Journal for Researcher236774 Olympic Golden Letter Boxes.
(Jan 6, 2013)
Never one to choose something simple, I've set myself a challenge.  As some will know, I was a solid supporter of London winning the Olympic bid, as I had a firm belief that organising something like that is what the British are at, being used to Pomp and Circumstance, and arranging things like The London Marathon, Commonwealth Games, Lord Mayor's Show, Notting Hill Carnival.Why not the Olympics? I also wanted to be involved, so  up to the Mayor of London's (Boris Johnson) 8,000 London Ambassadors. These were the rarely mentioned ones in the pink and light purple, as opposed to LOCOG's 70,000 Games Makers, who wore the darker uniforms.And it was great. Had a  fantastic time.And to make things better, where the Olympics are over and the Games Makers disbanded  , the London Ambassadors will be continuing to maintain the Olympic legacy. They haven't been disbanded, and will continue to be asked to volunteer for major events.  . Unfortunately all events have, so far, been in East London, so I needed to find something I could do myself.Some of you may have read my entry on Gerald the Pornographic Elephant and his Groupies. (A84729603), and how I've continued, with the GG's, pursuing fibre-glass artworks . So when I heard that the Olympic Golden Letter Boxes were being maintained by Royal Mail I decided to travel, in the ethos of the GG's, and find them all. Unfortunately I was released from my employment in September, so I now have no money to pay for it. Roll on 5 months and a sleepless night and a  thought. That grew. And GREW. The idea? To visit all the letter boxes, in aid of charity, in 2014, in time to reach Glasgow for the start of the XXth Commonwealth Games. http://www.glasgow2014.com So far, I have contacted Royal Mail to enquire as to whether they could offer me three lots of the Olympic gold medal winners' stamps and postcards, to be posted from each letter box, of which there are 110. One to be sent to the Olympic Gold Winner, one to be auctioned for the Charities, and one for myself, as a record and memento. Next is to contact Boris, to get additional uniform to wear for the event, and Brompton Bikes, based in Brentford where I live, for a gold bike to travel between the close boxes, and from drop-off points to the boxes, Due to my disability, I would be unable to walk great distances, so cycling may resolve that dilemma. I also need to contact my chosen Charities, being Friedrich's Ataxia, an illness my ex-Fiancée contracted at 18, and probably  from around 20 years later.  http://www.ataxia.org.uk And Muscular Dystrophy, being the nearest Charity to which my disability is linked. http://www.muscular-dystrophy.org The objective is to get some feedback, before pursuing the larger, more complex problems and challenges. I am also going to ask my Physio for a referral to my local Gym to build on my limited muscles and strength, as well as ensure I can actually still ride a bicycle. I am uncertain of my other modes of transport, but buses will be included as I have a National Freedom pass, but they are slow. So, coach or train? The coach is cheaper, but less regular and very difficult for me to get onto and off of. The train is more frequent, easier accessibility, but expensive. So a logistical challenge. The other area that I've been advised to pursue, and a friend has offered to help with, is Twitter. I have an account, being @MazinMadFiddler, but rarely use it as I don't understand it. So plenty to work on. But I suppose the most important is working out how to create a website via my Mac. That's going to be the biggest challenge for me, of everything!!!Let the fun commence!  MMF  Click here to discuss this (19 replies, Latest reply: Jan 16, 2013) MMF's NaJoPoMo - 3rd (Nov 5, 2012) I was up relatively early. Carpe Diem. Well, almost. Kew Gardens called, to capture the Autumnal Colours. Hopefully the inclement weather hadn't stripped the trees. An electric buggy had been booked for 12:00, but I was  late, eventually arriving at the Main Gate, (now renamed Elizabeth Gate to commemorate Queen Elizabeth the Second's Diamond Jubilee. Seems a bit incongruous, with gilted VR monograms on the gates.) at 13:00. Once I arrived I had to run through the necessary check list, including being told to stay on the paths, then off to hunt the many hued trees. The ash and beech were not too bright, and many trees were still green. So much for 'The autumnal blaze of colour' due this year. So, where best to head? The lake. It has three islands, with swamp cypress on them. Although being cypresses, they turn a spectacular range of brown, orange and gold. I was not disappointed, but the  wasn't perfect. Following the path, there were certain spots of good colour, however not all were suitable for photographing, due to the objective being too close, or the surroundings too cluttered. The three peacocks and two peahens were being very obliging, and attracted a lot of attention, but they weren't what I was looking for. The Sackler crossing also looked good, but it was getting very chill by now, and overcast, and hanging around for a good shot didn't seem a good idea so headed back. Now I had a problem. I'd run out of path, so had to tackle a grassy slope which drained the battery quite heavily. I did manage to reach the path, and the buggy appeared to be back to a reasonable charge. Continuing on and there was my favourite tree, Cotinus obovata or smoke tree. This is my most photographed tree. My portfolio can be found here:http://www.flickr.com/photos/madfiddler/sets/72157631930581422/ It was probably at the best I've ever seen it. By now my feet were very  , and walking was getting painful, so time to head back, stopping at the Victoria Gate, for a 'Pit Stop', however now the battery was running very low and there was still around 400m to cover. It may not sound far, but when the  legs are chilled, and the feet not functioning, being stranded does not sound like fun, so it meant coaxing it back. At one point I got out intending to eek out the battery, but buggies are not easy to control one-handed, while walking with a stick and maintaining a walking speed. Eventually, around half an hour later, I'd managed to coax the buggy back to Main Gate. How I managed it, I don't know. I was ticked off for going off-road, even though I explained I'd stuck to the path, but was told that the rules meant the tarmac. I didn't feel able to walk the 200m to the bus stop, so phoned for a taxi to take me the 500m home, for a £6:00 fee. Ouch!. 4 hours later, the feet had thawed and so I made supper and did a spot of ironing, entertained by the first of the Mad Max films, before retiring to my local for a few  and downloading my photographs. Those taken on the dSLR were not too good. I now know that using a dSLR and wearing a cap at the same time do not produce good photographs. However the Canon Sureshot had served well.All in all, a good if day.Click here to discuss this ( 1 reply, Latest reply: Nov 6, 2012) MMF's NaJoPoMo - 2nd (Nov 2, 2012) Welcome to Journal number two. Thursday the 1st didn't really finish until 03:30 on the 2nd as I was chatting with Interweb friends across the pond. Good fun, especially as it gave me a chance to help someone who's experiencing a tough time at the moment, and yet I've never met her. The power of internet friendships...  