Lightnings Lair

Another quick week

2012-01-27T12:04:00.001Z

Another week that has gone by at a rate of knots, what have I been doing, did I manage to get done what I had set out to do, who knows in reality. Spent the week contemplating whether to buy an air compressor and airbrush, was it worth the cost, maybe for just a few model aircraft, but figured out that it could be employed on other things perhaps, my wife does quilting, and fabric paint could be used for special projects. Enough thinking, life is too short, so have ordered a kit. Will now be able to make a start on my Lightning model that was a birthday present, just a trip to the model shop in town this afternoon to get all the paint I require for the job.

Another little chore cropped up, as it was decided that my wife would take over the small bedroom as a sewing room, much warmer in the winter, and so a single bed has now been dismantled and the frame stowed in the garage, funnily enough, the sewing machine table purchased by my wife last year, fits perfectly in this room. Got to admit that the room will get used more as a sewing room than a bedroom. All my efforts of building a sewing room in the garage seem to have gone by the wayside and will now just be used as storage for fabric and anything else that can be fitted in there. A tidy up required in the garage now, another little job for me no doubt.

My wireless mouse batteries have given up the ghost now, still work, but need recharging after a short period of use, so have just ordered a new set. Just checked my mail, a brown envelope from HM Tax and Revenue, pleasant surprise, I have overpaid my taxes and am due for a refund of £450, very nice too as it will help to offset the heating bill for this winter, so a busy week and still a few days left.

EBay auction

2012-01-24T14:33:00.001Z

All went well, got a lot more than I had hoped for my two N Gauge locos, buyers paid same day too. Parcels were already wrapped and ready for the address labels, so got this done and dusted and off in the rain to the post office, where I was lucky to find that I had selected the correct postal charges for these items. Second class recorded delivery for each, and they are on there way to new homes. It is a pretty miserable day today, cold and wet, heating on earlier than normal.

Back to normal

2012-01-22T12:41:00.001Z

Today things are back to normal, internet and broadband working fine, laptop was confused with having two wireless connections, so had to disable the laptop built in LAN card, reboot and all OK, my wife can now play her games and stuff on Facebook at full speed without the connection dropping, one of the better fixes I have managed. Weather very windy and sunny out there, so not venturing out if I can help it. Quick look on eBay and my two items have been bid on, and the bidders are now getting their act together and with a day left.

No Broadband

2012-01-22T12:30:00.001Z

Yesterday, woke up to a no broadband situation, devastation and wondering what to do. It is a fact that the internet plays a significant part in ones life and to be without it doesn’t bear thinking about, especially when reliance is becoming the norm, I have two items being auctioned on eBay, with a finish date of Monday, and wondering how I will be able to complete the transaction without broadband. Spent the next couple of hours on the phone to BT or should I say Bombay Telecommunications going through all the usual step by step checks (already done by myself of course, before phoning.) Lets face it the BT page that popped up on firing up the browser told me that my BT Hub was not connecting to a broadband signal, so obvious it is not true. Although keeping my cool while being asked all the usual questions, took a lot of restraint, managed to get through the ordeal and was eventually told that a line fault had been logged and that engineers would be working on it ( although it could take 48 hours at the most), what am I paying for here?

The funny thing is all the BT engineering communication was picked up later on email, letting me know what they were doing ( too ironic as I had no way of getting the emails till the fault had been cleared.) Nevertheless some time in the evening I came back and checked my BT Hub router/modem to find that all was back to normal.

During the rest of the day I had received in the post, a usb wireless lan dongle I had ordered to see if it would improve the wireless signal that our laptop was getting. After figuring out how to install the software, plugged in the dongle, and hey presto it picked up full strength signal from my BT hub, some few rooms away, so at only £5.50 job done and laptop now cooking by gas. Time for a well earned sleep and relaxation after a frustrating day. Don’t you just love technology when it goes wrong.

EBay

2012-01-20T16:20:00.001Z

Last week or so, I made the decision to scrap the model railway project and concentrate on another hobby, leaving me with a few of the more expensive items to sell, ie: two locomotives, as no point keeping them around in a cupboard, so I listed them both on eBay at a reasonable price to see what I could recoup, money wise. Just checked out the sales and with 3 days left for the auction to run, have managed to get both items bid on at the base price. Hopefully there might be a few more higher bids yet, but at least they are sold one way or the other.

My intention is to buy a compressor and airbrush to start my new hobby, model aircraft building. Have a fair chance of making a better paint job of my planes as opposed to using a brush. Should get about the the right amount of money from the EBay auction. The bigger expense will be stocking up on paints.

A Winter’s day down by the Louth Canal

2012-01-17T15:31:00.001Z

Yesterday was a crisp and white frosty morning, so decided to take my camera and have a walk down by the canal to see what I could capture. Here are the results.

More tidying up

2012-01-15T16:31:00.001Z

Early spring cleaning underway, something to do while the weather is a tad too cold to be outside for long. Started a few days back, removed all my switches from my model rail baseboard which resides in the garage now, de-soldered all the cables and will remove all the track, points and point motors when it gets warmer.

Have advertised my two locomotives for sale on EBay, and one already has a bid, although will never get anything like my money back, still they have to go. Any money made will be ploughed back into buying an airbrush kit, for the newly acquired hobby of model aircraft building, brought on after one of my birthday presents was a 1/48 scale English Electric Lightning (seems I can’t escape the beast) and already having a 1/72 Lightning kit lying around from about 20 years back, decided to make a start.
All my scenic material will still be of use for my models, as I will do a diorama or two to mount the things on. Well 2012, a new year and a new hobby.

Tidy up day

2012-01-12T16:12:00.001Z

Decided to have a tidy up today, garage was getting to look like a storage area for anything and everything, so a few cardboard boxes flattened and in the recycling bin, checked out the back room in the garage to, where a freezer and fridge reside, lots of various soft drink cans needed filing in the fridge, so at least things look a bit tidier now.

Outside in the back garden, the fence panels have taken a bit of a battering during the recent gales, and it would appear that one of the fence posts has rotted at the base, and allowing the fence to move back and forwards in the wind. Will have to look at what was holding the fence post in and probably have to buy a metapost spike and new 3 x 3 post to fix the problem, always problems with fences unless proper concrete posts are used, these cost a few bob, but probably worth it in the long run. Just waiting till the weather gets a bit warmer before investigating further.

Had a sore throat for a day after the hospital visit, but seems to be settling down now. My wife has gone off to Nottingham today, heard the car start up at 7.45 this morning, so have been up since then keeping busy.

Survived the Gastroscopy

2012-01-10T20:58:00.001Z

Was dreading today and my visit to hospital, but now that the procedure is all done and dusted, have to admit, it was uncomfortable, but have had worse. My daughter picked me up in her car and drove me to the hospital, no waiting problems really, everything was explained to me and my decision was to go with the conscious sedation option (probably not the best choice) but anyway I was ushered into the waiting/recovery room where I had to remove my jumper and put on one of the fashionable robes (the tie at the back type) and a staff nurse asked me if she could practice inserting a cannula as she had just recently moved to the department and although able to do the job, was a bit rusty, so I agreed. I am not the best patient for finding veins on, but she did try several times and in the end failed miserably, so it was left to the surgeon to do.

Was wheeled into the operating room and lo and behold the surgeon a Mr Khan greeted me, remembering it was him that was treating me for peripheral vascular problems ( smoking induced ) so a friendly face and he again explained the procedure, sprayed my throat with an anaesthetic freeze, then inserted a cannula successfully first time in my other arm, got me to lay in the correct position and the gastroscope was down my throat in a second later, felt uncomfortable for a while but settled down, all of five minutes went by, with several biopsies being taken, then the scope was removed without discomfort.

Wheeled back to the recovery room and blood pressure checked three time at intervals, then asked if I could drink a sip or two of water to see if the freeze effect had worn off, so had a good drink and left for another half hour more blood pressure checks, then the best bit, was asked if I wanted a cup of tea and a biscuit, yes please, and found it most enjoyable after fasting for half a day or more. Finally allowed to get dressed and make my escape, was shown into a waiting room where the nurse explained what they had found and got a print out of the report which will be sent to the consultant who should decide on the action required to sort me out. Quick summary for those that are still reading this: small Hiatus Hernia, duodenal inflammation from where they took a few biopsies, might be a known type infection, the name I have forgotten, but can be treated by antibiotics. So now a waiting game to see what treatment is offered. I would find some nice diagrams to post, but think the narrative is enough for now. Onwards and upwards.

