Before I shut down for the night, I thought I'd post today's events. Not much to report -- we had the usual wake-up, breakfast -- where the proprietors, Indians, greeted us warmly and recognized us and chatted up Karen -- and then popped on the Circle/District line to Westminster and changed for the Jubilee and on to Southwark (which Karen keeps pronouncing as South Wark causing me to laugh). We walked to the Tate Modern which is a great museum. We had a spot of cocoa whilst waiting for it to open. Much of the gallery was closed because they have new exhibits opening on 4 January so we did the whole thing in 90 minutes which was dissapointing.
We walked across the Millenium Bridge to Saint Paul's Cathedral. We then walked down to Temple tube to get a feel of a different neighbourhood. We got off at South Ken to go to the Science Museum but it was swamped so we walked down old Brompton Road to Gloucester Road tube and to the hotel.
We got back to the hotel used the business center to check in for our flights. Then we went to the front desk because our room keys stopped working (no idea why).
Next we were planning on Hyde Park and the Princess Diana Memorial but Karen decided it was too cold. We also didn't go to Abbey Road for the same reason. So we ended up going to the Bank of England museum. We were going to lunch there, but everything was closed. We ended up taking the tube to Notting Hill Gate and finding the Swan Pub. I'd love to tell you how good it was. It wasn't. Don't go. Both of our dishes were dissapointing though the chips were okay. I suppose some of it had to do with the old guy picking and picking and then finally blowing snot rockets into his hand.
We then came back, stopping at Paul for a Eclair Cafe to drown out the taste of the pun food. After I type this, I'm going to pack everything except tonight's clothes and tomorrow morning's clothes.
Other stuff we didn't do that we planned on were a walk down Carnaby Street, the Liecester Square shops area, and the Science Museum. We did the Natural History Museum only on a technicality (See previous blog post).
BTW, if you're looking for the relocated Photographer's Gallery, it's just off Oxford Street on Ramilles Street (not Place) just a few metres off Great Marlborough Road.
Tonight it's off to the O2. Online with AIM chatting with people at the moment.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
England Day 6 complete
To answer several emails day one was departure day and I wasn't actually here. The first day here was day two even though it wasn't a full day. Day eight will be boring too as it will involve waking up and going to the airport. It just made the trip seem longer :)
Now back to the events so far. Woke up, got out of bed, dragged a comb across my hair... Oh wait, that was the Beatles A Day In The Life. Never mind.
Left, ate at the cafe across from Gloucester Road tube because it was convenient, and hopped on the tube to Waterloo (cue Abba) and changed for the Bakerloo to get to the Imperial War Museum. The purpose was to visit the special Ian Fleming exhibit. Mr Fleming is the author who created James Bond if you didn't know. It was quite fascinating. Karen also wanted to visit the Holocaust exhibit which I had previously done with Jan. I cannot begin to tell you how disturbing those images (film, photos, first hand stories) were the first time. The second time they are no less disturbing. We left emotionally drained and then went off to the newly relocated Photographer's Gallery. I would love to tell you how brilliant the new exhibit space was, and I will. Lovely compared the old cramped one. Sadly the images on display were just bad. Nothing of interest. Some really bizarre transsexual twins who posed to the detriment of the audience. No idea what the photographer was trying to say except "this will warp your brain" -- many people left after seeing the second (nude) one. The first one was ugly but not repulsive. The nude one wasn't repulsive but very very odd.
We walked down Great Marlborough Street for no particular reason other than it was there. I am still trying to find a UK sized chequebook cover here. Since so few people here write cheques, they're relatively uncommon and the few shops that stocked them were out due to Christmas sales. The bank had none and isn't getting them anymore. It's really bugging me. Any leads from my readers on one would be brilliant. Leather, plastic, anything. Not having one is a pain. For my US readers, UK checks are longer and less tall and they tear on the left side.
We tried the Natural History Museum but it was crowded beyond belief and the queue to get into the dinosaur exhibit was thousands of people long. The ice rink was open so we watched a bit, popped back to the hotel. Karen had tea and I had Advil. I called the office and woke everyone up.
At 430 we left for Rules (yay) and then to a play. Rules was very good but it wasn't excellent as it usually is. The food wasn't flawless though the service was better than usual. The dessert was wonderful -- Golden Treacle Pudding. We took our damn sweet time and then went to pick up our tickets to 39 Steps -- which was moved from 1930 to 2000. Yeah, the Hitchcock movie rendered as a play. A comedy to be exact. It was funny but not great. Just an evening's diversion and quite short. Took the tube back and here I am.
I will report on tomorrow b ut not sute when. I am not sure if I will have update time beyond that. The rest may have to wait until I return. Lucky you. We're off to see a concert at the O2 tomorrow evening and won't be back until 2am approximately and then we're up at 730 to eat and go to Heathrow.
I do hope this day-by-summary interests you all.
Now back to the events so far. Woke up, got out of bed, dragged a comb across my hair... Oh wait, that was the Beatles A Day In The Life. Never mind.
Left, ate at the cafe across from Gloucester Road tube because it was convenient, and hopped on the tube to Waterloo (cue Abba) and changed for the Bakerloo to get to the Imperial War Museum. The purpose was to visit the special Ian Fleming exhibit. Mr Fleming is the author who created James Bond if you didn't know. It was quite fascinating. Karen also wanted to visit the Holocaust exhibit which I had previously done with Jan. I cannot begin to tell you how disturbing those images (film, photos, first hand stories) were the first time. The second time they are no less disturbing. We left emotionally drained and then went off to the newly relocated Photographer's Gallery. I would love to tell you how brilliant the new exhibit space was, and I will. Lovely compared the old cramped one. Sadly the images on display were just bad. Nothing of interest. Some really bizarre transsexual twins who posed to the detriment of the audience. No idea what the photographer was trying to say except "this will warp your brain" -- many people left after seeing the second (nude) one. The first one was ugly but not repulsive. The nude one wasn't repulsive but very very odd.
We walked down Great Marlborough Street for no particular reason other than it was there. I am still trying to find a UK sized chequebook cover here. Since so few people here write cheques, they're relatively uncommon and the few shops that stocked them were out due to Christmas sales. The bank had none and isn't getting them anymore. It's really bugging me. Any leads from my readers on one would be brilliant. Leather, plastic, anything. Not having one is a pain. For my US readers, UK checks are longer and less tall and they tear on the left side.
We tried the Natural History Museum but it was crowded beyond belief and the queue to get into the dinosaur exhibit was thousands of people long. The ice rink was open so we watched a bit, popped back to the hotel. Karen had tea and I had Advil. I called the office and woke everyone up.
At 430 we left for Rules (yay) and then to a play. Rules was very good but it wasn't excellent as it usually is. The food wasn't flawless though the service was better than usual. The dessert was wonderful -- Golden Treacle Pudding. We took our damn sweet time and then went to pick up our tickets to 39 Steps -- which was moved from 1930 to 2000. Yeah, the Hitchcock movie rendered as a play. A comedy to be exact. It was funny but not great. Just an evening's diversion and quite short. Took the tube back and here I am.
I will report on tomorrow b ut not sute when. I am not sure if I will have update time beyond that. The rest may have to wait until I return. Lucky you. We're off to see a concert at the O2 tomorrow evening and won't be back until 2am approximately and then we're up at 730 to eat and go to Heathrow.
I do hope this day-by-summary interests you all.
Monday, December 29, 2008
England Day 4 end and Day 5 Complete
Last night Karen's feet were hurting because, against all advice, she wore NEW shoes on the trip and hald multiple blisters. So, long about 545pm we raced via foot and tube to Lilywhite's for her to buy new shoes. Naturally she started to buy the nice looking ones and not the comfortable ones. What is WRONG with women? Anyway after yelling she bought the ones that fit better but she's mad because the colour of the navy ones isn't as nice as the grey/pink ones she didn't buy. :: roll eyes ::
After that we walked down through Trafalger Square to Embankment and back through to Liecester Square. Then on to Pizza Express where the food is decent but the service was twice as bad as usual.
Woke up and day 5 was off to the Museum in Docklands. I wasn't sure if Karen liked it but she did. I stopped at HSBC's world HQ in Canary Wharf but still couldn't get a checkbook cover to fit my English checkbook. This shouldn't be so hard. But it is.
We took the DLR out to Greenwich and walked up to the observatory for the view. Spent awhile and walked around the park before returning to the DLR (Cutty Sark) and off to Cnary Warf to rejoin the Jubilee line.