you all.So Friday, really started at 11:00, thankfully with none of the weird, scary dreams of late, thankfully. The day's weather was very bright, clear, but . As Mum termed it: 'That's one lazy wind. It goes through you, not around you'. Usual breakfast of  , Instant, as Mum has tidied the Cafétiere away so I can't find it. Could be anywhere, then off to Hounslow to see my Physiotherapist. She's a really pleasant, attractive young Lady, who is very thorough. Arrived early, and a little , so chatted to an Ellie Friend about my day to date, and plans. EM, the Physio, called me in at 14:00 and we discussed the findings from the previous visit. It appears my disability is exacerbated by weak inner core muscles. These provide the for all the other muscles, forming a girdle around the pelvis. For information, they are the transverse abdominis around the abdomen, multifidus down the back and the pelvic floor muscles. It is this weakness that affects my mobility, balance and confidence, so now to work on strengthening them.The first was to check my seating posture and how I stand. By a slight adjustment, I should find it easier, but probably not from my home office chair where I'm writing this. Next was to perform the basis of the exercises. It meant lying flat, arms down the body, shoulders relaxed and knees bent. The idea is to gently push the small of the back to the floor, while pulling the pelvis forward and hold, while still breathing. Tiring but doable. Just. The next exercise is as above, but now to lift the hips and spine off of the floor. This I found impossible, ut must persevere. The main thing is to do the exercise using the core muscles, not the six-pack... The next entailed the core position, engage the core muscles but then to lift each foreleg so that the knee is 90 degrees to the hip, then straighten to point at around 45 degrees with both hips level, hold, then gently lower to the starting position. Then repeat with the other. By this time I was pretty exhausted, and I hadn't performed any reps either! The last was more gentle, starting from the basic position, but this time gently rolling one leg outwards as far as comfortably possible, then gently return back to the upright, and repeat the other side. And that took 45 minutes. I'm to perform them daily and return next Friday, then a week on Monday I start balancing classes. Here's to positive results, but EM is very pleased with my attitude, and how I've managed so far, with no medical input, so 9 years of studying Biology did not go to waste. Returning home, and a , I started my washing, one of two loads, and called Kew Gardens to book a mobility scooter, as I want to photograph as many of the Autumnal colours as I can, but am aware how little of Kew I could cover on foot, so I'm cheating. Sorry Folks. But I've lots of Shanks'  action next week... Just to balance it out.The intended shop didn't occur, so popped to the recently opened orange-logoed Supermarket and bought a chicken broth, added extra chicken and nuked that for supper. I finally completed some Interweb actions and email news before writing this blog. Apologies for it being a little long, and possibly too detailed, but it is for my own benefit too. And please feel free to perform the exercises and let me know how well you do. I'm happy to email the full details of each action. Thanks for reading. More tomorrow. Movember? Oh yes. Going for the full beard to start, then will decide what style of Mo to go for... Later, folks. Click here to discuss this (No replies) MMF's NaJoNoMo - 1st (Nov 1, 2012) The day started in a  way, with receipt of a phone call at 07:32. It really threw me, and when I answered I was asked if I was , and did I have someone looking after me? In my befuddled,  stupor, and heavy with sinusitis, I was not really clued up, or comprehensible. My friend, IN, said he was pleased I was , but suggested checking my late night FB posting and adding a postscript to it.The  post read: 'MMF is now going to die. Wishes all his friends a good and safe night and a fantastic day tomorrow. For those who are experiencing major trials in their lives, I am sending my heartfelt caring and warm wishes your way. Please take care. I you all. MMF xxx' What had my friends worried was 'MMF is now going to die'! Because many of my friends are aware I have a disability, and suffer from depression on occasion, I didn't think they'd misconstrue the sentence. It only meant 'MMF is now going to bed to the of the dead'. A postscript was added to that effect and set many minds at rest.With the shoulder still playing up with tendonitis, it wasn't that good a night, so didn't surface as early as expected. The rest of the day was rather mundane, with an ache-easing bath and then working on my plans for the Month, as I plan to visit a museum or gallery every weekday throughout November, Physio, attendance at Jobseekers and possible interviews permitting. The weekends are being reserved for visits to Kew Gardens, domestics, or activities that I'm currently unaware of, or surprises. Any ideas for other activities appreciated. The Agenda: Thursday 1st November Wellcome Centre, All day Friday 2nd November Physio, 14:00 – 15:00 Saturday 3rd November Sunday 4th November Monday 5th November Halcyon Galleries, All Day Tuesday 6th November Mall Galleries and area, All Day Wednesday 7th November Thursday 8th November Design Museum, All Day Friday 9th November Jobseekers, 14:00 Saturday 10th November Sunday 11th November Monday12th November V & A Ballgowns,All Day Physio???, Tuesday 13th November British Museum, All Day Wednesday 14th November Nat. Gall. Seduced by Art, All Day Thursday 15th November London Transport Museum, All Day Friday 16th November Science Museum - Turing, All Day Tate Pre-Raphaelites, 19:00 – 22:00 Saturday 17th November Sunday 18th November Monday19th November Museum of London , London’s lost jewels / Doctors, Dissections, Resurrection men, All Day Tuesday 20th November Queen’s Gallery Durer to Holbein, 10:00 – 13:00 Royal Mews, 13:00 – 17:00 Wednesday 21st November Army Museum, All Day Thursday 22nd November British Library, All Day Friday 23rd November Jobseekers Saturday 24th November NHM – Treasure Hunt, 10:00 – 16:00 Sunday 25th November NHM – Treasure Hunt, 10:00 – 16:00 Monday 26th November London Docklands Museum, All Day Tuesday 27th November Imperial War Memorial, All Day Wednesday 28th November T.B.A., All Day Science Museum lates, 19:00 – 22:00 Thursday 29th November Greenwich and Cutty Sark, All Day Friday 30th November NHM– Spirit lab tour and library, All Day NHM Lates, 19:00 – 22:00 Oh. And also partaking in Movember, more to provide support to the campaign, than to raise Sponsorship. I hope you've enjoyed this Journal. More to follow... MMF Click here to discuss this (8 replies, Latest reply: Nov 2, 2012) MMF's playground update. (Oct 28, 2012) Can't believe only four weeks has passed since posting here last. Lots seems to have happened, yet nothing overly much. Work-wise, little has happened. I persued an advert to work for Selfridge's in a call-centre based in Richmond. It meant an initial and appraisal at an agency at The Strand. Seemed to have gone smoothly, then on to an interview at the call-centre. Unfortunately it was an out-sourced organisation, Serco, who I've heard of. The interview appeared to go well, and I was feeling positive. The closing comments were that we'd get a personal phone-answering call to perform a final assessment, and the agency would give feedback. Sounded positive. A week later, and nothing, so decided to pay the employment agency a call,and they said they'd follow it up.  That evening, being in the area, I'd arranged to meet P, a very good Elephant friend, which was really enjoyable. Discussed HRH, who'd been back in contact after the big dump. Went reasonably well, although I was pretty as didn't want to get too involved. Subsequent texts from her have been curt and a little abrasive. I am NOT a hormonal, spotty, pubescent adolescent and I'm not prepared to play games. Been advised to away, but difficult after 22 years on a dusty shelf, like a forgotten toy, and it felt good to be picked up, dusted off and to feel wanted, even if only for a month.  But being put back isn't so good. Anyway, back to the application. Agency had arranged an interview. NO. I wanted a call assessment. That was meant to be rearranged, but nothing.  