Firstly let me say we are mid way through all the tests and results for mum and her heart and blood pressure problems. But I am already sick to the back teeth of hospitals, doctors surgery's and everything else medical. In the last two days alone we have done 2 different hospitals and a doctors . Yet we have at least a week more of this and that is everything is pretty simple.
So far for next week I personally have one doctors and one dentist appointment and mum has a doctors, and that's just Monday and Tuesday covered. I know I will have at least one more dentist appointment to add to this as there is a hole in one tooth that I know of. But I am not complaining about the appointments it is the car parks and their sky high prices then the endless waits in rooms some of which I flinch at. We were in one room today that I wished I had taken a picture of as the only way I can describe it as something left over from the 40's war hospitals. Including the peeling paint and claustrophobic atmosphere.
What really eats at me is the cost of parking. I am a genuine blue badge holder but at all the places we went to there was on average 4 parking spaces allocated for blue badges per hospital. Meaning not only was I facing £2 per hour parking but also a hop that nearly killed me to get mum to where she was due to be. Hospitals are meant to be set up to care for the sick and ensure they are accessible to all. Yea well some one seriously needs to re think the hospital near me. I am sure they are set up in such a way it costs you a fortune to park an endless way away from where you need to be. You can be sure that the department that has been in the same place for the last 10 years has moved to somewhere obscure the one time you need to get in and out in a hurry. The most recent bug bear I have is the sudden appearance of Costa Coffee in hospitals. Pushing the league of friends profits down. I don't object to Subways in hospitals, mainly because at least we know I can eat something then. But Costa as well? That is just mean on the charity shop fighting to survive and provide the little extras for patients.
I have spent unfortunately too much of my life in and around hospitals, but I have to say in the last 5 years things have gone from being a little lax to absolutely dire. In the times I have had operations I have things like coming round in a bed as they were spraying Pharaoh ants around me, to being unable to eat anything but the oj and toast for a week. But that was 20 years ago, now a days I would be terrified to go back in for a stay over night. Last time I was in it cost me £10 to get tv and internet, now that would be higher, plus the cost of me having to get food from Subway. Then there would be the fact that it would cost my family a bomb just to come up for an hour.
So whilst I am concerned about mums illness and hoping that she gets the treatment she needs, I am seriously praying she doesn't need anything needing a hospital stay as not only will it cost a fortune, she would probably come out of the hospital with something worse medically than she went in with.
Saturday, 23 February 2013
Sunday, 17 February 2013
Top Gear Refreshed
I can't put my finger on it,as there is little obvious change, and I am sure I am heading for some rude remarks from certain areas of the cyber world. But I am convinced the years break has brought a fresh feel to Top Gear. Whether it be the presenters are refreshed, or the editing has become slicker, I don't know or really care.
What I are about is the fact that my Sunday evening is filled with a mixture of petrol heads, comedy and some time heart stopping moments. When asked why, it is simple, it is the one programme every one in my house does and always has liked. Whether it be the programme in the 70s I used to watch with my grandfather and mother. Or the program I used to share a laugh and info with my male flat mates and bar colleagues, even now it unites parent, husband and I. How many other programs can do that ? in my house none!
I won't claim it is a serious car show, or even takes itself too seriously, but that's why people tune in. Little do they know that in some roundabout way they are actually taking some facts in. Whether it be the difference between over and under steer or the true fuel economy of some of the super and hyper cars. I remember the permanent image of a cat verses a terrier as to the difference to the over and under steer. Crazy I know but it works and it won't be just me it is subconsciously sinking in with.
But I do ask the question, why is there only one show left that does this. We are all subjected to numerous channels spurting out endless junk and repeats, but what has happened to quality programming. Where have the quality chat shows like Aspel and Parkinson gone, or programs like Tomorrows World disappeared to. These were unoffensive to all and you could always guarantee to either learn something or at least have a probing interview rather than a non stop plug. If in the entire world of television you are telling me all that is left of this era is those working in Top Gear then we better start worrying.
That is no criticism to Top Gear, but I am always aware there will be the day when Clarkson, May and Hammond will no longer be able to physically present the show. I some how don't feel it would work if they were presenting the shows from their zimmer frames. I personally still sigh with relief every time the news comes out that they have signed a new 3 year contract, as I am now at the stage were after 10 years they could all it quits.
