Very good nights sleep last night and we have been out for coffee and croissants (well Hamish had croissants, I had already had my morning shake (that's my diet drink)).
We were on a bit if a mission this morning. When Hamish got his camera bag out of the suitcase last night, the clip that holds the shoulder strap broke off. We have been to a number of bag shops trying to find a spare strap but I don't think we will find anything.
Our hotel is opposite a large, underground, shopping centre so when we get back from looking around Montparnasse cemetery we are going on a bit of a shopping expedition.
The weather is cooler today and it has been raining in the night but it is a perfect day for walking around. I will be taking loads of arty photos in the cemetery with our decent camera but I won't be able to post them on here as we don't have a way of transferring them to the netbook. I will take a few with my iPhone and put them up though.
Saturday, 19 June 2010
Friday, 18 June 2010
Birthday Weekend - Part 4 (Friday Evening)
Ah Gay Paris, the music, the culture, the food, the all pervasive smell of wee.
We went for a wander around in the streets leading off from our hotel. We knew we wouldn't get lost as we are staying almost at the foot of Montparnasse Tower, a gigantic and somewhat ugly office block that is the tallest building in Paris after the Eiffel Tower. It has a restaurant and viewing gallery at the top but I don’t think we will partake.
We set off down the Rue de Rennes where we encountered some incredibly fit firemen on a fundraising drive. Hamish bough a €3 raffle ticket which was worth the money just to spend 30 seconds in the young lad’s presence!
We then paid a rather large sum for 2 coffees but to be fair, we were tourists and we were sitting at the pavement tables so it was worth the money just to watch Paris drive and walk by.
After a quick stop at a tabac we set off in earnest to look for somewhere to eat. We always go off the main streets when looking for restaurants as you always pay a premium in a main street one. So we had a nice amble through the backstreets heading in the general direction of our hotel.
We ended up a wonderful little crêperie (Crêperie de Pont-Aven) where I had omelette and salad and Hamish had a savoury crêpe followed by a rather decedent sweet one consisting of pears, chocolate sauce, crème and ice cream. We had a little entertainment when a French lady on a bike, not looking where she was going, cycled, rather forcibly, into the rear of a taxi – always good for a laugh.
After dinner we popped into a small art gallery that was holding a cheese and wine event, showing off (what I assume) was some local artists work. Not the most accomplished artist as I could have done some of the paintings myself and at least two could have been done by my best mate’s four year old. Each to their own, I suppose.
Now we are back at the hotel and are going to get an early night so that we can be up and out early tomorrow to make the most of the day.
We set off down the Rue de Rennes where we encountered some incredibly fit firemen on a fundraising drive. Hamish bough a €3 raffle ticket which was worth the money just to spend 30 seconds in the young lad’s presence!
We then paid a rather large sum for 2 coffees but to be fair, we were tourists and we were sitting at the pavement tables so it was worth the money just to watch Paris drive and walk by.
We ended up a wonderful little crêperie (Crêperie de Pont-Aven) where I had omelette and salad and Hamish had a savoury crêpe followed by a rather decedent sweet one consisting of pears, chocolate sauce, crème and ice cream. We had a little entertainment when a French lady on a bike, not looking where she was going, cycled, rather forcibly, into the rear of a taxi – always good for a laugh.
Now we are back at the hotel and are going to get an early night so that we can be up and out early tomorrow to make the most of the day.
Birthday Weekend - Part 3 (Friday Afternoon)
We are safely at are hotel in Montparnasse in Paris.
We have unpacked and discovered that WIFI is working (always a priority) and we are going to sit down now and plan our few days here. We are going to the restaurant I mentioned tomorrow evening but we also want to have a look around Montparnasse cemetery and also have a look down the catacombs (not morbid at all but a facinating historical record).
I would like to get over to the Louvre if possible as the last time I came the Egyption section was closed.
Looks like I will be able to stick to the diet OK apart from decafinated coffee. Ask a French man for a decaf and they will shrug their shoulders at you and then look at you as if you have just shat on their mother (although come to think of it, the French always do that anyway).
We have unpacked and discovered that WIFI is working (always a priority) and we are going to sit down now and plan our few days here. We are going to the restaurant I mentioned tomorrow evening but we also want to have a look around Montparnasse cemetery and also have a look down the catacombs (not morbid at all but a facinating historical record).
I would like to get over to the Louvre if possible as the last time I came the Egyption section was closed.
Looks like I will be able to stick to the diet OK apart from decafinated coffee. Ask a French man for a decaf and they will shrug their shoulders at you and then look at you as if you have just shat on their mother (although come to think of it, the French always do that anyway).
Birthday Weekend - Part 2 (Friday Morning)
We were up on time this morning and left for East Croydon Station. I thought that we would have a problem getting the suitcases on the bus/train/tube/DLR because we were travelling at rush hour. But it turned out to be amazingly quiet - I wonder if that's got anything to do with the England game tonight?
London City Airport is a paradise compared to Heathrow or Gatwick and we were checked in and through security very quickly. The pat down was a bit over zealous with the security guard putting his hands somewhere I really don't think he should have done but it is all for our protection I suppose.
We are now sitting in a comfortable coffee area awaiting the 11:35 take off. Very few people around and nice and quiet - I must fly from here more often.
I will update again this evening.
London City Airport is a paradise compared to Heathrow or Gatwick and we were checked in and through security very quickly. The pat down was a bit over zealous with the security guard putting his hands somewhere I really don't think he should have done but it is all for our protection I suppose.
We are now sitting in a comfortable coffee area awaiting the 11:35 take off. Very few people around and nice and quiet - I must fly from here more often.
I will update again this evening.
