Noddleit Snapshot - VisionaryDictionary

Transcription

2013: Every ten and twenty will
count...
By: Hi_ImJenny, Fri, 27th Mar 09 8:02pm
1194 Views, 6 Nodss, 10 Comments..
Having received a prospectus for Greenwich University I predict that by 2013 I will have completed a Bachelor's of
some sort, probably History and Politics. Indeed, I predict that I will walk out of a university campus and into the big
wide world of work with a massive debt looming over my head. I will walk through the city centre, buying the usual
things without a care in the world but for that split second while I chip and pin that the debts keep on mounting up.
There will probably be teenagers around me, probably even serving me dreaming of univeristy and beyond but there
will be that select few that will have to put their dreams on hold when the "m" word is mentioned...that's right money.
Already in 2009 the Government are proposing to raise tuition fees to around £5000 pounds - give four years these
fees will be extortionate and hardly anyone will be able to afford higher education. Universities will have no option but
to shut their doors and turn away those bright minds that could cure cancer, make up the future government or even
represent the nation in sport. I envy my parents and teachers, they had the freedom to study wherever and not have to
pay, now I'm almost being governed on where I can go based on the tens, twenties and hundreds that make up my
savings.
Surely someone will see sense in these ludicrous plans, surely...
Comments: Most recent last
Fri, 27th Mar 2009
BigCol
Jenny. Good to see you here. This site definitely needs bright young minds like yours. Don't disappear.
Fri, 27th Mar 2009
MisterE
Hi Jenny, great post. I believe someone will eventually see sense, but way too late. I reckon it will be at least
another ten years before free further education returns, and that will be the only way to compete with cheap
internet schooling which unfortunately is inevitable. Whilst you are at Uni, keep your head down, work hard.
Party too, but not so much that your only inspiration is to get a job at Macdonalds serving cold fries to
screaming kids. You obviously have a brain, Uni can make or break you, make sure its the latter and you will
succeed and any debt you have created in the learning process, by then, will be paid off over 10 years or just
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Page 1 of 232
Reprinted from Visionary Dictionary
More from Hi_ImJenny at miss.www.visionarydictionary.com
wiped out with one good job! Good Luck.
Fri, 27th Mar 2009
BigCol
Jenny. Just a tip. If you read a post or comment you like, click to follow them like you have me, they'll all come
up in your account history and thought stream and it'll be more fun for you. At the moment the only person you
can see is me.
TheGreatVisionar
And click the facebook and twitter icon, to send this post to your friends.
Fri, 27th Mar 2009
Fri, 27th Mar 2009
mephisto
I sympathise gratley Jenny! The Govt are skint hence they are clutching at straws wherever they can.
Education is an easy target as in general we closely hold the value of a good education and will do what is
possible to acheive this. The Govt play on this fact and this is one of the first areas to be hit by increases,
stand by for many more! Trust me, this is just the beginning of unaffordable Britain!
mephisto
Greatly!! (sic)
Fri, 27th Mar 2009
Fri, 27th Mar 2009
MamaP
Don't give up Jenny! You sound a very determined young lady. Make the most of every opportunity to reach
your goal. Hopefully we shall see the day when ALL with the ability to succeed will be given more financial
help.
TheGreatVisionar
I agree with MisterE, they will go back to free University education, but all too late.
Sat, 28th Mar 2009
Mon, 06th Apr 2009
EdwardFrench
Jenny - I graduated from Bristol Uni in 1992 and was just over £10,000 overdrawn at the bank - with two
student loans and a nasty balance on a few credit cards - it took me four years to pay it off - I do feel for you but in my opinion - it was worth every penny - I go back tomorrow if I could - memories - life was never easier or as much fun - I wish you every success - don't forget to party hard and keep contributing to this site - your
thoughts and views are interesting x
Page 2 of 232
2015: Papers? What papers?
By: Hi_ImJenny, Fri, 27th Mar 09 9:52pm
I am the first to say I read a broadsheet every day - The Guardian Monday to Friday, The Independent at the
weekends.
But I find myself looking at today's copy sitting on the coffee table and thinking, they won't be around much longer will
they? I love waking up on a Saturday morning and walking down the road to the newsagent where I know Paul has a
copy with my name on it. Soon, I'll be in my own place and won't have that luxury. Where will the news be? On the
internet; on the TV, on the radio, on the blackberrys and iPhone's. Electronic, electronic, electronic! Why can't we just
keep the one thing, that one piece of nostalgia that always conjures images of yellowing papers with the headlines that
marked history.
I'm not a technophobe far from it, I love my facebook, myspace and twitter but to be a person who loves printed word
I'm fearing its end. My children will probably grow without it and it makes me appreciate it even more.
I've realised that I'm talking as if it some apocalyptic tragedy which is a bit overdramatic but I mean, it could be...
Fri, 27th Mar 2009
mephisto
For me this goes hand in hand with Cuddy's post on "Tradition"-(search it Jenny). Nothing like walking to the
local newsagents, friendly banter and the Sunday morning read!All part of noistalgia soon possibly but let's
enjoy it whilst we can!
Fri, 27th Mar 2009
batteredhaddock
I feel very priviledged to be able to go into a newsagents and buy a newspaper because it has been a part of
my life for the past 50 odd years. I love the local evening paper and at weekend I love reading the Independent
and getting my pen out to challenge the crossword puzzles!! It's certainly not the same reading the news on
the internet!!
Fri, 27th Mar 2009
TheGreatVisionar
Agree with you all but the problem is, advertising pays the expenses. Internet advertising has overtaken
newspaper ads by over 10 to 1. In five years or less there will not be any daily local newspapers as we know
them now. At best locals will have a weekly newspaper/letter.
Page 3 of 232
Hoodie
re tradition you cant even get chips in it nymore...thanks to the EU.....
Fri, 27th Mar 2009
i dont get a paper everyday, i tend to surf bbc online during the week and buy a decent sunday paper, then the
supplements last me all week.
be a shame to see them go
Fri, 27th Mar 2009
EdwardFrench
I think the printed media will be around for a great deal longer than the majority of people realise - I can
foresee a decline in the Broadsheet size paper to almost nil within 7 - 10 years, however the Tabloid size
paper will still be seen for many decades to come - as will the magazine format of delivering what people want
- We will undoubtedly see an increase in the electronically delivered media, but there are many generations of
people who have grown up with the 'traditional' printed newspaper, and habits are hard to break - advertising
executives realise this and will continue to tap this tried and tested medium.
I guess that within a certain period of time, delivery of news, views and current affairs electronically will be
considered tradition - by then I certainly won't be around to worry about it.
I to enjoy the Sunday newspaper experience - it will be with us for a while yet - do not fear!
TheGreatVisionar
Great first post Jenny, welcome to the site.
Sat, 28th Mar 2009
Page 4 of 232
2025: Blue Plaque alert!
By: Hi_ImJenny, Sat, 28th Mar 09 8:45pm
I was flicking through the channels this morning and caught the end of a story about the English Heritage. The reporter
said about how its employees were touring the country and instead of seeking the lost treasures of our English history
and identity they were looking for modern builds from the last thirty, maybe forty years.
That hit me. The multi-storey car park down Castle Street in Canterbury; the motorway bridges over the M20, the old
co-op in Sittingbourne - all these 'eye-sores' as my Grandma calls them will soon be adorned by a blue plaque. Forget
your traditional Georgian builds that housed the study's of literary geniuses or the country's finest politicians. Forget the
terraced homes that held the childhood memories of many of our greatest musicians and writers. Forget them.
Soon...
We will celebrate the architectual marvels that held the cars of hundreds of eager shoppers that would rifle through the
aisles in the January sales.
We will celebrate the Clifton Suspension Bridges of our time.
We will celebrate the massive housing estates where neighbours face on to each other.
We will celebrate them all, each and everyone but my only problem is why? I mean judging on the ones I've seen, not
every house was lived in by Freddie Mercury; Graham Hill, Marc Bolan and Sid James.
There's no individuality surely in multi-storey car parks? Where's the beauty and heritage in one of them?
mephisto
We have gone bonkers Jenny! Great points well said!
Sat, 28th Mar 2009
Sat, 28th Mar 2009
radiosw
BB i thought the same thinking there was a new plaque! Good post though Jenny scary thoughts
Page 5 of 232
2014: Letters? What's one of
them?
By: Hi_ImJenny, Mon, 30th Mar 09 8:10pm
It may be a mere 5 years away but I really do think that soon children will not be taught how to write a letter in the
standard way, or how to write an address. Teacher's will be planning lessons on blogging, twitter and social networking
- even English lessons will involve 'text language'.
I'm sixteen and admit to using text language on a regular basis, having a blog, twitter, facebook, myspace - you name
it, I've probably got it. But I mean, I know how to write a letter, I know how to find a book in the library - all those simple
things that involve paper we all understand. The thing that really gets me down and does to a certain extent upset me
is that a generation will grow up not knowing some elementary things. My children's children, my grandchildren will
probably never receive a letter telling them their GCSE Results; have a paper certificate of their marriages and the
births of their children - everything will be electronic and come in a 'handy' zipped pdf file. With GCSE's, there's
something about the a5 sheets that are sitting on the shelf above me, everytime I hold them all those memories of
August 21st come back. If and when it's all on one of these what will people do to bring back those memories - say "Oh
wait up, if I get my pen drive...right, Paperwork, Education, GCSE's - ah here we are children"? Where's the
achievement in that?
We can't stop technology advancing I know but surely we can't let it have the responsibility of storing everything about
us, our entire lives? Perhaps, perhaps we shouldn't even trust it all?
Mon, 30th Mar 2009
TheGreatVisionar
It's the new world Jenny, the frightening new world. Traditions, Religions, and eventually Wars, will be
something we read about on a computer screen but not practice.
Mon, 30th Mar 2009
Hi_ImJenny
It is, I hate it! I feel like I should have been born decades ago sometimes....I talk to my friends and they think
it's fine, I have to hold my back sometimes from shouting at them :)
Mon, 30th Mar 2009
MamaP
I have two wonderfull sons Jenny and if I had a daughter I would hope she would show the same awareness
and sensitivity towards life as you do. Your parents must be very proud.
Page 6 of 232
Mon, 30th Mar 2009
Ivorticket
Good post Jenny. My son is 17 and studying English A level (having gained a "B" at GCSE)He had not got a
clue how to lay out a formal handwritten or typed letter because he has never had to do it at school. We have
of course rectified this matter now as it arose when he had to write a letter to a potential work experience
employer. I was very surprised that it was not an important part of an English curriculum.
Mon, 30th Mar 2009
denny
I agree. my children do their homework on a computer. The teachers say its for presentation. No wonder the
majority of todays society are unable to read and write. I am surprised at how many adults live on the same
street as me yet they can not read the newsletters i send to them. Children do not really need to write any
more because of computers.
Tue, 31st Mar 2009
PaulaK
I agree, it's a real shame. When I was at school we had to write a letter home once a week to practice letter
writing. These important skills are becomning a thing of the past and it makes me angry too Jenny.
Sun, 05th Apr 2009
LadyV
I feel we may be soul mates! I definately should have been born decades ago (and that's not just because my
fiance was!). I agree with you entirely. Not just writing letters, but READING BOOKS! The fact that even
books are now computerised does nothing but make me despair! There's no comparison to the smell of a new
book, or reading with your children, or allowing yourself to become absorbed. There are too many pleasures
to list that come from books, and all that is to be eradicated by the hand of Sony electronics. What's happened
to culture?
Page 7 of 232
2020: Is that history?
By: Hi_ImJenny, Thu, 02nd Apr 09 7:16pm
Will history ever stop being history?
I mean will, in about ten years time some history simply be forgotten? The Crusading movement of the 11th and 12th
centuries; the Medieval reforms under William I - will it all just stop being written about, spoken about, learnt about?
Will the history textbooks that are lumbered around by, copied out of and read by children be filled with "Modern
History" about the doom and gloom of the economic crisis, international conflict and poverty?
I can see why that will be history, it should - that's defined our world. But I just feel a twinge of sadness and
dissapointment that soon people will not learn about sieges where Crusaders created a "fire-wall" to defend
Constantinople and then as it spread could not understand why the city burned down to the ground, nor will they learn
how William the Conqueror reformed the English church and indeed our country's history.
Economic crisis will, and has repeated itself - it's not everday you have full-scale conquests and revolutions...
History may define a nation; a continent - the world but now more than ever its redefining itself, schools are
meticulously picking and choosing what people should know, now is that me or is that a loss of identity? Surely we
should have a broadened horizon in terms of what our country has been through and what our ancestors endured for
us today?
I feel immensely proud studying English History - I think to myself "This country did that for me, and that for him, and
this for her" - can't we pay all those people the common courtesy and learn about their drive, their dedication, their
confidence to tell our children and our children's children?
x
Thu, 02nd Apr 2009
BigCol
Once again Jenny you've given us a piece of script that shows you have an immense talent for being able to
articulate. I'm going to now show you the common courtesy of thinking about what I reply to you on this, rather
than blurt out the first thing that comes to mind. Fabulous stuff and I'll be back because , as you know, I have a
fondness for history, even if it's only through song.
Page 8 of 232
Hi_ImJenny
Huh? Have I gone a bit OTT here?? It just gets me down sometimes...
Thu, 02nd Apr 2009
Thu, 02nd Apr 2009
ChrisChaplin
Some people think History should be just that...a thing from the past BUT if more people remembered what our
ancestors did for us and the sacrifices they made, we may be able to put some pride back into Great Britain.
Now, I'm not saying we should all go out plundering villages and starting wars but we used to be a great nation
and I long for the days we return to this. Wouldn't it be nice to be a World Leader rather than being America's
puppet. Our children need to keep being taught this forever.
Thu, 02nd Apr 2009
ChrisChaplin
No, you haven't Jenny. BigCol always 'thinks' about things before he articulates them...something we all
should do. I wanted to add though, I don't agree with some of the barbaric things the British Empire has done
in it's past but the world was very different back then.
Excellent post...keep 'em coming.
Thu, 02nd Apr 2009
mephisto
It might be less talked about but won't stop repeating itself, albeit in different ways, the fundementals behind
the events will be the same!
Thu, 02nd Apr 2009
radiosw
History will always be covered but in more and more concise format. We must maintain the level that is
remembered
Sun, 05th Apr 2009
LadyV
I, too, am a lover of history Jenny. I understand and empathise with your feelings about forgetting the days of
William the Conquerer and the like. I think that schools do a pretty good job, if I remember corrctly, of teaching
a varied range of history, but lots of it isn't English. This is why I love the BBC drama series 'The Tudors'. It
captures perfectly the essence of the age, it's about one of our country's most influencial monarchs (Henry was
another to bring about a reformation) and it's on in 2008/9. I'm going on a bit here, but it's something I feel
strongly about. The drama has been criticised for being too 'racy', but to be honest, The Tudors really were!
Let us get more British history on television in this style of drama. Let us teach more British history in schools.
Let us not forget.
Thu, 09th Apr 2009
Spudson
History is subjective to purpose so it has a tendancy to change dependant on the feeling of the times. The
greatest way to control and 'educate' a population is through history. That is not to say what you are taught isnt
true but it is selective and also without having primary sources from which to obtain the information, it will
enevitbly distort with time. What I would ask Jenny is how would you define fullscale conquests and
revolutions? These are not always armed conflict but take so many other forms that I think maybe it is possible
to say that they do happen every day.
Thu, 09th Apr 2009
Spudson
And Chris I would say in order for it to be sacrifice is must be a concious decision for the purpose of the future
which tends to be something invented by retrospect and sentimentality.
Thu, 09th Apr 2009
ChrisChaplin
Spudson - have to agree with you on the 'distortion' of cetain facts throughout history. However, I don't think
sacrifice has to be "a concious decision for the purpose of the future", people sacrificed things so their lives, at
that time, would be more beneficial.
Thu, 09th Apr 2009
Spudson
That is true but then by definition they sacrificed things for themselves which contridicts the very nature of
sacrifice because they made choices in order to further better their own agendas
Page 9 of 232
Thu, 09th Apr 2009
ChrisChaplin
Apologies Spud, I should have been clearer. When I said "their lives", I was referrng to 'them' as a
community/country etc. Whenever people start battles/wars, they normally have their present lives in mind as
well as the future safety of their children etc.
Sat, 11th Apr 2009
EdwardFrench
What a great peice of prose - spoken and written straight off the cuff - History will continue to be history for
ever - the decisions made by the powers that be in terms of what we study / learn will not remove the fact that
people will continue to write and talk about every aspect of things gone by - and with the advent and increasing
use of the internet - people will have access to everyones point of view - bit like this site - got something to say
- place it hear and it's here for all and sundry to read, study and comment on for life - great post.
Wed, 15th Apr 2009
Spudson
I dunno Chris. I would say most of them did for money. This is maybe the point, history is taught with such
purpose that you instantly assume a war or the like is immediately all for the greater good. Its become in a lot
of ways nothing more than an exercise in justifying past actions while paving the way to excuse future ones.
Page 10 of 232
2009: Ipod Blush
By: Hi_ImJenny, Fri, 17th Apr 09 5:11pm
707 Views, 8 Comments..
An event when you are embarrassed by the songs on your ipod. This usually arises due to switching from one song to
another without realizing that the iPod has a brightly light up screen which anyone around you in a 5 mile radius can
see :) For example: (Internal thoughts) "I hate this song, I'll change it before anyone notices...although have to admit
its quite catchy!"
*Your friend looks over your shoulder*
Hey, is that Vanilla Ice you're listening to?
"Jheez...go
away, you're making me Ipod Blush!" A term I use frequently - yes, that does infer I listening to embarassing music!
EdwardFrench
Made worse if you have the video playing as well.
Fri, 17th Apr 2009
Fri, 17th Apr 2009
Cuddy
im like that when im playin my music and it says what im playing on msn - ill be listenin to a really recent track
and people will say oh good song ur listening to then next is Franky S - ouch that doesnt go down well - bit of a
blush and blame dad lol
Bassist
Good taste, Cuddy!
Fri, 17th Apr 2009
Fri, 17th Apr 2009
MasterSignwriter
i have a similar, itune shocker, where at my workshop when a customer walks in it will randomly select a track
with fruity language in it, leaving me scrambling for the comuputer trying to pause it. i have discovered that
Rage aganst the machines 'killing in the name of' is definately not good for business.
mephisto
I wish I could lern how to use one! Far too technical for me!
Fri, 17th Apr 2009
mephisto
No shame in Franky S Cuddy!
Fri, 17th Apr 2009
Page 11 of 232
Sun, 19th Apr 2009
PaulaK
I feel your pain. I have a lot of very embarrassing music on my ipod. I actually have high school musical on it!
Page 12 of 232
2014: Dumbing down the system?
By: Hi_ImJenny, Mon, 20th Apr 09 6:05pm
By 2014, it is inevitable that many school subjects; academic or voccational with be a BTEC Certificate or Diploma - in
other words, a subject that will award GCSE qualifications based 100% on coursework. Now, I haven't got a vendetta
against this new approach to education, if anything I applaud it. Many a time I've heard or seen pupils in my school
complaining that because they're the 'average' pupils so to speak, they're lacking attention. That's something I agree
with and really am glad it's been combatted; why should those who badly behave get more attention from those who
actually do their work and give it every per cent of what they have?
Yet, the thing that gets me, and if I can be honest infuriates me is the fact that because of these new qualifications pupils are simply missing out on the way school used to be. Change is good don't get me wrong, but I can't see how
not teaching exam skills is going to be beneficial in the long run? Focusing on the extremity of the situation - will
universities stop examining students on the modules they choose? Will a whole year grow up not knowing how to
answer an exam question, and how to play the examiner to their stengths?
Sitting here reading this, I'm beginning to wonder - does 'dumbing down the system' as I have so affectionately put it
actually become a bit of a mockery? Those higher ability students will be missing out and possibly completing work that
is simply beneath them? I can't understand how such qualifications will benefit those who strive for an academic
education and thrive for the arts; humanities and the sciences. Of course, this is for the Governmental league tables. It
makes me sick. How can a government condone these 100% coursework qualifications being brought in to completely
overthrow the existing system? I must stress that I think they're brilliant for Carpentry and Hairdressing courses but I
really fear the certificates and diplomas will replace the seemingly 'old fashioned' English and History exams where
pupils argue, describe, explain and inform for an hour or two. But going back to the league tables - yes, its all very well
getting an excellent league table nationally but how can the government condone it - pupils will fundamentally leave
their compulsory education never having sat an external exam or having studied a subject that relied on a spontaneous
impulse of being presented with a question you've never seen before - only that way can you really gain a sight of a
persons true colours and real ability?
Mon, 20th Apr 2009
EdwardFrench
Jenny, you are another articulate young lady who will go along way - I enjoy reading your entries; you have a
fluid flow to your written entries that is commendable. I am in agreement with you - I am 'old school' - I studied
O'levels through to University Degree - all of which was examination based. I too fear that the youth of
tomorrow will be subject to this newly proposed idea, and will be regurgitated into the real world having
experienced no real life testing / examinations. A true mix of Governments wanting to establish the greatest
Page 13 of 232
looking academic results tables and the politically correct bunch, insisting that every child should be given
every opportunity to come out of school with a fist full of qualifications - The world is a nasty and competative
environment - we need to be readying our students for the painful onslaught of reality - test them, test them
and test them some more - Those who intend to establish a career in any area of expertise, need to
demonstrate that they have a sound, solid understanding of their chosen field. I can't imagine a student
wanting to become a commercial airline pilot without the need to demonstrate a powerful understanding of
their sylabus, they also need pass and maintain extremely difficult examinations in-order to achieve the high
level of competence required to safely carry out their duties. I am with you all the way - great post - keep them
coming.
Mon, 20th Apr 2009
mephisto
Not just education JP, we had an e mail at work with 300 words that are deemed too complex to be used in
letters to customers. Complex being one of them!!!! I will let you make up your own mind, but I'm not
impressed!
Wed, 22nd Apr 2009
EdwardFrench
Mephisto - that beggars-belief! BB - spot on - "test them at appropriate times along their educational journey!"
Page 14 of 232
2017: Exam...papers?
By: Hi_ImJenny, Wed, 06th May 09 8:37pm
918 Views, 1 Nods, 5 Comments..
By 2017, I do indeed predict that pupils who are entered in for examinations will no longer queue outside gym halls and
classrooms in the blissful summer heat waiting to be called in row by row to march to the back of the hall, put down
their bags and take their equipment to their desk to wait with baited breath for the invigulators to hand out the papers
and give instructions. No, pupils will casually stroll into one of the many thousands of computer suites throughout our
nation's schools to sit down on a comfy, padded swivel chair. Next to them will be a password or perhaps a pen drive
that will let them download the paper they are about to take. For the next couple of hours those pupils will sit their
GCSEs, A-Levels - maybe even their SATS? Now, this isn't one of my outrageous rants on technology or the decline in
education or infact the sheer transformation over education and examination. No, what gets me, what actually
infuriates me is that the government are changing the cornerstone of our society; they're changing how we learn.
Instead of three dotted lines to write down an answer, will pupils soon be given a drop down box to pick their answers?
How will the mudanity of using a computer which has already become integral to people's lives actually allow someone
to achieve the qualifications they deserve beyond belief? I for one do despise exams; all confidence seems to be
ebbing away as I enter the dreaded halls. Yet, there's something quite intoxicating about that adrenillyn rush I get from
being given a fresh answer booklet and being able to write to my hearts content. Nothing I feel can prove a person's
capability more than having them in an exam hall writing for, at the time what feels like "success or failure". The mix of
anxiety, anticipation, excitement, dread, confidence and realization is something that I really don't think can be
experienced nor communicated through doing exams sitting behind a computer. This might not be making sense but I
really really can't get across how strongly I feel about this - its something so explicit yet implicit at the same time.
I just think that amid the technological advances which I do agree are benefiting our lives incredibly; education should
be left alone - it's fine with pen and paper. Really, is nothing safe from the ease and simplicity of computers?
Wed, 06th May 2009
denny
I can see exams being performed on computers which will be entered into a direct line to an exam board. This
will stop teachers marking papers and students getting the wrong results. it will also stop students from
cheating.
Wed, 06th May 2009
denny
I fully agree that exams are stressful. i have been there and i am watching students on a regular basis getting
stressed. EXAMS TO ME SEEM SO UNFAIR
Page 15 of 232
Wed, 06th May 2009
FoxyCollins
Jenny, this post is from your heart,that is obvious and I so agree with you.I didn't realise that you still waited
outside the gym or main hall to be led in at 9.00am on the dot.All the recent revision is spinning around in your
head and you just know the questions are going to be the stuff you didn't revise.It was exactly the same in the
sixties when I did my O levels, we didn't have computers not even calculators but it sounds like the anxiety is
still the same.
Fri, 08th May 2009
ellen
I can see this happening but what if there was a power cut or if something else happened to make the system
'crash' losing everything the student had done so far. I agree with Jenny that for exams, pen and paper is best
Page 16 of 232
2009: He's on top of the world.
By: Hi_ImJenny, Thu, 21st May 09 6:43pm
906 Views, 5 Votess, 2 Nodss, 7 Comments..
Today, I woke up to hear the fantastic news that Ranulph Fiennes has finally reached the summit of Mount Everest on
his third attempt. Being a huge fan and having read his autobiography 'Mad, Bad and Dangerous to Know' I've come to
realise that he is an inspiration. I mean, he's the first pensioner to reach the summit at the age of 65 - he's not doing
that bad!
He has been an inspiration, not literally - there aren't hoards of people jumping to race up mountains but every few
years, he features in the papers and on the news with reporters describing the sheer glaciers he may have scaled and
the unbearable conditions he has lived in for many months.
Sir Ranulph is the first man to cross both the polar ice-caps and climb 8,850 metres to the world's highest peak. Surely
that's something. I like to think of it this way - amid the expenses scandals with politicans being exposed for corruption
and us voters thinking 'Is there a way out?' ... well, Sir Ranulph Fiennes has proved that. Of course climbing Mount
Everest will not shed some light on solving recent events but surely, it's a spark of inspiration. This man, this
extraordinary man reached the top of the world; that's setting an example that whatever it is, however high the goal we can get there. It just takes passion, dedication, drive and belief in yourself.
I don't think we should look to our political leaders for those four things - we should to those that put them into action.
Those who say "I will do it" and after a lot of effort turn around and go "Look, I did it."
Thu, 21st May 2009
BigCol
Oh Jenny well said. Take a round of applause from me at least. As you say when times are down there
always seems to be someone comes along to take our minds off all the doom and gloom and lift our spirits.
People like this guy, Sir Francis Chichester even The Beatles after the Profumo Scandal were all there just at
the right time. As for your last few comments, GV I suggest you read them over and over and over again.
MamaP
How wonderful to realise your own potential
Thu, 21st May 2009
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EdwardFrench
Passionate Prose - You continue to lift my ever dwindling belief in the young - Thank you.
Thu, 21st May 2009
EdwardFrench
I like your 'us voters' comment.
Thu, 21st May 2009
Fri, 22nd May 2009
ellen
Nice to hear a positive news story with all the current farce over MP's expenses. It is a huge achievement and
to do it after 2 failed attempts and after a heart attack must have a great deal of determination and refusal to
give up.
Hoodie
we need heroes. the more with beards the better.
Fri, 22nd May 2009
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2009: Susan Boyle
By: Hi_ImJenny, Mon, 01st Jun 09 12:34pm
I woke this morning to hear that the great Susan Boyle has been assessed under the Mental Health Act and taken to
The Priory. Surely that shows the amount of pressure she and the other contestants must have been under this year? I
watched how she behaved erratically after Diversity were announced the winners and after in the several interviews
she did, I heard how she slurred her words and could barely string a few words together.
I mean, she comes from a sleepy Scottish village where she lives alone and enjoys karaoke on a Sunday. To go from
that to this? I was reading in the paper today she'll have three days to record an album with the Czech Symphony
Orchestra - surely after today's announcement, Simon Cowell can't expect her to bounce back to that? Or will she
perhaps leave it all and retire back to her old life?
Diversity truely deserve their win; they define the talent on Britain's streets; if anything I'm relieved they won instead of
Susan Boyle. Can you imagine what would have happened if she had won? These last few weeks she's been in the
media constantly and I feel a certain warmth towards her, I always felt that she's got this immense pride somewhat and
really couldn't give a hoot about others - but I was wrong. The media are wrong. I just hope she can get back to
normality again, she deserves the fame but she doesn't deserve this.
Hoodie
The only winner is Simon Cowell, maker of money and destroyer of lives.
Mon, 01st Jun 2009
Mon, 01st Jun 2009
ellen
Susan Boyle had a huge amount of publicity in the week leading up to the final-some of it quite negative. I
agree some achieve fame too quickly from shows like this and I think it was just too much for her. She looked
rather worried when the final 3 were announced and then relieved then she didn't win. I think she was
genuinely happy for the winners and was not just putting on a brave face. I agree the best act won-Diversity
were fantastic
Mon, 01st Jun 2009
PaulaK
There was really no comparison and I think she actually knew that herself, she could hold a tune but
really....come on, she was not the definition of a great talent in Britain. I agree the show is really stressful for
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the contestants, no wonder the poor woman needs rehab!!
mephisto
Agree with Hoodie!
Tue, 02nd Jun 2009
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2035: The Classics
By: Hi_ImJenny, Wed, 17th Jun 09 9:13pm
1001 Views, 21 Votess, 4 Nodss, 5 Comments..
By 2035, I believe the classic novels that we see today will be simply ignored, as 'ancient' manuscripts of some sort
perhaps and the novels of today such as 'Birdsong', 'Twilight' and even 'High Fidelity' will be deemed the classic
literature that should be absorbed by the masses. I see a 'classic' to be literature that defines an era; Jane Austen's
works captured the essence of 19th century society, its expectations and the leisure activities that people engaged in.
The same can be said with the gothic literature of Bram Stoker and Mary Shelley, I can only imagine the images that
those two created scared many.
Yet, by 2035 will the hopeless single life of Rob in Nick Hornby's 'High Fidelity' be deemed a highlighted of 90's
literature? Recent novels set in the Middle East such as Hosseini's 'The Kite Runner' seem to reflect the prominence of
that society in ours. Afghanistan fills the news bulletins and papers on a weekly, daily basis - it's where many writers
seek their inspiration. Indeed, many, if not all authors seek their ideas from the world they inhabit and the many things
that surrond them.
My real worry is that the classics as of 2009 which I have come to adore will be forgotten in the next 16 years; in favour
for novels that seem to take the role of a character's diary in which they list all the mundane things in their lives; failed
relationships, dead-end jobs and keen interests to name but a few.
Perhaps, they will be kept - but which ones? Pride and Prejudice will stay but others such as Charlotte Brontë's Jane
Eyre remain too? As one of my all time favourites, it's one I could read many a time and never tire. Essentially - I fear
people will be choosy with which remain classics and which will gather dust untouched in city libraries.
Wed, 17th Jun 2009
Hoodie
V point for sheer intelligent debate ! the themes of classics are still poignant in todays fractured society, lust
greed and love are everlasting themes from Shakespeare and of course he was taking these idioms from
Greek texts...if memory serves me correct. I think the concept of how libraries will change and our overall idea
of what constitutes a classic is fascinating...will libraries contain books as we know them or will they be lost to
electronic periphery ?
Thu, 18th Jun 2009
TheGreatVisionar
Spot on again Jenny & Hoodie, Not many of the population read novels now but I don't think 5% of the
numbers that currently read novels will spend the time reading them in 2035. We will be even more advanced
in technology and the need for instant! Everything faster, quicker, shorter! Audio books which are becoming
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more prevelant now will take over but even these will be short. We are definately entering the dawn of a brand
new age and Jenny you will be around to see the changes and judge for yourself whether it is better or worse.
Thu, 18th Jun 2009
LarrySDonald
I think a lot of classics will keep staying around. I'm sure they'll be considered ancient, but they are now too
mostly. People still read them, including me, not because they're not ancient but because history is a pretty
good filter. I'm sure the next Hamlet, Faust and Moby Dick has been good and written, but it's hard to filter. I
don't know what Melvilles brother wrote because it was forgotten. Classics last not because they aren't old but
because they lasted. "High Fidelity" is a very good guess for something I think might be considered a classic
though. My dad gave me (polite way of saying shoved it in my hands) right after he finished it saying "You
have to read this! Seriously! Ok not seriously.. You can read.. stuff.. since.. Ok, really *really* consider reading
this". He had a point - those that haven't read it should consider doing so.
Sat, 20th Jun 2009
mephisto
As long as some in each generation promote the classics we will have them always! Keep up the fight Jenny!
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2010: MP overdrafts?
By: Hi_ImJenny, Sun, 21st Jun 09 9:39pm
It is inevitable that anybody in Britain has not read or heard of the scandal surronding MP's expenses; the ludicrous
claims they submitted and even more controversial in my opinion - their lame excuses for putting in those claims in
order to justify their wrong doing.
When I woke on Thursday to the news that the claims for each MP had been published on the internet I jumped at the
chance to read what my local MP, Derek Wyatt had claimed for. My father is a friend of his and I somewhat believed
that this man would be an exception to the rest and not be tarnished with the same brush. Really, I thought his claims
would be minimal, almost zilch - or at least truely justifiable.
Yet, I was shocked to read Derek Wyatt's total expenses for 2007-08 was: £156,157, £23,083 of that was for his
second home. Although an extortinate amount of money I thought that would be way below the 'average' of other MP's
such as Hazel Blears, Hilary Benn and the like. No, after searching for the Primeminster,Gordon Brown I learnt he had
claimed £124,454 over the same two year period - £17,073 was for his second home. Now, I'm no political expert
(although I aspire to be a researcher) but what gives my local MP the justification to claim more expenses than the
Prime Minister for god's sake. I mean, yes £124,454 is still a large sum of money but compared to £156,157 it's small
change.
Which brings me on to my main idea, MP's expenses should run, almost in the way of an overdraft except that
overdraft is the only money an MP has access to. For example, Gordon Brown should be limited to say, £150,000
because he is the Prime Minister; Alistair Darling, the Chancellor perhaps £125,000. Other ministers such as Ed Balls,
Alan Johnson and Harriet Harman around £115,000 and so on. Eventually, local MP's should be allowed around
£85,000-90,000. I mean, even the money is ludicrous; those suffering in the current economic crisis would give
anything for that kind of money to help allievate any financial difficulties - not splash out on a duck house or a moat. But
even then, this idea of mine would almost work on the policy that the money is a luxury, a privilege - something that
can't be exploited and that MP's can't take the piss out of the nation because that essentially, is what they are doing.
It might not seem fair having the expenses budgets staggered in terms of the government's hierarchy but I think it's the
only way we can rid the corruption and exploitation among the politicans - and hopefully, restore our faith in the leaders
of our country.
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Mon, 22nd Jun 2009
TheGreatVisionar
Here Here, although I still think your figures are way to high. Email this post Jenny using the link to your MP
and ask him to explain to us all in full here on this site as to his views on the future of MP's expenses. I for one
believe that at least 5 of the MPs will end up doing time for this. At least another 30 will resign or be sacked
before the end of the year.
Sat, 27th Jun 2009
Hi_ImJenny
Yeah, it was just a rough guess - obviously with the current economic climate it would have to be re-jiggled. I
did do that, emailed the link and that...didn't get a reply back, obviously he couldn't justify it - probably the case
for many many people in Westminster!
Page 24 of 232
2009: Money
By: Hi_ImJenny, Tue, 21st Jul 09 10:01am
Is it me or are teenagers completely and utterly infatuated by money, in a very real sense? The thing that got me
thinking is that a boy in my literature class has dropped the A2 lesson's. His reason, 'Well, all the lessons are period 6
and I have to like go home and have a shower and stuff 'cause I like need like my money for my Fred Perry'.
I have a job, yeah washing glasses on a Saturday night at the local isn't the most glamorous thing in the world (in fact it
makes your hands all dry and sore!) but it's a job, I earn some money and don't let it get in the way of my studies.
Have teenagers always been like this or is it just because we're living in an insanely materialistic world?
Tue, 21st Jul 2009
radiosw
Teenagers seem more obsessed with money now for sure. But I think that has a lot to do with the enviroment
around them influencing them, more advertising, branding etc
Tue, 21st Jul 2009
Silverstonedsteve
My lad has just turned 17 and has a weekend job at Waitrose. He's off college now until the end of September
and working virtually full time!! Working for him is a good thing as it is teaching him the value of money and
that things don't come cheap. He hasn't neglected his studies though and is a top student. Working has
enabled him to;1. save up for his first car
2. pay for his driving lessons
3. buy all his own clothes
All very materialistic I agree, but he's matured because of this and that has been nice to see!
Only draw back for me is that he would rather work this summer than go away on holiday with us???????
Tue, 21st Jul 2009
BigCol
Sadly for them Jenny, but not for you, and I've said it on here before, you are one of the special ones.
Teenagers in the main have always been irresponsible little toe-rags but that's just the opinion of a grumpy old
man. I'm sure I was and there have been generations of them since. As for the materialistic thing, there does
seem to be an "All I want for my birthday is money" mentality around these days which wasn't around in my
day. Sad innit. Maybe people like you can make the change in the future.
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NotGandalf
Stay away from anyone who uses the word "like" twice in one sentence.
Tue, 21st Jul 2009
Tue, 21st Jul 2009
jemmapicken
I'm with you Cuddy, when I was at college I worked which was a big learning curve and gave me responsibility
but it never got in the way of my studies or more importantly for me my dancing. I think it's important for
teenagers to work and learn the value of things and if they spend it on material things it's up to them but they
need to get their priorities straight in the meantime and decide whether they want to be doing that same job
forever.
jemmapicken
Oh lol, sorry, have I missed the point here completely?
Tue, 21st Jul 2009
Tue, 21st Jul 2009
mephisto
Peer pressure caused by x list celebs and media coverage! Jenny you are unfortunately a rarity-Stay that way
and enjoy lifes rich tapestry with or without a few quid!
Wed, 22nd Jul 2009
MasterSignwriter
Its only because that every where they go they are bombarded with adverts claiming that this or that is the new
must have gadget,clothing item etc. Advertising is it blame not the kids themselves.
Page 26 of 232
2009: Suffragism
By: Hi_ImJenny, Fri, 24th Jul 09 5:23pm
I've been set research over the summer holidays by my history teacher in preparation for my 'Personal Study' which is
basically a 5000 word project-style essay. My chosen topic is the Suffragette movement and I have to say I'm
overwhelmed by the sacrifice some of those women made. Their passion; drive, dedication and sheer determination for
equality is something to admire, and be thankful for. In 1913, Emily Davison threw herself infront of the King's Horse,
she sacrificed her life for women in the future. I'm only 17 and therefore, am not legally old enough to vote. 2010 is the
next general election, and it will be a mere 2 weeks before my 18th birthday. Yet my point is, just over 90 years after
being given the freedom to vote, do women take it for granted? The majority of voters were born long after the fight that
Emmeline Pankhurst led; and have grown up and become immediately accustomed to the fact that women can vote.
It's almost as if many think 'Well, my mum votes and so will I.' Now, I sincerely hope I'm not offending women, far from
it but what I think is sad is that many don't care about voting. It is probable that about 30% of teenage girls don't know
about what the Suffragettes did. Now, I'm not saying people should give daily lectures about the events of the early
twentieth century but they should just realise what people did for the future generations. "Deeds not words" was their
motto and it still rings true today in my mind. In fact, I shouldn't be writing this and describing how overwhelmed I am by
it all and how I've got a bee in my bonnet. No, I should do my 'deed' and vote, vote not wholy for the politicans, but vote
for those women. Vote for the Suffragettes.
Hi_ImJenny
:-) The date was wrong but Admin have changed it.
Fri, 24th Jul 2009
Hi_ImJenny
Nope don't worry, I'm being a bit special again! :)
Fri, 24th Jul 2009
Fri, 24th Jul 2009
mephisto
I will avoid all chauvanistic humourous reference Jenny-It's not just the women who don't vote or use it wisely. I
agree that there should be more awareness of sacrifice but unless we find something worth the sacrifice are
we just going to be a nation of unintelligent sheep? I fear so!
Fri, 24th Jul 2009
BigCol
The pioneers and martyrs get forgotten pretty quickly Jenny and we take our privileges and freedoms for
granted all too quickly. I get very angry when I see a bunch of 'herberts' taking the proverbial out of someone
for being a doddery old git when it's quite possible that doddery old git watched dozens of his mates spatter
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their body parts all over a beach in Normandy. Although these heroes I'm sure would agree the object isn't to
feel beholden to them for evermore, a gentle reminder like this to make us reflect on just how lucky we actually
are is a good soul cleanser. Well said and a 'V' point and a Facebook posting from me.
Hoodie
I know Emily Pankhursts great grandson. complete pisshead.
Fri, 24th Jul 2009
Fri, 24th Jul 2009
Cuddy
At the begining of this year we studied the suffragettes in great depth and what they did for women was far
more than what some women would do today. Even today not everybody votes and after what those women
sacrafyced for women to vote then i think at least they should make the most of their rights that were fought for
and not take them for granteed - i think that by voting it is like a way of saying thank you to the people who
gave their life for you to vot today.
Sat, 25th Jul 2009
valleygirl
What a wonderful attitude in one so young. Yes, HiImJenny you are so right. Although in my humble opinion
most of the people running this country are *armpits* and total idiots - most of the time - if we do not use our
vote situations will never change and we only have ourselves to blame. I hope you will consider standing for
Parliment one of these days.
NotGandalf
Spot on - I wish I'd had your insight at your age. "V" point.
Sat, 25th Jul 2009
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2009: Work Experience
By: Hi_ImJenny, Sat, 01st Aug 09 9:21pm
A couple of weeks ago, I went on work experience and spent five days shadowing members of the 'Governmental and
Democratic Services' department at Kent County Council. It was an utterly fantastic week; an excellent insight into what
work is like for political researchers, the career I am seriously considering doing after (hopefully) leaving university. Yet
the thing that got me as I was on the bus home has stuck with me these last few weeks. Will that job actually be there
in 2013? I mean, is Work experience actually bitter sweet? It's fantastic to meet people that you aspire to be like, they
tell you the good, the bad and the ugly of the job and you soon can imagine yourself in their shoes. Yet, there's that
twinge of sadness that, with this current economic crisis acting as the storm looming above us, darkening our skies that job may not be an opportunity in about three years? I could go through university and get the best degree possible
yet at the end of the day, it wouldn't get me the job I was aiming for.
So, is work experience actually doing any good in the current situation? Or should schools cease the programme until
the 'job situation' for a better word sorts itself out? Perhaps at the other extreme, work experience could do good as it
would encourage more and more young people to aim for the stars, and adopt the attitude that despite a worsening
economic crisis and astronomical rates of unemployment, there is the chance to do it, you've just to have the
perseverence, determination and self-belief to get there - could that work?
Sat, 01st Aug 2009
BigCol
I get the impression you're saying "What's the point?" Jenny and I've never thought that to be part of your
make up. Take every piece of your education with both hands and squeeze as much out of it as you can.
Work experience is what it says it is - experience. Take it, use it and put it behind you if it turns out to be
worthless. You don't need me to tell you that.
Sun, 02nd Aug 2009
mephisto
Jenny, all the Govt departments are under threat from massive cuts and centralization(see some earlier posts I
made-i think or were they in my head),the burden of final salary pensions is threatening an already bankrupt
nation, hence the quantative easing still ongoing. So I hope the department or area you wish to go into still
exists when the time comes for you to work.-IMO Work experience should be kept up and actively encouraged
AND start an earlier age if possible. It could also be enhanced with small financial rewards, alongside the
encouragement, for enthusiasm and acheivement during the work experience, which may encourage a work
ethic in our younger members of society. It should not be restricted to orthodox jobs either, if a youngster
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wants to be an artist, then asap spend a day, week, month with an artist funded by the education
dept-everyones a winner!
Sun, 02nd Aug 2009
mephisto
As for you not get the job you want, you have an awful lot of ability and ask yourself if you could do something
within the field you want but as a Self Employed person, offering the Govt a service-Researcher, then you
have the economic media who may also need your services. Start to think outside the box now, be a little bit
selfish in your thoughts and don't sell yourself short.
Sun, 02nd Aug 2009
Hi_ImJenny
I suppose you're right Colin, it's not like me but it's all a bit scary - going into employment and aspiring to have
incredibly demanding careers, yet realizing that the country's in a sorry state. It's hard to look at things the
same as I would have a couple of years ago. I've got to take everything surronding society into consideration.