Given up now.Had two lovely days out in Kew viewing the David Nash exhibition. Pretty good. Some really interesting sculptures. Photos to follow: http://www.kew.org/visit-kew-garden...hats-on/david-nash/guides/index.htm Inbetween times, the tendonitis and inflamed nerve had calmed to be replaced by a nasty head cold. I was meant to visit a cousin, and possibly Pastey, et al, but that curtailed that. as it cleared it was replaced by sinusitis, that is a real  . Not good, so disturbed night's sleep. Discovered a spray that eased it, but still ongoing, three weeks on. Had another get-together with P, that was fun, and hope to arrange some Kultcharal events soon. Last Friday was hectic. First Jobseekers. Really depressing. Just because we are not employed, do we all have to look like vagrants? I refuse, and dress brightly, if just to raise my spirits in a soul-destroying drab cornet utility-building.  Not exactly inspiring.From there, a then on to my first Physio appointment. The Physiotherapist was a really friendly, young attractive young lady, Ellen. We had a discussion about me, my ailments and mobility, followed by an assessment. Went really well. . And I've been further assured that I'm not imagining my complaint, or necessarily affecting it. Appears I have wasting inner-core musculature, that is affecting my balance, locomotion and ability to carry out day-to-day chores. I now have been put on a six-week course to hopefully improve my balance. What happens next is uncertain. I have to go back next week for a mobility assessment. Things are improving.That evening I met a friend and visited the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition at the Natural History Museum. http://www.nhm.ac.uk/visit-us/whats-on/temporary-exhibitions/wpy/ Was really enjoyable, although I can't decide if it was as good as last year. Still took three hours to see it all. Shall return next month when it may be a little quieter. Yesterday was spent in Kew with an ex-manager of mine. We'd always got on well, and she'd treat me more as an equal than Employer/Employee. It was a very day, and prone to rain, but we enjoyed ourselves, catching up with 4 year old news. So as to cover as much of Kew as possible I borrowed a mobility scooter, which was just as well, as I wasn't at my most active, almost coming to a halt half-way down a set of shallow steps, Had to rely on my friend to let me get back up. A most enjoyable 7 hours, hopefully to be repeated soon... On Tuesday is the Gerald's Groupies' monthly Meet, which is always enjoyable, lasting round 4 hours, then Wednesday is back to the Natural History Museum, with L, another Elephant friend, and NHM Night Safari, for the Hallowe'en Terror Tour. Should be really enjoyable... http://www.nhm.ac.uk/visit-us/whats..._with_mastercard_-_terror_tour.html All in all, not too bad a month. Biggest  in the ointment is HRH, but I'll weather that. Health-wise? There are others worse off than me and, GB, best wishes fly your way...NBext month, I have many further activities planned, with at least one entry going forward to PR, hopefully, so I think I need to enter the NaJoPoMo just to keep up to date. Thanks for reading and, thankfully. no Black  MMF Click here to discuss this (11 replies, Latest reply: Oct 30, 2012) MMF's life's a playground. (Oct 3, 2012) Or is it? Probably better to call it a game of swings and roundabouts. I've been working for the Royal Courts of Justice since mid-November, which has been a rollercoaster ride, especially as I was working as a Bankruptcy Clerk, but at the time there was on that section, so training was very erratic. Come March, there was a major change, with six senior staff , through voluntary redundancy or early retirement, with one leaving to cover maternity leave, and she was the only one on the Bankruptcy section, but always covered the cthe entry A84729603To compound the problems, I'd had three separate days off  . One through migraine  , a second because of smoke-inhalation, aggravated by a cold, where my microwave toasted a microwave-safe pudding. However, the third was the worst, as I developed dizzy spells which were unexplained and fell a number of times. This meant a quiet word at work, but nothing further. An unofficial caution. From here, the work front looked up, with a new line-manager, who was more pro-active, and a Registrar's clerk returning to Bankruptcy. Time for some training, primarily on the counter, which was to become my main task from then on. During this period, socially, I'd been touring London for fibreglass painted eggs, over the run-up to Easter, for the Great British Egg-Hunt in support of Elephant Family (See the entry A84729603 for details) with my fellow Elephant friends. This resulted in a  Record.  . Shortly afterwards there was a selection of fibreglass decorated K2 phone boxes in London for a month, to raise funds for Childline, a Children's secure helpline for children potentially at risk, being abused etc. A little like a Juvenile Samaritans. Didn't make out so well on those, having run out of time. I'd also volunteered to be a London Ambassador (LA) for the London Olympics and managed to get tickets to the Harlequins v Saracens rugby union match, which had a record attendance for a Club match, my second record of the year. A month later the LA organisers planned a scavenger hunt, again aiming for a record attempt, and smashed the record. Still as an LA, I was invited to attend a rehearsal for the London Olympics opening ceremony.Life was pretty and However...Earlier, in May I had to visit St. James' Hospital, Leeds for a biopsy for Malignant Hypothermia (MH). http://www.bmha.co.uk It appears that because of my disability, core cell myopathy, I may be susceptible to MH. The biopsy went well, and proved negative, but was deeper and more intrusive than I thought, resulting in 2 days off to recuperate. I managed two days at work, before having a major inflammation of the lower calf which was extremely painful. Booking in to A&E resulted in antibiotics and a week off (my fifth period off of work). At the end of that time I returned to work but ended up with two further periods at A&E, constituting leave, before being diagnosed with suspected cellulitis (which I'd already diagnosed having had it twice before) and Oedema. Result? More and higher dosage A/Bs. Not good. Result? a verbal warning. The leg settled down, with a small numb area, but still with the Odeama, so I was able to fulfil my LA role at London Victoria Station, which was fantastic and ended too soon, as well as seeing the opening day of the rowing. And they even loaned me a mobility scooter so I could get around. Life was good! This was followed by my annual holiday at the Broadstairs Folk Festival. My 47th year out of the 48 it has been running. Also the opportunity to have a family get-together, as they live in Broadstairs and Ramsgate. Fantastic. Immediately prior to this a enters the ointment. I received a phone call from an old work-colleague I'd been fond of, but who had left 7 years previously. I'd never acted on my feelings, but she arranged for us to meet. It went well, and a flame began smouldering. We arranged to meet a second time, but the day before I broke my neck chain that had my 21st birthday present of a fiddle charm on it, from my ex-Fianceé. I still wore it as we split due to parental pressure, as she had Frierich's Ataxia, a muscle wasting disease that is progressive, giving a lifespan of upto 30 years old. When we met she'd bought me a present. A new neck chain. In white gold!!!  A real surprise. Anyway, once my smouldering flame became a fire she terminated it. Not my greatest moment in life, and bought on the period. To make it worse we were going to Paris together, and it had been booked. So off I went, billy no-mates.I had a reasonable weekend there but, on the penultimate day, at the Sacre Coeur, a tourist accidentally kicked my walking stick away. She was busy talking to fellow tourists and hadn't seen it. A fluke. I fell and grabbed a very startled woman, who probably thought she was being mugged, to stop myself falling, but damaged my knee. Yes, the same leg I'd had the biopsy on. Unnoticed, I'd also damaged my right arm. The following day I returned home, but noticed the arm progressively getting more painful. On the Tuesday it was on fire so I couldn't walk, as that is the arm I need for the walking stick. After seeing the  I found I had tendonitis in the shoulder and something akin to  elbow, being an inflammed nerve in the elbow, so prescribed Co-Codamol., except not good as completely me out. My eighth period, so a written warning this time.  