Saturday August 22nd
I'm glad I killed the plan to go and get Ted for footie practice this morning at 7am as I really enjoyed my lie in. Pottered around in the morning and then settled down for some serious sport enjoyment. Cricket, football, athletics - Saturday afternoons in England...small boys, jumpers for goal posts, tea, jaffa cakes, final score... all except QPR drawing 1-1 again.
Mrs N finally got her way as we re arranged the TV room. As always she was right as it works much better. We put a few pictures up and then cousin Jane came for tea. I have not seen her since M&D's 50th but she seems very well.
Went down to Brockenhurst to pick Alice up and enjoyed a massive curry and beer. Ellen has been very good the last two days. I wonder why?
Day 127 - Nordic Sails
Friday August 21st
Definitely had a fuzzy head this morning but gradually got going and we ended up achieving alot - the drying racks went up and we painted the dining room. The colour choice was different, not least its name, Nordic Sails, but works brilliantly. Once the blinds are in, it should be a cool room in the summer and cosy in the winter...maybe. Meanwhile, I listened to the most incredible day's cricket as the fate of the Ashes unfolded.
James came and fitted the new toilet and taps. Now we have a toilet that flushes without having to lift the cistern lid and a kitchen tap with some pressure. Tidy.
My spare moments have been taken up doing more and more Maths. I am sure I am shockingly under prepared but I have been building up the hours so I hope I have some kind of base to work off.
Wyvern called and they do have a space for Ted so we are all set. Tidy
Definitely had a fuzzy head this morning but gradually got going and we ended up achieving alot - the drying racks went up and we painted the dining room. The colour choice was different, not least its name, Nordic Sails, but works brilliantly. Once the blinds are in, it should be a cool room in the summer and cosy in the winter...maybe. Meanwhile, I listened to the most incredible day's cricket as the fate of the Ashes unfolded.
James came and fitted the new toilet and taps. Now we have a toilet that flushes without having to lift the cistern lid and a kitchen tap with some pressure. Tidy.
My spare moments have been taken up doing more and more Maths. I am sure I am shockingly under prepared but I have been building up the hours so I hope I have some kind of base to work off.
Wyvern called and they do have a space for Ted so we are all set. Tidy
Day 126 - How To Survive My First Year in Teaching
Thursday August 20th
Finally, a day to myself. I used to enjoy the 1 or 2 weeks I had on my own in Hastings during the summer while the family were in the UK so it's nice to get the odd day on my own in the new house.
Dismal run this morning where I started to do a mile at pace and then wimped out after 200 yards. Heart and legs weren't in it.
Spent all day working, mostly reading a book about surviving my first year in teaching. Some very good tips on classroom management which is the thing that worries me the most. I have this irrational fear that I will show fear and then be ripped to shreds by a pack of wild children. However, I will perfect my withering stare and arm crossing and see where it gets me. I confess that I had the test match on the whole time (radio) and really enjoyed the relaxed and clever conversation in the background. Better than watching it on Sky.
The Fearns arrived to stay the night and we got through a couple of bottles of wine which I paid for the next morning. We got on to the subject of Ellen and just talking about it helped. It is clear that we think about it alot right now and as with everything, getting it out reduces the anxiety and shares the burden.
Finally, a day to myself. I used to enjoy the 1 or 2 weeks I had on my own in Hastings during the summer while the family were in the UK so it's nice to get the odd day on my own in the new house.
Dismal run this morning where I started to do a mile at pace and then wimped out after 200 yards. Heart and legs weren't in it.
Spent all day working, mostly reading a book about surviving my first year in teaching. Some very good tips on classroom management which is the thing that worries me the most. I have this irrational fear that I will show fear and then be ripped to shreds by a pack of wild children. However, I will perfect my withering stare and arm crossing and see where it gets me. I confess that I had the test match on the whole time (radio) and really enjoyed the relaxed and clever conversation in the background. Better than watching it on Sky.
The Fearns arrived to stay the night and we got through a couple of bottles of wine which I paid for the next morning. We got on to the subject of Ellen and just talking about it helped. It is clear that we think about it alot right now and as with everything, getting it out reduces the anxiety and shares the burden.
Day 125 - Hard Core Retro
Wednesday August 19th
Worked hard this morning on DIY and then a call with Colangelo about S7. Great chatting about hardcore retro and whether S7 could do the same in spirits/whiskey that PBR has done for beer. Enjoyed that and also managed to stay disciplined and write up the report and send it off rather than promising myself that I would do it tomorrow. There is no tomorrow.
Ted and I cycled up to school. It took us 15 minutes door to door, pretty much all up hill. Not sweat inducing steep so I should be good to cycle to work. Headed off to cycle shop and invested in a new helmet and some nerdy bike clips. Nice downhill all the way home.
Dad came and picked Alice up for a few days and Ted heads out tomorrow so soon we will have only Ellen. How can we get rid of her? Hmmmmm
Worked hard this morning on DIY and then a call with Colangelo about S7. Great chatting about hardcore retro and whether S7 could do the same in spirits/whiskey that PBR has done for beer. Enjoyed that and also managed to stay disciplined and write up the report and send it off rather than promising myself that I would do it tomorrow. There is no tomorrow.
Ted and I cycled up to school. It took us 15 minutes door to door, pretty much all up hill. Not sweat inducing steep so I should be good to cycle to work. Headed off to cycle shop and invested in a new helmet and some nerdy bike clips. Nice downhill all the way home.
Dad came and picked Alice up for a few days and Ted heads out tomorrow so soon we will have only Ellen. How can we get rid of her? Hmmmmm
Day 124 - Pythagoras Hill
Tuesday August 18th
Big run this morning - ran up St Catherine's Hill three times and almost killed myself. That is not an easy hill. Got home and worked out the vertical height of my ascent using Pythagoras. Nice.
My legs felt dead for the rest of the day but we walked into town. Alice had a major wobble (increasing number these days) but Ted and I had haircuts and then we ambled to the library and then through town eating sausage rolls and chicken pies. There's a great gourmet food shop and I was twitching to buy some goodies but alas I am poor now and resisted the temptation.
Took Ted off to his second trial which was a different kettle of fish. He played in a pre-season game for a Div 1 team against a U14 side. They were all big and fast and the game was fast and furious with very little time on the ball. I was really nervous for him but again he surprised me. To start with he was a little quiet but he wasn't intimidated and got more and more into the game as it went on. The coaches said that they could take him as he was obviously technically very good and had the right attitude but he would spend most of the time on the bench. They handled it well so I hope Wyvern will come through as he'll take the skill level up there and play most games.
Big run this morning - ran up St Catherine's Hill three times and almost killed myself. That is not an easy hill. Got home and worked out the vertical height of my ascent using Pythagoras. Nice.
My legs felt dead for the rest of the day but we walked into town. Alice had a major wobble (increasing number these days) but Ted and I had haircuts and then we ambled to the library and then through town eating sausage rolls and chicken pies. There's a great gourmet food shop and I was twitching to buy some goodies but alas I am poor now and resisted the temptation.
Took Ted off to his second trial which was a different kettle of fish. He played in a pre-season game for a Div 1 team against a U14 side. They were all big and fast and the game was fast and furious with very little time on the ball. I was really nervous for him but again he surprised me. To start with he was a little quiet but he wasn't intimidated and got more and more into the game as it went on. The coaches said that they could take him as he was obviously technically very good and had the right attitude but he would spend most of the time on the bench. They handled it well so I hope Wyvern will come through as he'll take the skill level up there and play most games.
Day 123 - Website Designer
Monday August 17th
A week til I head up to York for my intensive Maths summer school. I am slightly nervous as I am barely through Year 8. Oh well, what's the worse that happens. I'll know in a week.
It's amazing - I designed a website in about an hour today. I promised to help Cousin Jonathan with a website for his business. I did this without having any idea of how to do it. Figured it out and I think it looks pretty good. Let's see what he thinks. Dad and Rob seemed to like it. The only issue is the "weebly.com" domain but anything else costs money.
A week til I head up to York for my intensive Maths summer school. I am slightly nervous as I am barely through Year 8. Oh well, what's the worse that happens. I'll know in a week.
It's amazing - I designed a website in about an hour today. I promised to help Cousin Jonathan with a website for his business. I did this without having any idea of how to do it. Figured it out and I think it looks pretty good. Let's see what he thinks. Dad and Rob seemed to like it. The only issue is the "weebly.com" domain but anything else costs money.
Day 122 - Tattoos and Fags
Sunday August 16th
Long run this morning, first 5.5 at pace (managed 6:40 at one stage). Then Mrs N joined us and we have a lovely early morning jog. I then took Alice to her first practice with Winchester City Flyers. This was a little more concerning as I walked into a group of parents with large tattoos and smoking up a storm in front of the kids. Shouldn't have worried as Coach Tony was great and they loved Alice who, like her brother, did brilliantly. Here I did notice a big change in skill and game savvy. This is a good thing. Alice will get a training top with her initials on (nice) and AC Milan strip (nice). Adapt, adapt, tattoo parlour here we come. Only other thing of note is that Ted pegged me in the nuts with a tennis ball at point blank range. Two occasions in his life now that I've almost throttled him.
So, a weekend of getting Ted and Alice into football over here. Pretty successful I would say. Unfortunately, it was accompanied by a continual deterioration in Ellen's behaviour resulting in a massive row on Sat night. Cleared the air a little by the morning but not much although she came to Nightingale Close to help me cut the grass. Met another Mum from Kings' and promised to look out for her son.
Long run this morning, first 5.5 at pace (managed 6:40 at one stage). Then Mrs N joined us and we have a lovely early morning jog. I then took Alice to her first practice with Winchester City Flyers. This was a little more concerning as I walked into a group of parents with large tattoos and smoking up a storm in front of the kids. Shouldn't have worried as Coach Tony was great and they loved Alice who, like her brother, did brilliantly. Here I did notice a big change in skill and game savvy. This is a good thing. Alice will get a training top with her initials on (nice) and AC Milan strip (nice). Adapt, adapt, tattoo parlour here we come. Only other thing of note is that Ted pegged me in the nuts with a tennis ball at point blank range. Two occasions in his life now that I've almost throttled him.
So, a weekend of getting Ted and Alice into football over here. Pretty successful I would say. Unfortunately, it was accompanied by a continual deterioration in Ellen's behaviour resulting in a massive row on Sat night. Cleared the air a little by the morning but not much although she came to Nightingale Close to help me cut the grass. Met another Mum from Kings' and promised to look out for her son.
Day 121 - You'll Never Win Anything With Kids
Saturday August 15th
First foray into local football scene here as I took Ted to his first trial at Wyvern FC. I was feeling a little nervous for him I have to admit. I wasn't sure what the level was going to be like and how he would do. Shouldn't have worried, he did brilliantly and would stand out on this team. He worked hard the whole time and then linked up very well with the other kids. Spoke to some of the parents and it seems like a friendly club, with Dads who know what they're doing. They want him to sign but have promised a spot to someoe else. That's Division 2, now let's try 1.
First foray into local football scene here as I took Ted to his first trial at Wyvern FC. I was feeling a little nervous for him I have to admit. I wasn't sure what the level was going to be like and how he would do. Shouldn't have worried, he did brilliantly and would stand out on this team. He worked hard the whole time and then linked up very well with the other kids. Spoke to some of the parents and it seems like a friendly club, with Dads who know what they're doing. They want him to sign but have promised a spot to someoe else. That's Division 2, now let's try 1.
Day 120 - Crackling
Friday August 14th
Good morning of work, soldiering through the Year 8 textbook. Still need to get to Sequences before the start of term as that's the first topic for my Year 8 class.
Followed that with the relocation of two wall cabinets from the laundry room to the downstairs loo. I still am slightly nervous about the wall fixings but they haven't fallen down yet but, fingers crossed, it's the first room we've finished - 2 wall cabinets, painted, towel rail, picture, mirror...just waiting for a new toilet and taps.
M&D came over for dinner and shocked us with the news that they have given up alcohol for August. This is a first but good for them. Cooked a rack of pork on the grill and it was outstanding. Real crackling and it worked a dream - crisp on the outside, juicy and chew on the inside. I think the collective cholesterol went up a couple of notches around the table. The kids couldn't get enough of it.
Day 119 - Centrifugal Water Slides
Thursday August 13th
Up early and took 5 kids to Basingstoke and the Aquadrome. I have one very vivid memory of water slides - after I finished my A Levels, Barry, Woll and I drove up to Richmond where I was introduced to my first ever waterslide. The one I remember was a black one which was pitch black inside except for sparkly moon and stars. You lost all spatial awareness and your body went one way while your head thought you were going somewhere else. Sadly it's no longer there and I am still searching for the perfect waterslide. These weren't bad and the kids had a great time.
Went and discovered the butcher's in Oliver's Battery. It was perfect - a chatty butcher who prepped a rack of pork for me, home made sausages, organic products. I almost put my order in for our Christmas turkey and ham right there and then.
The Cross family came for a BBQ and Ellen gave another virtuoso performance as the selfish teenager.
Day 118 - Boing Boing
Wednesday August 12th
Got out for a run this morning and decided to do a time trial around the Water Meadows. Surprised myself with a 5:58. That would come down a bit on a track so not in bad shape.
Ted and I cemented the rotary dryer in this morning. This was a somewhat tense affair as the cement was harder to mix than I thought and my arms were aching but I couldn't stop as it starts to set after 20 minutes. All worked out and Mrs N now has a nice solid dryer in the flower bed.
Followed that up with constructing the trampoline in the front garden. It's massive and with the new safety net it's a bit of an eyesore. However, we promised the kids and it was free so what the hell. Helena and Alex stayed over for a sleepover.