Thursday, 17 June 2010
Birthday Weekend - Part 1
I've finished work now for a few days as this weekend (on Sunday) I turn 40. I find this quite scary and, to be honest, I can't quite believe it. 10 years ago Hamish took me to Geneva and I can remember it as if it was yesterday. This is why I am starting this diet - I feel that I have wasted the past 10 years and now I want to get fitter and be able to do more in the next 10.
Hamish has planned a wonderful weekend for me. Tomorrow morning we fly from London City Airport to Paris where we are staying in a nice hotel. We have been to Paris a number of times over the past 13 years but this time we are not doing the standard tourist things but are going to explore a little more.
On Saturday night we are having a meal in a wonderful gay friendly restaurant that we found a couple of years ago when we went with Roxana and Geoff. The food and service were excellent and I am really looking forwards to going back.
We are staying in Paris until Tuesday when we fly back but instead of coming back to London we are flying to Birmingham where Hamish has booked us tickets to see Cirque Du Soleil. The following morning we are going to have a look around Birmingham. Although this is my home city I haven't been there for a number of years and since I left it has been completely redesigned with a whole new shopping centre. I am quite looking forwards to seeing what has happened to the place.
We then travel back home by train and I go back to work next Thursday.
I believe there is WiFi in our hotel in Paris so I will update you daily with our adventures. If I can't get onto WiFi I will post the daily entries when I get back to the UK.
Hamish has planned a wonderful weekend for me. Tomorrow morning we fly from London City Airport to Paris where we are staying in a nice hotel. We have been to Paris a number of times over the past 13 years but this time we are not doing the standard tourist things but are going to explore a little more.
On Saturday night we are having a meal in a wonderful gay friendly restaurant that we found a couple of years ago when we went with Roxana and Geoff. The food and service were excellent and I am really looking forwards to going back.
We are staying in Paris until Tuesday when we fly back but instead of coming back to London we are flying to Birmingham where Hamish has booked us tickets to see Cirque Du Soleil. The following morning we are going to have a look around Birmingham. Although this is my home city I haven't been there for a number of years and since I left it has been completely redesigned with a whole new shopping centre. I am quite looking forwards to seeing what has happened to the place.
We then travel back home by train and I go back to work next Thursday.
I believe there is WiFi in our hotel in Paris so I will update you daily with our adventures. If I can't get onto WiFi I will post the daily entries when I get back to the UK.
We've Upgraded You, That's Why Your Service Is Rubbish
Well, one week on and my broadband speed is still slow.
For years I have managed to get a download speed of 8MBPS and, when I renewed my contract for another year a few weeks ago, this went up to 14MBPS. However, overnight last week the service went down to 4MBPS.
4 calls with BT later I have just been told that I have been moved to a new fibre optic exchange to improve service and the speed I am getting is quite good! Oh that poor BT helpdesk man in India - I hope my shouting hasn't damaged his hearing too much.
Now I am waiting for a BT engineer to visit (next Thursday) and all I can say is that he better know more about broadband than the helpdesk do!!!!!
For years I have managed to get a download speed of 8MBPS and, when I renewed my contract for another year a few weeks ago, this went up to 14MBPS. However, overnight last week the service went down to 4MBPS.
4 calls with BT later I have just been told that I have been moved to a new fibre optic exchange to improve service and the speed I am getting is quite good! Oh that poor BT helpdesk man in India - I hope my shouting hasn't damaged his hearing too much.
Now I am waiting for a BT engineer to visit (next Thursday) and all I can say is that he better know more about broadband than the helpdesk do!!!!!
The Sound Of Drums
I woke up this morning with a banging headache but at least yesterdys stomach upset has gone.
The diet is going very well and I have lost 3lbs so far. I'm not hungry and, apart from the coffee shake, the meal replacements are very good.
The next few days will be a challenge as I will be in Paris. I will be keeping up the diet apart from Saturday when I am going out for a Birthday meal. The good thing is that I should be able to eat out on the other days without cocking things up as I know the types of things I can safely order.
I've a busy day ahead as I've got to ensure I hand everything over.
I'll post again later when I'll update you with my ongoing BT saga.
The diet is going very well and I have lost 3lbs so far. I'm not hungry and, apart from the coffee shake, the meal replacements are very good.
The next few days will be a challenge as I will be in Paris. I will be keeping up the diet apart from Saturday when I am going out for a Birthday meal. The good thing is that I should be able to eat out on the other days without cocking things up as I know the types of things I can safely order.
I've a busy day ahead as I've got to ensure I hand everything over.
I'll post again later when I'll update you with my ongoing BT saga.
Wednesday, 16 June 2010
Upset Stomach
I've got a bit of an upset stomach today. Nothing to do with the diet but a side effect of the medication I take. It's odd but I can go for days without a problem and then it suddenly returns.
Netty's been a bit poorly over the last couple of days and I have been getting the BSOD when I boot up. I suspected that the video drivers were at fault and I have removed then reinstalled them and it seems OK at the moment.
There's no new info on O2s website regarding the iPhone 4 so I may have to sort it out when I return from France. I'm sure I can wait an extra week for my new phone.
Just heard an announcement for 'Inspector Sands' at the station. That is code for a fire or other incident and they use it so that they don't cause panic. Unfortunately, as I know what it means, I always become alert. I can't see any evidence of a fire so all looks OK at the moment!
Netty's been a bit poorly over the last couple of days and I have been getting the BSOD when I boot up. I suspected that the video drivers were at fault and I have removed then reinstalled them and it seems OK at the moment.
There's no new info on O2s website regarding the iPhone 4 so I may have to sort it out when I return from France. I'm sure I can wait an extra week for my new phone.
Just heard an announcement for 'Inspector Sands' at the station. That is code for a fire or other incident and they use it so that they don't cause panic. Unfortunately, as I know what it means, I always become alert. I can't see any evidence of a fire so all looks OK at the moment!
Big Boots Box
My box full of products turned up last night containing all my replacement meals for the next month so there's no going back now.
