Music Monday - Legends "Ronnie Lane"

Ronnie Lane - Bass player Ronnie nicknamed Plonk (don't ask me why) was born in London in 1946 and sadly passed away at the age of 51 in 1997.

He first came to the publics attention as part of the insperational 60's group "The Small Faces" were he teamed up with Singer Steve Marriott, Lead Guitarist Ian McLagen & drummer Kenney Jones. The group have been cited by many other performers as hugely influentual in the British Music industry.

In 1970 along with McLagen & Jones, Lane joined ranks with Rod Stewart & Ronnie Wood to form "The Faces".

In 1973 Ronnie also formed his own group Slim Chance and had a couple of chart hits.

Sadly in 1977 Ronnie was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis and his health slowly started to deteriate. In 1984 he moved to Austin Texas because the climate was good for his health where he became a king among mucisians for 10 years. His last live performance was at a Roy Wood concert in 1992. An album has been released "Live in Austin" of his studio work while living in the City.

Eventually Lane moved to Trinadad, Colorado in 1994 where he eventually passed away of his illness. Sadly he died a Poor man as he never recieved any Royalties for his work with the Small Faces. Eventually after his death these were secured by the two surviving members of the group McLagen & Jones (Marriott had died in a house fire).

Ok we'd better have some Small Faces as part of this tribute :-

Ronnie was thought of so highly that many mucisians paid for his medical treatment in his later years, the majority by such famous people as Rod Stewart & Jimmy Page.

In 2000 one of my favorite mucisians Paul Weller wrote a song "He's the Keeper" as a tribute to the life of the great Ronnie Lane :-

Enjoy this Final tribute to a true superstar of British Music :-

RIP Ronnie your memory lives on.

Another Sad Day for Soccer

Well as it is time for my Sunday Sport post, I should really come up with some excuse for my team losing 3-2 at Swansea yesterday but all I'll say is well played to them they deserved to win and at present they deserve to top the division (6 points in front of us). A long way to May though and we are only at the half way point.

However yesterdays results look somewhat insignificant considering yesterdays tragic event at the Motherwell match up in Scotland. Motherwells captain 35 year old Phil O'Donnell collapsed and died on the pitch. I don't know too much about the player, I believe he represented Scotland once but as a true sports fan my thoughts go to his Family, friends and supporters of his Club.

RIP Phil

Band Aid

No post just my daily Christmas music today but I thought I'd set the music fans among you a bit of a question. I'm posting the origional "Band Aid" song from 1984 so how many people can you name thats on it ? I mean people not the name of their group.

I wish it could be Christmas everyday

Well maybe I do or maybe I don't but thats the title of my today's choice of Christmas song, its the classic by Roy Woods Wizzard.

So I hope you are all having a fun time as for me I've had a quiet Christmas, eaten too much yes but quiet. I've actually been sorting a few jobs at home that I've been putting off. My Father pulled a Muscle in his shoulder last week so I've been cooking my parents meals "not poisened them yet".

One thing p****d me off yesterday when I saw a comment on my last post which I've now deleted. Why do morons put offensive comments under anonymous names beats me, have they not got the guts to put their own name.

I've been thinking about blogging much and I know a few of you have commented that I don't write much about myself nowadays. Well my reason is too many people close to home read my blog (and don't comment), I think blogging about personel thoughts and issues is now out of the question.

I suppose thats leading to me writing about Sport & Music and not much else, I'm sorry for those of you who don't appreciate them posts but I don't know what the alternative is.

Did I mention I've booked my first trip of the year a long weekend in Chicago Thurs 28th Feb to Tues 4th March. Its supposed to be to celebrate my Birthday but its 3weeks early so will have another do when I get home. I've a couple of mates Lofty & Skid coming with me so it should be a laugh.
I'm trying to arrange another trip somewhere in April/May more details later.

Anyway thats enough here is todays song :-

White Christmas

Well Boxing Day is all about Sport so I thought I'd post this for today's musical christmas offering from them two big Leeds Fans Bing & Frank. This is to celebrate Leeds going top of the league. Ok it was only because we kicked off early but we did stick our noses in front for a couple of hours with today's hard fought draw at Hartlepool. We're only half way through and considering we gave everyone 15 points start it really is a White Christmas.

"Christmas My Arse"

Well no written post today just my daily Christmas offering and as its the big day how about this one from that loveable slob Ricky Tomlinson :-

Music Monday - Legends "Kirsty MacColl"

For Christmas Eve I thought I'd choose an artist that was part of what many people think the best of all the Christmas songs.

Kirsty Anna MacColl was born in Britain in 1959 and was sadly killed in a boating accident aged 41 years in December 2000 while on holiday in Mexico with her family.
She was brought up in Croydon South London daughter of Dancer Jean Newlove and Folk Singer Ewan MacColl so had plenty of showbiz encouragement.

At an early age she started to write and perform music in her own Folk/Pop/NewWave style and first released a single she had written herself "They don't know" in 1979. However despite plenty of radio airtime a record producers strike at the time stopped it ever charting. However the song was performed four years later by Tracy Ullman and became a success for that lady.
She first hit the British charts in 1981 with that song with the short title "There is a Man works down the Chip Shop thinks he's Elvis", great song though :-


MacColl eventually made the top 10 of the British charts with the classic "New England" in 1985.


In 1986 Stiff records who MacColl recorded with went bust and nobody came in to buy her contract from the reciever so she was unable to record. Her recording engineer husband Steve Lillywhite (whom she divorced in 1994) arranged for her to do some vocals for a few other artists including, The Smiths, Talking Heads & Big Country.

In 1987 she scored her biggest hit when she teamed up with Punk Group "The Pogues" to make the Christmas Classic "Fairytale of New York". Many people regard this as the best Christmas song ever and it is a great performance (isn't Shane MacGowan lovely girls). The song peaked at No2 in the UK chart kept from top spot by The Pet Shop Boys "Always on my mind".

Her life came to a tragic end in December 2000 while taking a well earned holiday in Cuzumel Mexico. MacColl was skuba diving with her two young sons in a designated "No Boats Area" when she saw a speedboat enter the area heading straight for her group. The boat was going to miss Louis but hit her youngest son Jamie so MacColl went to push him out of the boats path and was struck herself, she died at the scene.

The boat was owned by a Mexican supermarket millionaire Guillermo Gonzalez Nova who many witnesses claim was at the wheel at the time of the accident. However one of his workers took the wrap and was sentenced to 2years 10 months for manslaughter but was released by someone paying a fine.

And we can't finish without that song and this is today's Christmas offering :-

RIP Kirsty

Merry Christmas to all my Friends

As its Christmas I thought I'd treat you to a couple of Photo's of me in my slightly younger days.

Judging by the smile on my face in the first one I haven't got the present I wanted, lol.

The 2nd photo I'm sure you can all spot which is me.

Anyway Merry Christmas and happy New Year to all my online friends and I'll look forward to the next 12 months in blog world.

Have Fun my friends. xxx

Did I mention starting today until the New Year I'm posting one Christmas song so heres todays offering from 1974 and that great group "Mud":-

First 24 hours of not having a job.

Yesterday I finished work and in a way it was sad but to be honest its dragged on that long I wasn't overly upset. In fact I'm sort of looking forward to a bit of a break, I've a few things I wanna do and I can do things in my own time.

I finished just before Lunch yesterday took my car home and one of my workmates Barry got his daughter to give us to a Pub/hotel. Its a new place in the area so we went to try the meals. Eight of us turned up so we had a lunch (I had Lamb), it was ok but I've had better. As a gesture the Plant Manager paid out of his own pocket which was good of him.

