Monday 5th December, 2011. ~ Visit
My day started early with me working at St. Albans City Hospital until 13:00, then it was onto Watford General Hospital for the remainder of the day. I left work at 16:00 and headed home, as we were expecting some family over. Alysha was still at school, when I got in, and Emma was cuddling Erin. Not long after I got in, Erin went to sleep, at which point my Nannie and Auntie Francesca arrived. No Uncle Barry this time, as he was unable to make the trip. (He will be over from the USA in May.) Then Alysha arrived home, and I had to wake Erin, so that Nannie could hold her. The mandatory photographs were taken, before Auntie Francesca had her chance to hold her. Once the photographs and cuddles were taken, it was decided that we should go out for dinner. Francesca took Nannie and Alysha to the 'Harvester', while Emma and I fed and changed Erin. Then Francesca came and collected the three of us and we headed to the'Harvester'. Erin was awake through most of the meal, and only made a fuss when it was time for dessert. After our meal, Francesca took Nannie, Emma, Alysha and Erin home, while I walked, thus saving two trips. It was as I was reaching home that I received a text from my Cousin Mark, to say that he had proposed to his girlfriend, and that they would be married in June. Once home, Nannie and Francesca made their goodbyes and headed off to their hotel, leaving us to relax and get Erin ready for bed.
Tuesday 6th December, 2011. ~ Awards & Party
Another early start saw me heading to St. Albans for the morning, before heading back to Watford General Hospital, for the afternoon. At 15:45, Emma brought me a change a clothes, as we were going to the 'Golden Service Awards', where Emma had been nominated for the 'Unsung Hero of the Year' award. The ceremony was held in the 'Elton John' Suite at Watford Football Club, and the awards were presented by Adam Astill (Dan Hamilton in 'Holby City' on BBC1). After a few other awards were presented, it was Emma's turn. There were four people in the final nominations, and the winner was... David Self from Finance. Finance?! How did that happen?! Oh, well. Emma still got a certificate and a box of chocolates, so she was happy. After the ceremony finished, Emma made her way home to see how Stacey had coped baby-sitting Erin, while I went into Watford to meet Steve B for his birthday drinks. (Although his birthday isn't until 7th for which he was going to the theatre.) A great night out with Steve B and his friends, before heading home. A quick cuddle from Erin, before it was time for bed.
Wednesday 7th December, 2011. ~ Calm before the Storm
Another morning at St. Albans and Watford in the afternoon. I had taken Steve B's presents in with me, so that he could open them at work. He seemed really pleased with the 'Three Stooges' DVD and a book on the 'History of Jazz', complete with CD. After work, it was straight home for a nice relaxing evening in.
Thursday 8th December, 2011. ~ Storm
As I arrived at St. Albans City Hospital, I received a call from Derek, my supervisor. It turns out that there was a slight problem at Watford General, and that it was imperative that I got back there as soon as I had finished at St. Albans, to help out. In just under two hours my work was done, and I was heading back to Watford. On entering the R&D stores, I was met by box-upon-box and bag-upon-bag of stock, strewn across the floor. (A quick insight into my job. I am a Materials Management Officer for the West Hertfordshire NHS Hospitals Trust. Myself and the other members of the team, go around the Hospital and order in all the stock, required by the wards and departments. When we have ordered the stock and processed the orders, it is 'picked' by 'muppets' at the Rugby Distribution Centre and despatched to us two days later, by NHS Supply Chain (which is in fact DHL) with each ward or departments stock on a separate pallet. We then return to the ward or department and put the stock away. Because our stock is delivered in the early hours of the morning, none of our staff are on sight to supervise the unloading of the lorry, and there has never been a problem before.) Not today. The driver, it turns out was an 'Agency'driver, instead of our usual NHS Supply Chain driver or DHL employee, if you prefer. This 'Agency' driver (who I am sure must work for 'Yodel' as they seem to screw us over at every chance) had a simple brief. "Deliver the stock to the R&D point at Watford General Hospital, and bring back the empty pallets." Well, 'Agency' man delivered the stock. Then decided to not only take the empty pallets from the previous day, but to take the ones he had just delivered. All 14 of them!!! The stock which had been 'picked' and 'packed' had now been strewn all over the stores. It took us until nearly 2 O'clock, to go through the packing sheets and get the stock to its correct location. When we had finally done this, we still had some wards to count, so it turned out to be a long afternoon. Not surprisingly, Steve B came back to mine, after work, for some much well deserved beer.
Friday 9th December, 2011. ~ End of the Week
St. Albans City Hospital in the morning.
Watford General Hospital in the afternoon.
Home
Cuddle
Relax
Beer
Bed.
Friday, December 09, 2011
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
The Last Few Days
After my week of Paternity Leave, I was pleased to be working at St. Albans City Hospital, as it is a lot quieter than Watford General Hospital. Even so, I was still looking forward to the weekend.
I popped into Town on Saturday morning, to get a few things, before heading straight home. Shortly after I returned, we had a visit from David and Alyson, who brought more clothes for Erin and they stayed for a coffee and a hug. After they left, we had lunch, before Len and Emma Jayne arrived. More hugs, photos and beer followed. We watched TV and caught up on the weeks events. Len was happy as he is off work for the next two weeks, while Emma Jayne isn't. Then Len had a cuddle with Erin, which we hadn't realised he hadn't done. I managed to get a really nice photo of the two of them, too. By the time they left, it was early eening, so we settle down to relax.
Sunday morning we were up and out of the house by 10 O'clock, as we had to go to see Helen the Midwife, at Watford General Hospital. (This Midwife is unlike the 'Evil Doers' who came to the house the previous week, as we have seen Helen throughout Emma's pregnancy.) We arrived at Watford General just before 10:30 and only had to wait a coupl eof minutes, before Helen saw us. We stripped Erin, so that she could be weighed, before Helen took Emma's blood pressure. Emma's blood pressure was fine, and Erin was above her birth-weight, so the two of them were formally discharged. We then made our way home and had a coffee. Alysha had stayed at my Mums the previous evening and had a Dance Exam this afternoon, so the house was quiet. After a light lunch, we headed over to my Mums, as she had offered to cook us dinner. So we sat and talked, and watched 'Finding Nemo' and had a glass of wine, while we awaited dinner. Dinner was served around 4 O'clock, and we all tucked in. Roast Chicken with orange and cranberry stuffing, roasted vegetables, roast potatoes, peas and gravy. Bloody lovely. After dinner we finished our wine and went onto coffee, while watching 'A Knight's Tale'. While this was going on, I did a few things for my Mum on her PC, before we had another drink. Spanish Brandy for Mum, and an 8 year-old single malt Irish Whiskey, called 'Dun Leire', for me. Very nice indeed. After our goodbyes we headed home and relaxed, until my alarm went off this morning.
Another great weekend... over too quickly.
Until next time, May it be well with you.
I popped into Town on Saturday morning, to get a few things, before heading straight home. Shortly after I returned, we had a visit from David and Alyson, who brought more clothes for Erin and they stayed for a coffee and a hug. After they left, we had lunch, before Len and Emma Jayne arrived. More hugs, photos and beer followed. We watched TV and caught up on the weeks events. Len was happy as he is off work for the next two weeks, while Emma Jayne isn't. Then Len had a cuddle with Erin, which we hadn't realised he hadn't done. I managed to get a really nice photo of the two of them, too. By the time they left, it was early eening, so we settle down to relax.
Sunday morning we were up and out of the house by 10 O'clock, as we had to go to see Helen the Midwife, at Watford General Hospital. (This Midwife is unlike the 'Evil Doers' who came to the house the previous week, as we have seen Helen throughout Emma's pregnancy.) We arrived at Watford General just before 10:30 and only had to wait a coupl eof minutes, before Helen saw us. We stripped Erin, so that she could be weighed, before Helen took Emma's blood pressure. Emma's blood pressure was fine, and Erin was above her birth-weight, so the two of them were formally discharged. We then made our way home and had a coffee. Alysha had stayed at my Mums the previous evening and had a Dance Exam this afternoon, so the house was quiet. After a light lunch, we headed over to my Mums, as she had offered to cook us dinner. So we sat and talked, and watched 'Finding Nemo' and had a glass of wine, while we awaited dinner. Dinner was served around 4 O'clock, and we all tucked in. Roast Chicken with orange and cranberry stuffing, roasted vegetables, roast potatoes, peas and gravy. Bloody lovely. After dinner we finished our wine and went onto coffee, while watching 'A Knight's Tale'. While this was going on, I did a few things for my Mum on her PC, before we had another drink. Spanish Brandy for Mum, and an 8 year-old single malt Irish Whiskey, called 'Dun Leire', for me. Very nice indeed. After our goodbyes we headed home and relaxed, until my alarm went off this morning.
Another great weekend... over too quickly.
Until next time, May it be well with you.
Friday, November 18, 2011
Erin, week 1
Saturday 12 November, 2011.
Erin slept quite well, for her first night in the big wide World. Even so it was an early start as we were expecting quite a few visitors today. And, sure enough, they arrived. It began with Emma's sister Rachel, her husband Noel and their three kids, Rory, Freya and Noah. Erin was passed to Rachel and then Freya, while Rory and Noah played with some toys, while Noel played 'Angry Birds' on his HTC phone. (Which I am now addicted to. Thanks Noel!) While they were getting ready to leave, Swany arrived to see how Erin had settled in. We had a coffee, while Emma fed Erin, and then then Swany got to hold Erin. Lots of photos were taken and then Swany left, giving us a short time together. Then Steve B arrived, followed shortly by Len and Emma Jayne. Then we were visited by Adam and Lauren, who were in Watford shopping. Lots more photos and a few drinks, and then we were alone again. An early night was in order, as Emma and myself were still exhausted.
Sunday 13th November, 2011.
As both I and Emma awoke, as a joke we wished Erin a Happy Birthday, as today was the day that she was meant to arrive. After lunch my Mum popped in after watching the 'Saracens' at Vicarage Road. (Another win for the Men in Black!) More photos and cuddles with Erin before she headed off home. Yet again, another early night was in order, so it was off to bed we went.
Monday 14th November, 2011.
Erin was slightly restless throughout the night, so that Emma and I were not as rested as we had hoped, especially as we were expecting a visit from Kirsty, anytime in the morning. Guess what? More photographs! After Kirsty left, we had another visit from David and Alyson (Emma's Mum and Dad) where more photos were taken and hugs were given, before we left alone again. We then bathed Erin, (which she thoroughly enjoyed), and settled down and relax.
Tuesday 15th November, 2011.
We had arranged for my Uncle Martin to pop over with Nan and Granddad, but we decided we would go to theirs, so that we could try out the new buggy. Making sure that Erin was wrapped up and snug, we set off for the walk to Nan's. The journey normally takes 10 minutes, but today it took nearly 20, as were we stopped by well-wishers and neighbours. Once we arrived at Nan's, Martin asked to be the first to hold Erin. (More like demanded to be the first.) Coffee was made and Erin was passed onto Nan, and then onto Granddad. Lots of photographs, and then Martin cuddeled Erin, again. After an hour-or-so, we decided to walk into Watford, as we needed to buy a few things, and Erin had some money to spend on some new outfits. (Four days old and already shopping for clothes?!) Martin walked in with us, as he wanted to get a print framed. As we approached Watford General Hospital, we bumped into a some work colleagues, so again a journey time was elongated. We left Martin at the Framers and continued into the Town Centre. 'Primark' was our first stop, but Erin didn't fancy anything in there, so we headed into the Harlequin. In 'Boots' had a better selection, and Erin found an outfit that she liked, so it was bought. I ordered 20 prints of Erin from a self-service digital printer, which I would have to wait an hour to pick up. So, we headed to 'H & M' where Erin found some more clothes she liked. (This girl can spend!) After looking in a few more shops, we headed to 'Sainsbury's' for a small food shop. We then had lunch at 'Subway', before heading back to 'Boots' to pick up the photos. Then it was home to feed Erin. We then left the house and headed to the 'Oddfellows' where Steve B and Jason(from work) were meeting us, and also to show our friends how beautiful Erin is. After a few drinks we headed home and got ready for the day ahead.
Wednesday 16th November, 2011.
Today was the day I was dreading. We knew that it was coming, and we also knew that there was nothing we could do to avoid it. Throughout the morning there was a tension building that Erin simply slept through. Even a visit from our friend Stacey, couldn't lift the darkness that was beginning to settle around us. Then Dave arrived, with Nevaeh. Stacey left first, followed by Dave and Nevaeh at 3ish. Then they arrived. 'The Midwives'. They started nicely enough, by weighing Erin. 3520g. (Birth weight was 3700g) Then they brought out their 'Tools of Torture'. 'Tenderfoots'!!! An evil little device that pricks the skin, which these 'Sisters of Evil' use to extract blood. And who had to hold Erin, while these 'Deviants' squeezed the blood from her heel? Me! Well, we found out one good thing, while theses 'Depraved Monsters' delighted in hurting our daughter... Her lungs work!!! Her lungs work really well, in fact. So much so, that her screams expelled these 'Demonic Entities' from our house.
Thursday 17th November, 2011.
Today, we had an appontment at the 'Registry Office'. We were up and ready and took a gentle stroll, arriving exactly on time. Within 14 minutes, Erin Niamh Morrissey was formally registered as a member of the Human Race, receiving all the rights that Free People of the World enjoy. We then had a quick look through the Town, eating lunch from Watford Market. We then headed towards home, when we had a slight downpour. Luckily, Erin's 'wheels' are waterproof. As we reached the Hospital, we met Steve B, who came back to ours for a coffee, before heading back to work. Then Swany arrived, and after Erin had been fed, Swany drove us to 'Shoots'. (Now named 'Squires', but to us it will always be 'Shoots') I purchased some fish and some other things for our Aquarium. Also, I bought a Venus Flytrap. (Just because it was there, really.) Emma bought a Christmas present for Erin, and then Swany drove us home. After Swany left, we awaited my Mum, who was coming over to take some photographs of the four of us. Then we watched 'Children in Need Rocks Manchester', before turning in for the night.
All-in-all a very busy first week for Erin.
I look forward to the coming weeks with great anticipation.
Erin slept quite well, for her first night in the big wide World. Even so it was an early start as we were expecting quite a few visitors today. And, sure enough, they arrived. It began with Emma's sister Rachel, her husband Noel and their three kids, Rory, Freya and Noah. Erin was passed to Rachel and then Freya, while Rory and Noah played with some toys, while Noel played 'Angry Birds' on his HTC phone. (Which I am now addicted to. Thanks Noel!) While they were getting ready to leave, Swany arrived to see how Erin had settled in. We had a coffee, while Emma fed Erin, and then then Swany got to hold Erin. Lots of photos were taken and then Swany left, giving us a short time together. Then Steve B arrived, followed shortly by Len and Emma Jayne. Then we were visited by Adam and Lauren, who were in Watford shopping. Lots more photos and a few drinks, and then we were alone again. An early night was in order, as Emma and myself were still exhausted.
Sunday 13th November, 2011.
As both I and Emma awoke, as a joke we wished Erin a Happy Birthday, as today was the day that she was meant to arrive. After lunch my Mum popped in after watching the 'Saracens' at Vicarage Road. (Another win for the Men in Black!) More photos and cuddles with Erin before she headed off home. Yet again, another early night was in order, so it was off to bed we went.
Monday 14th November, 2011.
Erin was slightly restless throughout the night, so that Emma and I were not as rested as we had hoped, especially as we were expecting a visit from Kirsty, anytime in the morning. Guess what? More photographs! After Kirsty left, we had another visit from David and Alyson (Emma's Mum and Dad) where more photos were taken and hugs were given, before we left alone again. We then bathed Erin, (which she thoroughly enjoyed), and settled down and relax.
Tuesday 15th November, 2011.
