Once in a Lifetime In Wales

Market Harborough, Cardiff, Market Harborough

2011-02-26T13:23:00.000-08:00

Been busy this week, had lovely couple of days with daughter at the begining of the week we went to stay with my Mum form Friday to Monday. Whilst visiting we went to my nieces 6th birthday party which was great, i cant get enough of Mika Lollipop lol. Aslo went to see Yogi and BooBoo in 3D how cool is that.

Took daughter home on Monday with a view to returning on Tuesday but my Mum wasnt well. Having booked the week off i went on a website and booked a great hotel in Cardiff for a couple of nights. Had an amazing indian curry and and incredible fast chinese due to the fact they where closing. Then drove back to Mums on Friday. Got there about 5.30pm just in time for a cup of tea before she gashed her arm on the door. Then a trip to A+E (shes ok). Set off early Saturday to visit daughter in Wales and took her to see Big Momma which was a good fun film. Anyway time for wine and relax see you soon.

P.S Went to see new Simon Pegg film 'Paul' about an alien hitching a lift to get home. Felt it was digging up all the older puns to be funny but was only mildly amusing. Sorry John.

2011

2011-02-05T15:34:00.000-08:00

Sorry not posted in a while its been a very stressful time, i split with my partner in October 2010 and moved away. Im now in Liverpool and starting to form a routine so hopfully i will resume this if anyones interested. Havent seen much of Mr JG so will need to pull my finger out and make more contact.

As the weaather is with John its the same here, bloody gales and driving rain is making logistics a nightmare. Im just about to settle down with bar of chocolate and watch The Matrix, woohooo.

Girl Guides, Dad, Honda

2010-09-10T01:02:00.000-07:00

Just a quick one, i took my daughter last night to Girl Guides for the 1st time. She was very apprehensive as she would be joining a new club on her own, but low and behold she spotted a face she new of a friend. This was a result the friend introduced her to some others whilst i watched in the back ground. One of the older girls walked straight over to my daughter and shouted "oh my god" as to which we where all taken back and then said "how cool you have the same name as me, high 5". This seemed a sort of welcoming into the next phase of her life, mixing with much older children in a fun atmosphere without the worry of the things that worry a parent in today's lifestyles.

.

Got a bit choked today as whilst scrolling through my mobile to send a funny joke to someone i found my dads mobile number. I wished sentimentally that i could ring and get an answer. I still ha vent deleted it either which i don't know why not.

I got to get my car serviced today as it gets hammered in the job i do, and I have to admit the Honda garage i use is the best customer focused experience I've had. Not only is the car done, ready and valeted on time its with a smile, coffee and within budget

Dad Died, Camelot, Trelawnyd Flower Show

2010-09-06T13:59:00.001-07:00

Dad died on Saturday morning, we had sat with him for the best part of 48 hours. We went home on Friday to Wales and grabbed an hours sleep before getting ready to go to a friends 40th party. Got a call on Saturday morning to say he had just died peacefully in his sleep. I went over to see the family and saw him laid out. I was not prepared for that. So all a bit mixed up at the moment.

We had to tell my daugther in the afternoon, having a 10 yr old little girl who looks into your eyes with hers all full of tears and asked if i was ok after just finding out grandad died made me choke with emotion and tears. I said dont worry about me il be fine and she said but he was your dad.

So after several hours of upset we got ourselves together and decided to make a plan of attack and arranged the following day to go with my cousins and her son to a theme park. My wife thought it may be a good idea as the two cousins would take my mind off it by verbally abusing me (i have to say they are good at it).
We went to a place called Camelot which is based on King Arthur and aimed at children. Les and Debs are totally nuts and where fully supported in the abuse of me, so we went on a load of roller coaster type rides and ended up on one called Excalibur 2

After male Ego and the taunts from the two of them we stayed on for three consecutive go's. Then one more rollercoaster and my chicken coronation sand which came up. Lesson 1 dont listen to cousins.

Trelawnyd show
Brilliant
Daughter one best victoria sponge over all (includin the old dears)
I got lemon sponge 1st
I got chocolate cake 2nd
Wife got sherried sultana cake 2nd
1st for my lettuce
and 2nd for fuschia

any way im off to watch a film by Guy Ritchie 'Snatch'

Moving on

2010-07-22T17:27:00.000-07:00

As you saw by last post its been a crap few months also had to have the cat put down, never rains just pours. But on a lighter note have re-established contact with a few cousins lately especially Les who I never really had anything to do with whilst growing up. Now shes kickin my ass playing Scrabble on Facebook (Grrr). My other cousin Debs has come back home from Spain with her son and is living with her parents so Ive invited them over for a visit. Hopfully they will see ive matured a bit (but not to much). Daughter wants to take them for a walk up our local hill and maybe have a picnic, also wants to take Ben (Deb's son) to see Johns chickens. Ive also been asked and joined the local flower show as a comittee memeber which i think is a ploy for me to lift heavy things and take the money on the door.

Newest memeber of the family little Louie is doin fine and puttin on weight, my brother sent me a pic on my phone of him. My daughter has now started developing a stronger character which is nice, caring and funny. She is an inspiration and doing very well in school. The wedding was a week ago of my nephew (whos father died) and his new wife and i must say the day went brilliantly, a few tears but the spirit was lifted by the party and incredible speaches.

The company i work for has recently been the subject of a takeover there for we are now all on a consuktation period of 12 weeks afterwhich who knows.

Recently just passed my purple belt in Ju-Jitsu and daughter did her blue so we are movin up the ranks towards our black 1st dan belt hopfully 2 years will see it accomplished

Crap couple of weeks

2010-06-20T03:20:00.000-07:00

Last two weeks have been pretty bad, my brother in law (52) died suddenly of a heart attack two weeks ago. He left 3 sons from 18 to 26 and a severely epileptic wife.

We had the phone call at 2.00 am I was totally confused as i was expecting it to be news of my dad.I then had to explain to my wife that her brother died. We then waited till following morning to tell her mum. No mum should bury her son. The funeral was last week and as you would expect an awful day.

Saw my dad as well this week, poor thing is now down to skin and bone, not really much i can add to it as long as he's not in pain. Also nice to know my Mum reads this so hello Mum.

Jake the cat's not looking to good either he is 18 yrs old, we muted the idea of having him put down but the following day he's up n about like a kitten so watch this space.

