Toni:
Little old me!:
And I have to say a BIG BIG thank you to Toni for driving us there and back and therefore not being able to get drunk, MWAH!
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
New Year's Eve party at Evolution
Toni and I tarted up and took off to Westcliff for a fabulous New Year's Eve party at Evolution. It was a great night, loads of people there and a great atmosphere. Was lovely to spend to New Year's Eve with loads of friends.
Toni:
Little old me!:
And I have to say a BIG BIG thank you to Toni for driving us there and back and therefore not being able to get drunk, MWAH!
Toni:
Little old me!:
And I have to say a BIG BIG thank you to Toni for driving us there and back and therefore not being able to get drunk, MWAH!
Happy New Year
Happy New Year to all my family and friends.
Hope you all have a great night and a fantastic 2009!
Last.FM listening post
Here's last week's top picks music lovers!
Top weekly tracks:
Top weekly artists:
Overall top tracks:
Overall top artists:
Top weekly tracks:
Top weekly artists:
Overall top tracks:
Overall top artists:
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Turkey and beef sandwich and Eastenders and NHL09
Snack tonight was a delightful turkey and beef sandwich accompanied by a catch up on Eastenders from last night.
Following this I indulged in more NHL 09 on the PS3, ice hockey video games, you gotta love 'em!
Oh what a big kid I am!
Following this I indulged in more NHL 09 on the PS3, ice hockey video games, you gotta love 'em!
Oh what a big kid I am!
Lunch with Sophie, Sam and Shane
After I had dosed myself up with ibuprofen Sam and I went to Chelmsford and met Sophie and Shane. We had a mooch around and then went to Pizza Hut to take advantage of the lunchtime buffet lunch deal. We were in there for ages just chatting and chilling before we decided we should let them have the table as they had big queues.
After lunch Sophie, Sam and Shane went back to Galleywood (Sam is staying with Sophie and Shane until after New Year) and I made my way back to SWF.
House was VERY quiet with nobody in at all, not sure I like it too much. On the plus side Toni is coming tomorrow and we'll be painting the town read for New Year so its more like a calm before the storm LMFAO. Spent a couple of hours playing on the PS3 before settling down to watch he Capitals v Bison webcast.
After lunch Sophie, Sam and Shane went back to Galleywood (Sam is staying with Sophie and Shane until after New Year) and I made my way back to SWF.
House was VERY quiet with nobody in at all, not sure I like it too much. On the plus side Toni is coming tomorrow and we'll be painting the town read for New Year so its more like a calm before the storm LMFAO. Spent a couple of hours playing on the PS3 before settling down to watch he Capitals v Bison webcast.
Rough night!
Had a really bad night last night.
Couldn't get to sleep and when I did it was very disrupted and I kept waking up. Think I probably managed about 4 hours sleep in all, not good. Woke up with a headache from hell and had to dive for the ibuprofen immediately.
Couldn't get to sleep and when I did it was very disrupted and I kept waking up. Think I probably managed about 4 hours sleep in all, not good. Woke up with a headache from hell and had to dive for the ibuprofen immediately.
Monday, December 29, 2008
Great Gift Ideas for Children - Hot and Popular Christmas Toy for 2008
In this article, we will provide you with some popular Christmas toy ideas that will help you hunt for 2008 hot Christmas toys.
Every year, the markets are flooded with different kinds of toys for Christmas. So, it becomes of prime importance to keep yourself updated, so as to make sure that whatever you are buying is in line with the trend. There were times, when kids were satisfied with any toy they got, but, today, they want the latest thing. They have become choosy about the toys also with which they are going to play. In the present times, it has become the most difficult task to convince kids into using something.
2. Doll with a Musical Potty
If your child is still an infant, who does not understand anything about video games or Playstation, then a doll with a musical potty is just the toy that you can gift him for Christmas. The crying, potty-going doll made its debut in 1991 and its latest version comes with a flashing, musical potty. The first doll to boast of 'human functions', it is expected to be one of the hottest-selling toys for Christmas 2008.
3. High School Musical Toys
'High School Musical' is the name of a very popular American television series that was released, for the first time, in 2006. Its sequel - 'High School Musical 2' came out in 2007, while 2008 saw the 'High School Musical 3: Senior Year' hitting the screen. Today, High School Musical toys rank amongst the most popular toys for Christmas. Right from the dolls based on 'High School Musical' to the video game series, you will find everything in the market.
4. Sesame Street Toys
'Sesame Street' is the name of an American educational children's television series that premiered in 1969. The longest running children's program on American television, it has been shown in 120 countries till date. No wonder, the toys based on 'Sesame Street' characters retain one of the position amongst the top 10 Christmas toys for 2008. Amongst them, the most popular is Elmo Live, an all-singing, all-dancing version of the red puppet.
5. Ben 10 Toys
Ben 10 has wooed the kids of today. The hero of an American animated television series, by the name of 'Ben 10', he made his debut on Cartoon Network in December 2005 and still has children going ga-ga all over him. Omnitrix, a watch-like alien device that transforms Ben into the alien of his choice, is the most popular Ben 10 toy amongst children. Apart from that, there are Ben 10 action figures, games and cards.
