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December 29, 2007

Who's Online.....

....at Castlecops?

BB is "viewing private messages".

Now why doesn't that surprise me?

Ooh I'm getting suspicious in my old age.

Posted by lilliebet at 11:10 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

February 17, 2007

And mother makes three

What would you think is the most irksome, annoying thing about being a single mother of two? Struggling with the finances? Meting out the discipline?

No

I'll tell you what it is. It's recipes that serve four... or two.... or six... or whatever. Never three though is it? It does my head in.

OK, rant over.

Posted by lilliebet at 08:49 PM | Comments (2) | TrackBack

February 14, 2007

All Rise

I've been called up for Jury Service... oh pooh!

Everyone who's ever been tells me it's extreeeemly tedious. I'd best buy some new books. Lot's of sitting around waiting - many people don't even get on a case.

Of course knowing my luck I'll get the local godfather's trial for murder. Oh well, I always wondered what the witness protection programme was all about.

Posted by lilliebet at 08:54 PM | Comments (2) | TrackBack

January 13, 2007

Of Sheila and Champagne

So I'm sitting here at the computer, at around midnight last night, when my phone rings and an unfamiliar voice announces that they're outside my house and they have my mother with them and she's "had a bit of an accident".

I race downstairs in my fluffy pink slippers to be greeted by said strangers and they did indeed have my mother in tow (the Sheila of whom I speak) with one decidedly smashed lens in her glasses and blood pouring down her face.

"I think she'll need to go to hospital" says the very kind lady
"I think you're right" says I

She has what can only be described as a letterbox on her forehead that I'm pretty damn sure wasn't there this morning. The gash starts millimetres above the innermost corner of her eyebrow and extends almost to the outermost corner but, this time, below the eyebrow. Yes, she's severed her eyebrow and one half of it is now hanging half an inch below it's buddy.

"Does it look bad?" she asks me
"We-ell, it'll definitely need a stitch" I say, trying not to let the horror show on my face.

Sheila has this habit. I say habit because she does it a lot, although generally not of her own volition. She hinges!

Most people would say she falls but this just isn't the case. There is no trip, no stumble, no genuflection. She hinges at the ankles and falls exactly like a felled tree. Several (ahem) years of age and yet she has still not discovered the value of hands during a fall. In other words, she does not put them out to save herself but simply falls flat on her face. This, I'm afraid, was another of those occasions.

So off we we went to Fazakerley Hospital. No, strike that, first we went to the Walk-in Centre (proudly advertised) in Litherland. The door was locked but we buzzed to gain entry. The moron twins behind the counter ask us if we have an appointment.

"It says on the board outside this is a walk-in centre"
"You need an appointment"
"Better take that sign down from outside then eh?"

I have to either drag her back into the taxi or hold her coat while she makes them sorry they ever discovered the meaning of sarcasm. The choice is difficult but I elect for the former.

So, then, we went to the hospital. Normally waiting times are ridiculous here and the thought of the Friday night waiting room full of cut-up drunks wasn't a pleasant one but I can only give thanks that she chose to take us on this latest adventure during January when everyone's spent up so the pubs are nigh on empty. We hadn't had our bums on the seats five minutes before we were called through.

I'll spare you the gorey details but suffice to say the maxillo-facial doctor was called and the end result was astounding. She's back to owning just the two eyebrows now at least. The stitches come out in five days, we'll know then whether it's going to hamper her planned modelling career.....

Anyway, I got to bed somewhere around 5.30am and my head was probably as sore as Sheila's today so a dull evening on the couch in front of the telly was this evening's antedote.

Oh and the Champagne?

It's my son's birthday tomorrow. Tonight he's gone out with friends. They went for a meal then headed into town to the clubs. In the interval he called home with a bottle of champagne that'd been presented to him by the host at the restaurant who is also a friend. He wasn't going to cart it round with him so he left it on the coffee table and a-boogeying he went.

Having enjoyed Harry Potter and the something of something, we were ten minutes into the Best of Top Gear when the world exploded, plaster fell from the ceiling and we only just managed to dodge the champagne cork as it ricocheted around the room. Plonker had taken the wire off the champagne cork hadn't he? So the cork just bided it's time... waited until I was sufficiently unawares... then BOOM!!

Still, it's his loss and my gain. Top Gear and champagne, the perfect Saturday night combination. Well it would be such a shame to waste it wouldn't it?

Posted by lilliebet at 11:14 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack

January 10, 2007

You are what you eat

Unless you're my daughter that is.

Two years ago, she turned veggie. No big political motivation or anything, it was just a whim really but she gave up eating meat and, fair play to her, she's laid off it ever since.

The only trouble with being a vegetarian is... she doesn't like vegetables. Well, not many of them anyway. Or fish. She'll eat tuna and the occasional plaice or salmon but that's about all.

Then a few months ago, she decided she needed to lose a few pounds, so she started a diet. That's saturated fats out of the window then. No cheese, pastry or cakes.

As if that wasn't enough, she had an appointment with the neurologist last week. She's been suffering with headaches for some time. If you ask me, she's faint from lack of nourishment but what do I know? So his diagnosis was chronic migraine. And what's the treatment for chronic migraine? She has to cut out chocolate and caffeine!

So what's left? Nougat and gravy I think.

Something tells me we're all taking these food fads a bit too far. There's virtually nothing that's safe to eat anymore or that doesn't cause headaches/bloating/hives/gout or CJ-bloody-D!

Someone pass me the tripe n onions...

Posted by lilliebet at 07:35 AM | Comments (1) | TrackBack

January 03, 2007

Thanks for the reminder OldGuy

The reminder to update the blog and also the reminder that I still haven't fixed the problem with Typekey. Hmmmm!

Ever since we reopened The Sandbox, I haven't been able to post comments through Typekey. Not a big deal really except that I have to approve my own comments. That's a strange feeling I can tell you.

I'm thinking too about categories. When I set this up, I didn't really have much idea where I was going with it. Not that I have any more idea now but, if I'm to keep my resolution, it's best I put some thought into it. Of course, if I change the categories, I have to reassign all the existing posts.... or not I guess.... hey hum.

Apart from all that, I've just started to read for my last assignment. I'm into some wonderfully interesting articles on Project Management. Interesting that is if you have no friends, no social life and a desperate urge to put your head in the oven. Back to it I guess....

Posted by lilliebet at 11:12 PM | Comments (2) | TrackBack

November 19, 2006

By 'eck it's the Biennial

For ten weeks every two years, several hundred of the world's most exciting visual artists show their work in over 40 locations across Liverpool city centre, from major gallery spaces to unexpected temporary locations. And, for the most part, I ignore it.

Bad Lizzy!