Ultrasound Test

2012-01-06T15:28:00.001Z

Today I visited the hospital for an ultrasound test of my abdomen to see what is causing me problems. Not too familiar with the hospital departments, but left home in plenty of time and in the end, found the ultrasound unit and was told to take a seat in the waiting room where they would come and get me when ready. My daughter arrived within 5 minutes of me sitting down, she said she wanted to accompany me on the tests I have to get. Couple more minutes and off we went into the ultrasound room, first thing after checking my ID was to dim the lights down, thought I was going to watch a movie.

Never had one of these before, so wondered what it was like, thought the gel used would have been cold, not so, they must warm it up before applying to said belly. About fifteen minutes later and getting used to the procedure, thought about asking to go back, two lovely young ladies some warm gel and I had forgotten what I was there for. Job done, and was told I had a few gall stones, apart from that everything else was where it should be and nothing untoward found. Came out feeling a darn sight better than when I went in. Back home and a welcome breakfast at 11.25 as I had to fast from the night before.

I get the weekend off, make the best of my birthday on Monday then on the Tuesday go back to hospital for more tests, this time a gastroscopy, which I am informed is not too bad, just a bit uncomfortable, then from the results of that test, the consultant may have a better idea what is wrong in the belly department and tell me what treatment is required, fingers crossed.

2012 and all it brings

2012-01-02T19:30:00.001Z

Here we are the beginning of another year and for me it was the quietest hogmanay I have spent, decided not to go to a party held by close family, instead had one glass of red wine, we both watched a few DVD’s and were abed just gone the witching hour. TV was terrible as usual with only Jools Holland to assimilate a Scottish New year party, I think the Borg made better simulations, only have to look at 7 of 9 to see what I mean.

Today we set about removing all the glitter, tinsel and Christmas tree decorations. The living room is looking a bit more minimalist now and all the gear stowed safely in the loft till a re-run next year. A vast improvement working outside to take some lights down, fingers never froze up this year, so have to be thankful for something.

History of Hogmanay

2011-12-30T11:53:00.001Z

My memories of Hogmanay starting from my youth, off down town, Dundee with half bottle of Bells whisky in back pocket, pub crawl with my mates, making our way to the city centre for the New Year Bells and rocket firing, wandering up the road, first footing relatives, usually my gran, then walking a good few mile home, arriving 3 or 4 in the morning, some breakfast and more booze at the neighbours, then a bit of a kip, then out again, this happy activity lasting at least a few days, oh! to be young again.

Last 10 or more years, usually spent at a relatives house, drinking, eating listening to music, chatter and nibbles, having to put up with Jules Holland for the New Year count down, then charging the glasses with the appropriate tipple, wish everyone a Happy New Year, sing a rendition of Ald Lang Syne then drift off homeward to bed.

This year, will be different, no venturing out, a quiet night in, good meal and a few glasses of claret, a wee dram as a toast for 2012 and off to bed. Enthusiasm seems to have declined along with youthful exuberance. Slangevar and have a good time whatever you are up to.

Christmas Day and Boxing day

2011-12-26T14:42:00.001Z

Christmas day started for me 9am casual approach, no rush, Santa had been and left a load of presents, luckily enough my malt whisky stash got replenished with two bottles of the best single malts. Had a phone call from my sister in Canada, they were just about to start their day and hopefully have a good time too. Visited my son out at Market Rasen for late breakfast, full fry up, well done Julia, opened all the presents and had a lovely time. Back home and time for Christmas dinner, son in law collected us by car and then up to his parents for dinner, a full house and joviality aided by copious booze and food, lots to catch up with, so had a good time. Time to walk home, absolutely stuffed full and managed to negotiate the footpath albeit muddy and puddle strewn, two carrier bags of gifts and sore legs, arrived back home, time for bed. Boxing day, lazy time up at around 9 am and set to preparing the house for our visitors arrival at somewhere around 3.30 ish. Caught up with emails and now having a break before starting a repeat of yesterday. Rest day tomorrow.

Has he been yet ??

2011-12-24T16:16:00.000Z

The next phase in the Christmas hustle and bustle is now looming, managed to get down town, took the opportunity to visit the bottle bank and dispose of all the empties accumulated, had to make room in the box for the Boxing day clan gathering to fill it up again. We were meant to be hosting them on Christmas day, but change of plan now. Hope all your stockings are full of surprises.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-23T15:48:00.001Z

May I take this opportunity to wish anyone out there who reads this Blog, a very Merry Christmas and a Happy new Year for 2012 hope that health, wealth and happiness is with you in the new year.

Lincoln County Hospital

2011-12-20T11:31:00.001Z

Yesterday morning my daughter drove me to the hospital, I was seeing a gastro consultant who would decide what tests were needed for my complaints. First time I have been to this hospital and was impressed at the speed and efficiency of my visit. Straight in to get my height weight and blood pressure checked, back to the waiting room, five minutes later the consultant came and collected me, we went to his surgery and spent a while with question and answer session, followed by a physical stomach examination, what was going to happen was explained to me in detail and leaflets given to back up what was said, all very reassuring and promises to keep me informed with test results as they happened. I am to have an ultrasound exam and also a gastroscopy sometime late January hopefully at Louth Hospital as it is nearer, so that is it for now folks.

Brass Monkey weather

2011-12-18T15:25:00.001Z

A week before Christmas and the weather has been to say the least, extremely cold, although we have managed to miss any precipitation of the white kind so far. Icy mornings have been apparent as have viewed the car windscreen from indoors and it is now I am glad that my days of travelling to work each morning, has ceased. Nice to look at, but much prefer to keep indoors and the warm. Am off to Hospital tomorrow morning, for an appointment with the Gastro consultant, guess he has to have a hands on approach to my problem, before coming up with a game plan, hopefully he does not find too much to give him or myself concern. My daughter is taking me there tomorrow, she is going to hold my hand, bless her.

Appointments

2011-12-14T16:04:00.001Z

Kept my doctors appointment this morning, assigned to a nurse practitioner, this is the fourth new person to have seen me since I phoned the doctors many months back. My wife came with me this time, she wanted to ask a few questions etc., as I seemingly don’t ask the right questions. Only kept waiting 5 minutes past my allocated time slot, the nurse looked as puzzled as me as to why I was there? The appointment had been made a while back by the surgery phoning me at home and arranging the date and time. Anyway I told her my life story and she ascertained that I was there for a blood pressure check, weight check and basically all to do with my newly found Chronic Kidney disease, stage 3 for the curious, in other words nothing to be too worried about, but needs monitoring.

Having scanned the computer monitor, the nurse said that it would appear that I have not had a blood pressure check for many a year, not true, just not recorded methinks, anyway I got tested on both arms, similar to getting two blood tests a few weeks back, must be a trend, double checking, maybe the American claim culture has reached the surgery now, as to the results, seemingly a tad on the high side, next appointment in January. Weight check, handed a 10p coin and told to go down the corridor find the machine put in the 10p coin and ticket with details was printed out, no weight change as I expected, so all duly recorded.

Next adventure is Monday 19th December, Lincoln Hospital and the Gastro Clinic, some consultant to assess what he thinks is up with my digestive system. I thought I was going for a endoscope examination, rather got my hopes up that the speed of the NHS was brilliant, not so. I will however ask them to book me in to Louth Hospital for the endoscope examination, why do I need to travel 26 miles, pay extortionate car parking fees for my visit, when Louth Hospital is just up the road. Fingers crossed this can be arranged.

Now that I have got that lot off my mind, thoughts return to Christmas and it is looking like moderation for me this year on the eating and drinking front, Christmas I can hack, but being a Scot requires a bit more participation at New Year or so they tell me. Anyway must keep smiling, “always look on the bright side of life” a good maxim sung by Eric Idle of Monty Python.

Frosty

2011-12-10T11:24:00.001Z

First severe frost of the year today, as forecast, woke up this morning to quite a white covering on roads, roofs and the car. Last year at this time we were having a load of snow and all the disruption that caused. Have a feeling that I will be crawling around the loft today, bringing down the Christmas decorations and the tree, one of those jobs that has to be done. This Christmas, it is our turn to host the dinner and all the clan, so a busy time ahead, the only time I feel the dishwasher earns its keep.

Model Rail decisions

2011-12-07T17:02:00.001Z

Sad to say, but my enthusiasm for continuing with my model railway has waned. Trying to think back the last time I did anything to the layout as it sits there gathering dust. Not even run any trains for months either, so the whole layout got dismantled today, stored in the garage for now. Now I have back all the much needed space in my bedroom and have rearranged the furniture somewhat. Hopefully some day I will get back the urge to carry on with the project. Will leave the build pages on my website for now in case anyone wants to have a read.