I want to keep this up while I am in Paris so I will need to ensure I take enough with me. Eating out won't be a problem as I can have salads and simple omlettes etc. My birthday meal (on the Sunday) will be the only one that won't be controlled but I am OK with that.
I want to keep this up while I am in Paris so I will need to ensure I take enough with me. Eating out won't be a problem as I can have salads and simple omlettes etc. My birthday meal (on the Sunday) will be the only one that won't be controlled but I am OK with that.
Posted from Blogium for iPhone
Tuesday, 15 June 2010
Chicken Soup
So lunch today was the Chicken Soup and I have to say it was very good indeed.
It needs quite a bit of stirring and I think the best way to make it will be in a jug and beat it with a balloon whisk and then pour it into a cup.
The consistency was smooth, it was not too salty and actually tasted like cream of chicken soup. Just like the shake this morning, I was hungry before I ate it and it has filled me up (and I am used to sandwiches, crisps and a mars bar for lunch).
I have heard that the vegetable soup is not as good but I have ordered some in my initial order from boots (4 weeks worth of products) so I will let you know how it tastes when it arrives.
Like many on the Tony Ferguson diet I suspect that most of my eating is just habit and I can't honestly remember when I was last actually hungry. I am getting hungry before I eat now but I see that as a good thing as my body is telling me that it is actually time to eat.
It needs quite a bit of stirring and I think the best way to make it will be in a jug and beat it with a balloon whisk and then pour it into a cup.
The consistency was smooth, it was not too salty and actually tasted like cream of chicken soup. Just like the shake this morning, I was hungry before I ate it and it has filled me up (and I am used to sandwiches, crisps and a mars bar for lunch).
I have heard that the vegetable soup is not as good but I have ordered some in my initial order from boots (4 weeks worth of products) so I will let you know how it tastes when it arrives.
Like many on the Tony Ferguson diet I suspect that most of my eating is just habit and I can't honestly remember when I was last actually hungry. I am getting hungry before I eat now but I see that as a good thing as my body is telling me that it is actually time to eat.
Bananas And Bumpers
I had the Banana Shake for breakfast this morning. That was much better and actually quite nice. I made another stirfy last night, this time with chicken breast and will have to have the same tonight to use the rest of the chicken up. It takes less time to prepare than to take a ready meal out of the freezer, defrost it and then re-heat it. I hope I can keep that up when I have one of those evenings when all I want to do is sleep.
I am working from home today as I am waiting for the bodyshop to come and pick my car up for repair. A couple of weeks ago someone drove into the back of it while it was parked in the car park at home and smashed the rear bumper (and didn't leave their details of course). It wouldn't have been too bad except that my bumper has parking sensors in it and they also need to be replaced. £310 pounds excess charged but at least I have protected no claims bonus. I will be without the car for a few days though (I could have had a loan car but, as I am away for a few days from Friday it wasn't worth it).
I am working from home today as I am waiting for the bodyshop to come and pick my car up for repair. A couple of weeks ago someone drove into the back of it while it was parked in the car park at home and smashed the rear bumper (and didn't leave their details of course). It wouldn't have been too bad except that my bumper has parking sensors in it and they also need to be replaced. £310 pounds excess charged but at least I have protected no claims bonus. I will be without the car for a few days though (I could have had a loan car but, as I am away for a few days from Friday it wasn't worth it).
Monday, 14 June 2010
Well That Tasted - Different
I took the opportunity, this lunchtime, to go to the Boots close to my work and get an additional shaker for the diet I am about to start (I had only ordered one off line and I realise that would mean taking the shaker home with me every night - this way I can leave one at work). Whilst I was there I got a couple of the shake mixes so that I will always have one to hand.
Well, the one I have just tried was Cafe Latte but it actually tasted like wet cardboard upon which someone once spilled a cup of coffee. That said, I was quite hungry before I took it and now I'm not so it has served it's purpose.
As one of my goals is to reset my relationship with food I'm not too bothered that they may not taste too good. Until I have lost weight I need to see food as fuel not something to comfort myself with.
Well, the one I have just tried was Cafe Latte but it actually tasted like wet cardboard upon which someone once spilled a cup of coffee. That said, I was quite hungry before I took it and now I'm not so it has served it's purpose.
As one of my goals is to reset my relationship with food I'm not too bothered that they may not taste too good. Until I have lost weight I need to see food as fuel not something to comfort myself with.
Back Home And Well Fed
After a fairly intense afternoon (family meeting) we went over to see Evelyn again. She was much better than yesterday (she had had a bad cough and was finding hard to breath) and she was more back to her old self.
We dropped Roxana off at home and then Hamish drove us back to London.
The meal tonight was really good and, if all the recipes are as filling and as easy to cook as that was, I am really looking forward to trying them out.
Off to bed now as I have an early start in the morning.
We dropped Roxana off at home and then Hamish drove us back to London.
The meal tonight was really good and, if all the recipes are as filling and as easy to cook as that was, I am really looking forward to trying them out.
Off to bed now as I have an early start in the morning.
Sunday, 13 June 2010
New Eating Regime Starts Here
I've been planning this for a while but have not said anything but today is the first day of a new eating regime for me.
I am 5 stones overweight with an eye watering BMI and, as I am about to hit the big four oh, I need to do something about it.
I met with a pharmacist in Boots last week and have signed up to their new weight management programme which is based on the Tony Ferguson plan which has been very successful in Australia. I am going to have to make some big changes in the way I eat and I need to re-educate myself to understand food as energy and not just as a comfort.
I am keeping a sister blog on the plan's website where I have promised to be completely honest about my progress. If it doesn't work for me it will be interesting to see if my posts stay on the site
I will also keep this blog updated so that again, if it fails, people doing a search for Tony Ferguson will be able to see what I think.