It's not that I don't like art, I do, but I'm a philistine. I either like something or I don't, understanding it has no effect on that whatsoever. My friend, Jim (who I describe as "very arty") has many times tried to encourage me to visit exhibitions and to show me the messages the particular artist of the day is trying to convey.....

ME: I don't like that!
JIM: But the artist is trying to make us see the passive fragility of the human condition juxtaposed to the strength and weight of the elephant pulling the combine harvester....
ME: Yeah but it's shit!

And so it goes.

But once again the Biennial is upon us and this week is the final week. Flicking through yesterday's Guide I happened upon the exhibitions page for Liverpool. There are some 40 or so exhibitions going on of all shapes and sizes right across the city. I idly suggested to mother that we should make the effort and go, at least to some of them (and she idly agreed). To be honest I was sure I'd wake up this morning thinking I couldn't be bothered, Sunday's such a boring day after all, but I pushed myself into it and off we marched.

Our first visit was to the Bridewell Studios (I'll spare you the story of how we missed our bus stop and ended up in Wavertree). We were met at the door by a guy who, it turned out, is one of the 34 struggling artists who use the 28 studios in this converted victorian police station. He told us we were lucky to catch him, "it's a bit hit and miss on Sundays", but we were glad we did.

How Things Fly features works by Nichola Pemberton and Sue Goldschmidt and we loved it. Sue Goldschmidt's hanging installation using wire and ceramics was incredible and beautiful, while Nichola Pemberton's Trampolining series of paintings provoked much discussion, that's a rarity amongst philistine's like us. When we told our host, who introduced himself as George, that we were leaving he asked us where we were going next. "To the WAG" we told him, "OK I'll drop you down there". We didn't argue.

Now I know what you're thinking about two vulnerable women accepting lifts from strangers but, what the hell, we were on an adventure. After manhandling mother into the back of George's van (the dog was on the front seat so, of course, we sat in the back), we enjoyed a brief history of the studios and some tips on where the best exhibitions were to be seen before being dropped at the door of Liverpool's biggest gallery, The Walker. Before waving us goodbye, George stuffed some leaflets in our hands.... "tell your friends" he said "if anyone ever needs a man with a van". Sure enough, they were leaflets advertising George's services and those of his van too.... dog optional!

As we mounted the steps to the WAG, the only thing I could think to say was "surreal".

Inside we visited the John Moores 24 exhibition and as usual there were upsides and downsides to that but we particularly enjoyed Insyde, an interactive animated installation that was great fun. We giggled about as much as the two little boys who were in there with us. We loved it!

After lunch we decided to head for the top end of town, there are many exhibitions in and around Slater Street so we were spoiled for choice but we found Static by Steven Gent (described by Ian Jackson of artinliverpool.com as a genius). His pieces were created using bitumen on vinyl with a small electric current passed through them. This causes the bitumen to create the image - wonderful. Our day was made when we realised that the young guy we were talking to (about the works) was the artist himself and he was very happy to talk to us. For me, the day was made perfect when he told us he didn't try to put a message into his works, preferring to let the viewer do that for themselves. Hear that Jim?

So that was our day...... stimulating, interesting, funny, thought-provoking, awe-inspiring, educational..... just like a Sunday should be I guess. What did you do today?


Posted by lilliebet at 06:29 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack

September 21, 2006

It's autumn and all thoughts turn to ... blisters?

I love summer, who doesn't? I think my favourite thing about summer has to be the shedding of clothes. Not full frontal nudity you understand but the first time you go to work without a coat.... wearing t-shirts instead of jumpers, skirts instead of trousers... not having to wash 57 pairs of socks every week.... that sort of thing. The sock thing, in particular, I love. Exposing my toes to the fresh air in delicate, pretty sandals instead of frumpy winter shoes. I don't know why but it's the best thing about summer.

Then the clouds roll in, the wind turns chill and autumn is in the air. And the sensible shoes come back out of the wardrobe....

... and with them come the blisters. You'd think all that exposure to the elements would be good for the feet but, no, all it does is make them soft and weak and the first time you put on proper shoes they rebel. They scream and howl their defiance at you, finally erupting into blisters in a last, desperate bid to escape their leathery prison. It works too for a time because, after their first autumnal outing, you can't wear shoes again for days, not until the blisters heal.... ironic eh?

All I can say is, I'm sorry feet but I have no choice, now please stop punishing me....

Posted by lilliebet at 09:22 AM | Comments (2) | TrackBack

September 16, 2006

It's my party....

... and I'll cry if I want to....

I've wanted to cry for days now. On hearing the news of Danny's death, I was devastated but my son was more so, his friends too, obviously, so I kept it in and I put on the proverbial brave face. But there is a point where you have to start moving on. There's a point where you have to say goodbye. Maybe it won't happen until the funeral - and that's not until Wednesday - but they are all on self-destruct at the moment and that's really not healthy.

They have to let go, they have to move on. Most kids of their age don't suffer grief in this way and it's not good for them.

Move on guys, get back to living your lives. Start looking forwards.

Posted by lilliebet at 12:35 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

September 11, 2006

Goodnight Danny

Last time I saw this guy he was in my hall, wobbly drunk, apologising for making a noise. The more he apologised, the louder he got and I have to admit, I couldn't help laughing.

He was a little bulldog. Such an angry little guy. And his temper was always leading him into trouble. But there was always something about him, something you couldn't help liking.

On Saturday night he died. Just 18 years of age. Walking down the railway track, he was electrocuted, then hit by a train. And, somewhere, a light went out.

Goodnight Danny, rest in peace.

Posted by lilliebet at 11:41 PM | Comments (2) | TrackBack

August 01, 2006

No other place

There are people who want to take our men away....

Yes, yes, "they" may be cultured art lovers but I don't care. These are our guys. We've grown used to them. They belong here.

Personally, I love having them around. It's amazing how profound their thinking is; how influential their answers can be when you ask them.... well, whatever it is you ask them.

Since they've been there. Since the first time I saw them staring patiently out to sea, to another place, I've found them comforting. Somehow, they are sentinels, guardians, they look out for us and they answer us when we have questions.

New York doesn't need them. New York is too manic, too crazy. New York could never achieve the level of peace and tranquility that can be reached here, at sundown; when the light is just right and there is no-one else around; when the naked beach guys are at their most receptive; New York is just too crazy.

I don't care about art. I don't see them as art. They just are..... and they listen... and I don't want them to go.

They belong here.

Posted by lilliebet at 08:47 PM | Comments (3) | TrackBack

July 17, 2006

Was a hot afternoon, the first day of June....

... and the sun was a demon....

Who sang that? Peter Sarstedt? Bobby Goldsborough? I dunno but it was someone of that ilk. And I hate that song!

Not because of the song in itself. Just because of the way it makes me feel - those first two lines - they make me feel hot and sweaty.... and not in a good way. They remind me of days like this one and the ones we've been having lately. And the damn radio stations insist on playing it don't they? I think they think it's ironic. It's not....it's bloody torture.