Day 117 - Digging Holes
Tuesday August 17th
Woke up exhausted and didn't go for a run. This is never a good idea as I start the day on the back foot as if I have avoided doing something. Psychologically this is a bad thing as I have to self motivate every day. Tried to get some work done but the kids kept interrupting so I told Ted to go and dig a hole for the rotary dryer (he did), shouted at Alice for interrupting me (not good) and didn't see Ellen for dust (not good either).
I went on another trip to Homebase, where I was greeted by the "Most Frequent Shopper of the Month" award and bought cement for my first ever cementing job tomorrow.
The natives are definitely getting restless
Day 116 - Plumber's Mate
Monday August 10th
James Hoy the plumber came today and Mrs N was very attentive. Not your average plumber, more of a housewife's delight. Anyway...he fixed our hard water problem, plumbed in the washing machine (I could have done that but I wanted to be absolutely sure) and ordered a new toilet and taps.
The Spensers arrived as he was leaving and we had a whirlwind afternoon. No Roger or Thomas but we headed down to the Water Meadows for a good 2 hours of cricket and football. Julia and Alice gave as good as they got in the drizzle. Had fish fingers, baked beans and crumpets for tea and waved good bye past 10.30. Whew, busy day
Day 115 - Beer Can Chicken
Sunday August 9th
Went out for an early run this morning and found a glorious circuit that took me up and along a ridge to the south of the City. I had a great view of Winchester and a nice downhill run through Compton. Got quite a pace up as well.
The Fearns came to visit
for lunch which was great Luke is my Godson and Benj is Alice's Godfather. We supped rose in the garden and had two beer can chickens on the grill followed by a stroll along the Water Meadows. Ted was brilliant with the Ollie and Luke. Ellen was noticeable by her absence. Curious as there were small children in the house
Day 114 - Parklife
Saturday August 8th
All the people, so many people
They all go hand in hand
Hand in hand through their parklife
The kids showed us the park they had found. Saturday afternoon, the sun was shining, the football season was kicking off with my beloved QPR playing at home against Blackpool. It wasn't bad except for a few delinquent teenagers trying to start a fire with their cigarette lighters. We played on the equipment, a bit of French cricket and headed home. The best moment was watching a Dad mow a cricket pitch for his kids to play on. He trundled on with his lawn mower, measured it out, cut it and disappeared again. Priceless
Day 113 - Fish 'n' Chips
Friday August 7th
Focused on some Maths today. I sit down, start reading and this deep knot of panic starts to rise in my stomach as I realise how much I have to do. It's very hard to start all over again, especially after 20 years of getting (near) the top in marketing. You build up a level of competence, overlay that with self confidence and that gets you through every day, every situation you encounter. I've definitely got the self confidence but the competence is all guess work right now.
In between working I've been doing alot of DIY. The Johnnie Walker blackboard is now up in the hall, Alice and Ted's rooms are done, complete with floating shelves. I must confess I have not quite got the hang of the walls yet as they are plasterboard, with a hollow bit and then brick/masonry. Still haven't found the perfect rawplug
We walked down to the Fish and Chip shop on St Cross Rd tonight. We picked up cod and chips for 5, brought it home and pigged out. Everyone loved it so we will be doing that again. 30 quid is not cheap though.
Day 112 - Green & Black's Day
Thursday August 6th
Two runs this morning, one at pace and then one with Mrs N. She has a point about the route I have found for her. Narrow, deserted paths are fine for me but for running on her own in the early morning, probably not such a great idea. I will re-route.
Spent all morning earning some money, doing some desk research on Green & Black's. I was on my own in the house and did about 3 hours solid reading and referencing. I really enjoyed it and came to some immediate conclusions about the state of the business in the UK. Later, I went off to JS and bought loads of samples. Ellen was very excited about the whole thing, probably because it involved vast quantities of chocolate.
Day 111 - Orange Wednesday
Wednesday August 5th
While Orange mobile service sucks, especially in and around our house, I have to commend them for their Wednesday half price trips to the cinema and Pizza Express. I love Pizza Express pizzas but will forever mourn the disappearance of their ham 'n' eggs starter. Maybe I was the only one that ate it.
Anyway, today we walked into town and enjoyed some pizza with the Wood Martins and then waved them on to the train. As I walked back I noticed some boys Ted's age playing a football match and realised I had done very little to find him a club so I sat down and did some research, writing emails to 8 clubs within 20 minutes drive. Fingers crossed.
Day 110 - Heartbreak Hill
Tuesday August 4th
Tackled Heartbreak Hill this morning in the middle of my new 4 mile circuit. 320 steps and agony by the end. a surprisingly quick 1 min 43 so it's either work on speed or repetition.
The Wood Martins are visiting today so rather than work went on another spending spree in Homebase. Picked up a monster hedge trimmer and then Halfords for my big surprise - a new car stereo with an iPod connection. Mrs N was not best pleased but we definitely need one. From a Maslow point of view it's well up there on the hierarchy along with food and shelter.
Sarah arrived and Ollie has grown up massively. He is now rowing and is at least a head taller than Ted. George seems even tinier and quieter than last year. The kids went off for the afternoon and we sat and chatted with Sarah. Dave is working hard as ever and it must be so tough running your own business right now. I hope he gets to enjoy the fruits of his labour soon as it doesn't seem like he gets his just reward for working so hard.
Day 109 - Fantasy Maths
Monday August 3rd
Not really but at one point I did break from a very sincere focus on Maths to put my Fantasy Football team together for the new season.
Phone switched today so we had not phone or internet all day. I have ramped up my work focus this last week. Firstly, I got organised and read through all my GTP handbook. Secondly, I took a few GCSE past papers and made notes of the topics that I struggled with. It's working well but I still have three textbooks to get through by September.
Ellen sat and did a test paper with me tonight and she did very well in the first half. She got tired for the second half and lost interest. She did very well for someone who is not taking the exam for another 2 years. Did I say she is in the top band for everything? Clever girl.
Bless BT, the phone came on line just I went to bed
Day 108 - Essex Visits Us
Sunday August 2nd
Didn't make it out of bed for a run this morning but packed most of the house up for the big move. Headed over to St Cross and cooked up a storming Coq au Vin without the mushrooms. Celebrated our move with a bottle of champagne and then enjoyed a lovely afternoon walking into Winchester with all the kids.
Ellen is home again and was very excited to sleep in her new bed...as were we all. Welcome to 2 St Edmunds, it's going to fun. I was so happy to be back in my own bed that I didn't want to sleep, just lie there and luxuriate. That didn't last long.
Day 107 - The Referee's a W*****
Saturday August 1st
I cannot believe it's August already. Suddenly the end of my retirement is in focus and there is much to do. I spent lots of time last week on preparing my "Portfolio of Evidence" for next year and have been attempting test papers. I seem to be stuck on 89%.
Early drive up to St Margarets for our marathon Saturday. Had a giant lunch with the Thrumbles and took the boys and Alice off to Reading for the match. We really enjoyed it. The ground is very tight and we were right behind the Reading goal for the 1st half and saw loads of action. Unfortunately all 4 goals were scored the other end but we had a good time. Alice and Ted's first game in England.
On to Charles for more food. Got there at around 7 and tucked into rib of beef with the whole family and M&D. It was very quick and didn't get to talk much. Alice and Ted were full of chat but fell asleep on the way home. Last night on an airbed.
Day 106 - A Toast To Our Friends in Hastings
Friday July 31st
The email that I sent to Peter on the occasional of a night out without us..
Mr Kolbert,Much as we are excited at the thought of joining you for a lovely night out, a virtual night out at 1am is beyond us. We are currently half way through a marathon pub session with all our new friends and will be swapping keys shortly.
Anyway, onto toasts. Please read out the following:
There is only one way to toast 5 very special people - with 5 very special labels from our friend Johnnie Walker.
For Sandeep there is Black Label. This may not be his first choice but for a man who has 2 birthdays, only Black Label will do as it is the TWO hundreth anniversary of the Striding Man this year and Black Label is the blend that started it all way back then.
For Nikki, it has to be Gold Label. No lady can resist a small glass straight from the freezer with some dark chocolate. It was created for those very special moments. (take
note Peter).
To celebrate Anthony and Debbie's anniversary, we bring out an old favourite and a new gem. The perfect match of Red Label & Ginger Ale for him and a straight up Green Label for the lady who loves Green.
And what of Blue Label, left to the end? If the Wilts are there then Bob deserves a Blue Label as be celebrates his last MRI and the Blue will match nicely with the blue hue from all that radiation.
We love you all, miss you all but unfortunately tonight you will have to pay for your own scotch....
R
Day 105 - Double Run
Thursday July 30th
Double run today as I did my usual circuit (quickest so far, finishing at 6 minute mile pace) and then went round again with Mrs N at a more gentle warm down pace.
Still itching to get into the house, as in SLEEP IN MY OWN BED. Today was a USA today as I corresponded with Ann about Eastern, wrote to Simon about the Spensers visiting and finally wrote to Jamie Mac.
The prompt was the announcement that Crown Royal is moving to the #17 car and Jamie is leaving Roush at the end of the season. I am not at all surprised given the results have not come again this season. Ironically, they are moving to Matt just as he seems to be dropping back and in danger of missing the Chase. However, I wrote to Jamie to give him my news and wish him the best. I still remain 100% behind him as he is clearly a talented driver and was good value media wise. However, on the track it was a mystery. He finished last year so strong and yet was hounded by bad luck at the start of the season and then when the luck turned his car wasn't fast enough to challenge. He is now solidly a 15-20 car again. He'll probably go to a new team and get in the Chase next year. I hope so
Day 104 - The Genius Of Nespresso
Wednesday July 29th
Hats off to the genius who thought of Nespresso. A brilliant, brilliantly simple idea, executed with real class. I am now a Nespresso member with a donated Krups machine (Thanks Dad) and a smorgasbord of coffee varieties with bright colours. For anyone who likes even a modicum of discovery, variety, experimentation, it gets you completely hooked from day 1. The genius is in getting someone else to build and sell the machine (in this instance Krups), doing the whole thing on line and finally the simplicity of operation.
It almost makes me want to get back into Marketing - I bet you could do something very clever like this with Malt Whisky here in the UK. No machinery required but you could definitely see an infinite variety of miniature Malt Whisky bottles available to order direct on line with Whiskies of the Month, Special Offers, Manager's Dram. Join as a member and get a tasting kit free with proper nosing glasses, a water jug, tasting notes all in a beautiful wooden case. Friends of the Classic Malts would take on a completely different dimension. It would be relatively small scale but the margin would be in the initial starter pack where you would get some economies on producing the miniature bottles (all bottles could be the same rather than replicas of the standard size) and also high prices for some of the rarer offers. I am sure that Nespresso would be open to sharing their distribution operation provided there is zero competition...might even be complementary.
Day 103 - Ted Gets In
Tuesday July 28th
Bethan's 20th birthday. I remember babysitting her as a newborn in Richmond.
Went for a run this morning and pushed it hard for 2.5 miles. It felt good but I either need to find some new running buddies or change the music on the iPod.
Almost forgot to call the school but when we did...Ted got a place. The famous twins have confirmed they are leaving so two got in. It was like a large mountain off our shoulders. Ted picked up his uniform. I haven't seen him in it yet but when I do, it will be straight on Facebook.
Now I want to move into the new house and sleep in my own bed. We agreed to wait until Ellen got home but every day is painful in a deflating airbed.
AJ Tarricone had a nasty accident on his bike in Hastings. A very very lucky boy but it shows that the margin between a funny story and a life changing tragedy is very very thin.
Day 102 - How Did I Live Without a Hammer Drill?
Monday July 27th
Day 1 without Ellen so the house was a little quieter and getting up in the morning was slightly easier. A quick check in at the school revealed no news on anyone leaving Year 7 so we headed off for another load up at Homebase.
I sneaked off with Alice to buy a new drill and came out with a hammer drill. It was big and scary but when it got through the brick in a nano second I realised what I'd been missing all these years. Now for some new screwdrivers.
Got back to the rental and there were two messages from Mrs Manning at Kings'. It was too late to call so we stewed on that all evening but I still slept well.
Day 101 - Essex Girls
Sunday July 26th
Long run this morning, only 7 miles as we had to set off early for Essex, home of Essex girls and the Goulds. A good 2 hour journey on hazardous motorways got us there by 10:30 and the aftermath of Russell's birthday party. Big fry up with all the trimmings. Nice
Went to an activity park for a walk and then Pizza Hut for dinner before trekking back to Winchester. It is a long way but closer than New York. We left Ellen there for the week.
Day 100 - Meet The Neighbours
Saturday July 25th
One Hundred Days of Retirement. I tried briefly to think of an appropriate word that rhymes with Solitude but couldn't
We have met most of the neighbours by now.
At #1 are Simon and Katrina. They have lived here the longest and have two grown up daughters and both work. Not sure what they do yet but plenty of time for that. Their house is very quiet...they're going to love us
At #2 there is us
At #3 are the Foxes. Dave and Helen. They have 3 kids, 2 of which are at Uni and the youngest we met briefly on the morning we moved in but not subsequently. She is two years ahead of Ellen and going to Peter Symonds.
At #4 are Graham and Jill who don't seem to be there much. He is retired and said hi to us before we moved in but not subsequently.
In summary, we are going to make a lot of noise and bring the tone of the neighbourhood down considerably. Having said that in the houses around us, we have spotted younger kids so hopefully there are some friends there for our lot
Day 99 - Kite Runner
Friday July 24th
Finished off the kitchen cabinet and I think Mrs N was quite impressed as it involved attaching it to the wall and precision drilling 2 holes into the metal door frame for the handle...using my wood drill bit. We loaded up the glasses and it looks pretty damn good, even though I say so myself.
