Tag: Photographicalisations

Inchcock Today – Thursday 17th May 2018: Social Hour Whoopsiedangleplop

The TFZer Clan

Thursday 17th May 2018

Dutch: Donderdag 17 mei 2018

0300hrs: My expergefaction was short and sweet this morning. No sooner had the brain activated, an ideé fixe lodged itself in my mind, and I just knew I had to get the laundry done, and felt an urgency and essentiality about it!

Had a wee-wee. Got the day clothes and shoes on. Collated and collected the bag of soiled clothing, camera in my pocket and down to the laundry room.

Filled and started the washing machine going.

Noticed the state of the room, being slightly messy. I’ll take a hoover down with me later, to try and clean it up a bit.

Up to the flat. Got the Health Checks done and took the medications.

The Sys Dia and Pulse was up a little compared to yesterdays. I thought this was a good sign. Then I realised I’d done the HC’s later than usual and had exerted a little effort, and this is why the readings had raised a tad?

The body and ailments seemed to be doing well this morning. Duodenal Donald is not bothering me at all! Arthur Itis only a few twinges. Reflux Roger, again, just the littlest of enforced deep breaths. Hippy Hilda, well, it felt like I had no hassle whatsoever, but she did start lambasting me physically later in the day. (Can’t expect all the ailments to be tickety-boo all the time.) One must presume asynchronous changes in degree daily. Harry Hernia being kind too. Anne Gyna is only just beginning to offer her stabbing pains here, there and all over the chest and neck area; but this is nothing compared to how she can play me up some days.

Overall, I feel a little lucky with how things are. (Fingers crossed that I won’t regret saying this, Hehe!)

Back down to move the laundry from washer to the dryer. I forgot to take the hoover down with me. Dumkopf!

Got the togs into the dryer and began to clean the other machine.

I came across a rusty screw when I wiped inside the rubber covering at the bottom of the drum. This is the third one of these I have found this year?

I wonder how long it will last before it collapses? Hahaha!

Back up to the flat and got on with updating the Wednesday Diary.

Still no Porcelain Throne visit? Unlike my innards this situation is. Regularly daily, within the first ten minutes of rising out of the £300 second-hand recliner, I find myself on the Throne. But not today.

Updating the diary again, the time seemed to flash by, and the alarm rang to remind me about the laundry. So, back down again – once more forgetting to take the hoover with me. Tsk!

Got the clobber sorted, folded and into the bag.

When I looked at the socks, all turned in themselves, the lighter grey pair reminded me of someone who used a glove puppet that looked similar to the socks. He or she was on TV I think?

I just can’t remember the person, yet I can recall the glove-puppet, although neither name.

To try and clean up the laundry room, I utilised the spiffy, à la mode, semi-automatic, state-of-the-art cleaning equipment with the cobwebs hanging on them, behind the door.

Done my best! Huh!

Back up with the clean clothing and got it stored away.

Refilled the accoutrements pots ready for the nest washing session.

Got on with updating the Wednesday post while awaiting the arrival of the Morrison Home Delivery.

The chap arrived around 0625hrs. It seems I had a lot more stuff than usual today, certainly more carrier bags than usual. Yet, I’d spent a little less?

I got the stuff stored away. Unfortunately, I had to throw some frozen stuff away to make room for the new fodder. Schlemiel!

The noises from the lads preparing the out wall ready to have the insulation fitted, before the cladding could be done; seemed to be getting closer and closer with some speed.

I got the veg stew cooking on the crock-pot. I used a bay leave today, fingers crossed it tastes okay.

Still, no Porcelain Throne demands were made of me, yet?

Got the nibble box filled, gifts and raffle prizes in the bag ready for the Social Hour.

Back on the computer and finished the Wednesday Inchcock and posted it off. Then made a start on this blog.

There was a sudden dull thud-like noise emanated from the kitchen that made me jump, so I went to investigate.

There were blood and feathers, floating down from above the flat window.

At first, I thought a bird had flown into a wall or window, but the blood was still coming down?

I put the small camera out of the window and took a blind shot off above the frame.

I think that a bird of prey had been for his breakfast pidgeon.

I forgot about making a brew and returned to the computer and carried on with creating this page.

The Virgin Internet or the computer kept going very slow and stuttery.

This depressed and worried me much. So I turned everything off and back on again, giving it a few minutes before starting it all up again.

Seems to have rectified the problem. (He says with high hopes and blind faith!)

The chaps doing the prep work outside arrived at my floor. I think they were putting anchors of some kind in the walls.

Checked and stirred the crock-pot.

Ablutions tackled. Unfortunately,  I managed to cut the mole on my right cheek while shaving, and it took me yonks to get it to stop bleeding.

Not cataclysmic, I know. Lamentably, this glitch came at the most inopportune moment.

Ruefully, it meant I was very late for the Social Hour.

Out to the Winwood Social Hour meeting. By the time I’d got down and to the ‘Temporary Obergruppenfurheress Wardens HQ, Building Workers Rest Room, Social Hut, Target for Thieves, and Telling Inchcock Off shed’; There were only about eight or nine residents left in there. I felt a right Alter Kocker!

Jenny, Frank, Cyndy, Mo and others. A chat with Jenny, and got the nibbles and cakes handed out. By then most were getting ready to leave. I did feel a fool! Said my goodbyes and departed feeling a little stupid.