They're forecasting 32 degrees for today. But worse,for tonight - 20 degrees. Tonight! I mean, it's nightime, there's no sun, where the hell's all that heat coming from? ( BTW that's 68 degrees in real money.)

Anyone reading this who's currently living in the southern hemisphere is right now thinking "what's the big deal?" But this is Britain, we don't DO eighty degrees. My plants are wilting, my clothes are wilting, I'm bloody wilting. Oh role on work, at least I have a fan in work.

Just do yourself a favour, don't speak to me today. At least, not about the weather!

Posted by lilliebet at 07:15 AM | Comments (3) | TrackBack

July 16, 2006

Hi Honey, I'm home

Yes, I know it's been ages and ages since I blogged properly. I have my reasons, several of them, none too interesting I have to confess but I think the main one has to be that I need a new computer chair. There's very little cushioning left on this one and I'm feeling the pinch, so to speak. So I've spent a lot less time here than I used to.

Other reasons for not blogging:-

The summer game

My daughter's been a St Helens season ticket holder for about four years and I've been to the odd game here and there during that time (mostly the big games). But this year I bit the bullet and invested in a season ticket. So every Friday night, that's where you'll find me... spitting and swearing on one terrace or another somewhere along the M62 corridor. There's a lot more to come on this subject.....

Diploma in Management Studies

I started this two year course way back in February 2005 and two years seemed like a very long time back then. It's been a tough slog at times too but the light is now visible at the end of the tunnel and, with only one solo and one group assignment to go, I'm beginning to believe I'm going to get there. Of course, what good it'll do me once I graduate, I have no idea.

The Glums

Yeah, like everyone, sometimes I get downright miserable (and I have a tendency to let everyone know about it.) I try not to blog when that happens but I have to admit I don't always manage it. Not that I've been glum all these months, I just decided to take a break from telling the world all about it.

The Heat

It's been bloody hot here. On and off since May, we've been having heat waves that are reminiscent of 1976 and it saps your strength. Sleeping is difficult, work is difficult, even sitting watching TV is difficult. I love the sun but this ridiculous heat is unbearable. Friends who live in Australia and Texas who have these temperatures constantly think nothing of it but they don't understand how ill-equipped Britain is to cope with extreme weather conditions. Air-conditioning is unheard of in my neck of the woods, trust me!

Work, work, work

Work is always busy. It's one of those jobs that never takes a break but April and May have been exceptionally so. My role is half payroll, half ...um... how would you describe it? Well, I and my colleague Tracey do all the ad hoc support stuff that keeps the whole process rolling. That means we have a lot of "end of year" stuff to do - the end of the tax year being March/April. In fact, just about everything needs to be done urgently at the same time. A team of seven full-timers used to spend all year doing what Tracey and I have been killing ourselves doing part-time. Someone wasn't thinking things out when they wrote our job description I can tell you!

So there you go. I have some excuses, not good ones I know but, what the hell, I'm back now and so here goes.......

Posted by lilliebet at 11:21 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

June 17, 2006

Happy Birthday Lizzie

Today is the Queen's official 80th birthday and the traditional salute was given by the Royal Horse Artillery in Green Park.

My grandad was a member of the Royal Horse Artillery. The grandad who gave me my name. The grandad I never met.

I never heard his voice, never saw his face. But he gave me his name and, in a strange way, he'll always be a part of me.

I wonder now, is he still alive. He must have relatives, where are they? They're my relatives, do they know about me?

The man I called my grandad for almost 40 years was my step-grandad but he was the only grandad I ever knew and he was always my grandad. He was always my children's great-grandad and he always will be.

But you can't help wondering can you.....?

Posted by lilliebet at 11:05 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

April 08, 2006

This call is being recorded...

Telesales is a horrible, thankless job. I know, I did it for a week when I was a kid in Birmingham and I really feel for the poor souls who have to do it. So when I get a call, I'm always prepared to listen, they're just trying to earn a living after all.

But the guy who just phoned me will be sorry he did this morning. He wasn't actually trying to sell me anything as such, he just wanted to send me some information to have a look at but, once he'd asked a few opening questions, he launched into his script with such fervour, I couldn't get a word in edgeways.

He asked me did I have any loans or credit cards, I told him I had a mortgage.

"And how long have you lived in your property?"
"Sixteen years"
"So you've had your mortgage since about 1990 then." A statement, not a question.
"No"
"Yes you have, since about 1990"

That irked me a little.

My daughter was listening to my end of the conversation, the next few minutes of which went...

"B..."
"D..."
"A..."
"W..."
"H..."

I actually thought for a moment I was talking to a recording that was responding to my voice. It isn't possible for a human being to interject that quickly, it's just not possible.

I let him ramble a little further, then I stopped him.

"Will you let me speak?"
"Um, sorry" He seemed surprised that I would want to.

"Is this call being recorded? Yes? Good!

Do they train you to do this? Do they train you to be so rude? I was quite prepared to listen to what you have to say, I might even have been interested in buying whatever it is. You have interupted me every time I tried to speak and when I do get a word through your tirade, you ignore what I say. All you've succeeded in doing is making me very angry and I'm no longer prepared to listen. You will never sell anything, your manner is appalling.

Get your self back in training mate, you need it!"

Click!

Posted by lilliebet at 11:16 AM | Comments (2) | TrackBack

April 05, 2006

Rant

My auntie has a saying... Cheats never prosper.

In itself, probably a wise old adage except that she will keep shouting it at the opposing team during rugby matches, which makes me cringe with embarassment. (Why that would make me cringe more than if she mouthed off a torrent of foul abuse, only a first class psychiatrist could venture.)

But it makes me wonder about the nature of prosperity and the people who do - prosper that is.

I was recently told that two people who, in not just my opinion, are ineffectual; self-serving; self-promoting no-marks have been rewarded for their prowess. I suppose it's possible I'm just jealous and mean-minded, maybe I am. But the fact remains these two have done very little to deserve a commendation.

It makes me wonder whether the effort and dedication one puts in is really worth it.

Now I really am being mean-minded.

Posted by lilliebet at 07:32 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack

March 03, 2006

Dum de dum delightful

Yes the weather outside is frightful.

Yesterday it snowed and it seemed as though the entire Merseyrail network ground to a halt. This morning, we had freezing fog (at that point I think I ground to a halt.)

Blue skies and bright sun burnt away the fog during the day but just as I left work it started to snow again... and I'm off to the rugby in a minute. Standing on the terrace for two hours in the snow, is it worth it?

Ask me at full time!

Posted by lilliebet at 05:23 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

February 13, 2006

Storm in a teacup

I re-read what I'd been writing since the new year and I realised it was dross. I was drivelling nonsense for the sake of having something to say and I know when I do that there's always an underlying reason. There was a storm brewing....