6. Cupcake Maker Toys
This Christmas, introduce your child to the joy of baking. How? By giving him/her a Cupcake Maker as Christmas toy. It will serve as an educational toy, making your children learn about the basics of cooking, such as measuring and mixing. At the same time, the Cupcake Maker will let them have lots of fun, just as a toy should be, by letting them decorate their cupcakes with various types of accessories, giving their personal touch to each.
7. Nintendo DS Gaming Consoles
Another one of the popular gaming consoles by Nintendo, DS is a dual-screen handheld console. Built along a clamshell design, the console has two LCD screens on the inside. While the upper one is used as viewing screen, the lower one acts as a touch-screen. It was released in 2006, as a slimmer, brighter, and more lightweight version of the Nintendo DS. Its latest version - Nintendo DSi has been released in Japan and will be available in other countries by mid-2009.
8. Doll Toys
If the recipient of Christmas toys is your daughter, then rest assured that dolls never ever go out of fashion. Whether it is Cinderella Barbie Doll, Baby Annabell Doll or Bedtime Lullaby Fifi Doll, dolls will always be amongst the best toys for your baby every year and that includes 2008 as well. Just make sure that you buy the latest model of the doll or the one that you Little Princess has been eyeing for a long time.
9. Bakugan Battle Brawlers Toys
'Bakugan Battle Brawlers' is a Japanese anime series that debuted on TV Tokyo in April 2007, on Teletoon in July 2007 and on Cartoon Network in February 2008. It revolves around a gang of children, called Battle Brawlers, who have the power to wield creatures known as Bakugan. Go ahead, buy a Bakugan game for your kid and see him beaming with happiness on Christmas.
10. Roary the Racing Car Toys
Children and cars have a long-term association and it was further strengthened by the debut of 'Roary the Racing Car', an animated children's television show. Set around a motor racing circuit, called Silver Hatch, the series showcases the adventures of Roary, a red, single-seater racing car, and his race car friends. From Roary the Racing Car Sliver Hatch Turbo Race Set to Roary the Racing Car 10 inch Bike with Sounds, the options before you are many.
Every year, the markets are flooded with different kinds of toys for Christmas. So, it becomes of prime importance to keep yourself updated, so as to make sure that whatever you are buying is in line with the trend. There were times, when kids were satisfied with any toy they got, but, today, they want the latest thing. They have become choosy about the toys also with which they are going to play. In the present times, it has become the most difficult task to convince kids into using something.
Now, pls Check out the following popular and hot Christmas toys for 2008.
1. Star Wars Toys
Star Wars is an epic science fantasy saga that has been revealed to the audience in the form of six movies. It was initially created by George Lucas and made a debut in 1977, with the last film being made in 2005. The animation movie 'Star Wars: The Clone Wars' came out in 2008. There will hardly be a child who is not a Star Wars fan and would not like to receive Star Wars toys as
2. Doll with a Musical Potty
If your child is still an infant, who does not understand anything about video games or Playstation, then a doll with a musical potty is just the toy that you can gift him for Christmas. The crying, potty-going doll made its debut in 1991 and its latest version comes with a flashing, musical potty. The first doll to boast of 'human functions', it is expected to be one of the hottest-selling toys for Christmas 2008.
3. High School Musical Toys
'High School Musical' is the name of a very popular American television series that was released, for the first time, in 2006. Its sequel - 'High School Musical 2' came out in 2007, while 2008 saw the 'High School Musical 3: Senior Year' hitting the screen. Today, High School Musical toys rank amongst the most popular toys for Christmas. Right from the dolls based on 'High School Musical' to the video game series, you will find everything in the market.
4. Sesame Street Toys
'Sesame Street' is the name of an American educational children's television series that premiered in 1969. The longest running children's program on American television, it has been shown in 120 countries till date. No wonder, the toys based on 'Sesame Street' characters retain one of the position amongst the top 10 Christmas toys for 2008. Amongst them, the most popular is Elmo Live, an all-singing, all-dancing version of the red puppet.
5. Ben 10 Toys
Ben 10 has wooed the kids of today. The hero of an American animated television series, by the name of 'Ben 10', he made his debut on Cartoon Network in December 2005 and still has children going ga-ga all over him. Omnitrix, a watch-like alien device that transforms Ben into the alien of his choice, is the most popular Ben 10 toy amongst children. Apart from that, there are Ben 10 action figures, games and cards.
6. Cupcake Maker Toys
This Christmas, introduce your child to the joy of baking. How? By giving him/her a Cupcake Maker as Christmas toy. It will serve as an educational toy, making your children learn about the basics of cooking, such as measuring and mixing. At the same time, the Cupcake Maker will let them have lots of fun, just as a toy should be, by letting them decorate their cupcakes with various types of accessories, giving their personal touch to each.
7. Nintendo DS Gaming Consoles
Another one of the popular gaming consoles by Nintendo, DS is a dual-screen handheld console. Built along a clamshell design, the console has two LCD screens on the inside. While the upper one is used as viewing screen, the lower one acts as a touch-screen. It was released in 2006, as a slimmer, brighter, and more lightweight version of the Nintendo DS. Its latest version - Nintendo DSi has been released in Japan and will be available in other countries by mid-2009.
