I hope you all had a great day yesterday. The boys were up at 7am to open their stocking presents before we all headed down at 8am for the main the event.
We set off for Linda and Dave's at around 11am and had a great lunch.
I was feeling pretty good and ate reasonably well - just unbelievably tired which meant I snoozed away much of the afternoon (with Father-in-law) and evening (just me!).
Slept until 11:30am this morning so may be a little more with it at Jeff and Pauline's this afternoon.
The cough has all but gone and I am not vomitting at the moment. My chest feels a little sore - probably a combination of the coughing and the stent settlting in. Back pain has migrated to be a nagging pain under right shoulder blade which even the Codeine does not take much off.
We are due to travel for Julia's cousin Diane's wedding on Monday - at present it is probably doubtful that I will make it.
Saturday, 26 December 2009
Monday, 21 December 2009
Feeling better - MC/HNY
Firstly thanks to all of you who have contacted to let me know they are thinking about me - you are much better than I fear I would be if the positions were reversed!
I have continued to feel improvements over the weekend and the vomitting is (thankfully) only very occasional. I am still coughing or clearing my throat very frequently - which makes you feel physically very tied and my chest feel sore.
The Stent seems to be settling in well and my eating is looking good. Crusty bread, a nice brie and a bottle of red are a while off - but roast chicken, mash, carrots, cauli and gravy was very nice yesterday evening.
Julia bought me one of those "L" shaped pillows and I have actually managed to use it to sleep in a upright position - something I need to do for a while as the stent settles. My back is not as bad as it was a few weeks ago - but as I am not lying down at all at the moment it is a little tired. Not sure whether to attend the Physio appointment on Thursday in light of recent events....probably won't on balance.
Will try to post a bit more frequently again - now I can get off the sofa unaided!! But if you don't read the Blog again before then then I wish you all and your families a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year (Happy Holidays are for politians!)
I have continued to feel improvements over the weekend and the vomitting is (thankfully) only very occasional. I am still coughing or clearing my throat very frequently - which makes you feel physically very tied and my chest feel sore.
The Stent seems to be settling in well and my eating is looking good. Crusty bread, a nice brie and a bottle of red are a while off - but roast chicken, mash, carrots, cauli and gravy was very nice yesterday evening.
Julia bought me one of those "L" shaped pillows and I have actually managed to use it to sleep in a upright position - something I need to do for a while as the stent settles. My back is not as bad as it was a few weeks ago - but as I am not lying down at all at the moment it is a little tired. Not sure whether to attend the Physio appointment on Thursday in light of recent events....probably won't on balance.
Will try to post a bit more frequently again - now I can get off the sofa unaided!! But if you don't read the Blog again before then then I wish you all and your families a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year (Happy Holidays are for politians!)
Saturday, 19 December 2009
Still here.....but horror week!
We had a really good night with the Croughton Boys on the Friday, and then had Linda and Dave round on the Saturday....in hindsight perhaps a little much for my current condition.
When I woke up on Sunday it felt like most of my bodily systems had shutdown, well except for the ones the manage vomitting, pain and discomfort!
Didn't manage to really eat or drink anything from Sunday morning until Friday. It was a constant cycle of drink a few sips, cough and vomitt everything up.
Spoke to the Oncologist on Tuesday and went to hospital to see him on the Wednesday. We decided I needed an immediate Stent insertion so I had a CT scan on Wednesday and stayed in the hospital overnight on IV fluids to re-hydrate.
We travelled to the large NHS hospital in Derbty early Thursday morning where the stent was inserted via on Endoscrope (one of the keenest tourture prodecures know to man).
The stent blocked up a flap that had developed with the tumour that was where the food was going and was immediately successfull in improving my ability to swallow. However it did not stop the sickness and it was only yesterday after taking anti-sickness meds that things have really started to improve.
I have to say this has been one of the worst weeks of my enitre life and I would hate to go through it again. Julia has been an absolute star and taken care of me at my worst and grumpiest!
When I woke up on Sunday it felt like most of my bodily systems had shutdown, well except for the ones the manage vomitting, pain and discomfort!
Didn't manage to really eat or drink anything from Sunday morning until Friday. It was a constant cycle of drink a few sips, cough and vomitt everything up.
Spoke to the Oncologist on Tuesday and went to hospital to see him on the Wednesday. We decided I needed an immediate Stent insertion so I had a CT scan on Wednesday and stayed in the hospital overnight on IV fluids to re-hydrate.
We travelled to the large NHS hospital in Derbty early Thursday morning where the stent was inserted via on Endoscrope (one of the keenest tourture prodecures know to man).
The stent blocked up a flap that had developed with the tumour that was where the food was going and was immediately successfull in improving my ability to swallow. However it did not stop the sickness and it was only yesterday after taking anti-sickness meds that things have really started to improve.
I have to say this has been one of the worst weeks of my enitre life and I would hate to go through it again. Julia has been an absolute star and taken care of me at my worst and grumpiest!
Wednesday, 9 December 2009
Funny old day
Been to Ramsey for my Uncle Nobby's funeral today. Many thanks to my sister Julie for driving...although it did make me feel a little like "Miss Daisy"!
I've known Uncle Nobby all my life but it was only this morning that I found out his real name was Donald!
The Service was good and the Vicar gave a great description of Nobby's life and principles. He worked hard (as a farmer) all his life but was always happy with a wicked sense of humour.
Despite the reason for going I couldn't help enjoying catching up with many members of my Mum's side of the family. Being some of the youngest cousins we rarely meet up any more for anything other than funerals these days. I think many of the rele's were a bit surprised to see me looking reasonably well.
R.I.P. Uncle Nobby!
I've known Uncle Nobby all my life but it was only this morning that I found out his real name was Donald!
The Service was good and the Vicar gave a great description of Nobby's life and principles. He worked hard (as a farmer) all his life but was always happy with a wicked sense of humour.
Despite the reason for going I couldn't help enjoying catching up with many members of my Mum's side of the family. Being some of the youngest cousins we rarely meet up any more for anything other than funerals these days. I think many of the rele's were a bit surprised to see me looking reasonably well.
R.I.P. Uncle Nobby!
Saturday, 5 December 2009
More positive
Had a good nights sleep and woken up feeling more positive! Going to try to get out and about a bit more this week - it's very easy to get stuck in a rut and spiral downwards.
Friday, 4 December 2009
World Cup Blues
Not been having a great week. Been feeling under the weather all week and been sick several times - it's pretty hard to remain upbeat and positive when you feel pretty lousy.
Just watched the World Cup draw for next summer.....brings it home that I will be exceeding medical expectations to be around to watch England play in it. Had hoped to take Tom and Al over to watch some games in South Africa. Ah well thems the breaks!
Just watched the World Cup draw for next summer.....brings it home that I will be exceeding medical expectations to be around to watch England play in it. Had hoped to take Tom and Al over to watch some games in South Africa. Ah well thems the breaks!
Monday, 30 November 2009
Monday's meanderings
The recommendation of the GP on Thursday was to go for physiotherapy on my back – to be honest I was hoping for something more immediate (and Pharmaceutical!) as a cure. Just called the Physio department and made an appointment for Christmas Eve (the soonest one they had).
Had some sad news on Thursday that one of my Uncles on my Mum’s side of the family had passed in his sleep overnight Wednesday. Uncle Nobby was a smashing old boy who was nearly 80 and had led a pretty full life. The night before he died he had been out down the pub with one of his grandsons as per a normal Wednesday evening, he just never woke up the next morning. I gotta say that a quick and peaceful passing is probably the best way to go.
Played snooker on Friday with Jeff and Clive. It was only as we ate our lunch in the pub beforehand that Clive admitted to being Morley Police snooker champion 1974! We won’t dwell much more on this but I must admit to finishing 3rd of three!
Tom, Al and I went to the Peterborough match on Saturday and enjoyed a decent Posh performance to draw 2-2 with Middlesbrough having been behind twice in the game. A real bonus yesterday was that Posh were drawn to play away at Tottenham in the 3rd round of the FA Cup on the 2nd/3rd January – assuming we can get tickets it will be great to take the boys to a premiership ground to watch Peterborough.
Alex’s team had a pretty good result by recent standards….the game was postponed because of a waterlogged pitch….so we had a quiet Sunday finished off nicely by a roast dinner at Jeff and Pauline’s.
Had some sad news on Thursday that one of my Uncles on my Mum’s side of the family had passed in his sleep overnight Wednesday. Uncle Nobby was a smashing old boy who was nearly 80 and had led a pretty full life. The night before he died he had been out down the pub with one of his grandsons as per a normal Wednesday evening, he just never woke up the next morning. I gotta say that a quick and peaceful passing is probably the best way to go.
Played snooker on Friday with Jeff and Clive. It was only as we ate our lunch in the pub beforehand that Clive admitted to being Morley Police snooker champion 1974! We won’t dwell much more on this but I must admit to finishing 3rd of three!