So rather than spill all right here and regret it later, I sat back and let the storm pass. And, fair enough, I succeeded. It has passed and I'm in a good place and no harm has been done. See, I'm learning :-)

But what has been happening apart from that? Well, I've been cloned for a start!

What there are two of you? More than two? Qu'elle horreurs! (excuse the spelling).

No, in fact, my bank card has been cloned. And some beautiful specimen of humankind has had it on his toes with over £300 of my hard earned cash. BASTARD! For some reason I have yet to fathom, some far more deserving son of creation has taken it upon himself to relieve my children of the bread from their mouths in order to - no doubt - shove something more potent up his nose; his arse; or indeed in the tank of his (probably stolen) BMW. I can only pray to all that is holy that he chokes on all three.

You may have gathered by now that thieves irritate me slightly.

I have struggled like buggery with my finances over the last year. My kids and I came very close to losing our home. If it wasn't for the timely intervention of a couple of very caring, clued up people, we would have done so. Between their invaluable help and my own hard work, we've clawed back from the brink of insolvency to a place where we're finally secure. But now this waste of human skin decides he should take it all from us.

OK so the crime's been reported, the card's been cut up and I await delivery of a new one. Only I just talked to the police and they tell me there's no way they will ever be able to track down where the card was cloned, they can only investigate the theft itself. Which leaves tens, hundreds, possibly thousands of people still at risk if they're using the same cash machine or dodgy retailer that I used. All the scum have to do is withdraw the daily limit from each of those poor buggers once and they're brewstered. Whereas the loss of just 2 or 3 hundred quid could spell disaster for the poor, honest, hard-working mug who just got creamed.

I'm not normally a vengeful person but I sincerely hope that this scum; this boil on the face of society gets what's coming to them. I hope it's painful and I hope it's slow. This isn't a faceless crime, you are not stealing from the banks or building societies. You're stealing from me and mine and people like me who never did squat to you. We face ruin because of you; we face losing our homes, our families, our livelihoods because you don't have what it takes to function. Because you are so lacking in ability, skill, strength or courage that you cannot do; cannot build; cannot achieve. You are nothing; you have nothing; you just take.

You are scum. I hope you rot.

Posted by lilliebet at 09:41 PM | Comments (4) | TrackBack

January 08, 2006

Where did the weekend go?

As if by magic, it's Sunday evening and I'm preparing for work again tomorrow. Where does the weekend go?

I guess I've achieved a bit more than I usually do... the new lino is laid; I helped my auntie and her partner set up their internet access; did a shedload of housework (why does that never end?); planned my new bathroom and found a few bargains in the sales. That's a lot more than I usually achieve.

I'll have to give up the next couple of weekends to my current DMS assignments - I have to hand the first of them in on Wednesday - and next weekend is my son's 18th birthday. Looks like it'll be a while before I get much of a break. I have about 4 weeks annual leave left but I don't want to use any just now because I'm hoping to have my "holiday of a lifetime" in the next few months. I don't get my new entitlement until July :(

It seems I'll have to put in some extra time to build up some flexi. Eeewwww, more time in work, how awful....

Posted by lilliebet at 10:46 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack

January 02, 2006

Low Resolution

I spent several hours contemplating what my new year's resolution/s would be but, like most people, decided there's no way I'm going to keep them so I haven't bothered this year. I make resolutions every other day anyway but, with the best will in the world, I rarely see them through.

There are two things I've been doing for some time now that I'm determined to keep up though. The first is managing my budget and shopping sensibly; this has made a real difference in the last few months, I'm determined to stick to it.

The other is my DMS course. I've been given a great opportunity here and I've really enjoyed what I've done so far. My marks for the four assignments that were completed last semester were great, very encouraging. I have another that's complete and ready to hand in mid January and another due a week after that. They represent the halfway point in the course, when classes start again in February, we'll be into our second and final year. Fantastic!

So... not exactly resolutions but those are two very important things for me right now, that's where I'll be putting my energies.

Oh and keeping up with the blogging of course!

Posted by lilliebet at 10:27 AM | Comments (1) | TrackBack

January 01, 2006

Timing is Everything

I spent this New Year's evening at my mum's. We had a nice meal and a few glasses of wine then watched the fireworks on the Thames on TV. My mum lives about 5 doors away on the opposite side of the road, so it was just a short stroll home.

I came straight in and was still taking my coat off when a car slammed into the wall on the corner where I'd crossed the road just a moment ago. The woman driver was completely blotto and was driven off in haste by friends in another car. The police have just arrived.

When you raise your glass and say Happy New Year, it doesn't occur to you that you might only have a few minutes of it left. If I'd had one more glass of wine or had stopped just a little longer to admire the christmas lights in a neighbour's garden, I might not be seeing 2006.

Makes you think doesn't it?

Happy New Year everyone!

Posted by lilliebet at 02:28 AM | Comments (3) | TrackBack

December 24, 2005

It's that time again

It's 8.30 Christmas eve morning and I'm mentally preparing myself for the final trial ahead... getting those last few "bits" that will put the proverbial icing on the Christmas cake. When Tim Burton produced his Nightmare Before Christmas, he coud have just filmed the scenes at any supermarket on Christmas eve. It's going to be brutal.

Still, the presents are wrapped, the food cupboards are bulging and the tree is twinking prettily. The run up that seems to last months these days is finally at an end. It's time to sit back, relax and enjoy the holiday. Well OK, Christmas isn't that relaxing a time really, pretty stressful in fact, but I intend to enjoy it this year. Whatever happens.

Have a very merry Christmas!

Posted by lilliebet at 08:28 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

December 15, 2005

Oh bloody hell and damnation!

I'm getting another cold, I don't believe this. It's only a few days since I got rid of the last one.

I'm normally a very healthy person, I've never had worse than a cold in my life, not even flu (oh except for the mystery jaundice I contracted 15 years ago but that's another story). Suddenly, I've had two colds within a fornight. Everyone in work is full of it too, I guess there must be more than one doing the rounds.

Speaking of work, we've finally settled into our new home. We have the dinky little petal-shaped desks that are supposed to save all kinds of space, the girl next to me has to leave her desk if I want to open my drawers or risk severe bruising. I hope the guy who designed them got the gold medal!

And yesterday I gave my presentation! It wasn't too bad either, much better than I expected in fact. Truth be told, I expected to either pass out or throw up but I held it together for 10 minutes and lived to tell the tale. Afterwards we all repaired to the Rat and Parrot and drank the memory of it away. It was only 6pm when I came home but I was severely wobbling. Still it meant I'd sobered up by the time I went to bed.