8. Doll Toys
If the recipient of Christmas toys is your daughter, then rest assured that dolls never ever go out of fashion. Whether it is Cinderella Barbie Doll, Baby Annabell Doll or Bedtime Lullaby Fifi Doll, dolls will always be amongst the best toys for your baby every year and that includes 2008 as well. Just make sure that you buy the latest model of the doll or the one that you Little Princess has been eyeing for a long time.
9. Bakugan Battle Brawlers Toys
'Bakugan Battle Brawlers' is a Japanese anime series that debuted on TV Tokyo in April 2007, on Teletoon in July 2007 and on Cartoon Network in February 2008. It revolves around a gang of children, called Battle Brawlers, who have the power to wield creatures known as Bakugan. Go ahead, buy a Bakugan game for your kid and see him beaming with happiness on Christmas.
10. Roary the Racing Car Toys
Children and cars have a long-term association and it was further strengthened by the debut of 'Roary the Racing Car', an animated children's television show. Set around a motor racing circuit, called Silver Hatch, the series showcases the adventures of Roary, a red, single-seater racing car, and his race car friends. From Roary the Racing Car Sliver Hatch Turbo Race Set to Roary the Racing Car 10 inch Bike with Sounds, the options before you are many.
* Original address of this gift post: China Gift and Fine Arts & Crafts in China
A sad day
Today was a sad day.
Mum was going back to Stratford upon Avon today. Before she left she made a sort of Shepherd's Pie but with leftover turkey and ham instead of mince and sliced potato on the top instead of mash. It was absolutely delicious.
Toni, Sam and I drove mum to Chelmsford to drop her off at the bus station. We then popped into HMV so that I could pick up a couple of BluRay discs in the sale. I picked up Sweeney Todd, The Nightmare Before Christmas, Edward Scissorhands and The Crow
Toni had to head back to London at 19:00 as Gemima was returning from Cornwall with Nick so it was a bit odd to have the house with just Sam and I in it again. We did manage to occupy our time catching up on a load of wrestling that we hadn't seen yet.
Still, Toni will be back on Wednesday ready for New Year fun and frolics! YAY!
Mum was going back to Stratford upon Avon today. Before she left she made a sort of Shepherd's Pie but with leftover turkey and ham instead of mince and sliced potato on the top instead of mash. It was absolutely delicious.
Toni, Sam and I drove mum to Chelmsford to drop her off at the bus station. We then popped into HMV so that I could pick up a couple of BluRay discs in the sale. I picked up Sweeney Todd, The Nightmare Before Christmas, Edward Scissorhands and The Crow
Toni had to head back to London at 19:00 as Gemima was returning from Cornwall with Nick so it was a bit odd to have the house with just Sam and I in it again. We did manage to occupy our time catching up on a load of wrestling that we hadn't seen yet.
Still, Toni will be back on Wednesday ready for New Year fun and frolics! YAY!
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Ice hockey and TGI Friday
After another wonderful lie in (I can really get used to these LOL, it will be a shame once my time off is done and it's back to work again).
Once we had all got up we decided that we would go to Romford to watch some ice hockey as the game was Romford Spitfires v Chelmsford Chieftains, haven't been for a while and mum enjoys it too. Sam wasn't too keen until food was offered afterwards LOL.
As you would expect from a local derby game it was a chippy and exciting affair which the Chieftains won 6 - 2. Toni found it very hard to get used to the netting rather than plexi all round the ice pad.
After getting lost exiting the ice rink we then headed out to chav city (sorry, Bas Vegas) where I treated Toni, mum and Sam to a lovely TGI Friday dinner.
Toni:
Mum and I:
Sam refusing to have his photo taken again:
Once we had all got up we decided that we would go to Romford to watch some ice hockey as the game was Romford Spitfires v Chelmsford Chieftains, haven't been for a while and mum enjoys it too. Sam wasn't too keen until food was offered afterwards LOL.
As you would expect from a local derby game it was a chippy and exciting affair which the Chieftains won 6 - 2. Toni found it very hard to get used to the netting rather than plexi all round the ice pad.
After getting lost exiting the ice rink we then headed out to chav city (sorry, Bas Vegas) where I treated Toni, mum and Sam to a lovely TGI Friday dinner.
Toni:
Mum and I:
Sam refusing to have his photo taken again:
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Lazy day
Today was defintely a lazy day (and why not!)
Toni went to Asda and Sam and I amused ourselves further on the wonderful Little Big Planet.
Early lunch today as Sophie and Shane were being collected by Fi (Shane's sister). Miracles do happen at Xmas it seems as Fi arrived almost 30 minutes early so she came in and had a cup of tea while we finished lunch and Sophie and Shange gathered their belongings.
Once again the evening was dominated by Sam and I on Little Big Planet (thankfully its the sort of game that people can enjoy just watching others playing it).