We had arranged for my Uncle Martin to pop over with Nan and Granddad, but we decided we would go to theirs, so that we could try out the new buggy. Making sure that Erin was wrapped up and snug, we set off for the walk to Nan's. The journey normally takes 10 minutes, but today it took nearly 20, as were we stopped by well-wishers and neighbours. Once we arrived at Nan's, Martin asked to be the first to hold Erin. (More like demanded to be the first.) Coffee was made and Erin was passed onto Nan, and then onto Granddad. Lots of photographs, and then Martin cuddeled Erin, again. After an hour-or-so, we decided to walk into Watford, as we needed to buy a few things, and Erin had some money to spend on some new outfits. (Four days old and already shopping for clothes?!) Martin walked in with us, as he wanted to get a print framed. As we approached Watford General Hospital, we bumped into a some work colleagues, so again a journey time was elongated. We left Martin at the Framers and continued into the Town Centre. 'Primark' was our first stop, but Erin didn't fancy anything in there, so we headed into the Harlequin. In 'Boots' had a better selection, and Erin found an outfit that she liked, so it was bought. I ordered 20 prints of Erin from a self-service digital printer, which I would have to wait an hour to pick up. So, we headed to 'H & M' where Erin found some more clothes she liked. (This girl can spend!) After looking in a few more shops, we headed to 'Sainsbury's' for a small food shop. We then had lunch at 'Subway', before heading back to 'Boots' to pick up the photos. Then it was home to feed Erin. We then left the house and headed to the 'Oddfellows' where Steve B and Jason(from work) were meeting us, and also to show our friends how beautiful Erin is. After a few drinks we headed home and got ready for the day ahead.
Wednesday 16th November, 2011.
Today was the day I was dreading. We knew that it was coming, and we also knew that there was nothing we could do to avoid it. Throughout the morning there was a tension building that Erin simply slept through. Even a visit from our friend Stacey, couldn't lift the darkness that was beginning to settle around us. Then Dave arrived, with Nevaeh. Stacey left first, followed by Dave and Nevaeh at 3ish. Then they arrived. 'The Midwives'. They started nicely enough, by weighing Erin. 3520g. (Birth weight was 3700g) Then they brought out their 'Tools of Torture'. 'Tenderfoots'!!! An evil little device that pricks the skin, which these 'Sisters of Evil' use to extract blood. And who had to hold Erin, while these 'Deviants' squeezed the blood from her heel? Me! Well, we found out one good thing, while theses 'Depraved Monsters' delighted in hurting our daughter... Her lungs work!!! Her lungs work really well, in fact. So much so, that her screams expelled these 'Demonic Entities' from our house.
Thursday 17th November, 2011.
Today, we had an appontment at the 'Registry Office'. We were up and ready and took a gentle stroll, arriving exactly on time. Within 14 minutes, Erin Niamh Morrissey was formally registered as a member of the Human Race, receiving all the rights that Free People of the World enjoy. We then had a quick look through the Town, eating lunch from Watford Market. We then headed towards home, when we had a slight downpour. Luckily, Erin's 'wheels' are waterproof. As we reached the Hospital, we met Steve B, who came back to ours for a coffee, before heading back to work. Then Swany arrived, and after Erin had been fed, Swany drove us to 'Shoots'. (Now named 'Squires', but to us it will always be 'Shoots') I purchased some fish and some other things for our Aquarium. Also, I bought a Venus Flytrap. (Just because it was there, really.) Emma bought a Christmas present for Erin, and then Swany drove us home. After Swany left, we awaited my Mum, who was coming over to take some photographs of the four of us. Then we watched 'Children in Need Rocks Manchester', before turning in for the night.
All-in-all a very busy first week for Erin.
I look forward to the coming weeks with great anticipation.
Sunday, November 13, 2011
It's A Girl!
Thursday 10th November, 2011.
After a work day, that had been uneventful, I was looking forward to relaxing at home. My friend, Steve B, came home with me as he needed to use my PC. So, after stopping off to pick up a few beers, we made our way to mine. Emma had spent most of the day doing the washing and doing some last minute cleaning, in preperation of our 'new arrival'. The evening turned into one of those fun evenings that always happen when Steve B comes round. Lots of laughs, 'You Tube' clips and general merriment. As the evening drew on, Steve B decided that he had better head home for dinner. After our goodbyes, Emma and I sat down to eat dinner and watch a bit of TV. Around about 22:30, Emma started to feel a little uncomfortable and kept heading upstairs to the toilet, every 10 minutes. Soon after this she started to complain of lower backache. This went on until Emma decided it might be worth a call to the Delivery Suite at Watford General Hospital. After answering a few questions, they told her to call back in a couple of hours.
Friday 11th November, 2011.
By now it was just after midnight and I went upstairs and got changed into my work clothes. Emma called the Delivery Suite again just after 01:00 and they told her to come in for an examination. Apart from the backache and constant trips to the toilet, neither of us thought that Emma was in, or was close to being in, labour. I grabbed Emma's overnight bag and the baby's bag while Emma grabbed her notes, and we left the house and took a slow walk to the Hospital. It was 01:35. As we got to the end of the road I spoke to Alysha on the phone, explaining where we were going and why, promising to call if anything happened. At this point I was sure we would be back within a couple of hours. The morning was mild, so the slow walk to the Hospital was quite pleasant. We arrived at the Hospital at 02:00, and we were shown into into an examination room. All the midwives at the Nurses Station were all of the same opinion: Emma was not in labour. In the examination room, Emma removed her trousers and a midwife came in to do the exam. At exactly 02:11, Emma's waters broke. This caught the midwife, Emma and myself completely by surprise. I even jumped. We then transferred to a Delivery Room, next door to the Examination Room, where Emma got into a Hospital gown. The time was now getting on for 02:25 and the midwife said that she expected the baby to be born at 02:35. I decided it would be 02:37. A few pushes later and the babies head could clearly be seen. At this point the midwife told Emma to 'pant'. As Emma did this, the baby was delivered. The time was 02:38. I was then given the honour of cutting the umbilical cord of our daughter. The midwife then wrapped Erin in a blanket and passed her to Emma, while I called Alysha and told her about her sister. I then called my Mum, while Emma called her parents. While Emma spoke to her Dad, Erin was weighed and found to be 8lb 2oz. I waited with Emma and Erin until 05:00, when I decided it best to head home and see Alysha and show her the photos of her sister. So I went home. Alysha was still asleep, when I got home, so I made a coffee and listened to some music, until she got up. When she did finally wake up, I showed her the photos, before walking to work with my Mum. As I got into my office, many of my colleagues and especially my boss, Ann, were surprised to see me. I explained that Emma and Erin were being kept on Katherine Ward until the afternoon, so I might as well do my work and keep busy, as there was nothing else for me to do. So I did my work, popping in to see Emma and Erin every-now-and-again. I met my Mum at 13:30 and took her up to see her new granddaughter. Lots of photos taken, as per usual. I headed home after work and returned at about 17:00. Alysha had made her way to the Hospital, to see her sister, and so we waited until Emma and Erin were discharged. Swany, the friend that he is, picked Emma, Alysha, Erin and Me up from the Hospital and brought us all home, at about 18:15. Soon after arriving home, David and Alyson (Emma's parents) arrived. Knowing that Emma was exhausted, they didn't stay too long, and pretty soon the four of us were alone. Dinner was ordered in, and then it was feeding time for Erin, before we all called it a night and went to bed. Erin awoke a few tmes before sleeping for five hours straight.
So, after nine months of wondering, all the questions have been answered.
Her name is Erin Niamh Morrissey.
She weighed 8lb 2oz.
She was born at 02:38 on 11/11/11
And
She is beautiful.
After a work day, that had been uneventful, I was looking forward to relaxing at home. My friend, Steve B, came home with me as he needed to use my PC. So, after stopping off to pick up a few beers, we made our way to mine. Emma had spent most of the day doing the washing and doing some last minute cleaning, in preperation of our 'new arrival'. The evening turned into one of those fun evenings that always happen when Steve B comes round. Lots of laughs, 'You Tube' clips and general merriment. As the evening drew on, Steve B decided that he had better head home for dinner. After our goodbyes, Emma and I sat down to eat dinner and watch a bit of TV. Around about 22:30, Emma started to feel a little uncomfortable and kept heading upstairs to the toilet, every 10 minutes. Soon after this she started to complain of lower backache. This went on until Emma decided it might be worth a call to the Delivery Suite at Watford General Hospital. After answering a few questions, they told her to call back in a couple of hours.
Friday 11th November, 2011.
By now it was just after midnight and I went upstairs and got changed into my work clothes. Emma called the Delivery Suite again just after 01:00 and they told her to come in for an examination. Apart from the backache and constant trips to the toilet, neither of us thought that Emma was in, or was close to being in, labour. I grabbed Emma's overnight bag and the baby's bag while Emma grabbed her notes, and we left the house and took a slow walk to the Hospital. It was 01:35. As we got to the end of the road I spoke to Alysha on the phone, explaining where we were going and why, promising to call if anything happened. At this point I was sure we would be back within a couple of hours. The morning was mild, so the slow walk to the Hospital was quite pleasant. We arrived at the Hospital at 02:00, and we were shown into into an examination room. All the midwives at the Nurses Station were all of the same opinion: Emma was not in labour. In the examination room, Emma removed her trousers and a midwife came in to do the exam. At exactly 02:11, Emma's waters broke. This caught the midwife, Emma and myself completely by surprise. I even jumped. We then transferred to a Delivery Room, next door to the Examination Room, where Emma got into a Hospital gown. The time was now getting on for 02:25 and the midwife said that she expected the baby to be born at 02:35. I decided it would be 02:37. A few pushes later and the babies head could clearly be seen. At this point the midwife told Emma to 'pant'. As Emma did this, the baby was delivered. The time was 02:38. I was then given the honour of cutting the umbilical cord of our daughter. The midwife then wrapped Erin in a blanket and passed her to Emma, while I called Alysha and told her about her sister. I then called my Mum, while Emma called her parents. While Emma spoke to her Dad, Erin was weighed and found to be 8lb 2oz. I waited with Emma and Erin until 05:00, when I decided it best to head home and see Alysha and show her the photos of her sister. So I went home. Alysha was still asleep, when I got home, so I made a coffee and listened to some music, until she got up. When she did finally wake up, I showed her the photos, before walking to work with my Mum. As I got into my office, many of my colleagues and especially my boss, Ann, were surprised to see me. I explained that Emma and Erin were being kept on Katherine Ward until the afternoon, so I might as well do my work and keep busy, as there was nothing else for me to do. So I did my work, popping in to see Emma and Erin every-now-and-again. I met my Mum at 13:30 and took her up to see her new granddaughter. Lots of photos taken, as per usual. I headed home after work and returned at about 17:00. Alysha had made her way to the Hospital, to see her sister, and so we waited until Emma and Erin were discharged. Swany, the friend that he is, picked Emma, Alysha, Erin and Me up from the Hospital and brought us all home, at about 18:15. Soon after arriving home, David and Alyson (Emma's parents) arrived. Knowing that Emma was exhausted, they didn't stay too long, and pretty soon the four of us were alone. Dinner was ordered in, and then it was feeding time for Erin, before we all called it a night and went to bed. Erin awoke a few tmes before sleeping for five hours straight.
So, after nine months of wondering, all the questions have been answered.
Her name is Erin Niamh Morrissey.
She weighed 8lb 2oz.
She was born at 02:38 on 11/11/11
And
She is beautiful.
Friday, October 28, 2011
Alysha's 16th Birthday
Wednesday 26th October, 2011.
It was an early start in the Morrissey household. Alysha, Emma and I were downstairs awaiting the arrival of my Mum, who had also taken the day off from work. While we waited, Alysha fed the cats and fish. We didn't have to wait too long, as Mum arrived shortly before 9, bearing croissants. Once we were all seated, Alysha began opening her presents. A handbag, money, make-up, cheques, DVD, a coat, shoes and an electronic keyboard (which we had to exchange the following day as the wrong adaptor had been placed in the box) with stand and headphones. Then it was time for Alysha to see her cake. It was one that we had had especially made by Denise Cox of 'Tapestry Cakes' in Watford. (Denise made Len's 50th birthday cake and Emma Jayne and Len's wedding cake, too.) Alysha was really impressed with it and lots of photographs were taken.Once all the wrappings had been disposed of, Alysha went upstairs to wait for her friends. One by one they began to arrive and the sound of hyper-active teenage girls, filled the house. By this time my Mum had gone into Watford, to do some shopping, and with the girls heading out, Emma and I had the house to ourselves. So we relaxed for the day. Soon, though, it was time to get ready for the evening. Alysha had returned from shopping, with her ear and tummy pierced, and had gone out to her dance class, so we waited for Mum to arrive. Just after 18:00, Mum, Emma and I got a taxi into Watford and popped into 'Molloy's' for a quick drink. (Our table at 'L'Artista' wasn't booked until 19:00, so what else we were supposed to do?!) When we had finished our drink, we headed outside and met Alysha, Charmian and Jade. (Alysha's friends who were joining us for the meal.) While we took our seats, my Mum spoke to one of the servers and handed him a carrier bag with a box in it. We then set about ordering drinks and food. I had the Calzone Misto Carne. (Folded pizza filled with meatballs, home-made slow cooked meat sauce, chicken, mushrooms, sun blushed tomatoes, mozzarella & tomato.) It was delicious but, as I have said before, if you want the best, go to 'Maurizio's' in Rickmansworth. While we ate, lots of photos were taken and laughs were had, and before we knew it all the food was gone. After the servers cleared our plates, we started to hear the clang of metal pots being bashed together in a rhythmic 'tune'. Alysha began to hide her face as they approached our table with a cake with a '16' candle on it. They placed the cake in front of Alysha and the clanging was replaced with song 'Congratulations' being played throughout the restaurant. More photos were taken, while we ate cake, before we asked for the bill. Emma and I had already said that we were paying for everyone, but my Mum still offered some money towards it. I took her offering, but returned it later that evening. We then left 'L'Artista' and the six of us got a taxi back to ours. Once home, I went into the garden to set up some fireworks, while everyone else relaxed. When I was ready, everyone stepped into the garden and we watched the display. Once the display had finished, the tenagers disappeared upstairs, while Mum, Emma and I chillaxed on the sofa, watching 'Frozen Planet', on BBC 1. When that had finished, my Mum made a move home and Charmian's Mum came to collect her. Jade would be staying over.
All-in-all a long but enjoyable day.
I hope you enjoyed it darling. XXX
It was an early start in the Morrissey household. Alysha, Emma and I were downstairs awaiting the arrival of my Mum, who had also taken the day off from work. While we waited, Alysha fed the cats and fish. We didn't have to wait too long, as Mum arrived shortly before 9, bearing croissants. Once we were all seated, Alysha began opening her presents. A handbag, money, make-up, cheques, DVD, a coat, shoes and an electronic keyboard (which we had to exchange the following day as the wrong adaptor had been placed in the box) with stand and headphones. Then it was time for Alysha to see her cake. It was one that we had had especially made by Denise Cox of 'Tapestry Cakes' in Watford. (Denise made Len's 50th birthday cake and Emma Jayne and Len's wedding cake, too.) Alysha was really impressed with it and lots of photographs were taken.Once all the wrappings had been disposed of, Alysha went upstairs to wait for her friends. One by one they began to arrive and the sound of hyper-active teenage girls, filled the house. By this time my Mum had gone into Watford, to do some shopping, and with the girls heading out, Emma and I had the house to ourselves. So we relaxed for the day. Soon, though, it was time to get ready for the evening. Alysha had returned from shopping, with her ear and tummy pierced, and had gone out to her dance class, so we waited for Mum to arrive. Just after 18:00, Mum, Emma and I got a taxi into Watford and popped into 'Molloy's' for a quick drink. (Our table at 'L'Artista' wasn't booked until 19:00, so what else we were supposed to do?!) When we had finished our drink, we headed outside and met Alysha, Charmian and Jade. (Alysha's friends who were joining us for the meal.) While we took our seats, my Mum spoke to one of the servers and handed him a carrier bag with a box in it. We then set about ordering drinks and food. I had the Calzone Misto Carne. (Folded pizza filled with meatballs, home-made slow cooked meat sauce, chicken, mushrooms, sun blushed tomatoes, mozzarella & tomato.) It was delicious but, as I have said before, if you want the best, go to 'Maurizio's' in Rickmansworth. While we ate, lots of photos were taken and laughs were had, and before we knew it all the food was gone. After the servers cleared our plates, we started to hear the clang of metal pots being bashed together in a rhythmic 'tune'. Alysha began to hide her face as they approached our table with a cake with a '16' candle on it. They placed the cake in front of Alysha and the clanging was replaced with song 'Congratulations' being played throughout the restaurant. More photos were taken, while we ate cake, before we asked for the bill. Emma and I had already said that we were paying for everyone, but my Mum still offered some money towards it. I took her offering, but returned it later that evening. We then left 'L'Artista' and the six of us got a taxi back to ours. Once home, I went into the garden to set up some fireworks, while everyone else relaxed. When I was ready, everyone stepped into the garden and we watched the display. Once the display had finished, the tenagers disappeared upstairs, while Mum, Emma and I chillaxed on the sofa, watching 'Frozen Planet', on BBC 1. When that had finished, my Mum made a move home and Charmian's Mum came to collect her. Jade would be staying over.
