Last night my little brother was stopped by a copper on his way home from town. The guy followed him for about 2 miles whilst running a vehicle check. Kev got into the car and was asked if he would do a breathaliser test. Of course he said yes...then the rozzer realised he didn't have a breathaliser machine! What a muppet! It turns out that our insurers haven't registered with the police that our car is insured...the copper was 'too busy' to impound the car so gave Kev 2 weeks to sort it out or he will come and impound it.
Ok, so this is fair. If his database says we dont you can't argue it without your paperwork. A trip to the cop-shop is in order tonight. Kev, being a sensible young lad, asked the guy what he should do in the mean time to which he got the reply: 'Oh, just drive it' There is no logic to why the guy pulled him over! If you're not insured you're going to get pulled over but...you can still drive it?!
As you can imagine this rather annoyed me...and Kev...and my Mam...I'm not going to even mention my dad! He's FURIOUS!
So this little story has prompted me to think about the trust we have in other people. People we have never met and chances are never will. The faceless insurance brokers who you trust to ensure you are driving within the law. My advice is this: DON'T TRUST THEM! Question every single detail you can think of surrounding your insurance! You never know when it'll bite you in the ass when you least expect it. Essentially you're messing with the law and you are the one who is in the wrong!
On a lighter note, it's Friday. The BEST day of the week...The start of the weekend! If you have plans I hope you enjoy them. Have a drink (if you partake), have a dance (like no-one's watching), and remember this crutial fact of this weekend...It's a long one ladies and gents. God Bless Bank Holidays!
And, until next time. Look after yourselves. And each other!
Friday, 28 August 2009
Thursday, 27 August 2009
Music
Music changes your mood. It can make you smile, it can make you dance, it can summon memories of old friends and cause a tear or two. There are people in this world who can change you with their words and melodies and today I'm going to talk about a few of my favourite songs and how they make me feel.
I'd like to start with one of the most gifted guitarists I've ever experienced. Carlos Santana. I could lie on my bed, on a lilo in a pool, or a concrete floor and close my eyes. His music causes me to drift away in a sea of thoughts and wishes that I could happily remain in all day. I once wished to be HALF as good as Senor Santana but have reached the sad realisation that I can never be. The man is just magic.
You will see a trend appear as you read this note. The next person I will mention is Eric Clapton. Another incredibly gifted guitarist. He has written 3 songs that are among my favourites. Tears in heaven - a sad song written about the tragic death of his son. This song I prefer to play myself and sing (rather sadly but NOT in a boy-band way) with my eyes closed. Blue eyes blue - just a lovely song about how love can sometimes make you sad. The third is a lovely song you will often hear at weddings: Wonderful Tonight - a lovely song. romantic even..until you realise he wrote it about his mistress! These songs are all lovely and if you pay no attention to the words they make you smile. Mr Clapton is a tricky guy. In one hand I LOVE his music. On the other side of the coin though his music is sad, it can anger...but like Blue eyes says: that's what love does to you!
Finally, I'm going to talk about a band called Scouting for Girls. I was introduced to this band by a close friend (you nkow yourself by now brother!) and I've got to say that these guys write happy music! The reason I speak of them is this: No matter what my mood, or how the day is going these lads can lift my spirits and make me see that yes, it's not the best right now but lift your head and have a look forwards. Because wherever we're heading, we'll get there. When we arrive...well, then it's all been worth while.
Thanks for listening. You never know, maybe one day I'll have a song written that makes you stop and think.
I'd like to start with one of the most gifted guitarists I've ever experienced. Carlos Santana. I could lie on my bed, on a lilo in a pool, or a concrete floor and close my eyes. His music causes me to drift away in a sea of thoughts and wishes that I could happily remain in all day. I once wished to be HALF as good as Senor Santana but have reached the sad realisation that I can never be. The man is just magic.
You will see a trend appear as you read this note. The next person I will mention is Eric Clapton. Another incredibly gifted guitarist. He has written 3 songs that are among my favourites. Tears in heaven - a sad song written about the tragic death of his son. This song I prefer to play myself and sing (rather sadly but NOT in a boy-band way) with my eyes closed. Blue eyes blue - just a lovely song about how love can sometimes make you sad. The third is a lovely song you will often hear at weddings: Wonderful Tonight - a lovely song. romantic even..until you realise he wrote it about his mistress! These songs are all lovely and if you pay no attention to the words they make you smile. Mr Clapton is a tricky guy. In one hand I LOVE his music. On the other side of the coin though his music is sad, it can anger...but like Blue eyes says: that's what love does to you!