Later on we decided to have some more food (it's Xmas, it's allowed!) and we all sat and watched Casino Royale on glorious BluRay HD vision.
Toni went to Asda and Sam and I amused ourselves further on the wonderful Little Big Planet.
Early lunch today as Sophie and Shane were being collected by Fi (Shane's sister). Miracles do happen at Xmas it seems as Fi arrived almost 30 minutes early so she came in and had a cup of tea while we finished lunch and Sophie and Shange gathered their belongings.
Once again the evening was dominated by Sam and I on Little Big Planet (thankfully its the sort of game that people can enjoy just watching others playing it).
Later on we decided to have some more food (it's Xmas, it's allowed!) and we all sat and watched Casino Royale on glorious BluRay HD vision.
Friday, December 26, 2008
Boxing Day fun
Today was like Christmas Day all over again. Sophie and Shane came over and we did round two of presents. It was lovely to be able to have them over.
Toni and Aaron had to shoot off to her sisters, where they also did Christmas MK 2 with all of her family. It was a bit weird with her having to disappear for a while but I know she had to go.
Sophie, Shane, mum, Sam and I chatted, played a little on the PS3 and had a lovely buffet lunch.
The afternoon was spent in fits of laughter playing Little Big Planet, a very very VERY silly game but so addictive.
Toni returned later on and say amongst the madness (and did some knitting). She was knitting a dolly and I asked her to knit me a Sack Boy (the star of Little Big Planet).
Sam wearing the free gift from his Family Guy series 7 DVD set that Sophie bought him:
Toni looking fab in the new dress that I gave her for Xmas:
Let me in:
Sophie and Shane:
See all the pictures in my Picasa web album here:
26/12/08 Boxing Day
Toni and Aaron had to shoot off to her sisters, where they also did Christmas MK 2 with all of her family. It was a bit weird with her having to disappear for a while but I know she had to go.
Sophie, Shane, mum, Sam and I chatted, played a little on the PS3 and had a lovely buffet lunch.
The afternoon was spent in fits of laughter playing Little Big Planet, a very very VERY silly game but so addictive.
Toni returned later on and say amongst the madness (and did some knitting). She was knitting a dolly and I asked her to knit me a Sack Boy (the star of Little Big Planet).
Sam wearing the free gift from his Family Guy series 7 DVD set that Sophie bought him:
Toni looking fab in the new dress that I gave her for Xmas:
Let me in:
Sophie and Shane:
See all the pictures in my Picasa web album here:
26/12/08 Boxing Day
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Merry Christmas
Merry Christmas to all my friends and family!
It was a good day. Toni and I made a real disaster of doing the Santa thing for Sam and Aaron. Everybody went to bed late which wasn't a good start. Toni and I watched DVDs in bed (well she fell asleep quite a lot) and then we attempted to do the Santa thing at around 02:00. Seems we managed to wake both the boys up, I gave up trying to open Sam's door quietly and just hung his stuff on the door handle. No sooner had we gone back to bed than the rustling started LOL.
It was nice to wake up at a pleasant hour and good hear my mum doing stuff in the kitchen.
Mum made sausages for breakfast which started the day off well.
By midday we poured drinks for everyone and then Sam was postman and handed out the presents.
We had a fantastic Xmas dinner (thanks mum and Toni for making it so lovely) and this was followed by no activity at all, watching TV and more eating and drinking.
All in all it was a good Xmas, a little strange with Sophie not being there, but was full of cheer and happiness
Aaron:
Toni:
Mum:
A puzzled Sam trying to work out what his small present is:
TGI Friday vouchers YAY!
I wonder what this could be? LOL
Sam being very pleased with the second part of his present:
Grubs up:
Cheers!:
Tuck in:
See all the pictures in my Picasa web album here:
25/12/08 Christmas Day
It was a good day. Toni and I made a real disaster of doing the Santa thing for Sam and Aaron. Everybody went to bed late which wasn't a good start. Toni and I watched DVDs in bed (well she fell asleep quite a lot) and then we attempted to do the Santa thing at around 02:00. Seems we managed to wake both the boys up, I gave up trying to open Sam's door quietly and just hung his stuff on the door handle. No sooner had we gone back to bed than the rustling started LOL.
It was nice to wake up at a pleasant hour and good hear my mum doing stuff in the kitchen.
Mum made sausages for breakfast which started the day off well.
By midday we poured drinks for everyone and then Sam was postman and handed out the presents.
We had a fantastic Xmas dinner (thanks mum and Toni for making it so lovely) and this was followed by no activity at all, watching TV and more eating and drinking.
All in all it was a good Xmas, a little strange with Sophie not being there, but was full of cheer and happiness
Aaron:
Toni:
Mum:
A puzzled Sam trying to work out what his small present is:
TGI Friday vouchers YAY!
I wonder what this could be? LOL
Sam being very pleased with the second part of his present:
Grubs up:
Cheers!:
Tuck in:
See all the pictures in my Picasa web album here:
25/12/08 Christmas Day
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Top 10 Stupid Christmas Gifts, you never to send out
What’s a good gift idea for that she or he who really does have everything? Then how about an underwear repair kit or maybe a "Yes, We Can" of Barack Obama bottle opener?
