h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Hello Claudia,

I hope you are well, and not suffering unduly.

Today was hot, muggy and humid, resulting in a and a real feeling of Hopefully tomorrow will be better. I have to be up early for work (07:00) but finish at 16:00 and then off to the gig that also finishes early, so not too late a night. Just as well, as I'm working Sunday.

Thanks for understanding the offer of accommodation... We were just trying to help, but you do make sense, as always!

Work doesn't get any busier, so I am making more notepads from scrap paper Exciting...

I'm off to rest my eyes now, and look forward to tomorrow... Speak later.

Stay well and comfortable...

s and es from me, and from Mum.

Neal x x

Hello Neal,

the temperatures are lovely, so I wouldn't know what I should be suffering from. Don't forget that I can cycle to work, I don't have to face sticky tubes and es.
Hope you had a good night - do you sleep any better now?

I'll have to go doing the shopping shortly, before the run starts and the shops get crowded.

Other than that, there's just some sub-editing to do, and I'll have to try to get the tax stuff done.

Have a good weekend.

Give my to your mum, as always.

s & es

Claudiaxxx

Hello Claudia,

I have read your journal, and felt very for you, for both the bike and the barbecue. It seems the bike is the easiest to repair, as for the other? Some people will always see bad in something no matter how wonderful and good. As anyone who has met you here, in both VL and RL, will agree! And maybe Milla and GB are right? Who am I to say, but I'll always lend either a shoulder or a helping hand if needed. It is the least I can do for all the support and friendship you have shown me!

And that has got to be my longest paragraph ever with so few in.

Last night's gig went -ish except, as it was a Folk Club night it was and it was all new most of which was but I got home early. Today, with the heat and yesterday's early start, I'm feeling and achy, so I've just had a bath, and shall now go and have a

I'll possibly pop back later.

Look after yourself, and remember we all you!!!

and

Neal x x

Hello Neal,

I think it could have been worse, but I'm lucky, I have my sons, so it's not too bad.

I should have known better, really, than to agree to come to the BBQ in the first place. Never mind, it will not happen again.

Glad to hear your gig went OK, even if it wasn't too good.

It wasn't as hot as I had thought, there was a fresh wind going, and it was past seven when I left, so the heat had gone.

I had had a beer, though, so I was very tired when I got home and just went to lie on the sofa.

My journal's getting a bit busy - and funny, which is great.

I'm so glad for my friends here, you all always manage to cheer me up in no time at all.

Have a good night

s & es

Claudiaxxx

Hello Claudia,

I hope you have recovered from your weekend. And I'm pleased some of your fellow HooToo friends managed to lift your spirits! When you mentioned about your son and yourself on the bicycle I couldn't help but think of the clip in 'The Quiet Man' film. It was of John Wayne cycling off with Maureen O'Hara on the back, tearing through the countryside, her skirt billowing in the wind, holding her bonnet on her head. If you haven't seen it, it is worth a quick look... It brings out the in me!!!

I'm pleased you survived yesterday, though. I've never really taken to barbecues or buffets. I'd rather sit down at a table with a small group of selected people, and just let time flow. So much more civilised. Plus I get to eat something, whereas I just pick otherwise, and come away starving, and

Hopefully today was better. My day was pretty It started well, then deteriorated rapidly. I was booked to cover the department e-mails, as well as 90 minutes of training on a new television broadcast package that came out a week ago. Anyway cutting a very long, story to a short story, I had to reduce the training, then cover the phones due to insufficient staffing, leaving 20 e-mails unopened!

Now my immediate Boss wants them all completed before end-of-trade, but she wasn't in and as for calls, she doesn't want us to contact the shop floor with queries, whereas he just wants to get the waiting calls down...

Can they not communicate, and get their acts together? Management.

Just as well I attempt to keep under pressure!

Anyway, I am clogging this thread again. I am just looking forward to a day out with Mum, and forgetting everything for a while! I'm hoping to get some washing done during the week as well, so have next weekend free as well.

I've also to sort out the photos for you and GB!

That'll keep me busy!


s and es

Neal x x
Take care and as I tell them at work: 'Be Wonderful Today! '

I don't know if you can open this link, but it may explain!!!

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=Z_X9hdjzY3w&NR=1



MMF

I hasten to add only the very first part!

I hadn't realised how long it ran!



MMF

Hello Neal

I'm sorry you're so upset by something/somebody. Needless to say that I haven't a clue what this is all about, though. I wasn't aware that anybody had seen the photos? Because if not (what I think), there's absolutely no need to react to such a wind-up, is there?

I posted the links to suggest where somebody might have got the wrong end of the stick, and to lighten it all up a bit.