I can't start the plan properly until June 24th which is when I get back from Paris and my months supply of meal replacement products come through, but I am starting to cook the recipes and we are having one for dinner tonight (Stir Fried Pork with Baby Sweetcorn and Sugar Snap Peas).
I have also made the switch from sugar to Splenda - one that was not at all hard as Splenda doesn't seem to have the unpleasant aftertaste of Aspartame or Saccharin.
Wish me luck!
I am 5 stones overweight with an eye watering BMI and, as I am about to hit the big four oh, I need to do something about it.
I met with a pharmacist in Boots last week and have signed up to their new weight management programme which is based on the Tony Ferguson plan which has been very successful in Australia. I am going to have to make some big changes in the way I eat and I need to re-educate myself to understand food as energy and not just as a comfort.
I am keeping a sister blog on the plan's website where I have promised to be completely honest about my progress. If it doesn't work for me it will be interesting to see if my posts stay on the site
I will also keep this blog updated so that again, if it fails, people doing a search for Tony Ferguson will be able to see what I think.
I can't start the plan properly until June 24th which is when I get back from Paris and my months supply of meal replacement products come through, but I am starting to cook the recipes and we are having one for dinner tonight (Stir Fried Pork with Baby Sweetcorn and Sugar Snap Peas).
I have also made the switch from sugar to Splenda - one that was not at all hard as Splenda doesn't seem to have the unpleasant aftertaste of Aspartame or Saccharin.
Wish me luck!
Bread Now Bed
Well, it's now 02:17 on Sunday morning and Roxana's bread has just finished.
I have been up for 23 hours so I think it is finally time that I went to bed! Night night.
I have been up for 23 hours so I think it is finally time that I went to bed! Night night.
Saturday, 12 June 2010
Wiltshire Bound
We finally made it down to Salisbury at 16:00 and when Roxana got back from shopping and we had had a cup of tea and a fag we went over to see my Mother-In- Law. This is by no means a chore as Evelyn is one of the nicest people on the planet and it is so good to see her settled into her new flat.
We had helped her move a few weeks ago and all the hard work has now paid off.
We spent a couple of hours there and then Hamish, Roxana, Alison and I went back to Salisbury for a pint or two by the river.
It's usually very peaceful there, with only the sound of the Avon and the various hoots and quacks of the aquatic bird life. However tonight was England's first game of the world cup and the pub, like so many, had a large screen and it was quite noisy. England drew 1-1 with the USA so that was a bit embarrassing.
Due to Roxana pressing the wrong button on her bread machine (she intended to set a timer but inadvertently set it going) someone needs to stay up to take the bread out when it has completed. I have offered to do this although I now realise that I will have then been awake for 23 hours. At least I will sleep well when I finally do get to bed.
I have decided to start a new diet that Boot's are promoting. Hamish has said that he will support me so I plan to start it the week after I get back from France. I'll keep you posted.
We had helped her move a few weeks ago and all the hard work has now paid off.
We spent a couple of hours there and then Hamish, Roxana, Alison and I went back to Salisbury for a pint or two by the river.
It's usually very peaceful there, with only the sound of the Avon and the various hoots and quacks of the aquatic bird life. However tonight was England's first game of the world cup and the pub, like so many, had a large screen and it was quite noisy. England drew 1-1 with the USA so that was a bit embarrassing.
Due to Roxana pressing the wrong button on her bread machine (she intended to set a timer but inadvertently set it going) someone needs to stay up to take the bread out when it has completed. I have offered to do this although I now realise that I will have then been awake for 23 hours. At least I will sleep well when I finally do get to bed.
I have decided to start a new diet that Boot's are promoting. Hamish has said that he will support me so I plan to start it the week after I get back from France. I'll keep you posted.
Night And Day, You Are The One.....
I had a difficult day at work yesterday and, when I got home, I lay down on the bed and fell fast asleep.
That was at 8pm so I woke up at 3.30am and I am now up and wide awake! Hamish got home at 1ish and went to bed at 4 so I am now ready to start the day and it's only 4.30. Bugger.
We are going down to Salisbury later but by lunchtime it's going to feel like early evening.
That was at 8pm so I woke up at 3.30am and I am now up and wide awake! Hamish got home at 1ish and went to bed at 4 so I am now ready to start the day and it's only 4.30. Bugger.
We are going down to Salisbury later but by lunchtime it's going to feel like early evening.
Friday, 11 June 2010
Aargh!
Well, BT booked an engineer to look at the line fault that they had identified and I got a call from him this morning.
Unfortunately, as BT farm out their support to a third party he couldn't help and told me that I should speak to BT! "I'VE ALEADY DONE THAT, THATS WHY I'M SPEAKING TO YOU !!!!!", I whispered quietly.
Why won't any company take ownership any more and why do they always make you feel that you've done something wrong?
Unfortunately, as BT farm out their support to a third party he couldn't help and told me that I should speak to BT! "I'VE ALEADY DONE THAT, THATS WHY I'M SPEAKING TO YOU !!!!!", I whispered quietly.
Why won't any company take ownership any more and why do they always make you feel that you've done something wrong?
Posted from Blogium for iPhone
Thursday, 10 June 2010
Arse
O2 have just announced their tariffs for the new iPhone 4 and have scrapped the all you can eat data part of the plan.
Thinking about it though, it really shouldn't be a problem. I checked my usage for this month so far (I have 10 days left to run) and I've only used 70MB and I use the phone quite a bit. So, 500MB should be more than enough. Hamish looked at his usage and, in almost 18 months, he has only used 1.5GB and he too uses the data part of his phone a lot. When we are at home we use WIFI and I've noticed the phone jumping onto BT Openzone and The Cloud more and more when I'm out and this usage remains free.
O2's reasoning is that only 3% of it's users exceed this sort of usage and they are hogging the bandwidth making the network slower for everyone else. If they pay for this extra usage then O2 can invest more of this money into improving their network.