Went for a walk up St Catherine's Hill with the neighbours and it was spectacular. The wind was strong and we flew a kite for a while and then walked down the steps that I had seen on my run last week - all 320 of them!. Ellen and Helena got stuck up a tree so I had to walk the way back up to rescue them. Sent a photo back to the running crew to see if they fancied joining me for some stair work.
Finished off the kitchen cabinet and I think Mrs N was quite impressed as it involved attaching it to the wall and precision drilling 2 holes into the metal door frame for the handle...using my wood drill bit. We loaded up the glasses and it looks pretty damn good, even though I say so myself.
Went for a walk up St Catherine's Hill with the neighbours and it was spectacular. The wind was strong and we flew a kite for a while and then walked down the steps that I had seen on my run last week - all 320 of them!. Ellen and Helena got stuck up a tree so I had to walk the way back up to rescue them. Sent a photo back to the running crew to see if they fancied joining me for some stair work.
Day 98 - Yes, Finally, Ikea
Thursday July 23rd
Went for a run with Mrs N this morning. My watch kept beeping due to the pace so had to turn that off after 2 mins. Just under 3 miles, up and down some hills was a good start. I don't think she likes running with me.
We spent an absolute fortune at Ikea but being the pros we are, we got in and out before the real carnage began. Got everything in the car somehow and then I burst with pride as all three of my children set to work constructing Ikea furniture. Start 'em young and they'll be experts by the time they buy their first home. Brings a tear to the eye.
Ted put together a kitchen table, Alice the coat rack and some boxes and Ellen surprised us all with a bedside cabinet. My piece de resistance was a full length kitchen cabinet for our considerable collection of glasses. Didn't finish it so have to pop back to Ikea in the morning...
Went for a run with Mrs N this morning. My watch kept beeping due to the pace so had to turn that off after 2 mins. Just under 3 miles, up and down some hills was a good start. I don't think she likes running with me.
We spent an absolute fortune at Ikea but being the pros we are, we got in and out before the real carnage began. Got everything in the car somehow and then I burst with pride as all three of my children set to work constructing Ikea furniture. Start 'em young and they'll be experts by the time they buy their first home. Brings a tear to the eye.
Ted put together a kitchen table, Alice the coat rack and some boxes and Ellen surprised us all with a bedside cabinet. My piece de resistance was a full length kitchen cabinet for our considerable collection of glasses. Didn't finish it so have to pop back to Ikea in the morning...
Day 97 - Last Day Of School...Again
Wednesday July 22nd
School finishes today so the next school day at Kings'...I will be a teacher. Aaaaaargh. I'm not ready.
We needed to regroup today so we did in military like fashion. By lunch, we had found out that 4 Year 7s had said they were leaving and had not officially told the school. This is promising. In addition, we talked through the options of Ted going to HB and even found out that the #1 bus that takes us to Kings' takes us the HB the other direction. Not so bad.
Adele came to visit with Felix, Jake and Claudia. We haven't seen them for a couple of years and Claudia was tiny then. They all had a good time and Ted had his hands full with the 2 boys. A nice change for him as he is usually surrounded by girl cousins. Del talked about coming back when Felix hits 12. I think that may happen before we make it out there.
We all went to pick Alice up on her last day. Lots of tears amongst the leavers so I hope Alice has 2 brilliant years and feels the same way about leaving!
School finishes today so the next school day at Kings'...I will be a teacher. Aaaaaargh. I'm not ready.
We needed to regroup today so we did in military like fashion. By lunch, we had found out that 4 Year 7s had said they were leaving and had not officially told the school. This is promising. In addition, we talked through the options of Ted going to HB and even found out that the #1 bus that takes us to Kings' takes us the HB the other direction. Not so bad.
Adele came to visit with Felix, Jake and Claudia. We haven't seen them for a couple of years and Claudia was tiny then. They all had a good time and Ted had his hands full with the 2 boys. A nice change for him as he is usually surrounded by girl cousins. Del talked about coming back when Felix hits 12. I think that may happen before we make it out there.
We all went to pick Alice up on her last day. Lots of tears amongst the leavers so I hope Alice has 2 brilliant years and feels the same way about leaving!
Day 96 - White Transit Van Man
Tuesday July 21st
Big day today as we hired a big white van (Renault not a Ford Transit as it happens) to move some furiniture around and take my mind off the appeal. First stop was Dad's to pick up the kids, Ellen's new bed and a sofa bed. Dad came back and helped get the sofa bed up the stairs where it fitted rather snugly in the family room. Ellen put her new bed together all by herself which was very impressive.
Then we got the bombshell. Ted's appeal had failed. This was totally unexpected and therefore a bit of a shock. On reflection, it's really the first major setback we have had but it's quite the setback and so we are going to have to plan for Ted to go to HB. Three kids in three different schools.
Ellen and I then spent the afternoon together driving up to East Horsley to pick up the trampoline. I really enjoyed the trip and she was very helpful dismantling the whole thing. It started to drizzle as we finished up and rained the whole way back. Got home and stored it in the garage. A long day
Big day today as we hired a big white van (Renault not a Ford Transit as it happens) to move some furiniture around and take my mind off the appeal. First stop was Dad's to pick up the kids, Ellen's new bed and a sofa bed. Dad came back and helped get the sofa bed up the stairs where it fitted rather snugly in the family room. Ellen put her new bed together all by herself which was very impressive.
Then we got the bombshell. Ted's appeal had failed. This was totally unexpected and therefore a bit of a shock. On reflection, it's really the first major setback we have had but it's quite the setback and so we are going to have to plan for Ted to go to HB. Three kids in three different schools.
Ellen and I then spent the afternoon together driving up to East Horsley to pick up the trampoline. I really enjoyed the trip and she was very helpful dismantling the whole thing. It started to drizzle as we finished up and rained the whole way back. Got home and stored it in the garage. A long day
Day 95 - King Arthur and Ted's Appeal
Monday July 20th
Dressed up smart this morning and the sun shone brightly as we walked into town for Ted's appeal. We were both very nervous but confident about the outcome. The 1st session went as anticipated if a little long-winded but the first warning sign was there in that there was much discussion about Kings' being full.
Headed off for lunch and bought some new dining chairs before discovering King Arthur's Round Table. There it was, just hanging there, no pomp, no ceremony. Unbelievable. I thought it was a massive dartboard but no, all that legend right there in the middle of Winchester. It seems that Winchester was the centre of Kings and Queens for hundreds of years until the Civil War in the 17th Century. I never knew that.
We made our case in front of the Appeal Panel but the vibes weren't good as they were only interested in why our son should go to Kings' not why we thought Kings' could take another child. There is nothing we can do except wait now.
Dressed up smart this morning and the sun shone brightly as we walked into town for Ted's appeal. We were both very nervous but confident about the outcome. The 1st session went as anticipated if a little long-winded but the first warning sign was there in that there was much discussion about Kings' being full.
Headed off for lunch and bought some new dining chairs before discovering King Arthur's Round Table. There it was, just hanging there, no pomp, no ceremony. Unbelievable. I thought it was a massive dartboard but no, all that legend right there in the middle of Winchester. It seems that Winchester was the centre of Kings and Queens for hundreds of years until the Civil War in the 17th Century. I never knew that.
Day 94 - Harry Potter Snogging
Sunday July 19th
Long run this morning and tried a different direction this time, along south and then east along the road. Found one path which was promising until it narrowed into brambles after a mile. I then found a lovely traverse a meadow which took me to the railway bridge by Christchurch Rd. Perfect! 8.5 miles
Spent the day at the new house and tackled some more boxes. The TV sat there, teasing me in its box, but I stayed strong and left it there.
Went to see Harry Potter 6 and enjoyed it. Way too much snogging and way too little fighting and explaining but not a bad film. Got outside to find my first welcome note on the windscreen. It seems I took up two parking spaces and whoever it was took exception to this selfish act, calling me a c*** and suggesting I learnt to drive. Welcome home!
Dropped off Ellen and Ted with M&D for the night and enjoyed some roast lamb. Big day tomorrow
Long run this morning and tried a different direction this time, along south and then east along the road. Found one path which was promising until it narrowed into brambles after a mile. I then found a lovely traverse a meadow which took me to the railway bridge by Christchurch Rd. Perfect! 8.5 miles
Spent the day at the new house and tackled some more boxes. The TV sat there, teasing me in its box, but I stayed strong and left it there.
Went to see Harry Potter 6 and enjoyed it. Way too much snogging and way too little fighting and explaining but not a bad film. Got outside to find my first welcome note on the windscreen. It seems I took up two parking spaces and whoever it was took exception to this selfish act, calling me a c*** and suggesting I learnt to drive. Welcome home!
Dropped off Ellen and Ted with M&D for the night and enjoyed some roast lamb. Big day tomorrow
Day 93 - Finally, A Big TV
Saturday July 18th
The packers have gone so we went shopping. First up was Homebase and paint. The kids were very excited about choosing paints and I bought a push mower..is that a very cool retro thing to do or just silly. For 30 quid and a small lawn, I reckon it's sensible.
Second up was Curry's where the wheels really came off the wallet. A washing machine, a dryer, a 40" TV and one Blu Ray player later we staggered out. Hope it all works. Finally I get my big TV but judging by the digital reception in the other house, I am not optimistic about the quality of TV reception. We shall see.
The new house is beginning to look habitable. I wonder when we can move in. It all depends on Monday.
M&D came around for a cup of tea and gave us a masterclass on the coffee machine and oven. Very excited about my new coffee machine as I got the variety Nespresso pack. It was like a box of Quality Street with lots of different colours to choose from.
The packers have gone so we went shopping. First up was Homebase and paint. The kids were very excited about choosing paints and I bought a push mower..is that a very cool retro thing to do or just silly. For 30 quid and a small lawn, I reckon it's sensible.
Second up was Curry's where the wheels really came off the wallet. A washing machine, a dryer, a 40" TV and one Blu Ray player later we staggered out. Hope it all works. Finally I get my big TV but judging by the digital reception in the other house, I am not optimistic about the quality of TV reception. We shall see.
The new house is beginning to look habitable. I wonder when we can move in. It all depends on Monday.
M&D came around for a cup of tea and gave us a masterclass on the coffee machine and oven. Very excited about my new coffee machine as I got the variety Nespresso pack. It was like a box of Quality Street with lots of different colours to choose from.
Day 92 - Can You Recycle All This?
Friday July 16th
The amount of packing material is phenomenal. I think our 2 British movers (the 3rd called in sick much to the 2 others' derision) are not impressed with the amount of paper and board they have to get through. It is an unfair contest - on the US side 7 packers + a foreman and on the UK side 2 unpackers. We all ended up pitching in as it was painful to watch at times. Mrs N declared herself dissatisfied with the storage space in the kitchen so a trip to Ikea is imminent.
Ted and I unpacked the garage and managed a sneaky game of ping pong to check the table was in working order. By 4pm the job was pretty much done and we sent the lads on their way with sore bodies and 20 quid for their hard labour.
We have been invited out by the neighbours in Nightingale Close for fajitas. A lovely family, with Ellen and Ted getting on well with their two kids. A little awkward as we have not told them about our parallel life in the new house. We will have to tell them soon
The amount of packing material is phenomenal. I think our 2 British movers (the 3rd called in sick much to the 2 others' derision) are not impressed with the amount of paper and board they have to get through. It is an unfair contest - on the US side 7 packers + a foreman and on the UK side 2 unpackers. We all ended up pitching in as it was painful to watch at times. Mrs N declared herself dissatisfied with the storage space in the kitchen so a trip to Ikea is imminent.
Ted and I unpacked the garage and managed a sneaky game of ping pong to check the table was in working order. By 4pm the job was pretty much done and we sent the lads on their way with sore bodies and 20 quid for their hard labour.
We have been invited out by the neighbours in Nightingale Close for fajitas. A lovely family, with Ellen and Ted getting on well with their two kids. A little awkward as we have not told them about our parallel life in the new house. We will have to tell them soon
Day 91 - Squeezing up the Stairs
Thursday July 15th
Our ship has come in! All day at the new house, directing our three moving guys into various rooms. A big job for them but they did very well given they had 4 floors to contend with.
A slight hiccup with the sofas but we agreed to keep the big blue one downstairs and then willed the leather one to get up one flight. Finally it did and Mrs N was happy.
We checked out the new athletics track and astro-turf in Bar End. It only opens from 8am and costs 2 quid to run on it. Looks like I will have to join the Winchester and District Athletic Club
Went into town to eat and ran into the Winchester 5k. How I wanted to be running - I'm sure I can get sub 20 mins now, especially on a flat course. Instead I watched them forlornly from the window - the Winchester running vest of black with yellow horizontal stripe looked very fetching.
Finished off at the Maths Dept party. Enjoyed spending more time with my new colleagues and mostly listened. It will certainly be entertaining in the staffroom, if nothing else!
Day 90 - 87%: Not Bad For a Teacher
Wednesday July 15th
Attempt my first 2 GCSE papers. I get them done in an hour each and self mark 87% with a bunch of stupid mistakes. Feel pretty good about that and vow to do more. This dream is interrupted by return of Ellen and Ted from taking tests at Kings'. In the Literacy test, they are asked for an alternative word for strong as in "only the strong survive". Ellen suggests muscular while Ted surpasses himself with buff. God help us. Ellen has also picked up her new uniform and is torn between excitement and dismay. This is fun to watch.
Head back to the house for more cleaning so that it's ready for our worldly belongings tomorrow
Attempt my first 2 GCSE papers. I get them done in an hour each and self mark 87% with a bunch of stupid mistakes. Feel pretty good about that and vow to do more. This dream is interrupted by return of Ellen and Ted from taking tests at Kings'. In the Literacy test, they are asked for an alternative word for strong as in "only the strong survive". Ellen suggests muscular while Ted surpasses himself with buff. God help us. Ellen has also picked up her new uniform and is torn between excitement and dismay. This is fun to watch.