All-in-all a long but enjoyable day.
I hope you enjoyed it darling. XXX
Monday, September 19, 2011
Alysha and Ireland
Saturday 17th September, 2011.
The second weekend of the 2011 Rugby World Cup began early on Saturday morning, with Argentina beating Romania by 43-08. This was then followed by the Republic of South Africa taking on Fiji. After the Springboks dismal performance against Wales last weekend, Fiji must have thought they stood a chance. However, the Springboks aren't the current World Champions for nothing, and they came out playing their typically physical game. So much so, that they destroyed Fiji by 49-03. It was as this game was finishing that I finally decided to get up and head downstairs. This was purely because the final match of the morning was between Australia (second favourites to win this years RWC) and Ireland (who have dropped to 8th in the World Rankings, following their poor performances in the warm-up games.) Well, what a match this turned out to be! At half-time the score was tied at 06-06. The first half had been one of the closest that i had ever seen, and the scoreline reflected that. Then the second half began. Sexton scored within 10 minutes of the restart and Irelandwere in front for the first time in the match. Then O'Gara kicked a penalty and Ireland stretched their lead. Australia kept threatening to score a try, but the Irish defense were unbeatable. Then, with 10 minutes left to play, O'Gara kicked another penalty and Ireland were 9 points ahead, leaving Australia needing two scores to win. It didn't happen. As the clock ran down, past the 80th minute, it fell to O'Driscoll to kick the ball into touch. Ireland had beaten Australiaby 15-06. The match that I had just watched, was as good as any final that I had witnessed.
Sunday 18th September, 2011.
Day two of the second weekend in the 2011 Rugby World Cup saw Wales take on Samoa. Apparently a very tough game, in which Wales were very lucky to score a try towards the end of the match to secure their win. This was then followed by England against Georgia. England had not played at their best the previous week and needed to put in a convincing performance today. And Georgia are no pushovers. If they ever change the 6 Nations into a 7 Nation tournament, Georgia would be the 7th Nation. Well, by the end of the first half, England were lucky to be in front. The start of the second half sawEngland make one of those comebacks that they are so good at doing. Ashton was back to his try-scoring ways and Flood was converting them. Obviously the match earlier in the week for Georgia, was beginning to take its toll and you could see some of the players were absolutely shattered. Final score, Englandwon 41-10. After this it was time for France v Canada match. Canada began by getting a penalty in the first minute and putting 3 points on the board.France then scored a try two minutes, which was followed by Canada doing the same minutes later. It was looking to be a good match. At half-time the score was close, with Canada just a few points behind. The second half, however, saw France up their game. Tries, drop goals and penalties saw France win the match 46-19.
Alysha was in Staines at a dance competition and didn't return until the early evening. Alysha doesn't call or text while she is at competitions as this 'jinxes' her, so we have to wait until she returns home to find out how well she has done. Well, in her 'solo' dance she got through to the semi-finals, and in the 'couples' dance she came first, so yet another trophy for her shelf. Way to go, Alysha. (I can see I am going to have to put up another shelf for all these trophies.)
So all-in-all a great weekend. Ireland beat Australia and Alysha came first in one of her dances.
The second weekend of the 2011 Rugby World Cup began early on Saturday morning, with Argentina beating Romania by 43-08. This was then followed by the Republic of South Africa taking on Fiji. After the Springboks dismal performance against Wales last weekend, Fiji must have thought they stood a chance. However, the Springboks aren't the current World Champions for nothing, and they came out playing their typically physical game. So much so, that they destroyed Fiji by 49-03. It was as this game was finishing that I finally decided to get up and head downstairs. This was purely because the final match of the morning was between Australia (second favourites to win this years RWC) and Ireland (who have dropped to 8th in the World Rankings, following their poor performances in the warm-up games.) Well, what a match this turned out to be! At half-time the score was tied at 06-06. The first half had been one of the closest that i had ever seen, and the scoreline reflected that. Then the second half began. Sexton scored within 10 minutes of the restart and Irelandwere in front for the first time in the match. Then O'Gara kicked a penalty and Ireland stretched their lead. Australia kept threatening to score a try, but the Irish defense were unbeatable. Then, with 10 minutes left to play, O'Gara kicked another penalty and Ireland were 9 points ahead, leaving Australia needing two scores to win. It didn't happen. As the clock ran down, past the 80th minute, it fell to O'Driscoll to kick the ball into touch. Ireland had beaten Australiaby 15-06. The match that I had just watched, was as good as any final that I had witnessed.
Sunday 18th September, 2011.
Day two of the second weekend in the 2011 Rugby World Cup saw Wales take on Samoa. Apparently a very tough game, in which Wales were very lucky to score a try towards the end of the match to secure their win. This was then followed by England against Georgia. England had not played at their best the previous week and needed to put in a convincing performance today. And Georgia are no pushovers. If they ever change the 6 Nations into a 7 Nation tournament, Georgia would be the 7th Nation. Well, by the end of the first half, England were lucky to be in front. The start of the second half sawEngland make one of those comebacks that they are so good at doing. Ashton was back to his try-scoring ways and Flood was converting them. Obviously the match earlier in the week for Georgia, was beginning to take its toll and you could see some of the players were absolutely shattered. Final score, Englandwon 41-10. After this it was time for France v Canada match. Canada began by getting a penalty in the first minute and putting 3 points on the board.France then scored a try two minutes, which was followed by Canada doing the same minutes later. It was looking to be a good match. At half-time the score was close, with Canada just a few points behind. The second half, however, saw France up their game. Tries, drop goals and penalties saw France win the match 46-19.
Alysha was in Staines at a dance competition and didn't return until the early evening. Alysha doesn't call or text while she is at competitions as this 'jinxes' her, so we have to wait until she returns home to find out how well she has done. Well, in her 'solo' dance she got through to the semi-finals, and in the 'couples' dance she came first, so yet another trophy for her shelf. Way to go, Alysha. (I can see I am going to have to put up another shelf for all these trophies.)
So all-in-all a great weekend. Ireland beat Australia and Alysha came first in one of her dances.
Monday, September 05, 2011
A BBQ, A Fire and A + E
Saturday 3rd September, 2011.
With the coming seasonal changes, I thought it best to have another BBQ, before the weather took a major turn for the worse. So, up early on Saturday to prepare. Emma (Matron) went into Watford, to get some shopping and when she returned we headed to our local shop, 'Vimco', to get the last few things we needed. On returning home, we discovered Swany's car on the drive and some beer and bread in bags in the garden, but no sign oft the Swany himself. So, I picked up the beer and put it in the fridge and placed the bread on the side, in the kitchen. I then set about preparing the Chili. I heated some oil and added chopped onions and garlic. I then took the pan off the heat and added a tin of tomatoes and left the pot to stand. I then added the minced beef and the diced beef, followed by a healthy pinch of Paprika and Oregano.I then seasoned with Salt and Pepper before adding a couple of sliced Chili Peppers and two tins of kidney beans. I then broke up half a bar of Lindt Chili Chocolate and added this to the pot. Then, using one of the now empty kidney bean tins, I made a strong black coffee and added this to the mixture. The lid was then placed on the pot and left to stand. (The recipe is at the bottom of this page.) I then got to work on the Pork joint. I made some holes through the joint with a skewer and threaded some fresh Chives (fresh from the garden) into the meat. I then criss-crossed the skin of the Pork with a sharp knife and rubbed oil all over it, before rubbing sea salt into the skin. I then carefully wrapped it in tin foil and left it to stand. By this time, Ben 'Swany' Swan and Jason 'Smithy' Smith had returned. It turns out that they had arrived whilst Emma and I had gone to the shop and had been messing around in the park. So, we opened a bottle of beer each and I lit the charcoal on the BBQ. After 20 minutes-or-so the charcoal was ready. So, I put the pot of Chili in the back left corner and placed the Pork Joint in the back right corner. (Both directly on the coals.) Then it was a case of sitting back and waiting. While we waited Swany had brought his 'Circus' equipment with him. (Juggling clubs and balls, Plates for spinning, Unicycle, etc..) So, while theChili cooked and the Pork Joint roasted, we messed around. Swany is slowly improving on his Unicycle and we had a lot of fun videoing him. We then tried some plate-spinning, which I was not very good at. After the Pork joint had been on for an hour I turned it over and stirred the Chili. More beer followed, while we awaited the arrival of Steve 'Browny' Brown. I then flash-fried some steaks and Haloumi, which took literally seconds to cook, over the coals. It was then that Browny arrived. So, we dished up the Chili and I took the joint inside to slice it. We then all tucked in to eat. Smithy had never tried one of my Chili's, or a Pork joint cooked on the coals and he had never had Haloumi. Surfice it to say, that not an ounce of food was left over. Everything went. Once we had let our food settle, we went out into the park and played about. Smithy climbed to the top of one of the trees, whilst Swany messed around on the round-a-bout. After a good half-an-hour of us all playing about (which Emma videoed), we headed back into the garden to chillax. Soon after Smithy decided to leave as he was slightly drunk (Lightweight!!!) so Browny, Swany and I played with the circus gear. Browny got his plate to spin without much practise, whilst I was ready to launch mine like a frisbee. Then I got it to spin and I was happy. As the evening drew on, and the light began to fade, Swany and I put on our Honcho's. At about 10ish, Peter 'Tits' Metcalf came round with more beer (not that we needed it as the fridge was still well stocked) and some flammable liquid for Swany. Swany then decided that it was time to up his game, so with my video at the ready, he began. First with his 'torch', which he tried to balance on his chin. (While wearing his highly flammable Honcho and its bag as a hat!) Then by juggling lit fire-lighters, and finally by breathing fire. This was very impressive and came out very well on the video. ('Swany's Fire Circus' on my Video Page.) After Swany had finished his 'fire show', we all settled down to enjoy the rest of the evening. Then the call came. Swany looked at the number and obviously recognised it, because he answered it in a very cautious manner. Then his demeanour changed, and he promised that he would be there (wherever that was) in minutes. When he put the phone down, Matron asked him what was up. It turned out that Stacey, ('Champagne Stacey' on my Video Page) had been involved in a Road Traffic Collision (RTC) and had had to be cut out of her car by the Fire Brigade. She was also 19 weeks pregnant with Swany's baby, so, while we packed Swany's things away, Matron made Swany a cup of strong coffee, to help sober him up. He then headed off with Tits, to A+E, promising to let us know how she was, as soon as he could. This left Matron, Browny and me to wait and wonder what was happening. Soon after, Matron went up to bed, while I watched TV and Browny played on the PC. Eventually, Matron received a text letting us know that Stacey was just a little sore and banged-up and that Baby Swany was fine. So, everything turned out Okay. Good food. Good friends. And good fortune for Swany.
With the coming seasonal changes, I thought it best to have another BBQ, before the weather took a major turn for the worse. So, up early on Saturday to prepare. Emma (Matron) went into Watford, to get some shopping and when she returned we headed to our local shop, 'Vimco', to get the last few things we needed. On returning home, we discovered Swany's car on the drive and some beer and bread in bags in the garden, but no sign oft the Swany himself. So, I picked up the beer and put it in the fridge and placed the bread on the side, in the kitchen. I then set about preparing the Chili. I heated some oil and added chopped onions and garlic. I then took the pan off the heat and added a tin of tomatoes and left the pot to stand. I then added the minced beef and the diced beef, followed by a healthy pinch of Paprika and Oregano.I then seasoned with Salt and Pepper before adding a couple of sliced Chili Peppers and two tins of kidney beans. I then broke up half a bar of Lindt Chili Chocolate and added this to the pot. Then, using one of the now empty kidney bean tins, I made a strong black coffee and added this to the mixture. The lid was then placed on the pot and left to stand. (The recipe is at the bottom of this page.) I then got to work on the Pork joint. I made some holes through the joint with a skewer and threaded some fresh Chives (fresh from the garden) into the meat. I then criss-crossed the skin of the Pork with a sharp knife and rubbed oil all over it, before rubbing sea salt into the skin. I then carefully wrapped it in tin foil and left it to stand. By this time, Ben 'Swany' Swan and Jason 'Smithy' Smith had returned. It turns out that they had arrived whilst Emma and I had gone to the shop and had been messing around in the park. So, we opened a bottle of beer each and I lit the charcoal on the BBQ. After 20 minutes-or-so the charcoal was ready. So, I put the pot of Chili in the back left corner and placed the Pork Joint in the back right corner. (Both directly on the coals.) Then it was a case of sitting back and waiting. While we waited Swany had brought his 'Circus' equipment with him. (Juggling clubs and balls, Plates for spinning, Unicycle, etc..) So, while theChili cooked and the Pork Joint roasted, we messed around. Swany is slowly improving on his Unicycle and we had a lot of fun videoing him. We then tried some plate-spinning, which I was not very good at. After the Pork joint had been on for an hour I turned it over and stirred the Chili. More beer followed, while we awaited the arrival of Steve 'Browny' Brown. I then flash-fried some steaks and Haloumi, which took literally seconds to cook, over the coals. It was then that Browny arrived. So, we dished up the Chili and I took the joint inside to slice it. We then all tucked in to eat. Smithy had never tried one of my Chili's, or a Pork joint cooked on the coals and he had never had Haloumi. Surfice it to say, that not an ounce of food was left over. Everything went. Once we had let our food settle, we went out into the park and played about. Smithy climbed to the top of one of the trees, whilst Swany messed around on the round-a-bout. After a good half-an-hour of us all playing about (which Emma videoed), we headed back into the garden to chillax. Soon after Smithy decided to leave as he was slightly drunk (Lightweight!!!) so Browny, Swany and I played with the circus gear. Browny got his plate to spin without much practise, whilst I was ready to launch mine like a frisbee. Then I got it to spin and I was happy. As the evening drew on, and the light began to fade, Swany and I put on our Honcho's. At about 10ish, Peter 'Tits' Metcalf came round with more beer (not that we needed it as the fridge was still well stocked) and some flammable liquid for Swany. Swany then decided that it was time to up his game, so with my video at the ready, he began. First with his 'torch', which he tried to balance on his chin. (While wearing his highly flammable Honcho and its bag as a hat!) Then by juggling lit fire-lighters, and finally by breathing fire. This was very impressive and came out very well on the video. ('Swany's Fire Circus' on my Video Page.) After Swany had finished his 'fire show', we all settled down to enjoy the rest of the evening. Then the call came. Swany looked at the number and obviously recognised it, because he answered it in a very cautious manner. Then his demeanour changed, and he promised that he would be there (wherever that was) in minutes. When he put the phone down, Matron asked him what was up. It turned out that Stacey, ('Champagne Stacey' on my Video Page) had been involved in a Road Traffic Collision (RTC) and had had to be cut out of her car by the Fire Brigade. She was also 19 weeks pregnant with Swany's baby, so, while we packed Swany's things away, Matron made Swany a cup of strong coffee, to help sober him up. He then headed off with Tits, to A+E, promising to let us know how she was, as soon as he could. This left Matron, Browny and me to wait and wonder what was happening. Soon after, Matron went up to bed, while I watched TV and Browny played on the PC. Eventually, Matron received a text letting us know that Stacey was just a little sore and banged-up and that Baby Swany was fine. So, everything turned out Okay. Good food. Good friends. And good fortune for Swany.