Daughter ran in to tell me we had a horse in our front garden i thought she was joking ! It was a neighbors who had brought it up her up for a ride.

Another trip around my country estate

2010-06-01T16:04:00.000-07:00

As you see i need to plan my crop rotation so i can leave a tub fallow

This just a few pics as im bored

Stupid

2010-05-25T15:44:00.000-07:00

Ive done a couple of stupid things this week,

1 asked someone in gym who plays in a Beatles tribute band how many are in it.

2 Fell and bit into my own finger down to bone tonight.

3 Stubbed 2 toes in one day.

4 Called a friend an umpa lumpa (who is height conscious).

5 Farted in gym class surrounded by 12 women (who didn't know it was me)

6 Got myself annoyed with my dying cat and told him to walk towards the light

7 Moaned about the agenda for a works meeting on Thursday as it started at 8.00 am ( now resulted in me hosting it for 2 days starting at 8.00 a.m)

So as of Wednesday night having a few days away from gym, myself, mobile phone, computer and all other crap and chilling out a bit.

New Family Member

2010-05-20T15:33:00.000-07:00

Ive been workin a bit to hard lately and been suffering for 10 days with a chest infection. I thought it was just a slight sniffle till i went training and lost my breath and got sent home from gym by the instructor. Its hung around for 10 days now and the antibiotics seem to have started working. Although JG has given me the benefit of his medical training and pointed out i may be doing to much for an elderly man of my ripe age 41.

Also passed my Blue Belt grading in JuJitsu last week which was nerve racking, my daughter has her grading on Sunday. After that we got a course on defences against knife attacks.

Big news is my brother and his wife finally had little Louis at 7lb 1oz last week, we are going to visit in a week so im really lookin forward to that.

Also been asked to join a commitee and help design a poster for the village, and i think it looks o.k. Its for the show on the 21st of August.

Little Plot Update

2010-04-27T12:15:00.000-07:00

Been to gym tonight with daughter and got a bit tired, guess its old age catching up so I finished evening off with my little plot. Its not the worlds biggest I know that but Its good to potter for an hour at dusk.

My Building Project and neck

2010-04-21T07:44:00.000-07:00

Just a quick blog, to say thanks to JG for help. His stone walling has now become the centre piece of my front lawn.

Also had a trip to my local doctors as i have trapped nerve in my neck, they think with all my other ailments it may be arthritis. They gave me a referral for an x-ray and also blood tests. I went to the hospital closest to my home and they did the x-ray of my neck and hands but wouldn't do my blood tests as they only support a handful of local doctors. I then had to drive 20 mile round trip from original hospital to the one where JG works how daft is that !!

The pain killers and anti inflammatory tablets are working a treat though, i feel stoned.

An Easy Day

2010-04-18T10:26:00.000-07:00

Its been a brilliant day today, I went to bed with a migrane last night so took lots of tablets and slept in the spare bedroom (apparently i snore like a gutted rhino).

Woke up this morning at 7.00 a.m which cheesed me off because i was planning a sleep in and crawled out at 7.30. Down for breakfast and a cuppa in the garden as the sun was shining strongly. Thought id get my motorbike out before i go to the gym and have a ride, so i changed into my gym gear, put my leathers over it and hooned it down the motorway for 1/2 an hour before the gym. Did gym then had a ride over to the Horse Shoe Pass in North Wales for an 90 mins.

Found this clip from a branch of the club im a member of (North Wales Advanced Riders) to give you a taste of the scenery.

Came home had bacon buttys and a rest. John came round to help with my major project of building a small drystone wall around my little tree. 3.30 off to Jujitsu and was praised by the instructor and informed im going to be graded again for my next belt in a few weeks along with my daughter.

Home to a minced casserole with turnip mash and grated cheese on top. Few beers in the fridge and a hot bath. Brilliant Day

Strength and Tone

2010-04-13T15:04:00.000-07:00

My regime of exercise is now part of my daily routine of life, I suprised myself because for 39 years i was a couch potato. I am not sure when your meant to feel fit as i seem to be aching in all new places. But its now not so much an obsession but i miss it when i dont go.

I started a new class tonight called strength and tone, I took my daughter to watch as we normally have an hour in the gym together. This was an eye opener as its based on reptatitions rather than weights. Ive been doing weights for a while and thought this must be a doddle, how wrong can i be. 45 mins of stretching and i am aching from top to toe. On a plus side though i was the only bloke !!

Weather

2010-04-11T06:34:00.000-07:00

Does anyone know a reliable weather website i use weather.co.uk and xcweather.co.uk

Grand National Result

2010-04-10T08:47:00.000-07:00

The horse i backed (Creosote) never won even though it was good over the fences.

Grand National

2010-04-10T03:06:00.000-07:00

This has always been an event when wives, grannies and children place a huge amount of money (In some cases a whole one pound) on the horse, which has been skilfully picked by a circling stab on the paper with a pen.

I remember growing up in Liverpool when the race was going to start an eerie silence fell across the city as everyone rushed inside to watch or listen to it. Then a few minutes later the noise increased as they all poured back out. This was usually followed by grannies ringing around to see who had won.

I even went round to relatives who held a family party on the day with beer, butties and a sweepstake running. It was a fun time everyone was included, I wished id organised something here in Wales.

As seasoned gamblers we are in our house we have picked 13 of the 40 runners !!

Boys from the Blackstuff

2010-04-06T17:36:00.001-07:00

I'm getting sentimental, soppy sod. I grew up in Liverpool and this programme was on in 1982 when i was 13/14 yrs old. It still chokes me. The road with the terrace houses was not unlike my old home. Whats ironic is that in my current employment I have worked on the Dock buildings and gates in this clip to help with preservation and also turning them into luxury apartments.

Abbeys, Castles and Hail Stones

2010-04-02T15:32:00.000-07:00

Been on holiday with the caravan this week (pikey to my friends), which started off brilliantly. My mobile rings upto a 80 times a day with work then into the evenings which can get you down a bit. So Friday at 5.00pm i turned it off and the silence felt very unnerving.