I'd also received notification of the termination of my fixed-term contract at the end of September. So, all in all, an  interesting year to date.The ? I've applied for my job, passed the initial sift and had an interview, which I'm now awaiting the outcome, and also applied for a receptionist's job at Kew Gardens, so all is not totally bleak. And most of my work colleagues are keen for me to return, so here's  And, yes, I'm No black , currently. And I'm hoping that the period out of work will be very short. for reading.MMF .Click here to discuss this (33 replies, Latest reply: Oct 12, 2012) Tired, happy, but very skint!!! (Feb 27, 2012) I had the opportunity to go on a subsidised Photographic course over the weekend, and had a really good time. As I'm still classed as a Partner (or retired member of staff) with my old employer, John Lewis, I still receive all the benefits and saw an intensive photography course advertised, at £275 but I could claim half the cost back under 'leisure learning'. As I've set myself a challenge of doing something one evening a week, and a weekend event per month, I applied. And I was amazed how much I'd forgotten, been misinformed, or never knew. I knew about the Aperture, Shutter Speed, ISO triangle, but not how it worked. The tutor explained it beautifully, with loads of examples. Also he explained 'The Zone Of Focus' which is similar, and different, to depth of field Possibly the best thing I learnt is that to 'Make' (not take) the best photograph I must use 100 ISO exposure, and that the lowest possible shutter speed, without a tripod, is 1/30th of a second. There was lots of other useful information, but it was more about taking excellent photographs, rather than about composition. In fact, composition wasn't mentioned until the end of the course. However Sunday was assignment day. We were divided into pairs, and had to compose a portrait of each other, but using their camera. Interestingly, out of 15 Students, all had Canon, except 2 Nikon and one Panasonic, After that, we had to hit the streets for two hours taking photographs, but a MAXIMUM of 36. But each one had to be taken at 100 ISO, and at the widest and narrowest aperture. Also there had to be a texture shot. It was a challenge for me. To keep below 36 (I took 40). But also to pick my subject carefully. There was also an option of trying Panning, of which my example had a commendation. After 90 minutes I was worn out, and had also learnt my limitations, but was far more appreciative of how difficult it is to Make a good photo. And I thought I had a pretty good eye, but some of the photographs were truly remarkable, especially the winning portrait. And the reason for being skint? On Sunday I took my tripod, and realised how cumbersome and awkward it was to carry it, along with my rucksack and camera. Then he demonstrated the one he uses. Ultra lightweight and compact. The Gitzo traveller. A true gem of a tripod. So, by shopping around, I tracked down the pan-head (not a pro's recommendation but very useful for me) and tripod from two separate dealers, was just under £600 but, with Gitzo's scrappage scheme I can claim £100 back. S that's the tax rebate gone. I only realised how important it is to get a good tripod was when I tried to take a photograph this evening, using the techniques taught, at 17.00, and the shutter speed was so slow, that the amount of camera shake was awful. Would I recommend it? Definitely. It was a bit like having a refresher driving test. And totally enjoyable. Next up is a 4 hour night-photography course around the Houses of Parliament and the Southbank. BRING IT ON! I'm ready!!!! MMF with added anorak! Click here to discuss this (4 replies, Latest reply: Feb 28, 2012) MMF Makes Manchester, Mazin'!!! (Feb 17, 2012) Touched down at 14.10 at Manchester Piccadilly. Not all plain sailing, as left the ticket part of my reservation at home, so had to part with another £50. Hopefully I can get some of that back, but probably not all of it. And mobility assist was waiting for me, taking me straight to the cab, and helping me onboard. Now in the hotel, so just charging everything up. Looks like Curry's service desk here, with the Happy Meal online, the McMuffin and McNugget charging, and the MciFlurry waiting. Then the cameras' batteries need to charge. Going to get the most out of this hotel this weekend!!! Right. Guess a quick spruce-up then into Machester for a quick bit of shopping and a wander, before returning and preparing for this evening. Later folks... MMF Click here to discuss this (33 replies, Latest reply: Feb 25, 2012) MMF's new Challenge. (Feb 8, 2012) Right! So life isn't great. So what to do about it? So I've decided that a new regime starts today!!! There. Said it. Aloud. Now to do it, with added conviction. A different, new lifestyle. I 've decided to have a weekend  once a month to somewhere I've never been. Do or try something new once a month,  and have a day/evening out once a week, be it Theatre, Cinema, Gallery, Museum or just out with the camera. I need a major perk-up and challenge to help with losing a few pounds / stone etc. Can I do it? I'll know in a month's time. So w/e after next is Manchester.  Following weekend is a crash photography course, and also a 'London at night' course one evening within the next 3 weeks. And yes, The Muppet movie is compulsory!!! Suggestions that are legal and doable are welcome especially weekend ideas. I'll keep you  how I get on... MMF Click here to discuss this (5 replies, Latest reply: Feb 8, 2012) Depression and MMF's missing part. (Feb 1, 2012) The black is out of his  again.It happens. . And normally I can hide it, or pretend it's not happening. Or work it out of my system.But this time it has hit hard and deep. This is the timeline, and my question will follow. As those who know me are only too aware, I'm not the  during the festive season, and this was worse, as I had 5 days off. Not good.New Year's Eve was enjoyable, especially as a special friend came along, and stayed overnight (separate rooms), more on that later. The first three weeks of January were good, then all the wheels, doors and everything else fell off. 1) Received notification of my visit to the  in April. Expected an overnighter, but it is Lunchtime Wednesday to Friday Morning. 2) The right ankle blows up like a balloon, so no overtime that weekend, and is still swollen and inflamed. Luckily not painful, just tight-skinned.3) The Band officially packed up last Saturday, after almost 25 years, barring two gigs in October. 4)  My Bank account was phi shed last weekend, and so it's blocked. Luckily I have a reasonable amount of  stashed away for a rainy day.5) Valentine's Day approaches.  And the latter is the straw that has done the damage. I met a group of People a year last August, pursuing decorated elephants around London. It is explained in the Gerald's the Pornographic Elephant and his 'Groupies' entry - A84729603. One of them I get on with exceedingly well with, and in the last couple of Months have enjoyed visiting places together. Then last week she announced she'd met a Guy via an internet dating site, and it was fast. And I'm exceedingly for her, and proud that she felt comfortable with sharing that with me first.Only then did it hit me that I'd developed feelings towards her which I hand't noticed, hence the going out, including buying tickets to a show next week. Now my stomach is all twisted and painful, I'm off food and feel part of me has  . I feel part of me has been ripped out, viciously, and thrown away. She is my best friend, here in London, and we get on well, and have done since we first met. However, after being a Singleton for over 20 years, I'm now in turmoil and don't know what to do. I feel like a  teenager.  