Tom, Al and I went to the Peterborough match on Saturday and enjoyed a decent Posh performance to draw 2-2 with Middlesbrough having been behind twice in the game. A real bonus yesterday was that Posh were drawn to play away at Tottenham in the 3rd round of the FA Cup on the 2nd/3rd January – assuming we can get tickets it will be great to take the boys to a premiership ground to watch Peterborough.
Alex’s team had a pretty good result by recent standards….the game was postponed because of a waterlogged pitch….so we had a quiet Sunday finished off nicely by a roast dinner at Jeff and Pauline’s.
Wednesday, 25 November 2009
Bone scan.....entirely unexpected!
Good visit with Dr Kulkarni this morning. The good part being that the bone scan showed no indications that the cancer has spread to my bones. What it did show was evidence of arthritis in my lower back – almost certainly the cause of the back pain I have been suffering for the last couple of months. Whilst making me feel like an old man this does offer up further treatment possibilities for the back pain and as such I’ll be visiting my GP hopefully tomorrow (as I write Julia is trawling the internet for information on back pain and arthritis).
Made an appointment to see Dr. Elvis again on the 13th January primarily to review my eating to determine if the endoscopic radiotherapy is then required.
One of the few times Julia and I have walked back to the car from the hospital smiling and laughing! Funny old world.
On the leisure front I will be playing snooker with Jeff and Clive on Friday and heading to Peterborough to watch Posh vs. Middlesbrough on Saturday. The Croughton 4 will be visiting on Friday 11th December - better lock up the Shetland ponies!
Made an appointment to see Dr. Elvis again on the 13th January primarily to review my eating to determine if the endoscopic radiotherapy is then required.
One of the few times Julia and I have walked back to the car from the hospital smiling and laughing! Funny old world.
On the leisure front I will be playing snooker with Jeff and Clive on Friday and heading to Peterborough to watch Posh vs. Middlesbrough on Saturday. The Croughton 4 will be visiting on Friday 11th December - better lock up the Shetland ponies!
Saturday, 21 November 2009
Saturday update
Not been a great week. Thomas was off school with a stomach bug on Tuesday and I seem to have picked it up myself on Wednesday/Thursday - to be honest was still feeling rough on Friday. This combined curiously with the Codeine tablets I am taking to give me the worst of both worlds intestinally speaking!! I won't get too graphic but an unpleasant time was had by all.
The bone scan on Thursday would normally have been pretty uneventful - apart from the fact I have a bad back (the reason for the scan) and was feeling nauseous all day. The first part at 2pm was an injection of a radio-active marker. I then hung around Derby for 3 hours before going back for the scan.
The second part was lying still on my back whilst the gamma camera took images of different sections of my body. 5 in total for 3 mins each. I have to say 15 mins never took so long and on a number of times I thought the bill for the procedure was going to include a vomit cleaning fee! However I survived and now need to wait for the results on Wednesday when I see Dr. Kulkarni (Elvis).
Great to hear from the Croughton boys and Ian this week. Hopefully we can arrange suitable dates for visits in the next few weeks.
The bone scan on Thursday would normally have been pretty uneventful - apart from the fact I have a bad back (the reason for the scan) and was feeling nauseous all day. The first part at 2pm was an injection of a radio-active marker. I then hung around Derby for 3 hours before going back for the scan.
The second part was lying still on my back whilst the gamma camera took images of different sections of my body. 5 in total for 3 mins each. I have to say 15 mins never took so long and on a number of times I thought the bill for the procedure was going to include a vomit cleaning fee! However I survived and now need to wait for the results on Wednesday when I see Dr. Kulkarni (Elvis).
Great to hear from the Croughton boys and Ian this week. Hopefully we can arrange suitable dates for visits in the next few weeks.
Tuesday, 17 November 2009
Bone scan
Just heard I have an appointment for the bone scan on Thursday 19th. Meeting with the Oncologist next Wednesday to review the results.
Sunday, 15 November 2009
Weekly update to 15th November 2009
Had a pretty quiet week. No date yet for the bone scan. Still getting constant back ache, not too bad during the day but making sleeping very uncomfortable. Saw the GP on Thursday and got a prescription for stronger painkillers. Still not that effective, next stop sleeping tablets!
Alex's team returned to previous form and lost 4-0 today. Peterborough have sacked and replaced our Manager.
Sunday, 8 November 2009
Bonfires and Football
Had a really good bonfire night party on Friday (DJ - please note Friday not Saturday!). Even the weather was kind and it stayed mostly dry.
On Saturday Alex, Thomas, Grandad and myself headed up to Newcastle. Unfortunately Peterborough put in another poor display and we lost 3-1 in front of 43,067 fans - easily the biggest crowd to watch Posh in a league game ever.
Sunday football proved much more successful with Al's teaming winning for the first time this season in their new "Energy Solutions" kit. The final score was 3-0 but it could easily have been 10 (rather like Posh in the first half). I was linesman for the game and now have a long appointment with the sofa booked for the afternoon!
On Saturday Alex, Thomas, Grandad and myself headed up to Newcastle. Unfortunately Peterborough put in another poor display and we lost 3-1 in front of 43,067 fans - easily the biggest crowd to watch Posh in a league game ever.
Sunday football proved much more successful with Al's teaming winning for the first time this season in their new "Energy Solutions" kit. The final score was 3-0 but it could easily have been 10 (rather like Posh in the first half). I was linesman for the game and now have a long appointment with the sofa booked for the afternoon!
Wednesday, 4 November 2009
Oncologist update
Had a good meeting with the Oncologist today - put a few fears to bed. The bottom line is that none of the problems I had been experiencing points to something unlying that is going to finish me off in the next few months!
The back pain and stomach ache could well be from the cancer getting into the bones - not great long term but treatable with Radiotherapy in the short/mid term. I will be going for a bone scan in the next week or so.
My shortness of breath is most likely down to the radiotherapy I have already received causing the lungs to become fibrous and reducing breathing capacity. At best this is something that goes away over time, at worst it will cause shortness of breath after exercise etc - the good news is it does not point to the cancer spreading into the lungs significantly.
In the last week or so my eating has become a little tougher - again we discussed the options. Internal radiotherapy - this is a single dose given via an endoscopic set up that should have similar effects to the external radiotherapy which was so successfull. Alternatively (or as well as eventually) they can insert a stent to physically open up the tube.
Going back on the 18th November to hopefully review the results of the bone scan.
The back pain and stomach ache could well be from the cancer getting into the bones - not great long term but treatable with Radiotherapy in the short/mid term. I will be going for a bone scan in the next week or so.
My shortness of breath is most likely down to the radiotherapy I have already received causing the lungs to become fibrous and reducing breathing capacity. At best this is something that goes away over time, at worst it will cause shortness of breath after exercise etc - the good news is it does not point to the cancer spreading into the lungs significantly.
In the last week or so my eating has become a little tougher - again we discussed the options. Internal radiotherapy - this is a single dose given via an endoscopic set up that should have similar effects to the external radiotherapy which was so successfull. Alternatively (or as well as eventually) they can insert a stent to physically open up the tube.
Going back on the 18th November to hopefully review the results of the bone scan.
Sunday, 1 November 2009
Back from Cornwall, Fireworks and Posh
Just back home from spending half-term in Trevone, Cornwall. Had a cottage for the 10 of us about 20 yards from the beach. The boys loved the surf and it was a great week.
Not feeling quite so good at the moment - got a very sore back and stomach. Suspect this is "phantom" pain caused by Lymph nodes affected with the cancer pressing on nerves. Also having some shortness of breath and bad coughing. Have an appointment with the Oncologist this Wednesday so will clearly be discussing these delights!!
Having our 3rd annual fireworks party on Friday 6th November - looking like around 20 folks joining us. Then off to Newcastle vs. Peterborough on Saturday for probably the biggest ever crowd to watch a Posh league game.......could be a record score/defeat the way we are playing at the moment!
Not feeling quite so good at the moment - got a very sore back and stomach. Suspect this is "phantom" pain caused by Lymph nodes affected with the cancer pressing on nerves. Also having some shortness of breath and bad coughing. Have an appointment with the Oncologist this Wednesday so will clearly be discussing these delights!!
Having our 3rd annual fireworks party on Friday 6th November - looking like around 20 folks joining us. Then off to Newcastle vs. Peterborough on Saturday for probably the biggest ever crowd to watch a Posh league game.......could be a record score/defeat the way we are playing at the moment!
Saturday, 24 October 2009
Weekly update
Had a pretty quiet week recovering from the trip to the US. Julia managed to kick the jet lag into touch after the first evening - took me a little longer.
Generally feeling pretty good - but got a little cold that is making my breathing a little laboured at times.
Packing this morning for our week in Cornwall with Linda, Dave and the boys and Jeff and Pauline - boogie boards on standby.
Unlikely to post another update until next Sunday.
Generally feeling pretty good - but got a little cold that is making my breathing a little laboured at times.
Packing this morning for our week in Cornwall with Linda, Dave and the boys and Jeff and Pauline - boogie boards on standby.
Unlikely to post another update until next Sunday.