Finally, I'm going to talk about a band called Scouting for Girls. I was introduced to this band by a close friend (you nkow yourself by now brother!) and I've got to say that these guys write happy music! The reason I speak of them is this: No matter what my mood, or how the day is going these lads can lift my spirits and make me see that yes, it's not the best right now but lift your head and have a look forwards. Because wherever we're heading, we'll get there. When we arrive...well, then it's all been worth while.
Thanks for listening. You never know, maybe one day I'll have a song written that makes you stop and think.
Wednesday, 26 August 2009
Sexual harrasment and Swine Flu
I can't actually believe that a guy from IT has just called my boss sexy! She's never BEEN sexy! It could be construed as the first part of my title today but they all love it...until he walks out and then they hate him! I HATE 2-faced people!
I think that most people (and I include guys in this) get sexually harrassed at some point in their working day. The problem is some people actually like it! They love the attention, they seek people who will be inappropriate towards them! I don't get it. The worrying thing for me though is that sometimes flirting is taken to be sexual harrassment too...I'm a HUGE flirt! I tread carefully and try to pick my audience but if I ever upset people with this I can only apologise. It's just a bit of fun!
SWINE FLU! My darling big brother has swine flu. He says it's horrible and it feels like the worlds worst ever hangover...he should know! So I just wanted to include this in my daily 'article' and say that I would ask for your best wishes for him in whatever form they take.
I think that most people (and I include guys in this) get sexually harrassed at some point in their working day. The problem is some people actually like it! They love the attention, they seek people who will be inappropriate towards them! I don't get it. The worrying thing for me though is that sometimes flirting is taken to be sexual harrassment too...I'm a HUGE flirt! I tread carefully and try to pick my audience but if I ever upset people with this I can only apologise. It's just a bit of fun!
SWINE FLU! My darling big brother has swine flu. He says it's horrible and it feels like the worlds worst ever hangover...he should know! So I just wanted to include this in my daily 'article' and say that I would ask for your best wishes for him in whatever form they take.
Tuesday, 25 August 2009
Half Day Finances
Today I am on a half day. I am a good brother you see and I am taking my little sister and her family to the airport for their summer holiday.
Today is also payday so rather depressingly I'm sat paying bills at work...there goes a third of my pay instantly!
But this brought me to thinking about why we work. I think there is essentially 2 resons:
The first is of course to pay the bills. I know some of my friends are struggling at the moment with recession-based un-employment. The situations we find ourselves in through redundancy or personal issues have a huge impact on how we are able to live. Can you imagine being one of the millions looking for work and as the month goes on your ability to fight for a job wanes as you can almost see your credit-rating fall because you know you can't afford your bills and there is no way out of it...not a good place to be I'd wager. I am fortunate enough to be in work even with San Francisco in the distant future. My boss and colleagues are being great and I work on at my usual rate.
The second reason to work is our social lives. There is a trend to this also whcih follows the payment month. We are all (as one of my closest friends always used to say) 'Weekend Millionaires'! We go out and probably spend too much but it's ok. This is our main indulgent weekend. The one where you KNOW you have enough money and you're not going to be embarrassed at the pub with no money to pay for your round. Then we start to plan our weekends and by the end of the month we're staying in with a dvd anhaving a glass of wine with our meal.
If you are lucky enough to enjoy your jobs CONGRATULATIONS! If not, try to think of the times when we have freedom to enjoy ourselves and the funds to do so properly!
Enjoy your pay. God knows you deserve it!
If you don't have a job at the minute try and keep your chin up. these things are sent to test us. If we let them win it doesn't help our prospects.
Today is also payday so rather depressingly I'm sat paying bills at work...there goes a third of my pay instantly!
But this brought me to thinking about why we work. I think there is essentially 2 resons:
The first is of course to pay the bills. I know some of my friends are struggling at the moment with recession-based un-employment. The situations we find ourselves in through redundancy or personal issues have a huge impact on how we are able to live. Can you imagine being one of the millions looking for work and as the month goes on your ability to fight for a job wanes as you can almost see your credit-rating fall because you know you can't afford your bills and there is no way out of it...not a good place to be I'd wager. I am fortunate enough to be in work even with San Francisco in the distant future. My boss and colleagues are being great and I work on at my usual rate.