I had a nice surprise last night when an old acquaintance popped up on msn and introduced himself. I say acquaintance because, back then, that's what he was but we had a good long chat and I guess I can call him an old friend now. He's an Aussie who lives over here (why???), in the town of my birth in fact. He's kept his Aussie drawl all bar one word.... he says "luv" like a Lancastrian - as in G'day Luv!! - very odd!

Bill was talking about the build up to Christmas before. It hasn't hit me yet. Twelve of us are having dinner together in my mum's on Christmas Day, which should be good, but she and my sister are making all the arrangements so it's all passing me by. We closed December's payroll yesterday and today started January's so, in a strange way, we're already into the new year. Payroll has a funny way of making time move faster.

Ah well, I have assignments calling me.... and tissues....

Posted by lilliebet at 09:29 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

December 14, 2005

Some people

There are many people who pass through our lives; who touch them like tangents to a circle. They are there for a moment, then forgotten. We touch their lives in the same way - fleeting, momentary, forgotten.

There are few people who touch our lives. Their touch leaves an impression that never dims; is never forgotten. Our lives are made richer by their presence; more hollow by their passing.

There are people in this world who are special; who have magic; who give.

The world is a better place for their being.

Posted by lilliebet at 09:23 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack

December 05, 2005

Pure Idleness

There's no other excuse for this great ugly blank page is there?

Well I've had a horrible cold for the last week and when I have a cold, it tends to be all I can think or talk about. Not really something the rest of the world wants to read about though eh?

I've finally made a start on my latest DMS assignment too. All the promises I made to use my time wisely and not leave things to the last minute have gone right out of the window. Perhaps my main focus should have been on my terminal procrastination rather than delegation skills. I don't know why I found the first four assignments so much easier than the latest two. In truth it should be easier now that I've had some experience of academic writing styles and referencing. For some reason though I feel blocked mentally. Nothing's happening up there lately, perhaps it's sick building syndrome???

And then there's remortgaging my flat. I have scribbled plans of my new bathroom all over my desk; documents are turning up all over the council adorned with hastily drawn walk-in showers and low flush toilets. It's becoming an obsession. I've hit a bit of a hurdle in the shape of the right-to-buy officer at my local council. I may have caused my own problems though, after explaining to him in great detail last week how unhelpful the guy I'd spoken to previously had been, he took great delight in telling me he was the guy I'd spoken to previously. Oops!

So it's not as if nothing's happening, I just don't seem to get around to blogging about it. What's so difficult, it's only a few lines of text a day ater all?

I think I feel a New Year's Resolution coming on....

Posted by lilliebet at 05:38 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

November 22, 2005

Happy Birthday Dad

My dad would have been 66 today. I just wanted to say happy birthday Dad, I still miss you.

Posted by lilliebet at 07:33 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

November 19, 2005

Waterloo Sunset

Looking out of my kitchen window right at this moment, the Cambrian hills are a purple silhouette against a firey orange sky. In front of them a container ship enters the Mersey huge and dark against the backdrop but alive with diamond lights.

It is a picture to rival any other in the world. It is truly beautiful.

Posted by lilliebet at 04:33 PM | Comments (2) | TrackBack

For God's sake, put some clothes on

There is a frost so thick covering everything this morning, you could almost mistake it for snow. Last night must have been the coldest of this year by far.

Yet, on my way, to the paper shop last night - a journey of perhaps a mere 30 yards which nevertheless left me frozen to the marrow - I passed a couple of young girls on their way to one, or many, of the bars on South Road wearing only jeans and sleeveless t-shirts.

Ye gods, are they mad?

Now I know what all the orange make-up is for, it's to cover up the blue tinge to the skin.

I know being a teenager is a lot about looking good but can't they look good in a coat? Could Ralph Lauren or Dolce & Gabbana really not manage to design a coat between them.....? Maybe all of us mothers of teenage girls should have a quiet word in their ears.

My own teenage daughter was leaving the house as I returned, wearing a sleeveless t-shirt I grant you but also sporting a very fashionable, very warm COAT. She has her head screwed on that one.

All joking aside, I honestly wonder whether some of these girls make it home the next day. As the night wears on and the temperature drops and their blood is being steadily thinned by alcohol there must be a real danger of hypothermia. I keep hearing people saying it's going to be a cold, cold winter - tonight's forecast in Liverpool predicts temperatures down to minus five - I really wonder whether they'll all make it home.

Posted by lilliebet at 07:51 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

November 09, 2005

Turning the tables

A few weeks ago I had a sort of rebirth - that's a bit of a flowery way to put it but I cast off a lot of anger. Alright, a lot of it was directed in totally the wrong place and I'm very sad that that happened but it's a fact now and I have to deal with it.

Letting go of all the resentment I was feeling has had such a positive effect, it's remarkable. I don't get irate in work any more. Shit happens and I just let it, I don't let it get to me. It's not that I don't care, I do very much, I'm just able to step back and look at it from over there instead of right here in the middle of it all.

I was talking to my mum this morning. Her working world has been turned upside down and she and her colleagues are really going through the mill. Last night it spilled over into her social life and, like I did a few weeks ago, she had a hissy fit and directed all her resentment at one person (not entirely undeserved I grant you but she was out of order all the same.)

So this morning I found myself giving my mum some very positive, productive advice. She wasn't entirely receptive at first but I think it eventually dawned on her that here was the person who would usually be having the hissy fit suddenly talking sense; being the voice of reason; and if this normally manic, hyper lunatic is able to take a step back and start looking at her life differently, well then anyone can. By the time we parted company, I hope she had taken my words on board.

Life is stressful enough without us creating more stress for ourselves or others. In a few short weeks I've learned to take a different view of my world and it's been an enlightening experience. I see so much now that I didn't see before, it's like watching the world through a window; being far enough removed from the hassle and aggro that you can weigh it all up and know that you've thought it all through before you act or speak. Knowing too that you can deal with the consequences because they're of your own making. I guess you'd call it taking back control.

Posted by lilliebet at 10:45 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

October 25, 2005

Only 61 shopping days till .... aargh!

I'm the first to complain about the extortionate cost of Christmas and yet I'm always the one who thinks I haven't spent quite enough on X or that Y has more than Z so I must get Z something else. I seem to spend the whole year paying for the previous Christmas only to find I'm suddenly facing it all again. It's a chore ... and an expensive one at that.

As we're all going to be eating together again this year (there'll be twelve of us), my sister came up with the suggestion that we all put a rein on our spending and limit presents to a value of £10. Sounds great to me, sounds great to everyone in fact.

But it takes some doing. It's far harder to buy a meaningful present for less than a tenner than it is to splash out £30 or more. My mum is an excellent present buyer. She's already shown me a few of the items she's bought this year and they are wonderful gifts that I know will be really appreciated. I'm rather jealous, I know I won't do as well.