Sunday
We packed the caravan and set off on our journey to Bolton Abbey which was the destination for the first picnic me and the wife had 15 years ago. After driving for an hour my car started to die on the motorway so we pulled over and rang the AA (automobile association not for alcoholics). They arrived within 20 mins as we where proritised cause we had a child with us. They towed us off the motorway to the waiting patrol man at the services who reprogrammed the cars computer and off we went within an hour.

On the road passed Bolton Abbey to our caravan site we came across this gate as its called,

with my nerves on edge i inched the van through luckily no damage or scratches. The gate did show signs of less fortunate travellers though. We set up camp very quickly for some reason and then headed off to explore the local area. One hill at the back of the site caught my eye it was called Simons Seat, i thought i must climb it. Then the rain started !

Monday still raining
We visited Fountains Abbey which was an amazing fete of engineering with 6 miles of walks around the estate and a Deer farm.If you like history click the link.
Fountains Abbey

Tuesday still raining
Started today off with a 3 mile jog as the weather had ceased raining for 20 mins. We did Bolton Abbey (no im not religeous) this held good memories for me with the wife, and it was good to revisit with my daughter and again another 5 mile walk around the grounds. I am always impressed with architecture.

Wednesday still raining and the mother of all storms started
This was meant to be a shopping trip to Skipton, but guess where we ended up, Skipton Castle. It made me wonder about these places because part of the Fountain Abbey, Bolton Abbey and Skipton Castle where still lived in. How weird must that be to be living in a tourist attraction. On the way home after shopping extensivley and only buying a rucksack we went to a chippy (diet gone for a burton) Fish and Chips with gallons of vinegar and enough salt to grit the M6.

Feeling guilty after pigging out i decided to walk up Simons Seat at 6pm, stupid idea. I got 3/4s of the way up and saw the path had vanished so i made my own up determined to conquer it. At around 7pm i arrived at the top and it was dusk and chucking it down with hailstones. Id taken a walkie talkie with me so i was in contact with family back in the van and they said the news mentioned severe weather warnings. I hot footed it off the hill through the gorse and brambles. But one thing i found weird was on the way up i walked across a stream and stepped out onto a large flat stone, on the journey down i came across the same stone which still had my footprints and another set of smaller footprints near to mine. This spooked me because i was the only one up on the hill and had clear sight all the way round. Anyway on the way down worried by the incoming foul storm i fell and twisted my hip. Eventually getting back to my caravan with a limp i thought how easily that could have been a mountain rescue.

Thursday drizzle and snow.
Home to the news that my neighbours are moving. We havent been the best of friends but have an understanding thats constantly ignored by the kids (singing till 3am)but i do have to be fair the parents are the hardest working couple i know . My concern now is who we will get as new ones, sometimes its better the devil you know.

Liverpool One

2010-03-24T10:38:00.000-07:00

It was the wifes birthday today, so it started off with prezzies and cards in bed followed by a cup of tea. Then over to Liverpool to visit a shopping centre called Liverpool One. Whilst im not a lover of shopping i must admit i do enjoy it here. It was good to hear the scouse accent in all its glory filled with wonderful flowery language. I hate the use of foul language but when it was in conversation from some people i didnt even notice it, yet from others who i had already prejudged it was awful.

We had breakfast in Lewis's which seems to be the same every year now of pancakes, syrup and bacon. Then a trapse around the shops, I did well in Primark as usual (because i need more clothes). Now im off to Jujitsu whilst she goes to the school bingo and then a bottle of wine this evening.

Its started to take shape

2010-03-22T04:07:00.000-07:00

I've had a sneaky hour to myself this morning so I decided to dig over a small patch for some veg. It's only 8ft x 4ft but I think with carefull management and crop rotation (only joking) we could get it to be a very productive little patch. It was good to do as its the first oppurtunity id had to spend a bit of time on the garden. Helen is real excited and wants Sweetcorn, Rhubarb and im sneaking in some sprouts. Also planned for the pots are Runner Beans, Peas, Tomatoes (which i never succeed with), courgettes, strawberries and my patio pot apple tree.

(Going to need some fertiliser please JG)

The lambs where bouncing around next to me aswell which was cool, they looked like they kept getting electric shocks, this seemed to start a race of running up and down the field like lunatics.

Scala Cold

2010-03-14T08:13:00.000-07:00

Sad to say we went to see Alice in Wonderland and i wasnt impressed. Seemed to be far to long and trying to hard with animation, yes i know its a kids film but still against some of the others it failed in my eyes miserably (I also dont like Johnny Depp). But the fact the the Scala had its usual issues with heating only added to the annoyance. Its now the 2nd time for me and the third time for my wife and daughter to sit in a very cold atmosphere and be told "oh yes the heatings broke, the manager knows about it". Its wearing a bit thin now and i know JG loves the place and is a keen supporter to it but its lost any attraction for me.

I do hope they start to take it seriously and sort these stupid problems out as its a wonderful achievment in its rise from the ashes.

Hot Water and Dangerous Wiring in Airing Cupboard

2010-03-13T14:36:00.000-08:00

Now i have to be honest and say i will try any diy project except water and gas. We have not had full hot water for 2 weeks only warm (moaning git aren't i, i tried to look at the tank but got worried in case i caused a leak. I called the plumber out who checked the tank and said it was fine and must be the timer or the cable. That was the limit of his works!

I now had another problem do i call a spark or have a go myself. Usual have a go myself, started looking for a new timer and found one 22 miles away in LLandudno. After taking the old one off i realised how lucky we are, the power supply had corroded and shorted across the live and neutral causing it to melt severely inside. The realisation was then that we had several aerosol cans in there, loads of cleaning chemicals and also tons of towels which all adds to a potential fire.

The bloke in the shop seems to think the wiring on the tank may have shorted it out and that's why it melted, i don't care now because after four hours trying to work next to the hot water cylinder in knackered. So Saturday rest was out of the window, and Sunday looks full with Gym in morning, Alice in Wonderland film at midday, Jujitsu in afternoon and a load of paperwork for work on Sunday night.
Im away Monday and Tuesday in Huntingdon with work so catch you soon.

Brit Mil Fit

2010-03-11T15:08:00.000-08:00

10k Race/Obstacle Course I've been training for has been cancelled due to the M.O.D doing urgent construction work on a training ground.

I am so cheesed off.