The second reason to work is our social lives. There is a trend to this also whcih follows the payment month. We are all (as one of my closest friends always used to say) 'Weekend Millionaires'! We go out and probably spend too much but it's ok. This is our main indulgent weekend. The one where you KNOW you have enough money and you're not going to be embarrassed at the pub with no money to pay for your round. Then we start to plan our weekends and by the end of the month we're staying in with a dvd anhaving a glass of wine with our meal.
If you are lucky enough to enjoy your jobs CONGRATULATIONS! If not, try to think of the times when we have freedom to enjoy ourselves and the funds to do so properly!
Enjoy your pay. God knows you deserve it!
If you don't have a job at the minute try and keep your chin up. these things are sent to test us. If we let them win it doesn't help our prospects.
Monday, 24 August 2009
New days are dawning...
The start of the week is a perplexing thing to write about. As mentioned in previous texts of mine people often look at this as a bad thing and designate a particular day as 'the worst'. I have actually started this week with a smile on my face and an optimistic outlook. The only trouble I have is...I don't know why! There is no rhyme or reason. It just is what it is! The most confusing part is you'd think I'd be upset due the chunk of my face I removed this morning mith my razor (I've not cut myself shaving in ages!).
So, we come to my topic. New days dawning. Ask yourself, how many times have I 'started fresh'? We ALL do the New Years Resolution thing. Mine actually last about a day or so (As you get to know me you will find my will power in things such as abstinence is almost non-existant!). I've lost count of the amount of times I've given up Alcohol for a month and lasted a week, given up smoking and then gone to work and taken it up again! I ask for your help on this Ladies and Gents. Tips and ideas are most welcome!
I think we all want to better ourselves in one way or another. I have a couple of friends who have hit a target they were aiming for recently and to them I say: I'm really proud of you. If only I could share part of your will power!
So I am looking at this topic and potentially a new dat dawning for Seán Matthew Stephen Farrell Esq. From here on out I resolve to try harder at bettering myself. Give myself some of the effort I put into other people and try my hardest (even though it probably will not happen) to realise when I am being used and walk away. This is the hardest thing I will ever try simply because it is in my nature to help...to be there for people I care about...even if they don't seem to care about me as much.
Thank you for listening today and thanks for your on-going support!
So, we come to my topic. New days dawning. Ask yourself, how many times have I 'started fresh'? We ALL do the New Years Resolution thing. Mine actually last about a day or so (As you get to know me you will find my will power in things such as abstinence is almost non-existant!). I've lost count of the amount of times I've given up Alcohol for a month and lasted a week, given up smoking and then gone to work and taken it up again! I ask for your help on this Ladies and Gents. Tips and ideas are most welcome!
I think we all want to better ourselves in one way or another. I have a couple of friends who have hit a target they were aiming for recently and to them I say: I'm really proud of you. If only I could share part of your will power!
So I am looking at this topic and potentially a new dat dawning for Seán Matthew Stephen Farrell Esq. From here on out I resolve to try harder at bettering myself. Give myself some of the effort I put into other people and try my hardest (even though it probably will not happen) to realise when I am being used and walk away. This is the hardest thing I will ever try simply because it is in my nature to help...to be there for people I care about...even if they don't seem to care about me as much.
Thank you for listening today and thanks for your on-going support!
Friday, 21 August 2009
Weekend
WOW! It's here! I love it when the weekend happens! Especially when you've had a long week, done more than your colleagues give you credit for and God Damn it, you deserve your Hendricks and cucumber!
This will be a short sign off for the week guys and girls simply saying: Live your Weekend like you never have to return to work!
ENJOY!
This will be a short sign off for the week guys and girls simply saying: Live your Weekend like you never have to return to work!
ENJOY!
Thursday, 20 August 2009
All's well that ends well...
I've been at work since 6am this morning. This is basically because I had to take my old man to the airport for half 5 and, as I was on this side of Nottingham I came in. It's funny the way people reacted when I told them. Some thought I was mad, others said I was a loser. But, I look at it like this: I was in early but I get to leave at lunch-time and have a full afternoon doing things I WANT to do! And the joy of it is there's no-one in a 6am so it wasn't like I was giving my all now is it?!
