Sunday

Another good day today. This is getting to be a habit 🙂
I had a bit of a lie in this morning, not too late though. Jamie went to a Christmas party at BAE, Steve and Graham have both got pictures. Meanwhile Jan and I finally got to see Harry Potter and The Chamber of Secrets! It was a great film. I know there was loads missing from it, but it is so long since I read the book I pretty much saw it through the eyes of someone who hasn’t read any of the books. It’s great, it’s a good adventure film. Lots of action, a bit short on character development (but then again most films are) and explanations, but a really enjoyable lightweight film.
After the cinema, we went to pick up Jamie from Graham and Jackie’s house. We ended up staying for a while, Steve, Kim and Megan were there too, and had some food.

By the time I got home, the headache which had been threatening since the cinema had fully developed. After putting Jamie to bed, and unsuccessfully trying to read, I went for a lie down. I decided to get out my MindLab and try one of the relaxation sessions. It was great! 15 minutes later and my headache had subsided to a much more manageable level. It’s been a while since I used the MindLab, I’d kinda forgotten how good it could be. I must try to use it more often.

It’s not the end of the day yet, I think I’ll get some more stuff done.

Saturday

I’ve had a good day today. I got some shopping done in the morning. The town centre was very busy with Christmas shoppers. In the afternoon, I took Jamie back into Stockport to take part in a Lantern Parade organised between three local schools. There was a very late start to this. But eventually we got started and snaked our way through Merseyway shopping precinct. The children had all made their own lanterns and the were a couple of large pieces made by some of the same people who made the ones used in the Manchester Commonwealth Games ceremonies. There was also a brass band with us who played as we made our way to Stockport’s historical outdoor market. We eventually made our way to St Mary’s church where there was a group of children playing percussion instruments, including some great bongo playing.
lantern parade
Once at the church a ceremonial Dove of Peace was lit and carols were sung. We didn’t stop for the church service as we were getting a bit cold by that time and wanted to get back.

Back at home, Steve, Kim, Graham, and Jackie were there along with all the kids; Thom, Bekki and Megan. We had something to eat and a very enjoyable evening. We did one of those pop quizzes that has been doing the rounds via email recently. We managed a magnificent 94% between us! The kids watched a Spice Girls concert on tape amongst other things.
Quizzing
Thom also took some great pictures of the girls; I’m going to ask him if I can put them in the gallery.

All in all a good day. And it’s only the first day of my three week holiday!

Fame Academy

We’ve just finished watching Fame Academy! The girls (Bekki is sleeping over) stayed up very late to watch too. I must say that even though I’ve only seen three or four of the Friday night shows; I found it much more credible than the pop idol thing. I have no doubt that all three of the finalists have pop careers ahead of them. But I have to agree with the viewers vote; David out performed the others on the night.

Ho Hum

Jan is feeling a little better today, but is still not right. Jamie hasn’t had any problems since last night, nor have I.

Jamie had her school Nativity play today. She was in the choir. Bekki was the narrator, and Megan was an Angel. Jan took some pictures, but they came out pretty dark. I’ll put up the usable ones this weekend. Jackie and Graham got a couple of good pictures though.
[Edit: Steve has some good pictures too.]

Fairly busy at work again. A few things to clear up before I have my long break.

I’m racing through The Shelters Of Stone, it’s really good.

Stuff

Not much to report today. Jan is feeling a little under the weather. She’s picked up a stomach upset from somewhere. Jamie said she felt ill tonight after she had gone to bed. Nothing seems to have come of it so far. I’m just waiting to see if I catch it.

Work is a busy as usual, I’m looking forward to my long break. I will have a total of 22 days off work! I’ve been bringing CD’s home every night: I normally keep my whole collection at work, but I want to make sureI have a decent selection if I’m going to be home for that long.

I received an email from someone in praise of B2 Link Manager along with a suggestion for a feature. I may implement that along with some of the other things I have planned.

And that’s about it, I’m going back to my book now, and I’ll probably have an earlyish night.