Following the meal and a few beers we made our way into town where we met up with a few other workmates for a farewell drink. A few were knocked back and I eventually made my way home early evening and crashed in front of the telly slightly intoxicated.

This morning I got up at 7.30am, although its weekend and I'd be off work anyway, I just seemed more relaxed about life, I suppose knowing the phone ain't gonna ring telling me "I'm wanted they have problems" is a big help.

I had some toast for breakfast and decided to have a steady walk into town as there was a couple of things I wanted. Now nipping up town and back, looking in a couple of shops usually takes me just over one hour.

This morning was different, don't know it was because I felt had all the time in the world but I just stopped talked to numerous people on my route, I was out nearly 3 hours.

First up I'd just left the house and I bumped into a neighbour John and we chatted for about 15 to 20 minutes before I moved on. Half way into town I crossed paths with Dave who was a Mechanic that left our works back in April with the first redundancies.

Got into town and in the first shop I met Lenny a bloke I used to play against at Tanble Tennis a few years back. Hes a good bloke and we chatted for awhile before going in different directions.
Next shop it was Mark our pool team captain who I had a short chat with before moving on.

Eventually I set off home only to come across Alan one of my Electricians who left to go to a new job about a month ago, so he was telling me about that and I told him what had been happening on site. Funnily while we were talking a Lady that I used to play Pool with (got to Mixed Doubles Final once) passed and said hello, ain't seen her for ages but she didn't hang about cos I was talking to Alan.

Finally I got on my way again to meet Dianne who was our HR Manager at work, she stayed to the end like me technically but wasn't there last week cos she was away on vacation. I asked her about how the holiday went and told her a few new updates from work. She's got a new job despite been offered work with the new owners. Eventually we gave each other a Christmas Hug and moved our seperate ways with me finally getting home.

Just had a bowl of soup for Lunch, didn't fancy anything else, had a check on my computor before putting the Radio on the listen to the Leeds Match. It sounded a good match Bristol had a go but the boys eventually got the all important goal to win 1-0 and move to third in the table. I did consider going to the match but my cough wouldn't cope with all the shouting.

After the match I did myself some Baccon, waffles, Tomatoes & Beans for my evening meal and now I'm blogging with a full stomach.

So this is what retirement is like ?

A quick update

I've tried to get around everyones blogs tonight but to be honest I'm struggling, I've had a head cold I can't shake off and had an irritating Cough. I'm taking medicine and Brandy for it but its slow improvement. I'm coughing that bad my ribs really hurt but I think its starting to improve.

Didn't help that I had to work outside this morning and I just got so cold, went home just after lunch and its took all day to feel warm, I'm sat at my computor with a woolly hat on. Well only two days to go and I finish work, I've already got my redundancy check, I put some towards my pension (it saves tax) and I've invested the rest.

On another subject I've been a bit pissed off with a few people lately (not blog friends) so I decided to wipe their numbers out of my phone, actually about half the people in there. If they want me they can contact me but to be honest I couldn't care less.

Music Monday - Legends "Keith Moon"

Well now my alphabet challenge is complete I need to do something for my Monday Music Post and I'm sure some of you who are regular readers of my music post will appreciate this one.

Well I'm going to start a "Tribute to music legends" post, true legends, yes those that are no longer with us. I'm going to start tonight with a man who many rate as one of the greatest Drummers the World has seen "Keith Moon". "Keith Moon" - Born in in 1946 Keith John Moon sadly passed away at the age of 32 in 1972 after overdosing on drugs he had been prescibed for his Alcohol addiction. On the night of his death he spent the evening having a meal as a guest of Paul & Linda McCartney at the film preview "THe Buddy Holly Story".
Above "The Last Supper".

Moon was the Origional Wild Man of Rock and was effectionally nicknamed "Moon the Loon", he was as crazy as he was brilliant. As a child he failed his 11 plus and lacked the ability to pay attention, some of his school reports called him retarded. His music teacher was the only person to recognise his undoubted talent.At 17 years old Moon was invited to join Roger Daltry, Pete Townsend & John Entwistle in a Mod Band called "The High Numbers" later to become houshold names and one of Britains greates groups "The Who".



Moon was a destructive person and it certainly wasn't unusual to see him trash his Drum kit at the end of shows. Although he spent all his music Career with the who he actually did play the instrument for many famous musicians, including on the famous Jeff Beck instrumental classic "Becks Bolero" others on that recording include Led Zepplins Jimmy Page & John Paul Jones.


Moon also played in a few Film Roles, playing Uncle Ernie in The Who's classic Rock Operas "Tommy" & "Quadrophenia". Another film he played in was "That'll be the Day" with long time friend Ringo Starr and David Essex. Moon played the resident drummer in the holiday camp.

As a tribute to Keith Moon the middle room at the London Astoria is named in his honour.

Here is another tribute to Keith, enjoy my friends :-

RIP Keith

I hope you all enjoy this post and I'm sure you all have your own ideas of some legends I maybe could post about in future posts.

One Week and Counting

A week today I'll be out of Work and to be honest I'm starting to look forward to having a break. I reckon when I leave my place of work next Friday I'll be slightly sad, I've been there such a long time, over 33 years since I left school its been a part of my life.

Alas we all have to move on and this certainly is a Crossroads in my life, I'm unsure what direction I'll take, I've a few things in my mind for the immediate furture but I'll probably just see where life takes me.

One thing I've promised myself is not to become a coach potato, I must not get into a habit of lazing around. I intend to still set my alarm and not stay in bed too late, I'm planning to make sure I have something active to do every day whether that be jobs around the house or recreational things. I must keep my mind & body active, don't you agree ?

I've been thinking of making plans, goals, resolutions for next year, I'll blog a list as soon as its finalised. I want to get fitter & lose weight among many other things.

Hello

Just another quickie (post that is).

I've not had much time this week to blog, Pool match Monday, Table Tennis match Tuesday (and tonight).
Last night I went out to York for a meal with 11 others from work, it was paid for so everthing tasted nice. I had "Wild Mushroom Medlay" for a starter followed by Fillet Steak for my main course. It was all cooked to perfection, it was a good restaurant. Of course we downed a few bottles of wine just to wash it down.
After the meal we moved on to a Wine Bar and eventually got home around 1am, it wasn't easy getting out of bed for work this morning I can tell you.

Talking of work I finish next Friday so we are just sorting out a few loose ends there is only a handfull of us left on site. I've been tidying up my office and putting a few confidential notes through the Shredder.

Well time for another Coffee take care xx

Music Monday - The "Z's"

At last I've completed this alphabetic marathon of Music, today my last challenge is with the letter "Z", not the easiest finish but as always I've managed to come up with some different styles. I hope you enjoy and I hope you've enjoyed my weekly post.

1. ZZ Top "Viva Las Vegas" - The bearded wonders reached No10 in the UK chart with this cover version of some little known male solo artists classic.


2. The Zombies "She's not there" - British sixties group made No12 in 1964 with this
classic.


3. The Zimmers "My Generation" - Thought I'd bring us into the 21st Century with this cover version of a "Who" classic from one of the top up and coming groups in the world. I reckon a great song to finish on what do you think ?






So what will I do with my music monday post next week, you'll have to wait and see.

Disaster Weekend

Just a quickie to let those that are interested know how we got on at our British League Matches today.

Well as I predicted without a full strength squad we struggled and like Saturday lost both our matches. One weekend 4 matches, 4 defeats we've moved from title challengers into a relegation battle.
Both today's games were close we lost them both 5-3, personally I played well winning all four of my games but without some of my regular teamates we struggled. I'm disapointed personal success doesn't replace team success.