However after this years break off our screens they have come back with what I would say is one of their strongest seasons, with (and I hope I don't speak to soon) the least amount of controversy for a long time. This week has been a very petrol head based episode that may not have ticked every ones boxes, but still had plenty of laughs, and at the end of the day there does has to be a car or two in there every so often. All I know is if the rest of the season and year is as strong as it has been so far, we can look forward to Top Gear being on a screens for a while longer as it still hold that appeal sorely missed from so many programs.
What I are about is the fact that my Sunday evening is filled with a mixture of petrol heads, comedy and some time heart stopping moments. When asked why, it is simple, it is the one programme every one in my house does and always has liked. Whether it be the programme in the 70s I used to watch with my grandfather and mother. Or the program I used to share a laugh and info with my male flat mates and bar colleagues, even now it unites parent, husband and I. How many other programs can do that ? in my house none!
I won't claim it is a serious car show, or even takes itself too seriously, but that's why people tune in. Little do they know that in some roundabout way they are actually taking some facts in. Whether it be the difference between over and under steer or the true fuel economy of some of the super and hyper cars. I remember the permanent image of a cat verses a terrier as to the difference to the over and under steer. Crazy I know but it works and it won't be just me it is subconsciously sinking in with.
But I do ask the question, why is there only one show left that does this. We are all subjected to numerous channels spurting out endless junk and repeats, but what has happened to quality programming. Where have the quality chat shows like Aspel and Parkinson gone, or programs like Tomorrows World disappeared to. These were unoffensive to all and you could always guarantee to either learn something or at least have a probing interview rather than a non stop plug. If in the entire world of television you are telling me all that is left of this era is those working in Top Gear then we better start worrying.
That is no criticism to Top Gear, but I am always aware there will be the day when Clarkson, May and Hammond will no longer be able to physically present the show. I some how don't feel it would work if they were presenting the shows from their zimmer frames. I personally still sigh with relief every time the news comes out that they have signed a new 3 year contract, as I am now at the stage were after 10 years they could all it quits.
However after this years break off our screens they have come back with what I would say is one of their strongest seasons, with (and I hope I don't speak to soon) the least amount of controversy for a long time. This week has been a very petrol head based episode that may not have ticked every ones boxes, but still had plenty of laughs, and at the end of the day there does has to be a car or two in there every so often. All I know is if the rest of the season and year is as strong as it has been so far, we can look forward to Top Gear being on a screens for a while longer as it still hold that appeal sorely missed from so many programs.
Friday, 15 February 2013
Next Glossy Box
I was less than impressed with my last Glossy Box so when this months arrived I did open it with a mixture of hope and doubt. Although I have to give them points for speed of delivery, I received an email yesterday saying that it was on it's way, and to expect it in 3 -5 working days, so for it to arrive today was impressive.
The box itself was a lovely valentine pink with a box printed on it, and inside it maintained the pink packaging. The menu was the same printed piece of paper folded up, containing the product information and cost, with a guide to do the perfect lipstick. However this time the products were far more my kind of thing.
There is a Rituals body cream in cherry blossom and rice milk, a Miners full size lip stick in cinnamon. This lipstick is actually the ideal colour for me so that is lucky. There is a Micbella Cosmetics mineral eye shadow in 53 deep secrets, a mauve/brown colour. Figs and Rouge multi purpose lip balm (it can also be used on all dry skin emergencies from nails to elbows. Mine was in rambling rose, my least favourite scent but is available in geranium, peppermint and tea tree or cherry vanilla and if I like the results I may buy a different version and palm the rose version off to mum. Then there is a MEMEME be the blues illuminator. Now I love this brand and I am more than pleased to see this brand in my box especially a full sized product of it.
To finish off there was a glossy box heart lollipop just to highlight this is a month of romance. There is also discount on most products if bought full size with the except of the Figs and Rouge which is hardly bank breaking at £3.49 anyway. There is also a slight problem with the Rituals code in the fact it expires on the 20th of the Jan this year which I am sure has been and gone.
All in all this box is a great improvement on the last the last box so I am actually looking forward to next months.