On the upside, it gave me a chance to sort out the garage to store all the timber, trestle and baseboard, sweep a pile of blown leaves out of the place and generally have a tidy up. Time for a rest now and contemplate what to do next, have a model Lightning in its box from 10 or more years back, could do with building, who knows I might create a Squadron of them as a new hobby.

December has arrived

2011-12-02T20:31:00.001Z

Here we are into December and the weather seems to know so also, as it has definitely gone colder these last few days, which means I will have to keep an eye on the temps in the garage, don’t want a repeat of last year where the pipes froze and pushed a compression joint apart, luckily spotted before it thawed out and flooded the garage. I do hope that my hospital appointment on the 19th at Lincoln will find what is causing me grief in the stomach department and hopefully sort me out. Embarrassing not being able to partake of more than a couple of glasses of wine before feeling like I shouldn’t have bothered. Could be a quiet Christmas and New Year this year. Getting older does have its drawbacks it seems.

Mid week and St Andrews day today.

2011-11-30T20:39:00.001Z

This week I have been doing a bit of work on my own website, changed the banner slightly, changed the photos in the slideshow to reflect more up to date material and created a new links page, so am pleased with the way it turned out.

Just remembered that being St Andrews day there would be the start of the Haggis hunting season and haggis spotting for the masses. The weather has been reasonable so far this week, but getting a lot colder now, so back to normal temperatures. Start of December tomorrow and all the hassle of Christmas decorations and other associated jobs will surely follow.

Strong winds hamper away day activity

2011-11-27T16:24:00.001Z

Yesterday I ventured back to Bruntingthorpe to play at Lightnings for the day, the journey started out at 08.00 hrs, nice looking weather and looking forward to a fund day. 1st setback we encountered a closed off road on our journey, result of a traffic accident, so were diverted or should I say followed the line of traffic in front, hopefully they were all going where we were. Eventually after a scenic route through small villages, we got back to our intended route, no thanks to the sat nav in these circumstances, useless. Arrived at our destination half an hour later than normal and luckily we were the first to arrive, so nothing lost so far. Sat in the car which was parked at the back of the Q shed, shortly there was the arrival of the troops, eager to get going and everyone suitably togged out in overalls, warm weather tops etc., prepared to take a Lightning out to stretch her legs and do some ground runs, and bits of maintenance. Unfortunately the wind had picked up to gale force proportions and it became clear that it was going to be unsafe to tow our Lightning outside, apart from being blown away, it would have been extremely hard to communicate in the conditions mentioned, and believe me, good communications are essential for safety if nothing else.

Resigned to the fact our plans had been thwarted on this occasion, we set about doing some maintenance and testing of the aircraft, inside the cosy, windproof Q shed. Soon it was time for lunch and everyone retired to the butty hut where we settled down to eat and discuss LPG matters, pulled up a few sandbags and generally had a nice chinwag. Having no further progress to pursue, it was decided to call it a day and we packed up and after bidding farewell to everyone, set out for home. A good day out nonetheless, but a shame about the weather. Next time.

Another week flies by

2011-11-25T19:11:00.001Z

Decided to get another doctors appointment this week, my stomach problem is not getting any better, and wanted to ask about what was next on the list for tests. I have an appointment with the nurse at the practice but that id weeks away, so got to see the doc on Wednesday, glad I went now as this doctor was able to tell me lots more than I knew already and has arranged an appointment for me at the Gastro Clinic in Lincoln Hospital on 19th December, It looks like I will be appearing in my own video, as they stick a camera down my throat and have a look round to see what is causing me grief. Apart from being told I have arthritis in a few lower spine discs, chronic kidney disease which I was told was nothing to worry about, bad circulation which has improved since I gave up smoking in June, all in all I will survive. Tomorrow am picking up my mate Pete and we are heading off to Bruntingthorpe to give some TLC to a poorly Lightning and hopefully doing a few engine runs if all goes to plan. As Eric Idle sung “always look on the bright side of life!!”

Dental treatment

2011-11-17T15:49:00.001Z

Today I went to the dentist to get my lower denture back, complete with two additional teeth, lovely work and will now be able to eat properly after 8 days of hard work. Weather has taken a turn for the worse in that the temperature has been dropping back to November levels, we certainly had a great run of warmer weather for a while. All the excitement of the Lightnings has subsided now, till the next visit. Wish Brunters was a lot nearer.

EE Lightning twilight reheat run

2011-11-13T13:36:00.001Z

Had a splendid day out at Bruntingthorpe yesterday, the weather was great and the Lightning performed a treat. We had a full house and then some, with only limited tickets (250) the event was well supported. Had a good few problems, with my camera trying to auto focus in the fading light, and missed a few highlights because of this. Next time a tripod will be used and also a remote trigger would help too, but managed to salvage a few shots of the event. Met lots of people to chat to and came away happy that from what I was hearing, they all appreciated the hard work that went into keeping the Lightning in good running condition. All in all a great day out. Today after watching the Cenotaph march past on TV, cut down some dead vegetation and as this is the last green waste collection of the year, half filled the wheelie bin. Came back indoors and processed my photos from yesterday, at least the ones worth keeping, now time to chill out for the rest of the day.

Last show of the year at Bruntingthorpe

2011-11-11T21:13:00.001Z

Tomorrow I am off to the last air show of the year at Bruntingthorpe, the Lightning Twilight reheat run. The weather should be reasonable according to the forecast. Have never taken any photos in the evening light before, so hoping I manage to get some good shots, may have to use manual focus if the auto hunts in the poor light. Had a phone call from the doctors yesterday and they made an appointment for me to see the nurse for more tests 14th December, am glad they are taking this seriously. My wife has decided to take a break (probably from me) and gone to stay with her friend in Norwich. coming back on Monday. I think this Monday coming is the last green garden waste collection till Easter, so hope to get out and do some pruning and tidying up on Sunday. Hope my daughter and son in law are enjoying their holiday in Kerala, could do with some nice warm weather here.

Well that is the 5th November gone

2011-11-06T16:16:00.001Z

Seemed rather quiet this year, not many fireworks to be seen from my house. It would be nice to think that the trick or treat event we inherited from the USA has or is on the way out. Maybe if this was limited to youngsters then that would be fine, but unfortunately teenagers get in on the act, and cause some aggro if they don’t like what you give them on the night. One year we had all the fruit we gave out, thrown in the front garden, obviously wanting money on that occasion. It used to be a family affair where the kids would visit nearby neighbours, unfortunately it seems anyone can turn up at your door, never to see them again, so not so good. On the other hand, it may be that I am getting older and can’t be bothered with it all now, most likely the truth. Never mind it will soon be Christmas, Bah! Humbug!!!!!

On the other hand my daughter and husband are of to Kerala, India on Tuesday, a belated 10th Anniversary treat, I wish I was going back there, one of the best places ever visited and the people are very friendly which makes it a pleasure too.

How things have changed for the better

2011-11-01T16:07:00.001Z

Reluctantly I made my way to the dentist this morning, knowing full well that 2 teeth were going to be removed, many years since I have undergone this pleasure and felt apprehensive to say the least. Everything was explained step by step and the anaesthetic was administered, followed by jaw and gums going numb. The taste of that anaesthetic is terrible by the way. 10 minutes later and both teeth were out, no messing and any thoughts of pliers tugging at each tooth was something that seems to have been replaced with modern tools. Not much pain thankfully and was on my way home, instruction leaflets on what to do next, and a supply of sterile gauze patches, in case they were required. Glad to say the anaesthetic has now worn off and feeling much better now. Just have to avoid sharp solid food for a few days till my gums heal , yoghurt for lunch and perhaps rice pudding for tea. Back at the dentist next week, lower denture now requires a makeover to complete the treatment.

Blood test No2

2011-10-31T10:00:00.001Z

Made it to the doctors at 7-50 this morning, 6th in the queue so not long to wait really. Discussion with the nurse about why I had to have a second test, revealed that the first one was showing a low count on the kidney function, hence another for verification. Will get the results back in a few days and hopefully OK this time. Tomorrow am off to get two teeth extracted, or what is left of the 2 teeth, it is all go. Will get the free bus in the morning, as our car is being used for more urgent matters, such as a quilting meeting and stuff. Halloween tonight, don’t expect any kids calling, none for the last few years, so nothing here for them if they do turn up.

New suite

2011-10-30T15:44:00.001Z

We bought a new suite of two 3 seater settees, the old leather ones although still in good nick, are getting a bit on the low side, or so my wife tells me, harder to get out of these days, and had to agree. The new settees are normal upholstery material with auto foot rests built in, and very comfortable too, a good sitting height being the selling point.