On the way back to the flat, there was a bit of a nip in the air out there. Although the sky looked beautiful.

No one about, I came all the way down Chestnut Walk, through the lobby and lift area, up to the 12th floor and into the apartment without seeing anyone. Oh, no I fib! I did pass the caretaker going the other way and shared greetings with him.

Still no signs of any need for the Porcelain Throne?

 Made a cuppa and got on with updating this bloke for an hour or so. Then went onto creating some diary-top graphics on CorelDraw and CorelPaint.

Three hours later, and feeling a little drained, I got some of the graphics done and saved.

Had a check to see if any comments had come in on WordPress. Got one.

Checked the casserole, stew whatever it should be called. Coming on nicely now. The contents are Tomatoes, swede, parsnips, garden peas, carrots, mushrooms and red onions. The flavourings: Caremalised gravy granules, balsamic vinegar, onion salt, a bay leaf, clear vinegar, BBQ powder and tomato puree.

How it will turn-out, I don’t know, but I’ve just had a spoonful of the liquid, it wasn’t great tasting but seemed okay, well, passable.

Got it served up and enjoyed it! Enjoyment-Flavour Rated as 8.8/10.

The tray still on my overgrown wobbly stomach, I nodded off!

I seemed to launch into dreamland immediately, and what an odd dream it was. I was in a desert at night, and wanting for some reason, to sing. Each time I got a few words out, someone would shoot me? I tried and tried again, I have no idea what it was I attempting to sing. But a vulture, sat on a cactus, kept looking at me and winking in my direction? In the morning, I made this graphic, but it is nothing like in the dream, just an idea of what occurred in my not unpleasant, but a frustrating nocturnal nightmare, Hehe!)
I seemed to die and wake up alive in another dessert and still desperate to sing, it started all over again?

After waking up and scribbling notes about this land-of-Nod tale, I could not get back to sleep. Well, I did, but not until hours later. Humph!

Inchcock Today – Tuesday 17th April 2018: Incorporating pictures of the most elegant buildings in Nottingham. (I think)

 

Tuesday 17th April 2018

Scottish Gaelic: Dimàirt 17mh Giblean 2018

0235hrs: Woke up, pandiculated gently, awaited the brain to join the physical body puhtceared a while (Plenty of worries fears and hassles to reflect on). Duodenal Donald reminded me of his presence.

The need for a wee-wee encouraged me to disentangle my overweight bulbous body from the £300 second-hand recliner and make my way to the wet-room. En route, I could feel the dried blood from the Fungal Lesion cracking and a sensation of fresh liquid running down my leg – Oh, Heck! Much cleaning and medicating needed following the completion of the painful wee-wee.

All sorted now, I went to do the Health Checks first.

I got on with sorting the Monday Diary out then. A big job with me having taken so many photos on my little trip out, and not having done any work on it when I got home either. It took me until around 0700hrs to complete the job and get it posted.

Made a brew of tea and took two pictures of outside from the kitchen window. One straight ahead and one upwards to the right. I must get out for a hobble through the beloved Tree Copse. Decent looking morning, mind.

Cloudy, but much warmer forecast for today. Which is good news with the cladding installing being a long way off yet?

Had a look at the comments. Didn’t take long, only two on today. More will follow, I’m sure.

Then, onto the WordPress Reader. Plenty on there today to enjoy.

Have to stop now, time for the ablutionalisationing session. Turned off the computer.

Oh, Cruds, The Dreaded Blue Screen came on!

Not the foggiest what it means.

Got the ablutions sorted and took the bags to the rubbish chute – put the cleaned empty jars in the carrier to drop off at the recycling bin on the way out.

Off to the Obergruppenführeress Wardens Hut, via the glass bin.

Welsh William, Roy and two ladies in there when I arrived. Soon to be joined by Cyndy, Penny, Ruth and others. We all seemed to have a good gossip and laugh. On the bus, I sat behind Cyndy, Margaret and Penny, and the nattering continued with the lady bus driver, but I could not join in, I couldn’t hear what was going on. Hehehe!

I got off in town and made my way to the Aldi store to get some more of the red coloured Bun Thins.

The old Palais De Danse ballroom looked in a sad state.

I got to the store and found that they had not got any of the red thins in stock, so I bought a packet of white ones to try out. Went a bit bonkers with the buying of fodder again, also bought strong crunchy cheddar, mini-potatoes, caramel nibbles for the nibble-box, Viennese rolls for raffle prizes, Light-fry butter spray, tomatoes, frikadellens and free-range chicken thighs, lemon yoghourt and sugar snap peas.

A step nearer bankruptcy now, I exited the Aldi shop to go to Tesco.

The Nottingham City Victoria Centre flats loomed over the horizon.

I got to Tesco and ended up buying nothing, they had no scones or Pork Knuckles in stock.

So I wandered out of the store, to be followed by two security men.

As I stopped and looked back at them, they just stared at me? Then shadowed me to the doors. Most peculiar!

I hobbled along to and down Clumber Street. I’ve never seen so few people on it.

I meandered down High Street, onto South Parade, the Poultry and Pecks Lane, St Peter’s Gate and Albert Street. Slipped the Big Issue seller some dosh and into the M&S store down to the food hall. Where I spent madly again. Chunky chips, triple-coated chips and french fries, Breakfast tea bags and butter biscuits.