I normally do all my present buying the day before Christmas Eve and most people know exactly what they're going to get. I'm so predictably safe. It always seems ridiculous to me that Christmas shopping starts earlier and earlier every year.

Given that I work in the city centre, gift shopping should be easy but I never seem to find the time. And I always leave it to late to buy online. This year I'm going to have to make a special effort. I only hope I can get it right.

Posted by lilliebet at 08:42 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

October 22, 2005

Another failure to communicate

My mum's just phoned me.

"I thought you might like to know there's a programme just starting on Radio 4 about the subculture of Northern Seoul"
"Eh?"
"Well you used to be into it didn't you?"
"Eh?"
"Oh you did, you used to be very interested in Northern Seoul"
"When? When have I ever expressed an interest in Korea, apart from watching MASH?"
"Fool! Northern Soul, not Northern Seoul!"
*Click*

Posted by lilliebet at 11:34 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

October 21, 2005

Extreme Sports

You can keep your base jumping and your rock diving. For me, jumping to conclusions is the most dangerous pastime.

I do it, I do it a lot actually I confess. People who know me would be surprised to hear me say this though - nine times out of ten I don't speak up, don't go off the deep-end and that's because I know that, nine times out of ten, I'm going to be wrong. And I almost always am. So I've learned to be very careful and keep schtum until I'm satisfied I was right (or, more often, wrong.)

We all do it. Very often it's down to our own stereotyping and prejudices. You expect someone to behave in a certain way, you're absolutely convinced you know how they're going to act because you know them or you know their type. So, when you walk in a room and the subject of your prejudice suddenly walks out of the opposite door, you immediately conclude they're in a huff and they're avoiding you.

Strangely, the intuition that brought you to this conclusion doesn't pick up on the phone ringing in the other room or the pan burning on the stove. So, next time you make a judgement about someone's behaviour, stop and think, just for a second. You might be pleasantly surprised.

Posted by lilliebet at 09:10 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

That was the week that was

The whole family were supposed to be having Christmas dinner together at a pub up the road so on...

Sunday

...we decided to go and pay the deposit and have our lunch while we were at it. The first awfulness of the day came when we were told the chef had been sacked. "Oh don't worry" they told us, "we have a new chef". Chef wasn't the four letter "C" word we were using by the time we'd finished our miserable cold dinner and decided we weren't parting with a penny.

I should have known it was going to happen...... for the rest of the afternoon, I suffered another session of what appears to be my family's national sport, Liz bashing. Today's subject being my son's inadequacies and my failings as a mother. I've never understood why I endure their venom. It must be some misguided sense of "family". Suffice to say, I came away from the encounter battered and bruised and somewhat inebriated. And that's when the manure really hit the ventillation. I managed to get embroiled in a row with my best friend who now won't speak to me. Can't say I blame him but I woke up ...

Monday

...heartbroken and desperate to talk to him. At the very least I wanted to apologise and explain but he didn't want to know. He did tell me to stop being a victim though. At the time I didn't recognise how valuable that advice was but later, I went down to the beach to talk to the iron men about it. They didn't impart much advice but they did listen.

While I was down there, my son rang and I asked him to come down and meet me. It was his first day on his new job, a real job this time, a trade - with a future. I stood by the pond waiting for him to arrive, being investigated by the geese that winter here. I guess they thought I hadn't been probed enough yet.

Anyway, I had a point.... oh yes. I watched my son for a long time walking across the vast expanse of grass that covers most of Crosby Marina. I could see the spring in his step; the way he held himself; and, when he got close enough, the whiteness of his smile against the filthy mess that was his face. He's taking a shot at his life, he's giving it a go. OK he falls over now and again but isn't that what I'm there for - to pick him up and get him back on his way?

With that picture in my head, I walked back home and told the guys on my site about the whole sorry mess. They were very supportive, full of good advice too. I came away from the conversation determined not to be a victim any more. It may be too late to salvage a wonderful relationships but by the time....

Tuesday

... came around, I was like a different person. My sister phoned that night to (by the way) see how my son was getting on in his new job. I left her in no doubt that he was going to make a go of it; turn himself around and achieve great things; and that I would be there to support him whatever. Even over the phone I could tell she was unsure who she was talking to, this was someone she didn't recognise. And boy did it feel good.

Wednesday and Thursday

... came and went with still no contact, no chance to make amends. I'm not really surprised, this is one time too many I've lost the plot and taken it out on the wrong person. It's a lesson that's taken me too long to learn and the only one who loses out in the end is me, so I guess it's a valuable one. But I'll get over it. For all the wailing and whinging I normally do, I always get over it in the end. No wailing and whinging this time though. Think happy thoughts!

Posted by lilliebet at 12:08 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

October 08, 2005

Once Bitten

The strangest thing happened to me this week. I was contacted by a woman I've never met, never had contact with before. She's the ex-wife of a friend of mine.

She sent me an email which screamed to me that she was trying to justify her position in life and the actions that she's taken. They are no matter to me. Apart from the continued effect she has on my friend, what she does and what she says is none of my business. I had to wonder why she contacted me at all.

From things that were said later, it appeared that she thought I am someone I'm not. I got the impression she thought I was my friends partner rather than his friend. It crossed my mind then that what she was trying to do was not so much a justification of herself but a condemnation of him. Why? For what purpose?

They have been apart for almost a decade. She has been remarried and her life goes on without him. So why does she still hold all this bitterness towards him?

We all get angry when relationships end, separation and divorce can lead normally sane people to behave in the most base manner. I haven't been there, haven't done it but I've seen it and it can be ugly. I try to understand.

But I will never understand holding on to the bitterness and the anger. It is it's own cancer and it will grow inside you if it's given the right conditions. You can never be happy in your own life while you are putting your time and resources into spoiling someone else's.

Let go of it, leave it be. Get on with growing your own happiness, be content in your own life.

Posted by lilliebet at 08:40 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

September 21, 2005

It's all go...

I'll never understand why this happens but, at the times when all sorts of things are going on, I don't post here. I guess I'm too busy getting on and dealing with them to write about them. Strange that.

Today we start packing for another move to another office, our fifth in four years. This is only a temporary relocation, in two months we move again. I'll tell you more about that anon.

Right now though, I'm a bit pissed off....

I got to know a bloke recently through work. We've been helping each other out with some stuff and we've become quite pally. As the friendship's progressed (as friendships do) we've relaxed, become less formal, and the banter has flowed. Recently though, the banter has turned to innuendo and there's been some blatant flirting... all in good fun it has to be said.

But last night I had to pull him up. You see he's married, to a gorgeous lady and has two sons. I told him, "don't you think you're being a bit stupid risking all that." He got rather defensive then, protesting that it was just talk and he we would never carry it through. He even told me to "get a life".