After that went down to the Jubilee Line sat on the train and nothing happened. They made an annoucement that due to signal failure the line was closed indefinitely. Which is brilliant because it opened today after four days of engineering works to REPAIR the signals. The Circle line had a one-under so it was also closed.
Because we were foobar we took the DLR to Bank, popped on the Northern and went up to King's Cross and walked to the British Library which was the back-up plan. Only I got on the train and Karen didn't. She lollygagged and the doors shut in her face. I signalled to go one stop, where I waited for her.
Karen loved the British Library -- and they had all those usual cool things on display including the original Magna Carta, works in the hands of Mozart, Beethoven, Ravel, and so forth. The original "Origins of Species" by Darwin was on display as were some handwritten original Shakespeare plays.
Back to the hotel and I called Rules because they opened today. They've agreed to serve us dinner at 445pm on Tuesday so we're in there. Way too early, but that's the choice so we're taking it.
Today Karen is having blisters. And you're up to date.
ADDED TONIGHT: We ate at Bunches of Grapes pub, but Karen didn't care for the Fish and Chips. She wanted a pie but they had no pie on offer today so she got what I got even though she doesn't like deep fried. Besides, you gotta' have fish and chips at least once in the UK.
Saw Billy Elliot which remains the best play ever, though again I caution that this play isn't for everyone. If you liked the movie, you'll love the play. Or if you've got some working knowledge of English modern history and a passable understanding of English slang and accents, you'll do fine as well. The new Billy was a fine dancer but his singing chops weren't quite as good and he seemed to have less singing parts. His voice broke a couple of times so I believe he won't be Billy for long. Still a fine performance.
The theatre was bloody hot and despite the sub-freezing temperature I didn't wear my jacket, sweater, gloves, or hat on the return trip. Idiot me.
After that we walked down through Trafalger Square to Embankment and back through to Liecester Square. Then on to Pizza Express where the food is decent but the service was twice as bad as usual.
Woke up and day 5 was off to the Museum in Docklands. I wasn't sure if Karen liked it but she did. I stopped at HSBC's world HQ in Canary Wharf but still couldn't get a checkbook cover to fit my English checkbook. This shouldn't be so hard. But it is.
We took the DLR out to Greenwich and walked up to the observatory for the view. Spent awhile and walked around the park before returning to the DLR (Cutty Sark) and off to Cnary Warf to rejoin the Jubilee line.
After that went down to the Jubilee Line sat on the train and nothing happened. They made an annoucement that due to signal failure the line was closed indefinitely. Which is brilliant because it opened today after four days of engineering works to REPAIR the signals. The Circle line had a one-under so it was also closed.
Because we were foobar we took the DLR to Bank, popped on the Northern and went up to King's Cross and walked to the British Library which was the back-up plan. Only I got on the train and Karen didn't. She lollygagged and the doors shut in her face. I signalled to go one stop, where I waited for her.
Karen loved the British Library -- and they had all those usual cool things on display including the original Magna Carta, works in the hands of Mozart, Beethoven, Ravel, and so forth. The original "Origins of Species" by Darwin was on display as were some handwritten original Shakespeare plays.
Back to the hotel and I called Rules because they opened today. They've agreed to serve us dinner at 445pm on Tuesday so we're in there. Way too early, but that's the choice so we're taking it.
Today Karen is having blisters. And you're up to date.
ADDED TONIGHT: We ate at Bunches of Grapes pub, but Karen didn't care for the Fish and Chips. She wanted a pie but they had no pie on offer today so she got what I got even though she doesn't like deep fried. Besides, you gotta' have fish and chips at least once in the UK.
Saw Billy Elliot which remains the best play ever, though again I caution that this play isn't for everyone. If you liked the movie, you'll love the play. Or if you've got some working knowledge of English modern history and a passable understanding of English slang and accents, you'll do fine as well. The new Billy was a fine dancer but his singing chops weren't quite as good and he seemed to have less singing parts. His voice broke a couple of times so I believe he won't be Billy for long. Still a fine performance.
The theatre was bloody hot and despite the sub-freezing temperature I didn't wear my jacket, sweater, gloves, or hat on the return trip. Idiot me.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
England Day 4 (to 5pm)
Today was a breakfast at Patisserie Valerie with the world's most delectable croissants. We walked from our hotel at Gloucester Road there and then on to Knightsbridge tube. We went to the Tower of London to take the Yeoman Warder tour and see the crown jewels. Sunday morning is always the least crowded time to go.
We went off to Speaker's Corner next which was damn near deserted due to the cold, which is expected to continue to get worse. So that will adjust our nighttime activities. After that, we went off to Covent Garden where we walked about, went to the Tube Museum Shop (but not the museum). After that we returned to Harrod's for me to buy a warm but over-priced hat as opposed to the cheap but not so warm crappy ones that are ten pounds all over the place.
Tomorrow we won't see 40 and lows will be in the upper 20s. Fact is the lows won't be above 32 for the rest of the trip. Highs will hover around 41 though.
After that, we had a spot of tea (blech). And then I went to Waitrose for some room stuff (candy, raspberries, etc). Lovely.
Yesterday, I forgot to mention, we went into a Woolworth's which is shutting down 1-5-09 after 99 years in business. It's in receivership and is being liquidated now.
No play tonight so probably just some walking. We'll see. Probably just add it to tomorrow's post.
We went off to Speaker's Corner next which was damn near deserted due to the cold, which is expected to continue to get worse. So that will adjust our nighttime activities. After that, we went off to Covent Garden where we walked about, went to the Tube Museum Shop (but not the museum). After that we returned to Harrod's for me to buy a warm but over-priced hat as opposed to the cheap but not so warm crappy ones that are ten pounds all over the place.
Tomorrow we won't see 40 and lows will be in the upper 20s. Fact is the lows won't be above 32 for the rest of the trip. Highs will hover around 41 though.
After that, we had a spot of tea (blech). And then I went to Waitrose for some room stuff (candy, raspberries, etc). Lovely.
Yesterday, I forgot to mention, we went into a Woolworth's which is shutting down 1-5-09 after 99 years in business. It's in receivership and is being liquidated now.
No play tonight so probably just some walking. We'll see. Probably just add it to tomorrow's post.
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Go Bears!
Right. Being here in England, I ended up missing the Emerald Bowl. It's now 210am back home or 710am Sunday morning here. I read the news today, oh boy. And.. and... and... and... WE WON!
A note from the AP Wire: Bay Area fans clad in blue and gold filled all but a few thousand spots in the sold-out stadium, turning the San Francisco Giants' waterfront ballpark into a cross-Bay rendition of Strawberry Canyon with a bowl-record crowd of 42,268. The Bears' campus is roughly 12 miles from San Francisco, yet the team stayed in a hotel in the city during its week of preparation, crossing the Bay Bridge for daily practice in Berkeley.
In local news, I slept like shite again. I do not recommend this hotel for the comfort minded. It's probably okay for those needing to save a few pounds a night, but it's not all that cheap. I'm still furious about my hat. I am going to try and buy a new one today.
A note from the AP Wire: Bay Area fans clad in blue and gold filled all but a few thousand spots in the sold-out stadium, turning the San Francisco Giants' waterfront ballpark into a cross-Bay rendition of Strawberry Canyon with a bowl-record crowd of 42,268. The Bears' campus is roughly 12 miles from San Francisco, yet the team stayed in a hotel in the city during its week of preparation, crossing the Bay Bridge for daily practice in Berkeley.
In local news, I slept like shite again. I do not recommend this hotel for the comfort minded. It's probably okay for those needing to save a few pounds a night, but it's not all that cheap. I'm still furious about my hat. I am going to try and buy a new one today.
England Day 3 (from 4pm) The David Beckham Chronicles
The rest of today was simple, with Rules closed we left the hotel for Little Italy -- the one on Frith Street and not the chain. Since my last visit, it's been totally remodelled, is twice the size and twice the price. But the food is a winner as always so it doesn't matter. Not same Mafia family running it either.
My hat is definitely missing so perhaps I'll buy a new one tomorrow as the temperature is expected to be under 32 tomorrow evening. This was the most awesome hat. It was an all black Kangol hat that looked just like Kyle's in South Park only this was soft and fake fur trimmed. I bought it in Selfridges quite some years ago.
After dinner we walked around and then picked up our tickets to Jersey Boys which were waiting at will call. We scooted across the street and grabbed a Cadbury bar at about 1/10000th the price of the theatre. We then went to our seats. Our seats were really, really excellent. How excellent were they? Two rows BEHIND us were Mr and Mrs David Beckham. Posh Spice is, well, posh even in person. At intermission their bodyguard escorted them out of the theatre and into some private room. And after the show, the band played on, giving the Bechams time to escape before the house lights went on. The bodyguard was standing next to us at the end of the row, but quite honestly if I hired a bodyguard I'd rather him be watching ME and not the play.