Recipe for the Perfect Chili
- Olive oil
- 1 large onion
- 1 clove of garlic
- 2 red chili peppers
- Paprika
- Oregano
- Salt & Pepper
- 500g good quality mince beef
- 500g good quality diced beef
- 1 can of tinned tomatoes
- 1 tin of kidney beans
- 1/2 cup of fresh coffee
- 1 bar of good quality Chilli Chocolate
Friday, July 29, 2011
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
A Day at the Theatre
Saturday 25th June, 2011
The day started as usual, but it would be anything but usual. It would be incredible!
Act One
The morning came and went as usual then, after lunch, we walked over to my nan's house. Once we knew she was ready, we ordered a taxi to take us to the Palace Theatre in Watford. When we arrived, we looked around the entrance lobby at the photos and prints on display, before buying a programme and heading to our seats. Our seats were in the second row, almost dead centre, so we had a perfect view of the show. The show began on time, at 14:45 and we sat back to watch the Rare Productions Youth Theatre Groups 'Disney's Camp Rock: The Musical'. Now I know I keep saying that I don't like musicals, but Alysha was one of the Principal Dancers, and I always try to see her shows. (Usually the matinee, so we can take my nan.) Anyway, having seen quite a few musicals recently, (Hello Mister Capello & Company), I am getting quite used to them. Well, Alysha was brilliant as usual, which made up for the odd mistake made by other cast members, getting the odd line wrong. Granted Alysha wasn't perfect but she was by far the best. There were a few other dancers that stood out, such as Leanne Flannigan as Axel and Klara Gashi. Natasha Chambers and Seb Kainth as Mitchie and Shane, I thought were exceptional. At the interval Emma and I bought ice cream for us all before the second act. Once Act Two was over, we made our way to the theatre lobby, to await Alysha. It didn't take her long to find us milling around with the other parents and friends. We didn't talk for long as Alysha was anxious to go to Nando's for lunch with some of the cast members, so we said our goodbyes and ordered a taxi to take us back to nan's. Once nan was safely back at home, Emma and I headed home to get a quick bite to eat and await the arrival of Len and Em-J.
Act Two
Em-J and Len arrived at about 18:30ish and we made our way to Rickmansworth. Em-J drove and we parked in the car park just off the High Street, outside The Coach & Horses, as it was free and particularly empty. We then took a short stroll down the High Street towards Watersmeet Theatre, where we were going to watch the PHEOS MUSICAL Players presentation of 'Fiddler on the Roof.' It turns out that Len had never been to the Theatre before, so this was to be a real treat for him. Once inside the theatre we bought a drink and made our way to our seats, which were front row to the right of the stage. Before the lights were extinguished, I looked around the theatre and spotted a few people I knew from the hospital. Pretty soon the theatre was full and the lights dimmed and the play began. (Now, I don't normally get goosebumps when watching stage shows, but seeing Steve Brown in his costume and beard (real) in the role of 'Tevye', a role that he had always dreamt of playing, I was filled with enormous pride for him.) Well, the next hour and forty minutes were enthralling! Steve played the character to a tee and his voice was perfect. The walk and demeanour that the Steve brought to the character were spot-on. Not once did it seem that Steve was imitating the greats. Somehow, he had managed to bring a little of himself to a very iconic role and truly made it his own. (Before you start thinking that I am just saying this to because Steve is my friend, you are WRONG. Steve knows me well enough, as do many others, that if I thought his performance was wanting, I would tell him.) Surfice it to say that that first act was one of the best I have ever seen on stage. There was a 20 minute interval before the second act, so we disappeared to the bar and bought another drink. Len seemed really impressed, apart from his back was going stiff (old age) from the theatre chairs. Once Len had limbered up we headed back inside for the second act. The second act, although shorter than the first, was just as enthralling and was quite moving in some scenes, which were played to perfection. As the show finished and the cast took their bows, the applause began to rise. Then, with Steve the last actor on stage, I saw a few people rise to their feet and give a standing ovation. It was truly an incredible play. After the show we waited in the downstairs lobby, to greet the man himself. After the congratulations and hand-shaking, hugs and kisses, Steve posed for a photo with the four of us. We then went back upto the bar to have a drink with him, before heading home. A mention has to made of Sue Reynolds (Golde) who was brilliant as the wife. Her voice was incredible and hit every note. Also, Jessica Bergman (Chava) and Tamsyn Wheatley (Hodel) played the roles of the daughters who go about things differently were brilliant. Alice Ingham (Tzeital) gave an almost perfect performance. Brad Hatton (Motel), Les Broude (Perchik) and Martyn Jackson(Fyedka) were simply great to watch. Julian Ardouin (Lazar Wolf) gave a quite reserved, but powerful, performance as the Butcher. The set design was brilliant and the music top-notch, but the entire show belonged to Steve as Tevye. This was the first PHEOS production I had seen having missed 'Follies' and'Oklahoma!', their last two productions, but I would see them again, even if Steve isn't in the show!
Now, until the review comes out, this is what people have said of the show.
Chantal - Steve was phenomenal!
Andy Milne - Absolutely Cracking!
Annalise - What a part, What a voice, what a man!
Ray - A well deserved success!
Annette - Steve was fantastic!
Gary - Amazing!
Emma - A great performance by Steve!
Jane - Steve was Incredible. What a voice!
Tom - A first class performance. Legendary!
Em-J - Very proud of him. Awesome!
Len - Brilliant!
Daryl - All of the above... and more!
The day started as usual, but it would be anything but usual. It would be incredible!
Act One
The morning came and went as usual then, after lunch, we walked over to my nan's house. Once we knew she was ready, we ordered a taxi to take us to the Palace Theatre in Watford. When we arrived, we looked around the entrance lobby at the photos and prints on display, before buying a programme and heading to our seats. Our seats were in the second row, almost dead centre, so we had a perfect view of the show. The show began on time, at 14:45 and we sat back to watch the Rare Productions Youth Theatre Groups 'Disney's Camp Rock: The Musical'. Now I know I keep saying that I don't like musicals, but Alysha was one of the Principal Dancers, and I always try to see her shows. (Usually the matinee, so we can take my nan.) Anyway, having seen quite a few musicals recently, (Hello Mister Capello & Company), I am getting quite used to them. Well, Alysha was brilliant as usual, which made up for the odd mistake made by other cast members, getting the odd line wrong. Granted Alysha wasn't perfect but she was by far the best. There were a few other dancers that stood out, such as Leanne Flannigan as Axel and Klara Gashi. Natasha Chambers and Seb Kainth as Mitchie and Shane, I thought were exceptional. At the interval Emma and I bought ice cream for us all before the second act. Once Act Two was over, we made our way to the theatre lobby, to await Alysha. It didn't take her long to find us milling around with the other parents and friends. We didn't talk for long as Alysha was anxious to go to Nando's for lunch with some of the cast members, so we said our goodbyes and ordered a taxi to take us back to nan's. Once nan was safely back at home, Emma and I headed home to get a quick bite to eat and await the arrival of Len and Em-J.
Act Two
Em-J and Len arrived at about 18:30ish and we made our way to Rickmansworth. Em-J drove and we parked in the car park just off the High Street, outside The Coach & Horses, as it was free and particularly empty. We then took a short stroll down the High Street towards Watersmeet Theatre, where we were going to watch the PHEOS MUSICAL Players presentation of 'Fiddler on the Roof.' It turns out that Len had never been to the Theatre before, so this was to be a real treat for him. Once inside the theatre we bought a drink and made our way to our seats, which were front row to the right of the stage. Before the lights were extinguished, I looked around the theatre and spotted a few people I knew from the hospital. Pretty soon the theatre was full and the lights dimmed and the play began. (Now, I don't normally get goosebumps when watching stage shows, but seeing Steve Brown in his costume and beard (real) in the role of 'Tevye', a role that he had always dreamt of playing, I was filled with enormous pride for him.) Well, the next hour and forty minutes were enthralling! Steve played the character to a tee and his voice was perfect. The walk and demeanour that the Steve brought to the character were spot-on. Not once did it seem that Steve was imitating the greats. Somehow, he had managed to bring a little of himself to a very iconic role and truly made it his own. (Before you start thinking that I am just saying this to because Steve is my friend, you are WRONG. Steve knows me well enough, as do many others, that if I thought his performance was wanting, I would tell him.) Surfice it to say that that first act was one of the best I have ever seen on stage. There was a 20 minute interval before the second act, so we disappeared to the bar and bought another drink. Len seemed really impressed, apart from his back was going stiff (old age) from the theatre chairs. Once Len had limbered up we headed back inside for the second act. The second act, although shorter than the first, was just as enthralling and was quite moving in some scenes, which were played to perfection. As the show finished and the cast took their bows, the applause began to rise. Then, with Steve the last actor on stage, I saw a few people rise to their feet and give a standing ovation. It was truly an incredible play. After the show we waited in the downstairs lobby, to greet the man himself. After the congratulations and hand-shaking, hugs and kisses, Steve posed for a photo with the four of us. We then went back upto the bar to have a drink with him, before heading home. A mention has to made of Sue Reynolds (Golde) who was brilliant as the wife. Her voice was incredible and hit every note. Also, Jessica Bergman (Chava) and Tamsyn Wheatley (Hodel) played the roles of the daughters who go about things differently were brilliant. Alice Ingham (Tzeital) gave an almost perfect performance. Brad Hatton (Motel), Les Broude (Perchik) and Martyn Jackson(Fyedka) were simply great to watch. Julian Ardouin (Lazar Wolf) gave a quite reserved, but powerful, performance as the Butcher. The set design was brilliant and the music top-notch, but the entire show belonged to Steve as Tevye. This was the first PHEOS production I had seen having missed 'Follies' and'Oklahoma!', their last two productions, but I would see them again, even if Steve isn't in the show!
Now, until the review comes out, this is what people have said of the show.
Chantal - Steve was phenomenal!
Andy Milne - Absolutely Cracking!
Annalise - What a part, What a voice, what a man!
Ray - A well deserved success!
Annette - Steve was fantastic!
Gary - Amazing!
Emma - A great performance by Steve!
Jane - Steve was Incredible. What a voice!
Tom - A first class performance. Legendary!
Em-J - Very proud of him. Awesome!
Len - Brilliant!
Daryl - All of the above... and more!
Friday, June 17, 2011
Len and Emma Jayne's Wedding
Saturday 28th May, 2011
Wedding Day
Len was the first to rise and had been to the shop and back before anyone else arose. Then Emma and myself got up, followed soon after by Alysha. After a quick coffee I went for a shower and got myself dressed (Black suit with blue shirt, no tie). Then Emma had a shower, then Alysha and then Len. While I was downstairs, I heard Len come out of the bathroom complaining that his hair wasn’t right. I then heard Alysha ask him if he needed help with it, which made me chuckle. Len said he would be fine and disappeared back into the bathroom. What seemed like an eternity later, Len came out of the bathroom, finally satisfied with his hair. Once we were all ready, Swany arrived. He had shaved his head completely and wore a black suit with a red shirt beneath. (He looked a bit like Harry Hill) Another coffee and then we made our way into Watford. After a quick trip to Primark to buy Alysha some new shoes, we headed onto Watford Market for a quick bite to eat. When we had each finished our lunch we made our way towards the Escourt Tavern for a quick drink and to meet some of Len’s friends. After a quick drink (or two) we made our way to the Registry Office, to meet up with the rest of Len and Emma’s family and friends. Once we were all introduced, Len and myself went into the Registry Office to speak with the Chief Registrar. I told him the track listing on the CD that Emma Jayne had asked me to make, before Len entered his details in the register. Then we both went back outside only to find out that Emma Jayne had arrived, so we all made our way to our seats. The music began with ‘U2’s Beautiful Day’, then ‘Eternal Flame’ by ‘The Bangles’, followed by 'Nat King Cole's Unforgettable'. Then Emma Jayne made her way down the aisle (or runway, as she kept calling it) to the sound of ‘Etta James’ singing ‘At Last’. All this time Len kept facing forward and I was thankful that Shanel was at the front to catch the moment on film (well, pixels actually.) The entire ceremony went without a hitch, apart from a slight mistake by Len, (unlawful instead of lawful), before they were pronounced Husband and Wife. After a few kisses they turned and moved behind the desk to sign the register. Then a few of us that had been chosen as witnesses, signed the register and had our photos taken with Mr and Mrs Erdwin. Once these were taken, we headed back to our seats, to watch the happy couple walk up the aisle (runway). The registrar handed the marriage certificate to Emma and then they made their way out of the office and on into the garden, to the sound of ‘Elvis Presley’ singing 'Can't help falling in love'. Once we had all gathered in the garden, Shanel got to work taking the photos of the happy couple. Then the happy couple with their families, then with friends, then acquaintances, etc. Finally, Shanel got us together for the big group photo and the final ‘confetti’ shot. After this it was a case of saying ‘goodbye’ to those who weren’t able to make the reception, while giving directions to those that could. We then made our way back to the Escourt Tavern until it was time to head for the reception.
The reception was held at the newly built ‘Ex-serviceman’s Club’ on St Albans Road, and was perfect for the amount of people invited. The room was pretty much square, with tables along both sides and in-between the bar and dance floor, where there was also a stage, on which the DJ (Paul Baz) had setup and was playing a mix of 70s and 80s music. Food had also been prepared and was laid out on some tables, to the right of the stage. Once everyone was settled, Mr and Mrs Erdwin took to the dance floor, for their first dance as Husband and Wife. (Check out the video on my movies page.) They then proceeded to cut the cake and pose for more photos. Once the cake had been cut, the kids were put to work building the cardboard cake boxes, while Emma (my Emma) cut the cake into box-sized pieces. After that, the drinks flowed and people mingled. Debbie got up and made a speech and she was followed by Len, who ended his speech with, “Thank you. Thank you, very much.” Beer flowed, food disappeared, Len danced (doing the splits three times!!!), photos and videos were taken and everyone had a great night. All too soon, the night came to a close. Handshakes, hugs and kisses were given to friends old and new, before Mr and Mrs Erdwin made their way home to start their married life together.
And they lived happily ever after.
Track Listing for the big day:
While the guests are waiting for Emma Jayne to arrive,
1. U2 - Beautiful Day
2. Bangles - Eternal Flame
3. Nat King Cole - Unforgettable
4. Elvis Presley - Wonder of You
For Emma to walk down the runway,
5. Etta James - At Last
While signing the register
6. Adele - Make you feel my love
7. Shania Twain - From this moment
For the walk up the runway as Mr & Mrs Erdwin
8. Elvis Presley - Can't help falling in love
Wedding Day
Len was the first to rise and had been to the shop and back before anyone else arose. Then Emma and myself got up, followed soon after by Alysha. After a quick coffee I went for a shower and got myself dressed (Black suit with blue shirt, no tie). Then Emma had a shower, then Alysha and then Len. While I was downstairs, I heard Len come out of the bathroom complaining that his hair wasn’t right. I then heard Alysha ask him if he needed help with it, which made me chuckle. Len said he would be fine and disappeared back into the bathroom. What seemed like an eternity later, Len came out of the bathroom, finally satisfied with his hair. Once we were all ready, Swany arrived. He had shaved his head completely and wore a black suit with a red shirt beneath. (He looked a bit like Harry Hill) Another coffee and then we made our way into Watford. After a quick trip to Primark to buy Alysha some new shoes, we headed onto Watford Market for a quick bite to eat. When we had each finished our lunch we made our way towards the Escourt Tavern for a quick drink and to meet some of Len’s friends. After a quick drink (or two) we made our way to the Registry Office, to meet up with the rest of Len and Emma’s family and friends. Once we were all introduced, Len and myself went into the Registry Office to speak with the Chief Registrar. I told him the track listing on the CD that Emma Jayne had asked me to make, before Len entered his details in the register. Then we both went back outside only to find out that Emma Jayne had arrived, so we all made our way to our seats. The music began with ‘U2’s Beautiful Day’, then ‘Eternal Flame’ by ‘The Bangles’, followed by 'Nat King Cole's Unforgettable'. Then Emma Jayne made her way down the aisle (or runway, as she kept calling it) to the sound of ‘Etta James’ singing ‘At Last’. All this time Len kept facing forward and I was thankful that Shanel was at the front to catch the moment on film (well, pixels actually.) The entire ceremony went without a hitch, apart from a slight mistake by Len, (unlawful instead of lawful), before they were pronounced Husband and Wife. After a few kisses they turned and moved behind the desk to sign the register. Then a few of us that had been chosen as witnesses, signed the register and had our photos taken with Mr and Mrs Erdwin. Once these were taken, we headed back to our seats, to watch the happy couple walk up the aisle (runway). The registrar handed the marriage certificate to Emma and then they made their way out of the office and on into the garden, to the sound of ‘Elvis Presley’ singing 'Can't help falling in love'. Once we had all gathered in the garden, Shanel got to work taking the photos of the happy couple. Then the happy couple with their families, then with friends, then acquaintances, etc. Finally, Shanel got us together for the big group photo and the final ‘confetti’ shot. After this it was a case of saying ‘goodbye’ to those who weren’t able to make the reception, while giving directions to those that could. We then made our way back to the Escourt Tavern until it was time to head for the reception.