I used their self-serve till, and a slightly desirous sturdily built young lady did the job for me.

I went up the escalator and out into the fresh air, and it was starting to blow a bit now.

As I was stood on the steps, right old Dizzy Dennis paid me a visit. So I stood there a few minutes to regain my balance. I think I must again, have looked white as two ladies asked me if I was feeling alright and did I need an ambulance calling.

I thanked them and said I was okay. Which by then I was. The equilibrium returned, and I set off to the Poundland store, on Wheeler Gate. I’m not sure, but it seemed to me that these two officers did not move at all for ages, as if they were statues? I felt more clearer-headed as I hobbled along, though. I got diverted into the Sainsbury local store, to see if they had any of the seaweed sheets in stock. I came out with Quavers, Marmite rice cakes and seaweed added to the weight of the bags.

To the Poundland shop, and had a wander around there. Ending up with Choc biscuits, Pork Farm pies and nibbles for the social in the bag. I was so glad to see some of the Pork Farm pies on sale, they have not had any for months now. I got an extra one for Penny. I remembered talking to her about these last week, and her saying she loved them too.

I wondered to the Slab Square and Little John up in his dome on top of the Council House, indicated I had 25 minutes before the L9 bus was due to arrive.

I strolled, albeit limpingly around the slab square for a while.

The wind was kept blowing with strong gusts and then dying down again?

The Nottinghamians wandering around with their mobile phones and pots of coffee, all seemed a little morose to me.

I took a photo of some of the Fothergill Watson designed buildings on Long Row.

So much of his best work has already been demolished all around Nottingham now.

Without a doubt, the most sadly missed will be his Black Boy Hotel, on Long Row.

Those still remaining, are worth viewing, just for their elegance and handsome designs.

As I arrived at the bus stop on Queen Street, the sun disappeared momentarily, giving me the chance to take a ‘moody’ shot of the Council House dome. With the tops of more Fothergill Watson buildings on the left.

I again, as the only person to get on the bus when it arrived late.

I was overjoyed when a crowd got on at the first stop, and Penny was amongst the passengers that got on. Bless her, she sat next to me too. This gave me the opportunity to hand her the Pork Pie treat. Over the moon when she thanked me and said she would love it.

Along with the lady on the seat in front, we had a jolly good chinwag en route.

Off the bus, we walked to the flats and up in the lift. Said our farewells as Penny got out, and I returned to the apartment. She said she was going to Derby tomorrow and would have a look at the disabled shop in the market, to see what ‘Pick-up sticks they had in stock for me. Bless her!

Did the health checks first, in case I forgot later. (I’m learning, Hehe!).

Then I unloaded the bags and sorted and I stored-away the purchases.

Had a wee-wee. Took the medications. Back for another wee-wee (Hello?)

Too drained to do any work on the computer. But with the dreaded blue screen coming on when I closed down earlier, I did start it to see that it worked, and it did start up.

Got the meal prepared.

My eyes were too big for the head, again!

But, what I ate of it, went down well.

Rated this one as a 9/10.

I soon fell asleep after I’d washed the pots settled down. Quickly as a matter of fact. Very early.

I woke up around 2200hrs, got up, had a wee-wee and made a start on this diary.

 

 

Inchcock Today – Part 1 of 2: Wednesday 21st March 2018

Wednesday 21st March 2018

German: Mittwoch, 21. März 2018

0310hrs: Woke having enjoyed three-hours of dream-filled nonsense toying with my mind, leaving me even more confused, disturbed and discouraged than ever with life’s current situation.

I felt (Rare for me) I just wanted to go back to sleep. But all the current hassles, tasks and disasters, forced me to evacuate the £300 second-hand recliner and get up and sorting things. Hopefully, the workers to do the balcony door will be arriving at 0800hrs, then out sharpishly to hobble to Carrington for the Blood Test with Nurse Ann 0905hrs. Bus to City Hospital and the GUM clinic for 1100hrs. Having been stuck indoors and unable to get out since last Thursday. Thanks to the snow and ice, and every appointment being rearranged by Nottingham City Homes or the Willmott-Brown team. I must get some fresh food in as well. Oh, and not get carried away on this computer either. Essential I start my ablutions at the latest at 0645hrs, giving me time scrub-up, medicate the lesion and piles in time for the arrival of the blokes to do the upgrading, then I can go off for the blood test, then to the clinic.

I hope things will be all right when I get back later.

Off to the kitchen and got the sphygmomanometer in use to do the Health Checks.

Sys and pulse well up again. But I shouldn’t be surprised should I? All the hassle of late, and with more to come today with the inside balcony doors being installed.

Tomorrow the dentist appointment at 0930hrs, so I just hope I can get back for some of the Social Hour in time.

I’m feeling pretty low at the moment. Ah, well!

When it came to taking the medications, I realised I’d missed two doses so far this week, they were still in their pots. Tsk!

Off to the Porcelain Throne, more blood than ever from the Haemorrhoids this morning, splattered the bowl before I even passed anything. I put this down to all the enforced sitting around (on the computer mostly, thanks to Virgin, rearranged appointments and the weather) while I’ve been incarcerated inside this flat for days on end.

Got the computer on and finished off the Tuesday post.

Started this one off up to here, then posted the last one to Facebook and email friends. Did WordPress reading, some brilliant stuff on again today. Then sorted comments and replied.