Call me defeatist and I'd sort of agree, but really I'm just being incredibly realistic - something that's rather new
to me.
Sun, 02nd Aug 2009
BigCol
Mephisto's right in all he says Jenny. There is still a lot out there. It may not be what you have your heart and
mind set on now, but you've got so much time to change both heart and mind as long as you don't give up.
There's understandably a lot of 'Oh what's the point?' around, not just at the moment, it's been around for quite
a while now, and consequently the job centres are full of people, not just young ones either, with no direction.
If there's one thing you certainly have over most it is direction. And that's what you MUST maintain. Keep
your goals even if they seem unachievable, and even if it turns out they aren't, people will recognise your
determination and reward you for it. Why am I saying all this? You're no quitter. Never have been and never
will be.
Sun, 02nd Aug 2009
MamaP
Never, ever give up! Any experience is better than none at all and you could end up with your dreams come
true. Always keep the glass half full, so many people give up at the first difficult hurdle they come to. Only
knowing you from your writings on VD, I know you will grab any opportunity that comes your way. GO GIRL :)
Sun, 02nd Aug 2009
Hi_ImJenny
Thanks. Yeah, I suppose I wrote this in some moment on negativity and had the attitude as Colin said of
'What's the point? It's not going to be worth it', when really it is, of course it is! :) I'm more positive today, it's
probably been helped along by the wine we had with the barbeque :) x
BigCol
That's always an option Jen. If in doubt - get pissed.
Sun, 02nd Aug 2009
Sun, 02nd Aug 2009
Hoodie
go for it, there will always be politicians and therefore a need for background staff - despite public cutbacks
there are govt quangos where people are being paid hundreds of thousands a month to chair meetings on
policy and research - if you show a talent (and ive no doubt you will) then you will do well - and may i say, thats
a great black and white pic of you for your profile ;-)
Mon, 03rd Aug 2009
EdwardFrench
Jenny - it is always a pleasure to read whatever you write about, however, I have just one thing for you to think
about. Whatever you end up doing with your life, regardless of whether it is what you study at university or not
- remember one very important thing - We Work To Live, Not Live To Work. I might add at this point, that a
person, such as yourself, demonstrating such obvious traits as dedication, integrity, candour and principals, to
name but a few, will have no difficulty obtaining the career of you choice. Good luck with whatever option your
choose.
Page 30 of 232
2009: Forget immigration points
for good citizenship...
By: Hi_ImJenny, Tue, 04th Aug 09 6:28pm
Reading about the new system that the Government are planning to introduce, I have to admit, it makes me laugh. I'm
sure you all understand this supposedly ingenius idea and most of you have commented on Colin's Poll expressing
your opinions. Yet the point I'm trying to make is that according to the BBC News website points will be awarded for
good behaviour in the community as well as contributing to their local area. However, migrants "...could also lose
points for bad behaviour which it has been suggested could include anti-war demonstrations."
Now, I've been thinking about this and of course excluding the example of 'anti-war demonstrations', this could be used
in England - but not for immigrants. Instead, the initiative could be adapted and thus apply to UK citizens. Street crime,
anti-social behaviour and a general lack of respect are rife among the population and causing a great deal of havoc.
Many are so frightened that they fear venturing outside our front door.
Of course I'm not saying adapt the system so that if you lose so many points you face deportation, that's ludicrous and
of course not right and fair. Yet, I think that in those areas deprived of safety and good quality living because of
anti-social behaviour and the like could benefit from such a scheme.
Those known to the local police force would be priority; they would earn points by sticking to curfews perhaps or
engaging in projects within their local area. Points would be taken away everytime someone is cautioned, arrested or
prosecuted by the Police. Eventually, when someone reaches 'nil point' they should be made to do community service.
You never know, if all offenders embraced such a scheme, for everyone that turned it around and became a better
person, a 'reward' could be given to the local community such as renovating a public area, or improving the area by
building facilities.
Citizenship is essentially how someone conducts themselves as a citizen of a country. Good citizenship needs to be
established in this country before we judge immigrants on theirs. It's ridiculous and down right contradictory to insist on
respectful immigrants when our own people don't have the decency to respect what our country has and appreciate
what is provided for them.
So, my plan of action would be - introduce an adapted version of the scheme to combat the problems on our own
doorsteps. THEN, apply to all of those entering the UK.
**"My plan of action"....makes me sound like the PM! Well, if I do )God knows how) become PM, you all heard it here
first!**
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TheGreatVisionar
Great post, I hope you have emailed this to your local MP.
Tue, 04th Aug 2009
Tue, 04th Aug 2009
MamaP
I understand what you're saying Jennie, but what I don't understand is how we have come to this. Police
would have even more paperwork and be walking round with boxes of gold stars to stick on reward charts.
Perhaps I'm getting too old to reason. Just open Boot Camps it would be cheaper!
Tue, 04th Aug 2009
BigCol
This kind of links arms with the idea I had of posts entitled 'Pushing back the boundaries' which came out of
EcoWorrier's 'A suggestion for Amourgeddon' post. (In fact I've emailed Eco to tell him of this post). In Eco's
post we were doing a lot of laying the blame down as to where things have gone wrong in the past. This post
of yours Jenny takes things a little further and starts to offer some steps towards a solution. I love this and
would really like to see everyone offer their views. Personally I wouldn't sidestep the points system for
immigrants until after we've sorted our own house out. I think that could lead to further antagonism from our
already antagonised populous. No, I'd operate the two, not necessarily side by side on a 'what's good for the
goose is good for the gander' basis, but certainly with the freedom to demonstrate, if necessary, how good or
bad the visitors are doing against our own louts. This is a great post and deserves all the recognition it gets
not only here on VD, but as TGV says the government must hear about it.
Wed, 05th Aug 2009
MasterSignwriter
Excellent post Jenny, erudite and interesting. We need a massive change in the way we operate politically,
unfortunately when an Mp suggests such changes their views are labelled into some past political movement
with all its past failures. History spells it out for us that no great civilization has ever flourished under liberal
ideals, we definately need a more hard line approach to the way we run the country but without predudice and
more thought to our collective futures. Brilliant post, keep them coming.
NotGandalf
Good, thoughtful stuff.
Wed, 05th Aug 2009
mephisto
We must get this published! Simple but effective!
Wed, 05th Aug 2009
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2009: Blackberry for PM?
By: Hi_ImJenny, Sat, 08th Aug 09 8:15pm
Walking to the local shop for the paper as I do every Saturday morning, I started thinking what the headlines may be;
more unneccessary deaths in Afghanistan? More scandal for the government? Well, I picked up the Independent and
began reading it as I walked (y'see, I'm a female so I can multi-task).
Anyway, I digress, I was reading the days news and began reading an article about Peter Mandelson holidaying with
the controversial billionaire, David Geffen on the Greek island of Corfu. August is traditionally the time in which the
Cabinet take their "well deserved" summer holidays. Gordon Brown is in Scotland so the job of running the country
would of course pass onto Harriet Harman - but she's on holiday too. So who is left running the country? good ol'
Mandelson. "But he's in Corfu?" I hear you say, well yes he is. According to him he is more than capable of running the
United Kingdom from a million pound yacht....via his blackberry.
The original i-phone, the handy little gadgets can send and receive emails, take phone calls - pretty much run your life
from your pocket. Yet surely, you can't run an entire country through one of those? Is this really what the government's
come to? I see, of course they've had a stressful year our MP's (those duckponds take a lot of care and attention,
stress levels certainly rise is Donald Duck isn't basking in glorious sunshine and dipping his little 'feet' in the clean
water), but you can't expect the voting public to be happy about this? Now, I'm probably making a mountain from a
mole-hill but I just think it shows a lack of professionalism and arrogance. It's the blase approach that he can handle it does this mean in the general election of 2010 we'll be voting for Mr Blackberry?
But what I'm really getting at is will blackberry's become the main factor in decision making. Will heart surgeons decide
whether or not someone needs a bypass while the patient's in Leeds and the surgeon's in the south of France? Will
prisioners be released from sentences early by a judge who doesn't know anything about the case nor is even in the
same area as the court? I'm not ranting about technology but this has really shaken me up, it's just that of course
technology such as the Blackberry is really benefical for professionals in society, it makes their work easier and keeps
them in the loop without being chained to the office.
But really, should the country be run by one?
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Sat, 08th Aug 2009
MamaP
NO,NO,NO.!! Technology has it's place and is a wonderful thing, but nothing can replace the personal touch. I
find it all quite frightening and the MP's should rota their holidays like corporate businesses. Imagine all the
doctors in hospitals going on holiday at the same time. Operations could be carried out by text messages to
the domestics. Whatever next?
Sat, 08th Aug 2009
NotGandalf
This motley bunch know their days are numbered - sadly, they will be allowed to just tread water for the next
ten months.
Sun, 09th Aug 2009
Spudson_reborn
Unfortunately its not so much technology in itself that is the problem in this scenario. Its more the attitudes of
these people and also the general apathy of everybody else that allows them to get away with it. I always find
news like this somewhere between genius and sheer arrogance. Its perfect for setting everyone off in 20
different directions because god forbid everybody went the same way and made a difference. In the same way
knowledge without application is useless, undirected outrage just contributes to a general melee of ugliness
and bad social feeling
Sun, 09th Aug 2009
BigCol
I can't help thinking this must be a good thing. I've never ever managed to get hold of my MP when he's in his
office in this country. So if the fact that he's more accessible on his Blackberry in Corfu, even though he's on
holiday, means I can get to him then it's got to be a step forward. Mind you I haven't tried yet.
Spudson
But Col, you know as well as I do that everyone has a phone its just no bugger answers it.
Sun, 09th Aug 2009
Sun, 09th Aug 2009
BigCol
I have to say, Spud, I hate the bloody things. Someone calls me? "Hi! Really? Ok! Bye." Gotta comment on
Mama's 'personal touch'. From an MP? When did that ever happen?
Sun, 09th Aug 2009
MamaP
'BC. Well Col, I did have a phone call some years ago from Rupert Allason. He was very helpful after I asked
for some advice. He didn't actually 'touch' me.:-) Oh well!!
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2010: Exam Stress
By: Hi_ImJenny, Sun, 09th Aug 09 9:35pm
By 2010, there will be significant developments from either the medical world or the government.
The NHS will introduce a herbal non-medicial 'drug' to help combat the feelings of stress; nausea, anticipation,
nervousness, panic, fright and mild insomnia and will perscribe it to students awaiting GCSE; A-Level or University
results.
On the other hand, the Government may introduce initiatives to preoccupy students when they're not on holiday. This
could include local 'camps' where school parties can go and just relax doing adventure activites or just learning about
the local area they're in.
Either that, or just give vouchers entitling teenagers to discount on cider so they can go get merry and forget their
worries; as well as for post-results to aid celebrations or help with drowning their sorrows!
*I just wish it'd be bloody easier - I'm preverbially crapping myself. And I mean, there's nothing worse than seeing
someone on GMTV opening their results at 8.15 who looks like me, did the same subjects as me and says 'oh, I got 2
D's and 2 C's' - not the greatest confidence boost.*
Mon, 10th Aug 2009
MasterSignwriter
Maybe state inforced visits to McDonalds once a week for all students to act as an intiative to study.
Mon, 10th Aug 2009
BigCol
So basically you want cannabis to be freely available on the NHS. Blimey Jen, we've been crying out for that
since 1966.
Mon, 10th Aug 2009
Hi_ImJenny
I'm not actually, it sounds like it but you know there's that weird 'Kalms' thing on the telly with the woman
juggling? Well, like that.
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2009: Young, Dumb and Living off
Mum
By: Hi_ImJenny, Mon, 10th Aug 09 7:38pm
For those of you who haven't been watching BBC Three at 9pm on a Sunday night, this new programme sees eight
spoilt, totally dependent people aged from 17 to 25 come together living independently.
During their stay in the London house many have had to face the challenge of cooking healthy evening meals, using a
washing machine and managing the cleaning. Every week they complete one days hard work, a massive challenge for
the most of them. So far, they've shed blood, sweat and tears working in a hotel; managing a farm and having a market
stall in Portobello Road. Meanwhile, their parents are watching and eventually decide who hasn't given their all and
would no longer benefit from spending their time in the house, thus eliminating one of them. The overall winner is given
the opportunity to use their new found independence in an around the world trip.
It is, I must admit a really good watch. Yet it just shocks me - I'm stunned at low little some teenagers can do. The
majority of them have never had a job nor want one at all, quoting one: 'I don't do responsibilities'. Now, I'm not saying
I'm a wonder teenager who is ahead of her time and will go far in life but surely, most young people can cook more
than garlic bread and can last more than three hours in a job?
More often than not, people criticize others for the way they raised their children which I think is stupid. Yes, I'm an only
child so perhaps I am a little spoilt but I'm sure as parents, that's a nice feeling, being able to give your children the
things they want. But there's a point where it becomes ridiculous and many do stop at that I feel - but when the parents
do stop 'spoiling' and 'treating' their children, shouldn't youngsters think 'Right, I've got to do it myself now' instead 'But
mum!'
What I'm getting at, I know is something I talk about an awful lot but really is this a new thing with the young people of
today? Or have people always been this, not lazy, but dependent and not real go getters?
Mon, 10th Aug 2009
Spudson
Need has been surpassed by want as there is no, or at least very limited, social or political upheaval that
affects the general populace, especially the young. The problem is though tht I imagine there has always been
a certain amount of people like this but as with all good sheep, the rise of mass media and its encouragement
of idleness, ( I mean look at big brother. Sit on your arse for 8 weeks and we'll make you a millionaire, if you
show us you're thick as pigshit, we'll give you your own chat show as well), has created a larger and more
deluded youth who feel they can be plucked from obscurity at anytime and the worse they let their lives get,
the more of a story they'll have to get them through to the next round of X factor as it detracts from the fact
Page 36 of 232
they cant sing
Tue, 11th Aug 2009
FoxyCollins
Things really have changed Jenny and that probably is no surprise.I'm obviously "old school" like plenty of
others on the Dictionary.Back in the day sponging off mum and dad wasn't an option.You left school and got a
job and paid your mum housekeeping.If you were clever enough and wanted it you could go to university and
that was free in those days.
Mon, 21st Feb 2011
Verks
As a fellow student i too feel i should stick-up for those of us who don't fall into that stereotype. I had my first
saturday job at 14 and have always been encouraged by my parents to work hard both for the financial reward
and the life experience. Thanks to those experiences i'm probably more independent that many of my peers
and able to cope with new situations with confidence. Having said that, i hardly live an independent life - my
parents cook most of the time and i don't do my own washing. But should i be expected to? No, i don't think so.
I may be 18 (bearing in mind my mum had her own house at my age) but while i live at home, in full time
education and with younger siblings, to some extent my parents want to do those things for me. And i'm not
going to complain!
Page 37 of 232
2011: Beach Huts
By: Hi_ImJenny, Fri, 14th Aug 09 8:45pm
I predict that in two years time, people will begin to embrace the traditional seaside holiday, the British beach break.
What got me thinking about this was the fact I'm travelling to good ol' Southend-on-Sea tomorrow to see my family; and
the place of rendez-vous is their blue and white striped beach hut. For me, it does conjure up for me memories of rifling
through old shoe boxes of photos from my mum's childhood. In proper 1960's swim-swear, there's this little two year
old girl from Brixton going crabbing with her uncle and dad, then tucking into fish and chips with her mum and sister. It's
something that's part of British history and it's something that I think needs to be kept alive for as long as possible.
In people's quests for sunshine and sangria, they've neglected Britain. I'm not saying I don't like going in search of sun;
sea and sand because I do, Portugal is lovely but still, there's something quintessentially delightful about the British
seaside. My Uncle Keith even has traditional striped deckchairs that he will probably bring out tomorrow, and we'll walk
along to the chippy when he'll probably grill me with the usual stuff 'How's your mum? She's saying she's fine but is she
really? How's school been? You're not worrying about your results are you?'. It makes me chuckle how he'll happily
interrogate me even when we're sitting in the hut - but he can do - he's at his beach hut.
It's an icon on the seaside, it's stood the test of time and even now, they are really sought after. In Cornwall, there are
beach huts that can be slept in overnight but that's neither here nor there, there's just something delightful, perhaps
'magical' about going down to the beach at nine in the morning, to take the padlock off the door and open up the hut
that still houses my mum's rollerblades from the 70's; buckets, spades - everything that makes a day at the beach
much more exciting. I love the charm of them, and yes I'm proper British at heart if that's what you're wondering (how
could you have not noticed?!). I feel so strong about it, I want to have my very own when I'm older - there are
something that have to be remembered, re-embraced and adored for many more years to come.
Fri, 14th Aug 2009
batteredhaddock
My late wife Sue and I had a Beach Hut on Broadsands Beach in beautiful Torbay and we, and family and
friends, spent many happy holidays there. Many thanks for the wonderful treasured memories you have
brought back to me Jenny!! xx
Sat, 15th Aug 2009
BigCol
When I was a kid (which was before the days of your mum's rollerblades Jenny) I was always jealous of
people who had these beach huts and couldn't understand why we didn't have one. They HAVE got a charm
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about them which is essentially Brit along with saucy postcards lettered rock, and I'll miss them when they're
gone, which sadly I fear they will be one day. Trouble is, the kind of summers we get these days, the upkeep
of fitting central heating, and loft insulation will prove too expensive.
Sun, 16th Aug 2009
NotGandalf
This post has remimded me of all those 1950s holidays in Shanklin and Cliftonville. Guy Mitchell, Tommy
Steele and Lonnie Donegan on the Jukebox. Mum in the beach hut making banana and strawberry jam rolls (a
combination I still enjoy)Dad pulling his trousers up to his knees so he could rescue the Lilo from the outgoing
tide. Carol from London in the next chalet - her accent was totally foreign to me at age 8, so I was instantly in
love.
batteredhaddock
Beach Hut Memories are priceless!!!
Sun, 16th Aug 2009
Sun, 16th Aug 2009
radiosw
This is a lovely thought and we have often thought about trying to get a hut. But do we want to tie ourselves to
one beach? Heck why not!
Sun, 16th Aug 2009
NotGandalf
Someone should start a "Hut-Timeshare" business. We could all be swapping our fortnight in Morecambe for a
week in Torquay.
Tue, 18th Aug 2009
PaulaK
I love the idea of the beach hut timeshare, brilliant. Ifind the beach a bit cold in England about 264 days a year
but get out the bat and ball and warm up, all sounds fun.
Page 39 of 232
2009: AS RESULTS
By: Hi_ImJenny, Thu, 20th Aug 09 12:46pm
The grades are in, and are as follows:
AS English Language: B
AS English Literature: B
AS History: B
AS Media Studies: C
I'm over the moon!!!! Admittedly, the coursework for literature has been a bit of a controversy. When moderated, AQA
confirmed I was to receive an A but because of the new specification, it's been lowered to a C. In the exam, I received
53/53 for literature; the first 100% in the school's history. Apart from that bit of a pickle, the coursework's going to be
resubmitted in November.
I truely am over the moon, and so proud of myself. My dream of studying International History and Politics at the
London School of Economics is even closer than ever now. Thank you all for your constant support and reassurance,
and advice. Even though I only really know Colin on here, all of you have given those three things - advice, support and
reassurance - constantly. That's a great gift and I can't thank you enough.
Now I'm off for some cider and then out for dinner tonight with my very proud parents, the three of us are grinning from
ear to ear like the Cheshire cat.
Jenny. x
Thu, 20th Aug 2009
BigCol
Fan-bloody-tastic. Have a GREEEEEEAAAAT night. A small award by comparison but have a 'V' point just
for being you. xx
PaulaK
Amazing, well done. Really happy for you.
Thu, 20th Aug 2009
Page 40 of 232
radiosw
Well done and keep that dream in mind.
Thu, 20th Aug 2009
Deacongirl
Excellent!
Thu, 20th Aug 2009
MasterSignwriter
Congratulations!.
Thu, 20th Aug 2009
TheGreatVisionar
Future MP/PM? Well done Jenny
Thu, 20th Aug 2009
NotGandalf
Congratulations Jenny - a great start.
Thu, 20th Aug 2009
MamaP
Congratulations Jenny. So pleased for you.:)x
Thu, 20th Aug 2009
batteredhaddock
A wonderful result for you Jenny, Congratulations. 'V' Point awarded for effort!x
Thu, 20th Aug 2009
elsie
Congratulations,now life really starts,all the doors are open.You'll enjoy every day at uni.
Thu, 20th Aug 2009
ChrisChaplin
Well Done Jenny
Fri, 21st Aug 2009
Fri, 21st Aug 2009
mephisto
As expected! LSE WILL BE GREAT-University Challenge? Reading Visionary Dictionary! Congratulations
Jenny, Good luck for the future!
jemmapicken
Well done
LadyV
Jenny for PM for sure. Congratulations. xx
Fri, 21st Aug 2009
Sat, 22nd Aug 2009
Sat, 22nd Aug 2009
MamaP
Just remember Jenny, you can form a cabinet from VDers who say it like it is, don't backtrack, stick to the
punishments given and put PC in the shredder, it doesn't work. Bring on ZERO TOLERANCE, you will be PM
before you leave LSE.:))X
ellen
Congratulations Jenny
Tue, 25th Aug 2009
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2018: Britain and its doctors
By: Hi_ImJenny, Wed, 26th Aug 09 5:58pm
As a seventeen year old going into the last year of secondary school education, university is a hot topic between my
friends and I. Indeed, my friend Marika who I've known since I was born came over at the weekend, and was telling me
about how she aspires to become a doctor, following in her mother's footsteps. Yet when describing the various
universities she's visiting; Birmingham, Nottingham, Kings College London and University College London, there were
some things that really shocked me.
The majority of institutions do take your previous qualifications such as your GCSE's into account regardless of the
standard; you could be a straight A student or someone who achieved C's, D's and E's. However, some that Marika
looked at essentially told prospective students that if one did not have a minimum of nine A*'s they was no point
applying to the univerisites. At first, I could see the logic in this but now, I'm not entirely sure. Some pupils only really
come out of their shells so to speak when they enter sixth forms and colleges. At this point, students can almost tailor
their own curriculm and timetables, choosing the subjects they want to learn instead of having to take those that are
compulsory. In addition, to study for a degree in medicine some may be highly skilled in biology; chemistry, physics
and possibly maths. Therefore, other subjects may at times be challenging. I for one am able in English and History yet
struggled constantly in Maths and Science.
There after, Marika said how she visited one university and on the open day was told that she would need to sit entry
exams to gain a place; one specialised in the three sciences and a general exam. Although acceptable and justified, it
suddenly dawned on me the meticulous and down right rigorous selection process that our country has adopted when
considering people to qualify as GP's and surgeons. Of course, this can be reassuring as we can trust those working
within our local sugery are capable and effective in the work they practice.
However, one thing I still can't comprehend is the fact that many come to England from neighbouring countries and
continents especially mainland Europe and Asia, and manage to qualify to practice here in Britain without any fuss. I
mean, why does it seem that our own nations people are having to be tested to the limit while those from abroad
migrate and can quickly and easily establish themselves?
Please please please realise I am in no way racist or xenophobic, as long as I know there is a doctor in my surgery
who I can see and who can cure whatever the problem is, I'm happy. Yet it pains me that people who were born here
and raised here, such as Marika are having to be tested constantly meanwhile those from abroad fly in and walk in
straight through the door.
By 2018 I hope that the NHS and the Government realise the home grown talent that is here in Britain; and that those
students eager to work in the medical world should be given a bit more of an opportunity to make their aspirations
Page 42 of 232
reality. I'm a strong believer on seeing what's on your doorstep before you look beyond the garden gate and that really
does apply here. See what's available in Britain and employ as many as possible ensuring that they do of course, cut
the mustard. Then, if the lack of doctors is still worryingly high, then see beyond our country. If anything, giving our
students the first opportunity is simply good manners, ignoring them is just plain rudeness. Neglectful to say the least.
Those sitting in NHS offices need to realise that they could become seriously ill one day and not be able to see a
doctor/specialist right away - and there's one reason for that. The perfect person could be sitting behind an office desk
also, dwelling on the fact they never did get the chance to save peoples lives.
Thu, 27th Aug 2009
BigCol
I don't know the answer to this Jenny, and I've been googling away trying to find out if there are any govement
deals made that force us to take a certain percentage from abroad to employ within our Medical Services.
Does anyone know?
Thu, 27th Aug 2009
ellen
You have made some good points here Jenny. Nine 9 A*s does seem rather a lot to expect. Because
students apply before taking A'levels I realise that universities do need to take GCSEs into consideration but
they could look at predicted A'level results and put more emphasis on GCSE results for sciences and less on
other subjects.
Thu, 27th Aug 2009
MasterSignwriter
@ col, i was thinking the same thing, i can understand the concern here, but id like to know how the foreign
qualifications add up to our own, are the doctors from out of the country more qualified than our own that dont
get the job? i have no idea.
I am under the belief that if you go to a mechanic you want the very best for the job, so where my health is
concerned its got to be water tight and only the very best will do.
Thu, 27th Aug 2009
BigCol
And if it's not the very best - Why not? I'm gonna slap this on my Facebook page and see if there's any
response from there.
Page 43 of 232
2009: Simply Cocaine
By: Hi_ImJenny, Wed, 02nd Sep 09 9:32pm
Tonight, as usual I tuned into the BBC South East news at 6.30. Most of the news stories covered I don't pay attention
to, knowing about a woman who has a collection of over 100 paintings of cats doesn't really float my boat. Yet tonight
there was a story that got me enraged, stupified and more importantly - got me thinking.
A company here in Kent has released an energy drink, similar to Red Bull but have decided to call it 'Simply Cocaine'.
It is to be sold in pubs, bars and restaurants yet only to the over 18's. Now it must be stressed that energy drinks are
legally available to people of any age - yet to put an age limit to it does give the connotations similar to those of alcohol.
However, most people have bees in their bonnets over the name of said drink. Some feel it will simply encourage drug
abuse in the younger people in society, others feel that people will drink 'Simply Cocaine', enjoy the energetic sugar
rush they'll experience and perhaps move onto the real thing. Now, these are plausable concerns and I understand
people do worry that drug use and abuse will escalate.
For me, it just gets me down. More and more stories come out in the news of teenagers being anti-social but for this,
people are already under the impression young people will confirm their worries and concerns - that they will take this
too far. Now, I'm not saying teenagers are perfect, far from it - but some actually do respect their elders, this society
and the laws that govern us. Therefore, if a group of us were to go into the pub when we're 18 and think 'aha, I'm going
to try that' so many will watch with baited breath for us to go off on one causing trouble and ruining everybody's night.
That's not it. We're being told 'Pull yourself together, grow up and act your age' but then teens are immediately
accused of what we will definitely do. Well, how do they know that's what we're definitely going to do? Some might
realise it isn't worth it - which it definitely isn't. Are people in Britain so set in their ways and attitudes towards youths
that they will not change their mind, and look at it from a different angle?
As I wrap this up, many commented how using the word 'cocaine' does promote drugs, glamourise it almost. I
personally think perhaps the company used the word for the shock-factor, and to intrigue so many that they'll go on to
try the drink. However, if you're going to say using the drug's name is a ridiculous, stupid decision - what about Eric
Clapton hey? His brilliant song 'Cocaine' even personifies the drug, now, what would people say about that? Yes, I'm
probably being immature saying 'Well, that's not fair' but y'know, maybe it was written at a time where cocaine wasn't
such an issue. All just depends on the times init.
Wed, 02nd Sep 2009
MasterSignwriter
Probably cheaper to buy cocaine, didnt coca cola once contain traces of the real stuff? Good post.
Page 44 of 232
Wed, 02nd Sep 2009
BigCol
Being someone who miraculously managed to get through the '80s with his nostrils still intact, my initial
reaction is to wonder how anyone can be so naive as to call a drink a name like that. I think most kids have
got it together enough to be able to distinguish between an energy drink and something you stick up your
nose. And those that haven't will probably have great fun discovering the kick you can get by tooting Tizer. @
MS - Apparently so. Coke did once have traces of the original stuff. @ Jenny - In defence of the writer of
'Cocaine' (J J Cale and not Eric) he does say in the last verse 'Don't forget this fact there ain't no turning back
from cocaine'.
TheGreatVisionar
I believe we are only 20 - 30 years away from it being made legal and taxed.
Wed, 02nd Sep 2009
BigCol
What makes you say that GV?
Wed, 02nd Sep 2009
Hoodie
Coke. Two types, one rots your nose, the other rots your teeth.
Wed, 02nd Sep 2009
Wed, 02nd Sep 2009
FoxyCollins
A very good post Jenny and you come across as much older than a teenager.It's never been any different,I
was a teenager from 1968-1974 and we got the blame for everything.There's trouble making people
throughout the generations but old gits like my generation and my parents and grandparents will always give
teenagers a hard time because that's when you are changing from child to adult and it brings massive
baggage with it.
batteredhaddock
I have a false nose AND false teeth - so I must have done the Full Monty!!
Wed, 02nd Sep 2009
TheGreatVisionar
@BigCol, because things will get much worse before they get better, I believe this to be true.
Wed, 02nd Sep 2009
Thu, 03rd Sep 2009
Deacongirl
I get furious at the lengths manufacturers will go to sell products! Young people do not need any more
encouragement to be stimulated by either a drug or a drink. I did my fair share of 'experimenting' in the 70's but
I fear for the peer/media pressure my two teenagers are under today.
Disguising drinks that simply make your heart rate increase with trendy names and colours is rediculous.I read
somewhere that we only have a finite number of heartbeats, if we drink all this crap we might be using up our
quota more quickly.......... Mmmm not sure that can be right. Anyways, the harsh facts are that industry does
not give a rats ass about the immediate or long term affects of anything we buy, whether it is to sit on, to help
us sleep, to eat or drink. We have departments that are supposed to protect us but they cannot keep up and
probably manipulate their findings to appease more powerful forces than themselves.
We thought Thalidomide was an outrage but the truth is that we continue to have ongoing threat and damage
to our welfare right under our noses, every single day. Im off for a lie down now, been on VD all eve!
Thu, 03rd Sep 2009
MamaP
Maybe someone should enlighten me. Alcohol is legal, taxed and has departments set up to help alcoholics. It
is still a problem and is a destroyer of body and mind when over indulged long term. Getting older and looking
around, I believe our bodies need to be looked after from young ,to try and have some quality of health in the
twilight years. I'm not a killjoy or a grumpy old woman, i'm just a person who cares and want our little ones to
be able to grow up safely. I still think the majority of folk feel the same, so bring in the firing squad and get rid
of the rest!
Page 45 of 232
2011: Concert Tickets
By: Hi_ImJenny, Fri, 04th Sep 09 3:08pm
I predict, actually I hope that in two years time concert tickets won't always cost an arm and a leg. If there's an artist
that targets the younger generation don't hike your ticket prices up so high and then complain when you don't sell out. I
mean, I went to see Billy Bragg, yeah not the greatest performer but £16 the tickets cost in Hastings - and what a show
that was. Yeah, only about 200 turned up but still, an incredible gig.
As for Take That's Circus tour, a group of 6 of us were desperate for tickets. Yet to sell them for upwards of £50 plus
train tickets plus food and drinks you're looking at all together possibly £80-90, which is a lot for someone on a limited
budget. Yeah, I have a small job but even then, I have to live.
I'm probably just complaining but you see artists, Beyonce most recently saying 'Yes, I want fans who were listening to
me when they were 7 and are now nearly 18 to come to my show." We'd love to dear but hey, selling £65 tickets isn't
making it easy. If artists just appreciated that even without the economic crisis, teens find it tough too.
Although one exception is going to be Chris Rea and Mark Knopfler. I'm getting mum and dad tickets for Chris Rea's
tour in 2010 when they go on sale in November (don't tell them though). According to The Times, tickets will retail at
£40. Now, even though I won't be there, that'll be £80 well spent.
And that is what gets me, some performers I suppose can sell tickets for that price because they know they'll sell, but
even then, you're sucked into it I suppose - you'll pay anything to see the artist you admire, to hear the music you love.
The culmination of ticket, transport, food, drinks all adds up and in the end although you've had a brilliant evening
you're left with measly funds. Even then, sometimes the gig wasn't worth all of that.
Fri, 04th Sep 2009
BigCol
I know it costs a lot more to put on a concert these days, particularly a spectacular like Take That, but it does
all seem a bit out of proportion to the cost of everything else. On the other hand, all those years ago did it cost
me somewhere around 15% of my weeks wages to go and see the Beatles? Can't really remember but quite
possibly.
Fri, 04th Sep 2009
NotGandalf
Jenny, It's not the artistes that earn fortunes from the concert tickets. Even enormous events such as the Take
That tour are lucky to break even. Large tours are usually taken on as a way to promote the current
single/album/DVD/autobiog raphy of the artiste. The cost of hiring suitable venues is soaring. This is partly due
Page 46 of 232
to the Health & Safety aspects of modern buildings and is the main reason why you can't compare artistes
doing a twenty quid ticket on the end of the pier with a similar act at the O2 arena. Sound and Lighting
equipment and the expertise of the men who operate is also a factor. Then of course there is always the
dreaded VAT.
Fri, 04th Sep 2009
batteredhaddock
Talking about the price of tickets, I have just seen the price of tickets for Jane McDonald (who is appearing at
the Princess Theatre on 13th September) £27.50. I have only ever seen her on 'Loose Women' so can anyone
assure me that if I book a ticket for this show it will be money well spent?
Page 47 of 232
2010: Waking up to Wogan no
more...
By: Hi_ImJenny, Mon, 07th Sep 09 4:17pm
The Daily Mail broke the news at the weekend that the legend that is Sir Terry Wogan is to step down from his Radio 2
breakfast show 'Wake up to Wogan' at the end of this year, to be replaced by fellow Radio 2 Chris Evans.
As described by many, Wogan can be considered the anchor of Radio 2 and breakfast radio. That gentle Irish voice is
most suitable for morning radio shows yet for me, adament I am a sleep deprived teenager, the bellowing of Chris
Moyles is most welcome.
Of course the news is a bit of a shame; I do enjoy listening to Wogan yet some people who were interviewed for the
television and radio as well as those who wrote articles seem really annoyed by Wogan's retirement. Yes, he is a
'legend' with an incredibly well-established career spanning around forty years but after all, he is an elderly man who is
retiring.
Although a fan of Chris Evans, his slap-stick, mad approach to broadcasting is pure brilliance on a Friday evening after
a long week at school, really puts a smile on my face. Yet, is it a good idea having him on in the mornings? Personally,
listening to Johnnie Walker who covers when Sir Terry's on hols, the choice in music; 'interaction' with Alan Dedicoat
and the listeners, I feel, is a better combination for the breakfast show.
This post is a bit muddled but what I'm getting at is, replacing Wogan with Evans who is in his own right a brilliant radio
DJ does highlight the gap Wogan will leave in December. Do radio stations in your opinion rely on big names to pull in
listeners? I mean, although Radio 1 is a hit with the young, if Chris Moyles was to walk out, morning listener figures
would plummet. And, if radio stations do, how could they stop relying on such stars? It would be impossible to
hand-pick every radio 'legend' for one station but then to have 'average' DJ's would lower the figures surely? Is there a
happy medium to radio broadcasting?
MasterSignwriter
Bring back Mark and Lard!
Mon, 07th Sep 2009
NotGandalf
Johnnie Walker is often underated and overlooked.
Mon, 07th Sep 2009
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Mon, 07th Sep 2009
BigCol
By the time I'm up and ready to listen to anyone, Terry Wogan has left the building and been replaced by Ken
Bruce. I've never been a fan of Wogan on the radio. Just can't get into his ramblings and want to press
something NotGandalf was talking to me about called a 'shut-up-button' (You really should get that on here as
a prediction NG). I've always been a fan of Chris Evans but, like you Jenny, not sure I could cope with him first
thing in the morning. I tend to agree Johnnie Walker should really be the man.
Mon, 07th Sep 2009
Hi_ImJenny
Haha, we should do that! You can actually on the 10 Downing St website make online petutio a that the
government will consider. As for Eurovision, I don't know where you've been BB but he left yonks ago, Graham
Norton presented 2009 :) x
NotGandalf
I predict Wogan will quit Eurovision in 2008!
Mon, 07th Sep 2009
BigCol
Don't worry about it Bill. I'm very happy to say I didn't know that either.
Mon, 07th Sep 2009
Mon, 07th Sep 2009
Deacongirl
Im a big Wogan fan but the poor guy must need a rest! Johnnie Walker would be way better to wake up to than
Chris Evans, he wears me out.
Mon, 07th Sep 2009
lol_aa
I'm with the majority on this one, Evans is OK, but so early in the morning....enough to put you off your
cornflakes!
Mon, 07th Sep 2009
FoxyCollins
The post seems to have steered to who should replace Wogan.If that is the question it's absolutely Johnnie
Walker every time.I've always looked forward to Wogan going on hols because JW sits in for him.I agree with
what Jim Davidson wrote in his autobiography,"Terry Wogan is a little too pleased with himself for my liking".
TheGreatVisionar
Like it Foxy.
Mon, 07th Sep 2009
Mon, 07th Sep 2009
FoxyCollins
Chris Evans has grown up.I used to listen to his breakfast show every morning about 10 years ago when he
owned Virgin radio.He had a team of sycophants (I know I've spelt that wrong but I tried to ring LadyV and
she's not answering}and he would have a barrel of Guiness (I know I've spelt that wrong too) in the studio
every St. Patick's day.I heard him one morning pulling a pint at 7.00 am.and he carried on all day and he was
back at work next day.He will do a fantastic breakfast show but personally I just want him to stop talking over
the records.
Mon, 07th Sep 2009
PeachPussy
Does anyone listen to the local radio stations in the morning? Won't miss Terry though, I find him a bit silly and
smug!
BigCol
The only thing wrong with your spelling Foxy, is you don't know when you've got it right.
Mon, 07th Sep 2009
Mon, 07th Sep 2009
FoxyCollins
@BC,cheers BC,I used to be very confident with my spelling but now on VD with all the teachers and brainy
contributours I'm not so sure.And I'm still getting my spelling wrong!
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Mon, 07th Sep 2009
FoxyCollins
@ PeachPussy,I couldn't agree more.So smug he keeps playing Billy Joel so he can sing along in an annoying
deep voice thing, "In the middle of the,in the middle of the".He just loves his self so much I will be glad when
he's gone.I know he does lots of charity stuff but he still winds me up.
batteredhaddock
So long as there is good music on the radio when you wake up - who gives a F^^k!!
Sat, 12th Sep 2009
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2010: The best days of my life
By: Hi_ImJenny, Sat, 19th Sep 09 7:51pm
Yes, I'll be heading off to university! Conversations in the Powell household used to revolve around what we all did
during our days; current news stories and conversations we had had with various people. Now, it's all focused on
university open days; new laptops and what I'd need for when I go, small printers that are easy to refill and storage
space. 2010 will be the start of a new 'life' for me I suppose, thing's will change, I will change; grow, mature and
become who I'm supposed to be (probably incredibly bouncy yet reserved, ditzy yet nerdy - yes you get the picture :D )
It's definitely going to be a change, a culture shock perhaps but as they say, the best days of my life are to be those
three years!
But are they? I mean, they say 'school's the best time of your life' but you go off to uni as an eighteen year old out into
the world and they then say the next three year's will be the best. Is it the case when the 'best years' shift as you grow
older?
What do you think are the best years of your life? Were they at uni?
Sat, 19th Sep 2009
Bassist
Best days always seem to be the ones we've already had - it's so easy to look back with rose tinted specs. It
took me a while to realise that the best day of my life is today - and not easy to keep hold of that fact. I didn't
go to uni - not bright enough to stay on and invited to leave school at 16. I do wish I had been able to go off
and do Uni as I feel like I missed out - so enjoy it, learn loads, have fun, be sensible, remember to have 'me
time'!
Sat, 19th Sep 2009
batteredhaddock
Never went to Uni - Never went to Grammar School - nevertheless, every day has been totalled up into the
best years of my life!!
Sat, 19th Sep 2009
BigCol
Yeah you're gonna change Jenny. But you're gonna stay Jenny aren't you. You don't need me to tell you it's
all to do with what you're doing, where you are, who you're with, why you are there, and as long as you make
the most of all of that then the chances are you'll look back on some of the best days of your life. One small tip
on that; if you find yourself saying "They were the best days of my life" always, even if it's under your breath,
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afterwards say "So far", cos I've found that to be true. BatteredHaddock nearly said for me what I believe of
my best days, that in total they add up to the best life of my years.
Sun, 20th Sep 2009
MasterSignwriter
Never went to Uni but got thrown out of Dartington Art School after 3 months, from what i remember of Uni
Students theyre bombarded with so many ways of thinking that they find it difficult to assert their own
personality till years afterward, that said you do seem very clued up and bound to take the input positively. As
for best years, Col puts it very well, start every day like its your first and possibly last and you cant go far
wrong, works for me anyway.
MamaP
Still having mine.
Mon, 21st Sep 2009
Mon, 21st Sep 2009
FoxyCollins
Reading your many posts Jenny you come across as being years ahead of your age.The fact that your'e
asking this question shows that.You can see a pattern emerging from the previous comments and they're from
us older VD'rs.We all can look at our best days in retrospect but at the time we didn't know we were having our
best days.Like some of the others I didn't go to University,it was never something I wanted and I wasn't clever
enough even if I did.So don't worry about it,embrace it,and in the years to come you will remember all the good
times at Uni and you'll mentally block out any bad times.But I think that bouncy reserverd ditzy(I don't agree
with nerdy) Hi-ImJenny is living her best years and will have a fab time at Uni and lots of good memories in the
future.Good post V point.
Tue, 29th Sep 2009
Spudson
Its all subjective Jen. If you think you're going to have a good time, you will and vice versa. Just dont be to
preoccupied with their creation, they will happen by themselves, just live in the moment, (and remember the
1st year isn't for studying, its for blowing your loan on cheap beer, tins of Tesco value beans and dodgy
kebabs from that little place that's the only open kebab shop at 4am. ;))
Tue, 29th Sep 2009
BigCol
Of course Spudson's absolutely right about the beer, beans and kebabs Jen. Only don't go boasting about it on
here otherwise I might have to tell your mum.
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2011: Immigration CONTROL
By: Hi_ImJenny, Wed, 23rd Sep 09 7:36pm
This post's been influenced by the question Colin posted, which focuses on the break up of the 'Jungle' in Calais. First
of all I have to say I'm staying put on the fence with that one; on one hand I feel the French Police are justified in what
they did, after all, they need to maintain some sort of discipline/authority in their country. Yet on the other hand, and as
Colin said - where are they to go? Many have fled to another 'Jungle' situated just outside Dunkirk, but how long will
that one last?
So many immigrants say they want to come to the United Kingdom for a better quality of life. Those comments come
from France, Eastern Europe and as far as Vietnam and Thailand. Yet, I somehow can't think why. We are, supposedly
starting the recovery from one of the worst economic downturns our country has seen; our social services is being
exposed to be one that fails/failed hundreds of children, and globally are quality of life for children is meant to be one of
the worst. And still, why do people want to come here?
It does infuriate me that many people, narrow-minded or ignorant at times, complain that 'Immigrants come over and
here stealing our jobs!'. My local supermarket employs Eastern Europeans in the car washing business they offer. Yet
the detail that needs to be stressed is that those who migrate here are desperate for any job they can get. So,
essentially people complain jobs are being filled by immigrants but those jobs COULD be filled by British citizens, yet
they don't want those jobs. It's almost like a no win situation sometimes - so I've got a plan.
It's common knowledge (I think) that immigrants do bring something to our country. As I've just said, they do the jobs
some people deem 'beneath them'. Yet, of course, our country is becoming incredibly overcrowded. To make the best
of both worlds; we need to curb the amount of people entering the UK from foreign borders. I'm not saying a certain
number a week or month but I believe that the governement should assess how many jobs are empty and how many
people are unemployed. Then, and this may sound discriminating against immigrants but UK citizens should have first
choice with the jobs available in their area. Then, immigrants that have entered the country in the last, say, six to
twelve months can be found employment.
Another alternative would be to assess figures for the population of this, the United Kingdom. Identify how many men,
women and children there are. Then, look at the facilities we have - are they enough? As more and more families enter
the UK we surely need more doctors? More schools?