The title of this little...topic...can be looked at in many ways. The way I have been feeling recently it could be seen as: I'm having a shit time and it had better sort itself out before I get low! But, a good friend of mine once taught me about PMA (Positive Mental Attitude) so, I'm taking that frown, flipping it on its arse and looking at things more brightly. So, I don't have my visa but my friends in the states are missng me and can't wait to see me. Positive. I've got no money whatsoever until I get paid and all of the pay is taken up but I'm going to Gran Canaria next month. Positive. I'm going to have to cook all week but I get to cook what I like. Positive.
These vary in importance but when you work where I work the little things can be the ones that pull you down. This place has the ability to sap your life-source. I'm not giong to let it! I don't care anymore. This place is immoral and corrupt. But I'm not. I will do my job, I WILL get out of here.
So...All's well that ends well!
The title of this little...topic...can be looked at in many ways. The way I have been feeling recently it could be seen as: I'm having a shit time and it had better sort itself out before I get low! But, a good friend of mine once taught me about PMA (Positive Mental Attitude) so, I'm taking that frown, flipping it on its arse and looking at things more brightly. So, I don't have my visa but my friends in the states are missng me and can't wait to see me. Positive. I've got no money whatsoever until I get paid and all of the pay is taken up but I'm going to Gran Canaria next month. Positive. I'm going to have to cook all week but I get to cook what I like. Positive.
These vary in importance but when you work where I work the little things can be the ones that pull you down. This place has the ability to sap your life-source. I'm not giong to let it! I don't care anymore. This place is immoral and corrupt. But I'm not. I will do my job, I WILL get out of here.
So...All's well that ends well!
Wednesday, 19 August 2009
Today
What a day! Oh, what a day!
It's days like this that make me feel happy. It's the hottest day of the year (so the TV tells me) and bright weather just simply makes me smile.
Have you ever noticed how things around you really change your outlook on things? Even at work today I am smiling and EVEN MORE helpful at work! This isno mean feat I don't mind telling you.
Anyway, a short one today to tell you all that I'm feeling happy, the weather is fine, and all in my world is good.
It's days like this that make me feel happy. It's the hottest day of the year (so the TV tells me) and bright weather just simply makes me smile.
Have you ever noticed how things around you really change your outlook on things? Even at work today I am smiling and EVEN MORE helpful at work! This isno mean feat I don't mind telling you.
Anyway, a short one today to tell you all that I'm feeling happy, the weather is fine, and all in my world is good.
Tuesday, 18 August 2009
Tests
Life's full of 'em ain't it?!
Drugs test, Maths tests, Driving test, Breathe tests, and Pregnancy tests...
But, I think that the most important tests you can have are the ones that life throws at you on a daily basis. Tests on your personal life, test on your ability to put up with other people's shite, tests of your will power and attitude.
We test each other every day. You test the atmosphere in the room to see whether or not you can tell a certain jkoe (unless you're my little brother who actually couldn't give a flyer!), you test the water with a person when you have to give news they might not want, you test how cheeky you can be to your boss (in this case I don't give a flyer!), and you test people's attitudes to see if you can put up with them today or not!
It's interesting to see how people react to you or percieve your meaning. Have you ever tried telling someone EXACTLY what you're going to the toilet for?! It's hilarious. We all know it's a natural bodily function but we are almost programmed to be repulsed by the thought of it. Try getting up form your desk and going...and as you go say quite loudly: It's only a number one guys, there's no need to panic! I wonder if you'd get a discaplinary?!
I feel that the above ramble in leading somewhere and i guess it's to here:
The most trying tests are the ones where it's our own friends who test us. Whether it be an omission of fact, an act that completely disregards anything you have together or the way you treat the other. These things, I have learnt the hard way, can hurt. but we get on with them, we move upwards and we learn, rather sadly, to perhaps not give as much to people. Wait for them to give maybe? Be more distant?
These things trouble me and your thoughts are welcome because this idea goes against everything that makes me...well, me.
Drugs test, Maths tests, Driving test, Breathe tests, and Pregnancy tests...
But, I think that the most important tests you can have are the ones that life throws at you on a daily basis. Tests on your personal life, test on your ability to put up with other people's shite, tests of your will power and attitude.
We test each other every day. You test the atmosphere in the room to see whether or not you can tell a certain jkoe (unless you're my little brother who actually couldn't give a flyer!), you test the water with a person when you have to give news they might not want, you test how cheeky you can be to your boss (in this case I don't give a flyer!), and you test people's attitudes to see if you can put up with them today or not!