I must get the ablutions and medicationalisationing of some regions of my obese-wobbly-body done now. Can’t use the noisy shower this early, so a stand-up scrub-up will have to suffice this morning. At least it is not like in the 1950’s. When I stood at the kitchen sink (No bath or shower or hot water, central heating, electricity or unemployment, in those days. Hehehe!) with ice forming on the windows, saucepans and kettles on the gas stove, carbolic soap, cut-throat razor… Enough! I can’t stand to think about it now. How the heck did I manage back then?

I’ll get back ASAP folks.

I’m back, all smelling nice with a less painful Haemorrhoids now they have been tended to, showered and shaved without any Whoopsiedangleplops too. But still not my old self.

Went to make a mug of tea to have before the workman arrives.

I found the new windows were obstructing the view and light in the room. With the bottom of the frames so high, and the new ledge below the window sticking out so far: This means I will not be able to take any photographicalisation straight down of Chestnut Walk, the car park, the bottom field, or in Panorama, etc. Because the window is set far further out, and with the new thicker heater as well, it is impossible for me to reach out enough.

Still, in a few weeks when I can get out onto the new balcony, it might be easier to take them from there? Fingers crossed.

Got the nibbles for the nurses in the bag, updated this tosh to here, and awaited the arrival of the Nottingham City Homes man with his clipboard.

Who did not arrive? So, I got the things needed and set off out into the cold sunshine of the day, to start my mini-marathon hobble. I thought I needed a good blow-out after being stuck indoors for so long, and oh boy, did I give myself one! About 2.8 miles I reckon after checking on the Google map.

Had to take care, because there were patches of ice on the higher ground.

Took this photograph as I went along Chestnut Way to Winchester Street.

There were no signs of life in the Obergruppenfruheresses Wardens and Social Hut as I hobbled by it. Well, there wouldn’t be at 0815hrs.

Took this photograph half way down Winchester Street.

The weather fooling everyone into thinking it was a warm sunny morning. I can assure you it wasn’t in the slightest. Although it did warm-up later on.

But I was well wrapped up in my new coat, titfer and the PPs helped keep out Jack Frost.

The shadow in the picture made it look as if I was on a plinth.

Putting back on my fingerless gloves, I was surprised to see the nail thumbnail, which I cut last night seemed to be leaking puss? It had the texture of toothpaste.

Odd that? Mind you, it is the thumb that as a young whipper-snapper I had crushed and decapitated the top half of it. No problems afterwards as such, but when it was stitched back on, the nail grew triple thickness for some reason. Just thought I’d mention it. Hehe!

I proceeded in an Easterly direction (Haha!) and turned left on Mansfield Road.

Not much traffic about this morning.

No ice down here either, it was only lurking in the higher laying areas, you know, up the hills.

Up the hill and down into Carrington.

Arriving at the surgery with a few minutes to spare for the appointment with Nurse Ann to take my blood.

Registered with the two not seen receptionists previously eventually. Both of them were on the phones, and I waited patiently, before logging in.

Called in by Nurse Ann, who was in a good mood. It felt quaint not being told-off. She got me done, and I gave her the nibbles, thanked her and was out. Left a bag of bites on the reception desk, and set off on the trek into town.

Plodded along the A60 through the strangely quiet hamlet of Carrington. Boy, I’m so glad I got out of there! Mind you, with all the hassle at the flats going on, I may be a little less-glad now. Hehe!

Hobbled along at a steady pace, no rush today. The sooner I get back to the apartment, the sooner I will have to face what will obviously be a right mess from the balcony window installation. That is if it has been done.

With Mr Clipboard not arriving, at o8oohrs as he had promised to earlier, I was in a pickle decision-wise as to what to do? If I locked the door, would they be able to gain admission? So I’d left it unlocked so they could. Not the best of situations, but I thought I had no choice.

The plates-of-meat were beginning to hurt, but, I expected this to be the case, what with me not getting any walks in for ages.

As I struggled up the incline near the Rock Cemetary and the Forest, this Nottingham Pavement cyclist came close to clouting me as he passed me from behind. Unprecedentedly, this did not bother me much?

I assumed this was due to my having enough to worry about with the hassle of the flat?

Up to the lights and over down the hill towards the City Centre.

A really strange never been seen before view when I took this photographicalisation of Mansfield Road.

Usually, lines of traffic would queue up at this spot from the traffic lights. But, all I could see in view was one bus coming up the hill!

Always a sad sight or two to be spotted on this stretch of road.

Mostly reports of crime, and closed retail businesses.

I recall my beloved Auntie Kath was bothered by this many, many years ago, and wrote to the Council and local paper about it. Nothing has changed here then, apart from so many more shops and pubs have closed down.

In the blocks behind these shops, are thousands of student flats of all types. I’d have thought they would have made use of some of the food retailers that have endlessly gone out of business, other poor souls and bought or rented and reopened so many, but to no avail, they have gone under too! I’m waffling again, sorry.

I meandered down the road and into the Victoria Shopping Centre (Mall) via the bus station and entered into the top floor. Walked the length and into the Boots Store, near the Optical Department, and searched for someone to speak with about my broken spectacles. A lady approached me. The unfortunate thing was obviously woebegone underneath her bravely displayed signs of mock interest. I explained about the fractured nose thingy on the glasses, handed them to her, and she told me to wait while she got them sorted for me. Returning a few minutes later, she returned the spectacles to me, and I inquired about the cost of getting a new pair with reading lenses. The lady told me to view the frames while she went to get someone to deal with me.