It could be a never ending cycle, I don't know. Yet, such a simple plan of CONTROL and knowing what you have would
be essential to improving the situation. I mean, it's a bizzare comparision but I look at it as I do my wardrobe. Each
season, I look and think 'I've got 6 jumpers, 7 odd cardigans and 4 pairs of jeans - but I haven't got a light jacket' for
example. Knowing what you have before you expand surely is what the Governement and immigration control should
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be doing?
BigCol
If only it was as simple as that Jenny.
MamaP
I agree with BigCol. If only.
Wed, 23rd Sep 2009
Thu, 24th Sep 2009
Thu, 24th Sep 2009
Hi_ImJenny
It could be! I mean, politicans are always 'Lets think outside the box' which I agree with most of the time. Yet
this time, going back to basics is what we need!
Fri, 25th Sep 2009
MisterE
HI Jenny, there are over 3 million officially unemployed, probably another 3 million unofficial. Add to that an
estimated 2 million illegal immigrants as well as 3 million legal immigrants. We are looking to find 11 million
jobs! Never going to happen. It is time to close the doors, take stock of who we have here now. Are they
working and paying tax? yes - fine. No - then community service in order to claim benefits. 40 hours a week
or they get nothing. You will then discover that most of them will soon find their own way home.
Tue, 29th Sep 2009
mephisto
It is i'm afraid too late! We are already bursting at the seams and out of control. All we can hope for is damage
limitation!
Thu, 01st Oct 2009
Spudson
I really do think we need to first take care of ourselves. I think the benefit system for uk natives needs to be
revised and should be dependant on how much money you have actually put into the system over the years in
order to eliminate habitual spongers. With regard to jobs no-one wants, these should be given to people who
are long term unemployed with failure to take up that job punishible by prison sentence of up to 6 months and
expulsion from the benefit system altogether. The thing you also have to consider is how many back handers
the customs workers are getting. To let so many illegals slip through the net in a country with limited ports,
especially as it's mainly confined to the south coast, is no accident. If they claim it is then that is a truly
cataclysmic mistake and worthy of the whole staff being replaced. I'm with Mister E, time to close the doors I'm
afraid and sort our own mess out first.
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2010: Government vs. The Bottle
By: Hi_ImJenny, Fri, 09th Oct 09 9:28pm
After reading, and slightly ranting on messmanager's it really got me thinking. I concluded by saying 'perhaps our
government's lost the battle with the bottle' and you know what - I think it has.
We're constantly being reminded how harmful alcohol can be on our bodies; our relations with others and in general,
our society. Yet, has no one considered the effect it's having on British politics? It creates a vicious cycle, that in turn
creates this knock-on effect if that makes sense? Once people fall to alcohol, it is increasingly hard to stop it. Now,
please realise I'm not tarred everyone who enjoys a drink with the same brush but generally, this is what it's like. I'm
eighteen this coming July and will of course, be returning in the early hours of July 4th with a stonking hangover. Yet as
most of my friends are turning eighteen already and have their own cars, the risk of drink-driving incidents are
becoming ever more apparent.
I've been one of those people who would happily say 'Ah, drink-driving accidents? That'll never be anything to do with
me, my friends and I are too sensible for that." That's naive of me, extremely naive. Yet, you don't think it do you? It's
highly unlikely any of us, teens or not will read and watch about rising levels of drunken incidents and think
'HHhmm...I'll be a part of that."
Reading about these poor individuals my heart does go out to the families, they are given death sentences yet the
actual culprits seem to get away with a slap on the wrist. The Government constantly question whether we know the
harsh effects of alcohol but the question I'm dying to ask is do they realise? Are their policies and campaigns actually
effective? Will they work or are they simply going to falter and fall short in this 'battle' against the bottle.
Drink'll take hold of someone and change them, people always react differently to alcohol - some go really happy and
philosophical (me!), some get angry, upset and so on. Yet to put someone like that, in no fit state to probably hold a
conversation, behind a wheel is stupid. Drink harbours so many problems in so many areas of Britain; on the streets, in
our homes and on the roads. Will it get better? How will it get better?
What can be done?
Or is it too late? The Labour party have say eight months to change something and that seems unlikely. So lets say,
whoever wins the general election of 2010 turns up face-to-face with the 'bottle' - what will they decide to do? Should
they go back to basics or simply put their hands up and say 'Yeah, it's too late'. Not apologising so to speak, but
weighing up every factor and plan out clearly how to tackle each and everyone. Then again though, would that work?
A friend of mine described it as a disease, that at first can be treated with a simple antedote. Yet, the longer that takes
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to be developed, it escalates and soon it can't be. Now, I thought that was pretty good yet pains me to say, it's scarily
accurate.
Sat, 10th Oct 2009
Bassist
Smoking has been banned in public places and is less socially acceptable. I believe drink legislation is only a
matter of time. I can see the relaxed opening hours being reversed and reduced even further. Rationing?
Prohibition?
Sat, 10th Oct 2009
BigCol
Personally I think the opening hours we operate are fine. After all why shouldn't anyone who drinks
responsibly be able to get a social drink whenever he/she wants? The problem as far as I can see these days
is that, rather than have a social drink, the purpose of the night is to get as hammered as possible as quickly
as possible and that's not responsible drinking. Sure go home at the end of the night pissed and fall into bed
with a happy smile on your face. People have been doing that for centuries. But what I witness most Saturday
nights is puke, people collapsing, both men and women pissing in shop doorways, people staggering into the
road with cars missing them by inches and worse. And that's in the MIDDLE of their social night out. Do away
with the buy one get-a-shot-free offers and get landlords and bar owners to take a more responsible attitude
when they're serving. Basically if their selling it the kids are gonna buy it. If they get a bunch of blokes come
into their bar and order up a dozen get-me-pissed-quick shots which they then, with a tribal yell, proceed to
down in one, then order up another lot, which they repeat two or three times, followed by an equal amount of
lager all in the space of 10 minutes. That to me is not only irresponsible drinking, but also irresponsible license
owning. The government needs to do something about that. Now where's the ice.
Sat, 10th Oct 2009
messmanager
One of the main problems with the drink drive culture is the readily availability of booze at almost any hour of
the day. This was Labour's idea and can not be blamed on any other party. 24 hour opening is/was crazy. Only
alchoholics cheered when this particular bill was passed. The second problem is the location of availability.
Allowing too many outlets, many of which either do not perform checks more rigouressly for monetry reasons,
others in the form of supermarkets where age or suitabilty checks are more difficult to carry out due to
customer pressure. A shouting, mumbling queue can be be quite intimidating when you are on the till, and by
yourself. There are too many of the one man style shopping outlets which have been granted a 'licence'. And
finally we have education coupled with crime and punishment. Once we have informed the main offenders at
an earlier age, whilst still at school, show them just what will happen should they still decide to D & D. Firstly
the carnage, with a more vivid slide show or even, that marvelous new invention, moving pictures. The
punishment should also be almost hammered into them but this should be increased considerably, especialy
when death occurs. As a last resort, again where death occurs due to D & D with a driver of younger years,
bring the parents into the picture by including them in the punishment. It is they who are untilmately
responsible for their childs education and upbringing. Anyone like to comment?
Sat, 10th Oct 2009
BigCol
I think we agree generally messy apart from the opening hours. I remember a lot of concern at the time of the
introduction of 24 hour opening, but having, at the time, spent most of my time as a travelling muso in Europe
where they already had all day opening, felt it was a good thing to fall in line with them. So I cheered and I'm
not an alky. The fact is most establishments don't open 24 hours anyway. Regarding your 'customer pressure'
comment and linking it to my 'responsible serving' one, I think there would only be a problem with age checks
for a short while. Once they realised they weren't getting away with it any more I think it would resolve itself.
Now where IS that ice?
Sat, 10th Oct 2009
PaulaK
I agree Messmanager that the punishments should be a lot worse. It would surely stop some people and make
them think? I am unsure about bringing the parents in though, maybe of 17 year olds only but from 18 it is a
tough call. I myself would not do things as a teen, and still now, more out of fear of what my parents would say
than anything else but I have a sister who is a different story. My parents bought up three girls and we are all
so different, they taught us all the same values but one chose not to listen and was done for drink driving. This
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makes me wonder about bringing the parents in on the punishment as in our families case....some kids just
don't listen!!!! My sister was cught drink driving and I went with her to the court, she was given a £5 a week fine
(not sure for how long) and lost her licence for a year. Come on, she should have not been allowed to drive for
at least three years and had to re take a test and been charged thousands surely?
Sat, 10th Oct 2009
messmanager
Yes, PaulaK, the punishment should be increased, but it MUST include the parents no matter what age the
offender is. If you are quite prepared to humiliate and drag your own parents into your own 'crimes' what does
that say about you, as a person. You, as a human being. If you always have others to think of, which many in
the world today seem to ignore, meaning other family members, then maybe, just maybe, that single thought
may bring you to a halt before you go that final step and transgress in an irreverasable and unforgivable way.
Can you imagine what the parents would say to you, or even your siblings or even cousins, if they had the
burden of this particular crime. Maybe it could be adjusted to fit all crime. God, what a thought. All family
members punished for one individual transgression. It would certainly make all family members keep an eye
on one another. Even better than 1984 and Big Brother!
Sat, 10th Oct 2009
MamaP
I think it's individuals that have lost the battle with the bottle. The Government can't be blamed for everything.
Yes, parents should guide sensibly not offer 'a bite of the dog' as a cure for a hangover. Zero tolerance is the
answer to D&D. Why should hospitals have to waste valuable time, plus the other emergency services on
persons causing self inflicted problems. NO political party is to blame for that. Parents should know what their
kids are doing. If they are sick in the streets make them clean it up. Respect others around you, it's not
impossible to have a good time without making a prat of yourself. Drunken women look even worse than
drunken men!
Sat, 10th Oct 2009
ChalkyWhite
I dreamt I was doing jury service on an alien planet (I know - the 1970's drugs have just kicked in). Anyway,
there I was - we had found this chap guilty of murder and the sentence was death. That was chilling enough,
but what woke me up in a cold sweat was the fact that the offender had to choose one of his immediate family
to take the punishment on his behalf. This dream haunted me for months then had slowly faded away until I
read some of the comments below.
Sun, 11th Oct 2009
TheGreatVisionar
Now Chalky, that would be a deterrent if ever there was one. Brilliant. Commit a crime, one of your family
serves the time. It's genius.
Sun, 11th Oct 2009
SarahT
Shouldn't be making comments tonight cause I am drunk but Chalky White is right. If one of my family had to
serve time for a crime I had commited, I would not commit the crime. Why has no-one ever ever ever ever
thought of this before?
Sun, 11th Oct 2009
BigCol
I'll let him speak for himself, but I'm not sure Chalky is advocating the suggestion he brought to our attention.
After all he does say he woke up in a cold sweat. I can't believe anyone would seriously advocate this either.
Have you seen some of the low life out there who would shoot their own granny for a bottle of vodka. And then
we have a thirty five year old man clambers into his car after a bender with his mates, ploughs his motor into a
crowded bus shelter and his sixty five year old mother who has been sleeping peacefully at home gets locked
up in the slammer for it, just to teach him a lesson?? Come on people. Aren't we getting a little desperate for
a solution here?
MamaP
Desperate for a solution? Yes, because things are detting worse.
Sun, 11th Oct 2009
Sun, 11th Oct 2009
PaulaK
When my sister had her driving licence taken away it would have been completely unfair for my me, my mum
or my dad to have theirs taken away instead. We didn't do it! It would not have stopped her either, she was
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drunk and not thinking straight. I think it would perhaps under 18s, to an extent but once we are adults we can't
pass the blame to our families. People would still drink drive, they would just be free to do it agian while their
mum or sister or other family member was locked up. I would hate to be imprisoned just because I have a
sister who did not listen whilst growing up. Some people wont learn.
Sun, 11th Oct 2009
BigCol
I'm not saying things aren't getting worse Mama, but locking my 92 year old mum up if I happen to stray the
straight and narrow is a bit extreme to say the least. Whatever next? My respected magistrate of a brother gets
whisked away and put in a cell with the prisoner he sent up two months before?
Sun, 11th Oct 2009
MamaP
@BC, I understand that and realise these are extremes and idiotic. However, we must make people realise
they have to take responsibility for their own actions and not hide behind apron strings. Hope your brother
gives out proper sentences and has the stocks at his disposal.
Sun, 11th Oct 2009
Hi_ImJenny
Oh god, I need to catch up with what you've all said. I don't think punishing family members is any good - what
will it do? Just riddle them with more guilt for letting their children go off the straight and narrow. No, if anybody
is to serve time for a crime such as that is the one who did it. But then again, even the government are failing
to get that right!!
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2009: What's occuring?
By: Hi_ImJenny, Mon, 12th Oct 09 5:41pm
I'm not here trying to flog a dead horse so to speak but recent events have definitely been dragging on for too long. I
joined this site primarily for some good, intelligent discussions and debates about serious issues as well as the silly
stuff in between. Now, it seems to be at the centre of what I can only describe as a playground squabble. I don't want
to sound like I'm old before my time nor ruffle any feathers (if I do then I apologize) but this is really getting too painful
to watch/read.
Whatever's gone on with BB/the sheep then can we let it go. I've read he has apologised yet many haven't read that
but let's just ignore this bollocks and move on. I'm sure we've all said at one point 'I don't need this or them - I'll move
on' - why don't we do that?
Let's go back to what we usually do - general chit-chat and laughs. I find myself choking on my cereals more than ever
before and I know why :)
It's a shame what has gone on, I found BB a funny guy but if he has left/taken on the guise of someone else then that's
disappointing. Ah well, life goes on.
So yes, this is not just a rant, more a plea but guys let's all move on yeah? I love this site (yes, I may sound sad) but as
I've said many times before, the discussions we have I can't have with my lot because as much as I love 'em, they
neither understand nor care. Please take what I've said on board and lets all virtually meet at the pub for a couple of
rounds.
Deacongirl
Well said Jenny
Mon, 12th Oct 2009
Mon, 12th Oct 2009
BigCol
He's only apologised to those that are following him Jenny. Those that are not following (and some who he
upset aren't) can't see any apology. I've now twice put one of his posts up to give him the oportunity to explain
himself and he's STILL ignoring it. To put an apology in the chat stream when he put two whole posts up
announcing his so-called resiganation is NOT enough. Sorry if this upsets you but he should have thought
about the people he was upsetting when he threw his toys out of the pram.
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Mon, 12th Oct 2009
Hi_ImJenny
Yeah but it's getting ridiculous. As I've said I don't know the ins and outs nor want to, just want it to clear up but
it's obvious that won't happen. x
BigCol
Jenny. Can't you see that's what I've been trying to do for the last week?
Mon, 12th Oct 2009
Hi_ImJenny
Yes, of course. Thanks, I appreciate it :)
Mon, 12th Oct 2009
Mon, 12th Oct 2009
messmanager
Sorry HiJ, got carried away with my own dark day...
Good comments...Let the revalry begin. Let us all be riotously festive...hci...I mean Hic! God that's strong!!!
Mon, 12th Oct 2009
pjhoppy
Well said Jenny if the site doesnt suit you get off it and let the rest uf us get on with it. Lifes too important to be
held back by petty squabbles. A bit rich coming from me after my comments on swearing but it goes to show
you are never too old to learn. Thank you for the lesson
Mon, 12th Oct 2009
BigCol
Maybe some of us don't regard the squabbles as petty PJ. Personally I think there are strong principles in
question here and Bill keeps on bringing up his £1000 investment. If either of those are petty to you fair
enough. To nearly quote you 'If the debate doesn't suit you stay out of it and let the two of us get on with it.'
Tue, 13th Oct 2009
pjhoppy
BigCol, I posted my comment before I had read the some of te other posts, can see where your coming from
and will butt out
Tue, 13th Oct 2009
BigCol
Thanks hoppy. Didn't mean to be rude, but I'm fired up about it at the moment. All should be back to normal
soon.
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2009: And another thing...
By: Hi_ImJenny, Wed, 14th Oct 09 8:21pm
Monday saw the release of the sixth installment of the ever expanding 'Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy' series.
Obviously, Douglas Adams hasn't written it, it's nearly nine years since his untimely and premmature death. Therefore,
the job was given to the Irish author Eoin Colfer.
Although fans such as myself were gutted that there would never be another book, this news of a sixth book wasn't
exactly welcome. I'm not going to rant about my views, I've got the book and have started to work my way through it. It
is, surprisingly brilliant, very witty but there's something in me that wants me to hate it - if that makes sense? Almost
like when your favourite song is covered or favourite book is adapted for the big screen, you will yourself to try it but
then again, you're happy to dismiss it for it'll never be of the same standard, naturally.
So, if you're a fan or not - should there have been another Hitchhikers book? Or would it have been best just to leave it.
Some series can be added to, I mean just because Sean Connery left the role of James Bond it doesn't mean the films
should have stopped alongside him. They haven't and that's good. Yet the point I'm getting at is that Douglas Adams
was, in my opinion (disagree if you wish) was just utterly fantastic. Completely off the wall yes, but his work seemed so
simple, as if it was something that had been around in literature for years. We're used to the same 'Mills and Boon' stuff
but with Hitchhikers it was something new and exciting but no one questioned it, we just accepted it and embraced it. I
mean, has Eoin Colfer's take on the story tainted it? Will it change how future readers will react to it - if in ten years
time someone gets into the books, reads the first five and then reads the sixth and says 'Why did they bother'.
People say 'If it ain't broke don't fix it' - perhaps that applies to books as well? Ha ha, I wonder what Adams himself
would have thought of it all...
Wed, 14th Oct 2009
TheGreatVisionar
I am ignorant because I have never read Douglas Adams. Before you shout I have put it on my Christmas list.
Hi_ImJenny
I wasn't going to - would I dare raise my voice to The Great Visionar? :)
Wed, 14th Oct 2009
TheGreatVisionar
Would anybody? Again, don't answer that.
Wed, 14th Oct 2009
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Wed, 14th Oct 2009
BigCol
To pick up on you comparing your favourite song being covered with this situation Jenny, How could anyone
have thought Queen could ever tour without Freddie Mercury? Yet they pack and wow stadiums with
ex-Free/Bad Company singer Paul Rodgers at the front now. He's not Freddie but then he's not trying to be,
and we get to here all the great songs and guitar licks all over again. I don't know if this is a good analogy or
not, but if the basis and the idea and the theme is there then this guy, although he's not Douglas Adams, may
well keep it all going for a while longer. You've already said it's brilliant and witty so maybe we should give it a
chance. They'll soon know whether to write a seventh or not.
Thu, 15th Oct 2009
NightShift
I will wait till you have finished it Jenny and given it the final thumbs up, then I will decide. trust your judgement.
Thu, 15th Oct 2009
BigCol
As Nightshift says, let us know what you think you've finished it Jenny. You could become our first official
book reviewer.
BigCol
I missed out the word 'when' then.
Thu, 15th Oct 2009
Thu, 15th Oct 2009
MasterSignwriter
Douglas Adams could never be replaced, it all seems very lazy and stinks of cash before artist integrity. If he
was that good an author he should have shown the literary world without doing it off the back of a genius.
radiosw
BigCol you hit the nail on the head for me with the Queen analogy.
Thu, 15th Oct 2009
Fonejacker
Great comment MasterSignwriter. 100% agree.
Thu, 15th Oct 2009
Hoodie
I might read it but it wont be any good. Marvin.
Thu, 15th Oct 2009
NotGandalf
I heard the Radio 4 broadcast - shite!
Thu, 15th Oct 2009
SuzyQ
The question is, does this new guy have a Babelfish and keep his towel handy?
Thu, 15th Oct 2009
Nemesis
"Brain the size of a planet and they ask me to make a cup of tea" ~ Marvin.
Thu, 15th Oct 2009
BigCol
I know some of you are worried about it but DON'T PANIC!
Fri, 16th Oct 2009
Page 62 of 232
2009:
The
rumbles on
BNP
arguement
By: Hi_ImJenny, Thu, 22nd Oct 09 11:57am
There is certainly a huge amount of controversy around this and I for one would hate to add logs to the fire but I have
yo get something off my chest. What exactly is wrong with letting them have their say?
As a party, they are campaigning for putting 'British first' and to the majority of us they are doing nothing of the sort.
Yet, if the BBC was to ban Nick Griffin from appearing and answering the many questions I am sure will be asked, then
we're going against everything the BNP aren't for? If that makes sense...other parties are standing firm in the belief we
are to be a united kingdom as we are so called, but to deny someone the right to speak is going against everything we
are built on, ignoring the foundations of both our politics and our society.
The media have, of course, picked up on this story and have covered it continously. Many interviewed have said "They
shouldn't speak, I don't like them, they are wrong." "How can Griffin happily describe his hatred for those he deems to
be 'un-British'?" Both are justified arguements yet my problem is with something simple that so many seem to have
ignored.
If you don't like what he was to say - can't you just not listen? Or if you really want to watch and listen - don't agree with
him?
In my honest opinion, I feel the British Nationalist Party do rule through fear and terror yet it is highly unlikely that the
voting public will be brainwashed by his appearance. We all have the right to vote and will do so in 2010, you can
accept his view and opinion, have a rant and a grumble with family and friends but it can stop at that. The more we
deplore the party policies, the more popularity they gain - thus, increasing their stance in British politics. The party has
a seat in the House of Commons for God's sake, that's really quite frightening. Fear and hatred, ignorance in fact are
now being viewed as voteable ideologies - they could be governing the country in years to come - there's no point
arguing that, it could happen!
This is turning into a rant because I'm me and a bit ill therefore my brain's filled with mush but honestly, as the
arguement rumbles on it's as if common sense has been lost. Allow the leader to have his say, essentially the damage
has been done by the BNP already but ignore him, be safe in the knowledge that despite the economic crisis and flaws
of Gordon Brown there are better politicans out there waiting to be voted for.
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Thu, 22nd Oct 2009
Nemesis
You mention that people are indeed now voting for the BNP and in noticeable numbers. I find it difficult to
believe that most of these people are doing so because they agree with their agenda. What is really interesting
therefore is why people are doing so. What is the underlying reason?
Thu, 22nd Oct 2009
radiosw
Jenny I have watched this with amazement and have wondered if those who have said he shouldn't be on
there have forgotten what one of the things being British is all about = freedom to speak. Anyone can go and
stand in Hyde Park corner and speak to the people. And anyone can go on question time and speak about
what they think.
Now I don't agree with the BNP or what they stand for but unfortunatly they have every right to go on
programmes like this. Good post Jenny for one so young. V.point for you
Thu, 22nd Oct 2009
Hoodie
im sure you didnt mean it - but the best way to sound patronising is to end something with - good post for one
so young...
Thu, 22nd Oct 2009
BigCol
Give anyone enough rope and they will eventually hang themselves with it. The worrying thing for me is that,
right now as I write this, there are protesters in the streets leading to the television studio and Griffin has said
that he will try to get to the studio but he's not going to fight to get in there. Then in a shrugging manner he said
something along the lines of "We'll just turn around, go home and apologise to the BBC. After all if the police
can't control the streets, it's a sad day for this country." Can't help feeling someone is shooting themselves in
the foot here. The man's a dick, but he's not stupid.
radiosw
@hoodie know what you mean but no not meant that way
Thu, 22nd Oct 2009
Fri, 23rd Oct 2009
ShanandLiz
Hello to all. First i would like to say that you have raised a good point here.
I am one for tring to understand, in doing so as an educated person i like to listen. Therfore i would like to at
least give him the chance to give his views.
I also agree with Big Col, by stopping them having that chance and running a protest we are simply arming him
with the properganda need to boost his campaign.
I must say that i am a little fed up with the constant worry about who we will and won't offend. Yes i agree that
there is no place to humiliate in this modern society that with live, but we have involved our selfs in multiple
military confliccts and in fact world wars, too ensure that we retain freedom of speech. So in shot let it be let
the man have his say. Because everbody else does.
Fri, 23rd Oct 2009
BigCol
Well thank goodness he managed to get through all those protesters I was talking about, cos as far as I could
see, instead of a party leader who is normally able to almost-convincingly orate uninterrupted we saw a
bumbling nervous little man stuttering and spluttering unconvincing bullshit to an audience twice as intelligent
as he. I applaud the two ladies on the panel who, to my mind, tore him to shreds, it was a good decision to
have him on the program to witness him drop his trousers and bare his dirty little arse to the British public who,
as one of the ladies said, have more common sense than to be taken in by a man like Nick Griffin.
Fri, 23rd Oct 2009
MasterSignwriter
I do find this interesting that, because Nick Griffin doesnt hide behind any political curtain and his agendas are
out there in the open the general public (and quite rightly so) are outraged by his views because its laid out
before them. Yet the same anger is not shown when non national spokesmen and women whos hatred for
western society is clearly broadcast and excepted as members of our society , who i might add know exactly
how our legal and political system work and actually bring about changes to our society in exactly the same
way Nick Griffin tries to ,whilst we sit in front of the television ranting about a white man trying to do the same
thing, spokespeople i might add who arent just the leader of a small political group that will never get to power,
but from nations that are currently stock piling uranium or do in fact possess long range nuclear weapons and
Page 64 of 232
are steadily become one of the most powerful political forces on this planet. I think we need to remove our
blinkers.
MamaP
I absolutely agree with this comment from MS. MasterSignwriter is getting my 'X'
Fri, 23rd Oct 2009
Page 65 of 232
2021: Gothic literature?
remain the same...
It'll
By: Hi_ImJenny, Fri, 23rd Oct 09 12:40pm
For A2 Literature, I'm studying Gothic Literature and the conventions that authors encompass to build tension and
suspense amongst their readers. Writers such as Emily Bronte use the 'sublime' in Wuthering Heights; her description
of the Yorkshire moors and the weather do go on for paragraphs and paragraphs but it's the clever way in which she
writes that can build the much desired suspense. That's something Gothic literature is all about; picking up on the little
details, the finer details can have a much bigger effect than sub-human characters such as vampires and ghosts.
A fan of Wuthering Heights; Dracula, Frankenstein and Angela Carter's The Bloody Chamber, I feel that whatever
happens in the world of literature, if and when the Gothic has a revival - such concepts and conventions will remain.
'Action' and 'Adventure' books have changed but that's a sign of the times. Going from the 'Famous Five' to the 'Alex
Rider' series does reflect how society has changed and highlight the stark difference in which children 'play' and
socialise. Yet, since starting the A2 course I've realised that plots needn't be so far fetched and out of this world so to
speak, all you need is a simple setting and characters that are true to life with flaws yet qualities that make them
redeemable and likeable.
I'm not for a moment saying I could be the next Bronte far from it, but if an author was to sit down in front of their laptop
like I am now (without Lemsip of course) and thought 'I'm going to revolutionise literature' they needn't to be honest.
Looking back at the classics would be the best place to start and then taking those elements that really stand out and
putting their own identity to it.
Gothic literature can be incorporated into a book and the readers not really know about it, but that's the 'beauty' of it.
But I believe that as romance novels change to suit the times alongside adventure books, and even children's books,
the gothic will stay firmly rooted in the nineteenth century where it belongs. Only then, in my mind, was it at its best.
Fri, 23rd Oct 2009
BigCol
I don't at all claim to know what I'm talking about here Jenny so I'm just dipping my toe to see if I've got your
meaning on Gothic literature. As I understand it, as a layman, the obvious examples would be Frankenstein or
Dracula, both of which are set in the period, or thereabouts, you describe. Would Rosemary's Baby, The
Shining or Don't Look Now, all three of which I know better as films than books, be three examples of Gothic
tales successfully set in more modern times? I like the way you've got me thinking about something I know
bugger-all about. Blimey! I might even learn something.
Page 66 of 232
Fri, 23rd Oct 2009
Hi_ImJenny
@BC: You've got it :) That's what I'm getting at, those three modern examples got their influence and standing
from what came before - the works of Shelley, Stoker and Bronte. It's the foundations of it.
Fri, 23rd Oct 2009
BigCol
Isn't it true to say then Jenny that, unlike say romance novels which will move with the times as moving times
become more open and graphic about factual romantic relationships, modern day gothic novels can't move
with the times because we know no more about non-factual devils, vampires and demons than they did in the
nineteenth century. Or don't I get a credit mark for that one?
Hi_ImJenny
Exactly!! If only I could give a point for a comment. Y'see you've learnt something new :) xx
Fri, 23rd Oct 2009
Page 67 of 232
2010: Billy targets David
By: Hi_ImJenny, Sun, 25th Oct 09 8:54am
I'm making almost two predictions here - firstly, that in the June elections of 2010 Labour will concede to a
Conservative victory and that David Cameron will become the next Prime Minister of Great Britain.
The next that Billy Bragg will release more quality music perhaps? I'm a fan of his and have been only for a year but
already I'm thinking 'Whoah'. Certainly, in A2 English Language I'm focusing on his work and his 'lexical choices' (the
words he uses and why) for our language investigation coursework. I mean, Thatcherites is a brilliant song in my mind
and for someone who was not even born when Thatcher left to be replaced by Major it does really paint a picture of
what it was like.
So yes, if and when the Conservatives win the election I believe Billy will have something to say about it - not so
forthright as before, but then again he might. I've always admired that whenever he felt so strongly about something, he
said something - said what I'm sure a lot of people were thinking. A new album would be released and it would one of
those albums where people go 'Oh right' and 'Ah, back to basics I see'.
What do you think? Should he? Would he?
This is my opinion and I believe, actually hope he does. Another album to follow a masterpiece would be pretty tops.
Sun, 25th Oct 2009
NotGandalf
He is a clever wordsmith but let's hope, that this time, he can stick to the facts - rather than the left wing
bullshit that he usually spouts.
BigCol
He will have mellowed Jenny. Everyone goes a little more right wing the older they get.
Sun, 25th Oct 2009
Page 68 of 232
2013: Music Downloads
By: Hi_ImJenny, Mon, 02nd Nov 09 2:29pm
However much money or 'education' the Government will pledge, I believe that four years down the line we will be no
way nearer to solving the great problem - how people get their music. It's something that won't go away for a very long
time, music will always be adored, and consumed by people - not just a money maker it can change peoples lives. If it
wasn't for some of the music I've heard and been introduced to I wonder what I'd be like, but enough about me.
Spotify and Limewire. Two I admit I have used. Limewire I downloaded once to find out what everyone raved about and
to be honest, after getting some pretty sick results and some duff music, I deleted it. Why? Why do that as a teen who's
always strapped for cash? It's simple. I'd rather pay Apple a couple of quid here and there for the privilege of listening
to some good music. Perhaps it's true that not enough goes to the artists themselves but still, I like to do it with legality,
the honest way. Spotify is a bit of a grey area in my opinion. The ability to listen to a full-length song compared to
itunes meagre 30 seconds is appealing but also the fact one can create a playlist does contradict the idea of
downloading music - why do that if you can happily listen to it on the computer for free for as long as you like?
I'd do anything to get rid of Limewire if I can be completely honest. It's just a bit of a piss take. Artists put money, time,
and effort into making music only for someone to go 'Yeah, good song but I'm not going to pay for it, I'll go on
Limewire.' Now, I know people will say 'Ah well, it's expensive' - yes it is but that's the only option. Nowadays people
don't seem to go CD shopping like they used to. I admit, I'll buy the CD's for certain artists and albums - every Pink
Floyd album from Animals to Dark Side of the Moon is on CD, I like it that. Ups the history, the excellence. Yet it seems
downloads have almost as many pro's and cons. Whilst it is a hell of a lot easier to enjoy music and have it at your
fingertips pretty darn fast it's also turning people away who aren't reverting to record shopping but instead going on the
'black market' so to speak, and downloading illegally.
Artists have spoken out about this, Coldplay, Lily Allen and Billy Bragg to name but a few. Yet four years down the line
it'll be the same situation. Whatever people say, whether they're a popular artist; the Prime Minister, the Sultan of
Brunei (for all we know!) it won't make a difference. And that's unfortunate. Soon, music'll be something that won't be
enjoyed anymore, it'll cause too many problems that people will give up on it - and that can't happen. It's a part of
everyone's life regardless of whether they're a fan of just one genre or are a junkie.
What needs to happen is a happy medium and I use that term loosely because I know full well it'll be hard to achieve.
Music companies and artists need to make it clear to downloaders how offensive and damaging illegal downloading
can be for their careers yet also understand the reasons people do it. I know something can be achieved, but it will take
a lot of listening and talking - it won't be easy but will be undoubtedly worth it.
Page 69 of 232
Mon, 02nd Nov 2009
rudgey
being an artist with a worldwide reputation lol. na i agree its a huge problem , and needs sorting out as its
never been easier for an artist to get hes her music out ther and so should be very easiy to make money from
it , but thats probably the problem here ,money .
Tue, 03rd Nov 2009
NotGandalf
Back in the sixties there was uproar when the record companies realised that most of us were making loads of
copies of albums onto blank cassettes for our mates / girlfriends etc. What's new?
Tue, 03rd Nov 2009
BigCol
Last night someone actually said to her husband right in front of me as they bought one of my CDs "Harry's got
the other one so if he likes this one we can make a copy of it for him and vice versa", so it does appear to part
of everyday life now. There are loads of differing arguments regarding royalties, free promotion, cutting
production costs and so on etc etc. I think you, NG, might know a bit more about all those figures than me. It's
a very complex issue.
Tue, 03rd Nov 2009
Bassist
As an accountant I expect to be paid for my efforts. I wouldn't be too impressed if someone ripped off my IP.
Only fair that someone who writes songs, records, produces, engineers etc should have the same rewards for
their efforts.
Tue, 03rd Nov 2009
NotGandalf
It is a tough one this - because, as a starving muso back in the sixties, I was happy to make scabby copies off
the radio in order to learn new "Pop" material. I met my first wife when she was a record shop sales girl and
quite often would borrow a single or album from the store, make a copy and return it the next day. All this in
order to ply my (So called) trade. So I am the last one to whinge about lost royalties. Having said that, I do
whinge when it is the record companies who are taking the mickey. When it comes to robbing from the artist,
the record companies have got a head start on the general public.
Tue, 03rd Nov 2009
BigCol
Following up on NG's point that the record companies are the real rip-off merchants, it can quite often be the
case that the artist doesn't earn a huge amount from the record sales anyway. So they can be quite keen for
as many downloads to go ahead as possible to encourage punters to come to their live gigs where they DO
earn the money from merchandising and so on. The one that does lose out always is the songwriter of course.
Tue, 03rd Nov 2009
Deacongirl
Oh oh, this subject hits a nerve with me. BC is right, some huge stars(who occasionaly walk on the wild
side)have had to take action against companies in the past to get their royalties. My husbands name is on
every 'Rock and Roll Animal' album cover, written right there by 'Intro' to Sweet Jane, but he has never
received one penny in royalties.
I think there was a move to put a surcharge on blank cds that would be distributed to artists but not sure if that
will ever happen.
Wed, 04th Nov 2009
MasterSignwriter
The only way id stop doing it is if the sites themselves were shut down, its far too easy. If im given the choice
of an album (edited to how i want) on my computer in 3 minutes for free or have to pay for it, i hold my hands
up i dont bear the artist a second thought. Rock n roll.
Page 70 of 232
2009: Another politician puts their
foot in it
By: Hi_ImJenny, Fri, 13th Nov 09 8:46pm
This is definitely when politicians take their campaigns too far. David Cameron was accompanied to Westminster with
his personal photographer to have photos of him crouching at the Field of Rememberance, with a look of contemplation
as he cast his eyes over the hundreds of individual crosses all dedicated to those that have fallen.
Speaking about the incident today with friends, some tried to justify his actions - but you can't? Choreographing such
an event is, in my humble opinion, offensive towards those that sacrificed their lives for this country. It's just false
rememberance, and zero respect. Yes, I am defensive of our troops, incredibly so but even then - this just isn't right.
Amid the controversy surronding Gordon Brown's letter to the mother of Jamie Janes this is just another nail in the
coffin for British politicians. Whereas the Prime Minister made a mistake whilst acknowledging the sacrifice, the leader
of the Opposition who openly criticized the error that Brown made seems to have contradicted himself. I am pretty
angry about this, no, not angry - dissapointed. MP's with the ability to influence the British people speak every year of
how we should all take a moment just to think, and remember those that gave everything for us, the future generations.
Then in the space of a few days, two of the most important politicians make two serious blunders. What is going on?
I'm not trying to start an arguement here but I'm going to class the Gordon Brown letter scenario as an accident just for
the moment - David Cameron's was definitely nothing of the sort. He essentially is exploiting the men who gave their
lives for us, and him! In simple speak, he takes the piss. It's offensive, sick, even demoralising. Does he not see how
rude his actions are? Watching the Rememberance Sunday service the presenter (whose name escapes me) said that
if every British soldier who has died in and since World War I were to form a line it would be one stretching from
Whitehall to Edinburgh. That's about 400 miles, think of all those men, and some of them as we know are only boys,
eighteen if that. I'd just like to know whether Cameron is aware of such a fact - maybe then it'd hit home how
disrespectful his actions are.
Fri, 13th Nov 2009
BigCol
I don't know if anyone else noticed on Sunday that, during the 2 minutes silence when we are suppose to be
remembering the sacrifices of the fallen, David Cameron glanced down, I think, to make sure his poppy was
straight. He clearly wasn't reflecting on honouring the dead at that moment. Show me a sincere politician and
I'll show my backside at the make-up counter in Harrod's on Monday.
MamaP
So much showmanship. Probably educated in Drama School, then calling it Eton.
Fri, 13th Nov 2009
Page 71 of 232
Cheese?
By: Hi_ImJenny, Fri, 10th Apr 09 12:00am
Imagine a wedge of cheddar having a photo taken - what would it say? I mean, it can't say "Cheese" can it?
BigCol
Peeeeeeeeeeople!!
Fri, 10th Apr 2009
Hi_ImJenny
Lol. But it's a good question though, I must admit I'd had a few! :)
Fri, 10th Apr 2009
nibbles
Brieeee!
Sat, 11th Apr 2009
Page 72 of 232
Cheese?
Imagine a wedge of cheddar having a photo taken - what would it say? I mean, it can't say "Cheese" can it?
mephisto
Pickle!-rhymes with tickle, gotta be a smile then!
Fri, 10th Apr 2009
Wed, 22nd Apr 2009
EdwardFrench
I what I would be saying to the cheese - Make an effort because in 60 seconds you're going down my throat.
Page 73 of 232
Cult Films.
I'm a fan of cult films, especially Withnail and I - now is it me or are 'cult' films few and far between even more now?
What are the favourites?
FoxyCollins
The Whicker man
Fri, 10th Apr 2009
Sat, 11th Apr 2009
BigCol
Just a bit of info for you Foxy. I'm well into my folk music and the young fiddle player in The Wicker Man is a
long time fiddle playing partner of mine named Ian Cutler. We've been playing together on and off since 1979.
Just thought I'd drop that in. Now gonna think of my film.
BigCol
Just realised. Jenny knows Ian Cutler.
Sat, 11th Apr 2009
Sat, 11th Apr 2009
mephisto
"Rafifi"-1940's... Black & White French film, based on a robbery, no talking at all during the heist-The tension is
magnificent.
mephisto
Sorry 1955!
Sat, 11th Apr 2009
Sat, 11th Apr 2009
LadyV
My favourite is actually 'Withnail and I' too Jenny. I often use the quote 'I need cake! I need cake and fine
wine!' which always precedes 'I feel like a pig shat in my head.' Classic.
Sat, 11th Apr 2009
Hi_ImJenny
Aha! LadyV, you're only the 2nd person I've known to like it. In year 11, I had a biology mock and it asked
something about the importance of flowers in a garden and I quoted dear Uncle Monty "Flowers are tarts,
essentially prositutes for the bees". The most common one I use is "You are a coward...an expert on bulls you
are not!" :)
Page 74 of 232
Hi_ImJenny
Aha, I do indeedy Colin :)
Sat, 11th Apr 2009
Sat, 11th Apr 2009
BigCol
Does Long Good Friday count as a cult film? There are a few recent Brit films like The Football Factory, The
Business, Face and Gangster No. 1 that I like. What constitutes a cult film?
Sat, 11th Apr 2009
Hi_ImJenny
I always consider a cult film to be something eccentric that goes against the mainstream cinema; exploring
ideas that the mainstream stuff simply wouldn't dare go near.
Sat, 11th Apr 2009
BigCol
Not sure I'd define a cult film as going AGAINST the mainstream Jenny, more OUTSIDE of it. Foxy named
The Wicker Man. That I think started out as a fairly unknown film, but because of it's subject of Pagan rituals it
developed a cult following and eventually became what is known as a cult film. Withnail and I comes under
that catagory too. Not many people can claim to have sen it when it first came out, but is a favourite of the
many now.
Fri, 17th Apr 2009
MasterSignwriter
This could have been a poll for favorite withnail and i quote, a trip to pub,cafe, library cant go by without asking
for a bottle of the finest wine known to mankind. Favorite cult film is a toss up between Fight Club or woody
allens \The Sleeper.
EdwardFrench
Reservoir Dogs - Brilliant.
Wed, 22nd Apr 2009
Coltherash
The birds or the hill, which is brilliant becasue it has no music in it
Wed, 22nd Apr 2009
Mon, 13th Jul 2009
tattooedjackass
i have recently watched a swedish movie called Let the right one in and it had so hooked i instantly brought the
book, i think this movie although quite new will be a cult movie, i think you should all check it out before the
americans ruin it with a remake
LightsOut1985
I can't believe that no one has mentioned Plan 9 from Outer Space, the best worst film ever.
Tue, 11th Aug 2009
With regards to more modern films, OldBoy is an absolutely stunning film that springs to mind.
Page 75 of 232
Book to film adaptations
By: Hi_ImJenny, Mon, 27th Apr 09 12:00am
I love Khaled Hosseini's The Kite Runner and saw it on DVD in HMV so bought it - sure it'd be incredible...but it wasn't.
It's so poor it's taken away my love for the novel. Any other disasterous adaptations that have ruined a decent novel?
Mon, 27th Apr 2009
LadyV
I know I'm only saying this because we've just been discussing it, but the Harry Potter films are nowhere near
as good as the books. In fact, I don't think I've ever seen a film that can live up to expectations if you have
preiously read the book. Not that the Harry Potter films are bad, by no means so, but you just can't get all the
details in when you have to condense lengthy prose into a couple of hours of film.
Mon, 27th Apr 2009
BigCol
Enduring Love by Ian McEwan. Like most psychological thrillers, you just can't portray what's going on inside
someone's head on film.
Mon, 27th Apr 2009
LadyV
I remember I was in detention (it was a Saturday one because I'd been caught bunking off a lesson, which is
so unfair as I really didn't do it very often!) and I began reading Northern Lights. Never got past the first
chapter (I doubt). Will have to pick it up again. It's supposed to be amazing is it not?
Mon, 27th Apr 2009
jemmapicken
I absolutely loved the book PS I Love You, the film was good and I can see why people rave about it,
especially if they haven't read the book but it wasn't anywhere near as good in my opinion.
The one that people are trying to persuade me to go and see now is Marley and Me but I'm not brave enough
because when i read the book I cried for a week and plus, I think the film could be a bit of a let down. Books
win hands down.
MasterSignwriter
The Shipping News incredible book, insipid film.
Mon, 27th Apr 2009
Tue, 28th Apr 2009
LadyV
I cried for the last half hour of the film Jem, and every time I thought about it afterwards. Excellent film, but be
armed with tissues!
Page 76 of 232
Topical Quiz Shows?
By: Hi_ImJenny, Wed, 06th May 09 12:00am
203 Views, 5 Votess, 1 Nods, 9 Comments..
Now more than ever, the news can be so ludicrous it just has to be mocked. Many of them go head to head on telly but
which is the best?
5 Votes received:
Have I Got News For You
Mock The Week
Other
0 votes
5 votes
0 votes
0%
100%
0%
ChrisChaplin
MTW not as intelligent as HIGNFY but I find it funnier. Plus can't stand Ian Hislop
Wed, 06th May 2009
Wed, 06th May 2009
nibbles
I like them both for different reasons, Mock the week fresher cos its newer that HIGNFY but both worth
watching.
MamaP
Find HIGNFY very forced. Seems to be very obvious how much they rely on the auto-cue.
Wed, 06th May 2009
MamaP
Lovely photo. Have seen that guy somewhere before!lol
Wed, 06th May 2009
Wed, 06th May 2009
BigCol
Both are great. I feel I'm one of the lucky people who can actually remember the one that started it all off. A
little known program called That Was The Week That Was. By the way Mama have you seen the girl in my
photo somewhere before too?