Head back to the house for more cleaning so that it's ready for our worldly belongings tomorrow
Day 89 - Get the Rubber Gloves On
Tuesday July 14th
Try a fast run this morning and it feels OK. No car so Mrs N walks down to St Faiths with Alice and I sneak out to try Costa Coffee across the street. Not bad at all. I hope they do well but tough area for an expensive cup of coffee. Maybe all the Kings' teachers will be in there every morning from September.
Get the #5 bus into town and get a fleeting glimpse of JobCentre Plus as we go by..must make a visit there at some point although nothing like the riches of claiming US benefit. 200 quid Job Seekers allowance vs $440. Get the car back and then head to the new house for an afternoon of cleaning. The kitchen is in quite a state so we are all scrubbing and bleaching til late. I get to do the toilets, ergo the rubber gloves
Try a fast run this morning and it feels OK. No car so Mrs N walks down to St Faiths with Alice and I sneak out to try Costa Coffee across the street. Not bad at all. I hope they do well but tough area for an expensive cup of coffee. Maybe all the Kings' teachers will be in there every morning from September.
Get the #5 bus into town and get a fleeting glimpse of JobCentre Plus as we go by..must make a visit there at some point although nothing like the riches of claiming US benefit. 200 quid Job Seekers allowance vs $440. Get the car back and then head to the new house for an afternoon of cleaning. The kitchen is in quite a state so we are all scrubbing and bleaching til late. I get to do the toilets, ergo the rubber gloves
Day 88 - Broken Car and New House
Monday July 13th
Nasty squeaking noise on the new car so take it in to the garage and it turns out a spring has gone in the rear suspension so no car for a day. At least we don't have to pay for it. Went and picked up the keys for the new house. We sat and admired it for a while before heading home on the bus. Not a bad journey at all, about 10 minutes. We will have to work out timings for school as I have no desire to stand on the bus with my or any other kids on the way to school every morning. Unfortunately those hills get in the way of a nice leisurely cycle ride in every day
I keep pinching myself that we have this magnificent new house. It was the first one we saw and I keep expecting someone to take it away from us. It feels much much scarier than having a mortgage. Somehow if the bank owns most of it, it doesn't feel such a huge responsibility but this time every brick, every pipe, every tile has been paid for by 20 years hard graft. Very different
Nasty squeaking noise on the new car so take it in to the garage and it turns out a spring has gone in the rear suspension so no car for a day. At least we don't have to pay for it. Went and picked up the keys for the new house. We sat and admired it for a while before heading home on the bus. Not a bad journey at all, about 10 minutes. We will have to work out timings for school as I have no desire to stand on the bus with my or any other kids on the way to school every morning. Unfortunately those hills get in the way of a nice leisurely cycle ride in every day
I keep pinching myself that we have this magnificent new house. It was the first one we saw and I keep expecting someone to take it away from us. It feels much much scarier than having a mortgage. Somehow if the bank owns most of it, it doesn't feel such a huge responsibility but this time every brick, every pipe, every tile has been paid for by 20 years hard graft. Very different
Day 87 - My Daughter went for a Walk...and Survived
Sunday July 12th
Brutal 9.5 mile run this morning. I was fine for 7 miles, in fact was doing some steady 7:20s but then I hit the inevitable hill back up to Kings. I tried to find a route back from St Cross and ended up at Sainsbury's. 2 miles later I staggered home and felt faint for the rest of the day. The answer: more hill work!!!!
Retraced my run with Ellen and Ted for a long walk into town. They hardly moaned the whole time and we discovered some fun stuff - a walking bridge across the railway, the Water Meadows, streams, cows, cricket pitches...all good stuff for them. Tried and failed to get them mobile phones again
Brutal 9.5 mile run this morning. I was fine for 7 miles, in fact was doing some steady 7:20s but then I hit the inevitable hill back up to Kings. I tried to find a route back from St Cross and ended up at Sainsbury's. 2 miles later I staggered home and felt faint for the rest of the day. The answer: more hill work!!!!
Retraced my run with Ellen and Ted for a long walk into town. They hardly moaned the whole time and we discovered some fun stuff - a walking bridge across the railway, the Water Meadows, streams, cows, cricket pitches...all good stuff for them. Tried and failed to get them mobile phones again
Day 86 - St Margarets Fair
Saturday July 11th
Brilliant day today as we drove up to St Margarets and met up with all our old friends.
Started with the Thrumbles for a cup of tea and to admire their new bathroom. Bumped into Mike and Rosie outside the house, taking their girls to ballet and went to have lunch with them. St Margarets has transformed into a real boutique community. Lots of little shops, cafes, delis. Really great atmosphere and I thoroughly enjoyed my late morning fry up. Their three girls are very very sweet and Mike comes down to Winchester to fish so hope to see more of him.
Walked into Richmond to check out the chairs in Habitat. A little disappointing so headed back for the afternoon at the fair. Saw JP and had a swift chat but he was very busy with the 5-a-side tournament. Saw the Hoyles and Dalys so got the full house. Ended up in the Turk's Head for a few pints (as per usual). Turns out Phil's sister lives round the corner from our new house and we're going camping with them on the Isle of Wight in a couple of weeks.
Days like this it feels good to come back. This is where we are from. This is who we are.
Brilliant day today as we drove up to St Margarets and met up with all our old friends.
Started with the Thrumbles for a cup of tea and to admire their new bathroom. Bumped into Mike and Rosie outside the house, taking their girls to ballet and went to have lunch with them. St Margarets has transformed into a real boutique community. Lots of little shops, cafes, delis. Really great atmosphere and I thoroughly enjoyed my late morning fry up. Their three girls are very very sweet and Mike comes down to Winchester to fish so hope to see more of him.
Walked into Richmond to check out the chairs in Habitat. A little disappointing so headed back for the afternoon at the fair. Saw JP and had a swift chat but he was very busy with the 5-a-side tournament. Saw the Hoyles and Dalys so got the full house. Ended up in the Turk's Head for a few pints (as per usual). Turns out Phil's sister lives round the corner from our new house and we're going camping with them on the Isle of Wight in a couple of weeks.
Days like this it feels good to come back. This is where we are from. This is who we are.
Day 85 - My Timetable
Friday July 10th
Quiet morning observing a couple of classes and then spent a good hour with the head of PSD, discussing my experience from yesterday. I have much to learn on this front but now have a handbook so at least I can learn the words and acronyms, and Diageo thought it had too many acronyms......
Jane took me through my timetable for next year. In my first week I will go solo on one class...lucky 8.2.4!!!!! 8 means Year 8, 2 means Band 2, 4 means Set 4. There are 11 sets across 3 bands with Maths and Science joined at the hip. Basically, Kings' is streamed in every subject which is why sitting with a 3.3 class is very challenging! I will have a 50% timetable with one Yr 7, 2 Yr 8 and 1 Yr 10 class, sharing with other teachers until they trust me to go it alone. Jane gave me a bunch of text books so that I can at least get to know the material over the summer. Terrifying.
Get home to several messages from Dan and Melissa. It seems the workshop is cancelled next week. I am relieved. I spoke to Dan later and he said that Larry had vetoed it saying "no outside consultants for work that should be done internally". Ha!
Quiet morning observing a couple of classes and then spent a good hour with the head of PSD, discussing my experience from yesterday. I have much to learn on this front but now have a handbook so at least I can learn the words and acronyms, and Diageo thought it had too many acronyms......
Jane took me through my timetable for next year. In my first week I will go solo on one class...lucky 8.2.4!!!!! 8 means Year 8, 2 means Band 2, 4 means Set 4. There are 11 sets across 3 bands with Maths and Science joined at the hip. Basically, Kings' is streamed in every subject which is why sitting with a 3.3 class is very challenging! I will have a 50% timetable with one Yr 7, 2 Yr 8 and 1 Yr 10 class, sharing with other teachers until they trust me to go it alone. Jane gave me a bunch of text books so that I can at least get to know the material over the summer. Terrifying.
Get home to several messages from Dan and Melissa. It seems the workshop is cancelled next week. I am relieved. I spoke to Dan later and he said that Larry had vetoed it saying "no outside consultants for work that should be done internally". Ha!
Day 84 - Jargon, Jargon, Jargon
Short run this morning. I am beginning to find out that you cannot run anywhere in Winchester without encountering some kind of hill. This has obvious upsides and downsides. The downside is that the house we live on is on the top of one particular hill and whichever direction I run in I end up with a nice uphill to make it home. On the plus side I am finding my way round some lovely parts of Winchester. Discovered the Water Meadows today...beautiful (see photo)
Back to school today and spent it with the Pupil Support Department. Here is where it is important to understand the jargon and be very careful with the words you use. Basically, PSD work with kids at the school who have special needs related to their learning. Learning Support Assistants (LSAs) work in the classroom with them and make sure they have what they need to be included in the mainstream. Kings' is the lead school in the area for physically disabled children, some of whom I spent the day with. Without exception, these kids were amazing. They are just part of the school and no-one treats them any differently from anyone else. I met Andrew, Will, Jess, Kerry and really enjoyed sitting with them and watching them get through the school day. Feeds the soul.
Ellen was very brave today and went to Swimming Club at the school. She was very hesitant to get in the pool and I kept telling her that she just had to jump in and get on with it. She finally did and had a great time.
Day 83 - Fresher
Wednesday July 8th
Headed off to the University of Southampton today to register formally on my GTP course. I tried to drop Alice off at school but followed the wrong car into Bar End. Whoops.
It was a good morning. We spent it with Keith Smith, the lead tutor. I did not say a word as tempted as I was. It truly felt like being back at school, or at best University. I need to get used to it because this is what it feels like to be back at the start of something. I'm smart but know nothing about teaching so need to be OK with making mistakes, looking foolish in front of others. Not today though
Got the all important handbook and learnt about the infamous portfolio of evidence I have to accumulate. Basically, I have to put together 2 box files of documents that show I have mastered the 33 standards expected of a qualified teacher.
Headed off to the University of Southampton today to register formally on my GTP course. I tried to drop Alice off at school but followed the wrong car into Bar End. Whoops.
It was a good morning. We spent it with Keith Smith, the lead tutor. I did not say a word as tempted as I was. It truly felt like being back at school, or at best University. I need to get used to it because this is what it feels like to be back at the start of something. I'm smart but know nothing about teaching so need to be OK with making mistakes, looking foolish in front of others. Not today though
Got the all important handbook and learnt about the infamous portfolio of evidence I have to accumulate. Basically, I have to put together 2 box files of documents that show I have mastered the 33 standards expected of a qualified teacher.
Day 82 - The Wykeham Arms
Alice had her first day at St Faiths yesterday and some kid called Theo threw pebbles at her. Nice. They only get worse as they get older and then they come to Kings'
The Maths staff room is very interesting as it is all women. The two male Maths teachers are both Heads of Year and so are out and about all day. They are all characters and sitting with them over lunch is quite daunting. I think I am going to have to find ways to get out and about myself.
Went to pick up our new car - a 3 year old Renault Scenic with 7 seats and then went out for a drink with Kevin. Kevin used to work for me 11 years ago so it's a legitimate first foray into pub going. He took me to the Wykeham Arms about which I got very excited as I could see me taking the boys from Hastings there for a few pints and a game of darts.
Day 81 - NCL
Monday July 6th
So my 3 letter "signature" next year will be NCL. Somewhat reminiscent of NCR as in National Cash Registers but I will live with it as it a the first concrete indication of my new status as a teacher at Kings. I am observing for the week and spent all day in school. Enjoyed myself very much although didn't pluck up the courage to go to the toilet so it was a desperate dash home at 3:15. Thank God we're living just up the road.
It was encouraging to be recognized by a few of the kids from back in March, especially the naughtier ones! First up was Jane's tutor group. Jane is my mentor for the year which means she helps me get through my first year. She has a full timetable but has found time to make feel welcome so I'm sure we are going to get on well together.
Sat in on some very excitable classes which was good. For the life of me I have no idea how I'm going to deal with a class that is out of control. My fear is that I will be too tolerant and then lose my temper on occasion. That would be awful so need to be really careful. Sat with the class I taught in March and they remembered the "Guinness" lesson.
Had a complete panic attack when Alexis asked me to help someone with construction. Stayed one step ahead and showed no fear! Got home and fell asleep on the floor!
So my 3 letter "signature" next year will be NCL. Somewhat reminiscent of NCR as in National Cash Registers but I will live with it as it a the first concrete indication of my new status as a teacher at Kings. I am observing for the week and spent all day in school. Enjoyed myself very much although didn't pluck up the courage to go to the toilet so it was a desperate dash home at 3:15. Thank God we're living just up the road.
It was encouraging to be recognized by a few of the kids from back in March, especially the naughtier ones! First up was Jane's tutor group. Jane is my mentor for the year which means she helps me get through my first year. She has a full timetable but has found time to make feel welcome so I'm sure we are going to get on well together.
Sat in on some very excitable classes which was good. For the life of me I have no idea how I'm going to deal with a class that is out of control. My fear is that I will be too tolerant and then lose my temper on occasion. That would be awful so need to be really careful. Sat with the class I taught in March and they remembered the "Guinness" lesson.
Had a complete panic attack when Alexis asked me to help someone with construction. Stayed one step ahead and showed no fear! Got home and fell asleep on the floor!
Day 80 - No Credit
Sunday July 5th
We swear we did not hear or see anyone on this street until about 230pm. Eerily quiet. Had a read of the Sunday Times and wandered into town. Found a quirky cinema near the new house so booked tickets to see the new Harry Potter in a couple of weeks. Bought Mrs N a new phone but still couldn't buy more than one at a time so Ellen be Ted will have to wait. The town centre was very busy for a Sunday and we are starting to discover the nooks and crannies of this very old city.
