I've no idea what day it is

 

Its that time of the year when you are sill on holiday but have no idea what the day is!

Since Friday I have been convinced every day was Saturday! That may/may not  have had something to do with early morning martinis, but hell, what ever day it is, I'm on Christmas holidays and don't have to be anywhere.

I do however still have a lot of sorting out upstairs ready for starting my new job on 4th January ( saying that instead of week tomorrow, makes it seem longer away).

Christmas has been lovely for me, lots of sleep and recharging of batteries. Its also been a good time for reflection and decision.

Things have happened this year that have helped me see a clearer way for 2022. 

and cricket, well lets just give the Aussies the Ashes, we are playing so badly that we are actually a joke. When will the ECB realise that their money pit of a made up game is not helping our players, it may well be lining their pockets but its not helping our imagine as a test team.

I cannot even be bothered to  listen through the night, this is not like me at all. The disappointment of hearing the openers out quicker than their last cup of tea got cold is not inspiring.

So now I am off to look for new curtains for my office ( online obviously as I don't intend  to get dressed again today), and get things on FB market place and eBay. The whole clearout begins ( again).

Have a great day 

Busy few days

Its been a very busy few days, finishing work and then off to catch up with friends, first stop York for a lovely couple of days with TLML & TLDL. Perfect start to my holidays, I then headed up to Matfen yesterday a beautiful village north of Newcastle to see friends Julie, Peter and Eric ( a very famous Border Terrier).

From there it was down to stay overnight at Newcastle Airport and a catch up with James Bond, where we discussed top secret things and generally had a laugh.

Today it is a quick trip to nearby garden centre before heading back south and meeting up for lunch with friends in Darlington. Then home, to put up the tree and tidy the house ready for visitors on Thursday  and Friday. I tell you I am looking forward to my 5am traditional martini on Christmas morning and 4 days of doing as little as possible.

In cricket news, as I am sure you all know, England are 2 -0 down in the Ashes, Joe keeps being trundled out to explain, and sadly the old ' we need to learn from our mistakes' speech is wearing thin, because they don't!.

And my beloved Yorkshire, well when you see an advert for a new coach for them on Face book, you know that it has hit rock bottom.

And now I am going to head off and have a lovely leisurely breakfast before I head off back to Co Durham.

If I don't make it back here before Christmas day, I wish you all, a happy and peaceful time, if Boris doesn't spoil it!

That's it folks

 

So today is the end of an era ( another era) for me, as I finish work at the saltmines and prepare to work from home in the new year.

It is going to be slightly sad as I say goodbye to some great colleagues.

Its time for me to move on and start a new chapter.

Crickety news, I have once again been tuned in since 4am, Australia are in charge and it seems even with Jimmy and Broady we aren't playing our best.

Labuschagne  made his hundred and there was some drama after, but eventually fell at 103.

Stokes had a couple of good overs.

The commentary on 5 live is dire to say the least, I always suspected that Steve Finn was a bit boring,, and he is. Listening to him discussing his jeans, his cat, and playing on his play station, well enough said. I know quite a lot about his relationship with Captain Morgan and all his 'witty' tales nearly sent me back to sleep.

Please lets get some characters who are really passionate about cricket and not so bothered about talking about themselves.

In other news.

I will update you on the lovely homeless gentleman next week when I hope to have some good news. 

Last night I made him a flask of hot chocolate and shared my corned beef hash with him.

I would like to thank everyone for their comments about this yesterday, I have done what I think is the right thing to do to help in some small way and am sure that you would have done the same.

I am pleased to say that he is getting a lot of help through the local charity /food bank.

Well time to put my best foot forward.

Have a great Friday, a lovely weekend and I will be back at some point next week.

Penultimate day at the salt mines

 

Well its Thursday and it is the penultimate day in the salt mines. 

I am going out for a spot of lunch and a Coca Cola with my little gang when we finish tomorrow ( half day Friday). I just have to get through this day.

Its been a strange week, on Monday  I discovered a homeless man was living in the abandoned garages near to me, I spotted him  crawling through a gap to get in. I decided to try to speak to him. 

Long story short due to covid and all that it entailed, he lost his job and his home and has been living rough since the summer. Storm Arwen put paid to his tent and most of his belongings and he had been trying to find some where dry to sleep

I gave him a sleeping bag and a  Z bed mattress that was in the shed , along with a flask of soup and coffee. I've left him a flask of coffee each morning, he has given me these  back in the evening. I gave him details of the food bank round the corner who also help out in exceptional circumstances.

Last night he told me that he had been able to get a shower through one of the volunteers and they were helping him to get  somewhere to stay over Xmas. He'd been given help with the council, and forms to help  getting some  benefits so I hope that he can have a new start in the new year.

I've made him some sandwiches and soup today so will drop it off as I leave for the office.

 Circumstances can make lives very difficult and he did say that he did not know where to go and who to turn to, as the pandemic had made it very difficult. 

It doesn't cost anything to try to help.

I also found out that a very old ex ( we are still very good friends) lost his Mum the other day, that was sad news, as she was a wonderful lady. There is never a good time to lose a loved one, but I always find this time of year very sad.

Cricket is back and Mark Wood is crocked apparently, he is becoming the 'Steve Finn' of the England team, the permanent tourist. And of course we will win because Stuart Broad and Jimmy Anderson are in the team.

Pat Cummins got pinged by the Australian track and trace, meaning that he is out for a week.  Upside Michael Neser is in the team.

And Steve Smith captaining????!!!!!

Current score is 'Straya 45/1

And with that I am off  to work.

Have a cracking Thursday 

My last week

 

So the sun is about to rise on my last week at the saltmines.

Am I sad?

Well I am sad to leave my little gang, but not sad to be leaving behind the the shabby bunch that call themselves the directors.