Wedding

2010-03-11T14:55:00.000-08:00

When ever i see this it cheers me up, it's how i imagine a mates wedding will be lol (you know who you are)

Facebook & old girlfriend

2010-03-06T16:24:00.000-08:00

Im not really one for digital interaction i prefer face to face, but i confess im getting a bit caught up on facebook. It is a very strange feeling when you get an invitation to be a friend of someone you have or still know. I accepted a few this week and was surprised at the memories they have of me.

I grew up very confused and full of hormones,rage and self doubt. But its been good to hear people recalling positive stuff about me that had stayed with them in their mind all these years.

On searching a new aquantance's friends i found my ex girlfriends sister was a buddy. Then searching the ex's sister list of friends i found my exgirlfriend.

Gaynor who was my first girlfriend has a special place in my memory as we shared and experimentd (as you do) so many things together. It was sad when we split because we didnt really know why we had she thought i had finnished and i thought she had all over some stupid argument. What was more strange was 9 years later and onto my 3rd and final relationship (the wife) we where watching a documentary called Horizon and this weeks subject was Gaynor and her Narcolepsy. I never realised and neither did her family why she had the most uncontrolable tiredness,, apparently when it was diagnosed but by that time she was severe. I remember a comment she made about having children that she would worry to much incase she fell asleep and hurt them. I then saw on her Facebook profile she now has a three year old son.

Its so strange how some peoples world turns on a completley different axis than yours.

Drunk Ramblings

2010-02-19T16:00:00.000-08:00

I had good night with someone whom i have become to trust as a close friend and confidant, it very often takes the kind words or the silence of a friend to sometimes help put in to perspective the actual crap that is served from those around. If nothing else it adds to the old adage a problem shared is a problem halved. Whilst i don't consider myself to have problems it is good to unload, as this is the first blog on return from my relatives and the result of plenty of beer fueled thoughts I just wanted to say thank you to him for listening to me drone on.

Thank you.

P.s sorry for the spelling/grammar mistakes

Going for it

2010-02-14T04:23:00.000-08:00

Im going on holiday now to Mums for a few days, but before i go im booking this 10k British Military fit test. See you all next week.

Not positive, and it came in 3s

2010-02-09T15:39:00.000-08:00

No1 Feeling a bit down at the moment, my father had it confirmed last week his cancer is in , liver, kidney, lung and a large tumour in colon. The McMillan Nurses have been appointed but not arrived, when trying to help my dad i was told he doesn't want help just wants to lead a normal life (till death). I feel totally useless hes in so much pain. I remember when growing up he was a big country and western fan, but one song always got him smiling and singing like he was possessed.

Johnny Cash "A Boy Named Sue"

No2 Friend had tried to kill himself last week by walking into the path of a lorry, which swerved lucklily (wasnt fair on the driver). He is now stopping with family and has a good therapist.

No3 Work load is getting a bit to much now so time for a holiday i think. My head is totally cabbaged.

Im off next week to visit mum's new home (mum n dad divorced) for a few days. It will be nice to catch up with mum, brother and his family. Will also be a treat not to get any business phone calls.

Anyway thats enough of that moaning for a while, If i get the chance to post another before i go i will but if not this tune always cheers me up. catch you soon.

As happy as a pig in s**t

2010-01-31T00:15:00.000-08:00

WooHoo Its back the village was whitened again with snow lat night. I cant believe it, as said earlier i revel in extremes of weather especially snow or thunder and lightening. So its off to squash and then spin this morning and making snowmen when i get back.

I may give Jujitsu a miss today as my daughter is going to a swimming party.

That Friday Feelin

2010-01-29T14:58:00.000-08:00

Been to see John today and his damp patch, as per his blog its always good to see someone who has dropped out of the rat race and survived (I'm envious really). Also been trying damn hard to shift my Christmas blubber, loads of exercises and Jujitsu and all Ive got so far is injuries. Today's spin class was good it took a few months of nodding and occasional hello to get acknowledged by fellow spinners. Now its first name terms, drink and support whilst training. Their is a good feeling when you have finally arrived and been accepted into the fold. Now I'm doing squash circuits and they are killers, very much like the police bleep test of timed sprints up and down the court.

I have always liked music and certain tracks take me back to memories, whilst spinning tonight the music was like a trip down memory lane, After a not so nice break up from my previous partner I met my wife and this track reminds me of her, it seemed to be played all through that summer.

Blast your speakers up

Days are so short & bloody hip is killing me

2010-01-20T14:58:00.000-08:00

Today has been one mad arse of a day, poor wife had to have MRI scan which scared the poo out of her then she scalded her hand on the bath water she was running to relax afterwards. Work load at present is ridiculous (lucky to have job though) and i decided after getting badly injured again at Ju-Jitsu on Sunday to have a word with my Sensei (instructor).

Unfortunately the guy i spar with is rather bigger and a lot stronger than me, thus he puts alot of strength into it and i am suffering from the power of his throws. He like me is practising and revising all the time and makes mistakes as i do. The difficult part of it, is whilst we are training we should be reasonably matched opponents and their aren't that many at this club. The Sensei though has recognised the problem and is putting in measures to equal it out a bit.

In conversation with my instructor it was enlightening to see that this has been his sole employment for 25 years and is now the 2nd highest qualified. To have such dedication to the art and continued interest was amazing. After being here for 7 months so many have come and gone all ready i wondered in 25 years how many he has seen.

New shoes and Prague

2010-01-16T14:44:00.000-08:00

Just had a good day with family shopping, wife has just treated me to some cycling shoes to help with spin class as part of my xmas prezzies. Ive been going to spin for 6 months and felt the weight fall off, but before spin on Friday when i was getting changed at the gym one of my felllow riders asked if i wanted to do the squash circuit training before spin. Guess who was stupid enough to say yes, it was a 30 min class which consisted of sprinting, lunges, running backwards 20 times a minute.I was completley goosed when i finnished even to the point during spin i thought my legs would explode. Im looking forward to Sundays class to try them out.

Also found myself enjoying Debenhams department store how old am i getting !

To also lighten up the mood after sad phone call from dad this week was the call i had from my nephew who has arranged his stag night in Prague. Im looking forward to it as its a long weekend from home and a chance to chill and drink with brother in law and 3 nephews and 14 others. But after watching a documentary regarding the sex trafficking trade tonight in Prague it has saddened me how many poor victims of this there are. I wonder how many people actually realise this is rape.