I meandered over to the wall of frames. Walked up and down them, but could not see an that appealed to me, at a decent price, and there were none with the large lens area which I wanted. Well, there was one, but that would cost me £299. I did another walk up and down in case I’d missed any… then realised that no one had come to deal with me yet. I walked out.

I exited the centre onto Upper Parliament Street.

It was still nippy, and the sun tried to fool us. But as you can see, the Nottinghamians were like me, all wrapped up well.

Shadowy photo this one.

I legged it to the end of the road and over Maid Marion Way and up the dreaded Standard Hill to the Audio clinic. I took what I thought was a super picture of the skyline when I was half-way up. But mysteriously yet again, this one dissipated into the ether, never to be found on the SD card?

Into the clinic and to the reception desk. I made my needs known to the lady, who seemed to spend an inordinately long time giving me her inquiring up and down looks. After what seemed like minutes, but would have been a few seconds, she put her hand out and sternly spoke: “Record Log!” I really wanted to reply, “No, Gerald Chambers!” But was too scared of her practised expression and eyes raised momentarily, saying unspeakingly; “Come on you old fart, snap to it, move!” It really cheered her up when the zip on the inside pocket where I’d put Audio Log got stuck. I kerfuffled a bit in getting it open. I pictured a cartoon in my head, of this receptionist having an explosion coming out of the top of her head and me laying on the floor bleeding where the pencils had been stabbed into my chest. I left ten minutes later along with the batteries and tubes, but having forgotten to book the next test.

I departed and hobbled down into the slab square. Sometime before the L9 bus was due, so I had a wander around and took some photographs while I was waiting.

The first one shown here. The other three had joined the Standard Hill photo in the ether and have never been found since? Not in the camera memory, not on the SD card either. I wonder just what I’m doing wrong here? I thought the slab square shot reminded me of some of the Alberquery shots that Tim Price does so well. Weather-wise I mean.

Caught the bus and had a chinwag with a lady tenant.

Back at the flats, I went into the Obergruppenfureress Temporary Social Hut. I needed to find out it the apartment had been done or not. I inquired of the Warden, but she had no idea, and suggested I got up and found out. I explained about Mr Clipboard not arriving on time as promised, but got no response at all.

So I did go up to the flat to find out what was going on if anything.

I could hear the noise and knew some of the lads were working in there. I part-opened the door, and the dust encouraged me to close it.

So, then back to the Obergruppenfureress Wardens Temporary Social Hut. Confident that a cup of tea and biscuits would welcome me, and I could rest there while the working continued.

I bumped into one of the lads and asked him how long it would be before I could get back in. About an hour I was told. Thanked the lad and made my way back to the Obergruppenfureress Wardens Temporary Social Hut, with hopes of enjoying a brew of tea and nibbles.

Hehehe!

I met Mr Clipboard on the way to the shed.

Fair enough, he apologised for not being on time.

Got into the hut.

A solitary figure was I.

Haha!

Ah, well, at least I got a plastic cup of water!

Part Two of Wednesday’s Inchcock Today, to follow.

Back to the flat – maelstrom encountered!

Pictorial

Inchcock Today – Monday 19th March 2018

Monday 19th March 2018

Gujarati: સોમવાર 19 મી માર્ચ 2018

0200hrs: I lay trying to recall a dream I think I’d just been having. I was in a swimming pool, filled with Engraulidae, with several people walking around throwing water on the anchovies from an aspergillum. On a tannoy system someone was asking me to answer quiz-like questions I knew nothing about and could not give an answer too. The voice said I must provide a solution or a fish would be killed for every one I fail to respond to. I was a right blatherskite in answering and made no sense at all, but the voice accepted every muttering I spouted as being the correct response? The recall gets very vague here, I have no idea what happened after this. I thought about getting back to sleep to see if I could get back the same dream.

0230hrs: The need for a wee-wee prevented me doing this. I disentangled my short, plump blubbery mass from the £300 second-hand recliner, and off to the wet room for my wee-wee. Far less bleeding this morning from the fungal lesion.

Washed and cleaned up and into the kitchen to see what the weather was like.

There were no signs of any snow falling. But the already settled dollop made this photograph rather pretty, I thought.

An Active-Warning was on the BBC site for Ice in Nottingham. When I took this photo of below the kitchen window, I could see they were right, too

The glistening does not show up in the picture, but it was unmistakably going to be risky walking underfoot on roads or sidewalks when I get out later.

I made a mug of extra-strong tea, then wondered if this was such a good idea when I had to return to the wet room for another wee-wee. It dawned on me then, no signs of needing the Porcelain Throne yet? I sensed problems might arise later.

Coming out of the wet room, I noticed something had been posted through the letterbox and had floated over and under the radiator. Being careful not to bang my head against the radiator this time, I bent down to retrieve the notice… and clouted my elbow on the heater instead. Hehe!