My son took one of our old settees, a 2 seater and collected it last weekend, so it was up to me to get the remaining 3 seater into the garage yesterday as the new stuff was being delivered between 11 and 2 pm. Struggled for quite a while on my own to eventually get the thing past two doors and into the garage, seemingly this is going to a good cause (women's refuge) where it will get used again. Had thought about EBay, but too much hassle.

Got to thinking, if I had all the hassle getting a slim line settee out earlier, wonder how the new stuff would manage, as it is a lot bulkier. Van arrived and the lads explained that with modern stuff, it is all modular, unpacked outside and brought indoors where it is all assembled, what a great idea, no mess and no problem getting through doors, job done and very comfortable. Now just the old settee to arrange collection for and that should be it all done.

Blood test result

2011-10-27T21:20:00.001+01:00

Surgery phoned today, saying that the doctor wants me to have another blood test, as the results were borderline????? borderline in what respect they would not say, so now have to go an get another massive needle bruise on my other arm, not happy at all. Monday will have to do at the earliest, plus a urine sample as well, wonder if they will let me in on the secret sometime soon. So a weekend wondering what they have found that needs looking in to. Might have a few drinks tomorrow evening to cheer myself up.

Appointment with a needle

2011-10-26T13:48:00.001+01:00

This morning saw me arise at 7.30 have a quick breakfast and of to the doctors for a blood test. Arrived at 8.15 am thinking that at that time of day there would not be many folks waiting for tests, wrong again, I was No 14 of the morning and just managed to get the last chair available. Half an hour later was back in the car heading home. Results can be up to 5 working days seemingly, so will phone them up on Tuesday to see if anything out of the ordinary was found. Next Tuesday, also my dental appointment to lose 2 teeth, and also more of my pension, paying for the treatment, so much for the welfare state and looking after its pensioners.

The joys of getting old

2011-10-25T16:19:00.001+01:00

Yesterday I made an appointment to see the doctor, stomach problems of unknown as yet diagnosis, got prodded about and asked if I wanted to do the bowel cancer test, which I did not participate in earlier this year, so agreed it would be a good idea. Meanwhile I have to have yet another blood test to see if anything shows up on that, so tomorrow will drop in at the surgery from 8am till 9.30am and get this test done, and with 5 days later and another appointment I should find out if anything has been detected.

My dental appointment was this morning, forgot to take my wallet and cash cards, but was seen anyways, was expecting one filling with perhaps another to follow, but on further inspection it was a case of the tooth is so badly damaged that another filling would not be worth doing (already had two in that tooth) so it would appear that the solution is to extract two teeth, and would I like him to start now? ……….. hold on a minute, was not expecting this, so made an appointment for next Tuesday, 1st November and will have them removed then.

Maybe the government should start issuing serviceability checks for seniors, on a regular basis to avoid other undetected ailments.

Whilst my return trip into town to pay for my dental appointment/treatment, I collected my meds from the chemist, paid for and arranged delivery of our new suite which will be delivered on Saturday. Am cream crackered after today's exploits.

A mixed week

2011-10-19T12:01:00.001+01:00

Quite a variation of stuff happened last week, weather changed to very autumnal and is most definitely cooler now. Trimmed the hedge and tidied up the garden whilst still dry outside. Hedge looks good and ready for the winter, roses all pruned as well, have to get all the cuttings and garden refuse in the green wheelie bin soonest as the council; stop collections of green stuff in November.
Helped out down my daughters house, her bathroom is getting a facelift, new loo, basin and tiled walls, I was asked to do the grouting and a tight schedule was worked as my daughter was unaware of this, as she was on holiday in Benidorm with a young lass from her work. all expenses paid. Her husband doing this as a surprise. They all managed to get the job done for her return yesterday afternoon.

Have just added some more of my favourite music tracks to my project, still in the early sixties period, but classics in my opinion.

Anyone remember these two?

Drop in temperature

2011-10-07T17:00:00.001+01:00

The last few days have reverted to Autumn weather, wind rain and 14 degrees F today, feels like early winter, some heating may be required later this evening I fear. Have been staying indoors creating an account of music I have listened to since my interest started in the 50’s, adding just my favourites as I go along, amazing the diversity of rock and pop. Researching what music was being played back then is made easy with the internet and Google, so am managing to get the songs in chronological order instead of guess work. Was reminded of an important occasion I had since forgotten, the Pirate radio stations that sprung up in 1964 with Radio Caroline, the pirate radio stations were closed down in 1969 by a Labour Government led by Harold Wilson, their emergence was due to the BBC not playing, or slow on the uptake to play modern music. Great days with lots of memories.

Double Glazing

2011-10-05T15:58:00.001+01:00

Yesterday, the Louth Glass Co van arrived at 9.30am and began the fitting of a replacement window in our Lounge, amazing how quick they get the old windows out. New window fitted and as they were fitting the glass unit, it cracked. The fitter phoned the warehouse and they said a replacement would be ready in a few hours, so off they went to fit a new window and door in the garage. Garage window fitted and looking good. The fitter went off in the van leaving his mate to remove the old garage door and tidy up ready for his return. Van arrived back, new glass unit fitted in the lounge, looks good. After making them yet another cup of tea, the two fitters got on with the new door, leaving the old one for me to saw up ( my wife said that our son would have the wood for his wood burning fire). New door fitted and what a difference it makes, seals are spot on and should provide a bit more heat retention this winter hopefully. First time I used this company and found them very professional although am still left with a few bits to plaster, as silicone sealant does not cover large areas of missing plaster. All in all well pleased. Removed glass from old door, well it nearly came out on it’s own as the wood was a bit rotten, then sawed the remaining frame in car sized bits for transporting later on in the week.

October heat wave

2011-10-02T16:12:00.001+01:00

Yesterday was the first day of October, temperatures soared to record high’s since 1985. Set out at 8am, picked up by my mate Pete and headed for Bruntingthorpe airfield. The intention was to drag a Lightning out of the shed, for ground runs to check out both engines, both having been fitted this year and this was her chance to come to life after watching her sister aircraft doing all the entertaining this year. Even up on the airfield it was really hot when the aircraft was towed out and chocked on the end of the runway. Sadly she did not want to play ball, giving several failed start sequences and eventually when both engines did run, there was several problems which require attention. To say the team were downhearted was putting it mildly and eating lunch was a bit subdued on this occasion. Bear in mind that the English Electric Lightning was always temperamental at best, down right obstinate at worst. Back to the drawing board I guess.

Early rise

2011-09-26T14:53:00.001+01:00

Lots of noise and activity this morning, rubbish bin emptied before 8am, followed by vehicles arriving in the close. The council are laying a top surface to the pavements outside out properties, consisting of tar slurry with fine chippings, so no more sleep for me and an early breakfast. The surface just laid at 2pm and needs an hour to dry seemingly. Phoned the Double glazing firm to arrange a date an time for them to come and fit our windows and door, ordered a few weeks back, so Tuesday the 4th Sept between 9 and 10am the job should be done and another home improvement which will save sanding and painting, has to be a good move.

The warmer weather has arrived as forecast, and am making the most of sitting outdoors, while it is still possible, the back garden digging completed at the weekend, so just general tidying up left now before autumn returns. Must get my camera out and head for the canal soon, to catch some shots of the last of the summer foliage.

This week

2011-09-20T15:50:00.001+01:00

This week it has been pretty miserable weather wise, rain and lots of cloud making it a stay indoors activity so far. Could be a chance for me to get on with some model rail building if I can summon up some energy from somewhere. Firstly I have to make up a crossword puzzle for a much visited forum, so that should keep me busy for a few hours at least.

Update on the crossword puzzle, had a look at the last puzzle download and only 8 people tried it, so not worth my time and effort for that small amount of people. Had a trip down town to collect my prescription from the chemist, this free bus is great, hope it lasts in this economic climate.

Remnants of the Hurricane

2011-09-15T16:50:00.001+01:00

The American hurricane eventually hit our shores Monday, luckily enough the worst of it spent, we got 70-75 mph winds though, enough to cause some damage in the UK, although not too bad in Lincolnshire. Had also been very overcast till today when the sun came out and the wind almost gone, so got a fair bit done in the garden. Think I will need to go see the doctor about my right hip, causing me a lot of grief, so will need to find out what is wrong with it soon. The next few days are forecast rain, so may have to stay indoors for a bit.