Do I hide it, and allow the Friendship to continue as normal, suppressing the surfacing feelings? Or do I tell her and risk shattering the Friendship? Whatever happens, I'm standing by her, in case the relationship goes horribly wrong, which I seriously hope, for her, doesn't. That is irrespective of how it affects me, but it's turning me inside out. And I can't handle it. Then there's the black . As I'm now working Monday to Friday, my usual tricks aren't working, as my two hour journey to work let's my mind probe where it's best to avoid. this for a game of Soldiers.I don't like it and I don't want it. Where'd it come from? The feelings and the depression? Any suggestions? Help? Advice? I don't have anyone else to ask, and need to unburden somewhere. Kew Gardens is going to get some heavy attention this weekend!!!  A very MMF *I can't even get my head around my simple 'Create' entry! * Click here to discuss this (33 replies, Latest reply: Feb 8, 2012) Penultimate Chaos shopping Saturday! (Dec 17, 2011) I've recently )as far as I can !) into Hammersmith, dived into Snappy Snaps for mug shots for work, then into a store I daren't name, fore more socks, followed by the special ' ' shop to buy a gift for a  and to exchange the items they got wrong last Saturday. Back to Chiswick, and a card from Paperchase for said and lastly Waitrose for the stuff for lunch next week. Spicy Chicken Casserole. Meant to be going out for a meal this evening but Mum's asleep, so sandwiches again, I guess! Then I guess I should get the ironing competed! MMF Click here to discuss this (5 replies, Latest reply: Dec 18, 2011) Why the demise of MMF's NajoPoMo? (Nov 18, 2011) It stopped. Terminated, before it had even got going. Cut off in it's infancy. Why? Well, life has become very interesting. First, there was the situation of becoming a year older, which was a bit of a non-event, but it did happen.Then there was 'that' phone call. Had me intrigued. It is not often any of my family telephone me, so to get a call from my youngest sister, last Sunday, was very unusual and sparked my curiosity. 'I don't know why I didn't think of you when I saw it!', she said, breathlessly... What was she talking about? 'There's a position open at the RCJ, and you'd be perfect'. Did I say I was intrigued? Now my curiosity was definitely sparking.  There was a post being advertised, internally, for a Court Usher, but she needed to get more information, and the application had to be in by Monday? What the Fu...lminate of Mercury? Not exactly giving me much time... Monday, I get a call. I couldn't go for it, as she was the team leader of Court Ushers... <wah But wait!!! There is a clerk's position as well. You'll have to phone this number. Now. So I did, and spoke to a very pleasant person, who wanted to know if I could send her my C.V. by e-mail and she'd call back. That was doable. So a quick readjustment of my C.V. covering letter, and tweak of my C.V. and I pressed enter.  Bye-bye. Now a wait. A very short wait.  A funny vibration. My phone was ringing. On answering I was asked if I could call into the office the following day. Hey. I'm unemployed. Of course I can! What time? 14.30. So there I was, Tuesday, commuting. The RCJ is the Royal Courts of Justice, in Fleet Street, in the City of London. It is where all the important decisions are made regarding the legal situation in Great Britain, possibly with the exception of Parliament, so I approached the interview with trepidation, but confident. It had two choices. I was half an hour early, but was seen immediately. The next part was really . I mentioned the fact that I was going for an interview? Well. Something wasn't right.  .My supposed Interviewer was printing off documents, whilst relating the job description, then handed me a pile of paper. 'Take those away and fill them in.' I passed her my passport, P45 (I have two, one from my previous employer, and one from HMRC, where I'd stopped being self-employed) and my personal security check, which she photocopied. Then came the  'Can you start tomorrow?' What? Where's the interview? The run-down of the job? The business? The inquest into why I'd been unemployed for 8 months? No. 'Well, can you start tomorrow?' I replied I can, but I'd prefer to start Monday, thinking of my laundry, and just getting myself ready to re-enter the rat-race of the employed. And that was it!!! I had a job, and was employed again. The following Monday, I'd all the forms filled, had a security pass (temporary, as the job is for six months, but hopefully will revert to full-time) and then set to work. Now a week in, and I'm getting the hang of it. Usual clerk job. Filing, computer inputting, lots of paper stamping etc. but work. Then I had a reply from DWP (Department of Works and Pensions) regarding the review of my disability. I had been reassessed and am now on the high level of mobility allowance, and the medium allowance for carer's allowance, to be reviewed in 2014. So that was 2 bits of in close succession.And today? I opened an e-mail from The London Ambassadors, part of the octopus that is the London 2012 Olympics. I applied earlier in the year, and was accepted. The e-mail was requesting my measurements for my uniform. So a step nearer to being an Ambassador. No junkets with Heads of State, or running around with Diplomatic bags, or visiting Foreign Climes, unless Stratford counts as 'Foreign', but I'm still an 'Official' It's happening. And checking my bank balance, the disability allowance has been back-dated. So I no longer need to worry about having to go six weeks without any income. A nice little 4 figure sum.And there's the Manchester 2012 Meet. My cup runneth over. And I have lots of friends to share it with and say for all the positive thoughts and wishes.And that's why my NaJoPoMo has not been being completed.  MMF Click here to discuss this (18 replies, Latest reply: Nov 28, 2011) MMF's NaJoPoMo day 5. (Nov 6, 2011) The day did not start well. Had a very disturbed night, and if I did sleep, it was very fitful and .Finally arose at 09.00, feeling very discombobulated, and a bit grumpy. Followed the usual 'start-of-day' procedures before heading for the Post Office and the lens. Luckily, the collection was trouble-free, although, as it was only sub Post Office, I couldn't renew my driving license or passport. A chore for another day. Then a trip on the  to Richmond to get some food staples in. By the time I got home, it was 15.30. Where did the time go? Made a very pleasant roast beef and cheese Rustiqué roll, with horseradish on one half, and strong mustard on the other.However it did mean not being able to get out and try the lens, as the light has gone by 16.00. Still, it meant doing further work on my delayed entry, and eventually going out for a pint around 22.00. And the Hobgoblin tasted much better. I wonder what tomorrow has in store? MMF Click here to discuss this (2 replies, Latest reply: Nov 6, 2011) MMF's NaJoPoMo day 4. (Nov 5, 2011) Unfortunately this was a day of relative non-eventuality, if there is such a thing. On surfacing, performed the usual functions, washed down with the obligatory pint of . I am not a person before then.Then on to the next part of the routine. Fire up the machine and read the e-mails. it used to be reading the but instead of arriving at 09.00, it now arrives after 14.00.  