The box itself was a lovely valentine pink with a box printed on it, and inside it maintained the pink packaging. The menu was the same printed piece of paper folded up, containing the product information and cost, with a guide to do the perfect lipstick. However this time the products were far more my kind of thing.
There is a Rituals body cream in cherry blossom and rice milk, a Miners full size lip stick in cinnamon. This lipstick is actually the ideal colour for me so that is lucky. There is a Micbella Cosmetics mineral eye shadow in 53 deep secrets, a mauve/brown colour. Figs and Rouge multi purpose lip balm (it can also be used on all dry skin emergencies from nails to elbows. Mine was in rambling rose, my least favourite scent but is available in geranium, peppermint and tea tree or cherry vanilla and if I like the results I may buy a different version and palm the rose version off to mum. Then there is a MEMEME be the blues illuminator. Now I love this brand and I am more than pleased to see this brand in my box especially a full sized product of it.
To finish off there was a glossy box heart lollipop just to highlight this is a month of romance. There is also discount on most products if bought full size with the except of the Figs and Rouge which is hardly bank breaking at £3.49 anyway. There is also a slight problem with the Rituals code in the fact it expires on the 20th of the Jan this year which I am sure has been and gone.
All in all this box is a great improvement on the last the last box so I am actually looking forward to next months.
Thursday, 14 February 2013
Busy year ahead
Being a self confessed petrol head I should have known better than to try and run my diary through my little grey cells. The diary of events going on in the year is enough to make me reach for the aspirin now.
We may only be in February, but I am already booked for drifting weekends in April, Motorcycle Live and Nitrous Circus in Novemeber and a stunt festival in August. That is not including the entire four days of GoodWood Festival of Speed. On top of that there will day trips to MotorCross and FMX events and one day drifting and RallyCross events. Plus the standard Top Gear Live pilgrimage. Then there is ArenaCross through the winter.
You see motor sports continue regardless of the season and weather, there will always be an event somewhere to give you that 2 or 4 stroke fume rush. The only thing that is as constant is the guarantee of the fumes that need removing from your hair and clothes. The fact that most of these events are out doors in the great british weather means careful planning as I have managed sun burn and fully clothed shower in one outing before. But I can be sure of one thing I will be guaranteed entertainment and an enjoyable day or weekend out.
I don't go there for the morbid delight at viewing the crashes and accidents, as has been suggested to me before. Far from it, that is the part that pours pure fear through my veins. I have see very few accidents fortunately a couple of light spills from bikes mainly. That said I have seen one horrendous one at BritCar 08 where there driver was badly hurt, and another at Top Gear Live, that although wasn't that bad at the time I was terrified, purely as the Bowler that was overturned was skidding directly to where we were seated, I was ready to jump 10ft off the seating to avoid that collision. No I go to these events to admire the skill of driving talent that prevails. These people don't win races by just putting their foot down on the gas, but instead knowing when to do so and more importantly when not to.
So this year is rapidly filling with events, having already clocked up two in as many months already. I really must find myself a diary asap, before I end up double booking myself which will no doubt happen at least once. The one thing about being a motor sport fan is you are never bored.
We may only be in February, but I am already booked for drifting weekends in April, Motorcycle Live and Nitrous Circus in Novemeber and a stunt festival in August. That is not including the entire four days of GoodWood Festival of Speed. On top of that there will day trips to MotorCross and FMX events and one day drifting and RallyCross events. Plus the standard Top Gear Live pilgrimage. Then there is ArenaCross through the winter.
You see motor sports continue regardless of the season and weather, there will always be an event somewhere to give you that 2 or 4 stroke fume rush. The only thing that is as constant is the guarantee of the fumes that need removing from your hair and clothes. The fact that most of these events are out doors in the great british weather means careful planning as I have managed sun burn and fully clothed shower in one outing before. But I can be sure of one thing I will be guaranteed entertainment and an enjoyable day or weekend out.
I don't go there for the morbid delight at viewing the crashes and accidents, as has been suggested to me before. Far from it, that is the part that pours pure fear through my veins. I have see very few accidents fortunately a couple of light spills from bikes mainly. That said I have seen one horrendous one at BritCar 08 where there driver was badly hurt, and another at Top Gear Live, that although wasn't that bad at the time I was terrified, purely as the Bowler that was overturned was skidding directly to where we were seated, I was ready to jump 10ft off the seating to avoid that collision. No I go to these events to admire the skill of driving talent that prevails. These people don't win races by just putting their foot down on the gas, but instead knowing when to do so and more importantly when not to.