The reception was held at the newly built ‘Ex-serviceman’s Club’ on St Albans Road, and was perfect for the amount of people invited. The room was pretty much square, with tables along both sides and in-between the bar and dance floor, where there was also a stage, on which the DJ (Paul Baz) had setup and was playing a mix of 70s and 80s music. Food had also been prepared and was laid out on some tables, to the right of the stage. Once everyone was settled, Mr and Mrs Erdwin took to the dance floor, for their first dance as Husband and Wife. (Check out the video on my movies page.) They then proceeded to cut the cake and pose for more photos. Once the cake had been cut, the kids were put to work building the cardboard cake boxes, while Emma (my Emma) cut the cake into box-sized pieces. After that, the drinks flowed and people mingled. Debbie got up and made a speech and she was followed by Len, who ended his speech with, “Thank you. Thank you, very much.” Beer flowed, food disappeared, Len danced (doing the splits three times!!!), photos and videos were taken and everyone had a great night. All too soon, the night came to a close. Handshakes, hugs and kisses were given to friends old and new, before Mr and Mrs Erdwin made their way home to start their married life together.
And they lived happily ever after.
Track Listing for the big day:
While the guests are waiting for Emma Jayne to arrive,
1. U2 - Beautiful Day
2. Bangles - Eternal Flame
3. Nat King Cole - Unforgettable
4. Elvis Presley - Wonder of You
For Emma to walk down the runway,
5. Etta James - At Last
While signing the register
6. Adele - Make you feel my love
7. Shania Twain - From this moment
For the walk up the runway as Mr & Mrs Erdwin
8. Elvis Presley - Can't help falling in love
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Jamaica, part 5
Friday 29th April, 2011.
As today was to be our last full day in Jamaica, we decided to make the most of it. Breakfast and then a walk along the beach, while Alysha went to see Kiah, before a little bit of lying on a chaise and a spot of paddling. Emma and I then moved towards the pool, where various drinking games were being played. Haveron was his usual happy self and, while Emma went for lunch, he made me a cocktail. It was made with different rums and liqueurs and tasted delicious. Some Scottish people that were by the pool saw Haveron’s cocktail and decided that they would try it, too. The next thing I know, I am caught up in a cocktail drink-off! Luckily, Emma soon returned from lunch and things calmed down. (Although the damage had been done!) A few photos of us with Haveron and we made our way back to the beach. It was as I stood on the beach, watching the sunset with Emma, that my legs started to get drunk. It is a really weird feeling getting drunk from the toes upward. It was soon decided, by Emma, (not that I complained) that we should go back to room to change and have a break from the sun. Replenish our energy, basically. This sounded good to me, so I tried to make my drunken legs walk in a reasonably straight line towards the lift lobby. Once in our room, I asked Emma to wake me for dinner, before falling onto the bed. Sleep came quickly. I awoke at just after half-seven. Dreams of rum cocktails still swirled on the screen in my head, as I scanned the room. Emma was in the asleep and so was Alysha. The sun was pouring in through the balcony and I had to check my watch, again. It was definitely 07:30. I had been asleep for 12 hours! How? Then it hit me. Haveron! Haveron and his cocktails had made me miss dinner! Then I thought about it… and then I blamed the Scots! Then I thought about it some more and decided… it was time for breakfast. Once we were all up, we headed down for our final breakfast in Jamaica (well, this trip at least.) Then, after a second coffee, we walked along the beach before returning to our room. Everything had been pretty much packed, so it was only the last minute checks of drawers, closets, etc. We checked out of our room with main reception, just after 11:00 and headed back towards the beach. We walked the length of the beaches, before heading toward the Wedding gazebo with the manicured lawns. We saw geckos and countless birds and wildlife. We then walked around the water park and I had a game of pool with Alysha at the Teen Centre. Alysha stayed at the Teen Centre with some friends, while Emma and I went to the pool bar to find Haveron. After some photos, Emma and I met up with Alysha and had our final lunch in Jamaica (until next year?) After lunch was finished we took a look around the market stalls and made our way to the reception area, where we awaited our coach. Once the bags were loaded, we climbed aboard and waited for the journey to the Airport. As the route back to the airport has to go around the entire Montego Bay, we kept getting glimpses of the resort until our view was obscured by the mountains and buildings. A few moments later and we were looking down on Sangster International Airport, Montego Bay. One of the things that I always remembered about Montego Bay Airport, from my first visit in 1991, was how small and compact it was. Now, looking down on it 20 years later, you could see the expansion that had taken place. New terminal buildings and departure lounges surrounded the old departure terminal, which was now used as one of the security checkpoints. I won’t go into what it was like at the airport, suffice it to say, we were sorry to be leaving. Alysha was already promising to bring her friends here, when she turns 18. Emma had really taken to the place, and wanted to return as soon as possible. While I felt like I had 20 years before... Hoping that it wouldn’t be another 20 years before I returned. As we taxied along the runway, I noticed that we weren’t picking up enough speed and started to wonder what was going on. All became clear a few seconds later. Air traffic control had changed the direction of take-off. Brilliant! This meant that we would get one more glance of the Sunset Beach Resort. And we did. The flight took-off on time, and our flying time was slightly less than our previous flight. We all found it difficult to sleep, so I watched ‘The King’s Speech’, ‘R.E.D.S.’ and various other programmes. We landed exactly on time and sailed through baggage reclaim, customs and passport control and headed for the Arrivals Lounge, where EmJ was waiting for us.
There is only one way to end this blog and that is by paraphrasing Captain Kirk:
‘Of all the Souls I have encountered in my travels, Jamaicans are the most friendly.’
Until next time…
May it be IRIE with you.
As today was to be our last full day in Jamaica, we decided to make the most of it. Breakfast and then a walk along the beach, while Alysha went to see Kiah, before a little bit of lying on a chaise and a spot of paddling. Emma and I then moved towards the pool, where various drinking games were being played. Haveron was his usual happy self and, while Emma went for lunch, he made me a cocktail. It was made with different rums and liqueurs and tasted delicious. Some Scottish people that were by the pool saw Haveron’s cocktail and decided that they would try it, too. The next thing I know, I am caught up in a cocktail drink-off! Luckily, Emma soon returned from lunch and things calmed down. (Although the damage had been done!) A few photos of us with Haveron and we made our way back to the beach. It was as I stood on the beach, watching the sunset with Emma, that my legs started to get drunk. It is a really weird feeling getting drunk from the toes upward. It was soon decided, by Emma, (not that I complained) that we should go back to room to change and have a break from the sun. Replenish our energy, basically. This sounded good to me, so I tried to make my drunken legs walk in a reasonably straight line towards the lift lobby. Once in our room, I asked Emma to wake me for dinner, before falling onto the bed. Sleep came quickly. I awoke at just after half-seven. Dreams of rum cocktails still swirled on the screen in my head, as I scanned the room. Emma was in the asleep and so was Alysha. The sun was pouring in through the balcony and I had to check my watch, again. It was definitely 07:30. I had been asleep for 12 hours! How? Then it hit me. Haveron! Haveron and his cocktails had made me miss dinner! Then I thought about it… and then I blamed the Scots! Then I thought about it some more and decided… it was time for breakfast. Once we were all up, we headed down for our final breakfast in Jamaica (well, this trip at least.) Then, after a second coffee, we walked along the beach before returning to our room. Everything had been pretty much packed, so it was only the last minute checks of drawers, closets, etc. We checked out of our room with main reception, just after 11:00 and headed back towards the beach. We walked the length of the beaches, before heading toward the Wedding gazebo with the manicured lawns. We saw geckos and countless birds and wildlife. We then walked around the water park and I had a game of pool with Alysha at the Teen Centre. Alysha stayed at the Teen Centre with some friends, while Emma and I went to the pool bar to find Haveron. After some photos, Emma and I met up with Alysha and had our final lunch in Jamaica (until next year?) After lunch was finished we took a look around the market stalls and made our way to the reception area, where we awaited our coach. Once the bags were loaded, we climbed aboard and waited for the journey to the Airport. As the route back to the airport has to go around the entire Montego Bay, we kept getting glimpses of the resort until our view was obscured by the mountains and buildings. A few moments later and we were looking down on Sangster International Airport, Montego Bay. One of the things that I always remembered about Montego Bay Airport, from my first visit in 1991, was how small and compact it was. Now, looking down on it 20 years later, you could see the expansion that had taken place. New terminal buildings and departure lounges surrounded the old departure terminal, which was now used as one of the security checkpoints. I won’t go into what it was like at the airport, suffice it to say, we were sorry to be leaving. Alysha was already promising to bring her friends here, when she turns 18. Emma had really taken to the place, and wanted to return as soon as possible. While I felt like I had 20 years before... Hoping that it wouldn’t be another 20 years before I returned. As we taxied along the runway, I noticed that we weren’t picking up enough speed and started to wonder what was going on. All became clear a few seconds later. Air traffic control had changed the direction of take-off. Brilliant! This meant that we would get one more glance of the Sunset Beach Resort. And we did. The flight took-off on time, and our flying time was slightly less than our previous flight. We all found it difficult to sleep, so I watched ‘The King’s Speech’, ‘R.E.D.S.’ and various other programmes. We landed exactly on time and sailed through baggage reclaim, customs and passport control and headed for the Arrivals Lounge, where EmJ was waiting for us.
There is only one way to end this blog and that is by paraphrasing Captain Kirk:
‘Of all the Souls I have encountered in my travels, Jamaicans are the most friendly.’
Until next time…
May it be IRIE with you.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Jamaica, part 4
Thursday 28th April, 2011.
Today, we had a bit of a lie-in, before heading down for breakfast. After breakfast Emma and I went to use the ATM, which is situated outside the main entrance of the resort. (We needed to use the ATM as we had transferred most of our money into Jamaican Dollars, only to realise that the shops in the resort and most of the people we had dealings with, preferred US Dollars.) We then had another coffee and a gentle stroll along the beach, while we waited for our minibus, to take us to the ‘Hip Strip’ in Montego Bay and the craft market. Peter, our driver, arrived on-time and Alysha, Emma, me and three American passengers were off into Montego Bay. The journey time was only ten minutes and the roads have improved considerably, since my last visit. There has been a lot of construction and infrastructure has been improved in Jamaica’s second city. Peter dropped us at some shops on the ‘hip strip’ and we were given about 20 minutes to look around and purchase items and souvenirs. We managed to find a few presents and Alysha was quite happy looking at bracelets and things, while trying to decide what to buy. Once we were happy, Peter drove us a little further into the City, where we stopped at a shop that sold jewellery and duty-free items. Although we looked, there was nothing really that we liked the look of, so we crossed the parking lot and went into a different shop. After another look around, we headed back to the bus and were transported to more shops, before heading off to the craft market. The craft market is set into the side of a hill and is made up of over a hundred wooden sheds, all painted in bright colours. It is here that Alysha managed to find the exact bracelets that she had been searching for, all morning. Now, the only problem with the craft market is you begin to feel pressured into buying things. As you look at each stall, you are constantly approached by other sellers, asking you to come and see their wares. Then, if you do want to buy things, you have to haggle. The prices start ridiculously high and you have to keep your wits about you, so that you don’t lose out. And most of them only accept US Dollars, so we constantly trying to work out the exchange rate in our head. (Roughly it worked out as £7.50 = $1000 Jamaican or $12 US.) With the heat rising to 35C, Alysha and I made our way back to the minibus to wait for Emma, who was quite happy to keep looking around. Once we were all back on the bus, Peter drove us toward the Freeport. This has moved, from where it was 20 years ago, to a new facility with more shops and offerings. A few of the Americans went to look inside, but most of us stayed on the bus. When everyone was sure that they had got everything that they wanted, Peter drove us back to the resort. The round trip of two-hours-or-so had been a nice way to spend the morning. Once we had disembarked the minibus, tipping Peter with the last of the Jamaican Dollars, we made our way to the restaurant for lunch. Alysha then disappeared off, to find her friends, while Emma and I chillaxed with a cold drink. As the afternoon drew on, clouds moved up from the South and the sky behind the resort started to darken. Alysha had already been back to the room to get changed, so Emma and I headed back to get changed for dinner. When we were ready we headed out onto the balcony in time to see the clouds roll down the bay. The sky went through a whole spectrum of colours, before settling on a deep purple. It was then that the deluge began. It lasted a good ten minutes before passing overhead and out to sea. After dinner, Emma and I headed off to our spot by the now closed pool bar and watched the lightning storm that was happening out over the Caribbean. The rest of the evening we spent wandering along the beach or sitting on the rocks, before heading to the Lounge Bar, to watch the evening’s entertainment.
To be concluded…
Today, we had a bit of a lie-in, before heading down for breakfast. After breakfast Emma and I went to use the ATM, which is situated outside the main entrance of the resort. (We needed to use the ATM as we had transferred most of our money into Jamaican Dollars, only to realise that the shops in the resort and most of the people we had dealings with, preferred US Dollars.) We then had another coffee and a gentle stroll along the beach, while we waited for our minibus, to take us to the ‘Hip Strip’ in Montego Bay and the craft market. Peter, our driver, arrived on-time and Alysha, Emma, me and three American passengers were off into Montego Bay. The journey time was only ten minutes and the roads have improved considerably, since my last visit. There has been a lot of construction and infrastructure has been improved in Jamaica’s second city. Peter dropped us at some shops on the ‘hip strip’ and we were given about 20 minutes to look around and purchase items and souvenirs. We managed to find a few presents and Alysha was quite happy looking at bracelets and things, while trying to decide what to buy. Once we were happy, Peter drove us a little further into the City, where we stopped at a shop that sold jewellery and duty-free items. Although we looked, there was nothing really that we liked the look of, so we crossed the parking lot and went into a different shop. After another look around, we headed back to the bus and were transported to more shops, before heading off to the craft market. The craft market is set into the side of a hill and is made up of over a hundred wooden sheds, all painted in bright colours. It is here that Alysha managed to find the exact bracelets that she had been searching for, all morning. Now, the only problem with the craft market is you begin to feel pressured into buying things. As you look at each stall, you are constantly approached by other sellers, asking you to come and see their wares. Then, if you do want to buy things, you have to haggle. The prices start ridiculously high and you have to keep your wits about you, so that you don’t lose out. And most of them only accept US Dollars, so we constantly trying to work out the exchange rate in our head. (Roughly it worked out as £7.50 = $1000 Jamaican or $12 US.) With the heat rising to 35C, Alysha and I made our way back to the minibus to wait for Emma, who was quite happy to keep looking around. Once we were all back on the bus, Peter drove us toward the Freeport. This has moved, from where it was 20 years ago, to a new facility with more shops and offerings. A few of the Americans went to look inside, but most of us stayed on the bus. When everyone was sure that they had got everything that they wanted, Peter drove us back to the resort. The round trip of two-hours-or-so had been a nice way to spend the morning. Once we had disembarked the minibus, tipping Peter with the last of the Jamaican Dollars, we made our way to the restaurant for lunch. Alysha then disappeared off, to find her friends, while Emma and I chillaxed with a cold drink. As the afternoon drew on, clouds moved up from the South and the sky behind the resort started to darken. Alysha had already been back to the room to get changed, so Emma and I headed back to get changed for dinner. When we were ready we headed out onto the balcony in time to see the clouds roll down the bay. The sky went through a whole spectrum of colours, before settling on a deep purple. It was then that the deluge began. It lasted a good ten minutes before passing overhead and out to sea. After dinner, Emma and I headed off to our spot by the now closed pool bar and watched the lightning storm that was happening out over the Caribbean. The rest of the evening we spent wandering along the beach or sitting on the rocks, before heading to the Lounge Bar, to watch the evening’s entertainment.