If anyone is interested I've just posted individual photo's our players from this weekend (1st & 2nd team) on the Clubs blog, check it out - Derwent Table Tennis Club

And just to cap off this miserable weekend Ricky Hatton got beat.

A Bad Day

Today I've got home not too happy with the results of our Table Tennis Matches. We were playing British League at Sheffield equal top in our division and with big ambitiond for the weekend. Now our division is really tight with one point seperating the top 5 teams, its wide hope and anyone can beat anyone.

First up we played the team that were equal top with us so it was critical we got a result, however it went wrong from the start and we were crushed 7-1, we lost a number of very close matches including mine. In one game I started really strong taking the first too sets with ease but I lost my way in the third allowing my opponent back in, then it all went downhill. I still can't believe I lost, I was so much in control.

Anyway I wasn't down to play in our 2nd match, it was against one of the bottom teams and we had calculated it better to rest me (I'm not fully fit still got a cold) but we would still be strong enough. Anyway it started to plan with the lads storming to a 3-1 lead following the first round of matches. Then disaster struck as our opponents took the last 4 matches three of which went to five sets, we couldn't believe how we clutched defeat from the jaws of victory, confidence is very low in the squad now.

Tomorrow we have two more matches and our top player Richard is unavailable but we thought the teams we are playing against their top players would be weak against defenders. Without Richard it would leave Trev & Myself playing the top half and we are both defenders. We reckoned our lower ranked players could pick up the pieces to help achieve the desired result. However Trev pulled his back muscle today and I would say is very doubtful for tomorrow, It sort of only leaves me who has played top half at this level before and I'm only half fit. It also means one of our better lower ranked players will have to play against better players than he is used to, we will be struggling.
Two defeats is a serious possibility and it would move us from top to a relegation dogfight, we need something out of tomorrows games.

It wasn't all bad today at least Leeds United cheered me up with a comprehensive 4-0 win against Huddersfield, well done the lads.
Shame that some of the scum pikey supporters decided to shame their Club by defacing "Billy's Statue". Lets hope when the Police catch them their Names & ADDRESSES are printed in the newspapers, I'm sure they have made some new friends that would love to meet them.


And finally Good Luck to Ricky Hatton in tonights big fight.

King Billy - RIP

Today it is the 10th anniversary of the premature death of a true Leeds United legend Billy Bremner. King Billy a scotsman was our captain in what is known as "the glory years" and is immortalised in the City of Leeds.

Billy Bremner

He died on 7th December of a heart attack just two days before his 55th Birthday, he will never be forgotten, there is even a song about this Leeds legend.

He was voted number one player of all time in a pole about Leeds United players, the man was special.

Billy's Story

Billy was the spirit of the club supporters loved him for the way he wore his heart on his sleeve when he put on the famous white shirt.
Outside the ground is a statue of the man which now acts as a meeting point, a shrine where people always worship on a visit to our temple.Tommorows match a local derby threatens to be a real blood & guts match, the clubs have massive rivaly and its already a sell out. This is the type of match Billy would have loved to play in. Before Kick off there will be two minutes applause in Billy's memory.

Talking about the match I had to laugh at a couple of videos placed on You Tube by Leeds fans taking the p**s out of Huddersfield and their fans, just to wind them up a bit. Judging by some of the comments I reckon their not pleased :-

The Final Countdown

Its certainly getting close to me finishing work (21st Dec), I've still had no official contact from the new company to see if anything is on offer. To be honest I'm looking forward to Christmas off it'll be the first time I've had the full week off for a few years.
A lot of people leave tomorrow but a small skeleten crew including myself will be there to the end. It is just so quiet its sort of spooky.

A lot of people are off out for a drink tomorrow night but I'll just show my face and go home, I'm playing Table Tennis in the British League all weekend in Sheffield. The division is really tight with one point seperating the top five teams so every match is critical. We are equal top with 6 points and we play the team level with us first up Saturday morning. I've been struggling with cold all week but I am improving, hopfully I can up my performance we'll see.

Ok I'm missing the leaving do tomorrow but a few of us are off out for a meal next Wednesday, should be good I'll have to remember my Camera.

I've been scanning the deals for my travels next year, the prices arn't quite right yet but they are dropping so watch this space. I'm hoping to maybe visit some online friends during the next year, I reckon one is a cert (she knows who) but it'd be nice to meet more friends if possible, I suppose it depends where I go.

Take Care all of you xx.

Happy Birthday Mum

Today is my Mothers Birthday, not just a ordinary Birthday I reckon she has reached another milestone. She was born on 4th December 1917 (during the 1st World War), so today she is 90 years old so I reckon its worthy of a mention and a few photographs.

1. As a young child

2. Sat with a friend in deck chairs (why anyone sits in deck chairs on the street is beyond me).

3. Looking after some lovely young child (no prizes for guessing who) in the sea.

4. Yes the played Womens Football before the 2nd World War, apparently she played once for England representitive side against France. She is 2nd from left on the back row.

5. Yep thats my parents wedding photo, they don't make family shots like they used to, looks like something out of a Mafia film to me.

Music Monday - The "Y's"

Well the penultimate letter is "Y" and I've actually come up with three UK No1 songs, I'm sure you will be all impressed.

1. Yazz "The only way is Up" - This classic topped the chart in 1988.


2. Paul Young "Wherever I laid my Hat" - It was back in 1983 that Paul topped the chart with his debut single.


3. Jimmy Young "Unchained Melody" - Yes this song did top the chart before Robson & Jerome" were born, this is from 1955.






On this last one there is a bonus song from the fifties at the end Adam Faiths "Poor Alfie".

So You think you know about Music ?

Do You know anything about Popular Music if yes take this Cryptic Quiz. There are 70 Groups from the last few decades to find so let me know how you get on.


Here is a couple of examples :-
Eg 1. (Clue) Her Majesty = (Answer) Queen
Eg 2. (Clue) Picture House Tune = (Answer) Roxy Music.


So here is the Clues :-
1. Year Quarters
2. Both of You
3. Silhouettes
4. Sad Fur Coats
5. Nookie Guns
6. Hamlet Humans
7. Dark Sunday
8. Insanity
9. Warm Galaxy
10. Nuclear Cockerel
11. Nun Toboggan
12. Throttlers
13. Unemployment Card
14. Merlin
15. B.A. B.Sc. B.Eng.
16. Revolvers & Flowers
17. Prosperous City Vermin.
18. Spinning Rocks
19. First Man Insects.
20. Refinement Association.
21. Plasters.
22. Hebrew Beginnings
23. Desperate Trouble
24. Pale Serpent
25. Hard of Hearing Wild Cat
26. Babies on the Slab.
27. The lads that sell Mice.
28. Igloo
29. Grafting Blokes
30 Easily Readable
31. Sobs in Panic
32. Skinny Betty.
33. Three of the Elements
34. Sibling of the Bard.
35. Bird of Prey with Colic.
36. 4Owatt Bulb Band.
37. Get Paste from a Tube.
38. Rub out Midge
39. Mr Sinatra is off to make a film
40. Part Time Coppers.
41. Aviation Strikers.
42. Youth Association looking at animals.
43. Treacherous Man of God.
44. Barbers Century
45. Unglossy Cinzano.
46. Nosy Dead Pussy.
47. Correct Commented Trueman.
48. Metal Airship.
49. Orange and Champagne.
50. Changed Pictures.
51. Overseas Person.
52. Tissue Shoe Tie
53. Ready to assemble Vegetable.
54. Big Band moving at night.
55. Late night athlete on Deck “C”.
56. Not a good Firm.
57. Identical Pair of Sub Machine Guns.
58. Senior Teachers Conversation.
59. East End Revolutionary.
60. Doggy Bark
61. Gorgeous Confederacy.
62. Green House Plants.
63. South American Camera.
64. Stop Jock & Stop Jock.
65. Fun Park Magnetic effect.
66. Scrounge a baby cooing.
67. Next Command.
68. Entrance Way and Horse Food.
69. The Germans without Mary & Midge.
70. Cheerful Start to the Week.