Skyped with the Tarricones at 9am their time. We miss them.
Alice and I start school tomorrow. Aaaaargh
We swear we did not hear or see anyone on this street until about 230pm. Eerily quiet. Had a read of the Sunday Times and wandered into town. Found a quirky cinema near the new house so booked tickets to see the new Harry Potter in a couple of weeks. Bought Mrs N a new phone but still couldn't buy more than one at a time so Ellen be Ted will have to wait. The town centre was very busy for a Sunday and we are starting to discover the nooks and crannies of this very old city.
Skyped with the Tarricones at 9am their time. We miss them.
Alice and I start school tomorrow. Aaaaargh
Day 79 - 13 Nightingale Close
Saturday July 4th
Independence Day and we are moving into our new rental today. Early morning run to get rid of some cobwebs. 6 miles around the New Forest was just the ticket.
Finally headed out after packing our cases up again. We have a garden table, 6 chairs, 3 air beds, 1 mattress, 6 plates, 4 cups, 2 pans and that's about it. I got myself a mobile phone in town while Mrs N made the big leap from Tesco to J Sainsbury. All was satisfactory so we headed off and bought a car. All by 530
No fireworks tonight
Independence Day and we are moving into our new rental today. Early morning run to get rid of some cobwebs. 6 miles around the New Forest was just the ticket.
Finally headed out after packing our cases up again. We have a garden table, 6 chairs, 3 air beds, 1 mattress, 6 plates, 4 cups, 2 pans and that's about it. I got myself a mobile phone in town while Mrs N made the big leap from Tesco to J Sainsbury. All was satisfactory so we headed off and bought a car. All by 530
No fireworks tonight
Day 78 - 11 Weeks
Friday July 3rd
11 weeks since I left Diageo slipped past unnoticed yesterday. So much has happened that I didn't stop to think about it but I did do a conference call to discuss the Whisky Strategy meeting I am facilitating in under two weeks time. I proceed with mixed emotions as the adrenaline definitely kicks in when I think about what should be done but there is still a very marked reluctance to dedicate the time and energy to prepare. It was a good call but I could have, should have, would have done more to be prepared. I think that's who I am rather than Diageo but I do need to get more disciplined as there is no way I can ad-lib 20 lessons a week.
Spent another day in Winchester. We all went to see 2 St Edmunds and take a few notes and then I took Ted and Ellen to look at cars while Mrs N took Alice to St Faiths to meet her new teachers. Poor mite, she finishes Hillside on June 25th and then goes back to school next week...in uniform. She is being very brave about it.
We test drove the Scenic and we like dit so it looks like the famous Nichols "See it, Buy it" modus operandi will kick in tomorrow as we are going back tomorrow to make an offer.
11 weeks since I left Diageo slipped past unnoticed yesterday. So much has happened that I didn't stop to think about it but I did do a conference call to discuss the Whisky Strategy meeting I am facilitating in under two weeks time. I proceed with mixed emotions as the adrenaline definitely kicks in when I think about what should be done but there is still a very marked reluctance to dedicate the time and energy to prepare. It was a good call but I could have, should have, would have done more to be prepared. I think that's who I am rather than Diageo but I do need to get more disciplined as there is no way I can ad-lib 20 lessons a week.
Spent another day in Winchester. We all went to see 2 St Edmunds and take a few notes and then I took Ted and Ellen to look at cars while Mrs N took Alice to St Faiths to meet her new teachers. Poor mite, she finishes Hillside on June 25th and then goes back to school next week...in uniform. She is being very brave about it.
We test drove the Scenic and we like dit so it looks like the famous Nichols "See it, Buy it" modus operandi will kick in tomorrow as we are going back tomorrow to make an offer.
Day 77 - British Telecom Haven't Changed A Bit
Thursday July 2nd
Got up early and headed off to Winchester with Ellen to wait for BT to connect our phone line. Very excited to get a phone number. Waited all morning sitting on the floor and eventually Mrs N called BT who informed her that they had connected the phone without needing to come round. 5 f***ing hours. Welcome home.
Started thinking about what kind of car we wanted and narrowed down to Ford S-Max and Renault Grand Scenic because they have 2 extra fold away seats. I promised to shop around and not buy the first one I saw. Very difficult for me. Dad convinced me to cancel the BT Vision plan. What a sucker, 15 quid a month for nothing.
Slight panic attack with all the things we have to get done over the next few weeks so just keep telling myself to take it slowly, make lists and be patient.
Got up early and headed off to Winchester with Ellen to wait for BT to connect our phone line. Very excited to get a phone number. Waited all morning sitting on the floor and eventually Mrs N called BT who informed her that they had connected the phone without needing to come round. 5 f***ing hours. Welcome home.
Started thinking about what kind of car we wanted and narrowed down to Ford S-Max and Renault Grand Scenic because they have 2 extra fold away seats. I promised to shop around and not buy the first one I saw. Very difficult for me. Dad convinced me to cancel the BT Vision plan. What a sucker, 15 quid a month for nothing.
Slight panic attack with all the things we have to get done over the next few weeks so just keep telling myself to take it slowly, make lists and be patient.
Day 76 - 6, Forest View
Wednesday July 1st
I don't want anything more
Than to see your face when you open the door
You'll make me beans on toast and a nice cup of tea
And we'll get a Chinese and watch TV
Chinese by Lily Allen
I can't describe what it's like to be home but the fact that we had bacon, eggs and Heinz baked beans with a glass of red wine at 1am, chatting to my Mum and Dad, and then woke up and got a nice cup of tea in bed speaks volumes. Good to be home
Headed off to Winchester with Mrs N and Dad to check on the house and collect the post. The kids went off swimming for the afternoon
I don't want anything more
Than to see your face when you open the door
You'll make me beans on toast and a nice cup of tea
And we'll get a Chinese and watch TV
Chinese by Lily Allen
I can't describe what it's like to be home but the fact that we had bacon, eggs and Heinz baked beans with a glass of red wine at 1am, chatting to my Mum and Dad, and then woke up and got a nice cup of tea in bed speaks volumes. Good to be home
Headed off to Winchester with Mrs N and Dad to check on the house and collect the post. The kids went off swimming for the afternoon
Day 75 - Newark, You Plonker
Tuesday June 30th
Irony, oh delicious irony (not sure this is irony but what the hell, I can't be bothered to find out the exact definition of what happened). Ellen left her cell phone on the shuttle bus. This is the girl that wouldn't let her cell phone more than 1mm from her 24 hours a day and she leaves it on the bus on her last day. Funny.
The day went really quickly until we arrived and spend about 45 minutes at the New York baggage carousel. None of our 10 bags arrived so we headed off to the baggage office and found out we'd flown from Newark. It's been a long week.
Mum and Dad were there to greet us which was fantastic and we headed down to New Forest in convoy. 2 adults, 3 children, 17 bags, no cat and 7 years of memories
Irony, oh delicious irony (not sure this is irony but what the hell, I can't be bothered to find out the exact definition of what happened). Ellen left her cell phone on the shuttle bus. This is the girl that wouldn't let her cell phone more than 1mm from her 24 hours a day and she leaves it on the bus on her last day. Funny.
The day went really quickly until we arrived and spend about 45 minutes at the New York baggage carousel. None of our 10 bags arrived so we headed off to the baggage office and found out we'd flown from Newark. It's been a long week.
Mum and Dad were there to greet us which was fantastic and we headed down to New Forest in convoy. 2 adults, 3 children, 17 bags, no cat and 7 years of memories
Day 74 - Marriott, Newark Airport
Monday June 29th
It's finally here! Up early and headed over to Yonkers to hand over the Explorer to Tim. It was interesting. We take the plates in, get his new plates and then I have to drive the car 200 yds up the road. I was a bag of nerves. It felt like I had never driven it before. Curious.
Got a ride back and stopped at Antoinette's for a final latte with Bob and said goodbye to Kus. He promised me a welcome pack of coffee in England. Excellent!
Got back to Peggy's and waited for the family to come together from the 4 corners of town. We packed up in Orca and headed out into the sunset..kind of. To be honest, our departure was very low key which was fine by me and we got to the hotel, said our goodbyes and spent the whole afternoon lying on our beds watching Wimbledon. Ellen only had one meltdown, which was nice
It's finally here! Up early and headed over to Yonkers to hand over the Explorer to Tim. It was interesting. We take the plates in, get his new plates and then I have to drive the car 200 yds up the road. I was a bag of nerves. It felt like I had never driven it before. Curious.
Got a ride back and stopped at Antoinette's for a final latte with Bob and said goodbye to Kus. He promised me a welcome pack of coffee in England. Excellent!
Got back to Peggy's and waited for the family to come together from the 4 corners of town. We packed up in Orca and headed out into the sunset..kind of. To be honest, our departure was very low key which was fine by me and we got to the hotel, said our goodbyes and spent the whole afternoon lying on our beds watching Wimbledon. Ellen only had one meltdown, which was nice
Day 73 - 1969 revisited in Central Park
Sunday June 28th
Our last weekend and we decided to go into Manhattan. Everyone except for Ellen that is, who decided she was going to church instead. Took the FLIP with me to capture a few last moments.
Walked up to Central Park and surprised Alice and Bridget with a ride on the horse and buggy. They loved it and little did I know that 40 years ago almost to the week, my Mum and Dad took us out for the day in Central Park and went on the buggy ride, THE DAY BEFORE WE LEFT THE US. 40 years, unbelievable...I must go and dig out the photos from 1969 and compare to my video.
Had a very mellow dinner with the Shaeffers. Things are getting more and more subdued as the hours count down.
Our last weekend and we decided to go into Manhattan. Everyone except for Ellen that is, who decided she was going to church instead. Took the FLIP with me to capture a few last moments.
Walked up to Central Park and surprised Alice and Bridget with a ride on the horse and buggy. They loved it and little did I know that 40 years ago almost to the week, my Mum and Dad took us out for the day in Central Park and went on the buggy ride, THE DAY BEFORE WE LEFT THE US. 40 years, unbelievable...I must go and dig out the photos from 1969 and compare to my video.
Had a very mellow dinner with the Shaeffers. Things are getting more and more subdued as the hours count down.
Day 72 - The Long Good Bye/Farewell Tour
Saturday June 27th
Ed Beglane named this the "Farewell Tour" because we seem to have been leaving forever. It's starting to feel like it for us as well but we said we would stay through the weekend so that the kids got to say good bye to their friends. In hindsight we should have left yesterday after school finished.
Went to say a last goodbye to Fred at Tim's flat. He had the kids there so we stayed for a while and then had to go back again to try and save Ted's retainer from the compactor. No luck. Squished
Spent the evening at the Wilts including a very relaxing dip in the hot tub. I'll miss that. Anthony played the "we're naked in the hot tub" trick on everyone. Debbie loved that...
Ed Beglane named this the "Farewell Tour" because we seem to have been leaving forever. It's starting to feel like it for us as well but we said we would stay through the weekend so that the kids got to say good bye to their friends. In hindsight we should have left yesterday after school finished.
Went to say a last goodbye to Fred at Tim's flat. He had the kids there so we stayed for a while and then had to go back again to try and save Ted's retainer from the compactor. No luck. Squished
Spent the evening at the Wilts including a very relaxing dip in the hot tub. I'll miss that. Anthony played the "we're naked in the hot tub" trick on everyone. Debbie loved that...
Day 71 - Arthur Avenue
Friday June 26th
Off to Darien for a briefing on G&B's from Ted. It turned very quickly into lunch where we met Clare Doherty's doppelganger at the restaurant. Not only did she look like her but she was Welsh and had a twin sister. Bizarre.
Once more without the children tonight (Ted went off to watch Shakespeare no less) so we went off to Arthur Avenue with Deb and Anthony for dinner. It was pretty empty due to the rain so we had a fun night out finishing with cigars and espresso. The cigars are becoming habitual
Off to Darien for a briefing on G&B's from Ted. It turned very quickly into lunch where we met Clare Doherty's doppelganger at the restaurant. Not only did she look like her but she was Welsh and had a twin sister. Bizarre.
Once more without the children tonight (Ted went off to watch Shakespeare no less) so we went off to Arthur Avenue with Deb and Anthony for dinner. It was pretty empty due to the rain so we had a fun night out finishing with cigars and espresso. The cigars are becoming habitual
Day 70 - Last Charge of the Ragnar
Thursday June 25th
Got up feeling decidedly ropey this morning but knew I couldn't let the gang down on our final track workout. Glad I didn't as everyone was there except for Ed and Doctor Robert and Ed turned up at the end. We finished off with a relay race and I smoked Mike H before Pete did the same to David. Amazing end to my running days with these guys. I salute you.
Walked Alice up to school for her last day and charge to the new owners as we headed up Farlane. It turns out their truck went to Hastings, NY which is 300 miles up the road. Oops. They seem nice enough and undeserving of the tag we have given them. They heard the raucous cheering on the track this morning and tonight they will get HHS graduation. They'll think it's really really noisy on our little corner.
This afternoon I went go karting with Anthony, Kevin and cousin Anthony. I was a little nervous as Anthony is a little competitive and knows about cars but in the end it was very very funny. I went out first for Race 1 and they all got tangled up behind me so I won that one with the fastest lap. I was drawn first for Race 2 which was great with lots of grumbling so I went out wide at the start and bided my time. Sure enough Anthony crashed, I got round them both and slowly reeled Kevin in before passing him on the last lap. Double Winner.
Got up feeling decidedly ropey this morning but knew I couldn't let the gang down on our final track workout. Glad I didn't as everyone was there except for Ed and Doctor Robert and Ed turned up at the end. We finished off with a relay race and I smoked Mike H before Pete did the same to David. Amazing end to my running days with these guys. I salute you.