I have a lot to do this week ( obviously)as my desk was piled up on Friday with things for me to complete.

Come Friday, its bye bye and on I go.

In crickety news, lets start with England, who lost the first Ashes test. Lots of ' where was Jimmy'? For the love of dogs! no one man could change the s**t show that was the England performance.

Move on and try harder this week!

Yorkshire...........well I don't think I would be the Director of Cricket for all the champagne in France, trying to put together a new coaching team, gain the trust of players who have had their hearts ripped out and trodden on. Building a county pretty much from scratch!.

I doubt we will hear anything until the new year ( and obviously there will be news today just to prove  me wrong).

And now time to head out of the door.

Have a great Monday.

Just think in 2 weeks time Christmas will have been and gone,

Here we go

 Here we are at Wednesday and I have had TMS on all night, current score England 147 all out, and now its raining!

Pat Cummins put on some show in his debut match as Captain!

Well I handed in my notice on Monday as I was offered a great chance with a Life Science company.

I was and still am absolutely buzzing about this, and true to form, yesterday I was offered another job that I had interviewed for, this was also a fabulous opportunity.

Just like flipping buses, don't see one for 4.5 years and then 4 come along!

As for current work, best statement yet.

Richard Tator 'I'm not sure this is a good move for you;

Me, ' You don't even know who, what or where I am going'

RT, 'Yes well I'm still not sure'

Obviously the reality that he will have to do his own work now is hitting home.

Its  going to be a new year, new start, just what we always promise ourselves.

I now have to turn the dressing room /3rd bedroom into an office, but hey I don't have too far to go to travel in the mornings.

Have a cracking day, its half way to the weekend already.

Another week

 

Here we go! only one more Monday after today before we break up for Christmas.

Obviously I'm not counting!

So since Friday morning there has been a lot going on, Yorkshire now have no coaching staff, I did see a rumour that they are looking to put Darren Gough in as Director of Cricket,  so it'll ballroom dancing lesson for the lads and hopefully no hook ups with Essex girls. And that's probably the best I can say. If this is the decision. there does appear to be some kind of serious toadying going on!

my heart is not just broken but beginning to be torn into little pieces.

I have returned to normal ( sort of) after my booster, and as such was able to go  to the 'Christmas do' in Northallerton with TLML. we put away some food let me tell you, and it was absolutely spot on. I would tell you where we went, but  because its so good I'm keeping it a secret.

Yesterday, would have been my Dads birthday, so after going to see my poorly sister, I went to see Dad, I took a flask of coffee and a choux bun ( his favourite). Sitting in the rain having a drink and eating my bun, good for the heart and the soul.

Back home to use up odd apples and pears and make the last batch of chutney for the year. and pack up some Xmas hampers.

And before I knew it, here we are Monday again.

Who knows what this week will bring.

One thing is for sure, brighter days are on there way.

Have a great day, don't work too hard.

Friday again

A week gone by and its been full on busy. 

Beginning of the week, I was trying to sort out my ear infection ( caused by ear not popping after coming home from Iceland).

Wednesday I went to get my booster, and true to form, yesterday I was in a very sorry state, nauseous,  freezing cold, blinding headache and very tired, very much flu symptoms. Could hardly put one foot in front of the other. I've had the flu twice in my life and I this was very like it. Even my fingers hurt!

We had snow too so that didn't help at all.

This morning I feel sort of OK, a bit headachy and tired, and I am about to toss a coin to see if I go to work or not.

Last weekend I had Micky Bell come to stay , despite storm Arwen and all the carnage that went with it we had a fun time.

This weekend ( and I have to be better for tomorrow) I am off to N Yorkshire to meet up with TLML, its our Christmas 'do'!!!!

I will be popping up next week briefly as we head into the final weeks before holibobs. I have quite a lot on at work so it means that I will be leaving  home at the stupid o'clock that I would normally write the blog.

I am arranging to meet up with James Bond before the big day which will be brilliant. Fingers crossed that we can sort it.

Tonight is cocktail hour, it might be a half hearted affair, depending on how I feel.

And with that I've tossed the coin and lost so I am off out the door in the freezing cold and dark.

I wish you a bon weekend.

 

Working towards the weekend

 

The weekend is in sight and cocktail hour is so close.

I can tell you one thing, the cocktail tonight will be most welcome.

As I am not able to sponsor any Yorkshire players next season, I've been looking at other options.

I'm still hoping that David Wiese might go back to Sussex and I could sponsor him!

TLJL was up for sponsor ship last season but I'm sure that he has been snapped up now.

Any clubs that follow me have a sponsorship scheme?

Having dipped into cricket news over the past couple of days, I see that England are moaning, ( stifles a yawn). Also that Pat Cummins could be captain for Australia, I like that!

The weekend is mega busy as I am catching up with chum Julie on Saturday out in the wilds of  Weardale and then taking my sister out for coffee and shopping on Sunday. In between that I am hoping to get some sewing and knitting and cooking done.

Before I know it Monday will be here and I will be back at the saltmines.

Today is the 16th working day before we finish for Christmas, not that I am counting or anything!

Friday Fun Fact

*The Australia Red Kangaroo  is a herbivore marsupial. 

They are know to be polygamous and very promiscuous, males try to monopolise access to several females, conflicts with other males are settled by boxing fights.

Mating frequency is fairly high

And with that I am off to scrape the car and head to the A167.

Have a great weekend. If you want to check out the cocktails they are on instagram, @cocktailsandchina

* information from The Icelandic Phallological Museum, I did not include all their information

Mid week wondering

 Wednesday and half way through the week. 

I am finding it very difficult to settle back home and have not even glanced at any cricket news. 

I am not burying my head in the sand, I just  am taking a break from the whole thing.