The Play? Jersey Boys rocked as much this time as it did in Vegas. It's just really good. I had seen it and reviewed it previously and my opinion's not changed. This one is a true winner for the long haul. This is London and you don't (like in most of the USA) get an automatic standing ovation. They're still rare here and they got one and a loud one at that.
I took no pictures today. I suck.
My hat is definitely missing so perhaps I'll buy a new one tomorrow as the temperature is expected to be under 32 tomorrow evening. This was the most awesome hat. It was an all black Kangol hat that looked just like Kyle's in South Park only this was soft and fake fur trimmed. I bought it in Selfridges quite some years ago.
After dinner we walked around and then picked up our tickets to Jersey Boys which were waiting at will call. We scooted across the street and grabbed a Cadbury bar at about 1/10000th the price of the theatre. We then went to our seats. Our seats were really, really excellent. How excellent were they? Two rows BEHIND us were Mr and Mrs David Beckham. Posh Spice is, well, posh even in person. At intermission their bodyguard escorted them out of the theatre and into some private room. And after the show, the band played on, giving the Bechams time to escape before the house lights went on. The bodyguard was standing next to us at the end of the row, but quite honestly if I hired a bodyguard I'd rather him be watching ME and not the play.
The Play? Jersey Boys rocked as much this time as it did in Vegas. It's just really good. I had seen it and reviewed it previously and my opinion's not changed. This one is a true winner for the long haul. This is London and you don't (like in most of the USA) get an automatic standing ovation. They're still rare here and they got one and a loud one at that.
I took no pictures today. I suck.
England Day 3 (through 4pm GMT)
A follow on for yesterday's post. I forgot to mention a funny anecdote. When we got to Boots, and Karen was asking about her cough medicine, the pharmacist listened and told her "You're chesty" and there was a moment of hilarity because what Karen thought he meant and what he really meant were not the same thing.
Also when we got back to the hotel, we got on the lift and pressed "3" the elevator started bouncing, dropped what we thought was a foot or two. Then the elevator said something (it's one of those talkie types), the doors opened, and we were in the BASEMENT. Stupidly, we took it back to the 3rd floor anyway whilst it made horrific noises. I called in and reported it. An hour later (late at night) I heard pounding so they did something to it.
Rules is closed (!!!) through the 29th. I am shocked and appalled and there appear to be no open times through our departure date. I am crushed.
The rooms here are unspeakably small by any reasonable standard though, as I've note no drawers nor even a shelf to put my bathroom items on. The suitcase I am living out of takes half the floor and the shower has no water pressure.
Woke up, ate at the hotel, and the breakfast buffet is quite nice -- almost as good as the Rembrandt's. Today we went to Portobello Road market and walked up and down it. We went much further than I ever had been before. If you walk all the way through you get to Ladbroke Grove tube stop on the H&C. We walked back to Notting Hill Gate nonetheless because Karen was looking for something. She didn't find it, though she did get her son some stuff.
We then took the tube to Marble Arch and walked down Oxford Street, including into Selfridge's which was swamped to the gills. They broke a record selling 1 million pounds in one day and that was on the front page of the paper along with news about Eartha Kitt. Sad, that. Anyway, no purchases there either. We passed the Playboy Store where Karen bought her some something as well. Then I went to Foyle's and personally did my part to improve the British economy. After that it was on to Forbidden Planet. The Photographer's Gallery moved, which was to be our next stop so that was cancelled for the day and we, at Karen's request, went to the madhouse that was Harrod's. Mom asked for biscuits but they had nothing this time, so she looses out.
The weather here has been fridgidly cold. Hasn't hit 40F yet today. Windy, too. "Feels like 29" according to the local weather. I must agree. But it's sunny and dry. So it is pleasant. Anyway, walked from Harrod's over to M&S Express and bought some fresh Raspberries. Yummy. Then found out Rules was closed so am trying to plan what's next.
This afternoon the fixed the phone in my room. I kept wondering why I couldn't use it. It turns out I am not an idiot, but theat they didn't turn it on. And the clock in my room (not changeable by the user) is 20m fast as it turns out.
Also when we got back to the hotel, we got on the lift and pressed "3" the elevator started bouncing, dropped what we thought was a foot or two. Then the elevator said something (it's one of those talkie types), the doors opened, and we were in the BASEMENT. Stupidly, we took it back to the 3rd floor anyway whilst it made horrific noises. I called in and reported it. An hour later (late at night) I heard pounding so they did something to it.
Rules is closed (!!!) through the 29th. I am shocked and appalled and there appear to be no open times through our departure date. I am crushed.
The rooms here are unspeakably small by any reasonable standard though, as I've note no drawers nor even a shelf to put my bathroom items on. The suitcase I am living out of takes half the floor and the shower has no water pressure.
Woke up, ate at the hotel, and the breakfast buffet is quite nice -- almost as good as the Rembrandt's. Today we went to Portobello Road market and walked up and down it. We went much further than I ever had been before. If you walk all the way through you get to Ladbroke Grove tube stop on the H&C. We walked back to Notting Hill Gate nonetheless because Karen was looking for something. She didn't find it, though she did get her son some stuff.
We then took the tube to Marble Arch and walked down Oxford Street, including into Selfridge's which was swamped to the gills. They broke a record selling 1 million pounds in one day and that was on the front page of the paper along with news about Eartha Kitt. Sad, that. Anyway, no purchases there either. We passed the Playboy Store where Karen bought her some something as well. Then I went to Foyle's and personally did my part to improve the British economy. After that it was on to Forbidden Planet. The Photographer's Gallery moved, which was to be our next stop so that was cancelled for the day and we, at Karen's request, went to the madhouse that was Harrod's. Mom asked for biscuits but they had nothing this time, so she looses out.
The weather here has been fridgidly cold. Hasn't hit 40F yet today. Windy, too. "Feels like 29" according to the local weather. I must agree. But it's sunny and dry. So it is pleasant. Anyway, walked from Harrod's over to M&S Express and bought some fresh Raspberries. Yummy. Then found out Rules was closed so am trying to plan what's next.
This afternoon the fixed the phone in my room. I kept wondering why I couldn't use it. It turns out I am not an idiot, but theat they didn't turn it on. And the clock in my room (not changeable by the user) is 20m fast as it turns out.
Friday, December 26, 2008
Trip to England Day1 and 2
Left my house Christmas Day night. Karen arrived at the same time the taxi did, and we were at the airport way too early (her request) so we could go the lounge. I warned her the MIA lounge is a shared lounge and not so great. She now agrees. We boarded on time and our plane left 10 minutes early. Yeah, early. In the sky before we were supposed to even leave the gate. The plane was pretty damned empty. Virgin Atlantic on a free ticket is awesome because, well, it was free. The plane was way too hot which made it hard to sleep. We had lie flat beds which included a set of custom black pyjamas and a duvet. You can also use the bed as two chairs so you can have a guest dine with you. We did that too. The seating configuration is odd in upper class as the seats are at 45 degree angles to the window as opposed to lining up with them.
We arrived Heathrow on-time (the next day, Boxing Day), taxied around the runway for quite a bit, and finally were at the gate right on schedule which wasn't bad considering nearly 20 minutes of taxiing. We breezed through passport control, waving our boarding passes to sneak into the FastTrack lane. Our bags were among the first off, and moments later we were walking towards the Heathrow Express station. On board, we had our tickets checked -- they were prepurchased on-line, though as it turns out there is no savings in doing so. And in fifteen minutes we were in a totally deserted Paddington station. Except for HEX, it was closed for boxing day, so there was nobody there and no queue for taxis. Not long after we were at the hotel.
I went to check in and they asked for my passport. I pulled it out, only the spot in my backpack was empty. No show tickets, no plane tickets, no hotel reservations, no passport, no money. Nothing. No idea what cab we came in and so I called the US Embassy to get help in replacing the passport which I had given up. The UK office is closed on boxing day but says you must show up the next business day (Monday) with a police report and proof of citizenship. I email mom hoping to get it. I try calling HEX and asking for help but got none. Nearly an hour later, the front desk calls and asks if I'm the gentleman who lost the passport. The fare in the back of the cab found it and turned it over the driver. Everything was intact.