AT&T have done the same in the States and analysts predict that other UK carriers will follow suit.
On the BIG plus side, O2 have said that I qualify for an early upgrade so my shiny new iPhone 4 will be winging it's way to me on, or shortly after, the launch date on 24th June. Woohoo!
People On The Internet Are So Clever
Like so many others, I only found out about the limitations of Windows 7 Starter (Netty's OS) when I started using it.
All of the things that Microsoft has stripped out of the OS to make it run on a lower powered netbook I can live without (the ability to create a home share, run applications in native XP mode, use the Areo UI etc.). However the inability to change your windows desktop background to anything other than the Microsoft default is ludicrous.
I don't like being restricted by a corporation and, whilst I rarely change my Windows desktop background, the fact that I couldn't, and for no good reason that I could see, really narked me.
However a quick surf of the web showed me that I am not alone and, of course, someone has already written a free bit of software (Oceanis Change Background W7) which does exactly what it says on the tin. Genius.
I had another technical problem today which needed another soul destroying conversation with a call centre - this time BT (who's call centres are somewhere in Mumbai).
I had noticed over the last couple of days that my downloads were taking longer to, er, download. I logged onto my router this morning to see that my ADSL download speed had dropped from 14000 Kbps to just 4000kbps.
Speaking to the help desk and doing the usual, painful, tests I thought they would say what they always do, that the fault was in my router, my internal wiring, my laptop - anywhere but with them. However, credit where credit's due, he did a full line test and determined that there is a fault on my line, somewhere between the exchange and home.
I didn't tell him this but it seems mighty coincidental that there are roadworks going on outside! Let's see if they can work it out. In the meantime, my broadband is fast enough to use - I just won't be downloading any high definition movies for a while.
All of the things that Microsoft has stripped out of the OS to make it run on a lower powered netbook I can live without (the ability to create a home share, run applications in native XP mode, use the Areo UI etc.). However the inability to change your windows desktop background to anything other than the Microsoft default is ludicrous.
I don't like being restricted by a corporation and, whilst I rarely change my Windows desktop background, the fact that I couldn't, and for no good reason that I could see, really narked me.
However a quick surf of the web showed me that I am not alone and, of course, someone has already written a free bit of software (Oceanis Change Background W7) which does exactly what it says on the tin. Genius.
I had another technical problem today which needed another soul destroying conversation with a call centre - this time BT (who's call centres are somewhere in Mumbai).
I had noticed over the last couple of days that my downloads were taking longer to, er, download. I logged onto my router this morning to see that my ADSL download speed had dropped from 14000 Kbps to just 4000kbps.
Speaking to the help desk and doing the usual, painful, tests I thought they would say what they always do, that the fault was in my router, my internal wiring, my laptop - anywhere but with them. However, credit where credit's due, he did a full line test and determined that there is a fault on my line, somewhere between the exchange and home.
I didn't tell him this but it seems mighty coincidental that there are roadworks going on outside! Let's see if they can work it out. In the meantime, my broadband is fast enough to use - I just won't be downloading any high definition movies for a while.
Wednesday, 9 June 2010
Bet You Wish You Hadn't Sent Me That Survey
I had a text this afternoon from O2 asking me to take part in a survey following my support call with them yesterday. Tee hee hee. I enjoyed filling that in.
Today has been another great day and once again I've got loads done. Depression is weird - it's all about spirals. Sometimes they go down and other times they go up but they never seem to stay still. I'm definately on an upward spiral at the moment and it feels great.
Going to relax tonight and catch up with Corrie.
Today has been another great day and once again I've got loads done. Depression is weird - it's all about spirals. Sometimes they go down and other times they go up but they never seem to stay still. I'm definately on an upward spiral at the moment and it feels great.
Going to relax tonight and catch up with Corrie.
Posted from Blogium for iPhone
Frizzy Hair Day
It's really humid this morning and the train was packed, adding to the humidity. The upshot is that my hair won't lie flat and I look like I've just got up.
I went to bed really early last night and had a fantastic nights sleep. Unfortunately I woke up at 6 and was watching telly at 6.15 so now I think it's lunchtime and it's only just gone 9.
Found a fascinating website this morning - Wikileaks. Basically they get access to and publish documents that the government and large corporations would rather you didn't see. Read a really interesting document, published by Microsoft, that details all the personal info they collect about you when you use any of their online services (Windows Live, Hotmail, MSN chat etc.).
Loads to do today and, as I still feel quite good, I'm looking forward to cracking on.
The UK Government are gearing up for the new budget in 2 weeks time and they are asking the general public what services we think they should cut back on to save money. I think the cuts that are coming are going to be really hard and I think that they will really affect families with children. These cuts are necessary though as we owe so much money. It's not just the UK, Greece are in trouble, as are Spain. Germany, although it's national debt is not too high, has already made cuts.
The only upside at the moment is that the pound is quite strong against the Euro and, as I am going to Paris next week, it means that I will get more Euros for my money. Better stock up on DVDs and BDs while I'm over there then!
I went to bed really early last night and had a fantastic nights sleep. Unfortunately I woke up at 6 and was watching telly at 6.15 so now I think it's lunchtime and it's only just gone 9.
Found a fascinating website this morning - Wikileaks. Basically they get access to and publish documents that the government and large corporations would rather you didn't see. Read a really interesting document, published by Microsoft, that details all the personal info they collect about you when you use any of their online services (Windows Live, Hotmail, MSN chat etc.).
Loads to do today and, as I still feel quite good, I'm looking forward to cracking on.
The UK Government are gearing up for the new budget in 2 weeks time and they are asking the general public what services we think they should cut back on to save money. I think the cuts that are coming are going to be really hard and I think that they will really affect families with children. These cuts are necessary though as we owe so much money. It's not just the UK, Greece are in trouble, as are Spain. Germany, although it's national debt is not too high, has already made cuts.