Vegas look out Ricky's Army are coming

As everyone one knows I'm a big Sports fan and one Sport I love is Boxing in fact its probably the ultimate Sport. Well every so often it throws together two fighters that you just know are going to produce a Classic.
In fact seven days from now in Las Vegas the sport has come up with one such fight in fact its been built as the fight of the 21st Century, it will decide who is the best welterweight on the Planet.

So who is fighting well the favorite is American Floyd "Pretty Boy" Mayweather who by many experts is considered the best pound for pound boxer in the World. He shows a record of 38 wins in 38 fights with 24 knockouts, he has won 5 world titles at 4 different weights. His best wins are probably against Jose Luis Castillo, Felix Trinadad and Oscar De La Hoya.
Mayweather is a bit of a poser riding around in flash cars and boasting how good he is, so I reckon all the American fans will be quietly confident.

However over here in England we have our own man in Ricky "The Hitman" Hatton whom himself has won 4 world titles at two weights. Ricky is also unbeaten with a record of 43 wins from 43 fights 31 of which were knockouts. His best wins coming against Australian Kostya Tszyu, Luis Collazo, Juan Urango & Juan Luis Castillo (Hatton stopped Castillo Mayweather went the distance).

Hatton is quite a contrast to Mayweather, he's a typical northern down to earth lad who is straight talking and likes nothing more than a game of darts in his local pub with the lads.
His weight as fluctuated dramatically between fights, probably something to do with his love of Guiness and Takaway Food. Ricky's battle with the bulge

Jokingly he has had numerous Tee Shirts printed in the build up to this fight calling himself "Ricky Fatton" featuring his head on some fat blokes body. However don't believe one word of it, he is one of the fittest fighters of all time and will pressurise his opponent from the first bell. Mayweather seems to be coming 2nd best at most of the verbals he even resorted to wearing a Manchester Utd shirt to try wind up Manchester City fan Hatton at one press conference, hell he doesn't know how many of us really hate him know.

Mayweather may have the advantage of fighting on home soil but Las Vegas is set for a British invasion as many as 30,000 are making the 5,000 mile journey to support our boy. I can't wait for next Saturday two unbeaten superstars what more can you ask.

I don't know if its an omen but this week our Amateur Boxers gave their American counterparts a bit of a drubbing by 9 bouts to 2. read this GB V USA


Anyway for now I'll leave you with this tribute to Ricky Hatton, Mr Mayweather you need to be frightened very frightened.


.

I'm

I'm Tired - I don't mean just at the moment over the last week or so I've been feling really knackered, its to do with lack of sleep. Yeh I've had a few late nights but to be honest I've also not been sleeping that well always seems something on my mind and my brain won't shutdown.


I'm Fed up - Mainly I think to do with all the uncertainty at work.


I'm undecided - With reference to the work situation I did have a chat with the new owners the other day and will be speaking to them again. I'm very undecided whether I want to work here if I'm offered a job, I suppose I'll look at what they offer.


I'm Hungry - I'm trying to get back on the weight loss routine, I've had so many leaving do's to go to recently I've lost my way a little. The good news is I jumped on the scale at work yesterday and I've maintained at 107kg in full working gear.

I'm stuck - For ideas of what to get my Mother for her Birthday next week.

I'm Struggling - My TT form has been horrendous in the last week, I've lost to two players I never lose to and been taken very close with four others I would normally hammer.

I'm Blank - Well I reckon there is a lot more I could write but can't think of the words.

Take Care everyone

Music Monday - The "X's"

I must say its now getting difficult, I can't really think of too many major acts beginning with the letter "X". Don't criticise the quality of the following if you can't come up with better, X isn't easy.

I've come up with these three.

1. XTC "Making Plans for Nigel" - made No17 in the chart back in 1979.


2. X Ray-Spex " Oh Bondage up Yours" - A bit of Punk from 1977 from the group fronted by that lady called Poly Styrene (classic !).


3. Xscape "Who can I run to" - American Girl Group from Atlanta with a song that charted in the UK in 1996.

Not Happy

Well I'm not happy the Mighty Whites went down 1-0 at Cheltenham, our 2nd defeat in the league. This is not against a good team so I am not happy.
We dominated the match for long periods and had a goal disallowed. If we had have won like we should we would have moved to third in the table but we'll have to settle with 5th.
Saying that we would have been happy to be 5th at this stage at the start of the season due to our 15point penalty. We are still well on target for the title cos there is a long way to go until May, bound to be some setbacks on route.

Boring Saturday

Today I'm slightly delicate as it was the works leaving do last night. Drink was free all night and I think I must have had a bad one cos I'm suffering.

Anyway I'm p****d off cos Leeds haven't got a match today, they play tomorrow at Cheltenham 2pm kick off. Don't ask me why its probably televised somewhere. In fact one thing that irritates me is nowadays matches are played at all times over the weekend because of telly. Well I preffered it when the all kicked off at 3pm on a Saturday thats traditional to me.

Anyway thats my winge but I'll post this to cheer me up :-


On another note poor Luton town have been docked ten points for going into administration so we are not the only ones been docked points. Taking the points off has put them bottom of the league and in danger of relegation, I really should laugh at them cos they were one of the Clubs that voted against us.
However my principle is that Sport of any description shouldn't be a handicap event, points should not be taken off for financial irregularities. The punishments should be based on trading restrictions and the people causing the problems (Chairmen & Directors) should be banned from been involved with Soccer Clubs. In these situations its always the Fans who live and breath their Clubs that suffer.
Good Luck Luton stick through this, follow our example and create a siege mentality and you can survive, put two fingers up to the Football league.

Another Football debate is who is going to be the next England Manager following Steve "usless git"McClaren sacking. Another gripe is this idiot has had his contract paid up apparently worth £2.5million, this is a joke, he f****g failed. Surely when a coach is selected his contract should state certain targets like qualifying for competitions.
Anyway moving on a lot of names are been touted in the press including a few foreign coaches. Its my belief that it should be a Englishman and the argument I'll put is that no country has won the World Cup with a Foriegn Coach.
I know there isn't too many candidates other than the obvious King Dennis but we are keeping him. I'll go along with Harry Rednap or Sam Alladyce as my choices. Both are good motivators and I think thats the key to International football as they don't work with the players alll the time.

I reckon I'm Busy

Yesterday at work we had a visit from a large group of people representing the new owners. I took a few of them around part of the site, I think they are just getting a feel for what they have bought.
When we had finished a tour one of the senior ones told me he is coming back to site to talk with me next week.

On a different subject England Football team failed to qualify for the European Championships last night when they were beaten 3-2 by Croatia. To be honest they were garbage but manager Steve McClarens selections & tactics were a complete disgrace. This morning he has just been sacked, not before time in my opinion.
To drop your goalkeeper and play a young lad in his first competitive international match was stupidity, the lad bottled it and his career is probably destroyed.
Why was Wayne Bridge playing and Ashley Cole on the bench, there is no comparison. Why play with only one striker ? I could go on but the result says it all.