Thursday, 22 October 2009
Saturday 17th October - Vegas, Philly - home
Early start to get to the airport for a 7:00am flight to Philly.
Lucked out getting the Exit row seats on the US Air flight and had a very uneventful flight.
Tucked into the food and drink in the BA lounge at Philly prior to the flight back to Heathrow.
Business Class was just as good on the way home and the flight to London passed smoothly and quickly.
Lucked out getting the Exit row seats on the US Air flight and had a very uneventful flight.
Tucked into the food and drink in the BA lounge at Philly prior to the flight back to Heathrow.
Business Class was just as good on the way home and the flight to London passed smoothly and quickly.
Friday 16th October - Vegas
A very chilled out day - energy levels very low!
Breakfast in Paris - Julia just had to have another portion of Eggs Benedict!
A little more exploring some of the other hotel/casinos on the strip.
Early night to get up for the 4:30am departure from the hotel for the flight back to Philly.
Breakfast in Paris - Julia just had to have another portion of Eggs Benedict!
A little more exploring some of the other hotel/casinos on the strip.
Early night to get up for the 4:30am departure from the hotel for the flight back to Philly.
Thursday 15th October - Vegas and Arizona
Early-ish start to meet the limo for the trip to the airport. This was another surprise I had booked for Julia and I.
Arrived at Sundance Helicopters on the edge of the main Las Vegas airport via the limo and checked in for our flight to the Grand Canyon. Check involved being weighed to ensure you didn't have to pay for an extra seat!
After the safety briefing we met our pilot Dave and found out that our tour had only 4 passengers instead of the normal 6! This was a real result as it gave us much more space to move around the helicopter and take pictures.
We turned out to be the lead chopper of the 6 or 7 that were taking part in the tour at that time. Dave fired up the engines and we took off smoothly over the airfield. This was our first time in a helicopter and it was fantastic - again thoroughly recommended.
We flew pretty much due east with Julia and I in the front 2 passenger seats for the outbound flight.
Eventually we could see the path of the Colorado River as it left the canyon and we climbed to enter the canyon itself. This tour only took in a few miles of the west end of the canyon but it was enough to get an idea of the scale of it. At its widest the Canyon is 18 miles accross.
The helicopter landed on Native American land within the Canyon - one of the few places in the whole canyon that helicopters can land - and we were served a Champagne lunch by Dave the Pilot/Waiter!
On the return flight Julia and I were in the back of the chopper and we all got a fantastic view of the strip as we flew back into Vegas.
We took it easy for the rest of the day - checking out one of the Venetian Swimming pools.
We had dinner in a sports bar in the Venetian watching the Philadelphia Phillies baseball game.
Arrived at Sundance Helicopters on the edge of the main Las Vegas airport via the limo and checked in for our flight to the Grand Canyon. Check involved being weighed to ensure you didn't have to pay for an extra seat!
After the safety briefing we met our pilot Dave and found out that our tour had only 4 passengers instead of the normal 6! This was a real result as it gave us much more space to move around the helicopter and take pictures.
We turned out to be the lead chopper of the 6 or 7 that were taking part in the tour at that time. Dave fired up the engines and we took off smoothly over the airfield. This was our first time in a helicopter and it was fantastic - again thoroughly recommended.
We flew pretty much due east with Julia and I in the front 2 passenger seats for the outbound flight.
Dave gave a great commentary - supplemented by some recorded information. We flew over Lake Las Vegas, Lake Mead and then the Hoover Dam - which is well impressive.
Eventually we could see the path of the Colorado River as it left the canyon and we climbed to enter the canyon itself. This tour only took in a few miles of the west end of the canyon but it was enough to get an idea of the scale of it. At its widest the Canyon is 18 miles accross.
The helicopter landed on Native American land within the Canyon - one of the few places in the whole canyon that helicopters can land - and we were served a Champagne lunch by Dave the Pilot/Waiter!
On the return flight Julia and I were in the back of the chopper and we all got a fantastic view of the strip as we flew back into Vegas.
We took it easy for the rest of the day - checking out one of the Venetian Swimming pools.
We had dinner in a sports bar in the Venetian watching the Philadelphia Phillies baseball game.
Wednesday 14th October - Vegas
Another leisurely start to the day - the adrenaline rush of the first few days was definately starting to wear off.
Breakfast on the Terrace of the French resturant in the Venetian - very nice!
Further exploring of the hotels close by on the strip. Lost another $100 on the Blackjack tables in the Mirage.
Lunch in Postrio in the Venetian under the false sky.
After an afternoon snooze we met up and waited for the 7:00pm Pirate show outside Treasure Island....only to find out that it was cancelled due to high winds........not very brave pirates obviously.
Hopped in a cab to downtown Vegas. We ate in Main Street Station - a bar and micro-brewery - had a couple of pints of a very good Pale Ale. Gary "enjoyed" a couple of Oyster shooters...basically snot and vodka in a glass - yuk!
After leaving Main Street we walked down to Fremont Street. Fremont street is home to some of the iconic casinos from older Hollywood films - like the Pioneer and the 4 Queens. They have also covered the street for about 1/2 mile with a giant TV screen that fires up on the hour with a superb music and light show.
Julia, Suzy and I played Blackjack in Fitzgeralds casino - finishing a respectable $70 ahead between us after about an hours fun.
This part of town is the original Vegas and as far as both Julia and I were concerned probably the best part of the city - much more compact than the Strip and somehow more authentic. It's a must do for anyone who finds themselves in Vegas for the first time. And yes we did buy the T-shirt!
Gary and Suzy had an early flight home in the morning so we said our goodbyes and turned in for the night. I can't thank Gary and Suzy enough for using up many of Gary's Delta miles to meet up with us in Vegas - it was fantastic to spend time with you.
Breakfast on the Terrace of the French resturant in the Venetian - very nice!
Further exploring of the hotels close by on the strip. Lost another $100 on the Blackjack tables in the Mirage.
Lunch in Postrio in the Venetian under the false sky.
After an afternoon snooze we met up and waited for the 7:00pm Pirate show outside Treasure Island....only to find out that it was cancelled due to high winds........not very brave pirates obviously.
Hopped in a cab to downtown Vegas. We ate in Main Street Station - a bar and micro-brewery - had a couple of pints of a very good Pale Ale. Gary "enjoyed" a couple of Oyster shooters...basically snot and vodka in a glass - yuk!
After leaving Main Street we walked down to Fremont Street. Fremont street is home to some of the iconic casinos from older Hollywood films - like the Pioneer and the 4 Queens. They have also covered the street for about 1/2 mile with a giant TV screen that fires up on the hour with a superb music and light show.
Julia, Suzy and I played Blackjack in Fitzgeralds casino - finishing a respectable $70 ahead between us after about an hours fun.
This part of town is the original Vegas and as far as both Julia and I were concerned probably the best part of the city - much more compact than the Strip and somehow more authentic. It's a must do for anyone who finds themselves in Vegas for the first time. And yes we did buy the T-shirt!
Gary and Suzy had an early flight home in the morning so we said our goodbyes and turned in for the night. I can't thank Gary and Suzy enough for using up many of Gary's Delta miles to meet up with us in Vegas - it was fantastic to spend time with you.
Wednesday, 21 October 2009
Tuesday 13th October - Vegas baby!!
Leisurely start to the morning - set up with Gary & Suzy to find a breakfast venue around 9:45am. Eventually settled for breakfast in Paris - in a patio resturant at the base of the Eiffel Tower (not often you can say that 5000 miles from France).
Unlike the real thing the service was excellent and Julia has a new love......Egg benedict!
After breakfast a walk seemed in order...and boy did we walk! Part of the plan was to explore and part was to find some cheaper Black Jack tables (the tables in the Venetian had a minimum bet of $15 which is a bit rich for my blood). We found some $1 tables in a Westin Hotel - but none of the tables were open - so had to settle for a $5 table in "Terribles" one of the older Vegas Casinos some way off the strip. After the $1000 win of the night before expectations were high. If you've not been to Vegas you may not realise that drinks are free in pretty much all casino's for people who are actually gambling - it is just standard practise to tip the waitress. This meant that the Bud Light I drank in Terribles cost me $101 - $1 for the tip and $100 to the Blackjack dealer.....Julia was not impressed!
We grabbed a taxi to the Hard Rock hotel and had a mexican style lunch. The Hard Rock is also some way off the strip - but a pretty cool hotel/casino.
We got back to the Venetian and prepared for my first pre-planned event of the trip - a vow renewal at a Las Vegas wedding church. Ordinarily I'm probably not seen as a particularly romantic kind of guy (don't really see the point in flowers etc), but this just seemed the right thing to do given the circumstances. Although available I did not go for the Elvis, the Drive thru or the "Walk up" options - just a simple renewal with Gary and Suzy as witnesses.
The first the Julia knew was when we met the white stretch limo outside the Venetian - the "Vegas Wedding" logo was a bit of a give away.