I'm always having trouble with YouTube links, so I only watched the first few minutes. I had a slightly different idea after your description, but then I guess that's a memory thing, isn't it?

I must get ready for work in a minute, so I wish you a good day.

Hello Claudia,

Sorry I missed you...

I will get over it. Just very shaken. Maybe I am just too sensitive? Or take things too much to heart? Anyway, I have got it off my chest.

Thanks for those links, and for injecting a bit of sense into my Journal. When the Black Dog comes snapping, he can take over!

I'll my Journal thread tonight, and it can all disappear and be forgotten.

I hope you have a good day. It is overcast here, and trying to rain because Mum and I were going to visit a Physic garden. Have to have a rethink now... I must get out! Somewhere. My head is fit to explode.

I may pop back later, when I am thinking clearer, and I've stopped shaking...

Look after yourself,

Big 'Thanks for being a friend' s and es

Neal x x

Hello Neal,

I'm with Webbie on this one, and I think you're taking things too seriously at times. Still, it's hard to tell for all who don't know the exact context, but I can only imagine it was spoken/written in jest, maybe referring to the postings you made yourself.
If it wasn't a friend who said it, it's of no relevance anyway.
I don't think you'll be successful in yikesing it, as it doesn't break the house rules, but you could remove it from your PS - it'll soon go quiet if there are no replies anymore.

I'm sorry to hear the weather has changed for the worse.

It's scorching hot here, but clouds are building up. Forecast is fro thunderstorms for tomorrow, though.

I'm sure you'll find something different to go and see.

Have a good day, and try not to get everything under your skin too much.

&

Claudiaxxx

Hello Claudia,

I hope you have had a good weekend, and my heartfelt for the upset the other day. I'm glad you were able to work through it, and it happened. It's because of things like that that I'm being very cautious online. I am amazed, though, how quickly the last few days have flown by.

I was annoyed about the timing of the HooToo shutdown, as I had yesterday planned with entry work and starting the TG results pages. I'd just completed January when it crashed...(although I am pleased that I'd backed it up this time! ) so I went off to Kew instead. A bit wet, but productive. It was fairly quiet as well, because of the It is an interesting fact that it is the second quietest day, after day, for the police as it is believed all the watch the match, or believe everyone else is, so crime rates drop.

Today I went to a Fire Engine rally held just around the corner, as well as watching the first public steam-up of a newly restored steam engine. I know, and not everyone's but it helps keep the local museum open.

I'm off to finish yesterday's ironing, and then do some more work on the TG results now.

Have a good evening, and I hope to chat again soon.

s and es, with from Mum.

Neal x x

Hello Neal,

I was baffled by your first sentence, it acrually took me a full minute of staring at it and shaking my head in wonder before I remembered what you were referring to. I think I had said that I had moved on, and I had indeed completely forgotten about it by then.

It wasn't only hootoo that was down, but most of the DNA boards.
According to Jim Lynn, there was a major power outage at one of the stations where the servers are kept.

It is better now, but still slow to load at times - or maybe it's my PC? I never know.

I'd never have guessed that Christmas day is the quietest day for the police, what with all the suicides and family dramas happening on that day...

I must get prepared for my dentist appointment now. It is later this morning, but I'll have to walk as our car needs repairing.

I just hope it won't cost so much.

& for you and your mum

Claudiaxxx

Hello Claudia,

I hope your trip to the dentist went well, and didn't involve any or wielding a drill or suchlike.

I must admit I haven't been to a dentist for years, mainly because in London, I'm more likely to win the lottery than find one that isn't totally Private They're purely after , not that I blame them... my best mate, that I hadn't seen for ages until recently, is one. He went in for the as an NHS dentist, and is still waiting for the gold at the bottom of the after 30 years!

Thanks for the information about the DNA boards... I thought it was just me, and actually sent the Towers an e-mail accordingly. They must have thought I was

I spent some of yesterday in Kew Gardens, as they have a new walk set up. As this year is the 'Year of the Tree', a reasonable amount of the gardens have been converted to meadow, and they have created a tree bark trail. 25 selected trees with interesting bark have been highlighted on a two hour walk. I did half of it, and it does make walking the gardens more interesting. They've also highlighted the Lions of Kew. I can't remember if I've mentioned them before. They are 12 trees, now known as Heritage Trees, that were planted in the original kew Gardens in 1763 (I think). Previously it was hit and miss if they could be found, but they now have very distinctive information boards by the side of them. Another challenge for me, to find and photograph them, so I can build up a seasonal portfolio.

I also saw Orcus is thinking of going to Kew this weekend, and I've got a couple of complimentary tickets that run out this weekend, and I was thinking of offering them. The only downside is that they'd have to enter with me, and I can probably only make Sunday... I'll have to check where they are.