Bruntingthorpe Lightning Maintenance

2011-09-11T18:42:00.001+01:00

Yesterday saw myself and my mate Pete head off on a dull overcast morning at 7.30 hrs arriving at Bruntingthorpe just gone 9. Purpose of this trip, to refit a No2 Engine to one of the Lightnings in the QRA Hangar. Forecast was for a mainly dry day with occasional light showers, so getting this engine in was paramount before any rain came. In the end there was a brief sprinkling of rain, not enough to curtail the operation. Great meeting of friends as it turned out and everybody got stuck into moving the aircraft outside and preparing the engine for lift by crane into the top of the Lightning. Mission was accomplished and then lunch break, when the sun came out and all there were sat out in the sun, packed lunches at hand and time to pull up a sandbag during the break. You can see why it is easy to get involved with this group, they are all friendly guys with the same purpose in life, keep the two Lightnings as serviceable as time, spares and know how exists, as it surely wont last forever, so make the most of it whilst it lasts.

Double Glazing

2011-09-05T10:58:00.001+01:00

In the process of getting a few quotes for double glazing the garage door and window as the ones in there are well past their sell by date and useless, the door at present is of the wooden variety and the frame has been patched up so many times now that it is mostly filler. We also have a leaking glass unit in the living room which need replacing, so best get it all sorted out before winter gets here. Had two quotes so far, one being almost double the first one, so will be interesting to see what the 3rd quote is, due in 10 minutes. Am off down town this afternoon, have to get some 10mm bolts and nuts to repair a tree lopper that had a bolt shear the other day, always something needs repairing. Saturday I am driving back to Bruntingthorpe with my friend, a Lightning engine needs fitting, this time a No2 engine, which requires the hire of an industrial crane for the day and is very expensive, so hope that the weather hold for the day.

Excitement of the weekend now history

2011-08-31T16:16:00.001+01:00

Eventually come down from the excitement and buzz of the aviation weekend and back to normality. There is the prospect of returning to Bruntingthorpe on the 10th September to install a N02 engine in the other unserviceable Lightning, that plus a 5 Squadron meet at the old RAF Binbrook base this Saturday if the weather is fine. Methinks the summer weather has deserted us for the time being, cloudy most days and temperatures very autumnal and disappointing for the time of year. Hopefully a return to some warmer weather soon as I need to get some cycling exercise done soon.

Day out at Bruntingthorpe CWJ open day

2011-08-29T15:26:00.001+01:00

Had a brilliant time yesterday, weather was a bit overcast at times, but a good show of aircraft doing high speed runs and a visit from the Battle of Britain flight Hurricane was a bonus. Had intended visiting a few more aircraft on display, but got caught up at the Lightning QRA shed most of the day chatting to old mates and catching up with lots of news. Our Pilot for the day was Dennis Brooks

Was also good to see the smile and excitement of this lucky lass who managed to secure a seat in a Jet Provost for a fast taxi run piloted by John Ward, also a Lightning Pilot.

That is the end of the season for CWJ Open days, although there will be at least a Lightning Twilight ground run in November to end the 2011 Bruntingthorpe displays. Meanwhile there is always ongoing engineering activity being done on both the Lightnings to ensure that they will be able to entertain the public in the future.

Testing out a few browsers

2011-08-26T16:07:00.001+01:00

Normally Firefox is my browser by choice, but lately it wont save my log in details and is annoying me,have tried everything suggested in Google with no luck. Have given Maxthon3 a good workout over the last few months and although reasonable, lacks the add ons and extensions that make browsing easy. Decided to give Google Chrome another bash today, and found it has improved a lot since my last attempt, managed to import all my Firefox bookmarks too and have found most of the add ons I have been used to, so will give it a good work out now.

Only a couple of days and off to Bruntingthorpe, looking forward to the trip and am set on just doing photo work this time, catch up on all the other aircraft too, as well as the Lightnings. Will have a closer look at the Buccaneers this time round, have just joined the Buccaneer Aviation Group forum and will take a few shots for them too. Worked on the Buccaneer for 3 years out in Germany, so have an interest in them also.

Ibuprofen

2011-08-23T15:32:00.001+01:00

Finally succumbed to a couple of these pills last night, my back playing up and was giving me some grief, seemed to do the trick. Much better today mind you, so hopefully getting over the pain now. Weather was forecast to be torrential rain today, but all we have had was a small shower of perhaps a few hours, but a welcome sight and will do some good in the garden for sure. Getting excited about going back to see the Two Lightnings and all the other performers at Bruntingthorpe Airfield this Sunday, will try and get some photos, and hopefully the weather will play nicely too.

Exciting day

2011-08-19T15:22:00.001+01:00

Lovely sunny hot day and should be doing some digging, but alas have hurt my back, so not for a few days yet. Decided to use my free bus pass this afternoon and collect my meds from the chemist, lovely ride down town and an hour spent wandering round a DIY store, back home and chilling out on the sun lounger now. It is such a hard life.

Hard drive 2.5”

2011-08-18T15:05:00.001+01:00

New portable hard drive successfully formatted using the laptop, took about 5 hours mind you. Plugged the thing into my PC and still not recognised. although power LED was lit up. Hunted out a powered 4 port USB hub, connected up the drive and this time the PC recognised the drive, problem being not enough power from pc USB socket, have now backed up all my important stuff from my PC and mission accomplished.

Weather a bit dull and cool today, just as well really as my back is having a rest from the pain inflicted on it yesterday while digging in the garden. Won’t do any harm to have a rest for a day or so and a hot bath will be required tonight I think. Getting old is such a bind at times.

Oh the pain!!

2011-08-17T17:23:00.001+01:00

Started on the back garden cleanup today, this digging lark is no joke, my back has had enough for one day, rest time now. My hard drive enclosure came today, fitted drive and plugged in to USB port, plug and play indeed, drive did not even register on the PC, so tried it in the laptop and that found the drive, so am now formatting the thing, which at the speed it is going, should be finished by midnight. Computers, unfortunately are a requirement in this modern world. Hopefully should have a good 250gig portable drive sometime tonight.

Laptop

2011-08-16T19:13:00.001+01:00

Got my new hard drive, fitted it to the old laptop and now find out that the display has gone, so old laptop now getting used for spares. Ordered a 2.5 USB hard drive enclosure to make use of the hard drive, can use it to store files on instead, also will be able to hot plug the drive to any PC and make use of it that way. Have been working on the front garden for the last week or so and finally got rid of the weeds for now. Will need to start on the back garden next, a few shrubs and old plants to remove and make room for some new ones, digging will be required for this effort. I remember when digging was a mere annoyance, now it is a major operation with bad effects to the body, aches and pains being the order of the day.

Home alone

2011-08-12T18:58:00.001+01:00

Once again I have become a quilt widower, wife is in Birmingham, well away from the riots taking place. Not a very good week weather wise, managed to get some weeding done in the front garden, but not so nice today. Had a Chinese curry which was to say the least crap, will stick to Indian curries from now on, although must admit the wine is going down a treat. 7pm on a Friday night and merry already, can’t be bad. Hope tomorrow is a bit brighter so I can get the weeding finished. have also got a 250 gig hard drive on its way from Ebay to fix a Toshiba laptop I have lying around doing nothing, hope it arrives tomorrow.

Collecting a Cabinet

2011-08-10T11:31:00.001+01:00

Yesterday saw me tag along in our car, to Mansfield, Nottinghamshire to collect an eBay purchase my wife had bought, a sewing machine cabinet which is required for winter sewing, the garage gets just a tad too cold and heating it is pointless when the work can be done indoors during the winter. Eventually found the address, no thanks to the sat nav and the cabinet fitted neatly in the car boot. 3 and a half hours complete journey time. Today my wife is getting organised for a 5 day stay in Birmingham, Quilt festival of the year, leaves at 2pm and will be back Sunday sometime, will be very quiet for a bit.

Digital Switchover

2011-08-03T15:19:00.001+01:00

Today was our TV digital switch over day, stage 1, sure enough switched on TV this morning and no signal as expected, tuned the freeview box in and all looks well so far. stage 2 is later on this month so don’t expect any problems. So far our existing Arial appears to be adequate, so no extra expense. Decided to wash the car today as it was nice and sunny, got the job done by lunch time only for a thunder clap and half an hour of rain, needless to say the rain has since gone.

Engine fit

2011-07-31T15:28:00.002+01:00

Went up to Bruntingthorpe airfield yesterday, left here at 0800, picked up my mate Pete and headed towards Leicester, roadwork's on the dual carriageway system are still ongoing and 40mph for miles, with speed cameras enforcing it. Got to our destination 10.00 and were the first to arrive. Eventually the gang arrived, same group that removed the engine months back, so that was a bonus as we all worked together fine. Was asked to check out the engine bay firewire loop while the others were having lunch (we had ours half an hour earlier) was given a length of good firewire to complete the loop, then it was a case of switching on the battery and trolleyac power, batter master and instrument master switches, press to test on the SWP and checking the No1 fire warning caption lit, going out when the test switch was released, all worked fine. The lads did a final check of the engine bay, then the engine was wheeled into position on a trestle, 4 mini hoists were connected and away she went. Several other items had to be checked for integrity as the engine was hoisted fully home. A few components being connected before finally , the fitting of the main engine bearer bolts. A job successfully completed and without any damage on the way in. By now it was nearing time for us to make the 2 hour trip back home, dinner, a glass or two of wine and a snooze, completing a lovely day out. No photos this time round, too busy working, perhaps some others got a few shots, will have to wait and see.