Melting Snow

2010-01-15T04:57:00.000-08:00

Im gonna miss it, i think i need to live or camp here at the Glacier National Park apparently this has one of the three biggest snow falls annually in the world. Also i here the fishing in Montana is amazing

I do feel for people with outside jobs in the snow but equally they have the upside of summer when we are all stuck in. Im going to dig over a small plot in the garden in next couple of weeks nothing big only about 10ft x 5 ft as my daughter wants to grow some veg.

You never know i may even get permission from the boss to have a couple of hens later in the year

One in - One out

2010-01-14T12:58:00.000-08:00

Feeling a bit black tonight, Im not normally pessimisstic but I am concerned about my fathers health. He has a very weak heart and also cancer, his partner rang to alert me to this but what can i do. My wife asked how i will feel if he does pass away and all i can say is 'cheated'.

We have had a very strange relationship, i know im not perfect in this but he is bone idle when it comes to investing time in family to the point of he came on holiday 2 miles from my home for 2 weeks and never told me he was there.

But the reason for tonights blog, was my brother and his wife are expecting baby No3 and had a scan to confirm it as a boy. I dont think i really express my feelings to my brother as we have had our differences in the past and we are two completley different people. But all the same i love him, his wife and my two nieces dearly and hope that all is ok.

It seems nature address's the balance, when one life is created an other seems to end.

The Crown, Mozart and Emrys

2010-01-11T16:55:00.000-08:00

Had a good night tonight with John (Going Gently) always very patient with my crap answers in the local pub quiz which we frequent on a regular basis at least once every 4 months. Its a very traditional pub is the Crown in the village but seems to be suffering slightly from lack of enthusiasm from locals, and i do include myself in that. It is a shame when the manager has the get up and go required. I'm not sure what is needed to encourage more local residents. but he does have some good ideas for future events to bring in a varied clientele. One thing i was thinking is more direct advertising and family orientated evenings. BUT WE DID GET 3rd OUT OF 5 in the pub quiz and won £2 (about $4).

One of the questions at the pub quiz was classical music related and composers, now i am utterly useless at most things needing an answer, but this sparked a memory of which i wont go into now. Listen to this on full belt it was by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and it always brings back to memory a particular mentor (Emrys) in my life.

Don't forget whack the speakers up loud and i bet you have this in your head all day.

Barmy work loads

2010-01-08T16:52:00.001-08:00

Firstly i like where i work and the people, but some customers are total d***heads. We supply temporary heating and humidity control so guess who has been busy with all the snow. We have been absolutely bombed out with new jobs. Even whilst I was training in the gym after work my mobile had 17 missed calls its good to be in demand but as my friend John constantly points out a work/life balance has to be set.

I saw on a post of Johns his friend had a rude customer care clerk who had obviously been trained in client relationships by John Cleese I detest these type of people with a vengeance. I often wonder if they go home to their partners and boast how shitty they made someones day today. All i can say Nige is every dog has his day and hopefully her partner will run off with a goat.

Latest investment in an Iron Gym, I have troublesome shoulders from falls so I'm going to try and build them up with exercises.

(Thats not me below)

UK cant handle the snow

2010-01-06T03:16:00.000-08:00

Last night my wife was stranded roadside for 7 & 1/2 hrs due to snow, crashes and other inconsiderate drivers. The worrying thing was she had the groceries !! but at least all was safe when she came home late last night.

It seems that local councils are running out of grit and sending ploughs. As mentioned on earlier posts i luv the snow and always have done. Anyway ive posted two pics of the view from the front and the rear of home.

Its a start

2010-01-04T12:33:00.000-08:00

1st day back to work and in knackered. Been busy all day and accomplished sod all although i did get some finances sorted and a new visa card at 0% (card tart that i am). One thin i saw today unnerved me a bit it was a company on television advertising short term loans for approxiamtley 3 days till your pay cheque arrives. This isnt unusual except if you borrowed money the repayment within a week was + 25%, if you fail to pay then the apr is 2456% yes thats right 2456%. I am surprised that this was allowed to be advertised especially as the state of the UK economy when some many people are struggling and christmas debt.

Also went back to gym tonight and its killin me, my legs feel like they have been hit with a truck.

New Years Resolutions

2010-01-02T16:59:00.000-08:00

Now im no fan of all this crap, I don't think it matters when you set a goal as long as you know what you want and when you want it.

This is mainly because i failed a couple of mine last year.
1 Loose weight (accomplished)
2 Learn some Martial Arts (Accomplished)
3 Climb 3 Mountains (Failed 66.66%)
4 Start cycling more at home with daughter (Failed 100%)
5 Sort my finances out (Failed 100%)

So Goals for 2010

1 Loose more weight (Not to much)
2 Learn more Martial Arts and do more shooting
3 Climb at least 2 paths up Snowdon

4 Start excersie with daughter at home/gym
5 Sort finances (all ready started)
6 Spend more time with friends Ref Geoff Test (work in progress)

Geoff Test = bother with the people that bother with me

Last year was an up n down type of year, we had many positives which included closing my business and also daughter passing 4 belts in ju-jitsu. Mum also moved which is a positive as I hope she is more setteld in her new home.

A couple of negatives where the bloody tax man who is so inefficient its rediculous after threatening me with legal action to pay a massive tax demand in 2 weeks (which was wrong) and now has to pay it back at there pleasure, to me falling and hurting my back severley. The latest injury seems to be achipped bone in my finger from sledging on last Wednesday.

So PMA (Positive Mental Attitude)

Isnt Snow Great

2009-12-30T08:47:00.000-08:00

Went clay pigeon shooting this morning which i thoroughly enjoyed courtesy of vouchers from my family. We also had a fair bit of snow dropped last night and to my surprise we had three visits from snow plows and gritters. I wish we hadnt as i love the snow and always have. I got home from shooting to be met at the door by my daughter ready in wellies and hat to go snowballing.

I also took a photo of the rear of the house,

Had Enough

2009-12-29T05:49:00.000-08:00

Ive had enough of neighbours, so i am thinking of moving. Is it unfair to ask that people don't sing at 4 am. The stupidity of these boys is unbelievable i wish they lived in the real world or another country.