Next was reload the washing machine. I do enjoy ironing but still am amazed how much laundry I create. I'd already done two loads of coloured being underwear and t-shirts, then shirts and trousers.This was bed covers, that were meat to be done yesterday. And then to iron the aforementioned shirts and trousers. Around 17.00 there was a knock on the door and our Maintenance Officer appeared looking like Nevill Chamberlain descending the plane, waving a piece of paper in the air, proudly. Only he was waving a Cheque board. It is a long story, but here is the precised version I managed to 'lose' our Housing Association Cheque Book. I think it ended up in the recycling bin. A replacement arrived with our Managing Agents in Borough (Those who have been to a London Pre-Meet would have been in Borough). They forwarded it to mr in a resealable envelope, which I received, minus Cheque Book. There then followed a battle royal to get the Cheque Book sent to the bank, and after 6 weeks it arrived, with our Managing Agents in Borough. They had an Officer in our area on Wednesday who offered to deliver it by hand and duly did so. Erstwhile, I had subbed the Housing association to the tune of £350, and probably gone in the red. I'll know at the end of the month, but all outstanding cheques could now be paid. Around 20.00 there was a 'thunk' at the back door, with a pile of including a ParcelForce failed delivery note. This was for my Canon Macro Lens. It had been delivered to my old address, and the tenant had kindly dropped it through my door. This now posed a problem. Would the Post Office release it, as I moved a year ago, and my passport had expired. My Passport??? Where was it? I'd had it recently, as I needed to arrange to get it replaced. Big  all over my 'Office' area. Then around 01.00, after returning from the Pub, I remembered I'd taken it to the Jobcentre, and it was still in the file.After completing the ironing at 22.00 I decided I'd earned an or three, so went to my local. I tried another pint of Wychwood Hobglobin, but decided I still didn't like it so back to the Bass, before heading home, a quick sandwich, retrieving the passport and bed, aiming to rise early on Saturday to go to the Post Office for the    Canon Lens.Oh for a good MMF *t.b.c.* Click here to discuss this (4 replies, Latest reply: Nov 7, 2011) MMF's NaJoPoMo. Day 3. (Nov 4, 2011) I find it difficult to write my Journal on the day in question, so I'm writing it the day after, if that's ?So yesterday was overcast but mild and I had planned a number of things, but my Sister was coming to help me tidy the flat. these legs. They do make certain tasks difficult. And one is getting to the back of cupboards, especially at ground level. But I'm getting ahead of myself. The first chore was taking out the recycling. How does it accumulate so quickly? Next was washing up, followed by a bite to eat. When my Sister calls, it is normally followed by a visit to the local, early, and tends to last until closing.  and can be the result.\Next was pursuing Parcelforce to track down a lens from Japan. It was held up at Customs. £50 excise to pay. Not good! , and was also going to my old address! Finally got it sorted.Sister arrived about 18.00. Luckily the afternoon's rain had stopped, so she arrived dry. Now for the hard work, or at least, hard on her part. We were tackling the cupboards under the sink. So much 'stuff'. Mainly because there were duplicates from both Mum and I moving at the same time. 10 bottles go detergent, umpteen cloths, cleaning agents etc. Unbelievable. It resulted in 2 bin bags being got rid of, and finding my food processor accessories, along with my steamer, so Winter meals are good to go, but couldn't find the stick-blender blades. Two hours later, and we're done. So we went to my local for an or 3. While there a friend who I'd not seen in ages, came in. I'd thought it had been 2 years or thereabouts, but was actually 6! He'd moved to Bradford, had a car jockey job, and a girlfriend. Came back twice a year to see an elderly friend who's now virtually bed-bound. Very pleasant. And yes, I did stay longer than expected, so expected...MMF Click here to discuss this (4 replies, Latest reply: Nov 6, 2011) MMF's NaJoPoMo. Day 2. (Nov 3, 2011) A very strange day. After waking from a very dream involving my past employers' staff, my old home town, the boat I lived on 13 years ago and Barbarians, I was totally discombobulated!So much so I had a slight but still arose, ablated and grabbed the usual inspirational pint of . Erstwhile Mum was cooking another bowl of Autumn veg soup. This is really good. She is definitely suffering from Old-Timers and has been surviving on  , Ice Cream, Yoghurt,  and breakfast cereal, so veg soup is by me.A very good neighbour then called. She's had a problem with her car cutting out, and pretending to be a Kangaroo, so I offered to loan her the funds to get it fixed. Earlier in the week, I'd phoned a number of garages, none of which would commit to an estimate, due to the age of the car. Eventually I booked it into the garage she uses for it's M.O.T. and expected a £300 + bill. So it went in today. At 16.30 G.M.T. she knocked on the door , "How much do you think?". After running down from £300, it was £45, and no parts. The Fuel Shuttle Valve (the modern equivalent of the carburettor, as near as I can ascertain) had coked up, which is what I'd assumed to be the problem, as it never gets a long run, although I'm no expert. She then met a friend, who'd offered to buy her a jacket for her birthday but hadn't, who paid for the repair work, so she was a .She had called around to offer to take us for a meal, as we'd offered to cover the cost of the repair, which was unexpected, but very good of her. We went to our local (inexpensive) café, where we always create  . Last time I proof-read and corrected their new menu. Over 20 errors.... My friend had all-day breakfast, Mum had a lamb burger and chips and I had beef stew. Very pleasant, for the price. The ladies then had ice-cream, after much prevarication. On returning home I started the third batch of ironing, with possibly two more to go, before heading house wise. Here I attempted to continue my entry, but was frustrated by my missing page, and got involved in a conversation regarding ancestor hunting, followed by War memorials, and the National Register, currently run by the IWM, but originally started by an independent group around 15 years ago, who realised there was no National listing. This was because almost all memorials were localised and paid by Public Subscription, but were falling into disrepair.http://www.ukniwm.org.uk/ Anyway, it was now 23.30, so way past closing time and time to walk the 100 yards home, only for the skies to open. Enter one very wet  but at least I've managed to complete day 2.Can I find enough to fill a whole month? Doubtful. As an aside, my right knee does not like this weather and is being a real S.O.D. From my first use of it, at 04.15 this morning to now, it is telling me it is not Oh well, today is a new day. May you all have a wonderful 3rd of November, and avoid the Germs that many of my friends appear to be succumbing to. <MMF Click here to discuss this (No replies) MMF's NaJoPoMo (Nov 1, 2011) And so November arrives. Not cold, misty and Autumnal, but sunny, relatively warm and comfortable. The leaves in Kew are a mix of greens, oranges, browns and reds but not as Autumnal as I'd expect. Some trees, like the London Planes (Platanus x acerifolia) are dropping their leaves while still green. They actually weld onto the roads and pavements which, in large numbers, can prove slippery and dangerous. However, chores called today, so the recycling has been put in the respective bins, ready for collection tomorrow, and the washing cycle is complete, so ironing summons. And the rest of the Month's plans? Thursday, little Sis calls to help me sort the flat. Saturday 12th I'm hoping to partake in 'Britain in a Day' http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p00kqz5p Friday 25th I'm taking a friend to the Natural History Museum, London, Lates for the Veolia 'Wildlife Photographer of the Year' exhibition: http://www.nhm.ac.uk/visit-us/whats-on/temporary-exhibitions/wpy/ Still awaiting my Canon Macro Lens. Coming from Japan. Was £750, mine for £250 + p & p. Oh. And I'm a year nearer 10 toes up at some point this