After securing a great job at the beginning of  October ( which I did keep relatively secret),  I was still waiting to hear from them regarding a start date. This was ( is) a multi million pound building project which will befit South Durham, North Yorkshire, sadly though the company really let themselves done. 

My experience with recruiters over the years has been chequered, so with this being the companies inhouse recruitment department I thought things would be different.

Sadly not and after 4 weeks of not hearing a thing, despite emailing and leaving voice messages, I let them know just before my hols that I was not taking the role.

Then yesterday the gentleman who would have been my boss contacted me, he had no idea what had been going on and was horrified that I had not been contacted unless I had instigated it. ( once)

We had a chat, he very kindly tried to persuade me to not give up the role, but I had made up my mind.

I then began wondering if I had done the right thing ( as you do).

So home and tired after trying to catch up last weeks work and do this weeks.

At 7.45pm, my phone rang, I recognised the number as the recruiter from the company., I ignored it, firstly as I did not want to speak to him and secondly it was 7.45pm in the evening ( doesn't bode well for work hours!).

He then text me to say he would catch up with me today as he had an update on the job!

Well there you go, he hasn't even read any of my emails!

Best to find out now.

Finally today is tinged with sadness as it is a year since I  learnt  of the passing of cricket pal Gary. 

I wonder what he would have made of the last few months!

Have a great day.

Back down to earth

 

A new week begins and I am back in the UK and back to work, I am also with out a post box thanks to the 'young men' who roam the town looking to destroy anything that is not theirs.

After coming back from a country where I walked through the city centre in the early hours of the morning alone, without any fear, I realised that here, I didn't feel happy walking out to the corner of the street once it was dark.

It really makes you wonder.

The weekend was a  a whirl of shopping, washing and sorting things out. I made cakes and some more chutney, and slept a lot.

I also looked back on the last week and realised what a lovely country I'd had the pleasure to visit.

On the morning that I was leaving, I woke up to a large amount of snow. This had come down through the night, however even at 6am, the pavements and the roads were completely cleared.

Fresh, clean air and pure clear water were a great refresher and totally what I needed.

Luckily I only have 3 and a bit weeks until I finish for Christmas. I can't wait.

And my beloved cricket, well if it isn't one thing its another. Racism and sex and lies seem to be the order of the game. I am sure that is isn't the only sport.

Well time to head out to work.

Have a great day.

Happy Monday

Touring the 'town'

 

Wednesday was a full on, after breakfast of  sausage, scrambles egg and chips ( yes chips), I was ready to face the day. So I headed off to the harbour and got on the hop on hop off bus,  I did one circuit and then got off and walked to the home of national orchestra, Harpa.

I turned into a proper architecture geek , this stunning modern glass building seemed to change colour as you walked towards it. A tiny stream of geothermal water runs down the side of the path leading to the main entrance.

It overlooks the sea with its lava beach and view across the water of snow covered mountains. Truly stunning.

The bus covered a circle of Reykjavik including the Cathedral which I had already seen. I ended up doing the route twice just to make sure that I didn't miss anything.

I also went to the settlement museum which housed the oldest man made structure in Iceland and  had the ruins of  a Viking Longhouse This was discovered in 2001 when work was being carried out on the house which stood on the site, this was actually craned off the site and excavation and archaeological work commenced.

I also went to National Gallery of Iceland and The  Museum of Photography.

So you may wonder why I wasn't at The Blue lagoon or doing the Golden Circle.

I had planned to go to the Blue Lagoon, but due to having had the cold from hell and chest infection the week before I didn't really fancy splashing around in hot water with other people, and with hindsight having been out in the freezing cold ( even well wrapped up ) for 3 hours the night before I think it was a wise choice.

The Golden circle was also on the radar, but to be honest I wanted to get to know the city and see some of the culture. This has been the greatest pleasure for me.

I also intend to come again and do the two things that I have highlighted above.

So what do I know about this island.

Well I know that the people are very friendly and even acknowledge you in the street.

I know that walking through the city at 1am on your own is very safe. 

I know that regardless of what anyone says salty liquorice is the food of the devil.

I know that they have a rich history and culture which is great to delve into.

I know that it is slightly pricey but petrol is the same price as home in the city and less on the outskirts!

I know that I am going to be very sad to leave.

I know that I would highly recommend my personal tour planner and if you are interested to know more, just check Dale  out here    https://dalesidebottom.notjusttravel.com/

By the time you read this  I will be eating my last breakfast and probably crying into my coffee.

This has been just exactly what I needed and I cannot wait to come back

Aurora Borealis

 

Last night/early this morning was my trip to hopefully see the northern lights., this is not guaranteed and  I was not going to be upset if I didn't see them.

We headed out of the city at what would have been my bed time, driving for an hour inland to a barren and snowy area with mountains and a few trees. Stark but beautiful.

Nobody living there, in fact on the drive apart from other tours, there was not a car on the road.

On arrival we got off the bus and found a place to watch the sky.

The sky was clear with just a few clouds and lots of stars.

This for me was  brilliant I am a proper little star gazer. I did spot Orions Belt and the plough, and was totally fascinated by the big skies.

After about 2.5 hours we were all given hot chocolate which by this point we needed, still no sign of any lights. 

We headed back to the coach, got on and  got set to go home......and then the guide spotted what he knew as a tell tale sign that the lights were coming.

This was a faint arc  of light over the sky like smoke, grey and then slowly changing colour,

Everyone got off the coach and despite the sub zero temperature, we spent half an hour watching the most amazing sight.

My pictures taken on my phone, were not great but to be honest I was so enthralled by the whole phenomenon, I was lucky to remember to take any. 

Its hard to describe, as the seem to dance across the sky and  twist and turn. They disappear and then reappear in a different form. Last night predominantly green, but they can be purple and red.