Walked Alice up to school for her last day and charge to the new owners as we headed up Farlane. It turns out their truck went to Hastings, NY which is 300 miles up the road. Oops. They seem nice enough and undeserving of the tag we have given them. They heard the raucous cheering on the track this morning and tonight they will get HHS graduation. They'll think it's really really noisy on our little corner.
This afternoon I went go karting with Anthony, Kevin and cousin Anthony. I was a little nervous as Anthony is a little competitive and knows about cars but in the end it was very very funny. I went out first for Race 1 and they all got tangled up behind me so I won that one with the fastest lap. I was drawn first for Race 2 which was great with lots of grumbling so I went out wide at the start and bided my time. Sure enough Anthony crashed, I got round them both and slowly reeled Kevin in before passing him on the last lap. Double Winner.
Day 69 - One For The Road
Wednesday June 24th
Ellen had a special day today. I have to admit I was less than charitable when I went round to the McGowans to pick her up at around 10.30am and she was lying in bed like a zombie. She keeps banging on around spending these last few days with her friends and it pissed me off that she was wasting it being lazy with Paulina. It was a bad start to a bad day with her and she skulked at Peggy's house all day with us. She wouldn't even go and get her exam results - we did and she did fantastically well in all her subjects so I guess she did more than enough work, despite our concerns.
And another thing... Had a read of Ted's Yearbook as well and when you get past the foul language (from the girls no less) something clicked in my mind about the drama being played out around our departure. There is so much projected emotion from everyone around us that we are beginning to believe it ourselves. I admit that there are certain moments that have made the eyes water ( Ellen softball, Alice concert, Ted's All Stars, telling Debbie and Anthony) but no-one has died...we are moving 3,000 miles away in an age of instant communication. The most telling impact has been on Ted. He has been pretty cool about the whole thing and has shown interest in what the future holds but after all the wailing and gnashing of teeth and I have to say highly charges notes in his year book he now believes he is going to miss Hastings terribly and life without it will be empty. The cultural divide on this point is enormous. In England it would be a polite wave, a "good luck in the colonies, old chap" and a Christmas Card if you're lucky.
Fixed the Tarricones wireless connection tonight and I was so proud of myself I drank way too much beer and whisky. Way too much. The only upside is that I beat Anthony at darts.....twice
Ellen had a special day today. I have to admit I was less than charitable when I went round to the McGowans to pick her up at around 10.30am and she was lying in bed like a zombie. She keeps banging on around spending these last few days with her friends and it pissed me off that she was wasting it being lazy with Paulina. It was a bad start to a bad day with her and she skulked at Peggy's house all day with us. She wouldn't even go and get her exam results - we did and she did fantastically well in all her subjects so I guess she did more than enough work, despite our concerns.
And another thing... Had a read of Ted's Yearbook as well and when you get past the foul language (from the girls no less) something clicked in my mind about the drama being played out around our departure. There is so much projected emotion from everyone around us that we are beginning to believe it ourselves. I admit that there are certain moments that have made the eyes water ( Ellen softball, Alice concert, Ted's All Stars, telling Debbie and Anthony) but no-one has died...we are moving 3,000 miles away in an age of instant communication. The most telling impact has been on Ted. He has been pretty cool about the whole thing and has shown interest in what the future holds but after all the wailing and gnashing of teeth and I have to say highly charges notes in his year book he now believes he is going to miss Hastings terribly and life without it will be empty. The cultural divide on this point is enormous. In England it would be a polite wave, a "good luck in the colonies, old chap" and a Christmas Card if you're lucky.
Fixed the Tarricones wireless connection tonight and I was so proud of myself I drank way too much beer and whisky. Way too much. The only upside is that I beat Anthony at darts.....twice
Day 68 - Trip Into Manhattan
Tuesday June 23rd
Amazingly, I crawled out of bed and made my way over to the Aqueduct for our 6.15 rendez-vous, picking Mike Hogan up on the way. A very unfamiliar route but happy I made it. I felt good all day as a result. It was very strange not having the kids with us, knowing that two other families were getting them ready for school
Mrs N and I took a trip into the city and met up with Debbie and Lisa for some shopping down town. I was there to find some gifts and a last few catch ups before leaving. I just about fitted it all in. Technically we took Ellen and some of her friends as well but they disappeared at Grand Central.
First up was lunch with Bret. He is heading off to Gabon for at least year. This adventure almost made me jealous and I was very excited for him. Then it was a cup of tea with Chris and then the train to White Plains for a pint with Christian. Finally we had dinner with Rob and Tom in Greenwich. They were very pleased with their gifts particularly the bacon rasher band-aids
Amazingly, I crawled out of bed and made my way over to the Aqueduct for our 6.15 rendez-vous, picking Mike Hogan up on the way. A very unfamiliar route but happy I made it. I felt good all day as a result. It was very strange not having the kids with us, knowing that two other families were getting them ready for school
Mrs N and I took a trip into the city and met up with Debbie and Lisa for some shopping down town. I was there to find some gifts and a last few catch ups before leaving. I just about fitted it all in. Technically we took Ellen and some of her friends as well but they disappeared at Grand Central.
First up was lunch with Bret. He is heading off to Gabon for at least year. This adventure almost made me jealous and I was very excited for him. Then it was a cup of tea with Chris and then the train to White Plains for a pint with Christian. Finally we had dinner with Rob and Tom in Greenwich. They were very pleased with their gifts particularly the bacon rasher band-aids
Day 67 - Alice Graduates From Hillside
Monday June 22nd
At 8am I was sealing the tiles in our shower for the billionth time and realised to my horror that the sharp ammonia smell was lingering in the bathroom...we opened the window, burnt some matches, sprayed some perfume and it finally dissipated...phew
We then headed up to Hillside to see Alice graduate from 4th Grade with all her friends. A little emotional but not too bad. We then sped home for the buyers' walk through before loading all our remaining possessions and depositing them at Peggy's house.
We didn't hear from the lawyer til we called him ourselves so were relieved to find out that all was well. Went and collected our checks before breathing a big sigh of relief and depositing it at the bank. WE SOLD OUR HOUSE....whether the figures are accurate or not I don't know but only 2 houses in Hastings have sold during the time we had ours on the market. Karma
Ellen had a not so surprise party at the Stantons which went as well as could be expected. It wsa only the right that all the kids we wanted to stay left early and vice versa. Had a couple of drinks and collapsed into bed...a real bed not a f***ing futon mattress (little did I know there was worse to come)
At 8am I was sealing the tiles in our shower for the billionth time and realised to my horror that the sharp ammonia smell was lingering in the bathroom...we opened the window, burnt some matches, sprayed some perfume and it finally dissipated...phew
We then headed up to Hillside to see Alice graduate from 4th Grade with all her friends. A little emotional but not too bad. We then sped home for the buyers' walk through before loading all our remaining possessions and depositing them at Peggy's house.
We didn't hear from the lawyer til we called him ourselves so were relieved to find out that all was well. Went and collected our checks before breathing a big sigh of relief and depositing it at the bank. WE SOLD OUR HOUSE....whether the figures are accurate or not I don't know but only 2 houses in Hastings have sold during the time we had ours on the market. Karma
Ellen had a not so surprise party at the Stantons which went as well as could be expected. It wsa only the right that all the kids we wanted to stay left early and vice versa. Had a couple of drinks and collapsed into bed...a real bed not a f***ing futon mattress (little did I know there was worse to come)
Day 66 - Fred's New Home
Sunday June 21st
All things considered the hangover wasn't too bad today although it was not helped by the futon. We all staggered to the Dobbs Diner for a late breakfast and Shaggy left after a swift game of soccer tennis while we did the last bit of clearing up in the house.
Took Fred over to Tim's flat with the kids and left her hiding in a corner. Not a happy moment for any of us but there is nothing else we can do until August. Ran a bunch of errands and squeezed in a cheeky beer and a game of darts with Anthony before heading off to the Shaeffers for an excellent dinner. Exhausted
All things considered the hangover wasn't too bad today although it was not helped by the futon. We all staggered to the Dobbs Diner for a late breakfast and Shaggy left after a swift game of soccer tennis while we did the last bit of clearing up in the house.
Took Fred over to Tim's flat with the kids and left her hiding in a corner. Not a happy moment for any of us but there is nothing else we can do until August. Ran a bunch of errands and squeezed in a cheeky beer and a game of darts with Anthony before heading off to the Shaeffers for an excellent dinner. Exhausted
Day 65 - Cigars and Blue Label
Saturday June 20th
Rain threatened as we headed off to Ted's doubleheader in Jersey. The boys drew 1-1 with Ironbound, who beat them at the Regionals in May. The second game was cancelled due to rain and the year ended not with a bang but with a whisper. Everyone seemed disappointed with the year which was a real surprise to me as I think Ray put a decent team together after a rough start. It could all fall apart now that Mauricio is going to FC. Oh well, better out of it.
Back for the party and what a send off. It's just a shame that we didn't get on a plane the next day as a grand exit stage left would have been in order. The Tarricones put on an excellent show at party central and we had speeches, poems, cigars, fine whisky, darts and all our friends under one roof. Ellen baby sat for Tim and Shaggy showed up with a mate so we parties late and got to bed at 3.30 a little worse for wear.
Most triumphant
Rain threatened as we headed off to Ted's doubleheader in Jersey. The boys drew 1-1 with Ironbound, who beat them at the Regionals in May. The second game was cancelled due to rain and the year ended not with a bang but with a whisper. Everyone seemed disappointed with the year which was a real surprise to me as I think Ray put a decent team together after a rough start. It could all fall apart now that Mauricio is going to FC. Oh well, better out of it.
Back for the party and what a send off. It's just a shame that we didn't get on a plane the next day as a grand exit stage left would have been in order. The Tarricones put on an excellent show at party central and we had speeches, poems, cigars, fine whisky, darts and all our friends under one roof. Ellen baby sat for Tim and Shaggy showed up with a mate so we parties late and got to bed at 3.30 a little worse for wear.
Most triumphant
Day 64 - 8th Grade Jumping Out Of Windows
Friday June 19th
Field Day was cancelled today which was complete Sod's Law. The only one I have been able to make in 7 years and it gets rained off. Instead I spent a very pleasant morning doing nothing. We ended up putting a few outside events on for Alice's grade as they were leaving, which was fun.
Went out for dinner with Anthony at Tony's in Hastings. Portugese no less and serving Sagres beer. Then walked up and chaperoned the 8th Grade party which was the usual madness of crowd control at the end. Swift couple of beers at the Roadhouse and home to the airbed
Field Day was cancelled today which was complete Sod's Law. The only one I have been able to make in 7 years and it gets rained off. Instead I spent a very pleasant morning doing nothing. We ended up putting a few outside events on for Alice's grade as they were leaving, which was fun.
Went out for dinner with Anthony at Tony's in Hastings. Portugese no less and serving Sagres beer. Then walked up and chaperoned the 8th Grade party which was the usual madness of crowd control at the end. Swift couple of beers at the Roadhouse and home to the airbed
Day 63 - Decisions, Decisions
Thursday June 18th
Went running in the rain at 615 this morning and only the two unemployed nutters turned up. A good run with Kevin and we talked through the Diageo dilemma. I really do not want to go back. Two reasons: 1. The comment made by a former colleague when I asked for his advice "aah, they all come back eventually" and b. I don't want to be distracted (or stressed?) away from the new challenge ahead of me. Think of the money though ..... so I said yes.
Ellen first finished school on Monday so it's been the devil's own job trying to keep her to focused on her exams this week. She seems very laid back which is driving Mrs N nuts. My attitude is more "let's see the results" but we continue to push her so she learns the value of hard work. We shall see.
Spent a lovely evening with Evan and Robert. It seems that they may be heading back in 2010. That would be a smart move. I want to see that boy on the rugby field!
Went running in the rain at 615 this morning and only the two unemployed nutters turned up. A good run with Kevin and we talked through the Diageo dilemma. I really do not want to go back. Two reasons: 1. The comment made by a former colleague when I asked for his advice "aah, they all come back eventually" and b. I don't want to be distracted (or stressed?) away from the new challenge ahead of me. Think of the money though ..... so I said yes.
Ellen first finished school on Monday so it's been the devil's own job trying to keep her to focused on her exams this week. She seems very laid back which is driving Mrs N nuts. My attitude is more "let's see the results" but we continue to push her so she learns the value of hard work. We shall see.
Spent a lovely evening with Evan and Robert. It seems that they may be heading back in 2010. That would be a smart move. I want to see that boy on the rugby field!
Match Report: Eastern FC 0 Ted's All Stars 4
Wednesday June 17th
5.15pm kick off
5.15pm kick off
Coached by the brilliant tactician, Richard Nichols, Ted’s All Stars pulled off a stunning victory against Eastern FC last night.
Nichols, unruffled by the absence of his combustible assistant coach, was positively Wenger like as he pulled together a motley crew of journeymen, individual talent and solid team players and moulded them in to a well oiled football machine. Chests swelled with pride as the English and US flags were swapped on the halfway line and top ranked referee, Klaus Whitney, got the game underway
The All Stars barely survived the first half as Eastern sent wave after wave of attacks down both flanks, orchestrated by a small blonde lad with the skills of Ronaldo and the speed of a tortoise. Young Lee Owen was immense in goal and the watching scouts were salivating over his signature for the 2009-10 season. The central defensive pairing of Tim and Cesco and then Tim and Alex surprised me and themselves with some very solid defending in the air and on the ground, never missing a tackle and sending every loose ball flying, Tony Adams like, in to the North Stand. Dave O, Nolan and Adam were snapping at the heels of every Eastern attacker, terrier like, with Dave O snarling like a young Stuart Pearce as he got to grips with Eastern’s Albanian playmaker, Elson.