Christmas, Reality, Divorce, Wasted sentiment

2009-12-27T13:31:00.000-08:00

Is it me or are things getting a lot more expensive as they get smaller. BaaHumbug thats enough of that anyway, we had finnished wrapping up prezzies for my daughter on christmas eve which was the time of year i like the most. It seems to follow suit every year, a bit of Chris Rea drivin home for christmas, the mobile phone has slowed down ringing, usual last bits of paperwork before i switch off and then open a bottle of Baileys and eat sweets.

We watched a bit of television something daft like Noel Edmonds Xmas big yourself up show where he gives out surpirses paid for by the BBC (us ultimatley) and i have to admit some of the stories did make me feel a damn site luckier than others. Then the wander through our home reafffirmed how lucky we are. I have a few friends at the moment going through marriage problems and setting up home with new partners. I know where they are as i've been in that position and at this time of year i think is harder. Some are absolutley bonkers the way they have done it but the one that surprised me most was my buddy in Liverpool who left his wife because he didnt love her anymore. That i think is acceptable but i was sad to hear that he wasnt going to see his daughter of 9 yrs old on christams day. My own daughter who is 9 is my absolute world (sorry to sound cliche) and i cant imagine not seeing her.

Today is the day after my 41st Birthday and it was a great day. I was woken with breakfast in bed lots of cards and prezzies and then told to do nothin and relax for the day. This didnt pan out like that because we went to Rhos on Sea for a walk and then ended up in an argument in Currys Electrical, returning a broken alarm clock. I couldnt believe the stupidity of the store assistant who would not take my word for it that the clock buzzed loudly of a night cause she couldnt hear it then. The bloody shop had 50 televisions on, countless dab radios and hundreds of people fighting for a sale bargain. I asked her should i fetch my pillow and ask everyone to be quiet to prove a point. To be fair once she realised how ridiculous she was she did exchange it and im happy with my Roberts radio again.

One sad thing was I did think when i got home a card may have arrived or an answer phone message from my own father, but i suppose he didnt realise ity was my birthday after knowing me for 41 years.

Twas the Night before Christmas Poem

2009-12-24T16:06:00.000-08:00

Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
In hopes that St Nicholas soon would be there.

The children were nestled all snug in their beds,
While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads.
And mamma in her ‘kerchief, and I in my cap,
Had just settled our brains for a long winter’s nap.

When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash,
Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.

The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow
Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below.
When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,
But a miniature sleigh, and eight tiny reindeer.

With a little old driver, so lively and quick,
I knew in a moment it must be St Nick.
More rapid than eagles his coursers they came,
And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name!

"Now Dasher! now, Dancer! now, Prancer and Vixen!
On, Comet! On, Cupid! on, on Donner and Blitzen!
To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall!
Now dash away! Dash away! Dash away all!"

As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly,
When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky.
So up to the house-top the coursers they flew,
With the sleigh full of Toys, and St Nicholas too.

And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof
The prancing and pawing of each little hoof.
As I drew in my head, and was turning around,
Down the chimney St Nicholas came with a bound.

He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot,
And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot.
A bundle of Toys he had flung on his back,
And he looked like a peddler, just opening his pack.

His eyes-how they twinkled! his dimples how merry!
His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!
His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow,
And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow.

The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth,
And the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath.
He had a broad face and a little round belly,
That shook when he laughed, like a bowlful of jelly!

He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf,
And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself!
A wink of his eye and a twist of his head,
Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread.

He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work,
And filled all the stockings, then turned with a jerk.
And laying his finger aside of his nose,
And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose!

He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle,
And away they all flew like the down of a thistle.
But I heard him exclaim, ‘ere he drove out of sight,
"Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night!"

Snow at last yipee!!!!

2009-12-23T15:42:00.000-08:00

I dont mind admitting it but im a big kid when it comes to snow. I like the quietness in the middle of the night because it has no accoustic properties to bounce sound. Also think its great when you get up in the morning and see the creatures of the nights footprints. But the best part is the snowball fights' snowmen and bobsleigh.

I took this photo late when the road was quiet.

Good parent

2009-12-19T14:02:00.000-08:00

Kind of weird one tonight, I was sitting at home with my daughter on my knee watching festive films. The home phone rang I answered and i got abuse and and not the nicest language hurled down the phone at me. This drove me nuts as my small daughter could hear the strangers. Then they hung up, stupidly they did not withold the telephone number they called me from, so i called them back, they answered and where totally dumbfounded and hung up on me. Again i called and was about to inform them that I had the telephone number and a very polite lady answered. She was so apologetic and then went off to speak to the culprits. It appears they where between 10 and 12 years old and had gotten hole of mums mobile while she was out and decided to have a mess around ringing strangers and being silly.

A little later my home phone rang again and it was the polite lady who informed me she had given them a good telling off and then proceeded to get each of the four to tearfully apologise to me on the phone. Well i was blown away by the situation but then felt guilty as i was so angry, the lady could not have been more sincere, sorry and courteious. It actually went someway to reaffirm why i moved to a little village in Wales as common decency is so rarely shown in the big citys. If the lady does read this, then thank you for taking the time to sort it out and no hard feelings. Nadolig Llawen

Bloody sore hip and Grand Parents

2009-12-09T02:49:00.000-08:00

After spending the last two weeks suffering with two bob bits and flu, i finally did the third which was a releif before christmas. I fell over and ripped my muscles in my leg and hurt my hip.

Whilst lying in bed contemplating the meaning of life and if Paul Junior should go back to work at American Chopper (on tv) I realised i had turned into my Nan.

The medicine bottles, remote control, telephone, flask of drink, lamp, radio, sandwhichs (from wife) where all perched precariously on my bedside cabinet reminded of me when i visited my Nan and she was propped up in bed with a V neck pillow.

She and my Grandfather where very victorian and forthright people. My Grandfather was a giant of a man with the most powerful hands i had ever seen. He used to split his apple in two by simply holding with two hands and turning in opposite direction or even at christmas when he used to crack walnuts with his bare hands. He had an amazing tool shed, he was a ships carpenter and then manager. All his tools where razor sharp and well oiled. They all had their own little place in his shed. My Nan reminded me of the queen mum, always prim and proper but with a little hint of devilment. She had absolutly no idea of the cost of living, when she was in hospital 15 years ago i visited her with my new coat on (a Berghaus) she asked how much when i said £110 she nearly died on the bed, other things where sweet aswell she could see McDonalds from her hospital room and asked if we could fetch her a ham sandwich with the crusts cut off from McDonalds.

