies myself (it's a moral position sadly few people hold and I understand that. I'm not in the mood for any comments today about how sometimes it's necessary to complain... I know... it's been said before... I understand...), but if the complaint is about something understandable (an order not turning up for instance) I can at least empathise a little. But when the complaint is as trivial and unnecessary as the ones I have to deal with, I get angry.
Every good thought and happy thing seems to be slowly being drained from me now by these idiots I have to deal with. I must escape from dealing with customers immediately.
I am sorry yet again, I'm obviously losing it.
So today... I've got a headache (and I never get headaches...), I had to turn down a cuddle to come to work, and I'm actually at work. These things do not a happy Jae make.
:(
And the customer complaints I'm dealing with today leave me feeling dirty as they are so petty. I hate complainers anyway as I do not raise complaints with companies myself (it's a moral position sadly few people hold and I understand that. I'm not in the mood for any comments today about how sometimes it's necessary to complain... I know... it's been said before... I understand...), but if the complaint is about something understandable (an order not turning up for instance) I can at least empathise a little. But when the complaint is as trivial and unnecessary as the ones I have to deal with, I get angry.
Every good thought and happy thing seems to be slowly being drained from me now by these idiots I have to deal with. I must escape from dealing with customers immediately.
Monday, April 07, 2008
Sometimes I feel like it's just you and me....
Dear Constant Reader, I wish sometimes I could express how deeply grateful I am for your constant patience and assistance. We've gone through some dark times together and you've seen me through on every occasion.
Thankfully I haven't really been depressed for over 4 years now, not like I used to be as a teenager anyway! And I'm not depressed now, but I am very unhappy. The happiness I feel on a Friday and the extreme unhappiness I feel on a Monday morning may give you a clue to the cause of my distress.
Work.
I don't want to work any more. I'm not kidding. When I say that obviously I need employment unless I'm going to start living like they do on the Good Life (a dream way better than reality I think). But I don't want to work for anyone else. I don't like the 9 - 5 existence, I don't like office politics and I really don't like having to put up with racist and abusive customers simply because they are not my customers but the company's customers.
So I've been thinking, and I'll continue to think, on ways of escaping this dreary existence... something unexpected. I see so many people working for themselves, thanks to my job of supplying them with office supplies, and I know it's possible. I just need to give it some thought and effort.
Thankfully I haven't really been depressed for over 4 years now, not like I used to be as a teenager anyway! And I'm not depressed now, but I am very unhappy. The happiness I feel on a Friday and the extreme unhappiness I feel on a Monday morning may give you a clue to the cause of my distress.
Work.
I don't want to work any more. I'm not kidding. When I say that obviously I need employment unless I'm going to start living like they do on the Good Life (a dream way better than reality I think). But I don't want to work for anyone else. I don't like the 9 - 5 existence, I don't like office politics and I really don't like having to put up with racist and abusive customers simply because they are not my customers but the company's customers.
So I've been thinking, and I'll continue to think, on ways of escaping this dreary existence... something unexpected. I see so many people working for themselves, thanks to my job of supplying them with office supplies, and I know it's possible. I just need to give it some thought and effort.
Sunday, April 06, 2008
Torchwood and the Rest
So I finally finished off Torchwood Season 2. Not bad. In fact a vast improvement on season 1. There were some very affecting episodes (Adrift and Exit Wounds being the most powerful in my opinion).
Why is it they always leave the sexiest guest star until the last episode? This year it was the relatively unknown, but too yummy for words, Lachlan Nieboer. Gosh there I was trying to watch the episode but my mind was off in another world (Third Life should we say? ;) ) in the middle of a John Barrowman and Lachlan Nieboer sandwich.
Anyhew... moving quickly on... two characters were killed off... Owen (no loss there) and Tosh (my favourite Torchwood member :( ).
Second Life is now banned from this blog for your own sanity, Dear Constant Reader. Jae Villa will be posting about his life over on Jae's Second Life.
Just try to remember my obsessions do come to an end.*
Otherwise.. work tomorrow. Big sadness.
*This does not include Charles Dera related obsessiveness
Why is it they always leave the sexiest guest star until the last episode? This year it was the relatively unknown, but too yummy for words, Lachlan Nieboer. Gosh there I was trying to watch the episode but my mind was off in another world (Third Life should we say? ;) ) in the middle of a John Barrowman and Lachlan Nieboer sandwich.