But there in lies the problem. I have a life, a single life, that I'm quite content with right now and have no designs on him whatsoever but I'm at liberty to flirt and banter with whoever I like, I'm single, I have nothing to lose. He does and that's what I tried to explain to him....

He doesn't know me, he doesn't know what I'm capable of. I could be bunny boiler of the year 2005 for all he knows. Luckily for him, I'm not and I know he's not serious but I don't think it's occurred to him that his wife might not see it in the same light. I don't know her but there's every chance she would see light-hearted banter and flirting as bad a transgression as cheating. Some women do and it's something he should maybe consider.

I hope he doesn't stay offended by my words, I hope he can see my good intentions. But, if not, I just hope he counts himself lucky that it was me who brought this up... not bunny boiler of the year 2005.

Posted by lilliebet at 06:55 AM | Comments (6)

September 14, 2005

A Certain Saturation

Yes I'm one of those sad saps who's been bitten by the "number game from a certain country in the far east" bug. It's everywhere isn't it?

The trouble with "the gane" though is that it doesn't take much to master it and once you do, as I have, it ceases to present a challenge.

Yesterday I just happened to buy the Guardian to read on the train and I came across only the second running of what might just prove to be it's successor, "yet another number game from a certain far east country". It's fiendish and, so far, it's gotten the better of me. I'll let you know if I ever finish it....

Posted by lilliebet at 07:12 AM | Comments (2) | TrackBack

September 12, 2005

With much bowing and scraping.....

... I have to make a huge apology.... to the lovely and very patient Peter.

During the installation of the banner I managed to screw up my main index template and couldn't rebuild the site. I tried a test post (see below), which saved but wouldn't post because of the rebuild problem. I had to grab a copy of the template from another friend in order to figure out what I'd messed up. Figured it out, fixed it and then buggered off to watch the cricket.

What I didn't realise was that the saved test entry posted once the template was fixed and I hadn't made mention of the fact that Peter was the one who first created the banner, which Steve subsequently tweaked for me.

So huge apologies and big thanks go to Peter (who has officially fined me two days of attention and refuses to speak to me until the two days are up). Well you really can't blame him can you?

Posted by lilliebet at 06:26 PM | Comments (4)

September 10, 2005

Oh the pain...

I don't know what did it, maybe it was pre-Ashes fever but I woke on Thursday morning with the most unbelievable pain between my shoulder blades. It felt as though I had been clenched tightly all night, as though I'd been clinging to a cliff or something. Maybe I had, in my dreams.

I could hardly move at all, I couldn't even sit in this chair until yesterday evening. Thankfully it's easing now but it really made me feel for anyone who has a persistent back problem. I would hate to have to live with what I just went through on a permanent basis.

Posted by lilliebet at 07:10 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

September 02, 2005

What's in a name?

September is upon us but autumn hasn't quite descended yet, it's actually a beautiful sunny day today and, for a moment, I was able to forget that today is the day I dread most - school uniform shopping. No not for me, don't be daft!

This year, to make matters more frustrating (and costly), my daughter's school has "gone" Church of England; changed it's name (no I have no idea what to but I'm sure it'll come back to me); and (aarrgghh!) completely changed the uniform. From blue shirts and maroon jumpers to white shirts and black jumpers, only the black pants and shoes remain unchanged. So the whole kit and caboodle, right down to the PE Kit, has to be replaced this time round. Oh I have a pain in my cheque book!

But wait! My daughter is telling me said school (it's "Saint" something, I know it is) have neglected to come up with a badge for the school jumper. So all I need to buy is a plain black jumper? Hey, super dooper. So don't tell my bank manager but this evening I'm off to Marks & Spencer (ahhhh that's it .... St Michael's!)

Posted by lilliebet at 07:53 AM | Comments (7) | TrackBack

September 01, 2005

Well OK, if you say so....

I got a lift to Bootle after work last night, it's only two train stops from home and makes the grim task of the evening journey in rush hour so much more tolerable. The train was just pulling into the station as I arrived, so that was an added bonus.

I stood at the edge of the platform as the lead coach pulled up next to me, my foot poised to jump aboard.... suddenly there was a huge flash, an incredible bang and thick clouds of black smoke spilled from under the carriage.

In my desperate desire to get home, it actually took me a few seconds to react and I backed away but it was with some reluctance I've got to say. My brain could not compute recent bombing attacks + exploding train = possible danger, it could only process broken train = you're not getting home anytime soon.

There followed ten minutes of rail staff wandering up and down the platform looking perplexed (while we commuters stood stock still looking even more perplexed) until eventually the guard stuck his head out the door and told us to get on board, we were on our way.

Like sheep we did exactly that.... our homing instincts over-riding any fear we might have for our own personal safety. Once on board, the guard announced that they'd had a "problem with one of the motors" which they'd now shut down and "hopefully" we'd all get to Southport in once piece. But I doubt we'd have cared if they'd found terrorists in the driver's cab as long as the train kept moving.....

Posted by lilliebet at 08:15 AM | Comments (5) | TrackBack

August 31, 2005

Upper Gwladys Street

Of course it goes against the grain to advertise on behalf of a Blue but I have to give this blog a plug.

Why?

Well remember the guy with the sad face who sits opposite me in work? Well OK you don't but he's a rabid Evertonian and talks about little else all day so I suggested he share his views with the rest of the world in the form of a blog. (I kind of hoped my ears would get a break but somehow I doubt it! lol)

Being a complete blog noob, he asked me for some help so I set about designing something fitting for him and Upper Gwladys Street is the result. Yeah I know it won't be to everyone's taste but, if you're an Evertonian, I think you'll like it.

Good luck with it Ste, nice start :)

Posted by lilliebet at 07:31 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

August 30, 2005

A Blast from the Past

Sitting on the train this morning I got a sudden whiff of aftershave from the guy sitting behind me. It was the one an ex boyfriend of mine used to wear and it brought back sudden memories of evenings out together, him all freshly showered and reeking of Izzy Miyake, and the fun times we used to have. Boy we used to laugh when we were together.

Sadly it all went to pot and, in the end, things turned real ugly and those are the things I remember. I'd pretty much forgotten all the good stuff, until this morning that is when that smell sparked a memory and it really made me smile.

I guess that's true of a lot of people when relationships turn sour but why do we focus on the negatives so often when there is so much more to gain from the positives?

It's like right now, there's a guy who I would say is the best friend I have. We have so much in common, we feel and think alike on so many subjects but we are also different enough that there is some spark and variety to the relationship.

Sometimes though, that spark ignites and we have the inevitable bust up. Well, yeah, these things happen, get over it! Problem is, we tend to focus on these negative events far more than we do on the great stuff. Why is it in relationships, be it friends or family, a lifetime of love and loyalty from a person can be dashed out by a needless petty argument? And why do we sometimes feel that healing our rifts isn't worth the effort? Is it really that hard to get over ourselves and enjoy our friends?