The leaflet was a warning of what was about to occur in the next stage of the flats upgrading. Then pamphlet was dated Friday 16th March, but I’m sure it only arrived yesterday, on Sunday? Unless I had not noticed it under the radiator? It included:

Tuesday 20th March (1-day notice given)  And a PM arrival. That will help me to get some sleep a lot. To:

  • Tuesday 20 March PM: Check area is clear to ALL windows – Check access to balcony area to demolish the wall and install protection screen.
  • Warning that the day before your windows are to be installed, you will see operatives on the balcony removing the outer leaf of the wall – they will not need access.
  • Wednesday 21 March AM: Install protection screen, Demolish wall, remove old windows and door and replace with new.

This will prevent me going out today, as moving all the gear and furniture to give them access to the windows and balcony is not going to be an easy job for me to do. So I’ll have to work slowly and carefully on the task to get it all done in time. Hippy Hilda, Arthur Itis and Anne Gyna permitting, of course. Feeling a little apprehensive about this, but its got to be one. I’ll nip to the Obergruppenfurhress Wardens Shed and get clarification on what need doing around 0900hrs.

All this hassle does me no good. I fret and panic nowadays with change, pathetic, I, know. Just sorting the paperwork will take hours.

I admire how some of the tenants have coped with having their apartments done. Maybe it is easier for the couples in situ, than the single occupants, but hey, what do I know about couples! (Desirous plea for someone to adopt me here, I think? Haha!)

Back and got the Health Checks done and medications were taken. Made up the INR record on Excel for the week.

Got the computer on and finished off yesterdays blog. Rushing about a bit now so I can make time before I fall to sleep, to get as much work done on moving the furniture, boxes, wardrobes, bags, cleaning material, stuff off of the shelves. And, to file and store them, run through the paperwork etc. In readiness for the window workers arrival, and get it moved into the files boxes. The grey-cells are racing away, but the body is refusing to go at the same rate of knots! When I finish starting this diary off, I’ll make a start on the front room rearranging, cause that will take the longest time to get done. The most-gruelling work will be the unused apart from as a junk room, bedroom. Not looking forward to that, its bound to set one of the ailments off.

Got this post started up to here.

A quick blast on the WordPress Reader. Then the comments were read and replied to. There are some great posts on the site today.

Facebooking tried. Slow, but got through it.

Started to create a TFZer graphic.

Bondi Beach, with the adorable Marie and me in the rocks. Roxie is keeping her eye on the nosh I’m carrying, of course.

Tended to the ablutions and medicating procedures next.

Got myself wrapped up and off out to the Obergruppefureresses Temporary Wood and plastic shed, to ask advice on the two-day builders visit, and to check if the weather conditions out there would permit me to get out today.

As I opened the door at the end of the flat’s entrance into the elevator foyer. The icy-wind blew in my face, making me shudder and shiver a bit. Brr!

I could hear the wind blowing too. Things did not bode too well for my planned get about session today.

A closer look at where the wind was coming in from, revealed a two layer of iced-up snow in the bottom holding tray under the slatted vents that go through to outside.

With this, and the upcoming window and balcony work starting tomorrow for two days, I thought my immediate prospects of any warmth in the flat to be minimal.

Down in the elevator, it took a while some workers were bringing up window frames etc.

As I departed the building out of the foyer doors, the sight that greeted me, made my mind up straight away, I will not be going out anywhere.

As I got beyond what little bit of cover there was from the scaffolding, the snow and ice made me shiver even more!

Thre weren’t many people about, and they were taking their time on the lethal surface of the road. My slip-defying creep along to the shed, took ages, as I tried to avoid the worst patches of sheet ice.

I ended up walking on the road along Chestnut Walk.

I must have looked a little odd as I made my way along.

A lot of ice was under the snow, and some it compacted. Finding any free bits to walk on was impossible until I was close to the Warden’s Hut.

Things looked terribly bleak out there.

I ended up walking in the middle of the road on a bit of ice-free patches. But of course along came a car wishing to exit the site, and it was back to hobbling on the ice for me.

About 0910hrs, I arrived at the hut, I entered and the Obergruppenfurheress Wardens Deana and Julie were in their office, both on the phone. Cath, the on-site resident Liasion Officer, was not present. But about six builders or window fitters were, they were having something to eat and a warming drink before starting work.

I waited a while until they had finished their communications, and went in. They seemed happy enough. It must be hectic for them on a Monday, with the weekend’s problems to discover and sort-out. I mentioned the noise from Herbert. I found out his real name is John. He is a lot younger than me, and a big bloke. This cheered me up no end!

I asked what needed to be done in readiness for the two-day frenetic, tumultuous work mess and session. “Just leave free access to all the windows and balcony”. Julie asked if they should go and sort me out now. I declined the offer. (I regret doing that now!) Thanked them, handed a fancy cup over for the Residents Raffle and said my farewells.

As I left the shed, the ground around was littered with icicles that had come off of the roof. Some builder chaps were walking along spreading grit on the roadway. Much appreciated by me, I can tell you.

As I made my way precariously back to the flat, I recalled Mary and Cindy telling on different occasions, that there new balcony and everyone’s, was left unsealed for two days, as were the windows. With -4°c forecast for the next two nights, the gale coming in through the outside vents and having mine done… I felt trepidation and the knowledge that I was going to be very cold shortly in the flat! Strewth, it’s cold enough now!

Entered the foyer, made way through several window fitters and their glass and frames and got in the lift.