To be concluded…
Friday, May 13, 2011
Jamaica, part 3
Monday 25th April, 2011.
We made an early start again so that we could have breakfast and find some chaise to lie on, on the West beach. The West beach is a lot shorter than the East beach, but it affords more shade, is quieter and is closer to the two main pools and the pool bar. Bonus! Once we had settled, Alysha, Emma and I went snorkelling, again. The rocks that stretched out into the Caribbean, from this beach, were full of a myriad variety of fish that we hadn’t seen from the other beach. Lots of photographs were taken and I spent all morning snorkelling and diving to see what else I could see. We ate lunch in the restaurant and then returned to the beach. As I was quite happily taking photos, one of the bar staff came along collecting glasses. His name was Haveron and he would look after us at the pool bar for the rest of the week. Alysha had met a young girl in the water park and they were becoming close friends, so it wasn’t a surprise that she started to spend more time with friends than with us. Throughout the rest of the day, the sun shone, the waves lapped and the drinks flowed. Sunset occurred around about 18:30 and it was after this that we normally went for dinner.
Tuesday 26th April, 2011.
Today we decided to get up very early and nab some chaise by the pool, next to the bar. Towels were laid out and then it was a walk along the beach until breakfast. By the time we had finished breakfast, most of the other chaise by the pool were taken, too. Alysha had asked for some money to get her hair braided and had disappeared off to the spa with her new friend, Kiah, while Emma and I lay in the sun or swam up to the pool to be served by Dennis or Haveron. As the other holidaymakers showed themselves up in various pool or drinking games, we just chillaxed. Alysha soon returned with her hair braided, which looked really cool, before she disappeared off again. The rest of the day was a proper relaxed affair and was much needed.
Wednesday 27th April, 2011.
Every day at the Sunset Beach Resort, just outside the restaurant, there is a chalkboard that has a list of all the events that are taking place that day and evening. This includes: Patois lessons, Soca dancing, hair braiding, craft lessons, crab racing, talent shows, karaoke, live music, beach volleyball, pool volleyball and much, much more. Alysha immediately decided to put her name down to dance in the talent show, before going off to take out a pedalo with her friend. Today, Emma and I decided to sit on the beach between the East and West beaches, beneath a tree that afforded great shade and was close to the restaurant and restaurant bar. Double Bonus!! It was while we were sitting here that we got talking to two American ladies. Naturally, they asked whereabouts in England we were from, so we told them and to our surprise one of the ladies told us that her daughter-in-law lived in St. Albans, which is only a few miles from where we live. It’s a very small world. By this time, Alysha was out in the Sea on the pedalo and I managed to get some shots of her, before I went for my daily swim and snorkel. After lunch, Emma and I went for a walk along the beach and decided to have a little exploratory of the resort. We saw the wedding gazebo, the Italian restaurant, saw some banana trees, coconut and mango trees. We then walked all around the water park and saw the sign for the nurses station. On seeing the sign, we decided that we better get a photo of Emma pointing to the sign. Click. Done. We then wandered through the water park to the main pool and into the lounge and stage area, where we stopped for a drink. After a couple of drinks we walked out back onto the beach, into glorious sunshine. We then headed up toward the stage area and lounge bar to watch the talent show. After a couple of resort staff had done their turn, Alysha appeared on stage. I switched my camera to video, while Emma videoed with Alysha’s camera. Two-and-a-half minutes of pure dancing brilliance then followed. The cheers from the crowd were the loudest that any of the performers had received. If it had been a talent contest, Alysha would have won hands down! (Check out the video of Alysha’s Jamaican debut on my video page.)
To be continued...
We made an early start again so that we could have breakfast and find some chaise to lie on, on the West beach. The West beach is a lot shorter than the East beach, but it affords more shade, is quieter and is closer to the two main pools and the pool bar. Bonus! Once we had settled, Alysha, Emma and I went snorkelling, again. The rocks that stretched out into the Caribbean, from this beach, were full of a myriad variety of fish that we hadn’t seen from the other beach. Lots of photographs were taken and I spent all morning snorkelling and diving to see what else I could see. We ate lunch in the restaurant and then returned to the beach. As I was quite happily taking photos, one of the bar staff came along collecting glasses. His name was Haveron and he would look after us at the pool bar for the rest of the week. Alysha had met a young girl in the water park and they were becoming close friends, so it wasn’t a surprise that she started to spend more time with friends than with us. Throughout the rest of the day, the sun shone, the waves lapped and the drinks flowed. Sunset occurred around about 18:30 and it was after this that we normally went for dinner.
Tuesday 26th April, 2011.
Today we decided to get up very early and nab some chaise by the pool, next to the bar. Towels were laid out and then it was a walk along the beach until breakfast. By the time we had finished breakfast, most of the other chaise by the pool were taken, too. Alysha had asked for some money to get her hair braided and had disappeared off to the spa with her new friend, Kiah, while Emma and I lay in the sun or swam up to the pool to be served by Dennis or Haveron. As the other holidaymakers showed themselves up in various pool or drinking games, we just chillaxed. Alysha soon returned with her hair braided, which looked really cool, before she disappeared off again. The rest of the day was a proper relaxed affair and was much needed.
Wednesday 27th April, 2011.
Every day at the Sunset Beach Resort, just outside the restaurant, there is a chalkboard that has a list of all the events that are taking place that day and evening. This includes: Patois lessons, Soca dancing, hair braiding, craft lessons, crab racing, talent shows, karaoke, live music, beach volleyball, pool volleyball and much, much more. Alysha immediately decided to put her name down to dance in the talent show, before going off to take out a pedalo with her friend. Today, Emma and I decided to sit on the beach between the East and West beaches, beneath a tree that afforded great shade and was close to the restaurant and restaurant bar. Double Bonus!! It was while we were sitting here that we got talking to two American ladies. Naturally, they asked whereabouts in England we were from, so we told them and to our surprise one of the ladies told us that her daughter-in-law lived in St. Albans, which is only a few miles from where we live. It’s a very small world. By this time, Alysha was out in the Sea on the pedalo and I managed to get some shots of her, before I went for my daily swim and snorkel. After lunch, Emma and I went for a walk along the beach and decided to have a little exploratory of the resort. We saw the wedding gazebo, the Italian restaurant, saw some banana trees, coconut and mango trees. We then walked all around the water park and saw the sign for the nurses station. On seeing the sign, we decided that we better get a photo of Emma pointing to the sign. Click. Done. We then wandered through the water park to the main pool and into the lounge and stage area, where we stopped for a drink. After a couple of drinks we walked out back onto the beach, into glorious sunshine. We then headed up toward the stage area and lounge bar to watch the talent show. After a couple of resort staff had done their turn, Alysha appeared on stage. I switched my camera to video, while Emma videoed with Alysha’s camera. Two-and-a-half minutes of pure dancing brilliance then followed. The cheers from the crowd were the loudest that any of the performers had received. If it had been a talent contest, Alysha would have won hands down! (Check out the video of Alysha’s Jamaican debut on my video page.)
To be continued...
Monday, May 09, 2011
Jamaica, part 2
Sunday April, 24th, 2011
For our first morning in Jamaica, we were all up before 06:00. This wasn’t planned, it just happened. After the kettle was filled and put on to boil, we all went out onto the balcony, where we found that the sun was about to rise. I quickly grabbed my camera, as Alysha grabbed hers, and we watched the sun rise above the mountains and gradually begin to illuminate Montego Bay. As it rose, so did the temperature. By 06:30 it was close to 26c. Once we were ready, we headed downstairs for breakfast. Although breakfast was predominantly a buffet style affair, there were chefs on hand cooking fresh omelettes, pancakes, etc. The choice from the buffet was incredible. It catered for all nationalities and tasted superb. We all filled up our plates and sat at a table by the window, overlooking the Caribbean Sea. The waiting staff came and filled our glasses with iced water and poured our tea or coffee. They were always smiling and cheerful and couldn’t wait to be of service. After we had finished breakfast, we made our way out down to the beach, which had been freshly raked and cleared of rubbish, early that morning. For our first full day, in Jamaica, we decided to try out the East beach. We made our way along its full length and decided that this spot was perfect. As far from the beach volleyball court and water-park, so that we weren’t disturbed, but right in front of a small beach hut bar, so that drinks were never a problem. We spent the entire morning snorkelling, swimming and sunbathing. As lunchtime drew close, we left our towels on the chaise and headed back to the restaurant. Once again the food was exceptional. Again, although still a buffet, chefs were carving fresh meat at the deli counter and making fresh hamburgers at the grill. I tried everything that week. From foods that I had heard of but never tried to foods that I couldn’t even pronounce. All of it was delicious! (Except for the aubergines and the yellow courgettes!) After lunch we headed back to our spot on the beach where Alysha and Emma continued to relax and I decided to do some more snorkelling. I had walked out to where the sea came to just above my waist, and I could see lots off small fish swimming around my legs. So I put my head into the water to get a closer look. That’s when I saw it. A barracuda. It was just hanging in the sea in front of me and was between two and three feet long. I motioned to Alysha, who was still on the beach, to pass my camera and her and Emma came down to see what I had found. Once they were masked up we all put our heads under the water and looked for the barracuda. Now, barracuda are coloured in such a way that they can easily blend into the sandy seabed and the rays of sun streaming through the sea, also help them to camouflage. It only took a few seconds for our eyes to adjust before we all saw it. Still just hanging there, with its mouth slightly open, showing us its razor-sharp teeth. After hanging around for a bit, so that I could get a few pictures, it swam away. Soon after this we headed back to our room, to get ready for dinner. Before we went to dinner, we first went to the beach and watched the sunset. Once the sun had dipped below the horizon we headed off to the restaurant for dinner. Dinner was just as good as the breakfast and lunch had been, if not better. The choices on offer were myriad and the taste of each dish was incredible. Once we were finished with dinner, and dessert for Emma and Alysha, we walked along the path and onto the West beach. We then walked the length of both beaches, taking in the fresh air and serenity of the resort. Considering the amount of people staying at the resort, and the music coming from the lounge/stage area, it was remarkably quiet. We then returned to the lounge bar to grab a drink and relax and watch the evening’s entertainment. Pretty soon we were tired and headed back up to our room. All in all our first day in Jamaica had been pretty awesome and I couldn’t wait to see what the rest of the week would bring.
To be continued…
For our first morning in Jamaica, we were all up before 06:00. This wasn’t planned, it just happened. After the kettle was filled and put on to boil, we all went out onto the balcony, where we found that the sun was about to rise. I quickly grabbed my camera, as Alysha grabbed hers, and we watched the sun rise above the mountains and gradually begin to illuminate Montego Bay. As it rose, so did the temperature. By 06:30 it was close to 26c. Once we were ready, we headed downstairs for breakfast. Although breakfast was predominantly a buffet style affair, there were chefs on hand cooking fresh omelettes, pancakes, etc. The choice from the buffet was incredible. It catered for all nationalities and tasted superb. We all filled up our plates and sat at a table by the window, overlooking the Caribbean Sea. The waiting staff came and filled our glasses with iced water and poured our tea or coffee. They were always smiling and cheerful and couldn’t wait to be of service. After we had finished breakfast, we made our way out down to the beach, which had been freshly raked and cleared of rubbish, early that morning. For our first full day, in Jamaica, we decided to try out the East beach. We made our way along its full length and decided that this spot was perfect. As far from the beach volleyball court and water-park, so that we weren’t disturbed, but right in front of a small beach hut bar, so that drinks were never a problem. We spent the entire morning snorkelling, swimming and sunbathing. As lunchtime drew close, we left our towels on the chaise and headed back to the restaurant. Once again the food was exceptional. Again, although still a buffet, chefs were carving fresh meat at the deli counter and making fresh hamburgers at the grill. I tried everything that week. From foods that I had heard of but never tried to foods that I couldn’t even pronounce. All of it was delicious! (Except for the aubergines and the yellow courgettes!) After lunch we headed back to our spot on the beach where Alysha and Emma continued to relax and I decided to do some more snorkelling. I had walked out to where the sea came to just above my waist, and I could see lots off small fish swimming around my legs. So I put my head into the water to get a closer look. That’s when I saw it. A barracuda. It was just hanging in the sea in front of me and was between two and three feet long. I motioned to Alysha, who was still on the beach, to pass my camera and her and Emma came down to see what I had found. Once they were masked up we all put our heads under the water and looked for the barracuda. Now, barracuda are coloured in such a way that they can easily blend into the sandy seabed and the rays of sun streaming through the sea, also help them to camouflage. It only took a few seconds for our eyes to adjust before we all saw it. Still just hanging there, with its mouth slightly open, showing us its razor-sharp teeth. After hanging around for a bit, so that I could get a few pictures, it swam away. Soon after this we headed back to our room, to get ready for dinner. Before we went to dinner, we first went to the beach and watched the sunset. Once the sun had dipped below the horizon we headed off to the restaurant for dinner. Dinner was just as good as the breakfast and lunch had been, if not better. The choices on offer were myriad and the taste of each dish was incredible. Once we were finished with dinner, and dessert for Emma and Alysha, we walked along the path and onto the West beach. We then walked the length of both beaches, taking in the fresh air and serenity of the resort. Considering the amount of people staying at the resort, and the music coming from the lounge/stage area, it was remarkably quiet. We then returned to the lounge bar to grab a drink and relax and watch the evening’s entertainment. Pretty soon we were tired and headed back up to our room. All in all our first day in Jamaica had been pretty awesome and I couldn’t wait to see what the rest of the week would bring.
To be continued…
Wednesday, May 04, 2011
Jamaica, part 1
April 23rd, 2011. (St. Georges Day)
EmJ dropped us at Gatwick Airport, just after 7:00. Once we had said our goodbyes, we went into the Terminal and through check-in. Then it was on into Passport Control and finally through into the Departure Lounge. It was here that we discovered that there was to be a two-hour delay. So, we went and got ourselves a drink at Café Nero. (One was free as I have a loyalty card.) It was then time to be patient and wait for our flight. After looking around the entire North Terminal Departure Lounge (twice), we found the perfect spot to sit and wait. After watching the aeroplanes landing and taking-off, the call went out that our aeroplane was ready to board, so we made our way to our gate. We were soon onboard and seated on Thomson Flight TOM024. Emma in 35E, Alysha in 36E and me in 37E. At 11:15 our flight took-off for Montego Bay. Because of the delay, breakfast was skipped and we were given the choice of Chicken or Beef and Ale. (I had the Beef and Ale.) During the flight I kept trying to sleep but couldn’t, so I busied myself by watching the T.V. that was imbedded in the seat in front of me. When we had been flying for what seemed like an eternity, we were offered a snack, which consisted of a roll, fruit and the choice of a tea or coffee.(To say I was starving would be an understatement!) Then we heard the Captain’s voice on the P.A. system saying that we were now flying over Guantanamo Bay, Cuba and would soon be starting our descent into Sangster International Airport, Montego Bay. As the aeroplane started to descend, I looked out of the Starboard windows and got my first glimpse of the Sunset Beach Resort. The two towers, of the resort, shone brilliantly in the afternoon sun and I remembered back to a day in September 1991, when I had last laid eyes on this place. We landed without a hitch and were soon going through immigration and Passport Control. Once we had found our transfer coach, the heat kicked in. The time was roughly 17:30, Jamaican Time and the weather was 29C. The journey to our resort took 20 minutes, as we had to drop other passengers at different hotels on the way. Checking in to our hotel, took another 10 minutes and we were soon on our way to our room, with the promise that our luggage would follow us up. We took the lift to the fourth floor and found the door to room A401. As soon as we were inside I had a distinct feeling of déjà vu. The room I now stood in was identical to the room I had stayed in nearly 20 years before. The view was identical and, for the entire week, I was 99% sure this was the same room. I still am! After our luggage arrived, we got changed and headed downstairs to explore. After a walk along the beach and a good look around, we headed inside for some dinner. After dinner we had a few drinks and then headed up to bed. We were asleep by 21:00.