It's interesting to see how people react to you or percieve your meaning. Have you ever tried telling someone EXACTLY what you're going to the toilet for?! It's hilarious. We all know it's a natural bodily function but we are almost programmed to be repulsed by the thought of it. Try getting up form your desk and going...and as you go say quite loudly: It's only a number one guys, there's no need to panic! I wonder if you'd get a discaplinary?!
I feel that the above ramble in leading somewhere and i guess it's to here:
The most trying tests are the ones where it's our own friends who test us. Whether it be an omission of fact, an act that completely disregards anything you have together or the way you treat the other. These things, I have learnt the hard way, can hurt. but we get on with them, we move upwards and we learn, rather sadly, to perhaps not give as much to people. Wait for them to give maybe? Be more distant?
These things trouble me and your thoughts are welcome because this idea goes against everything that makes me...well, me.
Monday, 17 August 2009
Mondays
There is debate in offices across the world as to which is the worst day to be at work. Many argue it is Mondays. You've had the weekend off to relax and do those things you like to do...whatever that is!
I would agree. In some ways. I think there are few of us who like getting up on a Monday morning and have to drag ourselves into work. However, I think it's Tuesdays that are the worst! Mondays are a day you can get away with 'catching up on your emails' and such like. On tuesday you're actually expected to work and, if you're anythign like me, the night out you have on Monday night doesn't help this!
Another bad day is Friday! You have that Friday feeling. It's the weekend! But...Fridays DRAG! You don't feel like you should be at work. Especially if every Friday is dress-down day...you're in your actual clothes for God's sake...not a good feeling while you wait for 5pm...which is seemingly a week away! or at least it may as well be!
As you can tell I'm not happy to be at work!
Have a good week ladies and gentlemen...only 34hours, 3 minutes, and 27seconds of working time left until the weekend! ENJOY!
I would agree. In some ways. I think there are few of us who like getting up on a Monday morning and have to drag ourselves into work. However, I think it's Tuesdays that are the worst! Mondays are a day you can get away with 'catching up on your emails' and such like. On tuesday you're actually expected to work and, if you're anythign like me, the night out you have on Monday night doesn't help this!
Another bad day is Friday! You have that Friday feeling. It's the weekend! But...Fridays DRAG! You don't feel like you should be at work. Especially if every Friday is dress-down day...you're in your actual clothes for God's sake...not a good feeling while you wait for 5pm...which is seemingly a week away! or at least it may as well be!
As you can tell I'm not happy to be at work!
Have a good week ladies and gentlemen...only 34hours, 3 minutes, and 27seconds of working time left until the weekend! ENJOY!
Friday, 14 August 2009
Waiting...
It seems this is what I'm good at. There is always something that I am waiting for. If you think about it this is what we're all good at.
Have you ever noticed on holiday that people from the British Isles and Ireland are the only ones who actually stand in line and wait?! I can only summise that we are the most polite and patient people in the world.
I am waiting for a great number of things. Least of all my Visa for working in the United States, my lottery numbers, and 'the one'! I think the latter may take a while...answers on a postcard! As for the visa I have a date I can look to: 15th September 2009. That said, the last time I had a date to look to it was in April and I got the head-staggers and booked a leaving-party...I'm STILL here! But, with my Attorney working hard we shall see. You never know, I might get there yet! As for my lottery numbers: 7, 11, 23, 38, 45, and 49...let's give them a go in the old EuroMillions tonight!
Have you ever noticed on holiday that people from the British Isles and Ireland are the only ones who actually stand in line and wait?! I can only summise that we are the most polite and patient people in the world.
I am waiting for a great number of things. Least of all my Visa for working in the United States, my lottery numbers, and 'the one'! I think the latter may take a while...answers on a postcard! As for the visa I have a date I can look to: 15th September 2009. That said, the last time I had a date to look to it was in April and I got the head-staggers and booked a leaving-party...I'm STILL here! But, with my Attorney working hard we shall see. You never know, I might get there yet! As for my lottery numbers: 7, 11, 23, 38, 45, and 49...let's give them a go in the old EuroMillions tonight!
Wednesday, 12 August 2009
Incompetent People
Have you ever noticed how much easier your life would be without half of your colleagues?! I mean, come on! There's not many of us who have a tough job. Most work is rooted in common sense, especially office based work. It's all processes and admin largely. Why does it have to become so hard?!