The only upside at the moment is that the pound is quite strong against the Euro and, as I am going to Paris next week, it means that I will get more Euros for my money. Better stock up on DVDs and BDs while I'm over there then!
Tuesday, 8 June 2010
Feelin' Good
Well today has been a good day all told. I had a good meeting with my Doctor, got the O2 account rubbish sorted out and got quite a bit done at work.
I have had more bad days than good over the past year so let's hope this continues....
I have had more bad days than good over the past year so let's hope this continues....
That's An Hour Of My Life I Won't Get Back
Well I was right. Trying to get O2 to sort my multiple account information was a nightmare that took almost 50mins on the phone.
I spoke to two Geordie woman first (who kept calling me 'love' in a disinterested sort of a way). Neither of them could solve the problem however one of them actually managed to create two additional accounts for me, taking the total up to nine.
In the end they latched onto the fact that I had an iPhone and so put me through to iPhone support before I could stop them and tell them that it was nothing to do with the iPhone.
When I finally got through, I was told "This has nothing to do with the iPhone". I think my sobs of despair made the guy feel sorry for me as he actually managed solve the problem. It turned out that there was a tenth user account that I had never seen before and this had all my info in it. He also managed to link my O2 3G dongle to it and reset the password.
On other matters, I had my Doctor's appointment this morning and he seemed happy with me and doesn't need to see me again for three months. Which was nice.
I spoke to two Geordie woman first (who kept calling me 'love' in a disinterested sort of a way). Neither of them could solve the problem however one of them actually managed to create two additional accounts for me, taking the total up to nine.
In the end they latched onto the fact that I had an iPhone and so put me through to iPhone support before I could stop them and tell them that it was nothing to do with the iPhone.
When I finally got through, I was told "This has nothing to do with the iPhone". I think my sobs of despair made the guy feel sorry for me as he actually managed solve the problem. It turned out that there was a tenth user account that I had never seen before and this had all my info in it. He also managed to link my O2 3G dongle to it and reset the password.
On other matters, I had my Doctor's appointment this morning and he seemed happy with me and doesn't need to see me again for three months. Which was nice.
Netbook All Setup And Housework Done (At Last)
Well Netty is now complete. I have got all the apps that I need to work efficiently and also all the links and apps I need if I don't have access to my main computer.
I have Evernote for my work notes and personal lists etc, SugarSync so that my work and personal documents are always current, Open Office so that I can open Word docs and Excel spreadsheets and Microsoft Money so that I can update the finances when I am away from home.
I've set up my commonly used web links in favorites so that I can catch up with stuff (although to be fair, I usually browse the web on my iphone and will continue to do so but it's nice to be able to see some sites on the larger screen).
I could have put more applications on but I want to keep Netty as a tool and not as an entertainment diversion. By restricting what I have installed I will ensure that I'm not tempted to procrastinate when I am supposed to be working. Even so, going back to my original point about the iPad, I still have more applications and will be more productive with the Netbook.
I am excited, however, about the launch of the iPhone 4.0, it looks great. My current airtime contract is up in a month, just in time for me to get one!
Anyway, off to bed now as I have to be up early to go to my monthly session at the Doctors.
I have Evernote for my work notes and personal lists etc, SugarSync so that my work and personal documents are always current, Open Office so that I can open Word docs and Excel spreadsheets and Microsoft Money so that I can update the finances when I am away from home.
I've set up my commonly used web links in favorites so that I can catch up with stuff (although to be fair, I usually browse the web on my iphone and will continue to do so but it's nice to be able to see some sites on the larger screen).
I could have put more applications on but I want to keep Netty as a tool and not as an entertainment diversion. By restricting what I have installed I will ensure that I'm not tempted to procrastinate when I am supposed to be working. Even so, going back to my original point about the iPad, I still have more applications and will be more productive with the Netbook.
I am excited, however, about the launch of the iPhone 4.0, it looks great. My current airtime contract is up in a month, just in time for me to get one!
Anyway, off to bed now as I have to be up early to go to my monthly session at the Doctors.
Monday, 7 June 2010
There's Too Many Of Me
Well day one with Netty went very well.
The only problem I am having seems to be with O2 as, according to their website, I seem to have 7 accounts. This is odd as I have only ever had one mobile number and now I have the O2 broadband.
It should be easy to get them to sort this out - but I bet it won't be. I know that after I have finally got them to understand what the problem is they will proceed to delete all my accounts leaving me with no phone and no broadband. Do I risk it?
Everything else has gone very well and testimony to this is the fact that I am now typing and about to post this entry from the train. Of course, if you never read this then something will have gone wrong, but then you'll never know, will you?
The only problem I am having seems to be with O2 as, according to their website, I seem to have 7 accounts. This is odd as I have only ever had one mobile number and now I have the O2 broadband.
It should be easy to get them to sort this out - but I bet it won't be. I know that after I have finally got them to understand what the problem is they will proceed to delete all my accounts leaving me with no phone and no broadband. Do I risk it?
Everything else has gone very well and testimony to this is the fact that I am now typing and about to post this entry from the train. Of course, if you never read this then something will have gone wrong, but then you'll never know, will you?
So Far So Good
Well I've added all my work files (via SugarSync) to Netty and have been using Evernote all morning. I deleted Evernote from my work laptop to force me to use the Netbook. I've set up email and used Netty in a meeting (to amused faces from my colleagues) and so far all is good.
I had to download a few updates for Live Mail and Adobe PDF reader and also had to install the latest version of Java and so far I have only used 160MB. As the majority of this was the actual update downloads which would normally be done at home over WIFI (I have set Windows Update only to notify me about new downloads and not actually download them until I am ready) I don't think I will ever come anywhere close to my 3GB data limit per month.