A bit of sun broke through the clouds as got in the kitchen. I was in a thoroughly disconcerted state of mind at this point. I did the Health Checks Again! Realised what the time was, before I took the medications, luckily.

A tad concerned about this, because I had not had any Dizzies or Funny Turns at all? Something else to mention to the Doctor. That is if the weather will let me get to see her on Wednesday.

Took this photograph, of the hoist below, where the workers were making there way up to remove the outer leaf of my front and bedroom walls. Hence, my fear of getting too cold when it is done, cause apparently, it stays like this for several days before the work is completed. Those who have had theirs done inform me. Not to mention the horrendous noise they have to make doing it.

I set about sorting the access to the bedroom (Spare room) and titivating things a bit. I was doing so well, then Dizzy Dennis gave me a visit. I pressed on afterwards to finish I hope, the clearance. But gave up thinking of doing any more.

Made a brew and got the computer on to update this post. I don’t know how I will manage for the next few days, cause I’ll be in the worker’s way and the dust and noise would prevent me working on the computer anyway. Fingers crossed, but I might have to give it a break for a while, and I do love doing this blog. I’ll see how it goes.

Updated to this point, and went on CorelDraw to do some Diary top graphics.

Got this one of Thomas finished and posted off to the site.

Nipped on Facebook, but things were sticking and oh so slow again. Came off and back to CorelDrawing.

So disappointing!

Back CorelDrawing.

Completed Sandies Latest Film.

Then got the nosh all ready for gobbling up.

I struggled to stay awake while I was cooking this meal.

And when it came to settling in the £300 second-hand chair to watch a DVD and eat the meal, it was the same. In fact, I think I might have fallen asleep while consuming it.

I wobbled off into the kitchen to wash the plate and cutlery. Feeling remarkably contented for some unknown reason?

The sky looked so beautiful tonight.

Feeling sure that I would get some sleep, due to my feeling drowsy so early, to be on safe side, I put the TV on. Anticipating the arrival of the land of Nod.

But no, somehow I stayed awake through nearly a full episode of ‘Hustle’!

I woke, hearing noises. But could not identify what they were or where they were from?

I got up to have a wee-wee, and had to change PPs due to some bleeding from the haemorrhoids, stubbed my toe on the way back, got down in the recliner, and knocked the bottle of lemon and lime spring water off of the Ottoman, swore to myself, got up and kitchen-towelled the carpet and got my head down again. Off to sleep in seconds, hours later than usual, but still.

Inchcock Today – Tuesday 23rd January 2018: Lost control of my actions, decisions and limbs, today. Tsk!

Tuesday 23rd January 2018

Hmong: Tuesday 23 Lub Ib Hlis Ntuj Tim 20, 2018

0100hrs: I woke, and it took a while for the dream that I’d had to clear away. I was in the most comfortable and well-equipped coffin and had been going through the act of vivisepulture; in this sarcophagus in the middle of a field of cauliflowers; with those in attendance singing “Come, all ye faithful!” up above. A Royal Blue coloured telephone was stuck on the lid of the coffin. I was thinking, marvellous! Now I don’t need my sleep, nobody rings, then I heard a knocking outside of the casing? I can only recall up to here of the dream but feel sure it developed much further.

0110hrs: Out of the £300 second-hand recliner, with unexpectedly remarkable efficiency and minimal nocive effects. I’m sure it is a different person wakes up in this recliner every morning. Hehe!

Fully extricated from the chair, and off to the Porcelain Throne. Oh, dearie me! This session was Trotsky affected, kerplunk-push-gush-cling like glue, affair. Messy in the extreme and left a sanguinary splattered Inchcock and wet room. Haemorrhoid Harold and the fungal lesion all bleeding. The cleaning up and medicationalising treatments took me fifteen minutes. Adopted a new pair of Protection pants. These episodes changed my previously perky-outlook on things.

Had a visit from Dizzy Dennis as I made my way to the kitchen, and got the Health Checks sorted. All the readings looked fair to me.

Made a brew and took the medications.

On the computer and started this load of hogwash going.

The innards started to rumble and grumbled, then hurt, followed with another visit to the Porcelain Throne.

Same as the previous session. Fewer evacuations though, and far less bleeding, thankfully, so the cleaning up was much easier to do.

Back to the computer and checked the calendar for today’s reminders. Morrison delivery due 0630 > 0730hrs. And twixt 1400 > 1600hrs Robin Hood (Nottingham City Council) Electricity supply change application for suitability meeting. Must email Mate Mike.

Went to make another brew for the other that I let go cold.

A foreboding looking sky outside as I waited for the kettle to boil.

0315hrs: Then I moved on to finishing yesterdays post. This took a long while.

0700hrs: Got it finished.

The Morrison man arrived, grand chap.

Got the stuff into the kitchen and eventually sorted and stored away.

The fridge now loaded a bit more.

I had the struggle to get the fresh fodder into the fridge.

It didn’t seem such a load this time.

That was because the bulk cost was the new saucepans.

Which came with instructions that could have easily baffled and bemused Albert Einstein!

Hand Wash Thoroughly. – Precondition the non-stick surfaces, wipe on the cookware with vegetable oil, heat gently, cool thoroughly and wipe clean.

A List of where not to use them, avoid scorching and hot heating? Conditions to use them in. Do not scratch surfaces. The cooker hobs may be damaged? Many more instructions on using them. Then a monologue of how to clean them. Storage methods. A list of Cautions etc…

Sorry I bought them now!