With that delay out of the way we decided to spend the day at the zoo. It was very cold -- never hit 42 -- and windy so that made it a bit less the fun but we happened to be there as they were feeding critters, so that was fun. We had some spare time so took a quick jaunt on the London Eye. After that back to the hotel for warmer clothes.
We went to Belgo Centrall for dinner (it's in Covent Garden) and then walked back to Picadilly Circus tube for the ride home. Our hotel is near Gloucester Road. We also stopped at Tesco Express for water and chocolate plus I got some raspberries. We also, whilst at Picadilly circus, stopped into Boots for Karen to get some cough medicine.
We arrived Heathrow on-time (the next day, Boxing Day), taxied around the runway for quite a bit, and finally were at the gate right on schedule which wasn't bad considering nearly 20 minutes of taxiing. We breezed through passport control, waving our boarding passes to sneak into the FastTrack lane. Our bags were among the first off, and moments later we were walking towards the Heathrow Express station. On board, we had our tickets checked -- they were prepurchased on-line, though as it turns out there is no savings in doing so. And in fifteen minutes we were in a totally deserted Paddington station. Except for HEX, it was closed for boxing day, so there was nobody there and no queue for taxis. Not long after we were at the hotel.
I went to check in and they asked for my passport. I pulled it out, only the spot in my backpack was empty. No show tickets, no plane tickets, no hotel reservations, no passport, no money. Nothing. No idea what cab we came in and so I called the US Embassy to get help in replacing the passport which I had given up. The UK office is closed on boxing day but says you must show up the next business day (Monday) with a police report and proof of citizenship. I email mom hoping to get it. I try calling HEX and asking for help but got none. Nearly an hour later, the front desk calls and asks if I'm the gentleman who lost the passport. The fare in the back of the cab found it and turned it over the driver. Everything was intact.
With that delay out of the way we decided to spend the day at the zoo. It was very cold -- never hit 42 -- and windy so that made it a bit less the fun but we happened to be there as they were feeding critters, so that was fun. We had some spare time so took a quick jaunt on the London Eye. After that back to the hotel for warmer clothes.
We went to Belgo Centrall for dinner (it's in Covent Garden) and then walked back to Picadilly Circus tube for the ride home. Our hotel is near Gloucester Road. We also stopped at Tesco Express for water and chocolate plus I got some raspberries. We also, whilst at Picadilly circus, stopped into Boots for Karen to get some cough medicine.
Monday, December 22, 2008
American Airlines Insanity
You know, I've never been a big fan of them going back to a long-ago bad experience. But once I met Murph, I backed off trashing them in public because, well, Murph's my bud and bad-mouthing his employer is bad for his job security.
But I have to let 'em have it. You all remember my tale of my lost luggage. The one where my luggage showed up on the wrong day: after my important meeting with the Department of Homeland Security? You remember I explained how they told me what I could (and couldn't) buy and then I went and bought some stuff. I filed the claim and they denied to pay it. I wrote back because, of course, I assumed they didn't understand. I wrote both the baggage department *AND* the customer service people in Dallas.
Murph, next time you have a union meeting let 'em know that it's reasons like this people don't like American Airlines. It's not the people. It's the idiot bureaucrats running it. I asked American to do the right thing.
Here's their FINAL response:
December 22, 2008
Yeah, go ahead everyone. Pay them $15 to check a bag and good luck when you lose it. This is why I prefer Delta. I've only had a half-dozen lost bags ever and every time I've either been provided with basic necessities if it's been more then a few hours or been given recompense of a full (or partial) amount. Delta came through twice and Eastern (remember them?) once.
I'm off to London for a week with Karen using FF miles -- using Continental Miles but flying on Virgin. Yay me.
But I have to let 'em have it. You all remember my tale of my lost luggage. The one where my luggage showed up on the wrong day: after my important meeting with the Department of Homeland Security? You remember I explained how they told me what I could (and couldn't) buy and then I went and bought some stuff. I filed the claim and they denied to pay it. I wrote back because, of course, I assumed they didn't understand. I wrote both the baggage department *AND* the customer service people in Dallas.
Murph, next time you have a union meeting let 'em know that it's reasons like this people don't like American Airlines. It's not the people. It's the idiot bureaucrats running it. I asked American to do the right thing.
Here's their FINAL response:
December 22, 2008
Dear Mr. Seiden:
A careful review has been accomplished of the entire file and reports which have been obtained concerning your delayed baggage. We wish things had worked out differently and can understand your perseverance in this matter.
We try to avoid disagreements and do our best to clearly explain our position. When applicable, compensation is proffered within our policy guidelines, but we must decline to offer compensation in those situations which do not fall within our compensation guidelines.
Although we understand that you don't agree with our decision, it is based on sound business practices, as well as our past experience. I am sorry to disappoint you further.
Sincerely,
Customer Relations
American Airlines
This is an "outgoing only" email address. If you 'reply' to this message by simply selecting the reply button, we will not receive your additional comments.
So they lose my bags, tell me to go buy some basic necessities which they will pay for as long as I follow their guidelines and submit itemized receipts for reasonable expenses, and then when I follow their exact instructions they tell me it's not within their policy guidelines?Yeah, go ahead everyone. Pay them $15 to check a bag and good luck when you lose it. This is why I prefer Delta. I've only had a half-dozen lost bags ever and every time I've either been provided with basic necessities if it's been more then a few hours or been given recompense of a full (or partial) amount. Delta came through twice and Eastern (remember them?) once.
I'm off to London for a week with Karen using FF miles -- using Continental Miles but flying on Virgin. Yay me.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Oh what a day....
As if.
Anyway, last night I finally was able to fix a long-established irritant on my Mac. There's an ACL error that has always shown up in my monthly disk-check feature. All articles say it's harmless and just an irritant. However it makes DiskUtility take an hour to run instead of 3 or 4 minutes because I had over 4,000 files with that error and it ballooned my error log to 8.4MB! So, I keep thinking. A program I found called MacPilot came to the rescue: a new version has a repair ACL feature. You can ONLY use it on your directory -- never use this feature on a system directory. Anyway, I tested it on one directory and it appeared to work. I ran it on my entire ~/home folder and voila! Everything was fixed except QuickTime and DiskUtility. It now runs in normal time and life is good.
I got a haircut today in celebration of the Kwanzaa holiday. To hell with you if you don't believe me.
Scooter is back home in a small box. This is upsetting to me. I need to do something, but I can't. I thought I'd be able to put her somewhere but I can't quite do it. It came with a five stages of grief pamphlet designed for pet owners.
I decided, today, who's going in our next round of layoffs at work. Sometimes you get lucky and some employee does something that makes your decision for you. We are still going to wait until mid-January to do it though. A batch of three is next. I'm also going to try and replace some of our other employees who think being lazy is okay when I'm not looking. Except I'm always looking and they just are too dumb to know.
Vacation in six days. I have a passport. I am not packed but will start packing based on a weather report on Monday.
I have to find entertainment for tomorrow. I have nothing to do. It was going to be a second day of Adrian but apparently he's grocery shopping. Perhaps I'll go to the mall. That should kill a few hours just looking for somewhere to park.
Anyway, last night I finally was able to fix a long-established irritant on my Mac. There's an ACL error that has always shown up in my monthly disk-check feature. All articles say it's harmless and just an irritant. However it makes DiskUtility take an hour to run instead of 3 or 4 minutes because I had over 4,000 files with that error and it ballooned my error log to 8.4MB! So, I keep thinking. A program I found called MacPilot came to the rescue: a new version has a repair ACL feature. You can ONLY use it on your directory -- never use this feature on a system directory. Anyway, I tested it on one directory and it appeared to work. I ran it on my entire ~/home folder and voila! Everything was fixed except QuickTime and DiskUtility. It now runs in normal time and life is good.
I got a haircut today in celebration of the Kwanzaa holiday. To hell with you if you don't believe me.
Scooter is back home in a small box. This is upsetting to me. I need to do something, but I can't. I thought I'd be able to put her somewhere but I can't quite do it. It came with a five stages of grief pamphlet designed for pet owners.
- Denial. That's a river in Egypt. Sadly, there wasn't even time for me to have this stage.
- Anger. I started here because the process took too long while she was suffering. And it talks about feeling of betrayal because some people are insensitive or don't show appropriate caring while you're suffering. Yeah, boy do I ever get that.
- Guilt/Bargaining: Do I have some? Yes. Forever. When Scooter first got sick some time ago, maybe a year, if we had thought to take an MRI then we might have known and been able to do something. But everyone thought it was the thyroid -- though I kept asking why it was affecting her hindquarter. I'm mad I didn't fight harder but I'm not a doctor so how could I know.