Last Smoking clinic visit

2011-07-28T16:03:00.001+01:00

Made my last visit to the smoking clinic today at 3.30 and was officially declared a non-smoker. Must admit that I am more surprised than anyone to have managed it, after only 2 week of the max strength patches, just shows what a bit of will power can do, without it there is no hope (speaking from many years of experience). Now I just have to start eating less and lose some stomach size. Win one and lose another it seems.

XR728 Awaits an engine refit

2011-07-27T11:34:00.002+01:00

Looks like the long awaited trip to Bruntingthorpe is scheduled for this Saturday, all the preparation has been done over the last few months and the No1 ECU is ready to go back in. Remarkably all the major problems with firewire elements have been overcome and other niggles sorted too. Am looking forward to meeting up with the lads and getting the engine installed. Even got myself a set of overalls at last, so should look the part if nothing else. My turn to do the driving this time round, so should give my mate a chance to relax for a change. The No2 ECU has still to be refitted sometime soon and hopefully that will be the next mission. Meanwhile the next open day at Bruntingthorpe is Sunday 28th August for anyone interested in an enjoyable day out.

What fun

2011-07-21T19:13:00.002+01:00

The last two days have been different from normal, logged into an ex-forces forum to find that the MOD had sent the webmaster a message to the effect that he was in breach of copyright, using the RAF logo and they issued a threat to sue if it was not removed. Interesting to see all the correspondence on this matter get bigger by the hour. I found it really odd that the initial email should demand the webmaster to get in touch immediately, not ask or request as would be the norm. I do wish the MOD would get a new leader who can control these individuals from upsetting us veterans over such trivia. Have a look here to get the drift. Hopefully things will settle down soon.

Dull week

2011-07-14T15:56:00.002+01:00

Been a bit of a dull week here, no rain as such just loads of cloud. Removed a few wall mounted bookshelves in the small bedroom and am now painting the re=plastered area where the wall plugs were. Much better weather today, so have been outside making the most of it. Off down the pub tonight, two family birthdays to celebrate so am having some food and a few drinks whilst enjoying the company. Am still not smoking and well pleased I have managed to quit this time.

Doing fine

2011-07-08T09:28:00.002+01:00

Attended my doctors appointment yesterday, saw the nurse and did the test for anti-smoking progress, all was as expected and passed no problem, next appointment in 3 weeks. Have dispensed with the patches since a few weeks back as the initial strong ones did the job and don’t feel the need to use them, but they are there just in case.

Had to relocate my working water butt as one of the pair sprung a leak and was dispatched to the recycle centre, the working one is now full to overflowing due to the recent week of downpours, so looks like job done for that one.

Weekend on my own

2011-07-04T19:44:00.002+01:00

My wife was down visiting her friend in Norwich over the weekend so I got some work done in the garden, lining a concrete path with old breeze blocks, still have a few left to lay, but had made a big improvement so far. Surprised how things have managed to grow this year, with the lack of rain. Thursday is another step in my stop smoking effort, have to go back to see the nurse at the surgery and do the carbon monoxide test, but am quite happy that so far have not been tempted to light up, so yet another record for me. Stopping seems to be the easy bit, staying off the weed is the bit that takes the biggest effort, but am sure the temptation will diminish given time and some will power too.

Water Butt

2011-07-02T19:32:00.002+01:00

One of our water butts has sprung a leak for the last time, I have repaired this many times before with fibreglass matting, but this time, have decided that it has had it. Had to saw the thing in half to get it in the car boot, but eventually managed to get it to the recycling centre. The lads up there said that it had been a record year for leaking water butts, due to the harsher than normal winter and they were using quite a few as bins to collect stuff in, so still being of some use. The weather has been really hot and sunny this weekend so far, so nothing getting done at all, lazing out on the patio.

Lazy week

2011-06-24T16:55:00.002+01:00

Nothing much to report this week, apart from still not smoking after nearly 3 weeks, something of a record for me. Been a week of very unsettled weather with rain most days, but predicted to be fine for the next few days with sun promised. Don’t know if you noticed, but Firefox 5 is available for download!!! can’t keep up with the updates, although I tend to let them settle down before installing, as usually half the add -ons don’t work with new versions. Well that is about all the excitement for this week.

Visit by the Police

2011-06-19T16:25:00.002+01:00

Busy minding my own business when a police car drove up my drive, fortunately it was my son delivering my fathers day card whilst at work, no blues and twos thankfully, but great to see him and the smashing card he brought round.

My daughter arrived a while later with a card and a nice bottle of red wine and selection of cheeses to accompany it. She is off to Centre Parcs in Sherwood forest tomorrow for a week with the the family, had a look at her accommodation on the web and it is fantastic, prices are really good too.

Revamped tunnel construction

2011-06-18T12:40:00.002+01:00

Some progress being made on the revamped tunnel framework, still some extra supports to glue on yet, but coming along nicely now. Weather has turned a bit unsettled today, so should get a bit more done. MDF seems the way forward for this job, easy to cut and work with and very strong so should handle the paper and PVA that will be added when ready.

Had an eBay selling session last week, sold my slide copier and a reclining, massage chair which had little use and was taking up valuable space, easy transactions and the chair was collected yesterday to a happy bidder.

Well Happy

2011-06-16T21:15:00.002+01:00

Had to visit the doctors today, check up on the anti-smoking course progress, blew into the carbon monoxide machine and was told that not a trace of this was evident. Prescription for the next set of patches Stage 2 will be ready for collection next week. I still have two weeks of stage 1 to complete yet, but doing well so far.

Locked out of a website

2011-06-15T16:17:00.001+01:00

First time for everything, was logging in to a website and got the password wrong 3 times, it would appear the site has locked out my ISP. Made progress with my tunnel construction today, have made the framework out of 9mm MDF and the glue is setting as I type, will add some more reinforcing struts tomorrow when the basic shape has set. Have a better idea how to proceed now, thanks to my first attempt going wrong. Have been advised that it would be a good idea to fit a CDU (capacitor discharge unit to) to my point motors, safety from them burning out. Was going to buy the bits and make my own, but looking at the price of ready made ones, I think it will be cheaper just buying one.

Weather is hot

2011-06-14T15:57:00.002+01:00

Had lots of plans to get on and do stuff today, but the weather is so nice, I am relaxing on a sun lounger outside in the back garden instead. All the plans on hold till a rainy day. Happy days. Aint retirement grand

Back to the drawing board.

2011-06-13T15:57:00.002+01:00

Had a go at building my model rail tunnel, using card, paper soaked in PVA, the idea was good, but unfortunately the structure was not strong enough to stay in the original shape when the paper dried out, warping quite a bit. All part of the learning process and at least I can now go and build a stronger frame to support the PVA paper layers, which do work well. Have completed my first week using my patches and have to report that they are working well, getting less and less urges to light up, although the waistline is getting a bit bigger along with my appetite, but am determined to succeed.

Day7 No smoking regime

2011-06-12T10:10:00.002+01:00

All’s well and getting better by the day, certainly feeling better for the reduction in carbon monoxide intake. Just got to keep busy and my mind off tobacco. Will continue with my tunnel construction today. After tomorrows report, will post a weekly update as I’m sure you are all getting a bit bored with this now.

Day6 No smoking regime

2011-06-11T12:21:00.001+01:00

Here we are still not had another ciggie. It does help to keep busy I find. takes your mind off the weed as well. So today I got some dilute PVA glue in a tray and started building up my tunnel area scenery, a base to work on when dry, add a few mounds, dips and hollows. Was impressed with how easy it is to work with this method, just need to let it all dry before more sculpting is added.

Day5 No smoking regime

2011-06-10T11:23:00.001+01:00

Still sticking to the program, it would appear to be working. A lot of willpower in the equation too, but it is the longest time that I have gone without a smoke for quite some time. Fingers crossed.

Day4 No smoking regime

2011-06-09T19:14:00.001+01:00

Still sticking with the regime, no smokes today. These patches seem to be having an effect this time round, whereas the last time I ventured down this route, they seemed not to have any effect. Sorry if I’m boring you all, but have to convince myself somehow.