month. Have a great start to November. Back tomorrow. MMF Click here to discuss this (13 replies, Latest reply: Nov 1, 2011) And so You're back, from outer space... (Oct 16, 2011) Or at least it feels like it. So now I can release the   from my stomach, and let normal service be resumed.So wass bin 'appenin' since you left me? Well, strangely enough, I visited Kew Gardens, for a change, with a friend. Her first visit in 25 years, so gave her a tour, but took few photos. On the subject of photos, I've been transferring all my photos, 32Gb at a time, off my 27" Mac onto my 17" laptop. I made the stooped, stooped error of downloading OS Lion onto both my Mac and my MacBook. Not a good idea. Then, even more Stoopidly, I hard-restored my MacBook, losing all of August's photos, including my Gorilla photos from Bristol. And the problem with the transfer is that the dates get jumbled, and some photos just won't transfer, as the metadata can't be found. Not a . I have also retrieved some data off the old, old 15" iMac, as one of the problems with Lion is it will not open old AppleWorks documents. Some data is lost forever, but some W.I.P. entries have been retrieved, including the Mega Raleigh Cycle Company. This may have to be split into three, to cover the history of the company, the bikes, and the engined vehicles. Also, the Band will be folding in January, so if anyone knows of a band that wants a Fiddler, let me know. Please. Lastly, the flat is still an ongoing piece of work in terms of tidying up. Mum's 'Old-timers' is getting worse, and I just cannot motivate her. From an active 77 year old, she's turned into a 77 year old couch potato, just watching the same television programmes repeatedly, but doesn't realise she's seen them previously. Even on the same day, on occasion. I'm just pleased I am a fairly person.And now I have Photoshop CS, Photoshop Elements 9 and Lightroom 3, as well as having recently purchased a wide-angle and, soon to be delivered, macro lens, I'm looking forward to the next level of photography, as far as my poor degenerating body will allow. Any photo 'tips for crips' would be appreciated. Speak again soon. MMF Click here to discuss this (7 replies, Latest reply: Oct 26, 2011) A Lay in the Dife of... (Sep 16, 2011) And so the farce of resolving downloading Mac's new OS X Lion. It has screwed my desktop and laptop, but the laptop is now totally reset, with Lightroom, Photoshop CS and Photoshop Elements 9 reinstalled. However, after copying 4,500 photos onto a 32Gb flash drive, only 485 transferred. .So, after getting to bed at 3am, I had to be up at 9am to go to the  for an enhanced eye-test. Last time I went to my normal , there was concern that I'd raised pressure in the eyes, a possible sign of glaucoma.So, with , I . Now, I don't like things in my eyes, so after the usual 'read the lowest set of letters on the board on the wall' scenario, it was onto The Machine. First, I needed 'the drops' to anaesthetise the eyes. Then I had to wear contacts.  'An enema? MMF?' "That'll do nicely." 'Eye drops? MMF?' "Not likely!"Anyway, it was on to the head and jaw brace and bright lights in the eyes. Next up was more eye drops to dilate the pupils, followed by a 15 minute rest. Then another head and jaw brace, and a button to press when I saw any intermittent white dot. The penultimate test was to have the eyeballs checked by microscope before, finally, having retinal photos taken. The outcome? Perfectly healthy eyes, and the best he'd seen in a long time, for a 51 year old. At least one part of me is healthy. So those organs can be recycled! However, when I went outside, I felt really Because the pupils were still dilated, I felt kinda seasick... At least, that was the feeling. On getting home, I tried working on the Mac, but felt too queasy, so went to At 15.00, I had to leave to go to the Job Centre to sign on. Again. What a load of bureaucracy and time-wasting. The worst part is I must search, and apply, for jobs, despite having two applications in place for a disability assessment, as well as having to look after Mum, who is slipping further into dementia, so I'm having to keep more of an eye on her. That's and I don't have a problem with that.But... When I put down the preferred number of hours to work as 20, I was told It Has To Be 40 hours, unless I'm a registered carer, which would mean I couldn't work, if I wanted to. But here's the problem. I can't get Mum diagnosed, and register as a Carer until I have power of attorney. Also, I cannot accept a job, until I've been assessed to find out what jobs I am able to do, and so apply for. I came away exhausted. But it is too early to go to bed. What a dilemma. But here's to the eyes!!! Something to celebrate. MMF Click here to discuss this (8 replies, Latest reply: Sep 19, 2011) Gold, bright and shiny!!! (Jul 11, 2011) It is sitting there, glowing, with a smug look to it. It had a long gestation, but it was finally earned. Finally acquired a '25 Editied Guide Entries' Badge.  Maybe now is the time to dust off those other half-finished entries that are kicking about gathering tumbleweed? So: 32 self entries, with one pending.9  entries.And: 33 entries with my photographs attached. Not bad, but could do better. Time to get motivated, I guess. No more procrustynation. PoCussedIndignation. ProCustardInsinuation. No more putting-it-off stuff! MMF Click here to discuss this (21 replies, Latest reply: Jul 13, 2011) And so it's come to this... (Jan 28, 2011) 2010. The year that was It really started in 2009 when I 50. Well. I didn't really turn 50. What a daft expression. I mean it's not like turning a corner, is it? At least there is a choice in turning a corner. To turn or not turn. A birthday just is. Like the rising in the morning just is. Or weather just is. So becoming 50 just was. But it was a good excuse for a , although many friends and family couldn't make the party. Next was my legs. No. They didn't turn, and I can't blame it on their namesake, 2legs. They decided they didn't want to work. Well, they didn't actually decide. After all they aren't sentient limbs, independent of me, as such. They can't think on their own, or I'd never get in a pub. Be too busy rambling. (Actually I appear to be doing that now!!! ) But they weren't doing what I wanted them to do, how I wanted it done or when I wanted it done. . And when they did do what I wanted, they did it begrudgingly and not always as well as I'd like it. After 4 years the sort of reached a . A very . A disease that teenagers get. Shows I was  , obviously, as I get it when I'm . So "It may, or may not be, as the aren't sure but, perchance, there is a possibility, pending further tests, and don't take this as gospel, that I (the believe it is, although I must stress, despite being a specialist, and asking the expertise of other specialists, we aren't 100% certain, but have come to the conclusion, but with further tests still to be conducted, if you agree, that you have, and I must stress this is not, by any means categoric, that you have, or it is perceived you have, although you have it late in life and is something contracted when a teenager but... Now where was I? Oh yes. The diagnosis... (picks up notes) It is thought... (re-read above. ) that you have Duchenne muscular dystrophy.I started having tests nearly 5 years ago! Oh well .So life progresses. Well, it would, wouldn't it. Or I'd be . On to the next big event. My occupation is to be redundant in February, 2011. G-r-e-a-t... So lots of meetings. lots of hot air. And it goes on. And on. And on.Then a breakthrough. The Olympics get announced! Wrong breakthrough. A flat for the disabled became available 100 yards up the road. Mum and I where invited to put in an offer, and secured it, but it virtually needed gutting, from carpet to walls to ceiling. So, after 6 weeks and £16,000 later for a  , a new kitchen and bathroom (all installed whilst living there, with the move being heroically performed by 10  friends) the place is finished. Now to move Mum in! Was that a scenario. Eventually, after much , she was in. Just boxes. Loads of boxes. Everywhere.Now all is with the , sort of.Then I decided. Well, I didn't decide. The driver of the I was on, attempted to avoid a car, projecting me , via a wall and a post, to a position on the floor. After ,  and a check I continued to work, to find I had a badly sprained wrist.So the year was drawing to a close. What else could happen? Just a slip on , before they'd even fallen! Another , with at least one broken bone in my foot and a damaged tendon behind my knee!  