It was a simple ceremony performed by a local pastor and all-in-all a pretty enjoyable experience - no doubt we'll bore everyone senseless with the photos if you come to the house.
Dinner was at an good Sushi resturant on the Caesars Palace shopping complex - followed by some beers and a little gambling - although the long walk of earlier in the day had taken its toll on our energy levels. Vegas can certainly do that to you!
Unlike the real thing the service was excellent and Julia has a new love......Egg benedict!
After breakfast a walk seemed in order...and boy did we walk! Part of the plan was to explore and part was to find some cheaper Black Jack tables (the tables in the Venetian had a minimum bet of $15 which is a bit rich for my blood). We found some $1 tables in a Westin Hotel - but none of the tables were open - so had to settle for a $5 table in "Terribles" one of the older Vegas Casinos some way off the strip. After the $1000 win of the night before expectations were high. If you've not been to Vegas you may not realise that drinks are free in pretty much all casino's for people who are actually gambling - it is just standard practise to tip the waitress. This meant that the Bud Light I drank in Terribles cost me $101 - $1 for the tip and $100 to the Blackjack dealer.....Julia was not impressed!
We grabbed a taxi to the Hard Rock hotel and had a mexican style lunch. The Hard Rock is also some way off the strip - but a pretty cool hotel/casino.
We got back to the Venetian and prepared for my first pre-planned event of the trip - a vow renewal at a Las Vegas wedding church. Ordinarily I'm probably not seen as a particularly romantic kind of guy (don't really see the point in flowers etc), but this just seemed the right thing to do given the circumstances. Although available I did not go for the Elvis, the Drive thru or the "Walk up" options - just a simple renewal with Gary and Suzy as witnesses.
The first the Julia knew was when we met the white stretch limo outside the Venetian - the "Vegas Wedding" logo was a bit of a give away.
It was a simple ceremony performed by a local pastor and all-in-all a pretty enjoyable experience - no doubt we'll bore everyone senseless with the photos if you come to the house.
Dinner was at an good Sushi resturant on the Caesars Palace shopping complex - followed by some beers and a little gambling - although the long walk of earlier in the day had taken its toll on our energy levels. Vegas can certainly do that to you!
Tuesday, 20 October 2009
Monday 12th October - Philly & Vegas
Left for Philly airport around 8:30am - helped by the lack of traffic on Columbus day. Feeling a little hung over from the excesses of the day before.
Took a US Airways flight to Vegas, which due to strong headwinds took a full 5.5 hours flight time. Sitting in the back of the plane is way less fun than business class!
Even though the cab from the airport avoided driving down the strip, the sheer scale and outrageous excess of Vegas was clearly visible.
Eventually arrived in our room at the Venetian at around 2:30pm. When I say room I am doing it a huge dis-service - the Venetian is an all suite hotel and this is the biggest room I have ever stayed in. We even had a partial view of the strip.
We did a little exploring prior to meeting up with Gary and Suzy Walz who jetted in from Atlanta especially to meet with Julia and me - thanks guys to was fantastic to spend time with you. Suzy has been fighting her own battle with breast cancer and was looking great.
After drinks and the Rhumbar (part of the Mirage) and dinner in the Grand Cafe we finally decided to do some gambling. Julia put $20 in a "Wheel-of-fortune" (you have to sing it by the way) and after a spin of the wheel won $1000! It's fair to say everyone was delighted. Suzy capped it off with a $150 dollar win so everyone was ahead of the casino that night.
We headed for bed around 1am tired but happy - just as most of Vegas was starting to get going!
Took a US Airways flight to Vegas, which due to strong headwinds took a full 5.5 hours flight time. Sitting in the back of the plane is way less fun than business class!
Even though the cab from the airport avoided driving down the strip, the sheer scale and outrageous excess of Vegas was clearly visible.
Eventually arrived in our room at the Venetian at around 2:30pm. When I say room I am doing it a huge dis-service - the Venetian is an all suite hotel and this is the biggest room I have ever stayed in. We even had a partial view of the strip.
We did a little exploring prior to meeting up with Gary and Suzy Walz who jetted in from Atlanta especially to meet with Julia and me - thanks guys to was fantastic to spend time with you. Suzy has been fighting her own battle with breast cancer and was looking great.
After drinks and the Rhumbar (part of the Mirage) and dinner in the Grand Cafe we finally decided to do some gambling. Julia put $20 in a "Wheel-of-fortune" (you have to sing it by the way) and after a spin of the wheel won $1000! It's fair to say everyone was delighted. Suzy capped it off with a $150 dollar win so everyone was ahead of the casino that night.
We headed for bed around 1am tired but happy - just as most of Vegas was starting to get going!
Monday, 19 October 2009
Sunday 11th October - Philly
After not a bad's night sleep we headed down for the Marriott "pig-yourself-stupid" buffet breakfast - which as it turns out was our first mistake of the day.
It was a lovely Sunday morning in Philly so we decided to have a walk out and see a few sites. We stopped for a while in Love Park and watched the fountain.
Around 10:15am we headed to the Football Stadium to join up with Dave Leitham's Eagles tailgate party. After wandering around the massive parking lot packed with Eagles fans bar-b-quing, drinking and having fun (and a few phone calls to Dave) we eventually tracked Dave down and were soon standing drink in hand. These events do have rules.....you can drink what you like, but it must be out of a cup/glass not a bottle!!!
There was more food than you could shake a stick out and it became obvious that the decision to go for the enourmous breakfast was the wrong one. However there is always room for some Alaskan King Crabs legs freshly cooked on the barbie.
Many, many thanks to Dave, his boys (who tried to teach me the art of throwing the odd-shaped football) and the guys & girls he tailgates with. English football has a lot to learn!
For the walk to the Stadium Dave supplied me with a Golden Monkey beer from Victory - at 8.9% alcohol this was as close to a Belgium beer as I tasted from an American brewery - but at 12:30pm was pretty heavy going.
We left Dave inside the stadium as his seats were at the opposite end of the field to Peter's. The Sun was beating down as we sat in the stadium - and we both got a little sun burnt.
Peter (Brennen) and Steve (Meek) arrived just after the first Eagles touchdown and we launched an assault on the stadiums supply of Bud lite!
It was great to catch up with Peter & Steve and the Eagles supported by winning pretty comfortably. As predicted the locals got a little lively at times - and with no "away" fans to express their anger against turned against each other.
We left early in the 4th quarter when it was clear that the Eagles were going to win and jumped in a cab to head back to the city and further beers in McGillins (my favourite bar in Philly). We had a couple of Pitchers of Dog Fishhead IPA and 25 hot wings before Julia and I retired to the hotel for a wash and brush up prior to dinner. Many thanks to Peter for the Eagles tickets - it was a very memoriable part of our trip.
We met prior to dinner in the Marriott bar and were served by the same waitress that served me my first ever beer in the Marriott about 5 years ago. The team in the bar was:
Bob V (Tangeray 10 martini, straight-up 3 olives), Steve & Trish Meek, Peter Brennan, Brad Huddleston and Eileen Dowds.
We set out for the resturant (El Vez) at around 6:15pm, losing Peter along the way and gaining Deb & Pete Harrsch and Paul Neralich once there. After several Margarita's and a very nice meal the group split around 9pm with Bob, Brad and Paul joining Julia and I back in McGillins.
Many thanks to Deb for getting a table for 10 at 6:30pm....something I know was a struggle...and for everyone for again taking the time and effort to meet up on a weekend evening.
After a couple of beers, and resisting the urge to do Karoake upstairs, Julia and I headed for the hotel around 10pm - I must admit a few tears were shed - probably due to way to much beer - but possibly due to seeing good friends for probably the last time (I know big girly!)
It was a lovely Sunday morning in Philly so we decided to have a walk out and see a few sites. We stopped for a while in Love Park and watched the fountain.
Around 10:15am we headed to the Football Stadium to join up with Dave Leitham's Eagles tailgate party. After wandering around the massive parking lot packed with Eagles fans bar-b-quing, drinking and having fun (and a few phone calls to Dave) we eventually tracked Dave down and were soon standing drink in hand. These events do have rules.....you can drink what you like, but it must be out of a cup/glass not a bottle!!!
There was more food than you could shake a stick out and it became obvious that the decision to go for the enourmous breakfast was the wrong one. However there is always room for some Alaskan King Crabs legs freshly cooked on the barbie.
Many, many thanks to Dave, his boys (who tried to teach me the art of throwing the odd-shaped football) and the guys & girls he tailgates with. English football has a lot to learn!
For the walk to the Stadium Dave supplied me with a Golden Monkey beer from Victory - at 8.9% alcohol this was as close to a Belgium beer as I tasted from an American brewery - but at 12:30pm was pretty heavy going.
We left Dave inside the stadium as his seats were at the opposite end of the field to Peter's. The Sun was beating down as we sat in the stadium - and we both got a little sun burnt.
Peter (Brennen) and Steve (Meek) arrived just after the first Eagles touchdown and we launched an assault on the stadiums supply of Bud lite!