Day3 No Smoking regime

2011-06-08T17:22:00.001+01:00

Well the patches seem to work fine, no smokes at all today, long may it continue. Eyes tested yesterday and just a minor prescription change to my left eye, the reason I went in the first place. Now to decide which of my many frames I want to have the new lenses glazed into. Did I mention I used to work as an optical technician in another life.

Tried using my Canon CD/Label printer software yesterday, won’t fire up at all, tried updated version and same problem, just does not like Vista. Got bored with it so downloaded another CD label printer program and that works a treat. My printer can print direct to the disc and makes life much easier, no sticky labels that keep unsticking.

Must try and get some more model railway stuff done, always something else crops up.

Another week gone by

2011-06-07T10:50:00.001+01:00

And lots going on, decided that I needed a set of coveralls for my next encounter with the mighty Lightnings, looks the part and keeps my clothes from getting dirty too. Local Army surplus in Louth, came up with the goods and now with squadron patches sewn on, fit for purpose. Who would have thought 28 years after leaving the RAF that would be required.

Then to the doctors, anti-smoking clinic to get myself some patches which hopefully this time will get me off the ciggies, am determined to do the whole course this time. Yesterday had a couple of ciggies in the morning, applied the patch, didn’t need a smoke all day. Woke up this morning, had one ciggie, applied the patch and they do seem to work well. Tomorrow going to try and give up the morning ciggie altogether.

Last week made an appointment to have my eyes tested, distance vision has deteriorated since my last test, a few years ago, so today I will go and see how things have changed, get a prescription and then decide where to get my specs glazed with the new prescription.

Things are slowly progressing with the model railway, time to get some scenery done now and practise using newspaper soaked in PVA to build the hilly areas. Who said retirement was boring, never have enough time in the day to do all I want.

A Good day out

2011-05-30T15:10:00.001+01:00

Sunday and a trip back to Bruntingthorpe for the CWJ open day. This time round there were lots more attractions, the Vulcan had flown in yesterday and was on static display, flying out at the end of the show. 3 Buccaneers all doing fast taxi’s together, a great sight to watch. A few flypasts of jet provosts, venom, sea kings one JP landing after his flypast. The Vulcan drew in a lot of extra people who had not been to this venue before and some never heard of the place till yesterday, so a few more followers for the future. I spent a bit of time in the Q Shed answering questions on the Lightning, thoroughly enjoyed that too, was amazed at the interest shown. Did not take many photographs of the aircraft on display this time round, but had a good wander round the statics.

Noisy Computer Fan

2011-05-28T14:16:00.001+01:00

I have been getting really annoyed at the high frequency whine from my computer processor fan lately and as happened I read an article on fan speed reduction software, something I had no considered before. Downloaded the application Speedfan and gave it a try, the program picks up any fan that has heat sensors and allows you to monitor them, and depending on your motherboard allows you to control the speed of the fans. I was lucky to be able to take advantage of this and now my PC runs a lot quieter at last, wish I’d found this program years back now. In my case I can change the CPU and Video card fans, now running at 70% speed and what a difference, have spent quite a while monitoring the temperatures to ensure they are stable and found this to be fine. You can set lower limit speeds. to ensure that nothing overheats. Added the program to my start-up files and will monitor things over the next few days to ensure all is OK. Well worth a try.

New website pages

2011-05-24T13:07:00.001+01:00

Made the decision to make more use of my web space and publish a series of pages on the construction and slow progress of my N Gauge model railway project, the pages will be added to as I go along and hopefully prove interesting at the same time. Got to say thanks to my mate Gordon here, as many invaluable tips were passed my way.

Have made the decision to stop smoking yet again, but this time with help from the anti-smoking clinic at my doctors, (appointment made for next Tuesday) intend to go back and have a real attempt this time using Zyban, this being tried by me once before and was the nearest I came to quitting, managed about 3 weeks but unfortunately did not know you could get repeat prescriptions then, lack of communication I think. Wish me luck.

This Sunday sees me going to the Cold War Jets Open day at Bruntingthorpe, where a new addition to the collection will be fast taxied, namely the Nimrod, should be an excellent day out as long as the weather holds. Sunday also sees the departure of my sister in law, for home (Canada), she has spent 5 weeks over here with us and has had a good time I think.

Platform Construction

2011-05-16T12:36:00.001+01:00

Have spent a few weeks deliberating on platform construction, came up with MDF for the base, applied scalescenes red brick paper to the edges. Platform tops constructed from 1mm plasticard and scalescenes flagstones paper applied. I think it looks fairly realistic when finished and will look much better when the platforms are populated with a few figures, walkway over the lines and seats etc., so am fairly happy with the results so far.

All back to normal

2011-05-13T18:34:00.001+01:00

Normal as in wife back from Cornwall trip, it would appear that they had a good time and saw most of what they set out to see. I must be getting forgetful, had a letter from the hospital saying that I missed an appointment last week, forgot to write it on the calendar, oops, they have given me another one luckily enough. Have managed to get some work done on the model railway and almost completed my platforms now. Next step is to build some scenery and tunnels at the back of the layout, just ordered a couple of tunnel faces and sides to enable me to start work on it next week, something different and looking forward to the challenge. Weather has got decidedly cooler this week, although still some sunshine, we are still in need of some rain, and that is forecast for tomorrow.

Thunder

2011-05-09T18:50:00.001+01:00

Have been waiting on the rain coming for weeks now, up till now just one heavy shower, but have just heard some thunder and it is raining a bit, fingers crossed for a decent shower. Tomorrow sees my wife and sister in law return from their visit to the west country, think they have visited all the places they wanted, so decent meals for me again.

Lovely Day

2011-05-07T23:21:00.001+01:00

Had a call from my son in law today, pick you up at 7pm and a meal at our house. 7pm duly picked up, stopped off at the new pub in Louth “The gas lamp” real ale and superb it was too, back to their house for tea, a brilliant beef curry made by Matthew and have to admit he is the curry chef of the moment. Great meal and excellent company, so thanks to them both for the invite, made my day or maybe that should read my month. Thanks again for thinking of me and the invite to share a brilliant evening.

Polling Day

2011-05-05T19:14:00.001+01:00

The excitement of voting !! Cycled up to the polling booth this morning, as the car is on holiday with my wife and sister in law, Lands end today I believe. Had the honour of casting a proxy vote for my wife after instruction on who and what to vote for on her behalf. It was a nice day for a short bike ride and there were only 2 candidates for election to the council, conservative and labour and as it turned out only the conservative candidate decided to appear at the polling station to greet voters, sums it up for labour really.

Visitor to the garden

2011-05-04T19:41:00.001+01:00

There I was sitting out in the garden in the sun, having just topped up the bird feeder with dried mealworm, when a visitor dropped in and scoffed the lot. Was amazed that it did not mind me being about 5 foot away either.

Peace and Quiet

2011-05-03T11:30:00.001+01:00

It is now over a week since my sister in law hit these shores, great time catching up with things. On Sunday both my wife and her sister took off for two weeks visiting Cornwall, Stonehenge and various other sights along the way. I am playing catch up on the model railway, trying to finish off my platforms and generally making progress. Yesterday decided to patch up the grubby state of the utility room, plastering cracks and the like, managed that OK, then went out and looked for the matching paint to finish the job off, no such luck, the original paint is not there, probably thrown out at some stage. The new paint job will have to wait a while now as am not in the mood of moving all the gear out of the room to do it. Nothing really going to plan, but will get the job done sometime. Meanwhile might just take advantage of the sun and loaf about on the sun lounger, I can do this now I have retired.

Airport Duties

2011-04-26T14:39:00.001+01:00

Yesterday had to go to Humberside airport to collect my sister in law, KLM flight from Amsterdam, she is over here for 5 weeks holiday from Canada. Flight was bang on time too. Starting to build some more platforms on the model railway, had run out of suitable material, so today have just been down to the builders merchants and got myself some wooden mouldings that will do the job, so should get on with the job now. Had tried last week to get similar mouldings from Focus DIY but was not paying their prices, have got twice the amount now for less than the price of Focus one piece, pays to look around.

Hi Lightning

2011-04-25T04:44:00.000+01:00

Getting organized here. Good to see you all active there.

Gable Ends

2011-04-21T18:56:00.001+01:00

Have been toying with the idea of fitting dry verge to my roof, it seems a good way to stop the weather getting at the cemented ends and negates the need for re=pointing too. Having said that, I have re-pointed the cement work today, involved climbing ladders, but got the job done safely. Whilst the ladders were out, took the opportunity to wash down all the fascia and soffits (UPVC) as they have not been done for a few years. All in all a nice day in the sun.