Apparently today it will be annouced that the unemployment in the country is now at the 2.4m figure. But, according to the government, it shouldn't be this way. There is 400,000 jobs out there! Yes, minister. This may be true but, there's 2.4m people applying for the bloody things! Again, that's not exactly hard to see! Is it?!
There's not that many jobs with the old job satisfaction either. I mean, unless you're building fighter jets, curing cancer, or paid ridiculously well...it's just a job. 9/10 jobs pay CRAP!
Take my job for example. I work in Facilities. This is a varied and often pressured job. However, it's either one extreme or the other!
Is it any wonder I can't get out of bed in the morning?!
Apparently today it will be annouced that the unemployment in the country is now at the 2.4m figure. But, according to the government, it shouldn't be this way. There is 400,000 jobs out there! Yes, minister. This may be true but, there's 2.4m people applying for the bloody things! Again, that's not exactly hard to see! Is it?!
There's not that many jobs with the old job satisfaction either. I mean, unless you're building fighter jets, curing cancer, or paid ridiculously well...it's just a job. 9/10 jobs pay CRAP!
Take my job for example. I work in Facilities. This is a varied and often pressured job. However, it's either one extreme or the other!
Is it any wonder I can't get out of bed in the morning?!
Tuesday, 11 August 2009
The Wedding continued...
So, where were we? Oh, yes. The SPEECHES! The Father of the Bride spoke lovingly about his beautiful daughter and welcomed 'Our Kid' with open arms. The Groom spoke...when he wasn't choked up bless him...and it was obvious that he loves his Wife more than anything else. It was a good speech. Although he did say at one point: God, I can't stop choking up! Somebody hit me! At which point his ever-obediant best-men both stood and offered!
Now, we come to the speech everyone puts pressure on. Kev and I had been writing this for months. We practised it the mronign of the Wedding and decided it was pants. So, we winged it! It was funny, mildly offensive, and recieved well. We were compared to Morcombe and Wise which was nice. We were please with our innings and could now loosen our ties, remove our jackets, roll up our sleeves and PART...Y? Coz I gotta!
The Disco was quality. Everyone loved it! There was group dances, slow dances, all you would expect really...the babies were quality!
I think the thing that everybody enjoyed the most was how good it was to see so many family and friends. There wasn't a table you couldn't go to without someone you recognised on it.
So, the next day I went across to Lemington Spa to Macca and Alanas Wedding. It was a GORGEOUS! The music was great (Our Team representing again. Well done guys!).
Back to the hotel and a meal that night which was lovely. Then the inevitable guitar and singing session! It wouldn't be our party without it! We attracted some attention and I'm pleased to say it was a lovely lady who took my eye...anyway...back to bed at 3 and up for breakfast the next day and the trip home.
SLEEP! Thank God for SLEEP! I rested and woke on Monday at 11am. We (Pops, Steve, Kev, and I) went for a round of Golf. I came second. 7strokes behind the old man. Loved it.
So, I hope you enjoyed hearing about my wonderful weekend!
Now, we come to the speech everyone puts pressure on. Kev and I had been writing this for months. We practised it the mronign of the Wedding and decided it was pants. So, we winged it! It was funny, mildly offensive, and recieved well. We were compared to Morcombe and Wise which was nice. We were please with our innings and could now loosen our ties, remove our jackets, roll up our sleeves and PART...Y? Coz I gotta!
The Disco was quality. Everyone loved it! There was group dances, slow dances, all you would expect really...the babies were quality!
I think the thing that everybody enjoyed the most was how good it was to see so many family and friends. There wasn't a table you couldn't go to without someone you recognised on it.
So, the next day I went across to Lemington Spa to Macca and Alanas Wedding. It was a GORGEOUS! The music was great (Our Team representing again. Well done guys!).
Back to the hotel and a meal that night which was lovely. Then the inevitable guitar and singing session! It wouldn't be our party without it! We attracted some attention and I'm pleased to say it was a lovely lady who took my eye...anyway...back to bed at 3 and up for breakfast the next day and the trip home.
SLEEP! Thank God for SLEEP! I rested and woke on Monday at 11am. We (Pops, Steve, Kev, and I) went for a round of Golf. I came second. 7strokes behind the old man. Loved it.