I have far to much time on my hands lying in bed reminissing.

Fantastic night

2009-11-22T03:08:00.000-08:00

I had a brilliant night last night, went to a mates 50th birthday party and caught up with loads of old friends. As usual made 101 promises to keep in touch in my drunken stupor. Instead of having the traditional HiFi on on the corner belting out some party mix disc they had a performer with the full hit guitar, drum machine HUGE speakers in case the neighbours couldnt hear it doing requests and an open mic.

On the wall in the living room was pictures of us all spanning 25 years of friendship, some good memoirs.

Any today is the day we go to see the Jonas Brothers in concert in Manchester for my daughter. Im looking forward to my bed allready.

Mr Magoo

2009-11-18T09:31:00.001-08:00

Had a phonecall today from a friend who has very high blood pressure needing to go to hospital, he may not have realised it but the worry showed in his face and him being a nurse concerned me.

It always surprises me when people worry about putting others out and not calling. I think sometimes we do take others for granted and at other times we never take the help offered.

Im off tomorrow and Im going to the Cathedral as per previous post. I will be taking family and friends over so it should be a good day.
I think possibly the next trip maybe to the War Rooms or the Cunard Building in Liverpool. Since moving away and living in the countryside i didnt realise just what great buildings i left behind.

Saturday to myself and Liverpool Cathedral

2009-11-14T14:17:00.001-08:00

Had the day to myself as family have gone to visit work friends, so it was a quick trip to Sainsburys to buy some lunch and bits then home for a planned day of doing nothing. I am going off Sainsburys and realise by making that comment im getting old.

It was very quiet around the house without the family, I have to admit i did miss them but the solitude was brilliant. First DVD of the day was the first Godfather, one of my favourite scenes is when the Hollywood producer wakes to find his horses head in bed with him. Then it was followed by 'One Summer' written by Willy Russell about two teenagers growing up in Liverpool and running away to Wales (how ironic is that).

I have also planned a days holiday this week to visit Liverpool Cathedral, i have been doing a bit of work their and forgot just what a magnificent building it is. The customers on site have promised a guided tour for me and the family.

So Jujitsu and Gym on Sunday, with the promise of a roast dinner when I get home.

Divorce

2009-10-29T15:32:00.000-07:00

Sad news after working till 8pm I had a phone call from a friend informing of a split from her husband, then an hour later a phone call off husband informing of split from wife. Having been sort of through it in the past i knew that it was hard for friends to not pick sides. I must say its knocked me sideways we have been friends for 20 years they had own profitable business, no mortgage, foreign holidays lovely daughter. But when you don't love somebody everything else is just clutter.

I'm hoping to remain friends with them both, but doubt has crept in after a slip of the tongue from one of them which has hurt me more than i thought. Hope it was a mistake but as normal my stupid pride will take over and I will probably drift away from that friend and buy one less xmas card. If all i have to worry about was a careless comment then i suppose I'm doing ok. I do hope they all find a common ground to move on with out animosity especially for their daughter.

Spandau Ballet

2009-10-29T09:24:00.000-07:00

Been to see Spandau Ballet last night with the wife, while I wasnt looking forward to it I did enjoy Tony Hadleys voice. It was strange aswell it seemed to be middle aged crowd for once i felt young.

Also went shopping to the Arndale Centre (Im not known for my patience when shopping), again after making my wallet a lot lighter it wasnt to bad.

JG has cancelled beer again due to bad chest (old age) pity I was looking forward to having a pint with him.

Scala Prestatyn

2009-10-17T13:14:00.000-07:00

I went to see UP today with my daughter and its a fantastic film, but the Scala let themselves down.

Unfortunatley due to lack of staff the cinema didnt have an usher so we where told to go and sit in Studio 1 in any seat. The trailers that came before the film where to say the least very graphic. Everything from a vampire film to a cert 18 with sexual commentary and foul language. Whilst you can understand im no prude but sitting there with a 9 year old expecting to see a Disney/Pixar animated childs film came as quite a shock.

WJJF (JU-Jitsu)

2009-10-11T08:58:00.000-07:00

Totally knackered, painted bedrooms, kitchen and ceilings on Saturday which I detest painting but it looks good. We had our Orange Belt Grading today at Ju-jitsu and my daughter and I both passed (thank god).

Any way at last the kitchen has only a couple of things left to do, its taken nearly 5 weeks so what ever you do never buy a kitchen from a well known diy outlet with initials *&*. They are totally useless but to be honest the actual fitter was a good guy.

I have one week at home then I'm working in Berkshire for a few days on an event which should be OK.

I need to drink beer soon with my mate jg

Back home

2009-10-02T15:56:00.000-07:00

Been a long few days with average hours 0f 14 a day, and 700 miles driving. But it was good to get home and see the wife and daughter. Whilst in Largs it was weird because you could only get a curry after 9pm. After having two currys on consecutive nights i now seep garlic from my pores.

Anyway I'm absolutely knackered and off to bed, so a bit of a boring post.

Kitchens

2009-09-24T11:22:00.000-07:00

What a horrible 3 weeks whilst kitchen is being fitted and its still not finished, anyway we need a holiday so either caravan or weekend away not sure yet.

I have next week at Largs in Scotland working on site, so its no mobile and no PC for a week, will miss home though. The car which is behaving like its usual piece of s**t never fails to fail as it was back at VW again for the 38th time in 3 years. I'm going to miss the staff at the garage when i get rid of the car as we are on first name terms.

Read JG's blog seems he's turned into a geek and possibly a touch of OCD with the design of his new allotment.

Weekend is here, Osbornes and Spin

2009-09-11T00:57:00.000-07:00

Had new kitchen fitted this week whilst working away, the house is full of bits n bobs from the kitchen cant find food. So result is going to Osbornes for food on Saturday as we need pampering . Still on the diet and also doing spin class tonight

Motorway Music

2009-09-11T00:47:00.000-07:00

Busy week, done 1400 miles but had a bit of Led Zepplin with me
>

Pub and chill out

2009-09-03T15:21:00.000-07:00

Just a quick thanks to JG, for the company tonight although he still managed to prove he is right !