We eventually headed home and seemed to be followed by the lights, I sat watching a toned down version over the city.

It would not have spoilt my break if I hadn't seen them, but it certainly made it memorable to see this natural lightshow.

Things to do in Reykjavik

 

 So after a good nights sleep, I was up and ready for 7am breakfast. Yep me and all the Americans in the hotel, some serious eating going on there!

I have to say that the rye bread is the best that I have ever had and as such I had 3 slices!

I was out of the hotel at 9am, it was still dark, I had my map, rough idea where I wanted to go and in true Lady Lainey style just wandered off hoping I would get there.

I found my way to 'Rainbow Street' 

and headed up  to Hallgrimskirkja the Lutheran Cathedral.

It was snowing as I wandered up the road, and too early to go into the cathedral as it still wasn't 10am

So I decided to go and have a coffee. in the shadow of the cathedral.

I had a coffee ( which I was told could be refilled as much as I liked) and a 'Bow' which is an Icelandic pastry, well its more of a deep fried, vanilla flavoured doughnut. It was gorgeous.  I went to pay and head to the cathedral, when the lady serving asked me if I didn't want a refill. I said I was going, she said it was OK they would give me my refill 'to go'. Can you see that happening in the UK???

The cost, just over £5.

And the cathedral, well it was breathtaking and I was there for over an hour without even realising. Constructed between 1945 and 1985, it is one of the most truly magnificent modern cathedrals I have been to, ( taking over from Coventry).

I then had a slow wander back through the streets taking in the construction and design  of the buildings ( yes I am a geek).

My next stop was 'The Icelandic Phallological Museum.

I now know quite a lot about the 'equipment' of a lot of animals on the planet as well a fish. and mammals.

I decided to stay at the museum for lunch, which did not disappoint.

I opted for duck confit waffle ( they like waffles both sweet and savoury here) 

It was  really good.

Cost with beer about £25.

I set off down to the harbour to get my wotnots frozen off, sleet and snow whipping round any exposed flesh. ( believe me I had nothing exposed!.)

Then stopped off for icecream ( yes I know its cold but lots of  Icelanders seem to do it) and today it was creme brulee and Tiramisu. Yummy.

 As I came back to the hotel I passed a house with a hydrangea outside...............thats some hardy hydrangea.

Now I am watching TV with a coffee and my feet up as I will be heading out at 8.30pm to go Aurora hunting.

Fingers crossed.

Quick birthday blog

 

After a very early start ( 2.30am wide awake), I made it to the airport ( 3 min walk from hotel) with lots of time to kill, so in true Lady Lainey style I went into the lounge and  had a bloody mary  or two ( 5.10 & 5.45 am).

I watched a bit of TV and caught up on social media, 7.30am saw us north bound, I was able to grab an hours sleep.

Arriving in Keflavik, it was snowing, which quickly turned to sunshine and equally quickly turned to rain, as they say here, if you want to know the weather wait 5 minutes.

The drive from the airport to Reykjavik, was through lava fields and you could see a distinct lack of trees on the landscapes, any hills/mountains are likely to be volcanos, active or otherwise.

As we came into the city we drove along the promenade, with fabulous views of the sea. No buses allowed in certain parts of the city so we were dropped off at a specific spot and dragged our cases through the streets ( yes really!!! and me a Lady!!! on my birthday!). It was actually less than 3 mins to the hotel.

And what a great hotel, central for everything and I have a room with a fabulous view!

And it has a bath, which for me it a massive thumbs up.

I went out for a burger for lunch and then dipped into a real Icelandic tradition, ice cream, apparently they love it and so did I , I had ricotta and fig

I managed to have a quick trip round to the Cathholic cathedral, but tiredness forced me home and  feet up with a bottle of cava. It was also nearly 4pm and getting dark, so I thought a good nights sleep and full day tomorrow ( including out to hopefully see the Northern Lights).

I had heard so many stories of how expensive it is here.

my lunch of Burger fries and chicken wings (it was  a special deal they were on it, I have never eaten a chicken wing in my life, its really not worth it) with a beer and my ice cream came to £16.96. I didn't think that was bad.

I then went to  Vinbudin ( the bottle shop) and checked out the wine.

Red wine that is relatively cheap at home was  around the £15/16 mark, Prosecco ( never touch the stuff!) was around £18 a bottle.

Champers was untouchable starting at £35( it was moet, I don't drink that ) and going up to  £150, however......... a decent bottle of Cava was £9.37, and believe me I do love cava ( at least its made by  a traditional method ), so I will be seeing my birthday out with a couple of glasses.

Oh and I also knew that Icelanders really like liquorice, and so do I .........................or did until I had 'Nellie Dellies salted liquorice'. That is definitely an acquired taste

And so I am signing off for today. 

Happy Birthday to me

 

Its nearly the most wonderful time of the year

 Well I have been a little bit jaded and very quiet for the last few weeks as I have been trying to get myself back to some sort of Laineyness. Its been a bit of a struggle as I am very tired and trying to juggle a million things as usual.

I am now in the run up to the most wonderful time of the year, MY BIRTHDAY WEEK! I am so excited, I am also nursing the worst cold in history thanks to  a colleague kindly sharing it with most of the office, it sounds like a consumption ward!

I have lots planned for birthday week, which hopefully will start with a covert meeting  with James Bond. Detail of location obviously cannot be disclosed. 

I have to say that I have loved watching the T20 World cup especially Afghanistan and Namibia, such passion for the game, and pride in their country too. A joy to watch. 

I really hope that we see much more of them.

I have been doggy sitting for Micky Bell over the weekend, this is never a chore as he is a very lovely little dog. Hopefully he will be back before Christmas.