EmJ dropped us at Gatwick Airport, just after 7:00. Once we had said our goodbyes, we went into the Terminal and through check-in. Then it was on into Passport Control and finally through into the Departure Lounge. It was here that we discovered that there was to be a two-hour delay. So, we went and got ourselves a drink at Café Nero. (One was free as I have a loyalty card.) It was then time to be patient and wait for our flight. After looking around the entire North Terminal Departure Lounge (twice), we found the perfect spot to sit and wait. After watching the aeroplanes landing and taking-off, the call went out that our aeroplane was ready to board, so we made our way to our gate. We were soon onboard and seated on Thomson Flight TOM024. Emma in 35E, Alysha in 36E and me in 37E. At 11:15 our flight took-off for Montego Bay. Because of the delay, breakfast was skipped and we were given the choice of Chicken or Beef and Ale. (I had the Beef and Ale.) During the flight I kept trying to sleep but couldn’t, so I busied myself by watching the T.V. that was imbedded in the seat in front of me. When we had been flying for what seemed like an eternity, we were offered a snack, which consisted of a roll, fruit and the choice of a tea or coffee.(To say I was starving would be an understatement!) Then we heard the Captain’s voice on the P.A. system saying that we were now flying over Guantanamo Bay, Cuba and would soon be starting our descent into Sangster International Airport, Montego Bay. As the aeroplane started to descend, I looked out of the Starboard windows and got my first glimpse of the Sunset Beach Resort. The two towers, of the resort, shone brilliantly in the afternoon sun and I remembered back to a day in September 1991, when I had last laid eyes on this place. We landed without a hitch and were soon going through immigration and Passport Control. Once we had found our transfer coach, the heat kicked in. The time was roughly 17:30, Jamaican Time and the weather was 29C. The journey to our resort took 20 minutes, as we had to drop other passengers at different hotels on the way. Checking in to our hotel, took another 10 minutes and we were soon on our way to our room, with the promise that our luggage would follow us up. We took the lift to the fourth floor and found the door to room A401. As soon as we were inside I had a distinct feeling of déjà vu. The room I now stood in was identical to the room I had stayed in nearly 20 years before. The view was identical and, for the entire week, I was 99% sure this was the same room. I still am! After our luggage arrived, we got changed and headed downstairs to explore. After a walk along the beach and a good look around, we headed inside for some dinner. After dinner we had a few drinks and then headed up to bed. We were asleep by 21:00.
Thursday, March 03, 2011
Nannie's 85th
Friday 25th February, 2011.
Emma, Alysha and I got to Watford Junction to catch the 14:01 train. The train was on time and we were on our way. A few stops later and we arrived at Queens Park where we crossed the platform and got straight onto a Bakerloo Line train headed for Paddington Station. We arrived at Paddington and had to wait for nearly 20 minutes for our third train. When it arrived we made our way to our reserved seats and relaxed. Alysha was over the moon that each seat had a TV, and after she sent a £1.50 text, she had full access to the content. So, she watched 'Outnumbered', 'The Simpson's' and various other programmes, until we arrived at Bristol Parkway. Another 15 minute wait for our fourth and final train, which would take us to Torquay. We arrived at Torquay Station at 18:45 and only had to wait a few minutes before Uncle Barry and Auntie Francesca arrived to take us to the hotel. Barry and Francesca dropped us at the Toorak hotel and then drove off to see Nannie. So, the three of us went to reception and checked in. The receptionist issued us with a room key and gave us directions to our room. Our room was on the ground floor and was spacious and clean and it contained a double bed, two single beds, TV, kettle, safe, shower and plenty of storage. The view looked toward the sea, which you could just make out. Once Alysha had picked which of the single beds she was having and things were unpacked, we headed off to find my family. Francesca had told us that they were in the Aztec Bar, so we headed back towards reception where we were given more directions. It turns out that the hotel is actually four hotels, all linked together, so that no matter what hotel you stay in, you can use all the facilities of all the hotels. So we left followed the corridor and went into the Derwent hotel and then into the Carlton where we finally found them. My cousin Katherine was sitting at a table with her husband, as was Amanda's husband Dan and Joshua and his partner Tanya. Sean and Amanda were at the bar, so the three of us queued behind them until I was recognised. It didn't take long. Hugs and introductions were soon followed by drinks. My Auntie Maureen was also with us and she was charged with keeping us behaved and sober. She did this by drinking all the wine, as did Katherine, while Joshua and I drank some Guinness. We all stayed together until the early hours, before making our way back to our rooms.
Saturday 26th february, 2011.
Up nice and early so that we could get breakfast. A few green faces from some family members but, apart from that, a great start to the day. Since Maureen had made an itinerary of what was happening and when, it turned out that we had most of the day to do as we wanted. So, we asked Alysha what she wanted to do, to which she said she wanted to stay at the hotel and spend some time with all the new cousins and family. We agreed and left her some money for the machines and lunch, etc., and then Emma and I disappeared off into Torquay. Directly opposite our hotel is Torre Abbey, so we walked through the gardens and I took some photos, before we continued down to the beach. We then walked along the marina wall and all around the sea wall before deciding to go into 'Living coasts'. It is kind of a Zoo that had penguins, seals, Inca terns, Fish, Rays and lots more. We must have spent a good hour-or-so going round, taking pictures before we sat down for a coffee. We then headed into Torquay itself, walking up the High Street and finally finding something to eat. We then headed back to the hotel. We found Alysha in the Kids Zone iwth Katherine and her kids and then Amanda, Dan and their kids arrived and they all had a game of ten-pin-bowling. I watched some of the rugby, before we headed to our room to get ready. Once we were ready, we made our way to the bar and awaited the arrival of Nannie. Considering her apartment overlooks the hotel complex, she had no idea that we were all here, apart from Maureen, Francesca, Barry and Diedre. Once she was seated in the Buckingham Room, Uncle Doug kept coming in to take different groups to see her. Daughters first followed by Katherine and her family, Sean and his, then Me and mine, then Amanda and hers followed by Joshua and Tanya. Then finally by Roisin and Aoife. Nannie seemed genuinely happy, but she also looked very old. We then made our way to the bar, where a professional photographer was on hand to take photographs of everyone. A group shot. One of Nannie with her children. Nannie with her grand and great grand children. Nannie with Francesca and her family. Etcetera, Etcetera. Then we had a photograph taken of the five cousins together. This was, after all, the first time all five of us had been together for nearly 28 years!!! So, the first shot was us sitting nicely, before the last shot of us all with a drink in our hands. Not entirely sure that some of the family were impressed with the last shot, but it had to be done! Then it was off to dinner. Not the best timing in the world, as John and myself wanted to watch the end of the England Rugby match. Thank God, for internet on the mobile! Dinner was a set starter followed by a selection of different main courses. Then dessert which I gave to Alysha. Katherine made a speech, in which I was singled out for a few jokes, in which she also thanked Auntie Maureen for organising the entire weekend, Nannie's friend stood up to make a speech. She obviously knows my Nan very well and I was a little upset when my Dad was mentioned, as I think Nannie misses him, too. After the coffee was served we all made our way back to the bar. Barry, Sean, John and myself went out onto the patio and each had a Cuban cigar to celebrate. The beer continued to flow, until it dawned on us that Joshua and myself had drunk the hotel out of Guinness! So, we switched to lager. The bar eventually closed, but we managed to get the night porter to reopen it a little later.
Sunday 27th February, 2011.
Another early start so that we could catch breakfast and see some more green faces. After breakfast Alysha went swimming with the other kids for an hour or so, while Emma and I sat with Amanda and Dan and caught up. Then we went to see Katherine and caught up with her, before heading back to our room to pack our things. We checked out of our room at 11:00 and left our things with reception, before heading to the bar for brunch with Nannie and her friends. After a few drinks it was time for us to leave to catch a taxi to the station. Plenty of hugs, kisses and handshakes as we said our goodbyes to Nannie and my family. Then we were off. The train to Exeter arrived on time (13:56) and we were on our way. The ticket inspector checked our tickets and when he saw that we were headed to Watford, we had a nice little chat. (Turns out he is from St. Albans!) A slight delay in our connecting train to Clapham Junction but the driver made up time, so that we arrived in time for our connecting train to Watford. We finally made it home for 20:00. All in all a great weekend with family. Hopefully it won't be too long until I see them all again!
Until next time...
May it be well with you!
Emma, Alysha and I got to Watford Junction to catch the 14:01 train. The train was on time and we were on our way. A few stops later and we arrived at Queens Park where we crossed the platform and got straight onto a Bakerloo Line train headed for Paddington Station. We arrived at Paddington and had to wait for nearly 20 minutes for our third train. When it arrived we made our way to our reserved seats and relaxed. Alysha was over the moon that each seat had a TV, and after she sent a £1.50 text, she had full access to the content. So, she watched 'Outnumbered', 'The Simpson's' and various other programmes, until we arrived at Bristol Parkway. Another 15 minute wait for our fourth and final train, which would take us to Torquay. We arrived at Torquay Station at 18:45 and only had to wait a few minutes before Uncle Barry and Auntie Francesca arrived to take us to the hotel. Barry and Francesca dropped us at the Toorak hotel and then drove off to see Nannie. So, the three of us went to reception and checked in. The receptionist issued us with a room key and gave us directions to our room. Our room was on the ground floor and was spacious and clean and it contained a double bed, two single beds, TV, kettle, safe, shower and plenty of storage. The view looked toward the sea, which you could just make out. Once Alysha had picked which of the single beds she was having and things were unpacked, we headed off to find my family. Francesca had told us that they were in the Aztec Bar, so we headed back towards reception where we were given more directions. It turns out that the hotel is actually four hotels, all linked together, so that no matter what hotel you stay in, you can use all the facilities of all the hotels. So we left followed the corridor and went into the Derwent hotel and then into the Carlton where we finally found them. My cousin Katherine was sitting at a table with her husband, as was Amanda's husband Dan and Joshua and his partner Tanya. Sean and Amanda were at the bar, so the three of us queued behind them until I was recognised. It didn't take long. Hugs and introductions were soon followed by drinks. My Auntie Maureen was also with us and she was charged with keeping us behaved and sober. She did this by drinking all the wine, as did Katherine, while Joshua and I drank some Guinness. We all stayed together until the early hours, before making our way back to our rooms.
Saturday 26th february, 2011.
Up nice and early so that we could get breakfast. A few green faces from some family members but, apart from that, a great start to the day. Since Maureen had made an itinerary of what was happening and when, it turned out that we had most of the day to do as we wanted. So, we asked Alysha what she wanted to do, to which she said she wanted to stay at the hotel and spend some time with all the new cousins and family. We agreed and left her some money for the machines and lunch, etc., and then Emma and I disappeared off into Torquay. Directly opposite our hotel is Torre Abbey, so we walked through the gardens and I took some photos, before we continued down to the beach. We then walked along the marina wall and all around the sea wall before deciding to go into 'Living coasts'. It is kind of a Zoo that had penguins, seals, Inca terns, Fish, Rays and lots more. We must have spent a good hour-or-so going round, taking pictures before we sat down for a coffee. We then headed into Torquay itself, walking up the High Street and finally finding something to eat. We then headed back to the hotel. We found Alysha in the Kids Zone iwth Katherine and her kids and then Amanda, Dan and their kids arrived and they all had a game of ten-pin-bowling. I watched some of the rugby, before we headed to our room to get ready. Once we were ready, we made our way to the bar and awaited the arrival of Nannie. Considering her apartment overlooks the hotel complex, she had no idea that we were all here, apart from Maureen, Francesca, Barry and Diedre. Once she was seated in the Buckingham Room, Uncle Doug kept coming in to take different groups to see her. Daughters first followed by Katherine and her family, Sean and his, then Me and mine, then Amanda and hers followed by Joshua and Tanya. Then finally by Roisin and Aoife. Nannie seemed genuinely happy, but she also looked very old. We then made our way to the bar, where a professional photographer was on hand to take photographs of everyone. A group shot. One of Nannie with her children. Nannie with her grand and great grand children. Nannie with Francesca and her family. Etcetera, Etcetera. Then we had a photograph taken of the five cousins together. This was, after all, the first time all five of us had been together for nearly 28 years!!! So, the first shot was us sitting nicely, before the last shot of us all with a drink in our hands. Not entirely sure that some of the family were impressed with the last shot, but it had to be done! Then it was off to dinner. Not the best timing in the world, as John and myself wanted to watch the end of the England Rugby match. Thank God, for internet on the mobile! Dinner was a set starter followed by a selection of different main courses. Then dessert which I gave to Alysha. Katherine made a speech, in which I was singled out for a few jokes, in which she also thanked Auntie Maureen for organising the entire weekend, Nannie's friend stood up to make a speech. She obviously knows my Nan very well and I was a little upset when my Dad was mentioned, as I think Nannie misses him, too. After the coffee was served we all made our way back to the bar. Barry, Sean, John and myself went out onto the patio and each had a Cuban cigar to celebrate. The beer continued to flow, until it dawned on us that Joshua and myself had drunk the hotel out of Guinness! So, we switched to lager. The bar eventually closed, but we managed to get the night porter to reopen it a little later.
Sunday 27th February, 2011.
Another early start so that we could catch breakfast and see some more green faces. After breakfast Alysha went swimming with the other kids for an hour or so, while Emma and I sat with Amanda and Dan and caught up. Then we went to see Katherine and caught up with her, before heading back to our room to pack our things. We checked out of our room at 11:00 and left our things with reception, before heading to the bar for brunch with Nannie and her friends. After a few drinks it was time for us to leave to catch a taxi to the station. Plenty of hugs, kisses and handshakes as we said our goodbyes to Nannie and my family. Then we were off. The train to Exeter arrived on time (13:56) and we were on our way. The ticket inspector checked our tickets and when he saw that we were headed to Watford, we had a nice little chat. (Turns out he is from St. Albans!) A slight delay in our connecting train to Clapham Junction but the driver made up time, so that we arrived in time for our connecting train to Watford. We finally made it home for 20:00. All in all a great weekend with family. Hopefully it won't be too long until I see them all again!
Until next time...
May it be well with you!
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Painting, 6 Nations & A Proposal
Tuesday 1st February
Emma and I had booked the week off work, so that we could decorate the house. So, we up and into town early to get the paint and accessories that we needed. A quick trip to B&Q and a spot of lunch and then a taxi home. We moved all the furniture towards the centre of the room and began painting. We started with the two smaller walls, as these were going to be a 'dark teal' compared to the rest of the house, which was going to be a light 'gold' colour, similar to what was already in the house. By the end of the day, the two smaller walls were painted and one of the large walls had a coat of paint on it. I then popped out for a quick drink. On my return I went straight upstairs to Alysha's room as I needed to talk to her about something important. After our chat, we both went downstairs to where Emma was sitting on the sofa. It was then that I asked her to give me back her engagement ring. She didn't seem too happy about it, but she gave it back. I then told her that she could have it back on the condition that we had to be married by the end of March 2012. She agreed, so I gave her the ring back and she replaced it on her finger.
Wednesday 2nd
Up nice and early so that we could get a whole days painting done. Emma started touching up the 'dark teal' where we had missed a few bits and then started glossing. I carried on with painting the 'gold' on all the other walls, including upstairs. By the end of the day we had broken the back of it.
Thursday 3rd
Another earlyish start. Emma went into town for some shopping, while I went to my Uncle's house to help him put a new aerial in his loft. He then took me to B&Q to get another tin of gloss paint. (Our house has a lot of woodwork!) On my return home, Emma was busy glossing away and I carried on with the painting and touching up. By late afternoon we were almost done!
Friday 4th
A bit of a lie-in, before we got up and finished the painting. Everything was done with the exception of the radiators. They could wait a couple of days. So, after a spot of lunch we got all the furniture bak into its rightful places and chilled out. That evening we went to the Oddfellows to watch the opening match of the RBS 6 Nations Championship 2011, between Wales and England. Not the best of opening matches and not the start that Wales were looking for.