So this year is rapidly filling with events, having already clocked up two in as many months already. I really must find myself a diary asap, before I end up double booking myself which will no doubt happen at least once. The one thing about being a motor sport fan is you are never bored.
Wednesday, 13 February 2013
4 Seasons in a week
I love Britain where else can you get all four seasons in week. Down here we have had glorious sun one day, Autumn haze the net, Spring showers then Winter snow.
In one way it is delightfully changeable, in another it is totally frustrating and plays havoc with my CRPS. The warm days are fine I am more mobile and the pain is a near bearable level, but the sudden old snaps shock the pain levels into the unknown regions of hell. It also causes pain in my sinuses which compounds the problem.
To think two years ago I was up to my knees in the snow taking pictures and behaving like a total kid, and now I am shying away from it as it is the plague. But life moves through changes even if our weather stands predictably uncertain. Like today half the country thinks it has moved to the north pole and the other half the one I am stuck in is so confused it has locked itself in this state of grey.
Maybe it is a metaphor for the morale down here. Stuck in a rut of depression from the economy and job situation. Like the weather has it's own version of SAD. Before everyone thinks I am losing my marbles I am going somewhere with this. The last 12 months seem to have been predominately rain and floods or snow and the hazards that brings. As natives of this country will mainly agree, the last 12 months have been one of economy slump, mass shop closures and constant financial concerns personally and national. The only breaks we have got are the Jubilee and the Olympics and even then the weather made sure to make it's mark on them.
Based on this could it be a case that as a country we are suffering nationally of SAD or a mild form of it ? Thus every one has a grey tinted view on the perspective of the day to day things. I am not saying there aren't genuine problems going on. But instead we can't see the elements of light when they come into view. I can talk this one step further, in the last few years there have been increases in both rickets and vitamin A,D and K deficiencies, all of which are due to lack of sun exposure and an lead to depression as well as many other side affects.
I am not going to breach the medical advice and tell the country to all start sunbathing and disregard all the safe sun advice, far from it I burn quicker than most. However how many of us. decide to stay indoors at lunch time, even if the sun has broken through the rain for ten minutes, or rather than face the bracing cold and walk the 10 minutes down the road to get a pint of milk we hop in a car. Just these little actions would give us enough exposure to the sun to maintain our daily needs and improve our mind set..
I don't know if this would improve everything in our lives, but maybe it could ease our moods and make us sense more in perspective. As a country we may not be getting enough sun to improve our crops, but by having so many seasons in as many days we could have enough to get through the week. For we are an island nation, it is about time we start returning to our natural lifestyles.
In one way it is delightfully changeable, in another it is totally frustrating and plays havoc with my CRPS. The warm days are fine I am more mobile and the pain is a near bearable level, but the sudden old snaps shock the pain levels into the unknown regions of hell. It also causes pain in my sinuses which compounds the problem.
To think two years ago I was up to my knees in the snow taking pictures and behaving like a total kid, and now I am shying away from it as it is the plague. But life moves through changes even if our weather stands predictably uncertain. Like today half the country thinks it has moved to the north pole and the other half the one I am stuck in is so confused it has locked itself in this state of grey.
Maybe it is a metaphor for the morale down here. Stuck in a rut of depression from the economy and job situation. Like the weather has it's own version of SAD. Before everyone thinks I am losing my marbles I am going somewhere with this. The last 12 months seem to have been predominately rain and floods or snow and the hazards that brings. As natives of this country will mainly agree, the last 12 months have been one of economy slump, mass shop closures and constant financial concerns personally and national. The only breaks we have got are the Jubilee and the Olympics and even then the weather made sure to make it's mark on them.
Based on this could it be a case that as a country we are suffering nationally of SAD or a mild form of it ? Thus every one has a grey tinted view on the perspective of the day to day things. I am not saying there aren't genuine problems going on. But instead we can't see the elements of light when they come into view. I can talk this one step further, in the last few years there have been increases in both rickets and vitamin A,D and K deficiencies, all of which are due to lack of sun exposure and an lead to depression as well as many other side affects.