I have lots to do this week, if I can summon the energy, so I will not be back here until next week earliest.

Wishing you all a very happy Tuesday.

Let the countdown to Birthday week commence 

looking at things from a different view

 

Another month now done, and we are in November.

The year is flying by, however I will take quite a lot from this year.

Firstly, keeping my trap shut and secondly not letting people take advantage of me ( again).

I will also be very grateful for good friends and new friends. I've had some absolutely brilliant times this year thanks to them. I hope that they can say the same about me.

As the year quickly goes by I have already made decisions for next year, and saying 'no' is the main thing.

When I look at the things that have upset and annoyed me this year, I realise that I am a victim of my own stupidity.

And the only cure for that is not to allow myself to be taken for an idiot!

Well now that has been sorted in my head, lets look at the cricket.

Wooooo, South Africa were chasing like 2.5 runs ( exaggeration ), and after losing wickets quite quickly I had to go for a walk around the block, getting back just in time to hear them win yesterday 

Namibia were in action too, it was good to hear an interview with Michael Wiese prior to the game, he has become my (not so ) secret crush. They may not have won their game, but they have highlighted Associate cricket ( along with the others who took part). 

Its a breath of fresh air to see players, who are look genuinely proud to be playing. And seeing them belt out their national anthem was great too. 

 So looking forward, after I had Micky as an unexpected guest at the weekend and he is back again on Friday. That is always the best way to spend the weekend.

I am in full on house tidy/clearance, packing, and getting ready for my holiday break. I can't believe that it  is really near.

And its Wednesday, half way through the week. we are on the downward slope now to the weekend. Something to smile about

Have a great day and always remember your own worth.

Well now, lets talk about hubris

 

After writing only days ago about how proud I was to sponsor 3 cricketers, I fear that my hubris has brought about my own downfall.

I received an email from Yorkshire CCC to say that due to a change of structure for sponsoring, I would no longer be able to sponsor the 3 lads.

They are looking for business sponsors to put money ( a lot of money) into the sponsorship structure. 

I totally understand. Yorkshire is a business.

I was to be allowed to sponsor one player, but how on earth could  I make a choice! And also did I really want to pay out that kind of money they were asking.????

Well the short answer is no.

And that's that.

After a little bit of upset, I am now back on top form and realise that although I felt it was my loss, in reality it wasn't.

I do however wish Ben, Tom and Matty all the very best for the coming seasons and will try to catch up with them at some point.

And on we go.

To the statement released yesterday.

I think that there has been plenty on social media regarding it.

I can only say that there seems to be no responsibility taken by the club, the club that I love.

I am a Yorkshire girl, I will support Yorkshire to the end of my life, however in the last week I do feel that  they have become slightly out of step with their supporters and the cricket world in general.

Have a great weekend everyone.

Come on Namibia!

Monday again

 

Here we are another Monday and the last one in October, how did we get to nearly November so quickly.

It seems like only a moment ago I was sunning, freezing and drying myself off at Scarbados.

The year is going by too quickly.

However talking about Scarbados, I just thought that I would mention ( again) the 3 players that I have had the privilege to sponsor.

Ben Birkhead who was the first in 'team lainey'. A wicketkeeper and a bloody good batsman ( yes batsman)

Easily recognisable ( as I used to be) with his curls. 

I will always be very proud of being able to sponsor this young man. 

He really is a good 'un

Ben was closely followed by Tom Loten, taller than me ( and thats saying something), Batsman and bowler. He wasn't even perturbed when approached by a Master at Merchant Taylors School and asked for a photograph, well the photo was for me and very kindly taken by my friend Jonny.

Lastly in 'team lainey'  was  Matthew Revis, well I just had to sponsor him as he was born on my birthday  ( and I know exactly where I was and what I was doing that day, just think drunk in Cyprus on holiday)

Matthew bats and bowls and  really is an up and coming star ( you heard it here first).

I have a lot of time for all three of them and although Yorkshire CCC haven't fulfilled their side of the agreement for the last 2 seasons, it has been an absolute pleasure to be associated with these players.

I did find it hard watching Ben and Tom batting together, I have to say. I really was a wreck.

I'm not sure that I have enriched their lives in any way but they have made the last few season great for me.

If you ever get the opportunity to do this for an up and coming player I would say, do it.

Its been wonderful to see them playing with the first team as well as seeing Ben captain the 2nds.

It also made me remember how much I love 2nd XI cricket.

well I seem to have been waffling there on a Monday morning, so I will bid you good day and have a great week.

Rare Saturday Post

A rare Saturday blog today, but as exciting things happened this week, I thought I would do a quick review.

TLJL signed a 3 year contract with Kent, where he has, over the last two seasons absolutely thrived.

I am absolutely delighted and as I am meeting up with TLML today, we can celebrate in style!

Scotland made it into the main draw of the T20 world cup for the first time with an 8 wicket win over Bangladesh.

Great to see them doing well. 

I listened to the Namibia V Ireland game yesterday, David Wiese playing  for another African country. First he played for South Africa, but he is entitled to play for Namibia as its is where his family were from.

It was a good game. Ireland started well and then seemed to just fold.

Namibia were behind on run rate at the halfway point. 

I was nearly screaming for them to boost Wiese up the batting order, they must have heard me as he came in at no3.

I finished work before the game finished and by the time I got to Tesco Namibia  had won.

What a win!.

I did a little Happy dance in the veg aisle.

And now I need to get a wriggle on and happy dance my way to the station.

I'm off to meet TLML for shopping and lunch.

Have a great weekend.

 

 

Hello again

 Well a new week begins and I thought I would just pp up and say 'hi'.

Its been a while and  may be a bit longer until I feel as if I can blog every day.