- Depression. Yes. Plenty of it.
- Acceptance. I don't get this because I accepted it, knew it was coming, and all that rot. It doesn't mean I like it. But there's no way to not accept it. That's what number four is for.
I decided, today, who's going in our next round of layoffs at work. Sometimes you get lucky and some employee does something that makes your decision for you. We are still going to wait until mid-January to do it though. A batch of three is next. I'm also going to try and replace some of our other employees who think being lazy is okay when I'm not looking. Except I'm always looking and they just are too dumb to know.
Vacation in six days. I have a passport. I am not packed but will start packing based on a weather report on Monday.
I have to find entertainment for tomorrow. I have nothing to do. It was going to be a second day of Adrian but apparently he's grocery shopping. Perhaps I'll go to the mall. That should kill a few hours just looking for somewhere to park.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Randomness Part Neuf
As I write this, on the HAMMERSMITH & CITY LINE: Minor delays are occurring due to staff shortages. I love Tube widgets. I mean, it's not like I'm going to be on it today, but still. And I have BART widgets too: SF Airport train 1 min, 15 min, 30 min. I won't be on that today either. Normal people have fun on their computer. I play with subway stuff. I am so lame.
I printed and hung an 8x10 photo of scooter by my front door last night. So I guess I'm making progress. All of her stuff except a collection of bizzy-balls have been sent to the various people who expressed interest. The pet sitter got the heavy stuff. Liz, Maury, Mom, and Suzie-Q all got stuff too.
I made a steak for dinner tonight. My driveway was pressure cleaned twice. I refused to pay for Wednesday's job because it was so crappy. Thursday's job is adequate. We'll have to see what he thinks I ought to pay before I do so.
I signed the formal affidavit in the identity theft case. Just so you know.
I left yet another messages for the attorney handling my injury case but he hasn't called me back yet. I will continue to try.
The AC people are due tomorrow AM so I'll be late for work. No big deal but my line is clogged again. So it needs to be blown out.
Adrian has promised to skate with me this Sunday so I am excited about that -- I'm tired of being bored. He's going to the game with me too. I'm supposed to meet Karen for dinner before the game so I gotta' organize that.
I have plans starting Christmas afternoon through New Year's Day. I'm telling anyone what they are. You get to know when I come back. I'm leaving town, it'll be cold, and the air/hotel are fundamentally free -- paid for with miles. Just taxes. This was all Karen's doing. I am excited.
I printed and hung an 8x10 photo of scooter by my front door last night. So I guess I'm making progress. All of her stuff except a collection of bizzy-balls have been sent to the various people who expressed interest. The pet sitter got the heavy stuff. Liz, Maury, Mom, and Suzie-Q all got stuff too.
I made a steak for dinner tonight. My driveway was pressure cleaned twice. I refused to pay for Wednesday's job because it was so crappy. Thursday's job is adequate. We'll have to see what he thinks I ought to pay before I do so.
I signed the formal affidavit in the identity theft case. Just so you know.
I left yet another messages for the attorney handling my injury case but he hasn't called me back yet. I will continue to try.
The AC people are due tomorrow AM so I'll be late for work. No big deal but my line is clogged again. So it needs to be blown out.
Adrian has promised to skate with me this Sunday so I am excited about that -- I'm tired of being bored. He's going to the game with me too. I'm supposed to meet Karen for dinner before the game so I gotta' organize that.
I have plans starting Christmas afternoon through New Year's Day. I'm telling anyone what they are. You get to know when I come back. I'm leaving town, it'll be cold, and the air/hotel are fundamentally free -- paid for with miles. Just taxes. This was all Karen's doing. I am excited.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Identity Theft (Final Chapter)
Just a bit more. I spoke to the detective in question. I can't really say too much. The person arrested IS a bank employee at BankAtlantic -- as I suspected. He had the names and details of a LOT of people. He was captured with the help of BankAtlantic (yay) and many months ago, you may remember I posted, and then redacted a post saying they had a voice recording of the guy opening an account in my name. Well they do still have that.
I have let BankAmerica know the guy's in jail and given them the case number and direct number to the detective.
I gave a sworn statement today and affirmed my intent to cooperate with any prosecution. The US Secret Service has been involved.
I hope there is a big, fat, hairy, biker dude in prison who thinks this guy has a cute ass. That would be PROPER justice.
THERE WILL BE NO FURTHER INFORMATION POSTED. This is for the integrity of the case. It could be well over a year before we find the disposition of what happens next. I have scanned the names of people arrested in Fort Lauderdale but this guy hasn't shown up yet. When he does, you're going to see a link :)
I have let BankAmerica know the guy's in jail and given them the case number and direct number to the detective.
I gave a sworn statement today and affirmed my intent to cooperate with any prosecution. The US Secret Service has been involved.
I hope there is a big, fat, hairy, biker dude in prison who thinks this guy has a cute ass. That would be PROPER justice.
THERE WILL BE NO FURTHER INFORMATION POSTED. This is for the integrity of the case. It could be well over a year before we find the disposition of what happens next. I have scanned the names of people arrested in Fort Lauderdale but this guy hasn't shown up yet. When he does, you're going to see a link :)
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Breaking News On Identity Theft
I came home to a phone message from a South Florida police agency (to be named later) that someone has been arrested with oodles of my personal information and asking if I've been the victim of Identity Theft. I missed the detective in question but I left him a detailed voice mail and told him to call me at work tomorrow -- and I indicated I will gladly testify against this SOB. Sadly, it's apparent local agencies do not share information.
Also, my Official Vet (as opposed to the emergency vet) sent me a card. It was signed with nice messages from his entire staff. They sent along this poem (author unknown):
Also, my Official Vet (as opposed to the emergency vet) sent me a card. It was signed with nice messages from his entire staff. They sent along this poem (author unknown):
Just this side of heaven is a place called The Rainbow Bridge
When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to the Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.
All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.
They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.
You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.
Then you cross The Rainbow Bridge together....
I also went to a soiree at my bank. Met lots of interesting people, ate, and came home thereafter. And to Beep: feel better. Sorry you're sick.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Today's Randomness
I came home today, shut the door quickly as I've done for many years to keep the cat from getting out, and was like suddenly "oh, damn." More leaky eyes.
Then, I opened my mail and there was a nice sympathy card from the vet. Not a form card either. She wrote a personal message. Which made me sadder.
I've also returned to the exercise machine. Today was day 3 in a row. I'm limited in how long I can last, due to my previously mentioned (I think) knee injury from a few weeks ago when I fell. The knee is definitely much better than it was. It's a better colour and is scabbing over nicely.
Last night Johnny B and Liz came over (first time visitors) and collected some of Scooter's belongings for their furry critters. I also sent a box of stuff to Maury that she had asked for. The pile is still big. The pet sitter is coming Thursday to return my keys and collect more stuff. The rest is off to SuzieQ. Except the thyroid meds which I sent to mom for her cat.
Then, I opened my mail and there was a nice sympathy card from the vet. Not a form card either. She wrote a personal message. Which made me sadder.
I've also returned to the exercise machine. Today was day 3 in a row. I'm limited in how long I can last, due to my previously mentioned (I think) knee injury from a few weeks ago when I fell. The knee is definitely much better than it was. It's a better colour and is scabbing over nicely.
Last night Johnny B and Liz came over (first time visitors) and collected some of Scooter's belongings for their furry critters. I also sent a box of stuff to Maury that she had asked for. The pile is still big. The pet sitter is coming Thursday to return my keys and collect more stuff. The rest is off to SuzieQ. Except the thyroid meds which I sent to mom for her cat.
Monday, December 8, 2008
Imagine.
- Imagine (c) COPYRIGHT John Lennon. All Rights Reserved
Imagine there's no heaven
It's easy if you try
No hell below us
Above us only sky
Imagine all the people
Living for today...Imagine there's no countries
It isn't hard to do
Nothing to kill or die for
And no religion too
Imagine all the people
Living life in peace...You may say I'm a dreamer
But I'm not the only one
I hope someday you'll join us
And the world will be as oneImagine no possessions
I wonder if you can
No need for greed or hunger
A brotherhood of man
Imagine all the people
Sharing all the world...You may say I'm a dreamer
But I'm not the only one
I hope someday you'll join us
And the world will live as one- John Lennon was assassinated on this date in 1980 outside the Dakota with four bullets of five shot going into his back. This has been my favourite song of all time since the day I first heard it. It's a great concept but so many people just don't get it. It's an anthem of peace, of hope, of the future. Imagine.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Two Days On
Let's start with something "normal" -- this was sent to me by my friend Dan (he's a musician). It's some kid singing a cover the Police's Roxanne. He's about 13, has a voice that will blow you away and plays both the guitar and drums. Phenomenal. And he's even having a good time.