It was great to catch up with Peter & Steve and the Eagles supported by winning pretty comfortably. As predicted the locals got a little lively at times - and with no "away" fans to express their anger against turned against each other.
We left early in the 4th quarter when it was clear that the Eagles were going to win and jumped in a cab to head back to the city and further beers in McGillins (my favourite bar in Philly). We had a couple of Pitchers of Dog Fishhead IPA and 25 hot wings before Julia and I retired to the hotel for a wash and brush up prior to dinner. Many thanks to Peter for the Eagles tickets - it was a very memoriable part of our trip.
We met prior to dinner in the Marriott bar and were served by the same waitress that served me my first ever beer in the Marriott about 5 years ago. The team in the bar was:
Bob V (Tangeray 10 martini, straight-up 3 olives), Steve & Trish Meek, Peter Brennan, Brad Huddleston and Eileen Dowds.
We set out for the resturant (El Vez) at around 6:15pm, losing Peter along the way and gaining Deb & Pete Harrsch and Paul Neralich once there. After several Margarita's and a very nice meal the group split around 9pm with Bob, Brad and Paul joining Julia and I back in McGillins.
Many thanks to Deb for getting a table for 10 at 6:30pm....something I know was a struggle...and for everyone for again taking the time and effort to meet up on a weekend evening.
After a couple of beers, and resisting the urge to do Karoake upstairs, Julia and I headed for the hotel around 10pm - I must admit a few tears were shed - probably due to way to much beer - but possibly due to seeing good friends for probably the last time (I know big girly!)
Saturday 10th October - UK & Philly
Early start this morning. Set off for Heathrow around 6am. Used a meet and greet parking service at terminal 5 which was really stress free and after using the ultra-slow fasttrack security line were in the BA lounge for around 10am.
Called my Mum and really confused her when I said we were in the lounge....."I thought you were flying to America today?".......bless!!
BA Business Class is a great way to travel transatlantic - there is something quite satifying about sitting in your enourmous seat with a glass of Champagne as the mere mortals make their way past to the back of the bus! By the way having been one of those mere mortals hundreds of times I think I have a right to feel smug occaisonally.
Extremely strong headwinds meant an 8 hour flight. During which time I watched Transformers 2......if you've not endured this film before do yourself a favour and don't bother.
Having built up US immigration as a pain to Julia we were through and out of the airport within less than 30 mins of the plane landing - fantastic.
Took a cab to downtown Philly and were settling into the Marriott around 4:30pm Philly time.
We had arranged to meet the gang in Tir Na Nog - one of the closest bars to the InnaPhase/Thermo office. We arrived at around 6:45pm and were met by Ann and her husband.
Had a lovely evening meeting and talking to old friends. Several pints of Hop Devil by Victory ales were consummed!
During the evening we were joined by:
Rich Wagner, Deb & Pete Harrsch, Bob Harrison, Ray & Elise Henry and Trish Porter. Many thanks to one and all for heading into the city on a Saturday evening (and a million appologies if I've forgotten anyone).
Headed back to the Marriott around 10:30pm Philly time - about 22 hours after we got up in the UK that morning!!!!
Called my Mum and really confused her when I said we were in the lounge....."I thought you were flying to America today?".......bless!!
BA Business Class is a great way to travel transatlantic - there is something quite satifying about sitting in your enourmous seat with a glass of Champagne as the mere mortals make their way past to the back of the bus! By the way having been one of those mere mortals hundreds of times I think I have a right to feel smug occaisonally.
Extremely strong headwinds meant an 8 hour flight. During which time I watched Transformers 2......if you've not endured this film before do yourself a favour and don't bother.
Having built up US immigration as a pain to Julia we were through and out of the airport within less than 30 mins of the plane landing - fantastic.
Took a cab to downtown Philly and were settling into the Marriott around 4:30pm Philly time.
We had arranged to meet the gang in Tir Na Nog - one of the closest bars to the InnaPhase/Thermo office. We arrived at around 6:45pm and were met by Ann and her husband.
Had a lovely evening meeting and talking to old friends. Several pints of Hop Devil by Victory ales were consummed!
During the evening we were joined by:
Rich Wagner, Deb & Pete Harrsch, Bob Harrison, Ray & Elise Henry and Trish Porter. Many thanks to one and all for heading into the city on a Saturday evening (and a million appologies if I've forgotten anyone).
Headed back to the Marriott around 10:30pm Philly time - about 22 hours after we got up in the UK that morning!!!!
Sunday, 18 October 2009
Friday, 9 October 2009
Sunday night festivities
Many thanks to Deb Harrsch we have a table for 10 booked at El Vez (121 South 13th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107) for 6:30pm sharp.
Julia and I will aim to set off from the Marriott at just after 6pm. If you could let me know in advance by adding a comment to this blog if you can join us.
We will expect to end the evening in McGillans from around 8:30 - 9:00pm onwards.
Julia and I will aim to set off from the Marriott at just after 6pm. If you could let me know in advance by adding a comment to this blog if you can join us.
We will expect to end the evening in McGillans from around 8:30 - 9:00pm onwards.
Wednesday, 7 October 2009
Venue for Saturday evening - 10th October - Philly
Hi all, it's been difficult to pin down exact numbers for Saturday so we have taken the easy way out and decided that Julia and I will be in Tir Na Nog from 7pm onwards (until we flake out after the trans-atlantic flight).
Everyone is welcome and we'd be delighted to see you.
Still thinking about Sunday but if you're in the Marriott bar for 7pm that may well be a good starting point.
Everyone is welcome and we'd be delighted to see you.
Still thinking about Sunday but if you're in the Marriott bar for 7pm that may well be a good starting point.
Tuesday, 6 October 2009
Eeeeeaaaggllleeeess
During our stay in Philly next weekend we will be attending the Philadelphia Eagles vs. Tamba Bay Buccanneers American Football game thanks to tickets from Peter Brennan. To get the full experience we are hoping to meet up with Dave Leitham at his tailgate party before the game.
Many thanks to Peter and Dave!
Many thanks to Peter and Dave!
Monday, 5 October 2009
Posting Comments
It seems a few people are having trouble posting comments (which I really love to get). If you get a problem just try using the "Anonymous" account and add you name at the bottom of the comment you write.
Great weekend!
Still feeling really good so trying to cram as much in as possible.
On Wednesday I drove to Stockton to catch up with the Energy Solutions folks. It's been quite a while since I went and I've no idea when I'll make it back. It was great to see everyone (except Helen....sorry to miss you!) and we had a good feed as the Masham.
On the way back I visited Julia's cousin Sally who is part way through her 7th round of chemotherapy. Keep smiling Sal you'll beat it!!
Thursday and Friday were pretty quiet, recovering from the long drive and watching England lose to Australia in a one day cricket match (again). Still doesn't come close to winning the Ashes (England won 2-1 if you didn't know).
Saturday was hectic. Up at 7am and out of the door at 8. Met up at my Mum's to head to have the family portrait taken that we had bought my parents for their Golden Wedding aniversary. The photographer was excellent and managed to arranged and photograph all 14 of us (including the 6 month old twins) in less than 30 mins. Looking forward to seeing the pictures.
Once finished I shot out the door and heading for Norwich to meet up with Martin's stag do. Having attended his first stag do I thought it was only fair to be there for the second (and last one I hope ;-)).
We stayed at the Wensum Valley Hotel and played in near gale force winds...mind you that didn't stop me scoring 8 stapleford points from the first 3 holes. I got tired on the back nine and finished with around 25 points.
Nice (although too large) meal in the hotel before heading into Norwich to sample the nightlife. Let's just say all Human life was there and leave it at that. Another re-inforcement of the feeling that I'm too old to stand in crowded noisy bars any more.
Breakfast, hot tub/sauna on the Sunday morning followed by a round on the second course at the hotel. Rich and I scored a very respectable 38 points in a better ball competition just off the winning score of 41.
Was pleased to be able to call in and see Janet and Clive on the way home. Sounds like they may be moving north shortly!
Ruined any health benefits of 2 rounds of golf with an Olympic breakfast at a Little Chef on the way home.
Just Philly/Vegas and Cornwall to look forward to now!!!!
On Wednesday I drove to Stockton to catch up with the Energy Solutions folks. It's been quite a while since I went and I've no idea when I'll make it back. It was great to see everyone (except Helen....sorry to miss you!) and we had a good feed as the Masham.
On the way back I visited Julia's cousin Sally who is part way through her 7th round of chemotherapy. Keep smiling Sal you'll beat it!!
Thursday and Friday were pretty quiet, recovering from the long drive and watching England lose to Australia in a one day cricket match (again). Still doesn't come close to winning the Ashes (England won 2-1 if you didn't know).
Saturday was hectic. Up at 7am and out of the door at 8. Met up at my Mum's to head to have the family portrait taken that we had bought my parents for their Golden Wedding aniversary. The photographer was excellent and managed to arranged and photograph all 14 of us (including the 6 month old twins) in less than 30 mins. Looking forward to seeing the pictures.