So, I hope you enjoyed hearing about my wonderful weekend!
Weekend Fun...
This isn't going to be deep, it's not going to be meaningful, it's not going to make you think. This is an account of one of the best weekends I've ever had. ENJOY!
So, it starts on Wednesday afternoon (early weekend start!). Picked up my suit, picked up my newly fixed guitar, and got to my brother (The Groom)'s house. A good night. Chilling, talking, taking the piss, playing silly computer games, few beers. Magic. What a night!
Thursday arrived and we were up with the birds! Travel to the wonderful place they call The Briars to pick up my little brother (The 2nd Best-Man...and don't take this to mean that I am a better Best-Man or indeed a better man at all). Got home to pack, pick up the Groom and hit the road! Travel down to Shropshire and the AMAZING Albrighton Hall Hotel and Spa. Check in, a few beers (for those of us not driving..not me!) and off to Broseley for the rehearsal! An hour later and we're heading back..via McDonalds...Seámus was there so that's not a huge surprise! Then we started on the beer...Bed at 3am on the morning of the Wedding...
Friday dawns and we were all up. The Best-Men (on orders from the Grooms Mother) wake the Groom and get him fed. Then to the Pool and Jacuzzi to try and drown him a little. He puts up a good fight bless him. Let's not forget He's quite scrawny now. So, suits on, Shades on, and off to the Wedding! Arriving in Broseley the nerves hit home. Marky was pacing, looking pale, and fretting over the little details (not helped by the fact that all of his ushers were late....in step the Best-Men. Disaster Averted). So, we make our way to the front and wait...and wait...and she turned up! The Babies did the walk very wel and I could see their parents and aunts, uncles and grand-parents were SO proud! Then, the curtain pulls back and there she is. Followed by a perfectly timed shoulder pat from his 2 best-men and the Groom is welling up. What a lovely service! 2 'Sister-Churches' (a lovely phrase used by Fr Mike) joined here also as the Farrel contingent brought their own Priest to the proceedings (sponsored by whatever watch he chose to wear that day..the flash git), Fr Paul. So...Mark and Louise Farrell are now married.
TO THE RECEPTION! Wonderful food, wonderful service (Seriously, my sister Donna had to take little Lukey to the loo. At which point the Maitre D instructed a waitress to remove their food and keep it warm. That's quality!), wonderful company! Then...the infamous speeches!
I now have a meeting so I will continue later....
So, it starts on Wednesday afternoon (early weekend start!). Picked up my suit, picked up my newly fixed guitar, and got to my brother (The Groom)'s house. A good night. Chilling, talking, taking the piss, playing silly computer games, few beers. Magic. What a night!
Thursday arrived and we were up with the birds! Travel to the wonderful place they call The Briars to pick up my little brother (The 2nd Best-Man...and don't take this to mean that I am a better Best-Man or indeed a better man at all). Got home to pack, pick up the Groom and hit the road! Travel down to Shropshire and the AMAZING Albrighton Hall Hotel and Spa. Check in, a few beers (for those of us not driving..not me!) and off to Broseley for the rehearsal! An hour later and we're heading back..via McDonalds...Seámus was there so that's not a huge surprise! Then we started on the beer...Bed at 3am on the morning of the Wedding...
Friday dawns and we were all up. The Best-Men (on orders from the Grooms Mother) wake the Groom and get him fed. Then to the Pool and Jacuzzi to try and drown him a little. He puts up a good fight bless him. Let's not forget He's quite scrawny now. So, suits on, Shades on, and off to the Wedding! Arriving in Broseley the nerves hit home. Marky was pacing, looking pale, and fretting over the little details (not helped by the fact that all of his ushers were late....in step the Best-Men. Disaster Averted). So, we make our way to the front and wait...and wait...and she turned up! The Babies did the walk very wel and I could see their parents and aunts, uncles and grand-parents were SO proud! Then, the curtain pulls back and there she is. Followed by a perfectly timed shoulder pat from his 2 best-men and the Groom is welling up. What a lovely service! 2 'Sister-Churches' (a lovely phrase used by Fr Mike) joined here also as the Farrel contingent brought their own Priest to the proceedings (sponsored by whatever watch he chose to wear that day..the flash git), Fr Paul. So...Mark and Louise Farrell are now married.