I had to download a few updates for Live Mail and Adobe PDF reader and also had to install the latest version of Java and so far I have only used 160MB. As the majority of this was the actual update downloads which would normally be done at home over WIFI (I have set Windows Update only to notify me about new downloads and not actually download them until I am ready) I don't think I will ever come anywhere close to my 3GB data limit per month.
Morning Routine
Had a bit of a shock this morning as Hamish was up and about with music playing and coffee on. This almost never happens and took me by surprise.
Because of my medication I'm no longer a morning person and need at least 30 mins, a coffee and a fag before I'm able to communicate.
Netbook almost set up, today is the first day I will be using it at work. I must remember that it is simply a tool and not really for entertainment, especially during the work day. At least I will now be able to leave my heavy work laptop in my draw at night and not have to carry it around any more.
I'll let you know if Netty and I bond today!
Because of my medication I'm no longer a morning person and need at least 30 mins, a coffee and a fag before I'm able to communicate.
Netbook almost set up, today is the first day I will be using it at work. I must remember that it is simply a tool and not really for entertainment, especially during the work day. At least I will now be able to leave my heavy work laptop in my draw at night and not have to carry it around any more.
I'll let you know if Netty and I bond today!
Posted from Blogium for iPhone
Sorry Apple
Well I had a good look around town and for much less than the price of the most basic iPad I have got a Samsung N150 netbook and 18 months worth of mobile internet.
This is where Apple are going to come unstuck. Yes I know my netbook isn't as shiny as a new iPad and doesn't have the same wow factor but it is a 'propper' computer with a decent screen and a real keyboard. It runs real software (including Flash) and, when closed takes up less space in my bag than the iPad would.
Anyway, I have set up my software (Evernote and Sugarsync) and will start using it in earnest tomorrow.
This is where Apple are going to come unstuck. Yes I know my netbook isn't as shiny as a new iPad and doesn't have the same wow factor but it is a 'propper' computer with a decent screen and a real keyboard. It runs real software (including Flash) and, when closed takes up less space in my bag than the iPad would.
Anyway, I have set up my software (Evernote and Sugarsync) and will start using it in earnest tomorrow.
Sunday, 6 June 2010
Small And Light
Not me unfortunately, but what I am looking for in a net book.
We have a number of computing devices but I am looking for something small and light that I can slip into my bag and use for taking notes at work (I use the fantastic Evernote service) and also take on holiday with us so that we can keep up to date with flights etc and keep our blogs up to date.
I would love to be able to say that the new Apple iPad is what I want but, as beautiful as it is, it's not really up to the job. Apple, in their own inimitable Big Brother way (ironic when you think back to their iconic 1984 advert) have basically made a large iPod touch upon which you can only install their Apps. Had they launched it with a cut down but non-the-less open version of Max OS X then it might have been a contender but as it stands it seems fairly useless.
No, I need a 'propper' computer that I can install normal applications onto. It doesn't have to be particularly powerful as I won't be playing games or watching videos (I have my iPhone for that) but it does have to be thin, light and have good battery life. WiFi would have to be included but I don't need to connect to the mobile phone network with it as I can sync Evernote when I next get access to a WiFi hot spot.
I have a feeling that nothing out there will do exactly what I want but, if I find something that's 99% there I can put my Mum's £100 pounds towards it.
As usual we are late going into town so if we leave in half an hour the shops will only be open for 2 hours but that may help focus my mind.
I'll report back later.
We have a number of computing devices but I am looking for something small and light that I can slip into my bag and use for taking notes at work (I use the fantastic Evernote service) and also take on holiday with us so that we can keep up to date with flights etc and keep our blogs up to date.
I would love to be able to say that the new Apple iPad is what I want but, as beautiful as it is, it's not really up to the job. Apple, in their own inimitable Big Brother way (ironic when you think back to their iconic 1984 advert) have basically made a large iPod touch upon which you can only install their Apps. Had they launched it with a cut down but non-the-less open version of Max OS X then it might have been a contender but as it stands it seems fairly useless.
No, I need a 'propper' computer that I can install normal applications onto. It doesn't have to be particularly powerful as I won't be playing games or watching videos (I have my iPhone for that) but it does have to be thin, light and have good battery life. WiFi would have to be included but I don't need to connect to the mobile phone network with it as I can sync Evernote when I next get access to a WiFi hot spot.
I have a feeling that nothing out there will do exactly what I want but, if I find something that's 99% there I can put my Mum's £100 pounds towards it.
As usual we are late going into town so if we leave in half an hour the shops will only be open for 2 hours but that may help focus my mind.
I'll report back later.
A Few Good Men
No, not my idea of a good night in but the title of the play we have just been to see by the Miller Centre Players, an amateur dramatics group to which a friend of ours belongs.
The story, by Aaron Sorkin, concerns the military trial of two US Marines who were involved in the accidental murder of a fellow Marine. Excellent dialog and a gripping court room drama in act two made for a diverting evening. The acting was, on the whole, excellent with two people in particular standing out. One for his absolutely fantastic acting and the other for his absolutely abysmal acting!
After the play we went to "Bollywood" a very nice Indian restaurant in Caterham with great food, only let down by the slightly surly service.
I must admit that I wasn't really looking forwards to going out tonight but I'm glad that I did.
We got back just before the rain started and, as I was waiting to pay at the petrol station on the way home, I think I saw a flash of lightening so we could be in for a wet night.
I am determined to get up early tomorrow and do the housework that I have been putting off for the past two days and then we need to nip into town.
The story, by Aaron Sorkin, concerns the military trial of two US Marines who were involved in the accidental murder of a fellow Marine. Excellent dialog and a gripping court room drama in act two made for a diverting evening. The acting was, on the whole, excellent with two people in particular standing out. One for his absolutely fantastic acting and the other for his absolutely abysmal acting!
After the play we went to "Bollywood" a very nice Indian restaurant in Caterham with great food, only let down by the slightly surly service.