It wasn’t all doom and gloom last night, I had a good night at Pool. It was the Local Pubs annual competition Semi & Finals night. I’d qualified for the Semi and was drawn to play my mate Lofty. It started badly when he won the first two frames of a best of five match, he then was on top in the third and got down to relatively easy Black. Of course his mental block against me kicked in (can’t beat me at anything) and he bottled it big style.
As they say “the rest is history” as I turned up the heat to win the remaining frames in style.
The 2nd semi also went to five and was won by my League team mate Phil. Two long matches and we started the (best of seven) Final at about 10.40pm, it was going to be a late one. Once again the match went to the wire although I was never behind 1-0, 1-1, 2-1, 2-2, 3-2, 3-3 to set up a grand finale. Again my nerve under pressure held firm into the early hours as I took the frame to be crowned Champion.

Tonight I’m out again playing Table Tennis for Lofty’s team in the local league so of course I’m sure I’ll mention the Pool, hell you’ve got to when you have the Bragging rights.
Hope I play better than I did in the York League on Tuesday, I was abysmal losing three straight to a Player I always normally beat. Our team got a bit of a drubbing 8-2 although I was involved in both our points, one singles and a doubles.

On another note I've not been doing too well on the weight loss I reckon, I've been eating and drinking too much lately. I've not weighed in so you never know. I've another leaving do on Friday night, its paid for by the company and about 60 people are going. A night of free drink and food is always fun.

Ah well that’s my update, take care everyone.

The Last Month

Today is 21st November so I make that one month to go to my last day at work. The date I have been served with for redundancy is 21st December.

I still haven't been contacted by the new owners so don't know if I'll be offered a job. If the rumours are correct they are supposed to be coming to site this week to talk with key personnel.
I'm still very undecided about what I want, I'll see what they have to say.

Music Monday - The "W's"

Today I've decided to use the letter "W" to have a ladies day, so here are four I've picked out :-

1. Tammy Wynette "Stand By Your Man" - Made No1 spot in 1975 for this American Country singer with her UK debut single.

2. Dionne Warwick "Walk on By" - This 1964 classic made No9 for this superb American singer.

3. Kim Wilde "Kids in America" - Marti's daughters debut single made No2 in 1981. I reckon Kim looks hot in this video.

4. Weather Girls "Its Raining Men" - Couldn't leave out these ladies, got to No2 with their only UK hit in the mid eighties.

I'm dreaming of a White Christmas

No this is not a reference to Snow, its all about the Mighty Whites topping the division one table at Christmas. As xmas is only about the half way stage achieving this would be nothing short of miraculous considering we gave every other team a massive 15 points start.


Is it possible, well yes it is, we are now up to 4th in the Table following todays win 2-1 over Swindon Town thanks to 2 goals from Jermaine Beckford. In fact we are only two points behind the leaders although a couple of teams do have a game in hand. Without the riddiculous penalty we would be an amazing 13 points clear, its even sweeter cos at start of the season people were backing us to get relegated.

A lot of people pointed out we have no depth in the squad, but despite a few injuries they counted without our superb crop of fast developing youngsters, today it was the turn of home grown teenager Jonny Howson who had a blinder in the midfield to earn Player of the Match.

This week our manager told England Under 21 manager to get his backside to ER and check out a few of our young uns.


Anyway the message is still the same F**K OFF to the Football League.

No motivation

To be honest I'm feeling a little de-motivated to write a blog post, I think its because I've a lot going on in my head, especially with regards to the work situation.
I've a lot of big decisions to make, a lot of questions to answer, some financial, some to do with shaping the rest of my life. I'm coming up with a few answers but it aint easy without the facts.

Yeh sure I've plenty I could blog about its just the motivation of putting it in words.

In the words of Arnie "I'll be back".

Take Care everyone.

Music Monday - The "V's"

A little harder to come up with great acts starting with the letter V, but here goes :-

1. The Verve "The Drugs Don't Work" - I like this one from Richard Ashcrofts group.

2. Ricky Valance "Tell Laura I love her" - No1 in 1960 for this one hit wonder.

3. The Vibrators "Automatic Lover" - Punk Classic made No35 in 1978.

Geography

The Geography of a Woman:

Between the ages of 18 - 21 a woman is like Africa or Australia. She is half discovered, half wild and naturally beautiful with bushland around the fertile deltas.

Between the ages of 21 - 30 a woman is like America or Japan. Completely discovered, very well developed and open to trade especially with countries with cash or cars.

Between the ages of 30 - 35, she is like India or Spain.
Very hot, relaxed and convinced of its own beauty.

Between the ages of 35 - 40 a woman is like France or Argentina. She may have been half destroyed during the war but can still be a warm and desirable place to visit.

Between the ages of 40 - 50 she is like Yugoslavia or Iraq.
She lost the war and is haunted by past mistakes. Massive reconstruction is now necessary.

Between the ages of 50 - 60 she is like Russia or Canada.
Very wide, quiet and the borders are practically unpatrolled but the frigid climate keeps people away.

Between the ages of 60 - 70 a woman is like England or Mongolia. With a glorious and all conquering past but alas no future.

After 70, they become Albania or Afghanistan.
Everyone knows where it is, but no one wants to go there.

The Geography of a Man:

Between the ages of 15 - 70 a man is like Zimbabwe - ruled by a dick.

Back Home & Knackered

I got home about an hour ago, I've been away all weekend down in Essex. I've been playing Table Tennis for Yorkshire Veterans and we've had a good time.
On Saturday we won one match but lost the other, today we won both matches. Our team Captain said he would have been happy with two wins as we only got promoted to this division last season.
Personally I was a bit iffy yesterday, should have travelled Friday night instead of Saturday morning, I reckon I was tired from the long drive early in the morning. Today though I was really pleased with my performance, much better, felt more confident.

Last night we went to a Pub for a meal, they had a Carvery with different meats and cos we went late on they were very generous with the portions. That was good cos we were starving after a long day.
Of course we also knocked back a few glasses of the local brew, in fact probably a few too many. One thing for sure it helped me get a good nights sleep.
Anyway I'll catch up with everyones blogs tomorrow, off to bed now.

Work to Christmas on 20% salary

I can confirm my finishing date at Work will be 21st December, Officially we close on 30th November but along with a few others I've been asked to stay an extra 3 weeks. This new date is the handover of the site to the new owners.

My final two payments (Nov & Dec) I will be only actually getting 20% cos I've made a decision to put 8o% as voluntary contributions into my works pension. By doing this I can beat the Taxman and significantly boost my pension when I decide to take it.

Don't panic I wont be poor on this rate, ok my Nov pay will be low but my December payment includes on top of my months salary, 3 extra months notice period payed up, my holidays paid up and numerous bonuses. Basically I'll still end up about double what I normally get in my bank and also stop the Taxman getting a huge slice.

On top of this I will also be getting a very good severance payment and a large slice of this is tax free, the 2nd part I pay tax on but have an option of putting in my pension to save the tax. The rate for this isn't as good as for salary "voluntary contributions" so I'm undecided which way I'll go.

Works pension calculations are complicated but its based on aged 60, I have options of taking it early with penalties (6% compound interest per year = 55% pension at 50), I considering taking at 50, 52 or 55, more sums to do.

Anyway the new company may offer me a job but I'm unsure what I'll do, my department is in tatters, of the 5 men I have working for me 3 have found jobs and one is retiring, only leaves two of us. The hassle and stress of trying to keep a 24hr/365day process running may not be worth it. I've never had the ambition of been the richest man in the graveyard.

Well back to my Maths.