Sometimes we just have to do what is right, and at the moment the right thing for me is to get myself back to some sort of normality.

Like most of us, I have found the last 19 or so months very hard, and it took a proper break away from home etc to realise how absolutely at rock bottom I am, so I continue to try to piece myself back together, rather than taping myself  up as I had been doing.

There is a lot going on for me at the moment and I need to focus on that.

The main reason that I popped up today though is to wish happy birthday to TLJL.

He is 28 today and I am so pleased to see him going from strength to strength at Kent.

From double centurion last season to numerous accolades this season, it has been just wonderful to seeing Jack thriving.

He will however  always be a white rose to me.

Happy Birthday Jack, here's to another fabulous season 2022.

I'll be back soon.

Season is over.

 

Another season is over

The covers have been rolled on

Kit has all been packed away

And for some its their swansong

Another season is over

A winning one for some

Silverware bringing smiles

Whilst others are looking glum

Another season is over 

time to reflect on what's been

Matches won and matches lost

some of us less keen

Another season is over 

How quickly the months did fly

And now until April creeps around

We bid the CC goodbye

Lots to do.

 

So today I am making lists again of things to do, it seems to be the order of everyday for me.

Yesterday was a busy one with a very early start ( VERY EARLY) and the work day went downhill from there.

I am trying not to put too much about work on here, as its depressing enough working it let alone regurgitating it.

So lets move swiftly on.

There is the last of the cricket this week, as Warwickshire and Lancashire are playing for the Bob Willis Trophy at Lords, Warwickshire appear to be on top.

Weather here in the North East of Blighty is very Autumnal, not something that I like, however on my Instagram I saw that the North West of Iceland had their first snowfall yesterday, so lets be thankful for small mercies.

Over the whole of the pandemic, I have tried to send out 'little parcels of happiness', I have received many back which is wonderful, but one great thing is that I also received some peony seeds ( which are planted) and in return I sent a cutting from my hydrangea.  How wonderful to have a plant exchange going on.

If anyone who I know would like a hydrangea cutting and you are in the UK, just let me know and I will send on.

And so time to get moving.

Have a great day it is already Wednesday!!!

Some weekend

 

Well I was out of the office door on Friday like a rat out of a trap.

In the car, down to the garage, grab shopping, visit to see Micky, get home mow the lawn, tidy the garden,  get ready for cocktail hour, go to bed at 5.15pm!!!!

Yes, at 5pm I got very unwell very quickly and managed to crawl upstairs, get into bed and there I stayed until Saturday.

I went out to try to get thing done, but faded very quickly, lack of food, which was something that I could not face.

I managed to set up cocktail hour on Saturday, however I passed it onto my neighbour as I wouldn't have been able to eat it.

Sunday was a mad whirl, as I tried to play catch up, managed to get 2 coats of wax on the deck, washing done and sort out some things to go on eBay..

Not the weekend I had planned and serve me right or forgetting my lunch on Friday and eating from the local food van ( not Big Als)..

And this week, well lets play it a day at a time.

There is nothing in the cricket news that is jumping out at me so I will head off to start another working week.

These seem to be getting shorter and shorter.

Have a great week,

Friday at last

 

Aha! Its Friday and we are so close to cocktail hour I can hardly contain myself.

Still half a day to get through.

Cricket news

Well, Yorkshire are not in a great place but with a last stand by Adam Lyth and some seriously good batting from Matty they need to take 9 wickets today to beat Notts.

Hampshire are no longer in the title race, after losing to Lancs.

And Kent are going for it in Div 3 title race.

Its going to be an interesting day.

I have a lot to do today both at work and at home, which will hopefully see the lawns cut, the deck cleared and cleaned down.

I have no exciting plans for the weekend, so I will crack on here and try to make  some headway.

One thing for sure, I am not off gallivanting for the next couple of weeks.

Have a great weekend.

Here we go

 So best foot forward and all that, its Thursday and I am planning the weekend festivities..................car into garage to get a new exhaust! mow the lawn, wax the deck, washing, strip some wallpaper.............yep lets see what gets done, I suspect the garden stuff will if the weather is good,as it needs to be sorted before winter sets in.

Lets have some crickety news.

 TLJL was given his Kent cap, he has gone from strength to strength there and I wish him continued success.

Well its all going on in the title race although for Yorkshire this is long passed,  Today could see the crowning of Division 1 champions.

Essex wrapped up another great season becoming Div 2 champs. To say that Yorkshire missed a trick ever letting Anth McGrath go is an understatement of the greatest understatements.

 

I fear for us the day of silverware starvation will continue. 

As thunder rumbles high over Headingley I do think that it is time to make the dinosaurs extinct and shake up from the very top.

Wouldn't it be refreshing if we started 2022 with a brand new broom.

Having said that, not all new brooms are a good thing. We had a slap up pizza lunch yesterday to say goodbye to one of our Project managers who is going to pastures new, this is the South African who had worked at NASA a few years ago......................and then came to 'Tinpot Towers' , well at least he has got out before the big shut down because believe me this is on the cards.

And with that I am heading out, 'our Ian' is picking me up and I had better not be late.

Have a great day.

Midweek

 

well its midweek, it was also pitch black this morning at 5.15am! What the flipping heck is that all about, I hate dark mornings ( and dark nights). 

It was a cricket day yesterday, although not for me.

 James Bond was at BRISTOL!!! yes BRISTOL!!!, he did however see the Air ambulance land on the field which was very dramatic as well as scary, nearly as scary as him watching Durham and me not getting any 'Yupdates'.

Yorkshire are advertising that they have their memberships for sale for next season, judging by the comments on this. It seems that there is more dissatisfaction than normal.