I must admit that I wasn't really looking forwards to going out tonight but I'm glad that I did.
We got back just before the rain started and, as I was waiting to pay at the petrol station on the way home, I think I saw a flash of lightening so we could be in for a wet night.
I am determined to get up early tomorrow and do the housework that I have been putting off for the past two days and then we need to nip into town.
Saturday, 5 June 2010
Bit Low Today
I got up at 7.30 this morning feeling a bit low. The trouble with my illness is that you can never tell how you are going to feel from one day to the next.
It's now 15.30 and I haven't really done anything just sat arround listening to music and feeling a bit sorry for myself.
We need to go the supermarket soon as we have to be ready to go to the theatre at around 7. We were supposed to go to the dump and take some old electrical items but that closed at 15.30 so we will have to do that next week.
I still haven't done the housework and I really must get on with it as we recently took a week off work to do a massive spring clean and I am determined not to let the house get back into that state again.
We are going into town tomorrow and I want to have a look for something for my birthday, which is coming up in a couple of weeks, and my Mum has offered me £100 to get myself something I want. Trouble is, I can't think of anything at the moment!
Anyway can't keep sitting around here must get out and do the shopping. As the kiddywinks say, laters.
It's now 15.30 and I haven't really done anything just sat arround listening to music and feeling a bit sorry for myself.
We need to go the supermarket soon as we have to be ready to go to the theatre at around 7. We were supposed to go to the dump and take some old electrical items but that closed at 15.30 so we will have to do that next week.
I still haven't done the housework and I really must get on with it as we recently took a week off work to do a massive spring clean and I am determined not to let the house get back into that state again.
We are going into town tomorrow and I want to have a look for something for my birthday, which is coming up in a couple of weeks, and my Mum has offered me £100 to get myself something I want. Trouble is, I can't think of anything at the moment!
Anyway can't keep sitting around here must get out and do the shopping. As the kiddywinks say, laters.
Posted from Blogium for iPhone
To Sleep Perchance To Dream
Well my plans of doing the housework went out of the window this evening. I was so hot when I got in from work that I wheeled the air con unit into the bedroom, lay on the bed and fell asleep. That's when the trouble started.
I am taking medication at the moment a side effect of which is very vivid nightmares. This evening's involved my parents, my husband, one of my brothers-in-law and a tall, leather skinned vampire. I woke up very traumatised as the vampire bit through my jaw after uttering the phrase "I like rabbit and I like to take my time". Bizarre now but very disturbing at the time. The nightmares tend to persist for a while after I wake and this one was no exception.
I'm off to bed again now and I hope my dreams will be a little sweeter this time.
I am taking medication at the moment a side effect of which is very vivid nightmares. This evening's involved my parents, my husband, one of my brothers-in-law and a tall, leather skinned vampire. I woke up very traumatised as the vampire bit through my jaw after uttering the phrase "I like rabbit and I like to take my time". Bizarre now but very disturbing at the time. The nightmares tend to persist for a while after I wake and this one was no exception.
I'm off to bed again now and I hope my dreams will be a little sweeter this time.
Posted from Blogium for iPhone
Friday, 4 June 2010
London In The Heat
It's another pleasent commute tonight with temperatures reaching 27c, the tube packed to capacity and every second person smelling of garlic.
Mind you, the air conditioned new Southern trains are nice. It really is refreshing to get on board.
I need to get on with some housework tonight and then I'm going to relax in front of the air con unit until I freeze!
I've got a bit hooked on the BBC TV series "Luther" and I have a couple of episodes to catch up with. The series is a bit far fetched and some of the acting is a bit suspect but it's quite gory in places and it's a good diversion.
I was supposed to be watching "Siege Week" in Coronation Street but after the horrific shootings in Cunbria, ITV have pulled the episodes this week which, whilst dissapointing, is totally understandable.
Mind you, the air conditioned new Southern trains are nice. It really is refreshing to get on board.
I need to get on with some housework tonight and then I'm going to relax in front of the air con unit until I freeze!
I've got a bit hooked on the BBC TV series "Luther" and I have a couple of episodes to catch up with. The series is a bit far fetched and some of the acting is a bit suspect but it's quite gory in places and it's a good diversion.
I was supposed to be watching "Siege Week" in Coronation Street but after the horrific shootings in Cunbria, ITV have pulled the episodes this week which, whilst dissapointing, is totally understandable.
Posted from Blogium for iPhone
Up She Goes
The Shard, set to become London and the UK's tallest building continues to rise.
I have been watching the work take place since the building previously on the site was demolished 2 years ago. The Shard is being built next to London Bridge Station so I get a close up view every day as I come into London.
The Shard's concrete core is now at the 30th floor and will rise to 84 floors and just over 1000 feet.
If you look closely at the picture (taken from outside my office on Blackfriars Road) you can now see the core peeping over the buildings between me and London Bridge. Soon the Shard will fill this gap. Exciting stuff!!!
Posted from Blogium for iPhone
A Fresh New Start
I am relaunching my blog today after a few months off.
It's a glorious day and I'm feeling ok so today seemed like a good a day as any to start.
It's Friday and this weekend I'm not going down to Salisbury (first time the weekend has not been Salisbury related for a while) instead we are going to see our friend Peter who is performing in a stage production of "A few good men".
Regarding this blog, I'm going to post a little but often. I am mostly using Blogium on the iPhone so please excuse any spelling mistakes and typos!
It's a glorious day and I'm feeling ok so today seemed like a good a day as any to start.
It's Friday and this weekend I'm not going down to Salisbury (first time the weekend has not been Salisbury related for a while) instead we are going to see our friend Peter who is performing in a stage production of "A few good men".
Regarding this blog, I'm going to post a little but often. I am mostly using Blogium on the iPhone so please excuse any spelling mistakes and typos!
Posted from Blogium for iPhone
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