Page 77 of 232
MamaP
Hi_ImJenny I presume. Very pretty.
Wed, 06th May 2009
Wed, 06th May 2009
mephisto
Mock the week for immprov!?-But enjoy have I got... too! Love the captions and mystery publication!
Wed, 06th May 2009
Hi_ImJenny
@Mama P: Thank you, that about 5 after Colin said my eyes looked like "piss holes in the snow" if I remember
rightly. Tehehe :)
I find myself agreeing with all of you - but that's why I did this poll, it's one of the questions that had to be
asked!
Page 78 of 232
I'm concentrating!
By: Hi_ImJenny, Sat, 09th May 09 12:00am
As the exams are coming up, I'm expecting to see many people in the exam hall with 'concentration face'. Some frown,
others stick their tongue out to the side. I for one, do both. What do you do when you're deep in thought and
concentrating?
batteredhaddock
Let my spuds boil over!!
Sat, 09th May 2009
BigCol
Take an aspirin cos it makes my brain hurt.
Sat, 09th May 2009
LadyV
Frown and purse my lips, then wonder why my face aches!
Sat, 09th May 2009
Cuddy
I stick my tounge out of the side of my mouth with a bewildered look upon my face.
Sat, 09th May 2009
mephisto
I stare through things & doodle!
Sat, 09th May 2009
Hi_ImJenny
Lol @ Colin :)
Sat, 09th May 2009
Hoodie
is everyoen so far answering the question or just describing their sex faces ?
Mon, 11th May 2009
Page 79 of 232
Hoodie
if so Lady V youve probably just complimented the TGV haha
Mon, 11th May 2009
Page 80 of 232
Lefty or a Righty?
127 Views, 23 Votess, 14 Comments..
We've sure got a mix of personalities on here as well as opinions...but are we mostly left handed or right handed?
23 Votes received:
I'm a lefty
I'm a righty
I'm an ambidextrous genius
3 votes
16 votes
4 votes
13%
69%
17%
Hi_ImJenny
First of all, I have to declare that I'm a proud lefty! :)
Sat, 09th May 2009
Sat, 09th May 2009
Cuddy
I right with my write hand always have always will. Have tryed with left alot but dont seem to have the patience
to get my e's the right way round my brain goes into over drive.
leethomas787
RIGHTYY!! FOR LIFE!
Sat, 09th May 2009
mephisto
Right handed but used to have a good left foot too!
Sat, 09th May 2009
Sat, 09th May 2009
BigCol
Right hand, right foot, fairly right wing too. It's a wonder I don't spend all day going round in circles.
Page 81 of 232
Hi_ImJenny
Gah. Seems I'm the only lefty...does that make me outnumbered or a VD minority? Or both?
Sat, 09th May 2009
mephisto
De Niro is ambidexterous!
Sat, 09th May 2009
PeachPussy
Right, but I can't carry by handbag on my right arm, always has to be my left.
Sat, 09th May 2009
Sat, 09th May 2009
batteredhaddock
Left handed in everything I do except snooker when I hold my cue in my right hand. Perhaps thats why I am
crap at snooker!!
jemmapicken
Left handed with everything.
Sun, 10th May 2009
Sun, 10th May 2009
LadyV
Can I ask a question? Are you only ambidexterous if you can write with both hands? See, I am right-handed
at pretty much everything apart from when I eat. I eat left-handed. Does that make me ambidexterous?
Sun, 10th May 2009
Hi_ImJenny
I think to be ambidextrous you write with both hands, play bat sports with both hands...'cause I'm lefty but eat
with my right and my old teacher said that's just being awkward :(
LadyV
Lol, I thought that was the case. I guess we're both awkward then!
Sun, 10th May 2009
Page 82 of 232
How does The One Show do it?
By: Hi_ImJenny, Fri, 15th May 09 12:00am
I watched the One Show a couple of times this week and it got me thinking. How do they get such varied guests to
come on their show who are probably aware of the fact they'll get interviewed for about a minute?
mephisto
Money or free promotion of their latest offering to the masses!
Fri, 15th May 2009
TheGreatVisionar
100% agree Mephisto. I should get them on VDTV
Fri, 15th May 2009
Sat, 16th May 2009
LadyV
Well you got Amanda Holden TGV! She's the one who pokes her tongue out at the end, who BigCol fancies!
;0).
Sat, 16th May 2009
BigCol
Sorry if I've got this wrong LadyV, are you saying the blonde who pokes her tongue out at the end of the VD
Ad is Amanda Holden?
EdwardFrench
Impeccable taste you have Big Col
Sat, 16th May 2009
Sat, 16th May 2009
Hi_ImJenny
I think my dislike for it just stems back to the really really annoying theme tune...didn't they run a story on 'ear
worms' the other day? Because now I've watched it, the song's been going around and around in my head...
BigCol
Thanks Ed, but it's not Amanda Holden is it.
Sat, 16th May 2009
EdwardFrench
No - it's Rachel, but she is a little beauty x
Sat, 16th May 2009
Page 83 of 232
Sat, 16th May 2009
EdwardFrench
Jenny - just wanted to say I know you can't be with us tonight at the VD party, but you will be with us in spirit we will all have a drink for you. We all look forward to seeing you at the next big VD event.
EdwardFrench
I'll start work immediately on ensuring that concept is achieved
Sat, 16th May 2009
Hi_ImJenny
Aww thanks Ed :)
Sat, 16th May 2009
Page 84 of 232
Life on Mars/Ashes to Ashes
I am a dedicated follower of both but my question is which one was the best for you? Do you wish policing was still like
this, I mean they did get results in the end?
3 Votes received:
Sam Tyler, Life on Mars
Alex Drake, Ashes to Ashes
Honestly, I don't watch them
3 votes
0 votes
0 votes
100%
0%
0%
mephisto
I have to say I am in favour of these methods!
Sun, 17th May 2009
Sun, 17th May 2009
LadyV
Havn't seen either but apparently Life on Mars was brilliant. Coincidently, I think these are both David Bowie
songs.
Sun, 17th May 2009
BigCol
Not really a coincidence LadyV. Life on Mars was set in the year 1973 which is when that Bowie record was a
hit and Ashes to Ashes is set in the early 80s when that one was a hit.
LadyV
Oh, how obvious! I had a blonde moment (no offence to any blondes!).
Mon, 18th May 2009
ellen
Love both series but I'd say the original was slightly better
Tue, 19th May 2009
Page 85 of 232
Fawlty Towers!
An absolute classic - who, in your opinion was the best character?
11 Votes received:
Basil
Sybil
Connie
Manuel
Other
2 votes
3 votes
1 votes
4 votes
1 votes
18%
27%
9%
36%
9%
Sat, 16th May 2009
BigCol
Basil for me everytime. Each of them is a piece of writing genious, then the genious of each actor just makes
the show what it is for me --- The greatest sit com of all time. I kind of had a soft spot for the Colonel.
loopylou
i think they were all great but have to say sybil as that is one of my nicknames.
Sat, 16th May 2009
denny
Basil and manuel both a great double act in itself
Sat, 16th May 2009
Page 86 of 232
Your Desert Island Discs
By: Hi_ImJenny, Sun, 24th May 09 12:00am
We've all heard of the Radio 4 show where famous people are invited to pick the eight records, book and luxury they'd
take. What would yours be?
BigCol
Well that's my Sunday Sudoku to once side while I think about this!
Sun, 24th May 2009
Hi_ImJenny
I might as well start off:
Sun, 24th May 2009
In no particular order my records would be:
1. The Short Answer - Billy Bragg
2. Money - Pink Floyd.
3. Crazy Little Thing Called Love - Queen.
4. Proud Mary - Creedence Clearwater Revival
5. (obviously) The Madmen of Gotham - Bully Wee Band
6. Awkward Annie - Kate Rusby.
7. Breathe - The Prodigy.
8. Life on Mars - David Bowie.
My Book would obviously be 'The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy' and my luxury would be a digital camera
with photos of all my friends and family on it.
Sun, 24th May 2009
Hi_ImJenny
Right, instead of 'Awkward Annie' by Kate Rusby I'm having 'Sultans of Swing' by Dire Straits. Then, instead of
'Breathe' by the Prodigy I'm having 'Dancing in the Street' by Martha Reeves and the Vendellas. That's it. Final
version promise :) Just goes to show how bloody hard this is!
Sun, 24th May 2009
BigCol
Mine are in no particular order either;------ 1. Comfortably Numb - Pink Floyd; 2 Mojave - Afro Celt Sound
System; 3 Jackie - Scott Walker; 4 The Rich The Poor and Those That Want More - Colin Reece; 5 A Day In
The Life - Beatles; 6 Old Cape Cod - Bing Crosby; 7 John Condon - Mary Dillon; 8 Mrs Robinson - Simon &
Page 87 of 232
Garfunkel. The book would be 5000 Sudoku Puzzles by The Times and the luxury would be my laptop
(assuming that if I can play the songs I can plug the laptop in).
Sun, 24th May 2009
EdwardFrench
Need a great deal of time to allocate to this one - I will be back - ps - Jenny - I am impressed with the majoriy
of your song choices - brilliant.
Mon, 25th May 2009
FoxyCollins
1.I wanna hold your hand - The Beatles 2.Back on the chain gang - The Pretenders 3.Lady Linda - The Beach
Boys 4.Tracks of my tears - Linda Rondstat 5.Woman,Woman - Gary Pucket& Union Gap 6.Opus 17 - The
Four Seasons 7.Serious - Richard Hawley 8.Country Boy - Albert Lee. The book would be Tom Brown's
Schooldays and the luxury would be my accoustic guitar.
FoxyCollins
Sorry but I need 9 records I forgot Powderfinger by Neil Young.
Mon, 25th May 2009
FoxyCollins
And I award you a well deserved V point.
Mon, 25th May 2009
Mon, 25th May 2009
BigCol
Just seen Foxy's list and want to change my luxury to my guitar. Forgot about that cos, it being my means of
earning a living, don't regard it as a luxury, but would if I was on desert island
indigo
Doh! This is FAR too difficult! Can I be awkward and take 9 books? And a pair of wellies.
Mon, 25th May 2009
Mon, 25th May 2009
PaulaK
Luxury item would be my husband, book would be 'How to survive on a desert island' and the songs would be:
Not That Kind by Anastacia, Long Train Runnin' by the Doobie Brothers, That's what friends are for by Dionne
Warwick and friends, I want it all by Queen, Seasons of Love from Rent, That's Life by Frank Sinatra, Alone by
Celine Dion, Torn sung by Dawn Moss, The Boys are back in Town by Thin Lizzy and Clair De Lune, Debussy.
Hoodie
@ Hi-Im
Tue, 26th May 2009
Another fan of Douglas Adams here...HitchHikers Guide is a work of genius.
Have you read his Dirk Gently Books ?
Tue, 26th May 2009
Hi_ImJenny
@Hoodie: I haven't, but I listened to the radio adaptations after buying them on CD. I'm guessing the books are
better?
Thu, 28th May 2009
mephisto
Book-Day of the Jackal, Frederick Forsyth-Easy read bit of action for the island! Luxury, torn between Radio &
Food Blender/Juicer. Come back with records and final decision!
Sat, 30th May 2009
mephisto
Luxury-radio solar powered. Discs 1) ZZ Top-Sharp Dressed Man. 2)Django Reinhardt-Sweet Georgia Brown.
3)Sinatra-Something Stupid. 4) Debussy-Claire De Lune. 5)Nielsen-All by Myself.(appropriate)6)Ast rud
Gilberto-Girl from Ipanema. 7)Bobby Darin-Beyond the Sea(La Mer). 8)Rolling Stones-Honky Tonk Women.
Hi_ImJenny
I'm changing again. Dancing in the Street's out for Rolling Stones Start Me Up :) x
Sun, 07th Jun 2009
Page 88 of 232
Sun, 07th Jun 2009
LadyV
Good grief this is hard. Before I begin, Foxy, you simply cannot have 9 records just because you say 'Sorry,
but I need 9!' and Paula, is Surfboy really an item?! Made me lol though. If you're allowed him, I'm allowed my
house! So, here goes: Book - The complete works of J.K.Rowling (not published yet, but I'll get on to the
printed companies). Luxury Item - A lighter. Eight records (can we take compilation albums? If so this will
change.) - 1. The Beatles 'If I fell'. 2. Bobby Vee 'Night has a thousand eyes'. 3. The Hollies 'Bus Stop'. 4.
Meatloaf 'Bat out of Hell. 5. Guns n Roses 'Sweet Child o Mine'. 6. The Eagles 'Love will keep us alive'. 7.
The Travelling Wilburys 'Handle with Care'. 8. Bob Dylan 'Things have Changed. 9. Michael Jackson
'Smooth Criminal'. 10. Robbie Williams 'Me and my Monkey'.
Sun, 07th Jun 2009
LadyV
Eight records are not enough!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (I need to take 'Dosed' by the Red Hot Chilli Peppers too!! And every
other Beatles song I can think of! Lol.
TheGreatVisionar
LadyV, you tell Foxy off for adding one extra record and you add two! and a house!!!
Sun, 07th Jun 2009
TheGreatVisionar
LadyV's luxury item should be a calculater!
Sun, 07th Jun 2009
Sun, 07th Jun 2009
LadyV
Oh yeh!!!! Whoops! That's because I was getting carried away! Didn't realise I'd done that. Oh God, what do
I do now? Someone HELP!!!!!!
Sun, 07th Jun 2009
LadyV
Now I'm listening to 'The Last Resort' by the Eagles and I'm wondering whether to replace 'Love will keep us
alive'. Jenny, what have you done to me?! (I still gave you a V point though. Great question.)
FoxyCollins
I didn't even think of Me and my Monkey so now I need 10 songs.
Mon, 08th Jun 2009
Fri, 12th Jun 2009
LadyV
I'm simply commenting on this to bring it to the front page again. I enjoyed you-tubing all the songs I hadn't
heard of, and I really want to know TGV's answers.
Page 89 of 232
Favourite TV/Radio voice
By: Hi_ImJenny, Tue, 02nd Jun 09 12:00am
Sometimes I find myself listening to something simply because of who is narrating it. For example, I love the stories of
Winnie the Pooh but especially if Alan Bennett is reading. Stephen Fry is another for Harry Potter - who do you
nominate?
mephisto
Derek! See TGV/ED for confirmation or some sound tracks HIJ! Unbelievable voice!
Tue, 02nd Jun 2009
nibbles
Donald Sinden and Rohald Dahl and the above of course.
Tue, 02nd Jun 2009
Wed, 03rd Jun 2009
Hi_ImJenny
I forgot about Roald Dahl! ...also the man who narrates the BBC's 'Who do you think you are?' but I don't know
his name.
LadyV
Richard Briers - 'Mr Ben'. Gorgeous voice.
TheGreatVisionar
Richard Burton. War of the Worlds.
Wed, 03rd Jun 2009
Fri, 22nd Jan 2010
Page 90 of 232
Greatest albums of all time
By: Hi_ImJenny, Sun, 21st Jun 09 12:00am
A lover of 'Dark Side Of The Moon' I'm shocked NME ranked it 8th; 'Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band' 2nd &
16th, 'Never Mind The Bollocks Here's The Sex Pistols'. Are some albums, such as these 3 (which I adore) & many
others simply over-rated?
Mon, 22nd Jun 2009
BigCol
Q magazine a while back voted Nirvana - Smells like Teen Spirit the best album of all time. Just my opinion
but can't see it.
TheGreatVisionar
Thriller.
Mon, 22nd Jun 2009
Mon, 22nd Jun 2009
Hoodie
neither can i seeing as that was a single and the album was called nevermind. nevermind eh col.
Mon, 22nd Jun 2009
BigCol
Ah well! Shows what I know. Facts a bit out but it was Nirvana outdoing Floyd, the Beatles and U2 and I just
didn't get it.
Hoodie
My fave is Achtung Baby, if they play Ultraviolet at Wembley I will be a very happy hoodie.
Mon, 22nd Jun 2009
TheGreatVisionar
The Platters greatest hits!
Mon, 22nd Jun 2009
Mon, 22nd Jun 2009
FoxyCollins
I won't choose a Beatles one because there's too many,so it's a toss up between "Hunky Dory" by David Bowie
and "Ogden's Nut Gone Flake" by the Small Faces.This is the one that features the brilliant Stanley Unwin
Page 91 of 232
narrating on it.
MasterSignwriter
Marilyn Manson - HolyWood, or Pearl Jam - Ten. oh, or Placebo's - Without you im Nothing.
Mon, 22nd Jun 2009
Mon, 22nd Jun 2009
BigCol
Am I reading the question wrong or is Jenny actually asking us for our opinions on over-rated albums rather
than our favourites?
Tue, 23rd Jun 2009
FoxyCollins
Your right BC just read it again and the albums which are over-rated in my opinion are the ones by U2.I just
don't get the big fuss over them.
Tue, 23rd Jun 2009
Hi_ImJenny
Hi guys. Yep, that's kinda it - my apologies it's written in a strange strange way. Basically, Dark Side of the
Moon is at the forefront of 'greatest albums' or in my opinion, the greatest...but are albums such as that simply
over-rated and not as brilliant as is made out? :)
Tue, 23rd Jun 2009
BigCol
Unfortunately Jenny it's down to a question of taste. Having got your poll on track you're now likely to have
everyone just listing down who they don't like. When these 'Greatest of Whatever....' polls are made by the
likes of NME, with the ever-growing history of rock music that we have, they tend to throw up the items that
have managed to stand the test of time. However, the order in which they appear on the list has probably got
more to do with who could be bothered to vote rather than the quality of the goods. For example it's possible
there are actually more Cliff fans around than Floyd fans, simply because he's been with us longer, but the Cliff
fans don't read NME so Floyd get the vote. There's probably some old dear somewhere who's been reading
NME since the early sixties absolutely astonished that Cliff is nowhere to be seen in the Best Album Top 100.
As long as your fave is somewhere in the top 20 it means there are enough people who agree with you that it
has stood the test of time.
Page 92 of 232
Phil Spector's 'Magnum opus'
By: Hi_ImJenny, Sun, 21st Jun 09 12:00am
Phil Spector, despite his recent conviction I am told was a musical genius - he created the 'Wall of Sound' technique.
My question is, can someone explain what a wall of sound is in simple terms please? I can't seem to understand it...
Mon, 22nd Jun 2009
elsie
Instead of multi tracking as they do now, he used several live drummers and vocalists etc plus deep reverb,it
was literally a wall of sound. It can be heard on most of the Supremes recordings among many others.At the
time it was unique,not so much now.BC or NotGandalf could probably expand on it also.
Mon, 22nd Jun 2009
BigCol
Probably the best example of Phil Spectre's wall of sound is 'River Deep Mountain High' by Ike & Tina Turner.
As elsie says steeped in reverb and loads of things going on in the rhythm section. 'You've Lost That Loving
Feeling' is another example. Phil Spectre was a big hero of Brian Wilson's of the Beach Boys and you can
hear that Spectre Wall of Sound in some of the Beach Boys recording around the time of 'Pet Sounds' I'd
better shut up now or I'll start sounding like Larry.
Mon, 22nd Jun 2009
NotGandalf
We got close a couple of times with some of the Wizzard singles. Our method was - Two drummers,
Treble-tracked detuned Bass, two or three piano tracks, tens of B/Vs, lots of different reverb types, and Roy
Wood's massive talent - easy.
Mon, 22nd Jun 2009
BigCol
Of course, you guys pretty much nailed it. So there you are Jenny, every year when you're wishing it could be
Christmas every day you're listening to a wall of sound.
mephisto
Wall of sound-Lady V when shes had a few!
Mon, 22nd Jun 2009
Page 93 of 232
Hi_ImJenny
Aha, thank you all very very much :)
Mon, 22nd Jun 2009
Page 94 of 232
BBC Radio
By: Hi_ImJenny, Sat, 11th Jul 09 12:00am
The BBC has radio stations ranging from Radio 3 to the Asian Network, but which is your favourite and why?
20 Votes received:
Radio 1
Radio 2
Radio 3
Radio 4
Other
3 votes
9 votes
1 votes
2 votes
5 votes
15%
45%
5%
10%
25%
Sat, 11th Jul 2009
BigCol
Of the BBC channels it's Radio 2 for me most of the time. Sunday mornings with my paper I have Radio 3 until
they play a bit of opera, then I switch to Classic FM til I think the opera's finished, then I switch back to Radio
3. I know Radio 3 has a pretty uncool image, but everyone should really give it a try sometimes. They have
some fairly cool alternative programs sometimes ranging from blues to world to outrageous avant garde stuff.
Better than you might think.
NotGandalf
No Country Radio - No Point!
Sat, 11th Jul 2009
mephisto
For a variety of subjects and topics Radio 4 FOR ME!
Sat, 11th Jul 2009
Page 95 of 232
nibbles
For me it's radio 2 and i also enjoy BBC Radio Devon.
Sat, 11th Jul 2009
FoxyCollins
Radio 2,the DJ's are all been there done it and the music is allsorts with quite a few oldies.
Sat, 11th Jul 2009
Sat, 11th Jul 2009
Deanotreveano
Your pole reflects the nations choice as radio 2 is the most popular radio station in the U.K today with Wogans
breakfast show being the most listened to programme in Europe. Radio is the theatre of the mind
Sat, 11th Jul 2009
batteredhaddock
BBC Radio 2/Devon & PalmFM during the week but never miss David Lowe on Saturday and Sunday
evenings (8pm - 10pm BBC Radio Devon)sod the telly!!
Mon, 13th Jul 2009
EcoWorrier
Battered ... what can I say? Apart from thank you for your kind words. You (and some of the other posters)
may be interested to know that, at the last count, my progs on Sat and Sun have the biggest share of the radio
audience cake across Devon ... by a country mile! Well, if I don't blow me own trumpet, who will?
TheGreatVisionar
Deservedly so David. Great show.
Mon, 13th Jul 2009
Tue, 14th Jul 2009
FoxyCollins
I listen to BBC Devon a lot when I'm in Torquay and I didn't know EcoWorrier was a presenter!I will check your
show out EW next time probably a few weeks.
Clay
Radio 2, wide choice of music from jazz to alt, and some good documentary's
Wed, 15th Jul 2009
Page 96 of 232
HP The Half Blood Prince
By: Hi_ImJenny, Tue, 21st Jul 09 2:55pm
Am I the only one let down by the latest Harry Potter installment? So much has been cut out, edited and tweaked when you need all the explaining to be done, it's all too vague!! Has this ruined the whole film experience?
Tue, 21st Jul 2009
radiosw
I talked about this on my show on Sunday and quite a few people have agreed. It was slow and seem dragged
out where as the book didn't. This was not the best HP by far.
Tue, 21st Jul 2009
denny
Is it not worth watching then, i felt that the last film was very dark in comparison to the first ones. Is it going to
become one of those long winded series. I haven't heard a good report.
Wed, 22nd Jul 2009
TheGreatVisionar
LadyV loved it although she did agree with Jenny and say that they left sooooooooooo much out. I thought it
was good but slow but then I haven't read the books so cannot really comment. We have to remember that
although most Potter fans are now probably 10 years older than when they first heard about Harry, the main
appeal and target audience is still for kids who have just found him. I think they would love the film just for the
awe and hype. I actually hate to use hype because it cheapens the greatest ever success story of out time. In
all for me, 7/10.
Wed, 22nd Jul 2009
LadyV
Well said TGV. To be honest Jenny, I was prepared for the let down. I was let down by every film so far, why
should this one be any different? I still love the films, but I am a Potter geek and nothing for me could ever
touch the books. It actually quite annoys me when people complain about the films/storylines when they've not
even tried to give the original literature a go.
Wed, 22nd Jul 2009
Cuddy
i agree the film doesnt really follow the book and finishes way to early. Just as it was beginning to get good it
finished?! But i have to admit i did cry at the death of dumbledore (the very short few seconds it was sad) they
dragged the boring bits on and the good bits were far to short - and as for a not so good film the game is
apparently rubbish as well lol
Page 97 of 232
Wed, 22nd Jul 2009
Hi_ImJenny
Aha, I cried too! I also literally raised my arm in the cinema when they raised their wands, all 5 of us did and
got a very strange look!
Wed, 22nd Jul 2009
radiosw
Cuddy hope no one reads this that hasn't read the book! You may have given a little too much away! Lol still
they may not want to go anyhow!
Wed, 22nd Jul 2009
Cuddy
ahh everyone new SORRY IF YOU DIDNT DONT READ BELOW!!! wait if u dont want me to accidently give it
away (the film/book) DONT READ BELOW!!!!!
Sun, 26th Jul 2009
PaulaK
I can't see it until I go to UK in September. Even after all the bad reviews I can't wait. I just LOVE Harry Potter!
At least I am not expecting too much!
Page 98 of 232
Twittered Films
By: Hi_ImJenny, Wed, 22nd Jul 09 7:14pm
The deal with Twitter is summing something up in 140 characters. How about twitter film reviews, making them say 2
sentences? E.G. A Few Good Men: "Tom Cruise wants the truth. Contrary to popular opinion, it turns out he can
handle it." Any others?
Wed, 22nd Jul 2009
BigCol
Close Encounters of the Third Kind - Richard Dreyfuss sees a spaceship and builds a mountain in his front
room. He isn't mad cos he goes off with the spacemen in the end.
Wed, 22nd Jul 2009
denny
Beaches--2 friend meet, become best friends, one has a baby then dies and the other is left looking after the
kid.lol
Wed, 22nd Jul 2009
BigCol
Mrs Kramer leaves Mr Kramer with little Kramer. Mrs Kramer tells Mr Kramer she wants little Kramer back but
then changes her mind AGAIN!!
Wed, 22nd Jul 2009
radiosw
Star Wars - Evil one is born, falls in love,has children,loses wife, conquers universe, loses universe, back with
kids, dies.
BigCol
Die Hard - 'Bruce Willis goes to a party and drops a nasty man out of the window'
Thu, 23rd Jul 2009
Thu, 23rd Jul 2009
ChrisChaplin
'Every Jim Carey Movie' - Jim conorts his face, over-acts, eventually shows he has a human side and contorts
his face some more.
BigCol
I'm not his biggest fan either Chris
Thu, 23rd Jul 2009
Page 99 of 232
Hi_ImJenny
Titanic: Big Ship hits big iceberg and sinks. Rose never does let go.
MasterSignwriter
Debbie does Dallas: Debbie does Dallas.
Thu, 23rd Jul 2009
Fri, 24th Jul 2009
Fri, 24th Jul 2009
mephisto
Any Harry Potter film-Geeky looking lad from middle-class Public School type background, flies round on a
stick, makes things happen with spells and potions and misses out on the fun he had in the books, cos of
editing! Apparently! :-)
BigCol
I'm afraid that's 209 characters Mephisto
Fri, 24th Jul 2009
mephisto
Bugger! Delete from potions onwards.
Fri, 24th Jul 2009
Page 100 of 232
Media converting.
By: Hi_ImJenny, Thu, 23rd Jul 09 11:51am
Hello! Right, my mum's got a casette tape of her and her sister singing with their late dad. Unfortunately there's only
one copy - is it possible to convert it in some way to put onto a computer and eventually a CD? :) x
BigCol
I'll do it for you Jen. email me and we'll make arrangements as to how to get the cassette.
Thu, 23rd Jul 2009
BigCol
Jenny I've emailed you with a suggestion.
Thu, 23rd Jul 2009
Thu, 23rd Jul 2009
Hi_ImJenny
Aha, sorry about that - was dealing with the bank...stupid call centres! Yep, I've emailed you back :) x
radiosw
As Big Col said it can be done and if he can't (sure he can) then let me know and I will sort it.
Thu, 23rd Jul 2009
Thu, 23rd Jul 2009
Hi_ImJenny
Mum has a question - as it's a cassette that's very dear to her, will it get wiped off the cassette as it's done?
Thu, 23rd Jul 2009
BigCol
No. What I'll do is connect my cassette deck up to my PC. I've got a recording function on there. I'll set
record on the PC and play on the cassette deck and Bob's yer Uncle. The only way things could go wrong is if
the tape tangles and gets chewed up, but it would be extremely bad luck if that were to happen and that can
happen anytime you play it in the future anyway, so to transfer to hard disc you're gonna have to risk that. But
no, all going well, the tape will be returned as it was.
Thu, 23rd Jul 2009
Hi_ImJenny
Oh that's fine. Yep, mum'll put it in an envelope, make it obvious what it is & then take it to your friend Andy's
on Saturday. Could you let him know though as it'll be during the day most probs.
Page 101 of 232
BigCol
There's an email in your in tray Jen
Fri, 24th Jul 2009
BigCol
Got the tape. Can't wait to get home and hear your mum singing.
Sat, 25th Jul 2009
Hi_ImJenny
Fab! Ahh, it's funny she's only two bless her.
Sat, 25th Jul 2009
BigCol
Oh wow!! even better.
Sat, 25th Jul 2009
BigCol
Job done!
Tue, 28th Jul 2009
Hi_ImJenny
Indeedy, and I now have a very happy mum :) Thank you! x
Fri, 31st Jul 2009
Page 102 of 232
Music for the weather
By: Hi_ImJenny, Fri, 24th Jul 09 9:34am
I'm currently laying in bed; listening to the rain and as usual when it rains The Doors' "Riders on the Storm" on repeat.
Are there songs you associate with the sun, rain and snow?
Fri, 24th Jul 2009
BigCol
If it's sunny I love a bit of Bob Marley or being totally different, some real old fashioned stuff from the 40s
backwards ie Cole Porter or Bix Beiderbeck. The reggae stuff is absolute sunshine music and the other stuff
conjures up tea on the lawn.
radiosw
Five Star Rain or Shine!
Fri, 24th Jul 2009
Fri, 24th Jul 2009
MasterSignwriter
Its become a bit of a cliche but Isley Brothers Summer Breeze always gets me feeling the summer.
Fri, 24th Jul 2009
mephisto
Girl from Ipanema-Summer along with the "music to watch girls by" compilation. "Green Onions" football
season-West Brom theme tune when dad used to take me as a kid!
Fri, 24th Jul 2009
LadyV
Well, snow is obviously all the christmas songs. I say BigCol's reggae choice is definately summer all over for
me (when I lived at home we always had Old Skool Reggae compilation albums on at our BBQ's) along with
'Dancing in the Moonlight' by Toploader. The radio played it all summer long when it came out. Don't really
have rainy songs.
Fri, 24th Jul 2009
LadyV
Ooh, another summery song: Kiss Me by Sixpence None the Richer. You've done it to me again Jenny, got
summer songs going round and round in my head now!
jemmapicken
Dancing in The Moonlight is an anthem with my mum and I. It's a great summer song!
Fri, 24th Jul 2009
Page 103 of 232
Hi_ImJenny
Mungo Jerry's classic is a summer favourite if mine, my dad seems to sing it every year!
Fri, 24th Jul 2009
batteredhaddock
'It's Raining Men' by 'The Weather Girls'
Fri, 24th Jul 2009
Cuddy
Aint no sunshine when shes gone and why do birds suddenly appear every time you are near
Fri, 24th Jul 2009
Fri, 24th Jul 2009
Cuddy
sorry for rain i missed that - also when it rains and i am in th middle of the bay in my little rowing boat all alone
and its really flat the rain dropping on the sea makes a really unusual noise - its weirdly nice!
nibbles
Katrina and the Waves 'Walking on Sunshine' for a hot day esp in the morning in the car!
Sat, 25th Jul 2009
Sat, 25th Jul 2009
Silverstonedsteve
This afternoon by Nickleback expresses my mood on a summers day kicking back with my bestest friends
exactly!
Silverstonedsteve
Summer of 69 wellllllllll! Nostalgia.
Sat, 25th Jul 2009
Silverstonedsteve
LOved the way this got me thinking Jenny "V point" given. Ahhh Summer!
Sat, 25th Jul 2009
Sat, 25th Jul 2009
denny
Definatly reggae for the summer. This is sad i know but Boney m is a great memory of holiday camps for
me...lol
Sun, 26th Jul 2009
radiosw
Boney M is not a sad memory denny. I too have them as a happy memory from doing many disco's at Holiday
Camps around the bay!
LadyV
Boney M makes me think of Christmas.
Mon, 27th Jul 2009
Tue, 28th Jul 2009
FoxyCollins
Said something about this on another post but Sunny Afternoon by The Kinks is my all time summer song.It
always takes me back to that summer when it was being played every day,think it was 64 or 65.Winter songs
really is all about Christmas songs and for me it's Happy Christmas War is Over by John Lennon and Ono.
Page 104 of 232
The Ashes
By: Hi_ImJenny, Sun, 23rd Aug 09 8:55pm
As we're all probably (hopefully) aware, England won the Ashes today by 197 runs. I, myself am over the moon.
Protective of cricket, it's a real English thing, an icon. I adore it. What do you think? Do we over react to the Ashes? Or
is it justified?
Sun, 23rd Aug 2009
pjhoppy
We tend to over react to most of our sporting successes in this country. Probably because we dont have many
of them.
Im sure the Aussies are already planning a whitewash when we go over there to defend them, just like last
time. Enjoy it whilke you cn thats what I say
Mon, 24th Aug 2009
MasterSignwriter
Believe it or not, Ive never seen 1 minute of cricket but if its something that unites us as a nation gotta be a
good thing.
Mon, 24th Aug 2009
BigCol
I can believe that MS. I'm the same - not a cricketing person. Golf's my summer sport. I can remember
watching one-day cricket and I used to enjoy that cos they used to go for it and take risks. As far as
overreacting to the Ashes is concerned, if you're passionate about something fair enough. Just ain't my thing
that's all.
mephisto
aNY ENGLISH VICTORY IS SO RARE!It won't last! so enjoy it whilst it does!
Mon, 24th Aug 2009
Fri, 28th Aug 2009
ellen
I don't think we over reacted at all-the celebrations were quite low key compared with 4 years ago. There has
always been a rivalry between the 2 sides but a lighthearted one. Ricky Ponting was very sporting in his
congratulations.
Page 105 of 232
Compassionate release
By: Hi_ImJenny, Mon, 24th Aug 09 8:50pm
In light of Abdelbaset Ali al-Megrahi's controversial release I've got one question that I'm constantly asking. Where will
the line be drawn? Will every prisioner with terminal cancer now be released?
Mon, 24th Aug 2009
BigCol
They didn't let Myra Hindley out. And I think one of the Manson disciples has some kind of brain cancer and is
staying put. I think it's a crazy ruling only applicable to Scotland. Lucky old Megrahi eh?
Hi_ImJenny
ahh, didn't know that :)
Mon, 24th Aug 2009
MasterSignwriter
I would like to have seen him in a teeshirt with 'God gave me Cancer' on it.
Tue, 25th Aug 2009
Tue, 25th Aug 2009
Jabery
Two comments, first the PC-version: Do countries get the leaders they deserve? (It is said there are two sides
to Col. Gadaffi - and that they are both evil!) UK law is based upon precedent so terrorists can now look
forward to going home before a cancerous or other death if enough pressure is brought upon a government
(anybody care to guess how many millions of barrels of Algerian crude oil the UK will get at $10 below spot for
letting him go?).
Now the non PC-version: I'd have fitted him with a 'dirty bomb' rigged to go off in the middle of the 'heroes
welcome' celebrations.
Wed, 26th Aug 2009
Hoodie
When you stop Hanging people for this sort of offence this is what happens next im afraid. Want to commit
mass murder and get away with it ? visit scotland - the skirt wearing ninnies will let ya
Page 106 of 232
Sheep
By: Hi_ImJenny, Wed, 09th Sep 09 7:37pm
Hhmm, I was talking about this in the common room today with the girls. What would a sheep count if it couldn't sleep?
Any ideas? :)
denny
balls of wool they have created...lol
Wed, 09th Sep 2009
BigCol
Blades of grass.
Wed, 09th Sep 2009
elsie
Their lucky stars.
Wed, 09th Sep 2009
Cuddy
other sheep?
Wed, 09th Sep 2009
NotGandalf
Approaching Welsh men.
Wed, 09th Sep 2009
EdwardFrench
Themselves lucky.
Wed, 09th Sep 2009
LadyV
Up to the point where they fall asleep.
Thu, 10th Sep 2009
MamaP
Balls of wool.
Thu, 10th Sep 2009
Page 107 of 232
CDs
By: Hi_ImJenny, Mon, 21st Sep 09 9:07pm
I've just been out to buy Mika's new album - which is fantastic. I could have downloaded and saved £2 but having it
physically is much nicer, it's weird. Although it's obvious CD's are going to dissapear. When did you last buy one? What
was it?
Hi_ImJenny
Aha, my spelling is terrible....I meant to write 'disappear' Sorry guys! x
Mon, 21st Sep 2009
BigCol
Last CD I bought was about 2 years ago - AfroCelts
Mon, 21st Sep 2009
NotGandalf
Last week I bought "Major League" by The Ivy League.
Tue, 22nd Sep 2009
Tue, 22nd Sep 2009
MasterSignwriter
I think the only cd ive bought in 8 years is Tom Waits 3 disc Bawlers, Brawlers and Bastards just because of
the literature and goodies inside, everything else magically appears on my ipod. I felt the same way about
vinyl, nothing has ever replaced the joy of buying a double disc gatefold and all the stuff that used to come with
it.
batteredhaddock
Keedie's latest album "From My Heart" absolutely fantastic!!
Wed, 23rd Sep 2009
Thu, 24th Sep 2009
Fluffy
Last CD's bought three weeks back were a two for £10 from HMV in the form of Stevie Wonder - The Ultimate
Colletion and the Best of Bad Manners .. both of which took me straight back to my youth.Most recent
download however, was the lastest Muse album which I bought on a whim, and I have to say is really really
good.
Page 108 of 232
Peter Mandelson
By: Hi_ImJenny, Tue, 29th Sep 09 6:12pm
Do we, as he himself assumes, love Mandy?
(I personally can't trust the man but who am I to judge?)
Wed, 07th Oct 2009
sevenhills
someone said that the reason the British army had been so successful ( in Victorian times) was because it had
some of the nastiest people on earth in it. I think in many ways that can be said for politics too. The most
cunning tend to be snakes, and I'd rather have a snake fight a snake than kitten.
I do however note that the financial crisis was caused by snake like deeds, so we must not for one second give
our snakes have the keys to the house for all their worth.
sevenhills
I'm so glad I check my posts for grammatical errors before I submit them.
Wed, 07th Oct 2009
Page 109 of 232
BBC Iplayer
By: Hi_ImJenny, Fri, 02nd Oct 09 8:57pm
Do you use the BBC Iplayer regularly or not at all? Either way, do you think it would be better if we were charged to use
the service. We pay TV licence so is this the next step to keep up by taxing technology?
Fri, 02nd Oct 2009
TheGreatVisionar
There will be no TV licence in a few years Jen. You can actually refuse to pay it now if you download
programmes onto a computer and watch them not at their scheduled times.
It is just a matter of time before you will not pay a licence as such and just pay for downloads, but they will
hang on for as long as they can because they still can't beat the pirates.
Sat, 03rd Oct 2009
BigCol
I've used it for radio programs in the past Jen cos I can never get to listen at the scheduled times. As for
would it be better to charge, personally I've enjoyed getting it for free, but is it right to get it for free?
Someone's got to pay for it I suppose. Particularly if, as TGV says, they're gonna do away with the the license.
AlanJones
Pirates - Arrrgh!
Sun, 04th Oct 2009
Page 110 of 232
Sore throat...help!
By: Hi_ImJenny, Tue, 20th Oct 09 5:02pm
Are there any decent cures out there for a sore throat? I've tried honey and lemon as well as most medicines out
there...is there another chance I could try and reclaim my voice? Ta :)
Tue, 20th Oct 2009
BigCol
Try treading on a nail. It won't cure your sore throat but it'll make you forget it for a while. (sincerely) Hope
you're better soon.
ChalkyWhite
Gargle with a Beechams Powder in warm water.
Tue, 20th Oct 2009
TheGreatVisionar
I gargle and spit out soluble disprin.
Tue, 20th Oct 2009
Tue, 20th Oct 2009
jemmapicken
If you can stand it gargle with salt water, doesn't give pain relief but helps to clean infection up quicker.
djcrossfade
Or Gargle Tcp...if not smoke canabis!!!
Tue, 20th Oct 2009
Tue, 20th Oct 2009
rudgey
well i do have a cure but if i post it here police will come and we will all be taken away , so what ive uesd for
years on stage to keep my beautiful ,beautiful is vockal zones , boots sell them they taste like a sumo restelers
arm pit , but they do the trick , also to sooth honey in yer tea , dont put it in yer coffee yak , and thats the
doctors top tip of the day .
Page 111 of 232
TheGreatVisionar
Dr Rudgey, love it. You will all have lots of fun getting better.
Tue, 20th Oct 2009
djcrossfade
even more fun if you smoke canabis!!
Tue, 20th Oct 2009
Tue, 20th Oct 2009
messmanager
I've always found that a gargle with a double scotch, every hour on the hour, works wonders. Trouble is I just
can't resist the swallow...Mmmmm. That's warm as it goes down. After a few of those you totally forget the
sore throat. Cheers!
djcrossfade
Ooh i gargle a brandy just before i go stage to sing and stuff...
Tue, 20th Oct 2009
Tue, 20th Oct 2009
Hoodie
A glass of decent brandy - Remy Martin would suffice. Mind you on Student money perhaps not....less
alcoholic, tea sweetened with honey is soothing. Stick some whisky in is even better.
Tue, 20th Oct 2009
baldeagle62
Quite honestly the best thing for a sore throat is honey and ginger tes with a squeeze of lemon. I had a sore
throat recently as was recommend to have Hopi Ear treatment. Check it out at http://www.7th-heaven.org .uk.
Hope it gets better soon Jenny
Tue, 20th Oct 2009
baldeagle62
Dont touch alcohol as it dries out the vocal chords. And drink tepid water while on stage. never have ice in your
water on stage as its constricts the muscle in your throat. Always warm the vocal chords up too!
Tue, 20th Oct 2009
BigCol
Yes Jenny all joking apart, alcohol is a no no. Baldeagle obviously thinks you are a singer, that's an easy
mistake as so many on here are. As I know you're not one who treads the boards, my best advice is drink
warm drinks, don't go looking for your voice cos it's not under the bed, rest up, don't talk to anyone and it'll find
you.
NotGandalf
Look on the bright side - your Mum and Dad are having a peaceful few days!
Tue, 20th Oct 2009
baldeagle62
Good advice BC. and sorry Jenny thought you were one of us :0) x
Tue, 20th Oct 2009
BigCol
She IS one of us BE.
Tue, 20th Oct 2009
baldeagle62
I meant a singer BC!
Tue, 20th Oct 2009
Tue, 20th Oct 2009
starlight_bex
My fiancé always used to get sore throats and he got this stuff called sandersons specific or something like tht!
It tasted disgustining but did the trick he only used to need a little bit. Could only find it in some chemists thou,
Page 112 of 232
boots had never heard of it
mephisto
Inhale Friars Balsam!
Tue, 20th Oct 2009
NotGandalf
http://www.auravita.com/p roducts/AURA/SCHL10001.as p
Tue, 20th Oct 2009
NotGandalf
@J - don't forget to remove the spaces from the link!
Tue, 20th Oct 2009
Wed, 21st Oct 2009
Hi_ImJenny
Thanks everyone, have sent dad out to the Chemist before he goes off to work. Tucked up in bed with some
honey and lemon (mum's insisting!) and not going to budge.
Hi_ImJenny
@BE: No worries, believe you me, you wouldn't want to hear me sing!
Wed, 21st Oct 2009
Wed, 21st Oct 2009
Hi_ImJenny
@NG: They are, dad said that this morning 'Ah, it's so quiet today and peaceful with the rain isn't it Jen?' Was
not amused.
littlesteffie
gargle dispersible aspirin
Wed, 21st Oct 2009
Sat, 24th Oct 2009
denny
Ruby murry introduced me to hot rum and butter. works for half an hour. make sure someone else drives you
home..lol
denny
sandersons is good too, you need an independant chemist for that one
Sat, 24th Oct 2009
radiosw
denny told of about the rum one last year and it really does work. Lasted ages for me.
Sun, 25th Oct 2009
radiosw
denny told of about the rum one last year and it really does work. Lasted ages for me.