The Stupid.com website in New York US, which unveiled its second annual list of the top 10 "stupidest" Christmas gifts for 2008 on Tuesday, and it claims that finding a truly stupid gift is an art form.
"2008 might have been a bad year for the economy, but it was a great year for stupidity," said Gary Apple, founder of Stupid.com. "Weird products seemed to come out of the woodwork this year. There were too much stupid articles that it’s difficult to choose from!"
Here is the list of 2008 top 10 stupid Christmas gift awarded by stupid.com (New York-based)
Top 1. Screaming Chicken
This rubber chicken doesn't squeak or squawk. It only screams. It maybe is the most annoying toy in the world.
Top 2. Christmas Tree Ornament for "Wealth Redistribution"
This tree ornament announces that the ornament that used to be there has been taken away and given to someone who needs it more. The Redistribution Christmas Ornament is talking people that you're making a fortune whether you want to or not.
Top 3. Mini Guitar Hero
This miniature version is originated from the megahit game ”Guitar Hero” in the USA, and it is barely 6-inches long, but it can still rock out various rocking music, and these songs mainly come from specials of Queen, Cheap Trick, Nirvana, and The Police Band.
Top 4. Potty Putter
Why waste time on the toilet, you may make use of it to exercise the fairway? Potty Putter contains everything you need for an exciting round of golf without leaving your seat, which including a putting green around the toilet, mini putter, flag stick and two golf balls.
Top 5. Mustard Flavor Gum Balls
These little green gum balls offer an intense explosion of mustard. It's strange that the candy is actually delicious.
Top 6. An Underwear Repair Kit for Men
In this hard time of economy, don not to throw away your old underwear but repair it yourself with this Underwear Repair Kit. This repair kit is portable, inexpensive, and in which anything you need won’t absent, and it can help you to get your undershorts back into presentable shape.
Top 7. Obama "Yes We Can" Bottle Opener
Each election will spawns some interesting things, but this time it bought the stupidest one. But to those Obama fans, the "Yes, We Can" bottle opener themed with Obama’s campaign slogan ”Yes, We Can” is certainly a treasure.
Top 8. "How To Tie A Tie" Tie
Still annoying with how to tie your tie? This fashion tie has a simple guide for how to tie that printed on the front. Just follow the six steps step-by-step and you'll look as dashing as George Clooney in seconds.
Top 9. 2009 Dog Poop Calendar
In this calendar each month page features a spectacular landscape or a breathtaking tableau, but somewhere in every shot there's a pile of dog poop. Distasteful? You bet it is, but the contrast between the beautiful picture and dog poop is remarkable.
Top 10. Alarm Clock with a Pole Dancer
At the alarm time set previous on the clock, dance music plays and disco lights flash. At the same time, a buxom dancer with blond hair gyrates around a pole under the spinning ballroom.
* Last year listed on the stupid Christmas gifts rank includes Hillary Clinton Cracker, Mother Teresa fresh spray, and portable party cupula with a suction kit attached to your forehead.
** Original address of this gift post: China Gift and Fine Arts & Crafts in China
A bit cheesed off!
With it being the last day of work before Xmas our beloved boss decided to bring in some beer and nibbles for those of us that were in on Xmas eve. What was even better was that he had also brought in champagne for us too (or so I thought). He handed a few bottles out around the office and there were two left. He then walked passed me with both bottles, gave one to Arek (who sits at a desk behind me) only for the final bottle to disappear. So that meant everybody that was in got one apart from me. I am sure that it was merely an oversight and not deliberate but it wasn't a great way to finish off the last day before Xmas.
Xmas videos
Here's a few festive videos to enjoy!
Hanoi Rocks - Run Rudolph Run
Twisted Sister - Oh Come All Ye Faithful
Soho Dolls - Dead By Xmas
Hanoi Rocks - Run Rudolph Run
Twisted Sister - Oh Come All Ye Faithful
Soho Dolls - Dead By Xmas
Last day at work!
Last day at work today and thankfully we do finish early (hopefully very early). Had a bit of a rest this morning as Mike picked me (and will be dropping me home again, you are a star!)
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Almost there
YAY!
Finally got nearly all the tidying done and the last of the Xmas prezzies wrapped up.
Am totally knackered now
Finally got nearly all the tidying done and the last of the Xmas prezzies wrapped up.
Am totally knackered now
SSSSSSSSSSSS.......
SEGA!
Got in from work tonight and managed to kick Sam off of the PS3 for 5 minutes so that I could have a bash at Sonic Unleashed! It's an awesome game, just a shame that I had so much to do that I couldn't keep playing it LOL
After I had eaten it was time to do a load of tidying up and moving around of things ready for Xmas so no more PS3 for me.
Got in from work tonight and managed to kick Sam off of the PS3 for 5 minutes so that I could have a bash at Sonic Unleashed! It's an awesome game, just a shame that I had so much to do that I couldn't keep playing it LOL
After I had eaten it was time to do a load of tidying up and moving around of things ready for Xmas so no more PS3 for me.