Once finished I shot out the door and heading for Norwich to meet up with Martin's stag do. Having attended his first stag do I thought it was only fair to be there for the second (and last one I hope ;-)).
We stayed at the Wensum Valley Hotel and played in near gale force winds...mind you that didn't stop me scoring 8 stapleford points from the first 3 holes. I got tired on the back nine and finished with around 25 points.
Nice (although too large) meal in the hotel before heading into Norwich to sample the nightlife. Let's just say all Human life was there and leave it at that. Another re-inforcement of the feeling that I'm too old to stand in crowded noisy bars any more.
Breakfast, hot tub/sauna on the Sunday morning followed by a round on the second course at the hotel. Rich and I scored a very respectable 38 points in a better ball competition just off the winning score of 41.
Was pleased to be able to call in and see Janet and Clive on the way home. Sounds like they may be moving north shortly!
Ruined any health benefits of 2 rounds of golf with an Olympic breakfast at a Little Chef on the way home.
Just Philly/Vegas and Cornwall to look forward to now!!!!
Tuesday, 29 September 2009
3rd Annual Meadowcroft Bonfire night - Friday 6th November
Advanced warning of our 3rd annual bonfire and firework party on Friday 6th November - starting around 6:00pm.
All welcome - bring some booze and a "mo-fo" sized firework!
Clive's special Curry and/or Chilli on a jacket spud (baked potato for you US folks) will be served.
All welcome - bring some booze and a "mo-fo" sized firework!
Mid-week update
Status: Feeling good!
Weight: Still too much
Alcohol consumption: not much
Another glorious weekend - can't believe it's late September.
Watched another 2-2 draw for Alex's team - yet again they really should of won. I was lino and didn't have to give a single off-side decision.
Peter and Morgan came to visit eventually! Heading for Shirly instead of Shirland was always going to be a problem. Did a quick Geocache with them but failed to find the cache for the first time!
We all had Sunday lunch at the Horse and Jockey.
Good to see you guys thanks for heading up.
On Monday I went back and found the elusive cache - GPS does not work well under trees. I also found another one on the way to pick the boys up from school. I have to say whilst it appears to be a very geeky type of hobby it is somewhat addictive.
Tom, Al and I went to Xmods racing in the evening - I am rapidly comig to the conclusion that this is not something I am EVER going to be any good at. Still an evening with the boys doing something they enjoy is what it is really about.
Got a busy weekend coming up.
Julia is out with the Tansley ladies for a meal at one of her favourite eating pubs.
The whole of the Seaton clan is meeting up to get a family portrait taken (something we bought my parents for their Golden Wedding Aniversary) on Saturday morning. Then immediately afterwards I'm heading off to Norwich for Martin Greenwood's golfing stag do.
Must go....it's my Dad's birthday today so happy birthday Pops!
Weight: Still too much
Alcohol consumption: not much
Another glorious weekend - can't believe it's late September.
Watched another 2-2 draw for Alex's team - yet again they really should of won. I was lino and didn't have to give a single off-side decision.
Peter and Morgan came to visit eventually! Heading for Shirly instead of Shirland was always going to be a problem. Did a quick Geocache with them but failed to find the cache for the first time!
We all had Sunday lunch at the Horse and Jockey.
Good to see you guys thanks for heading up.
On Monday I went back and found the elusive cache - GPS does not work well under trees. I also found another one on the way to pick the boys up from school. I have to say whilst it appears to be a very geeky type of hobby it is somewhat addictive.
Tom, Al and I went to Xmods racing in the evening - I am rapidly comig to the conclusion that this is not something I am EVER going to be any good at. Still an evening with the boys doing something they enjoy is what it is really about.
Got a busy weekend coming up.
Julia is out with the Tansley ladies for a meal at one of her favourite eating pubs.
The whole of the Seaton clan is meeting up to get a family portrait taken (something we bought my parents for their Golden Wedding Aniversary) on Saturday morning. Then immediately afterwards I'm heading off to Norwich for Martin Greenwood's golfing stag do.
Must go....it's my Dad's birthday today so happy birthday Pops!
Saturday, 26 September 2009
Geocaching in the balmy weather
Last few days have been beautiful. Spent a lot of time in the garden reading.
Just been out Geocaching with Julia and the boys - successfully found 2 caches today including one with 7 clues to solve (http://www.geocaching.com/seek/cache_details.aspx?guid=9c87c970-3ecf-431d-a1f3-cde8abf36456). Pick up a "Travel Bug" that you have to move to a different cache. A great walk around South Wingfield although you can't help looking rather suspicious whilst rooting around in the undergrowth.
Peter and Morgen from Aylesbury Rotaract are visiting tomorrow.
Just been out Geocaching with Julia and the boys - successfully found 2 caches today including one with 7 clues to solve (http://www.geocaching.com/seek/cache_details.aspx?guid=9c87c970-3ecf-431d-a1f3-cde8abf36456). Pick up a "Travel Bug" that you have to move to a different cache. A great walk around South Wingfield although you can't help looking rather suspicious whilst rooting around in the undergrowth.
Peter and Morgen from Aylesbury Rotaract are visiting tomorrow.
Thursday, 24 September 2009
Philly times.
As our trip to Philly gets nearer (only 2 weeks on Saturday now!) I am trying to plan times and locations to meet up with folks. Since we are at the Marriott on the Saturday and Sunday evenings only (10th/11th October) it will probably be more difficult for as many folks to catch up as would have been the case on a "school" night.
We will be free to catch up on the Saturday evening, Sunday lunchtime and Sunday evening - and will plan to eat and drink somewhere at all three times setting out from the Marriott bar.
Let me know if anyone can join us at any of those times and we will plan accordingly. I'd be delighted to catch up with anyone that can make it.
We will be free to catch up on the Saturday evening, Sunday lunchtime and Sunday evening - and will plan to eat and drink somewhere at all three times setting out from the Marriott bar.
Let me know if anyone can join us at any of those times and we will plan accordingly. I'd be delighted to catch up with anyone that can make it.
Update and Geocaching!
It's been another busy week.
On Sunday Alex's team drew 2-2 with Matlock Phoenix in a really exiting game.
Later watched the Manchester Derby with Linda, Dave and the boys - well to be fair Dave and I actually watched the game. It's fair to say he was gutted with a last minute winner for Man Utd.....oh well there's the breaks. We then had a fantastic meal at a Japanese/Asian resturant in Chesterfield.
Alex and I went to the Xmods club on Monday - I was only 2 laps behind his 3-heat total. Tom was off sick on Monday so did not join us.
Tuesday we all hit the hot tub and Posh beat Newcastle in the Carling cup....hoping for a "big" team in the draw on Saturday.
Wednesday we had the chimey swept and the house valued.....always wanted to know what it would be worth in the current climate.
Later we found our first "cache" whilst out Geocaching (http://www.geocaching.com/). My brother Russie introduced us to this activity and it's a great idea for everyone. We walked about 3 miles and found the cache hidden in the undergrowth.
Whilst feeling great physically I've had a few low moments thinking about when the good times will end and I'll start feeling crap again....at the moment that seems more of a worry than the actual dying bit.
On Sunday Alex's team drew 2-2 with Matlock Phoenix in a really exiting game.
Later watched the Manchester Derby with Linda, Dave and the boys - well to be fair Dave and I actually watched the game. It's fair to say he was gutted with a last minute winner for Man Utd.....oh well there's the breaks. We then had a fantastic meal at a Japanese/Asian resturant in Chesterfield.
Alex and I went to the Xmods club on Monday - I was only 2 laps behind his 3-heat total. Tom was off sick on Monday so did not join us.
Tuesday we all hit the hot tub and Posh beat Newcastle in the Carling cup....hoping for a "big" team in the draw on Saturday.
Wednesday we had the chimey swept and the house valued.....always wanted to know what it would be worth in the current climate.
Later we found our first "cache" whilst out Geocaching (http://www.geocaching.com/). My brother Russie introduced us to this activity and it's a great idea for everyone. We walked about 3 miles and found the cache hidden in the undergrowth.
Whilst feeling great physically I've had a few low moments thinking about when the good times will end and I'll start feeling crap again....at the moment that seems more of a worry than the actual dying bit.
Saturday, 19 September 2009
"it's Posh we are"
Blimey 2 posts in one day.
Thomas and I went to the Peterborough game and saw the Posh make a fantastic come back from 2-0 down at half time to win 3-2 with a superb winning goal. I even managed to stand behind the goal as normal - although my feet were feeling it by the end.
Even if I wasn't feel really good at the moment I would be tonight.
Thomas and I went to the Peterborough game and saw the Posh make a fantastic come back from 2-0 down at half time to win 3-2 with a superb winning goal. I even managed to stand behind the goal as normal - although my feet were feeling it by the end.
Even if I wasn't feel really good at the moment I would be tonight.
We will Rock You!
We went down to London to meet up with Jo on Thursday.
Had an excellent stay at the very posh Goring Hotel and saw "We will rock you" which is the musical of Queen and Freddie Mercury's songs. The show was excellent, as was the curry before hand.