By the time I’d got them out, being too scared to use them, it was time for the ablutions so I can to the meeting in time. I’m fed-up already now!

Had a good scrub-up. Medicationalised the areas needed to be done. Took the black bags to the chute on the way out.

Lifted the saucepans empty box and filled it with recyclable stuff and took it down with me as I left to go to the Obergruppenfurheress Wardens Shed, to find out the time of the Robin Hood electrical suppliers meeting.

I dropped off the box near the recycling bin.

I noticed this wood pigeon on the opposite side of Chestnut Grove on the back verge and took this photo of the little beauty.

Bootiful!

As I made me along the road, taking care not to have an Accifauxpa on the wet leaves, I also avoided the deep puddled.

So much traffic and so little space for it.

I got to the hut, and Obergerfreiteress Julie and two other Nottingham City Homes employees were having a cuppa and nibble. One of them was the caretaker, I didn’t know the other bloke, but he didn’t smile or answer my cheery greetings.

Two tenants joined me as the three agreed that they will have to go and get something done. Hehehe! We had a laugh and nattering session.

I left, out to the bus stop where a few other residents were waiting. I was only going a few stops up the hill. Barry’s better half, such a friendly gal sat next to me and had a few words and a smile. I dropped off three stops later at the top of the road and made my way to the Aldi store. Where two more bags of shopping and £20 lighter in the pocket. I’d paid the lady and was on the way back to the bus stop.

I waited and waited.

Ten minutes after the bus arrival time, I walked down the hill two bus stops. Still no appearance of the vehicle.

I could see the flats in the distance, and decided to walk it anyway. Slowly.

It doesn’t show clearly in this photo, but at the bottom of the road, as I neared the right turn onto Chestnut Walk, the pavement was sheer wet, compacted leaves. I had a choice of walking on the street and getting knocked over or hobbling on the leaves and slipping over. I must have looked aright old dodderer gingerly making my way on the dodgy pavement.

The sun came out when I got close to the flats. It lasted a good two minutes, then withdrew; its days work finished. Haha!

I got the fodder away, and then suddenly decided to go to Asda instead of the electricity meeting. I’ve no idea why I made this choice. I think the brain kept it a secret from me.

Did the midday checks and medical thingamabobs.

Caught the bus to Arnold, the 15th-floor lady was also on her way out again, here she is in a deep-pink coat. A few tenants on the bus and we were somewhat raucous with our jokes and insults to each other, much laughter until they all got off the bus in Sherwood. Apart from me, who stayed on into Arnold; wondering why the heck I was making this long trip, just to get some Potato nibbles and Sourdough Bread? Especially at this late time of day? Had I finally lost it?

I alighted the bus, and straight into the Asda store, directly to the nibble shelves and got some Beefy Potato Sticks and Cheesy Curls and paid for them and was out and standing at the bus stop all within fifteen minutes.

I got the Dennis Dizzies while waiting for in the bus-shelter. Fool!

Back at the complex, tired and well weary now. I noticed some of the make tenants stood in the drizzle and looking almost what appeared to be longingly at the workers in the centre compound. I wondered if they were having withdrawal symptoms from their working days?

I see this often. No expressions on their faces, it seems they had accessed their memories and were replaying them. Were they perhaps builders of some kind in their younger days or what? Both of these two appeared to be in a trance as they stared at the workers?

I pressed on down to the Woodthorpe Court apartments and went up to the flat, in an almost completely-fatigued mode.

To the Porcelain Throne, where only wind and stomach pains resulted from my best evacuational efforts. The better side of this visit was that Little Inchy had bled just the tiniest bit. Haemorrhoid Harold had made much use of the Protection Pants, though. Haha!

Change togs and carried out the Health Checks, took the medications and got the nosh sorted. The gadding about must have increased my appetite. I ate all of this food tonight. Took me a while to get through it, but Herbert upstairs accompanied me with a little tapping and knocking, bless him. Everything on the plate seemed to taste fantastic, even the Sourdough bread went down so well. Why I had three pots of desserts, I can’t understand. But they were a delight to consume.

I managed to get the pots in the bowl to soak and back to the £300 second-hand recliner, got a DVD on and was in the land-of-Nod in seconds!

Gerry’s Photographicalisational Poddle Around a Wet Nottingham City Centre

Arrived in the City Centre on Upper Parliament Street

Wonderful mix of old & new

Walked up Heathcoat Street.

The beautiful design from Watson Fothergill, the designer genius building with protective fencing?

Perhaps these amazing depictions were dangerous?

Nottingham Street Art near the Private Cinema come theatre.

Onto Goosegate and up and left into Fletcher Gate.

The Trams with the Fare Dodgers all ready to mount the next tram coming along. They are very busy these chaps and gals and usually work in fours!

Old and new Nottingham side by side.

Down Bottle Lane, another mixture of buildings.

To Bridlesmith Gate and on to St Peter’s Gate.

The Church still going strong.

I popped into M&S to look for some clothing but came out empty handed.

Along back up to Clinton Street.

The rain came again

This did not upset these gals.

A few caught out with no brolly.

Nottinghamians checking out any unsecured building in between shoplifting and mugging? Hehehe! Only joking!

Out of Clumber St, back onto Upper Parliament Street to catch the bus home.

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