This week has been sunny

2011-04-20T12:44:00.001+01:00

And time to get out and on with some tidying up, find it amazing how many weeds sprout up when your back is turned, but so far keeping on top of it. Had my daughter visit yesterday, new laptop and requiring some software adding, job done and a happy customer. My wife has just bought a new mobile phone, a Samsung Galaxy touch screen job, makes my phone look positively antique, not that I use it much. My daughter is changing her phone soon, and is giving me her old one, a Blackberry, so will have to find out how to get the thing unlocked so I can use my sim card in it. Technology has certainly advanced at pace.

We are expecting my sister in law from Canada to arrive for a 5 week stay next week, and are getting the spare room all sorted out for her stay. I think her and my wife have some itinerary worked out, places to visit and the likes, just hope the weather stays nice. I have been looking at the house gable ends, at the tile areas, the winter has done a bit of damage to the cement and needs patching up, so might get that done soon. So much to do.

This weekend being a bank holiday, my wife has invited the kids round for a meal, them all being off work at the same time, which is a rare occurrence, might even fit in a barbecue if the weather holds so something to look forward to.

Alas, Cold weather stopped play

2011-04-14T18:31:00.001+01:00

This week, was hoping to get out in the garden and continue sorting out the back garden, but the sun has disappeared and with it the heat, so back to indoor pursuits for a while. You can guarantee inconsistent weather in UK, that’s one thing for certain.

A Date with a very fine lady XR728

2011-04-11T10:51:00.001+01:00

Saturday morning 8am, was transported by car to Bruntingthorpe airfield, arriving 10am. The main man Andy had arrived earlier and got the Q Shed doors open, lets the cobwebs blow away and sheds some light on the two ladies XR728 and XS904 which are safely secure from the elements. Some preparation already in evidence, mini hoists laid out on the floor ready for hooking up to the No1 ECU of XR728 and subsequent engine removal. Time for a quick chat as others from the group started to arrive, we at least are having some brilliant summer weather for the occasion and much appreciated. Chatter over and down to business, got a few photos of the sequence of events and with more than enough folks, found myself assisting with manoeuvring a large metal sheet at the business end of the engine where it joins the reheat pipe, as the engine is slowly lowered by the team, metal sheet making sure that the engine does not damage the fuel tank and firewire on the way down. Calls from the man in charge of “2 down on the back” and “one down on the front” referring to instruction for the mini hoist operators and the engine slowly free from its shackles and lowered onto the engine trolley successfully, job done.

Considering the last time I was involved in a number one ECU change is back some 26 years, it all came back to me easier than I had first thought. What a great bunch of guys involved in this LPG and dedicated to keeping the Lightnings in as good nick as possible, was glad to be of help. Now the regular weekenders can have a look round the vacated engine bay and repair anything that needs doing before it is time to go back and install the engine sooner rather than later. First look round revealed that some firewire needs attention but in general things look good. Did a few firewire checks with another ex-Lightning techie, even using the AP’s to get the correct resistance and insulation figures, had forgotten about these checks, but it all came back as we progressed. All too soon it was time to leave for the 2 hour journey back home, but a good feeling of achievement and also the social side of it all, still buzzing in my head.

Platform construction

2011-04-07T14:16:00.001+01:00

Had a bash at using paper scalescenes platform surface of concrete slabs, but just did not look convincing at all. Stripped all the paper templates from the plasticard and am now trying the tried and tested method of black acrylic paint and when dry, using some white talc or similar to weather the black surface to make it look more realistic, I will still use the scalescenes platform edging as that looked real enough, hopefully this method will work and give a good surface.

Lightnings calling for attention

2011-04-01T17:12:00.001+01:00

Hopefully next Saturday I am off to Bruntingthorpe, a Lightning needs some TLC in the form of removing a No1 Engine which has been playing up for ages now. Another engine has been modified with a few component changes over the winter months and is ready to be fitted to the aircraft when the faulty one is removed. It is 26 years since my last No1 engine change, although have helped with 2 No2 engine changes in the last two years. While the number one is removed, it will give the lads a chance to rectify a few other niggling faults on the firewire system. The Lightning as most will know is not very user friendly when it comes to access, so this is a good opportunity. Luckily enough the No1 engines are dropped from the aircraft by hydraulic hoists, hand wound, so no cost involved for a change. Whereas the No2 Engines require very expensive crane hire to lift them out the top of the fuselage, crane hire is billed per day in the region of £500 a pop. Hopefully all will go well.

Plasticard

2011-04-01T16:59:00.001+01:00

My sheets of white 1mm plasticard arrived today, very quick delivery too. Have cut out one of my platform tops today and found working with the card was easy, score down the card a few times and snap it off, easy as that, and can be sanded, painted etc., now to get some of the scalescenes paper platform top slabs printed out, sprayed with hair spray the cut out and stuck to the card. Supplier of the card, which can be bought in various thickness and colour, even a clear card available at great prices can be found here. I will get some pictures of the finished platform when completed, to show you the results.

Point Motors

2011-03-31T18:05:00.001+01:00

Points as in model railways, have been testing out my point motors and they work well, only a slight problem with the fixings, I did not have any track pins to secure them, just using PVA but today one of the motors came adrift. It seems there is quite some torque generated when switching points, enough to dislodge them from the PVA. Plan 2 found a set of miniature reamers or brooches as they are sometimes called, reamed out the original fixing holes and fitted small panel pins, which worked out well, now I can safely go ahead and fit the platform tops to cover them all up, that is when my supply of 1mm plasticard arrives from EBay. Thought that plasticard was the best option as it is easier to cut than 1mm normal card, and will also take paint, making the platform tops easier to construct. I used 8mm thick MDF for the platform base’s with scalescenes brick paper as edging, looks realistic enough too. Have run out of MDF and need to source some more 8mm mouldings to finish the remaining platforms, so a trip to the builders merchants is next.

Patio cleaning

2011-03-29T16:08:00.004+01:00

Nice sunny day, so got out the pressure washer which had started leaking oil last year, not much but still did leak, thoughts that it would maybe not work at all, but got a pleasant surprise when it performed well and not much oil present at all, so managed to get the patio cleaned up. Now lets hope we get the chance to use the outdoors more this year, so far so good. If it is nice tomorrow, might get out and replace the gravel edging which is of the split log variety, and now disintegrating rapidly, have a load of decent wood in the garage which should do the job.

Damage to Finger

2011-03-27T17:02:00.001+01:00

Decided to change tap washers in the garage sink today, managed to get the washers reversed, the one side was fine, whilst using large adjustable spanner to get tap units out, guess what, spanner slipped and managed to take a bit of my finger with it, ouch, it hurt at the time. Must get some spare washers for the next time. Gathered together a few bags of garden debris and it looks like a trip up to the recycling tip tomorrow, amazing where all the rubbish comes from. Spent the morning changing all the clocks in the house, British Summer Time arrived at 1am this morning and all the clocks had to be put 1 hour forward, this gets increasingly annoying as I have to find my watch instruction book each time to be able to do this, but hopefully have not missed some timepiece during this exercise.

Cooler weather today

2011-03-26T12:19:00.001Z

Had a busy week getting rid of garden weeds, mainly wild garlic and wondering just where this stuff comes from? googled the little blighter and it seems it can be found in grass seed. It is a pain to get rid of and weed killers just have no effect at all, so have been slowly digging up the stuff which is difficult at best. Looks like it is a case of keep at it when shoots appear. Did I tell you I hate garlic, well that is an understatement. Will have to Google a bit harder to see if I can find a suitable garlic killer.

More gardening

2011-03-22T15:16:00.001Z

Have spent the last few days out in the garden in the sunshine, great to get out after the long winter months and feel some warmth again. Busy doing the front garden just now, weeding and tidying up, it certainly looks a whole lot better for the attention, just need to keep on top of it now. Green bin nearly full up and the first collection starts first week of April, after which it will be filled up nearly every fortnight. Off out to laze in the sun now for a bit. take advantage of the weather

Had a break today

2011-03-17T16:34:00.001Z

Weather dry and reasonably warm, cleaned out the greenhouse getting rid of the old tomato plant grow bag and sweeping up the debris from last year. I had a request to lift a large bag of compost into the greenhouse for the start of the season, so am happy that the task was completed. Had a tree fall down during the snow period, so have chopped it all up and filled the green waste bin ready for the start of collections in April, although still have to dig out the main trunk and roots when I next get out in the garden. The patio slabs are in urgent need of a pressure wash too, so that is another job, it never ends. On the whole I am glad I got rid of all the grassed areas in the garden, at least that is one job less. I’m hoping the pressure washer will do one last job before being binned, as the pump seals leak and will pack up at some stage and is unfortunately too costly to repair.