Sun, 25th Oct 2009
Page 113 of 232
David Bowie
By: Hi_ImJenny, Sun, 25th Oct 09 8:56am
So, what's your favourite song? I'll start off, mine has to be 'The Man Who Sold The World' - it's just fantastic :)
Sun, 25th Oct 2009
BigCol
Golden Years I think. Love the way the intro creeps in with that hint of harmonica. It was used in a great
dance sequence in the film 'A Knight's Tale' starring Heath Ledger. Great tempo for 'Dad Dancing'.
Sun, 25th Oct 2009
denny
cant remember title but the one with the lyrics,,,mickey mouse has run off with the spoon. love that song.
Fonejacker
Modern Love or Lets Dance
Sun, 25th Oct 2009
palmfm
Denny is that Wonderland?
Sun, 25th Oct 2009
MasterSignwriter
Im Afraid of Americans.
Mon, 26th Oct 2009
indigo
"As the World Falls Down" from the film Labyrinth
Mon, 26th Oct 2009
Hi_ImJenny
@Denny: Life on Mars mentions mickey mouse if that's what you mean? x
Sat, 17th Apr 2010
Page 114 of 232
Why am I crying?
By: Hi_ImJenny, Mon, 26th Oct 09 8:12pm
Is there a song that makes you cry but you can't think why?
Reason I'm curious is that I've listened to Mark Knopfler's 'Border River' and as I have the full version on my ipod the
opening bars have sent me into floods of tears!
Mon, 26th Oct 2009
PaulaK
The (very long) intro of Tonight by George Michael (I think) makes me emotional. A beautiful piece of music
and a great song.
Mon, 26th Oct 2009
BigCol
Not a song but a beautiful piece of music The Ashokan Farewell by Jay Ungar. There are many folk songs
that can move me to tears but in most cases I know why.
Mon, 26th Oct 2009
nibbles
Luther Vandross Dance with My Father Again,The vocal,the arrangement and the words great weepy!
NightShift
Without you by Nillson. It was a very special song for us.
Tue, 27th Oct 2009
Tue, 27th Oct 2009
jemmapicken
There are a few but really trying to think of them now. Now Nibbles has mentioned it 'Dance With My Father' is
definately one on my list.
NightShift
To where you are - Josh Groban.
Tue, 27th Oct 2009
Tue, 27th Oct 2009
MasterSignwriter
Because you are female. You and your gender to have the ability to find most things worthy of tears given the
right influences.
Page 115 of 232
Tue, 27th Oct 2009
indigo
Agreed MS. Right influences, wrong time of the month particularly, and tears are easy to produce for females. I
love a bit of opera or classics, pop music doesn't do it for me.
Tue, 27th Oct 2009
Hoodie
to be fair you shouldnt be crying at pop music - unless you happen to be watching the twins on x factor
pjhoppy
Dont do crying to music or anything else.
Stiff upper lip is how I was dragged up and it has always stuck with me.
Wed, 28th Oct 2009
Hoodie
have u been chopping onions ?
Fri, 30th Oct 2009
BigCol
'Have You Been Chopping Onions?' Hmmmm! Good name for a song. I'm on it.
Fri, 30th Oct 2009
Fri, 30th Oct 2009
FoxyCollins
It doesn't make me physically cry but Tears in Heaven by Eric Clapton is very poignant and I always think
about the sad circumstances that brought EC to write it and think there but for the grace of god go I.
Sat, 06th Feb 2010
Bassist
I was surprised to be welling up when I heard him do Romeo and Juliet live at RAH a couple of years back. No
reason for it as there were no associated memories etc to trigger it.
NotGandalf
The orchestral intro to "Hello Again" by Neil Diamond
Sat, 06th Feb 2010
BigCol
Jim Davidson singing "Hello Again", but for a different reason.
Sat, 06th Feb 2010
NotGandalf
BC - You mean "Herro is it me you rookie for?"
Sat, 06th Feb 2010
BigCol
Can only say laughing very much out loud at that NG.
Sat, 06th Feb 2010
Page 116 of 232
Personal Statements
By: Hi_ImJenny, Wed, 04th Nov 09 8:54pm
I'm writing my statement at the moment for UCAS. An annoyance to say the least, I'm wondering - how would you all
big yourselves up and sell yourselves to uni? Would you find it easy or rather difficult? (I'm the later!) J.
Wed, 04th Nov 2009
Hoodie
I cant comment on ucas forms as i didnt do uni - wish i had but didnt - anyway, if it were a cv, it needs to cover
all the points necessary without being over long, people get bored after an a4 page, be confident, even if it
seems overly so, your own conscience will stop it being hyperbole. Final thought - everything you post on here
is carefuly thought, personal, and beautifully written. I dont think you will have any problems.
Wed, 04th Nov 2009
Hi_ImJenny
Thanks, but I do. The limit is 4000 characters I have 4018, line limit is 47, I have 48.
It's just I'm interested in what people believe to be their own personal qualities, and would sell themselves to a
uni and make someone think 'wow, check out this person' :)
BigCol
Me?? I'd sing Handbags & Gladrags and hope for the best.
Wed, 04th Nov 2009
Wed, 04th Nov 2009
Hoodie
Education is about the ability to apply yourself and expand your horizons, what have you done so far that has
excited you ? has grownyou as a person ? what makes you deliriously excited about study so that you forget
your actually learning ? what intriques you ? how have you progressed through recent schooling aiming for
these things....i dunno, you will wow them im sure. tell emm to look on here ....
Wed, 04th Nov 2009
BigCol
That Hoodie speaks wise words Jenny. If you're interested in what people believe to be their own personal
qualities, then seriously I would sing Hbags & Grags, but I doubt that would get me into uni. I doubt if anyone
on this site who has read your posts and comments would disagree with anything Hoodie has just said. As for
cutting 4018 down to 4000 surely that's not gonna be difficult is it. You're sound and you'll be fine.
jemmapicken
Good luck Jenny, sure you'll be just fine x
Wed, 04th Nov 2009
Page 117 of 232
Wed, 04th Nov 2009
NotGandalf
I was going to say "Good Luck" but seriously, have you read your stuff? They're lucky to have you.
Wed, 04th Nov 2009
TheGreatVisionar
Jenny, click your picture then click the ebook below the pic on yor profile page. It is a fabulous read and can
be attached as a pdf to any document. You have no worries.
Page 118 of 232
First singles
By: Hi_ImJenny, Fri, 13th Nov 09 8:52pm
What was the first single you bought? Do you still love it to death? Mine was that hideous Ketchup Song if anyone else
can remember it...about nine or ten at the time it was what us girls listened to non-stop for months! :) x
BigCol
Little White Bull by Tommy Steele.
Fri, 13th Nov 2009
Fri, 13th Nov 2009
Red
Kylie and Jason...especially for you! I was about nine aswell, played it constantly but cringe if I hear it now!
Fri, 13th Nov 2009
Deacongirl
Oooooh I feel old after Reds comment. Mine was a Beatles single, can't remember which one but alas it is long
lost.
Fri, 13th Nov 2009
MamaP
Here we go....Diana by Paul Anka. It was the first radiogram for my mom and dad. The size of a dresser!!
Fri, 13th Nov 2009
MasterSignwriter
Holidays in the Sun - Sex Pistols on day glo green 7inch vinyl. and i still want to pogo when i hear it today.
BigCol
Signwriter you must have been about three.
Fri, 13th Nov 2009
Sat, 14th Nov 2009
jemmapicken
Was a little bit after it had been released as was very young but mine is the same as Red's...Kylie and Jason
'Especially For You'. And call me sad but yes, I still love it.
Page 119 of 232
FoxyCollins
Sunny Afternoon by the Kinks.Think I paid 6'6p for it.
Sat, 14th Nov 2009
NotGandalf
August 1958 - "Move It" , Cliff, 4/11d (Four shillings and eleven pence).
Sat, 14th Nov 2009
Sat, 14th Nov 2009
BigCol
Reckoned to be the first authentic British Rock 'n' Roll record that one NG. Wish I could claim that one instead
of LWB.
Sat, 14th Nov 2009
indigo
I was a strange child/teenager. I didn't like pop music. The first pop song I actually liked was "Paint it Black".
Stones. I didn't buy it though. I've never bought any records, cd's etc. Yea I'm weird! (And a musician...)
PaulaK
Passenger, Elton John I think, I LOVED it!
Sat, 14th Nov 2009
BigCol
Blimey Paula! I think that was the LAST single I bought!
Sat, 14th Nov 2009
Sat, 14th Nov 2009
MasterSignwriter
@col, im flattered but i was 8, got my brother to buy it for me, parents werent so forthcoming at christmas
when i wanted the album with the fruity words on the cover.
Sat, 14th Nov 2009
BigCol
You talking about that cover MS reminds me that around that time (give or take a couple of years), someone I
knew got Ian Dury's 'New Boots and Panties' album for Christmas and played it for the whole family (including
granny and favourite Aunt & Uncle) after dinner. The silence when they got to 'Plaistow Patricia' could be
heard twenty miles away until Boxing Day. If you don't know it You Tube it to find out why. Please make sure
granny's not in the room when you do so.
Cuddy
Kelly Rowland - Work and Girls Aloud - Call the shots i dont really listen to them anymore :/
Sun, 15th Nov 2009
PeachPussy
Pink Floyd - Another brick in the wall. Thought It was really rebellious - how things move on!
Sun, 15th Nov 2009
TheGreatVisionar
Rolf Harris, Two little boys, 'B' side Court of King Caractacus
Sun, 15th Nov 2009
pjhoppy
Jailhouse Rock by Elvis. Always was and always will be the King.
Mon, 16th Nov 2009
Page 120 of 232
Sound or Vision?
By: Hi_ImJenny, Wed, 18th Nov 09 7:59pm
Which one, if any of the two, could you live without - music or tv?
Hi_ImJenny
Just realised I haven't done the poll bit....silly me!
Wed, 18th Nov 2009
BigCol
No contest! How could I live without music?
Wed, 18th Nov 2009
Hi_ImJenny
Good point there...I knew that'd be your answer!
Wed, 18th Nov 2009
pjhoppy
Could do without TV any time.
Wed, 18th Nov 2009
In a deeper context however I would rather be without my hearing than my sight. Would hate to be without
either though.
Wed, 18th Nov 2009
BigCol
Hoppy's made a good point there and one that leaves me in a quandry. I've already said 'How could I live
without music?', yet given the choice in your post title between sound or vision, like hoppy I'd choose vision.
Wed, 18th Nov 2009
sammie
I think everyone is guilty of taking for granted the gifts of sight and hearing. I see everyday how difficult
hearing loss is for my little boy but...I have to agree loss of sight would be awful. Ryan's advantage, he can
turn his hearing aids off when he has had enough of his ole mom nagging lol!!!
radiosw
Couldn't live without music, but tv give or take
Thu, 19th Nov 2009
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Thu, 19th Nov 2009
PaulaK
This one is soooooooo hard for me. It would have to be tv that I lost but I would miss it sooooooooo much! We
really do take so much for granted.
greatersanta616
I would give music because if i had a tv, i could listen to it on there :D
Thu, 19th Nov 2009
Fri, 20th Nov 2009
jemmapicken
TV for me. On the subject of losing sight or hearing it would prob be hearing for me. When I was at dance
college I trained with a guy who was deaf and he was incredible, he worked on the vibations the sound was
making and the outcome was to a standard that could put many of us to shame, both technically and on his
performance. Inspirational guy!
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2011:
Afghanistan:
Promises?
Broken
By: Hi_ImJenny, Wed, 02nd Dec 09 6:41pm
I am sure you all know, that Barack Obama has pledged up to 30,000 troops to Afghanistan, with 9000 of those being
stationed within Helmand Province. Of course, this isn't what people want to hear, they wanted to hear how the troops
would be withdrawn in the next year - but they will be soon, in eighteen months. Is this likely? Or will there be another
setback? I'm not entirely convinced that the conflict wouldn't intensify to an even greater level.
This policy of 'build up and pull out' as it has been coined by the media would, on paper, work and be effective. I get
the impression that American expecations are such that many people believe what Obama outlined today would wipe
the slate clean and will work miracles, it's a bit of a false hope and could result in broken promises. There's too much
tied up in Afghanistan to adopt a simple idea such as this, thousands have died in the conflict, American and British
alike. It many be easy to send more troops to the warzone but essentially, it will be so difficult to remove them. Once
the extra support is there, and the foundations are strengthened to take those away will mean the situation will be even
worse than before.
The more I think about this and the more I read, I find myself thinking the same point over and over again "Afghanistan is the new Vietnam". Now, I'm not going to launch into a History lesson as I'm sure many of you are
aware of what went on during the 70's with the Vietnam war, surely we should have learnt from those times?
2011 will, from now, be the eighteen months that Obama has given to withdraw troops. Yet I feel that when that time
comes, the situation will not change. Broken promises? I'm repeating this as well but this is how politics/international
relations have become. Engaging in conflicts to improves the lives of others may get you extra brownie points but in the
end, YOUR own people will suffer, your uncles, husbands, fathers and sons will be sent overseas and risk their lives.
Call me negative, I don't mind but I'd disagree, I'm being realistic - wait until 2011 and we'll know for real whether
Obama kept his word.
BigCol
Blimey!! BB and I agree on something.
Wed, 02nd Dec 2009
Thu, 03rd Dec 2009
MasterSignwriter
Christopher Hitchens is one of the only correspondents that makes any sense over this argument and is well
worth listening to. We don't have the right to forget why we are in Afghanistan and Iraq in the first place: to
make up for past crimes of both omission and commission and to help safeguard emergent systems of
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self-government that have the same deadly enemies as we do and to which, not quite incidentally, we gave our
word. Let us also not forget that we now have highly trained armed forces who have come face to face with
this common enemy and will only further our chances of combating the ever growing threat of islamic
fundalmentalism which needs to be snuffed out. Keep them in there.
Thu, 03rd Dec 2009
Hoodie
He's the current holder of the Nobel Peace Prize - so obviously we should follow his lead and send more
people to be slaughtered too - its the peaceful way no ?
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RIP Richard Todd
By: Hi_ImJenny, Sat, 05th Dec 09 5:26pm
I awoke on Friday to hear of the death of Richard Todd, who played Guy Gibson in The Dam Busters, which is
arguably one of the greatest war films of all time. This post, I feel, should just be a place to remember him because
even though I wasn't fully aware and appreciative of his work until yesterday, I've started to realise how much of a
contribution he has made.
My dad is one of those men with an avid interest and passion for anything to do with aviation, flying and the RAF.
Every so often he takes the DVD down from the shelf and watches it. Be it when I'm out and so is mum, or just one of
us are, or if he's feeling a bit under the weather and I often go to sleep with the sound of the infamous theme (yes, you
start humming away!)
The point I'm trying to get at it is that film is something that so many of us are aware of. Indeed, many dad's are a
massive fan of The Dam Busters - it's up there with the Great Escape for sure. Of course, we're proud of the history
and the success that 617 squadron brought but with the film, it's like it's an icon, a piece of our heritage.
Nothing gives me a better reason to smile when I see dad watching it, he's seen it so many times he knows the words
for each character and when exactly to start speaking. I propose that everybody remembers Richard Todd by watching
the film - we did that last night. But even if you don't have it, I'm sure youtube will have a bit.
While writing this, I'm aware that it could be argued I'm remembering an actor for just one piece of work but then again,
that's the case here and something most believe. Richard Todd WAS the Dam Busters.
All I can say is, may Richard Todd never be forgotten...and as he said in the film, 'I've got some letters to write.'
Richard Andrew Palethorpe-Todd
"11 June 1919 - 3 December 2009"
Sat, 05th Dec 2009
BigCol
Well done Jenny. I wanted to put a post up to commemorate him, but convinced myself that the younger ones
on this site wouldn't have heard of him or be bothered. Just goes to show what I know. One of the old school
English actors love him.
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Deacongirl
Oh, that's sad, he was brill.
Sat, 05th Dec 2009
SarahT
Brilliant Jenny. x
Sat, 05th Dec 2009
Sat, 05th Dec 2009
MamaP
If you just listen to Richard Todd, and Richard Burton, it makes you realise the English language is beautiful.
He was brilliant.
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Simon and Garfunkel
By: Hi_ImJenny, Tue, 08th Dec 09 8:56pm
No one hurt me for this (hehe) but I'm quite new to their music, and by that I mean really getting into the back catalogue
and not just picking up a Greatest hits or whatever. I'm much more receptive to Simon's work than Garfunkels as a solo
artist, it's just much more interesting and diverse - but what is best?
32 Votes received:
Simon AND Garfunkel
Paul Simon
Art Garfunkel
14 votes
6 votes
12 votes
43%
18%
37%
Tue, 08th Dec 2009
BigCol
These are the guys that got me away from playing drums and playing folk style guitar instead. My all time
absolute heroes. Neither one has really matched the acclaim they got as a duo, even though both have
produced suberb solo work. Paul's solo album Graceland is probably the closest either of them get to the
power of the duo work. Because Simon was the songwriter he probably gets the credit for being the driving
force behind them, but even he (arrogant little shit that he can be) has said that without the arrangement skills
of Garfunkel, they would never have made the impact they did. Bridge Over Troubled Water is no doubt their
most popular hit, but an interesting fact is that, although he wrote it, Simon doesn't actually appear on the
track. All the accompanyment is piano and all the vocals are by Garfunkel including the harmonies. My
favourite hit? The Boxer I think. My favourite Simon track? Something So Right. My favourite Garfunkel
track? Bright Eyes.
Wed, 09th Dec 2009
MasterSignwriter
Quite liked Hazy Shade of Winter and Homeward bound, but apart form that im quite ignorant to their work, i
remember the one with the big hair starring in some rather awful movies though wasnt even aware he had solo
success.
Wed, 09th Dec 2009
BigCol
You must have heard Bright Eyes MS. Theme from Watership Down? The one about the bunnies?
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Wed, 09th Dec 2009
MasterSignwriter
Ahh that was him was it, know the song and movie well had no idea i think the hair was thwarting me.
BigCol
Brilliant! The one about the bunnies! The hare was thwarting me! Can't top that.
Wed, 09th Dec 2009
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The Archers
By: Hi_ImJenny, Wed, 09th Dec 09 9:04pm
More often than not, Radio 4's the Archers is associated with farming and general 'ooh arr' stereotypes (especially here
in the South East) but I actually think it deserves much more credit.
I have to admit I listen to it, the omnibus on a Sunday but there's a reason for that. My dear grandmother always listens
and after years of yawning for fifteen minutes straight I actually started to listen to it, and I do believe it's a 'soap' that is
rather under-rated. Aside from the dilemma of not having enough feed for the birds or not enough money to extend
herds for milking, it does deal with many 'real-life' situations; but unlike the TV soaps like Eastenders and Corrie,
they're not stereotyped and made over-dramatic. With those everyone is up in arms and whenever I watch them
personally I usually think 'Yeah, but it's not ALL like that'. Yet with the Archers, and I think because it is on the radio,
there's so much more emphasis on people's emotions (so much has to be put across through the scripts) and I feel
myself really sympathising and even empathising with the characters.
One current storyline sees Peggy finally having the courage to arrange residential care for her husband Jack who is
suffering from Dementia. As a listener and luckily one who hasn't experienced this, I'm really getting a sense of how it
affects the wife; the daughters, the grandchildren, the neighbours and even the friends. The make-up of the Archers is
such that everybody knows one another; even though villages are still like this today they are very far and few
between.
All in all, I think/feel/hope that there will be more attention paid to the Archers. Now, I don't mean people should listen
to it, but more should realise how much research goes into the plots and more crucially, how there is an even more
realistic portrayal of society that although, at times, is rather 'rose-tinted' does show the highs and lows.
It's just something different to what is around today, radio isn't mainstream anymore. Yes, I'm old before my age but I
just think that listening to perhaps one episode, just one in your life will just make you think about everything there is in
life. It's not too bad, not bad at all.
Wed, 09th Dec 2009
BigCol
Never tuned into it myself Jen, but I do have a couple of pretty switched on mates who would never miss an
episode. As for the likes of Eastender. how many murders have they had in Albert Square? If that's supposed
to be a reflection of London life, I'm glad I moved to Torquay.
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Wed, 09th Dec 2009
Hoodie
nor me. Eastenders however is no more an accurate reflection on london life than my arse is a scale replica of
Io, the innermost of the four Galilean moons of Jupiter.
Jehovah
I know - i designed it that way
Wed, 09th Dec 2009
Wed, 09th Dec 2009
MasterSignwriter
Are you as young as you look in your profile pic? Simon and Garfunkle and the Archers! or are you in fact
actually in your 50's using someone elses pic?
Thu, 10th Dec 2009
BigCol
One thing I do know about the Archers Jenny, is the theme tune. Stirring stuff if it's still the same one. Billy
Connolly reckons it should be used for our National Anthem. An everyday story of country folk, just like the
Royal Family.
Thu, 10th Dec 2009
Hi_ImJenny
Haha. I know, I do sound like one MS! I do like the usual stuff a seventeen year old does :) Rock on the
cideeeerr!
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Carry on
By: Hi_ImJenny, Fri, 18th Dec 09 10:14pm
This isn't going to be a monster post but I've been ill lately and yesterday, my friend dropped off a DVD for me as a
surprise - 'Carry on Matron'. Watching it got me laughing, crying with laughter but also thinking.
Would and could it be achieved today?
I mean, think of the flamboyancy of Williams and Hawtrey for example. Back then, their personal choices were
common knowledge but never asked about, discussed nor really regarded. Now, so many people have had to 'tell-all'
about their private lives after pressure from the media.
As for political correctness and the demands of the public it would be impossible to strike a happy medium. Try not to
cause controversy yet still make people laugh. Make a successful film of simple, clever jokes while still maintaining a
certain level of 'OTT'.
I'd love that sort of film to come back round again, definitely not remakes but I sort of think that there's very few actors
who could do it successfully.
That's my view, I'd love to know what you all think :)
J.x
Fri, 18th Dec 2009
BigCol
I'll have a think about this Jenny. It would be easy to say that in those days we were more naive, and that
censorship being stronger made it easier to be outrageous. But the fact is, it had you crying with laughter in
2009 so it has to be something a bit deeper than that. Could it be acheived today? Taking the new St Trinians
movie as an example, I don't think so.
Fri, 18th Dec 2009
TheGreatVisionar
I am going to try and make it happen Jen. Innuendo and cheese is my entire act, I really hope the trend comes
round again. Love it, not just because I do it but because it is bloody funny.
Fri, 18th Dec 2009
MamaP
No-one would sit with me in the cinema whilst watching 'Carry On' films because I laughed too much and too
loud. Loved them!
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mephisto
oooh errr missus! Tricky but possible!
NotGandalf
The "Airplane" movies had a damned good stab at it.
Fri, 18th Dec 2009
Sat, 19th Dec 2009
Sat, 19th Dec 2009
BigCol
Funnily enough Jenny, a few years ago whilst touring with a keyboard player who was 20 years my junior, I
bought a couple of tapes of a sixties comedy radio series called Round the Horne and Beyond Our Ken. I put
them on in the car and said "I think you'll find these a bit dated, but I like them anyway." I had to take over the
driving cos he was laughing so much. If something is genuinely funny I think it's funny for always. It may be
regarded as 'of its time' just like a Laurel & Hardy film or an old silent Chaplin movie, but if it's funny then it's
funny. I think the Carry On films fall into that category as being 'of its time' and should stay there. There are
actually a wealth of good character actors around at the moment; people like Peter Kay, Catherine Tate, Rick
Gervais, Simon Pegg and so on who are producing roll in the aisle stuff. Whether I'd like to see them all in one
production, and whether anyone could afford to get them all in one production could be more to the point, I
don't know. Probably not. Probably best to have the Carry On films as being a great part of cinema history
and leave it at that. Who knows, in forty or fifty years time someone may be putting a similar post up
somewhere asking the same question about 'Pirates of the Caribbean'. Hmmmm! Maybe not. 'V' point cos
this got me thinking.
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Shakespeare for the masses
By: Hi_ImJenny, Sun, 27th Dec 09 7:14pm
First of all, I do hope you've all had a Merry Christmas :)
Did anyone watch Hamlet on Boxing Day? I'm a fan of ol' Bill anyway and jumped at the chance of seeing David
Tennant (who I do have a bit of a thing for I must admit) and Patrick Stewart (who I don't!) in the RSC production.
Watching it on Boxing Day with the family, we all got really into it and for some, like my dad and cousin who are not
fans of Shakespeare they really did enjoy it. Having re-watched it today and pre-ordered the DVD it has got me
thinking, is this how Shakespeare should be brought to the people from now on?
I mean, the sheer brilliance and suppose, the presence of the characters was just incredible. I did get a bit scared at
times but then that's the whole idea of it. Whichever way you look at it, Shakespeare intended to cause a mixture of
feelings and emotions amongst audiences - that's present even in the literature.
Yes, on stage is best and traditional but on the television will be another way of keeping it alive and at the forefront of
drama and perhaps cause a resurgence in the reading? Either way, having the Royal Shakespeare Company do this
more often will be a brilliant thing. They admit that David Tennant is one of the reasons for it being taken to the Beeb
and that Stratford-Upon-Avon sold out night after night.
If there were more, say Macbeth, King Lear or Romeo and Juliet, would you watch?
Sun, 27th Dec 2009
BigCol
I must admit Jenny, I find Shakespeare hard going. Maybe if I saw the production you're talking about I'd
change my mind.
Mon, 28th Dec 2009
Hoodie
I didnt catch it bit intend to watch on Beeb I Player - go on BC you know you want to - either that or suffer the
slings and arrows of outrageous fortune
Tue, 29th Dec 2009
MasterSignwriter
I fully respect Shakespeares influencial writings and his place in modern literature but he came round my
house as a guest and asked if he could watch Strictly Come Dancing Xmas special instead of amusing us
around the table with one of his funny sonnets i would have to say 'Oi Bill, No! Get Out and take your stupid
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hat with you.'
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The new 'music' decade
By: Hi_ImJenny, Tue, 05th Jan 10 9:52pm
I know, as well as you all do (obviously) that a fair few of you are musicians and like every year, more and more artists
appear in the charts. I'm lucky that every my godmother buys me an itunes gift card which gets me at least two albums
and every year, I got for a 'new' band that I've never listened to.
For 2010, I've bought the Mumford and Sons album 'Sigh no more' which I really reccomend and Tim Minchin's debut
album.
It's a sad traditional come obsession that I have with music and the start of each new year. I'll buy in a couple of
newbies and spend the rest of the year delving into the back catalogues of artists from previous decades.
As I said, you're all musically talented and knowing, do you think this decade will bring us even better music? Or do you
think that there'll come a time when the younger generations are more interested in what their parents listened to.
'Manafactured pop' still has a grip on the charts, maybe this'll be the time that it does the most damage.
It's just a thought I had in History this afternoon (there's only so much that's interesting about Leonid Brezhnev!) and
just wondered what you all thought.
Ah, what about musical resolutions? Is there an band/artist that you will investigate?
So for me, I plan this year to download Lady GaGa's "Fame Monster" album and actually listen to it, and really enjoy it.
Be as imaginative as you like, I promise not to laugh (although nothing's as bad as GaGa I suppose...hehe)
J.x
Tue, 05th Jan 2010
BigCol
My first reaction when I read your bit about manufactured pop having a grip on the charts was to question how
much the charts actually matter anymore. Obviously they all want that coveted number one, but you don't
have to sell as much to get there as you used to and most of the kids I know aren't that bothered about chart
stuff anyway. Not that I know a great deal about current music, but I do get the impression there's a far wider
choice of styles now than there has ever been. My ears always prick up when I hear a good acoustic sound
and whatever the next decade brings us, I'm sure there will still be a fair spattering of bare-bones stuff to listen
to, so I'll continue down that road and try to ignore some of my own generation who insist that the sixties was
where it was at man. Load of old toot. Not really, but some of it was.
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MasterSignwriter
I find some of Tim Minchins stuff really funny, but i really dont get Mumford and Sons.
Wed, 06th Jan 2010
Wed, 06th Jan 2010
BigCol
Never heard of Mumford & Sons before, but just Spotified them and I think you knew it'd be up my street didn't
you Jen. Remind me a bit of the Waterboys. Tell you the truth as soon as Signwriter said he didn't get them I
had a feeling I would. He's just and aging punk at heart.
Wed, 06th Jan 2010
MasterSignwriter
Theres quite a lot of music that i dont get Col, ill email them to you and i admit it i am an aging punk. My
problem with Mumford & Sons is that they remind me of the Reeves and Mortimer characters Mulligan and
O'Hare.
Wed, 06th Jan 2010
BigCol
I have to say the first time I saw Mulligan & O'Hare I wet myself laughing at them being everything I loath about
the image a lot of people have of folk music. I've just given these Mumfords another listen and can really get
into this.
MasterSignwriter
i am me
and you are you
and you are i
and i am too
but somebody obscures my view of you,
really, who?
Gerard Depardieu.
Wed, 06th Jan 2010
BigCol
I am he as you are he as you are me and we are all together goo goo ga joob.
Wed, 06th Jan 2010
MasterSignwriter
Actually that said, ive always liked the levellers, does count as folk?
Thu, 07th Jan 2010
BigCol
The folk rock fraternity tend to like 'em.
Thu, 07th Jan 2010
Tue, 13th Apr 2010
MasterSignwriter
I find myself in the unusual situation of having to retract previous statements, apon erasing the Mulligan and
O'Hare image from my mind i gave Mumford and sons another listen and im quite liking them.
Tue, 13th Apr 2010
BigCol
I think we may be getting through to you MS. Otis Taylor with his 'dirty' banjo. We'll make a folky out of you
yet.
Tue, 13th Apr 2010
Bassist
Thanks for the tip on Mumford and Sons. Only just got round to finding them on YouTube and went straight to
amazon. As for back catalogue, might I recommend Picture House, an Irish band?
Tue, 13th Apr 2010
Hi_ImJenny
Yay! I never tire of the album, and especially Mumford and Sons. Although I'm finding myslf digging deep into
the back catalogues of David Bowie and Simon and Garfunkel - it's an interest that's sprung out of nowhere but
is 'helped along' by the magic of downloading. Good times :)
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Tue, 13th Apr 2010
BigCol
Tried to find Picture House on Spotify Bassist but no luck. Found them on You Tube and they sound good.
Could only find Live stuff though so will check out their studio stuff tomorrow.
Wed, 14th Apr 2010
Hi_ImJenny
I meant Dust Bowl Dance, not Mumford and Sons. Hmph. Tired minds lead to confusing comments! x
Bassist
Karmara and Shine Box CDs are good by Picturehouse.
Wed, 14th Apr 2010
Thu, 15th Apr 2010
Bassist
After leaving the comment I wondered what had happened to Duncan Maitland.
He was a
guitarist/singer/songwrit er in Picturehouse. Saw him live in Cork once after he left the band - superb. You've
just set me off looking for what he's up to now already found some Youtube stuff. :-)
djcrossfade
KUTSKI on radio 1 on a friday night 1am till 3am is where its at....Hardstyle!!!
Thu, 15th Apr 2010
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NoBonus4RBS
By: Hi_ImJenny, Sat, 30th Jan 10 11:23am
Some of you may have heard about the recent campaign, led by Billy Bragg so I won't go on about it, yet I have
included the link to the Facebook group where it all began.
Yes, many of you may be reading thinking 'Oh god, Billy Bragg's off on one again' but I think this is so much more than
just a dig at the political situation - there is so much more. I mean, I'm eighteen in a little over five months and that's
when my life will change. One chapter will close in my life and another will open; of university and eventually my
working life. Times will change, and I'll have a greater 'social responsibility' by then. So what I'm getting at is that I don't
want to be part of a generation having to fix what the politicans have done and what the banks have done to this
country; something needs to be done now. This is something I feel so passionately about, something quite new to me.
So much so that tomorrow afternoon at 1pm, I'll be at Speakers Corner in Hyde Park, listening to Billy Bragg. What he
says is true, the Chancellor has this vetoe but why won't he use it? Surely giving out billions of bonuses in a time like
this isn't right? Bonuses are good don't get me wrong but perhaps this is a bit excessive.
The point of this post, I feel, has been lost by my inability to remain concise. Bugger.
Anyway, there always comes a time in life like this when you need to make that change. It may come to nothing I'm not
quite sure but I just wanted to share this with you. It's changing my state of mind in a weird sort of way; I'm realising
how crap society can be, and how standing up and speaking up may be the only chance for different.
What do you think about this? Do you agree what the campaign is for?
I'd love to know.
x
Sat, 30th Jan 2010
NotGandalf
Your passion does you credit. I'm sure 90% of the population agrees about the bonuses - and it's about time
Billy Bragg was right about something.
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Sat, 30th Jan 2010
BigCol
I'm afraid it falls on every new generation to fix what the politicians and bankers do to this country. Thankfully
every generation throws up someone like you Jenny, who is prepared to stand alongside the agitators like Billy
Bragg and make sure those that go to far know that they have gone too far. Good luck. I've tried to do my bit
in the past, it's over to you now.
Hoodie
they must be quaking in their suits
Sun, 31st Jan 2010
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As TGV said..
By: Hi_ImJenny, Thu, 04th Feb 10 5:20pm
Life is too short.
People agree, people disagree, I've usually not been one to go 'Y'know guys, life's too short' because that's not me.
But today, I've realised that it's true.
The UCAS has been sent. I've been waiting since November for the LSE to give me an offer, or in fact decline my
application - yet no reply. I've been constantly thinking 'They've replied today, I know it' and they haven't; I've then
thought 'I'm going to withdraw my application' and haven't.
Yesterday, when I visited Portsmouth university it dawned on me how quickly I need to get my decision in, and make
them my firm choice if I stand a chance of getting accomodation near to the university - and it was the final nail in the
coffin. Just ten minutes ago I cancelled the LSE application because, and here I'm thinking realistically and not as a
defeatist, something that might never happen could jeopardise my ACTUAL dream, of going to the uni that I've fallen in
love with. God that sounds cheesey but it was proper gut instinct.
So yes, I've made Portsmouth Uni my 'Firm' choice and Essex Uni my 'Insurance' choice.
Going back to this cliché, I dread to think what could have happened if I hadn't had taken this rather impromptu
decision...to be honest, I'd rather not think about it.
Obviously university is only one example but please please PLEASE, take this into account. When there's a small
window of opportunity; a spontaneous thought that can turn into action; an opportunity of a lifetime - take it. You'll never
know what might happen, they say you can't miss what you never had and it's true, but then again, sometimes things
can pass you by and leaving you regretting what you did, all that waiting around and deliberation.
I'm one step closer to my dreams and, well, I wouldn't want you missing out ever!
Thu, 04th Feb 2010
Hoodie
Good for you. Essex Uni as backup hmmmmm can you get a degree in how to wear white stiletto's then ?
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Thu, 04th Feb 2010
TheGreatVisionar
Great Post Jen, and i'm sure you know 8 times out of 10 your gut instinct is always right. That's great
averages to go with. Sure occasionally it may be wrong but not often. Enjoy Uni, you will be amazing. Keep
us updated with regular blogs, try and convince the students that then need to be here too and get your 5
sponsors to start giving you some money for baked beans and tins of tuna. :)
Thu, 04th Feb 2010
BigCol
It may have felt like a spontaneous thought Jenny, but it was one that came after a lot of waiting and
deliberating. At the end of it all what you did was weigh up the pros and cons and make a the decision that
was right for you. Good decisions only take a second after sufficient thought, bad decisions also only take a
second after no thought.
jemmapicken
Great post and one I'm sure a lot of people can relate to, I for one definately can. Good luck!
Fri, 05th Feb 2010
Hoodie
but still patronising to mention senior moment noddlers surely ?
Fri, 05th Feb 2010
BigCol
Must admit I was wondering who and what he was referring to H.
Fri, 05th Feb 2010
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Songs that baffle
By: Hi_ImJenny, Mon, 08th Feb 10 1:31pm
So, picture this. I'm ill tucked up in bed with my laptop and a big pile of school work that's been emailed to me. I'm
listening to the radio as my itunes is doing my head in. Shuffle's a killer, can bring out the worst possible taste in a
collection!
Elvis Costello's "Oliver's army" came on the radio about five minutes ago, and I've heard the title but never the track in
its entireity, and it's left me stumped. I mean, what does it mean?
There's a couple of lines going around in my head:
"My mind goes sleepwalking while I put the world to right"
"If you're out of luck or out of work we could send you to Johannesburg"
Oh, and who is Oliver?
My point is, this song's confused me - there are so many references but put together I'm clueless! If anyone does know
the basic gist of the song, please help :)
Are there any songs that do the same for you? I'm all for artists putting different meanings into their music but obscurity
can only work to a certain extent surely?
Mon, 08th Feb 2010
PaulaK
I danced to this in a show years ago and used to be dancing thinking exactly the same...what is this all about.
So I can't help but am waiting for the replies also!
Mon, 08th Feb 2010
MasterSignwriter
The title is a reference to Oliver Cromwell, leader of of the Parliamentary army in the English Civil War against
the Royalist army of Charles 1. Among other things, he established what was called The New Model Army,
which was the first professional, properly trained and drilled fighting force England had. Costello's song is a
general anti-military statement, it's main target is the fact that the only real option that the unemployed have is
to join the army (British unemployment figures were at an all-time high when he wrote the song in the early
'80s). It doesn''t have anything particular to do with Cromwell, other than the title. But a brilliant song though.
Page 142 of 232
Mon, 08th Feb 2010
Hi_ImJenny
Aha, cheers MS. You know a hell of a lot of stuff, that's worrying for me - bearing in mind I've got in to do a
History degree haha! x
Mon, 08th Feb 2010
BigCol
Apparently Costello wrote it after a visit to Belfast and was shocked to see how young the soldiers in
battledress actually were. MS's definition is spot on, but just to add there are a few references to various
trouble spots of the time apart from Belfast ie; Johannesburg, Palestine, Checkpoint Charlie and Murder Mile.
NotGandalf
I'm glad you guys cleared that up for Jenny - now, how about McArthur Park?
Mon, 08th Feb 2010
Mon, 08th Feb 2010
LadyV
Oliver's Army - Cracking song! That's going on my 'Desert Island Disc' list. I have nothing intelligent to add by
the way, I just got excited about the song so felt compelled to let you all know. Sorry about meself!
BigCol
McArthur Park's about soggy cakes being left out in the rain isn't it NG? Tch!
Mon, 08th Feb 2010
Mon, 08th Feb 2010
Hi_ImJenny
Haha, talking about Desert Island Discs, I looked at my post from the summer today and I have to admit, I've
changed most of my choices. Damn, how do people chose their definitive tracks for R4?!
Hi_ImJenny
*choose ... I can spell usually, it's the cold! :P
Mon, 08th Feb 2010
BigCol
Not enough 'o's in your bgeys Jenny.
Mon, 08th Feb 2010
Mon, 08th Feb 2010
FoxyCollins
I am he as you are he as you are me and we are all together,see how they run like pigs from a gun see how
they fly,I'm crying.
That's just verse one from "I am the walrus" and it doesn't get any more sensible.I think John Lennon was on
another planet when he wrote it.But the man was a genius.
TheGreatVisionar
NotGandalf. Do you think he ever did get that recipe again?
Tue, 09th Feb 2010
Tue, 09th Feb 2010
MasterSignwriter
@foxycollins, and to think the Stones were the ones that got labelled as the bad guys, Lennon might as well
have called that track, 'Were all totally wasted, Drugs are soooo cool' shows what suits and a nice haircut can
do for public opinion.
Tue, 09th Feb 2010
BigCol
@ MS & Foxy - Rather than that I think Lennon could have called that track "I've been into Edward Lear for
years and I think it's about time the rest of you caught up with me".
NotGandalf
@TGV - Oh, Nooooooooooooooo!
Tue, 09th Feb 2010
Page 143 of 232
MasterSignwriter
@col Edward maybe should have called his book that too.
Tue, 09th Feb 2010
BigCol
@ MS - Which one? Yours or mine? Either way you could be right.
Tue, 09th Feb 2010
Tue, 09th Feb 2010
Bassist
Try listening to Yes. To quote Jon Anderson from a gig a few years ago, although I can't remember which
song he was referring to at the time, "We have no idea what it's about either, we were stoned most of the
time". Obscurity worked well in the 70s.
Tue, 09th Feb 2010
BigCol
I always loved the sound of Ian Dury's 'Reasons To Be Cheerful'. I still have no idea what he's on about, but
that doesn't matter. The words sound good together as a collage. At first it may sound like a load of nonsense
but then suddenly an image pops into your head and that, to my mind, is what it's all about. Rather like the
Hokey Cokey. Couldn't agree more about Yes Bassist, being obscure was what it was all about from those
Prog Rock Bands. Listen to 'We Have Heaven'. Like the Ian Dury song it's just word play than works.
Page 144 of 232
More than just a Pink Floyd album
cover?
By: Hi_ImJenny, Mon, 08th Feb 10 6:05pm
I am of course talking about Battersea Power Station, that featured rather iconically on the Pink Floyd 'Animals' album
of 1977. Whenever I visit London, I'm usually heading in on the Victoria line and pass this when going to and fro. I think
it's an incredible building and for reasons I don't really know. So much so, that recently I've been taking photos of it in
the earling morning, mid morning, afternoon, evening and night - London's been calling me rather a lot at the moment.
(No The Clash pun intended!)
My point is - what should be done about it? I mean, we can not let it be demolished in favour of more modern buildings.
In fact, it can't happen. There is a preservation order on the equally as iconic towers, which do stand out on the
bustling, (former) booming London skyline.
Obviously it's my neck of the woods-ish but do you think the plans of it becoming a concert hall and shopping centre
with space for flats should really be brought to attention and pushed forward. Or on the other hand, should we just
leave it as it is with the smashed glass windows and scaffoldings as it slowly ebbs away?
As I said, I pass it when I'm on the train, and I always scramble to find the Animals album on my ipod. There's just
something about it, because the station's still standing it's like I can get closer to PF's music. God, that sounds sad but
it sort of makes sense - I'm way too young to remember them in heyday, but this does help.
Then again, need people be massive fans to admire the station?
I'm sort of straying from the point here but what I do strongly believe is that if in five, ten years the Government
announce the station is to be demolished then people must stand up to preserve it surely? Y'know, in hundreds of
years people might want to knock down the Houses of Parliament or the London Eye, and people won't like that.
Battersea Power Station needs a new lease of life, that can't be denied. Should it be a music venue with perhaps a pig
flying above for old times sake? Or just left as it is now in 2010, a marker for what was and something to humour music
fans as they go past. I mean, when we're on the train my dad'll look across at my mum and I and quote Pigs on the
Wing part two:
"You know that I care what happens to you,
And I know that you care for me."
So, what do you all think? Am I just 'off on one' again?!
:)
Page 145 of 232
x
Mon, 08th Feb 2010
BigCol
No I don't think you're off on one Jen. Speaking not only as a Floyd fan, but as a Londoner too, it would be a
sad day indeed if a decision is ever made to demolish it. I think your idea of a concert hall is an excellent one,
but having said that I also think there's a perverse beauty in the broken windows and decay. I agree
someone's got to do something about its continued preservation before the generation that values it passes.
Better watch out - there may be dogs about!! Great title for the post by the way. It certainly got my attention.
Mon, 08th Feb 2010
FoxyCollins
There's been a lot of proposals of what to do with this building.It's one of those that wherever your'e working (If
in London), you can see the chimneys.Personally I don't care if it stays or goes,I don't think it's a particularly
nice building to look at but I'm pretty sure that if it is demolished it will be by one of the major housebuilders
and I don't want that either.I realise I'm sitting on the fence here but Hi-ImJenny has put some thought into this
excellent post and it deserves comments.
Tue, 09th Feb 2010
mephisto
If energy runs short and Nuclear Power returns to the fore-Ready made!! Should remain as a landmark, what
about venue for concerts, art gallery etc?
Page 146 of 232
Last Flight to Abu Dhabi
By: Hi_ImJenny, Thu, 11th Feb 10 8:40pm
Following on from my post about the NoBonus4RBS campaign, this is Billy Bragg's latest song and is obviously
focused on bankers bonuses.
These are lyrics (I tried my best to work them out!) and if you just read them it's a pretty good message.