I am still not sure what I will do, and the reason being that with 6 weeks in the summer being taken up by the made up game, I am stuck with the colder parts of the year to watch and to be bluntly truthful, I haven't really missed not going this year, I have enjoyed not racing all over the country, I actually got some time back for me.

I did enjoy my time with the 2nds and this could be my cricket viewing.

We will see what happens between now and the new season.

Talking Yorks they are down in Nottingham and will begin the day trying to take the last wicket of Notts first innings.

Lots going on at Maison des Guichets as I try to get Rhys to come and finish off the jobs he did last JULY! ( 2020). He's a naughty boy! I also need to think seriously about stripping the dining room and getting it finished. 

It could be done in a morning and the painting done by late evening...............its just the thought of it.

Ah well time to head to the office.

I really think that I had done something bad in a past life!!!!

Happy Wednesday 

Tuesday musing

 

 

Here we are heading towards the end of September and still there is county cricket.

The county matches will be played out until next week. 

I'm thinking that the ECB are not so much trying to kill off County cricket but kill off the supporters. 

I know first hand what the early matches in April at Chester le Street can be freezing and last week in Scarbs showed the changes in the seasons is well and truly underway.

Its forecast to be sunny today in Ladylaineyworkville today but next week it could be snowing.

We missed 6 weeks of the season due to the made up game and like a terrier with a Kong, the ECB are not going to give it up, well I suppose with that bonus in your back pocket none if us would, would we?

At the loss of the greatest game, I think I might actually have a serious think.

Englands tour of Pakistan has been cancelled due to security worries.

I have been sorting out my clothing for my birthday holiday which is less than 2 months away ( and anything can happen in that time scale). I have my thermals and pure new wool sweaters, the boots are ordered and should arrive this week, and  I am going to look for trousers this weekend.

and of course a new handbag!!!!

All very exciting.

And with that I am off.

There is a lot of work to do before my birthday.

Back home

 

I have been home since Thursday after the best rest Ive had in a long time.

The fact that cricket was involved  made it even better.

I had ( nearly ) 4 wonderful days watching the lads, and with a mixed bag of weather too, from getting drenched, to it being positively freezing and next day getting a tan, just what you expect mid September.

I was lucky enough to meet Mattys Mum and Dad and have a surprise visit from TLML who arrived with afternoon tea!!!

A great week.

I have to say that I have been so very lucky to sponsor 3 wonderful young men, all a credit to their families and the club.

Home and back to work for half day Friday and then straight home to try to get on with washing etc.

I had to be ready for Saturday and finals day.

I can honestly say that I have never seen such exceptional T20 cricket as I saw on Saturday, and a win for Kent.

Sunday  was busy as I nipped over to my sisters and then went home to book my birthday holiday trip.

All sorted before 11am, job done. 

I then spent a good part of the day  sorting out clothes for said trip, well its a necessary  thing isn't it???

More on the hol at a later date.

and now I'm back off to the office and sorting out lots of things there.

New week.

New opportunities.

New horizons

New attitude.

Happy Monday 

Half day Thursday

Well here we go, half day (ish) and then off on me holibobs!

Just a wander around a waste water site to entertain me this morning and a meeting.

I'll be in the limo quicker than you can say Toby Roland-Jones after a couple of gins!

what I've been up to

 Well its Tuesday already and I am nearing the end of my holidays which have been amazing to say the least.

I am in the land of 10 hour sleep!

The land of ducks on our lawn and chickens giving you fresh eggs for breakfast, geese honking in the next door field and pitch black nights. I spend evenings sitting outside just waiting to see the stars.

It has truly been a battery charger of a holiday.

The village I am staying in doesn't have a Post Office ( anymore) or a shop, but it does have a Wine bar/ merchants that does food. And I had to go and try it! Obviously.

I can highly recommend.

It also has an award winning butchers, again, highly recommended.

If a food critic drives 500 miles for a pork pie, it has to be good, although I don't like pork pies, the quiches was exceptional and the cooked ham also.

Might pop in on my way out of the village!

I have also been ( and am going) to cricket.

So whilst there was a game on at Headingley, there was also a game at Scarbados.

Openers Will Fraine and Tom K -C set the bench mark with centuries a piece , there was some great batting.

There was also some great chatting as I caught up with Ben, always a pleasure, he is a wonderful young man.

I also met Mr and Mrs Revis, parents of Matty.

The most popular Umpire with the seconds  was there too, so wonderful to catch up with him too.

This is the last seconds game of the season and I couldn't miss the chance to see my three players in action.

The weather was warm and then freezing, perfect September seaside weather.

And I had fish and chips for lunch, well I am on my holidays.

I'm about to make up my flask and sandwiches and head out.

So have a great Tuesday.

Midweek

 Here we are at Wednesday, and I have only packed ( and unpacked) my case 4 times, plenty of time for a few more  tonight before I pack up the car.

Its mad busy in the day job as I try to get everything cleared and sorted, so that the numptys can mess everything up in time for me coming back late next week.

Lots to do at home too, that's the problem with going away, I always have so much to do to make it possible.

I had some really good news this morning, one of my Lainey cricket bears helped to raise quite a lot of money last night in a raffle, it has however gone home with a Somerset supporter.

That may well be the last teddy to come off the Lainey production line due to carpel tunnel syndrome, which is getting better but not something that I want to have recurring.

My teeny tykes were still playing and only had the same umpire as last week, only Jack Shantry!!!!! *faints*.

Tom 15

Matty 37

Benji 11

And day 3 begins at 10.30am.

And finally  a couple of birthday shout outs, 

A very Happy Birthday to the lovely Philip Bird. Have a fabulous day Philip and I'll hopefully see you when we all get back from holidays.

Also a besty birthday to one of my oldest friends Debbie, who I have known since I was 5 years old ( so about 16 years).

and on what would have been Gary Speeds 52nd birthday, I hope you all have a fabulous day, I may/may not be here tomorrow it will depend on the car packing!