Flood Warning

Keep you fingers crossed for Britain cos tonight the whole of the east coast is expected to be hit by storms that are developing in the North Sea.
A 3Metre Tidal wave is expected to hit some areas and coincide with high tides and high winds.
The threat of Flooding and danger to lives is serious, people are been evacuated.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/7085394.stm

I live 40 miles inland but in a low lying area on a tidal river, at present we are expected to miss the worst but many others arn't looking so good.

My town last suffered major floods about 7 years ago, although I was ok I had friends with homes flooded, Electricity for the whole area was off for quite awhile cos the main sub/station flooded.

Another Quickie

Update :-

1. We won our TT match last night 7-3, I won all my games although it was tough against their No1, I came from two sets down to win 3-2. I felt really strong and even when losing felt confident.

2. The Mighty Whites got back to winning ways with a good 3-1 victory away to Bournemouth. Goalscorers were Tresor Kandol with two and Seb Carole with the other.

3. I met the Pension man and he confirmed I was doing my calculations correct. But hell it is complicated trying to beat the taxman, hate giving money to him.

4. The new owners visited work today, I was involved showing some of them around, looks like I'll be with my current employer while Christmas when things are handed over. I've a lot of decisions to make I reckon.

5. The blokes doing my loft insulation didn't turn up, apparently one had a Car crash. Think he's ok but don't know when they are coming.

6. Still Love You all.

This & That

Just a quickie (post I mean)

1. I'll start with a question - Where are you Sandii your blog as gone awol ? Can't have you missing I'll get withdrawel symptoms.

2. Had medical at work today and passed ok, everyone gets one before we leave. I've got the lungs of a 45 year old which aint bad for a 49 year old. Blood Pressure ok, hearing ok, etc.

3. I'm in a rush cos I've someone coming around tomoz to fit some more loft insulation, I've just cleared tons of junk from the loft.

4. Off out soon, got TT match in York league another tough one but I feel up for the challenge.

5. I've an appointment tomoz with the Pension man to discuss what to do when I terminate my contract. Thinking about drawing it with penalties when I reach 50 (soon).

6. Just thought I'd say "Love You All".

Music Monday - The "U's"

Not quite as much choice with the letter "U" but I reckon I've found a four classics, what do you think ?

1. Ultravox "Vienna" - Classic song that never made No1 for Midge Ure, Joe Dolce's "Shaddup a Ya Face" stole that spot in 1981.


2. Undertones "Teenage Kicks" - The boys from Belfast fronted by Fergal Sharkey made No31 in 1978 with their first Chart song. This was famous Radio One DJ John Peels favorite song.


3. U2 "I still haven't found what I'm looking for" - Can't leave out another Irish group this time this supergroup from Dublin made No6 in the charts in 1987 with this effort.


4. UB40 "Red Red Wine" - These boys named after an employment claims form made top spot in 1983 with this effort.

Sport Sunday - Well done Brits

Well Done to Boxer Joe Calazaghie who was impressive in winning his World Super Middleweight Fight against Mikkel Kessler.

Well done to Golfer Justin Rose who topped the PGA European Order of Merit following his victory in Valderama.

Well done to recent Mum Paula Radcliffe who won the Ladies Race in the New York Marathon.

Well done to the GB Rugby League Team who thrashed New Zealand 44-0 in the 2nd test.

Some Weekends its just great to be a Brit.

Busy Month Ahead

I've a busy month ahead of me, next weekend I'm away in Harlow (Essex) playing for Yorkshire Veterans County 2nd team. We got promoted last season so our matches are likely to be really tough but I'm looking forward to it.

I've three leaving functions from work to attend, Friday 16th a few of us are going for a drink with some of our work colleagues including two from my department who leave on that day.

Friday 23rd the company is putting on a function for everyone thats left, yes its a freebie so plenty of Food & Drink will be had. Around 45 people are invited so it should be a fun night. Its actually the same night as the Sportsman dinner I've been invited to but will be declining. Just my luck two free functions in the same night.

Friday 30th will be our official closing date at work (although could drag on I reckon) so everyone is off to the Pub after work.

I've Pool Matches every Monday and on Wednesday 21st its the Pub finals night, I'm still in the Semi-Final where I am drawn to play my mate Lofty, don't know which of the other two I'll get in the final though, lol.

I've a few Local League Table Tennis Matches coming up, did I mention we lost 7-3 last week, I managed two wins but couldn't get near the Area Mens Champion he proved too strong on the night, well there is always next time. We have another tough one this coming Tuesday, but I'm pleased cos its the hard games that test you.

On top of the County & Local Matches I've also a Yorkshire League Match playing for York against Bradford on the 25th.

I'm expecting things should become more clear at work over the next few days, I still am unsure when I'll be working and to be honest I don't know if I want to work for the new company but I need to give my situation a lot of thought.

I've been looking at another vacation and there are a few good deals available, I've resisted booking (so far) until the work situation becomes more clear.

All good things come to an end

Carlisle "3" Leeds United "1"

Yes the mighty whites have been beaten, the unbeaten record as gone so I'm sulking tonight. Despite my dissapointment I will say well done to Carlisle you did well.

Leeds actually led at halftime with a Jermaine Beckford goal and looked in complete control until Carlisle scored a 35 yard wonder goal to equalise. Slack marking at a corner led to the Cumbrians 2nd and a late third due more to the fact Leeds were commiting too many men forward in search of a equaliser flattered the Cumbrians.

Listening to the commentary on Radio Leeds were actually playing well but somedays the ball doesn't run from you. The pulling power of the mighty whites showed again with Carlisle getting their first full house for 31 years.

Anyway I'd have settled for 9th in the table after 14 matches (11wins, 2 draws & 1 defeat), really we would have been happy to be out of the relegation zone at this stage given our 15 point deduction. Infact without that penalty we would be 8 points clear at the top of the league (the real table).

The important thing is we bounce back on Tuesday when we travel to the South Coast to play Bournemouth. The last time we visited there was in the eighties when we won the old 2nd division on a Bank holiday weekend back in 1990. Great idea putting Leeds with their fanatical support in a seaside town on a Bank Holiday. All I'll add is the people of Bournemouth now hate us cos that day was a little wild, over 20,000 travelled a lot never even got in the ground (photo below) and the place ended in a mess following a three day beach party. I reckon I've worked out why its a tuesday night this time !

What the hell lets cheer us up and look back at that title winning day back in 1990 :-

3 in a row

October was a case of three in a row for the lovely Sandii who was again my number one blogger. She not only made most comments she made a amazing 29 comments now thats a record I believe. So the challenge is on for the first person to break the 30 comments in a month barrier.
Anyway I reckon she deserves a big e'hug.

The top five bloggers reached double figures and another two pretty ladies took up the silver and bronze positions Airliebird with 17 comments followed by Rebecca with 14 comments.

The others making double figures were Ironman (formally Spider) and Celtic Girl with 12 & 11 comments respectively.

Thanks to everyone for their imput it makes blogging worthwhile.

Takeover

Well it looks like the takeover at work is going to happen but the good part is of course I'm still getting my contract terminated. This means I'll still get all my redundancy money at the end of this month irrespective of whether I work for the new company or not.

We don't even know what the plans are for the site, what products they will make but we are expecting the owners to come to site and start recruiting an initial team. According to the local newspaper they are hoping to start some production in January/Febuary. I think a lot of money needs spending on site infrastructure cos a lot of maintenance work is required.

I reckon with my job and site knowledge I should be offered a job but I'm making no decision until I see the offer, I'm certainly fancying December off at least. At present I'm very open minded about what I'll do, just need some thinking time.

Tell you more later.