Mum is definitely unwell. It is thought that my Sister's impending split from her husband is the cause. Not that she is worried about my Sister, but she has grave concerns for her grandchildren. And I can't talk to my Sister about it, as she'll go and and become a real What a quandary!!! And I don't want to put any extra pressure on Mum, as she gets nagged enough from the other two. Oh! How I sometimes wish for the life! And I'm single!!!

On a much lighter note I've taken the plunge and bought my train tickets for Hull. Although with some trepidation. I'm sure I'll have a really good time when I get there.

I hope everything is well with you, and I shall shortly be posting a couple of options on the TG admin thread (if I can find it) for consideration as to how to results...

Take care of yourself, and we're both thinking of you, with Mum sending her

s and es

Neal x x

Hello Neal,

I had to go back to the dentist today, and it involved a lot of drilling, but it's over now - took about 30 minutes in total.

I'm glad you spent another nice day at Kew and that they've made it more accessible now.

Sorry to hear about your mum, I really hope she'll be better soon.

I've seejn your post on the T/G Admin thread, but I'm not really that bothered with the lists. I guess it's best if you decide what's do-able for you.

Well done with the Hull meet. I'm sure you'll have a great time. Looks as if there'll be quite a few 'new' people this time, which is great.

I guess I'd better go and do some laundry, as well as trying to fill in the tax forms.

Have a good evening

Lots of & & for your mum and you

Claudia xxx

Hello Claudia,

I hope you are well, and had a good day today.

And to hear you had to go back to the dentist again! I hope all went well, with no further treatment.

Still no sign of my glasses... I wish they'd hurry up. It really is annoying when I am trying to read, and have to hold the at arms length... I hadn't realised how bad they'd become!

Work is still quiet, although it is heading towards the school uniform period. That is when it gets really messy! Failed orders, goods getting lost. Wrong sizes. People away fro the Summer and then wanting a full uniform the day before the children go back... What a Luckily certain provisions are being put in place, so that should help.

I haven't spoken to Mum today, as she was complaining I was phoning every day! Not quite true. Two or three times a week, but then I am her son!!! Shouldn't I phone? Oh well... Never mind.

Anyway, I'd better get on and do a few things.

Take care and best wishes from us both.

s and es

Neal x x

Hello Neal,

although I still haven't worked out what exactly is defined as 'popular', I hope that posting here once every day or two won't warrant our conversation being featured on the FP.

It seems that the weather is back to warm. I was surprised not to freeze when walking to work this morning, as happened last week.

Have you got your new glasses now?

Ever since I've been to the dentist, the tooth has hurt - it didn't hurt before.

I hope the rush for school uniforms won't be too mad.

Yesterday was my dad's 80th birthday. I had intended to go there, but he decided he'd not be at home for the occasion, which saved me the stress of travelling for hours.

You go on phoning your mum, after all, there is a reason for it.

I hope she is better again.

& s for both of you

Claudiaxxx

Hello Claudia,

I hope you are well and that the tooth has calmed down a little, and is causing no further distress...

I am still waiting for the glasses which in this humid weather isn't helping the I'm sure they'll arrive soon.

And thank you for posting here ... Since the Bank Holiday I have stepped back from everything, almost, except the TG and 'what are you wearing' threads, as they are so slow they couldn't possibly cause upset...

However, the whole weekend thing did , but it gives me a chance of ploughing through the rest of the TG votes, and getting the results up to date. And to Icy and yourself for the support It is appreciated. I quite enjoy working through the votes though, as I like to predict the winner for each word before doing the calculations... a little side game of mine.

I'll certainly phone Mum, but maybe slightly less and then gradually increase the calls. After all, at least she gets a call that doesn't distress her . My Dad has had a relapse from the virus he caught in Thailand and is not well at all. I was chatting to him at the weekend and, it appears that when her majesty phones he lets the answerphone take it, or pretends he's out... This family is falling apart. < rofl> And at the moment in time when everyone should be with Mum's problems, Dad unwell and her majesty going through her scenario. My mental is nothing in comparison...

What can I do, but sit here with some paper and glue, and just try and mend the cracks.

Any good news your side of the river? I had a very good gig last night, and it appears they want us back. It was only 2.5 hours long, with around an hour taken up with food, and a full too. And a load of free cheese to bring home too, as they'd over-estimated. Other than that, everything else stays pretty much the same...

Oh! I nearly forgot... Teuchter sent me an e-mail. Her hubby is on his feet, albeit on crutches... and she remembered I collect Monopolys, and is going to bring back a limited edition Beijing Olympics Monopoly. How and ,magic> is that? And how kind?