Happy hump day.

getting excited

 One day down 2.5 to go, yes I am that excited about going on my hols.

Got my checklist

colour hair

Pack case ( again and again)

decide on books to read

Decide on cocktail for Friday

you know the very important things

Micky Bell is having a top time in Cornwall, he has been sending me pics of him paddling in the sea,    ( he's a real BT not keen on water) and  asleep in pubs. 

Can't wait to see him when he gets home.

Crickety news 

Well firstly lets talk TLJL, who is just going from strength to strength, although he fell just short of his century there is no shame in 97.

Yorkshire beat Somerset in two days !

My teeny tykes are over playing Glamorgan and all 3 of my boys are playing. that's good news.

And England lost to India.

Short one but got lots to do.

4 day week

 

Here we go, 4 day week ( may be 3.5  word of warning to my holiday cottage owner), and I am ready to clear my trays ( and probably that of the H & S Manager,  and Project Engineer who is on long term sick...).

Its been a busy weekend too.

Took my sister out on Saturday and had packed up the camping chairs and a picnic, as well as throwing in a  couple of fleece blankets just in case.

We had a walk to some shops, ( walking is still a problem as she is still very weak) I found a beautiful silver necklace in the charity shop. top find. Also added to my silver tray collection.

We sat and had a long and leisurely lunch just watching the world go by.

After dropping her off at home, I got to my house and was in my dressing gown and flopped on the sofa in record time. All that fresh air!

I also received a fabulous package of beautiful gifts. It really did bring a tear to my eyes. Kindness should never be undervalued.

And so to Sunday when kindness and thoughtfulness were lacking, I am not going into details, I will just say that I have closed the door.

I managed to get the lawn cut, raked and fed and also do quite a few jobs around the house. a very productive day all round.

Cricket, well..... it was a productive day for Yorkshire as they bowled out Somerset for 134, and the big smile of Matty Fisher was on show, with figures of 5-41 I'd be smiling too.

The Scarborough pitch works its magic again.

And at Kent, TLJL and Evergreen Darren Stevens will go back out this morning, I'll be keeping an eye on that too.

England have to chase down 291 to win.

And so I head off to the office, demob happy, no doubt by 8.01am that feeling will have disappeared,

Have a great day and I hope the sun shines.

Weekend is calling

 

Well its Friday and another weekend is upon us, sadly this weekend there is no Micky Bell trip trapping down the garden as he is off on his holibobs with his Mum and Dad. They are off to the West Country for 2 weeks.

Lucky Micky!

I had a good clear out under the stairs last night, since Rhys put the doors on, it has become a bit of a dumping/hiding ground, so the car boot is full of things that are heading to the charity shop!

Busy busy.

Cricket was not good, the big lads somehow drew their game against Hampshire, late declaration????

well as usual as soon as Yorkshire post the match report on social media  the 'Gale out' gang start shouting. They only shout when we don't win though.

The teeny tykes were still in action  in Chester, and I found out that the one of the Umpires is only my favourite ex Worcs bowler, Jack Shantry. 

Plans are in place now for next weekend when I am away, lunch with TLML for starters and then I am popping to see a friend in Helmsley all before I catch up with the lads at cricket.

Can't wait.

Well lets get this week finished, 3 days this week and 4 next week that's the life!

Happy Friday 

Its Thursday!

So here we are at Thursday already and I am counting down until finish tomorrow. There has to be more to life than the total feeling of dread as you head out to work.

As I said wheels in motion.

It was a busy day cricket wise yesterday as I tuned into the Somerset /Notts game, some classics on that commentary, cheese and Cornish pasties being on the menu for the afternoon. Always makes me miss Cally.

Yorkshire 2nds were in action again in their 4 day game with Ben is as Captain, which made me very happy.

Yorkshire big boys  were doing great down at Hampshire, they declared on 312 leaving Hants 367 to win.

Today we have international cricket , but for me the county championship matches are far more important.

I love the whole 4 day county cricket.

Weather has turned very grim here in the North East of blighty and I hope that it improves so that I at least get a bit of late summer warmth in Scarbados.

Ah well time to pull on the sowester and galoshes.

Have a great day

 

 

A good break

Well it has been an extended weekend, I finished Friday and headed off to my camp site, the new tent was up in 10 minutes, although the new windbreak proved to be such a pain that after half an hour it went back into the boot of the car. (please note it was not one of the stripy ones you see at he beach but a new fangle thing ).

Cocktail hour was observed al fresco and with the radio playing the Kent T20 QF, what  a perfect evening and start of my break.

In fact the weekend was a wonderful calm and relaxing time, with visits into Northallerton and over to the sea  for breakfast and early morning paddling.

Time to forget the problems and worries and just try to make a plan to move forward. It becomes so much easier when you stop worrying about everyone and everything. 

As I have said a lot, its amazing how you find out who are friends are, when you are at your lowest, you know who will hold out a hand to you.

Once home it was a full on effort to get everything put away and  get sorted for the week ahead.

So cricket wise, it is going to be an all southern T20 finals day. I know who I will be cheering for.

Heart was broken yesterday as Dale Steyn announced that he was retiring. 

Good to see the Yorkshire boys putting up a good fight down at my favourite ground  huge thanks to James Bond for sending me 'Yupdates'.

 And just like that it was all over.

So do I feel better? well the headaches and tiredness has gone ( give it to the end of the week), the other things  have subsided and I feel a little bit more like me. 

Roll on my hols in Scarborough where I have now been given a country cottage to stay in and for that I will be eternally grateful.

6 days of rest and hopefully some cricket, that's all coming up in the next couple of week.

For now I will focus on getting through the rest of this week.