Had an excellent stay at the very posh Goring Hotel and saw "We will rock you" which is the musical of Queen and Freddie Mercury's songs. The show was excellent, as was the curry before hand.
Wednesday, 16 September 2009
Car Racing and the Posh
Joined the boys for the regular Monday night car racing. It was the 200th meeting so trophies were given out for the top racers. Unfortunately they only gave out cups for the top 3 not the top 23 so no silverware for me.
Tuesday took the train to Leicester to watch Leicester City vs. Peterborough. Met up with my Dad and his gang. An excellent game which Posh should have scored at least 3 goals in the first 30 mins ended up as a 1-1 draw - probably a fair result on the overal balance of play.
Still feeling good! Long may it continue.
Tuesday took the train to Leicester to watch Leicester City vs. Peterborough. Met up with my Dad and his gang. An excellent game which Posh should have scored at least 3 goals in the first 30 mins ended up as a 1-1 draw - probably a fair result on the overal balance of play.
Still feeling good! Long may it continue.
Tuesday, 15 September 2009
Dates for US Trip confirmed!
We will be setting off from London on Saturday 10th October arriving in Philly at about 3pm that day.
We are staying in the Marriott Downtown on the Saturday and Sunday evening. It would be great to meet up with anyone in town on the Sunday - either afternoon, evening or drinks later! Saturday would work too - but we may be a little tired from sleeping in the lay-flat bed seats in British Airway Business.
We are then heading over to Vegas on Monday 12th October staying until Saturday 17th when we head back to the UK via Philly.
In Vegas we are staying at the Venetian and would be delighted to meet up with anyone that can make it over.
Hopefully see you in Philly or Vegas!
We are staying in the Marriott Downtown on the Saturday and Sunday evening. It would be great to meet up with anyone in town on the Sunday - either afternoon, evening or drinks later! Saturday would work too - but we may be a little tired from sleeping in the lay-flat bed seats in British Airway Business.
We are then heading over to Vegas on Monday 12th October staying until Saturday 17th when we head back to the UK via Philly.
In Vegas we are staying at the Venetian and would be delighted to meet up with anyone that can make it over.
Hopefully see you in Philly or Vegas!
Saturday, 12 September 2009
Golf, beer, curry and good friends!!!
Had a fantastic day yesterday playing golf. People travelled from all over - much appreciated. Not sure we entirely followed the traditional rules of golf etiquette but much laughter and fun was had.
The weather was amazing for the UK in mid-September - probably a few folks with a bit of sunburn this morning
The course was pretty tough and the morning Stapleford was won by Kev Smith with a relatively low score of 33 points.
My group was comfortably winning the afternoon Texas Scramble when, as we were teeing off on the 14th, the other 9 guys wandered past like refugees on their way back to the club house....beer and food had become more appealing than golf and hills.
Thomas, Alex and their cousin Richard joined us when they got back from school and showed off their driving (and skidding) skills in the golf buggies - something else to get the members turning in their graves!
One of the highlights of the day was Adrian falling for the old "leave the shell of an old golf ball on the green about 6 inches from the hole" as he approached the green thinking he hit the shot of a lifetime he suddenly realised this was not his ball!
We retired to the pub afterwards to top of the beer we had consumed at lunchtime and enjoy a curry.
If a man's wealth were judged by the quality of his friends then I would be a rich man indeed!!!
You never know I may hang around long enough to take part in next years "Memorial Day" tournament.
The weather was amazing for the UK in mid-September - probably a few folks with a bit of sunburn this morning
The course was pretty tough and the morning Stapleford was won by Kev Smith with a relatively low score of 33 points.
My group was comfortably winning the afternoon Texas Scramble when, as we were teeing off on the 14th, the other 9 guys wandered past like refugees on their way back to the club house....beer and food had become more appealing than golf and hills.
Thomas, Alex and their cousin Richard joined us when they got back from school and showed off their driving (and skidding) skills in the golf buggies - something else to get the members turning in their graves!
One of the highlights of the day was Adrian falling for the old "leave the shell of an old golf ball on the green about 6 inches from the hole" as he approached the green thinking he hit the shot of a lifetime he suddenly realised this was not his ball!
We retired to the pub afterwards to top of the beer we had consumed at lunchtime and enjoy a curry.
If a man's wealth were judged by the quality of his friends then I would be a rich man indeed!!!
You never know I may hang around long enough to take part in next years "Memorial Day" tournament.
Thursday, 10 September 2009
England, golf, Philly and Port!
Just a quick update.
We have a fantastic turnout of 12 of us for the golf tomorrow. The Weather forecast is good and furtive practise has/is taking place for a number of the 28 handicapers around the country! Could well be a "bandit" winner.
England have qualified for the World Cup finals in South Africa next June/July - my hope is that I'm still around to see it. Just my rotten luck for England to finally go and win the thing a few months after I pop my clogs!
Have booked my tickets between the UK and Philly - outbound on Saturday 10th October and return Saturday 17th October - just finalising the hotels and Philly-Vegas-Philly flights. Man thats a big-ass country - 5 hours to fly from Philly to Vegas, you could fly from London to Moscow in less.
For better or worse I have rediscovered my taste for Port - unfortunately my tolerance to alcohol is at an all time low so hangover cures are required.
See all those playing golf tomorrow!!
We have a fantastic turnout of 12 of us for the golf tomorrow. The Weather forecast is good and furtive practise has/is taking place for a number of the 28 handicapers around the country! Could well be a "bandit" winner.
England have qualified for the World Cup finals in South Africa next June/July - my hope is that I'm still around to see it. Just my rotten luck for England to finally go and win the thing a few months after I pop my clogs!
Have booked my tickets between the UK and Philly - outbound on Saturday 10th October and return Saturday 17th October - just finalising the hotels and Philly-Vegas-Philly flights. Man thats a big-ass country - 5 hours to fly from Philly to Vegas, you could fly from London to Moscow in less.
For better or worse I have rediscovered my taste for Port - unfortunately my tolerance to alcohol is at an all time low so hangover cures are required.
See all those playing golf tomorrow!!
Tuesday, 8 September 2009
Near humiliation
Thomas and Alex bought and have been racing small remote control cars called X Mods (http://www.xmods.uk.com/index1.htm). There is a club that meets in Matlock on a Monday and having picked them up a few times I decided to get myself a car and join them.
Needless to say it is harder than it looks (well except for everyone else). Over 3 heats the top guys manage well over 40 laps - I did 16. Still a good night out was had with the boys. The cars themselves are able to be tinkered with and modified to a geeks delight! Alex has just had his car converted to 4 wheel drive.
On a slightly more active note I brushed the cobwebs off my bicycle and manage to bike for about 6 miles - shame it's so damn hilly round here.
Needless to say it is harder than it looks (well except for everyone else). Over 3 heats the top guys manage well over 40 laps - I did 16. Still a good night out was had with the boys. The cars themselves are able to be tinkered with and modified to a geeks delight! Alex has just had his car converted to 4 wheel drive.
On a slightly more active note I brushed the cobwebs off my bicycle and manage to bike for about 6 miles - shame it's so damn hilly round here.
Sunday, 6 September 2009
Simple Pleasures!
Had a pretty good weekend. We tidied up the garden and finished sorting out the remnants of the holiday stuff.
We hit the hot tub in the evening and I finished off about 3/4 of a bottle of port - the most alcohol I've had in a very long time.
Watch Alex play a football friendly today. His team won 9-0 and the opposition weren't actually very friendly - neither the players nor the parents!
Looking more likely that the Philly/Vegas trip will be on the 11th - 17th October - really looking forward to meeting up with some old friends.
Thanks for your messages of support.
We hit the hot tub in the evening and I finished off about 3/4 of a bottle of port - the most alcohol I've had in a very long time.
Watch Alex play a football friendly today. His team won 9-0 and the opposition weren't actually very friendly - neither the players nor the parents!
Looking more likely that the Philly/Vegas trip will be on the 11th - 17th October - really looking forward to meeting up with some old friends.
Thanks for your messages of support.
Friday, 4 September 2009
Philly/Vegas 11th-17th October (TBC)
Have spoken to the insurers and they will insure me for a trip to the US so looking at spending a couple of nights in Philly and 4 nights in Vegas with Julia. Trans-Atlantic travel courtesy of my 1,000's of BA miles (Business Class of course).
Planning on staying in Philly on the 11th and 12th October and Vegas 13th - 16th, be great to see anyone who can make it!
Planning on staying in Philly on the 11th and 12th October and Vegas 13th - 16th, be great to see anyone who can make it!
Golf day
Have booked 3 tee-offs for the guys on Friday 11th September. Expecting there to be 9 to 11 of us playing.
Morning stapleford then lunch then (weather permitting) afternoon Texas Scramble.
Still space for a couple more!!
Morning stapleford then lunch then (weather permitting) afternoon Texas Scramble.
Still space for a couple more!!
Another Vacation ends!