That must be it, surely? But no. A trip on a dodgy floorboard is accident number three and so 2010 ends! Happy New Year!!!  Then . The announcement. h2g2 is to be !!!Auntie Beeb has decided to commit genocide and expunge a Community. Almost eight years of entries, threads, photos, Meets, but most of all, Friends ,  . Gone. Erased. Finished. Terminated!But soft! What is on the edge of this dark goodnight? A ! Can it be? The of h2g2 past enter, , stage left. And so begins a cunning plan! And threads. Lots of threads. More threads than you can shake a knotted thread at. Some , but some really , some  and some really  , but it gives me  that h2g2 will survive. .And today? Well. I have 12 more days of employment. I'm not in a good place at present. But I had a lovely evening last night with an ex-employee who was my Saturday manager, and two work colleagues.And today I had a that, after 23 years, I qualify for full retirement benefits, so I am, to all intents and purposes, an unpaid member of staff, with full benefits, including discount, use of Company premises etc. .So every cloud has a . My redundancy clears all I owe, and still leaves me a to rest on for a while.So I'll dust off those entries that have been , polish my camera, head off to Copenhagen to photograph elephants, and hopefully visit a couple of Meets, maybe Germany and Hull. Then who knows!!!Life is good. No matter what happens life IS good. Not every minute. Or hour, day or week. But no matter what  ,  or comes my way, there IS a rainbow. Somewhere. And a . Even if the black isn't far behind.Happy New Year, everyone. And remember the words of Bobby Ferrin - 'Don't Worry. Be Happy' and maintain the facade of a P.M.A. MMF Click here to discuss this (8 replies, Latest reply: Jan 31, 2011) MMF is really, REALLY pi$$£d @££... (Jan 25, 2011) So the Vogon destructor fleet loom on the horizon? This is after the new H2G2 in special barlesque style that has so many in it it could be dubbed the 'Aardvark' Hilton.And it has drawn the eye of BBC Director Mark Thompson who, being in charge, has decided to ethically cleanse h2g2 from his family as an unwanted cuckoo in the nest. A Bastard that was dumped in the BBC fold but is no longer required. Despite the patience and that the followers have put into the site, enabling other parts of the then fledgling BBC interweb to grow.Now we are , the in the  !Well! So long and thanks for the   I will not without a fight.MMF is now really pi$$£d @££!!! You are terminating my connection to beloved friends and committing ethnic cleansing on a special group of people you adopted. And I say 'NO'! MMF Click here to discuss this (14 replies, Latest reply: Jan 29, 2011) MMF's going to get plastered. (Dec 7, 2010) Yep. And not even into the festering season yet! Only it doesn't involve food and drink. Last Tuesday, the 30th November, much of the UK experienced and I was concerned about getting home, but from Chelsea to Chiswick there was snow falling, but not settling. When I arrived home and went online, many were struggling home, but I foolishly gloated. So I told folks about the ease with which I arrived home, excluding the hour waiting for a in near-arctic conditions, (due to some stoopid  students holding a demonstration in Parliament Square) and then another 90 minutes getting home. But No,,, Snow,,,!!!A while later I went for an or three. When I left to go home it was a little icy, but nothing major and then, around 100m from home, my walking cane went East, my legs West, and my body due South!!! Rapidly. And it HURT! Or rather my knees did. I thought they were dislocated and lay on my back, moaning. A young lad walked around me at a distance of 10m shouting 'You Man?, then pegged it. A few minutes later a young guy ran across the road, and called a . He then hung around until, 5 minutes later, the arrived.After a quick once-over by the green-suited and the mouthed word 'dislocation' they carried me into the . A slow check-over and an offer of a visit to the Big House I asked to be walked to my flat, where Mum wondered what had been happening.The next day and the ankles are swollen and my left knee won't work, so no work for the next three days. Today, as the pain hadn't reduced, and may have got worse, I went to the Big House where, after a few X-rays, it appears I have an avulsion, or compression fracture in my .So here I am, a French Connectioned left wing and right drumstick, with the left drumstick only partially usable, and awaiting a cast-fitting Thursday. Any predictions as to what will happen next? Nominations, with odds, below, please! MMF Click here to discuss this (20 replies, Latest reply: Dec 9, 2010) In and now to settle. (Nov 20, 2010) for being away so long. I am still without interweb use at home, so purloining my local's, with a well-deserved or (well, Ibelieve so!)I am now firmly ensconced in my new , as shown by having done my first 'serious' bit of laundry and ironing, and having a bath. The latter was a real due to my making it very  (see previous Journals).Suffice to say, the traumas of moving Mum have not been quite so straight forward as, with the broken wing, I couldn't do much. Hopefully tomorrow will see completion, and her ceasing to be so stressed and more . Once she is, then the great unpack and sort-out can take place. There will be many duplicates, and so redistribution will be key, as well as looking at the and bills.Ultimately, at present, I do not foresee problems, but time will tell. The main thing is to ensure she is fed, warm and taking her medication. The rest will be easy! .Here's to the next 20+ years!!! Just need to get the two computers set up, one in the lounge, the other in the bedroom, and get those entries completed, while I still remember how!  MMF Click here to discuss this (8 replies, Latest reply: Nov 26, 2010) Twisted but not bitter! (Nov 16, 2010) After a further trek to <bluelight) A & E, or at least the fracture clinic, I am no further forward with my .The consultant had requested an urgent M.R.I. last Monday and, as I hadn't heard anything, I telephoned them for an update. "Mr MMF, I'll just check, as I've received a number of bookings today. Ah! Here we are. You are  in For Monday 13th December!""Er! That is not so good, as I am meant to be having a cast on Monday, depending on the M.R.I. results!" "Oh I'll just make a phone call. They can fit you in on Friday at 11.00 if that is Mr MMF!""Yes please" So duly turned up and I was there for longer than when they did my legs! .Come Monday, and 10.50 found me in the Fracture Clinic, then directed to the Plaster Room, then on to A & E. By this time it is 12.00 and still not seen! . Eventually saw a consultant and he said "Not me! It is definitely the Fracture Clinic for you."So back I went, only to find the appointment had been made incorrectly, and it had to be corrected so I could see the correct person. It appears I don't have a fracture, but it is uncertain what exactly I have done. All i know is it hurts like the very . It is good to be back at work to let it have a . The next question is: Do I Sue or don't I? And if so, do i sue the company or the taxi firm?Decisions. Decisions. Decisions. The best result is Mum is getting closer to moving in, thankfully. That is one stress removed. For both of us.Roll on January and a chance to put my feet up!!! MMF Click here to discuss this (4 replies, Latest reply: Nov 17, 2010) | ||