Work Update

Well the takeover absolute dedline came and went and we are still no wiser -

11.00am - Local MP talks to staff rep on phone inform us the papers are been signed over.

11.30am - Local press phones Plant Manager asking him about takeover, he refuses to comment as he has not had confirmation from head office.

2.30pm - Absolute dedline for takeover passes.

3.00pm - Plant Manager phones head office to see whats happening to be told agreement close takeover imminent, me thinks we been here before.

4.00pm - People go home including Me & Plant Manager.

I've lost count how many dedlines we've passed, now we all go home for good in one months time we need to know whats happening.

Hell I'm pissed off.

More about me and my thoughts

Today I was optimistic that I would find out at work whether we would be taken over, but alas still no confirmation either way. However if the rumours are correct the takeover will happen, but as I've said before I wont hold my breath. This has gone on far too long and like many others I'm fed up about it.

If the takeover happens I'll expect to be made redundant at the end of November so I've been working out my finances. I'll probably put a lot of my pay off money into my Pension, this way I can avoid paying a lot of tax. It will also allow me to take my pension early but more about that later when I know more.

Anyway if I am made redundant I wouldn't mind having a vacation before considering another job so I've been checking out a few deals. Where would I go, probably the States again cos I've got quite a few dollars left over from my last trip (Atlanta was cheaper than I expected) so wouldn't need much spending money.
While I'm on about dollars, have you seen the exchange rate over $2 to the £1 its a cheap trip for me once I get there.

If I do make the trip it would be good if I met up with another one of my online friends but I suppose that would depend where I went. I've actually now been lucky enough to meet four online friends and there are plenty more I really would like to meet in the future, we'll see maybe they wouldn't want to meet me.

I played Yorkshire League Table Tennis away at Halifax on Sunday, we drew the match 5-5 but I managed to win all three of my singles (lost in doubles). But hell it was tough I really had to push myself so hard to win I was knackered after, everthing hurt, gee I need to be fitter.
I've a hard match in the local York league on Thursday, its against one of the better teams who have the local Mens Champion playing for them, I'm really looking forward to the challenge.

Did I mention the "Coach of the Year" award took another twist when the Photographer from the local paper turned up at work to take my photo.

Take Care Everyone

I want to Rant

I read something in the newspaper this week that really made me angry - A former inmate at Armley Prison is putting in a claim for £2million against the prison authorities. Why ? because he was Muslim and they gave him a ham sandwich for a meal. Sorry mate this isn't about religion its about you doing your time for commiting a crime in our country, your choice eat or starve. I'm sure if I broke the law in a muslim country I'd get Roast Beef and Yorkshire Pudding for Sunday lunch.

I'm Embarrased

I don't believe what I've just read in the Local York Newspaper and feel embarrased by it.

There was a double page spread on the Area Sports Awards and I was reading with interest wondering if anyone I knew was up for an award. A selected Committee had selected a short list of three people in every catogary covering a range of Sports.

Well I got down to the award for "Coach of the Year" and couldn't believe my eyes I've been nominated. There was a write up how I was one of the areas top qualified Coaches and how I've developed numerous players to National & County level at Table Tennis.

Apparently I'm up against a Coaches from Athletics and Roller Hockey and everyone nominated is invited to a special Sports Dinner (black tie job) in November where the winners will be announced.

Sure I'm highly qualified and in the past developed many players to good standard but thats where the embarrasment begins, I packed in coaching over one year ago so how on earth can I be " Coach of the Year". I can just imagine going up for the award and been asked to talk about the coaching I do.

I'm going to have to turn this down its unfair and a insult to the people that do the work, I don't anymore.

In the Play Off places

Another Saturday and yet another win for the mighty whites. Goals from David Prutton, Jermaine Beckford and a brace for Jonathan Douglas (pic below) gave us a 4-2 victory over Millwall.Thats now lucky thirteen matches unbeaten (11 wins, 2 draws) and despite giving everyone 15 points start we are now in the top six, yes one of the Play Off spots. We are only four points from the top of the table, ok a couple of teams have a game in hand but this position is way in front of target.

Its good to be a Leeds fan at this moment in time.

48hr Checkemlads Cancer Awareness

lets all have the checkemlads model as our main pic for 48hrs.

its better than donating to the cause as it may just encourage somebody to check their balls

save the pic below then make it your profile pic for 48hrs & get your friends to do the same.

Thanks My Friends

UPDATE :- Following last nights comments I'll add a bit of an explanation -

This is a campaign been promoted by some British Musicians to raise awareness to Testicular Cancer. Its designed to encourage Men to check themselves out to try catch what is becoming a very common cancer early. If not caught early enough it is a killer. Even if you don't put the picture up it is not a bad idea to encourage any male friends to check out their "Crown Jewels" on a regular basis. If one life is saved its worth it.

The campaign is been promoted on MySpace trying to get as many people as possible to change their Profile Picture for 48hrs to this one. I thought it a good idea to do it on Blogger also.

The Musicians I know that are promoting this campaign are Paul Weller & Steve White (not sure what others) as I recieved bulletons from both of them on MySpace.

Soon be the Weekend

Well life is boring at present tonight I was supposed to be playing Table Tennis in my home town local league. The standard is not great and I don't play too often in this league nowadays but I was looking forward to it as it was against one of the better sides. Work is also boring at present so any nightime activities are good.

While on Work we should find out before next Wednesday whether the takeover bid is succesfull, I don't know what will be best to be honest. A couple of the blokes in my department have found jobs and will be leaving next month. You can't blame them and I hope it works out for them they are good lads.

We'll sure have a leaving do to say goodbye but I'm sure everyone will keep in touch. I'm actually at another leaving do tomoz for one of the Fitters called Chris who starts a new job next week. Its straight after work just a few beers with workmates.

Saturday the mighty whites are at home to Millwall but I can't go as I've a TT training session. A lot of tickets have been sold and it will be a big crowd and great atmosphere. Its not a bad one to miss cos Millwall Supporters have a big reputation for violence, their Mob the "Bushwackers" make Hitler Youth look like Liberals. Ok Leeds also have a bit of a reputation and I've a bad feeling about this fixture we'll probably end up getting docked some more points.

Sunday I've actually got a TT match its in the Yorkshire League I'm representing York against Halifax, it could be a tough game but thats how I like it.

I've been Thinking

Yes I know the fact I've been thinking is maybe a bit scary cos I'm likely to come up with something stupid.
So what have I been thinking, well its really what to do with the rest of my life especially when I finish work.
I've been thinking what should I do workwise and to be honest I just don't know, I feel like a total change in career direction would be quite motivating. The trouble is I don't know which direction to turn. I'm also thinking about the possibility of only doing part time work not necessarily less hours per week but only sort of working 6 months or so per year. But as I say I'm struggling to make decisions, I really need to know when I actually will finish (its still unclear).
I have seen what redundancy payments will be and also seen my works pension details. These were based on finishing at the end of November but I will possibly be there after that date so they can only be better, plus I'll earn more money in the meantime which could be Useful.
My Pension is based on claiming it at 60 but it can be taken earlier with penalties (-6% compound interest per year). Obviously I've a few sums to do to see what would best suit me, depends on how much work I do.

Another thing I've been considering is a December Vacation but I've not booked anything, again Work is dominating my decision. If I'm going to finish in the next few months I'd be better saving my holidays and cashing them in. However if I'm going to be working longer then I want a vacation, I just need a decision.