In other news, I went to Publix again today, where shopping is sometimes a pleasure but not right at the moment. The pet aisle will, apparently, be a problem for me for awhile. I'm still unbearably sad. Had a number of people check up on me today via email -- a few by phone. And got stood up today for breakfast which pissed me off. Whilst waiting I watched an old, but new to me, 30th Anniversary of Star Trek special on BioHD. Interesting stuff. Eventually I realized I had been stood up, so I went to the mall for a while to kill time. It was early, so it wasn't too crowded.
A number of people are interested in some of Scooter's stuff so that'll be done by Friday. A few things are going to some locals if they pick 'em up in time, and then Susie-Q is getting any leftovers. I'll have to ship it truck line probably. That'll be loads of fun.
And I'm going to have to do something in my kitchen because it keeps reminding me of her. I'll figure that out soon. It's the spot by the door where her food used to be that gets me.
I made burgers for dinner, dropped some on the floor and left it. I went and ate my burgers and was momentarily surprised when I came back. It was still there and the cat hadn't eaten it. Oh, right. Damn.
When I roll over in bed, I still feel to make sure she's not there. That'll take time to.
I was going to read today, but I just screwed around on the computer -- IM with a few people and played with StumbleUpon -- and then this afternoon, I watched the Dolphins game. Oh, and while not normally a Gator fan, I am so glad they beat 'bama. DIE SABAN DIE! And GO BEARS for the Emerald Bowl. That concludes today's football discussion.
The Panthers are sucking ass. But as long as Alan Cohen owns it and Yormark is there, that will never change. I have learned to accept failure from my hockey team.
In other news, I went to Publix again today, where shopping is sometimes a pleasure but not right at the moment. The pet aisle will, apparently, be a problem for me for awhile. I'm still unbearably sad. Had a number of people check up on me today via email -- a few by phone. And got stood up today for breakfast which pissed me off. Whilst waiting I watched an old, but new to me, 30th Anniversary of Star Trek special on BioHD. Interesting stuff. Eventually I realized I had been stood up, so I went to the mall for a while to kill time. It was early, so it wasn't too crowded.
A number of people are interested in some of Scooter's stuff so that'll be done by Friday. A few things are going to some locals if they pick 'em up in time, and then Susie-Q is getting any leftovers. I'll have to ship it truck line probably. That'll be loads of fun.
And I'm going to have to do something in my kitchen because it keeps reminding me of her. I'll figure that out soon. It's the spot by the door where her food used to be that gets me.
I made burgers for dinner, dropped some on the floor and left it. I went and ate my burgers and was momentarily surprised when I came back. It was still there and the cat hadn't eaten it. Oh, right. Damn.
When I roll over in bed, I still feel to make sure she's not there. That'll take time to.
I was going to read today, but I just screwed around on the computer -- IM with a few people and played with StumbleUpon -- and then this afternoon, I watched the Dolphins game. Oh, and while not normally a Gator fan, I am so glad they beat 'bama. DIE SABAN DIE! And GO BEARS for the Emerald Bowl. That concludes today's football discussion.
The Panthers are sucking ass. But as long as Alan Cohen owns it and Yormark is there, that will never change. I have learned to accept failure from my hockey team.
Saturday, December 6, 2008
The Morning After
I'm up. I tried to make it a normal morning. I went to the dry cleaner to pick up stuff. I went to the post office. I went to Starbucks. I got gas for my case. All of that was no problem.
I had to drive by the vet's office. It's on the way to/from most of my errands. That caused a little pang. But what was really and unexpectedly hard, was going to the grocery store. The pet food aisle caused a reaction. Crying in a supermarket while shopping is embarrassing especially when you run into a neighbour. It wasn't too noticeable, though. Just runny eyes and sniffles. I told him it was "allergies" and I forgot to take my medicine. He was like "yeah, I know what it's like" so that went away quickly.
Last night, I tool all of Scooter's stuff and carefully moved it into the garage. Except the medicine which is still in the fridge. All the mats, beds, bowls, treats, rugs, toys, houses, stairs, food, games, art. Everything. I am keeping one set of bizzy-balls -- her favourite toy. I picked the most chewed-up nasty ones to keep. I really do hope some of you reading this will consider finding a home for some of this stuff -- I've got tons of food (wet and dry) plus all the items listed above. The medicines and vitamin supplements are very expensive and throwing them away would be a sin.
Grief makes you do weird things. Last night, I suddenly decided that I needed to remodel my house. In the living room, I moved the Vasse tower over by the curio case, moved the fake plant to where the Vasse tower was. I took the metal bird and put it in the guest bathroom where the litter box was and put a new rug in place of the kitty shaped rug in there. I took the terra-cotta coloured box from my office and put it in my bedroom in the corner where one of the cat houses was.
The big thing is, I moved my bed. That huge platform bed that required three people to bring up and install. I moved it all by myself about 1 foot to the left. I'm not sure how I did it, but I did. I just decided it need to be moved. And I did. I didn't even hurt myself, though I don't know how I managed to avoid it. It's a few hundred pounds.
Most of the changes won't be noticeable to anyone except the kitchen. Without all of the Scooter stuff it looks much emptier. I walk in and am sad. Every time. It doesn't look the same.
I think I'm going to try and meet my hockey friends for dinner tonight and go to the game. I'm not sure if I'll make it, but I might try. If I stay home, I know it'll be hard.
I want to thank a few people who've been especially helpful. Karen who called several times to check up on me -- she tried to help me, feed me, etc but I so didn't want it. But I appreciate her efforts. Also to Beep who tried repeatedly (and unsuccesfully) to distract me from my thoughts. Special thanks to Bart and Tim who really GET it -- I can tell from their heartfelt emails. I want to thank the online community many of whom have written and/or posted their support in various places. I'm not sure what to make of my friends who didn't say anything: there were quite a few of those, and I figured they'd at least say "I'm sorry" or something.
Erin's invited me over today, so I might go lay on her couch and watch football with her. I'll see if it can keep me distracted. (She's laid up with a bad ankle so we can be miserable together, just for different reasons.)
In other news, and this goes back a month, but I'm just now revealing it because I've been too bothered by other things to mention this, me and Austri are over. That's not bad news. Sad yes, but bad no. It was a long time coming and I'm the one who ended it. There's no reason to get into the why's and wherefore's or whose fault it was. So if I don't talk about her much anymore, you'll know why. And no, I don't want to talk about it. I'm okay with it.
I had to drive by the vet's office. It's on the way to/from most of my errands. That caused a little pang. But what was really and unexpectedly hard, was going to the grocery store. The pet food aisle caused a reaction. Crying in a supermarket while shopping is embarrassing especially when you run into a neighbour. It wasn't too noticeable, though. Just runny eyes and sniffles. I told him it was "allergies" and I forgot to take my medicine. He was like "yeah, I know what it's like" so that went away quickly.
Last night, I tool all of Scooter's stuff and carefully moved it into the garage. Except the medicine which is still in the fridge. All the mats, beds, bowls, treats, rugs, toys, houses, stairs, food, games, art. Everything. I am keeping one set of bizzy-balls -- her favourite toy. I picked the most chewed-up nasty ones to keep. I really do hope some of you reading this will consider finding a home for some of this stuff -- I've got tons of food (wet and dry) plus all the items listed above. The medicines and vitamin supplements are very expensive and throwing them away would be a sin.
Grief makes you do weird things. Last night, I suddenly decided that I needed to remodel my house. In the living room, I moved the Vasse tower over by the curio case, moved the fake plant to where the Vasse tower was. I took the metal bird and put it in the guest bathroom where the litter box was and put a new rug in place of the kitty shaped rug in there. I took the terra-cotta coloured box from my office and put it in my bedroom in the corner where one of the cat houses was.
The big thing is, I moved my bed. That huge platform bed that required three people to bring up and install. I moved it all by myself about 1 foot to the left. I'm not sure how I did it, but I did. I just decided it need to be moved. And I did. I didn't even hurt myself, though I don't know how I managed to avoid it. It's a few hundred pounds.
Most of the changes won't be noticeable to anyone except the kitchen. Without all of the Scooter stuff it looks much emptier. I walk in and am sad. Every time. It doesn't look the same.