Enjoy! x
---------Jonty was a banker, he made a lot of cash
Betting on derivatives, he helped to cause the crash
Now that everybody wants to limit his income
Jonty's packed his bags and he's going on the run
He's on the last flight to Abu Dhabi (the richest city in the world)
He's on the last flight to Abu Dhabi
He's bought himself a penthouse somewhere really high
He's booked a skiing holiday somewhere in Dubai
He wants to go on pub crawls but all the bars are dry
He's lost his box at Chelsea now he has to watch on Sky
He's on the last flight to Abu Dhabi (that's where he's gone)
He's good and gone, gone,gone
Gone, he's good and gone
He's good and gone gone, gone he's good and gone
Page 147 of 232
Jonty was a banker and he made a lot of cash
Betting on derivatives he kind of caused the crash
Calls himself an ex-pat, but everybody knows
He's an economic migrant everywhere he goes
x4
Thu, 11th Feb 2010
mephisto
Jenny, if only the Govt would listen-Great sentiment but as usual we will be s*@t on regardless!!
Mon, 14th Mar 2011
Reynard
The great Billy Bragg has offered to do a benfit for Torbay Anti-Cuts Alliance. We're working on a venue and a
date.
Information on transport for the 26th
falseeconomy.org.uk/trave l/south-west/all/t1
March
'March
for
the
Alternative'
in
London
is
at:
Tue, 15th Mar 2011
TheWizard
I thought it was a Parody of this old number,http://www.youtube .com/watch?v=bc2OJiZsia8 Lol
Page 148 of 232
Could no news be good news
By: Hi_ImJenny, Fri, 26th Feb 10 9:01pm
I am one who updates her facebook status regularly, with random thoughts, strange happenings in my life or just my
opinions.
The other day I wrote: "has just watched the news. Social doom, economic doom, political doom, sporting doom,
meteorological doom. Good times"
Now, a few days on, it's had me thinking. Have I, unintentionally summed up what the media has come to? There
seems to be so much despair that current affairs has become much of the same. I'm really starting to think that surely,
everday we don't hear of this country worsening is good news - it must mean it can not get any worse?
This whole situation that I seem to have created in my head is one of 'what if' and flipsides. On one hand it's good that
it has not got worse but then on the other hand, it means we are in the worst situation ever imaginable.
I'm in no way a pessimistic person, that's not in my nature but really, is there any point watching the news anymore?
Thirty minutes of being told how bad everything is doesn't do anyone any good. I'm in no way suggesting an outlandish
boycott of news broadcasting but should we collectively just go 'oh yeah, okay' instead of actually taking it in. I don't
see how as a country we're meant to have our morale boosted by a growth of 0.3% and still have the news
broadcasters speak of doom and gloom.
No news would be good news. Nothing's improved. Nothing's got worse. Just nothing. Maybe nothing is a good word
after all. Maybe this is another situation where less is more.
Fri, 26th Feb 2010
NotGandalf
Newspapers have been largely pessimistic as far back as I can remember. Most of us oldies called it "Same
Shit Different Day". Fifteen minute rolling TV news has made it seem worse.
mephisto
I think the media are putting a positive spin on the truth! We are up shi* creek without a paddle!
Fri, 26th Feb 2010
Page 149 of 232
Fri, 26th Feb 2010
BigCol
Like NG says Jenny, same shit different decade. The fact that the news can be broadcast as it happens brings
the tragedy into your living room these days, but just because you can now SEE the scenes that 'some viewers
may find disturbing' doesn't mean it that wasn't happening back in the sixties and beyond when you couldn't.
Page 150 of 232
Secondary
messages
schools
and
text
By: Hi_ImJenny, Mon, 01st Mar 10 7:21pm
I found this article earlier today, and although it's for South London, it is the case up and down the country.
Today was the day that hundreds of thousands of primary school children learnt of which secondary school they have
been given places for - a stressful time believe me! Back in my day (already I feel old...) I recieved a letter from my
primary school, my first choice secondary school AND Kent County Council telling me of the outcome and my choices
if I wanted to reply. It was such a big deal!
Now, in 2010, people can learn by text message. A part of me thinks that is a brilliant idea, especially if you're not near
a computer during the day; if you're walking down the street, it could put a spring in your step. Yet there's something
nagging at me - has it gone too far?
A text message is something that's not kept forever, I mean, it sounds far fetched but what if the secondary school
needed the original document? Usually it'd be a case of 'Oh, I know where that is, it's in the filing' soon it'll be "Oh, that
text? Yeah, I emptied my inbox".
I'm not saying stop this, it's an advancing society that relies on technology constantly. What do you think?
x
Mon, 01st Mar 2010
BigCol
Your love for the written document, archives and libraries has been well logged on this site Jenny. It shows
through here too. Text notification is fine as long as its backed up by something tangible that you could even
frame should you want to.
Mon, 01st Mar 2010
Hi_ImJenny
I know, I'm a oldie. I'm all for it but don't really think it's substantial enough. Like you said, perhaps a text first
and in the next few days a letter would arrive? Sounds good enough for me.
Hoodie
Gr8
Mon, 01st Mar 2010
Page 151 of 232
Tue, 02nd Mar 2010
denny
I constantly receive text messages from the primary school. The problem is that i get messages on all my
phones and email. Its a great idea especially for letting you know when school trips return late.
Page 152 of 232
Did they really just say that?
By: Hi_ImJenny, Tue, 02nd Mar 10 7:32pm
I watched a documentary about the BNP during tutor today and Nick Griffin said, in his typical manner, "Well, there's no
such thing as a black Welshman"...what made him think that was a good idea? It did make me chuckle, how stupid do
you have to be? What's the worst example you've ever come across, famous or not?
Tue, 02nd Mar 2010
BigCol
I'll make a reference here Jenny to a post of mine 'BNP Not Racist After All'. They really need to get their act
together!
Tue, 02nd Mar 2010
NotGandalf
Sadly, a good many of our Great British citizens are "that stupid". Someone has to give the voting public a
good shake, or this nob and his mates will walk into power.
Wed, 03rd Mar 2010
StevieP
Apart from a tongue in cheek comment on here which caused some concern but has now long been forgotten,
one of the best I have ever heard was when someone actually though I was born in Africa....just because I am
black! I am not joking, they actually asked what part of Africa I was born in. I would understand it if I talked
like some chav, ate flies or ran to work in bare-feet, BUT I DON'T. My accent is more pure than Stephen K
Amos, I dress in designer clothes and I watch cricket! It makes me laugh though because we are now, slowly
getting even for the suffering you caused our forefathers. Give it time, there will be a black prime minister!
Lets just hope it's not a Paki.
TheGreatVisionar
At last a comment that suits the title of the post! @SP
Wed, 03rd Mar 2010
Wed, 03rd Mar 2010
BigCol
@ StevieP - How stupid can some people be? If you're black and watch cricket everyone would know you
must be West Indian. Tch!
Page 153 of 232
Wed, 03rd Mar 2010
MasterSignwriter
@StevieP, i cant think what it was that gave it away, but i had a sneaking suspicion you might be black.
Wed, 03rd Mar 2010
DelsiMay
I can't count the times i have been told "you don't sound black on the telephone". many people comment on
my diction as being 'proper'....my, does that mean i am letting the side down? Actually, i can sound very 'black'
when i want to...usually talking to my family or friends who find jamaican patois fun and intersting to listen to.
Getanact
@ steviep "just hope its not a paki"....... lol..... (did he really just say that)
Thu, 04th Mar 2010
Page 154 of 232
THAT song!
By: Hi_ImJenny, Thu, 04th Mar 10 10:05pm
Gah, don't you just hate it when you have a song going around and around in your head, one you've heard on the telly
here and there, you think you know the lyrics but google for ages and still no luck? Or is it just that I'm unfortunate?
Basically, there's this track that I love but only ever hear for about ten seconds. It's sung by a choir song and the lyrics
are something like "You can tell the people...*something, something something*...never before" As I said, I think.
Is there any way I could find it out?
It featured on the Eastenders Greatest Cliffhangers on Sunday night, right at the end with Phil Mitchell (who was
number one with 206 duff duffs) and that's the latest place I've heard it.
Gah, it's so irritating. Music can be such a pain sometimes!
He He.
x
Thu, 04th Mar 2010
FoxyCollins
I make a deliberate point on the building sites that I work on to keep singing or whistling "love is in the air".If
you keep it up you can be sure that it rubs off on the others on your site and by 11.00ish everyone on the site
is singing or whistling the same song.Wherever you work,try it out.It's always worked for me.
Page 155 of 232
Jacket potatoes
By: Hi_ImJenny, Sun, 07th Mar 10 12:44pm
What's your favourite filling or fillings? I took a trip to 'Spud u like' this weekend and although I'm a cheese and
coleslaw girl it's so tough! All these decisions aye? Uni's tough but what to put in your jacket potato is so much more
difficult! Haha :)
24 Votes received:
Cheese and Coleslaw
Cheese and Beans
Just cheese
Tuna and Sweetcorn
Other
4 votes
5 votes
2 votes
3 votes
10 votes
16%
20%
8%
12%
41%
leethomas787
I had a jacket potatoe last nigth working in Torquay from the Jacket man by the Harbour.
I Had....
Sun, 07th Mar 2010
HAM, CHEESE & BEANS!! Yum Yum!
BigCol
Chilli Con Carne for me. Or just Baked beans with Worcester Sauce.
Sun, 07th Mar 2010
BigCol
While we're on the subject jen (or anyone), how do you cook your jacket spuds?
Sun, 07th Mar 2010
Sun, 07th Mar 2010
Hi_ImJenny
I'm loving suggestions of Spud avec bacon, considering having it for lunch tomorrow. Cooking the spud I
always take the lazy option. Stab it all over with a fork, and put it into the microwave. Jacket potatoes me
oven = absolute disaster :)
Page 156 of 232
NotGandalf
Col .... Large spud, 10 mins in the nuke, then 45 mins at 220 degrees.
Sun, 07th Mar 2010
leethomas787
~@BigCol.
Sun, 07th Mar 2010
Stab all over with a kife, in the microwave for 10 mins, in the over for about 45 mins then cut open and enjoy!
:D
Sun, 07th Mar 2010
BigCol
Same as that NG & Lee. Maybe only 35 min in fan oven depending how burnt you want the skin. Yum!
MamaP
You've got it guys, with love from Delia xx
Sun, 07th Mar 2010
Sun, 07th Mar 2010
Deacongirl
I poke spud with a knife, microwave for a few mins then cover in olive oil and bake in oven for 45 mins at 350.
Sun, 07th Mar 2010
TheGreatVisionar
I was disappointed with Spud-u-like Jen, I had to ask for lots of butter because they put none in! Then it came
in those pathetic little packs. Real butter from a dish would have improved the experience. Cheese and Ham
man though, good call Lee.
baldeagle62
Cheese and beans has to be my fav Jen..mmmmmm
Sun, 07th Mar 2010
MariexXx
Garlic butter and cheese for me yum yum
Mon, 08th Mar 2010
Mon, 08th Mar 2010
radiosw
A real pull between cheese and beans and tuna and sweetcorn with mayo, although I do like to add a little
smokey bacon to the cheese and beans
BigCol
Do we mash the inside of the tater up before adding the filling or not?
Mon, 08th Mar 2010
Mon, 08th Mar 2010
batteredhaddock
My favourite fillin' in a jacket spud is POTATO!! it tastes fab with plenty of best butter, any other additives
cocks the whole spud up!!
Mon, 08th Mar 2010
MamaP
I like LOTS&LOTS of butter, salt and pepper and corned beef. Very good for the cholesterol levels!
Mon, 08th Mar 2010
AndytheDJ
@BigCol The BEST way to cook a jacket for tea on Saturdays starts at about 8am. Clean your fireplace out,
and set the firewood up ready for later. Light fire. Use as a normal fire for the day, then put plenty of coal in the
fire and wait for it to burn down to the hot embers, then wrap you spud in tin foil, and put gently into the
embers. Leave for an hour. BINGO !
Page 157 of 232
The worst way is to go to Spud-U-Like.
BigCol
@ AndytheDJ - What do I do with the gas fire that's in my fireplace at the moment?
Mon, 08th Mar 2010
Mon, 08th Mar 2010
Hi_ImJenny
Ah, in reply to what you asked Colin - I mash it up ever so slightly, so it's all fluffy but still in tact as a jacket
potato.....who'd have thought so much discussion could arise from jacket potatoes? I love Noddleit! :)
Mon, 08th Mar 2010
BigCol
Me too Jen. Score the innards with a fork so the juice from the filling soaks into the flesh. Sounds almost
erotic doesn't it. Well almost!
Mon, 08th Mar 2010
Hi_ImJenny
Just a bit. Tonight it seems is the night for strange comments and dodgy, embarassing typos! He He. x
Tue, 09th Mar 2010
DelsiMay
All this talk has made me really hungry. pierce all over, micro for 7 mins, rub all over with olive oil and black
pepper, wrap in foil...conventional oven for 30 mins. half a ton of butter (i do like some potato with my butter)
grated mozzerella/cheddar, beans and finally...more cheddar.PERFICK!!
Hoodie
Chicken Vindaloo
jemmapicken
Microwave for ten mins, oven for about 40. I'm with BicCol on this one, Chilli...yum yum!
Tue, 09th Mar 2010
Wed, 10th Mar 2010
Thu, 11th Mar 2010
LadyV
Chilli and cheese. Loads of butter. They taste good on bonfire night, along with chilli-cheese dogs.
Mon, 22nd Mar 2010
Hi_ImJenny
The idea of Chilli and cheese has made me so hungry! Hhmm...these jacket potatoes aren't doing the diet any
good at all!
Tue, 23rd Mar 2010
Bassist
A little rapeseed oil, unsalted butter & cracked pepper (any colour). If I'm not dieting, cheese or chilli too.
Page 158 of 232
I've chosen to have a kit-kat
By: Hi_ImJenny, Sat, 13th Mar 10 11:58am
...aka, take a break from Noddleit. It's long and complicated but in my heart of hearts, I know that it is the best thing to
do.
Please don't take offence at this, I will be coming back. For now, I'm going to clear my head and my attitude towards
certain things.
It's hard to explain but I feel there's tension in the air and somethings aren't what I signed up for.
It won't be for long, a few weeks at least but I'd just like to thank all of you for what has been (nearly) a year of brilliant
discussions; moments for when I choke on my tea, moments for when I actually spit out my tea for laughing too much this site is actually legendary!!
But yes, I'm waffling (typical me!). Au revoir mes amis, take care and I'll be back before long, desperate for meaningful
debates and silly banter!
xx
Sat, 13th Mar 2010
MasterSignwriter
Im not aware of the tension, did i miss something? That said i do get incredibly bored on here sometimes and
have to step back untill someone or something raises my attention again.
Sat, 13th Mar 2010
BigCol
I knew this would happen, and you're not the first to take this step Jenny. I've come very close myself.
Something's got to be done about the prodding, poking and taunting that's going on. Hiding a person doesn't
work because they just carry on talking about you behind your back and I think I'm right in saying this is the
sort of thing that is making Jenny take a break. I know when Noddleit gets bigger it will all disappear but the
size Noddleit is right now, it's too personal and, if something isn't done about it, we ain't gonna get there. Don't
stay away too long Jen cos we luv ya.
Sat, 13th Mar 2010
MamaP
Don't stay away long Jen. Right from the beginning I think you are and should be an inspiration to the younger
generation xx
Page 159 of 232
Bassist
Hi Jenny, Hope you pop in for the odd fix. Look forward to seeing you back soon. xx
Sat, 13th Mar 2010
sammie
I often have little breaks away too, but then have trouble catching up lol!!
Dont stay away to long you will be missed x
Sat, 13th Mar 2010
Sat, 13th Mar 2010
MamaP
I want to help Noddleit get bigger so this sort of thing will be lost. You could fall out with people you don't even
know on Facebook. Think they ought to have found an alternative word for 'friend'. Got to find out now how get
off it.
Sat, 13th Mar 2010
messmanager
The trick is not to take it too seriously. Sit back, put your feet up and come back refreshed. Hope to see you
back soon. Keep well. Keep safe.
Sat, 13th Mar 2010
BigCol
In Jenny's defence, she's not one to take things too seriously. She'll be fine when she comes back. Like she
says she just needs to clear her head of some of the crap.
Sat, 13th Mar 2010
EdwardFrench
Been having a few Kit-Kat's myself Jenny - I hope you are back soon as this site has been built, along with
others, on your contributions. You are a founder member and I'm sure I speak for other when I say I look
forward to your return soon. Take care.
Sun, 14th Mar 2010
TheGreatVisionar
Don't be stressing Jenny. Hope you come back with all your new Uni friends in September. With the new
contribute section, if you get them all to follow you, you can have debates with interaction from only those
within your followship! Wishing you well in everything you do. You are a bright girl and a credit to your folks.
Be good and be lucky.
leethomas787
I've kept coming and going from this site.
I've not noticed any tension!
Sun, 14th Mar 2010
Sun, 14th Mar 2010
pjhoppy
Jen I have just re-enlisted after a bit of a break although I did look in every now and then to see what was
going on. I got a bit annoyed at people registering under different names etc and felt I was getting caught up in
personal squabbles between posters.
I have reflected and thought Bloody Hell I am taking this too seriously its a bit of fun and i hope that when ths
site gets bigger it can contribute to some debate about serious subjects rather than serious debate about
nonsense. I hope to see everybody back and millions of more then it will feel like a true global community blog
rather than a small network of people falling out with each other. To achieve that however we all need to be
promoting rather than leaving the site. Good luck to you Jen hope to see you back soon
Mon, 15th Mar 2010
BigCol
When I first introduced Jenny to this site, I admit, not as a way of promoting the site, but just cos I thought
she'd like it, I felt immensely proud when she turned out to be the hit she did. So I really hope everyone will
forgive me the anger I feel that she has been upset enough to announce her withdrawal, albeit temporarily,
from the site. Jenny is not the kind of girl who finds herself disliking people. It's not in her nature. And I think
the fact that she has found those feelings creeping into her involvement in this site has made her feel, how
shall I put it, distracted. She's done the sensible thing and removed herself from the environment that is
producing those alien feelings and I applaud her for it. You talk about promoting the site rather than leaving it
Hoppy, well believe you me some of us have been working our balls off trying to enlighten, amuse, entertain
and discuss, as our way of promoting the site while you've been away and in return been prodded, poked and
insulted by one man only to find our defences dismissed as bickering. I really am not impressed.
Page 160 of 232
Mon, 15th Mar 2010
TheGreatVisionar
I can only applaud all the users who stood by me by continually adding articles in an effort to create interesting
and some not so interesting, but still content for the visitors. For that I thank you all. I too, strongly dislike
seeing comments that are purely there to rub people up the wrong way, especially when other users posts are
getting hijacked and taken off the subject matter. SO, that is why the hide button is in place. Hide someone
and not only do you not see their content but those people can no longer comment on your articles either, so it
should eliminate the interaction with people you do not get on with. Just use it. It is not a competition to see
who promotes the site more, especially when one of our users openly claimed they are capable of making or
breaking this site! I will not let that happen. I don't want to lose people especially the ones who have helped us
create a great debate site but I understand whilst our numbers are low that it is becoming (as MasterSignwriter
once quoted) a 'Lord of the Flies' scenario. Read the book and you will find that human nature is taking over
and unfortunately personalities clash. I will try my hardest to create new blood.
Mon, 15th Mar 2010
MisterE
With respect to all and not meaning to upset one person. I look in every day, no longer comment but still look.
(didn't know about the hide button) Bill, you say you had a break but you didn't. You came back pretending to
be a sheep and wrote even more confusing and contrite content. Not clever, just confusing. Sorry if this
upsets you and respect you are who you are.
MasterSignwriter
bbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbboooooooo ooooooooooooooooorrrrrrrr
ngggggggggggggggggggggggg ggggg.
Mon, 15th Mar 2010
rrrrrrrrrrrrrriiiiiiiiiii
iiiiiinnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn
Mon, 15th Mar 2010
Hoodie
Been watching this for a couple of days, im sad that Jennys taking a break. Since ive been using the hide
feature I think ive missed some of the wind ups going on between characters - it does dull the site somewhat to
use the hide feature but for me it makes things more enjoyable. Before it was a bit being in a pub garden only
to have a fly keep bothering you. You want to enjoy yourself but the incessant buzzing (or pointless posts)
keep annoying you. You swat the fly only to find it encourages it, it comes back for more, bzzzzzzzz nasty
swipe, bzzzzzzzz hugs, bzzzzzzzzz silly dig, bzzzzzzzzzz xxx.....The unsubtle digs and then near instant uber
passive responses are so predictable and a little sad in my opinion. So now that character is unfollowed and
hidden. I never view the site without logging in first, very simple now you always land at the sign-on page. Job
done - I suggest if any of you are thinking of taking a break you try the hide button first. It might save you the
bother and it keeps the site going !.
Mon, 15th Mar 2010
NotGandalf
It is a sad state of affairs when a very moving post from a very clever young person is hijacked by the kind of
comments to which that person objects.
BigCol
Know what you're saying NG and agree, but it is kinda proving her point.
Mon, 15th Mar 2010
Page 161 of 232
Life
enhancing,
changing books
expanding,
Let me set the scene. I've had a truly awful week at school; I've become down right rude, challenging authority and
arguing with teachers. I'm too emotional for my own good and to be honest, hate my school and can't wait to leave. So
I do what I've always been encouraged to do. Email my old English teacher Mr Lewis and ask if I can have a chat with
him sometime after school.
Thursday afternoon I go along to his office (He's a deputy head - and it's a very posh office!) and after about an hour of
tissues and issues as I affectionately called it I had a) addressed the issues b) sought advice c) devised a new plan of
action and d) walked away with a copy of J.D. Salinger's "Catcher in the Rye" in my bag. The last had not been
something I was intending to do.
Mr Lewis had given me it while he sent an email, he said "read chapter twenty-four". For those of you who are and
aren't familiar it is when Holden is with Mr and Mrs Antolini. For me, the chapter meant nothing because I have never
read the book, intended to but never got round to getting a copy. Holden came across immediately as well, an absolute
cock. Arrogant and thinking the world is indebted to him. Yet one thing stood out for me in that chapter, and it is what
Mr Antolini says:
"This fall I think you're riding for - it's a special kind of fall, a horrible kind. The man falling isn't permitted to feel or hear
himself hit bottom. He just keeps falling and falling. The whole arrangement's designed for men who, at some time or
other in their lives, were looking for something their own environment couldn't supply them with. Or they thought their
own environment couldn't supply them with. So they gave up looking. They gave it up before they ever really even got
started."
What a paragraph. After reading it, I did get a bit teary. It's so true to life, and especially what I feel like. I'm riding for a
fall, and that I'm giving up before even starting. I know Westlands has done so much for me and has helped me
become who I am today - and for that I am eternally grateful. But, I'm looking for something else but my sheer
frustration is stopping me doing that, making me give up - so these thoughts can subside.
It's all a bit of a mess but I'm getting there. My point is, already, I know this book has changed my life. Holden's going
through what I suppose I am but I've realised that it's a harmless change. It's only ever harmful if you let it get to you
and get in the way. Reflecting and reassessing life is important, it's healthy, and oh so necessary.
I know that if I experience something like this when I'm 27, 37, 47, 57, 67, 77 and even 87 I know that, perhaps, I won't
be alone. 6th form can be lonely at times. But Holden's going through it, and well, he's a fictious character - he never
changes. I know there's something I can relate to, and use to reassure me. I'm only on chapter ten but already I'm
Page 162 of 232
hooked.
It's just an incredible book.
Have you got life-changing books? Or do you disagree and think books are just books - nothing more, nothing less?
elsie
Books are a "Staff of Life". Fiction or non-fiction,essential.
Sat, 20th Mar 2010
Sat, 20th Mar 2010
MasterSignwriter
Its funny i shared the same sentiments about the books antihero and couldnt get into it leaving the book half
read for 2 years, only to pick it up later and throughly enjoy it Not quite sure what changed. As for 'life altering
books when i first read Palahnuicks Fight Club i was gob smacked by its brilliance and social commentary and
made me aspire to be creative.It still remains fresh,funny and frightening to this day.
Sat, 20th Mar 2010
Bassist
Hi Jenny, I'm totally in awe of you. I wish I had had your insight at your age. You are so lucky to have Mr.
Lewis too.
One of the key books that works for me is The SUMO Guy by Paul McGee. In fact, I'm re-reading it now.
Sun, 21st Mar 2010
PaulaK
I love reading, I am unsure of a life changing book but think I learn something from most books I read. A
couple of years ago a read 'A Thousand Splendid Suns' and realised whilst reading it that the girl in the book
was my age, that was a real eye opener. Great post.
Sun, 21st Mar 2010
BigCol
I don't know about life changing books, but one author who always got to me, particularly in his earlier short
stories is Ian McEwan. I always ended up thinking about his stuff for days and weeks after I'd finished them.
They're kind of disturbing as you'd know if you ever read Enduring Love, which takes you and leaves you
seeing life through the eyes of a stalker. Signwriter's post Empty Canvas reminded me of his style. I've never
read Catcher In The Rye, but it fascinates me because it was the book Mark Chapman was holding when he
shot John Lennon and I've always wondered if there was anything in that book which could have spurred him
on to doing what he did. Maybe you could let me know.
Hoodie
but you do know a thing or two about arguing with teachers eh col
Sun, 21st Mar 2010
Wed, 30th Jun 2010
Bassist
The Forgotten Highlander by Alistair Urquhart. An absolute must-read. I've commented on it on facebook, but
wanted to mention it here too. Get the tissues out. We all 'know' of the atrocities of WW2, but this first hand
account is riveting. I ate my rice (with curry) seeing it in a different light last night.
Page 163 of 232
Shake Shed
In Canterbury is the Shake Shed - basically everything and anything can become a milkshake. My favourite is milkybar
chocolate, starbust and honeycomb...sounds strange but my god, it's tasty! If you could have any combination of
flavours in a milkshake, what would it be?
Sat, 27th Mar 2010
BigCol
Wondering what kind of reaction we're gonna get from NotGandalf on this post. Can they do liver and bacon?
Sun, 28th Mar 2010
NotGandalf
Right, let's see now. As I have been selflessly and whole-heartedly (without complaint) supporting my dear
current wife with her first week of Rosemary Conley, I have missed out on a few regular visits to the local
hostelries etc. Weekends and Tuesdays and Thursdays are mostly home cooked meals but Monday is usually
McDs. Wednesday - Kentucky. Friday - Chippy. So this week my flavour would be a BigMacBonelessBanquet
and Chips please. Proper FAT chips though - not those pathetic, scrawny potato-less fries.
BigCol
Brandy and Baileys?
Sun, 28th Mar 2010
Sun, 28th Mar 2010
MamaP
@NG. Anything less then 4% fat per 100gm. Done that one! They all work, it's sticking it out. I'm not a good
example! Shake? The biggest glass filled with lots of fruit, cream, chocolate, calories and a long straw. Maybe
a dash of Creme de Menthe.
Hoodie
Chicken Vindaloo.
Sun, 28th Mar 2010
Sun, 28th Mar 2010
Bassist
Many years ago (1970s) the cafe in Beatties department store in Dudley used to do the best milk shakes in the
land. Vanilla with proper whippy ice cream in it too. It may be plain, but that would do it for me. Or chocolate
with vanilla ice cream. Mmmm, want one now!
Page 164 of 232
Times when you never fail to
surprise yourself...
By: Hi_ImJenny, Sun, 04th Apr 10 11:13am
I consider myself a rather neat and tidy person and decided that before the start of the holidays I'd give my room a
spring clean - what a mistake.
I've found countless pots of empty eyeliners, old mascaras, odd socks, wristbands from clubs and gigs, a pile of
t-shirts, too many train tickets and receipts - and in one handbag, an opened tube of fruit pastilles gathering fluff and
dust.
Now, you're probably thinking 'That's not that bad for a teenager' and I would agree. I'll never forget helping my friend
clean her house while her parents away, and finding a plate of chips under the bed that hadn't been touched for nearly
a week!
But for me, this is rather odd, and a surprise. I fully admit I've got the tendency to go a bit OCD over cleaning and
tidying but this goes to show how distracted I've been lately. Now I've finished I'm thinking about it, and making a
mental note to tidy more often!
It's made me realise that you can think you know yourself really well, inside out and back to front but at the end of the
day, you don't. I never thought I'd be like this with a pig sty of a room, it's not a complaint, it's made me chuckle and
made me smile. Perhaps there's more of me to uncover...
BigCol
Some of us never grow out of it Jenny. I never did go with the 'Tidy desk, tidy mind' theory.
Sun, 04th Apr 2010
Sun, 04th Apr 2010
Goodie
If you do suffer OCD,go and live in Wales.You can go around muttering tidy,tidy and no one will think you
weird?
Sun, 04th Apr 2010
nibbles
It just shows that you're obviously having a great time and haven't got time for everyday mundane chores. Go
and enjoy yourself plenty of years ahead of you yet to put the cleaning at the top of your timetable! But
probably a good idea to do it periodically as you have, or who knows what you will find! It's always great when
you find the odd fiver lurking in the bottom of a bag that's been unused for a while!
Page 165 of 232
Sun, 04th Apr 2010
Hoodie
Its when you clear out your room to leave Uni and find several roadcones, someone you thought left in the
second year and a dead tramp that got to worry.
Mon, 05th Apr 2010
PaulaK
I am a nerd, everything has to be clean and tidy or I can't concentrate. I like your point about thinking you know
yourself, I THINK I am clean and tidy but wont look under the bed right now, I might get very upset!
indigo
I agree with nibbles. There's a saying "A tidy house is a bored woman".
Mon, 05th Apr 2010
Mon, 05th Apr 2010
PeachPussy
Talking of under the bed... some years ago we had an infestation of tiny flies that we would continuously kill,
only for them to continue to reappear, it was driving me mad. It turned out to be a bag of rotten conkers under
Katie's bed!
Page 166 of 232
Really?
By: Hi_ImJenny, Tue, 06th Apr 10 10:45pm
Today Parliament was dissolved. Big Woop. After all, a simple meeting between PM and HRH. This is a rant/interest in
what you think, but BBC Breakfast covered the buildup and then until AFTER the 1 o'clock news BBC One was
dedicated to talking about it. Is it a bit too much, too early? I mean, surely this is more suitable for the actual election?!
Hhhmm...or am I missing the point?
Wed, 07th Apr 2010
BigCol
I suppose we should count ourselves lucky that if the BBC were committed to it all morning then there was
nothing worse happening elsewhere.
Wed, 07th Apr 2010
Hoodie
It will only get worse. This is where we will get the sort of reporting I hate most of all. The reporter ahead of an
event standing telling you they are waiting for said event to happen. The reporter giving his and other peoples
opinions on whats is likely to happen at said event. Coverage of the Reporter at said event relaying whats
being filmed. The Reporter post event going over what youve just seen. Much later on Reporter in the dark,
repeating what happened hourse earlier. Still it must be good, we happily pay for it out of our license fee right ?
Page 167 of 232
One of those days
By: Hi_ImJenny, Wed, 14th Apr 10 9:02pm
Why? Because I can't be bothered.
I've been having a pretty shite few days and I'm not writing this for sympathy because well, that's not me, and that's not
the done thing. I've got this mountain of work which seemed easy but now, it's like Everest with Ben Nevis and
Snowdon added on top....so I'm at a loss. Do I just rush it this weekend or actually take a step back and think about
doing it as it comes and if not finished by Monday, so be it?
A Meloncholy mood? Most probably, and that's quite a coincidence with Sophie Dahl's cookery programme last night.
Despite her attempts to be the archetypal Cath Kidston disciple of quintessential Englishness, she did touch upon the
works of Dorothy Parker, a poem called Résumé which made me chuckle and realise it's not all bad:
Razors pain you;
Rivers are damp;
Acids stain you;
And drugs cause cramp.
Guns aren't lawful;
Nooses give;
Gas smells awful;
You might as well live.
Life is good, I know it is. I mean, everything can go up the swanny but you can still find comfort in things you did not
expect to be so and you can find it hidden away in the 'negative'. It's a surprise to me how that seems to be, but I'm not
going to over-analyse it...Soviet history revision's giving me brain ache. Hmph.
Wed, 14th Apr 2010
MasterSignwriter
Ahh soviet History, give me an hour watching Sophie Dahl anyday.Good to dig up some of Dorothys stuff
though.
BigCol
Don't just do negative. Go 'double' negative. It usually creates a positive.
Wed, 14th Apr 2010
Page 168 of 232
Wed, 14th Apr 2010
Bassist
I'm with you on this. I have an assessment due in 12 noon tomorrow. I'm in the final throws of making it sound
like I know what I'm talking about with power and energy densities, giantmagnetoresistance, ECC and BER,
Hamming codes, crossed polarisers, LEDs, spatial coding to name but a few. I love it normally, but against the
clock it loses its charm! I took the approach to cobble something together, did another 2 hours on it over lunch
at the gym, then tonight I've been trying to tidy it up which is taking forever. Like you, don't want sympathy,
just be glad when its done and in. Breaking it down into manageable chunks seems to have worked for me,
whilst moving on when I got stuck and going back to fill in the gaps as far as I can. Beyond that I intend to
party. Your post has cheered me up no end.
Wed, 14th Apr 2010
Hi_ImJenny
@MS: I made her peanut butter fudge, it's really good!
@BC: I have no idea what any of that means :)
@Bassist: You can do this, one tip, put Eye of the Tiger on repeat or to avoid cheesy cliches, download some
tracks from the Da Vinci Code & Angels and Demons film soundtracks, they do wonders. Glad I cheered you
up :) x
Wed, 14th Apr 2010
Deacongirl
It's good to off load Jenny, I guess we should think how lazy we would be if it was all a bed of roses. I just got a
call confirming that my husbands sight has deteriorated, it is now 20/200 and he is officially blind. Not good
when you have spent your whole life playing guitar and touring. I am grateful however, he can still play and is
currently recording a wonderful piece of music for his next project.
Thu, 15th Apr 2010
Hoodie
I too watched this. And if she had said the word melancholy one more time I would have had to throw the
remote through the TV.
MasterSignwriter
Best to watch with the sound down.
Thu, 15th Apr 2010
Thu, 15th Apr 2010
EdwardFrench
Jenny - you have put a smile on my face - go eat as much ice cream as you can followed by a few boxes of
chocolate - then get back to it. Remember that however pants we think our life is, at any given point, there is
always someone worse off.
Thu, 15th Apr 2010
Hoodie
Remember that however pants we think our life is, at any given point, there is always someone listening to
sophie dahl pretend she can cook
EdwardFrench
@Hoodie - Fella - I'd wouldn't mind a few shares in your future !
Thu, 15th Apr 2010
Page 169 of 232
Cameron's been tested
By: Hi_ImJenny, Sun, 18th Apr 10 1:44pm
I found this today on the Daily Mail website, and yes, I know, it's the sensationalising obsessed Daily Mail but this story
has struck a chord with me.
Perhaps it goes to show that promises politicians aren't always kept and fulfilled? Or do you believe that Cameron has
been simply too busy?
Sun, 18th Apr 2010
BigCol
Broken promises will always find you in the end. If I were his wife I wouldn't hold my breath for the dinner.
whealth
Hi
Sun, 18th Apr 2010
If you believe what the main parties tell you then you need to do some research lol !
The forum was the biggest waste of time ever. Woffle comes to mind.
Hi_ImJenny
Thanks for the heads up there, it's very nice to meet you :)
Sun, 18th Apr 2010
Sun, 18th Apr 2010
mephisto
I find his robotic gestures and tone show him as possibly a little self obsessed Jenny!? Not a surprise and read
TGV'S comments about his adding up re the age of the naval serviceman in the TV debate.-Full of sh*t, but
who do you trust?
Page 170 of 232
What an awakening
Today I received the final letter from Student Finance England, confirming that I will receive a loan and a grant from the
government and a bursary from my chosen university, as well as when I will recieve that money AND how much. (A lot
of info for just one letter!) But it got me thinking, beyond university, and about the future, after 'education' and into the
big world.
I'm going to pay the money back after I'm earning after £15,000 per annum, which is great, a really good idea on their
part. Then again, it needn't be the case had the government not brought in tuition fees. Now, this isn't a moany and
ranty post - I haven't the time or brain power but that's the truth, the Labour government brought it in and that's what
we've got to deal with. Yet, now it's the election every party is talking about what they will do to deal with the economy
and how it will affect parties.
The Lib Dems seem to be leaning towards getting rid of fees all together, but whilst the Conservatives will keep them,
they seem to have little clarity in how they will deal with the economy in general. This is getting a bit confusing I admit,
it's confusing to think through. But essentially, although I think it's time for a change and a new government to come in,
paying back my loan in a seemingly 'easy' way might actually be harder by that time. Yes, hopefully I'll be earning over
£15,000 but with mortage, tax, bills AND that on top, I'll probably have little money. We all know that things will be
upped regardless of the party, and that's the realistic, if negative outlook.
It's just strange to think that this letter has made me think about this much. I can't even vote but what happens will
really make an impact on that. My university days will be under this one term, and their policies and initatives will have
a massive impact on my life. Things could change so quickly, so drastically, and the way I see it, no one leader has got
every box ticked, every t crossed, and every i dotted.
Scary stuff. God, this has been an awakening.
Tue, 27th Apr 2010
BigCol
I've no idea what the figure they've said they are lending you is Jenny, but it's sure to be a sum that would
frighten the pants off anyone. It's probably the first time a figure like that has been made realistic to you so no
wonder you've had a wake up call. Just to scare you a bit more, when you get to the point of paying it back,
it's likely to be peanuts compared to the mortgage, the tax and general cost of living you mention. Just thought
I'd put that your way. Sleep well. Tee hee!
Page 171 of 232
Tue, 27th Apr 2010
Hi_ImJenny
Thanks! :) I'll be honest, for each year I get about £4000 which I have to pay back, that's upwards of £12,000
when I leave uni. Goody! x
Tue, 27th Apr 2010
Dawnsmoss
I'm in the same position as you and am now not quite so happy about all the money in my bank! I say, there is
nothing we can do about it as we can't go back now, so lets enjoy it while it lasts and think about any problems
that arise when they hit us in the face!
Wed, 28th Apr 2010
TheGreatVisionar
Someone will have probably blown up the banks by the time you come round to paying it back Jen so don't
worry too much. I appreciate it's not the most constructive answer I have ever given, but I think that the fact of
expecting students to leave Uni owing somewhere between £10,000 and £20,000 is obscene. Especially as
over 30% of the ones who don't go on to further education are claiming state benefits and having money
thrown at them left right and centre.
Wed, 28th Apr 2010
tattooedjackass
I agree with TGV, its shocking at how much of our own money get's chucked back at people who in reality
couldn't give a crap about having a job, but like yourself your going on to only better yourself and give
something back to the country with a good job, which they will eventually get the money back form you due to
a good job wil mean a higher tax bracket, don't let it put you off though hopefuly by the time you have finished
most of the debt will get written off
Wed, 28th Apr 2010
MasterSignwriter
I beleieve the right action to take would be to sit students down before hand and ask them if they honestly feel
a degree in Media Studies,Sociology and Cheese Making is worth paying for into middle age whilst working at
Sainsburys. Not generalising or anything of course.
Hoodie
Welcome to LIFE.
Sat, 01st May 2010
Page 172 of 232
Dad's Army
By: Hi_ImJenny, Sun, 02nd May 10 8:16pm
I've just sat and watched 'The Dad's Army Story' on BBC (it must be a bank holiday weekend thing) and it really is a
British institution in my eyes. As Victoria Wood said for something to last 'Set it in the past, that way it's already dated
and won't ever date again'. It's enduring and makes people laugh regardless of age. Yet is my fondness a bit too
much? What are your memories of it if you have any?
If you're familiar, which I assume most of us are, who is your favourite character?
Mine's Jones simply because of the 'Don't Panic' followed by well, absolute panic - so me!
J.
Sun, 02nd May 2010
BigCol
The scene that spring immediately to mind (although if I stopped to think about it I'd make the choice too
difficult) is the one where the German officer asks for Pike's name and Mainwaring says "Don't tell him Pike". I
remember when I first saw that and just knew someone was going to do that. Such an obvious line but the
delivery and timing and everything about that and the whole series is so so so perfect. I'm starting to think of
other scenes I could mention but I'll stop or I'll be here all night. Favourite character? To my mind the series
couldn't have existed without Jones, Mainwaring, Pike or Wilson, but then we would have thought that about
Joe Walker but the series carried on after James Beck died. I think Capt Mainwaring wins it for me. I once
shared a stage with John Laurie (Pt Frazer) and spent a couple of hours in the bar with him afterwards. The
stories that man had to tell were fabulous. An evening that will be with me to the day I die.
PaulaK
Only ever seen tiny clips of it, not really my thing but sure some of it is very funny.
Mon, 03rd May 2010
Mon, 03rd May 2010
batteredhaddock
Dad's Army is REAL COMEDY not like todays so called comedy where everyone seems to want to laugh at
the same old boring sexual foul mouthed expletives that are swamping television and cinema!
Page 173 of 232
Mon, 03rd May 2010
TheGreatVisionar
Grew up with Dad's Army, Two Ronnies etc. Ahead of their time in my opinion and even though now sadly
dated, still very funny TV.
Mon, 03rd May 2010
Hi_ImJenny
But that's my point TGV, I don't think it really is dated. Yeah okay it's set in WWII but it was filmed in the late
60s/70s (correct me if I'm wrong someone) so it was dated when it went out first time around. Surely that
means if it already was, it can't become even more dated? It's for me, an idea of what it might have been liked
during the war.
Mon, 03rd May 2010
Hi_ImJenny
Oh, and for those who like Dad's Army and have a DAB radio or just check out the iplayer. I've discovered
something this morning! On BBC Radio 7 at 8am on Monday's they play an episode of Dad's Army, so good! x
Tue, 04th May 2010
jemmapicken
Remember watching it with my grandad when I was little, Dad's Army, 'Allo 'Allo, Are You Being
Served...happy memories. Don't watch really watch it now but have a little chuckle if I do happen to see a clip.
Page 174 of 232
Common People 2010
By: Hi_ImJenny, Wed, 12th May 10 8:15pm
I've meaning to put this up for aaaages, before the election in fact but never got round to it. Unfortunately, that thing
called 'revision' has been taking quite a great deal of my time. Anyway, I think this is brilliant, so many of us at school
have been singing or humming it since we found it two weeks ago.
You may have seen it, you might not. Either way, enjoy! x
Thu, 13th May 2010
BigCol
I like Cam's Jedward hairstyle in a couple of these shots. Hate to tell you Jen, but while you were revising we
stole the election from you.
mephisto
Thin lipped Public Scoolboys-Perfect Target, good parody Jen!
Thu, 13th May 2010
batteredhaddock
Loved watching that video!! Very well made and a good laugh!
Fri, 14th May 2010
NotGandalf
Crap song - Crap sentiment.
Fri, 14th May 2010
Page 175 of 232
The reality of recession
Ignorance is bliss
vs
By: Hi_ImJenny, Tue, 08th Jun 10 8:23pm
I don't know if any of you watch or have watched Mary Queen of Shops in the past - so I've included the link to the
iplayer if you are interested. Mary Portas is by trade a retail adviser working for Selfridges, Harvey Nics and what not top end of retail. This show's in its third series and it's gripped me to be quite honest, sad I know but I admire her love
of the individual retailers and her desire for this country to keep together our communities of individual bakers,
newsagents, butchers, greengrocers, fishmongers and boutiques despite the fact our country's moving on and
changing with the global situation.
Last night's episode saw a woman who had owned a bakers for 36 years and was so entrenched in her ways she
came across defensive and rather rude. She admitted that she just thought the shop would get a free make-over.
When challenged about what she thought about the future, she answered 'We'll get through the recession, I can do it.' I
mean, that's fantastic; I applaud her optimism yet I think she falls short of the realism, and facing up to facts. My point
is - is it healthy for retailers, especially independent retailers to think like this? Would it better for them to say 'We'll get
through it' and not know what the future will hold for them like so many others and that really, ignorance is bliss at a
time like this? Or would it better if Portas' message got out and really hammered home the fact that it is tough, and
perhaps tougher than ever thought before. I suppose this came about because of the government's annoucement of
massive cuts in public spending but either way, it got me thinking about the 'high street'. Do boarded up shops really
show optimism and dignity to the end or really just someone who couldn't face up to reality?