So I ask myself, is this funny, lovable, fantastic person, who brings a huge amount of joy and laughter to my life, worth that little bit of effort? Well of course he is, I just hope he thinks I'm worth it too.

Posted by lilliebet at 06:19 PM | Comments (7) | TrackBack

August 28, 2005

The Mystery of the Lemon Tart

A couple of Sundays ago my daughter and I were off out to Wales for the day but my son didn't want to come with us. So on the Saturday night I left him strict instructions as to what he could have for his dinner and, more specifically, what he couldn't have.

"I've taken a lemon tart out of the freezer and put it in the fridge for tomorrow night. Now I want you to promise me absolutely on pain of death that you won't eat it tomorrow while we're out."

(You have to do this. He's 17 but when it comes to food you have to talk to him like a seven-year-old.)

"I promise, absolutely on pain of death I won't eat the lemon tart while you're out on Sunday."

"Good man!"

I got up next morning to make breakfast before we left and there, in the fridge, was a half-eaten lemon tart. I woke him up.

"But....but....you promised...."

"Yeah, I promised absolutely on pain of death I wouldn't eat the lemon tart while you were out on Sunday.......

.....so I ate it on Saturday instead!"

Posted by lilliebet at 08:57 AM | Comments (10) | TrackBack

August 21, 2005

I believe in cutlery heaven

There must be one. Where else does all my cutlery go? I've bought at least three sets in the last year and yet we have to have our dinner in shifts because there are no forks.

Unless of course my kids are melting them down and selling them for scrap. Hmmmmm.....

Posted by lilliebet at 10:51 PM | Comments (2) | TrackBack

August 18, 2005

The Winds of Change.....

I had a revelation last night. Not entirely of my own making I grant you, it was inspired by something I read. But big changes are coming, positive changes and, right now, I'm pretty excited.

No time to stop.... I have things to do..... see you back here soon.

Posted by lilliebet at 07:07 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

August 14, 2005

FireFox Sake!

All over the internet I bump into the little Firefox logo, usually accompanied by five minutes of preaching on the evils of IE. It's the internet equivalent of Jehovah's Witnesses knocking at my door. Thanks, but no thanks!

Yes, I understand how much more secure FF is than IE. Yes, I understand about all the wonderful add-ons. Yes, I know Bill Gates doesn't need me adding to his fortune but the simple fact is Firefox and I don't get on. Don't ask me why, I really have no idea but I don't like Firefox (and, yes, I have tried it.)

And anyone who tells you you won't get hijacked using FF is deluding themselves and you. IE is a bigger target because more of us use it but Firefox is not immune.

I'll admit I probably know more about security than most similarly average users because of my time on staff at CastleCops but keeping IE secure is simple enough for all of us.

Absolute security is impossible but with sensible surfing and regular scans, even IE can be hijack free. Trust me.

Posted by lilliebet at 10:32 PM | Comments (4) | TrackBack

August 13, 2005

It's the little things in life....

I finally realised the benefits of my kids growing up, going off and doing their own things. I just wandered through the house in just my underwear... haven't done that in years. LOL

Isn't it funny how the smallest things can seem like luxuries when you have kids?

Posted by lilliebet at 02:02 PM | Comments (3) | TrackBack

August 08, 2005

Out of the Mouths of Babes

You see lots of examples of people being dropped in it by their kids' honesty; the times they've wanted to curl up and die when the little angel has voiced something they've overheard but I wonder how many people could say their kids had almost stitched them up for murder....

When I moved in to my building, there was an older man living in the house next door. He was a rather odd guy, some of his "eccentricities" only came to light after he died but we were neighbours for more than ten years yet we never spoke. That is until one afternoon when all the local kids were having a tea party in our back yard. Suddenly, in the midst of the merriment, huge pieces of wood and building debris began flying over the wall from next door.

I dragged the kids out of the way and yelled for him to stop. It was only at that point he bothered to look over the wall to see who was there but rather than apologise, he just started to rail on about people throwing their rubbish into his yard and damaging his roses. Yes, I agreed, it was outrageous but no less outrageous than slinging dangerous objects at small children. He ranted on for about 10 minutes, during which I was perfectly reasonable but told him in no uncertain terms that his behaviour was unacceptable. Eventually he relented, apologised and shuffled back indoors grumbling about the youth of today.

It was only a week or two later he was murdered. At 8 o'clock one morning, he was bludgeoned to death and his body set on fire. When I got home from work that night, forensic teams were still sifting through the ashes and there were police everywhere.

That day was also my birthday (are you seeing a pattern here?) We were having a small family gathering and I was in the middle of opening presents when the police knocked wanting a statement. There wasn't a lot I could tell them: I left for work at about the time he was murdered but I saw and heard nothing unusual. I knew nothing at all about it until I got home that night. Then they asked me about "Amos" (that wasn't his name but the kids had dubbed him Amos the first time they saw him and it stuck). What was he like? Did I know much about him? Nothing at all, was my reply, we'd never spoken.

Which is when my little darling decided he would help the police with their enquiries. "Oh but you remember Mum, you had that big row with him last week.....!" Ah! Perfect timing son.

I must have looked like a blithering idiot trying to talk my way out of that one. I can only give thanks that they already had the offender in custody. Apparently he'd gone straight to the police station and handed himself in. If it wasn't for that and the fact that Officer Dibble had a sense of humour (and probably embarassing kids too), I might be scratching this on my cell wall right now.

Posted by lilliebet at 09:54 PM | Comments (7) | TrackBack

July 14, 2005

Beware of The Body Shop...

... they put their hair wax and their face cream in two very similar containers...

Yuk!

Posted by lilliebet at 08:17 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

July 08, 2005

Why?

I wasn't going to comment on yesterday's events in London for the simple reason that I'm not politically minded and most of it I don't understand. Some of you will think that's a lazy attitude to take and I'll admit that it is, but that's me I'm afraid.

But Mike's comment here and the many messages of concern and support I've had from friends overseas have inspired me just to say this.

I don't understand why this has to happen, I don't understand why man has to kill his fellow man and, frankly, I don't want to understand. We are people first - muslim, christian, jew, aetheist second.

We were put on this earth with the primary purpose of making lives not taking them. If our time on this earth has a positive effect on those around us, all the better. If our time on this earth is just spent enjoying our homes and our families, that's wonderful. If our time on this earth is lived without the fear of harm from others, that's how it should be and we will go to our graves at our allotted time having enjoyed a full life. No-one should have the right to take this away from us, least of all for their religious or political beliefs.

Thank you Mike for your comment. Thank you to all of you who have sent me your wishes. My thoughts are with those who died yesterday; those who were injured; and those whose lives will be forever altered by this unholy act.

Posted by lilliebet at 05:59 PM | Comments (0) |