Monday, December 22, 2008
ugh zzzzzzzzzzzz
That sums up how I feel this morning. Tried to have an early night but failed and then didn't sleep well. Getting up for work was a real struggle. It's going to be a caffeine fuelled day today methinks!
Chatting with Gloria
Had a nice set of text exchanges with Gloria today. Was nice to talk even though it was via text. We both feel the same about Xmas, it just isn't the same without Sharon around but we'll try and do our best to have a good time anyway.
It was strange as she seemed to think that I would think differently but I had to let her know that my feelings for Sharon have never gone away or subsided and that I still miss her more than anything.
It was strange as she seemed to think that I would think differently but I had to let her know that my feelings for Sharon have never gone away or subsided and that I still miss her more than anything.
Last.FM listening post!
Here's last week's top picks music lovers!
Top weekly tracks:
Top weekly artists:
Overall top tracks:
Overall top artists:
Top weekly tracks:
Top weekly artists:
Overall top tracks:
Overall top artists:
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Top 5 Best Sales Christmas Toys
Shopping for toys during Christmas is one of the most popular items shopped for. Consequently, shopping for toys can also be the most expensive task on your Christmas shopping list. As you know, there are many different Christmas sales on toys. Many stores are providing deals and special discounts that help you save some money.
Top 1. Elmo Live
Is it live or is it Elmo Live? For the first time ever, in this truly life-like creation, Elmo really appears to be speaking as his mouth opens and closes just like a muppet. His mannerisms are right on target and his head bobbles back and forth as he speaks. Elmo waves his arms, sits and stands, and even crosses his legs while telling stories and jokes, singing songs and playing games. Children can activate the magic with a tickle or a squeeze of Elmo’s foot, tummy, back or nose. Measures 12″ tall.
Top 2. Ultra-Realistic FurReal Pup
This ultra-realistic FurReal pup is the perfect first pet for any little girl or boy. Biscuit responds to you and obeys six different commands: sit, lie down, sit up, beg and speak. He’ll also give you a paw when you ask if he wants a treat. Biscuit’s soft, cuddly fur and puppy-dog eyes will instantly win you over. Sitting pup measures 21″ tall.
Top 3. Hasbro Dance Cam
Catch your moves on the tube! With this Playskool Dance Cam from Hasbro, children can be the star of their own show and see themselves dancing on the TV screen along with cute, animated characters. Friends can join in on the fun, too.
Simple to set up and provides hours of active, silly fun. Features three modes of play — dance along with animated characters, learn a cool move or freestyle with your tunes. Comes loaded with 20 favorite preschool songs.
Top 4. Bakugan Battlepack Teal and Red Set
This Bakugan Battle Pack from Spinmaster has small spheres that magnetically morph into powerful Bakugan warriors when they roll onto the real metal gate cards. Use strategy to place your metal gate cards effectively as each cards affects the battle differently. Then master you precision shooting skills to roll your Bakugan into battle and win.
Top 5. Hyper Dash Unit (Electronic Game)
It's the Hyper Dash Unit(electronic game) that's as fast as you are. Test your speed and agility in a race against time using five targets and an electronic handheld unit. To start, set up your targets on the table, around the room, around the house or throughout the yard. Then, follow the announcer’s commands as you zip around your racecourse to tag your targets with the handheld unit. The fastest time wins. Features four game modes that challenge your speed, skill, memory, coordination and teamwork. Includes ergonomically designed Hyper Dash unit and five labelled targets.
Any of the above top 5 best selling Christmas toys 2008 will make an awesome gift for your loved ones. And there just isn’t a better feeling all year than when we see our childrens' faces light up, and see their shrieks of joy and delight when they open up their gifts, is there? For me it has always been the best time of the year.
Best sale Christmas toys is a popular online search every year before Christmas, and Christmas 2008 is no exception. The reason being of course that these lists help busy moms and dads select toys that are guaranteed to fill their children with great joy when they open their gifts at Christmas.
There's no i in team......
.....but there is in Keith, Linda and Toni and unit.
Mum, Toni and I put together my new TV unit this evening so that the PS3 could be safely parked. It was definitely a case of teamwork as we all played valuable roles in assembling the thing but it was a great success and the living room looks great with it in place.
Mum, Toni and I put together my new TV unit this evening so that the PS3 could be safely parked. It was definitely a case of teamwork as we all played valuable roles in assembling the thing but it was a great success and the living room looks great with it in place.
Another action packed day!
After cups of tea Sam and I set about setting up the PS3 (our new toy that we bought together). Have to say it is pretty awesome, really glad we bought it.
Lovely breakfast of toast & marmite (thank you Toni)
Following breakfast, Toni & mum went to Asda to stock up on things and Sam and I stayed at home and played on the PS3 :o)
We then drove over to Sophie & Shane's and dropped Sam off and mum, Toni and I popped back into Chelmsford to go to Argos to get a couple of units that mum was buying me.