I think I'm going to try and meet my hockey friends for dinner tonight and go to the game. I'm not sure if I'll make it, but I might try. If I stay home, I know it'll be hard.
I want to thank a few people who've been especially helpful. Karen who called several times to check up on me -- she tried to help me, feed me, etc but I so didn't want it. But I appreciate her efforts. Also to Beep who tried repeatedly (and unsuccesfully) to distract me from my thoughts. Special thanks to Bart and Tim who really GET it -- I can tell from their heartfelt emails. I want to thank the online community many of whom have written and/or posted their support in various places. I'm not sure what to make of my friends who didn't say anything: there were quite a few of those, and I figured they'd at least say "I'm sorry" or something.
Erin's invited me over today, so I might go lay on her couch and watch football with her. I'll see if it can keep me distracted. (She's laid up with a bad ankle so we can be miserable together, just for different reasons.)
In other news, and this goes back a month, but I'm just now revealing it because I've been too bothered by other things to mention this, me and Austri are over. That's not bad news. Sad yes, but bad no. It was a long time coming and I'm the one who ended it. There's no reason to get into the why's and wherefore's or whose fault it was. So if I don't talk about her much anymore, you'll know why. And no, I don't want to talk about it. I'm okay with it.
Friday, December 5, 2008
In Pace Requiscat Scooter
It’s just past 1am Friday and I’m starting to write this before I actually send it out. As many of you know, I visited Scooter Wednesday 3 December. I wrote about it and most of the other visits in my blog. During that visit, Scooter told me it was time, but I didn’t say anything to anyone because I was waiting for final word to make sure. Today (Thursday), at a business dinner, my mobile phone rang with a call from my vet.
The tumour doesn’t need a biopsy. It’s malignant and there are signs it’s spreading. There is no surgical option, there is no chemotherapy option, and there is no radiation option. Sadly, time’s up. She’s in pain and it’s only going to get much worse, quickly.
I asked the doctor if we could bring Scooter home for her final moments. Normally the doctor doesn’t do that, but she would have been willing for me as a special favour except, and I agree with her, that moving Scooter would be a very cruel thing to do, as it’s very painful for her to be moved. Which is why, you will recollect, she couldn’t have the MRI in Fort Lauderdale and we had to sneak her into a people MRI centre that was closer. She just hurts too much where the tumour is pressing into her nerves.
Because of where I was when I received the call (Sunrise) there was no way for me to make it back in time to do it today (Thursday) – which probably would have been better instead of making Scooter wait 18 hours more. But I really thought I should be with her.
So, later today (Friday), after my doctor’s appointment (GI), I will go to the vet’s office and meet the vet. I didn’t want to tell anyone in advance, but I had to tell Dad because I’m not going to be at work Friday except for a few moments to change my voice mail, set my email away message and such, so there was no getting around that. Dad was remarkably understanding for a change.
Scooter has been with me since about 1987 (I’m thinking late 1987) when I was in school, and when I first got her – or more accurately when she moved in and adopted me -- she was between 1 and 2 years old. That’s how me and her primary vet arrived at her age. Her regular vet confirms this analysis and she’s been seeing the same vet (barring the trips to the emergency vet) since day one.
This has been really hard on me. Scooter is my best friend. I love her more than anyone. I’d find this a lot easier to do to a person than to my cat. If you’re a pet owner, you get this. I realize I'm not the only one to go through this, of course, but she's been part of my life for over half of it, so this hurts. I decided some years ago that Scooter would be my last pet, and I’m certainly not planning on changing that, so don't ask.
I have a large number of cat items that would be useful to any cat owners. I will ship them to you free of charge but I really need them out of here quickly, because looking at them makes me too sad. I have beds, blankets, medicines (prescription and regular), food, treats, houses, litter, litter boxes, carriers, and tons of toys. If you’re interested you need to contact me via e-mail immediately. It's all getting binned within 5 days and that would be a terrible waste. Make your cat happy and contact me via e-mail. I just can't look at it. (Having just returned, walked in and seen her bed, I realize this decision is the right one.)
I know I did everything that could be done, and more than most people would do. This wasn’t ever about the money and charging those thousands of dollars to my credit cards was never even a consideration. I’d have spent all my money if she could be saved and lived a happy, longer life. Quite frankly, I’d much rather be dead right now than her: I'd make the trade. But don’t worry, I’m not planning on doing anything like that but I am very depressed now. This hurts more than I can explain. I’m dying inside.
I really don’t want to be there for this, but I will. I couldn’t do that to her -- leave her alone at the end. I’m going to bring her two more treats (though I'm not sure if she can have them) and her brush. I will brush and cry the whole time. I will be a wreck after so please don’t call.
All that stuff above was written last night (or early this morning) because I couldn't sleep. It’s now 2:36pm and I’m back. It’s done. I tried really hard not to totally collapse. I failed. This was definitely the hardest thing I ever had to do. I went in, and did all the paperwork because I knew I wasn't hanging around after to do it. I was doing okay -- just leaky eyes -- until they gave me a choice of urns to select. That’s when I started to really cry.
I went back and visited Scooter in her holding cell. The IVs an tubes were all removed. The original plan was to take one last photo of me and kitty as I'd brought my camera, but neither one of us was in any shape to have a photo. So there isn’t one so you'll have to make do with what I've got -- a selection is now on Flickr. I offered her a last Petrodex, but she didn’t even look at it. I brushed her, petted her. She knew. She knew I knew. She wasn't mad at me.
After brushing her, they picked her up, along with all her bedding as it was the safest way to move her. I would have carried her, except at the point I was in pretty bad shape. They kept asking if I was sure I could do this. The answer was no, but I said “I’m going to try.” We went to one of the interview rooms where they meet new patients for the first time. Some of the nurses actually were sad too.
In the room, I totally broke down and wailed “I can’t do this” while the tears and snot ran, but I still held on to Scooter. The vet explained there would be a pink injection and then a yellow one (I might have that in the wrong order). If I could have spoken, I’d have asked for my own set.
It didn’t take 90 seconds. They put in the pink one and waited about 60 seconds – that’s just a muscle relaxant. Then the yellow one, and it’s over. “She’s gone,” the vet said after checking with her stethoscope. Scooter never closed her eyes the whole time and I never let go. I didn't let got for a few seconds (it might have been 1 or might have been 100 -- time was frozen). Then I ran out the door and drove home. I hate life right now. I miss her so much. I am dead inside.
In Pace Requiscat.
The tumour doesn’t need a biopsy. It’s malignant and there are signs it’s spreading. There is no surgical option, there is no chemotherapy option, and there is no radiation option. Sadly, time’s up. She’s in pain and it’s only going to get much worse, quickly.
I asked the doctor if we could bring Scooter home for her final moments. Normally the doctor doesn’t do that, but she would have been willing for me as a special favour except, and I agree with her, that moving Scooter would be a very cruel thing to do, as it’s very painful for her to be moved. Which is why, you will recollect, she couldn’t have the MRI in Fort Lauderdale and we had to sneak her into a people MRI centre that was closer. She just hurts too much where the tumour is pressing into her nerves.
Because of where I was when I received the call (Sunrise) there was no way for me to make it back in time to do it today (Thursday) – which probably would have been better instead of making Scooter wait 18 hours more. But I really thought I should be with her.
So, later today (Friday), after my doctor’s appointment (GI), I will go to the vet’s office and meet the vet. I didn’t want to tell anyone in advance, but I had to tell Dad because I’m not going to be at work Friday except for a few moments to change my voice mail, set my email away message and such, so there was no getting around that. Dad was remarkably understanding for a change.
Scooter has been with me since about 1987 (I’m thinking late 1987) when I was in school, and when I first got her – or more accurately when she moved in and adopted me -- she was between 1 and 2 years old. That’s how me and her primary vet arrived at her age. Her regular vet confirms this analysis and she’s been seeing the same vet (barring the trips to the emergency vet) since day one.
This has been really hard on me. Scooter is my best friend. I love her more than anyone. I’d find this a lot easier to do to a person than to my cat. If you’re a pet owner, you get this. I realize I'm not the only one to go through this, of course, but she's been part of my life for over half of it, so this hurts. I decided some years ago that Scooter would be my last pet, and I’m certainly not planning on changing that, so don't ask.
I have a large number of cat items that would be useful to any cat owners. I will ship them to you free of charge but I really need them out of here quickly, because looking at them makes me too sad. I have beds, blankets, medicines (prescription and regular), food, treats, houses, litter, litter boxes, carriers, and tons of toys. If you’re interested you need to contact me via e-mail immediately. It's all getting binned within 5 days and that would be a terrible waste. Make your cat happy and contact me via e-mail. I just can't look at it. (Having just returned, walked in and seen her bed, I realize this decision is the right one.)