Tue, 08th Jun 2010
TheGreatVisionar
Great post Jen, ignorance is bliss but not in this instance. It's laughable to think that anyone actually believes
this isn't a bad recession and it will be over soon. The PM is just priming people at the moment, gently
preparing them for the biggest cuts in decades! Spain is about to follow greece, thats a certainty, just give it a
couple of years and in my honest opinion, we will be just a couple of years behind them. Maybe burying our
head in the sand is the answer, if bad times hit they are going to hit whether we prepare for it or not. Maybe
we should all be stockpiling our garages with tinned food? It's going to be a few years before we even begin to
see a light at the end of the tunnel. This is of course only my opinion and guesswork.
sammie
Totally agree with TGV..its a very scary time!!
Tue, 08th Jun 2010
Page 176 of 232
Thu, 10th Jun 2010
MasterSignwriter
Got to be honest, im seeing an upturn, last year was a real learning curve and served as a good lesson in how
to make my business run more efficently. Im seeing new companies opening up every week and a confidence
that hasnt shown its face for a good year and a half.
Thu, 10th Jun 2010
Hoodie
to be fair (and without having watched it) if shes been trading 35 years shes survived the late 70's and early
80's and early 90's none of which were exactly walks in the park and at least survived so far without a 19 yr old
media executive thinking up a new cheap program series to get some viewers by trying to put the wind up
probably economically niave but long established small business owners.
Next
Page 177 of 232
Self-analysing your dreams
Just a tip....don't do it.
I had a dream last night that I went into my English class with a pet goldfish in a bag just like when you leave the pet
shop. I sat down and put the fish in a glass of water and started an exam. I hear myself say 'Quit the dark sarcasm in
the classroom' (a reference to Pink Floyd's song I feel?) and next thing I know my teacher has put his pen in the glass
of water and the ink mixes with the water and kills the fish. Weird to say the very least I've goggled it bit by bit and
supposedly:
Goldfishes signify wealth, success, or represent valuable insight.
Teachers suggest seeking advice, guidance, or knowledge or feeling like I'm being challenged in life.
Water symbolizes the unconscious and emotional state of mind.
Ink shows a loss or separation could be on the cards. Ink in a container means travel is predicted.
Pens signify self-expression and communication.
As for the stabbing of the fish with the pen, I assume there's either a breakdown of communication that hinders
valuable insight or my self-expression is no great that it may affect my chances at success. Y'see, bad move this!
Google's bad for the soul!
What's the weirdest dream you've had? Have you ever been tempted to find out what it could mean?
Tue, 08th Jun 2010
Hoodie
I recently dreamt i did a derek as the latest Sun Advert happened live in front of me. Venables, the Crew, every
single member of the orchestra, dead. Served em right for a shit advert.
Hoodie
Apparently it makes me an angry football hating ex sun reader
Tue, 08th Jun 2010
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Wed, 09th Jun 2010
BigCol
I sometimes dream I am being followed and to escape I start to make swimming motions and swim into the air
above the rooftops. Dreaming of being followed seems to mean the non-accepatance of of a viewpoint or idea
and dreaming of flying apparently means contentment and acceptance of a situation or that I am wandering
aimlessly through my life with no goals. So, if I am to believe my dreams, it would appear that I am content to
wander aimlessly through my life completely ignoring anything anyone says to me. Not a bad idea really.
Wed, 09th Jun 2010
NightShift
My dreams are often unpredictable, however one re-occurs. I am in a shoe shop browsing. I pick out a brown
brogue type shoe and ask the assistant to fetch me the matching size 10. She disappears then comes back as
a gorilla carrying a velvet pillow with my hand on it!!! Please help with the analysis on this. Hoodie no jokes
this actually happens probably every two months or so.
Wed, 09th Jun 2010
Hi_ImJenny
@NightShift: Supposedly shoes represent your approach to life, you're well grounded. If you are changing your
shoes, then it refers to your changing roles. You are taking a new approach to life. So I assume you're
changing your approach to life but you're not getting anywhere with it? Hands represent your relationships with
those around you and how you connect with the world. But, if you dream that your hands are detached or see
disembodied hands, then it indicates that you are not getting your point of view across. You are not being
understood. So I think you're wanting to change your approach to life, but people aren't really paying attention
to you - and you can't get across what you really think? Hope that helps, just typed it into the website I found
the other day :) x
AlanJones
I think you may have actually sprained something in your head!
I'd bandage it and keep it warm for a few days..
Oh, and try to lay off the chillies / shrooms / or whatever you have been eating
:)
Wed, 09th Jun 2010
Wed, 09th Jun 2010
Hoodie
Nightshift - you obviously feel embarrased about something and the gorilla is a
representation of this - asking for sizr ten shoes ? - do you really have smaller feet and correspondingly
smaller hands, but are subconsciously hoping to be bigger in another area ?
Wed, 09th Jun 2010
Bluehound
I have strange dreams all the time, last night I got to meet Lady Ga Ga in her palatial home. She showed me
round all these strange and wonderful themed rooms, then she said I love you please be my new pet. She
already had a man on a lead so I took it that she wanted me in the same way. I sudenly reaised I was naked
and interviewing her live on telly. But she gave me a lovely silk dress to wear so that was ok.
Wed, 09th Jun 2010
Hoodie
had a dream in the night, someone was in the bedroom, a huge shadow looming over me, i started to focus
and it was TGV, holding a massive sink plunger, he opended his mouth to speak but then a hairy bearded
midget burst out of my wardrobe clutching one of your banners and screamed out in a helium induced voice
"Mastersignwriters Selling Successs"
I woke up slightly nervous this morning....
Tue, 28th Jun 2011
TheGreatVisionar
Loving noddleit mobile. Sat on the loo and this gem redirected itself to the top. I had a dream, still trying to
work it out.
MamaP
My nightmares are a jumble. Wake up with headaches and confusion!
Tue, 28th Jun 2011
Page 179 of 232
Long time no speak!
By: Hi_ImJenny, Fri, 25th Jun 10 8:55pm
After seven years, I've officially left Westlands and my name's going to be taken off roll. That's a daunting feeling, but at
the same time it's quite exiciting. From now until September 18th I'm free...well apart from having a summer job at
dad's work (aka Chatham Dockyard - dressing up as a pirate! Yay!) I have a to do list which I've decided will be long
and full of things to do - but only on weekdays so it seems like there's less time to just sit around thinking and getting a
bit emotional that school is over. Although I'm 18 next Saturday - so two guesses for what we'll start doing?! :)
But as I've been hardcore revising lately and am now fully tuned back in to the right frequency and away from
Communists and Gothic figures how are you all?
Any news regarding noddleit that I've been missing?
Oh, and any good books/films I should check out? All this freeedom shall be one of discovery!
Fri, 25th Jun 2010
TheGreatVisionar
Hi Jenny, noddleit branches out very soon with some external themed sites. We shall still act as the hub that
holds all the content but there will be specific sites such as originalshorts.com which is for short stories, poetry
and film, mysouthdevon.com which will purely be for residents, businesses and tourists who want to blog about
this area and a few other sites too. The plan is to give individuals, businesses or organisations the chance to
create their own public or private networks using our code & template. If they are happy to share the content
with noddleit then there is no charge just a small set up fee and we share profits from advertising, or, if
someone wants a private network then the cost will be higher. This is a very loose explanation but all will
become clear soon. Glad you are doing well and hope you are looking forward to Uni! Good luck Jen, don't
be afraid to chase the dream, trust me, it's the best part of the journey. x
PS, anybody reading this who has a genuine idea and would like to run their own themed network should email
me at [email protected]
Sat, 26th Jun 2010
BigCol
Hi Jen. Exciting times eh? All that big new world waiting for you. And all to be grabbed with both hands,
teeth, scissor locked legs, the lot. Noddleit's been pretty quiet lately but then it always does that when the
weather's good, as TGV says there are all sorts of new things around the corner. I've been busy sorting out
where my mum's gonna go. She's in hospital at the moment having all sorts of tests to suss out her dementia.
The plan is for her to come down here to Torquay into residential care and at long last she's in agreement with
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it. So that's how I am. I think this is a great idea having an open letter session. Excellent. Love BigCol xx
Sat, 26th Jun 2010
Deacongirl
I love reading what is going on! Good luck Jenny and BC I hope you can sort your mum out with a good place
down by the sea.
Things are very toasty over here, averaging 31 degrees every day now. We are trying to grow cantelope,
beans and peas but for some reason they are not growning as well as last year, I think we upset the natural
balance of insects when we got a company in to annihilate the ant infestation, there were literally no insects left
in the garden at all.
Steve is half way through recording a new cd so I get to hear him play every day and our cd 'Empty Spaces' is
with the head of A&R at a world wide record label in New York.
Last but not least, we are looking into the idea of getting to the UK to do some gigs with a couple of our
mates(: So we need lots of crossed fingers and toes for all of that please. That's how I am, x
Sat, 26th Jun 2010
Bassist
Congratulations - enjoy this summer. I hope you get a really hot one like I had in the 70s. Summer that is.
I've been Uni-ing, winging it as usual this year doing Digital Communications. 2 assignments down, 1 plus
exam in October to go. My uni year runs Feb - Oct. Still no big contract work although I keep looking,
attending meetings/interviews etc. Did pick up a couple of days with an existing client, had to learn VBA - a
programming language for Excel - and pretend I knew macros, then go in and actually write them! Scary, but I
needed the money and that focussed the mind. Busy 'tidying' the garden ready for Dartist's 60th birthday
party. That means copius amounts of cleaning cobbles, painting furniture etc. whilst at the same time growing
food - beans, peas, salad etc. All good as it's all outdoors in the sun. Discovered Sudoku in the last 2 days
and already addicted. Organising mom's 75th birthday party with my sister-in-law, so have to find out old
photos etc. Should be fun. I should be stripping/painting indoors, but it's way too nice & sunny out for that, so
maybe next year.... That's the news from Gornal. xx
Sat, 26th Jun 2010
MamaP
Hello Jen, so you will be back on Noddleit more often. That will be good for us all to read your posts, always
something of interest. Have a great summer, each day is the first day of the rest of your life. My life is more
practical than academic. Helped nibbles to move and decorate her bedroom, helped valleygirl to move. Both
living round the corner from me so I love that and nibbles' children are a delight, I love them as well. I carry on
going to ceramics one evening a week which I find very relaxing. Now I said to you a long time ago that if you
wanted to come down for a few days you could stay here, the offer still stands. Valleygirl and I walk as much
as possible and you would be welcome to join us looking at the beautiful scenery. A thought has just crossed
my mind, we are only 5'1" and I believe you are much taller than that so you would have to walk slowly for us
to keep up! Good Luck in all you do Jenny. With love, MamaP xx
Sat, 26th Jun 2010
Hoodie
yeah Jenny, visit Devon, stay with whoever - experience Torbados, meet some noddlers (i apologise already
on behalf of myself and MS if you are personally introduced)...its the land of sun and cider - your about to
embark on Uni - ask yourself, can you afford not to visit ?
Sun, 27th Jun 2010
Bassist
Ref your question about books. I spent the weekend reading Carole Matthews 'That Loving Feeling'. Laughed
out loud. Tonight I finally started on The Forgotten Highlander, Alastair Urquhart, already hooked.
Hi_ImJenny
Thank you Mama. I'm working on the parents at the moment...so far so good! xx
Mon, 28th Jun 2010
Sat, 03rd Jul 2010
Bassist
Another book recommendation. In the last 24 hours I have re-read Michael Crichton's Prey. Superb. I love
his research references at the back, so can't bring myself to part with the book yet as I really want to read his
research material too.
Page 181 of 232
The importance of plastic & eight
numbers
By: Hi_ImJenny, Sun, 11th Jul 10 2:41pm
As many of you know I turned eighteen on July 3rd - already one of the best birthdays I have ever had and probably
will ever have for many more years to come. I celebrated with the family and this Friday, the 9th I had a party in my
local pub with all my friends. I have been incredibly lucky with the presents and birthday wishes I have recieved but
also am so fortunate for the people I have known, two friends in particular that I have known ever since I can
remember. Having people there through thick and thin and to still have them when you reach eighteen is, nowadays, a
definite achievement.
Anyway, I digress - as per usual...
The idea of eight numbers and a piece of plastic is basically my way of summing up my birth date (03/07/1992) and my
driving licence - although provisional, still a valid form of ID. I'm now entering adulthood-ish, and although I consider
myself mature and knowledgable I can be seen as a bit old before my time and whilst my licence doesn't just ensure I
can buy drink after drink, elope and marry without telling my parents, buy cigarettes and vote it's my ticket to this next
chapter in my life. Although I hate that cliche so bloody much I need to use it here, I'm off into the world and it's only
now that the celebrations are winding down and my wonderful presents became a part of my room does it really dawn
on me how monumental this is. I've never got so gushy about something like this, it's not in my make-up. Yet the fact I
have a new library card, got a free present from the Bodyshop as it's my birthday and can now buy 18 films
(Apocalypse Now if you're wondering) makes it even better and makes me inquisitive, this eighteenth year will be
rather interesting I'm sure of it!
On that note, thank you all for the birthday messages. As it's the summer I hope to come down and meet you all! :)
xxxx
Sun, 11th Jul 2010
Deacongirl
18 is so exciting Jenny! So much ahead of you and now you can go find it! When I was 18 I hitchhiked on my
own from Devon to Portsmouth to audition as a singer in a big band at the Locarno Ballroom and there started
my 38 years in music. I was up for anything and everyday was an adventure. The world has changed of
course, hitchhiking would not be recommended these days and big bands are a rarity.
Now I am well old and guess what? Life is STILL an adventure! You sound like a young woman who is going to
have a particularly interesting life with a good head on your shoulders. So have a good one, x
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Sun, 11th Jul 2010
BigCol
I felt the same a couple of years ago Jenny, when I picked up my bus pass, my B&Q and Focus 10 percent off
cards and my Senior Rail Card. The perks of reaching milestones never stop.
MasterSignwriter
i hope you went for the directors cut Redux version.
Tue, 13th Jul 2010
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THE 2010 WORLD CUP FINAL
By: Hi_ImJenny, Sun, 11th Jul 10 6:12pm
Who d'ya reckon will win? Either way, it's good to not any of the big teams involved!
23 Votes received:
Spain
Holland
I couldn't care less
11 votes
8 votes
4 votes
47%
34%
17%
Hoodie
Spain all the way !
Sun, 11th Jul 2010
BigCol
Just cos I actually couldn't care less doesn't stop me liking tulips and disliking bullfighting.
Sun, 11th Jul 2010
NotGandalf
I can't support Spain - they nicked all our Cod.
Sun, 11th Jul 2010
Sun, 11th Jul 2010
FoxyCollins
I've got thr benefit of commenting on this while the game is on,still 0-0 in extra time but Holland have been
kicking lumps out of the Spanish but Spain are playing well.Spain for me (I've a bit of it in me on my mum's
side anyway.)
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Hoodie
The right result, Holland were shocking.
Mon, 12th Jul 2010
Mon, 12th Jul 2010
BigCol
Agree it was the right result although I disagree that Holland were shocking. How they managed to still have
TEN men on the field by the end is beyond me though. De Jong shouldn't only have been sent off for
drop-kicking Alonso, he should have been arrested.
Mon, 12th Jul 2010
riveriakid
Should have been Deutschland all the way!But, Like Foxy, I may be slightly biased ( Hello Mum!Like she cares
anyways!)Fussball! Mien Gott!
Page 185 of 232
Two weeks to go, deep breaths
will see me through.
Two weeks today I'll be spending my second night in Portsmouth, I'll be settling into my halls with my new 'family'. My
pots and pans will still be squeaky clean, perhaps only being used once whilst my room will be equally as squeaky (my
mum's a clean freak too!)....and thinking about all of this is rather daunting, perhaps even a little bit terrifying.
I've done the work, I've agonised over deadlines; in the most part shed blood, sweat and tears over revision and
thought 'Oh I give up' but I didn't and now all that's done and it's time to have the time of my life. I count myself so
bloody lucky to have the family and friends I have, as well as people like you guys who I haven't even met but you're
always there to cheer me on and give good advice. You've all seen the world for what it is and have for many years
dealt with it's good it's bad and it's ugly - that's something I've got to learn, and it's going to be hard.
But I mean, my life is CHANGING, not altering but changing. Of course my family and friends are always going to be
with me, we've formed a pact that we won't forget each other (drunken in the pub I admit but we're sticking to it with our
friendship bracelets!) but I'm slowly realising how Jenny Powell is going on a new adventure, with new people and a
new routine. I've yearned for this for years and years, even before GCSE but back then I wanted to go to Bath and
study Journalism....shows you don't know what you really want until you get there - people were right after all!
Thank you all for everything you've said, I'm fond of you all even though I don't personally know the people behind the
support, advice, and fab posts. I mean, my post is a mish mash of things but ultimately, these next two weeks are
going to be so important that I've got to make the most of it, and I plan to. Any advice on stress busting would be much
appreciated!! JP.xx
Mon, 30th Aug 2010
MamaP
Every morning that you wake up is the 'first day of the rest of you life'. Make each one count as i'm sure you
will. Fulfill your potential, only when one is older realization sets and it leaves a few regrets when suddenly that
time has gone. Switch off the mind sometimes and take in the natural beauty that surrounds us. I always sit by
the sea when I feel things need sorting in my brain. The stress and rat race will always be waiting. A little
stress is not always bad, anxiety is not so good. "Good Luck Jenny". You will always have lots of support from
Noddlers and a warm welcome when you visit this part of the country.
Mon, 30th Aug 2010
BigCol
I like the idea of the pact between you and your friends. It may happen that you lose a couple of them along
the way, as you say your lives are changing, theirs as well as yours, so that happens, but for each one you
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lose you'll probably pick up another two or three as you go. Like you say new adventures, new routines and
new friends. Good luck, go for it whatever it is and you've got my number.
Mon, 30th Aug 2010
NotGandalf
Sitting by the ocean is good advice from MamaP. If you really need to unwind, junp on a ferry to the Isle Of
Wight. You'll be back in 1956 with Elvis on the radio and not a care in the world. Good Luck Jenny.
Mon, 30th Aug 2010
mephisto
See each new thing as a life experience whether good or bad! Just reflect on it all and keep a journal-Great fun
to look back on!
Page 187 of 232
Angel Dance
By: Hi_ImJenny, Fri, 03rd Sep 10 8:51am
This is my 100th post and I could write something imaginative or perhaps reflective - but no. I'm going to post a song
that when I first heard it I knew it would be one of my 'essential' songs and on this lovely sunny day (hope it's the same
for you guys too!) it's the icing on the cake.
To be honest, it's been about for a good few weeks - but why haven't the radio picked it up?!
Fri, 03rd Sep 2010
riveriakid
Not a bad way to celebrate your 100th,I have heard it a couple of times on Late night Radio and its not sunny
hear Yet!Have a good day.
Fri, 03rd Sep 2010
BigCol
Thanks for bringing this my way Jen. Never heard it before. Love the folky/celtic riff behind the chorus. The
little Mohican's a pretty cool dude too.
NotGandalf
Mr Plant has gone all Earth Mother since he met Alison Krauss - good thing too ........
Fri, 03rd Sep 2010
Fri, 03rd Sep 2010
elsie
Love it. Radio 2 played it last week and everyone has been talking bout it since. On the Chris Evens show this
morning, set me up right for the day.
Sat, 04th Sep 2010
FoxyCollins
Since Robert Plant has gone country after meeting AK his songs and those with AK sound a bit samey to
me.Nothing wrong with it though.
Bluehound
I really like Arcade fire and I am feeling a bit of that here especially at the begining , I like it.
Sat, 04th Sep 2010
Page 188 of 232
Sun, 05th Sep 2010
MasterSignwriter
Everything hes done since LedZep never really cut it with me. Particulary the awful Alison Krauss stuff. This is
a lot better effort.
Page 189 of 232
The Pope's
thinking...
visit
leaves
me
By: Hi_ImJenny, Mon, 13th Sep 10 6:23pm
This is going to be so controversial but what with the Pope coming to Britain and the discussions around it, I've got
thinking about the morality of the Catholic Church and the 'rules' that the devout followers have to live by. I mean, in
particular the fact a man must not wear a condom. What if a man has HIV, can he not protect his wife from being
infected? Where does he stand - comply with his religion or do what is best for the love of his life? It just irritates me
how a man or woman who infects another can be convicted for their actions yet those who are binded by religion are
not made aware of consequences or if are, exempt from them.
I am aware that there are Catholics who will of course disagree with me and I am in no way aiming to offend or cause
arguements but it is a justified arguement. Religion I think is fundamental in society; it's always been a part of life and
without it, the world will be a volatile and hostile place. I just fear that religion could become a 'get out of jail' card and
that's using it. Do I have a point? Or am I punching above my weight here trying to start a debate that shouldn't ever be
considered?
Mon, 13th Sep 2010
BigCol
I can't help thinking I'm stating the 'bleeding obvious' here when I pick up on you saying that without religion
the world would be a volatile and hostile place, I'd suggest that the world has always been a volatile and
hostile place BECAUSE of religion. And it's getting worse. Your point about not using a condom to protect
against HIV presents as ridiculous a situation as a Jehovah's Witness denying their child a blood transfusion.
Antiquated rules for antiquated lifestyles which have no more place in a modern society than human sacrifices.
Hi_ImJenny
Couldn't have put it better myself, as you can see :)
Mon, 13th Sep 2010
Mon, 13th Sep 2010
pjhoppy
They should cancel his visit and spend the money on something useful like counselling for all the kids their
priests have molested. The world could well be a better place without all this religious brainwashing that just
stirs up hatred and is blind to the needs and desires of the modern world.
Mon, 13th Sep 2010
elsie
This Pope definitely has something of the night about him but he is just one of the present figureheads of a
system of control that dates back to when we first began to question our existence. Dreadful, dreadful things
have been done in the name of religion even before "Christ"; before the Egyptians even. The ability of
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creatures to control others using fear has always been part of life but only humans as far, as we know, have
concepts of the past and the future enabling the use of fear to control the mind. Seeds were sown aeons ago
and religions, through fear of the unknown, became self sustaining. How could any rational being think that by
sacrificing children, next year's harvest would be a good one? Yet after all these centuries humans still blindly
follow the same doctrines that superstitious cave dwellers did. Maybe gradually we are learning to stand on our
own two feet and become responsible for our own actions. How many more souls will be slaughtered and
children abused before the human race ceases to use some mystical being as an excuse for our craving for
power over life and death. The Pope is just a frightening reminder of how immature the human race is. I didn't
want to join in this debate at first because the subject is vast, but once I get started I find it hard to stop. I just
hope that people watching the all the media coverage of this visit will see just how ridiculous and hypocritical
these movements are. Rant over for now.
Tue, 14th Sep 2010
NotGandalf
Whether we are Catholic or not, we all know that The Pope doesn't hear the answer to his evening prayers
every morning. HE must know this better than anyone, so why does he carry on pretending? If you or I were
hearing voices we would be justifiably locked in a rubber room.
The Pope's appearance in Birmingham is to be held in Cofton Park. Cofton Park was about a decent five iron
from my front door when I was growing up in Brum. It is a lovely open space ideal for footballing kids with
jumpers for goalposts and picnicking Mums and babies. A temporary "ring of steel" fence has been erected to
keep the old bugger safe while he drones on about being in direct contact with his god. The fence effectively is
keeping the local tax payers out of their own park - a bit cheeky as their taxes are paying for the whole bloody
pantomime. Only ticket holders are allowed inside the fence on the day and the tickets are only available via a
Catholic organisation.
Understandably, the locals are up in arms......
Tue, 14th Sep 2010
BigCol
@ NG - I now know why the Pope is so against condoms. He probably sees it as the thin end of the wedge
before being placed in an entire room of rubber. Can't blame the bloke for being wary.
Tue, 14th Sep 2010
MasterSignwriter
Im right behind Richard Dawkins plan to have him arrested. He and my other literary hero Christopher
Hitchens plan to exploit the same legal principal used to arrest Pinochet when he visted Britan in 1998. His
crimes of damning abused children to silence and covering up the shocking abuse catalogued by his Priests
can not be forgotten about.
If we can take down the Pope, its a better start than any for taking apart organised religion once and for all.
Tue, 14th Sep 2010
Bluehound
The subject of religion always stirs different emotions in me. I was brought up in a religious environment but
left it behind when confronted with conflicts such as a poor African baby being condemned to hell just because
they haven't been baptized and the whole issue of gay people being labeled as evil , I have many gay friends
and have seen nothing in them that is different to straight folks. But on the other hand I know how vital my
Granmas faith is to her and how something like the popes visit could give her strength in tough times.Faith has
helped her cope with losing her husband and two sons. I might not always like what he believes or preaches,
but some people do and should be free to express that. If he was actively stirring up hate and burning holy
books I could see what all the fuss was about.
Tue, 14th Sep 2010
mephisto
Don't be afraid to offend Jenny, it's opinions not religion that count and everyone is entitled to express theirs.
Religion is an opinion that should not be thrust on anyone and in this case I agree with PJ, cancel the visit and
spend the money elsewhere!
Wed, 15th Sep 2010
TheGreatVisionar
Why not cancel the visit for just a couple of years then have the pope run around the new olympic stadium with
the torch. Double Whammy, two for the price of one. Then we can use the torch to set fire to even more
money we want to waste!
Page 191 of 232
Wed, 15th Sep 2010
BigCol
I can't believe there are no Catholics on Noddleit who might wanna chip in. Come on, you've got God on your
side surely.
Mandy
They are all in hiding BigCol, not been a good year for them.
Wed, 15th Sep 2010
Page 192 of 232
Cuts for the people - but Man U
keep their player
By: Hi_ImJenny, Sat, 23rd Oct 10 11:02am
We've all seen on the news the massive cuts that have been announced by the Government, and now I've mastered
the art of student budgeting, it's even more of a concern for me. Life will change for so many people, it will be tough for
everyone but I suppose, and excuse my blase, naive approach to it, I suppose we'll have to get on with it. Yet, waking
up everyday hearing how Wayne Rooney is leaving Man U, then not leaving, then leaving, and finally is all smiles with
Sir Alex signing a Â£50m contract does leave me a little bit sour. It's selfish essentially, and I know that's what football
is built on but I just don't understand it. Here's a man who has zero personality yet has one sum of money that could
benefit millions of people surely? It's not a personal attack because thinking about major earnings you could look at
Chris Moyles, Jonathan Ross, and Jeremy Clarkson (all men for some reason?!) but it's just the coincidence of the two
stories and 'events'. It just hits home the reality of the economic situation - or am I thinking too deep in to it? x
Sat, 23rd Oct 2010
FoxyCollins
You're right Jenny it seems like a massive imbalance but unfortunately Premier league football lives in it's own
unchallenged world and greedy players are getting paid monopoly money.I love professional football but I
intensely dislike this side of it.I also intensely dislike Rooney who basically trod all over the fans that save their
money,scrimping probably,to pay to watch him play.I've never known anyone give such a gigantic two fingers
to the people who put him where he is.Sorry,went off track there a bit,I don't think you're thinking too deep into
it.
Sat, 23rd Oct 2010
BigCol
I always find it amazing to hear these people down the pub on a Saturday afternoon complaining about all the
cuts that are gonna make them suffer, then they lash out between thirty and fifty quid on a ticket to watch
Rooney kick a ball around. What goes round comes round I suppose.
Sat, 23rd Oct 2010
Hi_ImJenny
See your point Colin but I'm not attacking Rooney, I'm just saying it's ironic somewhat? Ah well, polar
opposites I guess. Nick Clegg's on Desert Island Discs tomorrow so am looking forward to what he says about
all that's happened. x
Sat, 23rd Oct 2010
BigCol
I wasn't attacking Rooney either Jen. I just think it's a bit ironic when you hear all this wingeing in certain
quarters about how much THEY'VE got compared to how little WE'VE got, when all along it's all down to
supply and demand.
Page 193 of 232
Sun, 24th Oct 2010
mephisto
I THINK WE HAVE OUR PRIORITIES TOTALLY WRONG BUT THE ESCAPISM OF THE MASSESS BE IT
TALENTLESS PRIMA DONAS ON THE PITCH/ X FACTOR ETC WILL ALWAYS BE HEADLINE NEWS! AS
FOR THE ECONOMY WE ARE A POTLESS NATION WHO TOLERATE EVERYTHING THROWN AT US BY
WHOEVER IS IN POWER AT THE TIME! I FANCY A FRENCH STYLE PROTEST-ANY TAKERS???
sammie
With you Mephisto...........I am game for a good riot lol x
Mon, 25th Oct 2010
Mon, 25th Oct 2010
BigCol
I remember three day weeks and some twat called Arthur Scargill thinking the occasional riot was a good idea.
I don't think the country could go through that again.
Page 194 of 232
Genuine surprise on 11/11
By: Hi_ImJenny, Sat, 13th Nov 10 9:49pm
For those of you who don't already know, universities aren't like schools when it comes to the minute silence. How can
they do it? People are here there and everywhere. Thursday's my timetable starts at 2 so I'm pretty much off all day. It
came to about quarter to eleven and I needed pop to the shop for some milk and by the Guidhall square there is a war
memorial. Cut a long story short, I decided to go there and join the mass of people to mark the minute silence, beneath
the Guildhall bells it seemed the best way to remember all those who made the ultimate sacrifice. I met some friends
from History and we went along, amongst veterans in their suits, wearing medals with pride there we three stood
dressed in jeans and wrapped up against the chill. My great grandmother's first husband died in the War so although
not a blood relative, I still lost family as a result of war, so too have my friends. As we put down poppies we heard two
elderly women say 'Really? Students at Rememberance Day? Do they think there's something in it for them?'. I
couldn't believe it, as members of the younger generation we do have the misfortune of all being branded with the
reputation of noisy, anti-social threatening drunken messes but do people not expect us to respect what people did for
us? This isn't an 'Oh, I must be the exception' because I'm not, there are more of us. It just got me how little some think
of us, and that everything we do has some sort of hidden agenda. If we didn't pay our respects we'd be branded
disrespectful but when three students are before you, paying their respects observing a two minute silence, surely the
first thing that pops into your head is not 'Blimey, young people here - what do they think this is?' Or am I being naive?
It riled me a bit, and got me down. Where do we stand then - can we actually do anything right?
Sat, 13th Nov 2010
TheWizard
We have TWO minutes silence here in the UK to respect our dead from both world wars and all the other
conflicts etc . This also includes our present day members of the Armed Forces that are killed and maimed in
Afghanistan, Northern Ireland etc.that are probably in a similar age group to you. God Bless them
Sun, 14th Nov 2010
BigCol
The young have always been viewed with suspicion by the older generations Jenny and I must admit I find
myself doing it now. I'm happy to say I remember feeling exactly the way that you do now. I'm kind of inwardly
smiling and laughing a bit at myself when I say, just take it on the chin and carry on proving us wrong.
Sun, 14th Nov 2010
rudgey
well there you go i was still in bed at 11 and im 100 years old and not a student, books covers ,pot and kettle
eh . i hate all that judging that folk do ,walk a day in a mans shoes befor you do that eh. ill get me poppy
Page 195 of 232
Sun, 14th Nov 2010
Bassist
I was at a customer and the MD started talking...needless to say he was told to hush by the FD "2 minutes".
You were there for all the right reasons and good for you. When you hear someone put students down with
that view of, "do they think there's something in it for them", just think, they are trying to judge you by their own
standards. It says more about the person saying it. Stick to your own standards and be proud. I'm always
delighted to see a good mix of generations/attire on Remembrance Sunday at the service in Gornal.
Sun, 14th Nov 2010
MamaP
As an one of the older generation, and having attended Rememberance Day services with a friend whose son
is still in the army, it is warming to see whole families there. From pushchair to wheelchair, long may it
continue. Stick with it, human nature is wierd.
Sun, 14th Nov 2010
EcoWorrier
There are times when I feel ashamed of being so heavily involved in the media, and this is one of them. Not
wishing to make excuses for the elderly women mentioned, but all they have to gone-on is what they see and
hear on TV, radio and in the press. And let's face it (but count me out), the media tends only to focus on the
negative. Thank you for speaking-out Jenny! I'm 100% with you. By the laws of averages alone, there MUST
be positive things being done by students and other younger people on a daily basis but, at the moment, the
media just ain't interested. One way to change that is for people like you, Jenny, and all your student friends
and acquaintances to tell the world about the positive things you're doing. Swamp Facebook, Twitter, Noddleit
and all the other social networks with such reports, and ignore the detractors. Stand-up for the decent,
law-abiding majority and, sooner rather than later, the mass media will HAVE to take notice. Eco
BigCol
You get a nod from me on that last comment Eco.
Sun, 14th Nov 2010
riveriakid
And from me.
Sun, 14th Nov 2010
Hi_ImJenny
From me too Eco, and an cyber high five :)
Mon, 15th Nov 2010
Page 196 of 232
Bugger, this is grown up!
By: Hi_ImJenny, Wed, 24th Nov 10 9:40am
As you all probably know I'm at uni and nearly at the end of my first semester (it's gone way too quick - what I can
remember anyway!) and I'm feeling pretty grown up balancing rent, budgeting, buying my shopping and all my work.
Although I've grown up a little bit more since last week - I have a house for next year! Us 5 (two other girls in my flat
and two friends I met in the union) all paid our deposit last week for a lovely house just 20 minutes from the uni. It's
worth the money, and the rent is a low price because it's further from the 'uni town' and because we've got in early.
Making the decision was tough - am I really ready to be doing all of this? Uni's changing my life, more than I expected.
That's not a complaint, just a mere observation. What next aye? I'll blink and I'll have graduated, met someone, settled
down and have a family probably. I'm entering the big peoples world, how even more exciting!!
Wed, 24th Nov 2010
BigCol
Won't be long Jen before you start saying things like "You know what, when I was a kid I used to........". Do us
all a favour as well, as you enter the big peoples world try and change it a bit for the better will you. We
haven't done such a great job.
mephisto
Enjoy the changes and the "growing up" but live life to the full and have no regrets too!!
Wed, 24th Nov 2010
NotGandalf
The only thing I regret is not keeping a diary through all those growing up years.
Wed, 24th Nov 2010
mephisto
I agree with that NG-Things/items take you back but don't give your feelings like a diary!
Wed, 24th Nov 2010
Thu, 25th Nov 2010
Hoodie
the page id want to read if you had NG, is the one just before the statement...."anyway so I put on the angel
wings and thought, what this outfit really needs is some cricket pads and roller skates..."
Page 197 of 232
Thu, 25th Nov 2010
Bassist
Agree with NG - keep a diary! I wish I had, I've done so many interesting things and it's so easy to forget. On
top of that, even simple things like what you eat, tv you watch, games you play (Space Invaders or Pheonix on
table top machines at the local pub anyone?), we find we reminice about now. I wish I'd taken just 15 mins a
day to put it in a diary.
Thu, 25th Nov 2010
BigCol
Trouble with my past is that some of the interesting things I've done, I wasn't capable of writing at the time.
Thu, 25th Nov 2010
NotGandalf
@Hoodie ... I have probably said it before, but if I'd known I was making history - I wouldn't have made such a
twat of myself.
Thu, 25th Nov 2010
TheWizard
Enjoy being Grown up Jenny. It all goes too fast. When you start to look back and not forward. Join the club x
Page 198 of 232
A proper Christmas song
By: Hi_ImJenny, Sun, 05th Dec 10 11:27am
Twenty days to go! The flat is tinselled, fairy lighted and decorated out, I spent all of Friday getting my shopping done
(living 10 minutes away means you can pop back, grab a cuppa and then all head out again, yipeee!) and the fact I've
got less than 2 weeks until the holidays means I'm really really really excited :)
I'm now accustomed to Guildhall walk playing The Pogues, Slade, Wizzard etc on loop until 3am but here is a little
offering. Personally, one of the best Christmas songs ever, it's so underrated and although at first it seems to be a
comedy song it gives a more serious message - that the most important thing at Christmas is family. Enjoy - and I defy
you not to get a little bit weepy, I stil do! :) X
http://www.youtube.com/wa tch?v=fCNvZqpa-7Q
BigCol
Sums it all pretty much up for believers and non-believers alike don't it.
Sun, 05th Dec 2010
MasterSignwriter
the mans incredible, a brilliant talent.
Sun, 05th Dec 2010
MamaP
Brilliant, should be remembered all year.
Sun, 05th Dec 2010
Page 199 of 232
Another Christmas song!
By: Hi_ImJenny, Mon, 06th Dec 10 4:31pm
947 Views..
(I assure you this isn't becoming a regular thing) After the union quiz we headed to the 'Roast and Records' at the local
pub which is what it says on the tin: good food and music. Passing the roast for drinks, we had a chat and a warm up
and this song came on amongst the other traditional songs. I've searched most of the morning trying to find it and now I
have I've emailed it amongst friends and family, us lot love it :) So thought I'd share it!
http://www.youtube.com/wa tch?v=C5Nno9_Mptc
Hurts - All I Want For Christmas Is New Year's Day
More serious posts will follow, maybe not Lennon-esque for Christmas but you know what I mean :) X
Page 200 of 232
Jaded views of icons
By: Hi_ImJenny, Sun, 23rd Jan 11 11:33am
The other night my parents and I watched the BBC Four drama 'Hattie' based on the private life of Hattie Jacques,
notably the affair that led to the breakdown of her marriage to John Le Mesurier. It was a good piece of television but
it's really jaded how I view Hattie Jacques, someone who admittedly I'd never really paid attention to before - she was
just the actress in the Carry On films. I found myself feeling so sad for Le Mesurier as the portrayal was of him simply
accepting that she was having an affair with their convenient lodger, as long as she was happy. It's so scarily accurate,
but deep down it must have killed him. I've seen Jacques as a vibrant, caring woman but now I see the complete
opposite. After the hour and a half drama, we watched the actual episode of This is Your Life and having just seen the
'backstage' side of things, it added to everything. Although dramas about the famous are interesting and should be
done, is their impact more negative than is desired? Shine a light on their personal lives yes, but for me personally,
exposing the flaws in people seems a bit too much.
Sun, 23rd Jan 2011
MasterSignwriter
I once read that The Queen track Dont Stop me Now was written by Freddie after a night when 50 rent boys
were lined up bent over for his 'enjoyment' and the term call me Mr Fareignheight came about.Im a fan of
neither but It made me think how disappionted they must be apon hearing such dark truths. I think with all
artists in their very nature put on an act, so when their real side comes out it will always shock or upset the
fanbase.
EdwardFrench
Human Nature can be very destructive Jenny - Hope Uni is going well.
Sun, 23rd Jan 2011
Page 201 of 232
Politics student = awkward voter?
By: Hi_ImJenny, Tue, 22nd Feb 11 4:52pm
As many of you know I study politics at university but first and foremost I don't want that to be seen as an excuse for
anything. At the moment I'm learning about election systems as one of my core units, and this has come at a time
where the first past the post system is being disputed in favour of the Alternative Vote (AV) system, which personally, I
find really interesting...and that's the thing. Having a knowledge of the ins and outs of politics I'm a bit cautious over
whether that will affect my voting behaviour when I'm actually old enough to vote (missing out on the 2010 election by
two months and two days was not fair!) It was really something my lecturer raised: "When you all come to vote all of
this which you have learnt will stand in your way" - so maybe studying politics is a bad thing? You know the good, the
bad and the ugly and that's that - either a little bit of confidence and faith or none at all. Yes, you vote to change but
even then, a bit of hindsight shows that that isn't the sure solution either. Perhaps politics should be left outside of
lecture theatres and classrooms, the ambiguity and controversy being too ingrained to change, yet too noticeable to be
ignored. I don't regret this choice at all, I love my uni life and the degree is a major part of that (obviously) but, oh, I
don't know, this is turning into a ramble once again but my studies are making me think about it so much more. All in
all, studying politics makes me aware that voting can sometimes just be a drop in the ocean. How will I vote? Go 'um,
yeah but if I vote for Liberal Democrats I'm in a sense supporting pluralism, which in all honesty is already present, the
civil service can set the agenda quite forcefully as they've got a lot of knowledge, influence...." and so on.
Tue, 22nd Feb 2011
BigCol
Best to just go eeny-meeny-miney-mo when the time comes Jen. (He said with a tiny touch of flippancy)
Wed, 23rd Feb 2011
Reynard
Hi Jenny, There's an old saying: "The more you know, the more you suffer". It goes along with "Ignorance is
bliss". I guess that true education means that you lose certainty as you need to consider all sides in a debate.
If you have the opportunity in your Degree, try a Sociology option. This may offer a greater and deeper
understanding of why we do things and how society works. It should also put in perspective how little true
power and influence the folks in Westminster actually have in the face of economic and social change.
Page 202 of 232
Rest In Peace Elizabeth Taylor
By: Hi_ImJenny, Wed, 23rd Mar 11 1:45pm
http://www.guardian.co.uk /film/2011/mar/23/elizabe th-taylor-dies-reports
I've come back from lectures to this sad sad news, I remember watching her films with my nan and thinking how
beautiful she was, I've always admired the 'screen goddesses' of that time. To quote Stephen Fry on twitter today,
"surely the last?" and maybe it is. It's sad, but as with all cases such as this, she is free from pain and that's the most
important thing.
x
Wed, 23rd Mar 2011
BigCol
Sad news indeed. Mind you the 'star spotting' we can indulge at her funeral will take our minds off of budgets,
bombings and tsunamis for a day or two. You can almost hear the flapping of angels' wings as various dead
husbands run for cloud cover.
mephisto
She was stunning in her early stuff!
Wed, 23rd Mar 2011
Thu, 24th Mar 2011
TheWizard
One of her earliest films was National Velvet. I think if I remember correctly this was turned into an English TV
Series in the 60's. BC will probably know. Not with Elizabeth Taylor though. She was indeed a stunning Young
lady. She had a good innings, had fame and fortune, lots of men and died a Multi Millionairess. What more
could you ask for in life?
She is to be buried next to Micheal Jackson I hear at Forest Lawn Cemetary in Hollywood where all the big
stars age buried. Originally she wanted to be buried with Richard Burton but times have changed. Richard died
in 1984 aged 58 and was buried in Switzerland. They first married in 1964 and remarried
later.http://www.metro.co .uk/film/858894-elizabeth -taylor-dies-of-heart-fai lure-aged-79
Page 203 of 232
AV or FPTP
As I'm sure you're all aware of the referendum coming up on May 5th of whether to change our election or stick with
what we've got. I've literally just finished a report comparing the two systems for politics coursework and it's something
I find really interesting, and I'm really unsure of what to vote in favour of. I mean, I would find it interesting as I'm
studying it day in day out and appreciate it is a bit of a puzzle the whole alternate vote (even without a hangover it's
confusing) but I'm just wondering what everyone thinks? Are you for change or of the attitude that if it ain't broke, don't
bother fixing it.
Oh, and hello by the way! Has been a while I must admit! x
Wed, 20th Apr 2011
NightShift
So we now have a coalition government that no one voted for, we only voted for one party not two before
people get confused, and now we get the chance to vote on how we vote! I vote we don't vote on how we
vote! Who's behind me? Other than Finkers work colleague.
Wed, 20th Apr 2011
Hi_ImJenny
Couldn't agree more NS! I mean, my parents aren't voting - they're in the 'If it ain't broke don't fix it' camp.
Personally, the government must be using it do distract us all....
Wed, 20th Apr 2011
BigCol
I keep getting put off by being told the only ones using AV are Australia, Ireland, Fiji and Papua New Guinea.
Hardly world leaders are they.
Wed, 20th Apr 2011
MamaP
Hi Jen, nice to see you back. Now, if you with a young and active brain and studying this politics business find
it a puzzle, spare a thought for people like me. I haven't got a bloody clue what it's all about. I read the
literature and listen to the news but still have no idea. Therefore I cannot vote.
mephisto
First past the post!!
Wed, 20th Apr 2011
Page 204 of 232
Wed, 20th Apr 2011
messmanager
I've said it before, but I'll say it again...Until they include 'NONE OF THE ABOVE' as an option then it is not
true democracy. I can see many voters ticking this particular box letting the politicians of all parties know that
honesty would be a better policy than the garbage they spew out now. Roll on the revolution. The Red Dragon
Rules!!!
Wed, 20th Apr 2011
Reynard
I don't believe that AV is sufficiently progressive to reflect the democratic needs of a modern and rapidly
changing Britain. Yet, it's the only alternative we are being offered to a system that increasingly excludes
millions from being recognised and represented.
The days when there were just two political parties are over and we need a system whereby divergent political
views can be acknowledged.