Saturday 5th
Another trip to the Oddfellows to watch Italy v Ireland and Scotland v France. Emma and I were joined by Len and Emma Jayne and Abigail from work. Emma and Abigail weren't staying for the whole afternoon as they were heading to their friend Kirsty's for a meal and drinks. Emma Jayne only stayed for the Ireland match before heading home, leaving me with an upset Len. Ireland didn't perform to their best and narrowly beat Italy. I was more shocked that I predicted the entire match to some friends before the match started. Right down to who would score and when. Spooky. Len, on the other hand, had been concentrating more on the Arsenal match. He was seriously upset when Arsenal, having been winning 4-0, drew the match. My Mum, who had been at the Emirates to watch the match, agreed with Len that the referee had obviously been bribed and should be shot at dawn! So, Len and I watched the Scotland v France match, with me still celebrating from the Irish win and Len still drowning his sorrows from the Arsenal draw.
All in all it was an eventful week.
Until my next blog...
May it be well with you.
Emma and I had booked the week off work, so that we could decorate the house. So, we up and into town early to get the paint and accessories that we needed. A quick trip to B&Q and a spot of lunch and then a taxi home. We moved all the furniture towards the centre of the room and began painting. We started with the two smaller walls, as these were going to be a 'dark teal' compared to the rest of the house, which was going to be a light 'gold' colour, similar to what was already in the house. By the end of the day, the two smaller walls were painted and one of the large walls had a coat of paint on it. I then popped out for a quick drink. On my return I went straight upstairs to Alysha's room as I needed to talk to her about something important. After our chat, we both went downstairs to where Emma was sitting on the sofa. It was then that I asked her to give me back her engagement ring. She didn't seem too happy about it, but she gave it back. I then told her that she could have it back on the condition that we had to be married by the end of March 2012. She agreed, so I gave her the ring back and she replaced it on her finger.
Wednesday 2nd
Up nice and early so that we could get a whole days painting done. Emma started touching up the 'dark teal' where we had missed a few bits and then started glossing. I carried on with painting the 'gold' on all the other walls, including upstairs. By the end of the day we had broken the back of it.
Thursday 3rd
Another earlyish start. Emma went into town for some shopping, while I went to my Uncle's house to help him put a new aerial in his loft. He then took me to B&Q to get another tin of gloss paint. (Our house has a lot of woodwork!) On my return home, Emma was busy glossing away and I carried on with the painting and touching up. By late afternoon we were almost done!
Friday 4th
A bit of a lie-in, before we got up and finished the painting. Everything was done with the exception of the radiators. They could wait a couple of days. So, after a spot of lunch we got all the furniture bak into its rightful places and chilled out. That evening we went to the Oddfellows to watch the opening match of the RBS 6 Nations Championship 2011, between Wales and England. Not the best of opening matches and not the start that Wales were looking for.
Saturday 5th
Another trip to the Oddfellows to watch Italy v Ireland and Scotland v France. Emma and I were joined by Len and Emma Jayne and Abigail from work. Emma and Abigail weren't staying for the whole afternoon as they were heading to their friend Kirsty's for a meal and drinks. Emma Jayne only stayed for the Ireland match before heading home, leaving me with an upset Len. Ireland didn't perform to their best and narrowly beat Italy. I was more shocked that I predicted the entire match to some friends before the match started. Right down to who would score and when. Spooky. Len, on the other hand, had been concentrating more on the Arsenal match. He was seriously upset when Arsenal, having been winning 4-0, drew the match. My Mum, who had been at the Emirates to watch the match, agreed with Len that the referee had obviously been bribed and should be shot at dawn! So, Len and I watched the Scotland v France match, with me still celebrating from the Irish win and Len still drowning his sorrows from the Arsenal draw.
All in all it was an eventful week.
Until my next blog...
May it be well with you.
Wednesday, February 02, 2011
January, 2011
New Year Weekend
Well, New Year came and went as normal. We didn't go out New Year's Eve, although Alysha did go to a friends, so we stayed in and watched the TV and waited until midnight to watch the fireworks, which were fairly impressive this year. Then it was off to bed. Emma was up early, as she had to work, where as I don't work weekends or bank holidays, so I stayed in bed for a bit. When I did get up I went for a wander, before returning home to watch some DVD's that I had received for Christmas. (Star Trek the Original series, all remastered). After that I just chillaxed for the remainder of the day. Sunday was spent watchin gmore episodes while Emma went to work, again. That is pretty much how I spent the whole of the New Year weekend.
Swany's Birthday
Swany ended up going out the night before his Birthday (11th) with some friends from work. They played pool and got drunk, before he ended up in the pond in Watford High Street... twice!! I popped round to his flat on the Wednesday (12th) to see how he was. He wasn't well at all, throwing up a couple of times while I was there. Then he asked me to take him to A+E as his foot hurt, from when he had fallen in the pond. So, I took him to A+E. A quick X-ray and it was discovered that his foot was just bruised. I then helped him back to his flat, where he proceeded to throw up, again. He wouldn't stop throwing up until four in the afternoon.
Five Fold Kiss
Saturday 12th January saw Five Fold Kiss perform their first Saturday night at The Horns. Steve B, Len, Emma Jayne, Swany, Pete, Adam and a few others all hit the pub at about eight-thirty, and waited for the band to start. Some more friends that I had told about Five Fold Kiss turned up, too. Helen and Russell, Valentina, Jenny and Anita. What a night! The band rocked and eveybody had a fantastic time. Ofcourse, my camera was their to capture the atmosphere of the night. After the band had finished, Len, Emma Jayne, Steve B, Swany, Pete and myself all went to Modello's for some more drinks. Then we all said our goodbyes and made our merry ways home. Steve B came back to mine as it was easier than trying to get back to Northwood.
Sunday 23rd January
Alysha was up early as she had a dance competition to go to. This wouold be her first of the year and she was really looking forward to it. (Alysha had only found out about it the afternoon before, when Bobby, her dance instructor, told her about it). So, off she went. Emma and I decided to just chill-out for the day, so we did. When Alysha finally arrived back, she had her arms full of trophies. It turns out that Alysha got a 3rd in couples, 3rd in Line Dance, 1st in Solos and qualified for the Nationals, in October!!! How proud am I?!
Sunday 30th January
Alysha was up early as she had her second dance competition of the year. As it turned out it wasn't her best performance, only getting a 4th place medal, but I am still proud of her.
Monday 31st January
Today would have been my Dad's 60th Birthday. It was also the first day of my week off work. We didn't get up to much, just relaxed and took it easy all day, as we had plans to decorate the house for the rest of the week.
Until my next blog...
May it be well with you.
Well, New Year came and went as normal. We didn't go out New Year's Eve, although Alysha did go to a friends, so we stayed in and watched the TV and waited until midnight to watch the fireworks, which were fairly impressive this year. Then it was off to bed. Emma was up early, as she had to work, where as I don't work weekends or bank holidays, so I stayed in bed for a bit. When I did get up I went for a wander, before returning home to watch some DVD's that I had received for Christmas. (Star Trek the Original series, all remastered). After that I just chillaxed for the remainder of the day. Sunday was spent watchin gmore episodes while Emma went to work, again. That is pretty much how I spent the whole of the New Year weekend.
Swany's Birthday
Swany ended up going out the night before his Birthday (11th) with some friends from work. They played pool and got drunk, before he ended up in the pond in Watford High Street... twice!! I popped round to his flat on the Wednesday (12th) to see how he was. He wasn't well at all, throwing up a couple of times while I was there. Then he asked me to take him to A+E as his foot hurt, from when he had fallen in the pond. So, I took him to A+E. A quick X-ray and it was discovered that his foot was just bruised. I then helped him back to his flat, where he proceeded to throw up, again. He wouldn't stop throwing up until four in the afternoon.
Five Fold Kiss
Saturday 12th January saw Five Fold Kiss perform their first Saturday night at The Horns. Steve B, Len, Emma Jayne, Swany, Pete, Adam and a few others all hit the pub at about eight-thirty, and waited for the band to start. Some more friends that I had told about Five Fold Kiss turned up, too. Helen and Russell, Valentina, Jenny and Anita. What a night! The band rocked and eveybody had a fantastic time. Ofcourse, my camera was their to capture the atmosphere of the night. After the band had finished, Len, Emma Jayne, Steve B, Swany, Pete and myself all went to Modello's for some more drinks. Then we all said our goodbyes and made our merry ways home. Steve B came back to mine as it was easier than trying to get back to Northwood.
Sunday 23rd January
Alysha was up early as she had a dance competition to go to. This wouold be her first of the year and she was really looking forward to it. (Alysha had only found out about it the afternoon before, when Bobby, her dance instructor, told her about it). So, off she went. Emma and I decided to just chill-out for the day, so we did. When Alysha finally arrived back, she had her arms full of trophies. It turns out that Alysha got a 3rd in couples, 3rd in Line Dance, 1st in Solos and qualified for the Nationals, in October!!! How proud am I?!
Sunday 30th January
Alysha was up early as she had her second dance competition of the year. As it turned out it wasn't her best performance, only getting a 4th place medal, but I am still proud of her.
Monday 31st January
Today would have been my Dad's 60th Birthday. It was also the first day of my week off work. We didn't get up to much, just relaxed and took it easy all day, as we had plans to decorate the house for the rest of the week.
Until my next blog...
May it be well with you.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Slovakia Today: Dog Adoption, Dubrava Style; or, The Shanghaiing of a neighbour by the village Press Gang
Shortly after my father, Joseph Anthony Gerard Morrissey, passed away in 2009, I discovered some hand-written 'diary entries', written by one of his many Slovakian friends, on loose A4 sheets of paper. Many other 'diary entries' had already been typed up, by my father, and published on a Slovakian website, which is unfortunately no longer on-line. I do not know who wrote the following, or how to go about contacting anyone that may know the author, so I am placing them here, to finish what was started.
If anyone reading the following 'diary entries' does have any information, or thinks they may know someone or something, please feel free to get in touch, by either leaving me a message or by e-mailing me.
Enjoy.
I have previously mentioned that after virtually every Christmas, one or two dogs are abandoned, in the snow, on the lane to our village. Their ex-owners tiring of their Christmas pets and, having no interest in the long-term responsibility of owning and training a puppy, and with their children back at school, simply drive up to our village and unceremoniously dump their dogs, like so much Christmas wrapping.
The village, again as previously mentioned, has an extravagant collection of dogs and this is an eyewitness account of how this heterogeneous pack came to be.
Last week, a little puppy was found, abandoned, freezing and starving to death - its ribs were starkly standing out - trapped deep in a roadside snowdrift. It was found by a good neighbour and was temporarily given to us to feed and warm up. We have, for unknown reasons, by far the warmest cottage in the village. It was very affectionate and desperately anxious to please, though, as we soon discovered, completely un-house trained, which, whilst speaking volumes about its original owners, kept us busy. The next day the finder, of the puppy, and some friends came round to discuss what was to be done with it. Most of the permanent residents are animal lovers. Between the half dozen of us in our cottage, that morning, I calculated that we had a grand total of five dogs (most of them abandoned outside the village). Four cats, five goats and three sheep. I have lost count of the chickens and rabbits, which count for eggs, meat and cash, therefore not counted as pets. The former all answer to individual names and are fed by hand. Oh, I forgot, there are a few million bees, who clearly 'know' their keeper. After much drink-fuelled discussion, (having the puppy put-down or put into a dog's home was simply not discussed, as this was unthinkable). Thank God a dog-less family in the parent village was fixed upon. The mother had intimated, in passing, to someone that they would like a dog for their two young daughters. That was it! We all set off, with the puppy, collecting on the way a growing throng of villagers, until virtually all the permanent, and semi-permanent, winter inhabitants (and their visitors) were in the Press Gang, some dozen or so. There was a metre of snow on either side of the lane, but the snowplough had recently visited and the lane was negotiable by two-wheel drives with chains and a bag of ash or by four-wheel drives. But it was a glorious, sunny midday, so we opted to make a festive walk of it, especially as many of us already had a number of drinks. Snacks, copious quantities of Pivo and home-distilled 'Slivo' were packed into rucksacks, and off we set. We walked three kilometre down to the family’s house. One of those four-storey houses - counting the capacious basement with its double garage that was self-built under the Communist regime - There was a huge pile of wood in the garden, as the modest means of the couple does not permit them to heat the large house by gas as was the case previously. (Current gas prices being way beyond them.)
We knocked and were welcomed in. The shanghaiing of the family, principally the father, by the Press Gang immediately commenced. It was an amazingly smooth, well rehearsed, sophisticated, psychological, psycho-social and totally ruthless operation. The head of the household, at least the nominal manifestation of it, was known to be partial to a drop or three of quality home distilled 60%-plus 'Slivo'. So a carefully selected bottle of the same was opened as was a packet of his favourite, pungent brand of hand-rolling tobacco, purchased at the village store adjacent to his house, where it was known to be kept especially for him. The unsuspecting victim was delighted by the 'Slivo' and the baccy, as well he might be. After all, this was just a party of friends and acquaintances, passing by. Slovak village hospitality is famous, or should I say, infamous.
After a few rounds of 'Slivo', his glass was always kept topped-up with the special 'Slivo', washed down with strong lager, the subject of the dog was introduced. It was gently, but firmly, eased into the general chit-chat about the snow, the local snowplough and its drunken driver, who considers himself a combination of Sterling Moss and Michael Schumacher rolled into one, when at the wheel of his racing snowplough, which he drives with prodigious, not to say reckless speed, enveloped in a self-generated small snow blizzard. A spectacular sight, both to behold thundering and flying along and carefully avoid. Yes, he sympathized with the Press Gang; it was indeed a criminally hard hearted thing to do to a puppy, as hard as Stalin, I added, knowing that his grandfather had vanished in the Communist takeover purges after the war. - My personal verbal contribution to the conspiracy. Fatally, he with much encouragement, stroked the puppy, which enthusiastically responded, at that very same instant, as if on cue, his two young daughters burst into the room, demanding to see 'their' new pet. The penny dropped. The bewildered man visibly, inwardly began gnashing his teeth, cursing his gullibility and feeling immediately less well pleased towards his unexpected guests, that he had welcomed with open arms. He had thought his daughters were safely out building a giant communal snowman. However, one of the Press Gang, on a 'lager replenishment trip', had slipped them the word that their Dad was adopting a puppy for them... NOW!
The father did not stand a dogs chance of refusing. The poor sap. How could he publicly disappoint his children? The reader can guess the rest: More 'Slivo' and lager followed, together with suggestions as how useful a guard dog would be. Though no one knew if the puppy would mature into a child-biting and intruder-licking dog. Exercise and companionship were mentioned, as was teaching the children responsibility. My partner and I played another small part in this shanghaiing by discreetly not mentioning that the puppy was totally un-house-trained.
At this point the mother, recognizing that discretion was the better part of valour, and as a woman being the head, as opposed to the nominal head, of the household, intervened saying, they did not have any dog food and that they would discuss the matter and let us know. Where upon the Press Gang triumphantly produced a five-kilo bag of dry dog food, three large tins of dog food and, to cap it all, a meaty bone. Most of them had much loved dogs, usually press-ganged upon them, hence the dog food and the zealous expertise in doing the return honour.
The thinking about the proposal was over. The inevitable accepted. The children marched out with their new dog, complete with collar and lead, also thoughtfully provided, to show their friends their new pet. We all celebrated the deal drinking to the happy family, including the chief victim, the happy Press Gang and last but not least a happy dog in a good home.
Deep down I know that after this, I am a marked man. Dog-less, an oddity in the village, resident for much of the year, so arguments about a small Bratislava flat and a seaside Croatian cottage will not wash. Therefore, sooner or later, the village Press Gang, with a strange dog in tow, will descend on me armed, not with cudgels, but with their knockout liquid equivalents. As I am known to be partial to wine and the odd cigar; a bottle of vintage wine and a fine Cuban cigar will be proffered along with home distilled 'fire-water', if past precedent is any guide.
Short of jumping out of a back window and heading for the the forests and hills, which once sheltered the anti-Nazi partisans, which is difficult in our case as we have no rear window to jump out of and there is, at this time of year, a metre-or-two of snow, the most likely time, making flight even more difficult.
So I know that the Press Gang will depart dog-less and our cat, much to its temporary disgust, will have a new companion, which hopefully will be house-trained.
I will keep you informed
A resigned to the inevitable
John
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