Anyhew... moving quickly on... two characters were killed off... Owen (no loss there) and Tosh (my favourite Torchwood member :( ).
Second Life is now banned from this blog for your own sanity, Dear Constant Reader. Jae Villa will be posting about his life over on Jae's Second Life.
Just try to remember my obsessions do come to an end.*
Otherwise.. work tomorrow. Big sadness.
*This does not include Charles Dera related obsessiveness
Saturday, April 05, 2008
Partners In Crime: Doctor Who 4.01
Yes, it's that time of year again... it's the latest series of Doctor Who!!
And what a season opener we got... the Doctor, cute baby aliens, an insane villain, Catherine Tate and... ROSE!!!!
The story wasn't exactly deep nor meaningful. But it wasn't meant to be and it was fun. This episode was funny, endearing and the camera work was gorgeous. The scene when the Doctor and Donna see each other for the first (second) time and talk through glass was hilarious.
Sarah Lancashire was great as Miss Foster, and the brilliant big reveal where Donna rushes up and leaves a message with a blonde girl who turns to camera... and it's ROSE!
The best opening of New Who yet? YES!
Sooooooooooo Sorry
A little like Russia's Eurovision entry Dima Bilan, I've been a very naughty boy. My blogging over the last couple of weeks has been so atrocious as to be criminal. As I would wish Dima would, I humbly place myself at your mercy.
Second Life is still occupying my free time, hey I'm trying to save money before the holiday and real life stuff is expensive. *Jae glosses over the money spent in Second Life*. And really I'm in suspended animation awaiting my trip to Bangkok where there shall be the Balcony pub, tigers and the Sky Train!!
Oh and boys who might look like Alex above, although he has the benefit of being half Dutch. God, there was really no way he could be anything but beautiful with a lineage like that!
I will try to be a better blogger this month... oh and in a cruel revelation Brent Corrigan was lying about leaving us... given that the post was dated on 31/03/2008 I find it hard to fathom what he was thinking claiming it was an April Fool. And it wasn't very funny. Put me right off him, sadly. Alas... that's why you should never have heroes... because everyone is just as dumb as everyone else and having a hero is just begging for disappointment*
*Charles Dera not included in sweeping statement. ;)
Wednesday, April 02, 2008
Jae Knows What He Wants For His Birthday....
...this
Have you seen the new coin designs??? Now you may not know this, Dear Constant Reader, but this boy collects coins. Sad but true. My initial thoughts are positive, even if I'm a little peeved at the absence of Brittania.
27 days until my next holiday... Thailand here I come!!!!!!!
Have you seen the new coin designs??? Now you may not know this, Dear Constant Reader, but this boy collects coins. Sad but true. My initial thoughts are positive, even if I'm a little peeved at the absence of Brittania.
27 days until my next holiday... Thailand here I come!!!!!!!
Tuesday, April 01, 2008
Brent Corrigan Moves On?
As Dear Constant Readers will know, Brent Corrigan is one of those folks who have had a fairly consistent prescence on this blog. Ever since I first saw him I knew he was something special (thanks to Jim for turning me on to him, so to speak).
Well I'm sad to see it looks like he is withdrawing from public life, at least according to his most recent blog post. Well Mr Corrigan, I'd just like to say.. farewell and thanks for all the pics!! I'm also sad to see it looks like his relationship isn't going so well with his boyfriend. Sending my hugs over to Sean (his real name, which I once banned from being mentioned on this blog back during those dark days of the backbiting web campaign against him). It's a shame one such a talented individual moves on with their life, but hey I still await to see his performance in Another Gay Sequel which should be good. Best of luck to him for the future.
In other news... the BBC News page is looking all pretty. And the news from Zimbabwe isn't so bad either.
My addiction to Second Life has evolved into fascination. Well at least that's the distinction I'm now making and I'm sticking to it. If you wanna find me on there my Avatar is Jae Villa. He's such a cutie and looks particularly good in a Jim designed shirt. Yum! Also... he has got a denim jacket.... if I can't find one in real life at least I've got one online now!!
At some point I went a bit mad on Google Reader and now get 200 posts to read a day. I apologise for lack of comments around blogging universe... I do read every post from you lot, even Steve's posts in Dutch! I just don't have much time between my busy schedule of Second Life and sleep to actually making not so witty remarks on them. Sorry!
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