If the vote supports the status quo, then I fear that we will not have another opportunity for change for 20
years. The old political power blocs of both Left and Right will continue, but with a decreasing mandate and
even fewer of us involved... and that's not just deeply unfair but profoundly dangerous.
So, I'll be voting for AV as a small but necessary symbolic change...
Thu, 21st Apr 2011
Bluehound
No one seems to be able to say in one simple sentance why AV is better.
There are vague rumblings about alowing smaller partys a say.. but if that means that BNP or UKIP could get
in by default it sounds like a bad thing to me.
Thu, 21st Apr 2011
BigCol
If I've read this right it seems to me that the AV system means that, if we, the greatly informed British public,
can't make up our minds between two or three parties that make some kind of fragile sense, we then give a
shot to our second choices which are likely to be made up of a group of players who make absolutely no real
sense at all. A bit like a Cup Final which ends in a draw so you call in the two losing semi-finalists for a penalty
shoot out and give the cup to whoever wins that. First Past the Post for me.
colgiff
FPTP
Thu, 21st Apr 2011
Thu, 21st Apr 2011
Bluehound
In fact the more I think of it, the more I realize its a big waste of time ( and no doubt money ).
It was government and politicians that were broken not the manner in which they were voted in.
If your telly was broken you would get it fixed, not invent a new way of changing channel using your bum.
Thu, 21st Apr 2011
Finker
I don't get what revolutionary change AV will make. AV is not proportional representation. If the leading
candidate fails to reach the 50% mark , the candidate who came lasts results are expunged and the votes cast
for him are re distributed, based on the second choice cast. This keeps on going until a winner is declared by
reaching 50% of the votes cast. So I have to say its the end of one man/woman , one vote. The voters trying to
get minority candidate elected will have their vote recounted and added to other candidates tallies accordingly.
If I'm getting this wrong at any point dive in because I'm easily fooled. It looks like FPTP by another name with
more chance of getting the wrong result. 2 changes should be made though 1) compulsory voting and 2)None
of the above.
MasterSignwriter
im getting the urge to shout 'its..........numberwang! '
Thu, 21st Apr 2011
BigCol
seventy five minus thirteen.......
Fri, 22nd Apr 2011
Page 205 of 232
MasterSignwriter
its.......numberwang!
Fri, 22nd Apr 2011
BigCol
Eleven.
Fri, 22nd Apr 2011
MasterSignwriter
sorry, thats not numberwang
Fri, 22nd Apr 2011
Fri, 22nd Apr 2011
BigCol
You just wanted to end the game early. I'll take a rotation of the board and call it a moral victory.
And now..........back to politics.
NotGandalf
Using the second preference of the losing party is laughable.
Mon, 02nd May 2011
The second preference of BNP or "Greens against Gays" voters, is likely to be dafter than "The Monster
Raving Loony Party".
Face it. A/V is bollocks.
Page 206 of 232
Long time no see!
Well, hello everyone - how are we all? First of all, I want to apologise for my lack of posts and lack of comments over
the last few months, uni has well and truly taken over my life! That applies to spending hours upon hours reading and
working, as well as nights outs dancing and early mornings with what seems to be the worst hangover ever.......only to
be repeated that night. All that, and now I'm back. Back for the summer with all my gear (I couldn't fit in the car with
mum and dad last week - I had to get the train back!!) I've got my summer job back and I'm pottering about in the
sunshine, despite the intermittent rain. I can't quite believe the year has gone already, it's been too quick but gees, I've
had the best time of my life already!
So, this was just a catch up post really, to see if I've still got it in me to be a noddler. Do please tell me what I've
missed!
xx
Tue, 07th Jun 2011
TheGreatVisionar
Hi Jenny, glad you're having a great time. We are mobile now and hopefully getting a backer to help with our
marketing soon. Will also have a dedicated Facebook app soon too so you can noddle without even leaving
your Facebook page and get your friends to join in too. Still some great blogs, search for Emporors Soup, it's
my current fav. X
Tue, 07th Jun 2011
BigCol
So uni has taken over your life then Tsk! Whatever next? We were all hoping you'd have taken over the uni
by now. "Hours upon hours reading and working, as well as nights outs dancing and early mornings with what
seems to be the worst hangover ever.......only to be repeated that night"? Gotta say that doesn't sound like
university life to me. Seriously though, great to see you're diving headlong into some of the best years of your
life. There was definitely a different air about you when we met up in January and we're all gonna be real
proud of you one day.
What have you missed? Us of course!
Tue, 07th Jun 2011
MamaP
Missed you girly, but have seen your comments on FB so know you have done well and having fun. Enjoy your
summer break.
Page 207 of 232
Wed, 08th Jun 2011
Hi_ImJenny
Thanks guys! Does it not Col? Am I still being too much of a model student?! Haha. I agree with you though,
something about me's changing - can't complain though!
Thu, 09th Jun 2011
BigCol
Just to be clear Jen, when I say "That doean't sound like university life" what I actually mean is "It sounds
EXACTLY like university life". Carry on being a model student.
riveriakid
Apologies accepted! Enjoy Life! All Best.
Thu, 09th Jun 2011
Hi_ImJenny
Sorry about that Colin, sarcasm does sometimes go over my head! :) x
Sat, 11th Jun 2011
Page 208 of 232
I never knew watching a film
would make me experience every
emotion
By: Hi_ImJenny, Sat, 11th Jun 11 6:56pm
919 Views, 1 Comment..
That was until I went to see Senna on Thursday night (I've been busy working so I apologise for the delay). It was my
treat for my mum and dad, true F1 fans, my mum especially adored Ayrton Senna. In fact, after his death, she didn't
watch it - she only began to take an interest once Lewis Hamilton returned with vibrancy and passion. So, we went. It
was a gripping film, what I like was the focus on the man, and how he handled his career. More often than not people
are somewhat consumed by their careers, being guided by the fame and riches. Here was a truly wonderful man, his
focus was family, God and driving. He wanted the passion put back into the sport, and it not be spoilt by the politics.
Unfortunately, that created problems but he dealt with them with courage, confidence and with this wonderful air about
him. You might realise by now that I'm in awe of the man.
Unfortunately, we all know how the film would progress. Imola. April 29 - May 1 1994. A dark dark weekend for motor
sport. Rubens Barrichello's crash, the death of Roland Ratzenberger - a horrible thing to witness as a spectator or as a
fellow driver. Then, seeing Senna's crash had me in floods of tears, for reasons I can't entirely fathom. A horrific event
yet the fact it was an instantaneous death is a comfort, this great man suffered no pain, and may in fact have not
realised what was entirely happening to him. Here was a man who brought so much joy to the sport, and the entire
world, I remember as a toddler watching the television with my mum and dad crying - he was loved by millions. Senna
was gone, in a matter of seconds and the sport went into mourning. Something, I believe, was captured so well in the
film. It's a respectful piece of cinema, it's adoring and admiring, it is in no way endorsing a particular person's opinion,
more reflecting the collective opinion of many millions. I never grew up watching race in race out just what this man
could do but I do realise what an incredible man he was.
Thinking about it now, I know exactly why it's got to me. I had sat and watched an hour and a half of spectacular
driving, I had to come to see the man away from the car, his genoristy, fun-loving attitude and all that he had to give.
My thought was 'Yes, he was in a league of his own, there was no competition - look what he achieved, look where he
was going' and then in the space of twenty seconds of film, he was gone, and that era was over. To see it all
condensed like that and then stopped is a lot to take in. Maybe that's why. What do I take from the film? That he was a
genius. An absolute genius. A young man who showed that if you believed in something, were passionate and took the
chances, and went for the corners then you can achieve what you set your sights on. Almost as if the day you don't, or
you start to question with 'what if's' shows you that it's not meant to be. You've got to live for the now.
I hope this hasn't come across as a shitty attempt at being Mark Kermode giving a film review, but really, I didn't realise
how much of an effect this film could have on me. Honestly, whether you like F1 or not, go and see it. You won't regret
it!
Page 209 of 232
Sat, 11th Jun 2011
BigCol
Never been a F1 fan but wouldn't miss this film now I've read this, far from being a shitty attempt at a film
review, more a rather excellent one.
Page 210 of 232
This could just be me, ever the
optimist...
By: Hi_ImJenny, Tue, 02nd Aug 11 11:05pm
I reckon the American economic situation ain't all that bad. It may not be a deal that Obama wanted but he realises that
he, and the US in general, are very lucky to at least have this deal available to them. It's in no way nipping it in the bud
because the debt is mounting but an increase in borrowing to 16.7 trillion dollars is a good idea. It's a safety net
obviously, but let's just hope that doesn't tempt fate and the debt soon exceeds that figure.
With all that's gone on since 2008, I still think Obama is the best thing that has happened to America. It's just
coincidental that he is leading the most powerful nation in the world, and it so happens that it is the nation that is
bearing the brunt of the global recession.
Any ideas? It's been a while since I've been on here. Damn working as a pirate every four days!
Wed, 03rd Aug 2011
BigCol
Sorry Jen, my head explodes at the thought of borrowing 16.7 thou. It certainly can't cope with the thought of
trillions (wasn't she in Hitch Hiker's Guide to the Galaxy or something?)
Pirate? Wha.....?
Wed, 03rd Aug 2011
mephisto
Ah Jen Lass (Pirate accent)-Think it is just delaying the inevitable and a form of burying the head in the sand!
The problem is huge and it ain't going away just by raising the limits! A few more european countries to
announce how skint they are soon. Face it head on, adjust payments accordingly and be patient!!
Wed, 03rd Aug 2011
Hi_ImJenny
I agree, but trillions for America doesn't seem that bad. They are bloody lucky to get this opportunity, I just
hope that it will work otherwise I will sound a right idiot haha! I think my argument sort of centres of the idea
that if America doesn't get it's act together the rest of the world will have to suffer the repercussions.
As for the pirate stuff, working at the Dockyard in the Pirate Play Days centre. I spend my days supervising a
bouncy castle and then dress in a parrot costume for a good couple of hours meeting all the kids! :) xx
Wed, 03rd Aug 2011
TheGreatVisionar
Hi Jen, just to let you know, you can now noddle on your phone! On topic though, does anybody believe that
we are not closer to drowning in debt than most? The Americans are screwed, no way you can recover trillions
Page 211 of 232
no matter what cuts they make. In years to come they will be bought out and become the United States of
China! Maybe 50 years away but not too far fetched.
MasterSignwriter
How come no one's thought about raising the price of a BigMac by 10p. Crisis over.
Wed, 03rd Aug 2011
Page 212 of 232
Twitter: The starting point for
many a debate
By: Hi_ImJenny, Fri, 20th Jan 12 3:21pm
It's clear that twitter has become a huge part of society and often features in a number of news stories. The presence
of politicians also makes it easier to communicate with them, and for these individuals to gage a response from the
voting public to certain initiatives and policies. On Wednesday Ed Milliband tweeted "Youth unemployment now stands
at over 1 million ' when the PM boasts about rising employment it shows how out of touch he is." I rarely tweet famous
people but when this came up on my iPhone's feed I had to, and responded with "That's true Ed, but as a 'young
person' who grew up in Labour Britain I'm not too sure you and the party can solve it." Obviously, it's of an informal way
to contact the leader of the opposition but that's the nature of a tweet. I suppose the reason for this post is that I've
realised the value of twitter, and how important its role has become in contributing to debates, either in the general
public or between a few people over the internet. One of my best friends at uni also has twitter, and he responded to
my tweet, and Ed Milliband's with "Labour set the trend for this mess. They won't fix it. Many people are unemployed
because they aren't good enough." A good debate and discussion unfolded between us two, with Ed Milliband having a
copy of each tweet too. I came to realise, more than ever, that I, and Alex are both members of this young generation
that Milliband speaks about, and is the focus of much government action. I hate being labelled, and the concept riles
but with such a term being thrown about the House of Commons and society, I tried to steer clear of it but have
realised I can't, and that if unfortunately my plans to train as a teacher do not come to fruition, I join that generation.
That worries me, I can't deny it. I admit, this tweeting was actually whilst I was on the train home to Kent (for a break
after exams...and to see the Bully Wee Band on tour!) and I was surrounded by commuters - are they happy and safe
in their jobs, or sharing similar problems? I must return to Ed's comments, aside from the discussion my friend and I
were having. Obviously, Milliband and the Labour Party will criticise the coalition's decisions and subsequent actions
but I don't think the party have the actions to go with the words. I've grown up in a Labour country, in a Labour
constituency; I have seen this problem unfold on a national and local level. I bemoan politics for the hours upon hours
of work I have to do at uni but I have an appreciation for the political process, and the very nature of government. Yet
still, with this knowledge I guess that's what I should call it, I have very little faith in the party and the ideology that has
created the country I have grown up in. We can't even salvage the system for my generation, and my children's
generation. There's no 'reset' button and I feel the government's been customised by people, is terribly misguided and
is precariously balanced on promises, ideas, and sudden conclusions. Every generation picks up the pieces, and I
thank my parents and my grandparents. I also apologise to my children and grandchildren for they will have to as well. I
just feel that it's a sort of political catch up and my generation, with the news at the touch of a button and twitter's ability
to give politicians the chance to express their views at any time away from the confides of Parliament has made us too
aware, and too used to the issues the government faces.
So yeah, funny how one tweet, an iPhone and a train journey can make me think so much, and lead to such a political
rant.
I do apologise in advance, it's just been a while since I've been on.
Page 213 of 232
x
MasterSignwriter
and of course its brilliant to find out what Amy Childs is calling her new Dog.
Fri, 20th Jan 2012
riveriakid
I got wished "A happy Xmas" By Jasaon Manford and John Cleese Once!
Fri, 20th Jan 2012
Hoodie
Ed Miliband "twits" -
Sun, 22nd Jan 2012
Page 214 of 232
Government reject pardon for
Alan Turing
By: Hi_ImJenny, Wed, 08th Feb 12 9:01am
Good Morning!
As I do everyday I check the news (unfortunately it's far more convenient to go online that get a newspaper) and the
Guardian is reporting on the Government's decision not to give Alan Turing a pardon from the gross indecency
conviction that he received in 1952. Lord McNally, the Justice Secretary apparently addressed Peers this week saying
"It is tragic that Alan Turing was convicted of an offence which now seems both cruel and absurd-particularly poignant
given his outstanding contribution to the war effort. However, the law at the time required a prosecution and, as such,
long-standing policy has been to accept that such convictions took place and, rather than trying to alter the historical
context and to put right what cannot be put right, ensure instead that we never again return to those times." As much
as I admire the work that Alan Turing, and am grateful for the contribution he made, I do feel that the argument not to
pardon the mathematician is substantial, and right. The Turing Machine, his time at Bletchley Park and the man himself
all have a place in history but ulimately, so does his conviction. The e-petition gained a considerable amount of support
and although it is suprising that one of the most high profile petitions has failed to achieve its aims, honestly, I do not
think it changes anything. People will continue to learn about the WWII and go on to learn about Turing, and may learn
of his conviction; that does not mean people will instantly ignore his contribution or judge him as an individual due to
the fact his work was so important. I rarely take such a strong view on stories like this but it just struck a chord with me.
Convicted or pardoned, Turing was still a figure of the twentieth century, and set in motion a great many technological
developments. That's how he should be remembered.
Wed, 08th Feb 2012
BigCol
I must admit to never having heard of Alan Turing until this post and now, having looked at his story, I'm filled
with admiration for his work and can't help but be no more than sad for him that he lived in less educated times
which resulted in his conviction of a homosexual act. I think most educated people these days will do the
same as me and regard his homosexuality as meaning nothing and remember him for his work instead. I think
the government have no alternative but to refuse a pardon to prevent flood gates opening up which will
eventually lead to descendants seeking pardons for long lost heroes who may have long ago been hung for
stealing a sheep. We have to move on.
Interesting post Jenny. I'm a sucker for stories of injustice.
Wed, 08th Feb 2012
Hoodie
It was particularly unfortunate that because of the nature of his work, the wider public were not aware of his
contribution until some considerable time afterwards.
Page 215 of 232
Thu, 09th Feb 2012
Shakytownkid
I think he did a great service for Great Britain during " The War" And I keep my Mug chained up as well. You
have to with the thieving fekkers we have at work here! BC. You surprise me! Not knowing about Turing! But
for a few years "Microsoft" could be British.
BigCol
Well Goddamn Shaky, so sorry to have disappointed.
Thu, 09th Feb 2012
Fri, 10th Feb 2012
MatthewCollins
Today nobody would bat an eyelid at his conviction but I feel it should stand as it was the law at the time and
as an educated man he would know the law. It used to be that whatever they did behind closed doors was upto
them and so it seems he did something in a public place if I read between the lines correctly
Shakytownkid
BC. Never Disappointed! Just Surprised from a Person of the same generation.
Fri, 10th Feb 2012
Hoodie
aye but today like dude has like a massive sidepartin like an look like a peado innit ?
Fri, 10th Feb 2012
Sun, 05th Jan 2014
MatthewCollins
And now they have done a u turn. About time too. In this modern world there is no need to such discrimination.
Isn't it just more human to accept the fact that love is love no matter what a persons sexuality is?
Page 216 of 232
Time really does fly!
By: Hi_ImJenny, Thu, 23rd Feb 12 1:38pm
I mean, it really really does. As I'm dipping in and out of noddleit at the moment because uni's a mixture of quiet and
stressful, this is something I can come back to and get updated on everything/everyone. I've just flicked through all my
old posts and have re-read those about university, from the day I sent off my application, to getting an offer, to getting
the results and actually getting into university. How do I know time has flown by? Today, I submitted the first draft of my
dissertation proposal - I graduate next year! That is scary, not in terms of the work or 'big wide world out there' that
lecturers constantly mention, but because two and a half years have just passed me by. It's been a good couple of
years though. I'm enjoying the work and on course for a 2.1, I've met some brilliant people and made friends for life
without losing touch with those back home, I helped reform the History Society and am a member, I've taken up a sport
I've always wanted to do and enjoy so much, and met a nice lad. Time does fly, I daren't say it's a case of 'the older
you get, the quicker time passes' but it seems it. I used to be in such a rush to do my GCSEs, do my A-Levels and get
to uni, and now I want to just enjoy each day as it comes. Funny stuff time, funny stuff.
Thu, 23rd Feb 2012
BigCol
Time really DOESN'T fly Jenny. It's just that you don't notice it going by at it's regular steady pace when you're
having a good time.
Thu, 23rd Feb 2012
Hi_ImJenny
I guess so, but when you do start noticing time you realise that it has. Days, weeks, and months are pretty
insignificant at times but when they turn into years its scary!
MatthewCollins
I find that the more enjoyment you get out of life the faster the time seems to go
Thu, 23rd Feb 2012
BigCol
Of course that's so Matt, the important word being 'seems'.
Thu, 23rd Feb 2012
Page 217 of 232
KONY 2012
By: Hi_ImJenny, Wed, 07th Mar 12 12:44pm
You may have seen this already but I woke up to it all over my facebook. There's not much to say apart from watch it.
http://www.youtube.com/wa tch?v=Y4MnpzG5Sqc
Wed, 07th Mar 2012
BigCol
Please everyone, don't let the fact that this is a half hour video. Everybody should watch this. Thanks for
putting this my way Jen.
Bring the child soldiers home!
BigCol
Meant to say "Please everyone, don't let the fact that this is a half hour video PUT YOU OFF"
Wed, 07th Mar 2012
Just ordered my bracelet from the website.
http://s3.amazonaws.com/k ony2012/kony-4.html
NotGandalf
Thanks Jen.
Thu, 08th Mar 2012
Thu, 08th Mar 2012
Hoodie
the fact that its all over facebook and making people order bracelets is putting me off - can anyone do a twitter
type 140 ch synopsis for me please ?
Thu, 08th Mar 2012
BigCol
I don't know what a twitter type 140 ch synopsis is but I'm getting the impression that any doubt being cast on
the motives of this cause is being caused by the way that one small iota of doubt can be built to a flood of
mistrust over the internet. I may end up with egg on my face for having ordered a bracelet but I haven't seen
the word scam used yet. It only cost me ten quid and rather than hold that back I'd rather contribute and hope
Page 218 of 232
it's genuine.
Thu, 08th Mar 2012
Hoodie
Something that slick, marketed via facebook...people buying bracelets..it makes me glad I'm not on there
anymore....someone's making money. Gd review on the guardian online...
Fri, 09th Mar 2012
BigCol
Yeah. I remember you having a pop at Live Aid on it's anniversary too H. So glad I'm not that cynical.
Fri, 09th Mar 2012
Hoodie
well I am cynical i'll give you that ! in response id say that Live Aid is at least a known charity and cause...this
is a film purposely made and then marketed via social media, mainly to raise money. Do you know where the
money paid for any merchandise is going ? Do you know how it will be used ? Do the Invisible Children (based
in san Diego) have a good record in what they do ? I may choose not to donate to many british charities - It
doesnt mean I dont respect they know what they are doing...do these guys know what they are doing sorry I
cant tell.
Fri, 09th Mar 2012
BigCol
Nope, I don't know the answers to those questions any more than I know where my taxes really go. I'm just
trusting my instincts, and my instinct here are telling me who the goodies and the baddies are. I'll be happy to
raise awareness in whatever small way I can.
Hoodie
If u ask me, this is everything thats wrong about the internet.
Fri, 09th Mar 2012
Sat, 10th Mar 2012
Hi_ImJenny
I can see where you both come from. I agree something has to be done about it, but Kony has been around for
years, we studied Uganda in detail last year so obviously the fact people are only aware of it because of
facebook does annoy some but at the same time this is the influence that facebook has. How else can so
many people access something like that so quickly and so easily? People were asked to share it, and they did.
People have seen what has happened and it's struck a chord with them not just because of how terrible it is
but there's a sense of guilt that we live quite contented lives, blissfully unaware of it all.
Sat, 10th Mar 2012
Hoodie
My point, Jenny, is that facebook spreads a message far and wide. If that message is a slickly produced video
clip, it spreads even further. But make that slick video rather one sided and one dimensional, about a
particularly complex issue and you end up with millions of poorly informed viewers. Who also happen to have
bought merchandise and lined the pockets of some charity owners. That no-one really knows what they will do
with the cash.
Sat, 10th Mar 2012
Hoodie
by the way I still havent watched it - and wont. Ive read about it and ive learned enough to be glad i dont get
chugged daily on faceboon by this sort of propaganda anymore.
Page 219 of 232
When in Italy...
By: Hi_ImJenny, Tue, 08th May 12 8:06am
Some of you may be aware that I went to Italy over the Easter with the university sports team for the annual 'Tour'
holiday of competing during the day and going out at night. For us rowers, we couldn't compete so we just sunbathed
and went out. Pretty standard really. Anyway, we stayed at Rimini and I found it was only an hour from Imola, and as
an F1 and Ayrton Senna fan I dragged my boyfriend and fellow F1 enthusiast friends along to go and visit the race
track. So we went. It took about 45 minutes to walk around the outside of the race track until we got to Tamburello and
saw the memorial, and it was quite moving. It was a beautiful sunny day and you could hear the birds chirping, until the
MotoGP came round the track. It couldn't have been better, there we were paying our respects to one of the 'greats'
and it sounded like it should have been. After 1994, the San Marino GP was pretty much revered for what had
happened but here we were, and the track had got life back into it. We all said how proud we were of ourselves for
going, and it's true. It was an hour by train from Rimini but we were all so close that if we hadn't gone, we would have
regretted it. There's the statue, and a plaque where he first made contact with the wall. The concrete wall has not been
repaired or replaced; it's incredibly eery, it makes all a bit more real. I also went to look for Roland Ratzenburger's
memorial, there wasn't one. A small Austrian flag tied to the fence and a locket. A memorial, but not enough. He's so
overlooked, people sometimes forget he died too. We paid our respects and for me personally, it was for what he'd
done for my parents. Senna's debut in F1 was one of the first conversations my parents had when they met back in
1984, they watched F1 together and it's a sport I've been brought up on. This post seems a bit muddled (it's been a
while since I noddle-d-it!) but this was one of the best thing's I'd done. One of my crew members likened it to a
pilgrimage which is a bit strange, but in some way she's sort of right. I wanted to go, and I told myself I would go, and I
did. If you're a fan of Oscar Wilde or Jim Morrison and you're in Paris, go. If you're a fan of Phil Lynott and are in
Dublin, go. I know that if I go to Hockenheim I'll go to the Jim Clark memorial. It's been 18 years since Senna died and
there was a fair amount of coverage on the internet, I watched videos and thought 'I've been there, I've paid my
respects' and it's a good feeling. Quite sad really, but he was a brilliant individual it seems. If you haven't already,
watch the Senna film. I'll leave you with this:
â€œI've had a good life, but all this that I got was though dedication, perseverance and much desire to victories in life,
not as a driver. And for you all who is watching now, I say that whatever you are, whatever position you have in life, a
high social level or low, have always as goal much force, much determination, and always do everything with much
love and much faith in God that one day you'll arrive there. Somehow, you'll arrive there.''
Oh, and hello again!
x
Page 220 of 232
Tue, 08th May 2012
BigCol
I was never a motor race fan Jenny. A late mate of mine Dave B (Your mum will tell you about him) once
dragged me kicking and screaming to Silverstone and my summary of the day was it was like some of the rock
concerts I've been to really, a bit noisy and smelly. However, I did watch the film Senna and found myself
mesmerised by his dedication.
Not being a fan myself though doesn't stop me admiring your respect and recognition. There are places in this
world like Dallas, New York or Liverpool I'd certainly side-track my path in order to visit the places my heroes
trod or fell.
Tue, 08th May 2012
Tara
I have been a life long fan of motor racing in general (Papa used to take me to Croft circuit) and I think that it's
disgraceful not to include Roland Ratzenburger in the memorial when he died in qualifying the previous day!
He was a talent and as such should be given equal respect!
Tue, 08th May 2012
MatthewCollins
I remember that weekend well. Such a tragic race weekend but then again that's F1 . Each driver knows and
accepts the dangers they face and it's often the sheer adrenaline that keeps them racing. Brave men indeed
and sometimes bloody idiots too
Wed, 09th May 2012
MasterSignwriter
ditto to cols comments, never involved myself in Formula one as it bores me senseless. The film on the other
hand was quite masterly.
Page 221 of 232
'cause you never know who lives
just round the corner...
959 Views, 1 Nods, 1 Comment..
I drove back down to Southsea to move some stuff into my new house, as I've downsized and now just live with the
girls, but anyway. I thought as it's a new street in a different area I thought I'd go for a walk to get my bearings, check
out the surroundings and most importantly, get some fresh air whilst trying to dodge the showers. I ended up walking
towards the beach but took a different, easier route than I usually take when I go training at the boathouse. I walked
down Castle street and past a rather normal looking Chinese takeaway, and I happened to glance up at the wall. I
noticed a blue plaque, which marked this rather normal building on the corner to be the birthplace of Peter Sellers. As a
massive fan of Sellers' work, especially The Goon Show I did get quite excited about this, and it made me think. I live
just five minutes up the road from the house that Peter Sellers was born in, to think he came from Southsea of all
places! In the window there was an article written in 1976 where Sellers described growing up in Southsea, and being
right opposite the beach, and his fondness for what Portsmouth offered, especially the Kings Theatre. So yeah, it was
quite interesting to see, and as the title says you never really know who lives, or has lived around the corner. Usually
it's the grand houses with the blue plaques, and that is never really surprising but this unassuming building was. Just
goes to show some of the 'greats' had the humblest of the beginnings.
MatthewCollins
I live just up the road from were the Bronte sisters were born!
Sun, 05th Aug 2012
Page 222 of 232
Portsmouth University's newest
installation - a Danish chancellor.
By: Hi_ImJenny, Wed, 31st Oct 12 4:47pm
869 Views, 1 Nods, 1 Comment..
You're all probably aware that I'm a student at Portsmouth uni, and am now in my third year. This afternoon, I was
honoured with an invitation to the installation of the university's new chancellor, Sandi Toksvig. I have always been
fond of her, especially her work on R4 - yes, I'm old before my time. The ceremony was short, but traditional. Speeches
from the Vice Chancellor, and various heads of school actually brought it to my attention that our town does have
Danish connections, the local hospital is named after Queen Alexandra, and the Park Building, which was the first
university building in the town, was financed in part by the Danish. The President of the Student Union, represents all
22,851 of us, and he did us proud. We've welcomed her as one of us, and even presented her with the traditional uni
hoody, in Portsmouth purple of course. Guess what? She put it on under her robes and then went on to make a
remarkable speech. Sandi Toksvig applauds our university for our successes, community, equal opportunities, and
ability to achieve everything we set our sights on. All she asks of us is that we allow her to spread the word about our
uni, which is young in comparison to many others. It struck me sitting there, alongside my house mate, how proud I am
to be a student here at Portsmouth. For someone so intellectual, not just famous, acknowledge our uni's efforts and
recognise our strengths and potential is actually quite a nice feeling. Representing the students of the school of Social,
Historical and Literary Studies as it were, I was quite taken aback by how visibly humbled Sandi Toksvig was. I had to
share it on here because when you read about a public figure being made a university Chancellor, it's sometimes
overlooked, or their role is assumed as just being a public face in their ceremonial robes. Yet, with Sandi Toksvig she's
genuinely proud to represent an internationally diverse, and flourishing university - she herself admits she holds similar
values to us here in Portsmouth. That's all you can ask for in a Chancellor. Whilst the two years of my degree have
been under 'the watchful eye' of Sheila Hancock, I'm confident that under Sandi Toksvig the university will continue to
succeed and present itself as a university of incredibly dedicated students who want to have fun, but above all realise
their potential. So, all in all, a good day.
Thu, 01st Nov 2012
BigCol
I think quite a few coastal towns have claimed Danish connections at sometime or other in the past Jen,
although I think the majority of them are probably quite a bit further East and slightly more North than
Portsmouth. They took a bit of a liking to raping and pillaging our coastlines some time ago.
I've been a huge fan of Sand Toksvig ever since her days on Call My Bluff. A very funny and intelligent
woman.
Hope you're ok and, by the way, never confuse an intelligent fondness for things slightly more staid with being
old before your time. xx
Page 223 of 232
Some
advice
would
be
appreciated by this tired, drained,
uninspired third year student...
By: Hi_ImJenny, Sun, 09th Dec 12 4:49pm
Basically...I'm writing my dissertation and I've come to a dead end. No, don't worry, this isn't where I start asking you all
about the Medway Disaster of June 1667 and the implications of the Anglo-Dutch herring industry, but I would like
some help. I can't work unless I'm listening to something, but having exhausted many radio stations, Harry Potter,
episodes of Dad's Army, the Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy, and numerous albums I've lost my way.
Is there any good 'motivation' music out there you could recommend, or perhaps other things to listen to? There are a
fair few of you that are musicians, so I thought this'd be a better place to go, instead of asking the house mate who
listens to 'Kiss FM' permanently...
Thank youuuu. x
MatthewCollins
Hi Jenny
Sun, 09th Dec 2012
Pink Floyd The Wall is a good one and if you watch the film you'll even see me in it! Or how about Dark Side
Of The Moon, that's great!
On the other hand why not try a band called Blackmore's Night...Under a violet moon. Superbly different!
Sun, 09th Dec 2012
BigCol
Probably nothing too distracting I should imagine Jen. I know you like some ambient stuff so Tangerine Dream
are pretty good as 'head' stuff. Loads of that on Spotify. I've only just discovered Schpongle and am now a
big fan.
To tickle your 'folky' palette try Capercaille, The Afro Celt Sound System and Seth Lakeman.
That's all I can suggest at the moment but if you need any help on the subjects of the Medway Disaster of
June 1667 and the implications of the Anglo-Dutch herring industry, just give me a shout.
Talisman
Here are a few of my favourite albums:
Tom Waits, Franks wild years
Pearl Jam, Verses
Rage against the machine, Rage against the machine
Sun, 09th Dec 2012
Page 224 of 232
Any and all christmas music.
Really, I love most music, so it's very hard for me to pick something specific.
BigCol's suggestion of Spotify is a great one.
The only draw back that I find with it is, I get hooked on finding more and more music, and forget about the
things that I'm using it to inspire me to do.
Good luck, and happy listening.
Sun, 16th Dec 2012
Hi_ImJenny
Thanks for the suggestions guys, ended up sticking Pink Floyd's Animals on, and at 3am, finished the chapter!
Now it's officially Christmas and I can head home to Kent a happy but tired bunny :)
Page 225 of 232
So it seems the 'Blue Plaque
Alert' is actually a false alarm
By: Hi_ImJenny, Fri, 18th Jan 13 8:53pm
756 Views..
I've been having a look back over all my posts here on Noddleit/Visionary Dictionary, as you do. I found one of my first,
entitled 'Blue Plaque Alert' where I bemoaned how the English Heritage were "touring the country and instead of
seeking the lost treasures of our English history and identity they were looking for modern builds from the last thirty,
maybe forty years." I thought we'd start celebrating the Dartford Crossing, multi-story car parks, and shopping centres
up and down the country. However, my prediction fell short of one thing - budgets being cut.
(Here's the link to the previous post, back in 2009! http://www.noddleit.com/n od/i1294)
It was announced a few weeks ago that the scheme was too costly and could not be sustained by English Heritage,
they give it three years and it'll be shelved. So, I'm just wondering, bearing in mind I'm quite a fan and live five minutes
away from the homes of Rudyard Kipling, Peter Sellers, and Charles Dickens - do you take much interest in the blue
plaques? I'm not assuming any of you search them out but if you came across one, say for a famous politician, does it
get you thinking and looking at the building, or do you just think 'That's nice' and walk on?
Page 226 of 232
The
Hotel...from
perspective
YOUR
By: Hi_ImJenny, Tue, 29th Jan 13 11:01pm
Residents of Torquay and the surrounding area, I have a question to ask you! The girls and I, as well as our other
friends are all ardent fans of The Hotel, and find ourselves wincing at what's going on, or laughing our heads off at what
Mark gets up to! Now it's all ok for us to be like that, because we're hundreds of miles away and probably will never
stay there but we're all intrigued by what the residents think of the little bit of fame that the Grovesnor has got. I
mentioned that I know Colin lives in Torquay and that there was a fair few on noddleit who do too; and immediately
they've asked what you all think about, and how its received in the local area. So, if I could have answers on a postcard
that'd be lovely, as we'd all really like to know. I can only liken it to being from Kent, and being asked on a regular basis
why there are so many police chases in Chatham...
x
Wed, 30th Jan 2013
MamaP
Morning Jen, The GroSvenor has now been taken over. I can only speak personally and I think it is hilarious.
Now would you allow your staff to speak to you like that? I think not.I know a couple of friends who have eaten
there and they wouldn't go again but hey ho that is their opinion. I watch for a good laugh but others I know
feel disgusted that it's giving Torquay bad publicity. xx
Wed, 30th Jan 2013
Hoodie
Id heard that although taken over, he has been retained as manager ? It is really quite funny, I especially
lovedd last weeks episode when Mark wanted them to drive to a fancy dress shop...where is it ? Newton Abbot
?????!!! Said in a shock voice which ive regularly heard in Devon whenever going somewhere outside of the 2
mile radius of your village is mentioned ! They will be suggesting a visit to that there Exeter next ! shock horror
!
Wed, 30th Jan 2013
Hoodie
And before anyone says it was just shock at the thought of going to scabbut - your probably right !
Thu, 31st Jan 2013
BigCol
For me the program is absolutely unmissable. Although after one episode featuring a gourmet night followed
by one where the hotel inspectors turned up I was beginning to see parallels drawn up with another famous
Page 227 of 232
Torquay hotel. I was half expecting a crowd of Germans to turn up to bring the supposed racist element of
Fawlty Towers into focus and they didn't disappoint when, lo and behold, they opened the whole place up to
lay host to an invasion of Indians.
I know a few people that work at the Grosvenor and the whole thing is totally staged and scripted. Take a
close look and you'll see that the guests as they arrive are wearing clip on microphones so it can hardly be
being filmed 'as it happens'. Nevertheless as I said totally unmissable from my point of view.
Thu, 31st Jan 2013
TheWizard
HI Jenny. Well I come from Sowfend in Essex originally but have lived here in Torquay for many happy years.
Mark happens to be my partners ex brother in law!! If you watch 4OD you can see Mark and Alison on Sunday
Brunch last week live. I heard most of them have left. Christian, Alison (Repoted working in a burger bar or
similar) and Mark wants to pursue his Media Career? This was from Richard who was in the first series and we
bumped into him in Gran Canaria the other week believe it or not!!!If you check out Trip Advisor and look at
the latest reviews they bare out the fact that none of them are there at the moment.I go past the place
everyday and it still looks the same. But we watch it every Sunday without fail. So many people we know have
been on there and it makes you laugh. There are many cameras recording 24 hours a day and there is no red
light etc to let people know they are on. So a lot of the scenes are as they happen.
Chris
Fri, 01st Feb 2013
TheWizard
Re my last. Her is a link to Sunday Brunch:- http://www.channel4.com/p rogrammes/sunday-brunch/4 od
Sat, 02nd Feb 2013
FoxyCollins
I love the programme and so do a lot of my friends in London.Before they started fiming there my daughter
Karen got married there,the man who organised everything was Philip and Mark sacked him after the first
programme.We had a lovely day there,even though the weather was not good we had nice photos in the
hotel.As the series goes on it becomes more contrived but still very watchable.I'm told that Allison is now
working at the post office.
Sat, 02nd Feb 2013
TheWizard
Re my last I got Philips name wrong and called him Richard for some reason. We met him and his husband at
the Yumbo Centre in Playa de Ingles. They caught the same flight from Exeter.It was Philips info I passed on. I
saw Christian a few weeks ago in Union Street with a bloke that looked like a Hells Angel, lol!
Here is a link to the first programme with Philip:-http://youtu.be/V dE6cQDxWJQ
TheWizard
http://noddleit.com/nod/i 8753
Sat, 02nd Feb 2013
Sun, 03rd Feb 2013
Hi_ImJenny
To all of you, thanks for your comments - really appreciate it! I must admit, I did presume that most of you
would like it and find it a laugh. Colin mentioning that it is staged doesn't surprise me, it is obvious but still, we
love it.
Thanks for the little insight!
xxx
Sun, 03rd Feb 2013
Hi_ImJenny
To all of you, thanks for your comments - really appreciate it! I must admit, I did presume that most of you
would like it and find it a laugh. Colin mentioning that it is staged doesn't surprise me, it is obvious but still, we
love it.
Thanks for the little insight!
xxx
Page 228 of 232
Mon, 04th Feb 2013
TheGreatVisionar
When he had the Bentley too, he had it on a lease for £800 a month when he was knocking the payments to
smaller businesses. Bit wrong really. I don't know that for a fact by the way just a rumour from someone he
owed money too. I personally found him quite arrogant when I met him but I reckon a few people think that of
me too. I did hear like Col that the majority of it is now staged. I think that is easier to detect in this second run
of shows. Good luck to the production company though cause it is still a very very clever programme and well
put together and Simon one of the producers has promised me the opportunity to pitch him an idea. Let me
know if you want to stay there Jen and I'll see what I can do, but it has been sold after going into liquidation
and don't think he is there any more.
Page 229 of 232
"An individual's milestone, with
the help of many."
By: Hi_ImJenny, Wed, 27th Feb 13 10:59am
961 Views, 1 Comment..
That's how my housemate summed up the one thing that has plagued us for the best part of six months - our
dissertations. We three (two law students, and me, history and politics) have now all completed the first full draft of our
dissertations. Admittedly, it's the first draft but apart from some stylistic improvements that need to be made, it could be
handed in right now, and will be for real come the 26th of April.
Anyway, back to my housemate's comment last night when we all sat with our celebratory Horlicks (yes, we're old
before our time) after the final dissertation was handed in by Charlotte. We spoke about how our parents helped us out
by being on the end of the phone for a rant, and for some moral support. My parents especially, more often than not
buying me a train ticket home for some much needed TLC, or even turning up in Portsmouth to just take my mind off
things and for a stroll through Southsea. Then Rachel mentioned everything else, as jovial as it seems, but she
thanked the radio for keeping her company. An avid listener of BBC Radio 6 Music, she's always got it on the
background, whilst Charlotte listens to BBC Radio 1. They then looked at me and asked me what I thought had helped
me write my dissertation. They pretty much knew what I was going to say, but still, they were surprised. I think Radio 2
helped me in the early hours - listening from 5.30 more often than not until 9.30 when Chris Evans handed over to Ken
Bruce. From that I thanked my Gran for sending me one special treat in the post, the Goon Show Compendiums - so I
suppose Milligan, Secombe and Sellers helped me along the way.
I think my boyfriend Will helped me with an endless supply of tea when he's been here as I slave away at my laptop,
which in turn means tea helped me along the way - Yorkshire Tea to be exact. I've also been able to listen to all the
Harry Potter tapes read by Stephen Fry, having found my old portable cassette player and tapes under my bed during
the summer. It's these little things that have helped, as it's been a safe haven as it were for me to immerse myself in
seventeenth century documents and surround myself with piles of books, in order to determine the root cause of The
Medway Disaster. My music's been important to me, some of you would recall my earlier post asking for suggestions of
albums and artists that I should listen to, and they were brilliant. My itunes has gone from Pink Floyd, Aerosmith,
Fleetwood Mac and Dire Straits, to Buddy Holly, to John Martyn, to our own Colin Reece and The Bully Wee Band, to
the Top 40, to Chase and Status, to Blur and Oasis, and then The Clash, and so on.
So on reflection, the phrase rings true. Completing my dissertation is my very own milestone, it's the longest piece of
academic work that I have produced to date, and marks the end of my three years at university. Regardless of my
mark, it seems I am on course for a 2.1 which is fantastic but I can never be sure. I'm proud of my efforts, but I
recognise those things around me that have helped me get here. Family and friends, and my personal tutor go without
saying have been a wonderful support network for me and I couldn't have done it without them, but there's everything
else too. It may sound wishy-washy and you might wonder whether we've experimented with anything, but when you
do something in your life that is a milestone for you - not just academia - so many things have helped you along the
Page 230 of 232
way, and contributed to your achievement and success.
So, thanks to all of them. I will however, quote from the acknowledgements that I had to produce for my dissertation
(the hardest thing to write, more so than the actual dissertation!) - it's an apt way to end this rather spontaneous essay.
"Finally, I thank the other constant in my life, for being there since my visit to Hampton Court Palace in 1999. My love of
history defines my very being, and I believe life would have been very different were it not for my intrigue in what came
before my time on Earth. Writing this dissertation has been enjoyable, but I cannot deny it has at times been difficult,
and the aforementioned are my witnesses. Yet through it all, I have come to realise history's true intentions and its
rewards. For if you want to understand today, you have to search yesterday."
Oh, and hello again everyone, I've finally surfaced from my desk!
x
Wed, 27th Feb 2013
MatthewCollins
Hiya. Here's another suggestion for music to listen to. An eponymous album form a reasonable new band
called "Snakecharmer" I would say that it's possibly the best rock album I have heard in atleast a decade!
Enjoy the rest of your life and live it well!
Page 231 of 232
"It's like the loss of a limb"
By: Hi_ImJenny, Tue, 23rd Apr 13 9:39pm
Well, I've handed in my dissertation - at bloody last! I've submitted copies before, but now it's finally been printed,
bound, and given to the department to be marked. It's the end of an era in a way; the 77 odd pages represent all my
efforts at uni over the past three years, including the nights out of course. It's flown by, and now the dissertation's gone,
I feel a bit lost without it. My housemate rather accurately described as "like the loss of a limb" which I think is much
better than my comparison between handing my dissertation in and giving away a child - not the best thing to say in a
crowded coffee shop full of mothers!
So yes, it's all done, my eight months of hard work have, I hope, paid off. Two more essays to complete and hand in,
and then it's actually all over. Well, until graduation...and then after that my History PGCE. So it's not really over yet.
Thinking about it, and having re-read some of my posts from yonks ago, I can't quite believe I made it to this point. I've
ranted a fair few times (as I'm sure you're all too aware of - sorry!) but yeah, I've done it. Bloody 'ell. Pimms is now on
tap.
Bassist
Well done Jenny - a lot of hard work and a well earned Pimms.
Fri, 26th Apr 2013
MatthewCollins
And then on to greater things! I love history!!!!
Fri, 26th Apr 2013
Page 232 of 232

Noddleit Snapshot - VisionaryDictionary

Transcription

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