The other day I did a short "Interview Techniques" course and one of the things they asked us to do was name our own strengths and weaknesses. Obviously that was with respect to our jobs but it led me to think what are my strengths & weaknesses as a person. Its not easy but I came up with the following :-
Strengths -
Honesty (I pride myself on this)
Loyalty (If your a friend I'll do anything for you but don't be a enemy).
Reliability (what I say I do)

Weakness -
Emotions (My emotions can get the better and I take things to heart)
Temper (I have a short fuse sometimes but bark is louder than my bite, I just say things I regret if someone winds me up)
Sulking (I like getting my own way)

There is other subjects I've been giving a lot of thought to in fact I feel my life is at a crossroads and I'm making a few decisions about which direction I should go. Hell its not a rehearsal its just one chance a life you just gotta do what you think is right at the time.

In a Rush

Not a lot of time tonight as I walked to work I was a bit late home and am going out early. I've a TT match in York but have to go early than norm and take a detour to pick a new player up.
I'm only in the house just over one hour to get my meal, showered & changed so this is it for tonight catch up with all your blogs tomoz.

Take Care.

Music Monday - The "S's"

We are now upto the letter "S" and I reckon this is the letter that most acts name begins with sort of individual talents like Bruce Springsteen, Helen Shapiro, Sandie Shaw, Neil Sedaka, Frank Sinatra & Rod Stewart, sixties super groups like the Small Faces & the Shadows, seventies Glam stars Slade & Sweet, even Punk Groups Sex Pistols, Stranglers, Siouxie & the Banshees, Sham 69, others like Smokey Robinson, Status Quo, Soft Cell, Simple Minds,Simply Red, Showaddywaddy, etc. I'm sure you can all come up with more but I've gone mad and not including any of the above and still giving you 5 classics.

1. Shangri La's "Leader of the Pack"- This song from the origional Girl Band was released on four occasions in the UK reaching No11 on its first visit the only time it didn't make the top ten.

2. The Stone Roses "I am the resurrection" - I love this record and can't understand why it only made No33 in the charts. One of the best groups to come out of Manchester and thats good coming from me.

3. Squeeze "Cool for Cats" - I like some of the stuff Squeeze did although some of their songs can send you to sleep, this was the first I heard of theirs and it made No2 in 1979.

4. Spencer Davis Group "Keep on Running" - Sixties Classic that made No1 in 1965 for a group including a young Steve Winwood.


5. Steppenwolf "Born to be Wild" - Only just made the charts in the UK but a all time rock classic I reckon.






Shit I missed the Spice Girls

Sport Sunday - One Down One to go

This weekend England were hoping for two World Champions but alas it wasn't to be for our first attempt in the Rugby Union World Cup Final. They lost 15-6 to South Africa in a tough if not spectacular game. But at the end of the day you have to hold your hands up and say well done South Africa you were the best team in the tournament and deserved your success.

I think the players can come home with their heads held high, they lost to a very good team but had their chances and could have won had a bit of luck gone their way.

The match hinged on a Try that England scored that was disallowed by the 4th Official (surprisingley Australian, thanks). It was dissallowed after studying the replays for quite a long time, we problay lost the World cup by millimetres.

You judge was his toe over the line :-

So far its been a bad week for England on Wednesday our Football team lost 2-1 in Russia and we now need a miracle to qualify for the European Championships. To be honest I wasn't surprised cos our manager Steve McClaren is a complete muppet, has never done anything in Football and never will, time for a change I think.

While on Football I've got to mention the Mighty Whites, another win yesterday, still unbeaten with 10 wins and 2 draws from our 12 matches and we've moved into the top ten (9th) in the division. Amazing achievement after giving everyone 15 points start. Yesterdays Goal Scorer was the prolific Tresor Kandol seen below celebrating with our manager Dennis Wise.

I've got to mention one of our rival clubs in Division One Hartlepool was hit by a tradgedy this week when one of their up and coming starlets Michael Maiden was killed in a car crash. There game was cancelled yesterday and my thoughts go out to his family & friends.

Back to World Champions and we stiil have a shot with Lewis Hamilton in the Brazilian Grand Prix. He leads the standings by the narrowest of Margins from Fernado Alonso & Kiki Raikkonen. He will start todays race (5pm out time) 2nd on the grid with his two rivals just behind him. Home town driver Fillipe Massa took pole in his Ferrari and will be trying to help team mate Raikkonen I reckon.

Hamilton is only 20 years old and if he wins will become both the youngest driver to win the title and also the first to win in his rookie season. Good Luck Lewis a country is right behind you.

Update

Well again I walked to work but today I had a weigh in, although not a lot I've lost 0.5kg (1.1lb)since my last weigh in. I'm now 107kg in my full working gear.

Today at work we had a course on job interviews and what to put on your CV, our company has hired a firm in to this sort of thing with everyone getting made redundant. Its quite good for such as me cos although I've interviewed others I've not had one myself for years.

I've sort of been working out what my financial situation will be if I finish in November, obviously if I get chance to stay longer I'll be better off. If I base my plans around this date I can only be better off, I'll get by.

As I've said previously although I'll hang in here once I finish I'll take some time out (and I'll be travelling) I'm thinking what trips I'll do and have a few ideas (yes Australia is a serious option). One definate I'm hoping to do is Orleans for the Jazz Fest April/May, I'll do Chicago again in June/July for the Taste of Chicago .
Another place I want to visit is Austin (Music Capitol of the World) wanted to go their for a while now. Of course there is my birthday trip mentioned in last nights post don't know where yet. I'm sure other trips will happen hopfully meet up with a few blog friends would be nice, you're all welcome when in your area to join me, I'd like that.
Yep I'm gonna travel believe me.
Saying all that I'm still mulling over my December trip, I may put that off due to the work situation but don't count on it.

Finally we're all hoping England has two World Champions this weekend, England play South Africa in the Rugby Union Final, 50,000 England fans are expected in Paris for the final.

Our other hope is Lewis Hamilton who will be attempting to become the youngest ever winner of the Formula One championship in is rookie season. He leads the standings going into Sundays Brazillian Grand Prix the last of the season.

So Far So Good

The heading means I've started trying to get myself more motivated to exercise and back on the weight loss bandwagon. I've started walking to work and done it for the last three days it takes about 40 minutes each way. I try to keep a decent pace.
I've also been careful with what I eat so hopfully when I weigh I'll see the improvement, maybe not this week but as the weeks pass by.

Still no wiser what will happen at work or when I'll finish, hopfully next week I should get some figures of what payout I'll get assuming finishing end of November. Obviously it it isn't taken over by then as said previously I'll probably be staying a few months which can only enhance my pay off. Its so frustrating just not knowing whether we should prepare for closing or reopening.

Its so quiet at work until we are pointed in a direction, it doesn't help motivation and its amazing how too much thinking time makes your mind run off at tangents. Its also difficult to concentrate on anything. I played a Table Tennis match last night and was poor lost two games ok to decent players, both in 5 sets but I was dissapointed cos I wasn't up for it and I'd play a few good points then give some sloppy one's away just no concentration.

As most of you know I'm old and next March will be my birthday a big one its my 5oth. I was discussing what to do was just gonna have a party but now thinking maybe a long weekend in the US with a few of the lads. A couple of friends have already indicated they are up for it (have you mentioned it yet to the missus yet Lofty). Not sure where we would go probably to where we can get the best price cos money may be tight for some people.
Today at work some others were showing a bit of interest but obviously a lot of folk say that until it comes to finding the cash. Don't worry that will be collected prior to booking.
Now checking the dates my Birthday clashes with Easter which is early next year (Good Friday to be accurate), now my questions to my American Friends :-
1. How busy is Easter in the US ?
2. Do Bars & Clubs close early at easter ?