I am not going to breach the medical advice and tell the country to all start sunbathing and disregard all the safe sun advice, far from it I burn quicker than most. However how many of us. decide to stay indoors at lunch time, even if the sun has broken through the rain for ten minutes, or rather than face the bracing cold and walk the 10 minutes down the road to get a pint of milk we hop in a car. Just these little actions would give us enough exposure to the sun to maintain our daily needs and improve our mind set..
I don't know if this would improve everything in our lives, but maybe it could ease our moods and make us sense more in perspective. As a country we may not be getting enough sun to improve our crops, but by having so many seasons in as many days we could have enough to get through the week. For we are an island nation, it is about time we start returning to our natural lifestyles.
Over Priced Valentine
As a married person Valentine should be easy for me, you know standard card, token chocolates and maybe a flower or two. But seriously has anyone in their right mind looked at the price of the stuff this year. I know we aren't meant to flinch at the price of things we spend on our beloved, but I for one have a husbnds birthday and a mothers birthday within the month and a mother in laws on the same day. So yea cost does come into it.
Having had a good look round and self near heart attacks at some of the prices I have come up with the next few ideas that won't break the bank.
As there are few bunches of flowers that don't need a mortgage I have come up with the following, Tesco's do dozen red roses for £5 but get there early as they are sure to be snapped up, especially when 1 red rose boxed costs £5 at Sainsburys and two dozen cost £85 at Interflora. Or as a nice chance ( and often more appreiated by the men) a single chocolate red foiled wrapped rose is £1.
To be honest you aren't going to get much under £3 in the way of Valentines cards, however £3 will get a larger card at ASDA or a smaller more handmade style one at Sainsaburys. Or better still a hand made one with your favourite poem or verse that is special between just you and your partner.
Chocolates at this time of year are stupidly priced especially the valentines wrapped ones. Having searched high and low for suggestions to leave hubby dearest here is what I have come up with. Lindt have many offers in the supermarkets for their small cornets of Lindor at £3.99. Guelian seashell are £1 for a small box of 4 in Sainsburys. Or if your other half has a Cadburys taste in Chocolate why not buy them a general selection of the their favourites and put them in a gift basket.
If your partner likes sweet things but not necessarily chocolate Krispy Kreme are doing a Valentines dozen at £9.95 available at their stores and most larger Tescos. Or ASDA have cupcakes hand make for £2. If you want to treat your partner to the full meal the best on the market is the Marks and Spencer deal for £20 which includes a starter, main meal and a side, wine and a small box of chocolate.
All in all tomorrow comes at its cost, the actually idea of romance is over come buy material expense. I would personally prefer one kindly thought out token of romance, than half a pay cheque wasted on cheap tat. But then that is just me.
Having had a good look round and self near heart attacks at some of the prices I have come up with the next few ideas that won't break the bank.
As there are few bunches of flowers that don't need a mortgage I have come up with the following, Tesco's do dozen red roses for £5 but get there early as they are sure to be snapped up, especially when 1 red rose boxed costs £5 at Sainsburys and two dozen cost £85 at Interflora. Or as a nice chance ( and often more appreiated by the men) a single chocolate red foiled wrapped rose is £1.
To be honest you aren't going to get much under £3 in the way of Valentines cards, however £3 will get a larger card at ASDA or a smaller more handmade style one at Sainsaburys. Or better still a hand made one with your favourite poem or verse that is special between just you and your partner.
Chocolates at this time of year are stupidly priced especially the valentines wrapped ones. Having searched high and low for suggestions to leave hubby dearest here is what I have come up with. Lindt have many offers in the supermarkets for their small cornets of Lindor at £3.99. Guelian seashell are £1 for a small box of 4 in Sainsburys. Or if your other half has a Cadburys taste in Chocolate why not buy them a general selection of the their favourites and put them in a gift basket.
If your partner likes sweet things but not necessarily chocolate Krispy Kreme are doing a Valentines dozen at £9.95 available at their stores and most larger Tescos. Or ASDA have cupcakes hand make for £2. If you want to treat your partner to the full meal the best on the market is the Marks and Spencer deal for £20 which includes a starter, main meal and a side, wine and a small box of chocolate.