We then went back to Sophie & Shane's, via Lidl so that Toni and mum could get some more Xmas goodies, for a cup of tea & to give Sophie her baby gifts from (uncle) David and Nelly. Here are a few pics:
Lovely breakfast of toast & marmite (thank you Toni)
Following breakfast, Toni & mum went to Asda to stock up on things and Sam and I stayed at home and played on the PS3 :o)
We then drove over to Sophie & Shane's and dropped Sam off and mum, Toni and I popped back into Chelmsford to go to Argos to get a couple of units that mum was buying me.
We then went back to Sophie & Shane's, via Lidl so that Toni and mum could get some more Xmas goodies, for a cup of tea & to give Sophie her baby gifts from (uncle) David and Nelly. Here are a few pics:
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Busy day
Day started off with Toni wrapping presents and me doing "stuff"
Following that we went to Chelmsford to meet mum at the bus station. Sophie, Shane and Sam were there with mum when we arrived. It was good to see mum again.
As the hungers had set in we all decided to have lunch at Wetherspoons and very nice it was too (and a VERY welcome change from Pizza Hut)
After lunch Shane and Sam went back to Sophie and Shane's while mum, Toni and I went to do some Xmas shopping. Got the last of the bits that we needed so job done!
When we got home I watched the Capitals webcast, mum watched Strictly Come Dancing and Toni prepared dinner
Had a lovely dinner of meatballs and rice (although not as nice as Toni's usual home made ones)
Toni & Sam went upstairs and had a chat and mum and I watched some awful old film on the TV.
Following that we went to Chelmsford to meet mum at the bus station. Sophie, Shane and Sam were there with mum when we arrived. It was good to see mum again.
As the hungers had set in we all decided to have lunch at Wetherspoons and very nice it was too (and a VERY welcome change from Pizza Hut)
After lunch Shane and Sam went back to Sophie and Shane's while mum, Toni and I went to do some Xmas shopping. Got the last of the bits that we needed so job done!
When we got home I watched the Capitals webcast, mum watched Strictly Come Dancing and Toni prepared dinner
Had a lovely dinner of meatballs and rice (although not as nice as Toni's usual home made ones)
Toni & Sam went upstairs and had a chat and mum and I watched some awful old film on the TV.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Back safe and sound!
Phew!
Sam and Livvy returned just after 01:35, it was such a relief for them to get back. Turns out Sam's battery had died (something I shall have words about LOL).
Karen turned up 5 minutes later to pick up Livvy so all ended happily.
Sam and Livvy returned just after 01:35, it was such a relief for them to get back. Turns out Sam's battery had died (something I shall have words about LOL).
Karen turned up 5 minutes later to pick up Livvy so all ended happily.
Worried!!!!!!!!!
Time to be worried now.
It is 01:10 and Sam and Livvy have not returned home yet.
Have tried ringing Sam but his phone is going straight to voicemail.
I shall be having words!
It is 01:10 and Sam and Livvy have not returned home yet.
Have tried ringing Sam but his phone is going straight to voicemail.
I shall be having words!
Junk food
After my walk I went to the "kebab van that isn't really a van" and bought a chicken kebab and chips & cheese for dinner. Yummy scrummy!
And for those of you that are new to this and are wondering what the "kebab van that isn't really a van" is all about, here goes:
And for those of you that are new to this and are wondering what the "kebab van that isn't really a van" is all about, here goes:
Quiet walk and reflections
After my mad tidying up frenzy I decided to go for a little walk to get some food. Everything was very quiet and peaceful and as I walked along breathing in the fresh winter air I looked at all the decorated houses and remembered the times that Sharon and I used to go for a stroll around SWF (usually with Jack the Westie). Was quite emotional thinking back on those wonderful times when we just wandered around on together just enjoying the tranquility of the night. I sang a few songs and had a chat with Sharon and smiled (with a tear in my eye).
Not amused and tidying up
*sigh*
Got in from work today only to find that Sam had buggered off to The O2 to see The Mighty Boosh with Livvy without doing any of the washing up. Needless to say I was NOT amused as he has been at home all day.
After I had done that I then got down to the mammoth task of tidying up and straightening the house out before mum arrives on Saturday.
Most of it is done now, just a few things to sort out tomorrow night and first thing on Saturday but my panic is over.
Got in from work today only to find that Sam had buggered off to The O2 to see The Mighty Boosh with Livvy without doing any of the washing up. Needless to say I was NOT amused as he has been at home all day.
After I had done that I then got down to the mammoth task of tidying up and straightening the house out before mum arrives on Saturday.
Most of it is done now, just a few things to sort out tomorrow night and first thing on Saturday but my panic is over.
Manic day at work!
Really busy at work today with everybody seemingly going great guns to clear things out of their queue before Xmas hits us!
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Warhammer and stir fry
Not together though!
Had a very enjoyable Warhammer battle with Sam when I got in from work today. I hate to admit it but I am starting to get the hand of it all again, guess that means I am still a geek LMFAO.
Toni arrived while Sam and I were playing and made a lovely stir fry which we ate while watched Batman: The Dark Night.
Had a very enjoyable Warhammer battle with Sam when I got in from work today. I hate to admit it but I am starting to get the hand of it all again, guess that means I am still a geek LMFAO.