Just back from a great week in Cornwall. Stayed at a big house in a village called Trevone - just a 5 minute walk from a fantastic beach.
The beach had amazing surf and the whole family was body boarding (even me and Julia). It was difficult to get the boys to come out - even though the weather was not great.
Had some good food in different resturants in Padstow - although did not get to sample Rick Steins Seafood resturant (need to book months in advance).
The beach had amazing surf and the whole family was body boarding (even me and Julia). It was difficult to get the boys to come out - even though the weather was not great.
Had some good food in different resturants in Padstow - although did not get to sample Rick Steins Seafood resturant (need to book months in advance).
Wednesday, 26 August 2009
Holiday time!
Spent most of last week on vacation with Julia and the boys and my Mum and Dad at Hunstanton on the North Norfolk coast. We had a good time and my energy levels and strength showed continued improvement during the course of the 4 nights we were away.
Went to my first Posh game of the season with my Dad - we lost 3-2 to West Brom but it was a pretty good game.
Me, Julia and the boys are heading off to Cornwall in the morning (Thursday) for a week in a cottage near Padstow. We are really looking forward to it and hope the weather is reasonably kind to us. Either way the wet suits are packed and we are planning some boogie boarding in the surf!
My eating continues to improve and as a consequence I am able to do much more without feeling so damn tired.
Went to my first Posh game of the season with my Dad - we lost 3-2 to West Brom but it was a pretty good game.
Me, Julia and the boys are heading off to Cornwall in the morning (Thursday) for a week in a cottage near Padstow. We are really looking forward to it and hope the weather is reasonably kind to us. Either way the wet suits are packed and we are planning some boogie boarding in the surf!
My eating continues to improve and as a consequence I am able to do much more without feeling so damn tired.
Monday, 17 August 2009
Plenty going on.
Lots has happened...the best of which is that since early last week I have been feeling much better and eating solid food. The food pipe is still sore (as expected) but I am able to eat pretty much anything except the obvious stuff like crusty bread.
We went for a chinese on Thursday - sounds mundane but this was the first trip to a resturant for probably 8 weeks and since I've been on a liquids only diet (and not beer!) for 4 weeks a massive step forward.
Had a good weekend, cut the lawns and had a couple of sets of visitors.
Even cooked a meal for Monday evening (Chilli naturally!).
Heading off to the coast (Hunstanton) for a few days tomorrow and watching my first Peterborough game of the season!
We went for a chinese on Thursday - sounds mundane but this was the first trip to a resturant for probably 8 weeks and since I've been on a liquids only diet (and not beer!) for 4 weeks a massive step forward.
Had a good weekend, cut the lawns and had a couple of sets of visitors.
Even cooked a meal for Monday evening (Chilli naturally!).
Heading off to the coast (Hunstanton) for a few days tomorrow and watching my first Peterborough game of the season!
Thursday, 6 August 2009
Radiotherapy finished
I had my last course of Radio on Tuesday and this morning (Thursday) am feeling slightly better.
Unfortunately not well enough to head to Alton Towers with Julia and the boys for Tom's birthday treat - oh well maybe next time.
My food pipe is now sore as predicted but showing some signs of improvement. However after almost a month without eating solid food I am quite nervous about trying anything other than liquids.
Don't think we'll be able to make it to Nicola Jenkin's party on Friday - but am hoping to get down to Carl Nicholas' wedding on Saturday.
Unfortunately not well enough to head to Alton Towers with Julia and the boys for Tom's birthday treat - oh well maybe next time.
My food pipe is now sore as predicted but showing some signs of improvement. However after almost a month without eating solid food I am quite nervous about trying anything other than liquids.
Don't think we'll be able to make it to Nicola Jenkin's party on Friday - but am hoping to get down to Carl Nicholas' wedding on Saturday.
Friday, 31 July 2009
Oops....been a bit slack in posting - catch up time
Sorry for the lack of posts. Radiotheraphy seems pretty straight forward but I have been feeling pretty awful.
I have now had 7 of the 10 sessions and whilst my eating (or rather drinking) has not improved it has not reached the point where nothing will go down that I was worried about.
The radiotherapists say it could be up to 6 weeks after treatment before all improvements are made. I have certainly hoping for the "bacon snadwich" level improvement...anything else will feel like a bit of a failure.
I saw the GP on Monday and she gave me some antibiotics - the taking of which seems to have co-incided with me feeling better.
Thomas has his cast removed from his arm on Monday and Alex (who is 11) played for the Matlock under 13's cricket team in a cup final on Monday. They won! He was delighted to be taken off for a meal with the team after the game and dropped home at 10:15pm.
On a tougher note we sat down with Tom and Al on Saturday night and let them know the situation with my treatment......let's just say it was tough all round - but at least they are now aware of what is going on.
I have now had 7 of the 10 sessions and whilst my eating (or rather drinking) has not improved it has not reached the point where nothing will go down that I was worried about.
The radiotherapists say it could be up to 6 weeks after treatment before all improvements are made. I have certainly hoping for the "bacon snadwich" level improvement...anything else will feel like a bit of a failure.
I saw the GP on Monday and she gave me some antibiotics - the taking of which seems to have co-incided with me feeling better.
Thomas has his cast removed from his arm on Monday and Alex (who is 11) played for the Matlock under 13's cricket team in a cup final on Monday. They won! He was delighted to be taken off for a meal with the team after the game and dropped home at 10:15pm.
On a tougher note we sat down with Tom and Al on Saturday night and let them know the situation with my treatment......let's just say it was tough all round - but at least they are now aware of what is going on.
Monday, 20 July 2009
Radiotherapy - first appointment
Easy peasy today. Really just an orientation session to get used to the machine and the procedures.
Actual course of treatment starts on Wednesday.
Actual course of treatment starts on Wednesday.
Dentist
Check up at the dentist today. She suggested that it may be worth getting a filling re-done to "prevent future problems". I had to let her know that problems with fillings were most definitely the least of my worries at this point!
For you denta-a-phobes out there read it and weep - this was probably the last time I will need to bother!!!
For you denta-a-phobes out there read it and weep - this was probably the last time I will need to bother!!!
Busy new week - radiotherapy!
This week the radiotherapy starts - which is good news as eating becomes harder and harder.
Got a preparation appointment today (Monday) at the DRI, then start treatment proper on Wednesday.
Jo is planning to visit on Tuesday and I am looking forward to catching up with her.
Got a preparation appointment today (Monday) at the DRI, then start treatment proper on Wednesday.
Jo is planning to visit on Tuesday and I am looking forward to catching up with her.
A bad week in paradise!
Last week was a pretty bad one all in all. I felt pretty rough all week and seemed to have an infection of some kind. My temperature was up and I bearly left the sofa for the whole week.
To add injury to insult I strained my back on Wednesday (by coughing!) so when I have left the living room it has been hobbling along.
Had a call from Nat - thanks man it means a lot and an invite to Nicola Jenkins 35th B'day party - which we will definately try to make.
To add injury to insult I strained my back on Wednesday (by coughing!) so when I have left the living room it has been hobbling along.
Had a call from Nat - thanks man it means a lot and an invite to Nicola Jenkins 35th B'day party - which we will definately try to make.
Friday, 10 July 2009
Friday update
Not been a bad week all in all. Been feeling better in myself but still pretty weak and tired. I spoke with the Health Insurance company today and it looks as if they will fund the radiotherapy privately - although this is not certain.
Pete Marshall is coming up tonight and we hope to do some motorbiking over the weekend.
Pete Marshall is coming up tonight and we hope to do some motorbiking over the weekend.
Monday, 6 July 2009
Thomas update....
The X-ray confirmed that Thomas has broken his left wrist in an almost identical way to how he broke the right one last year. Julia will be taking him to see the consultant tomorrow to ensure he just needs a cast rather than further treatment.....oh joy!
Radiotherapy
Whilst Chemo is now over I will be getting a course of radiotherapy to help with my eating. Today I am going to Derbyh City Hospital to have a scan which will be used to determine the way that the radiotherapy will be applied.
To add to the complication Thomas appears to have possibly broken his left arm (he did the right one last year) on the Matlock skate park and needs an X-ray at Ripley Hospital this morning - oh Joy!
To add to the complication Thomas appears to have possibly broken his left arm (he did the right one last year) on the Matlock skate park and needs an X-ray at Ripley Hospital this morning - oh Joy!
Getting the bad news!
Whilst in the hospital recovering from low blood cell counts and a high temperature/infection we met with my Oncologist to find out the results of my latest CT scan. Unfortunately the new chemo regime has not been successful and so no real curative treatment options remain. After a difficult conversation in a 4 bed hospital room it is evident that I now have just months remaining.......a pretty sobering thought - particularly when I think about my boys!
I am writing this a few days later after getting out of hospital and having had a little time to reflect. It doesn't make things easier, but it does make me determined to spend what time I have left with Julia and boys!
I am writing this a few days later after getting out of hospital and having had a little time to reflect. It doesn't make things easier, but it does make me determined to spend what time I have left with Julia and boys!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