I know I did everything that could be done, and more than most people would do. This wasn’t ever about the money and charging those thousands of dollars to my credit cards was never even a consideration. I’d have spent all my money if she could be saved and lived a happy, longer life. Quite frankly, I’d much rather be dead right now than her: I'd make the trade. But don’t worry, I’m not planning on doing anything like that but I am very depressed now. This hurts more than I can explain. I’m dying inside.
I really don’t want to be there for this, but I will. I couldn’t do that to her -- leave her alone at the end. I’m going to bring her two more treats (though I'm not sure if she can have them) and her brush. I will brush and cry the whole time. I will be a wreck after so please don’t call.
----
All that stuff above was written last night (or early this morning) because I couldn't sleep. It’s now 2:36pm and I’m back. It’s done. I tried really hard not to totally collapse. I failed. This was definitely the hardest thing I ever had to do. I went in, and did all the paperwork because I knew I wasn't hanging around after to do it. I was doing okay -- just leaky eyes -- until they gave me a choice of urns to select. That’s when I started to really cry.
I went back and visited Scooter in her holding cell. The IVs an tubes were all removed. The original plan was to take one last photo of me and kitty as I'd brought my camera, but neither one of us was in any shape to have a photo. So there isn’t one so you'll have to make do with what I've got -- a selection is now on Flickr. I offered her a last Petrodex, but she didn’t even look at it. I brushed her, petted her. She knew. She knew I knew. She wasn't mad at me.
After brushing her, they picked her up, along with all her bedding as it was the safest way to move her. I would have carried her, except at the point I was in pretty bad shape. They kept asking if I was sure I could do this. The answer was no, but I said “I’m going to try.” We went to one of the interview rooms where they meet new patients for the first time. Some of the nurses actually were sad too.
In the room, I totally broke down and wailed “I can’t do this” while the tears and snot ran, but I still held on to Scooter. The vet explained there would be a pink injection and then a yellow one (I might have that in the wrong order). If I could have spoken, I’d have asked for my own set.
It didn’t take 90 seconds. They put in the pink one and waited about 60 seconds – that’s just a muscle relaxant. Then the yellow one, and it’s over. “She’s gone,” the vet said after checking with her stethoscope. Scooter never closed her eyes the whole time and I never let go. I didn't let got for a few seconds (it might have been 1 or might have been 100 -- time was frozen). Then I ran out the door and drove home. I hate life right now. I miss her so much. I am dead inside.
In Pace Requiscat.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Scooter Update 5.1
1. I went and visited Scooter today. She wasn't happy at all and refused her Petrodex treats. That was a bad sign and I made sure the vet knew it. I petted her And brushed her, but she was just not interested today. So after about 20 minutes I left, leaving her treat behind.
2. I spoke to the surgeon today. He has two older cats and after tomorrow they're going to decide what to do. He told me he'll tell me flat out whether he'd do it if it were his cat or not. He is also concerned about her quality of life even if he does the surgery. Recovery is from 6 weeks to 6 months. I'm not sure if I can do that to Scooter if it's that long and complicated. So the news doesn't look good.
I love my kitty and I am very, very sad. News tomorrow most likely.
2. I spoke to the surgeon today. He has two older cats and after tomorrow they're going to decide what to do. He told me he'll tell me flat out whether he'd do it if it were his cat or not. He is also concerned about her quality of life even if he does the surgery. Recovery is from 6 weeks to 6 months. I'm not sure if I can do that to Scooter if it's that long and complicated. So the news doesn't look good.
I love my kitty and I am very, very sad. News tomorrow most likely.
Scooter Update 5.0
News will be further delayed until tomorrow or Friday. A CD of her MRI is being overnighted to the University of Florida veterinary school for another opinion. Three radiologists have reviewed her results and prior to the formal biopsy there are some concerns about the nature of the tumor, her chance for recovery, and several other factors. I am rather testy because I had this MRI done this past Saturday at extra expense to minimize Scooter's suffering (and she is). Further every day she can't move weakens her muscles further and reduces her chance of recovery and the delays are very much irritating me and I made that very clear to the vets yesterday and today.
She has a probable meningioma tumor but it's on her spine near the front half of her hind quarters. It's on the spine and not in it. This particular type, they tell me, is genereally benign but now they're not sure if it's this type. She is not a candidate for radiation therapy or medicinal therapy due to factors involving her age and health. She is either a candidate for surgery or not.
I will let you know when there is more news.
She has a probable meningioma tumor but it's on her spine near the front half of her hind quarters. It's on the spine and not in it. This particular type, they tell me, is genereally benign but now they're not sure if it's this type. She is not a candidate for radiation therapy or medicinal therapy due to factors involving her age and health. She is either a candidate for surgery or not.
I will let you know when there is more news.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Scooter Update 4.3A
The news will be tomorrow. There will be no news today due to complications unrelated to me or Scooter. There was an emergency involving another critter in the vets office. I had only 10 minutes of visiting time tonight and she was very happy to see me. I hope it's early in the day 'cause I really can't take this. It's killing me inside.
Just A Little More Fame
Unlike my bud Murph I am not the Official Media Whore of the Florida Panthers* but I thought I'd mention that I have once again been quoted in a national publication.
The new one is an article about inventory counts at Interstate and appeared in Industrial Distribution magazine's current 12-1 issue. I was also quoted in an older article about other Distribution issues. There's also one in TechWorld from last year, but their facts are so messed up it's embarrassing. I guess they didn't bother to actually check what I said. The concept of the article is right but the numbers and such are just messed up. But we are pretty much Microsoft free so that's a good thing.
I've been quoted in lesser known publications and newspapers, either as an expert on hurricane shutters from my role at Interstate or various hockey stories (generally in the Fishwrapper/Herald) and sometimes even some tech articles as the result of DAR Systems. Mostly I lie low now and these articles are all generally older.
* Murph, you know I'm kidding right? :) I mean the Panthers would charge you to use that title.
The new one is an article about inventory counts at Interstate and appeared in Industrial Distribution magazine's current 12-1 issue. I was also quoted in an older article about other Distribution issues. There's also one in TechWorld from last year, but their facts are so messed up it's embarrassing. I guess they didn't bother to actually check what I said. The concept of the article is right but the numbers and such are just messed up. But we are pretty much Microsoft free so that's a good thing.
I've been quoted in lesser known publications and newspapers, either as an expert on hurricane shutters from my role at Interstate or various hockey stories (generally in the Fishwrapper/Herald) and sometimes even some tech articles as the result of DAR Systems. Mostly I lie low now and these articles are all generally older.
* Murph, you know I'm kidding right? :) I mean the Panthers would charge you to use that title.
Monday, December 1, 2008
Scooter Update 4.3
I visited her today after work. She was less happy than yesterday but she cheered up quickly after I brought out her brush and treats. The vet staff is always amazed at how well she responds. (Her neighbour for this entire time, Cujo a Siberian husky, went home today.)
There is a delay in an answer until tomorrow while we wait on the Orthopaedic vet to collect the information and decide what to do and if anything can be done. No word on the other options. I did not speak to the vet today but not for lack of trying.
American Airlines denied my reimbursement for lost luggage expenses AFTER they told me they'd pay it. My pal Mr & Mrs Murph work there, but I will say AA just continues to blow me away. First, they lose my luggage. Second they give me a list of what I can and cannot buy. Then they give me the procedure to file the claim. Then they deny they claim saying it wasn't pre-authorized per company policy. They screw it up, I follow their instructions, and they won't do what's right. I have sent them a diatribe via certified mail today.
I am going to Dr Cohen tomorrow for a follow up about my MRI. I'm going to see if he'll x-ray my knee.
There is a delay in an answer until tomorrow while we wait on the Orthopaedic vet to collect the information and decide what to do and if anything can be done. No word on the other options. I did not speak to the vet today but not for lack of trying.
American Airlines denied my reimbursement for lost luggage expenses AFTER they told me they'd pay it. My pal Mr & Mrs Murph work there, but I will say AA just continues to blow me away. First, they lose my luggage. Second they give me a list of what I can and cannot buy. Then they give me the procedure to file the claim. Then they deny they claim saying it wasn't pre-authorized per company policy. They screw it up, I follow their instructions, and they won't do what's right. I have sent them a diatribe via certified mail today.
I am going to Dr Cohen tomorrow for a follow up about my MRI. I'm going to see if he'll x-ray my knee.
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