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.
Sunday, November 13, 2011
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
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