In midfield, it was all defensive work with the odd break to relieve the pressure. As expected, Austin T was here, there and everywhere, ably partnered by Ben who was Glen Hoddle like in his calm demeanour and simple passes. On the wings, Mitch and Daniel L were putting in a very impressive work rate, working up a sweat as they tracked back and forth the full sized turf pitch.
Attack was limited but there was no shortage of hard work and running from Ricky and Jack while Daniel O let his feet do the talking, a welcome change from before the game!
Everything changed in the 2nd half as the famous Nichols half time talk galvanized the All Stars, the small blonde lad switched teams and Eastern’s coach made the #1 error in youth football – he let the boys decide where they wanted to play. Having survived a couple of Eastern goal attempts, Cesco and then Jack found themselves in acres of space but both shot wide as their left feet let them down. Spotting Eastern’s formation change to 1-9, Nichols pushed Mitch up on their one defender and with Austin, Ted and Jack zipping around like Fireflies the attacks came thick and fast. Finally the Eastern resistance broke and
With Tim, Ben and Adam giving Eastern very little time on the ball in midfield, the All Stars found their fluency and the small blonde lad was starting to show his range of passing across the park. The defense were able to relax a bit more with Alex and Nolan shutting down the Eastern attack time after time, leaving Lee twiddling his thumbs in goal for long periods.
With that much space, more goals were bound to follow and so they did with Ricky taking two chances with pinpoint accuracy after nice work from the small blonde lad on the wing. Towards the end Eastern had a goal controversially ruled out for offside – a thumping header from Brian the goalkeeper.
Time was running out and with Eastern heads dropping, there was time for one more goal as All Stars scythed through the defence and Jack slotted home #4.
Result: Ted’s All Stars 4 Eastern FC 0
Day 62 - Ted's All Stars
Wednesday June 17th
Woke up with a sore back after our first night on a futon mattress. Cool in the 1980s they may have been but horrible to sleep on.
Dan Buttling called me today and asked if I would lead a workshop on a whisky strategy for him. My immediate response was no as I made the decision to leave that all behind BUT it is whisky, it is Dan and, in the context of a teacher's salary, it's alot of cash. I said I'd think about it. Mrs N was very clear that there was only one right decision.
This evening we had Ted's testimonial game. I'm pretty sure he knew about it but did a good job of hiding it. It was a good laugh to see him play with all his mates. The All Stars ran out 4-0 winners thanks to superior coaching from me. Ray was a lousy coach but put together some great t-shirts for the kids. [see match report below]
Woke up with a sore back after our first night on a futon mattress. Cool in the 1980s they may have been but horrible to sleep on.
Dan Buttling called me today and asked if I would lead a workshop on a whisky strategy for him. My immediate response was no as I made the decision to leave that all behind BUT it is whisky, it is Dan and, in the context of a teacher's salary, it's alot of cash. I said I'd think about it. Mrs N was very clear that there was only one right decision.
This evening we had Ted's testimonial game. I'm pretty sure he knew about it but did a good job of hiding it. It was a good laugh to see him play with all his mates. The All Stars ran out 4-0 winners thanks to superior coaching from me. Ray was a lousy coach but put together some great t-shirts for the kids. [see match report below]
Day 61 - Meet the MD of Green & Black's
Tuesday June 16th
Slightly more depressing today as they took a grand total of 1 and a half hours to load the container and piss off. All we have left is Ellen's bed, two blow up mattresses, a freaked out cat, a microwave and a kettle. They packed the cupboard of old kitchen stuff they were meant to leave so we made pancakes in a pasta pan with a wooden spoon. Try tossing pancakes when the sides are 10 inches high.
The good news is they took the rest of my wine and whisky. Phew.
Went off to Darien to meet Dominic Lowe, the head of Green & Black's with Rob. I think it went well and will get some income from that over the coming months. An intriguing brand issue to solve in the UK so hope I can juggle school, marketing and motivation
Slightly more depressing today as they took a grand total of 1 and a half hours to load the container and piss off. All we have left is Ellen's bed, two blow up mattresses, a freaked out cat, a microwave and a kettle. They packed the cupboard of old kitchen stuff they were meant to leave so we made pancakes in a pasta pan with a wooden spoon. Try tossing pancakes when the sides are 10 inches high.
The good news is they took the rest of my wine and whisky. Phew.
Went off to Darien to meet Dominic Lowe, the head of Green & Black's with Rob. I think it went well and will get some income from that over the coming months. An intriguing brand issue to solve in the UK so hope I can juggle school, marketing and motivation
Day 60 - 4 hours...is that it?
Monday June 15th
It's actually July 1st and we are in England. It's been a whirlwind 2 weeks so I will attempt to catch up.
Monday the packers came in and we were either so well prepared or had sold everything in the yard sale that they took the grand total of 4 hours to pack the whole thing up! A little depressing to see your life's material possessions packed up so quickly. They left the beds for one last night so at least we had one last good night's sleep.
Alice and Bridget had their ears pierced today. A very exciting moment for them both and it was great to be there with Alice at a milestone event. She grew up a few years in the minute it took!
It's actually July 1st and we are in England. It's been a whirlwind 2 weeks so I will attempt to catch up.
Monday the packers came in and we were either so well prepared or had sold everything in the yard sale that they took the grand total of 4 hours to pack the whole thing up! A little depressing to see your life's material possessions packed up so quickly. They left the beds for one last night so at least we had one last good night's sleep.
Alice and Bridget had their ears pierced today. A very exciting moment for them both and it was great to be there with Alice at a milestone event. She grew up a few years in the minute it took!
Day 59 - Swim, Bike and Run
Sunday June 14th
I did it! A very respectable Top 100 finish and a very quick 3 mile run to finish. I have to admit I was not in the best of moods at 5.30am when Kevin picked me up, a mixture of fear of the unknown and leaving Mrs N the day before moving. All that disappeared when we jumped into the lake at 8am. It was a mad dash and my plan to breathe every third stroke and get into a rhythm disappeared out the window immediately. Never train for a triathlon in a warm swimming pool! I ended up doing breaststroke for most of it and emerged ahead of Kevin.
I nearly screwed up the transition by getting on the bike too early but settled down and quite enjoyed that until the turn and managed to slip the chain twice. That made me more cautious and a bunch of bikes went passed me. I felt tired at the start of the run but after overtaking about 10 runners, I felt much better and ended up picking off 40-50. I did 6:26 minute miles so very chuffed! What an unbelievable experience.
Got home and chilled out for the rest of the day, helping Mrs N and we kept the yard sale going for latecomers.
I did a triathlon! TICK
I did it! A very respectable Top 100 finish and a very quick 3 mile run to finish. I have to admit I was not in the best of moods at 5.30am when Kevin picked me up, a mixture of fear of the unknown and leaving Mrs N the day before moving. All that disappeared when we jumped into the lake at 8am. It was a mad dash and my plan to breathe every third stroke and get into a rhythm disappeared out the window immediately. Never train for a triathlon in a warm swimming pool! I ended up doing breaststroke for most of it and emerged ahead of Kevin.
I nearly screwed up the transition by getting on the bike too early but settled down and quite enjoyed that until the turn and managed to slip the chain twice. That made me more cautious and a bunch of bikes went passed me. I felt tired at the start of the run but after overtaking about 10 runners, I felt much better and ended up picking off 40-50. I did 6:26 minute miles so very chuffed! What an unbelievable experience.
Got home and chilled out for the rest of the day, helping Mrs N and we kept the yard sale going for latecomers.
I did a triathlon! TICK
Day 58 - Yard Sale
What a mad day! Up early to set up with dark clouds hovering overhead. Thank God Chris and Aristea came to help otherwise we would have been swamped. The sale went really well. There was one mad hour from 9 to 10am when almost everything went. After that it was just a steady flow of customers. We made about 80% of what we aimed for and very little of any significance was left by 4pm. All our friends came out to support us and I suspect there were a few sympathy buys!
Alice's last game of the season and I left it til now to lose my cool. They played a very strong Pleasantville side scoreless until the last couple of minutes when Nell gave away a penalty with her trademark arms up flinching. This was bad enough but the fact that the referee had not called any of the girls on both sides doing exactly the same thing all game made it much worse. So we lost 1-0, Nell cried, Molly cried and we made the referee cry. I'm not proud of that, well maybe a little.
Finished off with a farewell BBQ at the Nolans and I sneaked away early to rest up ahead of the big race
Alice's last game of the season and I left it til now to lose my cool. They played a very strong Pleasantville side scoreless until the last couple of minutes when Nell gave away a penalty with her trademark arms up flinching. This was bad enough but the fact that the referee had not called any of the girls on both sides doing exactly the same thing all game made it much worse. So we lost 1-0, Nell cried, Molly cried and we made the referee cry. I'm not proud of that, well maybe a little.
Finished off with a farewell BBQ at the Nolans and I sneaked away early to rest up ahead of the big race
Day 57 - The Calm Before The Storm
Friday June 12th
Today definitely feels like the calm before the storm. Tomorrow is yard sale, triathlon Sunday, packers come Monday and we close the following Monday..
Kevin and I went for a final swim/bike combo at the gym. It was raining again so couldn't get out on the road. Having suffered the jibe one too many times about "getting ready for all the rain in England", I went and checked the rainfall statistics for Hastings and Winchester. Surprisingly, Hastings gets 20 more inches than Winchester in the average year. Put that in your pipe and smoke it. Must be all in June!
Alice had her end of season pool party at the Gross house. Mercifully the rain held off and we got through some beer and the awards ceremony. Alice won Player of the Year. Astonishing given who her coach is :-)
Today definitely feels like the calm before the storm. Tomorrow is yard sale, triathlon Sunday, packers come Monday and we close the following Monday..
Kevin and I went for a final swim/bike combo at the gym. It was raining again so couldn't get out on the road. Having suffered the jibe one too many times about "getting ready for all the rain in England", I went and checked the rainfall statistics for Hastings and Winchester. Surprisingly, Hastings gets 20 more inches than Winchester in the average year. Put that in your pipe and smoke it. Must be all in June!
Alice had her end of season pool party at the Gross house. Mercifully the rain held off and we got through some beer and the awards ceremony. Alice won Player of the Year. Astonishing given who her coach is :-)
Day 56 - Waterlogged Fields...Again
Thursday June 11th
Didn't get up for track work today so I reckon that counts as bard karma. Sure enough it rained all day, YouTube continued to frustrate me and Alice's final soccer practice was cancelled. Boo Hoo.
On the positive side, we have put together a totally unnecessary but very satisfying spreadsheet of all the items we are selling at the yard sale. We are aiming for $2,000+ so let's see how we get on on Saturday
Didn't get up for track work today so I reckon that counts as bard karma. Sure enough it rained all day, YouTube continued to frustrate me and Alice's final soccer practice was cancelled. Boo Hoo.
On the positive side, we have put together a totally unnecessary but very satisfying spreadsheet of all the items we are selling at the yard sale. We are aiming for $2,000+ so let's see how we get on on Saturday
Day 55 - Perfect American Teeth
Wednesday June 10th
I fear I am leaving way too much Maths til I get to England but I'm having way too much fun to focus on that right now.
Ted had his braces off today and I was there to witness the unveiling of his perfect American teeth. Poor kid has had them in for 15 months and poor me has had to sit and watch him eat with them at the dinner table.
We got tickets to see the Mets v Phillies at Citifield, the new stadium. It was very impressive and prompts me to list my top 5 live sporting moments in the 7 years we have been here. Here we go:
#5 Giants Stadium: Jan 2009 in the snow, sub zero, tailgating with Ted and his friends at play off game v Eagles
#4 Fort Worth: April 2005 guest of honour at Bull Riding event when the whole family was parades around the ring at half time
#3 Watkins Glen: August 2008 boys weekend away with Anthony, Peter, Craig and Jim with beer and cigars and the whole race on top of the pit box
#2 Fenway: July 2006 scorching hot day and we sat just by the Green Monster
#1 Daytona 500: Feb 2006 slept and partied in the infield. A magic weekend
I fear I am leaving way too much Maths til I get to England but I'm having way too much fun to focus on that right now.
Ted had his braces off today and I was there to witness the unveiling of his perfect American teeth. Poor kid has had them in for 15 months and poor me has had to sit and watch him eat with them at the dinner table.
We got tickets to see the Mets v Phillies at Citifield, the new stadium. It was very impressive and prompts me to list my top 5 live sporting moments in the 7 years we have been here. Here we go:
#5 Giants Stadium: Jan 2009 in the snow, sub zero, tailgating with Ted and his friends at play off game v Eagles
#4 Fort Worth: April 2005 guest of honour at Bull Riding event when the whole family was parades around the ring at half time
#3 Watkins Glen: August 2008 boys weekend away with Anthony, Peter, Craig and Jim with beer and cigars and the whole race on top of the pit box
#2 Fenway: July 2006 scorching hot day and we sat just by the Green Monster
#1 Daytona 500: Feb 2006 slept and partied in the infield. A magic weekend
Day 54 - Avoiding Hard Labour
Tuesday June 9th
Today I promised to help my bride organize the house for the yard sale and packing, under a week away. I did not fancy this much so I went off with Kevin to do some more training - swim and bike. Ended up doing the bike at the gym because it was raining...again. We biked for 30 mins which was very dull and watched the other people on the gym. I cannot understand why people go to a gym unless they need someone to make them exercise or they want to watch others/ be watched. What possible reason does anyone have to run on a treadmill when they could be on the aqueduct in the fresh air?
Managed to focus on a few chores when I got home but I sense I need to be more engaged.
Today I promised to help my bride organize the house for the yard sale and packing, under a week away. I did not fancy this much so I went off with Kevin to do some more training - swim and bike. Ended up doing the bike at the gym because it was raining...again. We biked for 30 mins which was very dull and watched the other people on the gym. I cannot understand why people go to a gym unless they need someone to make them exercise or they want to watch others/ be watched. What possible reason does anyone have to run on a treadmill when they could be on the aqueduct in the fresh air?