All in all tomorrow comes at its cost, the actually idea of romance is over come buy material expense. I would personally prefer one kindly thought out token of romance, than half a pay cheque wasted on cheap tat. But then that is just me.
Wish List for 2013
I know it is a little of a weird thing to do, but I thought I would put pen to paper and list the items I just want to get so far in the year.
The 1st thing is more waiting to get item as I have it on order already and that is the Body Shop absinthe hand care range from £11 upwards. I have heard rave reviews from friends so I have been itching to try it. Winter has taken it's toil on all our hands so any little pampering will do.
The next thing is L'Occitane matt fluid in the Angelia range, I have tried this before and it makes my skin look and feel soft and velvet like. I am hoping this is actually my valentines present as at £24 a pop it is a real treat for my skin.
I m also after the Wink pen by Barry M at £4,99. It is an eye liner liquid, that is like the old berol felt tip pens from my youth. After many liquid liner disasters , I think this will be the last chance saloon for me and liquids. If this doesn't work nothing will!
Shoe wise there is a pair in the new Kandee range I just have to have, but I dread what their price will be. They are silver wedge trainers with a set of pink lips on the side. If ever there was pop art for hoes these will be them. They are due out in the spring / summer 13 range.
I am going to admit ( and I am waiting for the groans here) I have yet to get into the onesie trend. But I do however want one. Mainly for a practical reason it will stop a draught on my damaged back, and generally looks very cosy for duvet days. I am just trying to find cute one that will suit me.
Whilst I am on clothes, I have seen a military style parka from George at ASDA. It is £28 and a khaki green, but it is one of those jackets that may actually have enough pockets to not require a bag. I used to have a jacket like this in corduroy and cried when it gave up the ghost so this may replace it nicely. I already have plenty of clothes and boots in that colour scheme so it will be a great investment.
The last thing so far is a Nip and Fab set I have seen at ASOS. It is case of choosing between the after party set £8.50 or the 10 years younger at £11. Both are greatly reduced and I am seriously thinking I have to have both. I am itching to try the frown filler and dark circles corrector. But there are other bits I must try as well. If they stay at that price till the end of the month I am thinking £20 will have to be spent.
So that's my wish list so far, at least till post summer, wonder whats in yours.
The 1st thing is more waiting to get item as I have it on order already and that is the Body Shop absinthe hand care range from £11 upwards. I have heard rave reviews from friends so I have been itching to try it. Winter has taken it's toil on all our hands so any little pampering will do.
The next thing is L'Occitane matt fluid in the Angelia range, I have tried this before and it makes my skin look and feel soft and velvet like. I am hoping this is actually my valentines present as at £24 a pop it is a real treat for my skin.
I m also after the Wink pen by Barry M at £4,99. It is an eye liner liquid, that is like the old berol felt tip pens from my youth. After many liquid liner disasters , I think this will be the last chance saloon for me and liquids. If this doesn't work nothing will!
Shoe wise there is a pair in the new Kandee range I just have to have, but I dread what their price will be. They are silver wedge trainers with a set of pink lips on the side. If ever there was pop art for hoes these will be them. They are due out in the spring / summer 13 range.
I am going to admit ( and I am waiting for the groans here) I have yet to get into the onesie trend. But I do however want one. Mainly for a practical reason it will stop a draught on my damaged back, and generally looks very cosy for duvet days. I am just trying to find cute one that will suit me.
Whilst I am on clothes, I have seen a military style parka from George at ASDA. It is £28 and a khaki green, but it is one of those jackets that may actually have enough pockets to not require a bag. I used to have a jacket like this in corduroy and cried when it gave up the ghost so this may replace it nicely. I already have plenty of clothes and boots in that colour scheme so it will be a great investment.
The last thing so far is a Nip and Fab set I have seen at ASOS. It is case of choosing between the after party set £8.50 or the 10 years younger at £11. Both are greatly reduced and I am seriously thinking I have to have both. I am itching to try the frown filler and dark circles corrector. But there are other bits I must try as well. If they stay at that price till the end of the month I am thinking £20 will have to be spent.
So that's my wish list so far, at least till post summer, wonder whats in yours.
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