TO THE RECEPTION! Wonderful food, wonderful service (Seriously, my sister Donna had to take little Lukey to the loo. At which point the Maitre D instructed a waitress to remove their food and keep it warm. That's quality!), wonderful company! Then...the infamous speeches!
I now have a meeting so I will continue later....
Wednesday, 5 August 2009
Love and Marriage...
I find myself thinking of the eternal bond! Or at least that's what it used to be. I went to the first of 3 weddings I have this summer on Sunday and I found myself very interested in the vows. It's one of the last lines. Either: Till death do us part ot till death parts us. Do people realise what they are saying? It seems not.
Our airwaves are covered with these 'reality programmes' (which aren't very realistic I might add!) and there is one called 4 weddings. These people, and indeed our society, looks upon the SACRAMENT of marriage as a party, a show, a chance to get the dress and have the big party with the food and free drink. It's a sham.
The people I will talk about will remain nameless although I am sure they know who they are.
2 of my closest friends got married recently and it really made me think. They did it for themselves. No one else. We all found out after the event. The happiness that eminated from them was amazing to behold. There was no pressure. No stress about the seating plan, the venue, the cake, the dress. It was a marriage, in my opinion for the right reasons. And I was blown away by this.
Don't get me wrong. I LOVE a good wedding! In fact I am looking forward to the 2 I will be part of this weekend (not mine I hasten to add). Again these are 2 weddings that are completely different but, knowing the people who are giving their lives to each other I know they will be amazing. I can't wait for them! One I know is going to be a grand event!!
I hope you don't think I am against marriage. Quite the opposite in fact. I love marriage and everything about it. I look forward to the day when I get married. What I am against is the fact that people 'nowadays' seem to marry for the spectacle, not the love and commitment. I am happy to say that all of the weddings I have experienced (or not in some cases!) this year have and will be for Love and commitment. Some will have the dress, the cake, and all the accoutrement, some won't. but the one factor that matters, that is obvious in all of them is love. and for that reason, I know they will all last the course.
Tuesday, 4 August 2009
Fire and Water
Have you ever watched a flame of a candle and used it to guide your thoughts?
Have you ever watched a pool of water in the rain?
The beauty of doing this is that you will never see the same thing twice. The water will ripple in ever expanding circles that look perfectly circular, the flame will dance in the breeze (even if you think there is none). These things are completely their own and yet can be altered by the simplest of input from the outside world.
It just goes to show that the smallest things, almost insignificant even, can affect a truely devestating force. Let's not forget floods and arson. Where we can use these 2 items for quiet reflection and peaceful times, a simple gust of wind can cause forest fires. Yes, water can be used to quell this beast but, what is there to stop the water?
First Attemp
Let's kick off with an apology to all my (as yet non-existent) readers! I have been known to ramble, to say things as they pop into my head and well...I can be SO annoying it hurts. However, I feel that this is my new space to say things I couldn't on certain networks and to feel free to share my theories and beliefs with those who are interested enough to find me!
I would like to take this opportunity to thank my sponsor and mentor (you know who you are)!
So, for today allow me to start with drizzle. It is in it's simplicity depressing and in someways rather beautiful. I guess this opens us up to the complexities of how we percieve our own world and how we react to situations.
I work with a lady we'll call Sharon for this exercise who oftens marvels at my positive outlook on most things. I simple believe that we owe our creator (in whatever form you believe it takes) a debt of gratitude and as (we hear this little gem in a new film about subway hostage takingin NY) God doesn't take cash, we should like life abundantly (another film reference but one I have taken to my heart).
So people, look out of your window. If you see drizzle try to smile. After all, without this weather our plant-life would wither and die. A dessert surrounding us would be worse than this I think...
I would like to take this opportunity to thank my sponsor and mentor (you know who you are)!
So, for today allow me to start with drizzle. It is in it's simplicity depressing and in someways rather beautiful. I guess this opens us up to the complexities of how we percieve our own world and how we react to situations.
I work with a lady we'll call Sharon for this exercise who oftens marvels at my positive outlook on most things. I simple believe that we owe our creator (in whatever form you believe it takes) a debt of gratitude and as (we hear this little gem in a new film about subway hostage takingin NY) God doesn't take cash, we should like life abundantly (another film reference but one I have taken to my heart).
So people, look out of your window. If you see drizzle try to smile. After all, without this weather our plant-life would wither and die. A dessert surrounding us would be worse than this I think...
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