Managed to focus on a few chores when I got home but I sense I need to be more engaged.
Day 53 - I hate YouTube
So this is why I hate YouTube.
I create, with no prior experience, a 20 minute video edit of the Ragnar Relay, using some great music tracks to bring the whole thing to life. I even manage some transitions, slo mo, special effects etc. All not bad for a technophobe. The winning video gets free entry to Ragnar next year so I'm doing it for the team.
I go to post on YouTube. They limit videos to 10 minutes. This is fair enough and I should have checked so I spend another couple of hours editing the 20 down to 10 mins. Not easy but removing most of the slo mo works. I upload again. It works!
5 mins later I get an email saying that the audio has been removed because one of the music tracks infringes copyright. I read up on it. This seems fair enough but annoying so I go through all the approved tracks, select 6, BUY them on iTunes and re-edit the video. Not as good but acceptable. I upload for a third time. It works.
5 mins later I get an email saying that the audio has been removed because one of the music tracks infringes copyright. HOW IS THAT POSSIBLE if all the tracks are on their approved list? I get angry. I resolve to contact YouTube to plead my case. No way of contacting them (of course). Irant and rave to anyone that will listen. Everyone has stopped listening as I'm becoming a little obsessed with the video.
I am spitting mad by now having spent the entire day on this. There is nothing I can do about it so end up posting it on Facebook and letting someone else worry about how to enter it into the competition.
As for YouTube....
I create, with no prior experience, a 20 minute video edit of the Ragnar Relay, using some great music tracks to bring the whole thing to life. I even manage some transitions, slo mo, special effects etc. All not bad for a technophobe. The winning video gets free entry to Ragnar next year so I'm doing it for the team.
I go to post on YouTube. They limit videos to 10 minutes. This is fair enough and I should have checked so I spend another couple of hours editing the 20 down to 10 mins. Not easy but removing most of the slo mo works. I upload again. It works!
5 mins later I get an email saying that the audio has been removed because one of the music tracks infringes copyright. I read up on it. This seems fair enough but annoying so I go through all the approved tracks, select 6, BUY them on iTunes and re-edit the video. Not as good but acceptable. I upload for a third time. It works.
5 mins later I get an email saying that the audio has been removed because one of the music tracks infringes copyright. HOW IS THAT POSSIBLE if all the tracks are on their approved list? I get angry. I resolve to contact YouTube to plead my case. No way of contacting them (of course). Irant and rave to anyone that will listen. Everyone has stopped listening as I'm becoming a little obsessed with the video.
I am spitting mad by now having spent the entire day on this. There is nothing I can do about it so end up posting it on Facebook and letting someone else worry about how to enter it into the competition.
As for YouTube....
Day 52 - 2003 Nostalgia
Sunday June 7th
Had a farewell BBQ today. A beautiful day so we were all outside with great food, wine and badminton. It was definitely a nostalgic trip back to 2003 when Gregor, Paula, Geoff, Hillary, Tomoko and Kanau all lived in Dobbs Ferry and we would go over for all day parties in their front yard - chicken wings, rice balls and the only thing missing was beer can chicken.
Day 51 - The Holy Trinity
Saturday June 6th
50 days since I left work. On the one hand, it seems like years ago that I worked at Diageo, a distant memory. On the other hand, I can't believe that the time has gone so fast. We've packed a lot in but now it's a week until we pack up the house, 2 weeks til we leave the house and 3 weeks til we leave the US and start our new adventure.
But first we have to go through the leaving process and that is not going to be easy. I have been thinking about our leaving party and what to do for it and think I've come up with a corker. I just need to find the time to prepare for it. Not so easy.
The Holy Trinity - England won 5-0 in their World Cup qualifier, Ted won 2-0 and then Alice won her game 4-2. A perfect day and then I did something really stupid. I finally did a beer mile. I not only came in third out of three but the Guinness really did not sit well by the third lap........however I have now got rid of the bad karma of advising my brother to drink Guinness for his beer mile.
Day 50 - Jean Georges
Friday June 5th
I almost caught up and now I'm a week behind again. Now we're in June, things are moving so fast, each day is effortlessly blending into the next.
I managed two consecutive days of Maths and was having fun proving that the bisecting diagonals on a rhombus (no really, I was absorbed by it) when Kevin came over and forced me to go running. It was pissing down so we ran to the gym, swam and then ran back up some very steep hills. A full 10k so that was worthwhile.
This evening, the Smiths took us out for the most unbelievable dinner at Jean Georges on Columbus Circle. Funny that it took us 7 years to find the best restaurant in Manhattan - Eggs Caviar, Foie Gras, Halibut, Steak, Cheese and they even had a bottle of Bergerac on the wine list. We got a town car home and I think I was digesting for the next 24 hours. The Smiths have been such wonderful friends and neighbours to us ever since that first week when we were struggling with the house, the kids, the moving van, the heat (where has that gone...it's been raining and cold for the past few weeks)
Day 49 - Busy, Busy, Busy
Thursday June 4th
Clearly not enough recovery time as I declined the offer to run two fast miles with Peter and Mike this morning and instead opted for one lap repetitions...upper legs feel very sore.
Some Maths this morning but mostly admin. I am very excited about the surprise game I have planned for Ted. A complete brainwave (though I say so myself), I am organising a testimonial for him between Eastern and Ted's All Stars. Ray confirmed that we can use Holy Child and he has ordered some Eastern shirts for it. Looking forward to that.
Excellent practice tonight with the girls and then straight to Ted's concert. Not quite the same as Alice's, possibly because Ted is not quite as committed to music.....
Day 48 - Training With Eastern FC
Wednesday June 3rd
Spent a little time in Middle School in the morning and then all afternoon with Greg doing some Pre-Calculus (aaaargh!!) and then working with his 10th Graders. That was very satisfying as I started to interact with the students and help them with their Geometry. Overall, a very rewarding 2 days - just need to collect it all in evidence against the dreaded 33 Standards.
Went to Eastern practice and they let me play with the boys. I was in heaven for 2 hours - took me a while to get the feel of the ball and turf but by the end I was running around like a kid. Me, a grown man of 41. Not sure Ted was particularly impressed though.
Day 47 - Hastings High School Maths
Tuesday June 2nd
Spent the entire day with Greg Stephens in the High School chatting to him and observing a few classes. The aim of the day was to immerse myself in some Maths rather than observe the teaching itself.
I scared myself stupid because it reinforced what has been at the back of my mind ever since I made the decision to do Maths. My subject knowledge is poor - not in the sense that I can't do it because I can. The issue is that I am not an intuitive mathematician. This means that I can do it when I spend the time to learn a subject and practice it so it becomes second nature. That's going to take time and effort. Precisely!!
Having said that I did spend an enjoyable day in class. Ellen was positively delighted with me at the end of the day so that was nice. The more I chatted with Greg, the more comfortable I felt with his approach. I will take alot from him.
Alice's concert tonight and it was all going so well until Mr Rubino decides to bring some flowers out and ask Alice to come to the front of the stage. He proceeded to tell everyone there how special she was and how much he and Hastings are going to miss her and the whole family. Didn't see that one coming.
Day 46 - 30 Days Until We Leave
Monday June 1st
30 days until we go. I cannot quite believe that the countdown chart I started almost 2 years ago is in its final stretch. I vividly remember sketching it out when we were on holiday in Yosemite. I was very close to miserable after 8 months in a job that was leaving me cold and I simply did not want to go back. The countdown was a way to channel that feeling into a workable plan and it seems to have worked.
Lots of Maths today and then a complete focus on the Ragnar video. Remarkably, I pulled it together and took a frst edit along to our team outing on the waterfront. We drank some beer, smoked some cigars, ate some burgers and everyone seemed to enjoy the video. A few more edits required but very pleased with my first attempt at editing.
Big Day Tomorrow
Day 45 - Pentecost
OK so we need a time check here. It's now Sunday May 31st and we make it to church for the first time in ages. I actually quite enjoy the occasional visit. Having had 10 years of organised rammed down my throat at school I am not the most tolerant church goer but ever since Ellen asked us to go I've sat quietly and contemplated. I squirm uncontrollably during "The Peace", which requires interaction but other than that I keep myself to myself and enjoy the calm.
Today does feel like calm before a storm. I'm not sure I can afford many more days of just enjoying the day as it comes. "The Big Move" is looming large and I feel the urge to make lists. I think we are well in control, well at least Mrs N is.
Day 44 - Bore Draw in Morristown
Oh dear...not a good start to the weekend as we drove over an hour to see Ted and his team do everything but score on a baking hot turf field in Jersey. The parents always need something to complain about...I actually think they played a solid game considering they had 5 of their best players not there.
Drove back via Burger King and then back in the car for Alice's game in Briarcliff. This was a completely different kettle of fish. The Olympians passed and moved like Barcelona and ran out 4-2 winners with Miss Alice providing much of the creative spark. A hot afternoon so Rob made good on his promise of free ice-cream until the police bounced the van for being on school property. Spoilsport.
We also arranged to see Chris, Aristea and Oban while we there. I got some NASCAR tickets for Chris on his birthday so they are off to the Poconos next weekend. Now NASCAR is one of those peculiar addictions I have acquired since being here. I do not like cars much, I care not for Formula 1 but NASCAR got me hooked from the moment I set foot on Fontana Raceway in Feb 2005. Funny that. Unfortunatley I will need to follow it on line back home but that's OK.
Dinner out with the Tarricones, Kolberts and Wilts was very enjoyable but ran out of gas by about 10.
Day 43 - 6 weeks
I cannot believe it is 6 weeks since I left work. I've been having a fantastic time and with the exception of falling horribly short of my earnings target Mrs N and the kids have enjoyed having me around. I feel very relaxed. I feel fit as a fiddle. I am very very happy.
Having said that, I am slightly concerned that I have barely started Year 8 Maths. The good news is that I am being meticulous in my note taking. The bad news is that the Maths is very straightforward so far and I am dreading the Year 10 and above stuff.
After the "Crying at Ellen's Softball" incident I am also becoming acutely aware of all the things I am going to miss when we go. Examples include coaching Alice's footie practice tonight. While I am sure I will be doing this when I get home, I will be starting all over again and will need to prove myself again in an entirely different environment - ie - I won't be the only English guy who knows the game! I will also miss just walking through our town and bumping into people I know, whether for a chat or just a "hello". That all takes time to establish and is much easier in a town of 8,000 where we are different v. a town of 35,000 where we are all the same.
Day 42 - Big Night Out
Stood watching the boys run out of the window with a cup of tea in my hands...bad boy but I was feeling a little tired and emotional after my swim and Guinness fuelled afternoon yesterday.
Got into the swing of things with a solid 2 hours of Maths and then started to get organised with the Ragnar video. Somehow I volunteered to edit the whole thing so tinkered with iMovie all afternoon. It's not so hard.
We have also sorted Fred for the 2 months she will be staying here without us. Due to a clerical error, Fred the cat did not get her rabies shot til February. She needs to be here for 6 months from that shot for her not to be quarantined when she flies over so.....Tim has offered to have he goes on vacation and then we need to find a lucky friend to take her to the airport and hand her over to Continental for her "unaccompanied minor" flight home. $700 for a cat. There are humane alternatives.
Headed off to Greenwich for a farewell do with wives. Dan, Mark B, Mark S + the wives that Mrs N has met and got to know since we've been here. After 7 years she really hasn't engaged with the social side of corporate life and hardly knows anyone. That makes the change that much easier but it was nice to go out with a few and reminisce about Hawaii, Loudon (NH) and Gleneagles. Great meal and desserts to die for. We played a few rounds of newly weds and the Buttling "what does Dan towel first after a shower?" question was priceless.
Day 41 - The Day Man Utd Fans Finally Shut Up This Year
Nothing whatsoever to do with my journey but today was Champions League Final and I made the trek in to Manhattan to drink Guinness and sit with smug Man U fans while they won the Champions League. Barcelona obviously did not read the script and I kind of enjoyed watching them go quiet.
Earlier in the day I had done a big swim workout at Riverside. I still feel like I'm drowning most of the time but in the end felt good.
I had lunch with an ex colleague to catch up and left feeling good about my Diageo rehab. She actually met up with the old team for dinner when they were having a meeting in Norwalk the other week. That is too much. I remain interested in the numbers, the people and the success or otherwise of some of the things I have left behind unfinished but I shrink back in horror at the thought of going out with them all at a business meeting.
Day 40 - Quiet Day At The Office
Not much going on today other some serious studying (no really) and helping out at the Eastern tryouts for a few hours.
The dollar is tanking right now and hit 1.60. This is not good news as we budgeted at $1.50 so we need to focus on what it is rather than what it could be. That's me the eternal optimist.
I made the decision to force the issue on spending time at Hastings High School. Kings want me in class from July 7th and I have left the conversation with Greg Stephens open ended. I got in touch with him and we are all set for some observation next week.
Day 39 - Memorial Day
Am reading A Rumour Of War by Philip Caputo about the Vietnam War. Very very good. Astonishing descriptions of his year as a Marine officer in 1965. It's Memorial Day.
5k run with Tim followed by pancakes. He posted about the run on Facebook so I think it made an impression on his lungs and legs.
Very lazy day in the sun and completely forget that Alice has a laser tag party up the road. Ellen is babysitting and Ted is off at the pool. No kids in the house! What shall we do?
Over to Kate and Kevin's for a BBQ and spend a very enjoyable few hours there. It's fun to watch our lot play with very young children. Reminds me of when all they needed was food, sleep and attention.
Back home and what weekend is complete without a visit from the Tarricones and Wilts. Sit up for a long chat and twilight game of badminton.
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