Toni arrived while Sam and I were playing and made a lovely stir fry which we ate while watched Batman: The Dark Night.
Back to work
Real struggle to get up this morning. Two days off had me in "no rush to get up" mode. did manage to haul myself out of my pit and then get Sam up on time though. Even got to the station with enough time to buy my ticket!
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Creative Christmas Gift Ideas for Her & Him
Tired of endless mall walking in search of a perfect Christmas gift that is nowhere to be found? Hate giving gift cards or gift certificates and cash just because it seems impossible to come up with anything better?
This holiday season, find unique ways to let the people in your life know that you care. Get creative, get personal and get fun; get a gift that will bring joy to her or him you love this Christmas.
Projects to Do and Make
Instead of toys that quickly lose their appeal, projects to make and do entertain during the process of creation and then become all the more special because they were made by the recipient. A craft set for making beaded jewelry, a T-shirt or canvas bag and special fabric crayons and pens for decorating, or a small set of wood working tools and pieces of cut wood can provide hours of entertainment. These gifts also often teach useful skills and encourage artistic abilities. Some kits can be purchased with the supplies and tools included. For a more personalized gift or to monitor the quality of the tools included a gift giver might choose the supplies and tools and pick a useful bag or box that could serve as storage later.
Homemade Items that Everyone Needs
Sometimes a gift item of a usable, consumable product with a personalized touch can be both affordable and appreciated. Children’s artwork can be scanned and made into calendars or greeting cards. Lip balm, bath salts, or bath oil can be made with items from the grocery and craft store. For kids simple recipes abound for play dough, homemade bath crayons, and homemade sidewalk chalk.
Since everyone needs to eat, ready-to-make meal mixes such as soup in a jar or muffin and bread mix can be great gifts as well. The gift of something useful need not be boring. It can be a playful twist on the usual or something a bit more extravagant than expected. But the element of usefulness ensures the gift will be appreciated rather than stored away.
Gift Tickets to Local Attractions, Museums or Performances
Gifts of tickets to local attractions, museums, or performances can encourage the appreciation of the arts. Families might appreciate an annual pass to a zoo or Children’s Museum near their home. Some performing arts centers offer packets of tickets to various events. Concerts or even movie theater tickets can be great gifts especially as families cut back on the entertainment budget and such attractions become a rare treat.
Instead of focusing on things to purchase, gifts that focus on activities can bring smiles and avoid both the shopping pitfalls and the return lines.Gifts that interest and give fun to the recipient need not be expensive or even purchased. With some planning and creative ideas, thought, smart gift givers can get through Christmas with some money left in their pocket.
This holiday season, find unique ways to let the people in your life know that you care. Get creative, get personal and get fun; get a gift that will bring joy to her or him you love this Christmas.
Projects to Do and Make
Instead of toys that quickly lose their appeal, projects to make and do entertain during the process of creation and then become all the more special because they were made by the recipient. A craft set for making beaded jewelry, a T-shirt or canvas bag and special fabric crayons and pens for decorating, or a small set of wood working tools and pieces of cut wood can provide hours of entertainment. These gifts also often teach useful skills and encourage artistic abilities. Some kits can be purchased with the supplies and tools included. For a more personalized gift or to monitor the quality of the tools included a gift giver might choose the supplies and tools and pick a useful bag or box that could serve as storage later.
Homemade Items that Everyone Needs
Sometimes a gift item of a usable, consumable product with a personalized touch can be both affordable and appreciated. Children’s artwork can be scanned and made into calendars or greeting cards. Lip balm, bath salts, or bath oil can be made with items from the grocery and craft store. For kids simple recipes abound for play dough, homemade bath crayons, and homemade sidewalk chalk.
Since everyone needs to eat, ready-to-make meal mixes such as soup in a jar or muffin and bread mix can be great gifts as well. The gift of something useful need not be boring. It can be a playful twist on the usual or something a bit more extravagant than expected. But the element of usefulness ensures the gift will be appreciated rather than stored away.
Gift Tickets to Local Attractions, Museums or Performances
Gifts of tickets to local attractions, museums, or performances can encourage the appreciation of the arts. Families might appreciate an annual pass to a zoo or Children’s Museum near their home. Some performing arts centers offer packets of tickets to various events. Concerts or even movie theater tickets can be great gifts especially as families cut back on the entertainment budget and such attractions become a rare treat.
Instead of focusing on things to purchase, gifts that focus on activities can bring smiles and avoid both the shopping pitfalls and the return lines.Gifts that interest and give fun to the recipient need not be expensive or even purchased. With some planning and creative ideas, thought, smart gift givers can get through Christmas with some money left in their pocket.
Bad taste Xmas cards
I thought these were mildly amusing but then I am a sick puppy! Courtest of b3ta's "Xmas Cards Challenge" here:
http://b3ta.com/challenge/xmascards
Last but not least, this is dedicated to someone known to some of us (who shall remain nameless to protect the not-so-innocent:
http://b3ta.com/challenge/xmascards
Last but not least, this is dedicated to someone known to some of us (who shall remain nameless to protect the not-so-innocent:
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