Thank goodness for wonderful people like her and yourself to offset the that are about...

Anyway, I am off for a bath now, as I am hot and from the weather here, before I get all again.

have a good evening, and thanks once again for popping by. You are one friend I would really, really hate to lose.

Very special s and es to a very Special Friend.

And from Mum and I.

Neal x x

Hello Neal,

hope the weather has improved. It's not yet that hot here although we didn't get any of the forecast thunderstorms and rain.

My tooth is getting better, I guess it wass just a little upset after the treatment.

Hope you'll get your glasses soon, I know just how it is not being able to see properly.

I'm sorry to hear you got bad news about your dad now, too.
Things do tend to come in threes, don't they?

It's good to hear you had a good gig, though, and that Teuchter will bring you a special Monopoly set. I am subscribed to her journals, so I get the updates she posts.

It's a Post weekend again, which means there are deadlines to meet, so I guess I'd better get on with my editing.

Will post a new telgram word first, though.

Have a good weekend

s & es for you and your mum

Claudiaxxx

Hello Claudia,

I hope you are well

I am shocked and, as I've stated above, in a state of I just hope that you are ok, and in contact directly with Fizzy. I was not around when whatever happened happened. I am very that she has left, and I hope that you are alright...

I am frustrated by what is happening here. To think we nearly lost Gnomon, and have now lost Fizzy, hopefully only temporarily, because of someone online.

It is when there has been such a to rebuild the land of HooToo. Some, like myself, could depart and few would blink an eye but to lose a stalwart, and an integral and enthusiastic HooTooer like Fizzy, that creates massive cracks.

If you are in contact with her, please send her my and , and that she can always contact me by e-mail at any time...

Moving on to lighter things...

How has your weekend been?
Is it weekend?

I was attempting to write a very poem for it, with words all starting with the same letter... this weekend's attempt was all A's... but the above news destroyed the Muse...

Mine started as I felt really tired and deflated on Saturday, with a so I didn't surface until 15:00. Then a mad rush to get ready for the Gig. This started well, as the journey went with not one hitch... No major traffic, all the lights on green, reached the destination in the fastest time ever. Once set up, we started 15 minutes early, and everyone was straight onto the Dance floor! Unheard of... And free as well? Then a break at 21:00, and loads of food, two bottles of and more . There was actually too much food, so I bought home a doggybag for tea tonight. The evening continued in the same fashion, with loads of enthusiasm, a real treat!!! And a little extra in the front. Unfortunately I missed the last tube but maybe, just as well...

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/london/7429638.stm

However, after catching a to Trafalgar Square, I could hear a heavy beat coming from the National Gallery side of the Square, so went to investigate... And imagine my surprise when I came across a troupe of 20 assorted drummers, at 01:00 in the morning. I just stood there mesmerised for 90 minutes, attempting to record some on my phone, but it was too dark. It was this group:

http://www.batalaliverpool.com/

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=YICdvbUGVLs

Really enthusiastic. They'd been out since 21:00, playing around London.

It did mean a late night but was a fabntastic end to a gradually improving day.

After yesterday, I didn't do much today, apart from some washing, and off to do the ironing shortly.

Other good news is that I now have my new glasses. I can see again...

Also Mum is on new medication and has not had a wobble all week... What a relief...

I shall depart now, and wish you heartfelt and and hope that the Sisters become reunited very soon...

from Mum, and from me

MMF

Hello Neal,

I'm OK, thanks. I am in email contact with Fizzy, but she's very busy with caring for her daughter, work and other family commitments.

As I said to Bob, it's all out there if anybody wants to find out what happened. It can't be summarised in a sentence or two.

Fortunately, I've been very busy with the Post - not only does it take my mind off unpleasant things, but it is something I enjoy very much.

Time just flew by, it's amazing. <I wasn't even tired yesterday, although I had only got 4.5 hours sleep the night before.

You can see the results on Thursday.

I am tired now, though, I guess it's because I'm no longer 'unter Strom' (running on adrenaline).

I had a look at the link you posted. That must have been a hell of a tube party.

I'm having problems with YouTube links, my internet connection is very dodgy and slow, so I don't bother any more clicking on such links. Add to that that my sound is interrupted and makes a weird noise every time I'm disconnected from the internet (every fe seconds), and you can imagine that I don't even listen to music on my PC any more.

Oh well, I can still access hootoo, even if it takes ages to load a page.

That's good news about your glasses - took them long enough, though.

Glad to hear that your mum is better, too. I hope the new medication will do the trick!

Have a good evening

& s to you and your mum

Claudiaxxx