Todays work load took me took look at a project to control the environment on an oil refinery, even though we are in a recession its amazing how much money is still in circulation with the big blue chip companies.

More pics from Cardigan

2009-08-31T11:44:00.000-07:00

Cardigan and Caravans

2009-08-31T11:10:00.000-07:00

Returned home last week from our holiday in Cardigan with the caravan (which we managed to dent on one side). As typical the sun never really showed but at least the rain held off. Family had a good time catching up with relatives from the area. We did the annual trip on the boat out to sea in search of dolphins but never saw any this year.

Going to spin class on Tuesday with Chris in an effort for me to get fit which should see the end of my first day back at work. I may need advice from affable John as im going to do some raised veg beds this year in conjunction with daughter and he is the oracle when it comes to allotments. Also visited friends in Anglesey on Saturday which was good to catch up, we never seem to donate enough time to friendships when family's take priority. Anyway Cath and Baz couldn't believe i had entered the local community show with cakes n flowers (they think I've gone nuts)

Flower Show and Sponges

2009-08-15T14:43:00.000-07:00

Had a good day today, we entered the local flower show (press ganged by John) and won 1st prize for my Fuchsia bush (Mum will be proud), I think this may be the start of midlife. My daughter and I stayed up late to bake and got up early to to do the fillings, then a quick drive to the hall to arrange the entries. I must say some of the other one's where excellent and truly deserved to win (but mine and daughters where best though). Also got into the spirit of things and have been asked to join the committee.

Catching Up

2009-08-09T14:48:00.000-07:00

Had a really busy weekend with painting and tidying up. It was organised for friends to visit who had come a long drive. So we all had a chance to catch up and go for a walk through our local woods where the kids had time to go nuts. They also explored a cave which was once believed to be inhabited.. Always good to catch up and listen to the gossip from work.

The Weekend

2009-08-07T09:35:00.000-07:00

Im so looking forward to the weekend, three x 12 hour days in front of my PC and im knackered. Cut the grass and made the borders a bit more tidy and bought some flour as John said I have to make a cake for the show.

Myra Hindley

2009-08-04T15:42:00.000-07:00

Struggling with kid politics, I hate seeing a child use another then drop them for an opportunity to play with someone else. It seems like the world has ended when you see the dejected look on their face as they have been dumped. Then i watched the biography of Myra Hindley who took abuse and child suffering from the feeble display i saw today of misplaced friendship to the highest form of pain any human could inflict on another.

After watching the biography today on Myra Hindley I was amazed and disgusted at the levels of compassion given to her from the church. They stated 'she was not evil only that she had committed an evil act'. I cannot put into words anything new that hasn't all ready been said about these serial child killers. Except when she died she asked to be scattered on the moors close to where she had buried the children, why did Britain grant her that wish she should have been kept in an Urn in the prison grounds.

It never ceases to open my eyes as to how 'professional' people can separate work from emotion when dealing with people who do not deserve to share the oxygen my family and friends breathe.

Pistyll Rhaeadr

2009-08-02T07:08:00.000-07:00

Been away for a weekend and visited the Pistyll Rhaeadr water fall, its the biggest single drop waterfall in the UK, and apparently higher than Niagra Water Falls. Whilst it chucked it down with rain most places we seemed to have missed it and spent a chilled out couple of days without television. Strange how you tire more when relaxing.

Camping it up !

2009-07-28T15:49:00.000-07:00

Always a pleasure to meet with John and talk about camping and caravaning (of which we never got round to at all). Been and had an enjoyable few hours in the local pub, John has become a good friend who can talk (with experience) and listen to utter crap after a few beers and has a very interesting take on life due to his role as a nurse in ICT at a local hospital.

One memory which John has shared was of looking in at a patient in the spinal ward when her husband had come to visit, she was severely paralysed and from my understanding completely closed off from the outside world. This didn't stop her husband whilst visiting from gently supporting her and bringing her to her feet, then having a slow waltz in private.

Apart from sentiment, John seems to be demonstarting leveles of Johnny Morris in one form or another with the dog in the pub.

Dockers Umbrella

2009-07-27T16:17:00.000-07:00

The origins of the Overhead Railway
On 4 February 1893 the British Prime Minster Lord Salisbury opened the Liverpool Overhead Railway. It was the world's first electric powered elevated railway, which meant it ran on tracks raised above the ground and was seen as the shape of things to come. At first the railway was very successful, carrying more than 19 million passengers in 1919. Increased competition from the electric trams and heavy damage during the ‘blitz’ in World War Two had a devastating impact. The high costs to maintain the railway could not be found so it was closed in 1957 and demolished the following year.

And as it is now

2009-07-27T15:21:00.001-07:00

Trip down Walton Ln

2009-07-27T15:13:00.000-07:00

Again boring as it seems i found this aswell

Memoirs

2009-07-26T16:00:00.000-07:00

Found this brilliant picture on the internet of the village i used to live in, it was taken a year before i was born, i lived up the road with the billboard. I actually remember the cobblestones at the junction. If you have a close look very shoddy tarmac but no litter and on the left hand side is the butchers bike against his window (Walters the butchers).

House breakers

2009-07-24T11:53:00.000-07:00

These people make me sick, so many are opportunists and we get blamed for making it easy for them. After a small spate of crime we seem to be heading towards the security conciseness that I moved away from when in a big city (me in particular).

If police had a stronger presence or even if we had CCTV it would improve the feeling of safety I think within this little enclave I dwell. As for others who view cctv as an intrusion i wonder what they had to hide and what makes them think anyone is interested.

2009-07-23T05:45:00.000-07:00

My huge courgette !!

I've been attempting to grow some veg and fruit in pots, this was my biggest yet.

Agnes and Bill

2009-07-19T14:23:00.001-07:00

Very sad 2nd entry, after coming home my wife gave me the news that a friend and neighbour had died today. Agnes. Agnes and Bill where one of the first to welcome me to the village and always welcomed me and my family with a chat and a cuppa.

She and Bill where like adopted grandparents to my daughter always kind and interested in everything she did irrelevant of size or importance. Goodbye

My 1st Picture Comp

2009-07-19T05:59:00.001-07:00

My first post and pic which i entered into a competition